bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Unsteady Behavior of the Flow around NACA 0012 Airfoil with Steady External Conditions at Re=1000
Authors: Kurtulus Dilek Funda
Published: October 2015

Even for the stationary airfoils, due to the boundary and shear layer interactions of upper and lower surface of the airfoils, alternating vortex patterns form and the flow becomes time dependent. In the current study, the unsteady behavior of the flow around a symmetric airfoil is considered as incidence angle increases. The flow patterns are presented for wide range of angles of attack values. The vortex pattern generated is analyzed numerically for different angles of attack at Re=1000 around NACA 0012 airfoil. At this Reynolds number, the flow is laminar and boundary layers are quite thick. Flow separation and unsteady vortex shedding is observed even at low angles of attack. For NACA 0012 airfoil, the unsteady vortex pattern is observed at about 8° angle of attack for Re=1000. Spectral analysis is performed for angles of attack ranging from 0° to 90°. It is presented that amplitude spectrum of lift coefficient (C1) start to shows a peak at 8° for NACA 0012 and the aerodynamic forces presents oscillatory behavior afterwards. The effect of angle of attack to wake pattern and instantaneous and mean aerodynamic coefficients are discussed. The time-averaged streamlines, pressure and skin friction coefficients are analyzed to observe the vortex formation and separation from the airfoil upper surface at this low Reynolds number.
A Numerical Model to Study the Nonlinear and Unsteady Aerodynamics of Bioinspired Morphing-Wing Concepts
Authors: Verstraete Marcos L. , Preidikman Sergio , Roccia Bruno A. , Mook Dean T.
Published: October 2015

In the present paper, a numerical model to study the nonlinear and unsteady aerodynamics of morphing-wing concepts inspired by bird flight is developed. The model includes: i) a wing topology inspired by gull wings; ii) a kinematical model to describe the process of wing adaptation based on one mechanism observed in the flight of gulls (folding-wing approach); and iii) a version of the unsteady vortex-lattice methods (UVLM) that allows taking nonlinear and unsteady aerodynamic phenomena into account. The model was specially developed to study the aerodynamic behavior during wing adaptation. A simulation for a twisting-flapping wing was performed in order to validate the numerical model. The present results are in close agreement with those obtained in previous studies based on the Euler equations, but required much less execution time. The numerical simulations of a bioinspired morphing wing showed the strong dependence between the prescribed kinematics and the aerodynamic characteristics, which evidences the importance of studying the process of wing adaptation. UVLM is shown to be ideal for preliminary analysis of bioinspired morphing wings.
Experimental Study of Reynolds Number and Gust Influence on Transient Force and Flow Generated by a Robotic Hummingbird
Authors: Tian Ruijun , Gonzalez Eloy Marquez , Evans Humberto Bocanegra , Balakumar B. J. , Shu Fangjun
Published: October 2015

A two-degree-of-freedom, up-scaled, robotic hummingbird model with rigid wings was used to simulate the hovering, flapping kinematics of a hummingbird to understand the flow structure around the wing and the underlying mechanism for dynamic force generation. Digital Particle Image Velocimetry (DPIV) method was applied to visualize the flow field at the mid-section of the wing over a range of Reynolds numbers (850 < Re < 13,000). It was observed that in the major duration of the stroke the leading edge vortex (LEV) was kept attached to the wing's suction side over the entire range of Reynolds numbers. It was also found that the rapid change of angle of attack at the beginning of each half stroke generated shedding of LEV. Time history of the lift and drag forces were measured to relate the dynamic response with the flow field development. The magnitudes of lift and drag forces increased with Reynolds number, however, the overall lift coefficient decreased for Re < 6,000. Beyond this limitation, influence of Reynolds number on the mean lift coefficients was indiscernible. Additionally, it was verified that the effects of horizontal gust on both flow field and dynamic forces were equivalent to that of effective Reynolds numbers, e.g., the effect of the head-on gust during the down-stroke increased the lift and drag forces, similar to the influence of increased Reynolds number.
Case Report: Pulmonary Kaposi Sarcoma in a non-HIV patient
Authors: Kodra Arber , Walczyszyn Maciej , Grossman Craig , Zapata Daniel , Rambhatla Tarak , Mina Bushra
Published: October 2015

Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) is an angioproliferative tumor associated with human herpes virus 8 (HHV-8).  Often known as one of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-defining skin diseases, pulmonary involvement in KS has only been discussed in a handful of case reports, rarely in a non-HIV patient. Herein we report the case of a 77 year-old- male who presented with a 6-week history of progressive dyspnea on exertion accompanied by productive cough of yellow sputum and intermittent hemoptysis. His past medical history was significant for Non-Hodgkin’s Follicular B-Cell Lymphoma (NHL). Patient also had biopsy-confirmed cutaneous KS. His physical exam was notable for a 2cm firm, non-tender, mobile right submandibular lymph node.  Lungs were clear to auscultation. He had multiple violet non-tender skin lesions localized to the lower extremities. CT scan of the chest showed numerous nodular opacities and small pleural effusions in both lungs. A thoracenthesis was performed, showing sero-sanguineous exudative effusions. Histopathology failed to demonstrate malignant cells or lymphoma. A subsequent bronchoscopy revealed diffusely hyperemic, swollen mucosa of the lower airways with mucopurulent secretions. Bronchoalveolar lavage PCR for HHV-8 showed 5800 DNA copies/mL.  It was believed that his pulmonary symptoms were likely due to disseminated KS.  This case illustrates the potential for significant lung injury from KS. It also demonstrates the use of PCR for HHV-8 to diagnose KS in a bronchoalveolar lavage sample in a case when bronchoscopic biopsy was not safe. Furthermore, this case is unique in that the patient did not match the typical KS subgroups as HIV infection and other immune disorders were ruled out. Recognition of this syndrome is critical to the institution of appropriate therapy. As such, this case should be of interest to a broad readership across internal medicine including the specialties of Pulmonology and Critical Care.
A short history of the development of wound care dressings
Authors: Jones Menna Lloyd
Published: October 2015

Over the past 40 years, the amount of advanced wound care dressings available on the market has grown at a phenomenal rate, not only in the different types of dressings, but also in the variety of shapes and sizes available. There is no doubt therefore that selecting the most appropriate wound care dressing from the plethora of dressings available today can present a huge challenge to clinicians.

Wound care dressings have evolved over thousands of years, as humans attempted to try and find a solution to stop bleeding, speed up healing of acute wounds and cope with troublesome chronic wounds ( Gottrup and Leaper, 2004 ).

The aim of this series is to provide a short history of dressings, alongside information on the different types of dressings available today.
Risk management in dementia care, Part 2/4: identifying hazards and risks
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: October 2015

Dementia can affect a person's awareness of risks and his or her ability to do certain things. The type of dementia, stage of dementia and other factors, such as an infection or a hazardous environment, can increase the risk of the person with dementia suffering harm.

This article, the second in a series, explains how risk assessments are carried out, the pitfalls of traditional assessment and how important it is to respect, enable and empower the person with dementia.
Small Animal Review
Authors: Tennant Bryn
Published: October 2015

Introduction:

The biological behaviour of mast cell tumours is difficult to predict; various parameters, including Ki-67 expression and the mitotic index (MI), are used to assist in predicting survival. High Ki-67 expression may not necessarily be an indicator of poor prognosis, while a high MI accurately predicts death.
Chocolate toxicity
Authors: Bates Nicola
Published: October 2015

Chocolate ingestion is very common in dogs but has also been reported in other animals. Chocolate is produced from the beans of Theobroma cacao that are processed into cocoa solids and cocoa butter. In Europe, the type of chocolate is defined in law by the percentage of cocoa solids. The main toxic component of chocolate is theobromine, a methylxanthine, which causes central nervous system (CNS) stimulation with cardiac and respiratory hyperactivity. Signs include gastrointestinal effects, excitability, hyperactivity, tachycardia, tremors, hypertension and hyperthermia. Less common effects include bradycardia, tachypnoea, cardiac arrhythmias and convulsions. Signs of toxicity generally occur within 2–4 hours of ingestion, but can sometimes occur after 6–12 hours. Recovery can occur within 24 hours but may take longer. The mainstays of treatment are decontamination and supportive care, with rehydration and control of CNS stimulation and arrhythmias as required. Most dogs recover fully and death is rare; however, prognosis is more guarded in dogs with seizures or arrhythmias.
Kennel Club launches pioneering genetic research
Authors: Lewis Thomas William
Published: October 2015

Ground-breaking research based on analysis of pedigree records maintained by the Kennel Club will assist breeders in improving genetic health and protecting the future of our dog breeds.
Measuring quality: an evaluation of a nurse-led stoma care outpatient clinic
Authors: Bowles Theresa
Published: October 2015

Evaluation of health services has traditionally been based on medical outcome measures such as mortality, morbity and length of hospital stay. The government's recent introduction of the NHS outcomes framework has introduced patient experience and quality of life as essential metrics of quality care. Changing how we measure the quality of healthcare paves the way for nursing services to be recognised as providing high-quality care that directly impacts on the patient's experience and the outcomes of care. In this article, Theresa Bowles describes the development of a tool designed to measure the patient-perceived experience, quality of service and nursing outcomes of a nurse-led stoma care outpatient clinic at one NHS trust.
Eat to beat disease
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: October 2015

Could the adoption of a Mediterranean diet boost public health, asks Mark Greener
Diagnosis and management of irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Kochar Suneeta
Published: October 2015

Upto 20% of the population suffers from this unpleasant condition, writes Suneeta Kochhar
Delivering smoking cessation services in hospitals
Authors: Preston Wendy
Published: October 2015

Nurses play an important role in health promotion and smoking cessation. This article will discuss the evidence base for this role, and strategies and resources to facilitate the implementation of guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.
An update on prescribing treatments for the management of rosacea
Authors: Croney Stacey
Published: October 2015

Rosacea, a chronic and inflammatory skin condition, is very common and can be distressing for patients. Rosacea may seem inconsequential to those without the condition, but it has physical effects and can affect self-esteem. This article ensures prescribers understand the different types of rosacea, the symptoms, and the available medicines—existing and new.
Prescribing by mental health nurses in acute general hospitals
Authors: Kelly Neil
Published: October 2015

This article will consider the role of mental health nurses (MHNs) working in a mental health liaison team (MHLT) as non-medical prescribers (NMPs) for inpatients in acute hospitals. The author has spent 10 years working as a mental health liaison nurse in acute hospitals, qualified as an NMP in 2014, and has seen how NMPs working in MHLTs can enhance care given to patients. MHLTs support and advise colleagues caring for patients with mental health problems in the acute general hospital environment, and ensure appropriate diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Consideration is given to the recent delivery of innovative services, such as rapid assessment interface and discharge (RAID), and how these services could be further strengthened by MHN NMPs, along with possible barriers and facilitators to the MHN NMP role in the acute hospital. The author believes NMP roles within MHLTs are essential to patients experiencing mental health problems in acute hospitals; these roles facilitate quick access to assessment, diagnosis and prescribing.
The Forgetting of Christianity
Authors: Gil Anidjar
Published: October 2015

What is Christianity? What is its sense? Is it a religion, a religion like all other religions? In joining a chorus of European philosophers who have returned to Paul or to Christianity, Jean-Luc Nancy retains the Latin word “religion” as the uninterrogated marker of Christianity and other “world religions.” Religion is thus the site of an ambiguous “sharing,” of which Christianity partakes perhaps more than others — but within which limits? Besides its deconstruction, has there been a critique of Christianity?
SPINT2 Deregulation in Prostate Carcinoma
Authors: Pereira Márcia Santos , de Almeida Gisele Caravina , Pinto Filipe , Viana-Pereira Marta , Reis Rui Manuel
Published: October 2015

SPINT2 is a tumor suppressor gene that inhibits proteases implicated in cancer progression, like HGFA, hepsin and matriptase. Loss of SPINT2 expression in tumors has been associated with gene promoter hypermethylation; however, little is known about the mechanisms of SPINT2 deregulation in prostate cancer (PCa). We aimed to analyze SPINT2 expression levels and understand the possible regulation by SPINT2 promoter hypermethylation in PCa. In a cohort of 57 cases including non-neoplastic and PCa tissues, SPINT2 expression and promoter methylation was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and methylation-specific PCR, respectively. Methylation status of the SPINT2 promoter was also evaluated by bisulfite sequencing and 5-aza-2’-deoxycytidine treatment. Oncomine and TCGA databases were used to perform in silico PCa analysis of SPINT2 mRNA and methylation levels. A reduction in SPINT2 expression levels from non-neoplastic to PCa tissues was observed; however, none of the cases exhibited SPINT2 promoter methylation. Both bisulfite sequencing and 5-aza demonstrated that SPINT2 promoter is not methylated in PCa cells. Bioinformatics approaches did not show downregulation of SPINT2 at the mRNA level and, in corroboration with our results, SPINT2 promoter region is reported to be unmethylated. Our study suggests an involvement of SPINT2 in PCa tumorigenesis, probably in association with a post-translational regulation of SPINT2.
Does Sacrococcygeal Angle Play a Role on Pilonidal Sinus Etiology?
Authors: Eryilmaz Ramazan , Isik Arda , Okan Ismail , Bilecik Tuna , Yekeler Ensar , Sahin Mustafa
Published: October 2015

The predisposing factors for the development of sacrococcygeal pilonidal disease (SPD) still remain undetermined. Here, we investigate the sacrococcygeal angle as a possible predisposing factor for the development of disease. Consecutive male patients admitted to our clinic with the diagnosis of SPD were included. Sex, age and BMI matched healthy controls without SPD were enrolled to the study. The predefined sacrococcygeal angles of patients and controls were measured on lateral pelvic radiographs by a single experienced radiologist. Thirty patients were included in each group. Sacrococcygeal angles of patients and control group were measured as 37.3 ± 14.5 and 36.81 ± 10.23 in patients and controls, respectively. The difference with respect to sacrococcygeal angle was not statistically significant between two groups. Sacrococcygeal angle which is the main skeletal determinant of intergluteal sulcus is not a predisposing factor for the development of sacrococcygeal pilonidal disease.
Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Implementation of Guidelines Gold 2011 in Practice
Authors: Osinová D , Sadloňová J. , Rozborilová E.
Published: October 2015

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease that is characterized by a persistent blockage of airflow from the lungs. It is an under-diagnosed, life-threatening disease which is not fully reversible. COPD is not only global health problem, the disease is also serious economic problem.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of implementation of new guidelines Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) for diagnosis and treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Design: Consecutive, observational, retrospective, mono-centric study.

Methods: Into the study were included all patients admitted with COPD exacerbations to Department of Pneumology and Phtiseology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin and University Hospital, separately in year 2008 and year 2013, who have satisfied the inclusion criteria. Those years were chosen specifically from the reason of biennial application of diagnosis and treatment, according to recommended guidelines GOLD 2006 and GOLD 2011, in practice. The study was focused on the basic anthropometric parameters, data of medical history, complications of underlying disease, comorbidities, laboratory parameters, treatment strategy of patients after release from hospital and mortality within one year were evaluated.

Results: Patients in group 2013, when were applied guidelines GOLD 2011 had a higher average oxygen saturation and higher pO2 at all stages of the disease, significantly in GOLD D. They had higher values of FEV1 and FVC significantly in GOLD B. There was decrease of overuse of inhalation corticosteroids in group GOLD B from 53.34% to 28.57%. There was a downturn in use of theophylline, significantly in GOLD C. The average number of exacerbations leading to hospitalizations was lower in group 2013 in all stages of the disease. One-year mortality of patients in group 2013 was lower.

Conclusions: The implementation and application of guidelines GOLD 2011 in practice is a challenging and complex process, which is in region of University hospital Martin gradually and successfully implemented. The achievement the objectives of the GOLD 2011 not only contributes to the efficiency of prevention and timely diagnosis, but mainly on setting of adequate treatment, improves survival and quality of life of patients with COPD.
Assessment of the Peripheral Blood Flow of Lower Limbs in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus with the Use of Digital Photoplethysmography
Authors: Hubena G. , Osina O. , Prindesova Busikova , Vasicko T.
Published: October 2015

Introduction: The microcirculation of the lower limbs (LL) of diabetics is influenced by hyperglycemia and several factors (hypertension, obesity, dyslipidemia) leading to the functional and later the structural changes, manifesting as dysregulation of the peripheral blood flow.

Materials and Methods: The study included 39 patients with type 2 diabetes, and the same number of the control group. The digital photoplethysmography (PPG) was used for assessment of the peripheral circulation with reflectance mode, sensing from the 1st and 2nd toe of the LL after acclimatisation of the patient in the supine position. The subjects were also asked to refrain from smoking, to avoid drinks containing caffeine and using of medicaments with vasodilatator function at least 2 hours before examination.

Results: The pulse amplitudes and the peak times of the PPG curves were significantly higher in diabetic group than in the control group. The mean pulse amplitudes in diabetics were in the range of 0.69 % 0.86 %, the pulse peak time in the range of 140 - 154 ms. The mean pulse amplitudes in the control group were in the range of 0.37 0.54 %, the mean pulse peak time were in the range of 120 - 133 ms. The PPG findings of the LL were symmetrical (non-significant t-test). We have not found a correlation between the PPG records and duration, compensation of diabetes, age, glycemia, blood pressure, dyslipidemia, smoking and obesity.

Conclusion: This simple-to-use technique shows the increased total skin microcirculation in diabetic patients. Microvascular shunting of blood presenting in peripheral nerves and in the skin of diabetic feet are responsible for reduced hyperemia response to any inflammatory process with the increased susceptibility for inquiring the diabetic foot infection.
Topology optimization for elastic base under rectangular plate subjected to moving load
Authors: Jilavyan Samvel H. , Khurshudyan Asatur Zh.
Published: October 2015

Distribution optimization of elastic material under elastic isotropic rectangular thin plate subjected to concentrated moving load is investigated in the present paper. The aim of optimization is to damp its vibrations in finite (fixed) time. Accepting Kirchhoff hypothesis with respect to the plate and Winkler hypothesis with respect to the base, the mathematical model of the problem is constructed as two-dimensional bilinear equation, i.e. linear in state and control function. The maximal quantity of the base material is taken as optimality criterion to be minimized. The Fourier distributional transform and the Bubnov-Galerkin procedures are used to reduce the problem to integral equality type constraints. The explicit solution in terms of two- dimensional Heaviside‘s function is obtained, describing piecewise-continuous distribution of the material. The determination of the switching points is reduced to a problem of nonlinear programming. Data from numerical analysis are presented.
Experiments on the Model Testing of the 2nd Phase of Die Casting Process Compared with the Results of Numerical Simulation
Authors: Dańko R. , Dańko J. , Stojek J.
Published: October 2015

Experiments of filling the model moulds cavity of various inner shapes inserted in rectangular cavity of the casting die (dimensions: 280 mm (height) × 190 mm (width) × 10 mm (depth) by applying model liquids of various density and viscosity are presented in the paper. Influence of die venting as well as inlet system area and inlet velocity on the volumetric rate of filling of the model liquid - achieved by means of filming the process in the system of a cold-chamber casting die was tested. Experiments compared with the results of simulation performed by means of the calculation module Novacast (Novaflow&Solid) for the selected various casting conditions - are also presented in the paper.
New Materials in the Production of Moulding and Core Sands
Authors: Dobosz St. M. , Major-Gabryś K. , Grabarczyk A.
Published: October 2015

The article shows the influence of environment requirements on changes in different foundry moulding sands technologies such as cold box, self-hardening moulding sands and green sands. The aim of the article is to show the possibility of using the biodegradable materials as binders (or parts of binders’ compositions) for foundry moulding and core sands. The authors concentrated on the possibility of preparing new binders consisting of typical synthetic resins - commonly used in foundry practice - and biodegradable materials. According to own research it is presumed that using biodegradable materials as a part of new binders’ compositions may cause not only lower toxicity and better ability to reclaim, but may also accelerate the biodegradation rate of used binders. What’s more, using some kinds of biodegradable materials may improve flexibility of moulding sands with polymeric binder. The conducted research was introductory and took into account bending strength and thermal properties of furan moulding sands with biodegradable material (PCL). The research proved that new biodegradable additive did not decrease the tested properties.
Production Scheduling under Fuzziness for the Furnace - Casting Line System
Authors: Duda J. , Stawowy A.
Published: October 2015

The problem considered in the paper is motivated by production planning in a foundry equipped with a furnace and a casting line, which provides a variety of castings in various grades of cast iron/steel for a large number of customers. The goal is to create the order of the melted metal loads to prevent delays in delivery of goods to customers. This problem is generally considered as a lot-sizing and scheduling problem. However, contrary to the classic approach, we assumed the fuzzy nature of the demand set for a given day. The paper describes a genetic algorithm adapted to take into account the fuzzy parameters of simultaneous grouping and scheduling tasks and presents the results achieved by the algorithm for example test problem.
Utilisation of Products of the Thermal Reclamation of Post Reclamation Dusts in the Production Technology of Ceramic Building Materials
Authors: Holtzer M. , Dańko R. , Dańko J. , Pytel Z.
Published: October 2015

The problem related to the management of post reclamation dusts generated in the reclamation process of waste moulding sands with organic binders is presented in the hereby paper. Waste materials generated in this process are products hazardous for the environment and should be utilised. The prototype stand for the utilisation of this dangerous material in its co-burning with coal was developed and patented in AGH in Krakow. The stand was installed in one of the domestic casting houses. As the utilisation result the transformed waste product is obtained and its management in the production of ceramic materials constitutes the subject of the presented publication.
Chosen Aspects of Quality Defects of ”Alphin” Inserts in Combustions Pistons
Authors: Piątkowskia J. , Kamiński P.
Published: October 2015

The chosen, typical causes of quality defects of cast-iron „alphin” rings embedded in aluminum cast are being presented in this paper. Diffusive joint of those inserts with the pistons casts is being used, due to extreme work conditions of destructive influence of the fuel mix and variable thermo-mechanical loads, which reign in the combustion motor working chamber.
Effect of Vanadium and Molybdenum on the Crystallization, Microstructure and Properties of Hypoeutectic Silumin
Authors: Szymczak T. , Gumienny G. , Pacyniak T.
Published: October 2015

The paper presents the results of hypoeutectic silumin 226 grade and silumin produced on its basis through the addition of V and Mo. Vanadium and molybdenum were added as the preliminary alloy AlV10 and AlMo8 in an amount providing the concentration of 0.1; 0.2; 0.3 and 0.4% V and Mo. TDA curves of tested silumins were presented; regardless of the chemical composition there were similar thermal effects. Pressure castings microstructure research revealed the presence in silumins with the addition of V and Mo phases do not occur in silumin without these additives. These phases have a morphology similar to the walled, and their size increases with increasing concentration of V and Mo. The size of the precipitates of these phases silumin containing 0.1% V and Mo does not exceed 10 microns, while 0.4% of the content of these elements increases to about 80 microns. Tests of basic mechanical properties of silumins were carried out. It has been shown that the highest values of tensile strength Rm = 295 MPa and elongation A = 4.2% have silumin containing approximately 0.1% V and Mo. Increasing concentrations of these elements causes a gradual lowering of the Rm and A values.
The Effect of Shell Thickness, Insulation and Casting Temperature on Defects Formation During Investment Casting of Ni-base Turbine Blades
Authors: Raza M. , Irwin M. , Fagerström B.
Published: October 2015

Turbine blades have complex geometries with free form surface. Blades have different thickness at the trailing and leading edges as well as sharp bends at the chord-tip shroud junction and sharp fins at the tip shroud. In investment casting of blades, shrinkage at the tip-shroud and cord junction is a common casting problem. Because of high temperature applications, grain structure is also critical in these castings in order to avoid creep. The aim of this work is to evaluate the effect of different process parameters, such as, shell thickness, insulation and casting temperature on shrinkage porosity and grain size. The test geometry used in this study was a thin-walled air-foil structure which is representative of a typical hot-gas-path rotating turbine component. It was observed that, in thin sections, increased shell thickness helps to increase the feeding distance and thus avoid interdendritic shrinkage. It was also observed that grain size is not significantly affected by shell thickness in thin sections. Slower cooling rate due to the added insulation and steeper thermal gradient at metal mold interface induced by the thicker shell not only helps to avoid shrinkage porosity but also increases fill-ability in thinner sections.
Quantitative analysis of arbutin and hydroquinone in strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L., Ericaceae) leaves by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry / Kvantitativna analiza arbutina i hidrokinona u listovima obične planike (Arbutus unedo L., Ericaceae) plinskokromatografskom metodom uz detekciju masenim spektrometrom
Authors: Jurica Karlo , Karačonji Irena Brčić , Šegan Sandra , Opsenica Dušanka Milojković , Kremer Dario
Published: October 2015

The phenolic glycoside arbutin and its metabolite with uroantiseptic activity hydroquinone occur naturally in the leaves of various medicinal plants and spices. In this study, an extraction procedure coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was developed to determine arbutin and hydroquinone content in strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L., Ericaceae) leaves. The method showed good linearity (R2>0.9987) in the tested concentration range (0.5-200 μg mL-1), as well as good precision (RSD<5 %), analytical recovery (96.2-98.0 %), and sensitivity (limit of detection=0.009 and 0.004 μg mL-1 for arbutin and hydroquinone, respectively). The results obtained by the validated GC-MS method corresponded well to those obtained by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. The proposed method was then applied for determining arbutin and hydroquinone content in methanolic leaf extracts. The amount of arbutin in the leaves collected on the island of Koločep (6.82 mg g-1 dry weight) was found to be higher (tpaired=43.57, tc=2.92) in comparison to the amount of arbutin in the leaves collected on the island of Mali Lošinj (2.75 mg g-1 dry weight). Hydroquinone was not detected in any of the samples. The analytical features of the proposed GC-MS method demonstrated that arbutin and hydroquinone could be determined alternatively by gas chromatography. Due to its wide concentration range, the method could also be suitable for arbutin and hydroquinone analysis in leaves of other plant families (Rosaceae, Lamiaceae, etc.).
On the stability of the squares of some functional equations
Authors: Moszner Zenon
Published: October 2015

We consider the stability, the superstability and the inverse stability of the functional equations with squares of Cauchy’s, of Jensen’s and of isometry equations and the stability in Ulam-Hyers sense of the alternation of functional equations and of the equation of isometry.
Further investigations on a question of Zhang and Lü
Authors: Banerjee Abhijit , Chakraborty Bikash
Published: October 2015

In the paper based on the question of Zhang and Lü [15], we present one theorem which will improve and extend results of Banerjee-Majumder [2] and a recent result of Li-Huang [9].
Environmentally Sustainable Apparel Acquisition and Disposal Behaviours among Slovenian Consumers
Authors: Žurga Zala , Hladnik Aleš , Forte Tavčer Petra
Published: October 2015

Fibre production and textile processing comprise various industries that consume large amounts of energy and resources. Textiles are a largely untapped consumer commodity with a strong reuse and recycling potential, still fibres and fibre containing products ends up in landfill sites or in waste incinerators to a large extent. Reuse and recycle of waste clothing results in reduction in the environmental burden. Between 3% and 4% of the municipal solid waste stream in Slovenia is composed of apparel and textiles. This exploratory study examines consumer practices regarding purchase and the disposal of apparel in Slovenia. Data were collected through structured online survey from a representative random sample of 535 consumers. Responses to online questionnaire indicated the use of a variety of textile purchase and disposal methods. The influence of different sociodemographic variables on apparel purchase, disposal and recycling behaviour was examined. Moreover, the differences in the frequency of apparel recycling between consumers with and without an apparel bank available nearby were explored. This research was conducted, since it is crucial to analyse the means by which consumers are currently disposing their textile waste in order to plan the strategies that would encourage them to further reduce the amount of apparel sent to landfills.
A Note On The First Class Approaches Of Massive P-Forms
Authors: Sararu S. C. , Udristioiu M. T.
Published: October 2015

The problem of quantization of the massive p-forms is considered in the framework of the Batalin-Fradkin (BF) approach based on path integral. The quantization procedure relies on the path integral of a first-class system equivalent with the original theory. This first-class system is constructed using the BF method.
Calculation Of The Crystal Field Parameters For Eu3+ Doped In SrAl2O4 And SrIn2O4 Spinels
Authors: Stanciu M. L.
Published: October 2015

Strontium aluminate (SrAl2O4) and the indium aluminate (SrIn2O4) spinels have been proven to be efficient host materials, which offer the possibility of generating broadband emission after doping with rare earth trivalent ions. The present work is devoted to the calculation of the crystal field parameters and the energy levels of the trivalent europium doped in SrAl2O4 and SrIn2O4 spinels, using the superposition model of the crystal field. Using the intrinsic parameters for Eu3+-O2− bonds, and the geometry structure of the each crystal, we modeled the CFPs and simulated the low-lying energy levels schemes. The obtained results are compared with the experimental data and discussed.
Evaluation of Emotiv EEG neuroheadset
Authors: Wójcik Grzegorz M. , Wierzgała Piotr , Gajos Anna
Published: October 2015

Electroencephalography (EEG) has become more popular, and as a result, the market grows with new EEG products. The new EEG solutions offer higher mobility, easier application, and lower price. One of such devices that recently became popular is Emotiv EEG. It has been already tested in various applications concerning brain-computer interfaces, neuromarketing, language processing, and detection of the P-300 component, with a general result that it is capable of recording satisfying research data. However, no one has tested and described its usefulness in long-term research. This article presents experience from using Emotiv EEG in two research projects that involved 39 subjects for 22 sessions. Emotiv EEG has significant technical issues concerning the quality of its screw threads. Two complete and successful solutions to this problem are described.
Trends and Opportunities in Computer Science OER Development
Authors: Dichev Christo , Dicheva Darina , Agre Gennady , Angelova Galia
Published: October 2015

The world is embracing an open education model. The success of this process implies an adequate awareness, an assumption that is inconsistent with recent reports and statistical facts. Despite the major advances in recent years, Open Educational Resources (OER) are still not in the mainstream of Computer Science course development. Motivated by the need to fill this gap, this paper analyzes the evolution of the OER development and the emerging trends relevant to Computer Science education. The aim is to raise the awareness and promote a practical transition process towards an adequate model that aligns the interests of all stakeholders.
Parameter Selection of a Support Vector Machine, Based on a Chaotic Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Dong Huang , Jian Gao
Published: October 2015

This paper proposes a SVM (Support Vector Machine) parameter selection based on CPSO (Chaotic Particle Swarm Optimization), in order to determine the optimal parameters of the support vector machine quickly and efficiently. SVMs are new methods being developed, based on statistical learning theory. Training a SVM can be formulated as a quadratic programming problem. The parameter selection of SVMs must be done before solving the QP (Quadratic Programming) problem. The PSO (Particle Swarm Optimization) algorithm is applied in the course of SVM parameter selection. Due to the sensitivity and frequency of the initial value of the chaotic motion, the PSO algorithm is also applied to improve the particle swarm optimization, so as to improve the global search ability of the particles. The simulation results show that the improved CPSO can find more easily the global optimum and reduce the number of iterations, which also makes the search for a group of optimal parameters of SVM quicker and more efficient.
Solving Multicriteria Optimization Problems with WebOptim Software System
Authors: Staykov Boris
Published: October 2015

This paper is a presentation of a web based decision support system “WebOptim” for solving single and multiple criteria optimization problems. It targets a wide range of user typeseducators, researchers, managers and business people. It also provides two types of communication interfaces user friendly graphical interface for human interaction and programming interface for machine communication with other third party software systems. The interfaces facilitate the problem solving process of different types of optimization problems, mainly single and multi-objective programming optimization problems with continuous or integer variables.
A Voltammetric Technique Using A Modified Carbon Paste Electrode For The Determination Of Aclonifen
Authors: Novotný Vít , Barek Jiří
Published: October 2015

A method for the determination of aclonifen at a carbon paste electrode modified with tricresyl phosphate has been developed. The optimum electrochemical regime proved to be differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) in the negative potential range from −200 to −1600 mV. The optimum pH for the determination proved to be pH = 8. The calibration dependence is linear and the limit of detection achieved for the method was 2·10−6 mol/dm3. The method is fast, reliable and it is suitable for the detection of aclonifen in the concentration range from 2·10−6 to 1·10−4 mol/dm3.
Digital Competences of Maria Grzegorzewska Academy of Special Education Students – Method and Results of a Survey
Authors: Romaniuk Miłosz W.
Published: October 2015

Author analyses the use of new technologies by the pedagogy students from the generation of digital natives focusing on using the functions of mobile electronic devices and basic functions of Internet. Data has been collected with Google Forms. They allow to collect the data very quick, to see the responses immediately and to export the data to a spreadsheet. The aim of the study is to determine the level of student’s competence on the chosen field of information technology. Research shows that students have lower skills than they declare. Author advocates that this situation needs to be improved.
Dimensionality Reduction for Probabilistic Neural Network in Medical Data Classification Problems
Authors: Kusy Maciej
Published: October 2015

This article presents the study regarding the problem of dimensionality reduction in training data sets used for classification tasks performed by the probabilistic neural network (PNN). Two methods for this purpose are proposed. The first solution is based on the feature selection approach where a single decision tree and a random forest algorithm are adopted to select data features. The second solution relies on applying the feature extraction procedure which utilizes the principal component analysis algorithm. Depending on the form of the smoothing parameter, different types of PNN models are explored. The prediction ability of PNNs trained on original and reduced data sets is determined with the use of a 10-fold cross validation procedure.
Investigation Of Chromium-Cobalt Coated Scaffolds On Cell Cultures In Vitro
Authors: Kiradzhiyska Denitsa D. , Mantcheva Rositsa D. , Mileva Detelina L. , Draganova Krasimira I. , Feodorova Yana N. , Sarafan Victoria S. , Draganov Marian M.
Published: October 2015

Introduction: The use of diverse materials for medical purposes is continuously expanding. The modification of materials which are routinely applied in medical practice as well as the development and introduction of new materials require studies on their biological activity. The first steps in this process are the preliminary short-term screening tests for cytotoxicity and biocompatibility performed on cell cultures.

Methods: Coating of stainless steel (316 L) scaffolds with chromium-cobalt was performed by electroplating using the non-standard electrolyte Chromispel. The process was carried through at different cathode current densities and deposition times. The modified surface of the metal scaffolds was studied for cytoxicity and cell vitality on the serum-free McCoy-Plovdiv and the immortalized PDL cell cultures.

Results: Our results indicate no cytotoxic effect of the coated metal scaffolds. Even more, three of the samples stimulated the proliferation and growth of McCoy-Plovdiv cells.

Conclusion: We have strong reasons to believe that chromium-cobalt coatings are promising for future studies and reliable for medical purposes.
Latent Bipolarity In Unipolar Depression: Experimental Findings, Conceptual Analysis And Implications For Treatment Strategies
Authors: Terziivanova Petya D. , Haralanov Svetlozar H.
Published: October 2015

Introduction: Previous studies have suggested that the two opposite poles of psychomotor disturbances in unipolar depression (UD) – retardation and agitation – require different treatment strategies as the psychomotor overactivation requires an augmentation of the antidepressant therapy with mood stabilizers and/or atypical antipsychotics.

Objective: The aim of the present study was to objectively identify and measure the psycho-motor disturbances in UD using differentiation between activity and reactivity.

Material and methods: An equilibriometric movement pattern analysis system that allows differentiation between psychomotor activity and reactivity was applied in 58 unipolar depressive patients and 76 healthy controls.

Results: Compared to controls, the patients as a group were significantly slower in their psychomotor reactivity. However, the subsequent subgrouping according to the direction of deviation of their objective psychomotor parameters revealed a disinhibition of psychomotor activity and/or reactivity in about one half of them. Such a contradictory combination of clinically manifested depressive mood and subclinically detected manic-like psychomotor overactivation might be regarded as belonging to the bipolar spectrum, since it was admitted that manic psychomotor disinhibition in unipolar depressive patients uncovers a latent bipolarity.

Conclusion: Not only prototypical depressive inhibition, but also prototypical manic-like disinhibition may underlie clinically manifested UD. Since the combination between depressive mood and psychomotor overactivation multiplies the suicidal risk, we may presume that the timely detection of this combination at a subclinical level would contribute to an earlier and more effective suicidal prevention by an objectively-guided optimization of pharmacological treatment.
Ethical Aspects of the Quality Assessment in Slovakia
Authors: Gluchman Vasil
Published: October 2015

The aim of the paper is to study socio-ethical aspects of Slovak higher education policy in the context of contemporary discussions on university assessment criteria. I conduct an ethical analysis and assess the criteria introduced in Slovakia that consider employment opportunities and the graduate unemployment rate, publishing in high impact journals, participation in European research programmes, etc., which often discriminates against the humanities and social sciences. On the other hand, I also point to the absence of a social contract regarding the common good provided by Slovak universities, drawbacks of a legislative nature which often provide a basis for unethical behaviour within the Slovak academic community and, most often, problems concerning academic ethics in contemporary Slovakia.
The Principle of Non-Combatant Immunity – Interpretations, Challenges, Suggestions
Authors: Švaňa Lukáš
Published: October 2015

The article deals with one of the most problematic principles of just war theory. It looks at the usage of the terms civilian, innocent and non-combatant and suggests how they can be interpreted. The principle of non-combatant immunity remains a real challenge for just war theory in the 21st century as it is designed to protect a specific group of people in times of war. The article considers the problematic issue of targeting non-combatants in war times as well as suggesting how we might better comprehend the problem.
From Technological Autonomy to Technological Bluff: Jacques Ellul and Our Technological Condition
Authors: Hanks J. Craig , Hanks Emily Kay
Published: October 2015

The work of Jacques Ellul is useful in understanding and evaluating the implications of rapidly changing technologies for human values and democracy. Ellul developed three powerful theses about technology: technological autonomy, technological determinism, and technological bluff. In this essay, the authors explicate these views of technology, and place the work of Ellul in dialogue with the ides of other important theorists of technology (including Max Weber, Herbert Marcuse, Lewis Mumford, Langdon Winner, and Hans Jonas). Ellul’s too-often overlooked theses about technology are relevant to our present technological society
Quantum Theory of International Relations: Approaches and Possible Gains
Authors: Tesař Jakub
Published: October 2015

This paper considers the possible application of quantum theory in political studies, especially in international relations. We introduce our classification based on three logical ways of how to connect areas so remote: through the relation of identity, analogy and metaphor which reflects three basic epistemic positions. Next, we review existing work against this classification before moving on to consider some of the uses and potential gains offered by quantum mind hypothesis, quantum models of reasoning and decisionmaking, and quantum metaphor.