bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Problems of tax incentives for development of small innovative enterprises at institutions of higher education
Authors: Кучин Михаил , Kuchin Mikhail , Егорова Елена , Egorova Elena , Черникова Людмила , Chernikova Lyudmila
Published: April 2015

One of the main areas of the economy currently is the development of innovative businesses. To help with this, the state is using direct and indirect methods of support and tax incentives for science, technology and innovation businesses. Tax incentives have become one of the main tools of innovation policy of developed countries, which are used not only to support and stimulate innovation, but also to create a favorable national environment in order to attract foreign R & D. Tax incentives are one of the most flexible tools. The system of tax incentives does not require the creation and maintenance of a separate administrative apparatus, since it is based on the existing tax system, which reduces the costs of its application to public authorities. Tax incentives are more efficient due to the stability of tax benefits in comparison to direct subsidies, since the levels of subsidization are reviewed annually and may vary considerably, and the tax rates change much less frequently. In modern conditions high expectations are associated with medium and small innovative enterprises at universities and research institutes, they play the role of the engine of the country in an innovative track of development. Thanks to this special purpose medium and small enterprises have tax benefits that would increase their investment attractiveness. The needs of innovative businesses at universities and research institutes are reflected in the Tax Code of Russia. For example, the recently adopted amendments to Article 346.12 of the second part of the Tax Code, which increase the possibility of small innovative enterprises on the use of different tax regimes and tax benefits. However, small and medium-sized innovative enterprises have still many problems, most of which are associated with funding sources.
Features of the economy of experiences during term changes on the example of tourism market: Russian experience
Authors: Лапочкина Виктория , Lapochkina Viktoriya
Published: April 2015

In the current difficult situation in foreign policy there is a gradual change in Russia in the structure of the tourist flows; analysts have noted an increase in demand for domestic tourism. The author considers the prospects for further development of domestic tourism in the Russian Federation, taking into account the fact that in today´s world, the migration of values and the economy acquire a new direction. Recognition of individual impressions of economic proposals is a pledge for economic growth in the future. Jeremy Rifkin believes that the demand for labor in the service sector will fall, as in the past, thanks to the automation and higher productivity, but it will not lead to a general unemployment. There will be new proposals; there will be a new wave of economic activity that will provide unprecedented opportunities for career growth and welfare. Those companies who are aware of the transition are taking place to a new kind of economy and effectively react to it. It will be easy to resist forced down prices and create a qualitatively new consumer value. The author gives examples of the activity of Russian cities and regions in the tourism sector, which are increasingly taking on the traits of the new economy of experiences. Tourism products cease to be a massive and standardized at the forefront personalization. Travel companies are developing new routes with the new fashion trends. More actively developed are new types of tourism: ecological, extreme, event, gastronomic, etc. Modern consumers are acutely aware of their aesthetic and cognitive needs, demands from enterprises in the tourism and hospitality innovative offers, seeking new experiences. Consequently, they become important new economic factor that deserves attention in the tourism industry. Marketers engaged in promoting goods and services, develop new tools in the industry of experience marketing, acting not only on the mind of the consumer, but on their feelings, trying to hurt "for a living." That is why the travel agencies that implement tours, rely on memories and pleasant emotions and souvenirs reinforce the brightest and most pleasant moments of the trip. The author has set the task to identify the Russian trends in the transition to an economy of experiences and organize the domestic experience of regional marketing in the new format.
Protection of the rights of citizens participating in joint construction of apartment buildings
Authors: Чернякова Светлана , Chernyakova Svetlana
Published: April 2015

This article analyzes the theoretical and practical problems encountered in the relation of shared construction of apartment buildings with the participation of citizens, considered as a means of ensuring the implementation of these commitments and to determine their effectiveness. One way to ensure fulfillment of the obligations of the builder is the colleteral. Described is a specific design of collateral with the plurality of persons in undertaking, which is a commitment to share, where each participant shared construction is entitled to the satisfaction of their claims due to the value of the collateral in a certain share. We do not assume the presence of the same size and the nature of the mortgagee´s claims, as well as due to satisfaction. Described are foreclosures on the collateral, which is possible not earlier than 6 months after the deadline to transfer the object of shared construction under the contract, termination or suspension of construction of the property in the circumstances are indicating that the object of shared construction clearly will not be shared within the prescribed period. Described are mechanisms to ensure fulfillment of obligations under the contract by the developer of a joint construction of an apartment building, which include: bank guarantee and insurance of civil liability. Described are the main provisions of the institute of civil liability of parties to the contract of a joint construction, which has two main functions: compensatory, or remedial, and preventive. Defined are grounds for bringing parties to the contract of a joint construction to civil liability, which is considered to be committing an offense, namely, non-performance or improper performance of contract terms.
Assessing standards of vascular access device care
Authors: McGuire Rose
Published: April 2015

Vascular access devices (VADs) are essential in health care as they provide vital access for treatment including the infusion of medication, fluids, blood products and nutritional supplements. However, their invasive nature predisposes patients to potential complications, primarily bloodstream infections. This article examines the current standards of VAD care and assesses compliance with current guidelines (national and trust policy) in one hospital setting utilising a practice audit. The audit was conducted in a 500-bed district general hospital over 6 non-consecutive week days. The medical division where the audit took place had 13 wards with 288 beds. A total of 120 VADs were audited, averaging n=9.2 per ward (with a range of 4–18 on each ward). The results demonstrated a collective non-compliance rate of 48%. Although overall compliance was 52%, a poor standard of care was highlighted across the division for all components of the care elements. The post-insertion care of VADs is an essential component of a comprehensive strategy to prevent complications. Consequently, initiatives such as audit, education and feedback should be used in an effort to improve practice and maintain optimal care.
Managing cytotoxic chemotherapy extravasation: use of saline washout
Authors: Harrold Karen
Published: April 2015

Florence Nightingale Foundation scholar Karen Harrold received funding to support her PhD exploring the patient experience of saline washout as a management strategy for chemotherapy extravasation. She discusses the focus of her thesis, the completion of phase one and looks ahead to phase two
The Contemporary Practice of Minimally Invasive Dentistry
Authors: Banerjee Avijit
Published: April 2015

The practice of managing dental disease has evolved during recent decades. Many of the traditional principles, operative technologies and the restorative materials taught in dental school curricula in the past have all developed and changed significantly. Contemporary training requires an alternative modern-day skillset to be appreciated fully and used effectively in the correct clinical circumstances. Patient attitudes have also changed in terms of their expectations of modern dental care and the desired outcomes with respect to the management of dental disease. Dental professionals can therefore no longer rest on their laurels, and cannot afford to rely on outdated principles and techniques. They must embrace these evolutions in ideologies, technologies and materials as has occurred in other aspects of general healthcare and even society in general.
Optical Characteristics and Chemical Composition of Dissolved Organic Matter (DOM) from Riparian Soil by Using Excitation-Emission Matrix (EEM) Fluorescence Spectroscopy and Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Wang Yulai , Yang Changming , Zou Limin , Cui Hengzhao
Published: April 2015

Understanding the quantity and quality of soil dissolved organic matter (DOM) in riparian buffer zones is critical for explaining the biogeochemical processes of soil DOM in river ecosystems. Here, we investigated the dissolved organic carbon, fluorescent DOM (FDOM), and DOM molecules from riparian soils on Chongming Island in eastern China. Simultaneously, the soil DOM was extensively characterized in terms of the total aromaticity index (TAI) and several optical indices. The excitation (Ex)-emission (Em) matrix parallel factor analysis results showed that two humic-like components were present (Ex/Em = 283(364)/454 nm; 337/410 nm), a fulvic-like component (Ex/Em = 241/426 nm) and a microbial degradation component (Ex/Em = 295/382 nm). The humic-like and fulvic-like substances were the main components in the riparian soil FDOM, accounting for ~90% of the FDOM. Mass spectrometry provided more detailed information for the soil DOM molecules. Six chemical fractions, amino acids, carbonyl compounds, fatty acids, lipids, proteins and sugars, were identified using liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Lipids, proteins, and carbonyl compounds were dominant in the soil DOM, accounting for .85% of the detected molecules ( m/z < 1000). Significant differences were observed between the quantities of the six soil DOM chemical fractions at the different sampling locations. Discriminant molecules verified the hypothesis that the chemical soil DOM fractions varied with the land use of the adjacent watersheds. The TAI for the soil DOM could provide more reliable information regarding the biogeochemical processes of DOM. The carbonyl compounds and lipid fractions controlled this index. Overall, the optical indices and TAI values can improve our understanding of soil DOM quality; however, the optical indices did not provide quantitative evidence regarding the sources or properties of the soil DOM. The observations from this study provided detailed information regarding the soil DOM quality and the presence of specific molecules and improved our understanding of the biogeochemical processes of DOM.
Matrix Effects in Quantitative Assessment of Pharmaceutical Tablets Using Transmission Raman and Near-Infrared (NIR) Spectroscopy
Authors: Sparén Anders , Hartman Madeleine , Fransson Magnus , Johansson Jonas , Svensson Olof
Published: April 2015

Raman spectroscopy can be an alternative to near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) for nondestructive quantitative analysis of solid pharmaceutical formulations. Compared with NIR spectra, Raman spectra have much better selectivity, but subsampling was always an issue for quantitative assessment. Raman spectroscopy in transmission mode has reduced this issue, since a large volume of the sample is measured in transmission mode. The sample matrix, such as particle size of the drug substance in a tablet, may affect the Raman signal. In this work, matrix effects in transmission NIR and Raman spectroscopy were systematically investigated for a solid pharmaceutical formulation. Tablets were manufactured according to an experimental design, varying the factors particle size of the drug substance (DS), particle size of the filler, compression force, and content of drug substance. All factors were varied at two levels plus a center point, except the drug substance content, which was varied at five levels. Six tablets from each experimental point were measured with transmission NIR and Raman spectroscopy, and their concentration of DS was determined for a third of those tablets. Principal component analysis of NIR and Raman spectra showed that the drug substance content and particle size, the particle size of the filler, and the compression force affected both NIR and Raman spectra. For quantitative assessment, orthogonal partial least squares regression was applied. All factors varied in the experimental design influenced the prediction of the DS content to some extent, both for NIR and Raman spectroscopy, the particle size of the filler having the largest effect. When all matrix variations were included in the multivariate calibrations, however, good predictions of all types of tablets were obtained, both for NIR and Raman spectroscopy. The prediction error using transmission Raman spectroscopy was about 30% lower than that obtained with transmission NIR spectroscopy.
Distribution of Hydroxyl Groups in Kukersite Shale Oil: Quantitative Determination Using Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Spectroscopy
Authors: Baird Zachariah Steven , Oja Vahur , Järvik Oliver
Published: April 2015

This article describes the use of Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy to quantitatively measure the hydroxyl concentrations among narrow boiling shale oil cuts. Shale oil samples were from an industrial solid heat carrier retort. Reference values were measured by titration and were used to create a partial least squares regression model from FT-IR data. The model had a root mean squared error (RMSE) of 0.44 wt% OH. This method was then used to study the distribution of hydroxyl groups among more than 100 shale oil cuts, which showed that hydroxyl content increased with the average boiling point of the cut up to about 350 °C and then leveled off and decreased.
A Promising Raman Spectroscopy Technique for the Investigation of trans and cis Cholesteryl Ester Isomers in Biological Samples
Authors: Melchiorre Michele , Ferreri Carla , Tinti Anna , Chatgilialoglu Chryssostomos , Torreggiami Armida
Published: April 2015

Lipid geometry is an important issue in biology and medicine. The cis–trans geometry conversion of double bonds in lipids is an endogenous process that can be mediated by sulfur-centered free radicals. Trans isomers of polyunsaturated fatty acids can be used as biological markers of free radical stress, and their presence in biological samples can be determined by synthesis and characterization of appropriate reference compounds. Fractions of plasma lipids, such as cholesteryl linoleate and arachidonate esters, are interesting targets because of their connection with membrane phospholipid turnover and their roles in cardiovascular health. In this context, Raman spectroscopy can provide a useful contribution, since Raman analysis can be performed directly on the lipid extracts without any derivatization reaction, is nondestructive, and can rapidly supply biochemical information. This study focused on the build up of Raman spectral libraries of different cis and trans isomers of cholesteryl esters to be used as references for the examination of complex biological samples and to facilitate isomer recognition. Unsaturated cholesteryl esters obtained by chemical synthesis and with different alkyl chain lengths, double bond numbers, or both, were analyzed. The potential of Raman analysis for trans isomer detection in biological samples was successfully tested on some cholesteryl ester lipid fractions from human serum. The data suggest promising applications of Raman spectroscopy in metabolomics and lipidomics.
Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence Spectrometry Using a Dual Optical Fiber Sample Cell
Authors: Guyer Cole A. , Tao Shiquan
Published: April 2015

A novel total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) spectrometric technique using a dual optical fiber sample cell was developed. A conventional silica optical fiber was used for exciting fluorescence compounds in its evanescent wave field. A liquid core waveguide (LCW) was used to collect the fluorescence photons emitted from fluorescence compounds existing in an excitation fiber's evanescent wave field. The collected fluorescence photons were guided through the LCW and sent to a fluorescence spectrometer for detection. The spatial separation of excitation light and fluorescence light reduces the excitation-light-related optical noise signal, which is the major factor limiting fluorescence techniques from achieving lower detection limit. Preliminary results obtained from this work indicate that the optical fiber TIRF system of this work can detect 4.6*10−18 mole rhodamine 6G (2.7*106 molecules) existing in the evanescent wave field of the excitation optical fiber.
Relative Intensity Correction of Raman Systems with National Institute of Standards and Technology Standard Reference Material 2242 in 90°-Scattering Geometry
Authors: Schlösser Magnus , Rupp Simone , Brunst Tim , James Timothy M.
Published: April 2015

The U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has certified a set of Standard Reference Materials (SRMs) that can be used to accurately determine the spectral sensitivity of Raman spectrometers. These solid-state reference sources offer benefits such as exact reproduction of Raman sampling geometry, simple implementation, and long-term stability. However, a serious drawback of these SRMs is that they are certified only in the backscattering (180°) configuration. In this study, we investigated if and how SRM 2242 (applicable for 532 nm) can be employed in a 90°-scattering geometry Raman system. We found that the measurement procedure needs to be modified to comply with the certified uncertainty provided by NIST. This requires a change in the SRM illumination that is possible only if we polish the side surfaces. In addition, we need to account for the polarization configuration of the Raman system by choosing the appropriate polarization of the excitation beam. On top of that, the spatial inhomogeneity of the luminescence light needs to be taken into account, as well as its behavior while traveling through the SRM bulk. Finally, we show in a round-robin test that the resulting uncertainty for the quantification of Raman spectra using the modified technique is on the order of ± 1.5 percentage points.
Fano-Like Resonances in Split Concentric Nanoshell Dimers in Designing Negative-Index Metamaterials for Biological-Chemical Sensing and Spectroscopic Purposes
Authors: Ahmadivand Arash , Karabiyik Mustafa , Pala Nezih
Published: April 2015

In this study, we investigated numerically the plasmon response of a dimer configuration composed of a couple of split and concentric Au nanoshells in a complex orientation. We showed that an isolated composition of two concentric split nanoshells could be tailored to support strong plasmon resonant modes in the visible wavelengths. After determining the accurate geometric dimensions for the presented antisymmetric nanostructure, we designed a dimer array that shows complex behavior during exposure to different incident polarizations. We verified that the examined dimer was able to support destructive interference between dark and bright plasmon modes, which resulted in a pronounced Fano-like dip. Observation of a Fano minimum in such a simple molecular orientation of subwavelength particles opens new avenues for employing this structure in designing various practical plasmonic devices. Depositing the final dimer in a strong coupling condition on a semiconductor metasurface and measuring the effective refractive index at certain wavelengths, we demonstrate that each one of dimer units can be considered a meta-atom due to the high aspect ratio in the geometric parameters. Using this method, by extending the number of dimers periodically and illuminating the structure, we examined the isotropic, polarization-dependent, and transmission behavior of the metamaterial configuration. Using numerical methods and calculating the effective refractive indices, we computed and sketched corresponding figure of merit over the transmission window, where the maximum value obtained was 42.3 for Si and 54.6 for gallium phosphide (GaP) substrates.
Deep-Ultraviolet Raman Measurements Using a Spatial Heterodyne Raman Spectrometer (SHRS)
Authors: Lamsal Nirmal , Angel S. Michael
Published: April 2015

A deep-ultraviolet (UV) 244 nm excitation spatial heterodyne Raman spectrometer (SHRS) is demonstrated for the first time. The deep-UV SHRS has no moving parts, and even though it is small for a deep-UV Raman spectrometer, the spectral resolution is shown to be about 4 cm−1. The deep-UV SHRS also has a large input aperture and acceptance angle, and the resulting large field of view is shown to be useful to avoid laser-induced sample degradation. In this feasibility study, Raman spectra of several compounds are measured to demonstrate the spectral resolution and range of the system. A photosensitive compound is also measured to demonstrate the use of a large laser spot to minimize UV-laser-induced sample degradation.
Editing out the architectural history of modern Iraq: Aspects of the academic discourse (1950s–1980s)
Authors: Pieri Caecilia
Published: April 2015

In 1988, Jabra Ibrahim Jabra, the famous Palestinian Iraqi writer, published an article in an Iraqi magazine, in English, the title of which was ‘Baghdad in a perspective of time’. Jabra’s text praised Babylon, not Baghdad, as ‘the outward-oriented city of pluralities, capable of holding together in a viable and dynamic form a vast number of disparate elements, both human and cultural. Different races, religions, languages, all living together […]’. Perhaps it would have been difficult to express nostalgia for cosmopolitan Iraq’s multiple heritages under the leadership of Saddam Husayn, a period in which Baghdad was made selective use of as an embodiment of certain historical landmarks to the detriment of others. This article assesses some aspects of the architectural critical discourse in Iraq starting with the 1950s, a decade that witnessed the rising tide of Arab nationalism. It shows how architectural critique was used to manipulate (and/or be manipulated by) the dominant academic discourse by participating in an overall simplification of the question. This debate is pervaded by a wider one: the links between national History and nationalist historiography, i.e. the writing of History as a tool for ideology and political agendas, through the narrative of a refocused wataniyyah.
Daily Profiles of Dehydroepiandrosterone and Its Hydroxylated Metabolites with Respect to Food Intake
Authors: Stárka Luboslav , Rácz Beata , Šrámková Monika , Hill Martin , Dušková Michaela
Published: April 2015

Eight women of reproductive age with normal body mass index were given 5 standardised meals, and their hormonal milieu was determined during the course of the day. Plasma from 12 withdrawals was analysed for dehydroepiandrosterone and its 7- and 16-hydroxylated metabolites. Overall, there was a maximum in the levels of steroid hormones in the morning, followed by decreases throughout the day. There was also an additional significant decrease found for dehydroepiandrosterone and its 7α-hydroxyderivative in association with the consumption of main meals, but not for the 7β-isomer or 16α-hydroxyderivative.
Agenesis of the Gallbladder Diagnosed by Magnetic Resonance Cholangiography: Report of a Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Yener Oktay , Buldanlı Mehmet Zeki , Eksioglu Hayati , Leblebici Metin , Alimoglu Orhan
Published: April 2015

Gallbladder agenesis (GA) is a rare congenital anomaly of the biliary system often associated with other congenital abnormalities. Patients become symptomatic in 23% of cases (Richards et al., 1993). GA is often misinterpreted as other diseases, therefore, leading to unnecessary surgery. Many of these patients develop a typical symptomatology of cholelithiasis that leads them to operating theatre. If an operative procedure is done, it is better to remain at the level of laparoscopy because further surgical investigation may lead to detrimental biliary tract injuries (Waisberg et al., 2002). We present a case of GA, diagnosed by magnetic resonance with cholangiopancreatography.
The resting salivary antimicrobial proteins and cortisol concentration in wrestlers during 12-week training
Authors: Trochimiak Teresa , Hübner-Woźniak Elżbieta , Tomaszewski Paweł
Published: April 2015

Study aim: the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of 12-week training on saliva immunoendocrine response in collegiate male and female wrestlers.

Material and methods: the control group was composed of men and women of the same age, not engaged in any sports activity except for physical education classes at the university. The examined athletes participated in a 12-week training program, which consisted of two sub-phases (preparatory period and competitive period). Saliva samples were collected at three time points: at the beginning (the first point), after six weeks of the preparatory period (the second point, which was the start of the competitive period) and after six weeks of the competitive period (the third point). Immunoglobulin A and cortisol concentration, and α-amylase activity were measured in saliva by respective ELISA kits. Immunoglobulin A was expressed as relative to total protein concentration (sIgA/total protein).

Results: at the third time point, the sIgA/total protein ratio was significantly lower in female compared to male athletes. α-Amylase activity was lower in all examined athletes at all three time points compared to respective control groups.

Conclusions: hormonal and mucosal antimicrobial system response can provide helpful information of body adaptive processes to physical strain as well as indicators of magnitude of training-induced stress.
The changes in running economy during puberty in overweight and normal weight boys
Authors: Maciejczyk Marcin , Gradek Joanna , Szymura Jadwiga , Cempla Jerzy , Więcek Magdalena , Tota Łukasz
Published: April 2015

Study aim: running economy (RE) is important indicator of endurance performance. During puberty dynamic changes in body composition and function are observed, as such RE is also expected to change. The aim of the study was to compare the running economy (RE) in overweight and normoweight boys during a running exercise performed with constant velocity, and the assessment of changes in RE during puberty.

Material and methods: the RE of the subjects was evaluated twice: at the age of 11–12 and two years later. 18 overweight and 17 normal weight boys performed a graded test and a week later a submaximal run on a mechanical treadmill. During the exercise, physiological variables (oxygen uptake, heart rate, pulmonary ventilation, tidal volume and breathing frequency) were measured.

Results: the intensity of work in both tests (%VO2max, %HRmax) was significantly higher in the overweight boys and decreased with age (non significantly) in both groups. The physiological response during the run in the overweight boys was significantly higher compared to normal weight. When the oxygen uptake was expressed as VO2.BM–0.75, the RE was similar in normal weight and overweight boys. During puberty, the inter-group differences in the metabolic cost of work stay at a relatively stable level.

Conclusions: the lowered endurance performance in the overweight boys during puberty remains unchanged. The changes in physiological variables during puberty in both groups occurred in a similar way – the body composition did not influence the course of these changes in puberty.
Use of instrumented spasticity tests in clinical applications. Preliminary results
Authors: Szczerbik Ewa , Kalinowska Małgorzata , Graff Krzysztof , Olczak-Kowalczyk Dorota , Dąbrowska-Gontarczyk Anna , Jelonek Elżbieta , Syczewska Małgorzata
Published: April 2015

Study aim: the aim of the study was to evaluate whether the use of instrumented versions of spasticity tests would provide us with clinically more useful information on the patient’s status.

Material and methods: the study included 19 children, 8–17 years old: 7 girls and 12 boys. Pendulum, velocity, and popliteal tests were performed using the Vicon system (knee joint angle, 8 muscles EMG). Dynamic movement ranges of the knee joint during velocity and popliteal tests (ROM), indices of the pendulum test, and muscle activity in dependence of velocity of movement (MA, MAST) were calculated. Correlation coefficients between ROM, Vmax, MA, and MAST were calculated to show whether instrumentation of clinical tests can validate the patient’s status more precisely.

Results: Vmax value from the pendulum test does not always correlate with ROM. Scores of MA and MAST do not correlate with ROM. Vmax generally does not correlate with MA or MAST.

Conclusions: ROM is one of the most important parameters reflecting the level of spasticity but it is not sensitive enough to detect small changes in the patient’s status. In that case, Vmax of the pendulum test and the number of activated muscles in velocity and popliteal tests could become important tools to assess changes in spasticity level, especially when motion systems are more commonly available.
Effect of participating in fitness classes on postural stability of young women
Authors: Truszczyńska Aleksandra , Jarmuziewicz Agnieszka , Drzał-Grabiec Justyna
Published: April 2015

Study aim: the aim of the study was to compare the postural stability and ability to control balance in active women who attend fitness classes versus inactive women.

Material and methods: the study included 41 women who exercise regularly (mean age 28.64±5.26 years). The control group consisted of 42 women not engaged in regular physical activity (mean age 28.55±5.05 years). In each subject, postural stability testing was performed using the Stabilometric Platform CQStab2P (the 2-platform version). Authors analysed the mean, median and standard deviation for each parameter of the stabilogram and statokinesiogram.

Results: for most of the studied parameters, the statistical analysis showed a positive effect of exercising on the level of fitness compared to the control group, for both the test with eyes open and the test with eyes closed.

Conclusions: attending fitness classes significantly affects postural stability and balance control in young women, and leads to lesser dependence on sight to maintain it.
Effect of specimen dimension and pre-heating temperature on supercritical CO2 dewatering of radiata pine sapwood
Authors: Dawson Bernard S.W. , Pearson Hamish , Kroese Hank W. , Sargent Rosie
Published: April 2015

Removing water from wood is a critical requirement for applications in building and construction and for chemical modifications. Normally, green radiata pine (Pinus radiata D. Don) timber, with a moisture content (MC) range at harvest between 150% and 200%, is kiln dried to below fiber saturation point (FSP) to 10–14% MC. In the present work, a physical-chemical-mechanical dewatering process is presented, which involves pressure cycling with supercritical CO2 to remove water to near the FSP. When the CO2 was cycled from ∼4 MPa into the supercritical state, at pressures up to 20 MPa, specimens of cross-sectional dimensions of up to 52 mm were successfully dewatered from a MC of 174%, typical of the green state, to approximately 39% in seven cycles. The specimens with the smallest cross-sectional dimensions dewatered more slowly than the larger specimens. Preheating the green wood before loading it into the dewatering vessel increased the rate of dewatering. The final MCs were similar in all experiments and were independent of specimen dimension (15–52 mm) or preheating temperature between 40°C and 60°C. Pressure-temperature phase diagrams show that it is necessary to compress the CO2 to the supercritical state for efficient dewatering. Diffusion rates and solubility of CO2 in sap were important, but channel opening within specimens was proposed to be a critical factor in the dewatering process. The reason why pressure-based experiments remove water from wood to an MC greater than the established FSP of 30% is not yet clear.
Morphological changes induced in wood samples by aqueous NaOH treatment and their effects on the conversion of cellulose I to cellulose II
Authors: Nakano Shuhei , Nakano Takato
Published: April 2015

The contraction along the longitudinal direction of Yezo spruce has been examined. The lignin and hemicelluloses (matrix) were removed from the samples with acetic acid and H2O2 for different treatment times, and by this way the matrix content of the samples was diminished step by step. Then the chemically pretreated samples were submitted to aqueous NaOH treatments with varied concentrations. Mechanically isolated tracheids with the same matrix content as wood samples were also NaOH treated. The aim was to detect the longitudinal contraction behaviors of these samples as a function of the degree of matrix removal and the severity of NaOH treatment. The contraction behaviors of the samples were clearly depended on the NaOH concentration as well as on content and composition of the matrix. The differences in contraction behavior are due to the restrictive forces caused by matrices between cellulose microfibrils (CMFs) or between tracheids that prevent the contraction of CMFs also in the longitudinal direction. This is the reason why it is difficult to convert cellulose I to cellulose II in wood cells.
A Comparative Study on Johnson Cook, Modified Zerilli–Armstrong and Arrhenius-Type Constitutive Models to Predict High-Temperature Flow Behavior of Ti–6Al–4V Alloy in α + β Phase
Authors: Cai Jun , Wang Kuaishe , Han Yingying
Published: April 2015

True stress and true strain values obtained from isothermal compression tests over a wide temperature range from 1,073 to 1,323 K and a strain rate range from 0.001 to 1 s–1 were employed to establish the constitutive equations based on Johnson Cook, modified Zerilli–Armstrong (ZA) and strain-compensated Arrhenius-type models, respectively, to predict the high-temperature flow behavior of Ti–6Al–4V alloy in α + β phase. Furthermore, a comparative study has been made on the capability of the three models to represent the elevated temperature flow behavior of Ti–6Al–4V alloy. Suitability of the three models was evaluated by comparing both the correlation coefficient R and the average absolute relative error (AARE). The results showed that the Johnson Cook model is inadequate to provide good description of flow behavior of Ti–6Al–4V alloy in α + β phase domain, while the predicted values of modified ZA model and the strain-compensated Arrhenius-type model could agree well with the experimental values except under some deformation conditions. Meanwhile, the modified ZA model could track the deformation behavior more accurately than other model throughout the entire temperature and strain rate range.
Effects of Cations on Corrosion of Inconel 625 in Molten Chloride Salts
Authors: Zhu Ming , Ma Hongfang , Wang Mingjing , Wang Zhihua , Sharif Adel
Published: April 2015

Hot corrosion of Inconel 625 in sodium chloride, potassium chloride, magnesium chloride, calcium chloride and their mixtures with different compositions is conducted at 900°C to investigate the effects of cations in chloride salts on corrosion behavior of the alloy. XRD, SEM/EDS were used to analyze the compositions, phases, and morphologies of the corrosion products. The results showed that Inconel 625 suffers more severe corrosion in alkaline earth metal chloride molten salts than alkaline metal chloride molten salts. For corrosion in mixture salts, the corrosion rate increased with increasing alkaline earth metal chloride salt content in the mixture. Cations in the chloride molten salts mainly affect the thermal and chemical properties of the salts such as vapor pressure and hydroscopicities, which can affect the basicity of the molten salt. Corrosion of Inconel 625 in alkaline earth metal chloride salts is accelerated with increasing basicity.
Biomarkers in blood for individualization of the pharmacotherapy with immunosuppressive drugs after transplantation of solid organs
Authors: Wieland Eberhard , Shipkova Maria
Published: April 2015

The success of transplantation medicine is closely associated with the introduction of potent immunosuppressive drugs. Therapy guidance of the calcineurin inhibitors cyclosporine and tacrolimus as well as the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors sirolimus and everolimus is achieved by therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). For other immunosuppressive drugs such as mycophenolic acid, TDM is not established. It has been suggested that a better individualization of pharmacotherapy could be helpful in avoiding over- and under-immunosuppression, which have been associated with poor long-term outcome of grafts and patients. Therefore, a search for biomarkers that could complement TDM, thereby allowing a better individualization of therapy, is ongoing worldwide. Pharmacodynamic biomarkers in transplantation medicine can be either non-drug-specific, aiming at assessing the global effect on the immune system, or drug-specific, aiming at recording the pharmacologic effect on a drug target. Non-specific pharmacodynamic biomarkers can reflect the degree of immune activation by measuring T- or B-cell activation, the development of operational tolerance by monitoring, e.g., regulatory T-cells, or the graft damage by measuring cell-free DNA released by the graft in response to injury. Drug-specific pharmacodynamic biomarkers have been published for mycophenolic acid, calcineurin, and mTOR inhibitors. The field of biomarker research to complement TDM for a better individualization of immunosuppression is still in its infancy, and controlled prospective clinical trials are needed to unravel or dismiss the potential of particular biomarkers or biomarker combinations in various patient cohorts with different grafts.
Richtungssensitive Fußgänger-Verfolgung durch Klassifikation von Bildmerkmalen
Authors: Pallauf Johannes , Puente León Fernando
Published: April 2015

Der Beitrag untersucht die Nutzung von Orientierungsinformationen
über Fußgänger aus Einzelbildern zur robusten Personenverfolgung. In dem
vorgestellten Verfahren werden Farb- und Tiefeninformationen einer Kamera
genutzt, um eine schnelle Detektion von Personen zu ermöglichen. Die dafür
herangezogenen Bildmerkmale werden anschließend weiterverwendet, um eine
Unterscheidung mittels gewichteter SVM‐Klassifikatoren zwischen verschiedenen
Hauptrichtungen durchzuführen, die für eine Orientierungsbestimmung genutzt
werden. Die erhaltenen Orientierungs- und Positionsinformationen werden
zuletzt in einem auf dem Unscented-Kalman-Filter basierenden
Verfolgungsalgorithmus fusioniert und evaluiert. Es zeigen sich deutliche
Vorteile in der Schätzung der Orientierung – vor allem bei vom verwendeten
Bewegungsmodell abweichenden Bewegungen.
Understanding Blowout Phenomena to the Induced Angle of V-Gutter-Stabilized Flames
Authors: Kirubhakaran K. , Parammasivam K. M.
Published: April 2015

The combustion and flame blowout characteristics are investigated in a vitiated environment by placing the 60°, 90° and 120° V-gutters. The blowout is initiated through varying the equivalence ratio of reactants’ flow rates. The blowout is mainly investigated in ultra-lean condition where the equivalence ratio ranges from 0.18 to 0.8, by varying the length of the combustor; the blowout of flame takes place more quickly; it occurred in all tested gutter angles. On increasing the gutter angle from 60° to 120° the flame blowout takes place at Reynolds number from 2,500 to 6,000, which is inversely proportional to the gutter-induced angle of the gutter. The flame flashback possibility occurs due to aggression of the flame marching towards the blowout. The 120° V-gutter has possible flashback since the blowout takes place at very low Reynolds number. As the length of the combustor increases, it is also evident that flashback phenomenon occurred in the rigorous flame just before the flame blowout.
Metallurgical Analysis of a Failed 17-4 PH Stainless Steel Pyro Bolt Used in Launch Vehicle Separation Systems
Authors: Srinath J. , Manwatkar K. Sushant , Murty S. V. S. Narayana , Narayanan P. Ramesh , Sharma S. C. , George M. Koshy
Published: April 2015

Precipitation hardenable stainless steels are widely used in aerospace applications because of their excellent combination of strength and corrosion resistance. In view of this advantage, Fe-17Cr-4Ni (17-4 PH) steel is used in pyro bolts in space ordnance systems for stage separation in a satellite launch vehicle. These systems typically consist of a pyro charge to sever a given material resulting in stage separation, and these materials are exposed to high strain rates. In one such application, although perfect severance took place, secondary cracks were noticed longitudinally, which are not desirable. This steel, in view of its composition, has delta ferrite in a martensitic matrix in the hardened and tempered condition. In wrought products worked unidirectionally, delta ferrite gets oriented along the direction of thermomechanical processing. The effect of delta ferrite orientation on the impact properties of 17-4 PH stainless steel was studied in various heat-treatment conditions with a view to understand the effect of microstructure on impact properties. It was found that the transverse impact properties are severely affected by the presence of highly oriented delta ferrite stringers for any given heat-treatment condition. This has been attributed to the weak delta ferrite–martensite interface, which facilitates easy crack propagation. Finally, it was suggested that the anisotropy in impact properties need to be carefully considered in the design of components for applications that involve high strain rates.
First occurrence of Callinectes sapidus (Rathbun, 1896) within the Sacca di Goro (Italy) and surroundings
Authors: Manfrin Chiara , Turolla Edoardo , Chung J. Sook , Giulianini Piero Giulio
Published: April 2015

The Sacca di Goro lagoon is an area located in the northern part of Italy. This locality has benefited in the past of an occasional and later the planned introduction of the Manila clam. Nowadays it produces more than 50% of the entire Italian clam production. Recently the crab Callinectes sapidus has been spotted and reported a few months ago on its female carrying eggs. This may signify the complete acclimation of this species in the Sacca di Goro lagoon and a potential ongoing spread to surrounding areas.
Amphibians and reptiles of the state of Hidalgo, Mexico
Authors: Lemos-Espinal Julio A. , Smith Geoffrey R.
Published: April 2015

We compiled a checklist of the amphibians and reptiles of the state of Hidalgo, Mexico. The herpetofauna of Hidalgo consists of a total of 175 species: 54 amphibians (14 salamanders and 40 anurans); and 121 reptiles (one crocodile, five turtles, 36 lizards, 79 snakes). These taxa represent 32 families (12 amphibian families, 20 reptile families) and 87 genera (24 amphibian genera, 63 reptile genera). Two of these species are non-native species (Hemidactylus frenatus Duméril and Bibron, 1836 and Indotyphlops braminus (Daudin, 1803)). This herpetofauna represents a mixture of species from both the Sierra Madre Oriental and the Transvolcanic Belt. In addition, 26% of all categorized amphibian and reptile species in Hidalgo are considered Vulnerable, Near Threatened, Endangered, or Critically Endangered by the IUCN Red List. Thus, Hidalgo represents a relatively unique and threatened diversity of amphibians and reptiles.
Solanum sisymbriifolium Lam. (Solanaceae): a new invasive undershrub of the old-fields of northeastern Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Srivastava Sumit , Dvivedi Ashish , Shukla Ravindra Prasad
Published: April 2015

Solanum sisymbriifolium Lam. (Solanaceae), an undershrub species, was first identified at an upland site in the suburb of Gorakhpur town during a broad survey on the distribution and abundance of grassland and old-field species of northeastern Uttar Pradesh. The species was first noticed in August 2012, and by the start of 2014 it showed a highly significant increase in its number and vegetal cover. Morphologically the species provides a spectacular plant body by virtue of numerous long orange-red spines found along the stem and leaves to the calyx, large white flowers with bright yellow anthers, and its red ripe fruits present for most of the year. The plant body is largely unpalatable and also resistant to grazers. The rapid spread of this species within a short span of about two years indicates the potential for this perennial shrub as a harsh invader of upland sites of the region. A brief account of habitat and population size along with a morphological description and line drawing is provided for easy identification of the species, which is not yet reported from Uttar Pradesh.
Determinantes do Nível de Conformidade das Evidenciações Relativas ao CPC 27 em Empresas do Novo Mercado da BM&FBOVESPA
Authors: Kaveski Itzhak David Simão , Carpes Antonio Maria da Silva , Klann Roberto Carlos
Published: April 2015

O presente artigo tem por objetivo identificar os fatores que explicam o nível de divulgação relativo ao CPC 27 - Ativo Imobilizado, por empresas listadas no segmento do Novo Mercado de Governança Corporativa da BM&FBovespa, considerando como seus prováveis determinantes as variáveis tamanho, imobilizado total, endividamento e rentabilidade do imobilizado. O estudo caracteriza-se como descritivo, conduzido por meio de análise documental e abordagem quantitativa. A população é composta de 109 empresas em 2011, abrangendo uma amostra de 106 empresas. Para coleta dos dados foi elaborado um check list composto de 17 itens baseados no Pronunciamento Técnico CPC 27. A técnica de análise, buscando alcançar a proposta de pesquisa, deu-se por meio de regressão linear múltipla.  Nos resultados encontrados, verificou-se uma relação positiva significativa entre o ativo imobilizado das empresa e o índice de evidenciação, verificado pelos itens correspondentes aos requisitos mencionados no CPC 27. No que tange às variáveis determinantes do processo de evidenciação, verificou-se que "Imobilizado" está positivamente associado à divulgação de informações sobre ativo imobilizado. Já a "Rentabilidade" está negativamente associada à divulgação. Não se verificou associação significante entre "Endividamento" e "Tamanho" com a divulgação de informações sobre imobilizado. É necessário considerar, ainda, o baixo fator explicativo das variáveis determinantes da evidenciação recomendada pelo CPC 27  e a necessidade de se estender a investigação dentro do tema, possibilitando comparações e extração de novas evidências conclusivas.
Monetary Policy, Trend Inflation and the Great Moderation: An Alternative Interpretation - Comment
Authors: Arias Jonas E. , Ascari Guido , Branzoli Nicola , Castelnuovo Efrem
Published: April 2015

Working with a small-scale calibrated New-Keynesian model, Coibion and Gorodnichenko (2011) find that the reduction in trend inflation during Volcker's mandate was a key factor behind the Great Moderation. We revisit this finding with an estimated New-Keynesian model with trend inflation and no indexation based on Christiano, Eichenbaum and Evans (2005). First, our simulations confirm Coibion and Gorodnichenko's (2011) main finding. Second, we show that a trend inflation-immune Taylor rule based on economic theory can avoid indeterminacy even at high levels of trend inflation such as those observed in the 1970s.