bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EPQ model for imperfect production processes with rework and random preventive machine time for deteriorating items and trended demand
Authors: Shah Nita , Patel Dushyantkumar , Shah Digeshkumar
Published: July 2014

Economic production quantity (EPQ) model has been analyzed for trended
demand, and units in inventory are subject to constant rate. The system
allows rework of imperfect units, and preventive maintenance time is random.
A search method is used to study the model. The proposed methodology is
validated by a numerical example. The sensitivity analysis is carried out to
determine the critical model parameters. It is observed that the rate of
change of demand, and the deterioration rate have a significant impact on the
decision variables and the total cost of an inventory system. The model is
highly sensitive to the production and demand rate.
Impact of Mining Dump on the Accumulation and Mobility of Metals in the Bytomka River Sediments
Authors: Jabłońska-Czapla Magdalena , Szopa Sebastian , Rosik-Dulewska Czesława
Published: July 2014

The research aim was to determine the long-term impact of the mine waste stored at the coal waste dump Hałda Ruda on the content of heavy metals in the bottom sediments of the Bytomka River. It is a watercourse flowing along this coal waste dump and has been under its influence for over fifty years. The research also attempted to determine the seasonality of changes (2 years) and mobility of selected elements.

The article presents total contents of Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd and Pb in the bottom sediments collected from the Bytomka River. It also focuses on the distribution of these elements in particular geochemical fractions determined with the Tessier's sequential chemical extraction procedure. Total element contents were determined with an EDPXRF (Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence) technique. The extractants of particular Tessier's fractions were determined quantitatively with an ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry) spectrometer. The research results show that the stored waste significantly influences the contents of heavy metals in the Bytomka River bottom sediments. The lowest concentration of heavy metals was observed at the B1 spot (above the dump), while the highest one was measured at the B3 spot (below the dump).

Sequential chemical extraction of the bottom sediments indicates that the Zn content in the ion-exchange and carbonate fractions diminished within a year. Nevertheless, Zn bound to Fe and Mn oxides acted in the opposite way. Mn, Zn and Pb are the most dangerous elements from the viewpoint of environmental hazards, as their total concentrations were high. Moreover, their high contents were observed in the most mobile (ion-exchange and carbonate) fractions. Extremely toxic Cd was bound to the oxide fraction to the largest extent. Cu was mainly bound to the organic fraction while environmentally hazardous Cr was bound to the residual fraction.
Ecological Features of Spontaneous Vascular Flora of Serpentine Post-Mining Sites in Lower Silesia
Authors: Kasowska Dorota , Koszelnik-Leszek Anna
Published: July 2014

The aim of this study was to determine the ecological characteristics of vascular plants colonizing serpentine mining waste dumps and quarries in Lower Silesia. The investigated flora was analyzed with regard to species composition, geographical-historical status, life forms, as well as selected ecological factors, such as light and trophic preferences, soil moisture and reaction, value of resistance to increased heavy metals content in the soil, seed dispersal modes and occurrence of mycorrhiza. There were 113 species of vascular plants, belonging to 28 families, found on seven sites in the study. The most numerous families were Asteraceae, Poaceae, Fabaceae and Caryophyllaceae. Only 13% of all plants recorded occurred on at least five of the study sites. The most numerous were species related to dry grassland communities, particularly of the Festuco-Brometea class, which included taxa endangered in the region of Lower Silesia: Avenula pratensis, Salvia pratensis, Festuca valesiaca. Apophytes dominated in the flora of the investigated communities. Hemicryptophytes were the most numerous group and therophytes were also abundant. The serpentine mining waste dumps and querries hosted heliophilous species which prefer mesic or dry habitats moderately poor in nutrients, featuring neutral soil reaction. On two study sites 30% of the flora composition consisted of species that tolerate an increased content of heavy metals in the soil. Anemochoric species were the most numerous with regard to types of seed dispersal. Species with an arbuscular type of mycorrhiza were definitely dominant in the flora of all the study sites, however, the number of nonmycorrhizal species was also relatively high. It was suggested that both the specific characteristics of the habitats from serpentine mining and the vegetation of adjacent areas had a major impact on the flora composition of the communities in the investigated sites.
The Application of PCR Reaction for Identification of MHB Bacteria Species
Authors: Ząbkiewicz Anna , Myga-Nowak Magdalena , Bandurska Katarzyna , Paczyńska Justyna , Szybecka Anna , Krupa Piotr
Published: July 2014

This study characterizes mycorrhiza helper bacteria (MHB) from selected unpolluted locations as well as subjected to industrial emissions. To determine the species of bacteria isolated from the roots of ectomycorrhizal pine and birch, a method based on the sequence analysis of a 16S rRNA gene was used. The isolated bacteria were initially characterized by available biochemical methods and phenotypic observation. On the selected bacteria representatives isolation of DNA was performed, on which the PCR reaction was carried out. In this way amplified samples were automatically sequenced and the obtained results were compared to public databases. Among the isolated bacteria Pseudomonas fluorescens SBW25 and Burkholderia xenovorans LB400 species were dominant.
Polish Interstate Relations with Ukraine, Belarus and Lithuania After 1990 in the Context of the Situation of National Minorities
Authors: Barwiński Marek
Published: July 2014

When we compare the contemporary ethnic structure and national policy of Poland and its eastern neighbours, we can see clear asymmetry in both quantitative and legal-institutional aspects. There is currently a markedly smaller population of Ukrainians, Belarusians and Lithuanians living in Poland than the Polish population in the territories of our eastern neighbours. At the same time, the national minorities in Poland enjoy wider rights and better conditions to operate than Poles living in Ukraine, Belarus and Lithuania.

Additional complicating factor in bilateral relations between national minority and the home state is different political status of Lithuania, Belarus and Ukraine and different processes of transformation the consequence of which is differentiated state of political relations of Poland with its eastern neighbours. Lithuania, like Poland, is a member of EU, Ukraine, outside the structures of European integration, pursued a variable foreign policy, depending on the ruling options and the economic situation, and Belarus, because of internal policy which is unacceptable in the EU countries, is located on the political periphery of Europe.
The Relative Importance of Institutional Trust in Countering Feelings of Unsafety in Disadvantaged Neighbourhoods
Authors: Persson Monika
Published: July 2014

The segregated nature of urban areas reflects an uneven exposure to risk and unsafety. This article analyzes the relevance of place to people’s feelings of unsafety by comparing questionnaire responses from people living in a segregated, disadvantaged neighbourhood to a random sample of people living in the same city. The results suggest that the central factors explaining the individual’s feelings of unsafety differ in this particular neighbourhood compared to the broader population. The article shows that place has a moderating effect on feelings of unsafety. Trust in public institutions is argued to be particularly important in segregated, disadvantaged neighbourhoods because of its potential to prevent feelings of unsafety.
Ontologia i semiotyka pojęcia w sensie logicznym i treści nazw
Authors: Kaczmarek Janusz
Published: July 2014

Streszczenie

W artykule omawiam koncepcję pojęcia podaną przez Kazimierza Ajdukie-wicza w
Ajdukiewicz: nauki humanistyczne, antynaturalizm, metodologia rozumiejąca
Authors: Kleszcz Ryszard
Published: July 2014

Streszczenie

Kazimierz Ajdukiewicz był jedną z czołowych postaci Szkofy Lwowsko-War-szawskiej i jednym z najbardziej szanowanych filozofów polskich XX wieku. Jego zainteresowania obejmowafy szeroką gamę tematów, choć logiczna ana-liza języka i relacja języka oraz poznania dominowafy w jego aktywności naukowej. W polu jego filozoficznych dociekah znajdowafy się także metodologia i teoria nauki. W artykule poddaję pod dyskusję metodologiczne proble-my nauk humanistycznych, obecne w dociekaniach badawczych Ajdukiewicza. Pracował on nad problemami metodologicznymi humanistyki glównie w dwu tekstach:
Ajdukiewicz alternatywny: pragmatysta i platonik
Authors: Marciszewski Witold
Published: July 2014

Streszczenie

Ajdukiewicza postrzega się jako myśliciela, który przeszedł ewolucję od radykalnego konwencjonalizmu do empiryzmu. W proponowanym tu ujęciu alternatywnym, ewolucja prowadzi do empiryzmu, ale typu pragmatycznego i z pewnym elementem platonizmu. Wyrazem pragmatyzmu jest m.in. arty-kuł
Zagadnienie uzasadniania
Authors: Nowaczyk Adam
Published: July 2014

Streszczenie

Artykuł przedstawia ewolucję pogłdów Ajdukiewicza na problem uzasadnia-nia. Wiodła ona od
Uzasadnienie zdań spostrzeżeniowych: Ajdukiewicz, McDowell, Davidson
Authors: Schetz Adriana
Published: July 2014

Streszczenie

W artykule zostają porównane ze sobą trzy stanowiska w kwestii uzasadnie-nia zdah czy przekonah spostrzeżeniowych: Kazimierza Ajdukiewicza, Johna McDowella oraz Donalda Davidsona. Szczególną uwagę poświęcono David-sona kategorii triangulacji jako rzucającej światło na ideę rozwijaną przez Ajdukiewicza, w myśl której doświadczenie jednostkowe, choć nie uzasad-nia zdah spostrzeżeniowych, to uczestniczy w procedurze pośredniego uza-sadnienia, związanej m.in. z uznaniem społecznego charakteru komunikacji językowej.
Konwencjonalizm a prawdziwość
Authors: Woleński Jan
Published: July 2014

Streszczenie

Artykuł rozważa problem prawdy na gruncie konwencjonalizmu jako kierunku epistemologicznego. Szczególna uwaga jest przywiązana do konwencjonalizmu radykalnego Kazimierza Ajdukiewicza. Analizowane są powody, dla których Ajdukiewicz zdecydował się na omówienie funkcjonowania kategorii prawdy w schemacie teoretycznym, jak rozwinąl. Wskazuje się że konwencjonalizm radykalny nie prowadzi do relatywizmu w rozumieniu prawdziwości. Niemniej jednak koncepcja Ajdukiewicza nie da się utrzymać z uwagi na wyniki Tar-skiego (semantyczna definicja prawdy, twierdzenie o niedefiniowalności prawdy). W szczególności, metajęzyk, w którym buduje się semantyczną definicja prawdy, nie musi być domknięty. W zakończeniu zarysowana jest propozycja ulokowania pojęcia prawdy w konwencjonalizmie, oparta na spostrzeżeniu, że pogłd ten nie implikuje arbitralności konwencji.
Reproduction of Real Estate Valuation Methodology in Practice. An Attempt at Identifying Sources of Divergences
Authors: Kucharska-Stasiak Ewa
Published: July 2014

The objective of the study is to try and identify the reasons for the detachment of the valuation practice from its methodology. Two methods have been used in the paper: the analysis method and the case study method, under which fourteen property valuation reports posted on websites and two opinions about the property valuation prepared for court purposes in order to detect and identify sources of deviations from the valuation methodology have been analyzed. The study, besides theoretical aspects, includes references to practical application: pointing out directions of changes in legal regulations and national valuation principles, which should help achieve uniformity in interpreting the valuation concept, allowing the reduction of its uncertainty, understood as the uncertainty of a single valuation and uncertainty as the difference between valuations.
Development of Areas and Public Purpose Investments in Suburban Territories
Authors: Wolny Ada , Źróbek-Rózańska Alina , Źróbek Ryszard , Piotrowski Marek , Frey Jens
Published: July 2014

Suburban areas are subjected to particularly strong investment pressure, thus facing the challenge arising from the need to impose new spatial order. Satisfying the residents’ expectations by implementing necessary technical and social infrastructure becomes a priority. Therefore, public investments play an important role in suburban areas.

The article discusses the role of public purpose goals and their achievement using a case study which encompassed the outskirts of Olsztyn and consisted of detailed analyses of two gminas (communes) adjacent to the city. The research covered the time period from 2006 to 2010. The relationship between the development of housing functions in a suburban area and the location of public purpose investments such as technical and social infrastructure has been documented. The execution of public purpose projects is a follow-up of the development strategies prepared for the gminas where public investments are shown as a stimulant of suburban development. It has been demonstrated that decisions permitting such investments to be carried out are issued in response to the needs of the local community and investors moving to suburban territories.
Rating in the Assessment of Investment Property
Authors: Śmietana Katarzyna , Konowalczuk Jan , Maszczyk Anna
Published: July 2014

The implementation of rating procedures is associated with searching for tools that provide an objective and standardized assessment of investment risk. For this reason, rating is an important and often essential element of investment decision-making processes which determines the development of the capital market, including the real estate investment market. In the investment property market, not only does rating provide transparency of property risk, but it can also be used for real estate portfolio analysis, investment controlling, and the analysis of factors determining investment decisions (ESV 2012).

In this article, the authors present an assessment of the suitability of the rating recommended by TEGoVA for properties considered as active investments, namely properties in the course of development and intended for future development projects. The analysis will include criteria affecting the assessment of property quality and risk, taking into account four classes: market, location, property characteristics, and the quality of cash flows. The study will allow to identify assessment parameters and determine a recommended scope for the analysis of real estate investment potential.
Temporal Variation of Black Carbon Aerosol Concentration during Monsoon in Kathmandu Valley
Authors: Sharma Ram K. , Bhattarai Binod K , Sapkota Balkrishna , Gewali Mohan Bahadur , Kjeldstad Berit
Published: July 2014

Black carbon aerosol was measured continuously for three months June, July and August 2009 at G block of Pulchowk Campus, Institute of Engineering, Department of Engineering Science and Humanities using Magee Scientific Aethalometer AE 31 model. The study period corresponds to monsoon season over Nepal. The study site Pulchow Campus is located at 27°22’N latitude and 85°32’E longitude. The diurnal variation of aerosol black carbon shows two peaks during morning and late evening. These two distinct peaks occur due to gradual increase in the anthropogenic activities and rush hour traffic. Among the three months of monsoon highest monthly average was observed during June while lowest during July and moderate on August with 5.3 7mu&g/m3, 3.0 μg/m3 and 3.8 μg/m3 respectively. The average rain fall in these months were 126mm, 326.3mm and 383mm respectively. The concentration of aerosol black carbon is higher in dry month than rainy months because it is washed by rain once it is released in the atmosphere. In the daily average the highest value of aerosol black carbon was observed on 9th June as 8.2 μg/m3 while lowest value on 16th August as low as 1.9μg/m3. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v9i1.10666Journal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 9, No. 1, pp. 27–35
Solar Energy Potential in Nepal and Global Context
Authors: Adhikari Krishna R. , Gurung Shekhar , Bhattarai Binod K.
Published: July 2014

Solar radiation is the best option and cost effective energy resources of this world from 21st century onwards. In this study monthly, seasonal and annual variation of global solar insolation at Biratnagar, Lukla, Kathmandu, Pokhara, of the year 2007 to 2012, Jumla of the year 2011 to 2012 and Simikot 2011/2012 were carried out. The study has shown the variation of global solar insolation with month, season, year, atmospheric condition, and altitude of the site concerned. The maximum value of monthly, seasonal, and yearly global solar insolation was reported at Jumla whereas the minimum monthly, seasonal, and yearly global solar insolation were observed at Kathmandu. From the observation the abundant solar irradiation in Nepal shows encouraging atmosphere for solar farming venture in near future relating to energy management for Nepal. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v9i1.10675Journal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 9, No. 1, pp. 95–106
Urban Water Supply Sector Reform in Kathmandu Valley
Authors: Chapagain Dol Prasad
Published: July 2014

The sustainable governance of water resources requires that policy makers adapt to changing environmental and socioeconomic context. The efficient management of water resources is vital for its sustainable access and use. Therefore, adequate management practices are needed. Institutional reforms governing the water sector are undergoing remarkable changes and several efforts have been made in this direction for a long time to enhance the water service level. Currently, Kathmandu Upatyaka Khanepani limited (KUKL) is responsible for managing urban water and sanitation service to the Kathamndu Valley. It is the public company registered under the Nepal Government’s company Act 2006 and operates under public private partnership (PPP) modality, which is a part of urban water supply sector reforms of Kathamndu Valley. However, the basic requirement of water and sanitation service level has not changed sustainably. This paper focused to understand the institutional structure of the reforms and to examine the roles of institutions involved and stakeholders. This paper attempted to find out the real problem of water supply and why inadequate water service in Kathmandu valley though many institutional changes occurred. Literatures were reviewed and a descriptive, qualitative design was adopted to generate empirical data. This study finds that urban water supply sector reform of Kathmandu Valley is much closer to the Scott’s theory which consists of cognitive, normative and regulative structure and activities that work together provide stability and meaning to social behavior. However, findings are incongruent with this view point. Findings also show that focal problem of water supply is depleting water sources and widening the gap between demand and supply. Additionally, findings show that lack of coordination among stakeholders, weak institutional structure, unstable political scenario, and unplanned urbanization give rise to the problem, leading wider implications to the health of people and national economy. This paper discusses the results of the study and recommends improving the situation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v9i1.10678Journal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 9, No. 1, pp. 130–141
Bioinspired Soft Actuation System Using Shape Memory Alloys
Authors: Cianchetti Matteo , Licofonte Alessia , Follador Maurizio , Rogai Francesco , Laschi Cecilia
Published: July 2014

Soft robotics requires technologies that are capable of generating forces even though the bodies are composed of very light, flexible and soft elements. A soft actuation mechanism was developed in this work, taking inspiration from the arm of the Octopus vulgaris, specifically from the muscular hydrostat which represents its constitutive muscular structure. On the basis of the authors’ previous works on shape memory alloy (SMA) springs used as soft actuators, a specific arrangement of such SMA springs is presented, which is combined with a flexible braided sleeve featuring a conical shape and a motor-driven cable. This robot arm is able to perform tasks in water such as grasping, multi-bending gestures, shortening and elongation along its longitudinal axis. The whole structure of the arm is described in detail and experimental results on workspace, bending and grasping capabilities and generated forces are presented. Moreover, this paper demonstrates that it is possible to realize a self-contained octopus-like robotic arm with no rigid parts, highly adaptable and suitable to be mounted on underwater vehicles. Its softness allows interaction with all types of objects with very low risks of damage and limited safety issues, while at the same time producing relatively high forces when necessary.
Entropy vs. Majorization: What Determines Complexity?
Authors: Seitz William , Kirwan A.
Published: July 2014

The evolution of a microcanonical statistical ensemble of states of isolated systems from order to disorder as determined by increasing entropy, is compared to an alternative evolution that is determined by mixing character. The fact that the partitions of an integer N are in one-to-one correspondence with macrostates for N distinguishable objects is noted. Orders for integer partitions are given, including the original order by Young and the Boltzmann order by entropy. Mixing character (represented by Young diagrams) is seen to be a partially ordered quality rather than a quantity (See Ruch, 1975). The majorization partial order is reviewed as is its Hasse diagram representation known as the Young Diagram Lattice (YDL).Two lattices that show allowed transitions between macrostates are obtained from the YDL: we term these the mixing lattice and the diversity lattice. We study the dynamics (time evolution) on the two lattices, namely the sequence of steps on the lattices (i.e., the path or trajectory) that leads from low entropy, less mixed states to high entropy, highly mixed states. These paths are sequences of macrostates with monotonically increasing entropy. The distributions of path lengths on the two lattices are obtained via Monte Carlo methods, and surprisingly both distributions appear Gaussian. However, the width of the path length distribution for diversity is the square root of the mixing case, suggesting a qualitative difference in their temporal evolution. Another surprising result is that some macrostates occur in many paths while others do not. The evolution at low entropy and at high entropy is quite simple, but at intermediate entropies, the number of possible evolutionary paths is extremely large (due to the extensive branching of the lattices). A quantitative complexity measure associated with incomparability of macrostates in the mixing partial order is proposed, complementing Kolmogorov complexity and Shannon entropy.
Genetic versus Non-Genetic Regulation of miR-103, miR-143 and miR-483-3p Expression in Adipose Tissue and Their Metabolic Implications—A Twin Study
Authors: Bork-Jensen Jette , Thuesen Anne , Bang-Bertelsen Claus , Grunnet Louise , Pociot Flemming , Beck-Nielsen Henning , Ozanne Susan , Poulsen Pernille , Vaag Allan
Published: July 2014

Murine models suggest that the microRNAs miR-103 and miR-143 may play central roles in the regulation of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and development of type 2 diabetes (T2D). The microRNA miR-483-3p may reduce adipose tissue expandability and cause ectopic lipid accumulation, insulin resistance and T2D. We aimed to explore the genetic and non-genetic factors that regulate these microRNAs in human SAT, and to investigate their impact on metabolism in humans. Levels of miR-103, miR-143 and miR-483-3p were measured in SAT biopsies from 244 elderly monozygotic and dizygotic twins using real-time PCR. Heritability estimates were calculated and multiple regression analyses were performed to study associations between these microRNAs and measures of metabolism, as well as between these microRNAs and possible regulating factors. We found that increased BMI was associated with increased miR-103 expression levels. In addition, the miR-103 levels were positively associated with 2 h plasma glucose levels and hemoglobin A1c independently of BMI. Heritability estimates for all three microRNAs were low. In conclusion, the expression levels of miR-103, miR-143 and miR-483-3p in adipose tissue are primarily influenced by non-genetic factors, and miR-103 may be involved in the development of adiposity and control of glucose metabolism in humans.
The Corporate Social Responsibility of Family Businesses: An International Approach
Authors: Hirigoyen Gérard , Poulain-Rehm Thierry
Published: July 2014

This study analyzes the links between listed family businesses and social responsibility. On the theoretical level, it establishes a relationship between socioemotional wealth, proactive stakeholder engagement, and the social responsibility of family businesses. On a practical level, our results (obtained from a sample of 363 companies) show that family businesses do not differ from non-family businesses in many dimensions of social responsibility. Moreover, family businesses have statistically significant lower ratings for four sub-dimensions of “corporate governance”, namely “balance of power and effectiveness of the Board”, “audit and control mechanisms”, “engagement with shareholders and shareholder structure”, and “executive compensation”.
Stability of Sunscreens Containing CePO4: Proposal for a New Inorganic UV Filter
Authors: Seixas Vitor , Serra Osvaldo
Published: July 2014

Inorganic UV filters have become attractive because of their role in protecting the skin from the damage caused by continuous exposure to the sun. However, their large refractive index and high photocatalytic activity have led to the development of alternative inorganic materials such as CePO4 for application as UV filters. This compound leaves a low amount of white residue on the skin and is highly stable. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physical and chemical stability of a cosmetic formulation containing ordinary organic UV filters combined with 5% CePO4, and, to compare it with other formulations containing the same vehicle with 5% TiO2 or ZnO as inorganic materials. The rheological behavior and chemical stability of the formulations containing these different UV filters were investigated. Results showed that the formulation containing CePO4 is a promising innovative UV filter due to its low interaction with organic filters, which culminates in longer shelf life when compared with traditional formulations containing ZnO or TiO2 filters. Moreover, the recognized ability of CePO4 to leave a low amount of white residue on the skin combined with great stability, suggests that CePO4 can be used as inorganic filter in high concentrations, affording formulations with high SPF values.
Susceptibility of Opportunistic Burkholderia glumae to Copper Surfaces Following Wet or Dry Surface Contact
Authors: Cui Zhouqi , Ibrahim Muhammad , Yang Chunlan , Fang Yuan , Annam Hussain , Li Bin , Wang Yanli , Xie Guan-Lin , Sun Guochang
Published: July 2014

Burkholderia glumae has been proposed to have a potential risk to vulnerable communities. In this work, we investigated the antibacterial activity and mechanism of copper surfaces against multi-drug resistant B. glumae from both patients and rice plants. The susceptibility of B. glumae to copper surfaces was noted by a significant decline in viable bacterial counts, relative to the slight reduction of stainless steel and polyvinylchloride, both of which were used as control surfaces. The mode of action of bacterial killing was determined by examing the mutagenicity, DNA damage, copper ions accumulation, and membrane damage in bacterial cells. The results indicated that the cells exposed to copper surfaces did not cause severe DNA lesions or increase the mutation frequencies, but resulted in a loss of cell membrane integrity within minutes. Furthermore, bacterial cells exposed to copper surfaces accumulated significantly higher amounts of copper compared to control surfaces. Overall, this study showed that metallic copper had strong antibacterial effect against B. glumae by causing DNA and membrane damage, cellular accumulation of copper, and cell death following DNA degradation, which could be utilized to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination and infection.
Batch and Continuous Flow Preparation of Hantzsch 1,4-Dihydropyridines under Microwave Heating and Simultaneous Real-time Monitoring by Raman Spectroscopy. An Exploratory Study
Authors: Christiaens Sylvain , Vantyghem Xavier , Radoiu Marilena , Vanden Eynde Jean Jacques
Published: July 2014

Dialkyl 1,4-dihydro-2,6-dimethylpyridine-3,5-dicarboxylates have been prepared in a batch mode under conventional heating as well as under continuous flow conditions in the Miniflow 200SS, Sairem’s microwave-assisted batch and continuous flow equipment. Real-time monitoring of the reactions by Raman spectroscopy enabled to compare both heating modes and to determine (optimized) reaction times.
Function and Autonomous Behavior of Self-Oscillating Polymer Systems
Authors: Hara Yusuke
Published: July 2014

A novel gel undergoes the Belousov-Zhabotinsky (BZ) reaction in strong-acid-free conditions. Under such conditions, the gel can switch the BZ reaction on or off in conventional self-oscillating gels that undergo self-oscillation only in aqueous solutions with strong acids, such as HNO3 or H2SO4. The self-oscillation of the polymer chain can be controlled by varying the temperature, owing to its thermoresponsive property. Moreover, the polymer chain undergoes viscosity self-oscillations in strong-acid-free conditions. In this review, the direct observation of self-oscillations in polymer chains attached to glass or gold surfaces, by using scanning probe microscopy and quartz crystal microbalances with dissipation monitoring, is discussed.
The Impact of Systemic Risk on the Diversification Benefits of a Risk Portfolio
Authors: Busse Marc , Dacorogna Michel , Kratz Marie
Published: July 2014

Risk diversification is the basis of insurance and investment. It is thus crucial to study the effects that could limit it. One of them is the existence of systemic risk that affects all of the policies at the same time. We introduce here a probabilistic approach to examine the consequences of its presence on the risk loading of the premium of a portfolio of insurance policies. This approach could be easily generalized for investment risk. We see that, even with a small probability of occurrence, systemic risk can reduce dramatically the diversification benefits. It is clearly revealed via a non-diversifiable term that appears in the analytical expression of the variance of our models. We propose two ways of introducing it and discuss their advantages and limitations. By using both VaR and TVaR to compute the loading, we see that only the latter captures the full effect of systemic risk when its probability to occur is low.
GM Crops, Organic Agriculture and Breeding for Sustainability
Authors: Ceccarelli Salvatore
Published: July 2014

The ongoing debate about the use of genetically-modified (GM) crops in agriculture has largely focused on food safety and genetic contamination issues. Given that the majority of GM crops have been produced to respond to the problem of crop yield reductions caused by diseases, insects and weeds, the paper argues that in those cases, the currently used GM crops are an unstable solution to the problem, because they represent such a strong selection pressure, that pests rapidly evolve resistance. Organic agriculture practices provide a more sustainable way of producing healthy food; however, the lower yields often associated with those practices, making the resultant healthy food more expensive, open the criticism that such practices will not be able to feed human populations. Evolutionary plant breeding offers the possibility of using the evolutionary potential of crops to our advantage by producing a continuous flow of varieties better adapted to organic systems, to climate change and to the ever changing spectrum of pests, without depending on chemical control.
Functionalized nanostructures for enhanced photocatalytic performance under solar light
Authors: Guo Liejin , Jing Dengwei , Liu Maochang , Chen Yubin , Shen Shaohua , Shi Jinwen , Zhang Kai
Published: July 2014

Photocatalytic hydrogen production from water has been considered to be one of the most promising solar-to-hydrogen conversion technologies. In the last decade, various functionalized nanostructures were designed to address the primary requirements for an efficient photocatalytic generation of hydrogen by using solar energy: visible-light activity, chemical stability, appropriate band-edge characteristics, and potential for low-cost fabrication. Our aim is to present a short review of our recent attempts that center on the above requirements. We begin with a brief introduction of photocatalysts coupling two or more semiconductors, followed by a further discussion of the heterostructures with improved matching of both band structures and crystal lattices. We then elaborate on the heterostructure design of the targeted materials from macroscopic regulation of compositions and phases, to the more precise control at the nanoscale, i.e., materials with the same compositions but different phases with certain band alignment. We conclude this review with perspectives on nanostructure design that might direct future research of this technology.
STANDARDIZED DEVELOPMENT OBJECTS RECONSTRUCTION IN DIFFICULT GEOCLIMATIC CONDITIONS
Authors: Valerievich Radionov Timur
Published: July 2014

In the article the strategic reconstruction issues of standardized development objects that are in the difficult geo-climatic conditions are examined. The solution of such issues depends on the demographic, social and economic position of the considered locality. During the research basic tasks were set that are aimed at the investigation of geological conditions of the area, the detailed analysis of the typological characteristics of buildings and structures that are undergoing the reconstruction as well as taking into account legislative environment of the project activities in this direction. Researches conducted, tasks set and recommendations developed have given the opportunity to present the main results of researches and to formulate definite conclusions. Scientific novelty of the research lies in the development of scientific and practical recommendations concerning the reconstruction of standardized development objects which are located in the difficult geoclimatic conditions.
NATURAL LIGHT AS A DETERMINANT OF THE IDENTITY OF ARCHITECTURAL SPACE
Authors: Ozorhon Ilker Fatih , Uraz Turkan Ulusu
Published: July 2014

In this study, the effect of natural light on the architectural space quality was examined. Contribution of natural light in three different dimensions as the readability of the space, the effect of the space, and its aesthetical evaluation was taken into consideration and discussed in the given order. The study involves a review of the related architecture literature, various books, articles, essays, and opinions. The major objective of this research is to explain the place of natural light in architectural design and its different aspects through its functional and semantic dimensions in the space. In this respect, contributions of natural light to the identity of the space were examined based on three renowned Turkish architects and their significant works. The paper focuses on the contribution of natural light to the space, emphasizing its qualitative aspects; whereas its physical and measurable aspects are beyond the scope of the paper. The study demonstrates the importance of experiencing the space in terms of understanding the aspect of light that determines the space identity. It also stresses that buildings designed considering the use of natural light could turn out to be more original.
Interpsychique, intersubjectif, interpersonnel : états et passages
Authors: Bolognini Stefano , Hochmann Yvonne , Hochmann Georges
Published: July 2014

L’« interpsychique » est un niveau fonctionnel, présubjectif où deux personnes peuvent échanger des contenus internes et des expériences, sous forme de partage, en utilisant l’identification projective « normale », communicative. S’inspirant de situations de la vie quotidienne et de vignettes cliniques, l’auteur propose une exploration de l’aire naturelle de ces interéchanges humains, afin de mieux comprendre ce qui se passe dans les phases importantes du travail analytique, lorsque celui-ci fonctionne bien. Les concepts d’intrapsychique/interpsychique, self/non-self, personnation/dépersonnation et d’empathie psychanalytique sont articulés ensemble avec la métaphore de la « chatière », pour décrire la complexité des échanges entre les intérieurs de deux êtres humains lorsqu’une vraie rencontre et un contact interne peuvent avoir lieu.
Investigation of probiotic bacteria as dental caries and periodontal disease biotherapeutics
Authors: Saha S. , Tomaro-Duchesneau C. , Rodes L. , Malhotra M. , Tabrizian M. , Prakash S.
Published: July 2014

Oral diseases, specifically dental caries and periodontal disease, are characterised by increases in pathogenic microorganisms, increased demineralisation and increased inflammation and levels of inflammatory markers. Despite the therapeutic strategies, oral diseases have elevated prevalence rates. Recent work has demonstrated that probiotic bio-therapeutics can decrease oral pathogen counts, including caries-causing Streptococcus mutans and oral inflammation. The aim of this work was to investigate putative probiotic bacteria, selected for S. mutans inhibition and for their oral health-promoting characteristics. The probiotic bacteria were screened for S. mutans inhibition, probiotic bacteriocin activity, salivary pH modulation, probiotic nutrient (sucrose) competition, probiotic co-aggregation with S. mutans, bacterial attachment to oral epithelial keratinocytes, bacterial nitric oxide production and bacterial antioxidant activity. The results indicate that Lactobacillus reuteri strains NCIMB 701359, NCIMB 701089, NCIMB 702655 and NCIMB 702656 inhibited S. mutans to non-detectable levels (<10 cfu/ml). L. reuteri strains also demonstrated the highest antioxidant capacity of the tested strains (7.73-13.99 µM Trolox equivalents), suggesting their use as both caries and periodontal disease therapeutics. Although Lactobacillus fermentum NCIMB 5221 inhibited S. mutans at lower levels, it significantly buffered the pH (4.18) of saliva containing S. mutans, co-aggregated with S. mutans (10.09%), demonstrated high levels of sucrose consumption (138.11 mM) and successfully attached to gingival epithelial cells (11%). This study identified four L. reuteri strains and one L. fermentum strain to be further investigated as oral disease biotherapeutics.
Effects of lactic acid bacteria andSaccharomyces cerevisiae on growth ofAspergillus westerdijkiae and ochratoxin A production and toxicity
Authors: Piotrowska M. , Roszak J. , Stańczyk M. , Palus J. , Dziubałtowska E. , Stępnik M.
Published: July 2014

The aim of this study was to examine three strains of the yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiae and three strains of lactic acid bacteria belonging to the genusLactobacillus for their antifungal activity against the ochratoxin A producerAspergillus westerdijkiae, as well as for their effect on OTA genotoxicity and cytotoxicity. When inoculated simultaneously, fungal growth was completely inhibited byS. cerevisiae. In the case of lactic acid bacteria, growth inhibition also occurred but to a less extent. A significant decrease in toxin production in co-culture with the yeast strains and LAB was observed. The supernatant of 24-h-old cultures of yeast strains in medium with OTA did not influence significantly the viability of porcine kidney epithelial LLC-PK1 cell line, whereas the supernatant from the LAB increased the viability compared to the control. Regarding genotoxicity, a decreased fragmentation of DNA was observed in the presence of the supernatant from wine and brewing yeasts, andLactobacillus brevis strains. Based on the results obtained, it might be concluded thatS. cerevisiae yeasts and lactic acid bacteria could be used to minimise the negative effect of OTA on humans and animals.
Estimation of fungal contamination and mycotoxin production at workplaces in composting plants, tanneries, archives and libraries
Authors: Gutarowska B. , Skóra J. , Stępień L. , Twarużek M. , Błajet-Kosicka A. , Otlewska A. , Grajewski J.
Published: July 2014

The aim of this research was to estimate fungal contamination at workplaces in composting plants, tanneries, libraries and archives. The influence of raw material processed or stored at these workplaces (compost, leather, cellulose) on the toxigenicity and cytotoxicity of fungi was also investigated. Qualitative and quantitative mycological analysis confirmed a high contamination in composting plants and tanneries, while materials in archives and libraries were less contaminated. Among the 74 fungal species present in the studied work environments, 15 species were identified as useful indicators of microbial contamination based on their presence at the workplace, frequency of occurrence and harmfulness to health. For nineAspergillus andPenicillium isolates, identification was confirmed on the basis of molecular techniques, i.e. internal transcribed spacer region and β-tubulin gene sequencing, and the obtained nucleotide sequences were deposited into the NCBI GenBank Database. Five strains were cytotoxic to swine kidney cells. Strains ofAspergillus fumigatus originating from a composting plant produced large quantities of fumitremorgin C, fumiquinazoline F, fumagillin, fumigaclavine, helvolic acid, methylsulochrin, pyripyropene A, brevianamid F, verruculogen and others, as analysed by high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. In the case ofPenicillium chrysogenum originating from a tannery, meleagrin, secalonic acid D, roquefortine C, emodin and other metabolites were detected. These findings confirmed the hypothesis that these species may be a health risk factor to workers. Interestingly, the presence of compost extract, leather or cellulose in the culture medium apparently affected the ability of the selected fungi to produce (cytotoxic) mycotoxins.
Temperature and water stress impacts on growth and production of altertoxin-II by strains ofAlternaria tenuissima from Argentinean wheat
Authors: Patriarca A. , Medina A. , Pinto V. Fernández , Magan N.
Published: July 2014

Alternaria tenuissima is commonly isolated from wheat in Argentina. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of temperature (15-34 °C) and water activity (0.98, 0.95 aw) on growth and temporal altertoxin II (ALTX-II) production by two strains over 14-21 days on a milled wheat agar. It was shown that growth occurred over the whole temperature range tested and was optimum at 25-30 °C and 0.98 aw, and 30 °C at 0.95 aw. The incubation time did not show any significant effect on ALTX-II accumulation. The optimum conditions for ALTX-II production were 0.98 aw and 30 °C for both strains. The strains also accumulated significant amounts of this toxin at 34 °C. This is the first study to evaluate the ecology of growth and production of ALTX-II by strains ofA. tenuissima.
Fortunato Chelleri’s Cantate e arie con stromenti (1727): A souvenir of London
Authors: Talbot Michael
Published: July 2014

The Italian composer and instrumentalist Fortunato Chelleri paid three visits to London between 1725 and 1728. Although he failed to have any of his operas performed there, he distinguished himself as a harpsichordist and cellist and left a permanent record of his visits in the form of a published collection of cantatas and arias (1727) that demonstrates his considerable merit as a composer. The article also examines the extraordinary success enjoyed by the Italian cantata in Britain during the same period.
Ancora sui goûts réunis: Michele Mascitti, Giovanni Antonio Guido e l’eredità di Corelli e Vivaldi in Francia nella prima metà del Settecento
Authors: Nestola Barbara
Published: July 2014

The subject isthe reception of Italian instrumental music in France during the first decades of the eighteenth century. After examining the diffusion of music by Corelli and Vivaldi – the two Italian composers who exerted the most durable influence on the French at this time – through publication and performance, the music of Michele Mascitti and Antonio Guido is discussed in order to show the two authors’ contribution to the development of the sonata and the solo concerto.
O času in kraju nastanka ter avtorstvu novomeškega rokopisa Noten-Buch vorinnen die Fundamenta zu dem Clavier oder Orgel enthalten
Authors: Škrjanc Radovan
Published: July 2014

Prispevek predstavlja nekatere pomembnejše ugotovitve raziskave izvora rokopisnega učbenika Fundamenta, ki je v arhivu Frančiškanskega samostana v Novem mestu in vsebuje osnove glasbene teorije, generalnega basa ter skladbe, namenjene učenju klavirske igre na začetni stopnji. Raziskava je potekala na treh nivojih: študiju papirja in vodnih znakov, primerjalni analizi pisav in primerjavi vezave rokopisa z drugimi podobno zvezanimi rokopisnimi in tiskanimi muzikalijami iz istega arhiva.
Simfonični orkester radia Ljubljana 1945–1948
Authors: Ribizel Tjaša
Published: July 2014

Simfonični orkester Radia Ljubljana je bil ponovno ustanovljen v maju leta 1945. Orkester je bil sprva številčno in tudi tehnično šibek. Potem ko so se mu pridružili glasbeniki tržaškega orkestra, se je izvajalski aparat tehnično in posledično tudi interpretacijsko izboljšal. Ko se je potreba radijskih oddaj po fizični prisotnosti orkestra zmanjšala, se je število koncertnih nastopov povečalo. Posledica tega je bila večja prepoznavnost orkestra, o čemer priča tudi večje število na orkester vezanih glasbenih objav v dnevnem časopisju.
Neapeljska vilanela v komični kulturi avstrijskih dežel ok. leta 1570: primer napolitan Giacoma Gorzanisa
Authors: Bagarić Alenka
Published: July 2014

Neapeljske vilanele Giacoma Gorzanisa so preproste ljubezenske pesmice, polne duhovitih, zbadljivih in posmehljivih prispodob. Karikirano podajanje besedil privzame izrazito komičen značaj in ponuja številne priložnosti za vključevanje mimičnih in gestikularnih elementov. Motrenje s tega vidika razkriva širitev vilanele v dežele onstran italijanskega govornega področja.
Petje v srednjeveških obrednih ustanovah na Kranjskem
Authors: Snoj Jurij
Published: July 2014

Doslej je znano 33 listin obrednih ustanov, ki izvirajo iz srednjeveške Kranjske in v katerih je izrecno omenjeno petje. Razprava obravnava izraze, s katerimi so peti obredi označeni, in določa njihov natančen pomen. Na osnovi listinskih opisov skuša rekonstruirati dejanski izgled ustanovljenih obredov.
Nekaj pogledov Dragotina Cvetka na slovensko glasbo in slovensko muzikologijo
Authors: Špendal Manica
Published: July 2014

Prispevek prinaša nekaj pogledov Dragotina Cvetka na razvoj slovenske glasbe in slovenske muzikologije. Poudarja Cvetkove zasluge za ustanovitev Oddelka za muzikologijo na Univerzi v Ljubljani in Muzikološkega institute na Slovenski akademiji znanosti in umetnosti, kakor tudi njegova prizadevanja za mednarodno uveljavitev slovenske muzikološke znanosti.
Miselna izhodišča Dragotina Cvetka
Authors: Pompe Gregor
Published: July 2014

Bibliografski pregled del Dragotina Cvetka ne izkazuje le širine in znanstvenih preferenc, temveč razkriva tudi osnovna raziskovalčeva metodološka ter v marsičem tudi svetovnonazorska izhodišča, ta pa so se v marsičem oblikovala po miselnih izhodiščih Cvetkovih univerzitetnih učiteljev, ki so v tridesetih letih večinoma prisegali na pozitivistično metodo.