bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cognitive Neuroscience Tools in Economic Experiments Investigating the Decision Making Process
Authors: Borawska Anna
Published: July 2017

Experimental economics utilises a lot of different techniques to support its research. Applying computers and IT has already become common. As a novel approach the use of cognitive neuroscience tools is now being considered. Investigating the neurophysiological signals of experiment participants can give researchers a deeper insight into a decision making process. The aim of the article is to show how neuroscience techniques can contribute to economic experiments, especially those concerning decision making. The overview and presentation of the possibilities of such tools is shown regarding different stages of the decision making process and related experimental studies. The proposed analysis could allow for the better design of economic experiments conducted with the use of the most up-to date technology available.
On the oscillatory behavior of solutions of higher order nonlinear fractional differential equations
Authors: Grace Said R. , Tunç Ercan
Published: July 2017

The study of oscillation theory for fractional differential
equations has been initiated by Grace et al. [5]. In this
paper we establish some new criteria for the oscillation of
fractional differential equations with the Caputo derivative of the form

D
a
r

C

⁢
x
⁢

(
t
)

=

e
⁢

(
t
)

+

f
⁢

(
t
,

x
⁢

(
t
)

)

,

t
>
0

,

a
>
1

{{}^{C}D_{a}^{r}x(t)=e(t)+f(t,x(t)),t>0,a>1}

,
where

r
=

α
+
n

-
1

,

α
∈

(
0
,
1
)

{r=\alpha+n-1,\alpha\in(0,1)}

, and

n
≥
1

{n\geq 1}

is a natural number. We also present the conditions under which all solutions
of this equation are asymptotic to

t

n
-
1

{t^{n-1}}

as

t
→
∞

{t\to\infty}

.
Production of novel applicable derivatives from biodiesel glycerin
Authors: Abrishamkar Afshin , Isenmann Armin Franz , Abrishamkar Amin
Published: July 2017

Glycerin (glycerol) is a co-product of biodiesel production that is widely produced and is available at a low cost. To date, various applications have been investigated and introduced for biodiesel glycerin. In this study, a number of valuable products were produced using biodiesel glycerin and formic acid as the main reactants. Allyl alcohol is one of the valuable chemicals produced from glycerin monoformate. Efficient production of this product requires successful completion of the first section of the reaction, which is an equilibrium reaction. The highest feasible yield achieved was about 83% (based on the consumption of formic acid) at 120–140°C without the addition of any catalysts. Also, the esterification reaction was further investigated at room temperature, where the equilibrium state was reached with a yield of 55% after only 4 h. Moreover, the addition of urea to the reaction with the aim of producing the other two side products, i.e. diformyl urea and glycerin carbonate, in addition to glycerin monoformate, was studied. The results showed that considerable amounts of applicable byproducts, e.g. formamid, are also produced, making the process even more economical.
Identification of common words to improve self-confidence in Japanese students with subthreshold depression
Authors: Takahashi Kana , Takada Koki , Inoue Aimi , Ohno Shotaro , Tanigawa Masaru , Ishihara Yoshiaki , Uchida Hiroyuki , Hirao Kazuki
Published: July 2017

Background

Subthreshold depression (StD) is more common than major depressive disorder.

Objective

The study aimed to identify common words to improve self-confidence in Japanese university students with StD for developing a smartphone application to help those with StD.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, words participants used to improve their self-confidence were gathered using self-report questionnaires in 154 university students in Japan. The words used to improve self-confidence were categorized using a computerized text analysis method based on the frequency of appearance.

Results

Participants were 154 male and females [StD group (n = 82) and healthy control (HC) group (n = 72); median age = 20 years]. A total of 290 words for improving self-confidence were identified. In the StD group, the keywords that appeared with the highest frequencies were “can”, “let’s try”, “good luck”, “able”, and “don’t worry”. The keywords that occurred with the highest frequencies (the top eight) were common across both groups. The keywords were grouped into eight categories. The “encouragement” and “praise” categories were found in the responses of more than 80% of participants in both groups. Frequencies of the “determination” and “trust” categories were significantly higher in the StD group than in the HC group.

Conclusions

We conclude that “can”, “let’s try”, and “good luck” are the most common words that Japanese students with StD use when describing how they improve their self-confidence. Future work will use these common words to develop a smartphone application to help those suffering from StD.
Generalized Confidence Intervals for Intra- and Inter-subject Coefficients of Variation in Linear Mixed-effects Models
Authors: Forkman Johannes
Published: July 2017

Linear mixed-effects models are linear models with several variance components. Models with a single random-effects factor have two variance components: the random-effects variance, i. e., the inter-subject variance, and the residual error variance, i. e., the intra-subject variance. In many applications, it is practice to report variance components as coefficients of variation. The intra- and inter-subject coefficients of variation are the square roots of the corresponding variances divided by the mean. This article proposes methods for computing confidence intervals for intra- and inter-subject coefficients of variation using generalized pivotal quantities. The methods are illustrated through two examples. In the first example, precision is assessed within and between runs in a bioanalytical method validation. In the second example, variation is estimated within and between main plots in an agricultural split-plot experiment. Coverage of generalized confidence intervals is investigated through simulation and shown to be close to the nominal value.
Non-Linear Forms of Knowledge Representation in Teaching and Their Evaluation According to Moody’s Principles of Graphical Dimensions
Authors: Nespĕšný David , Malčik Martin
Published: July 2017

At present, there are many methods how to evaluate the structure quality of concept maps; however, there is no tool which would evaluate the cognitive effectiveness of graphic notations in concept maps. One of the possibilities how to evaluate concept maps is to use the principles of graphic notation design. These principles, which were developed by Daniel Moody, are based on experience from various fields of study, such as cognitive psychology, human-computer interaction, semiotics, communication etc. This article presents the use of Moody’s principles for the evaluation of the effectiveness of graphic notation in concept maps.
Arguments of statutory interpretation and argumentation schemes
Authors: Macagno Fabrizio , Walton Douglas
Published: July 2017

In this paper it is shown how certain defeasible argumentation schemes can be used to represent the logical structure of the most common types of argument used for statutory interpretation both in civil and common law. The method is based on an argumentation structure in which the conclusion, namely, the meaning attributed to a legal source, is modeled as a claim that needs that is be supported by pro and con defeasible arguments. The defeasible nature of each scheme is shown by means of critical questions, which identify the default conditions for the accepting interpretative arguments and provide a method for evaluating a given argument as weak or strong.
Study on Honey Quality Evaluation and Detection of Adulteration by Analysis of Volatile Compounds
Authors: Kružík Vojtěch , Grégrová Adéla , Rajchl Aleš , Čížková Helena
Published: July 2017

Fast evaluation of honey quality is a topical and significant problem of the food industry, bee keepers and consumers. In this work, 22 samples of commercially available honey aromas (with methyl and ethyl esters of phenylacetic acid predominated), 13 samples of authentic honey collected directly from bee keepers (characterised by high content of benzaldehyde, 2-phenylethanol, hotrienol and 2-phenylacetaldehyde) and 63 honeys purchased from an outdoor market were evaluated based on volatiles profiles determined through solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC/MS) and then suspicious samples were identified. The results were statistically processed and compared with results of a sensory analysis. Six honeys, which differed significantly in volatiles profiles (outliers detected by Factor Analysis), selected volatile substance representation (furan-2-carbaldehyde, 1,4-dimethylpyrazole, benzaldehyde, 2-phenylacetaldehyde) and honey aroma intensity and pleasantness were subjected to targeted analyses (i.e. determination of 5-(hydroxymethyl)-2-furaldehyde, diastase activity, unauthorized additive presence). Four of these suspicious samples were found to have high content of 5-(hydroxymethyl)-2-furaldehyde (more than 40 mg/kg), three honeys had low values for diastase activity (less than 8) and three samples positive for triacetin addition. The fact that all these samples revealed a breach of least one of the selected quality parameters defined by the Codex Alimentarius standard proved the proposed methodology to be a useful tool for fast quality evaluation of honey.
Reacting to Crisis: The Costs of First Response by the United States Navy
Authors: Apte Aruna , Yoho Keenan
Published: July 2017

The U.S. Navy has declared humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) operations as a core mission in support of the U.S. national security strategy. However little work has been done to illustrate which vessels are typically deployed for such operations or the costs of these deployments which, as contingencies, are not part of the regular defense budget. In this work we summarize some of the work that has been done in the area of cost analysis for U.S. Navy HADR operations and conclude with implications for policy makers.
Isolation and identification of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria from maize (Zea mays L.) rhizosphere and their plant growth promoting effect on rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Karnwal Arun
Published: July 2017

The use of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria is increasing in agriculture and gives an appealing manner to replace chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and dietary supplements. The objective of our research was to access the plant growth promotion traits ofPseudomonas aeruginosa,P. fluorescensandBacillus subtilisisolated from the maize (Zea maysL.) rhizosphere.In vitrostudies showed that isolates have the potential to produce indole acetic acid (IAA), hydrogen cyanide, phosphate solubilisation, and siderophore. RNA analysis revealed that two isolates were 97% identical toP. aeruginosastrain DSM 50071 andP. aeruginosastrain NBRC 12689 (AK20 and AK31), while two others were 98% identical toP. fluorescensstrain ATCC 13525,P. fluorescensstrain IAM 12022 (AK18 and AK45) and one other was 99% identical toB. subtilisstrain NCDO 1769 (AK38). Our gnotobiotic study showed significant differences in plant growth variables under control and inoculated conditions. In the present research, it was observed that the isolated strains had good plant growth promoting effects on rice.
Biocontrol potential of Trichoderma harzianum in controlling wilt disease of pistachio caused by Verticillium dahliae
Authors: Fotoohiyan Zeinab , Rezaee Saeed , Bonjar Gholam Hosein Shahidi , Mohammadi Amir Hossein , Moradi Mohammad
Published: July 2017

Verticillium wilt caused by Verticillium dahliae, is one of the most devastating diseases in pistachio orchards in the world including Iran. In search for an effective non-chemical strategy for the management of this disease, we evaluated the biocontrol potential of Trichoderma harzianum isolates obtained from the rhizosphere of healthy pistachio trees in different locations of the Kerman province of Iran against V. dahliae under laboratory and greenhouse conditions. Dual culture tests in the laboratory were conducted in a completely randomized design using 72 T. harzianum isolates. Twenty isolates showed the highest in vitro antagonistic activity. The results indicated that all 20 isolates were capable of inhibiting the mycelial growth of V. dahliae significantly. Among them, isolates Tr8 and Tr19 were the most effective by 88.89% and 85.12% inhibition, respectively. Extracted cell free metabolites of all effective isolates also inhibited the growth of V. dahliae in the culture medium significantly. According to the results, isolates Tr4 and Tr6 inhibited fungal pathogen growth by 94.94% and 88.15% respectively, through production of non-volatile metabolites. In the evaluation of volatile metabolites, isolates Tr5 and Tr4 were the most effective by 26.27% and 24.49% growth inhibition, respectively. Based on the results of the in vitro experiments, the five most effective isolates were selected for evaluation under greenhouse conditions for their biocontrol potential in controlling Verticillium wilt of pistachio. Results of the greenhouse, (in vivo) experiments were positive and indicated that the occurrence of wilt disease in plants treated with the antagonists alone or in combination with pathogenic fungus was lower than in plants inoculated with pathogen alone. The overall results of this study suggest that Trichoderma fungal antagonist may be an effective biocontrol agent for the control of Verticillium wilt of pistachio.
Peliosis hepatis complicating pregnancy: A rare entity
Authors: Butt Muhammad Osama , Luck Nasir Hassan , Hassan Syed Mujahid , Abbas Zaigham , Mubarak Muhammed
Published: July 2017

Peliosis hepatis (PH) is a rare, benign condition of the liver characterized by the presence of blood-filled lacunar spaces in the parenchyma. It usually has a chronic presentation and is a rare cause of portal hypertension reported in adult patients. Its etiology is diverse and ranges from infectious agents to tumors to toxic substances and anabolic steroids; however, the cause remains unclear in 25–50% of patients. Similarly, the symptomatology and imaging findings are diverse. Biopsy is the definitive test to diagnose the condition. Herein, we present a case of a young female presenting in her seventh month of gestational amenorrhea with signs of portal hypertension and subsequently diagnosed to have PH. She was managed conservatively and delivered her baby normally. Later, she presented with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and hepatic encephalopathy and developed hepatorenal syndrome. She later succumbed to her illness. The condition should be kept in the differential diagnosis of the atypical liver masses and liver diseases causing portal hypertension.
Unusual manner constructions in Shua (Khoe-Kwadi, Botswana)
Authors: McGregor William B.
Published: July 2017

This paper describes a set of three interrelated constructions in Shua (Khoe-Kwadi, Botswana) that make reference to the manner of performance of an event, or to the condition of an entity or entities either in general or as they are involved in an event or situation. There is a subordinate version of the construction that employs reduplication of the verb and a marked case of the subject to signal subordinate status. The other two types are main clause constructions with the overall appearance of copular clauses (i.e., clauses employing a grammeme as a linking device), with a final ‘be’ copula together with an instance of the subordinate variety of the construction. These two constructions, however, show grammatical features that attest to their distinctiveness, distinguishing them from other types of copular clause. The paper discusses the range of meanings and uses of the three manner constructions, and proposes grammatical analyses.
Die Welt in Karten. Umbrüche und Kontinuitäten im Mittelalter
Authors: Baumgärtner Ingrid
Published: July 2017

This paper addresses the changes and continuities within the wide range of cartographic practices that existed in the Middle Ages. Following introductory thoughts on methodological issues, the text focuses on three different types of maps, all of which represent the world in its entirety: schematic maps, world maps and nautical charts. Within different texts, as independent artifacts or as atlases, these maps were employed for diverse purposes, such as the representation of fundamental principles, of encyclopaedic knowledge or of nautical surveys. At least from the twelfth century on, the different genres existed side by side – with adjustments of content and form occurring in each. By relating spacial order and historical content medieval maps produce meaning and assert the significance of the knowledge they display. The literal and philosophical world-views they provide make them valuable sources in modern education.
Divergierende Geschichtsbilder? Das (Spät-)Mittelalter im Dialog zwischen Universität und Geschichtsunterricht
Authors: Hensel-Grobe Meike
Published: July 2017

Teaching medieval history in school is difficult. Time is short and establishing significance is a complex challenge when an era is concerned that is often dismissed as ‘Dark Ages’. This article examines the potential of medieval topics for developing historical thinking in the classroom. First, the concept of historical thinking is described and applied to medieval themes. German history curricula are competence-based. Historical learning is defined as a process of historical orientation based on other competencies (e.g. of inquiring, of applying historical methods). Second, German school curricula in history are analysed to point out common medieval topics, their aims and significance. Conceptual change (or elaboration) theories help to define the process of historical thinking about medieval societies. Third, three examples are discussed that might help students to question their prejudices against medieval societies and develop their historical skills and metacognitive reflection. These examples show how important the dialogue between history teachers and university lecturers in medieval history and history didactics is to enhance historical thinking in the classroom.
Single-Frame Attitude Determination Methods for Nanosatellites
Authors: Guler Demet Cilden , Conguroglu Ece S. , Hajiyev Chingiz
Published: July 2017

Single-frame methods of determining the attitude of a nanosatellite are compared in this study. The methods selected for comparison are: Single Value Decomposition (SVD), q method, Quaternion ESTimator (QUEST), Fast Optimal Attitude Matrix (FOAM) − all solving optimally the Wahba’s problem, and the algebraic method using only two vector measurements. For proper comparison, two sensors are chosen for the vector observations on-board: magnetometer and Sun sensors. Covariance results obtained as a result of using those methods have a critical importance for a non-traditional attitude estimation approach; therefore, the variance calculations are also presented. The examined methods are compared with respect to their root mean square (RMS) error and variance results. Also, some recommendations are given.
Metrological Aspects of Surface Topographies Produced by Different Machining Operations Regarding Their Potential Functionality
Authors: Żak Krzysztof , Grzesik Wit
Published: July 2017

This paper presents a comprehensive methodology for measuring and characterizing the surface topographies on machined steel parts produced by precision machining operations. The performed case studies concern a wide spectrum of topographic features of surfaces with different geometrical structures but the same values of the arithmetic mean height Sa. The tested machining operations included hard turning operations performed with CBN tools, grinding operations with Al2O3ceramic and CBN wheels and superfinish using ceramic stones. As a result, several characteristic surface textures with the Sa roughness parameter value of about 0.2 μm were thoroughly characterized and compared regarding their potential functional capabilities. Apart from the standard 2D and 3D roughness parameters, the fractal, motif and frequency parameters were taken in the consideration.
Dopant-Based Charge Sensing Utilizing P-I-N Nanojunction
Authors: Nowak Roland , Jabłoński Ryszard
Published: July 2017

We studied lateral silicon p-i-n junctions, doped with phosphorus and boron, regarding charge sensing feasibility. In order to examine the detection capabilities and underlying mechanism, we used in a complementary way two measurement techniques. First, we employed a semiconductor parameter analyzer to measure I−V characteristics at a low temperature, for reverse and forward bias conditions. In both regimes, we systematically detected Random Telegraph Signal. Secondly, using a Low Temperature Kelvin Probe Force Microscope, we measured surface electronic potentials. Both p-i-n junction interfaces, p-i and i-n, were observed as regions of a dynamic behaviour, with characteristic time-dependent electronic potential fluctuations. Those fluctuations are due to single charge capture/emission events. We found analytically that the obtained data could be explained by a model of two-dimensional p-n junction and phosphorus-boron interaction at the edge of depletion region. The results of complementary measurements and analysis presented in this research, supported also by the previous reports, provide fundamental insight into the charge sensing mechanism utilizing emergence of individual dopants.
Assessment of Free-Form Surfaces’ Reconstruction Accuracy
Authors: Wójcik Artur , Niemczewska-Wójcik Magdalena , Sładek Jerzy
Published: July 2017

The paper presents the problem of assessing the accuracy of reconstructing free-form surfaces in the CMM/CAD/CAM/CNC systems. The system structure comprises a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) PMM 12106 equipped with a contact scanning probe, a 3-axis Arrow 500 Vertical Machining Center, QUINDOS software and Catia software. For the purpose of surface digitalization, a radius correction algorithm was developed. The surface reconstructing errors for the presented system were assessed and analysed with respect to offset points. The accuracy assessment exhibit error values in the reconstruction of a free-form surface in a range of ± 0.02 mm, which, as it is shown by the analysis, result from a systematic error.
Maximization of Created Social Value: Social Business Models and Their Application Tendencies in Lithuania
Authors: Kuklytė Jūratė , Vveinhardt Jolita
Published: July 2017

This research, based on the analysis of social business models’ concepts, aims to identify tendencies of social business models implementation in Lithuania. The theoretical part of the article highlights the main features of a pure social business model and a hybrid social business model, as well as discusses their differences. Having evaluated the implementation state of social business models, the authors reveal that the existing practice of public enterprises restricts development of social business potential, mainly accountability and transparency of social business. Therefore, transition of public enterprises to other forms of social business models should be promoted so that to ensure competitiveness in the market and continuous pursuit of social objectives. The findings revealed that the most popular forms of social business in Lithuania are volunteering, charitable activities, and sponsorship. However, despite the fact that some practices of social business are applied, development of social business models is a little-known phenomenon to the public thus might be confused with the definition of a social enterprise.
The Main Obstacles and Possibilities of the Cooperative Movement in Lithuania
Authors: Ramanauskas Julius , Stašys Rimantas , Contò Francesco
Published: July 2017

The article analyses the obstacles of the cooperative movement in Lithuania and proposes new insights for the development of their activities. Analysis was based on and carried out using the Delphi survey methodological approach. The experience of a transnational Association of Producers Organisation “First International Association Fruit” was investigated as a relevant example. Suggestions for the development of Lithuanian cooperatives were worked out.
Fabrication and characterization of Au dimer antennas on glass pillars with enhanced plasmonic response
Authors: Sadeghi Pedram , Wu Kaiyu , Rindzevicius Tomas , Boisen Anja , Schmid Silvan
Published: July 2017

We report on the fabrication and dark-field spectroscopy characterization of Au dimer nanoantennas placed on top of SiO2 nanopillars. The reported process enables the fabrication of nanopillar dimers with gaps down to 15 nm and heights up to 1 μm. A clear dependence of the plasmonic resonance position on the dimer gap is observed for smaller pillar heights, showing the high uniformity and reproducibility of the process. It is shown how increasing the height of nanopillars significantly affects the recorded elastic scattering spectra from Au nanoantennas. The results are compared to finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) and finite-element method (FEM) simulations. Additionally, measured spectra are accompanied by dark-field microscopy images of the dimers, showing the pronounced change in color. Placing nanoantennas on nanopillars with a height comparable to the in-plane dimer dimensions results in an enhancement of the scattering response, which can be understood through reduced interaction of the near-fields with the substrate. When increasing the pillar height further, scattering by the pillars themselves manifests itself as a strong tail at lower wavelengths. Additionally, strong directional scattering is expected as a result of the interface between the nanoantennas and nanopillars, which is taken into account in simulations. For pillars of height close to the plasmonic resonance wavelength, the scattering spectra become more complex due to additional scattering peaks as a result of larger geometrical nonuniformities.
Household Accounting – A Case of Subsidised Self-Employed Entrepreneurs in Slovenia
Authors: Rant Damjana , Horvat Robert , Tominc Polona , Korošec Bojana
Published: July 2017

This paper presents the results of the first empirical study of household accounting in Slovenia, which was conducted on a sample of households of subsidised self-employed entrepreneurs. Based on an original measurement of the levels of household accounting, this study presents the scope of different accounting components in these households. Further, it gives the results of the comparison between those subsidised self-employed entrepreneurs who managed to keep their business and those who failed to do so. The comparison of the results showed a statistically significant difference between the two groups of entrepreneurs only in terms of the scope of monitoring of household costs and expenditures.
Global Trends in Local Contexts: The Finnish Embassy in Paris, 1956–1990
Authors: Clerc Louis
Published: July 2017

A group of recent publications have reflected on the way the diplomatic machineries of small states have adapted to recent changes, upgraded engagement with global questions, reached out to experts and private actors, and increased organizational flexibility. This article aims to participate in this discussion. We will draw on Cristina Archetti’s insights in her study of the localized practices of foreign correspondents in order to inform a presentation of changes in the Finnish diplomatic representation in Paris. The case study suggests that the drivers of local evolutions are to be looked at not only in global trends but also in the interplay between the characteristics of the Finnish diplomatic network, the specificities of the country of residence, and wider political, cultural and commercial structures. The article makes the case for a localized, contextualized, fine-grained approach to the influence of global trends.
A Case Study of Inventory Management in a Manufacturing Company in China
Authors: Shen Hong , Deng Qiang , Lao Rebecca , Wu Simon
Published: July 2017

In this paper, we focus on inventory management in a manufacturing company in China. This study aims to identify the key factors that influence inventory management practices, investigate efficient and effective inventory management approaches, and examine the impact of supplier cooperation on supply chain improvement. A case study approach is used to identify the key factors that influence inventory management in a factory. Efficient and effective inventory management practices are derived from the case study and may provide practical guidance for foreign manufacturers in China. This study provides a valuable tool for identifying the key factors in inventory management which can be applied to similar problems encountered in actual manufactories.
Bridging the potato variety gap: a review of the Kenya - The Netherlands potato project (2012–2015): its success, challenges and opportunities
Authors: Komen Simeon K. , Ngeny John Mark , Osena Emily
Published: July 2017

Potato is Kenya’s second most important staple crop which contributes immensely to the food security and income of smallholder farmers in the Kenya Highlands. Despite its importance however, crop yields are very low (7.7 to 9.5 t/ha) against a potential of over 40 t/ha. Many reasons are cited to explain this including inadequate good quality seed of suitable varieties, seed recycling, low soil fertility, limited use of agro-chemicals and leaf diseases. Potatoes were introduced in the late 19th Century from Britain and later Germany. During the 1980’s several Dutch varieties were brought in for evaluation but the process could not be completed as the test sites were allocated to other uses. This review highlights progress made with new varieties in terms of evaluation, registration and the associated technology identifies challenges and solutions. Until 2012 only 15 varieties had been in commercial use, mostly originating from temperate countries with a few local releases in collaboration with the International potato center (CIP). With increased demand for processed potato products driven by the urban middle -income population, and its preference for fast foods, there was need for high yielding varieties. Since 2012 over 100 Dutch and local varieties have been evaluated under conventional performance trials at seven locations spread across different potato-growing counties. Normal agronomic practices were followed and several yield parameters were measured. Several high-potential Dutch varieties failed due to their susceptibility to low management practices. From these, 33 varieties have been released from seven Dutch companies and local breeders and two parallel evaluation procedures have been conducted since 2013 one conventional and one intensive. Consequently, 44% and 56% of the released varieties came through conventional and intensive channels respectively. In terms of usage, those released consist of 61% for table use and 39% for processing. Mean tuber yields of controls under conventional and intensive evaluations when compared, indicates 191% increase. Accelerated availability of superior varieties can be achieved through collaborations with countries with well-developed potato value chain. Local varieties under good management can increase tuber yield substantially.
The XXI century mountains: sustainable management of mountainous areas based on animal traction
Authors: Rodrigues J.B. , Schlechter P. , Spychiger H. , Spinelli R. , Oliveira N. , Figueiredo T.
Published: July 2017

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), there are around 300 million working animals worldwide. They play a fundamental role in human livelihoods through their contribution to financial, human and social capital, supporting between 300 and 600 million people globally, particularly in poorer areas, where animal energy represents a huge and extremely important sustainable power resource. Yet their recognition remains largely neglected, with animal traction being largely ignored by decision and policy makers and even by civil society at all levels, which compromises a real development and improvement of this technology as well as animal welfare. On the other hand, a collective ecological and economical consciousness and an increasing awareness of public opinion about the need to reduce the excessive industrialization and mechanization of agriculture and forestry has led some sectors of society to consider the (re)use of animal traction as a valid modern source of energy. Indeed, working animals optimally transform the consumed biomass in energy and natural fertilizer, which avoids soil degradation and contributes to a sustainable management of arable lands, forests and sensitive areas. The need to maintain biodiversity, reduce carbon emissions, encourage self-reliance and reduce consumption of resources also contributes to this trend.
Comparing effects of tillage treatments performed with animal traction on soil physical properties and soil electrical resistivity: preliminary experimental results
Authors: García-Tomillo Aitor , Figueiredo Tomás de , Almeida Arlindo , Rodrigues João , Dafonte Dafonte Jorge , Paz-González Antonio , Nunes João , Hernandez Zulimar
Published: July 2017

Soil Compaction results from compressive forces applied to compressible soil by machinery wheels, combined with tillage operations. Draft animal‐pulled equipment may also cause soil compaction, but a huge gap exists on experimental data to adequately assess their impacts and, actually, animal traction is an option seen with increasing potential to contribute to sustainable agriculture, especially in mountain areas. This study was conducted to assess the impacts on soil compaction of tillage operations with motor tractor and draft animals. In a farm plot (Vale de Frades, NE Portugal) treatments were applied in sub‐plots (30 m × 3 m), consisting in a two way tillage with tractor (T), a pair of cows (C) and a pair of donkeys (D). Undisturbed soil samples (120) were taken before and after operations for bulk density (BD) and saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks). The relative changes in BD observed after tillage in the 0-0.05 m soil depth increased after operations in all treatments. The increase was higher in the tractor sub-plot (15%) than in those where animal traction was used (8%). Before operation Ks class was rapid and fast in all samples, and after operation this value was reduced to 33% in T, whereas it reached 83% in C. Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) was useful as a tool to identify the alterations caused by tillage operations on soil physical status. These preliminary results confirm the potential of animal traction as an option for mountain agri‐environments, yet it requires much wider research to soundly ground its assets.
Ground temperature changes on the Kaffiøyra Plain (Spitsbergen) in the summer seasons, 1975–2014
Authors: Araźny Andrzej , Przybylak Rajmund , Kejna Marek
Published: July 2017

This paper provides an overview of the results of research on changes in ground temperature down to 50 cm depth, on the Kaffiøyra Plain, Spitsbergen in the summer seasons. To achieve this, measurement data were analysed from three different ecotopes (CALM Site P2A, P2B and P2C) – a beach, a moraine and tundra – collected during 22 polar expeditions between 1975 and 2014. To ensure comparability, data sets for the common period from 21 July to 31 August (referred to as the “summer season” further in the text) were analysed. The greatest influence on temperature across the investigated ground layers comes from air temperature (correlation coefficients ranging from 0.61 to 0.84). For the purpose of the analysis of the changes in ground temperature in the years 1975–2014, missing data for certain summer seasons were reconstructed on the basis of similar data from a meteorological station at Ny-Ålesund. The ground temperature at the Beach site demonstrated a statistically-significant growing trend: at depths from 1 to 10 cm the temperature increased by 0.27–0.28°C per decade, and from 20 to 50 cm by as much as 0.30°C per decade. On the Kaffiøyra Plain, the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) has a greater influence on the ground and air temperature than the Arctic Oscillation (AO).
Impact of reflecting land surface on radiation environment over Hornsund, Spitsbergen – a model study for cloudless skies
Authors: Rozwadowska Anna , Górecka Izabela
Published: July 2017

This paper addresses the influence of land topography and cover on 3D radiative effects under cloudless skies in the Hornsund area, Spitsbergen, Svalbard. The authors used Monte Carlo simulations of solar radiation transfer over a heterogeneous surface to study the impact of a non-uniform surface on: (1) the spatial distribution of irradiance transmittance at the fjord surface under cloudless skies; (2) the spectral shortwave aerosol radiative forcing at the fjord surface; (3) normalized nadir radiance at the Top Of the Atmosphere (TOA) over the fjord. The modelled transmittances and radiances over the fjord are compared to the transmittances and radiances over the open ocean under the same conditions. The dependence of the 3D radiative effects on aerosol optical thickness, aerosol type, surface albedo distribution, solar azimuth and zenith angle and spectral channel is discussed. The analysis was done for channels 3 (459-479 nm) and 2 (841-876 nm) of the MODIS radiometer. In the simulations a flat water surface was assumed. The study shows that snow-covered land surrounding the fjord strongly modifies the radiation environment over the fjord surface. The enhancement of the mean irradiance transmittance over the fjord with respect to the open ocean is up to 0.06 for channel 3. The enhancement exceeds 0.11 in the vicinity of sunlit cliffs. The influence of the snow-covered land on the TOA radiance over the fjord in channel 3 is comparable to the impact of an increase in aerosol optical thickness of over 100%, and in lateral fjords of up to several hundred percent. The increase in TOA radiance is wavelength dependent. These effects may affect retrievals of aerosol optical thickness.
The influence of short-term cold stress on the metabolism of non-structural carbohydrates in polar grasses
Authors: Łopieńska-Biernat Elżbieta , Pastorczyk Marta , Giełwanowska Irena , Żółtowska Krystyna , Stryiński Robert , Zaobidna Ewa
Published: July 2017

Plants adapt to extremely low temperatures in polar regions by maximizing their photosynthetic efficiency and accumulating cryoprotective and osmoprotective compounds. Flowering plants of the family Poaceae growing in the Arctic and in the Antarctic were investigated. Their responses to cold stress were analyzed under laboratory conditions. Samples were collected after 24 h and 48 h of cold treatment. Quantitative and qualitative changes of sugars are found among different species, but they can differ within a genus of the family Poaceae. The values of the investigated parameters in Poa annua differed considerably depending to the biogeographic origin of plants. At the beginning of the experiment, Antarctic plants were acclimatized in greenhouse characterized by significantly higher content of sugars, including storage reserves, sucrose and starch, but lower total protein content. After 24 h of exposure to cold stress, much smaller changes in the examined parameters were noted in Antarctic plants than in locally grown specimens. Total sugar content and sucrose, starch and glucose levels were nearly constant in P. annua, but they varied significantly. Those changes are responsible for the high adaptability of P. annua to survive and develop in highly unsupportive environments and colonize new regions.
A new method to measure flow in professional tasks – A FLOW-W questionnaire (FLOW at Work)
Authors: Wolfigiel Beata , Czerw Agnieszka
Published: July 2017

The aim of the article is to present a new Polish tool for measuring the flow experience in professional tasks - a FLOW-W Questionnaire. The questionnaire was inspired by Csikszentmihalyi’s (1990) flow theory and flow in Bakker’s work (2008). On its basis a set of positions was established, on which subsequently an exploratory (study 1, N = 101) and confirmatory (study 2, N = 275) factor analysis was conducted. The analysis showed the possibility of a uni- or bifactorial solution. After checking the theoretical and empirical validity of both solutions, the unifactorial solution was adopted. The validity of the questionnaire was examined, i.a. by correlations with theoretically related variables: work engagement with the UWES questionnaire (Szabowska-Walaszczyk, Zawadzka, Wojtaś, 2011) and affect at work (Zalewska, 2002). The studies showed a significant positive correlation between flow at work and work engagement (0.84) and between flow and positive affect (0.74). The reliability of the questionnaire is very high; α = 0.96. The tool has very good psychometric properties.
Locus of control and styles of coping with stress in students educated at Polish music and visual art schools – a cross-sectional study
Authors: Nogaj Anna Antonina
Published: July 2017

The article focuses on identifying differences in the locus of control and styles of coping with stress among young students who are artistically gifted within the fields of music and visual arts. The research group includes Polish students (n = 354) of both music and visual art schools who develop their artistic talents in schools placing particular emphasis on professional training of their artistic abilities and competences within the field of music or visual arts respectively. We make an assumption that different types of difficult situations experienced by youth educated at music and visual art schools may generate differences in dominating personal traits as well as in their sphere of emotions. The results of crosssectional research in 2013 confirm the assumption regarding differences among music and visual art school students both with regard to the source of the locus of control, understood as the personality variable, and dominating styles of coping with stress. Moreover, a positive correlation between the tendency towards internal locus of control and a task-oriented style of coping with stress in difficult situations has been observed in music school students.
When is a lie more of a lie? Moral judgment mediates the relationship between perceived benefits of others and lie-labeling
Authors: Cantarero Katarzyna , Szarota Piotr
Published: July 2017

Lay perceptions of lying are argued to consist of a lie prototype. The latter was found to entail the intention to deceive, belief in falsity and falsity (Coleman & Kay, 1981). We proposed and found that the perceptions of the benefits of others are also an important factor that influences the extent, to which an act of intentional misleading someone to foster a false belief is labeled as a lie. Drawing from the intuitionist model of moral judgments (Haidt, 2001) we assumed that moral judgment of the behaviour would mediate the relationship. In Study 1 we analyzed data coming from a crosscultural project and found that perceived intention to benefit others was negatively related to lie labeling and that this relationship was mediated by the moral judgment of that act. In Study 2 we found that manipulating the benefits of others influenced the extent, to which an act of intentional misleading in order to foster a false belief is labeled as a lie and that, again, this relationship is mediated by the moral judgment of that act.
Challenges and Opportunities in Drug Administration: The Twelve Tasks of Infusorix!
Authors: Bussières Jean-François
Published: July 2017

The objective of this paper was to present 12 examples of the challenges of parenteral drug administration that hospital pharmacists and other clinicians face. These examples were presented as part of a talk during the International Symposium on Infusion Technologies in November 2016. Issues included the safety and compatibility of syringes, filtration, smart pumps, beyond-use dates, closed-system transfer devices, risk measurement, traceability and labeling.
Enzymatic reduction of U60 nanoclusters by Shewanella oneidensis MR-1
Authors: Yu Qiang , Fein Jeremy B.
Published: July 2017

In this study, a series of reduction experiments were conducted using a representative uranyl peroxide nanocluster, U60 (K16Li44[UO2(O2)OH]60) and a bacterial species, Shewanella oneidensis MR-1, that is capable of enzymatic U(VI) reduction. U60 was reduced by S. oneidensis in the absence of O2, but the reduction kinetics for U60 were significantly slower than was observed in this study for aqueous uranyl acetate, and were faster than was reported in previous studies for solid phase U(VI). Our results indicate that U60 aggregates bigger than 0.2 μm formed immediately upon mixing with the bacterial growth medium, and that these aggregates were gradually broken down during the process of reduction. Neither reduction nor dissolution of U60 was observed during 72 h of control experiments open to the atmosphere, indicating that the breakdown and dissolution of U60 aggregates is caused by the reduction of U60, and that S. oneidensis is capable of direct reduction of the U(VI) within the U60 nanoclusters, likely due to the adsorption of U60 aggregates onto bacterial cells. This study is first to show the reduction capacity of bacteria for uranyl peroxide nanoclusters, and the results yield a better understanding of the long term fate of uranium in environmental systems in which uranyl peroxide nanoclusters are present.
Sorption of Eu(III) at feldspar/water interface: effects of pH, organic matter, counter ions, and temperature
Authors: Li Ping , Wu Hanyu , Liang Jianjun , Yin Zhuoxin , Pan Duoqiang , Fan Qiaohui , Xu Di , Wu Wangsuo
Published: July 2017

The sorption of Eu(III) on potassium feldspar (K-feldspar) was studied under various physicochemical conditions such as pH, temperature, counter ions and organic matter. The results showed that the sorption of Eu(III) on K-feldspar significantly increased with the increase of pH, and high Eu(III) concentration can inhibit such immobility to some extent. The presence of humic acid (HA) can increase the sorption of Eu(III) on K-feldspar in low pH range; while inhibit to a large extent under alkaline conditions. It is very interesting that at pH ~6.5, high ionic strength can promote the sorption of Eu(III) on K-feldspar in the presence of HA. In contrast, Eu(III) sorption was restricted obviously by NaCl in the absence of HA. The sorption procedure was involved with ion exchange and/or outer-sphere complexation as well as inner-sphere complexation. The presence of F− and PO4
3− dramatically enhanced Eu(III) sorption on K-feldspar, whereas both SO4
2− and CO3
2− had negative effects on Eu(III) sorption. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis indicated that Eu(III) tended to form hydrolysates at high initial concentration (3×10−4 mol/L) and high temperature (338 K).