bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Świadomość własnego procesu uczenia się języków obcych przyczynkiem do innowacyjnych działań dydaktycznych. W stronę dydaktyki wielojęzyczności w początkowym kształceniu nauczycieli
Authors: Kucharczyk Radosław , Szymankiewicz Krystyna
Published: April 2019

The aim of this article is to reflect on the initial training of teachers in line with the assumptions of multilingual didactics. A definition of plurilingual competence is given at the beginning of this article. We then discuss briefly about the main assumptions of plurilingual teaching. The next part of the article deals with the philosophy of educating future foreign language teachers in philological studies, which should be largely based on reflection. The article concludes with the analysis of data obtained from students participating in teacher education classes. The aim of the study was to diagnose whether the self-awareness of potential subjects, as given to them by the multilingual competence, could contribute to innovative teaching.
GENRE-BASED APPROACHES IN TEACHING AND LEARNING ENGLISH FOR ACADEMIC PURPOSES (EAP)
Authors: Aleksandrzak Magdalena
Published: April 2019

In recent years English for academic purposes (EAP) has become one of the mainstream fields of practice, study and research within language education, mainly due to the position of English as the international language of higher education and scientific research. The paper briefly examines the main assumptions of the approach in the context of its links to ESP (English for specific purposes), systemic functional linguistics and new literacy studies. However, the main focus of the present discussion is on genre-based pedagogy as the leading framework and an important point of reference for EAP education. To illustrate this perspective within the field, the notion of genre and its interpretations in foreign language teaching are discussed. Finally, two closely related academic genres – discussion and debate – are explored with the aim of indicating their potential benefits, areas of difficulty and challenges for students and teachers in the EAP classroom.
Digital Radio Frequency Transport over Optical Fiber for 5G Fronthaul Links
Authors: Hadi Muhammad Usman , Jung Hyun , Traverso Pier Andrea , Tartarini Giovanni
Published: April 2019

Radio over fiber (RoF) is an empowering technology for the next-generation wireless networks including fifth generation cloud radio access networks. In this paper, we propose a new fronthaul interface which has been demonstrated for a 20-MHz LTE signal having 64-Quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) modulation over 50 km of standard single-mode fiber. The proposed methodology potentially reduces the overall bandwidth requirement of the link. The performance analysis has been demonstrated for conventional analog RoF (A-RoF) and proposed digital RoF (D-RoF). As a figure of merit, the performance evaluation of the two architectures is reported by analyzing error vector magnitude (EVM), signal-to-noise ratio and eye-opening penalty. It is shown that digital optical links can mitigate the impairments present in A-RoF links and can support the transmission up to 50 km. Moreover, it is shown that efficient D-RoF links can be obtained with a relatively low amount of analog-to–digital-converter resolution bits. For the D-RoF link, the EVM was measured to be less than 2 % at 50 km. This is within the LTE specifications, proving it as a cost and power effective solution for next-generation wireless networks.
Various Types of Anti-Reflective Coatings (Arcs) Based on the Layer Composition and Surface Topography: A Review
Authors: Moayedfar Majid , Assadi Morteza Khalaji
Published: April 2019

One of the crucial factors in improving optical device performance is decreasing reflection, and enhancing light absorption or transmission from wide angles of incidence in a broad wavelength range. In this regard, efficient anti-reflective surfaces demonstrating multifunctional capabilities and showing prospective quasi-omnidirectional anti-reflective and broadband properties are proposed. The selection of a suitable coating material is a key factor in reducing reflection on these surfaces. Hence, this review aims to outline the inception of durable and inexpensive ARC materials that can be applied in different electronic and optical equipment, based on its original conceptualization. Strategies to reduce reflectance will be discussed, and various forms of ARC investigated, paying attention to layer composition and surface topography. To conclude, among all available ARC materials, a 2D rectangular grating for light absorption on GaSb surfaces showed superior properties.
A new method for Synthesis of Epitaxial Films of Silicon Carbide on Sapphire Substrates (α-Al2O3)
Authors: Kukushkin S.A. , Osipov A.V. , Redkov A.V. , Grashchenko A.S. , Feoktistov N.A. , Fedotov S.D. , Statsenko V.N. , Sokolov E.M. , Timoshenkov S.P.
Published: April 2019

A fundamentally new method for synthesis of thick (200-400 nm) epitaxial films of silicon carbide on single-crystal Al2O3 substrates is proposed. The method develops the previously discovered method of topochemical substitution of atoms during the transformation of Si into SiC. In the proposed method, a layer of epitaxial Si of orientation (100) or (111) is being preliminarily deposited on the sapphire via CVD or other technique. Then, using a topochemical reaction between the CO gas and the deposited epitaxial silicon film, a part of Si atoms is being substituted by carbon atoms. As a result, the silicon film transforms into SiC film. As experimental studies have shown, in the process of this transformation a high-quality epitaxial SiC layer can be formed on the sapphire surface under certain synthesis conditions. A detailed investigation of grown SiC layers using the methods of electron diffraction, ellipsometry, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffractometry and scanning microscopy is conducted and an analysis of experimental data is given. Formation of both cubic 3C-SiC and hexagonal SiC polytypes during the transformation of Si into SiC was revealed by the XRD method. A detailed analysis of the current state of the problems of growth of epitaxial SiC layers on Al2O3 using various methods is provided. The method developed in this study opens up completely new perspectives not only for synthesis of semiconductors, but also for creation of new classes of composite, heat-resistant and other solid coatings.
Optical Properties of Bulk Gallium Oxide Grown from the Melt
Authors: Mynbaeva M.G. , Shirshnev P.S. , Kremleva A.V. , Smirnov A.N. , Ivanova E.V. , Zamoryanskaya M.V. , Nikitina I.P. , Lavrent’ev A.A. , Mynbaeva K.D. , Odnoblyudov M.A. , Bauman D.A. , Lipsanen H. , Nikolaev V.I. , Bougrov V.E. , Romanov A.E.
Published: April 2019

Results of the studies of the properties of single-crystalline bulk β-Ga2O3 grown from the melt are presented. High chemical purity and phase uniformity of the grown material are demonstrated. Raman spectroscopy studies confirmed low energies of optical phonons in β-Ga2O3, which makes it a promising material for laser optics applications.
Concurrent Training and Detraining: The Influence of Different Aerobic Intensities
Authors: Sousa António C. , Neiva Henrique P. , Gil Maria H. , Izquierdo Mikel , Rodríguez-Rosell David , Marques Mário C. , Marinho Daniel A.
Published: April 2019

Sousa, AC, Neiva, HP, Gil, MH, Izquierdo, M, Rodríguez-Rosell, D, Marques, MC, and Marinho, DA. Concurrent training and detraining: the influence of different aerobic intensities. J Strength Cond Res 34(9): 2565–2574, 2020—The aim of this study was to verify the effects of different aerobic intensities combined with the same resistance training on strength and aerobic performances. Thirty-nine men were randomly assigned to a low-intensity group (LIG), moderate-intensity group (MIG), high-intensity group (HIG), and a control group. The training program consisted of full squat, jumps, sprints, and running at 80% (LIG), 90% (MIG), or 100% (HIG) of the maximal aerobic speed for 16–20 minutes. The training period lasted for 8 weeks, followed by 4 weeks of detraining. Evaluations included 20-m sprints (0–10 m: T10; 0–20 m: T20), shuttle run, countermovement jump (CMJ), and strength (1RMest) in full squat. There were significant improvements from pre-training to post-training in T10 (LIG: 4%; MIG: 5%; HIG: 2%), T20 (3%; 4%; 2%), CMJ (9%; 10%; 7%), 1RMest (13%; 7%; 8%), and oxygen uptake (V̇o
2max; 10%; 11%; 10%). Comparing the changes between the experimental groups, 1RMest gains were significantly higher in the LIG than HIG (5%) or MIG (6%). Furthermore, there was a tendency for higher gains in LIG and MIG compared with HIG, with “possibly” or “likely” positive effects in T10, T20, and CMJ. Detraining resulted in performance decrements, but minimal losses were found for V̇o
2max in LIG (−1%). Concurrent training seems to be beneficial for strength and aerobic development regardless of the aerobic training intensity. However, choosing lower intensities can lead to increased strength and is recommended when the cardiorespiratory gains should be maintained for longer.
Echo Intensity Reliability for the Analysis of Different Muscle Areas in Athletes
Authors: Lanferdini Fábio J. , Manganelli Bernardo F. , Lopez Pedro , Klein Kelli D. , Cadore Eduardo L. , Vaz Marco A.
Published: April 2019

Lanferdini, FJ, Manganelli, BF, Lopez, P, Klein, KD, Cadore, EL, and Vaz, MA. Echo intensity reliability for the analysis of different muscle areas in athletes. J Strength Cond Res 33(12): 3353–3360, 2019—Skeletal muscles' echo intensity (EI) is used as a parameter to evaluate muscle damage and muscle quality after exercise or training. However, recent muscle EI studies have used regions of interest (ROIs) of different sizes for assessing muscle damage and muscle quality, which may lead to different results if the different ROIs from the same muscle are not reliable. Although a maximum rectangular ROI (RET-ROI), included in the muscles' anatomical cross-sectional area, can be used to represent the maximum muscle ROI (MAX-ROI), no studies were found that investigated the reliability of the evaluations of different ROIs for the EI of superficial vs. deep muscles of the thigh. In addition, no studies have evaluated different ROIs in cyclists, at different days and analyzed by different raters. The aim of this study was to evaluate the EI reliability of rectus femoris (RF) and vastus intermedius (VI) muscles of cyclists. Twenty cyclists visited the laboratory 4 times for the evaluation of RF and VI muscles transversal ultrasound images. Echo intensity was determined from grayscale mean values by 2 examiners who performed the analysis with 3 different ROIs: MAX-ROI, RET-ROI, and 1-cm2 ROI (1CM-ROI). The between-ROI EI data reliability showed a strong correlation in both RF (r ≥ 0.79) and VI (r ≥ 0.87) muscles. Bland-Altman tests demonstrated high agreement among RF ROI muscle areas (p > 0.05), with no agreement between the VI areas (p < 0.05). Only the RF muscle MAX-ROI, RET-ROI, and 1CM-ROI areas are similar for EI analysis, with no similarities for the same VI muscle areas.
Evaluating the Effects of a Novel Neuromuscular Neck Training Device on Multiplanar Static and Dynamic Neck Strength: A Pilot Study
Authors: Versteegh Theodore H. , Dickey James P. , Emery Carolyn A. , Fischer Lisa K. , MacDermid Joy C. , Walton David M.
Published: April 2019

Versteegh, TH, Dickey, JP, Emery, CA, Fischer, LK, MacDermid, JC, and Walton, DM. Evaluating the effects of a novel neuromuscular neck training device on multiplanar static and dynamic neck strength: A pilot study.J Strength Cond Res34(3): 708–716, 2020—The neck serves an important function in damping the transference of acceleration forces between the head and the trunk, such as that occurring during contact sports or motor vehicle collisions. An inability to adequately dissipate forces has been proposed as a potential mechanism for clinical conditions such as whiplash or concussion, but current approaches to neck training may not be targeting the correct mechanisms. The purpose of this study was to explore the training effect of a novel neuromuscular strengthening protocol on dynamic and static neck strength. This was a quasiexperimental pilot study design with intervention (n= 8) and control (n= 10) groups. The intervention group was trained (twice/week, ∼10 minutes, for 7 weeks) on a training device that uses self-generated centripetal force to create a dynamic rotational resistance. This protocol is intended to target the ability of the neck muscles to perform coordinated multiplanar plyometric contractions. Both groups also continued with traditional neck strengthening that included training on a straight-plane, isotonic, 4-way neck machine. Performance on the training device showed improvement after routine practice within 1 week, as evidenced by a trend toward increased peak speed in revolutions per minute (RPM). After 7 weeks, peak RPM increased from 122.8 (95% confidence interval [CI], 91.3–154.4) to 252.3 (95% CI, 241.5–263.1). There was also a large positive effect size (Hedge'sd, 0.68) in isometric composite (multiplane) neck strength favoring the intervention group over the control group (difference, 20 N; 95% CI, −8 to 48). The largest magnitude strength improvement in a single plane was in axial rotation and also favored the intervention group over the control group (Hedge'sd, 1.24; difference, 46 N; 95% CI, 9–83). Future studies should explore whether the dynamic training presented here could help reduce the risk of sports concussion, whiplash, or other head-neck trauma.
Effect of Interset Strategies on Acute Resistance Training Performance and Physiological Responses: A Systematic Review
Authors: Latella Christopher , Grgic Jozo , Van der Westhuizen Dan
Published: April 2019

Latella, C, Grgic, J, and Van der Westhuizen, D. Effect of interset strategies on acute resistance training performance and physiological responses: a systematic review. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2019—The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the evidence surrounding the implementation of interset strategies to optimize acute resistance training performance. Searches of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus electronic databases were conducted. Studies that met the following criteria were included: (a) compared an interset strategy with a traditional passive rest interval in resistance training, (b) the assessed outcomes included performance or physiological responses, (c) resistance training was performed in a traditional dynamic fashion, (d) the study had an acute design, and (e) was published in English and in a peer-reviewed journal. A total of 26 studies were included in the review. When a given interset strategy was used, several studies reported improvements in the number of performed repetitions (i.e., greater total volume load), attenuation of the loss in velocity and power, reduced lactate levels, and in some cases, a decrease in perceived exertion. Dynamic agonist/static antagonist stretching, cooling, aerobic exercise, vibration, and individualized heart rate–based intervals seem to be the most effective strategies. However, the heterogeneity between study designs and methodologies suggests that careful consideration should be given to the type and specific application of the interset method being used. Given the acute nature of studies, extrapolation to any long-term benefits of using a given interset strategy remains limited. Collectively, coaches and sports scientists may consider using the most effective strategies based on practicality and equipment availability to optimize performance during the resistance training component of strength and conditioning programs.
Plyometric Training Improves Not Only Measures of Linear Speed, Power, and Change-of-Direction Speed But Also Repeated Sprint Ability in Young Female Handball Players
Authors: Chaabene Helmi , Negra Yassine , Moran Jason , Prieske Olaf , Sammoud Senda , Ramirez-Campillo Rodrigo , Granacher Urs
Published: April 2019

Chaabene, H, Negra, Y, Moran, J, Prieske, O, Sammoud, S, Ramirez-Campillo, R, and Granacher, U. Plyometric training improves not only measures of linear speed, power, and change-of-direction speed but also repeated sprint ability in young female handball players. J Strength Cond Res 35(8): 2230–2235, 2021—This study examined the effects of an 8-week plyometric training (PT) program on components of physical fitness in young female handball players. Twenty-one female adolescent handball players were assigned to an experimental group (EG, n = 12; age = 15.9 ± 0.2 years) or an active control group (CG, n = 9, age = 15.9 ± 0.3 years). While EG performed plyometric exercises in replacement of some handball-specific drills, CG maintained the regular training schedule. Baseline and follow-up tests were performed for the assessment of linear speed (i.e., 5-, 10-, and 20-m time), change-of-direction (CoD) speed (i.e., T-test time), muscle power (i.e., countermovement jump [CMJ] height and reactive strength index [RSI]), and repeated sprint ability (RSA) (RSA total time [RSAtotal], RSA best time [RSAbest], and RSA fatigue index [RSAFI]). Data were analyzed using magnitude-based inferences. Within-group analyses for the EG revealed moderate-to-large improvements for the 5-m (effect size [ES] = 0.81 [0.1–1.5]), 10-m sprint time (ES = 0.84 [0.1–1.5]), RSI (ES = 0.75 [0.1–1.4]), RSAFI (ES = 0.65 [0.0–1.3]), and T-test time (ES = 1.46 [0.7–2.2]). Trivial-to-small ES was observed for RSAbest (ES = 0.18 [−0.5 to 0.9]), RSAtotal (ES = 0.45 [−0.2 to 1.1]), 20-m sprint time (ES = 0.56 [−0.1 to 1.2]), and CMJ height (ES = 0.57 [−0.1 to 1.3]). For the CG, within-group analyses showed a moderate performance decline for T-test time (ES = −0.71 [−1.5 to 0.1]), small decreases for 5-m sprint time (ES = −0.46 [−1.2 to 0.3]), and a trivial decline for 10-m (ES = −0.10 [−0.9 to 0.7]) and 20-m sprint times (ES = −0.16 [−0.9 to 0.6]), RSAtotal (ES = 0.0 [−0.8 to 0.8]), and RSAbest (ES = −0.20 [−0.9 to 0.6]). The control group achieved trivial-to-small improvements for CMJ height (ES = 0.10 [−0.68 to 0.87]) and RSI (ES = 0.30 [−0.5 to 1.1]). In conclusion, a short-term in-season PT program, in replacement of handball-specific drills, is effective in improving measures of physical fitness (i.e., linear/CoD speed, jumping, and RSA) in young female handball players.
Concurrent Validity of Field-Based Diagnostic Technology Monitoring Movement Velocity in Powerlifting Exercises
Authors: Mitter Benedikt , Hölbling Dominik , Bauer Pascal , Stöckl Michael , Baca Arnold , Tschan Harald
Published: April 2019

Mitter, B, Hölbling, D, Bauer, P, Stöckl, M, Baca, A, and Tschan, H. Concurrent validity of field-based diagnostic technology monitoring movement velocity in powerlifting exercises. J Strength Cond Res 35(8): 2170–2178, 2021—The study was designed to investigate the validity of different technologies used to determine movement velocity in resistance training. Twenty-four experienced powerlifters (18 male and 6 female; age, 25.1 ± 5.1 years) completed a progressive loading test in the squat, bench press, and conventional deadlift until reaching their 1 repetition maximum. Peak and mean velocity were simultaneously recorded with 4 field-based systems: GymAware (GA), FitroDyne (FD), PUSH (PU), and Beast Sensor (BS). 3D motion capturing was used to calculate specific gold standard trajectory references for each device. GA provided the most accurate output across exercises (r = 0.99–1, ES = −0.05 to 0.1). FD showed similar results for peak velocity (r = 1, standardized mean bias [ES] = −0.1 to −0.02) but considerably less validity for mean velocity (r = 0.92–0.95, ES = −0.57 to −0.29). Reasonably valid to highly valid output was provided by PU in all exercises (r = 0.91–0.97, ES = −0.5 to 0.28) and by BS in the bench press and for mean velocity in the squat (r = 0.87–0.96, ES = −0.5 to −0.06). However, BS did not reach the thresholds for reasonable validity in the deadlift and for peak velocity in the squat, mostly due to high standardized mean bias (ES = −0.78 to −0.63). In conclusion, different technologies should not be used interchangeably. Practitioners who require negligible measurement error in their assessment of movement velocity are advised to use linear position transducers over inertial sensors.
Acute Effects of Whole-Body Vibration Warm-up on Leg and Vertical Stiffness During Running
Authors: Paradisis Giorgos P. , Pappas Panagiotis , Dallas Giorgos , Zacharogiannis Elias , Rossi Jérémy , Lapole Thomas
Published: April 2019

Paradisis, GP, Pappas, P, Dallas, G, Zacharogiannis, E, Rossi, J, and Lapole, T. Acute effects of whole-body vibration warm-up on leg and vertical stiffness during running. J Strength Cond Res 35(9): 2433–2438, 2021—Although whole-body vibration (WBV) has been suggested as a suitable and efficient alternative to the classic warm-up routines, it is still unknown how this may impact running mechanics. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a WBV warm-up procedure on lower-limb stiffness and other spatiotemporal variables during running at submaximal speed. Twenty-two males performed 30-second running bouts at 4.44 m·s−1 on a treadmill before and after a WBV and control warm-up protocols. The WBV protocol (vibration frequency: 50 Hz, peak-to-peak displacement: 4 mm) consisted of 10 sets of 30-second dynamic squatting exercises with 30-second rest periods within sets. Leg and vertical stiffness values were calculated using the spring mass model. The results indicated significant increases only after the WBV protocol for leg stiffness (3.4%), maximal ground reaction force (1.9%), and flight time (4.7%). Consequently, the WBV warm-up protocol produced a change in running mechanics, suggesting a shift toward a more aerial pattern. The functional significance of such WBV-induced changes needs further investigation to clearly determine whether it may influence running economy and peak velocity.
Methane source attribution in a U.S. dry gas basin using spatial patterns of ground and airborne ethane and methane measurements
Authors: Mielke-Maday Ingrid , Schwietzke Stefan , Yacovitch Tara I. , Miller Benjamin , Conley Steve , Kofler Jonathan , Handley Philip , Thorley Eryka , Herndon Scott C. , Hall Bradley , Dlugokencky Ed , Lang Patricia , Wolter Sonja , Moglia Eric , Crotwell Molly , Crotwell Andrew , Rhodes Michael , Kitzis Duane , Vaughn Timothy , Bell Clay , Zimmerle Dan , Schnell Russ , Pétron Gabrielle
Published: April 2019

An intensive coordinated airborne and ground-based measurement study was conducted in the Fayetteville Shale in northwestern Arkansas during September and October 2015 to compare and explain potential discrepancies between top-down and bottom-up estimates of regional natural gas (NG) methane (CH4) emissions. In situ mobile downwind measurements are used to document the ethane to methane enhancement ratios (ERs) in emission plumes from NG operations in the region. Enhancement ratios are low (<2% for 87% of NG sources sampled) in this dry gas-producing region and normally distributed around 1.3% in the western half of the study area. A few sampled landfills emitted CH4 but no ethane (C2H6). Sampling drives around large chicken farms, prevalent in the region, did not detect significant downwind CH4 enhancements. In situ airborne measurements of C2H6 and CH4 from area-scale surveys over and downwind of the region documented the resulting ERs from a mix of CH4 sources. Based on these measurements, we show that on average during the measurement windows 85–95% of total CH4 emissions in the western half of the Fayetteville Shale originated from NG sources, which agrees well with bottom-up estimates from the same field study. Lower mixing ratios measured over the eastern half of the region did not support the ER analysis due to the low signal-to-noise on C2H6 measurements.
Laparoscopic Resection of Gangrenous Small bowel with acute small bowel obstruction – World’s First reported case
Authors: Dilip Dan Shariful Islam*,Otis Payne, Vinoo Bheem,Patrick Harnarayan,
Published: April 2019

Introduction: Diagnostic laparoscopy is now frequently used for small bowel obstructionwith a varying degree of success. However, emergency laparoscopic resection ofgangrenous small bowel has not yet been reported in the English literature. We reportthe world first case of successful laparoscopic assisted resection of gangrenous smallbowel in a 64 year old female with an excellent postoperative outcome.Presentation of Case: A 64 years old woman with a virgin abdomen presentedwith a clinical and radiological features of small bowel obstruction. The patient washemodynamically stable with mild central abdominal distension and tenderness butthere was no guarding or rebound tenderness. On diagnostic laparoscopy a loop ofgangrenous small bowel was noted secondary to an adhesion band. The patient had asuccessful laparoscopic assisted resection and extra-corporal anastomosis of the smallbowel with an excellent postoperative outcome.Discussion: Diagnostic laparoscopy plays a vital role for the diagnosis and treatmentof selected cases of small bowel obstruction in a virgin abdomen. However, appropriatepatient selection as well as the availability of a skilled laparoscopic surgeon is offparamount importance for a successful outcome. Contrast enhanced CT scan is alsoa useful tool for appropriate patient selection. The morbidity of laparotomy can oftenbe avoided in presence of a skilled laparoscopic surgeon.Conclusion: Laparoscopic approach can be attempted in selected patients with firstepisode of SBO and/or anticipated single band obstruction. Similarly, gangrenoussmall bowel can be resected laparoscopically in highly selected patients in the presenceof an experienced laparoscopic surgeon.
Impact of English and environmental content integrated learning on students' environmental attitudes
Authors: Arnaudova-Otouzbirova Anna
Published: April 2019

The aim of this article is to present the results from an empirical research which was conducted at the Faculty of Education, Trakia University, Bulgaria. The participants were bachelor degree students of primary school education with a foreign language. Their environmental attitude was tested with the help of The New Ecological Paradigm Scale (NEPS) which was given to students before and after their training in the course “English Language and Environmental Education”. Their answers to the items in the NEPS were collected and analyzed to study the impact of integrating environmental educational content and English language teaching on the formation of their environmental views. The article outlines some of the most interesting findings and offers a discussion of the results in comparison with a control group and provides probable explanations.
Competences for creating educational resources in a digital environment
Authors: Trifonova Mima
Published: April 2019

The article presents the teacher's activity in terms of the educational resources they use in their teaching. Emphasis is placed on the opportunity for teachers to create their own educational materials in a digital environment. A classification of the educational resources has been made according to the purpose they serve and the digital objects they consist of. The pedagogical projections of digital objects in their role as components that make up the learning resources have been analyzed. The need to form hybrid competencies, in this case digital-pedagogical ones, for the students who would be future teachers in primary education has been explained.
ASPECTS IN BUILDING A COMPANY WEB-SITE AND ITS ROLE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF BUSINESS
Authors: Halachev Petar , Radeva Victoria , Nikiforova Albena , Veneva Miglena
Published: April 2019

This report is dedicated to the role of the web site as an important tool for presenting business on the Internet. Classification of site types has been made in terms of their application in the business and the types of structures in their construction.
The Models of the Life Cycle for designing business websites are analyzed and are outlined their strengths and weaknesses. The stages in the design, construction, commissioning, and maintenance of a business website are distinguished and the activities and requirements of each stage are specified.
Ritual consumption of psychoactive fungi and plants in ancestral Costa Rica
Authors: Rodríguez Arce José M. , Arce cerdas Marco A.
Published: April 2019

Not much is known from an ethnohistorical perspective about the use of psychoactive substances in southern Central America; it is mainly through the archeological record that their presence in the past has been inferred. This article reviews evidence for the use of mind-altering plants and mushrooms in the societies that inhabited the current Costa Rican territory during pre-Columbian times, and explores the cultural significance of this activity. Historical, ethnographic, archeological, and paleobotanical information was examined and integrated with the data obtained from the analysis of 46 artifacts with a presumed linkage to psychoactive drug use that were selected from an exhaustive search in the collections of the Museums of the Central Bank of Costa Rica and the National Museum of Costa Rica. Preliminary results suggest the consumption of tobacco (Nicotianaspp. L.), morning glory (Ipomoeaspp. L.),cohoba[Anadenanthera peregrina(L.) Speg.], psychedelic fungi [Amanita muscaria(L.) Lam. andPsilocybe(Fr.) P. Kumm. species], as well as various alcoholic and invigorating beverages was present in ancient times. This use was likely connected to shamanistic healing practices, social–ceremonial events, and the ritual activities of people who held positions of religious and political importance within society.
Специальные классы псевдоримановых пространств с f-структурой, допускающих 2F-планарные отображения
Authors: Коновенко Надежда Григорьевна , Курбатова Ирина Николаевна
Published: April 2019

В статье изучаются 2F-планарные отображения псевдоримановых пространств, снабженных аффинорной структурой определенного типа. Понятие 2F-планарного отображения аффинносвязных и римановых пространств было введено в рассмотрение Р.Дж. Кадемом. В его работах исследовались общие вопросы теории 2F-планарных отображений аффинносвязных и римановых пространств, снабженных аффинорной структурой. В частности, он доказал, что такое отображение по необходимости сохраняет аффинорную структуру. Мы рассматриваем 2F-планарное отображение псевдоримановых пространств с абсолютно параллельной  f-структурой. Ранее мы доказали, что  псевдориманово пространство с абсолютно параллельной f-структурой представляет собой произведение двух псевдоримановых пространств, одно из которых - келерово; класс псевдоримановых пространств с абсолютно параллельной  f-структурой замкнут относительно рассматриваемых отображений; при условии ковариантного постоянства аффинора f-структуры в отображаемых пространствах  нетривиальные 2F-планарные отображения могут быть трех типов: полные и канонические I,II типа; в зависимости от типа 2F-планарное отображение индуцирует на компонентах произведения отображаемых пространств геодезическое, голоморфно-проективное или аффинное отображение.
В настоящей статье продолжается исследование 2F-планарного отображения псевдоримановых пространств с абсолютно параллельной f-структурой. Для всех типов этого отображения (основного и канонических I  и II ) строятся геометрические объекты, инвариантные относительно рассматриваемых отображений: неоднородный объект ( типа параметров Томаса в теории геодезических отображений римановых пространств)  и тензорный  (типа тензора голоморфно-проективной кривизны в теории аналитически-планарных отображений келеровых многообразий).  Выделены классы пространств (2F-плоские, 2F(I)- и 2F(II)-плоские), допускающих 2F-планарное отображение.  Для них выявлена структура тензора Римана и доказаны аналоги теоремы Бельтрами из теории геодезических отображений. Найдены метрики  2F-, 2F(I)-  и 2F(II)-плоских пространств   в специальной системе координат.
Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Ethics, and the Military: A Canadian Perspective
Authors: Wasilow Sherry , Thorpe Joelle B.
Published: April 2019

Defense and security organizations depend upon science and technology to meet operational needs, predict and counter threats, and meet increasingly complex demands of modern warfare. Artificial intelligence and robotics could provide solutions to a wide range of military gaps and deficiencies. At the same time, the unique and rapidly evolving nature of AI and robotics challenges existing polices, regulations, and values, and introduces complex ethical issues that might impede their development, evaluation, and use by the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Early consideration of potential ethical issues raised by military use of emerging AI and robotics technologies in development is critical to their effective implementation. This article presents an ethics assessment framework for emerging AI and robotics technologies. It is designed to help technology developers, policymakers, decision makers, and other stakeholders identify and broadly consider potential ethical issues that might arise with the military use and integration of emerging AI and robotics technologies of interest. We also provide a contextual environment for our framework, as well as an example of how our framework can be applied to a specific technology. Finally, we briefly identify and address several pervasive issues that arose during our research.
Artificial Intelligence — An Enabler of Naval Tactical Decision Superiority
Authors: Johnson Bonnie
Published: April 2019

Artificial intelligence, as a capability enhancer, offers significant improvements to our tactical warfighting advantage. AI provides methods for fusing and analyzing data to enhance our knowledge of the tactical environment; it provides methods for generating and assessing decision options from multidimensional, complex situations; and it provides predictive analytics to identify and examine the effects of tactical courses of action. Machine learning can improve these processes in an evolutionary manner. Advanced computing techniques can handle highly heterogeneous and vast datasets and can synchronize knowledge across distributed warfare assets. This article presents concepts for applying AI to various aspects of tactical battle management and discusses their potential improvements to future warfare.
The Impact of Brain Metastases and Associated Neurocognitive Aspects on Health Utility Scores in EGFR Mutated and ALK Rearranged NSCLC: A Real World Evidence Analysis
Authors: O'Kane Grainne M. , Su Jie , Tse Brandon C. , Tam Vivian , Tse Tiffany , Lu Lin , Borean Michael , Tam Emily , Labbé Catherine , Naik Hiten , Mittmann Nicole , Doherty Mark K. , Bradbury Penelope A. , Leighl Natasha B. , Shepherd Frances A. , Richard Nadine M. , Edelstein Kim , Shultz David , Brown M. Catherine , Xu Wei , Howell Doris , Liu Geoffrey
Published: April 2019

Background

In lung cancer, brain metastases (BM) and their treatment are associated with high economic burden and inferior health-related quality of life. In the era of targeted therapy, real world evidence through health utility scores (HUS) is critical for economic analyses.

Materials and Methods

In a prospective observational cohort study (2014–2016), outpatients with stage IV lung cancer completed demographic and EQ-5D-3L surveys (to derive HUS). Health states and clinicopathologic variables were obtained from chart abstraction. Patients were categorized by the presence or absence of BM; regression analyses identified factors that were associated with HUS. A subset of patients prospectively completed neurocognitive function (NCF) tests and/or the FACT-brain (FACT-Br) questionnaire, which were then correlated with HUS (Spearman coefficients; regression analyses).

Results

Of 519 patients with 1,686 EQ-5D-3L-derived HUS, 94 (18%) completed NCF tests and 107 (21%) completed FACT-Br; 301 (58%) never developed BM, 24 (5%) developed first BM during study period, and 194 (37%) had BM at study entry. The sample was enriched (46%) for EGFR mutations (EGFRm) and ALK-rearrangements (ALKr). There were no HUS differences by BM status overall and in subsets by demographics. In multivariable analyses, superior HUS was associated with having EGFRm/ALKr (p < .0001), no prior radiation for extracranial disease (p < .001), and both intracranial (p = .002) and extracranial disease control (p < .01). HUS correlated with multiple elements of the FACT-Br and tests of NCF.

Conclusion

Having BM in lung cancer is not associated with inferior HUS in a population enriched for EGFRm and ALKr. Patients exhibiting disease control and those with oncogene-addicted tumors have superior HUS.
Prediction of Bone Metastasis in Inflammatory Breast Cancer Using a Markov Chain Model
Authors: Fujii Takeo , Mason Jeremy , Chen Angela , Kuhn Peter , Woodward Wendy A. , Tripathy Debu , Newton Paul K. , Ueno Naoto T.
Published: April 2019

Background

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare yet aggressive variant of breast cancer with a high recurrence rate. We hypothesized that patterns of metastasis differ between IBC and non-IBC. We focused on the patterns of bone metastasis throughout disease progression to determine statistical differences that can lead to clinically relevant outcomes. Our primary outcome of this study is to quantify and describe this difference with a view to applying the findings to clinically relevant outcomes for patients.

Subjects, Materials, and Methods

We retrospectively collected data of patients with nonmetastatic IBC (n = 299) and non-IBC (n = 3,436). Probabilities of future site-specific metastases were calculated. Spread patterns were visualized to quantify the most probable metastatic pathways of progression and to categorize spread pattern based on their propensity to subsequent dissemination of cancer.

Results

In patients with IBC, the probabilities of developing bone metastasis after chest wall, lung, or liver metastasis as the first site of progression were high: 28%, 21%, and 21%, respectively. For patients with non-IBC, the probability of developing bone metastasis was fairly consistent regardless of initial metastasis site.

Conclusion

Metastatic patterns of spread differ between patients with IBC and non-IBC. Selection of patients with IBC with known liver, chest wall, and/or lung metastasis would create a population in whom to investigate effective methods for preventing future bone metastasis.

Implications for Practice

This study demonstrated that the patterns of metastasis leading to and following bone metastasis differ significantly between patients with inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) and those with non-IBC. Patients with IBC had a progression pattern that tended toward the development of bone metastasis if they had previously developed metastases in the liver, chest wall, and lung, rather than in other sites. Selection of patients with IBC with known liver, chest wall, and/or lung metastasis would create a population in whom to investigate effective methods for preventing future bone metastasis.
HER2 Positivity Predicts Unresponsiveness to EGFR-Targeted Treatment in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Sartore-Bianchi Andrea , Amatu Alessio , Porcu Luca , Ghezzi Silvia , Lonardi Sara , Leone Francesco , Bergamo Francesca , Fenocchio Elisabetta , Martinelli Erika , Borelli Beatrice , Tosi Federica , Racca Patrizia , Valtorta Emanuele , Bonoldi Emanuela , Martino Cosimo , Vaghi Caterina , Marrapese Giovanna , Ciardiello Fortunato , Zagonel Vittorina , Bardelli Alberto , Trusolino Livio , Torri Valter , Marsoni Silvia , Siena Salvatore
Published: April 2019

Background

HER2 amplification is detected in 3% of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), making tumors in the metastatic setting vulnerable to double pharmacological HER2 blockade. Preclinical findings show that it also might impair response to anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) treatment.

Subjects and Methods

Patients with KRAS exon 2 wild-type metastatic CRC underwent molecular screening of HER2 positivity by HERACLES criteria (immunohistochemistry 3+ or 2+ in ≥50% of cells, confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization). A sample of consecutive HER2-negative patients was selected as control. A regression modeling strategy was applied to identify predictors explaining the bulk of HER2 positivity and the association with response to previous anti-EGFR treatment.

Results

From August 2012 to April 2018, a total of 100 HER2-positive metastatic CRC tumors were detected out of 1,485 KRAS exon 2 wild-type screened patients (6.7%). HER2-positive patients show more frequently lung metastases (odds ratio [OR], 2.04; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15–3.61; p = .014) and higher tumor burden (OR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.10–2.01; p = .011), and tumors were more likely to be left sided (OR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.22–1.11; p = .088). HER2-positive patients who received treatment with anti-EGFR agents (n = 79) showed poorer outcome (objective response rate, 31.2% vs. 46.9%, p = .031; progression-free survival, 5.7 months vs. 7 months, p = .087).

Conclusion

Testing for HER2 should be offered to all patients with metastatic CRC because the occurrence of this biomarker is unlikely to be predicted based on main clinicopathological features. Patients with HER2-amplified metastatic CRC are less likely to respond to anti-EGFR therapy.

Implications for Practice

Patients with HER2-amplified/overexpressed metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) harbor a driver actionable molecular alteration that has been shown in preclinical models to hamper efficacy of the anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) targeted therapies. The present study confirmed that this molecular feature was associated with worse objective tumor response and shorter progression-free survival in response to previous anti-EGFR therapies. Moreover, it was found that the occurrence of this biomarker is unlikely to be predicted based on main clinicopathological features. Therefore, HER2 status assessment should be included in the molecular diagnostic workup of all mCRC for speedy referral to clinical trials encompassing HER2-targeted double blockade independently of previous anti-EGFR treatment.
Application of light-burnt dolomite as a mineral addition in concrete
Authors: Chen Zhiyang , Deng Min , Liu Peng
Published: April 2019

Growth in the production of cement has led to increasing demands for mineral additions. This study was conducted to develop an alternative addition by calcining dolomite at 800°C to obtain a mixture of periclase (MgO) and calcite (CaCO3). The light-burnt dolomite (LBD) was used to prepare blended cements. The hydration, setting time and microstructure of the cement were assessed and the compressive strength and deformation of concrete made using the LBD cements were measured. The results showed that the blended cement had no unfavourable effects on setting time or hydration. It was also found that the autogenous shrinkage of concrete can be mitigated with a replacement of LBD up to 20% and the free expansion levelled off early and was kept at a low level. The compressive strength of concrete made with the blended cement, especially with 10% LBD, was higher than that of plain concrete, which is partly related to the decrease of porosity, the fineness of pore diameters and interface enhancement due to the interaction of the LBD and the clinker.
Optimized biological tools: ultrastructure of rodent and bat teeth compared to human teeth
Authors: Luebke Alwina , Loza Kateryna , Prymak Oleg , Dammann Philip , Fabritius Helge Otto , Epple Matthias
Published: April 2019

Enamel, the outer layer of the teeth of vertebrates, is the hardest tissue in their body. In general, enamel is highly mineralized and has a special ultrastructure that directs the mechanical properties of teeth and thereby their biological functions. However, there are differences between the enamel ultrastructures of different species. The authors compare the teeth of the Eurasian beaver Castor fiber, the African mole rat Fukomys kafuensis and the common pipistrelle bat Pipistrellus pipistrellus by high-resolution analytical methods, including scanning electron microscopy, quantitative wavelength-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray powder diffraction. The enamel of all animals consists of long, thin and differently oriented calcium phosphate crystallites (length > 1 µm; thickness about 50 nm). On the outer surface of the beaver tooth, a thin layer of brown iron oxide was found. The diameter of the dentin tubuli was between 1 and 3 µm for all species – that is, comparable to that for human teeth.
A thermo-hydro-mechanical finite-element model with freezing processes in saturated soils
Authors: Zheng Tianyuan , Miao Xing-Yuan , Naumov Dmitri , Shao Haibing , Kolditz Olaf , Nagel Thomas
Published: April 2019

Freezing and thawing of soil are dynamic thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) interacting coupled processes and have attracted more and more attention due to their potentially severe consequences in geotechnical engineering. In this paper, a fully coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical freezing (THM-F) model is established for advanced system design and scenario analysis. The model is derived within the framework of the theory of porous media and solved numerically using the finite-element method. Particularly, the derivation of theoretical aspects pertaining to the governing equations, including in particular the thermo-mechanical decomposition treatment of the solid phase, is presented in detail. Verification examples are provided from purely freezing, THM and THM-F perspectives. Attention is paid to the heat and mass transfer, thermodynamic relations and the formation of frost heave. The migration of pore fluid from the unfrozen zone to the freezing area and the blockage of pore space by ice lenses within the porous media are studied. The model is able to capture various coupled physical phenomena during freezing – for example, the latent heat effect, groundwater flow alterations and mechanical deformation.
Shaking Gordon Wilson Flats: early seismic engineering research in New Zealand
Authors: McCarthy Christine
Published: April 2019

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Gordon Wilson Memorial Flats (Wellington, New Zealand, 1955–1959) was instrumented for seismic engineering research and subjected to vibration testing. The research was prompted by new thinking about architectural design in the mid-twentieth century (i.e. modernism) that had caused a mismatch between structural assumptions in building codes (which relied on significant amounts of uncalculated stiffness inherent in 1920s building design) and the structural characteristics of new buildings that had, for example, greater areas of glazing. This type of research led to the revision of New Zealand building codes in the 1960s and informed Japanese processes for permitting buildings higher than 100 ft (30·5 m). This paper outlines the research conducted and provides the context for understanding its significance. It is particularly topical given current proposals to instrument 400 Wellington buildings, creating the highest density of seismic instrumentation in any city.