bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive Galerkin Finite Element Methods for the Wave Equation
Authors: Bangerth W. , Geiger M. , Rannacher R.
Published: April 2013

This paper gives an overview of adaptive discretization methods for linear
second-order hyperbolic problems such as the acoustic or the elastic wave equation.
The emphasis is on Galerkin-type methods for spatial as well as temporal discretization,
which also include variants of the Crank-Nicolson and the Newmark finite difference
schemes. The adaptive choice of space and time meshes follows the principle of \goaloriented"
adaptivity which is based on a posteriori error estimation employing the
solutions of auxiliary dual problems.
Finite Difference Method for a Second-order Ordinary Differential Equation with a Boundary Condition of the Third Kind
Authors: Pandey P.K.
Published: April 2013

We present a second-order finite difference method for obtaining a solution of a second
order two-point boundary value problem subject to Sturm's boundary conditions. We use equidistant
discretization points, and the discretization of the differential equation at an interior point
is based on just two evaluations of the function. Numerical examples are considered and the
convergence of the proposed method is proved computationally.
Analysis of a Class of Penalty Methods for Computing Singular Minimizers
Authors: Carstensen C. , Ortner C.
Published: April 2013

Amongst the more exciting phenomena in the field of nonlinear partial
differential equations is the Lavrentiev phenomenon which occurs in the calculus of
variations. We prove that a conforming finite element method fails if and only if the
Lavrentiev phenomenon is present. Consequently, nonstandard finite element methods
have to be designed for the detection of the Lavrentiev phenomenon in the computational
calculus of variations.
We formulate and analyze a general strategy for solving variational problems in the
presence of the Lavrentiev phenomenon based on a splitting and penalization strategy.
We establish convergence results under mild conditions on the stored energy function.
Moreover, we present practical strategies for the solution of the discretized problems
and for the choice of the penalty parameter.
Computation of the Hartree-Fock Exchange by the Tensor-Structured Methods
Authors: Khoromskaia V.
Published: April 2013

We propose a novel numerical method for fast and accurate evaluation
of the exchange part of the Fock operator in the Hartree-Fock equation which
is a (nonlocal) integral operator. Usually, this challenging computational
problem is solved by analytical evaluation of two-electron integrals using the “analytically
separable” Galerkin basis functions, like Gaussians. Instead, we employ the
agglomerated “grey-box” numerical computation of the corresponding six-dimensional
integrals in the tensor-structured format which does not require analytical separability
of the basis set. The point of our method is a low-rank tensor representation of arising
functions and operators on an n×n×n Cartesian grid and the implementation of the
corresponding multi-linear algebraic operations in the tensor product format. Linear
scaling of the tensor operations, including the 3D convolution product, with respect to
the one-dimension grid size n enables computations on huge 3D Cartesian grids thus
providing the required high accuracy. The presented algorithm for evaluation of the
exchange operator and a recent tensor method for the computation of the Coulomb
matrix are the main building blocks in the numerical solution of the Hartree-Fock equation
by the tensor-structured methods. These methods provide a new tool for algebraic
optimization of the Galerkin basis in the case of large molecules.
A Posteriori Error Estimates for Approximate Solutions of the Barenblatt-Biot Poroelastic Model
Authors: Nordbotten J.M. , Rahman T. , Repin S.I. , Valdman J.
Published: April 2013

The paper is concerned with the Barenblatt-Biot model in the theory of
poroelasticity. We derive a guaranteed estimate of the difference between exact and approximate
solutions in a combined norm that encompasses errors for the pressure fields
computed from the diffusion part of the model and errors related to stresses (strains)
of the elastic part. Estimates do not contain generic (mesh-dependent) constants and
are valid for any conforming approximation of the pressure and stress fields.
Approximate Solution of a Singular Integral Cauchy-Kernel Equation of the First Kind
Authors: Kashfi M. , Shahmorad S.
Published: April 2013

In this paper we present a method for the numerical solution of Cauchy
type singular integral equations of the first kind on a finite segment which is unbounded
at the end points of the segment. Chebyshev polynomials of the first and second kinds
are used to derive an approximate solution. Moreover, an estimation error is computed
for the approximate solution.
Derivative-Free Optimal Iterative Methods
Authors: Khattri S.K. , Agarwal R.P.
Published: April 2013

In this study, we develop an optimal family of derivative-free iterative
methods. Convergence analysis shows that the methods are fourth order convergent,
which is also verified numerically. The methods require three functional evaluations
during each iteration. Though the methods are independent of derivatives, computa-
tional results demonstrate that the family of methods are efficient and demonstrate
equal or better performance as compared with many well-known methods and the clas-
sical Newton method. Through optimization we derive an optimal value for the free
parameter and implement it adaptively, which enhances the convergence order without
increasing functional evaluations.
Quantics-TT Collocation Approximation of Parameter-Dependent and Stochastic Elliptic PDEs
Authors: Khoromskij B.N. , Oseledets I.
Published: April 2013

We investigate the convergence rate of the quantics-TT (QTT) stochas-
tic collocation tensor approximations to solutions of multiparametric elliptic PDEs and
construct efficient iterative methods for solving arising high-dimensional parameter-
dependent algebraic systems of equations. Such PDEs arise, for example, in the para-
metric, deterministic reformulation of elliptic PDEs with random field inputs, based,
for example, on the M-term truncated Karhunen-Loève expansion. We consider both
the case of additive and log-additive dependence on the multivariate parameter. The
local-global versions of the QTT-rank estimates for the system matrix in terms of the
parameter space dimension is proven. Similar rank bounds are observed in numerics for
the solutions of the discrete linear system. We propose QTT-truncated iteration based
on the construction of solution-adaptive preconditioner that provides robust conver-
gence in both additive and log-additive cases. Various numerical tests indicate that the
numerical complexity scales almost linearly in the dimension of parametric space M.
Feedback controls for continuous priority models in supply chain management
Authors: Herty Michael , Ringhofer Christian
Published: April 2013

We are interested in closed loop feedback control laws for supply chains. The mathematical
modeling is based on Boltzmann–type equations. These equations allow to model a supply chain
with priorities. The latter influence the processing time in a nonlinear way. For this class
of models we derive a control law and we show numerical results.
Polynomial approximation on spheres - generalizing de la Vallée-Poussin
Authors: Sloan Ian H.
Published: April 2013

For trigonometric polynomial approximation on a circle, the century-old de la
Vallée-Poussin construction has attractive features: it exhibits uniform convergence for
all continuous functions as the degree of the trigonometric polynomial goes to infinity,
yet it also has arbitrarily fast convergence for sufficiently smooth functions. This paper
presents an explicit generalization of the de la Vallée-Poussin construction to higher
dimensional spheres S^d ≤ R^{d+1}. The generalization replaces the C^∞ filter introduced by
Rustamov by a piecewise polynomial of minimal degree. For the case of the circle the filter
is piecewise linear, and recovers the de la Vallée-Poussin construction, while for the
general sphere S^d the filter is a piecewise polynomial of degree d and smoothness C^{d−1}.
In all cases the approximation converges uniformly for all continuous functions, and has
arbitrarily fast convergence for smooth functions.
Reactive Distillation for Multiple-Reaction Systems: Optimisation Study Using an Evolutionary Algorithm
Authors: Keller Tobias , Dreisewerd Bjoern , Górak Andrzej
Published: April 2013

Reactive distillation (RD) has already demonstrated its potential to significantly increase reactant conversion and the purity of the target product. Our work focuses on the application of RD to reaction systems that feature more than one main reaction. In such multiple-reaction systems, the application of RD would enhance not only the reactant conversion but also the selectivity of the target product. The potential of RD to improve the product selectivity of multiple-reaction systems has not yet been fully exploited because of a shortage of available comprehensive experimental and theoretical studies. In the present article, we want to theoretically identify the full potential of RD technology in multiple-reaction systems by performing a detailed optimisation study. An evolutionary algorithm was applied and the obtained results were compared with those of a conventional stirred tank reactor to quantify the potential of RD to improve the target product selectivity of multiple-reaction systems. The consecutive transesterification of dimethyl carbonate with ethanol to form ethyl methyl carbonate and diethyl carbonate was used as a case study.
Recovery of HCl from Chloride Leach Solution of Spent HDS Catalyst by Solvent Extraction
Authors: Banda Raju , Nguyen Thi Hong , Lee Man Seung
Published: April 2013

In the present work, amine based extractant and its mixture with cationic and solvating extractants were tested for the extraction of HCl from chloride solution containing Al(III). The chloride feed solution resulted from the leaching of spent HDS (hydro-desulfurization) catalysts. For this purpose, amine extractants, such as TOA (trioctyl amine), Alamine 336 (a mixture of tri-octyl/decyl amine), Alamine 308 (tri-isooctyl amine), and TEHA (tri 2-ethylhexyl amine) were used and the extraction and stripping behavior of HCl was compared. The extracted HCl was easily stripped from loaded TEHA phase, when compared with the other tested tertiary amine system. Solvent extraction reaction of HCl by TEHA was determined from the extraction data. Unlike TOA and Alamine 336, adding cationic extractant to TEHA had negligible effect on the extraction and stripping of HCl. In our experimental ranges, no Al was extracted by amines and pure HCl was recovered. MaCabe- Thiele diagrams for the extraction and stripping of HCl by TEHA were constructed.
Segmentation of Football Video Broadcast
Authors: Mačkowiak Sławomir
Published: April 2013

In this paper a novel segmentation system for football player detection in broadcasted video is presented. Proposed detection system is a complex solution incorporating a dominant color based segmentation technique of a football playfield, a 3D playfield modeling algorithm based on Hough transform and a dedicated algorithm for player tracking, player detection system based on the combination of Histogram of Oriented Gradients (HOG) descriptors with Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and linear Support Vector Machine (SVM) classification. For the shot classification the several classification technique SVM, artificial neural network and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) are used. Evaluation of the system is carried out using HD (1280×720) resolution test material. Additionally, performance of the proposed system is tested with different lighting conditions (including non-uniform pith lightning and multiple player shadows) and various camera positions. Experimental results presented in this paper show that combination of these techniques seems to be a promising solution for locating and segmenting objects in a broadcasted video.
A Spectral Subtraction Based Algorithm for Real-time Noise Cancellation with Application to Gunshot Acoustics
Authors: Ramos António L. L. , Holm Sverre , Gudvangen Sigmund , Otterlei Ragnvald
Published: April 2013

This paper introduces an improved spectral subtraction based algorithm for real-time noise cancellation, applied to gunshot acoustical signals. The derivation is based on the fact that, in practice, relatively long periods without gunshot signals occur and the background noise can be modeled as being short-time stationary and uncorrelated to the impulsive gunshot signals. Moreover, gunshot signals, in general, have a spiky autocorrelation while typical vehicle noise, or related, is periodic and exhibits a wider autocorrelation. The Spectral Suppression algorithm is applied using the pre-filtering approach, as opposed to post-filtering which requires a priori knowledge of the direction of arrival of the signals of interest, namely, the Muzzle blast and the Shockwave. The results presented in this work are based on a dataset generated by combining signals from real gunshots and real vehicle noise.
Rapid Prototyping of Third-Order Sigma-Delta A/D Converters
Authors: Suszyński Robert , Wawryn Krzysztof
Published: April 2013

Prototyping of third-order sigma-delta analog to digital converters (ΣΔ ADCs) has been presented in the paper. The method is based on implementation of field programmable analog arrays (FPAA) to configure and reconfigure proposed circuits. Three third-order ΣΔ ADC structures have been considered. The circuit characteristics have been measured and then the structure of the converters have been reconfigured to satisfy input specifications.
Kinematically unrelated C—S fabrics: an Lexample of extensional shear band cleavage from the Veporic Unit (Western Carpathians)
Authors: Bukovská Zita , Jeřábek Petr , Lexa Ondrej , Konopásek Jiří , Janák Marian , Košler Jan
Published: April 2013

Discontinuous and kinematically unrelated C-S fabrics have been recognized along the contact between the Gemeric and Veporic Units in the Western Carpathians. The formation of S and C fabrics within orthogneiss, quartzite and chloritoid-kyanite schist of the Veporic Unit is associated with Cretaceous syn-burial orogen-parallel flow and subsequent exhumational unroofing. The formation of the two fabrics characterized by distinct quartz deformation microstructure and metamorphic assemblage is separated by an inter-tectonic growth of transversal chloritoid-, kyanite-, ± monazite-bearing assemblage. The monazite U-Th-Pb concordia age of 97 ± 4 Ma was obtained by the laser ablation ICP-MS dating method. The age of this inter-tectonic metamorphic stage together with existing 40Ar/39Ar ages on exhumation of the Veporic Unit indicate that despite the similar appearance to shear bands or C-S mylonites there is a time span of at least 10 Myr between the formation of homogeneous S fabrics and superposed discrete C fabrics in the studied rocks
Biostratigraphy and paleoenvironment of the Upper Cretaceous deposits in the northern Tarcău Nappe (Eastern Carpathians) based on foraminifera and calcareous nannoplankton
Authors: Bindiu Raluca , Filipescu Sorin , Bălc Ramona
Published: April 2013

Late Cretaceous foraminiferal and calcareous nannoplankton assemblages from the northern part of the Tarcău Nappe, Hangu Formation in the northern Eastern Carpathians are documented in order to reconstruct paleoenvironmental settings and biostratigraphy. The foraminiferal assemblages are dominated by flysch-type agglutinated taxa suggesting bathyal environments, close to the calcite compensation depth (CCD), and mesotrophic to oligotrophic conditions. The morphogroup analyses display variations in tubular and infaunal morphotypes suggesting different levels of oxygenation and seafloor disturbance caused by currents. Reddish hemipelagites containing only agglutinated foraminifera (dominant infaunal forms) occurring in the middle part of the section suggest an increase of water depth and changes in redox conditions. Based on foraminifera, the deposits were assigned to planktonic Globotruncana ventricosa and agglutinated Caudammina gigantea Zones. The first occurrence of Uniplanarius trifidus and last occurrence of Reinhardtites anthophorus demonstrate the presence of Late Campanian UC15cTP-UC16/CC21-CC23 calcareous nannoplankton Zones. Foraminiferal and nannofossil assemblages in the red beds have a high potential for stratigraphic correlation on a regional scale.
K/Ar mineral geochronology of the northern part of the Sithonia Plutonic Complex (Chalkidiki, Greece): implications for its thermal history and geodynamic interpretation
Authors: Pipera Kyriaki , Koroneos Antonis , Soldatos Triantafyllos , Pécskay Zoltán , Christofides Georgios
Published: April 2013

New K/Ar mineral ages of thirty nine samples (biotite, muscovite, K-feldspar) from the two-mica granodiorite to granite and leucogranite of the northern part of the Sithonia Plutonic Complex (Chalkidiki, Greece) are given in the present study. These data along with existing Rb/Sr mica and U/Pb zircon ages are used to investigate the thermal history of the plutonic complex and shed light on the process that affected it, and caused discordant Rb/Sr and K/Ar mineral ages. The K/Ar mineral dating yielded ages ranging from 38 to 49 Ma for muscovites, 32 to 47 Ma for biotites and 37 to 43 Ma for K-feldspars, respectively. The comparison of the K/Ar, Rb/Sr and U/Pb mineral ages and the closure temperatures of the different isotopic systems for the different minerals indicate a rapid cooling rate for the Sithonia pluton. The latter supports the hypothesis that the pluton was formed in a post orogenic extensional regime. Moreover, the K/Ar mineral isochrones indicate that a reheating of the pluton took place before 37 Ma and partially rejuvenated the K/Ar and Rb/Sr isotopic system of the minerals
Thermal history of the Podhale Basin in the internal Western Carpathians from the perspective of apatite fission track analyses
Authors: Anczkiewicz Aneta Agnieszka , Środoń Jan , Zattin Massimiliano
Published: April 2013

The thermal history of the Paleogene Podhale Basin was studied by the apatite fission track (AFT) method. Twenty four Eocene-Oligocene sandstone samples yielded apparent ages from 13.8 ± 1.6 to 6.1 ± 1.4 Ma that are significantly younger than their stratigraphic age and thus point to a post-depositional resetting. The thermal event responsible for the age resetting is interpreted as a combination of heating associated with mid-Miocene volcanism and variable thickness of Oligocene and potentially also Miocene sediments. Extending the mid-Miocene thermal event found in the Inner Carpathians into the Podhale Basin as a likely heat source suggests that the amount of denudation in the Podhale Basin determined only on the basis of heat related to the thickness of sedimentary sequence might have be significantly overestimated. Two samples from the western part of the basin that yielded 31.0 ± 4.3 and 26.9 ± 4.7 Ma are interpreted as having mixed ages resulting from partial resetting in temperature conditions within the AFT partial annealing zone. This observation agrees very well with reported vitrinite reflectance and illite-smectite thermometry, which indicate a systematic drop of the maximum paleotemperatures towards the western side of the basin.
Short-Term High Intensity Plyometric Training Program Improves Strength, Power and Agility in Male Soccer Players
Authors: Váczi Márk , Tollár József , Meszler Balázs , Juhász Ivett , Karsai István
Published: April 2013

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of a short-term in-season plyometric training program on power, agility and knee extensor strength. Male soccer players from a third league team were assigned into an experimental and a control group. The experimental group, beside its regular soccer training sessions, performed a periodized plyometric training program for six weeks. The program included two training sessions per week, and maximal intensity unilateral and bilateral plyometric exercises (total of 40 - 100 foot contacts/session) were executed. Controls participated only in the same soccer training routine, and did not perform plyometrics. Depth vertical jump height, agility (Illinois Agility Test, T Agility Test) and maximal voluntary isometric torque in knee extensors using Multicont II dynamometer were evaluated before and after the experiment. In the experimental group small but significant improvements were found in both agility tests, while depth jump height and isometric torque increments were greater. The control group did not improve in any of the measures. Results of the study indicate that plyometric training consisting of high impact unilateral and bilateral exercises induced remarkable improvements in lower extremity power and maximal knee extensor strength, and smaller improvements in soccer-specific agility. Therefore, it is concluded that short-term plyometric training should be incorporated in the in-season preparation of lower level players to improve specific performance in soccer.
The Structure of Performance of a Sport Rock Climber
Authors: Magiera Artur , Roczniok Robert , Maszczyk Adam , Czuba Miłosz , Kantyka Joanna , Kurek Piotr
Published: April 2013

This study is a contribution to the discussion about the structure of performance of sport rock climbers. Because of the complex and multifaceted nature of this sport, multivariate statistics were applied in the study. The subjects included thirty experienced sport climbers. Forty three variables were scrutinised, namely somatic characteristics, specific physical fitness, coordination abilities, aerobic and anaerobic power, technical and tactical skills, mental characteristics, as well as 2 variables describing the climber’s performance in the OS (Max OS) and RP style (Max RP). The results show that for training effectiveness of advanced climbers to be thoroughly analysed and examined, tests assessing their physical, technical and mental characteristics are necessary. The three sets of variables used in this study explained the structure of performance similarly, but not identically (in 38, 33 and 25%, respectively). They were also complementary to around 30% of the variance. The overall performance capacity of a sport rock climber (Max OS and Max RP) was also evaluated in the study. The canonical weights of the dominant first canonical root were 0.554 and 0.512 for Max OS and Max RP, respectively. Despite the differences between the two styles of climbing, seven variables - the maximal relative strength of the fingers (canonical weight = 0.490), mental endurance (one of scales : The Formal Characteristics of Behaviour-Temperament Inventory (FCB-TI; Strelau and Zawadzki, 1995)) (-0.410), climbing technique (0.370), isometric endurance of the fingers (0.340), the number of errors in the complex reaction time test (- 0.319), the ape index (-0.319) and oxygen uptake during arm work at the anaerobic threshold (0.254) were found to explain 77% of performance capacity common to the two styles.
Influence of Inter-Set Stretching on Strength, Flexibility and Hormonal Adaptations
Authors: Souza Antônio Claudio , Melibeu Bentes Claudio , Freitas de Salles Belmiro , Machado Reis Victor , Vilaça Alves José , Miranda Humberto , Silva Novaes Jefferson da
Published: April 2013

Adequate levels of strength and flexibility are important for the promotion and maintenance of health and functional autonomy as well as safe and effective sports participation. The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of 8 weeks of strength training with or without inter-set static stretching on strength, flexibility and hormonal adaptations of trained men. Sixteen trained men were randomly divided into 2 groups: the static stretching group (SSG) and passive interval group (PIG). All participants performed 24 training sessions 3 times a week. The test and retest of 8RM, strength, flexibility, cortisol and growth hormone concentration in pre and post test conditions were also evaluated. To compare the differences between and within groups in pre- and post-training tests, ANOVA with repeated measures was performed (SSGpre x SSGpost; PIGpre x PIGpost; SSGpost x PIGpost). An alpha level of p<0.05 was considered statistically significant for all comparisons. Both groups showed significant increases in strength (SSGpre vs. SSGpost; PIGpre vs. PIGpost) in the same exercises for leg extension (LE) and Low Row (LR). Specifically, in the SSG group, the parameters for LE were (p = 0.0015 and ES = 2.28 - Large), and the parameters for LR were (p = 0.002 and ES = 1.95 - Large). Moreover, in the PIG group, the parameters for LE were (p = 0.009 and ES = 1.95 - Large), and the parameters for LR were (p = 0.0001 and ES = 2.88 - Large). No differences were found between the groups (SSGpost vs. PIGpost). Both groups showed significant increases in flexibility but in different joints (SSGpre vs. SSGpost; PIGpre vs. PIGpost). In the SSG group, only three joints showed significant increases in flexibility: shoulder extension (p = 0.004 and ES = 1.76 - Large), torso flexion (p = 0.002 and ES = 2.36 - Large), and hip flexion (p = 0.001 and ES = 1.79 - Large). In the PIG group, only three joints showed increases in flexibility: horizontal shoulder abduction (p = 0.003 and ES = 2.07 - Large), hip flexion (p = 0.001 and ES = 2.39 - Large), and hip extension (p = 0.02 and ES = 1.79 - Large). In-between group analyses (SSGpost x PIGpost) revealed differences in two joints: shoulder extension (p = 0.001) and horizontal shoulder abduction (p = 0.001). Hormonal profiles showed no significant differences in cortisol secretion or growth hormone concentration. In conclusion, both studied strength protocols (with and without inter-set static stretching) resulted in flexibility and strength gains without an effect on the anabolic and catabolic hormonal profile.
The Importance of Parents’ Behavior in their Children’s Enjoyment and Amotivation in Sports
Authors: Sánchez-Miguel Pedro A. , Leo Francisco M. , Sánchez-Oliva David , Amado Diana , García-Calvo Tomás
Published: April 2013

The main aim of the research was to examine the relationship between motivational orientations and parents’ behavior with regard to the players’ motivational orientation, motivational climate, enjoyment and amotivation. The sample comprised 723 athletes (M = 12.37, SD = 1.48) and 723 parents (M = 46.46, SD = 2.56). Players were male and female who belonged to federative basketball, handball, football and volleyball teams. Parents and athletes completed questionnaires that assessed motivational orientations, parents’ involvement in the practice as well as enjoyment and motivation in the sport. Results showed a positive relationship between parents’ support of the sport and players’ enjoyment and a negative relationship with players’ amotivation. Moreover, in players who perceived more pressure from their parents, there was a positive association with amotivation and a negative one with enjoyment. Lastly, it was emphasized that appropriate parental participation can promote an increase of players’ enjoyment of and motivation for sport
Interpersonal Dynamics: 1v1 Sub-Phase at Sub-18 Football Players
Authors: Clemente Filipe Manuel , Santos Couceiro Micael , Martins Fernando Manuel Lourenço , Dias Gonçalo , Mendes Rui
Published: April 2013

The performance of football players within game context can be analyzed based on their ability to break or (re)balance the attacker-defender dyad. In this context, the analysis of each sub-phase (e.g., 1v1, 2v2) presents a feature that needs to be taken into account in sports analysis. This study aims to investigate the interpersonal dynamics dyad formed by the attacker and the defender in 1v1 situations with a goalkeeper. A sample of 11 football male players (age: 17.91 ± 1.04 years) with 8.6 ± 1.52 years of practice experience participated in the study. Analyzing the 1v1 sub-phase, results show that the distance, speed and angular amplitude between the attacker and the defender increases, especially when the attacker attempts to overtake the defender (i.e., score a goal). We conclude that decision-making emerges from the perception that players draw from the action, actively and consistently interacting to find solutions to emerging problems within the game context
THE ROLE OF ADIPOCYTOKINES IN COLON CANCER AND ADENOMAS / ULOGA ADIPOCITOKINA U KANCERU I ADENOMIMA DEBELOG CREVA
Authors: Tulubas Feti , Mete Rafet , Oznur Meltem , Topcu Birol
Published: April 2013

Metabolic changes resulting from obesity, insulin insensitivity, and imbalances in hormones such as adiponectin, leptin, resistin, apelin and visfatin, which are derived from white adipose tissue-derived hormone, are directly linked to both colon cancer (CC) and inflammatory bowel diseases increasing tissue-derived risk. We conducted this study to evaluate the relationship between the circulating concentrations of adiponectin, leptin, resistin, apelin and visfatin and colon adenoma and CC. Our study included 90 participants aged >18 years who were divided into three groups: colon cancer, adenoma and control. The serum concentrations of the investigated adipohormones were measured with ELISA in 30 patients with colon adenoma, 30 with CC and 30 controls with no colon pathology. Demographic, anthropometric, metabolic and hormonal parameters were also recorded. The group means were compared by using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Dual comparisons between groups were analyzed with the Tukey test. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to determine the relation between continuous variables. Adiponectin and leptin levels in patients with adenomas (p<0.000; p<0.000, respectively) and CC (p<0.000; p<0.000, respectively) were lower than in controls. Apelin level in patients with CC (p<0.000; p<0.000, respectively) was lower than in patients with adenomas and in controls. Resistin and visfatin levels in patients with CC (p<0.000; p<0.000, respectively) were higher than in patients with adenomas and in controls.
In transit/ion: Sudanese students’ resettlement, pedagogy and material conditions
Authors: Harris Anne
Published: April 2013

For Asante our “battle is intense, the struggle we wage for status power is serious and we cannot communicate as equals when our economic position is that of servants” (2008, p. 49), words that resonated with the author throughout her research with Sudanese Australian young women about their educational experiences, as captured in co-created short films. While the work moved between social science and arts-based research the author questioned the basis of her relationship with the co-participants, and the possibility of fluid status positions within educational contexts. This paper interrogates the im/possibility within neoliberal secondary school contexts for activist educational research (Giroux, 2005) to be the kind of ‘interchange’ of which Asante speaks, a source of creative understanding for researchers and co-participants, if it cannot address co-participants’ (and teacher/student) unequal material conditions. In the case presented in this article, materially-influenced communication challenges reflect current curricular and pedagogical tensions, especially for refugee-background students. Where racial, cultural and socio-economic marginalities intersect, pedagogical and curricular possibilities are sometimes foreclosed before students even enter ‘neoliberal’ classrooms.
Is ‘Teach for All’ knocking on your door?
Authors: Price Anne , McConney Andrew
Published: April 2013

Over the past few decades there has been a rapid expansion in alternative ‘fast track’ routes for teacher preparation. Among the most aggressive of these are Teach for All (TFA) schemes characterized not only by their ultra fast entry to teaching (6 - 7 week course) but also by their underlying philosophy that the so called ‘crisis’ in poor rural and urban schools can be solved by attracting the ‘best and brightest’ university graduates for a two year appointment in ‘difficult to staff’ schools. With its missionary zeal TFA is heralded by some as one way to solve socio- -educational problems that governments cannot. Others condemn such schemes as not only patronizing, but also as part of an ideologically driven and deliberate neoliberal attack on public education, teachers, teacher professionalism and working class or ‘other’ communities. Recently Teach for All came knocking on New Zealand’s door. Concerned about the possible implications of this for the teaching profession and education more generally, the New Zealand Post Primary Teachers Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua commissioned a review of the international literature on TFA schemes. This paper synthesizes some of the key findings of this review with particular focus on TFA’s marketing strategies and the connections TFA schemes have with so called social entrepreneurs or venture philanthropists, many of whom are actively and aggressively engaged in shaping educational reforms in line with neoliberal agendas.
Philosophical inquiry and the advancement of democratic praxis
Authors: Echeverria Eugenio , Hannam Patricia
Published: April 2013

In a time of advancing neoliberal educational practice globally (e.g. Roxborough, 1997, McCafferty, 2010), in the provision of public sector education as well as in assumptions regarding public educational purposes and curriculum development; this paper looks to a broader definition of education (e.g. Biesta, 2009). The authors argue that pedagogical proposal of the Community of Philosophical Inquiry as in the work of Matthew Lipman (e.g. 2002) and Ann Sharp, a model of educational praxis existent in over 60 countries world wide, can enable the advancement of a vision for deliberative democracy (Lipman, 1998) and social justice and contribute to educational theory and practice in ways which develop communicative rather than individualistic notions of autonomy (Code, 2006, p.170.). Philosophical inquiry, especially as discussed in this paper with adolescents, equips students with the tools to become more critical, to develop a more social and global awareness and consequently enable them to make more reflected moral judgments (Hannam & Echeverria, 2009, p.114). Drawing on practical examples from the direct experience of the authors in the UK and Mexico, as well as building on 40 years of research world wide, an argument is developed for embedding philosophical thinking into all educational environments as a means of forming transformative intellectuals (Giroux, 1988) and enabling a raising of awareness with regard to the consequences of the tacit acceptance of neoliberal educational policies. Furthermore, drawing on the writing of Hannah Arendt (1998) a view is advanced which suggests that deliberative and participatory democratic structures can be developed in our societies where the opportunity for careful thinking as well as conscious action taking can take place.
The Evaluation of Factors Determining the Health Condition of Acer Platanoides and Tilia Cordata Plantings in Selected Sites of Urban Greenery in Poznań, Poland
Authors: Wilkaniec Barbara , Borowiak-Sobkowiak Beata , Wilkaniec Agnieszka , Breś Włodzimierz , Frużyńska-Jóźwiak Dorota
Published: April 2013

Heavily urbanised areas are not a favourable habitat for plant growth and development. On the other hand, urbanised areas can be a favourable habitat for harmful fauna. Tin our study, those trees growing along the roadside were more heavily infested by pests than trees growing in parks. Three orders of insects, mites and lugs were identified on the Norway maple. The dominant insect species was Periphyllus aceris. On small-leaved lime four insect orders (the dominant species was and Eucallipterus tiliae) and mites were found. An overall visual inspection confirmed that of maple and lime growing in city parks were in better condition than those growing by roads.
Pathogenicity of Meloidogyne Incognita Race 1 on Tomato as Influenced by Different Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Bioformulated Paecilomyces Lilacinus in a Dysteric Cambisol Soil
Authors: Udo Idorenyin Asukwo , Uguru Michael Ifeanyichukwu , Ogbuji Rufus Omemaramadu
Published: April 2013

A greenhouse experiment was conducted to investigate the single and combined effects of different arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and bioformulated Paecilomyces lilacinus against M. incognita race 1 on tomato. Dysteric Cambisol soil was used. The experiment took place in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. The experiment was laid out as a 3x6 factorial in a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. Three applications of the bionematicide were combined with five species of AMF plus an uninoculated control. The results indicated that AMF species differed significantly (p ≤ 0.05) in their efficacy of gall and egg mass inhibition, tomato root colonization rate as well as growth and fresh fruit yield enhancement. Glomus etunicatum and G. deserticola were the most efficient species. Two applications of the bionematicide more significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reduced galling and egg production than a single application. Individual combinations of two AMF (G. etunicatum and G. deserticola) with a double application of the bionematicide, resulted in the greatest gall and egg mass inhibition and consequently the greatest growth and fresh fruit yield enhancement.
Immunoliogical Responses of Hyphantria Cunea (Drury) (Lepidoptera: Arctiidae) to Entomopathogenic Fungi, Beauveria Bassiana (Bals.-Criy) and Isaria Farinosae (Holmsk.) Fr.
Authors: Ajamhassani Maryam , Sendi Jalal Jalali , Zibaee Arash , Askary Hassan , Farsi Mohamad Jafar
Published: April 2013

Five morphological types of hemocytes were recognized in hemolymph of the 4th instar larvae of Hyphantria cunea (Drury). These hemocytes were: prohemocytes, plasmotocytes, granulocytes, oenocytoids, and spherulocytes. Tests were done on the effects of four isolates of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana (Bals.-Criy) (Fashand, spt-22, Ir-K-40 and 566), one isolate of Isaria farinosae (Holmsk.) Fr. (1872c), and latex-beads on the cellular immune defense mechanism and Phenoloxidase (PO) activity of H. cunea. Observation showed that plasmatocytes and granulocytes engulfed fungal pathogens by phagocytosis. The most phagocytosis occurred 30 and 60 min after injection but nodulation occurred in 3 and 6 hours, in all treatments. The total hemocyte count (THC) and granulocyte, and plasmotocyte numbers increased after the injection of spores. Phenoloxidase activity was determined in the presence of L-DOPA (L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine), as a substrate in intervals, after injection of fungal spores, and latex beads. These studies demonstrated that B. bassiana is a promising candidate for biological control of H. cunea.
Progress in developing Poisson-Boltzmann equation
solvers
Authors: Li Chuan , Li Lin , Petukh Marharyta , Alexov Emil
Published: April 2013

This review outlines the recent progress made in developing
more accurate and efficient solutions to model electrostatics
in systems comprised of bio-macromolecules and nanoobjects,
the last one referring to objects that do not have biological
function themselves but nowadays are frequently used
in biophysical and medical approaches in conjunction with
bio-macromolecules. The problem of modeling macromolecular
electrostatics is reviewed from two different angles: as a
mathematical task provided the specific definition of the system
to be modeled and as a physical problem aiming to better
capture the phenomena occurring in the real experiments. In
addition, specific attention is paid to methods to extend the
capabilities of the existing solvers to model large systems toward
applications of calculations of the electrostatic potential
and energies in molecular motors, mitochondria complex,
photosynthetic machinery and systems involving large nanoobjects.
A Family of New Generation Miniaturized Impedance Analyzers for Technical Object Diagnostics
Authors: Hoja Jerzy , Lentka Grzegorz
Published: April 2013

The paper presents the family of three analyzers allowing to measure impedance in the range of 10 Ω<|Zx|<10 GΩ in a wide frequency range from 10 mHz up to 100 kHz. The most important features of the analyzer family are: miniaturization, low power consumption, low production cost, telemetric controlling and the use of an impedance measurement method based on digital signal processing (DSP). The miniaturization and other above-mentioned features of the analyzers were obtained thanks to the use of the newest generation of large-scale integration chips: e.g. “system on a chip” microsystems (AD5933), 32-bit AVR32-family microcontrollers and specialized modules for wireless communication using the ZigBee standard. When comparing metrological parameters, the developed instrumentation can equal portable analyzers offered by top worldwide manufacturers (Gamry, Ivium) but outperforms them on smaller dimensions, weight, a few times lower price and the possibility to work in a distributed telemetric network. All analyzer versions are able to be put into medium-volume production.
An Analysis of Deviations of Cylindrical Surfaces with the Use of Wavelet Transform
Authors: Stępień Krzysztof , Makieła Włodzimierz
Published: April 2013

Wavelet transform becomes a more and more common method of processing 3D signals. It is widely used to analyze data in various branches of science and technology (medicine, seismology, engineering, etc.). In the field of mechanical engineering wavelet transform is usually used to investigate surface micro- and nanotopography. Wavelet transform is commonly regarded as a very good tool to analyze non-stationary signals. However, to analyze periodical signals, most researchers prefer to use well-known methods such as Fourier analysis. In this paper authors make an attempt to prove that wavelet transform can be a useful method to analyze 3D signals that are approximately periodical. As an example of such signal, measurement data of cylindrical workpieces are investigated. The calculations were performed in the MATLAB environment using the Wavelet Toolbox.
Information Management Supporting Multimodal Transport Utilization in Virtual Clusters
Authors: Golińska Paulina
Published: April 2013

Companies are facing problems regarding reduction of their logistics costs. Good organization of transport processes can bring a lot of profits both economical and environmental. Companies participating in transport processes more often prefer to create temporary relations and form virtual cooperation networks than to keep traditional long-term contracts. The paper first defined problems of multimodal transport. The obstacles to development of virtual transport clusters are described. The main problems and requirements of the virtual cooperation in the area of transport processes are identified. The aim of the paper is to present the scope of information needed for the coordination of virtual transport clusters. Author describes approach to information management in virtual cluster based on agent technology.
Reducing Time Losses In Operational Actions Of A Food Production Lines
Authors: Lintilä Jukka , Takala Josu
Published: April 2013

Most of the companies are interested in developing their production processes. With production process development, companies can meet their customers demands better. Tight competition is one reason that forces companies to use their production equipment as efficiently as they can. Improved production processes result in cost savings, flexibility, and in opportunities to plan companies activities more efficiently. The purpose of this research is to examine and cut operational times in food production processes. Two production lines were chosen for closer examination: spread/butter production line and quark production line. The main focus was to prevent operational time losses in these production lines. Research is divided into two separate sections: theoretical and empirical part. Theoretical part formulates guidelines and theoretical basis which is then employed in the empirical part. The theoretical part discusses Lean management philosophy, OEE indicator, SMED and questionnaire research method that comes from the sense and respond theory. In the empirical section, SMED and questionnaire method are used to examine operational activities. The focus is in finding critical characteristics from the production line’s starting-, product change-, and closing-setups. Result was that certain characteristics can be found to be critical factors. Those characteristics are connected to operational time losses. Another result is, that SMED and questionnaire research method are an effective way to examine issues with production. Both methods produced similar results in finding development targets from the production line, hence the simultaneous use of both is beneficial, as additional confirmation for the first methods findings can be obtained by securing the result with the other one.
Gas–liquid Flow Pattern Recognition Based on Wavelet Packet Energy Entropy of Vortex-induced Pressure Fluctuation
Authors: Sun Zhiqiang , Shao Shuai , Gong Hui
Published: April 2013

Here we report a novel flow-pattern map to distinguish the gas-liquid flow patterns in horizontal pipes at ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure. The map is constructed using the coordinate system of wavelet packet energy entropy versus total mass flow rate. The wavelet packet energy entropy is obtained from the coefficients of vortex-induced pressure fluctuation decomposed by the wavelet packet transform. A triangular bluff body perpendicular to the flow direction is employed to generate the pressure fluctuation. Experimental tests confirm the suitability of the wavelet packet energy entropy as an ideal indicator of the gas-liquid flow patterns. The overall identification rate of the map is 92.86%, which can satisfy most engineering applications. This method provides a simple, practical, and robust solution to the problem of gas-liquid flow pattern recognition.
Acrylic Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives Containing SiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Czech Zbigniew , Kowalczyk Agnieszka , Ortyl Joanna , Świderska Jolanta
Published: April 2013

The use of acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs) is increasing in a variety of industrial fields. They have been applied in the manufacture of mounting tapes, self-adhesive labels, protective films, masking tapes, splicing tapes, carrier-free tapes, sign and marking films, and in diverse medical products, such as pads or self-adhesive bioelectrodes. In this study, the application of SiO2 nanoparticles in acrylic PSA was investigated. The properties of the newly synthesized and modified PSA were evaluated via the tack, peel adhesion, shear-strength and shrinkage. It has been found that the nanotechnologically-reinforced systems consisting of monodisperse non-agglomerated SiO2 nanoparticles and self-crosslinked acrylic PSAs showed a great enhancement in tack, peel adhesion, shear resistance and shrinkage, without showing the disadvantages known to result from the use of other inorganic additives. In this paper we evaluate the performance of SiO2 nanoparticles with a size of about 30 nm as inorganic filler into the synthesized solvent-borne acrylic PSA.
Corrosion Inhibition of Mild Steel in Nitric Acid Media by some Schiff Bases Derived from Anisalidine
Authors: Saxena N. , Kumar S. , Sharma M.K. , Mathur S.P.
Published: April 2013

Corrosion inhibition performance of mild steel in nitric acid solution containing different concentration of anisalidine derivative Schiff bases viz. N- (4-nitro phenyl) p-anisalidine (SB1), N- (4-chloro phenyl) p-anisalidine (SB2), N- (4-phenyl) p-anisalidine (SB3), N- (4-methoxy phenyl) p-anisalidine (SB4), N- (4-hydroxy phenyl) p-anisalidine (SB5) has been investigated using mass loss, thermometric and potentiostate polarization technique. Inhibition efficiencies of Schiff bases have been evaluated at different acid strength. The inhibition efficiency was found larger than their parent amines. Inhibition efficiencies of synthesized Schiff bases increase with inhibitor concentration. Inhibition efficiency increases up to 98.32% with ansalidine derivative Schiff base.