bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex-specific Changes in Walleye Abundance, Size Structure and Harvest Following Implementation of Regulation to Protect Broodstock
Authors: Koupal Keith D. , Katt Jordan D. , Schoenebeck Casey W. , Eifert Brad E.
Published: June 2015

The popularity of walleye Sander vitreus fishing has resulted in the development of specialized regulations that are designed to protect these fisheries. In the case of Sherman Reservoir, Sherman County, Nebraska, the walleye population provides a sportfishing opportunity and serves as broodstock for the state. In 2009, for the primary purpose of protecting female broodstock, the regulation changed from a harvest limit of four walleye with 457-mm minimum length to allowing a reduced harvest limit of two walleye within a harvest slot (381–508 mm) and one walleye more than 711 mm. This study examined existing data sets to assess the percentage of spawning walleye protected with each regulation, sex-specific differences in relative abundance and size structure during broodstock collection and angler effort, total catch, and harvest of walleye. The new regulation has increased protection of female walleye by more than 90%, but decreased protection of male walleye by more than 60%. The relative abundance of female walleye caught per net during broodstock collection has more than doubled since the regulation was changed, but the size structure of female walleye collected during broodstock operations was similar. Correspondingly, the relative abundance of male walleye has declined since changing the regulation, but size structure remained similar. Effort and total catch of walleye by anglers were similar before and after the regulation was enacted, but harvest has increased by 130%. This regulation appears to protect female broodstock walleye, but it makes male walleye more vulnerable to angler harvest.
Spontaneous Service-Providing using WS4D in Smart Environments
Authors: Khalfi Mohammed Fethi , Benslimane Sidi Mohamed
Published: June 2015

Pervasive environments are characterized by a large number of embedded devices offering their services to the user. Which of the available services are of most interest to the user considerably depends on the user's current context. Spontaneous service discovery and selection is one of the most important fields of research in pervasive computing. In this paper the authors will present an enhancement of ubiquitous computing discovery mechanisms adding context handling capabilities to Web Services for Devices in Pervasive Computing using UPnP as an infrastructure to address these implicit requests. User preferences, network and location are described by a formal context model ontology that is based on two levels: a generic level and a domain specific level. As compared with previous research, the authors' method uses location aware, UPnP infrastructure, web service for devices and the notion of proactivity in pervasive computing to continuously present the Spontaneous most relevant services to the user or device in response to changes of context, services or user preferences.
SLOD-BI
Authors: Berlanga Rafael , García-Moya Lisette , Nebot Victoria , Aramburu María José , Sanz Ismael , Llidó Dolores María
Published: June 2015

The tremendous popularity of web-based social media is attracting the attention of the industry to take profit from the massive availability of sentiment data, which is considered of a high value for Business Intelligence (BI). So far, BI has been mainly concerned with corporate data with little or null attention to the external world. However, for BI analysts, taking into account the Voice of the Customer (VoC) and the Voice of the Market (VoM) is crucial to put in context the results of their analyses. Recent advances in Sentiment Analysis have made possible to effectively extract and summarize sentiment data from these massive social media. As a consequence, VoC and VoM can be now listened from web-based social media (e.g., blogs, reviews forums, social networks, and so on). However, new challenges arise when attempting to integrate traditional corporate data and external sentiment data. This paper deals with these issues and proposes a novel semantic data infrastructure for BI aimed at providing new opportunities for integrating traditional and social BI. This infrastructure follows the principles of the Linked Open Data initiative.
An UML Profile and SOLAP Datacubes Multidimensional Schemas Transformation Process for Datacubes Risk-Aware Design
Authors: Edoh-Alove Elodie , Bimonte Sandro , Pinet François
Published: June 2015

Spatial Data Warehouses (SDWs) and Spatial On-Line Analytical Processing (SOLAP) systems are new technologies for the integration and the analysis of huge volume of data with spatial reference. Spatial vagueness is often neglected in these types of systems and the data and analysis results are considered reliable. In a previous work, the authors provided a new design method for SOLAP datacubes that allows the handling of vague spatial data analysis issues. The method consists of tailoring SOLAP datacubes schemas to end-users tolerance levels to identified potential risks of misinterpretation they encounter when exploiting datacubes containing vague spatial data. It this paper, the authors further their previous proposal by presenting different formal tools to support their method: it is an UML profile providing stereotypes needed to add vague, risks and tolerance levels information on datacubes schemas plus the formal definition of SOLAP datacubes schemas transformation process and functions.
Students' Aesthetic Experiences of Playing Exergames
Authors: Maivorsdotter Ninitha , Quennerstedt Mikael , Öhman Marie
Published: June 2015

The aim of this study was to explore Swedish junior high school students meaning-making of participating in exergaming in school based on their aesthetic judgments during game play. A transactional approach, drawing on the work of John Dewey, was used in the study and the data consisted of video- and audio recordings of ongoing video gaming. A practical epistemology analysis (PEA) was used in order to explore the students' meaning-making in depth. When analyzing the data, the importance of performing well in relation to the challenges the game offers; developing techniques suitable for the game; and interacting socially with one's peers emerged as main themes in the students' meaning-making and learning. It was clear that the students' taste for gaming played a crucial role in how they proceeded in the activity and that meaningful gaming included an intrinsic combination of pleasure and displeasure.
Empirical Analysis of Software Piracy in Asia (Japan VS. Vietnam)
Authors: Fang Xiang , Lee Sooun
Published: June 2015

The piracy rate in Asia Pacific region has been historically higher than the world average since the BSA global piracy study was first conducted in 2004 (BSA/IDC Global Software Piracy Study 2013). This study aims to identify which demographic factors affect software piracy in two Asian countries, Japan and Vietnam, which have drastically different piracy rates, economic development stages, income levels, and national cultures. The statistical analysis of data reveals that among various factors, country difference, education, and gender most significantly influence software piracy. In addition, this study offers recommendations on how to curb software piracy effectively.
Data Hiding Method Based on Inter-Block Difference in Eight Queens Solutions and LSB Substitution
Authors: Kumar Vinay , Bansal Abhishek , Muttoo Sunil Kumar
Published: June 2015

Data hiding is an emerging field of research for secure data transmission over internet, ensuring ownership identification and copyright protection. A couple of techniques have been proposed based on pixel value differencing (PVD) and eight queens' solutions. In this paper, a new data hiding method based on inter-block difference in eight queen's solutions is presented. The result of inter-block difference is XORED with ASCII code of character from the message and the resultant value is embedded in LSB position. The presented approach is more efficient and it provides a more capacity with good imperceptibility. The approach supports different digital image file formats such as bmp, png and tiff.
The Negative Performance Implications of Industry Dynamism on Organizational Knowledge
Authors: Bloodgood James M.
Published: June 2015

Organizational knowledge is a key component of organizational efficiency and effectiveness, and ultimately success. The use of organizational knowledge is not always a conscious endeavor, and this can lead to the use of knowledge at inappropriate times or in inappropriate ways, particularly under changing conditions. To investigate the potential for ineffectual knowledge use, this study examines how organizational knowledge influences organizational performance when there is a high degree of industry dynamism. Using a sample of 105 U.S. firms from 46 industries, this study finds that industry dynamism moderates the relationship between organizational knowledge and organizational performance. Specifically, higher levels of dynamism weaken the positive effect of organizational knowledge on organizational performance. Implications for researchers and practitioners of this finding are discussed.
Reconceptualizing the Knowledge Hierarchy for Management Education
Authors: Acar William , Iverson Susan V. , Al-Gharaibeh Rami S.
Published: June 2015

Education is undergoing a crisis. Among the several remedial approaches proposed, this article contributes to the promotion of structured teaching for constructed knowing. One of the neglected areas of concern in the current education revolution is the structure of knowledge itself. The Data-Information-Knowledge (DIK) hierarchy was originally suggested to explain the differences between the three levels of knowledge; however, it does not capture them very well. Aiming at re-conceptualizing the DIK hierarchy from an up-to- date knowledge acquisition and management perspective, the authors start by making an argument for splitting each of the data and information levels into two. Instead of simply data, the authors propose the two levels of raw data and processed data. Likewise, they propose the two levels of potential information and actual information. Since knowledge expressions of other individuals constitute another source of potential information, they replace the three new levels of raw data, processed data and potential information with a single level, which they call the environment, and that embraces all means of acquiring information, whether through data collection and processing or potential information filtering. The authors thus propose a framework of knowledge acquisition based on an Environment-Information-Knowledge (EIK) hierarchy more indicative of actual teaching and learning processes.
Application of Teaching
Authors: Bhopale Nandkumar N. , Nikam Nilesh , Pawade Raju S.
Published: June 2015

Recently advanced machining processes are widely used by manufacturing industries in order to produce high quality precise and very complex products. These advanced machining processes involve large number of input parameters which may affect the cost and quality of the products. Selection of optimum machining parameters in such advanced machining processes is very important to satisfy all the conflicting objectives of the process. This algorithm is inspired by the teaching-learning process and it works on the effect of influence of a teacher on the output of learners in a class. This paper presents the application of Response Surface Methodology coupled with newly developed advanced algorithm Teaching Learning Based Optimization Technique (TLBO) is applied for the process parameters optimization for ball end milling process on Inconel 718 cantilevers. The machining and tool related parameters like spindle speed, milling feed, workpiece thickness and workpiece inclination with tool path orientation are optimized with considerations of multiple response like deflection, surface roughness, and micro hardness of plate.
EDM Process Parameters Optimization for Al-TiO2 Nano Composite
Authors: Dixit Arvind Kumar , Awasthi Richa
Published: June 2015

Titanium aluminide reinforced aluminium based metal matrix nano composite was prepared by stir casting route. Experiments were conducted with Cu electrode using L9 orthogonal array based on the Taguchi method. Discharge current (Lv), Pulse on time (Ton) and Flushing pressure (FP) are selected to calculate Metal removal rate (MRR), Tool wear rate (TWR) and Surface roughness (SR) based on Taguchi's parameter design. Moreover, the signal-to-noise ratios associated with the observed values in the experiments were determined using MINITAB software for MRR, TWR and SR. PCR – TOPSIS method is used to optimize Taguchi's multi response. Optimum parameter setting is found at Discharge current (Lv) 10 A, Pulse on time (Ton) 150 µs and Flushing pressure (FP) 1 kg/cm2.
Square-Cup Deep Drawing of Relatively Thick Sheet Metals through a Conical Die without Blankholder
Authors: Shewakh Walid Mahmoud , Hassan M A , Hassab-Allah Ibrahim M
Published: June 2015

The present study introduces a finite element analysis and experimental verification of the square cup drawing. Experimental results are presented for deep drawing using two different sheet metal; an annealed aluminum (AL99.5w) and brass alloy (CuZn37) having nominal thickness to of 2, 2.5 and 3 mm. The experiments were conducted using a conical die of 18o half cone angle with square aperture at the die exit of 44×44mm and different relative punch/die clearances 1.5, 1.0, 0.9, and 0.8to. The last three values for relative punch/die clearance give nominal simultaneous corrective ironing ratios 0, 10, and 20% respectively. Flat-bottomed square punches with nose radius of 4mm and different sizes of side wall lengths were used. The corner radii for the punch and die aperture were 8 and 10 mm respectively. The experimental and finite element results showed a very good agreement between results of the deep drawing loads, limiting drawing ratios and modes of failures.
Evaluating the Possibilities of Improving the Quality of Tourism Services of the “Eco- Guesthouses” from Mărginimea Sibiului
Authors: Nicula Virgil , Popșa Roxana Elena
Published: June 2015

This paper provides an overview of the possibilities of improving the quality of tourism services of the ”eco-guesthouses” from Marginimea Sibiului in the context where the international studies indicate that lately tourists have become more experienced and expect good quality products in chosen holiday destinations. Currently, the international market of ecotourism has developed with 10-12% annually, having the fastest growth in the world tourism sector and tending to become an independent market segment, under the influence of factors such as: travelers prefer to choose educational holidays, their desire to escape to nature and spend quality time with friends or family, etc. In these circumstances, the quality is important for both tourists and eco-guesthouses, as it can contribute to making better products at lower costs, ensuring continuous customer orientation and thus controlling and shaping their preferences and expectations.
Sustainable Rural Tourism of Lower Danube Region in Serbia
Authors: Štetić Snežana , Pavlović Sanja , Jovanović Sara Stanić
Published: June 2015

Sustainable tourism implies preserved space, prevents ecological and socio-cultural devastation, but at the same time encourages tourism development. Their application and adequate implementation increases the chance of a tourist destination that will be able to develop sustainable tourism, so the aim of this paper is to separate characteristics and principles of sustainability on certain areas and to show their advantages and limitations. In this paper are introspected factors of tourism development, both in a positive and in a negative context. It was hypothesized that sustainable rural tourism in the Lower Danube region has a comparative advantage, but it is also a major challenge for the community. Methodological setting is qualitative, based on the contextual dimension of the data, empirical observations, exploratory research and observations. Obtained results show that the tourist offer of sustainable rural tourism in the Lower Danube region has its own unique values, which should continue to explore.
On the Efficiency of Grey Modeling in Early-Stage Technological Diffusion Forecasting
Authors: Christodoulos Charisios , Michalakelis Christos , Sphicopoulos Thomas
Published: June 2015

The issue of how to obtain an accurate short-term forecast in the beginning stage of the technological diffusion is of great importance for policy makers, researchers and managers. Time-series forecasting has been noticeably neglected in the specific research area due to the prerequisite of having enough data in order to create a time-series. In this paper, Grey modeling is examined as an alternative tool for technology diffusion forecasting in the early diffusion process, where the commonly used aggregate diffusion models usually fail to deliver accurate forecasts. Grey modeling is a unique time-series methodology that requires only a few data points in order to make a forecast. The GM(1,1) model is tested against a classic aggregate diffusion model, the Gompertz model, using only the first four data of mobile broadband diffusion to make an one-step-ahead prediction. The results in the EU15 countries reveal that the Grey model outperforms the Gompertz model in every case, thus stimulating new research guidelines in terms of combinations of the two approaches and further investigation of the value of Grey modeling in the specific area.
Attributes for Executing Change in an Agile Information System
Authors: Chaudhary Pankaj , Hyde Micki , Rodger James A
Published: June 2015

Information Systems (IS) agility is a current topic of interest in the IS industry. The study follows up on work on the definition of the construct of IS agility and attributes for sensing and diagnosis in an agile IS. IS agility is defined as the ability of an IS to sense a change in real time; diagnose it in real time; and select and execute an action in real time. This paper explores the attributes for selecting and executing a response in an Agile Information System. A set of attributes were initially derived using the practitioner literature and then refined using interviews with practitioners. The attributes' importance and validity was established using a survey of the industry. All attributes derived in this study were deemed pertinent for selecting and executing a change in an agile information system. Dimensions underlying these attributes were identified using Exploratory Factor Analysis. This list of attributes can form the basis for assessing and establishing execution mechanisms to increase IS Agility.
Integral Representation of Constitutive Equations in Linear Theory of Viscoelasticity
Authors: Veghova Ivana , Sumec Jozef
Published: June 2015

The presented paper delas with constitutive equations of the linear theory of viscoelasticity. The integral representations for homogeneous isotropic medium located in isothermal conditions are introduced. Relations are derived for the relaxation and creep processes, as well as relations between these functions in the Laplace images. In the solution we assume quasi-static external force loading under which the analyzed viscoelastic body in each time t shows infinitesimal deformations. General isotropic tensor of fourth degree Gijkl(t) we use to derive the relationship between deviator stress and deformation, as well as the relations between stresses and distortions that produce volumetric changes. It is shown that for the linear viscoelastic problem can be used Stieltjes convolution and its algebraic properties. Derived relations and procedures followed to the results of differential-operator's representation of constitutive equations of linear viscoelasticity theory that have been published in the previous work of Authors.
Stiffness of Reinforced Concrete Frame Joint
Authors: Veghova Ivana
Published: June 2015

In the design of multi-storey frame structures, there is a question of a proper evaluation of the stiffness of reinforced concrete frame joints. This problem is very important especially in the case of structures subjected to seismic load, where the forces act repeatedly. Concrete is able to carry the compression stresses and partially the shear stresses. The tension stresses can reach only low level. The maximum tension stresses (tension strength) obtained from simple tension test of the concrete are not the same as the maximum tension stresses in the reinforced concrete. The shear stiffness is the matter of the width of the concrete cracks. To improve the knowledge in this field, the experimental verification of the reinforced concrete frame joint had been arranged.
Probability Analysis of a Composite Steel and Concrete Column Loaded by Fire
Authors: Kralik Juraj , Klabnik Maros , Grmanova Alzbeta
Published: June 2015

Paper deals with the assessment of the fire safety of composite steel and concrete column as the selected structural element of 30 storey building. The effects of the fire are considered in accordance with the standard EN 1994-1-2. The probability of the column collapse is calculated. The deterministic and probability analysis of the fire resistance of the composite column is considered. The MC simulation is realized for 106 samples of the input data. The sensitivity analysis of the various input parameters shows the significant influence of the action effect and material uncertainties.
Problems Connected with the Application of Lamella Flanges in Steel Bridge Construction
Authors: Kristek Vladimir , Kunrt Jaromir , Skaloud Miroslav , Urushadze Shota
Published: June 2015

Lamella flanges (Fig. 1) have lately grown popular with the designers of steel bridges –in their belief that these flanges provide us with the possibility of avoiding very thick flange plates in steel bridge structures. This belief is based on the assumption that the lamellas are perfectly plane and, therefore, in perfect contact everywhere, so that the loading from one lamella is transmitted into the other via pure compression, and that the perfect interaction of both lamellas is materialized by means of boundary fillet welds connecting both of the two lamellas. This simple assumption is, however, far from reality: it is not in the means of steel fabricators, not even in the means of those which are very progressively equipped, to produce perfectly plane flange lamellas. Then both lamellas exhibit unavoidable initial curvatures, which in combination form a gap between the lamellas, and consequently the directly loaded lamella is pressed into this gap. As the loading acting on every bridge is many times repeated, the aforesaid phenomenon is also many times repeated, (we can say that the lamellas „breathe“), and then an unavoidable cumulative damage process in the lamellas comes to being.
Experimental Investigation and Theoretical Analysis of Polystyrene Panels with Load Bearing Thin-Walled Cold-Formed Elements
Authors: Al Ali Mohamad , Tomko Michal , Demjan Ivo
Published: June 2015

The paper presents preliminary results of theoretical and experimental analysis of the resistance of construction panels at compressive loading. Panels, made on the base of polystyrene foam in combination with thin-walled cold-formed elements, should be used as a load-bearing wall panels for simple and small structures. Investigated panels, with dimensions 1.0x2.5x0.15 m, are formed by six thin-walled elements of U-profile with a thickness of 0.8 mm, which are stabilized by glued polystyrene board EPS 100 S, 150 mm thick. Sufficient number of strain gages and inductive sensors were used for the experimental measurement of strains and deflections. Strain gauges and inductive sensors were both-sided suitably located on each tested panel. Spatial calculation model was created within software SCIA and ANSYS. Geometrically nonlinear analysis was used for the numerical solution. Based on the numerical and experimental results, the efficiency of polystyrene boards on the stability of used thin-walled steel elements was determined.
Wind Load of a Curved Circular Cylinder Structures
Authors: Szczepaniak Piotr , Padewska Agnieszka
Published: June 2015

The paper presents the way of estimating the wind force acting on straight or curved elements with circular cross-section. These elements can be positioned at any angle to the wind direction. They may also be bent into the form of a torus or a helix, laid horizontally or sloped. The first part of the article briefly presents the results of the air flow computer simulations. The second part of the work shows the analytical approach to the problem, solved by decomposition of the wind velocity vector to the normal, binormal and tangent components, estimation of the pressure distribution around the elements cross-section and finally integration of the pressure over the whole surface. Because there were observed significant differences between the data obtained from the analytical and numerical method, some empirical correction functions had to be attached to the analytical equations. The last part consists of the engineering applicable advices, presented in the form of a table of coefficients.
Experimental and Numerical Determination of Wind Pressure Distribution on an Object with Atypical Form
Authors: Hubova Olga , Konecna Lenka , Oleksakova Ivana
Published: June 2015

This paper deals with solution of air flowing around the object - atypical cross section. Result is an important parameter of pressure coefficient on the structure, what is necessary for design of buildings and structures in terms of wind load calculations. Wind tunnel measurements of wind flow and wind pressures distribution around part of the circle were performed in BLWT STU in Bratislava for 24 wind directions and different wind speeds. Measurements were performed using pressure scanner DSA 3217 (Scanivalve) and have shown significant differences between peaks of suction due to wind direction. These results were used for comparison with CFD calculations of flow around the section. This comparison of known pressure coefficient for atypical shape of cross section is the first step for testing other shapes, which are not described in Eurocode.
Experience with Structural Damage Identification of an Experimental Bridge Model
Authors: Sokol Milan , Aroch Rudolf , Venglar Michal , Fabry Michal , Živner Tomáš
Published: June 2015

The paper is devoted to structural health monitoring using a non-destructive method based on the method of direct stiffness determination combined with the model updating method. The primary aim of the paper is to determine the change in bending and torsional stiffnesses. In the first part of the work it was necessary to prepare a simple experimental scale model of the bridge which was made from two materials – wood and plaster boards. The same bridge model was created in the finite element commercial codes RFEM5 - Dlubal (a more detailed 3D analysis) and ANSYS (a 2D analysis). The last numerical model consists of beam elements with lumped mass elements. The modal analysis was made and these results were used as a comparative base for measurements. In either case data for the original and the damaged models were acquired. Analysis of the measurement data led to the identification of vertical and torsional mode shapes. Last part of the paper is devoted to identification of the damage by application of the direct stiffness calculation method.
Modeling of a Filled Cylindrical Tank and the Dynamic Analysis of its Eigenfrequencies
Authors: Jendzelovsky Norbert , Balaz Lubomir
Published: June 2015

This paper deals with a problem of eigenfrequencies of filled cylindrical tank rested on elastic foundation. For an ANSYS analysis of eigenfrequencies some numerical models of gravel subgrade are used and finally results got by these models are compared. In final part of the paper some crucial results are presented both in a graphical and numerical way.
Comparison of Natural Frequencies of Hollow Core Slabs
Authors: Jendzelovsky Norbert , Zabakova Vrablova Kristina
Published: June 2015

This article is devoted to the calculation of natural frequencies of concrete slabs. Natural frequencies of a solid slab and a hollow core slab have been compared. Solid slab and lightened slab with reduced self-weight and stiffness have been modeled using FEM software ANSYS as 2D model using shell elements. Third model was made from 3D elements as a hollow core slab. Two types of boundary conditions have been considered: a simply supported slab and a clamped slab. The changes in natural frequencies according to aspect ratio of the slab were compared, too. Numerical methods have been compared with simplified method of calculation of natural frequency of slabs, as e.g. an equivalent plate approach; approximation presented by Hearmon and compilation of formulas by Bachmann.
Influence of Mesh Option "PATTERN" for Fluid Region Using Finite Element Method
Authors: Kotrasova Kamila , Kormanikova Eva
Published: June 2015

Ground-supported tanks are used to store a variety of fluids. The liquid develops a hydrodynamic effect on walls and bottom of the tank during earthquake. This paper presents influence of mesh parameter “PATTERN” for numerical model fluid region of liquid seismic response in rectangular tank – endlessly long shipping channel. Finite Element Method (FEM) was used in software Adina.
Historical Timber Structures with Selected Joints
Authors: Fajman Petr , Maca Jiri
Published: June 2015

Repairs of historical timber structures lead to connecting existing and new beams. The requirements for beam authenticity make use of older ways of connecting. The first type is the splice of beams in bending with the scarf joint, rafters and tie-beams are joined with the dovetail and, finally, the connection of the main joist with the strut is by the mortise carve.
Effect of Fibre Type in Concrete on Crack Initiation
Authors: Havlikova Ivana , Merta Ildikó , Schneemayer Andreas , Vesely Vaclav , Šimonová Hana , Korycanska Barbora , Kersner Zbynek
Published: June 2015

Concrete is a traditionally used building material and its crack resistance can be improved by the addition of different types of fibres. Wedge splitting tests on specimens fabricated from five types of concrete mixture (six identical specimens from each mixture) were used to quantify the mechanical fracture parameters of these materials – a reference specimen without fibres, two others with steel fibres (Dramix, Tabix), and a final two with synthetic fibres (Enduro, Strux). Vertical load versus crack mouth opening displacement (P–CMOD) diagrams were recorded during the tests. The data points creating these diagrams were filtered first, subsequently processed and then evaluated using the double-K fracture model. Thus, values were obtained for e.g. Young’s modulus and fracture toughness. This paper is focused on quantification of the effect of the fibre type used in concrete on crack initiation, which corresponds to the beginning of stable crack growth in this sort of composite material.
Numerical Modeling of Laminated Glass Units
Authors: Zemanova Alena , Zeman Jan , Sejnoha Michal
Published: June 2015

Laminated glass has been developed to improve the impact resistance of brittle glass sheets and to prevent injuries and collapse of glass members. The goal of this contribution is to briefly introduce a finite element model based on the refined plate theory by Mau that can describe the response of laminated glass plates without the need for fully resolved three-dimensional simulations. Each layer is considered to behave according to the Reissner-Mindlin kinematics, complemented with membrane effects and the von Karman assumptions. The compatibility of independent layers is enforced by nodal Lagrange multipliers. Predictions of the finite element model, obtained with a MATLAB-based program LaPla (Laminated Plates) developed by the authors, are compared with simplified monolithic and layered limits and a semi-analytical solution.
Optimal Design of Structures Made of Fiber Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Holko Michal , Dicky Jozef
Published: June 2015

Fiber reinforced concrete is composite material containing fibrous material which increases its structural integrity. It contains short discrete fibers that are uniformly distributed and randomly oriented. This paper deals with a comparison of both models made of reinforced concrete and fiber reinforced concrete as well as their optimization. The problem was modeled in ANSYS program. Some results of optimal design are presented at the end of this paper.
Experiment and Elastic-Plastic Modelling of the IPN160 Beam
Authors: Vasek Jakub , Sucharda Oldrich
Published: June 2015

The paper compares the numerical models of and experiments with a beam. The purpose is to evaluate the nonlinear material model of a steel structure. The steel is modelled as an ideal elastic-plastic material. The FEM and eight-node isoparametric finite elements are considered in the analysis. The 3D calculations use different material constants and several approaches are being tested in order to create the computational models. The calculations are performed in the software application developed by our university.
Bended Pile and the Layered Subsoil
Authors: Prekop Lubomir
Published: June 2015

This paper presents an analysis of a pile loaded in its head by a horizontal force. The pile crosses subsoil layers of a low bearing capacity and the bearing gravel layer below it. Further an analysis of displacements and internal forces of a bended pile in interaction with the layered subsoil, having various physical properties, is performed.
Evaluating the use of coded-wire tags in individually marking Odonata larvae
Authors: Catania S.V.L. , McCauley S.J.
Published: June 2015

We tested a potential new tool for marking Odonata larvae internally, evaluating the retention rates of injected coded-wire tags (CWT) and the effects of these tags on larval performance. Two species of dragonfly larvae (Epitheca canis McLachlan (Odonata: Corduliidae) and Leucorrhinia intacta Hagen (Odonata: Libellulidae)) were injected with CWT. Tag loss rates were assayed over experimental periods of 22 and 60 days, respectively for the two species. To assess whether tagging had negative effects on larvae, mortality, and growth of tagged larvae were compared to untagged larvae held in the same conditions. Tag retention rates were high (92–100%) and CWT were easily retrieved from preserved larvae via dissection, permitting most tagged larvae to be individually identified. There was 100% survival in larvae injected with CWT and tags do not appear to impair growth. The high retention and retrieval rates of this marking approach combined with no increase in mortality associated with tagging suggest that CWT are a useful means of individually labelling a large number of Odonata larvae in a time-efficient manner.
Complications in critically ill adult patients’ transportations reported in the recent literature
Authors: Bambi Stefano , Lucchini Alberto , Innocenti Diego , Mattiussi Elisa
Published: June 2015

The transport of critically ill patients is a complex process, made up by several phases involving the healthcare professionals. It requires a careful planning for the prevention of potential complications undermining the patients’ safety outside critical care environment. Literature review about complications and adverse events reported during intra and inter-hospital transport of critically ill adult patients. Intra-hospital transfers are affected by adverse events rates ranging from 22.2 to 75.7% in the published literature. Major adverse events, defined as life threatening conditions that require urgent therapeutic intervention, vary from 4.2 to 31%. Death is a rare occurrence. Adverse events during interhospital have a maximum rate of 34%. Technical incidents represent a typical feature of these transports. Authors reported problems to gas supply, ambulance electric system, equipment. There is a lack of studies about the complications related to rotary wing inter-hospital transports. While extracorporeal membrane oxygenation/extracorporeal life support patients seem to be the most complex category of critically ill to be transported outside the hospital, 11 papers revealed only 29 adverse events ranging from 0 to 17%. No deaths were recorded. Currently, research must explore more accurately how much transports affect the outcome of patients, and what are the most appropriate time-frames to assess the consequences of transfers on patients’ clinical conditions.
A rare case of intussusception diagnosed by ultrasonography: lipoma of the colon
Authors: Barakat Bahjat , Pezzilli Raffaele
Published: June 2015

Not available.
Pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options for depression and depressive symptoms in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Grigoriou Stefania S. , Karatzaferi Christina , Sakkas Giorgos K.
Published: June 2015

Depression is a mental disorder with a high prevalence among patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD). It is reported that depression afflicts approximately 20-30% of this patient population, being associated, amongst other, with high mortality rate, low adherence to medication and low perceived quality of life. There is a variety of medications known to be effective for the treatment of depression but due to poor adherence to treatment as well as due to the high need for medications addressing other ESRD comorbidities, depression often remains untreated. According to the literature, depression is under-diagnosed and undertreated in the majority of the patients with chronic kidney disease. In the current review the main pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches and research outcomes for the management of depressive symptoms in hemodialysis patients are discussed.
Beta emitter radionuclides (90Sr) contamination in animal feed: validation and application of a radiochemical method by ultra low level liquid scintillation counting
Authors: Iammarino Marco , Dell’Oro Daniela , Bortone Nicola , Chiaravalle Antonio Eugenio
Published: June 2015

90Sr is considered as a dangerous contaminant of agri-food supply chains due to its chemical affinity with Calcium, which makes its absorption in bones easy. 90Sr accumulation in raw materials and then in final products is particularly significant in relationship to its ability to transfer into animal source products. The radionuclides transfer (137Cs and 90Sr) from environment to forages and then to products of animal origin (milk, cow and pork meats) was studied and evaluated in different studies, which were carried out in contaminated areas, from Chernobyl disaster until today. In the present work, the development and validation of a radiochemical method for the detection of 90Sr in different types of animal feed, and the application of this technique for routinely control activities, are presented. Liquid scintillation counting was the employed analytical technique, since it is able to determine very low activity concentrations of 90Sr (<0.01 Bq kg–1). All samples analysed showed a 90Sr contamination much higher than method detection limit (0.008 Bq kg–1). In particular, the highest mean activity concentration was registered in hay samples (2.93 Bq kg–1), followed by silage samples (2.07 Bq kg–1) and animal feeds (0.77 Bq kg–1). In fact, all samples were characterized by 90Sr activity concentrations much lower than reference limits. This notwithstanding, the necessity to monitor these levels was confirmed, especially considering that 90Sr is a possible carcinogen for human.
Consumers’ perception and knowledge of food safety: results of questionnaires accessible on IZSalimenTO website
Authors: Traversa Amaranta , Bianchi Daniela Manila , Astegiano Sara , Barbaro Antonio , Bona Maria Cristina , Baioni Elisa , Rubinetti Francesca , Aliberti Enrico , Palazzo Carlo , Gallina Silvia , Decastelli Lucia
Published: June 2015

The present survey was undertaken to investigate consumers’ knowledge of the main foodborne agents and dietary regimen during pregnancy. Data were collected using monthly questionnaires available on IZSalimenTO website between March 2013 and January 2014. Hepatitis A virus questionnaire: 20 respondents (77%) recognized berries as foodstuff linked to the outbreak of hepatitis A. The majority correctly indicated as precautionary advice to boil berries before consumption. Botulism questionnaire: 29 respondents (62%) indicated pesto as food involved in botulism alert in July 2013. The risk of infant botulism in infant less than 1 year old due to honey consumption is known by 24 respondents (51%). Main foodborne disease questionnaire: the risk of infection by Salmonella after the consumption of foods made with raw eggs is known by the majority (94%; N=17) as well as the treatments to be applied in order to make fresh fish safe from parasites (76%). Pregnancy questionnaire: 20 respondents (74%) believed that washing vegetables and fruits with sodium bicarbonate or chlorate solution is able to inactivate Toxoplasma; only 4 (15%) reported both raw meat and vegetables washed with sodium bicarbonate as food at risk. Results indicate that all consumers should be trained on behaviour and dietary regimen to be adopted in pregnancy and in infant <1 year old. The website may be considered as a useful tool to assess consumers’ knowledge: both the news section and the contents published may be a source of information and education for consumers on food safety.
Nutritional quality of preparations based on Döner Kebab sold in two towns of Veneto Region, Italy: preliminary results
Authors: Panozzo Monica , Magro Luciano , Erle Ilario , Ferrarini Stefano , Murari Riccardo , Novelli Enrico , Masaro Simone
Published: June 2015

The sampling activity for this study was performed between September and October 2012. It involved seven shops in Verona, eleven in Vicenza and two in its province (Bassano del Grappa), northern Italy. The scope was to measure the values of energy and nutritional components and to identify the profile of fatty acids in a serving of ready to eat Döner Kebab. The samples were collected according to the usual proportions of this preparation, keeping all the components (bread, meat, vegetables and sauces) separated in different bags. In the laboratory, each component was weighed and, after pooling, processed for the analytical determination of humidity, crude protein, lipid content and fatty acid profile, ashes, sodium (salt), carbohydrate, collagen (measured only in meat) and fibre. The results showed a highly standardized recipe, while the comparison between the two towns showed a significant difference in carbohydrate concentration (mainly due to the quantity of bread used). By observing data on the serving sizes sampled (274 to 618 g) and the nutritional values obtained, Döner Kebab can be seen as a ready to eat dish providing much energy: on average a serving size covers 45 and 36% of the recommended daily intake of energy, 95.7 and 82.1% of protein, 42.5 and 33.4% of saturated fatty acids for females and males, respectively, and 85.5% of salt regardless of gender. Döner Kebab can be considered as an occasional substitute to one of the two main meals of the day.
Arsenic speciation in fish products and seafood as a prerequisite for proper risk assessment
Authors: Piras Pierluigi , Orletti Roberta , Chessa Giannina , Carloni Cristiano , Griffoni Francesco , Palombo Paolo , Velieri Francesco
Published: June 2015

The Boi Cerbus lagoon, facing a mining and industrial site in Sardinia (Italy), is an important fishing area for the local population. Previous studies showed high concentrations of total arsenic (Astot) in fish, molluscs and crustaceans sampled in the lagoon, and a possible exceeding of the provisional tolerable weekly intake set by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives by some local consumer groups. However, the percentage of inorganic As (Asinorg) should be known for a correct assessment of potential risk, as its toxicity is much higher than that of the organic forms. Eighty samples of 14 different species of fish, molluscs and crustaceans, sampled in the Boi Cerbus lagoon in 3 different seasons (winter, spring and summer), were analysed for Astot by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and Asinorg by high performance liquid chromatography-ICP-MS. All the data obtained from the analysis were statistically processed to evaluate significant differences based on season, taxon and habitat, in preparation for a subsequent risk assessment.
Behaviour of Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli O157:H7 during the cheese making of traditional raw-milk cheeses from Italian Alps
Authors: Cosciani-Cunico Elena , Dalzini Elena , Ducoli Stefania , Sfameni Chiara , Bertasi Barbara , Losio Marina-Nadia , Daminelli Paolo , Varisco Giorgio
Published: June 2015

The behaviour of Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli O157:H7 was studied during the manufacture and ripening of two traditional Italian Alps cheeses. Each cheese type was manufactured in a pilot plan from raw cow milk (without the addition of starter cultures) artificially inoculated with L. monocytogenes and E. coli O157:H7 to a final concentration of about 4 log CFU/mL. The pathogens were enumerated throughout the cheese making and ripening processes to study their behaviour. When the milk was inoculated with 4 Log CFU/mL, the pathogens counts increased in the first time during the manufacturing process and then remained constant, until the end of ripening, or decreased significantly. Results indicate that the environment and nature of food borne pathogens affected the concentration of the bacteria during the manufacturing and ripening process. Thus, the presence of low cells numbers of L. monocytogenes and E. coli O157:H7 in milk destined for the production of raw milk cheeses characterized by a cooking of the curd less than 48°C can constitute a hazard for the consumer.
Microbiological stability of canned tuna produced in Italy and in non-European countries
Authors: Casalinuovo Francesco , Gazzotti Teresa , Rippa Paola , Ciambrone Lucia , Musarella Rosanna , Pratticò Elena
Published: June 2015

The results of a study on the microbiological stability of canned tuna produced by Italian companies and similar canned products manufactured in countries outside Europe are reported herein. The study involved 38 samples of canned tuna of various brands, of which 14 were produced by companies outside Europe and 24 by Italian companies. Qualitative and quantitative microbiological tests were conducted for the following parameters: bacterial colony counts at 30°C, total coliforms, total Enterobacteriaceae, sulphite-reducing anaerobes, Salmonella spp., Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, yeasts and molds. Bacterial loads and mold contamination were respectivelyin found in 8/14 (57%) samples from outside EU and 7/24 (29%) Italian samples. The bacterial flora was represented by Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus warneri, Staphylococcus lentus, Streptococcus mitis, Enterococcus faecalis, Leuconostoc mesenteroides), Gram-negative bacteria (Sphingomonas paucimobilis, Acinetobacter iwoffii, Rhizobium radiobacter), spore-forming bacteria (Bacillus vallismortis), while the fungal species was represented by Penicillium spp., Rhizopus spp., Rhodotorula spp. and Alternaria spp. Excluding anomalies in the thermal treatment process of products and any contamination after treatment, the contaminations encountered in both cases were most likely due to insufficient production quality standards and the quality of the raw material used. These results may require a redefinition of the concept of commercial stability as hitherto stated.