bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical and XPS studies of alkyl imidazoline on the corrosion inhibition of carbon steel in citric acid solution
Authors: Yang Dong , Liu Song Hui , Shao Yu Pei , Xu Shao Di , Zhao Lu Lu , Liao Qiang Qiang , Ge Hong Hua
Published: September 2016

The corrosion inhibition behavior of an imidazoline derivative, namely, 2-undecyl-N-carboxymethyl-N-hydroxyethyl imidazoline (UHCI) for carbon steel in 4 wt.% citric acid solutions was characterized by weight loss method and electrochemical techniques in conjunction with X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS) technique. The inhibitor has a good anti-corrosion effect on the carbon steel in 4 wt.% citric acid solutions. The inhibition efficiency increases with UHCI concentrations from 0 up to 0.4 wt.%, yet declines a bit at 0.6 wt.% per contra with further augmentation of concentration. The inhibition efficiency declines with the rise of temperature from 20°C to 95°C, while it rises with the extension of soaking time from 2 h to 24 h. Two N1speaks that appeared in XPS spectra give proof of UHCI inhibitor adsorbed on the carbon steel surface.
The psychometric properties of the Disease Perception Questionnaire
Authors: Pawłowska Beata , Potembska Emilia , Pić Jarosław , Pić Natalia , Pić Konrad
Published: September 2016

This article describes the psychometric properties of the Disease Perception Questionnaire (Kwestionariusz Obrazu Choroby, KOCh, in Polish). An original version of KOCh consisting of 99 items was used to survey a group of 161 subjects aged 25 to 85 years. On the basis of factor analysis, four factors (scales) were identified which pointed to the subjects’ different perceptions of their disease: (1) Disease as a Threat, (2) Disease as a Weakness, (3) Disease as a Task, and (4) Disease as a Benefit. Items with the lowest factor loadings and the lowest factor specificity indexes were rejected. The factors identified explained 38% of the total variance. The final version of the KOCh questionnaire consisted of 57 items. The coefficients of reliability for the individual factors were Cronbach’s alpha = 0.94 for Disease as a Threat, Cronbach’s alpha = 0.86 for Disease as a Weakness, Cronbach’s alpha = 0.84 for Disease as a Task, and Cronbach’s alpha = 0.85 for Disease as a Benefit
Is it time for baclofen to be included in the official recommendations concerning the treatment of alcoholism?
Authors: Masternak Sebastian , Skoczeń Nikodem , Dziwota Ewelina , Olajossy Marcin
Published: September 2016

Alcohol dependence and its treatment is not an exactly resolved problem. Based on the EZOP [Epidemiology of Mental Disorders and Accessibility of Mental Health Care] survey, which included a regular analysis of the incidence of mental disorders in the population of adult Polish citizens, we were able to estimate that the problem of alcohol abuse in any period of life affects even 10.9% of the population aged 18-64 years, and those addicted represent 2.2% of the country’s population. The typical symptoms of alcohol dependence according to ICD-10, include alcohol craving, impaired ability to control alcohol consumption, withdrawal symptoms which appear when a heavy drinker stops drinking, alternating alcohol tolerance, growing neglect of other areas of life, and persistent alcohol intake despite clear evidence of its destructive effect on life. At the moment, the primary method of alcoholism treatment is psychotherapy. It aims to change the patient’s habits, behaviours, relationships, or the way of thinking. It seems that psychotherapy is irreplaceable in the treatment of alcoholism, but for many years now attempts have been made to increase the effectiveness of alcoholism treatment with pharmacological agents. In this article we will try to provide a description of medications which help patients sustain abstinence in alcoholism therapy with particular emphasis on baclofen.
Value preferences in individuals with low and high self-esteem
Authors: Dziwota Kamila , Dudek Agnieszka , Szpak Anna , Ludwikowska Karolina , Kowalski Damian , Drabarek† Łukasz , Dziwota Ewelina , Olajossy Marcin
Published: September 2016

The basic purpose of this article is to compare how people with low and high self-esteem rated particular values. Additionally, the authors look at gender differences concerning the attitudes toward certain values.

The study involved 268 individuals aged 19-24 (M= 21.71, SD= 1.54). The participants were surveyed using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (SES) and the Rokeach Value Survey (RVS). The results were considered significant at p<0.05. The findings demonstrated that people with lower self-esteem had higher opinion of values like Conformity, Pleasure, and Comfortable Life as well as some Instrumental Values (Self-Control and Politeness), when compared against the individuals with higher self-esteem. On the other hand, they were found to value Courage. There were no differences concerning the way individuals with high and low self-esteem rated Social Recognition, A Sense of Accomplishment and Self-Respect.

Also, the authors noticed that men were more likely to appreciate Hedonistic and Intellectual values, while women attached greater significance to Relational values. There were no gender differences concerning the rating of Aesthetic and Subjective values.
Oral health in female patients with eating disorders
Authors: Mazurek Mateusz , Szyszkowska Anna , Mazurek Agata , Szymańska Jolanta
Published: September 2016

The study aimed to evaluate oral health in women with eating disorders. The clinical study covered 30 patients aged 14-36 years suffering from diagnosed eating disorders and treated in closed psychiatric institutions. The control group comprised 30 healthy women at the mean age corresponding to that of the patient group. No relationships were confirmed between eating disorders and the intensity of dental caries. Eating disorders contribute to increased loss of dental hard tissues. In women suffering from eating disorders non-specific lesions in oral cavity are more common than in healthy women.
Social competence and the need for approval and life satisfaction of women with excess body weight and women of normal weight- preliminary report
Authors: Miniszewska Joanna , Kogut Katherine
Published: September 2016

The purpose of the present study is to examine the life satisfaction levels in two groups of women - with excess body weight and normal weight and the relationship between life satisfaction and the level of social competences The study involved 70 women (35 with excess body weight and 35 with normal weight). The Life Satisfaction Questionnaire, Social Competence Questionnaire and Social Approval Questionnaire were used in the study. The study revealed no significant differences in terms of overall life satisfaction among women with excess weight and normal weight and a number of other relationships between the variables (like the importance of the need for social approval for the assessment of life satisfaction in those who have excess body weight).
Prime factors of quantum Schubert cell algebras
and clusters for quantum Richardson varieties
Authors: Lenagan Thomas H. , Yakimov Milen T.
Published: September 2016

The understanding of the topology of the spectra of quantum Schubert
cell algebras hinges on the description of their prime factors by ideals invariant under the
maximal torus of the ambient Kac–Moody group. We give an explicit description of these prime quotients
by expressing their Cauchon generators
in terms of sequences of normal elements in chains of subalgebras. Based on this, we construct large families of
quantum clusters for all of these algebras and the quantum Richardson varieties associated to arbitrary
symmetrizable Kac–Moody algebras and all pairs of Weyl group elements. Along the way we develop a quantum version
of the Fomin–Zelevinsky twist map for all quantum Richardson varieties. Furthermore, we establish an
explicit relationship between the Goodearl–Letzter and Cauchon approaches to the descriptions of the
spectra of symmetric CGL extensions.
Quantitative and Structure Analysis of Cellulose in Tobacco by 13C CP / MAS NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Zhu Xiaolan , Dai Ya , Wang Changguo , Tan Lanlan
Published: September 2016

A new method utilizing 13C cross-polarization/magic angle spinning (CP/MAS) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra was developed for the simultaneous quantitative determination and structure analysis of tobacco cellulose from hot water or acid detergent extraction. A reference spectrum of tobacco noncellulose components was subtracted from the spectrum of each sample to obtain a subspectrum of the cellulose components. The NMR spectra in combination with spectral fitting were analyzed in detail and some parameters, such as the content of cellulose, crystallinity, allomorph composition and lateral dimensions for cellulose elementary fibrils and microfibrils were determined. The quantitative results showed that the average recovery was 94.0% with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 4.6–4.8%. The structure results obtained by the spectral fitting for the cellulose C1-region showed that the main allomorph composition in tobacco cellulose was Iβ. The cellulose crystallinity calculated by the spectral fitting in C4 -region was about 50%. The lateral dimensions for cellulose elementary fibrils and microfibrils were in the range of 3.0–6.0 nm and 6.0–13.0 nm, respectively. Therefore, this NMR method could provide important information on both amount and structure of cellulose in tobacco.
The Ankara Mélange: an indicator of Tethyan evolution of Anatolia
Authors: Çakir Üner , Üner Tijen
Published: September 2016

The Ankara Mélange is a complex formed by imbricated slices of limestone block mélanges (Karakaya and Hisarlıkaya Formations), Neotethyan ophiolites (Eldivan, Ahlat and Edige ophiolites), post-ophiolitic cover units (Mart and Kavak formations) and Tectonic Mélange Unit (Hisarköy Formation or Dereköy Mélange). The Karakaya and Hisarlıkaya formations are roughly similar and consist mainly of limestone block mélange. Nevertheless, they represent some important geological differences indicating different geological evolution. Consequently, the Karakaya and Hisarlıkaya formations are interpreted as Eurasian and Gondwanian marginal units formed by fragmentation of the Gondwanian carbonate platform during the continental rifting of the Neotethys in the Middle Triassic time. During the latest Triassic, Neotethyan lithosphere began to subduct beneath the Eurasian continent and caused intense deformation of the marginal units. The Eldivan, Ahlat and Edige ophiolites represent different fragments of the Neotethyan oceanic lithosphere emplaced onto the Gondwanian margin during the Albian–Aptian, middle Turonian and middle Campanian, respectively. The Eldivan Ophiolite is a NE–SW trending and a nearly complete assemblage composed, from bottom to top, of a volcanic-sedimentary unit, a metamorphic unit, peridotite tectonites, cumulates and sheeted dykes. The Eldivan Ophiolite is unconformably covered by Cenomanian–Lower Turonian sedimentary unit. The Eldivan Ophiolite is overthrust by the Ahlat Ophiolite in the north and Edige Ophiolite in the west. The Ahlat ophiolite is an east–west oriented assemblage comprised of volcanic-sedimentary unit, metamorphic unit, peridotite tectonites and cumulates. The Edige Ophiolite consists of a volcanic-sedimentary unit, peridotite tectonites, dunite, wherlite, pyroxenite and gabbro cumulates. The Tectonic Mélange Unit is a chaotic formation of various blocks derived from ophiolites, from the Karakaya and Hisarlıkaya formations and from post-ophiolitic sedimentary units. It was formed during the collision between Anatolian Promontory and Eurasian Continent in the middle Campanian time.
A note on two-variable Chebyshev polynomials
Authors: Cesarano Clemente , Fornaro Claudio
Published: September 2016

In this paper we discuss generalized two-variable Chebyshev polynomials and their relevant relations; in particular, by using their integral representations, we prove some operational identities.
The approach is based on the generalized two-variable Hermite polynomials
and the integral representations of ordinary Chebyshev polynomials of first and second kind.
In addition, we discuss how the families of generalized Chebyshev polynomials can be used to prove
some interesting properties related to ordinary Chebyshev polynomials of first and second kind.
A fundamental role, as we see, is played by the powerful operational techniques verified by the families of generalized Hermite polynomials.
Bone-brain crosstalk and potential associated diseases
Authors: Rousseaud Audrey , Moriceau Stephanie , Ramos-Brossier Mariana , Oury Franck
Published: September 2016

Reciprocal relationships between organs are essential to maintain whole body homeostasis. An exciting interplay between two apparently unrelated organs, the bone and the brain, has emerged recently. Indeed, it is now well established that the brain is a powerful regulator of skeletal homeostasis via a complex network of numerous players and pathways. In turn, bone via a bone-derived molecule, osteocalcin, appears as an important factor influencing the central nervous system by regulating brain development and several cognitive functions. In this paper we will discuss this complex and intimate relationship, as well as several pathologic conditions that may reinforce their potential interdependence.
Structural basis for the Zn2+ inhibition of the zymogen-like kallikrein-related peptidase 10
Authors: Debela Mekdes , Magdolen Viktor , Bode Wolfram , Brandstetter Hans , Goettig Peter
Published: September 2016

Although kallikrein-related peptidase 10 (KLK10) is expressed in a variety of human tissues and body fluids, knowledge of its physiological functions is fragmentary. Similarly, the pathophysiology of KLK10 in cancer is not well understood. In some cancer types, a role as tumor suppressor has been suggested, while in others elevated expression is associated with poor patient prognosis. Active human KLK10 exhibits a unique, three residue longer N-terminus with respect to other serine proteases and an extended 99-loop nearly as long as in tissue kallikrein KLK1. Crystal structures of recombinant ligand-free KLK10 and a Zn2+ bound form explain to some extent the mixed trypsin- and chymotrypsin-like substrate specificity. Zn2+-inhibition of KLK10 appears to be based on a unique mechanism, which involves direct binding and blocking of the catalytic triad. Since the disordered N-terminus and several loops adopt a zymogen-like conformation, the active protease conformation is very likely induced by interaction with the substrate, in particular at the S1 subsite and at the unusual Ser193 as part of the oxyanion hole. The KLK10 structures indicate that the N-terminus, the nearby 75-, 148-, and the 99-loops are connected in an allosteric network, which is present in other trypsin-like serine proteases with several variations.
Kallikrein(K1)-kinin-kininase (ACE) and end-organ damage in ischemia and diabetes: therapeutic implications
Authors: Desposito Dorinne , Waeckel Ludovic , Potier Louis , Richer Christine , Roussel Ronan , Bouby Nadine , Alhenc-Gelas Francois
Published: September 2016

Genetic and pharmacological studies, clinical and experimental, focused on kallikrein-K1, kinin receptors and ACE/kininase II suggest that kinin release in the settings of ischemia or diabetes reduces organ damage, especially in the heart and kidney. Kinin bioavailability may be a limiting factor for efficacy of current kinin-potentiating drugs, like ACE inhibitors. Primary activation of kinin receptors by prototypic pharmacological agonists, peptidase-resistant, selective B1 or B2, displays therapeutic efficacy in experimental cardiac and peripheral ischemic and diabetic diseases. B1R agonism was especially efficient in diabetic animals and had no unwanted effects. Clinical development of kinin receptor agonists may be warranted.
Recent insights into nitrite signaling processes in blood
Authors: Helms Christine C. , Liu Xiaohua , Kim-Shapiro Daniel B.
Published: September 2016

Nitrite was once thought to be inert in human physiology. However, research over the past few decades has established a link between nitrite and the production of nitric oxide (NO) that is potentiated under hypoxic and acidic conditions. Under this new role nitrite acts as a storage pool for bioavailable NO. The NO so produced is likely to play important roles in decreasing platelet activation, contributing to hypoxic vasodilation and minimizing blood-cell adhesion to endothelial cells. Researchers have proposed multiple mechanisms for nitrite reduction in the blood. However, NO production in blood must somehow overcome rapid scavenging by hemoglobin in order to be effective. Here we review the role of red blood cell hemoglobin in the reduction of nitrite and present recent research into mechanisms that may allow nitric oxide and other reactive nitrogen signaling species to escape the red blood cell.
Morphological Evolution of Low-Grade Silica Fume at Elevated Temperature
Authors: Chen Junhong , Li Tong , Li Xiaoping , Chou Kuo-Chih , Hou Xinmei
Published: September 2016

To solve the environmental pollution problem caused by low-grade silica fume (SiO2, < 86 mass%) and further expand its application field, the morphological development of low-grade silica fume from room temperature to 900 °C in air was investigated using TG-DTA, SEM and TEM techniques. The structural development of silica fume was further analyzed using FT-IR and Raman spectrum. The results show that silica fume contains many defects of broken bands such as Si-O or ≡Si at room temperature. When exposed to the moister or water, the broken bonds tend to react with water and result in the formation of Si-OH and adjacent hydroxyl groups of Si-OH•OH-Si. At elevated temperature up to 900 °C, the structure of silica fume becomes compact due to the reconstruction of the broken bonds caused by the dehydration reaction.
Limit Load Solutions for SEN(T) Specimens – 2D and 3D Problems
Authors: Graba M.
Published: September 2016

This paper deals with the limit load solutions for SEN(T) specimens under plane stress and plane strain conditions. The existing solutions are verified using the Finite Element Method and extended to 3D cases. The numerical results can be used to assess the strength of a structural element with a defect. This paper is a verification and extension of the author’s previous paper [2].
Influence of Thermal Radiation on Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) Boundary Layer Flow of a Viscous Fluid Over an Exponentially Stretching Sheet
Authors: Idowu A.S. , Usman S.
Published: September 2016

Radiation on a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) boundary layer flow of a viscous fluid over an exponentially stretching sheet was considered together with its effects. The new technique of homotopy analysis method (nHAM) was used to obtain the convergent series expressions for velocity and temperature, where the governig system of partial differential equations was transformed into ordinary differential equations. The interpretation of these expressions is shown physically through graphs. We observed that the effects of the Prandtl and magnetic number act in opposite to each other on the temperature.
MHD Heat Transfer in Two-Layered Flow of Conducting Fluids through a Channel Bounded by Two Parallel Porous Plates in a Rotating System
Authors: Linga Raju T. , Neela Rao B.
Published: September 2016

The paper aims to analyze the heat transfer aspects of a two-layered fluid flow in a horizontal channel under the action of an applied magnetic and electric fields, when the whole system is rotated about an axis perpendicular to the flow. The flow is driven by a common constant pressure gradient in the channel bounded by two parallel porous insulating plates, one being stationary and the other one oscillatory. The fluids in the two regions are considered electrically conducting, and are assumed to be incompressible with variable properties, namely, different densities, viscosities, thermal and electrical conductivities. The transport properties of the two fluids are taken to be constant and the bounding plates are maintained at constant and equal temperature. The governing partial differential equations are then reduced to the ordinary linear differential equations by using a two-term series. The temperature distributions in both fluid regions of the channel are derived analytically. The results are presented graphically to discuss the effect on the heat transfer characteristics and their dependence on the governing parameters, i.e., the Hartmann number, Taylor number, porous parameter, and ratios of the viscosities, heights, electrical and thermal conductivities. It is observed that, as the Coriolis forces become stronger, i.e., as the Taylor number increases, the temperature decreases in the two fluid regions. It is also seen that an increase in porous parameter diminishes the temperature distribution in both the regions.
Span-Wise Fluctuating MHD Convective Flow of a Viscoelastic Fluid through a Porous Medium in a Hot Vertical Channel with Thermal Radiation
Authors: Singh K.D.
Published: September 2016

An unsteady mixed convection flow of a visco-elastic, incompressible and electrically conducting fluid in a hot vertical channel is analyzed. The vertical channel is filled with a porous medium. The temperature of one of the channel plates is considered to be fluctuating span-wise cosinusoidally, i.e.,
T*(y*,z*,t*)=T1+(T2−T1)cos⁡(πz*d−ω*t*)$T^* \left( {y^* ,z^* ,t^* } \right) = T_1 + \left( {T_2} - {T_ 1} \right)\cos \left( {{{\pi z^* } \over d} - \omega ^* t^* } \right)$
. A magnetic field of uniform strength is applied perpendicular to the planes of the plates. The magnetic Reynolds number is assumed very small so that the induced magnetic field is neglected. It is also assumed that the conducting fluid is gray, absorbing/emitting radiation and non-scattering. Governing equations are solved exactly for the velocity and the temperature fields. The effects of various flow parameters on the velocity, temperature and the skin friction and the Nusselt number in terms of their amplitudes and phase angles are discussed with the help of figures.
Analysis of Forced Spatial Vibrations of a Centrifugal Pump Impeller with Axial Forces Balancing Device
Authors: Zhulyov A. , Martsinkovsky V. , Kundera C.
Published: September 2016

In this paper, a model of a pump impeller with annular seals and a balancing device, used as a combined support-seal assembly, is considered. The forced coupled radial, angular and axial vibrations of the rotor are determined with consideration of linearized inertial, damping, gyroscopic, positional and circulating forces and moments acting on the impeller from the side of the fluid flow in annular seals. The theoretical analysis is supplemented with a numerical example, the amplitude frequency characteristics are shown.
Image Analysis and High Dimensional Control Chart for Inspection of Sausage Color Homogeneity and Uniformity
Authors: Kaewsuwan Piraya , Yuangyai Chumpol , Cheng Chen-Yang , Janjarassuk Udom
Published: September 2016

Sausage color usually influences consumers’ selection due to the perceptions of quality. Extensive studies have applied image processing to capture the characteristics of food products according to the high-dimensional nature of the resultant images. However, the color homogeneity (i. e. “within pack” variation) and uniformity (i. e. “between-pack” variation) have rarely been studied. Therefore, this paper proposes a new framework to detect both variations using images. In addition, a new approach has been developed to deal with high-dimension data involving colorimetric characteristics, namely L
*, a
*, b
*, hue (h) and chroma (C
*). These high-dimensional data are transformed to represent color homogeneity and uniformity. Hotelling T
2 chart is used to detect color abnormalities. Our approach indicates that the out-of-control items can be identified with the control chart signals. Nonetheless, the out-of-control signals alone are inadequate for determination of the possible causes. Then, the proposed analysis framework was subsequently applied to identify possible causes that contributed to the process deviations. Furthermore, prior to the experiments with sausages, the image inspection device was tested for gauge repeatability and reproducibility.
Mechanical and Water Barrier Properties of Zein–Corn Starch Composite Films as Affected by Gallic Acid Treatment
Authors: Masamba Kingsley , Li Yue , Rizwan Sharif Hafiz , Ma Jianguo , Zhong Fang
Published: September 2016

The effect of gallic acid treatment on mechanical and water barrier properties in zein and zein–corn starch composite films was investigated. Four concentrations of corn starch (5 %, 10 %, 15 %, 20 %) were used in composite films making a final solid concentration of 6 % (w/v) in the film forming solution. One composite film containing 10 % corn starch was also prepared in absence of gallic acid for comparison purpose. Gallic acid treatment improved tensile strength (TS) and water vapor permeability (WVP) while solubility was increased in control zein films. On the other hand, gallic acid treatment significantly (p < 0.05) reduced TS and increased WVP in zein–corn starch composite films. Interestingly, mechanical and water barrier properties of composite films prepared in absence of gallic acid were comparatively better than gallic acid treated composite films. These findings provided useful insights in how each individual hydrocolloid in the composite film was differently affected by gallic acid treatment.
Exponential Regression of Fractional-Response Fixed-Effects Models with an Application to Firm Capital Structure
Authors: Ramalho Esmeralda A. , Ramalho Joaquim J.S. , Coelho Luís M.S.
Published: September 2016

New fixed-effects estimators are proposed for logit and complementary loglog fractional regression models. The standard specifications of these models are transformed into a form of exponential regression with multiplicative individual effects and time-variant heterogeneity, from which four alternative estimators that do not require assumptions on the distribution of the unobservables are proposed. All new estimators are robust to both time-variant and time-invariant heterogeneity and can accomodate fractional responses with observations at the boundary value of zero. Additionally, some of these estimators can be applied to dynamic panel data models and can accommodate endogenous explanatory variables without requiring the specification of a reduced form model. A Monte Carlo study and an application to firm capital structure choices illustrate the usefulness of the suggested estimators.
Fenton reagent and titanium dioxide nanoparticles as antifungal agents to control leaf spot of sugar beet under field conditions
Authors: Hamza Amany , El-Mogazy Soliman , Derbalah Aly
Published: September 2016

In this study, foliar sprays of Fenton solutions (Fenton reaction, Fenton-like reaction and Fenton complex), titanium dioxide (TiO2) and the recommended fungicide (chlorothalonil) were estimated in the control of sugar beet leaf spot caused byCercospora beticolaunder field conditions in two growing seasons. In addition, the impacts of these treatments on some crop characters (leaf dry weight, root fresh weight, soluble solid content, sucrose content and purity of sugar) were examined. Biochemical and histological changes in the livers and kidneys of treated rats compared to an untreated control were utilized to assess the toxicity of the examined curative agents. Overall, chlorothalonil and Fenton complex were the most effective treatments for disease suppression in both tested seasons followed by Fenton-like reagent, Fenton’s reagent and TiO2, respectively. Growth and yield characters of treated sugar beet significantly increased in comparison to an untreated control. There were mild or no (biochemical and histological) changes in the livers and kidneys of treated rats compared to the control. Fenton solutions and TiO2may offer a new alternative for leaf spot control in sugar beet.
Editor, Executive and Entrepreneur
Authors: Lillegraven Tor-Bøe , Wilberg Erik
Published: September 2016

To survive in today’s increasingly complex business environments, firms must embrace strategic paradoxes: contradictory yet interrelated objectives that persist over time. This can be one of toughest of all leadership challenges, as managers must accept inconsistency and contradictions. In this article, we develop and empirically test a set of hypotheses related to ambidexterity, a key example of a paradoxical strategy. Through our analysis of data from a survey of executive leaders, we find a link between organizational ambidexterity and strategic planning, suggesting that the complexities of navigating in explorative ventures require more explicit strategy work than the old certainties of a legacy business. We identify and discuss inherent paradoxes and their implications for firm performance in 22 industry-specific strategies, where empirical industry data shows a pattern of conflict between explorative growth strategies and exploitative profit strategies. We argue that this is just one of the inherent paradoxes in the ambidexterity construct.
Main results of the international intercomparison of passive radon detectors under field conditions in Marie Curie’s tunnel in Lurisia (Italy)
Authors: Cardellini Francesco , Chiaberto Enrico , Garlati Luisella , Giuffrida Daniele , Leonardi Federica , Magnoni Mauro , Minchillo Gianfranco , Prandstatter Anna , Serena Elena , Trevisi Rosabianca , Tripodi Rosamaria , Veschetti Miriam
Published: September 2016

In recent years a large number of radon intercomparison exercises has been organized; most of them took place in radon chambers, in reference atmosphere of the parameter to control (i.e. radon gas) under temperature, humidity and atmospheric pressure stable conditions. In 2014, in the tunnel belonging to the Lurisia spas complex (Lurisia, Piedmont, Italy), with natural high concentrations of uranium and radon gas, an intercomparison exercise has been held to give to radon measurement services and laboratories the possibility to test their passive systems under field conditions, which are less controlled and much more challenging. The response of laboratories was very positive: 46 participants from 10 European countries and 3 non-European countries. Generally about 80% of results of participants were considered acceptable even if it was observed a global trend of a substantial underestimation of the actual radon concentration.
Metrological aspects of international intercomparison of passive radon detectors under field conditions in Marie Curie’s tunnel in Lurisia
Authors: Cardellini Francesco , Chiaberto Enrico , Garlati Luisella , Giuffrida Daniele , Leonardi Federica , Magnoni Mauro , Minchillo Gianfranco , Prandstatter Anna , Serena Elena , Trevisi Rosabianca , Tripodi Rosamaria , Veschetti Miriam
Published: September 2016

In 2014, an intercomparison exercise of passive radon detectors under field conditions in the Marie Curie’s tunnel belonging to the Lurisia spas complex (Lurisia, Piedmont, Italy) has been held. Radon activity concentration in the tunnel was measured with six radon active monitors, previously calibrated at ENEA-INMRI facilities. In the present paper, a synthesis of the metrological aspects of the intercomparison is given. Indeed particular attention was paid to metrological characterization of radon monitors and their response upon ambient conditions. Correction factors have been defined to be applied when measurements are performed in severe environmental conditions. In particular, it has been found that monitors are particularly sensitive to the effect of air density: the AlphaGUARD (AG-SAPHYMO, GmbH) efficiency decreases with the air density, while for the MR1 PLUS (Tesys, Italy), the opposite applies. When the reference monitors were placed into the Marie Curie’s tunnel, to the recorded average radon concentrations correction factors were applied. After the correction the difference between data coming from AG and MR1 PLUS is within the 1.7%.
Lung cancer mortality and radon exposure in Russia
Authors: Yarmoshenko Ilia V. , Malinovsky Georgy P.
Published: September 2016

The association between the lung cancer and indoor radon exposure in Russian population was investigated. The average indoor radon concentration for each region was estimated using the annual reports issued by the Saint-Petersburg Ramzaev Research Institute of Radiation Hygiene for the period 2008–2013. The average standardized lung cancer mortalities among males and females were estimated using the reports of the Moscow Hertzen Cancer Research Institute for the period 2008–2012. The relative risk (RR) was estimated as a ratio between the average mortality within seven exposure intervals and background mortality. The slope factors of linear dependence between the indoor radon exposure and lung cancer RR are 0.026 (−0.11÷0.17) and 0.83 (0.52–1.12) per radon concentration 100 Bq/m3 for males and females, respectively (with 90% confidence interval). The obtained results can be explained by the confounding effect of tobacco smoking. Significant excess risk of lung cancer in female population can be associated with radon exposure and low prevalence of smoking.
The Laboratory of Natural Radiation (LNR) – a place to test radon instruments under variable conditions of radon concentration and climatic variables
Authors: Santiago Quindós Poncela Luis , Sainz Fernández Carlos , Gutiérrez-Villanueva José-Luis , Fuente Merino Ismael , Celaya González Santiago , Quindós López Luis , Quindós López Jorge , Fernández Lopez Enrique , Fernández Villar Alicia
Published: September 2016

The publication of the new European Union Basic Safety Standards represents a remarkable milestone in the field of radiological protection in terms of adding radon exposure to this framework. Therefore, the coming years will bring the need to measure radon not only in the workplaces but also in the living spaces as a direct outcome of the application of the new EU Directive. So, the importance of having reliable instruments is evident and interlaboratory exercises are becoming more and more popular. However, most of them are carried out under constant conditions of meteorological variables. We present in this paper a facility to broaden the interlaboratory comparisons further by adding the study of radon exposures under real conditions of changes in climatic parameters. In addition, the facility has the possibility to verify the response of radon monitors when the radon concentration changes several orders of magnitude in a short period of time. Our work shows some results of one of the interlaboratory exercises carried out in the premises, where the radon levels were rather homogeneous in the testing room.
Distribution of indoor radon concentrations between selected Hungarian thermal baths
Authors: Shahrokhi Amin , Nagy Erika , Csordás Anita , Somlai János , Kovács Tibor
Published: September 2016

Owing to the high potential of radon to increase the risk of lung cancer, health organizations are enforced to update their regulations and recommendations regarding indoor radon levels each year. In this study, the indoor radon concentrations of three randomly selected thermal baths in Hungary using CR-39 and an AlphaGUARD radon monitor were measured with regard to the new updated standards of the European Basic Safety Standard (EU BSS, Council Directive 2013/59/Euratom, 2014). The annual average of indoor radon concentrations in Parad Medical Bath, Igal Health Spa and Eger Turkish Bath were measured as 159 ± 19, 176 ± 27 and 301 ± 30 Bq/m3, respectively. Indoor radon concentration in all measurement locations were determined to be below the reference level, with the exception of the main pool, small pool and sparkling bath areas in the Eger Turkish Bath that were measured as 403 ± 42, 315 ± 32 and 354 ± 36 Bq/m3, respectively. In light of the results, the estimated annual average radon concentration in the thermal baths was below the EU BSS reference level of 300 Bq/m3. Personal dosimetry is required to estimate the annual effective dose from inhaled radon by the workers at the Eger Turkish Bath. This procedure is required in order to justify the application of the mitigation process of decreasing working hours, improving the ventilation rate or increasing the number of classified employees in response to the official radiation surveillance programme.
Preliminary results of spatial distribution of uranium and thorium in soil profiles near a uranium industrial site, Guangdong province, China
Authors: Wang Jin , Liu Juan , Chen Yongheng , Song Gang , Chen Diyun , Xiao Tangfu , Li Huosheng , Wang Chunlin , Jiang Feng
Published: September 2016

Four soil profiles were collected from locations with different distances (5, 50, 250 and 1000 m) from a uranium mill tailings dam, Guangdong province, China, to investigate the pollution status of the soil in mining/milling-related areas based on the contents of uranium (U) and thorium (Th), thus to understand the impacts of uranium industrial activities to the surroundings. The U and Th concentrations were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) after conventional HF-HNO3-HClO4 digestion procedures. The results indicate that the soils within 50 m from uranium tailing were severely contaminated; those in 250 and 1000 m soil samples were observed to be with local background level even though these in 250 m had slightly higher U/Th ratios. Uranium concentrations varied from 5.50 ± 0.27 to 160.55 ± 8.03 mg/kg, with maximum values recorded in an intermediate layer of the 5-m distance soil profile. In comparison, the concentration of Th ranged from 6.02 ± 0.30 to 84.71 ± 4.24 mg/kg, with maximum values observed in the top layer of the 1000-m distance soil profile. The U/Th ratio varied from 0.15 to 11.99 compared with 0.20, 0.22 and 0.26 of the average for Guangdong province, national China and the world, respectively. The mean U/Th of four soil profiles showed a reduction with distance from the uranium mill tailing dam, suggesting the relatively large magnitude of uranium elevation in soils within limited distances.
Scaphyglottis cobanensis (Orchidaceae, Epidendroideae), A New Species from Guatemala
Authors: Morales Fredy Archila , Szlachetko Dariusz L. , Nowak Sławomir
Published: September 2016

Scaphyglottis cobanensis Archila, Szlach. & S. Nowak (Orchidaceae, Epidendroideae) is described and compared with the morphologically close species S. bifida (Rchb. f.) C. Schweinf. and S. lindeniana (A. Rich. & Galeotti) L. O. Williams. The new species is illustrated with SEM images of the labellum and gynostemium.
Polyurethane membrane with a cyclodextrin-modified carbon nanotube for pervaporation of phenol/water mixture
Authors: Ye Hong , Wang Yu , Zhang Xiang , Zhang Zhongguo , Song Boyu
Published: September 2016

Polyurethane (PU) membrane has great potential in pervaporation recovery of phenol from water. In order to improve the permeability of the membrane, cyclodextrin was attached onto carboxylic and hydroxylate carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by physical and chemical methods, with which modified CNTs/PU membranes were prepared. The results showed that the addition of modified CNTs greatly increases the permeability and comprehensive performance of PU membranes in the pervaporation separation of a phenol/water mixture. With 0.5% phenol content in feed at 80°C, the flux and pervaporation separation index of blank PU are 6.10 and 324 kg·μm·m−2·h−1, while those of chemically modified carboxylic CNTs/PU membranes are 156.1 and 655.8 kg·μm·m−2·h−1, respectively.
Developments in platinum anticancer drugs
Authors: Tylkowski Bartosz , Jastrząb Renata , Odani Akira
Published: September 2016

Platinum compounds represent one of the great success stories of metals in medicine. Following the unexpected discovery of the anticancer activity of cisplatin (Fig. 1) in 1965 by Prof. Rosenberg [1], a large number of its variants have been prepared and tested for their ability to kill cancer cells and inhibit tumor growth. Although cisplatin has been in use for over four decades, new and more effective platinum-based therapeutics are finally on the horizon. A wide introduction to anticancer studies is given by the authors of the previous chapter. This chapter aims at providing the readers with a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of recent developments of platinum anticancer drugs and to review the state of the art. The chapter is divided into two parts. In the first part we present a historical aspect of platinum and its complexes, while in the second part we give an overview of developments in the field of platinum anticancer agents.
Evaluation of CNTs/MnO2 composite for adsorption of 60Co(II), 65Zn(II) and Cd(II) ions from aqueous solutions
Authors: Sharaf El-Deen Sahar E. A. , Moussa Saber I. , Mekawy Zakaria A. , Shehata Mohamed K. K. , Sadeek Sadeek A. , Someda Hanan H.
Published: September 2016

CNTs/MnO2 composite was synthesized by a co-precipitation method after preparation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using a chemical oxidation method and was characterized using Fourier transformer infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The synthesized CNTs/MnO2 composite was used as a sorbent for the removal of some radionuclides (60Co and 65Zn-radioisotopes) and Cd (II) ions from aqueous solutions. Different parameters affecting the removal process including pH, contact time and metal ion concentration were investigated. Isotherm and kinetic models were studied. Adsorption data was interpreted in terms of both Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms and indicated that the CNTs/MnO2 composite complied well with both Langmuir and Freundlich models for 60Co and Cd(II) ions and with the Freundlich model only for the 65Zn radioisotope. A pseudo-second-order model was effectively employed to describe the adsorption behavior of 60Co, 65Zn and Cd(II) ions. Desorption of 60Co and 65Zn and Cd(II) ions from loaded samples was studied using different eluents.
Impact of troponin I on outcome of ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Budincevic Hrvoje , Sremec Josip , Crnac Petra , Ostojic Vedran , Galic Edvard , Bielen Ivan
Published: September 2016

Introduction. Stroke is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. Cardiac troponins have been found to be increased in other conditions apart from the cardiac diseases, such as stroke. The aim of the study was to assess the correlation between elevated troponin I levels and stroke outcome.

Methods. This retrospective study included 198 acute ischemic stroke patients in whom troponin I levels have been obtained at admission. Exclusion criteria were concomitant acute coronary syndrome, congestive heart failure, pulmonary embolism, renal failure, rhabdomyolysis and septic conditions.

Results. There was a statistically significant difference in the proportion of deaths during hospitalization (p = 0.041) and modified Rankin Scale scores (p = 0.016) between the group of patients with elevated troponin I levels and the control group. Prior ischemic strokes were more common in the group with elevated troponin I levels (p = 0.032). No other differences were observed.

Conclusions. Our study showed that patients with elevated initial troponin I levels are associated with unfavorable outcome or death. Stroke may be associated with mild elevation of troponin levels, contrary to higher levels which are usually related to other conditions.
Structural behavior of load-bearing sandwich wall panels with GFRP skin and a foam-web core
Authors: Wang Lu , Wu Zhimin , Liu Weiqing , Wan Li
Published: September 2016

An innovative load-bearing sandwich wall panel with glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) skins and a foam-GFRP web core (GSFW wall panels, where “GS” denotes GFRP skin and “FW” denotes foam-GFRP web core), which was manufactured using a vacuum-assisted resin infusion process, was developed in this paper. An experimental study involving nine specimens was conducted to validate the effectiveness of this panel for increasing the axial strength under edgewise compression loading. The effects of web thickness, web spacing, web height, and skin thickness on axial stiffness, displacement ductility, and energy dissipation were also investigated. The test results demonstrated that axial strength, axial stiffness, displacement ductility, and energy dissipation could be improved by increasing the web thickness, web height, and skin thickness. An analytical model that considers the confinement effect of foam and the local buckling of GFRP skin was proposed to predict the ultimate axial strength of GSFW panels. A comparison of the analytical and experimental results showed that the analytical model accurately predicted the ultimate axial strength of GSFW wall panels under edgewise compression loading. To simulate the low velocity impact by blindings that are rolled by the wind, an impact test was conducted and the residual axial strength of the wall panels after impact was also investigated.
Engineering behavior of clay soils stabilized with class C and class F fly ashes
Authors: Seyrek Evren
Published: September 2016

Damages and economical losses due to problematic soils have caused researchers to conduct many studies for the stabilization of these soils within years. Especially, the use of fly ashes in soil stabilization provides great benefits in contributing to the economy, as well as decreasing the environmental pollution. In the present study, the stabilization characteristics of soil-fly ash mixtures were evaluated in terms of Atterberg limits, compaction characteristics, swell potential and unconfined compressive strength with curing effect. To determine these effects, Catalagzi and Soma fly ashes obtained from Turkey were used in different proportions by weight for stabilization of clay soil samples. It was found that the plasticity index of the soils decreased considerably with the addition of fly ashes, while the strength improved and swell potential decreased. The decreasing trend in the swell percentage and swell pressure values decelerated especially after 25% fly ash additive content and negligible changes occurred. Similar behavior was observed in strength tests. Experimental results show that swelling and strength properties of the soils could be improved by using fly ash and Soma fly ash is far more effective than Catalagzi fly ash.
Erzeugung präziser Referenzdaten für die 3D-Kopfposenschätzung
Authors: Vater Sebastian , Pallauf Johannes , Hoffmann Marian , Stein Thorsten , Puente León Fernando
Published: September 2016

In dieser Arbeit wird eine Methode zur Erzeugung von Referenzdaten für die 3D-Kopfposenschätzung mit Hilfe eines Vicon MX
Motion-Capture-Systems vorgestellt. Im Rahmen der Arbeit wurden jeweils 22 Videos von sechs Probanden mit einer
handelsüblichen RGB-Kamera mit einer Frequenz von 30 Bildern pro Sekunde aufgenommen. Die Videosequenzen zeigen
Szenarien, welche aus Drehbewegungen des Kopfes um die drei Raumachsen unter verschiedenen Beleuchtungsbedingungen
bestehen. Die Videos wurden mit einer Auflösung von 800 × 600 Bildpunkten im RGB24-Format aufgenommen, welche
eine weitere Bildverarbeitung zur Detektion charakteristischer Merkmale zulässt. Über die Referenzdaten der Kopfposition
hinaus wurden Informationen über die Blickrichtung der Probanden aufgezeichnet, indem die Probanden aufgefordert wurden,
Punkte bekannter Koordinaten auf einem Bildschirm zu verfolgen. Dieser Beitrag liefert eine detaillierte Beschreibung
des Messaufbaus und der Durchführung. Ziel ist es eine Methode vorzustellen, um aus den 3D-Trajektorien der Marker des
Motion-Capture-Systems Referenzdaten für den Zustandsvektor des Kopfes zu bestimmen. Darüber hinaus wird ein mit der
vorgestellten Methode erzeugter Datensatz zur Validierung von erscheinungsbasierten Algorithmen zur Kopfposenschäztung
bereitgestellt.