bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between the Spine Deformity Index, biochemical parameters of bone metabolism and vascular calcifications: results from the Epidemiological VERtebral FRACtures iTalian Study (EVERFRACT) in dialysis patients
Authors: Fusaro Maria , Gallieni Maurizio , Noale Marianna , Tripepi Giovanni , Miozzo Davide , Plebani Mario , Zaninotto Martina , Guglielmi Giuseppe , Miotto Diego , Fabris Fabrizio , Piccoli Antonio , Vilei Maria Teresa , Sella Stefania , Morachiello Paolo , Stoppa Fabrizio , Rossini Maurizio , Giannini Sandro
Published: September 2014

The Spine Deformity Index (SDI) is a measure of vertebral fractures (VFs), providing information on both their number and severity.

We evaluated the relationships between SDI and clinical, biochemical and arterial calcification parameters in 387 hemodialysis (HD) patients. VFs, assessed by quantitative vertebral morphometry, and vascular calcifications were identified in the same lateral spinal X-ray. To improve the detection of fracture severity, we created a corrected SDI (c-SDI), by dividing SDI for the number of VFs. We assessed routine biochemistry, bone-Gla-protein (BGP), undercaboxylated BGP (ucBGP), and matrix-Gla-protein (MGP).

VFs prevalence was 55.3%. HD patients with a SDI >1 were more frequently males (p<0.05), and had lower BGP (p<0.01). Patients with a c-SDI >1 had higher LDL-cholesterol (p<0.05) and lower ucBGP (p<0.05) and MGP (p<0.05). Calcifications of the abdominal aorta (AAoC) were more frequent in patients with SDI >1 (p<0.05) and with c-SDI >1 (p<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression showed that male sex (OR 1.86, CI 1.20–2.91), age (OR 1.03, CI 1.01–1.05) and albumin ≥3.5 g/dL (OR 0.54, CI 0.31–0.93) were predictors of a SDI >1. Age (OR 1.05, CI 1.03–1.07), LDL-cholesterol (OR 1.74, CI 1.04–2.92) and ucBGP (OR 0.35, CI 0.18–0.70) were associated with c-SDI >1.

We conclude that the severity of VFs was associated with age, atherogenic factors and bone metabolism markers.
Global coagulation tests: their applicability for measuring direct factor Xa- and thrombin inhibition and reversal of anticoagulation by prothrombin complex concentrate
Authors: Dinkelaar Jasper , Patiwael Sanne , Harenberg Job , Leyte Anja , Brinkman Herm Jan M.
Published: September 2014

Specific mass spectrometry and direct activated factor X (Xa)- and thrombin inhibition assays do not allow determination of the reversal of anticoagulant effects of non-vitamin K direct oral anticoagulants (NOACs) by prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC). The objective of this study was the evaluation of the applicability of a variety of commercially available global coagulation assays in analyzing the reversal of NOAC anticoagulation by PCC.

Plasma and whole blood were spiked with apixaban or dabigatran and PCC was added to these samples. Prothrombin time (PT), modified PT (mPT), activated partial prothrombin time (APTT), thrombography (CAT method) and thromboelastography (ROTEM, TEG) were performed.

Assays triggered by contact activation (APTT, INTEM) did not show inhibitor reversal by PCC. Assays triggered by tissue factor (TF) showed NOAC type and NOAC concentration dependent anticoagulation reversal effects of PCC ranging from partial normalization to overcorrection of the following parameters: clotting or reaction time (PT, mPT TEG-TF, EXTEM, FIBTEM); angle in thromboelastography (TEG-TF); thrombin generation (CAT) lag time, endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) and peak thrombin. Extent of reversal was assay reagent dependent. ETP (5 pM TF) was the only parameter showing complete reversal of anticoagulation by PCC for all NOACs ranging from 200 to 800 μg/L.

ETP fits with the concept that reversal assessment of NOAC anticoagulation by PCC should be based on measurements on the clotting potential or thrombin generating potential of the plasma or whole blood patient sample. Low sensitivity of ETP for NOACs and its correlation with bleeding are issues that remain to be resolved.
Harmonisation of seven common enzyme results through EQA
Authors: Weykamp Cas , Franck Paul , Gunnewiek Jacqueline Klein , de Jonge Robert , Kuypers Aldy , van Loon Douwe , Steigstra Herman , Cobbaert Christa
Published: September 2014

Equivalent results between different laboratories enable optimal patient care and can be achieved with harmonisation. We report on EQA-initiated national harmonisation of seven enzymes using commutable samples.

EQA samples were prepared from human serum spiked with human recombinant enzymes. Target values were assigned with the IFCC Reference Measurement Procedures. The same samples were included at four occasions in the EQA programmes of 2012 and 2013. Laboratories were encouraged to report IFCC traceable results. A parallel study was done to confirm commutability of the samples.

Of the 223 participating laboratories, 95% reported IFCC traceable results, ranging from 98% (ASAT) to 87% (amylase). Users of Roche and Siemens (97%) more frequently reported in IFCC traceable results than users of Abbott (91%), Beckman (90%), and Olympus (87%). The success of harmonisation, expressed as the recovery of assigned values and the inter-laboratory CV was: ALAT (recovery 100%; inter-lab CV 4%), ASAT (102%; 4%), LD (98%; 3%), CK (101%; 5%), GGT (98%; 4%), AP (96%; 6%), amylase (99%; 4%). There were no significant differences between the manufacturers. Commutability was demonstrated in the parallel study. Equal results in the same sample in the 2012 and 2013 EQA programmes demonstrated stability of the samples.

The EQA-initiated national harmonisation of seven enzymes, using stable, commutable human serum samples, spiked with human recombinant enzymes, and targeted with the IFCC Reference Measurement Procedures, was successful in terms of implementation of IFCC traceable results (95%), recovery of the target (99%), and inter-laboratory CV (4%).
Splicing together sister chromatids
Authors: Valcárcel Juan , Malumbres Marcos
Published: September 2014

Splicing of pre‐mRNAs is a necessary step for expression of the majority of genes in higher eukaryotes, and its regulation through alternative splice site selection shapes their proteomes. Defects in multiple splicing factors result in aberrant mitotic progression, although the molecular basis for this observation has remained elusive. Recent papers in The EMBO Journal and EMBO Reports reveal that expression of sororin, a critical regulator that stabilizes cohesin rings in sister chromatids, is exquisitely sensitive to defects in the splicing machinery, thus explaining the striking link between spliceosome function and chromosome segregation.
Eszopiclone for Insomnia Associated With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Sangal R. Bart , Blumer Jeffrey L. , Lankford D. Alan , Grinnell Todd A. , Huang Holly
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate efficacy and safety of eszopiclone compared with placebo in children and adolescents with insomnia associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

METHODS:

A 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated efficacy and safety of high- or low-dose eszopiclone (1 or 2 mg in children aged 6–11 years, 2 or 3 mg in children ages 12–17 years), given every evening, in 486 patients with ADHD-related insomnia. The primary efficacy variable was change in latency to persistent sleep from baseline to week 12, based on polysomnography. Key secondary measures were polysomnography-measured wake time after sleep onset, Clinical Global Impression Parent/Caregiver and Child scales, and the Conners’ ADHD rating scales. The safety of eszopiclone was further studied over 1 year of open-label treatment in 55 patients who completed the double-blind study, and 249 patients with no previous eszopiclone exposure.

RESULTS:

Neither low-dose nor high-dose eszopiclone significantly reduced latency to persistent sleep compared with placebo after 12 weeks of treatment. Secondary outcomes were considered nonsignificant based on the hierarchical statistical analysis plan. The most frequent treatment-emergent adverse events over 12 weeks with eszopiclone were headache, dysgeusia, and dizziness. The study results demonstrated that eszopiclone was well tolerated over 1 year of treatment, with 11.2% of patients discontinuing open-label treatment because of an adverse event.

CONCLUSIONS:

Eszopiclone (up to 3 mg) failed to reduce latency to persistent sleep on polysomnography after 12 weeks in children aged 6 to 17 years with ADHD-related insomnia. Eszopiclone was well tolerated in the 1-year study.
Straight Black Queer: Obama, Code-Switching, and the Gender Anxiety of African American Men
Authors: Young Vershawn Ashanti
Published: September 2014

Globe magazinefeatured a “world exclusive,” not even a year into Barack Obama's first term as president of the united states, charging him with homosexual infidelity and his wife, Michelle, with coordinating a cover-up (“Obama Gay Cover-Up!”). The magazine followed up two months later, asserting that Obama's lover resided in the White House and was none other than his personal aide, Reggie Love (“Obama's Gay Lover”).Globe, of course, is a dime-store rag whose mission is to sensationalize. I refer to it here because it is perhaps the most relentless among a slew of white-run media outlets that consistently and unfavorably queer Obama, amplifying his nonnormative masculine traits and then, on that basis, assigning him a deceitful, nonheteronormative sexuality.
The Postcolonial Aesthetic
Authors: During Simon
Published: September 2014

Postcolonialism emerged as a field within literary studies during the 1980s as part of the discipline's general restructuring. That restructuring has, perhaps, been insufficiently acknowledged by the profession, and at any rate there seems to be little consensus as to its significance and shape. But it seems undeniable that, during the 1980s, literary criticism ceased to ground itself on its attention to its objects' literary qualities or on its efforts to establish convincing literary judgments about them. It turned rather to thinking about literature as, for instance, a vehicle of cultural-political identities, or as a resistance to ideology, or, more neutrally, as articulated into broader signifying or social structures.
Response
Authors: Spivak Gayatri Chakravorty
Published: September 2014

I am not only honored but instructed by these essays. Let me begin with Jean Franco's essay and acknowledge her moving expression of solidarity: “coming from Depression-era northern England, I too have early memories of, if not famine, seeing the skeletal bodies of a family starving in the dying heart of the empire[.] Meanwhile, at school we made daisy chains and were told that the yellow center was Britain and the petals the colonies. There is nothing subtle about empire.”
Effect of nanosilica on chloride permeability in cement mortar
Authors: Singh Lok Pratap , Goel Anjali , Bhattachharyya Sriman Kumar , Ahalawat Saurabh , Sharma Usha , Mishra Geetika
Published: September 2014

An accelerated electro-migration experiment is carried out to examine the chloride penetration of cement mortar admixed with two types of nanosilica and compared with the natural diffusion measurement. The chloride ion concentration in the destination solution is measured by ultra violet–visible spectrophotometer at different time intervals. In the natural condition, the penetration of chloride ions through a 7-mm thick mortar disc takes approximately 24 h, whereas nanosilica incorporated mortar resists the ingress of chloride ions up to around 72 h. Furthermore, in the accelerated condition, the diffusion coefficient is reduced from 6·8 × 10−11 m2/s to 4·7 × 10−11 m2/s with 3% addition of nanosilica (type I) by weight of cement. The microstructure studies through scanning electron microscopy reveal that the nanosilica refines the pore structure of the mortar and leads to a denser microstructure owing to the formation of additional calcium-silicate-hydrate gel. The pozzolanic reactivity is also determined using a thermogravimetric technique wherein nanosilica and silica fume incorporated cement mortar reduces the calcium hydroxide content by 67 and 30%, respectively. These studies demonstrate that nanosilica efficiently reduces the chloride permeability of cement mortar owing to higher pozzolanic activity.
Performance of transesterified jute rolled erosion-control products
Authors: Midha V.K. , Kumar S.Suresh , Sharma A.
Published: September 2014

ABSTRACT: Rolled erosion-control products (RECPs) made from natural fibres such as jute, coir and sisal are widely used for controlling soil erosion until vegetation growth is sufficient to reinforce the soil. The relatively high water retention of jute RECPs is responsible for its rapid degradation and limited use in areas of heavy rainfall. Among the various chemical treatments given to jute fibres to improve their durability, the transesterification process has been reported to be promising and free from toxic effects of chemicals used in the process. However, no researchers have reported the effect of the transesterification process on the performance of jute RECPs. In the present study, jute RECPs of 500 and 700 g/m2 masses were transesterified, and their erosion control performance was studied using Shiwalik range soil. Rain splash erosion tests were carried out at 15°, 30° and 45° slope angles, based on ASTM D 7101 using a bench-scale set-up with some modifications. Germination tests were performed according to ASTM D 7322. The transesterification of RECPs resulted in the improvement of erosion control, due to the improved percentage cover and reduced flexural rigidity. In the germination test, the total rooting, which improves the soil stability, was found to be higher for the transesterified RECPs. The chemical degradation of transesterified jute RECPs was tested using a saline solution at various pH values, and it was observed that the transesterified jute RECPs retained about 72% of their strength in comparison with 19% for jute untreated RECPs after 120 days of treatment.
Climate change and the water–energy nexus: an urban challenge
Authors: da Costa Silva Gabriela
Published: September 2014

Economic growth, often based on industrial development, together with increased human settlements on urban land, has caused the spread of cities and has increased water demand and/or consumption and water withdrawals for energy generation. In a world of increasing climate change, governments and societies have to build resilience strategies, notably for cities. This paper develops a conceptual framework based on the Driving force-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) model specially tailored to the water–energy nexus at the urban scale. From a policy perspective, my assumption is that this framework can serve as a benchmark to verify and build the effectiveness of climate change action plans designed for cities. In order to test the applicability of the framework developed, this paper presents the components of the proposed DPSIR and related research questions to examine the climate change action plan of New York City, one of the most populated megacities in the world.
Modeling the impacts of increase in temperature on irrigation water requirements in Palakkad district: a case study in humid tropical Kerala
Authors: Surendran U. , Sushanth C. M. , Mammen George , Joseph E. J.
Published: September 2014

Rise in temperature is one of the predicted impacts of climate change with significant implications on water resources management. An attempt has been made to calculate the water requirement of crops in different agro-ecological zones of Palakkad district in humid tropical Kerala using the CROPWAT 8.0 model. Sensitivity analysis was done for a simulated rise in temperature from 0.5 to 3.0 °C keeping other parameters the same. The analysis showed that the total crop water requirement of all the major crops, like coconut, paddy and banana, increased with rising temperature thereby increasing the simulated irrigation water demand. The gross water demand inclusive of irrigation, domestic and industries will be 1,496 Mm3. The simulated gross water demand for an increase in temperature of 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 °C will be 1,523, 1,791, 1,822 and 1,853 Mm3, respectively. The maximum utilizable water resource available in the district is only 1,579 Mm3 and better water management, focusing particularly on improving the irrigation efficiency, has to be adopted to cater for the demands of the user sectors under changing climate scenario. A wide spectrum of climate change scenarios is also discussed in the paper along with guidelines for the future management of water resources.
Adaptation of surface water supply to climate change in central Iran
Authors: Gohari Alireza , Bozorgi Ali , Madani Kaveh , Elledge Jeffrey , Berndtsson Ronny
Published: September 2014

Optimal reservoir operation changes and adaptation strategies for the Zayandeh-Rud River Basin's surface water supply system are examined for a changing climate during the 2015–2044 period. On average, the monthly temperature in the basin is expected to increase by 0.46–0.76 °C and annual precipitation is expected to decrease by 14–38% with climate change, resulting in a reduction of the Zayandeh-Rud's peak stream flow and the amplitude of its seasonal range. Snowfall decrease in winter months will generally lead to an 8–43% reduction in annual stream flow under climate change. A reservoir operation model is developed and optimal reservoir operation strategies are identified for adaptation of the basin's surface water supply to climate change in the face of the increasing water demand. Results indicate that the reservoir drawdown season starts 2 months earlier under climate change. Smaller storage levels and greater water releases must occur to meet the increasing water demand. The optimized water release can provide sufficient water for non-agricultural water demand, but agriculture will experience more severe water shortage under a changing climate. Having the highest vulnerability, the agricultural sector should be the main focus of regional management plans to address the current water challenge and more severe water shortages under climate change.
Analysis of Land Subsidence Deformation Caused by Urban Shallow-buried Tunnel Construction
Authors: Wang Donglin , Guo Xin , Jia Yusheng
Published: September 2014

Taking the project of Hefei city plaza tunnel as an example, this paper takes the large-scale finite element calculation software of ABAQUS to set three dimensional calculations models to simulate the construction of underground tunnel, analyzing the displacement and stress dynamic response during the construction process. And the paper also carries out the comparison analysis of the field measurement of the land subsidence. The result indicates that the simulation objectively reflected the rules of subsidence during the construction process. This provides theory evidence for shallow-buried tunnel construction safely and rapidly.
Horizontal Bearing Capacity of A New Bucket Foundation with Partial Inclined Wall
Authors: Jin-long Liu , Lu-wang Chen
Published: September 2014

The traditional bucket foundation use vertical wall, which like a cup is buried upside down in seabed. A new bucket foundation with partial inclined wall has been proposed in this article. Based on limit equilibrium analysis of three-dimensional stress state of foundation, the calculation method of the horizontal bearing capacity of the new bucket foundation has been deduced, which has been verified by model tests. It is found that the horizontal bearing capacity of the new bucket foundation increased effectively when dip angle of wall is increased. The horizontal bearing capacity of the new bucket foundation increased with the proportional coefficient of horizontal subgrade reaction, top diameter or height of bucket foundation increased respectively, while it decreased when the depth of seabed was increased. The parameters of the new bucket foundation should be determined by geological conditions of seabed, physical and mechanical parameters of marine soil, design value of horizontal bearing capacity and construction method. The research results would be conducive to optimize design of traditional bucket foundation.
Topology Optimization of Frame Bracing System for Natural Frequency
Authors: Zhou Kemin , Chen Chahua
Published: September 2014

A method to optimize the topology of frame bracing system is presented. Firstly frame is filled by truss-like continuum uniformly. The truss-like continuum simulates the distributive bracing system. The frame combined with truss-like continuum is analyzed by finite element method. The densities and orientations of bracing system at nodes are taken as design variables. The distribution field of bracing system is optimized by the method of moving asymptotes (MMA) and the method of steepest descent. The frame bracing system is established according to the optimal distribution field of bracing system. The natural frequency of optimal braced frame increases to more than two times while material increases only 5%. For no intermediate densities being suppressed, there is no numerical instability, such as checkerboard patterns and one-node connected hinges. The expression of natural frequency and its sensitivities of truss-like continuum are derived.
Alveolar Ridge Augmentation with Titanium Mesh. A Retrospective Clinical Study
Authors: Poli Pier P , Beretta Mario , Cicciù Marco , Maiorana Carlo
Published: September 2014

An adequate amount of bone all around the implant surface is essential in order to obtain long-term success of implant restoration. Several techniques have been described to augment alveolar bone volume in critical clinical situations, including guided bone regeneration, based on the use of barrier membranes to prevent ingrowth of the epithelial and gingival connective tissue cells. To achieve this goal, the use of barriers made of titanium micromesh has been advocated.

A total of 13 patients were selected for alveolar ridge reconstruction treatment prior to implant placement. Each patient underwent a tridimensional bone augmentation by means of a Ti-mesh filled with intraoral autogenous bone mixed with deproteinized anorganic bovine bone in a 1:1 ratio. Implants were placed after a healing period of 6 months. Panoramic x-rays were performed after each surgical procedure and during the follow-up recalls. Software was used to measure the mesial and the distal peri-implant bone loss around each implant. The mean peri-implant bone loss was 1.743 mm on the mesial side and 1.913 mm on the distal side, from the top of the implant head to the first visible bone-implant contact, at a mean follow-up of 88 months.

The use of Ti-mesh allows the regeneration of sufficient bone volume for ideal implant placement. The clinical advantages related to this technique include the possibility of correcting severe vertical atrophies associated with considerable reductions in width and the lack of major complications if soft-tissue dehiscence and mesh exposures do occur.
Examination of the bioelectrical activity of the masticatory muscles during Angle’s Class II division 2 therapy with an activator
Authors: Petrovic Djordje , Vujkov Sanja , Petronijevic Branislava , Sarcev Ivan , Stojanac Igor
Published: September 2014

Background/Aim. The muscles of the orofacial region have great influence on
the development of dentition and occlusion formation. It is known that
improper function of these muscles is one of the major etiological factors in
malocclusion. A correlation between function disorders of orofacial muscle
and occlusion disorders has been confirmed, as well as a correlation between
the bioelectric activity of the masticatory muscles, recorded by
electromyography, and bite force upon maximal voluntary contraction of these
muscles. The aim of the study was to analyze the bioelectriacal activity of
temporal and masseter muscles. Methods. The sample consisted of 100 subjects
of both sexes, divided into the control group (n = 30) with neutral and
complete dental arches, and the study group (n = 70) of patients with distal
occlusion. Electromyographic measurement of bioelectric potentials in all the
subjects was conducted for the examined muscles in the physiologic rest
position, central mandible occlusion, and during maximal voluntary
contraction of muscles and saliva swallowing, in Angle Class I and II/2
occlusal relation-ships, prior to treatment, after one year of the
orthodontic treatment and after the treatment with an activator. Results.
Comparing the values of thebioelectrical activity in the control and the
study group before the treatment, a decreased muscle activity was established
in all the three positions in the study group. After the first year of
orthodontic treatment the results showed an elevation in the bioelectrical
activity in both muscles. After treatment with an activator, the
bioelectrical activity in both muscles in the study group was higher than
before the treatment, as it is confirmed by a positive highly significant
coefficient of correlation. Conclusion. In all the three measured positions
of the mandible with Angle Class II/2 malocclusion, bioelectrical activity
was lowest at baseline and increased during the first year of treatment, and
at the end of the treatment it partially reduced close to the approximate
values in normal occlusion. Research on electromyographic activity of
masticatory muscles is useful in everyday clinical practice, especially in
present distinctive skeletal discrepancy before, during and after orthodontic
treatment, if on the bases of the results we can evaluate the treatment, but
also determine the start and duration of the retention period and retention
device type.
Surgical site infection surveillance in orthopedic patients in the Military Medical Academy, Belgrade
Authors: Starcevic Srdjan , Munitlak Stasa , Mijovic Biljana , Mikic Dragan , Suljagic Vesna
Published: September 2014

Background/Aim. Active surveillance is an important component of surgical
site infection (SSI) reduction strategy. The aim of this study was to analyze
and compare SSI surveillance data in orthopedic patients in the Military
Medical Academy (MMA), Belgrade. Methods. A 4-year prospective cohort study
was performed to identify the incidence rate and risk factors for SSI in
orthopedic patients in the MMA, Belgrade. We collected data regarding
patients characteristics, health care and microorganisms isolated in SSI. The
National Nosocomial Infection Surveillance (NNIS) risk index was subsequently
calculated for each patient. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
criteria were used for the diagnosis of SSI. Results. Assessment of 3,867
patients after different orthopedic operations revealed SSI in 109 patients.
The overall incidence rate of SSI was 2.8% with the decrease from 4.6% in
2007 to 1.6% in 2010. Using NNIS risk index for surgical procedures there
were: 53.7% (2,077) patients with risk 0 - the incidence rate of 1.4%; 38.9%
(1,506) patients with risk 1 - the incidence rate of 3.1%; 7.3% (281)
patients with risk 2 - the incidence rate of 11.7%; 0.1% (3) patients with
risk 3 - without infection within the risk. Multivariate logistic regression
analysis identified 6 independent risk factors associated with SSI:
contaminated or dirty wounds, smoking, preoperative infection, NNIS risk
index, body mass index and the length of hospital stay. Conclusion. The
results of our study are valuable confirmation of relations between risk
factors and SSI in orthopedic patients. A decreasing incidence rate of SSI
(from 4.6% to 1.6%) during a 4-year active surveillance approved its
implementation as an important component of SSI reduction strategy.
Least Adder’s-Tongue (Ophioglossum Lusitanicum L.) in Croatia - Distribution, Ecology and Conservation
Authors: Brana Slavko , Vuković Nina , Kaligarič Mitja
Published: September 2014

The presence of the least adder’s tongue (Ophioglossum lusitanicum) in Croatia is sparsely documented in scientific literature, with only a few records to date. After findings from the 19thcentury, the species was not confirmed in the field for a whole century, and was consequently considered extinct in the Croatian flora. It has been recently confirmed in southern Istria (Croatia), in habitats with moderate anthropogenic impacts.
Effect of Water Deficiency and Potassium Application on Plant Growth, Osmolytes and Grain Yield of Brassica Napus Cultivars
Authors: Ali Murad , Bakht Jehan , Khan Gul Daraz
Published: September 2014

One of the major issues with brassica oil seed production is the water requirement of the brassica crop. To address the problem, field experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of potassium (K) and water deficiency levels on canola (Brassica napus L.). Analysis of the data revealed that application of K, irrigation and interactions between irrigation and cultivar (I x C), irrigation and potassium (I x K), potassium and cultivar (K x C), and irrigation and cultivar and potassium (I x C x K) had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on shoot proline content, relative water content, plant fresh weight and grain yield. Potassium application, irrigation and interaction between I x C, K x C, and I x C x K had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on shoot sugar content. Water deficiency increased shoot proline and sugar contents and decreased relative water content. Potassium application increased shoot proline level in a dose dependent manner. Minimum proline and sugar contents and maximum relative water content, plant fresh and dry weight and yield were obtained when 100% irrigation was applied. Maximum grain yield was obtained upon application of 100% irrigation in combination with 120 kg ha−1 K.
Cu-Zn slags from Røros (Norway): a case study of rapid cooling and crystal nucleation
Authors: Warchulski Rafał , Szopa Krzysztof
Published: September 2014

The mining town of Røros located in central Norway was established in 1644 and it is known of historical mining industry related to copper. Røros was designated as an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980 on the base of mining culture represented by, e.g., unique wooden architecture. Slag pieces are composed of three parts differing in glass to crystallites ratio. Røros slags are composed of olivine- and pyroxene- group minerals accompanied by sulphides, with glass in the interstices. Temperature gradient and volatiles content were determined as the main factor influencing crystallization process in this material
Manufacturing Documentation for the High-Variety Products
Authors: Mleczko Janusz , Dulina L'uboslav
Published: September 2014

In the last years researches in engineering have moved towards customer-oriented manufacturing. The individual customer’s requirements are very important for the company’s activities. It results in high-variety production. High-variety production like mass customization is facing the challenge of effective variety management. Applying methods of mass customization to the empirical process can improve the efficiency of product development process and reduce time and cost. The manufacturing process requires documentation of the production. Very often, the documentation process and the time of its formation is limited. One possible way to solve this problem is to automatically create documentation in electronic form. Then, without having to print, distribute them directly to the panel of the machine. In the process of creating manufacturing documentation, this method takes into account alternative manufacturing processes and the current availability of labor resources The article is an attempt at the analysis of the modern manufacturing systems and answering the question, how it is possible to produce without having documentation in paper form. The presented solution is used for the high-variety products manufactured in the SMEs. The method was validated in the conditions of best practice high-variety production.
Apolipoproteins: Good Markers for Cardiovacular Risk in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and Dyslipidemia
Authors: Tudor Mirela - Nicoleta , Mitrea Adina , Georgiana Popa Simona , Zaharie Sorin , Moţa Maria , Mola Eugen
Published: September 2014

Background and aims. Dyslipidemia (DLP) is a common complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and may accelerate its progression. Circulating lipoproteins and their constituent proteins, apolipoproteins, are risk factors for CKD and cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The aim of the study was to determine whether there is a correlation between apolipoproteins and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) or between apolipoproteins and anthropometrical and laboratory parameters or between evaluated cardiovascular risk (CV) and dyslipidemia/CKD. Material and methods. We performed a study on 51 subjects from the Nephrology Department of Emergency Clinical County Hospital of Craiova, from November 2011 to July 2013. Results. We found statistically significant correlations between eGFR and Apo A1. Also we found a linear correlation between C-reactive protein (CRP) and Apo B. When we evaluated the CV risk using CRP, we found statistically significant differences between the groups (CKD and DLP, only CKD, only DLP and control group), patients with CKD and DLP showing the highest levels of CRP. Conclusions. Elevated levels of Apo A1 are associated with a low rate of CKD. DLP and chronic inflammation play an important role in the progression of CKD. Patients with CKD and DLP had a high cardiovascular risk.
Monitoring the effects of an education for peace program: An Israeli perspective
Authors: Arnon Michal , Galily Yair
Published: September 2014

The aim of the current study was to monitor the changes that individual participants experienced as a result of taking part in a peace education program. The findings of prior analyses led to the understanding that participating in a peace program does not always ensure positive changes and may even cause a regression in attitudes. The present study was conducted in two stages. In the first stage, the researchers learned about the processes that participants underwent during a peace education program and accordingly, a reinforcement program to restore/rehabilitate any negative attitudes was formed. In the second stage, the effectiveness over time of this reinforcement program was evaluated. The study’s findings show that engaging in reflection about the workshop content, especially when it is oriented towards positive thinking, is effective in reinforcing attitudes among participants who underwent a positive change in attitudes, and at the same time helps to rehabilitate attitudes among those participants who underwent a negative change. It is recommended that future peace education programs include at least three parts: preliminary preparation, the program itself, and follow-up/reinforcement activity after completion of the program.
Key concepts in philosophical counselling
Authors: Šulavíková Blanka
Published: September 2014

This article explores various interpretations of philosophical counselling. These interpretations are determined by the nature and status of the key concepts from which they are derived. The first is “critical thinking”, which a number of authors have based their conceptions on; just two examples are mentioned in the article—Elliot D. Cohen and Tim LeBon. Many philosophical practitioners, especially those whose philosophizing is influenced by Socrates, use critical thinking, and indeed believe that it is what philosophical practice is all about. Pierre Grimes is another example of someone who has been influenced by Socrates. Eckart Ruschmann and Ran Lahav believe that interpreting world beliefs is the basis of philosophical counselling. Others think philosophical counselling stems from interpretations of the concept of “wisdom”. The article also discusses Ran Lahav’s more recent views and those of Gerald Rochelle. The concept of “virtues” is discussed in relation to the work of Arto Tukiainen, Lydia B. Amir and Jess Fleming.
Detection of anti-avian bornavirus antibodies in parrots in the Czech Republic and Slovakia
Authors: Vondráčková Martina , Tukač Viktor , Grymová Veronika , Hájková Pavlína , Knotek Zdeněk , Dorrestein Gerry M.
Published: September 2014

Since the avian bornavirus (ABV) aetiology of the proventricular dilatation disease (PDD) was proven in 2008, ABV has been detected in many avian species. The aim of the present study was to detect ABV antibodies in parrots in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. A total of 142 birds were examined, including 37 birds with symptoms typical for PDD, 54 birds without PDD symptoms, and 51 parrots without any clinical symptoms of PDD but originating from one flock with a proven history of PDD. Sera from 142 birds were tested using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detection of antibodies against ABV nucleoprotein p40. Of 142 serum samples, 71 were positive (50%) and 71 negative (50%). In a group of birds with clinical symptoms of PDD, 77.1% showed to be ABV positive, whereas in the group of sick birds without suspicion of PDD the percentage of positive birds was 31.6%. In the birds that had a cage mate that was positive for ABV or died with PDD, 42.9% were ABV positive. Of the parrots without PDD symptoms but originating from the flock with a recent history of PDD, 62.8% of the birds were positive for antibodies against ABV nucleoprotein p40. The results suggest that PDD is common and there is a high percentage of asymptomatic carriers of ABV in the breeding facilities of parrots in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
Young Jean Lee’s Cruel Dramaturgy
Authors: Ybarra Patricia
Published: September 2014

ABSTRACT:

“Young Jean Lee’s Cruel Optimism” argues that the Brown University production of Young Jean Lee’s Straight White Men stages the tensions inherent in performing white masculinity under U.S. neo-liberal capitalism. The article performs a dramaturgical analysis of the production in relationship to Raymond Williams’s conception of liberal tragedy from Modern Tragedy (1966) and Lauren Berlant’s theorization of the impasse in Cruel Optimism (2011). This analysis reveals how the reconceptualization of liberal tragedy in the neo-liberal age asks that we reconsider the relationship between debt and aspiration so crucial to Williams’s conception of Ibsen’s dramaturgy. The theatricality of the play offers a new way to understand the affect and effects of living with the spectre of labour precarity and debt in the contemporary United States.
Röntgentomografische Untersuchung eines kommerziellen Lithium-Ionen-Kondensators*
Authors: Wieder Frank , Kallfaß Christoph , Tötzke Christian , Schier Hermann , Graf Klaus , Hilger André , Banhart John , Manke Ingo , Hoch Constantin
Published: September 2014

Kurzfassung

Gegenstand dieser Studie ist ein kommerzieller Lithium-Ionen-Kondensator (LIC), welcher einer intensiven Alterung in Form von sukzessive durchgeführten Lade- und Entladeprozessen unterzogen wurde. Die dabei auftretenden dreidimensionalen Veränderungen der inneren Struktur wurden mittels Röntgen-Tomografie analysiert. Mit ansteigender Zyklenzahl finden wir eine Ansammlung von Elektrolytflüssigkeit im Bodenbereich des Kondensators vor. Unter Berücksichtigung der beim Zyklieren aufgezeichneten elektrischen Daten ergibt sich ein klarer Zusammenhang zwischen der Elektrolytverteilung im Bodenbereich und der Leistung des LIC.
Effects of Ferroboron and Ferrochromium Powder Addition on Abrasive Wear Resistance of Fe-Based Hardfacing Coatings
Authors: Yüksel Nilay , Şahin Salim
Published: September 2014

Ferrochromium is used in hardfacing alloys as carbide former. In this study, ferroboron was used with ferrochromium to investigate the effect on microstructure and wear resistance. Five different hardfacing alloys (50 % massive welding wire + 50 % powder mixture) were produced by open arc welding on AISI 1020 steel. Microstructure, SEM and XRD analysis, hardness test, and dry sand/rubber wheel abrasion test were carried out. According to the test results, as the amount of ferroboron increased, wear rate decreased. Minimum wear rate was obtained in 100 % ferroboron powder added sample.
Experimental and Analytical Study of Masonry Constructions Reinforced with Bed Joints
Authors: Kamanli Mehmet , Cogurcu Mustafa Tolga
Published: September 2014

In this study, investigation was conducted on the out-of-plane fracture under repeated reversing loads of specimens of unreinforced masonry wall models, a suitable building material found worldwide, strengthened by bed joints using FRP (fiberglass reinforced plastic) with epoxy resin, by production of two separate wall samples composed of materials with identical characteristics in a 1 : 1 ratio. It was also observed that the fracture type became brittle and the pour lines indicated that it did not have tensile strength. Approximately, a 3.5 increase in withstanding breakage under seismic forces was observed in the performance of the wall strengthened by FRP with epoxy reinforcements in the bed joints. Furthermore, the shear strength of the model masonry wall was 48 % less than that attained in the wall strengthened by bed joints and it was determined that the energy absorption of the model masonry wall was 22 % less than that of the wall strengthened by bed joints. Additionally, while the masonry wall in the test which was not strengthened broke under repeated reversing loads at 65 kN, the break load of the strengthened masonry wall was ascertained to be 80 kN. The accuracy and application of the results of the studies conducted were also scrutinized by running finite element stress analysis and numerical solutions using an ANSYS computer-supported analysis program.
Taguchi-Based Grey Relation Optimization of Machining Parameters and Cutting Path Strategies in CNC Pocket Milling Operations
Authors: Esme Ugur
Published: September 2014

This study has focused on the Taguchi-based multi-response optimization of the pocket milling process for an optimal parametric combination to yield minimum surface roughness within a minimum machining time using a combination of Grey relational analysis (GRA) and the Taguchi method on the CNC process of DIN 1.0038 medium carbon steel. Sixteen experimental runs based on an orthogonal array of the Taguchi method were performed to derive multi-objective functions to be optimized within the experimental range. The objective functions have been selected in relation to parameters of the pocket milling process, i. e., surface roughness and machining time. The Taguchi approach was followed by Grey relational analysis to solve the multi-response optimization problem. The significance of these factors on overall quality characteristics of the pocket milling process has also been evaluated quantitatively by a variance analysis method (ANOVA). Optimal results have been verified by validation experiments to calculate the effectiveness of the method. The application of this method showed that proper selection of the milling parameters produces better surface roughness within the minimum machining time.
Effect of Process Parameters on Mechanical and Microstructural Properties of Arc Stud Welds*
Authors: Yilmaz Necip Fazil , Hamza Abdulbasit Abdulqadir
Published: September 2014

Arc stud welding is used to weld predominantly pin-shaped metal parts to metal workpieces. This welding process plays an important role in the field of steel structures, bridge building, shipbuilding, vehicle manufacture, manufacture of household appliances and steam boiler construction. Due to its vital importance, it is very important to determine the influencing parameters on the mechanical and microstructural properties of the weldment. In this study, AISI 304 stainless steel studs were welded onto the same type of base plate. It was observed that welding current, welding time, plunge and lift are prominent stud welding parameters. Welding current and welding time must be selected properly to obtain a high quality performance weld joint.
Mechanical Properties of Laser Welded 2205 Duplex Stainless Steel*
Authors: Köse Ceyhun , Kaçar Ramazan
Published: September 2014

Duplex stainless steel is widely used in the oil, chemical industry and to a lesser extent in the medical industry, because of the high mechanical properties, corrosion resistance and good weldability. In this study, AISI 2205 (22Cr5Ni3Mo) duplex stainless steel samples were joined using the CO2 laser beam welding method. In order to determine the mechanical properties of the welded joints, tensile tests were applied and the hardness of the welded sample was measured on the cross-section. The microstructure characterization of welded samples was also carried out using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis. Although, the mechanical properties of welded samples were found acceptable, the final microstructure of the welded metal and the heat affected zone (HAZ) were significantly affected by the ferrite phase due to the low heat input that caused high cooling rates, respectively.
The Malady of UNESCO’s Archive
Authors: Jackson Peter
Published: September 2014

This paper offers a critical examination of UNESCO’s cultural heritage conventions with special regard to the declared transhumanism of the organization’s first director-general, Sir Julian Huxley. While Huxley’s advocation of eugenics is a well-established fact, this part of his intellectual heritage is usually not considered overtly aligned to his ideas about cultural preservation. On closer consideration, however, improvement and preservation (both cultural and biological) turn out to be closely associated concerns in the field of Huxley’s intellectual vision.
The Nature of Society: Enmapping Nature, Space and Society into a Town-green Hybrid
Authors: Rice Louis
Published: September 2014

The paper describes the transformation of derelict land into a ‘town-green’ and the role legislation played in transforming social and natural relationships. Town-green denotes a legal status under the Great Britain Commons Act (2006) that protects certain open spaces from building development; the status requires that a space must simultaneously have a specific social quality (i.e. ‘town-ness’) and a specific natural quality (i.e. ‘green-ness‘). This hybrid condition requires an alliance between society and nature in a certain configuration (referred to here as nature2 and society2). In this empirical study it involved the participation and consensus of local residents, volunteer gardeners as well as nature itself; flowers needed to bloom and grass had to grow in order for the hybrid town-green status to be conferred. There are two distinct phases of this transformation; the first is the change in identities and configuration of the constituents of town and green. This involved the production of a modified ‘real’ world with: different plants and flowers; reconfigured spatial arrangements; as well as different social actors. The second phase is a shift from changes in the ‘real’ world towards an ‘enmap’ – a displacement of myriad actors into documentation. This transfer from a complex messy reality into an enmap permitted the legitimation of the new network to be accepted as a ‘town-green’. What the research reveals, other than hints for gardeners and community activists, is how material and non-material; social and natural; spatial, discursive and temporal worlds are hybridised.