bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Concrete Quality on the Acoustic Emission Parameters during Three-Point Bending Fracture Test
Authors: Matysík Michal , Topolář Libor , Daněk Petr , Vymazal Tomáš , Plšková Iveta
Published: February 2014

Acoustic emission is an experimental tool well suited for monitoring fracture processes. The paper presents experiment focused on analysing acoustic emission signals captured during three-point bending fracture test of specimens of concrete. Quantitative acoustic emission techniques were used to measure micro fracture properties. For three different concrete mixtures typical acoustic emission patterns were identified in the acoustic emission records to further describe the under-the-stress behaviour and failure development. If we have a better understanding of the relationships between micro structural events and macroscopic behaviour we can better formulate predictive models for large-scale structural performance and reliability. An understanding of microstructureperformance relationships is the key to true understanding of material behaviours. Three-point bending fracture tests were conducted on these specimens and load versus crack mouth opening displacement (Load-CMOD) diagrams were recorded during the testing.
Influence of Contact Parameters on Load-Carrying Capacity of Hybrid Composite Cross-Section
Authors: Kotes Peter
Published: February 2014

FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) materials are corrosion resistant not requiring any specific treatment. The utilization of these materials is expanding. New research works have started to focus on using these materials on self-contained formwork in composite systems. It allows decreasing the concrete cover on minimum value just to assure sufficient bonding between reinforcement and concrete (the influence of aggressive environment is minimal). Moreover, the stay-in-place formwork is self-contained. It means using this system as formwork during casting of concrete and another supporting structure is not needed.
The paper is focused on experimental analysis of stay-in-place GFRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic) formwork in composite system (three-functional GFRP formwork and reinforced concrete slab – RC slab) and its use on floors in building structures. The load-carrying capacity of the composite system is highly influenced by quality of cohesion between GFRP formwork and concrete. This cohesion was investigated by using “push tests”. The results from experimental push tests were compared with the numerical model and also will serve for numerical modelling of real bonding of the girders.
Testing Self-Levelling Floor Screeds on the Basis of Ternary Binder
Authors: Magrla Radek , Gazdič Dominik , Novák Jan
Published: February 2014

The work deals with processing and testing self-levelling floor screeds on the basis of ternary binder system of Portland cement - aluminous cement gypsum, to meet the target of ettringite development.
Thermoanalytical Study of Binders Containing Pozzolanic and Latent Hydraulic Materials
Authors: Mec Pavel , Khestl Filip , Murínová Tereza , Boháčová Jana
Published: February 2014

The course of hydration and the resulting structure in binders containing pozzolan and latent hydraulic materials is still widely investigated area. In this work we studied the course of hydration by calorimetry of cement with several types of different reactive admixtures. After determining the results of hydration the DTA / TG analysis of the resulting material was carried out. Qualitative comparisons of resulting products are primarily implemented.
Surface Morphology Study on Fibres Treated in Cold Plasma Discharge
Authors: Kopkáně Daniel , Macháňová Petra , Bodnárová Lenka , Morávek Tomáš
Published: February 2014

The paper presents results related to surface treatment of polypropylene fibres with intention to increase its performance in cement composite by exposing such fibres in cold plasma discharge. In was previously demonstrated that such treatment has beneficial effect. Here we focused mainly on the changes in the surface. The study was carried out by electron microscopy, confocal microscopy and microscopy of atomic forces. The results suggest increasing degree of change in the surface as the energy of discharge and time of exposure increase. Atomic force microscopy indicates increase in adhesion force.
Effect of High Proportion of Blended Cement in Concrete
Authors: Křížová Klára , Hela Rudolf
Published: February 2014

The paper is concerned with assessment of blended cement high proportion in mix design of concrete. A long term development of concrete compressive strength and static modulus of elasticity were monitored. The cement proportion reached even 450 kg per m3 of concrete. The high proportion of blended cement was used with aim to obtain declared modulus of elasticity values for the given concrete strength class according to EN 1992-1-1. And just the blended cement influence was positively verified in the long-term development of both monitored parameters.
Use of Impact-Echo Method to Test High-Temperature Degraded Cementitious Composite Materials Containing Rubber Aggregates and Acrylic Polymer Binder
Authors: Štefková Daniela , Tupý Michael , Šamárková Kristýna , Chobola Zdeněk , Sotiriadis Konstantinos , Petranek Vít
Published: February 2014

The present paper deals with the use of Impact-echo acoustic method to test cement-based mortar composites degraded at high temperatures. The specimens were prepared by using a type CEM I Portland cement and siliceous sand, as well as by substituting 25% of sand with shredded automobile tires and by adding acrylic polymer binder (20% w/w to cement mass). The samples were were subjected to high-temperature treatment in the temperature range of 200-400 °C. The acoustic results confirmed the differences in the structure of mortar specimens. The addition of rubber aggregates in H2 and H3 specimens resulted in lower frequencies compared to H1 specimen. It was also observed the dropping down of the frequencies for the temperatures between 200-300°C, indicating that the effect of heat treatment was mitigated when the acrylic binder was added.
Possibilities of Recycled Concrete Aggregate in Cement-Based Flowscreed
Authors: Hubáček Adam , Boehme Luc , Nováková Iveta
Published: February 2014

This paper presents some test-results of using fine recycled concrete as a partial replacement of natural aggregates in cement-based flowscreed. Special attention is given to describing and studying rheological characteristics and mechanical properties of cement-based flowscreed. Experimental results indicate that it is possible to prepare flowscreed with partial replacement of natural aggregates by recycled aggregates and obtain a quality that meets the requirements. This study was partially connected to the research-project RecyFlowscreed [1].
Sealing Layers on Concrete Bridge Decks
Authors: Plachy Jan , Petranek Vít , Caha Zdenek
Published: February 2014

This contribution deals with the issue of epoxy resin based sealing layers as a part of waterproofing system of concrete bridge decks. The contribution focuses on semi-operational and laboratory tests performed to investigate failures of the carriageways on bridges.
Development of Resistant Coating Systems Based on Polymer Binders
Authors: Tupý Michael , Petranek Vít , Kosíková Jana
Published: February 2014

The aim of the work was to propose the application for waste secondary materials as filler in polymer coating systems. Authors decided to use two different water-based epoxide binders: Lena N141 and Lena N 121 and the waste suitable materials were chosen by its chemical and physical composition and properties. Used recycled materials were glass of windscreen, glass beads, screen, glass packaging and fluorescent glass. The particle size and scanning of grain were determined. The chemical resistance and the adhesion of coating materials to the common substrate were also tested. The chemical resistance was tested with substances: distilled water, oil, petrol, acetone, 20% water solution of NaCl, 50 % water solution of ethanol, 5 % and 30 % water solution of NaOH a 20 % water solution of H2SO4.
The Influence of Vacuum Mixing on the Porosity of Ultra High Performance Concrete
Authors: Kirnbauer Johannes
Published: February 2014

The influence of vacuum mixing on the porosity of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) was examined. For this reason, test specimen with a typical mix composition for UHPC were prepared and cured in six different ways. The pore size distribution and the total porosity were determined by the use of mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP). The results show that the total porosity of vacuum mixed UHPC is significantly different than of conventionally mixed UHPC within all curing methods. Since UHPC generally only has a little amount of capillary pores, a change in porosity was determined due to a change in the range of gel pores.
Perlite Concrete Based on Alkali Activated Cements
Authors: Petranek Vít , Kryvenko Pavlo V. , Petropavlovsky Оleg , Guzii Sergii
Published: February 2014

The use of the alkali activated cements for the manufacture of perlite concrete pressed and vibro-pressed products for heat insulation intended for various purposes was studied. The interfacial transition zone perlite grain cement stone was examined in order to reveal features of its formation. These features allow to create a dense and strong shell/caging around the perlite grain which helps to avoid its corrosion and produce perlite concretes with high durability.
Autoclaving Time Influence on Fly Ash Aerated Concrete Compressive Strength and Microstructure
Authors: Helanová Ester , Drochytka Rostislav , Janovský Radek
Published: February 2014

The fly ash aerated concrete is a modern material combining high use value with environmental aspects of its production. It is mainly an utilisation of secondary raw materials with related minimum consumption of natural resources. The resulting properties the aerated concrete product obtains by autoclaving during which a complete line of calcium hydro silicates are formed due to occurring hydrothermal reaction and tobermorite mineral is the most important one. This mineral has a significant influence principally on aerated concrete strength. This article thus verifies the autoclaving time influence on tobermoritic phase developments and to this related compressive strength of the fly ash aerated concrete.
Polymer-Modified Mortars with Increased Amount of C-S-H Phase
Authors: Žižková Nikol
Published: February 2014

The article focuses on the observation of the quality of polymer-modified mortars, where through the use of appropriate types of by-products the amount of C-S-H phase registered an increase. Specifically, it was waste shale and waste diatomaceous earth because these two by-products displayed pozzolana reaction. Tests were performed which showed that the increased content of C-S-H phase contributes to the improvement in monitored properties, particularly increase in the values of adhesiveness.
The External Thermal Insulation Material Made of Technical Hemp
Authors: Keprdová Šárka , Bydžovský Jiří
Published: February 2014

The paper discusses the possibilities of production of external thermal insulation material from technical hemp bonded mixture of cement, hydraulic lime and secondary raw materials. To verify the applicability of this material as a heat-insulating, it was necessary to test its properties. The basic characteristics are to be determined bulk weight and heat conductivity factor. Additionally was also tested the tensile strength in bending and compressive strength. Based on the measured properties was decided to evaluate the applicability of this material as an additional thermal insulation.
Application of Alternative Fillers in the Cement-Bonded Particleboards Structure
Authors: Keprdová Šárka , Křížová Klára
Published: February 2014

Cement-bonded particleboards merge the good properties of wood and cement; they are board materials with properties which are pre-determined for use in many different cases in the case of construction of walls and partition walls, lower ceilings, facades, floors, etc. The disadvantage of the cement-bonded particleboards is the relatively high price which is mainly derived from the price of input materials. The main component creating the filler for cement-bonded particleboards is wood. Wooden chips are produced from tree trunks of cut trees which mean that, first of all, it is necessary to produce chips from the wooden substance. By using alternative fillers, it is possible to partially or wholly avoid this part of the production. The use of alternative raw materials in construction materials means there is the opportunity to decrease manufacturing costs and eliminate ecological loads.
The content of this paper is the use of alternative fillers as an organic, as well as inorganic origin in the structure of cement-bonded particleboards. For the production of boards, technical hemp was selected, straw and jute as representatives of the most often used organic raw materials followed by a narrow fraction of Refaglas cellular glass, synthetic fibres and waste from the production of ORSIL mineral wool. In the board structure, this concerned 100% or 50% substitution of wooden splinter. For the valorisation of options for future use in board materials, physical-mechanical properties were monitored; in particular, attention was paid to bending strength, modulus of elasticity in bending and bulk density. Newly created boards must fulfil the technical parameters required for cement bonded particleboards stated by the standard EN 634-2.
Identification of Thermal Conductivity of Powdery Insulation Materials
Authors: Jarošová Petra , Šťastník Stanislav , Vala Jiří
Published: February 2014

The optimal design of the heat storage, as a part of the Czech-Swedish project of the development of original equipment for exploiting solar energy using optical fibres, requires a reliable evaluation of thermal conductivity of powdery materials for insulation layers, both under normal air pressure and in vacuum. The standard evaluation of thermal conductivity of such materials makes use of the stationary ball-shape measurement device, with the strong requirement to the of the ball vessel, to the thermal contraction of applied materials, as well as to all temperature sensors. The paper presents the original alternative non-expensive measurement equipment with the cylindrical vessel, supplied with the ANSYS-supported computational tool, producing results of comparable validity.
Influence of Different Grinding Types on Granulometry of Cement Grains
Authors: Dvořák Karel
Published: February 2014

This work is opening study in issue of potential utilization of high-speed shredder for portland cement grinding. The article deals with comparison the influence of traditional ball mill with high-speed shredder on shape and size of grains.
Performance of Fiber-Cement Boards in Biogenic Sulphate Environment
Authors: Eštoková Adriana , Harbulakova Vlasta Ondrejka , Luptáková Alena , Števulová Nadežda
Published: February 2014

The paper presents the results of the study of selected fiber-cement boards parameters influenced by sulphur-oxidising (Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans) and sulphur-reducing bacteria (Desulfovibrio desulfuricans) attack. The experiments proceeded during 80 days under laboratory model conditions. The surface changes, chemical composition and pH of leachates as well as weight changes were investigated. The more extensive leaching of silicon and calcium ions from the cement matrix was confirmed under bacteria influence. The pH of liquid media has been settled to 7 and 9 for Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans and Desulfovibrio desulfuricans, respectively after initial increasing. Very small decrease in weight of samples in range 0.001 - 0.93 % was measured after the experiments.
Testing of Clay Used for Building a Folk House Replica by Traditional Techniques
Authors: Všianský Dalibor , Novotný Martin
Published: February 2014

The paper describes the mineralogical and petrographic examinations and testing of the mechanical properties of loess and the experimental adobe bricks. The tested material corresponds to a common loess, which was traditionally used in clay buildings in the region. Due both to its composition and mechanical properties it was found to be applicable as a rammed earth building material, and was later used for building a replica of a traditional Moravian folk house at the open-air museum in Strážnice, Czech Republic. The research is part of a cultural heritage documentation and preservation project.
Thermal Insulating Alkali-Activated Materials with Lightweight Aggregate
Authors: Boháčová Jana , Staněk Stanislav , Mec Pavel
Published: February 2014

The paper deals with laboratory research and development of alkali activated system with thermal insulating properties where low density materials are used. The experiment is focused on strength and heat conductivity of prepared substances.
In research five kinds of mixtures were prepared. The values of compressive strength and thermal conductivity of tested admixtures qualitatively correspond to commercially available building material. Results are foundations for next lightweight alkali activated system development and research focused on practical application in building industry.
Analysis of Possibility of Using Geopolymers in Rehabilitation of Reinforced Concrete Structures
Authors: Dufka Ámos , Brožovský Jiří , Mészárosová Lenka
Published: February 2014

The article is focused on analysis of using geopolymers as matrixes to repair mortars designated for rehabilitation of reinforced concrete structures. Due to their specific properties, geopolymers show a high potential mainly for special applications. Rehabilitation of reinforced concrete structures exposed to extreme conditions is a field in which it is possible to effectively take advantage of geopolymers ́ exceptional properties.
Modification of the Raw Mix for Firing of Dicalcium Silicate Using Potassium Sulphate
Authors: Gazdič Dominik , Fridrichová Marcela , Walter Martin
Published: February 2014

The paper focuses on the study of the formation mechanism of belite (dicalcium silicate) catalyzed with potassium ions in the form of chemically pure salt of potassium sulphate at various modes of firing in order to increase its reactivity. To verify the function of potassium sulphate as a substance enhancing the reactivity of C2S, 3 material mixtures were tested; they contained 0, 1 and 2 % of K2O recalculated per fired dicalcium silicate.
Preparation and Characterization of Gold Nanoparticles in Chitosan Suspension by One-Pot Chemical Reduction Method
Authors: Lakshmi Narayanan R. , Sivakumar M.
Published: February 2014

Gold nanoparticles were synthesized in chitosan suspension by one-pot chemical reduction method without any chemical reducing reagent. In aqueous acidic medium, chitosan exhibits polycationic nature due to protonation of amine groups of each glucosamine repeating units. The adsorption of AuCl4- ions occurs on chitosan through electrostatic attraction and further reduction of Au3+ to Au0 proceeds through a three electron transfer mechanism by oxidation of protonated amine groups of chitosan chain. The change of color from dirty yellow to intense red indicates the formation of gold nanoparticles in chitosan suspension which acts as both reducing and stabilizing agent. Characterization techniques such as UV-VIS, FTIR, Zeta potential measurement, FESEM and TEM were carried out in order to examine the reduction and stabilization phenomena rendered by chitosan.
Content Analysis of Child Rearings of Mothers in Infant and Child Preschool.
Authors: Park Sun Jung
Published: February 2014

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the parenting of mothers with infants and preschoolers in an effort to determine types of parenting.METHODS: The 32 participating mothers were interviewed and from the content of the interviews, their parenting was analyzed. Statements were categorized and analyzed according to the selected procedure.RESULTS: The parenting of mothers was classified into positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement, including 55 significant statements and 14 categories. Positive reinforcement was categorized as frequent skin contact, giving pleasure, spending a lot of time with children, improving children's self-esteem, being sensitive to children's needs, realistic discipline, developing independence, listening to children, and understanding and respecting children's feelings. Negative reinforcement was categorized as overprotection, inconsistent attitude, negligence, negative educational behavior, and emphasis on obedience.CONCLUSION: These results suggest that systematic education should be provided for mothers to increase their ability to provide good parenting. It is expected that the findings of this study would be useful in the development of efficient educational programs.
Grieving among Adolescent Survivors of Childhood Cancer: A Situational Analysis.
Authors: Jin Juhye
Published: February 2014

PURPOSE: The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore how adolescent survivors of childhood cancer grieve the death of cancer peers.METHODS: Data were obtained from Korean adolescents with cancer between the ages of 13 and 18 (N=12) through semi-structured interviews (face-to-face, telephone, and Internet chatting), observations of the social dynamics of participants in self-help groups, and retrieval of personal Web journals. Based on the grounded theory methodology, data collection and analysis were conducted simultaneously, and constant comparative methods were used. Clarke's situational analysis was adopted, and this paper focused on presenting "how to" and "what we can learn" from this analytic strategy.RESULTS: Mapping examples were visualized using of three modes of maps. Adolescent cancer survivors coped with reminders of the "darkness" that ultimately featured their overall grief. Additionally, adolescents' encounters and avoidance of grief were triggered by introspection and interactions with family and friends.CONCLUSION: Situational analysis provided an efficient way to analyze the experiences of adolescent survivors of childhood cancer by systematizing possible information within the relational social contexts of the research phenomenon.
Bovine cysticercosis and its food safety implications in Harari People’s National Regional State, eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Terefe Yitagele , Redwan Feysel , Zewdu Endrias
Published: February 2014

Taenia saginata cysticercosis is one of the zoonotic diseases that threaten food safety and food security, particularly in developing countries. A cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the prevalence and cyst distribution in infected cattle, and food safety implications of Taenia saginata cysticercosis in Harari People’s National Regional State, eastern Ethiopia. Post-mortem inspection of carcasses and organs of slaughtered cattle in Harar Municipal Abattoir, cyst viability tests and interviews with randomly selected meat consumers were undertaken. The post-mortem inspection showed that of the 898 local zebu cattle slaughtered for human consumption and examined for the presence of cysticerci of T. saginata, 19.7% (177/898; 95% CI = 17.2–22.5) harboured at least one cyst in the muscles or organs inspected. Of the edible anatomical sites with cysticerci, shoulder muscle, liver and heart together represented 65.4%, 66.0% and 65.4% respectively of relative prevalence, total cyst count and cyst viability. These edible sites are preferred above others by local people for preparation and consumption of raw or inadequately cooked meat dishes that are locally served as kurt, kitffo and dullet. The interviews revealed that among the 300 study participants, 182 (60.7%) had been infected by taeniosis at least once during the previous year and of these 99.0% had eaten raw or undercooked beef, the majority (88.3%) obtained from butchers assumed to provide officially inspected meat that was fit for consumption. This indicated that existing meat inspection processes were inadequate to prevent carcasses infected with T. saginata cysticerci from reaching consumers. The high prevalence of viable cysts in the edible parts of beef together with the widespread consumption of raw or undercooked beef indicated the importance of T. saginata cysticercosis as a food safety problem in eastern Ethiopia. The promotion of policies to upgrade existing meat inspection procedures and public education to ensure effective prevention of T. saginata taeniosis in humans were recommended.
Service delivery and coverage in primary healthcare in a community-health project in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Salami Kabiru K. , Brieger William R.
Published: February 2014

Background: Standard health-service delivery aimed toward improving maternal and childhealth status remains elusive in Nigeria because of inaccuracies in data documentation leading to a lack of relatively stable evidence.Objectives: Through a community-health project, this study tested the accuracy of record keeping in primary healthcare services in nine clinics run in Ibadan, Nigeria.Methods: A validation exercise was performed through a sample of the 10 most recent names extracted from three registers maintained by each clinic.Results: A review of the register covering a period of four years showed a steady increase in: fully-immunised children, registration for antenatal care during the first trimester of pregnancy, the number of women who attended antenatal care at least three times, the overall number of women who booked for antenatal care and women who delivered in Eniosa Community-Health Project facilities over the four-year period. It was possible to trace 86% of those selected from the antenatal care register, 88.9% of those from the birth register and 81.1%of those from the immunisation register. Four women who should have been included for antenatal care, seven who had delivered (but were not in the register) and 13 who reportedlyreceived immunisation but were not listed were found during the validation exercise.Conclusion: This study concludes that the names appearing in the register are likely to represent valid events, but that the registers did not capture all such events in the community.
Discovery of Emphysema Relevant Molecular Networks from an A/J Mouse Inhalation Study Using Reverse Engineering and Forward Simulation (REFS™)
Authors: Xiang Yang , Kogel Ulrike , Gebel Stephan , Peck Michael J. , Peitsch Manuel C. , Akmaev Viatcheslav R. , Hoeng Julia
Published: February 2014

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a respiratory disorder caused by extended exposure of the airways to noxious stimuli, principally cigarette smoke (CS). The mechanisms through which COPD develops are not fully understood, though it is believed that the disease process includes a genetic component, as not all smokers develop COPD. To investigate the mechanisms that lead to the development of COPD/emphysema, we measured whole genome gene expression and several COPD-relevant biological endpoints in mouse lung tissue after exposure to two CS doses for various lengths of time. A novel and powerful method, Reverse Engineering and Forward Simulation (REFS™), was employed to identify key molecular drivers by integrating the gene expression data and four measured COPD-relevant endpoints (matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, MMP-9 levels, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 levels and lung weight). An ensemble of molecular networks was generated using REFS™, and simulations showed that it could successfully recover the measured experimental data for gene expression and COPD-relevant endpoints. The ensemble of networks was then employed to simulate thousands of in silico gene knockdown experiments. Thirty-three molecular key drivers for the above four COPD-relevant endpoints were therefore identified, with the majority shown to be enriched in inflammation and COPD.
Impact of Day Intervals on Sequential Infestations of the Rice Leaffolder Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Guenée) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) and the White-Backed Rice Planthopper Sogatella furcifera (Horváth) on Rice Grain Damage
Authors: Jiang Li-Ben , Cheng Jia , Zhu Zhan-Fei , Ge Lin-Quan , Yang Guo-Qing , Wu Jin-Cai
Published: February 2014

The present study illustrates that different day intervals (DIs) between the sequential infestations of two pest species, the rice leaffolder (RLF) Cnaphalocrocis medinalis Guenée (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) and the white-backed rice planthopper (WBPH) Sogatella furcifera Horváth (Hemiptera: Delphacidae), have a significant impact on the rice yield loss rate (YLR) and on the carbohydrate contents of rice plants. For WBPH release after RLF release (WRARR), the YLR decreased with the increasing DIs, and the YLR at the 24 DI was significantly lower compared to that at the 6 and 12 DIs and had a minimum value for a simultaneous infestation of the two pest species (SITS). In contrast, for RLF release after WBPH release (RRAWR), the YLR at the 24 DI had a maximum value and was significantly higher compared to that at the 6 and 12 DIs and the SITS. These findings indicate that damaged rice plants gradually recover, with an increase in the DI for WRARR. The above results were demonstrated by biochemical tests. Therefore, the sequential infestation of the two pest species and their DIs should be considered for integrated pest management (IPM) and control strategies for rice pests.
Intercomparison of carbonate chemistry measurements on a cruise in northwestern European shelf seas
Authors: Ribas-Ribas M. , Rérolle V. M. C. , Bakker D. C. E. , Kitidis V. , Lee G. A. , Brown I. , Achterberg E. P. , Tyrrell T.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Four carbonate system variables were measured in surface waters during a cruise traversing northwestern European shelf seas in the summer of 2011. High resolution surface water data were collected for partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2; using two independent instruments) and pHT, in addition to discrete measurements of total alkalinity and dissolved inorganic carbon. We thus overdetermined the carbonate system (four measured variables, two degrees of freedom) which allowed us to evaluate the level of agreement between the variables. Calculations of carbonate system variables from other measurements generally compared well (Pearson's correlation coefficient always ≥ 0.94; mean residuals similar to the respective uncertainties of the calculations) with direct observations of the same variables. We therefore conclude that the four independent datasets of carbonate chemistry variables were all of high quality, and as a result that this dataset is suitable to be used for the evaluation of ocean acidification impacts and for carbon cycle studies. A diurnal cycle with maximum amplitude of 41 μatm was observed in the difference between the pCO2; values obtained by the two independent analytical pCO2; systems, and this was partly attributed to irregular seawater flows to the equilibrator and partly to biological activity inside the seawater supply and one of the equilibrators. We discuss how these issues can be addressed to improve carbonate chemistry data quality on research cruises.
Illustrating a new global-scale approach to estimating potential reduction in fish species richness due to flow alteration
Authors: Yoshikawa S. , Yanagawa A. , Iwasaki Y. , Sui P. , Koirala S. , Hirano K. , Khajuria A. , Mahendran R. , Hirabayashi Y. , Yoshimura C. , Kanae S.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Changes in river discharge due to human activities and climate change would affect the sustainability of freshwater ecosystems. To globally assess how changes in river discharge will affect the future status of freshwater ecosystems, global-scale hydrological simulations need to be connected with a model to estimate the durability of freshwater ecosystems. However, the development of this specific modelling combination for the global scale is still in its infancy. In this study, two statistical methods are introduced to link flow regimes to fish species richness (FSR): one is based on a linear relationship between FSR and mean river discharge (hereafter, FSR-MAD method), and the other is based on a multi-linear relationship between FSR and ecologically relevant flow indices involving several other flow characteristics and mean river discharge (FSR-FLVAR method). The FSR-MAD method has been used previously in global simulation studies. The FSR-FLVAR method is newly introduced here. These statistical methods for estimating FSR were combined with a set of global river discharge simulations to evaluate the potential impact of climate-change-induced flow alterations on FSR changes. Generally, future reductions in FSR with the FSR-FLVAR method are greater and much more scattered than with the FSR-MAD method. In arid regions, both methods indicate reductions in FSR because mean discharge is projected to decrease from past to future, although the magnitude of reductions in FSR is different between the two methods. In contrast, in heavy-snow regions a large reduction in FSR is shown by the FSR-FLVAR method due to increases in the frequency of low and high flows. Although further research is clearly needed to conclude which method is more appropriate, this study demonstrates that the FSR-FLVAR method could produce considerably different results when assessing the global role of flow alterations in changing freshwater ecosystems.
Advancing catchment hydrology to deal with predictions under change
Authors: Ehret U. , Gupta H. V. , Sivapalan M. , Weijs S. V. , Schymanski S. J. , Blöschl G. , Gelfan A. N. , Harman C. , Kleidon A. , Bogaard T. A. , Wang D. , Wagener T. , Scherer U. , Zehe E. , Bierkens M. F. P. , Di Baldassarre G. , Parajka J. , van Beek L. P. H. , van Griensven A. , Westhoff M. C. , Winsemius H. C.
Published: February 2014

Abstract. Throughout its historical development, hydrology as an earth science, but especially as a problem-centred engineering discipline has largely relied (quite successfully) on the assumption of stationarity. This includes assuming time invariance of boundary conditions such as climate, system configurations such as land use, topography and morphology, and dynamics such as flow regimes and flood recurrence at different spatio-temporal aggregation scales. The justification for this assumption was often that when compared with the temporal, spatial, or topical extent of the questions posed to hydrology, such conditions could indeed be considered stationary, and therefore the neglect of certain long-term non-stationarities or feedback effects (even if they were known) would not introduce a large error.
Dialogue on ‘Dialogic Education’: Has Rupert gone over to ‘the Dark Side’?
Authors: Matusov Eugene , Wegerif Rupert
Published: February 2014

This email dialogue that we record and report here between Eugene Matusov and Rupert Wegerif, exemplifies Internet mediated dialogic education. When Eugene emailed Rupert with his initial (mis)understanding of Rupert's position about dialogic pedagogy Rupert felt really motivated to reply. Rupert was not simply motivated to refute Eugene and assert his correctness, although Rupert is sure such elements enter into every dialogue, but also to explore and to try to resolve the issues ignited by the talk in New Zealand. Through this extended dialogue Rupert's and Eugene's positions become more nuanced and focussed. Rupert brings out his concern with the long-term and collective nature of some dialogues claiming that the – "dialogue of humanity that education serves is bigger than the interests of particular students and particular teachers.…" – and so he argues that it is often reasonable to induct students into the dialogue so far so that they can participate fully. On the other hand, Eugene's view of dialogue seems more focussed on personal responsibility, particular individual desires, interests and positions, individual agency and answering the final ethical "damned questions" without an alibi-in-being.  Rupert claims that dialogic education is education FOR dialogue and Eugene claims that dialogic education is education AS dialogue. Both believe in education THROUGH dialogue but education through dialogue is not in itself dialogic education. For Rupert dialogic education can include ‘scaffolding’ for full participation in dialogue as long as dialogue is the aim. For Eugene dialogic education has to be a genuine dialogue and this means that a curriculum goal cannot be specified in advance because learning in a dialogue is always emergent and unpredictable. Our dialogue-disagreement is a relational and discursive experiment to develop a new genre of academic critical dialogue. The dialogue itself called to us and motivated us and flowed through us. This dialogue is much bigger than us. It participates in a dialogue that humanity has been having about education for thousands of years. We hope that it also engages you and calls you to respond.
Defending the Secular from its Secularist Critics Albert Camus, Saint Augustine, and the New Atheism
Authors: Carlson John D.
Published: February 2014

There is an intellectual movement afoot—known commonly as “new atheism”—that has undertaken a concerted effort to hijack the secular. This project involves arming secularists who wish to keep religion out of political deliberation, if not public life altogether. There are several moral and intellectual failings of this approach that emanate from the distorted conception of “the secular” that the new atheists presume. While considerable scholarly discussion in the past decade has been paid to problems of secularity, secularism, and the secular more broadly, this scholarship has largely overlooked the ideas and insights of the Nobel Prize–winning writer and philosopher Albert Camus, the centennial of whose birth was celebrated in 2013. An unbeliever distinctive for his humility, Camus at times formed common cause with religious figures and, at other times, engaged them critically. He exemplifies an oft-forgotten conception of the secular first articulated by the church father Saint Augustine. Interestingly, Camus knew and admired Augustine's work even if he didn't share his faith. What they did share—a common upbringing in North Africa, a deep intellectual preoccupation with the problem of evil, and a concern to distinguish the affairs of this world from all forms of political absolutism or heavenly utopianism—formed the basis for a vision of the secular that is much in need in our own polarizing times.
The Past Beneath Our Feet: UCL's New Institute for Cultural Heritage Sits Upon a Considerable Sedimentary Heritage
Authors: Flower Roger , Taylor Robert
Published: February 2014

Many members of college will know that as part of an array of inspiring major initiatives for UCL, a new institute, the Institute for Cultural Heritage, is to be built adjacent to the Bloomsbury Theatre on Gordon Street. The new IfCH will promote heritage globally and mark a new dimension for heritage studies in the College. Preparations are well advanced for the new build and some of you will have noticed the ground clearance and surveying activities going on at the site between the Bloomsbury Theatre and 26 Gordon Square; across the road is the Institute of Archaeology.
Cultural Grounding for the Transmission of the "Moon Man" Figure in the Tale of the "Predestined Wife" (ATU 930A)
Authors: Zhang Juwen
Published: February 2014

Focusing on the "Moon Man" (or matchmaker) in the tale "Predestined Wife" (ATU 930A) in Chinese examples, this article applies the historic-geographic method in a broad cultural context by exploring how the Moon Man figure in the tale has been transmitted and transformed over the past two millennia and is still alive in oral tradition, and how elements in tales rise and fall because of their relations to the fundamental values in the culture. This author argues that any key element in an "imported" tale must have familiar characteristics enabling it to adapt to the local audience and take root and, in turn, strengthen hidden beliefs and values, and that the transformation or migration of tales is the precursor of cultural integration that continues in our everyday practices.
An online short-term bed occupancy rate prediction procedure based on discrete event simulation
Authors: Zhecheng Zhu
Published: February 2014

In recent years, population growth and aging society impose large pressure on the resource requirement in Singapore public hospital system. Beds are one of the most critical resources in healthcare system. How to manage beds efficiently is an important and challenging task for the health service providers in any healthcare systems. One frequently used performance indicator of bed management is bed occupancy rate, which measures the bed utilization. In this paper, an online prediction procedure based on discrete event simulation is proposed and developed to predict bed occupancy rate in a short term period. Simulation results show that the predicted values are closer to the actual values with narrower confidence interval compared to the offline approach. Hence such a prediction procedure is able to provide a more reliable reference for decision making of the health service providers.
La empresa 60 de las Empresas Morales de Juan de Borja. Posible origen textual de la imagen del caracol
Authors: Martínez Sobrino Alejandro
Published: February 2014

ABSTRACT: The author of this essay argues that the source of the image of the snail from Juan de Borja’s 60th impresa of his Empresas Morales is textual, and that it can be traced back to the Picta Poesis by Aneau Barthèlemy. KEYWORDS: Source, Snail, Impresa, Empresas Morales, Juan de Borja, Picta Poesis, Aneau Barthèlemy.   RESUMEN: El autor defiende, en el presente artículo, que el origen de la imagen del caracol que aparece en la empresa número 60 de las Empresas Morales de Juan de Borja posee un origen escrito y que puede rastrearse hasta la Picta Poesis de Aneau Barthèlemy. PALABRAS CLAVES: Origen, Caracol, Empresa, Empresas Morales, Juan de Borja, Picta Poesis, Aneau Barthèlemy.
Una aproximación a la cultura visual de la fiesta barroca. Los retratos de presencias virtuales
Authors: López de Munain Gorka
Published: February 2014

ABSTRACT: In this study I deal briefly with some issues related to the visual culture of the Baroque festival; and more specifically, with those related to the royal portraits that were on display during the festive activities. To this end I place special emphasis on developing the concepts of presence, body and virtuality –as applied to those works or visual objects– from an approach that offers a new theoretical framework, namely, that which involves «image studies» or «visual culture studies» (Bildwissenschaft, Bildanthropologie y visual studies). KEYWORDS: Baroque Festival, Royal Portraits, Presence, Body, Virtuality, Image Studies.   RESUMEN: En el presente estudio abordaremos brevemente algunas cuestiones relativas a la cultura visual de la fiesta barroca; y más específicamente, aquellas vinculadas a los retratos reales que se exponían durante los actos festivos. Para ello, pondremos especial énfasis en desarrollar los conceptos de presencia, cuerpo y virtualidad –aplicados a dichas obras u objetos visuales–, desde un marco teórico novedoso como es el determinado por los estudios de la imagen o estudios de cultura visual (Bildwissenschaft, Bildanthropologie y visual studies). PALABRAS CLAVES: fiesta barroca, retratos reales, presencia, cuerpo, virtualidad, estudios de la imagen.
Games that People Played in Early Modern Europa and the Emblem
Authors: Daly Peter M.
Published: February 2014

ABSTRACT: This study explores the existence and readership of board games in 16th and 17th century Europe of an emblematic nature. Such games may have derived from the conversation games featured in Baldassare Castiglione's The Book of the Courtier (1528), a work which includes a passage on emblems. In the Spanish tradition, the Filosofía cortesana moralizada (1587) of Alonso de Barros is a book of instructions on how to play this highly emblematic courtly board game, the board of which has unfortunately been lost. Some English emblems of the 17th century also include emblems likely based on Castiglione that depict the courtier as both warrior and scholar. Future studies need to clarify the readership and social class of these emblematic books and their print history. KEYWORDS: Emblematic Board Games, Readership, Baldassare Castiglione, The Book of the Courtier, Alonso de Barros, Filosofía cortesana moralizada.   RESUMEN: Este estudio explora la existencia y número de lectores de juegos de tablero de índole emblemática en la Europa de los siglos XVI y XVII. Tales juegos pueden haberse derivado de El Cortesano de Baltasar Castiglione (1528), obra que incluye un pasaje sobre los emblemas. En la tradición española, la Filosofía cortesana moralizada (1587) de Alonso de Barros es un manual de instrucciones sobre cómo jugar este juego de tablero cortesano de naturaleza emblemática, cuyo tablero, desafortunadadmente, no se ha conservado. Ciertos emblemas ingleses del siglo XVII incluyen emblemas, inspirados probablemente por Castiglione, que retratan al cortesano como guerrero y hombre de letras. La investigación futura debe aclarar el número y posición social de los lectores de estos libros, y la historia de su publicación. PALABRAS CLAVES: Juegos de tablero emblemáticos, Número de lectores, Baltasar Castiglione, El Cortesano, Alonso de Barros, Filosofía cortesana moralizada.
Cuestiones religiosas en los Emblemata (Amberes, 1565) de Adriano Junio
Authors: Espigares Pinilla Antonio
Published: February 2014

ABSTRACT: In this study I deal briefly with some issues related to the visual culture of the Baroque festival; and more specifically, with those related to the royal portraits that were on display during the festive activities. To this end I place special emphasis on developing the concepts of presence, body and virtuality –as applied to those works or visual objects– from an approach that offers a new theoretical framework, namely, that which involves «image studies» or «visual culture studies» (Bildwissenschaft, Bildanthropologie y visual studies). KEYWORDS: Baroque Festival, Royal Portraits, Presence, Body, Virtuality, Image Studies.   RESUMEN: En el presente estudio abordaremos brevemente algunas cuestiones relativas a la cultura visual de la fiesta barroca; y más específicamente, aquellas vinculadas a los retratos reales que se exponían durante los actos festivos. Para ello, pondremos especial énfasis en desarrollar los conceptos de presencia, cuerpo y virtualidad –aplicados a dichas obras u objetos visuales–, desde un marco teórico novedoso como es el determinado por los estudios de la imagen o estudios de cultura visual (Bildwissenschaft, Bildanthropologie y visual studies).PALABRAS CLAVES: fiesta barroca, retratos reales, presencia, cuerpo, virtualidad, estudios de la imagen.
El Guernica. Estudio iconográfico. Jesús María González de Zárate
Authors: García Mahíques Rafael
Published: February 2014

Recensión crítica del libro de Jesúa María González de Zárate: El Guernica. Estudio iconográfico, Ayuntamiento de Gernika-Lumo, Fundartes, 2013, 93 pp.
El VIII Congreso Internacional de la Sociedad Española de Emblemática
Authors: Consejo Editorial Dirección y
Published: February 2014

El presente volumen nº 5 de imago. revista de emblemática y cultura visual reúne, en la sección «Estudios» una selección de artículos presentados en el VIII Congreso Internacional de la SEE, celebrado en la Universidad Complutense de Madrid en 2011.
Sic itur ad astra. Maria Helena Dinis de Teves Costa Ureña Prieto (1928-2013)
Authors: Amaral Rubem
Published: February 2014

Necrológica: Maria Helena Dinis de Teves Costa Ureña Prieto (1928-2013), Profesora Catedrática jubilada, Departamento de Filología Clásica, Facultad de Letras, Universidad de Lisboa (FLUL).