bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validity of visual perceptive computing for static posturography in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Behrens Janina R , Mertens Sebastian , Krüger Theresa , Grobelny Anuschka , Otte Karen , Mansow-Model Sebastian , Gusho Elona , Paul Friedemann , Brandt Alexander U , Schmitz-Hübsch Tanja
Published: January 2016

Background:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients frequently have postural control impairment but quantitative posturography is difficult to perform in clinical care. Recent technology facilitates new posturography approaches.

Objective:

To evaluate construct validity of visual perceptive computing (VPC) for static posturography to study postural control in MS patients.

Methods:

A total of 90 MS patients and 59 healthy controls (HCs) performed three stance tests: open, closed and tandem stance. Static posturography was performed using a VPC system with Microsoft Kinect. Clinical assessments included Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Timed-25-Foot-Walk, Short-Maximum-Speed-Walk and 12-item MS Walking Scale (MSWS-12) questionnaire. Reliability was assessed with intra-class correlation coefficients at retest.

Results:

As a group, MS patients performed worse than HCs in all tests. The closed stance test showed best applicability and reliability. With closed eyes, in 36.7% of patients, the three-dimensional mean angular sway velocity (MSV-3D) was above HCs’ 95th percentile. Higher MSV-3D was associated with decreased walking speed ( p < 0.001); worse clinical scores, mainly attributable to the cerebellar functional system score ( p < 0.001); and reflected in self-reported walking disability (MSWS-12, p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Postural control can be reliably assessed by VPC-based static posturography in patients with MS. Abnormal postural control seems to predominantly reflect involvement of cerebellar circuits with impact on gait and walking disability.
On the Use and Usefulness of Backup Plans
Authors: Napolitano Christopher M. , Freund Alexandra M.
Published: January 2016

In this article, we introduce the concept of backup plans as a motivational construct, defined as alternative means to an end that are intentionally developed but are not initially (or ever) used. We posit that backup plans change the way that a person pursues a goal, as well as the likelihood of achieving it, even if the backup plans are never used. In some cases, backup plans are a safety net supporting goal pursuit; however, in other cases, they constitute an unnecessary expense that can undermine motivation to persist with a first-choice plan. We propose that variations in the use and usefulness of backup plans are based on a person’s estimation and regulation of complexity value, or the additional costs and benefits that having a backup plan introduces compared with pursuing the same goal with only a single means. Although variations in the estimation and regulation of complexity value are idiosyncratic products of individual, contextual, and goal-related factors, we provide the prototypical example of age-related differences to illustrate our key points. In sum, our conceptualization of backup plans represents a new synthesis of motivation, multiple-goal, and life-span developmental research that addresses a key lacuna in the self-regulation literature.
Situational Strategies for Self-Control
Authors: Duckworth Angela L. , Gendler Tamar Szabó , Gross James J.
Published: January 2016

Exercising self-control is often difficult, whether declining a drink in order to drive home safely, passing on the chocolate cake to stay on a diet, or ignoring text messages to finish reading an important paper. But enacting self-control is not always difficult, particularly when it takes the form of proactively choosing or changing situations in ways that weaken undesirable impulses or potentiate desirable ones. Examples of situational self-control include the partygoer who chooses a seat far from where drinks are being poured, the dieter who asks the waiter not to bring around the dessert cart, and the student who goes to the library without a cell phone. Using the process model of self-control, we argue that the full range of self-control strategies can be organized by considering the timeline of the developing tempting impulse. Because impulses tend to grow stronger over time, situational self-control strategies—which can nip a tempting impulse in the bud—may be especially effective in preventing undesirable action. Ironically, we may underappreciate situational self-control for the same reason it is so effective—namely, that by manipulating our circumstances to advantage, we are often able to minimize the in-the-moment experience of intrapsychic struggle typically associated with exercising self-control.
Assad’s Strategic Narrative: The Role of Communication in the Syrian Civil War
Authors: Marco Scartozzi Cesare
Published: January 2016

If Bashar al-Assad’s regime wants to survive in the Syrian civil war, it should be able to shape the meaning of its own actions in the conflict and efficiently convey them to the domestic and international audiences. In 2013, after two initial years of communication failures, the regime began delivering an assertive and coherent communication strategy that has created material and political support to al-Assad’s actions. This article analyzes the strategic narratives that the Syrian regime has used since the early outbreak of the civil war and it question the significance of strategic narrative in crisis management.
What happens when the definition of disability changes? The case of obesity
Authors: Shinall Jennifer Bennett
Published: January 2016

This paper examines how Congress’s 2008 expansion of who is disabled under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) impacts the labor market outcomes of newly covered individuals. Focusing on obese individuals, I exploit variation in coverage of obesity before and after the 2008 expansion to identify effects of the legal change, but I find no improvement in the labor market outcomes of the obese. Although the 2008 expansion was intended to remedy the unintended consequences of the ADA and improve labor market outcomes of the disabled, these early estimates suggest that the expansion has not yet achieved Congress’s stated goals.

JEL codes:J14, J21, J78, K31
Effects of increased elderly employment on other workers’ employment and elderly’s earnings in Japan
Authors: Kondo Ayako
Published: January 2016

This paper examines the effect of increased elderly employment in Japan, caused by the legal obligation of continued employment enacted in 2006, on employment of other workers and elderly’s own earnings. I find no evidence for substitution between young full-time workers and elderly workers, while there might be a modest crowd out of middle-aged female part-time workers. I also find a substantial decline in earnings of baby boomers, who reached age 60 after 2006, in their early sixties. These results suggest that firms primarily cut wages of elderly workers, and some firms reduced the number of female part-time workers.

JEL code:J26
Unusual pigments found in a painting by Giotto (c. 1266-1337) reveal diversity of materials used by medieval artists
Authors: Berrie Barbara H. , Leona Marco , McLaughlin Richard
Published: January 2016

Background

The important trecento Florentine artist Giotto (c. 1266-1337) is renowned for his naturalistic and realistic works in tempera and fresco. His innovative paintng style involved painting expressive, emotive faces and use of pictorial devices for depicting space. This report focuses on the analysis of the materials and methods used in a panel in the collection of the National Gallery of Art, Madonna and Child (1310/1315).

Results

Giotto used inky washes under thin layers of egg tempera paint. Yellow iron earth and lead tin yellow are present in the paint used to depict the lining of the Virgin’s mantle. SEM-EDX of one of the yellow pigments confirmed it is lead tin yellow type II, PbSn1-xSixO3. The ratio of colorant to the glassy phase indicates this material was produced for use as a pigment rather than as a glass. Ultramarine was not used in this painting, azurite is the blue pigment. The azurite used here does not contain elemental impurities, however malachite and the rare green–blue mineral mixite, BiCu6(OH)6(AsO4)3(H2O)3, are found in the blue paint.

Conclusions

We do not know if Giotto intentionally used mixite as a green–blue pigment or if it was adventitious with the azurite, though given the rarity of the mineral, the latter is more probabale. Nevertheless, the artist’s choice of color was deliberate and the presence of mixite and the clear-hued lead tin yellow pigment attest to his coloristic decisions, in this case opting for cool hues rather than the warm blue of ultramarine which we typically associate with paintings of the Madonna from this time period.
Consumer response to exterior atmospherics at a university-branded merchandise store
Authors: Hyllegard Karen H. , Ogle Jennifer Paff , Yan Ruoh-Nan , Kissell Kevin
Published: January 2016

This study examined the influence of exterior store atmospherics upon college students’ responses to a university-branded merchandise store. The research was informed by Mehrabian and Russell’s (1974) Stimulus–Organism–Response (S–O–R) model, which proposes that consumers’ emotional responses to a physical store environment mediate how the environment shapes their patronage behaviors. An online survey with a 2 × 2 × 2 experimental design component was implemented to explore the influence of three aspects of exterior store atmospherics (i.e., landscaping, store greeter, and electronic kiosk) upon three dependent variables: consumer emotional state (pleasure/arousal), consumer liking of the store exterior, and patronage intentions. The sample included 336 college students. Analyses provide support for the S–O–R model and related research; collectively, findings are consistent with the premise that pleasure and liking of the storefront exterior shape patronage intentions at a university-branded merchandise store. The exterior store atmospherics manipulated in the present study, however, did not positively influence consumers’ emotional states or liking. This study examined the influence of understudied aspects of exterior store atmospherics on consumers’ emotional states and liking as well as their patronage intentions toward a university-branded merchandise store. Contrary to prior work, findings provide evidence that, in some retail contexts, store greeters may generate negative responses from consumers.
Structural Mechanisms of Hexameric Helicase Loading, Assembly, and Unwinding
Authors: Trakselis Michael A.
Published: January 2016

Hexameric helicases control both the initiation and the elongation phase of DNA replication. The toroidal structure of these enzymes provides an inherent challenge in the opening and loading onto DNA at origins, as well as the conformational changes required to exclude one strand from the central channel and activate DNA unwinding. Recently, high-resolution structures have not only revealed the architecture of various hexameric helicases but also detailed the interactions of DNA within the central channel, as well as conformational changes that occur during loading. This structural information coupled with advanced biochemical reconstitutions and biophysical methods have transformed our understanding of the dynamics of both the helicase structure and the DNA interactions required for efficient unwinding at the replisome.
Junior Schoolchildren’s Cognition Interest Development via Use of Game Technologies
Authors: Абылайхан  , Abylaykhan S. , Карманова  , Karmanova Zh. , Манашова  , Manashova Gulmira , Шовкович  , Shovkovich O.
Published: January 2016

The problem of junior schoolchildren’s cognition interest

development via use of game technologies has been analyzed in this

paper, the game technologies’ functions and main features have

been described. In addition, examples of game technologies application

in the teaching and learning process for schooling’s junior

level have been presented.
Modern Psychological Technologies in Educational Work of Moral Affairs Units in Educational Institutions of Russia’s MIA
Authors: Авдеева  , Avdeeva Elena
Published: January 2016

The possibility of the use of modern psychological technologies

by moral affairs units’ officers in educational institutions

of Russia’s MIA in order to enhance their professional activity and

improve the training quality of law-enforcement authorities’ future

specialists is considered in this paper.
Teenagers’ Deviation Conduct in Modern Socio-Cultural Conditions
Authors: Кондратьев  , Kondratev G.
Published: January 2016

A common form of deviant behavior – teenagers’ escapes

and vagabondage is considered in this paper. This deviant behavior

form’s occurred phenomenological features are analyzed, and the

relationship of deviant behavior’s different forms (delinquency,

addictive behavior and depending, sexual deviancies and perversions,

crime, suicidal behavior) is marked. The author considers

the causes of deviant behavior’s contemporary forms and the nature

of relationship between the deviancies’ various forms. The importance

of complex approach for decision of problems related to

medical and pedagogical aid, as well as psychosocial support and

legal regulation is emphasizes.
International Child Center "Artek" Modernization based on Innovative Solutions
Authors: Петрова  , Petrova Yu. , Капырин  , Kapyrin P.
Published: January 2016

International Child Center "Artek" (ICC "Artek") modernization

is considered in this paper. The main problem of ICC

"Artek" is the child tourism decreasing as compared with 1960s.

For this urgent problem decision a concept of child tourism increasing

is developed related to ICC "Artek" by the way of its

modernization. It is planned to modernize ICC "Artek" using

innovative solutions and methods, which will influence the child

tourism level. Such areas as education, health improvement and

child recreation are considered in this paper. As a result of modernization

as those areas as ICC at whole it is become possible to

rise "Artek" at absolutely new level and thus to increase children’s

number in ICC up to 40 000 per year toward 2020.
Innovative Aspects of Advertising in Traditional Media
Authors: Пономарев  , Ponomarev Vladimir
Published: January 2016

Traditional media play an important role in the modern

information society life. It is common practice to consider radio,

television, outdoor advertising and print publications as the main

traditional media. The importance of identifying of traditional

media’s innovative aspect as indispensable stage of their efficiency

increasing is emphasized in this paper. Two essentially different

areas of print advertising are considered: specialized newspapers

and glossy magazines. Major innovative approaches to press advertising

are reveals as follows: synchronization of printing issue and

web-site content (for specialized newspapers), and use of a magazine

PDF-version, E-INK-technologies and magalogs (for glossy

magazines). Differences in innovative advertising technologies

applying depending on media size are pointed out, and examples

for outdoor advertising are provides as follows: use of wind resistant

large-sized billboards («ribbon technologies») and holographic

images for posters. Innovative solutions for various media are offered

as follows: Internet-radio stations’ projects and broadcasting sponsorship

(for radio advertising), possibility for television broadcasts

viewing from a TV-channel corporate web-site, and virtual product

placement (for television). Innovative approaches to the old media

are considered in detail in the paper. The innovative advertising

technologies’ role in the traditional media in a context of modern

information environment is defined.
Spiritual and Moral Area as "Prism" for Informational Effects
Authors: Гостев  , Gostev Andrey
Published: January 2016

A status of modern Russian Cossacks’ spiritual and moral

area is an urgent problem of Cossack mentality formation studying

in today´s world and in our country. From the psychology

standpoints this question presupposes an access to the theoretical

level related to understanding of topics for psychology of morality,

psychology of religious experience, as well as to the analysis for the

status of moral and spiritual area of human existence in the world,

and considering the corresponding phenomenology and problems

resulting from this status, in particular the problem marked in this

paper’s title.
Aesthetics of Socio-Cultural Space
Authors: Ульянова  , Ulyanova Nataliya , Гудкова  , Gudkova Anastasiya
Published: January 2016

This paper’s aim is the analysis of modern trends in design,

and modern design influence on environment’s aesthetic space and

art development. Trends in the fine art and design development at

the example of traditional artworks have been considered in this

paper. A design work is a thing of the wizard. All problems are due

to real processes, which over the past decade literally alter the

artwork’s essence and character. Invariably is the fact that the

design carries a history and chronology of the ancient times’ art.
«We Consider You as the Actual Participants of Future’s Development ...» (speech of the Russian President Vladimir Putin at the meeting with students of the educational center «Sirius»)
Authors: Фёдорова  , Fedorova N.
Published: January 2016

The article discusses the main statements of the Russian President´s speech Vladimir Putin at a meeting with students and teachers of the

educational center for gifted children "Sirius" during the Day of Knowledge. The article reveals the prospects and ways of education improving

in our country according to the Russian President: the development of science, culture, literature, Russian language, development of respect for

the history of Russia, attending to the education of gifted children with a bright creative individuality.
Organization and Realization of Educational Achievements Examination of Primary School Pupils
Authors: Калинова  , Kalinova Galina
Published: January 2016

The article describes the features of educational achievements examination of younger schoolchildren on an example of "The World Around Us"

subject program mastering. Different types of tasks, checking knowledge well-formedness about the nature and the ability of primary school pupils

to apply them in an unusual training situations are defined
Design Basics Learning by Younger Schoolchildren
Authors: Зымалева  , Zymaleva L.
Published: January 2016

This article discusses the aesthetic development and labour education of primary school pupils in the process of familiarization with the theoretical

basics of design and practical training for the implementation of design works. In view of the teaching experience of the author the technique and

the most appropriate training subjects with children of this age group, different techniques of two-dimensional and three-dimensional images

creating, the necessary art materials and equipment are described. The lessons notes for section "Basis of print design" on the topic "Logo" are

presented.
Discourse on the Teacher: V.A. Slastenin and His Scientific School
Authors: Николаева  , Nikolaeva M.
Published: January 2016

The article describes the main events in the life and professional activity of academician of Russian Academy of Education of V.A. Slastenin;

presents directions of scientific ideas development of V.A. Slastenin based on the experience of the Department of Pedagogy and Psychology of

Primary Education of Volgograd State Pedagogical University.
Effectiveness of rosiglitazone in reducing flexion contracture in a rabbit model of arthrofibrosis with surgical capsular release
Authors: Barlow J. D. , Morrey M. E. , Hartzler R. U. , Arsoy D. , Riester S. , van Wijnen A. J. , Morrey B. F. , Sanchez-Sotelo J. , Abdel M. P.
Published: January 2016

Aims

Animal models have been developed that allow simulation of post-traumatic joint contracture. One such model involves contracture-forming surgery followed by surgical capsular release. This model allows testing of antifibrotic agents, such as rosiglitazone.

Methods

A total of 20 rabbits underwent contracture-forming surgery. Eight weeks later, the animals underwent a surgical capsular release. Ten animals received rosiglitazone (intramuscular initially, then orally). The animals were sacrificed following 16 weeks of free cage mobilisation. The joints were tested biomechanically, and the posterior capsule was assessed histologically and via genetic microarray analysis.

Results

There was no significant difference in post-traumatic contracture between the rosiglitazone and control groups (33° (standard deviation (sd) 11) vs 37° (sd14), respectively; p = 0.4). There was no difference in number or percentage of myofibroblasts. Importantly, there were ten genes and 17 pathways that were significantly modulated by rosiglitazone in the posterior capsule.

Discussion

Rosiglitazone significantly altered the genetic expression of the posterior capsular tissue in a rabbit model, with ten genes and 17 pathways demonstrating significant modulation. However, there was no significant effect on biomechanical or histological properties. Cite this article: M. P. Abdel. Effectiveness of rosiglitazone in reducing flexion contracture in a rabbit model of arthrofibrosis with surgical capsular release: A biomechanical, histological, and genetic analysis. Bone Joint Res 2016;5:11–17. doi: 10.1302/2046-3758.51.2000593
COMPLEXIDADE DA FARMACOTERAPIA EM IDOSOS ATENDIDOS EM UMA FARMÁCIA BÁSICA NO SUL DO BRASIL
Authors: Morsch Lisoni Muller , Dressler Cristiane Carla , Schneider Ana Paula Helfer , Machado Ediberto de Oliveira , Assis Mariana Portela de
Published: January 2016

A complexidade de um tratamento farmacológico pode acarretar falta de adesão ao tratamento proposto e, consequentemente, prejuízos na recuperação da saúde do paciente. O objetivo foi avaliar a complexidade do regime terapêutico utilizado pelos idosos atendidos na Farmácia Básica de Santa Cruz do Sul - RS e os fatores associados. Foi feito um estudo transversal, com coleta de dados no período de Agosto a Setembro de 2014, por meio de entrevista individual com questionário semiestruturado contendo variáveis sociodemográficas, comportamentais, de saúde e da farmacoterapia. O índice de complexidade terapêutico (ICT) foi obtido por meio de medida direta das ações necessárias para administrar o medicamento. Foram entrevistados 300 idosos, sendo que 76,7% do sexo feminino, 70% tinham idade de 60 a 69 (± 6) anos e 77% realizaram consulta médica nos últimos seis meses. Dentre as doenças referidas destacaram-se hipertensão (44,3%), depressão (43%), colesterol elevado (32%), diabetes (21%) e osteoporose (20,7%). Nos 15 dias anteriores à entrevista, foram utilizados 1088 medicamentos pelos idosos entrevistados [média = 3,6 (± 1,74)]. O ICT variou de 1 a 30 [(média = 6,67 (± 5,35)], apresentando associação estatisticamente significativa (p < 0,05) com o sexo feminino, doenças referidas (diabetes, colesterol elevado, osteoporose, bronquite, hipertensão), tomar várias medicações ao mesmo tempo e a não adesão ao tratamento. A avaliação da complexidade da farmacoterapia torna-se prática necessária e importante para a recuperação e manutenção da saúde do idoso. A simplificação dos regimes terapêuticos pode melhorar a adesão à medicação e trazer benefícios no resultado da terapia, permitindo um entendimento e uma aproximação mais precisa do idoso com seu tratamento.
Comparison of social studies, Turkish Republic Revolution History and Kemalism, History of Kazakhstan and World History curricula in the secondary education in Turkey and the Republic of Kazakhstan
Authors: Beisenbayeva Lyazzat , Gelişli Yücel
Published: January 2016

The aim of this study is to make a comparison between history topics in Social Sciences course, Ataturk's Principles and History of Turkish Revolution course in secondary schools in Turkey and History of Kazakhstan and World History courses in secondary schools in Kazakhstan. This study that has adopted qualitative research methods is a comparative educational research. Data has been collected through data analysis method. In the study, the curriculum of Social Sciences course and Ataturk's Principles and History of Turkish Revolution course in secondary schools in Turkey and the curriculum of History of Kazakhstan and World History courses in secondary schools in Kazakhstan have been compared in terms of objectives, content and weekly course schedule.
Findings show that subject that is based on historical content take place as units in 5th, 6th and 7th grade Social Sciences course. Social Sciences course is three hours per week for 5th and 6th graders. History topics in Social Sciences course include first states in Anatolia, Huns that is the first Turkish state, Turkish states founded in Central Asia, Turks' migration to Anatolia, foundation and development of Ottoman states, science, art and economic structure. Additionally, the rise of Islam, states founded by Muslims, conversion of the Turks to Islam, development of science and art are among the history topics, as well.  In 8th grade, for Ataturk's Principles and History of Turkish Revolution course, students attend two hours of lecture per week.  This course covers foundation of the Republic of Turkey, Ataturk's life, Ataturk's Principles and political developments of the related period. In Turkish secondary schools, there is not a course on world history. On the other hand, in Kazakhstan, for the History of Kazakhstan, 5th grade students attend one hour of lecture while 6th, 7th and 8th grade students attend two hours of lecture per week. In the curriculum of the History of Kazakhstan, Turkish states founded in Kazakhstan starts with the Sakas and it covers Turkish states in history, their foundation, development and improvements in science, art and economy. Additionally, 6th, 7th and 8th grade students attend one hour of lecture for the World History course. This course includes topics such as states founded in Asia, Europe, America and Africa, foundation and development of Ottoman Empire and the Republic of Turkey that are among states founded by Turks in Anatolia and developments in science, art and economic structure of the related states.
Histological and Cytological Analysis of Microsporogenesis and Microgametogenesis of the Invasive Species Galinsoga quadriradiata Ruiz & Pav. (Asteraceae)
Authors: Kolczyk Jolanta , Tuleja Monika , Płachno Bartosz Jan
Published: January 2016

Galinsoga quadriradiataRuiz & Pav. is an annual weedy plant that can be found all over the world. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is recognised as one of the invasive foreign plants in Poland, which are native to Central and South America. The aim of this study was to describe the reproductive features ofGalinsoga quadriradiatafocusing on the changes that occur during microsporogenesis and microgametogenesis along with the morphology of its pollen. As it is typical of the eudicot clade of Angiosperms, cytokinesis ofG. quadriradiatais simultaneous. The pollen grains are tricolporate with spiny outer walls and the course of the microsporogenetic process is fairly typical of the Echinatae group of weed plants. The high viability of the pollen grains, which mature unequally in the inflorescences, and the proper course of meiosis determine whether a plant has the invasive character ofGalinsoga quadriradiata.
Qa-SNARE Protein SYP22 Negatively Regulates Brassinosteroid Signaling in the Dark
Authors: Yao Ting Shan , Zhu Xiao Feng , Jung Jin Hee , Xuan Yuan Hu
Published: January 2016

Soluble N-ethyl-maleimide sensitive factor attachment adaptor protein receptor (SNARE) domain-containing proteins were mainly involved in vesicle-associated membrane fusion. Genetic screening has revealed the function of SNARE in different aspects of plant biology. Among them, Synthaxin-22 (SYP22) a Qa-SNARE has been reported to have a pleiotropic function in plant development including regulation of leaf waving, shoot gravitropism and flowering time. In this study, we identified a new role of SYP22 in regulation of brassinosteroid (BR) signaling, especially in the dark. SYP22 interacts with BR receptor, brassinosteroid insensitive 1 (BRI1), and overexpression of SYP22 enhanced a weak BRI1 mutant bri1-5 phenotype. syp22 mutant exhibits short hypocotyl and it is sensitive to exogenously treated BR while slightly insensitive to BR-biosynthesis inhibitor propiconazole (PCZ) in the dark. Expression levels of BR signaling maker genes ACS5, SAUR15 and IAA19 were slightly higher, while BR6OX2, a BR biosynthesis marker gene, was lower in syp22 compared to the wild-type. In addition, syp22 was sensitive to 2,4-D, a synthetic auxin, in the dark. In conclusion, SYP22 is involved in BR- and auxin-mediated hypocotyl growth inhibition in the dark, which might be via interaction with BR and auxin key regulators to alter their internalization in Arabidopsis.
Electrical Changes in Deeper Cortical Structures During Balanced General Anesthesia with the Aim on Inhalation Anesthetics Effects
Authors: Fischer M , Drobny M , Saniova B , Bakosova E , Hamzik J , Schnierer M , Osinova D.
Published: January 2016

There are many theories that attempt to explain the mechanisms of the effects of inhalation anesthetics - from simpler, pursuing individual effects of anesthetics on the level of the ion channels, to more complex that are looking for uniform global changes in brain activity common to several agents. However, we still don’t have satisfactory and adequate conclusions.

We examined a sample of 39 patients undergoing thoracic surgery at the Clinic of Thoracic Surgery under general anesthesia (GA) and we registered their electroencephalographic (EEG) signals before and during operation. After induction of GA by intravenous (i.v.), we used inhalation anesthetics to maintain GA. We used sevoflurane (SEV) in 20 patients and desflurane (DES) in 19 patients. Then we obtained the EEG data and processed them through mathematical and statistical analysis, to discover any changes of electrical activity in the brain during thoracic surgery under GA.

The era of digital recording EEG and present possibilities of modern computer techniques allow quantitative analysis of obtained data. We performed the analysis with the software LORETA (low resolution brain electromagnetic tomography). It is a relatively new research method, which in a similar way as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) displays even deeper brain electrical activity, which is hiddeen for a classical EEG approach.

We described the general changes in brain electrical activity of the deeper cortical structures within the traditional frequency bands (d, q, a, b and g) during GA at 5 mm spatial resolution. We have shown that the source of the well-known cortical EEG changes after the effect of used inhalation anesthetics is caused by changes situated in the deeper brain structures, particularly the limbic system. Significant changes occurred in the cingulate gyrus for most of an EEG frequency ranges. When comparing the data of patients anesthetised with SEV and DES we found similar changes within the d and q rhythms and then the global changes of EEG activity followed during GA.
Analysis of Temperature Field, Heat and Fluid Flow of Two-Phase Zone Continuous Casting Cu–Sn Alloy Wire
Authors: Luo J. , Liu X. , Wang X.
Published: January 2016

Cu–4.7 wt. % Sn alloy wire with Ø10 mm was prepared by two-phase zone continuous casting technology, and the temperature field, heat and fluid flow were investigated by the numerical simulated method. As the melting temperature, mold temperature, continuous casting speed and cooling water temperature is 1200 °C, 1040 °C, 20 mm/min and 18 °C, respectively, the alloy temperature in the mold is in the range of 720 °C–1081 °C, and the solid/liquid interface is in the mold. In the center of the mold, the heat flow direction is vertically downward. At the upper wall of the mold, the heat flow direction is obliquely downward and deflects toward the mold, and at the lower wall of the mold, the heat flow deflects toward the alloy. There is a complex circular flow in the mold. Liquid alloy flows downward along the wall of the mold and flows upward in the center.
Tribological Properties of AlSi17Cu5Mg Alloy Modified with CuP Master Alloy with Various Speeds of Friction
Authors: Piątkowski J. , Wieszała R.
Published: January 2016

The paper presents the influence of modification with phosphorus (CuP10) on the tribological properties of the alloy AlSi17Cu5Mg coupled abrasively with cast-iron EN GJL-350. Tests of coefficient of friction and wear of mass were conducted on tribological tester T-01. An important aspect in the assessment of the tribological properties is the analysis of initial material microstructure in reference to silumin which underwent modification with phosphorus. It was found that the difference in structure of tested materials, mainly sizes of primary silicon crystals significantly influences the tribological properties whereas the speed change of the friction knot does not have such big influence.
Al-Si and Al-Si-Mg Cast Alloys Shrinkage Porosity Estimation
Authors: Samavedam S. , Sundarrajan S.
Published: January 2016

US A356 and US 413 cast aluminium alloys shrinkage characteristic have been discussed in the present study. Specific volume reduction leads to shrinkage in castings and it can be envisaged as a casting defect. Finite difference based casting process simulation software has been used to study the shrinkage characteristic and it is quantified using mathematical formulae. The three dimensional model of the shrinkage defect has been constructed using CAD application software. Shrinkage characteristic has also been quantified through experimental validation studies and compared well with casting process simulation. Shrinkage characteristic study and control is essential for producing defect free castings. Influence of casting shape on the shrinkage characteristic has been studied in this paper.
Influence of the Reclamation Process Intensity in the REGMAS Reclaimer on the Purification Degree of the High-silica Matrix
Authors: Skrzyński M. , Dańko R.
Published: January 2016

The investigation results of the reclamation of spent moulding sands with furfuryl resin are presented in this paper. The reclamation process was performed in the secondary reclamation chamber of the REGMAS 1.5 vibratory reclaimer. 70 kg portions of moulding sands, previously subjected to the primary reclamation and dedusting, were used. The secondary reclamation was performed in two stages: the first consisted of determining the reclaimer intensity at various reclamation times (5 min, 10 min and 15 min) and various electrovibrator frequencies (40 Hz, 50 Hz and 60 Hz), the second consisted of determining the influence of additional crushing elements on the intensity of processes.
Examining the Possibilities of Analyzing the Solidification Process of Al-Si Alloy with the Infrared Camera
Authors: Władysiak R. , Kozuń A. , Pacyniak T.
Published: January 2016

The paper presents the results of the crystallization process of silumin by the TDA thermographic method and the results of the cast microstructure obtained in the sampler ATD-10, that was cooling down in ambient air. The study was conducted for silumins AlSi8 and AlSi11 unmodified. The work demonstrated that the use of thermal imaging camera allows for the measurement and recording the solidification process of silumin. Thermal curve was registered with the infrared camera and derivative curve that was calculated on the base of thermal curve have both a very similar shape to adequate them TDA curves obtained from measurements using a thermocouple. Test results by TDA thermographic method enable quantitative analysis of the kinetics of the cooling and solidification process of hypo-and neareutectic silumins.
Influence of the Hardener on the Emission of Harmful Substances from Moulding Sands with Furan Resin in the Pyrolysis Process
Authors: Holtzer M. , Kmita A. , Żymankowska-Kumon S. , Bobrowski A. , Dańko R.
Published: January 2016

The furan resin offers advantages such as high intensity, low viscosity, good humidity resistance and is suitable for cast different casting alloys: steel, cast iron and non-ferrous metal casting. For hardening furan resins are used different hardeners (acid catalysts). The acid catalysts have significant effects on the properties of the cured binder (e,g. binding strength and thermal stability) [1 - 3]. Investigations of the gases emission in the test foundry plant were performed according to the original method developed in the Faculty of Foundry Engineering, AGH UST. The analysis is carried out by the gas chromatography method with the application of the flame-ionising detector (FID) (TRACE GC Ultra THERMO SCIENTIFIC).
Investigations about the Euler–Mascheroni constant and harmonic numbers
Authors: Bil Robert , Laue Hartmut
Published: January 2016

We introduce a sequence of real functions which converges to the constant function
Lyapunov type inequalities for second-order differential equations with mixed nonlinearities
Authors: Agarwal Ravi P. , Özbekler Abdullah
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we present some new Lyapunov and Hartman type inequalities for second-order equations with mixed nonlinearities:

where
Vapordynamic thermosyphon – heat transfer two-phase device for wide applications
Authors: Vasiliev Leonard , Vasiliev Leonid , Zhuravlyov Alexander , Shapovalov Aleksander , Rodin Aleksei
Published: January 2016

Vapordynamic thermosyphon (VDT) is an efficient heat transfer device. The two-phase flow generation and dynamic interaction between the liquid slugs and vapor bubbles in the annular minichannel of the VDT condenser are the main features of such thermosyphon, which allowed to increase its thermodynamic efficiency. VDT can transfer heat in horizontal position over a long distance. The condenser is nearly isothermal with the length of tens of meters. The VDT evaporators may have different forms. Some practical applications of VDT are considered.
Investigation of transient heat transfer in composite walls using carbon/epoxy composites as an example
Authors: Terpiłowski Janusz , Gawron Bartosz , Woroniak Grzegorz
Published: January 2016

The paper presents the application of similarity theory to investigations of transient heat transfer in materials with complex structure. It describes the theoretical-experimental method for identification and design of the structure of two-component composite walls based on the research of the thermal diffusivity for the composite and its matrix separately. The thermal diffusivity was measured by means of the modified flash method. The method was tested on two samples of double-layer ‘epoxy resin – polyamide’. All the investigated samples had the same diameter of 12 mm and thickness ranging from 1.39–2.60 mm and their equivalent value of thermal diffusivity ranging from (1.21–1.98)×10−7 m2/s. Testing the method and research on carbon/epoxy composites was carried out at temperatures close to room temperature.
Interrelations between Energy Security Economics and Social Cohesion: Analysis of a Lithuanian Case
Authors: Dainius Genys , Ričardas Krikštolaitis
Published: January 2016

Growing attention to sustainable development in academic discourse fosters discussions on how energy security affects society. In most cases the discussions consider the political and economic consequences, which affect or may affect the society. The aim of the article is to assess the impact of energy security economics on social cohesion in Lithuania. To achieve this aim the interrelations between energy security, energy economics and social cohesion are discussed. The theoretical framework of social cohesion (introduced by J. Jenson and P. Bernard) is presented and applied in empirical analysis. The operationalization of empirical variables is based on economic, political and socio-cultural - activity areas, which are analyzed to verify the dichotomies between public attitudes and the actual behavior of society. These dichotomies help to distinguish six analytical dimensions, on the basis of which we created 17 empirical indicators, which analysis allows for describing the impact of Lithuanian energy security economics on social cohesion in quantitative data. The statistical analyses showed that the impact of attitudinal dimensions of energy security economics on social cohesion in Lithuania has an almost neutral effect: 3.05 (1-very negative; 3-neutral, 5-very positive). Whereas, the impact of behavioural dimensions of energy security economics on social cohesion has a negative effect: 2.47. The aggregated average of the overall impact of energy security economics on social cohesion in Lithuania has a negative effect: 2.76.

The article consists of four parts. The first part presents the interrelations between energy security, economy and social cohesion as well as discusses the theoretical framework that is used in empirical analysis. The second briefly provides the operationalization of theoretical model, concrete indicators that are used in the analysis and presents main statistic characteristics of indicators. The third part explains the results and stresses main discoveries taking into account the distribution of energy expenses for energy security among society. The fourth elaborates the noticeable differences among different social groups (in regard to age, education, income and living area).
Dry grasslands of Hippocrepido glaucae-Stipion austroitalicae in the Pollino Massif (Calabria, Italy)
Authors: Terzi Massimo , D’Amico Franceso S.
Published: January 2016

Rocky pastures dominated by Stipa austroitalica in the south-east of Italy were classified within an endemic alliance, Hippocrepido glaucae-Stipion austroitalicae, originally assigned to a Balkan order (Scorzoneretalia villosae). Actually, the distribution area of S. austroitalica extends further westwards and large patches are found on the south-east side of the Pollino Massif. This study aims to describe and characterise the plant communities dominated by S. austroitalica in this area and analyse their floristic and chorological relationships with other associations of Hippocrepido-Stipion. Moreover, their syntaxonomy is discussed in the context of the Italian and south European dry grasslands biogeography. The grasslands were studied on the basis of 19 phytosociological relevés. A larger data set, including 185 relevés with S. austroitalica, was used to visualise the relationships among the associations through nonmetric multi-dimensional scaling ordination. The results allowed the description of a new association, Bupleuro gussonei-Stipetum austroitalicae, classified within Hippocrepido-Stipion. As a consequence, the alliance synrange was extended up to the Pollino Massif. The Hip pocrepido-Stipion, together with Cytiso spinescentis-Bromion erecti, was arranged in Euphorbietalia myrsinitidis, an endemic order of the Italian peninsula. The proposed scheme upgrades the syntaxonomy and nomenclature of the dry grasslands vegetation of central and southern Italy.
Selenium uptake and Se compounds in Se-treated buckwheat
Authors: Golob Aleksandra , Germ Mateja , Kreft Ivan , Zelnik Igor , Kristan Urška , Stibilj Vekoslava
Published: January 2016

In field experiments, tartary buckwheat and hybrid buckwheat were foliarly sprayed with an aqueous solution of sodium selenate (20 mg Se L-1). In treated plants, the selenium content was significantly higher than in controls, irrespective of the plant part and taxon of buckwheat. The highest average Se concentrations in hybrid and tartary buckwheat were found in seeds. The main Se species found in seeds was Semethionine. Selenium-sprayed plants had higher photochemical efficiency of photosystem II in both taxa and higher electron transport system activity in hybrid buckwheat, suggesting a positive effect of Se on physiological characteristics. Because of the concentration of Se in both buckwheat taxa and selenomethionine as the dominant species of Se, Se-enriched buckwheat is a potential source of dietary Se for animals and humans.
Functional Traits and Plasticity of Plants in Ecological Research and Education
Authors: Masarovičová Elena , Májeková Mária , Vykouková Ivana
Published: January 2016

Plant functional traits are any morphological, physiological and phenological features, which indirectly affect plant fitness through their three basic components of plant individual performance - growth, reproduction and survival. These features represent also a keystone for plant functional groups, which are similar in three aspects - function on the level of organism, response to environmental factors and effect on ecosystems. Functional approach in ecology and vegetation study enables to evaluate plant communities on the base of species function in a community, and to relate functional structure of plant communities to particular environmental gradients. Species plasticity has many aspects that mirror species adaptations to the environmental conditions and which then also translate into functional structuring of plant communities. This approach is thus a novel and exciting mode how to carry on plant ecology, both in research and education at universities.
The Content of Lead, Cadmium and Mercury in Sediments from Rainwater Reservoirs Situated Along the National Road 4
Authors: Niemiec Marcin
Published: January 2016

The paper aimed at determining the pollution level of sediments collected from reservoirs receiving rainwater. The sediments were sampled from11 reservoirs on three dates: in May 2007, in April 2008 and in June 2008 in the following localities: Sulkow, Biskupice, Bodzanow and Suchoraba situated at a distance of ca 15 from each other. The contents of lead, cadmium, mercury and organic matter were assessed in the sediments. Lead content in the analysed sediments ranged from 9.87 to 61 mg · kg−2 with average for all samples 28.08 mg · kg−1. Mean cadmium concentration in the studied sediments was 0.637 mg · kg−1 and fluctuated from 0.20 to 1.58 mg Cd · kg−1. The quantities of mercury assessed in the sediments from rainwater reservoirs ranged from 0.337 to 0.864 mg · kg−1. Considerable differences between studied metal concentrations were assessed among the studied reservoirs, however the trends of differences were similar at each sampling. Generally, the levels of cadmium and mercury assessed in the analyzed sediments were comparable to the sediments from urbanized areas of various cities in the world, whereas lead level in the sediments of the analysed reservoirs was generally much lower than reported for similar materials in literature. Regularly decreasing contents of all elements with growing distance from the Krakow agglomeration was noted. The reservoir situated closest to Krakow, in Sulkow is located 7 km from the city boundaries and borders on Wieliczka town, whereas the reservoir in Suchoraba is located 17 km from Krakow. At this distance metal concentrations in the sediments from rainwater reservoirs were diminishing several times, which suggests considerable effect of urban pollution on metal level in these sediments.
Sustainable Tourism - Sensible Tourism
Authors: Zyzak Wacław
Published: January 2016

The article presents the issues related to travel and tourism, the development of this branch of service, and attempts to create alternative solutions to reduce this phenomenon’s dysfunctions. The introduction outlines the nineteenth century beginnings of tourism on the British Isles, including the setup of the first travel agency and the effects of increasing number of participants of mass tourism. The second section discusses the evolution from traveller to the tourist consumer of the commercial offer and social and environmental impacts of these changes. The third part presents the attempts to create alternatives to mass tourism with the adaptation of the rules resulting from the concept of sustainable development, and stressed the need for pro-environmental education.