bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Osmotic Dehydration on Mechanical and Rheological Properties of Pumpkin Dried with Microwave Method in Reduced Pressure Conditions
Authors: Stępień Bogdan , Maślankowski Radosław , Pasławska Marta , Jałoszyński Klaudiusz , Surma Mariusz
Published: June 2016

The objective of the research was to indicate the impact of sirup type used for osmotic dehydration and the microwaves power for microwave and vacuum drying on the selected mechanical and rheological properties of dried pumpkin. Pumpkin cultivar Rugosa was osmotically dehydrated in three concentrates: apple, aronia and cherry. Initially prepared material was dried with microwave method in the reduced pressure conditions which was within 6-4 kPa at the microwave power which was 240 and 480 W. Dried material was subjected to compression tests and stresses relaxation tests. Compression work values (Pś), cutting work (Pp) and indicators describing material elasticity (a and b) were computed. An initial treatment in the form of osmotic dehydration carried out before microwave drying in the reduced pressure conditions allows obtaining dried pumpkin with a raised resistance to compression and cutting and the decreased elasticity in comparison to dried material obtained from a pumpkin which was not subjected to the initial treatment. Microwaves power influences the values of compression and cutting of dried pumpkin.
Assessment of Utilization Possibilities of Heat Conducted by Waste Gases Exhaust Pipe of SB 1.5 Drum Drier for Drying Wood Chips
Authors: Surma Mariusz , Zdrojewski Zbigniew , Peroń Stanisław , Jałoszyński Klaudiusz , Stępień Bogdan
Published: June 2016

Based on the exploitation research, the authors evaluated the possibilities of using the heat conducted through the side surface of the waste gases exhaust pipe of SB 1.5 drum drier for drying wood chips. According to the estimated calculations within one hour approximately 173 thousand of kJ of heat may be obtained from the external surface of the waste gases exhaust pipe with the height of 7 m and temperature of approximately 78°C which constitutes an equivalent of approximately 4 kilo of heating oil. In case the above mentioned heat source for drying wood chips in SPA 20 silo with a volume of 6800 kilo within 50% to 20% humidity is used, one may expect that the drying time will be approximately 100 hours.
Variation in Forewing Size Linked to Migratory Status in Monarch Butterflies
Authors: Li Yiwen , Pierce Amanda A , de Roode Jacobus C.
Published: June 2016

Long-distance migration can be seen throughout
the animal kingdom and can have large impacts on
population dynamics and species distributions. The act
of migration itself also affects the evolution of a species,
as evolutionary forces select for certain characteristics in
animals conducting long-distance migration. Monarch
butterflies are best known for their annual migration from
Canada and the northern United States to central Mexico,
but some populations of monarchs have lost the ability to
migrate. Previous research found that migratory monarchs
had larger, more elongated wings than their non-migratory
counterparts and it was hypothesized that these traits were
beneficial for migration. However, Bergmann’s rule - which
predicts larger body sizes with increasing latitude - could
also explain this pattern as migratory populations are
found at higher latitudes. To understand the role of wing
dimensions in migration, we examined forewing size and
shape of migratory and non-migratory monarchs from
seven worldwide populations varying in latitude. Results
showed that larger forewing size was indeed correlated
with migratory status rather than latitude. However,
migratory monarchs did not have more elongated forewing
shape than non-migratory monarchs across the globe. Our
study indicates that size may play a larger role than shape
in long-distance migratory capability.
Welfare Analysis in an Extended Harris-Todaro Model: An Application of the Atkinson Theorem
Authors: Kingi Hautahi
Published: June 2016

I analyze the welfare effects of a policy of modern sector enlargement (MSENL), and a policy of increasing the efficiency of on-the-job search from the urban informal sector (IEOS) in a generalized Harris-Todaro model. I show that MSENL causes a Lorenz worsening of the income distribution and IEOS causes a Lorenz improvement. In a rare direct application of the Atkinson theorem, I conclude that MSENL decreases social welfare and IEOS increases social welfare for all anonymous, increasing and Schur-concave social welfare functions.
Comparison of four immunoassays to measure serum ferritin concentrations and iron deficiency prevalence among non-pregnant Cambodian women and Congolese children
Authors: Karakochuk Crystal D. , Whitfield Kyly C. , Rappaport Aviva I. , Barr Susan I. , Vercauteren Suzanne M. , McLean Judy , Hou Kroeun , Talukder Aminuzzaman , Houghton Lisa A. , Bailey Karl B. , Boy Erick , Green Timothy J.
Published: June 2016

Background:

Global standardization of ferritin assays is lacking, which could have direct implications on the accurate measurement and comparability of ferritin concentration and iron deficiency (ID) prevalence rates in at-risk populations.

Methods:

We measured serum ferritin concentrations using four immunoassays: the s-ELISA and the AxSYM™ analyzer were compared among 420 non-pregnant Cambodian women; the Centaur® XP analyzer, s-ELISA, and AxSYM™ analyzer were compared among a subset of 100 Cambodian women; and the s-ELISA and the Elecsys® 2010 analyzer were compared among 226 Congolese children aged 6–59 months.

Results:

Median ferritin concentrations (adjusted for inflammation) ranged between 48 and 91 μg/L among Cambodian women and between 54 and 55 μg/L among Congolese children. ID prevalence ranged from 2% to 10% among Cambodian women and 5% to 7% among Congolese children. Bias between methods varied widely (–9 to 45 μg/L) among women, and was 43 μg/L among children. Bias was lower when ferritin values outside of the s-ELISA measurement range (>250 μg/L) were excluded.

Conclusions:

The observed differences in ferritin concentrations likely reflect different ferritin isoforms, antibodies, and calibrators used across assays and by different laboratories. However, despite differences in ferritin concentrations, ID prevalence was relatively similar and low across all methods.
Thermal conditions for geothermal energy exploitation in the Transcarpathian depression and surrounding units
Authors: Majcin Dušan , Kutas Roman , Bilčík Dušan , Bezák Vladimír , Korchagin Ignat
Published: June 2016

The contribution presents the results acquired both by direct cognitive geothermic methods and by modelling approaches of the lithosphere thermal state in the region of the Transcarpathian depression and surrounding units. The activities were aimed at the determination of the temperature field distribution and heat flow density distribution in the upper parts of the Earth’s crust within the studied area. Primary new terrestrial heat flow density map was constructed from values determined for boreholes, from their interpretations and from newest outcomes of geothermal modelling methods based on steady-state and transient approaches, and also from other recently gained geophysical and geological knowledge. Thereafter we constructed the maps of temperature field distribution for selected depth levels of up to 5000 m below the surface. For the construction we have used measured borehole temperature data, the interpolation and extrapolation methods, and the modelling results of the refraction effects and of the influences of source type anomalies. New maps and other geothermic data served for the determination of depths with rock temperatures suitable for energy utilization namely production of electric energy minimally by the binary cycles. Consequently the thermal conditions were used to identify the most perspective areas for geothermal energy exploitation in the region under study.
A Tauberian theorem for the product of Abel and Cesàro summability methods
Authors: Erdem Yılmaz , Çanak İbrahi̇m
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we prove a Tauberian theorem for the product of the Abel method and the Cesàro method of order α, which improves some classical Tauberian theorems for the Abel and Cesàro summability methods.
Study on High-Temperature Mechanical Properties of Low-Carbon Fe-Mn-Si-Al TWIP Steel
Authors: Li Shiqi , Liu Jianhua , Liu Hongbo , Zhuang Changling , Liu Jian , Han Zhibiao
Published: June 2016

The high-temperature mechanical properties of twinning-induced plasticity (TWIP) steel with 0.05 % C, 25 % Mn, 3 % Al, 3 % Si have been investigated using the GLEEBLE 3500 machine. The result shows that the zero ductility temperature and the zero strength temperature of the TWIP steel are measured at 1,225 °C and 1,275 °C, respectively. The brittleness temperature interval I is from 1,200 °C to the melting point, and the brittleness temperature interval III is from 650 °C to 800 °C. The tensile fracture has been examined using the scanning electron microscope, optical microscope and electron backscatter diffraction to determine the fracture mechanisms. The result shows that the twin is not the main influencing factor of the high-temperature plasticity of TWIP steel. Instead, the degree of dynamic recrystallization determines its high-temperature plasticity. A small number of AlN particles are found near the fractures, but these particles are so coarse, therefore, have no influence on the brittle fracture, and ferrite transformation and work hardening are the main reasons that cause the brittle fracture.
Oxidation Behavior of TiAl-Based Alloy Modified by Double-Glow Plasma Surface Alloying with Cr–Mo
Authors: Wei Xiangfei , Zhang Pingze , Wang Qiong , Wei Dongbo , Chen Xiaohu
Published: June 2016

A Cr–Mo alloyed layer was prepared on a TiAl-based alloy using plasma surface alloying technique. The isothermal oxidation kinetics of the untreated and treated samples was examined at 850 °C. The microstructure and phase composition of the alloyed layer were analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The morphology and constituent of the oxide scales were also analyzed. The results indicated that the oxidation resistance of TiAl was improved significantly after the alloying treatment. The oxide scale eventually became a mixture of Al2O3, Cr2O3 and TiO2. The oxide scale was dense and integrated throughout the oxidation process. The improvement was mainly owing to the enhancing of scale adhesion and the preferential oxidation of aluminum brought by the alloying effect for TiAl-based alloy.
Die große Herausforderung. Herodot, Thukydides und die Erfindung einer neuen Form von Geschichtsschreibung
Authors: Raaflaub Kurt A.
Published: June 2016

Herodot und Thukydides waren die ersten, die große und komplexe Prosageschichtswerke über bedeutende historische Ereignisse produzierten, und zwar, in Christian Meiers Definition, als “multi-subjektive, kontingenz-orientierte Erzählungen“. Sie erfanden im wahrsten Sinne des Wortes eine neue Gattung der historischen Literatur, und dies stellte sie vor massive und elementare Herausforderungen, die in der Forschung nur teilweise als solche erkannt und umfassend untersucht worden sind. Obwohl das Epos ihnen gewisse Anregungen bot, mussten sie herausfinden, wie sie ihr Material sammeln, bewerten und organisieren, ihren Bericht gestalten und das Interesse ihres Publikums gewinnen und halten konnten. Da sie in einer fragmentierten Welt mit divergierenden und widersprüchlichen Erinnerungen lebten, aber im Interesse einer breiten Wirkung eine panhellenische Perspektive wählten, mussten sie sich ihr Publikum überhaupt erst schaffen. Trotz beträchtlicher Unterschiede in Alter, Hintergrund und Weltsicht waren sie doch Zeitgenossen und Kinder der ungeheuer dynamischen intellektuellen Kultur ihrer Epoche. Thukydides betont ausdrücklich den Nutzen der Geschichte als eines „immerwährenden Besitzes“; bei Herodot ist diese Überzeugung zwar implizit, aber kaum weniger deutlich fassbar. Der vorliegende Aufsatz befasst sich mit der Frage, inwiefern Geschichte nützlich sein kann, weshalb dies wichtig ist, mittels welcher Methoden der Nutzen von Geschichte erkennbar gemacht wurde, wie sich dies alles auf die Rekonstruktion und Erzählung von Geschichte auswirkte – und welche Bedeutung dies umgekehrt für unseren Gebrauch der resultierenden Berichte als ‚Geschichte‘ hat. Des Weiteren geht es um die bemerkenswert ähnlichen Methoden, die die beiden Autoren entwickelten, um ihre ‚Geschichte‘ für zeitgenössische und künftige Leser interessant und bedeutungsvoll zu machen. Einige dieser Methoden fanden sie in den Epen vorgegeben. Andere waren neu und dazu bestimmt, ihren Bericht zu strukturieren, die Auswahl unter ähnlichen Episoden zu erleichtern, besonders bedeutende Aspekte hervorzuheben, das Interesse des Publikums an den erzählten Handlungsabläufen wachzuhalten und Grundmuster herauszuarbeiten, die diesem Publikum die dynamische Wechselwirkung zwischen Vergangenheit und Gegenwart nahebrachten. Die hier vorgelegte Untersuchung wirft deshalb auch neues Licht auf die ‚intertextuellen Beziehungen‘ zwischen diesen beiden ‚ersten Historikern‘.
Diplomatische Tauschgeschäfte? Eine alternative Ansicht zur Gastarbeiterschaft im Rahmen eines asiatischen Beispiels
Authors: Na Hye–Sim
Published: June 2016

Die bisherigen Untersuchungen zur Immigrationsgeschichte der Gastarbeiter in Deutschland sind nicht auf die Frage eingegangen, warum koreanische Frauen in den 1960er und 1970er Jahren als Krankenpflegerinnen nach Deutschland kamen. Anders als die süd- und osteuropäischen Länder gehörte Korea nicht zu den Staaten, die mit Deutschland ein förmliches Abkommen über die Entsendung von Arbeitskräften schlossen. Die meisten koreanischen Frauen kamen als examinierte Krankenschwestern und Krankenschwesterhelferinnen, aber zunächst waren es Krankenschwesterschülerinnen, die über deutsche katholische Einrichtungen vermittelt wurden. Im Rahmen von Mission und Entwicklungshilfe tätige deutsche katholische Priester und Ordensschwestern vermittelten in einer ersten Phase persönlich koreanische Frauen an deutsche Krankenhäuser und Altersheime. Weil zwischen beiden Staaten im Jahr 1961 ein Entwicklungshilfeabkommen unterzeichnet wurde, könnte man in Bezug auf die koreanischen Gastarbeiter der Interpretation von Knortz zustimmen, nach der die Gastarbeiter im Zuge diplomatischer Tauschgeschäfte auf den deutschen Arbeitsmarkt gelangten. Aber die Vermittlung koreanischer Frauen an die Krankenschwesterschulen hatte mit Entwicklungshilfe wenig zu tun, vielmehr hatte sie primär den Zweck, dazu beizutragen, den Mangel an deutschen Pflegekräften zu beheben.
Moisture Dependent Dynamic Flow Properties of Coconut Flours
Authors: Manikantan M. R. , Kingsly Ambrose R. P. , Alavi Sajid
Published: June 2016

The dynamic flow properties of two important coproducts of virgin coconut oil (VCO) i. e. coconut milk residue flour (MRF) and VCO cake flour (CF) were studied. The basic flowability energy of CF was higher than MRF and increased with moisture content. The change in compressibility and shear stress, with applied normal stress and moisture content, indicated that these powders are highly cohesive. For both flours, the energy required to make the powder flow increased with moisture at all experimental air velocity. Moisture did not significantly influence the cohesion and unconfined yield strength of MRF, whereas for CF there was significant effect due to the presence of moisture. The wall friction angle of both the flours increased significantly with moisture and decreased with applied normal stress. The results from this study indicated that, both CF and MRF at around 4.00 % moisture content had better flow characteristics than at higher moisture levels.
Performance of Bus and Ring Network Topologies Based on SOA Bias Current
Authors: Rani Aruna , Dewra Sanjeev
Published: June 2016

This paper investigates the number of nodes supported in bus and ring network topologies based on bias current of semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA) at 10 Gb/s. It is found that in bus topology, maximum 91 nodes are supported for 400 mA bias current of SOA at –30 dBm signal input power. In ring topology, more than 100 nodes are supported for 400 mA current of SOA. It is also found that for 100 mA current, 28 nodes are supported in bus topology but in ring topology maximum supported nodes are 39. The number of supported nodes increases with increase in bias current of SOA.
Case inflection of construct-state constructions in Dinka
Authors: Andersen Torben
Published: June 2016

Dinka, a Nilo-Saharan language, is largely monosyllabic, nevertheless it has a fairly rich morphology. Thus, most of its morphology is expressed by alternations in phonological material of the root. The inflectional categories of nouns manifested in this way include state and case in addition to number. The state category consists of an “absolute” state and two “construct” states. The case category includes a nominative, a genitive, an allative, and an essive/ablative. The present article shows how case inflection is manifested in complex noun phrases consisting of a noun in a construct state and a following modifier. It is demonstrated that the case inflection of such noun phrases is manifested almost exclusively by tonal overlays on the nominative (lexical) tones, and that such overlays may occur either in the head or in the modifier or in both the head and the modifier. In this way, a head noun may simultaneously carry state information and case information. Thus, the case inflection of construct-state constructions in Dinka adds yet another layer of nonlinear morphology to nouns in this language.
Interactions with Others in John Chrysostom
as a Means to Manage a Diversity of Visions
Authors: Tolonen Anna-Liisa
Published: June 2016

Two opposing opinions about “the Maccabees” feature in the homily On Eleazar and the Seven
Boys. According to the homilist, “the Maccabees” can be recognized as martyrs; yet, many others fail to
see it. The construction of this conflict relies heavily on another confrontation identifiable in the same
text: a dialogue between the homilist and “the Jew”, who thinks differently and, in the opinion of the
homilist, incorrectly. These tensions in the source may be taken to reflect “identity-political” issues of
the time and evaluated accordingly. My analysis challenges this view by emphasizing how difficult it is
to reconstruct historical encounters between persons/groups based on such a source. I suggest, instead,
that the conflict and dialogue should be considered parallel examples of how, in the context of late
antiquity, a Christian intellectual mind conceptualizes “difference” (of opinions or between identities)
and how it deals with it. The analysis shows that the homilist’s argumentation is built on seemingly
commonsensical or authoritative fair-to-all “facts”. Yet, interactions with others provide the homilist
with ways to govern and re-produce those very facts. Rather than social struggles, the interactions reflect
and represent the level of otherness contained in the discourse of the homilist.
Discourse Analysis and Its Possible
Contribution to Bible Translation
Authors: Porter Stanley E.
Published: June 2016

This article examines the possible contribution of discourse analysis to the field of Bible
translation. Drawing upon some developments in translation studies regarding discourse, this article
proposes that attention to discourse considerations can help Bible translation move beyond the usual
opposition of formal and dynamic equivalence.
History’s debris. The many pasts in the post-1989 present
Authors: Iacob Bogdan C.
Published: June 2016

The article is a reassessment of the aftermaths of the events of 1989 in (South-) Eastern Europe. It supplements the well-worn debate pitting civil vs. uncivil society with examinations of the role nationalism has played in the formerly socialist bloc and of the (self-) identification practices within the region’s societies. Here I map the various postcommunist legacies that have affected the region’s countries. Grand explanations of the upheaval of 1989 tend to obscure and simplify the continuities that have extended beyond this threshold year. Common trends within the region, which often remain hidden in the long shadow of 1989, may explain contemporary tensions between the revival of civic mobilization and the rise of populism. I conclude that only by clearing history’s debris — from before and after 1989 — will we understand the nature and identity of the ‘we’ who claim, contest, or (increasingly seldom) celebrate this annus mirabilis.
Structure of the frequency‐interacting RNA helicase: a protein interaction hub for the circadian clock
Authors: Conrad Karen S , Hurley Jennifer M , Widom Joanne , Ringelberg Carol S , Loros Jennifer J , Dunlap Jay C , Crane Brian R
Published: June 2016

In the Neurospora crassa circadian clock, a protein complex of frequency (FRQ), casein kinase 1a (CK1a), and the FRQ‐interacting RNA Helicase (FRH) rhythmically represses gene expression by the white‐collar complex (WCC). FRH crystal structures in several conformations and bound to ADP/RNA reveal differences between FRH and the yeast homolog Mtr4 that clarify the distinct role of FRH in the clock. The FRQ‐interacting region at the FRH N‐terminus has variable structure in the absence of FRQ. A known mutation that disrupts circadian rhythms (R806H) resides in a positively charged surface of the KOW domain, far removed from the helicase core. We show that changes to other similarly located residues modulate interactions with the WCC and FRQ. A V142G substitution near the N‐terminus also alters FRQ and WCC binding to FRH, but produces an unusual short clock period. These data support the assertion that FRH helicase activity does not play an essential role in the clock, but rather FRH acts to mediate contacts among FRQ, CK1a and the WCC through interactions involving its N‐terminus and KOW module.
Beneficios tributarios como soporte de competitividad y emprendimiento para MiPymes
Authors: Sánchez R. Nancy María
Published: June 2016

Dada la evolución que en Colombia ha tenido la economía y la necesidad de estimular los negocios y la generación de empleo, los gobiernos tanto nacionales como regionales han establecido como estrategias de desarrollo unos estímulos que benefician la creación de empresas, dentro de los cuales se mencionan los de carácter tributario, que revisten de gran importancia ya que a la hora de emprender un negocio no se puede olvidar el impacto que los tributos tienen en el interior del giro ordinario de las compañías.
Archivo, memoria y dictadura: activistas religiosos y enfrentamiento al régimen dictatorial en Brasill
Authors: Figuereido Assis João Marcus
Published: June 2016

A propósito de la investigación sobre el papel de la Iglesia católica contra la dictadura cívicomilitar brasilera entre las décadas de los sesenta y los ochenta, el artículo analiza, primero, las posibilidades teóricas y metodológicas del diálogo entre los documentos y la oralidad para la reconstrucción del pasado; segundo, el estatus científico de la archivología en relación con, tercero, la preponderancia legal del derecho al acceso público a los archivos en un país cuyo gobierno preside hoy una antigua perseguida de la dictadura.
Memorias de la secularización: el registro de las transformaciones en el escenario religioso brasilero a través de las estadísticas de individuos identificados como sin religión
Authors: Dos Santos Rodrigues Denise
Published: June 2016

A propósito del incremento de islámicos en Europa y de la población sin religión, en países como Estados Unidos y Brasil –según se verifica en los sucesivos censos al respecto–, el artículo expone algunas de las más relevantes teorías sobre la secularización, pertinentes para la comprensión de las nuevas manifestaciones de la espiritualidad en el mundo comtemporáneo, donde la religión parece replegarse cada vez más en la esfera privada.
La Hacienda El Carmen como escenario coyuntural de disputa sobre memoria, territorio y patrimonio
Authors: Castro Bernal Andrea
Published: June 2016

En 2007, con ocasión del descubrimiento de uno de los cementerios indígenas más antiguos de América Latina, en predios destinados a la expansión urbana al sur de la capital colombiana, la investigación que aquí se condensa hizo una aproximación histórico-hermenéutica a las narrativas e imaginarios que alrededor del territorio conciben cinco tipos de actores sociales involucrados: organizaciones ambientales, campesinos, indígenas muiscas, comunidad académica y autoridades del obierno Distrital.
Lecciones de memoria. El recuerdo de 1971 en las protestas estudiantiles de 2011 en Colombia
Authors: Cruz Rodríguez Edwin
Published: June 2016

Este trabajo muestra cómo la actualización de la memoria sobre la protesta estudiantil de 1971 sirvió, cuarenta años después, para afianzar la unidad y superar los sectarismos de las movilizaciones por el derecho a la educación en Colombia. En primer lugar, se reconstruyen los rasgos generales de ambos episodios, y luego se examinan las formas en que la memoria alrededor de lo ocurrido en 1971 operó para trazar una ruta al movimiento de 2011. 
Patrimonio y memoria: encuentros y desencuentros por el hallazgo del cementerio muisca en la hacienda El Carmen, en Bogotá, D. C.
Authors: Cardozo Rodríguez Angie Tatiana
Published: June 2016

A propósito del hallazgo arqueológico del cementerio indígena muisca en la hacienda El Carmen de la localidad bogotana de Usme, el artículo problematiza la manera como la memoria y el patrimonio son apropiados por los diferentes actores sociales para avanzar en sus luchas políticas y sociales. Por ello, enfatiza sobre las alianzas y rivalidades que emergen a partir de la apropiación del escenario. También reconstruye la historia del territorio de la hacienda El Carmen sobre la base de sus hitos más conflictivos.
Differential sandwich theorems of p-valent functions defined by a certain linear operator
Authors: He Ping , Zhang Defei
Published: June 2016

In this paper we introduce differential subordination and superordination properties for certain subclasses of analytic functions involving certain linear operator, and obtain sandwich-type results for the functions belonging to these classes.
*-Baer property for rings with involution
Authors: Aburawash Usama A. , Saad Muhammad
Published: June 2016

The consistent way of investigating rings with involution, briefly *-rings, is to study them in the category of *-rings with morphisms preserving also involution. In this paper we continue the study of *-rings and the notion of *-reduced *-rings is introduced and their properties are studied. We introduce also the class of *-Baer *-rings. This class is defined in terms of *-annihilators and principal *-biideals, and it naturally extends the class of Baer *-rings. The use of *-biideals makes this concept more consistent with the involution than the use of right ideals in the notion of Baer *-rings. We prove that each *-Baer *-ring is semiprime. Moreover, we show that the property of *-Baer extends to both the *-corner and the center of the *-ring. Finally, we discuss the relation between *-Baer and quasi-Baer *-rings; the generalization of Baer *-ring.
Ozone enhances biodegradability of heavy hydrocarbons in soil
Authors: Chen Tengfei , Delgado Anca G. , Yavuz Burcu M. , Proctor Alan J. , Maldonado Juan , Zuo Yi , Westerhoff Paul , Krajmalnik-Brown Rosa , Rittmann Bruce E.
Published: June 2016

The molecular complexity and the low solubility of petroleum hydrocarbon residuals in weathered soil hinder bioremediation as a clean-up strategy. Pretreatment with advanced oxidation, such as with ozone gas (O3), is a means to transform recalcitrant organics to more biodegradable forms. The efficacy of gas-phase ozone for enhancing the biodegradability of heavy residual petroleum hydrocarbons in weathered soil was tested. Ozonating soil containing ∼1%  (w/w) residual petroleum hydrocarbons with a dose of 6  kg  ozone/kg initial total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs) achieved nearly 50% TPH reduction, simultaneous with a >20-fold increase in soluble chemical oxygen demand, but with a ≤12% loss of total organic carbon. TPH molecules were converted to partly oxidised products, ten of which were identified as n-monocarboxylic acids, which were readily biodegraded, and ozonation resulted in a fourfold increase in 5-d biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5). BOD5 results after ozonation were the same with or without a microbial seed, which suggests that bioaugmentation is likely not necessary after ozonation. Deoxyribonucleic acid sequencing over the time course of the BOD5 tests showed increased diversity and changes in predominant genera, both of which underscore that ozonation made the heavy hydrocarbons readily biodegradable for soil bacteria.
Analytical method for calculating natural frequencies of geosynthetic-reinforced wall with full-height concrete facing
Authors: Ramezani M. S. , Ghanbari A. , Hosseini S. A. A.
Published: June 2016

Based on the theory of beams on elastic foundations, a new analytical solution for calculating the natural frequencies of reinforced-soil retaining walls is presented. The assumed retaining wall is geosynthetic-reinforced, with a full-height rigid concrete facing (a GRS-FHR wall). The current study takes into account the rigid body motion of these walls for the first time, and two analytical formulae for calculating the natural frequencies of the rigid mode of deformation for reinforced retaining walls are presented through an exact solution. Next, applying the energy method, a new analytical formula for calculating the natural frequency of the flexural deformation mode is developed. Another innovation is the modeling of the foundation soil with both rotational and translational springs, which makes it possible to consider rocking and sliding deformation modes for retaining wall motion. Moreover, the effect of backfill soil interaction is taken into consideration by translational springs along the wall. The results thus obtained are then compared with numerical analysis using Ansys software, and an excellent agreement was observed.
THE RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF THE DETAINED PERSONS
Authors: Adijāne Iveta
Published: June 2016

The recent incidents in the EU prove the fact that the problem of prevention of illegal immigration exists and becomes more and more urgent. The number of detained foreigners increases and enrages the whole EU migration policy. However, we cannot speak only about the security of the EU member states, on the other side of the problem there are foreigners, who due to different reasons have broken residence and entry regulations. And the most important here we have to remember about is the human rights of the detained foreigners. It does not matter where and when somebody is, no one can infringe his or her rights, which according to the definite normative acts should be respected and recognised by all control institutions. At the same time foreigners have to respect our laws, which define their duties. Latvia still gets in touch with the problems connected with both applying foreigners’ rights and providing fulfilment of duties.
WORK SAFETY AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES FROM THE POINT OF VIEW OF THE UNEMPLOYED
Authors: Ivanova Kristīne , Poiša Liena , Ulnicāns Einārs
Published: June 2016

The purpose of the study is to evaluate business opportunities and statistics on work safety in Latgale and Rezekne, and the unemployed people’s view on the necessity and use of the labour protection in Rezekne and its district. The unemployment rate in Rezekne is much higher than in other major Latvian cities - 23% of the economically active population. In order to improve employment in the city, it is important to improve work safety for workers and encourage the unemployed to start secure business activities, for example, a small business of bio-energy production.
INHABITANTS’ EVALUATION OF THE TOWN ATTRACTIVENESS - A CASE STUDY OF BALVI TOWN
Authors: Litavniece Lienīte , Ežmale Sandra
Published: June 2016

Due to decrease in the number of inhabitants it is very important to realize the aspects of city attractiveness in order to use them successfully and stimulate inhabitants’ positive interest in the city. Within the framework of the project “Linguo-Cultural and Socio- Economic Aspects of Territorial Identity in the Development of the Region of Latgale” inhabitants’ opinion is shown in a form of inquiry about Balvi town. Using Spearman’s correlation analysis, the statistically significant correlations with the probability of 99% were established between ‘satisfaction with life in the town’ and the factors influencing it. Then, using the method of cluster analysis, the findings of the inquiry were analyzed and conclusions about the Balvi town and its attractiveness from the point of view of the respondents were drawn.
HIGHER EDUCATION: FUNDING TENDENCIES, OPPORTUNITIES AND SOURCES
Authors: Lonska Jeļena
Published: June 2016

The issues regarding the funding mechanisms of higher education, their application and efficiency have recently become topical in many countries worldwide. Mobilization and efficient use of resources in higher education policy are the priority patterns all over the world. Society is trying to find answers to the questions considering the state participation in higher education funding. How to determine the impact of the state participation and levels of state regarding higher education funding? Is centralized planning necessary for higher education: does the state or consumers of educational services allocate financial resources at universities? There is an opinion that a consumer group has an effective financial tool for resource allocation. Another significant question is whether a person is able to choose the educational ‘product’, which corresponds to the needs of economics. What should an effective student loan system be like? Should the future students’ loan repayments depend on students' future incomes? This study provides information on the global higher education funding trends and opportunities, looking for the answers to the issues mentioned above.
ASSESSMENT OF CORRUPTION EFFECT ON FOREIGN INVESTMENT FLOWS
Authors: Sprinģis Māris
Published: June 2016

The purpose of the present paper is to investigate the impact of corruption on foreign direct investment (FDI) flows. Using data from the International Monetary Fund, Transparency International and United Nations conference about commerce and development data bases a cross-section econometric model was estimated to evaluate in which way and how strong corruption influence FDI inflows. Econometric modelling covers the period from year 2000 to 2007 and the data about 82 world countries that constitute more than 500 records. The main conclusion of the paper is that corruption has a negative and significant impact on the foreign direct investment inflows. Thus, changes in the level of corruption in the country, which is reflected as a decrease (increase) of the corruption index by one solitary, on average, cause an increase (decrease) in FDI inflow by 96,064 dollars per capita. Moreover, every single point of the corruption index in the previous assessment period, on the average ensures 123,077 dollars inflow of FDI per capita.
TRADITIONAL LATVIAN COUNTRY HOUSE. COURLAND REGION EXAMPLE
Authors: Balode Linda
Published: June 2016

The traditional way of life concerns not only treatment of things, but important is also the environment of traditional management. Development plans have to define the context of the cultural landscape protection and management of premises and areas around the old rural homesteads, having regard to land rights, and should be targeted for biodiversity conservation process. Such areas are not only of local but also of global importance. A highly measurable art is the skill to use and involve the ancient country estate in the landscape and ancient heritage of the most valuable items in the modern landscape, synthesis of the modern landscape of cultural value. As a result, visual character of poor quality is reduced, by giving new modernist trends to Courland traditional country yard landscape areas. Traditional country house landscape for contemporary original, harmonious environment, which is malleable in balance with man and nature, under the umbrella of cultural landscape values. Scientific research results provide an important contribution to the future of rural municipal administrative territorial development to enhance, restore or create new sustainable landscapes, based on balanced and harmonious relationships between economic activities, social needs and cultural environment.
CLUSTER APPROACH IN THE TOURISM BUSINESS
Authors: Dembovska Iveta , Silicka Inese
Published: June 2016

One of the approaches to development of the tourism industry at the regional level, based of market rules and principles are creation and development of tourism clusters. Clusters span numerous different companies, contribute to more efficient solution of socio–economic problems in the country as a whole, and in certain regions. Clusters centre around different companies, which have not cooperated in the past, to encourage their development. The cluster approach should make radical changes to content of the tourism development policy; it means that there is a need to promote and develop the system of relationships between economic operators and the national authorities rather to support individual companies or industries. Practically it enables creation and implementation of large trans–sectoral and interregional investment and innovation projects.
ANALYSIS OF PROFITABILITY
Authors: Garanča Biruta
Published: June 2016

In order to make a deeper analysis of the influencing factors of profitability on the basis of the data from annual reports, in a situation when there is a possibility of choosing between the profit or loss calculation methods, there is a need of another profitability index – profitability of the basic activity. Calculation formulas of the profit of the basic activity according to the indexes of the method of turnover cost and the method of payment for the period have been worked out. The article illustrates the application of both the formulas to the business in Latvia as a whole and specifically in Latgale on the basis of annual report for 2010.
LEGAL PRINCIPLES OF THE CREATION OF THE INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL BORDER OF THE EUROPEAN UNION
Authors: Gaveika Artūrs
Published: June 2016

The proposed theme is topical from the perspective of state and public security as well as the perspectives of the law enforcement institutions tasks in regard to the Schengen Area. Tasks of law enforcement institutions should be based on harmonized international legislation as well as the Latvian and the European Union legislation. Taking into account the socio–economic development level, the small size and quantity of the population in the Republic of Latvia, law enforcement institutions can not afford to tolerate any mistakes in the control of migration process. Such mistakes are not permissible since in 2012 Latvian law enforcement institutions will have to prove the Schengen evaluation committee the ability to implement the Schengen acquis requirements on free movement of persons. The research was done during 2007 and 2012. The research emphasizes the fact that further strengthening of the status of Latvia in the European Union and the Schengen Area is possible upon the improvement of legislation, harmonization of basic concepts in legislation and terminology, standardization of the practice of law according to uniform internationally accepted principles in the context of internal and external borders legislation.
OPTIMIZATION OF SUPPLY CHAIN WITH UNCERTAINTIES
Authors: Khachatryan Hayk , Mkrtchyan Nora , Arakelyan Aram
Published: June 2016

The purpose of this study is to clarify the approach by which companies are solving the problems of optimization of Supply Chain with uncertainties through application of operations research and numerical methods. The problem of Supply Chain maximization is considered on a global scale and the model with uncertainties is developed. An algorithm for optimization is presented for this model.
THE PROBLEMS IN THE APPLICATION OF STATE SUPPORT INSTRUMENTS IN ENERGY SECTOR
Authors: Leitāne Līga
Published: June 2016

Energy is one of the most important sectors of economic development. State support schemes are a prerequisite for successful development of the energy sector. As state support schemes vary in their use and mechanisms of action, the work analyzes support schemes used in Latvia according to their main results, as well as gives analysis of the economic theory approach to the state support schemes and their usefulness. The paper summarizes support schemes in certain European countries, as well as electricity tariffs in the European capitals. In her work, the author has made conclusions about the problems in public support schemes, both theoretical and practical, and developed proposals for the improvement of state support schemes.
WAGE TRENDS IN LATVIA DURING THE DOWNTURN IN ECONOMY
Authors: Mietule Iveta , Liepiņa Rita
Published: June 2016

Wage is one of the most important socio–economic factors that determine the rate of employment, quality of labour force, standard of living, as well as purchasing power in the country as a whole. The article provides 1) summary on the wage influencing factors regarding views of various economic schools, as well as 2) analysis of statistical indices that reveal dynamics of wages in the pre– and post–crisis periods in Latvia.
CRIMINAL COURT ORDER: ASSUMPTIONS AND PROBLEMS OF APPLICATION IN LITHUANIA
Authors: Микалаускене Нерия , Перкумене Даля , Лаукаитите Виктория
Published: June 2016

The article analyzes theoretical aspects related to the facilitation of criminal procedural form – a process of criminal order making. It shows the concept of place in criminal proceedings. Explicitly dealt with in criminal court order making regulations in Lithuania, discussed rules governing criminal court order making the legal framework and conditions for the application identifies problems that arise in the practical application of this simplified procedural form, discussed ways of solving them, indicate the optimal development of regulatory information, according to a criminal court order making foreign regulation of the criminal procedure Act.
LATVIAN HEALTH CARE COMPANY COMPETITIVENESS DETERMINING INDICATORS AND THEIR IMPROVEMENT POSSIBILITIES
Authors: Mavļutova Inese , Babauska Santa
Published: June 2016

Changes within the circumstances of health care industry have an impact on health care company’s processes and they should think about continuous improvements. The patient’s appreciation, resource base of medical professionals and technological equipment level are important indicators of the health care company’s competitiveness, but not all companies are taking it into account. The indicators influencing competitiveness of private health care companies from the company managers’ and patients’ perspective can be used in order to evaluate and to compare the health care companies’ competitiveness, and to analyze competition environment of the industry.
REPRODUCTION OF FARMS’ LONG–TERM ASSETS IN LATGALE
Authors: Prauliņš Artūrs , Melece Ligita
Published: June 2016

Agriculture is an important integral part of Latvia’s economy. Recently it has suffered a significant decline due to a price disparity, out–of–date technology, and stiff competition with cheap imported agricultural products, inflation and long–lasting unsuccessful structural reforms. At present most farms work with losses or low profitability and therefore can not provide the reproduction of fixed assets which is a vital prerequisite of efficient agricultural production. The comparative analysis of reproduction of farms’ fixed assets in Latgale and in Latvia is performed in the paper. In contrast to the previously done research, the focus is on analysis of various derived indicators such as net investments per European size unit, total utilised agricultural area and livestock unit. Special attention has been paid to the subsidies on investment as a gratis external source of finance and their proportion in gross investments.
SECURITIES MARKET IN LATVIA – DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES AND PROBLEMS
Authors: Šņepste Vineta
Published: June 2016

Securities market development is an indicator of economic development in general. An active securities market almost always means a vibrant economics. Latvian security market for many years has developed in a qualitative more than quantitative way, giving market participants a variety of convenient technology solutions, without any significant changes in the offer of securities on the market. This situation is not conducive to interest potential investors in the domestic securities market, stating that it lacks a qualitative offer as well as liquidity. In her work, the author gathers information on the current market situation, identifies the most important problems and defines the main directions of development.
More about Duchamp's wordplay
Authors: Jansen Bert
Published: June 2016

Given Duchamp’s lifelong passion for wordplay, as is already manifested in his early humoristic drawings, I take this love as a decisive factor in the way he “found” his readymades. Another factor I find in articles and illustrations in popular magazines of the time that provide a context in which his works originated. My attempts to reconstruct this context result in another view on the nature of Duchamp’s artistic calling than the still prevailing views of the conceptual 60ties and 70ties and the postmodern 80ties.
Biodegradabilidad de las diferentes dracciones de agua residual producidas en una tenería
Authors: Pire Sierra María Carolina , Rodríguez Sargent Karen , Fuenmayor Reyes Mary , Fuenmayor Yubislays , Acevedo Hervis , Carrasquero Ferrer Sedolfo , Díaz Montiel Altamira
Published: June 2016

Los efluentes de las tenerías están conformados por componentes orgánicos con diferentes niveles de biodegradabilidad, conocer su contenido biodegradable e inerte permite seleccionar los tratamientos de depuración más adecuados. El fraccionamiento de la materia orgánica, medida como demanda química de oxígeno (DQO), permitió cuantificar el contenido de DQO fácilmente biodegradable (DQOFB), DQO lentamente biodegradable (DQOLB), DQO no biodegradable soluble (DQONBs), y DQO no biodegradable particulada (DQONBp), contenidas en tres tipos de efluentes producidos en una tenería (mezcla pelambre-teñido, mezcla curtidoteñido y el efluente almacenado en una laguna). El objetivo fue seleccionar el efluente con mejores características de biodegradabilidad y así proponer los tratamientos de depuración más adecuados. Para tal fin, se utilizó un reactor por carga de 2 L de capacidad, alimentado con 70% de efluente industrial y 30% de biomasa. El sistema permaneció aireado durante el ciclo (24 h). Se midió la DQO total y soluble del agua residual cruda y licor mezcla, al inicio y al final del proceso. Se concluyó que el efluente con mayor contenido de DQO biodegradable fue el almacenado en la laguna con 57,4%, conformado por 33,1% de DQOFB y 24,3% de DQOLB, mientras que los efluentes segregados P-T y C-T mostraron menor contenido de DQO biodegradable (35,8 y 34,0%,respectivamente). Por lo tanto, el fraccionamiento de la DQO mostró que un tratamiento biológico sería más efectivo para tratar los efluentes almacenados en la laguna, porque podría remover hasta 57,4% de DQO por vía biológica. Así mismo, los resultados mostraron que se requería de un postratamiento que removiera la parte coloidal de la fracción no biodegradable (29,0% DQONBs y 13,6% DQONBp).