bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Zn(II) Ion on the Autoxidation of Pyrogallol and Gallic Acid in Weakly Acidic Aqueous Solutions / Uticaj Zn(II) jona na autooksidaciju pirogalola i galne kiseline u slabo kiselim vodenim rastvorima
Authors: Veselinović Aleksandar M. , Nikolić Goran M.
Published: June 2015

Pyrogallol-type phenolic compounds are widespread in nature and may have significant impact on human health. As Zn(II) ion was proved to be capable of enhancing some biological activities of pyrogallol-type natural phenolic compounds, we decided to study its influence on the autoxidation of pyrogallol and gallic acid in weakly acidic aqueous solutions.

UV-Vis spectrophotometric measurements showed that autoxidation of pyrogallol was initiated by the influence of Zn(II) ions at pH 5.5 and pH 6.5. The differences in UV-Vis spectra of the first autoxidation products resolved by the application of multivariate curve resolution - alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) method indicated that pH change also changed the mechanism of autoxidation process. Formation of stable Zn(II) ion spin stabilized free radical obtained during the autoxidation of pyrogallol at pH 6.5 was confirmed by using electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy and its structure was determined. Both UV-Vis spectrophotometric and ESR spectroscopic measurements did not give any evidence that gallic acid autoxidation was initiated by the influence of Zn(II) ions in weakly acidic aqueous solutions.

The results of this study may be used for explaining possible differences in the Zn(II) ion influence on various biological activities of pyrogallol-type phenolic compounds containing simple pyrogallol moiety and the ones containing gallate moiety as a part of the molecule
Evaluating the Incivility between Staff Nurses and Matrons Employed in Iran / Procena nepristojnog ponašanja u međusobnom odnosu medicinskih sestara i glavnih medicinskih sestara zaposlenih u Iranu
Authors: Heydari Abbas , Rad Mojtaba , Rad Mostafa
Published: June 2015

Incivility among nurses and matrons can lead to various issues such as employment turnover and dysfunctional patient care. Therefore, the need to examine and assess the uncivil behaviors among nurses and matrons is evident. The main purpose of this article is to study and determine the frequency of incivility between nurses and matrons from nurses’ point of view.

In this cross-sectional study, 200 nurses were selected from three educational hospitals of Mashhad using stratified-cluster random sampling method. The main research instrument was the edited Ottinot’s questionnaire of “perceived workplace civility climate scale (PWCC)” as well as general demographic information questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS version 11.5.

According to research findings, 22.6% of isolating behaviors, 27% of gossiping behaviors, 28% of hostile behaviors, and 26.5% of privacy violation behaviors were reported among matrons for at least one instance. In total, 28.8% (45 persons) admitted that they had observed at least one instance of uncivil behaviors in workplace once or twice.

Incivility exists among a quarter of nurses and matrons. Since in nursing society and culture of Islamic Iran these behaviors cannot be tolerated, it is highly recommended that managers, strategists, and nursing teachers pay a special attention to such behaviors among students, employers, and co-workers
The role of wastewater treatment in reducing pollution of surface waters with zearalenone / Uloga pročišćavanja otpadnih voda u smanjenju onečišćenja površinskih voda zearalenonom
Authors: Gromadzka Karolina , Waśkiewicz Agnieszka , Świetlik Joanna , Bocianowski Jan , Goliński Piotr
Published: June 2015

Zearalenone (ZEA) is a mycotoxin produced by some Fusarium species in food and feed. The toxicity of ZEA and its metabolites is related to the chemical structure of the mycotoxin, which is similar to naturally occurring oestrogens. Currently, there is increasing awareness of the presence of fungi and their toxic metabolites in the aquatic environment. One of the sources of these compounds are the effluents from wastewater treatment plants. The average annual efficiency of zearalenone reduction in the Łęczyca plant in our three-year study was in the range from 51.35 to 69.70 %. The threeway analysis of variance (year, month, and kind of wastewater) shows that the main effects of all factors and all interactions between them were significant for zearalenone and dissolved organic carbon content. Our findings suggest that wastewater is not the main source of surface water pollution with zearalenone. Future research should investigate the means to reduce ZEA and its migration from the fields through prevention strategies such as breeding for crops, plant debris management (crop rotation, tillage), and/or chemical and biological control.
Impact of Ocean Tides Loading on Precise Point Positioning Based on FES2004 Model
Authors: Kalita J. Z. , Rzepecka Z.
Published: June 2015

Precise Point Positioning (PPP) technique as an absolute positioning method requires modeling of effects that influence observations. One of the effects is a displacement of the measurement location due to ocean mass gravitational attraction - ocean tides loading (OTL). The model recommended by the International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service (IERS) is FES2004. The paper focuses on impact of applying the particular OTL model on PPP processing. The analysis is based on processing of observations from 24 globally distributed permanent stations and time span of 50 days. The analysis bases on processing intervals from 1 to 24 hours. In addition, the amplitudes of the loads in Poland are evaluated. The OTL model is location dependent, thus the importance of applying this model depends on the location environment. As the PPP is an absolute method, the loads cumulate and transfer nearly directly to the positioning solution. Consequently, for short observation intervals and small loads the application of the model does not play an important role. For the analysed station with high amplitudes of the loads the relative and absolute improvement, of the solution was the highest for height component. By applying the model, the solution improved by 19% or 7.3 mm (as for RMS and 8 hour interval). The distinct improvement for convergence exists for vertical component and threshold below 5 cm. For Poland the vertical component loads were about 5 times smaller and the highest improvement for the analysed station was 3.7% for 4 hour interval and vertical component.
Evaluation of tumor angiogenesis in patients with non-small cell lung carcinoma
Authors: Suciu B.A. , Mezei T. , Pap Zsuzsanna , Denes L. , Hălmaciu Ioana , Pavai Z. , Brînzaniuc Klara , Azamfirei L.
Published: June 2015

The aim of this study is to evaluate tumor angiogenesis in patients with non-small cell lung carcinoma. A total of 20 patients with pulmonary adenocarinoma have been included in the study. In order to evaluate tumor angiogenesis we studied the importance of CD34 expression. Evaluation of vascular density was performed with a semiautomated method using the dedicated software called ImageJ. We introduced in our study 20 patients with lung adenocarcinoma. We were able to identify tumor angiogenesis in 19 cases (95%). Immunolabeling of CD34 positive endothelial cells provided a good overview of tumor vascularization. Immunohistochemical staining of CD34 positive endothelium cells provided a good basis for tumor vascularity assessment, and also an excellent contrast for computer assisted morphometric measurements. Also we studied the intensity of the immunohistochemical staining of CD34 in the tumoral cells. We obtained the following results: a minor expression in 4 cases (20%), a moderate expression in 9 cases (45%) and an intense expression in 6 cases (30%). The histological type of adenocarcinomas influences the architecture and branching of the vessels. The density of newly developed vessels is higher in patients with papillary pulmonary adenocarcinomas, which may indicate a possible relationship between the histological type and development of vascular supply.
Antihyperlipidemic, antioxidant and weightlowering
effects of “Vitalplant”
Authors: Đurendić Brenesel Maja , Pilija Vladimir , Popović Tamara , Arsić Aleksandra , Milić Miljan , Kojić Danijela , Milić Nataša , Mišan Aleksandra
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND: “VITALPLANT” medicinal plant
mixture, aimed at body weight regulation and metabolism
enhancement was formulated in order to be incorporated
as an ingredient in functional food formulations on the
basis of known biological activity of the alder buckthorn
bark, peppermint, caraway and parsley. METHODOLOGY:
The body weight-lowering potential, hypolipidemic effects
and antioxidant activity of “Vitalplant” mixture were
examined on five groups of male Wistar rats on different
food regimes for 14 weeks. RESULTS: “Vitalplant” mixture
supplementation caused an increase in food intake, but
induced a decrease in body weight gain. The lipid status
and atherogenic index (AI) were significantly improved in
“Vitalplant” mixture supplemented hyperlipidemic (HF)
groups in comparison to HF group. “Vitalplant” mixture
was able to influence the activity of antioxidant enzymes
and to protect erythrocytes of the rats fed the HF diet from
oxidative damage, which was indicated by significantly
lower malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in “Vitalplant”- HF
groups in comparison to the HF group. CONCLUSION: “Vitalplant” mixture seemed to be beneficial for the
reduction of body weight and improvement of antioxidant
status of the erythrocytes, and its antihyperlipidemic
property was highly active for enhancing the profile of
plasma lipids in rats.
Entropy at the right atrium as a predictor of atrial fibrillation recurrence outcome after pulmonary vein ablation
Authors: Cervigón Raquel , Moreno Javier , García-Quintanilla Jorge , Pérez-Villacastín Julián , Castells Francisco
Published: June 2015

Atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence rates after successful ablation procedures are still high and difficult to predict. This work studies the capability of entropy measured from intracardiac recordings as an indicator for recurrence outcome. Intra-atrial recordings from 31 AF patients were registered previously to an ablation procedure. Four electrodes were located at the right atrium (RA) and four more at the left atrium (LA). Sample entropy measurements were applied to these signals, in order to characterize different non-linear AF dynamics at the RA and LA independently. In a 3 months follow-up, 19 of them remained in sinus rhythm, whereas the other 12 turned back to AF. Entropy values can be associated to a proarrhythmic indicator as they were higher in patients with AF recurrence (1.11±0.15 vs. 0.91±0.13), in persistent patients (1.03±0.19 vs. 0.96±0.15), and at the LA with respect to the RA (1.03±0.23 vs. 0.89±0.15 for paroxysmal AF patients). Furthermore, entropy values at the RA arose as a more reliable predictor for recurrence outcome than at the LA. Results suggest that high entropy values, especially at the RA, are associated with high risk of AF recurrence. These findings show the potential of the proposed method to predict recurrences post-ablation, providing additional insights to the understanding of arrhythmia.
Effects of inclined magnetic field and Joule heating in mixed convective peristaltic transport of non-Newtonian fluids
Authors: Abbasi F.M. , Hayat T. , Alsaedi A.
Published: June 2015

This article describes the influence of an inclined magnetic field on the mixed convective peristaltic transport of fluid in an inclined channel. Two types of non-Newtonian fluids are considered. The problem formulation is presented for the Eyring-Prandtl and Sutterby fluids. Viscous dissipation and Joule heating in the heat transfer process are retained. The presence of a heat source in the energy equation is ensured. The resulting problems are solved by the perturbation method. The plots for different parameters of interest are given and discussed. Numerical values of a heat transfer rate are given and analyzed
Geopolymers in Construction / Zastosowanie Geopolimerów W Budownictwie
Authors: Błaszczyński Tomasz Z. , Król Maciej R.
Published: June 2015

Within the framework of quests of supplementary and „healthier” binders to the production of concrete followed the development of geopolymers in construction. However the practical application of these materials is still very limited. The production of each ton of cement introduces one ton of CO2 into the atmosphere. According to various estimations, the synthesis of geopolymers absorbs 2-3 times less energy than the Portland cement and causes a generation of 4-8 times less of CO2. Geopolymeric concretes possess a high compressive strength, very small shrinkage and small creep, and they possess a high resistance to acid and sulphate corrosion. These concretes are also resistant to carbonate corrosion and possess a very high fire resistance and also a high resistance to UV radiation.
Renovation and Modernization of Residential Structures in Gliwice Based on Survey of the Environment Built from the Years 1848-2014 / Renowacja I Modernizacja Struktury Mieszkaniowej W Gliwicach Na Podstawie Badań Ankietowych Środowiska Zbudowanego Z Lat 1848-2014
Authors: Cibis Jerzy , Serdyńska Joanna
Published: June 2015

The subject of the survey carried out in 2013-2014 are changes in Gliwice residential substance in relation to the two fundamental issues:how proceeded transformation of the existing housing stock, which changes has it undergone during operation. The range of changes within the housing illustrates all the positive and negative solutions characteristic for each of the periods. In the selection of research technique decision was made to form the survey. The quantitative data collected during the survey are the basis for building applications and also from grouped and developed characteristics for the surveyed collections. The test results help to identify regularities concerning the scope of the changes made in each period and - indirectly - give evidence to evaluate the built environment in terms of meeting the expectations and needs of the residents. Analysis of the assumptions also draws attention to the life cycles of the apartment, as the original part undergoing transformation during the adaptation, modernization and reconstruction of housing environment to changing needs during operational requirements. The scope of the changes introduced by them within the housing allows to evaluate the accuracy of functional and spatial, technical and technological solutions characteristic of the period in which they developed.
The Effectiveness of Organic Pollutants Removal in Constructed Wetland with Horizontal Sub-Surface Flow / Efektywność Usuwania Zanieczyszczeń Organicznych W Oczyszczalni Hydrofitowej
Authors: Jakubaszek Anita , Sadecka Zofia
Published: June 2015

This paper presents the results of the research work related to the removal efficiency from wastewater organic pollutants and suspended solids at HSSF (horizontal subsurface flow) constructed wetland. The average effectiveness defined as loss of value COD in wastewater has reached 77%, for BOD5 - 80% and TOC - 82%. The effect of seasonal temperature changes and the period of plant vegetation and rest on the effectiveness of wastewater treatment were also analyzed. The results of the presented research showed a decrease in the efficiency of removing organic pollutants from wastewater and suspended solids in the autumn and winter. During the vegetation the object in Małyszyn has been characterized by the effectiveness of wastewater treatment at the level of 78% for COD, 82% for BOD5, and in the non-vegetation period the effectiveness has decreased up to 75% for COD and 74% for BOD5. During the plants growth the total suspension was removed in 88%, whereas during the plants rest efficiency of removing lowered to 69%.
Presentation of Functional, PPS and Hall’s Methods in Comparison with other Research on Space Quality / Prezentacja Metod: Funkcjonalnej, Pps I Hall’A Na Tle Innych Badań Jakości Przestrzeni
Authors: Kossak-Jagodzińska Anna
Published: June 2015

The end of the twentieth century was a period in which the need for quality control was developing in all areas of life in post-industrial countries. The impulse for the development of numerous methods of evaluating the quality in architecture and construction was "Green Paper" and "Agenda 21" concerning the idea of sustainable development. First of all, creation of a system of evaluation criteria is the basis for elaboration of any system of quality control. Several years of cooperation between J. Serdyńska and the author resulted in a cycle of studies on urban public space (squares in the city of Katowice) based upon functional, Hall’s and PPS methods. This study aims to embed them in a typology of other studies of space quality.
Assessment of Impact of the Rheological Parameters Change on Sensitivity of the Asphalt Strain Based on the Test Results / Ocena Wpływu Zmiany Parametrów Reologicznych Na Wrażliwość Deformacji Mieszanek Mineralno - Asfaltowych Na Podstawie Wyników Badań
Authors: Kurpiel Artur , Wysokowski Adam
Published: June 2015

The creep test under the static loading, that allows to determine rheological properties of asphalt based on the creep curve, is the most effective test nowadays. Applied loads are non-destructive and allow to observe the course of the strain after the test load. The test can be carried out on compressing, shearing, bending as well as on triaxial test, that depends on the applied apparatus implementing different intensity [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6].

Based on the creep test, the stress of different properties can be specified. Among them there are valuable rheological properties based on selected viscoelascity models [1].

The properties of the viscoelascity models are relevant indexes depicting resistance to deformation. They can be used to forecast the wheel-truck in the accepted rheological model [1]. In this article it is shown the impact of different rheological properties of the viscoelacity model on the wheel-truck as well as the impact of different properties on shape and the course of the creep curve.

The asphalt mixtures presented in this article are characterized by variable rheological properties. It is therefore difficult to determine which property mostly affects the size of the strain. However, the authors of this article attempted to analyse the change of the asphalt strain value of the different variables in particular rheological model, called Bürgers’s model.
Cracking in Concrete near Joints in Steelconcrete Composite Slab / Zarysowanie Płyty Żelbetowej W Strefie Przywęzłowej Stropu Zespolonego
Authors: Niedośpiał Marcin , Knauff Michał , Barcewicz Wioleta
Published: June 2015

In this paper results of the experimental tests of four full-scale composite steel-concrete elements are reported. In the steel-concrete composite elements, a steel beam was connected with a slab cast on profiled sheeting, by shear studs. The end-plates were (the thickness of 8 mm, 10 mm and 12 mm) thinner than in ordinary design. Joints between the column and the beams have been designed as semi-rigid, i.e. the deformations of endplates affect the distribution of forces in the adjacent parts of the slab. The paper presents the theory of cracking in reinforced concrete and steel-concrete composite members (according to the codes), view of crack pattern on the surface of the slabs and a comparison of the tests results and the code calculations. It was observed, that some factors influencing on crack widths are not taken in Eurocode 4 (which is based on Eurocode 2 with taking into account the phenomenon called „tension stiffening”).
The Impact of Varied Fertilisation on the Concentration of Cadmium and Copper in Organs of Willow Trees (Salix Viminalis) / Wpływ Zróznicowanego Nawożenia Na Zawartość Kadmu I Miedzi W Wierzbie Wiciowej (Salix Viminalis )
Authors: Sieciechowicz Aleksandra
Published: June 2015

The paper presents the impact of varied fertilisation with sewage sludge on the concentration of cadmium and copper in willow organs during the first three years of cultivation. The lowest mean concentration of cadmium in Salix viminalis biomass was found in the plantation fertilised only with mineral fertilisers. The mean content of copper in the biomass of plants fertilised with mineral fertilisers was higher than the content of this metal in plants grown in non-fertilised soil by 23.4%.

It has been shown that the method of fertilisation does not have an impact on the cadmium allocation in different organs. The highest content of cadmium and copper in the willow biomass was found in the foliage (1,76 mg/kgd.m. and 12,73 mg/kgd.m. respectively).
Partial Factors in Modelling of Steel Structures Reliability According to Eurocodes / Współczynniki Częściowe W Eurokodowym Modelu Niezawodności Konstrukcji Stalowych
Authors: Stachura Zbigniew , Giżejowski Marian
Published: June 2015

Problems associated with the estimation of partial factors for structural systems, subsystems and buckling of individual elements are dealt with in this paper. Aspects related to resistance factors for the section resistance and member resistance are in particular referred to. The Eurocode’s approach of resistance partial factor calibration assisted by experimental data for subframe systems is also summarized.
Biomedical and agricultural applications of energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy in electron microscopy
Authors: Wyroba Elżbieta , Suski Szymon , Miller Karolina , Bartosiewicz Rafał
Published: June 2015

Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) in electron microscopy has been widely used in many research areas since it provides precise information on the chemical composition of subcellular structures that may be correlated with their high resolution images. In EDS the characteristic X-rays typical of each element are analyzed and the new detectors - an example of which we describe - allow for setting precisely the area of measurements and acquiring signals as a point analysis, as a linescan or in the image format of the desired area. Mapping of the elements requires stringent methods of sample preparation to prevent redistribution/loss of the elements as well as elimination of the risk of overlapping spectra. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses may be performed at a low probe current suitable for thin biological samples. Descriptions of preparation techniques, drawbacks and precautions necessary to obtain reliable results are provided, including data on standards, effects of specimen roughness and quantification. Data on EPMA application in different fields of biomedical and agricultural studies are reviewed.

In this review we refer to recent EDS/EPMA applications in medical diagnostics, studies on air pollution and agrochemicals as well as on plant models used to monitor the environment.
The effect of the bioactive sphingolipids S1P and C1P on multipotent stromal cells – new opportunities in regenerative medicine
Authors: Marycz Krzysztof , Śmieszek Agnieszka , Jeleń Marta , Chrząstek Klaudia , Grzesiak Jakub , Meissner Justyna
Published: June 2015

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and ceramide-1-phosphate (C1P) belong to a family of bioactive sphingolipids that act as important extracellular signaling molecules and chemoattractants. This study investigated the influence of S1P and C1P on the morphology, proliferation activity and osteogenic properties of rat multipotent stromal cells derived from bone marrow (BMSCs) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (ASCs). We show that S1P and C1P can influence mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), each in a different manner. S1P stimulation promoted the formation of cellular aggregates of BMSCs and ASCs, while C1P had an effect on the regular growth pattern and expanded intercellular connections, thereby increasing the proliferative activity. Although osteogenic differentiation of MSCs was enhanced by the addition of S1P, the effectiveness of osteoblast differentiation was more evident in BMSCs, particularly when biochemical and molecular marker levels were considered. The results of the functional osteogenic differentiation assay, which includes an evaluation of the efficiency of extracellular matrix mineralization (SEM-EDX), revealed the formation of numerous mineral aggregates in BMSC cultures stimulated with S1P. Our data demonstrated that in an appropriate combination, the bioactive sphingolipids S1P and C1P may find wide application in regenerative medicine, particularly in bone regeneration with the use of MSCs.
Growth of Meromorphic Solutions of Finite Logarithmic Order of Linear Difference Equations
Authors: Belaïdi Benharrat
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we deal with the growth and the oscillation of solutions of the linear difference equation

an (z) f (z + n) + an-1 (z) f (z + n - 1) + ··· + a1 (z) f (z + 1) + a0 (z) f (z) = 0;

where an(z),···, a0(z) are meromorphic functions of finite logarithmic order such that an(z)a0(z) 6≢ 0.
Real-Time Digital Simulation and Analysis of Sliding Mode and P&O MPPT Algorithms for a PV System
Authors: Kolluru Venkata Ratnam , Mahapatra Kamalakanta , Subudhi Bidyadhar
Published: June 2015

This paper presents an integral Sliding Mode Controller (SMC) of a DC-DC boost converter integrated with a photovoltaic (PV) system for maximum power extraction. In view of improving the steady-state performance of the maximum power point tracking (MPPT), an integral of the error term is included in the sliding surface. The output of PV panels is connected to a DC-DC boost converter to regulate and enhance the voltage up to a desired level. By using SMC with integral term, the steady-state condition is obtained at less than 0.1 sec. With the proposed ISMC MPPT the maximum power extracted is more than 10% than the traditional Perturb & Observe (P&O) MPPT at standard test conditions (STC). The results obtained using the SMC are compared with that of the fixed step size P&O MPPT controller. The performances of the proposed sliding mode controller and the P&O controller are validated through experimentations using a Real-Time Digital Simulator (RTDS)-Opal RT.
An Optimized K-Harmonic Means Algorithm Combined with Modified Particle Swarm Optimization and Cuckoo Search Algorithm
Authors: Bouyer Asgarali , Farajzadeh Nacer
Published: June 2015

Among the data clustering algorithms, the k-means (KM) algorithm is one of the most popular clustering techniques because of its simplicity and efficiency. However, KM is sensitive to initial centers and it has a local optima problem. The k-harmonic means (KHM) clustering algorithm solves the initialization problem of the KM algorithm, but it also has a local optima problem. In this paper, we develop a new algorithm for solving this problem based on a modified version of particle swarm optimization (MPSO) algorithm and KHM clustering. In the proposed algorithm, MPSO is equipped with the cuckoo search algorithm and two new concepts used in PSO in order to improve the efficiency, fast convergence, and escape from local optima. MPSO updates the positions of particles based on a combination of global worst, global best with personal worst, and personal best to dynamically be used in each iteration of the MPSO. The experimental result on eight real-world data sets and two artificial data sets confirms that this modified version is superior to KHM and the regular PSO algorithm. The results of the simulation show that the new algorithm is able to create promising solutions with fast convergence, high accuracy, and correctness while markedly improving the processing time.
Revisiting simple methods to estimate drop size distributions: a novel approach based on infrared thermography
Authors: Lima João L.M.P. de , Silva Valdemir P. , Lima M. Isabel P. de , Abrantes João R.C.B. , Montenegro Abelardo A.A.
Published: June 2015

The infrared thermography has been successfully applied as a tool for high resolution imaging in different hydrological studies. This exploratory experimental study aimed at evaluating the possibility of using infrared thermography to determine the diameter of raindrops. Rain samples are collected on a pre-heated acrylic board, which is exposed to rain during an instant, and thermograms are recorded. The area of the thermal stains (“signatures” of the raindrops) emerging on the board is measured and converted to drop diameters, applying a calibration equation. Diameters of natural raindrops estimated using this technique were compared with laser disdrometer measurements; the Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient was used for evaluating the match between the resulting histograms of drop size distribution. Results confirm the usefulness of this simple technique for sizing and counting raindrops, although it is unsatisfactory in light rain or drizzle.
Rainfall and runoff regime trends in mountain catchments (Case study area: the upper Hron River basin, Slovakia)
Authors: Blahušiaková Andrea , Matoušková Milada
Published: June 2015

This paper presents an analysis of trends and causes of changes of selected hydroclimatic variables influencing the runoff regime in the upper Hron River basin (Slovakia). Different methods for identifying trends in data series are evaluated and include: simple mass curve analysis, linear regression, frequency analysis of flood events, use of the Indicators of Hydrological Alteration software, and the Mann-Kendall test. Analyses are performed for data from two periods (1931-2010 and 1961-2010). The changes in runoff are significant, especially in terms of lower QMax and 75 percentile values. This fact is also confirmed by the lower frequency and extremity of flood events. The 1980s are considered a turning point in the development of all hydroclimatic variables. The Mann-Kendall test shows a significant decrease in runoff in the winter period. The main causes of runoff decline are: the considerable increase in air temperature, the decrease in snow cover depth and changes in seasonal distribution of precipitation amounts.
Regional Identification in Present Day Romania. The Case Study of Suceava County
Authors: Colăcel Onoriu
Published: June 2015

In the aftermath of the 1989 Revolution, Romanian mainstream culture set out to reclaim the pre- Communist legacy of the country. The ‘golden age’ of interwar was the obvious choice; both popular and academic debates on Romanian identity looked back at the time of the so-called Greater Romania. The present day Suceava County is singular in its regional identification with the former Habsburg Duchy of Bukovina. The Austrian occupation of the Northern part of the historical principality of Moldova between 1775 and 1918 provides an identity building opportunity to the locals who seem to find fault with Moldovan regional designation. Bukovina comes into the picture of the hospitality industry mostly, yet there is more to the Bukovinian identification. The literature published by Suceava County Council appears to employ a marketing strategy for the same hospitality industry that dwells on what is, essentially, the colonial past of the area. At odds with Romanian self-identification, the narrative of Bukovina underpins the discourse of local government as a means to foster brand awareness for the entire county, although Southern Suceava was never incorporated into the Habsburg/Austro- Hungarian Empire
Crystal structure of ethyl 4-(5-allyl-6-methyl-2-phenylpyrimidin-4-ylamino) benzoate, C23H23N3O2
Authors: Lu Zai-Sheng , Zhu Guang-Zhou
Published: June 2015

C23H23N3O2, triclinic, P1̅ (no. 2), a = 8.244(5) Å, b = 9.998(6) Å, c = 12.618(8) Å, ɑ = 76.654(7)°, β = 84.834(7)°, γ = 81.708(7)°, V = 999.6 Å3, Z = 2, Rgt(F) = 0.0469, wRref(F2) = 0.1473, T = 296 K.
Examining the Export-led Growth Hypothesis: The case of Croatia
Authors: Bilas Vlatka , Bošnjak Mile , Franc Sanja
Published: June 2015

This paper examines the relationship between gross domestic product and exports of goods and services in Croatia between 1996 and 2012. The research results confirmed unidirectional Granger causality from the exports of goods and services to gross domestic product. Following the Engle-Granger approach to cointegration, long-term equilibrium as well as short-term correlation between the observed variables was identified. Exports of goods and services and gross domestic product (GDP) in Croatia move together. If the two observed variables move away from equilibrium, they will return to their long-term equilibrium state at a velocity of 24.46% in the subsequent period. In accordance with the results, we found evidence supporting the export-led growth hypothesis in Croatia. As the outcomes indicated, to recover the economy, Croatia should put more emphasis on the development of exporting sectors.
Justifications of national gambling policies in France and Finland
Authors: Marionneau Virve
Published: June 2015

Aims

The principles of free trade and free circulation of services within the European Union have created pressures to make the strictly controlled European gambling markets more open. According to the Court of Justice of the European Union, restrictions on gambling are only allowed if they are justified in admissible terms of consumer protection, prevention of criminal activity and protection of public order. This study compares the gambling laws of two European societies, France and Finland, to analyse how their legal frames of gambling have been adjusted to these principles.

Design

The data consists of up-to-date legislation on gambling in Finland and France. A qualitative analysis was conducted to study whether new ways of justifying have been included in legislative texts and if these are substantiated by measures related to consumer protection or crime prevention.

Results

France has mainly justified its restrictive policies on gambling in terms of preventing criminal activities while the Finnish legislation highlights the charitable causes funded by gambling proceeds, a claim not accepted by the Court of Justice of the European Union. Consumer protection is increasingly stressed in both countries, and the range of rationales has also grown notably since 2007.

Conclusion

While the vocabularies of justification accepted by the CJEU have expanded since 2007, these have not been substantiated by many new legislative measures. This is not attributed to political ill will but rather to the difficulty of changing existing legislative traditions.
Electromagnetic pulses produced by expanding laser-produced Au plasma
Authors: De Marco Massimo , Cikhardt Jakub , Krása Josef , Velyhan Andriy , Pfeifer Miroslav , Krouský Eduard , Klír Daniel , Řezáč Karel , Limpouch Jiři , Margarone Daniele , Ullschmied Jiři
Published: June 2015

The interaction of an intense laser pulse with a solid target produces large number of fast free electrons. This emission gives rise to two distinct sources of the electromagnetic pulse (EMP): the pulsed return current through the holder of the target and the outflow of electrons into the vacuum. A relation between the characteristics of laser-produced plasma, the target return current and the EMP emission are presented in the case of a massive Au target irradiated with the intensity of up to 3 × 1016 W/cm2. The emission of the EMP was recorded using a 12 cm diameter Moebius loop antennas, and the target return current was measured using a new type of inductive target probe (T-probe). The simultaneous use of the inductive target probe and the Moebius loop antenna represents a new useful way of diagnosing the laser–matter interaction, which was employed to distinguish between laser-generated ion sources driven by low and high contrast laser pulses.
Recent ion measurements within the modified DPF-1000U facility
Authors: Kwiatkowski Roch , Czaus Krzysztof , Skladnik-Sadowska Elzbieta , Sadowski Marek J. , Zaloga Dobromil R. , Paduch Marian , Zielinska Ewa
Published: June 2015

In this note we describe measurements of ion beams emitted along the z-axis of the DPF-1000U facility operated at 23 kV, 334 kJ, and with the initial deuterium pressure of 1.6–2 hPa. The DPF-1000U device was recently renewed and equipped with a dynamic gas-puff valve placed inside the inner electrode. The investigated ions were recorded by means of ion pinhole cameras equipped with solid state nuclear track detectors of the PM-355® (PADC) type. The energy spectra of ions were determined using a Thomson spectrometer placed on the symmetry axis at a distance of 160 cm from the electrodes outlets. The ion images recorded during discharges performed under different experimental conditions show that the ion beams have a complex structure, usually in the form of a central bunch and an annular stream composed of many micro-beams. Energies of the registered deuterons have been in the range of 30–700 keV, while the fast protons (which originated from the hydrogen remnants) had energies in the range of 300–850 keV.
CFD modeling of passive autocatalytic recombiners*
Authors: Orszulik Magdalena , Fic Adam , Bury Tomasz
Published: June 2015

This study deals with numerical modeling of passive autocatalytic hydrogen recombiners (PARs). Such devices are installed within containments of many nuclear reactors in order to remove hydrogen and convert it to steam. The main purpose of this work is to develop a numerical model of passive autocatalytic recombiner (PAR) using the commercial computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software ANSYS-FLUENT and tuning the model using experimental results. The REKO 3 experiment was used for this purpose. Experiment was made in the Institute for Safety Research and Reactor Technology in Julich (Germany). It has been performed for different hydrogen concentrations, different flow rates, the presence of steam, and different initial temperatures of the inlet mixture. The model of this experimental recombiner was elaborated within the framework of this work. The influence of mesh, gas thermal conductivity coefficient, mass diffusivity coefficients, and turbulence model was investigated. The best results with a good agreement with REKO 3 data were received for k-ɛ model of turbulence, gas thermal conductivity dependent on the temperature and mass diffusivity coefficients taken from CHEMKIN program. The validated model of the PAR was next implemented into simple two-dimensional simulations of hydrogen behavior within a subcompartment of a containment building.
Ion acceleration from intense laser-generated plasma: methods, diagnostics and possible applications
Authors: Torrisi Lorenzo
Published: June 2015

Many parameters of non-equilibrium plasma generated by high intensity and fast lasers depend on the pulse intensity and the laser wavelength. In conditions favourable for the target normal sheath acceleration (TNSA) regime the ion acceleration from the rear side of the target can be enhanced by increasing the thin foil absorbance through the use of nanoparticles and nanostructures promoting the surface plasmon resonance effect. In conditions favourable for the backward plasma acceleration (BPA) regime, when thick targets are used, a special role is played by the laser focal position with respect to the target surface, a proper choice of which may result in induced self-focusing effects and non-linear acceleration enhancement. SiC detectors employed in the time-of-flight (TOF) configuration and a Thomson parabola spectrometer permit on-line diagnostics of the ion streams emitted at high kinetic energies. The target composition and geometry, apart from the laser parameters and to the irradiation conditions, allow further control of the plasma characteristics and can be varied by using advanced targets to reach the maximum ion acceleration. Measurements using advanced targets with enhanced the laser absorption effect in thin films are presented. Applications of accelerated ions in the field of ion source, hadrontherapy and nuclear physics are discussed.
Comparison of optical spectra recorded during DPF-1000U plasma experiments with gas-puffing
Authors: Zaloga Dobromil R. , Skladnik-Sadowska Elzbieta , Kubkowska Monika , Ladygina Marina S. , Malinowski Karol , Kwiatkowski Roch , Sadowski Marek J. , Paduch Marian , Zielinska Ewa , Makhlaj Vadym A.
Published: June 2015

The results are presented of the optical spectra measurements for free plasma streams generated with the use of the modified DPF-1000U machine. This facility was recently equipped with a gas injection system (the so-called gas-puff) placed on the symmetry axis behind the central opening in the inner electrode. The DPF-1000U experimental chamber was filled up with pure deuterium at the initial pressure of 1.6 or 2.4 mbar. Additionally, when the use was made of the gas-puff system about 1 cm3 of pure deuterium was injected at the pressure of 2 bars. The gas injection was initiated 1.5 or 2 ms before the triggering of the main discharge. The investigated plasma discharges were powered from a condenser bank charged initially to 23 kV (corresponding to the energy of 352 kJ), and the maximum discharge current amounted to about 1.8 MA. In order to investigate properties of a dense plasma column formed during DPF-1000U discharges the use was made of the optical emission spectroscopy. The optical spectra were recorded along the line of sight perpendicular to the vacuum chamber, using a Mechelle®900 spectrometer. The recent analysis of all the recorded spectra made it possible to compare the temporal changes in the electron density of a freely propagating plasma stream for discharges without and with the gas-puffing. Using this data an appropriate mode of operation of the DPF-1000U facility could be determined.
Effect of nitrogen fertilisation of Galega orientalis Lam. on the yield and content K, Na, Ca and Mg in the plant and soil
Authors: Symanowicz Barbara , Kalembasa Stanisław , Jaremko Dawid , Niedbała Mateusz
Published: June 2015

The aim of this study is to determine the response of biomass yield and the content of K, Na, Ca and Mg in the eastern galega and soil under the influence of nitrogen in the form of (15NH4)2SO4. Three-year field experiment (2005–2007) was carried out on experimental plots belonging to the University of Natural Sciences - Humanities in Siedlce (52°17’N, 22°28’E). Nitrogen 15N was applied as ammonium sulphate at a dose of early spring 1.66 g N.m−2. In each year of the study were collected three cuts of eastern galega budding phase. Shown yield of dry weight of the test plant. The content of K, Na, Ca and Mg in the eastern galega and soil were determined by ICP-AES emission spectrometer with inductively coupled plasma. Subsequently, the uptake and marked weight ratios of macronutrients.

Under the influence of nitrogen in the form of ammonium sulphate, dry matter yield of eastern galega (average of 3 years of research and 3 swaths) increased by 29.7%. Fertilisation with nitrogen contributed to the reduction of K content, increasing the content of Na, Ca, Mg, in a test plant and to increase the pick, all the elements analysed with the yield of biomass. Nitrogen fertilisation resulted in a reduction in the quantitative ratios K: (Ca + Mg), (K + Na) : (Ca + Mg), K: Ca, K : Mg and the total content of the analysed elements in the soil (average of the years).
Effect of different glyphosate salts on phosphodiesterase and phosphotriesterase activities in soil with reference to ecological importance of soil pollution. A laboratory experiment
Authors: Płatkowski Maciej , Telesiński Arkadiusz
Published: June 2015

The aim of this study is to determine the effect of the two glyphosate salts: isopropylamine and potassium (contained in preparations Roundup) on the activity of phosphodiesterase and phosphotriesterase in the soil. The experiment was carried out in the laboratory conditions on two soil types: loamy sand (Corg 8.70 g·kg−1, pHKCl 6.39) and sandy loam (Corg 10.90 g·kg−1, pHKCl 6.81). Two glyphosate salts (isopropylamine and potassium) in dosage of 0, 1 and 100 mg·kg−1 were applicate into soils. Phosphodiesterase and phospotriesterase activities in soils were determined spectrophotometrically on days 1, 7, 14, 28, 56 and 112. The obtained results were converted with respect to the enzyme activities in the control soil (assuming it to be 100%) and given as percent of inhibition. The results were shown as environmental danger zones graphs. Obtained results showed that glyphosate salts application has primarily resulted in inhibition of phosphodiesterase activity, and stimulation of phosphotriesterase activity in soils. Soil type and kind of glyphosate salt affect the interaction of herbicide with phosphodiesterase and phosphotriesterase activities. The observed changes in the phosphodiesterase and phosphotriesterase activities caused by the addition of both glyphosate salts were located on environmental danger zones graphs in the range of negligible or acceptable values, which may indicate a low impact of herbicide on measured enzymes.
Accelerated aging investigation of high voltage EPDM/silica composite insulators
Authors: Khattak Abraiz , Amin Muhammad
Published: June 2015

Ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer (EPDM) is one of the most frequently used outdoor insulating materials. Like other polymeric materials, EPDM and its composites also degrade in outdoor applications. For evaluation of aging of insulating materials, accelerated multistress aging/weathering is an efficient method. In the current paper, comparative multistress aging performance investigation of neat EPDM (NE), EPDM with 20% microsilica (microcomposite, EMC), EPDM with 5% nanosilica (nanocomposite, ENC) and EPDM 20% microsilica 5% nanosilica (hybrid composite, EHC) is presented. Materials prepared according to ASTM D3182-07 were subjected to uniform ultraviolet (UV) radiation, heat, humidity, salt fog and acid rain at 2.5 kV voltage for 5000 h in a specially fabricated weathering chamber. For timely analysis of the aged materials, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Swedish Transmission Research Institute (STRI) hydrophobicity classification and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used along with the critical visual inspection. Increasing discoloration was found in all materials which was proportional to% wt of the filler in composites. Improved hydrophobicity and better surface smoothness was recorded in composites as compared to NE, which was higher in the case of the microcomposite and hybrid composite. FTIR results showed least reduction in hydrocarbon bonds and lowest variation in chalking index in the case of the microcomposite.
DP5: A Private Presence Service
Authors: Borisov Nikita , Danezis George , Goldberg Ian
Published: June 2015

Users of social applications like to be notified when their friends are online. Typically, this is done by a central server keeping track of who is online and offline, as well as of all of the users’ “buddy lists”, which contain sensitive information. We present DP5, a cryptographic service that implements online presence indication in a privacy-friendly way. DP5 allows clients to register their online presence and query the presence of their list of friends while keeping this list secret. Besides presence, high-integrity status updates are supported, to facilitate key update and rendezvous protocols. While infrastructure services are required for DP5 to operate, they are designed to not require any long-term secrets and provide perfect forward secrecy in case of compromise. We provide security arguments for the indistinguishability properties of the protocol, as well as an evaluation of its scalability and performance.
Accountable Metadata-Hiding Escrow: A Group Signature Case Study
Authors: Kohlweiss Markulf , Miers Ian
Published: June 2015

A common approach to demands for lawful access to encrypted data is to allow a trusted third party (TTP) to gain access to private data. However, there is no way to verify that this trust is well placed as the TTP may open all messages indiscriminately. Moreover, existing approaches do not scale well when, in addition to the content of the conversation, one wishes to hide one’s identity. Given the importance of metadata this is a major problem. We propose a new approach in which users can retroactively verify cryptographically whether they were wiretapped. As a case study, we propose a new signature scheme that can act as an accountable replacement for group signatures, accountable forward and backward tracing signatures.