bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Removal of crystal violet from water by magnetically modified activated carbon and nanomagnetic iron oxide
Authors: Hamidzadeh Soheila , Torabbeigi Marzieh , Shahtaheri Seyed Jamaleddin
Published: January 2015

Magnetically modified activated carbon, which synthesized by nanomagnetic iron oxide, was used for fast and effective removal of Crystal Violet from aqueous solutions. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of nano-adsorbent showed that the average sizes of adsorbent are less than 100 nm. The various parameters, affecting on adsorption process, were examined including pH and temperature of dye solution, dose of adsorbent, and contact time. Then, thermodynamic parameters of sorption were calculated. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were used to fit the resulting data. Adsorption kinetics was consistent with a pseudo second order equation. Thermodynamic parameters of adsorption, ∆H0, and ∆S0 were calculated. Also, for further investigations, nano magnetic iron oxides was synthesized and used as adsorbent. Sorption capacities were depending on the temperature varied from 44.7 to 67.1 mg/g and from 12.7 to 16.5 mg/g for magnetically modified activated carbon and nanomagnetic iron oxide, respectively.
Cytocam-IDF (incident dark field illumination) imaging for bedside monitoring of the microcirculation
Authors: Aykut Guclu , Veenstra Gerke , Scorcella Claudia , Ince Can , Boerma Christiaan
Published: January 2015

Background

Orthogonal polarized spectral (OPS) and sidestream dark field (SDF) imaging video microscope devices were introduced for observation of the microcirculation but, due to technical limitations, have remained as research tools. Recently, a novel handheld microscope based on incident dark field illumination (IDF) has been introduced for clinical use. The Cytocam-IDF imaging device consists of a pen-like probe incorporating IDF illumination with a set of high-resolution lenses projecting images on to a computer controlled image sensor synchronized with very short pulsed illumination light. This study was performed to validate Cytocam-IDF imaging by comparison to SDF imaging in volunteers.

Methods

This study is a prospective, observational study. The subjects consist of 25 volunteers.

Results

Sublingual microcirculation was evaluated using both techniques. The main result was that Cytocam-IDF imaging provided better quality images and was able to detect 30% more capillaries than SDF imaging (total vessels density Cytocam-IDF: 21.60 ± 4.30 mm/mm2 vs SDF: 16.35 ± 2.78 mm/mm2, p < 0.0001). Comparison of the images showed increased contrast, sharpness, and image quality of both venules and capillaries.

Conclusions

Cytocam-IDF imaging detected more capillaries and provided better image quality than SDF imaging. It is concluded that Cytocam-IDF imaging may provide a new improved imaging modality for clinical assessment of microcirculatory alterations.
Associations Between Sex Steroids and the Development of Metabolic Syndrome: A Longitudinal Study in European Men
Authors: Antonio Leen , Wu Frederick C. W. , O'Neill Terence W. , Pye Stephen R. , Carter Emma L. , Finn Joseph D. , Rutter Martin K. , Laurent Michaël R. , Huhtaniemi Ilpo T. , Han Thang S. , Lean Michael E. J. , Keevil Brian G. , Pendleton Neil , Rastrelli Giulia , Forti Gianni , Bartfai Gyorgy , Casanueva Felipe F. , Kula Krzysztof , Punab Margus , Giwercman Aleksander , Claessens Frank , Decallonne Brigitte , Vanderschueren Dirk ,   The EMAS Study Group
Published: January 2015

Context:

Low testosterone (T) has been associated with incident metabolic syndrome (MetS), but it remains unclear if this association is independent of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Estradiol (E2) may also be associated with MetS, but few studies have investigated this.

Objective:

To study the association between baseline sex steroids and the development of incident MetS and to investigate the influence of SHBG, body mass index (BMI) and insulin resistance on this risk.

Methods:

Three thousand three hundred sixty nine community-dwelling men aged 40–79 years were recruited for participation in EMAS. MetS was defined by the updated NCEP ATP III criteria. Testosterone and E2 levels were measured by liquid and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, respectively. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between sex steroids and incident MetS.

Results:

One thousand six hundred fifty one men without MetS at baseline were identified. During follow-up, 289 men developed incident MetS, while 1362 men did not develop MetS. Men with lower baseline total T levels were at higher risk for developing MetS [odds ratio (OR) = 1.72, P < .001), even after adjustment for SHBG (OR = 1.43, P = .001), BMI (OR = 1.44, P < .001) or homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (OR = 1.64, P < .001). E2 was not associated with development of MetS (OR = 1.04; P = .56). However, a lower E2/T ratio was associated with a lower risk of incident MetS (OR = 0.38; P < .001), even after adjustment for SHBG (OR = 0.48; P < .001), BMI (OR = 0.60; P = .001) or HOMA-IR (OR = 0.41; P < .001).

Conclusions:

In men, lower T levels, but not E2, are linked with an increased risk of developing MetS, independent of SHBG, BMI or insulin resistance. A lower E2/T ratio may be protective against developing MetS.
Shakespeare and Sexual Re-Formation
Authors: Mirabelli Philip
Published: January 2015

Reacting against a repressive turn in English society, Shakespeare’s middle-period plays defend the traditional relationship code and its relatively tolerant mores, question the fusion of passion and marriage that the playwright developed in earlier plays, and explore more pragmatic options. At the beginning of the seventeenth century cultural momentum turned from an imprecise system of relationships toward a monolithic, homogenizing institution of marriage and strict distinctions, which began to exclude homoeroticism. This sexual re-formation is critiqued in Shakespeare’s extensive middle-period treatments of erotic relationships, even dramatized by the indeterminacy of Claudio and Juliet’s union in Measure for Measure. We have been dismantling this re-formation since the 1960s. In each transitional era relationship and courtship codes shifted, the boundaries between the acceptable and the illicit were reconfigured, norms governing identity were reoriented, and the means of desiring-production were refashioned. Stressing structural shifts in practices and discourses of kinship formation, this approach supplements other theorizations of the sex/gender/relationship system and calls for a study of the varieties of heteroeroticism, including those that accept the homoeroticism in all sexuality.
Empiricist Political Theory and the Modern Novel: The Social Contract and H. G. Wells
Authors: Beenstock Zoe
Published: January 2015

H. G. Wells’s diverse works of literature and political theory make him a test case for lines of intersection between modernity and the Enlightenment, a period concerned with the relations between the two genres. Traditionally, studies of Wells go back only as far as Victorianism; conversely, literary studies rarely consider empiricist political theory in contexts later than Victorian realism. Wells’s works challenge these conventions by reflecting on the writings of Adam Smith and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Wells questions the social contract hypothesis that individual interests contribute to society’s well-being and demonstrates the centrality of empiricist political theory for the modernist novel. Through close readings of The Invisible Man and Love and Mr. Lewisham, and broader discussion of Wells’s oeuvre, his engagement with empiricist values, conflicts, and literary forms emerges.
Activin signaling balances proliferation and differentiation of ovarian niche precursors and enables adjustment of niche numbers
Authors: Lengil Tamar , Gancz Dana , Gilboa Lilach
Published: January 2015

How the numbers of niches and resident stem cells within a particular organ are determined during development and how they may be modulated or corrected is a question with significant medical implications. In the larval ovary of Drosophila melanogaster, somatic precursors for niches, and germ cells that will become germline stem cells, co-develop. Somatic precursors proliferate during the first 3 days of larval development. By mid-third instar, adult terminal filament (TF) (part of the germline stem cell niche) cells first appear, and differentiation terminates 24 h later when 16-20 TFs fully form. The developmental sequence responsible for TF cell determination and final TF numbers is only partially understood. We show that TF formation proceeds through several, hitherto uncharacterized stages, which include an early exit from the cell cycle to form TF precursors and two steps of cell shape change to form the mature TF cells. The Activin receptor Baboon (Babo) is required for somatic precursor cell proliferation and therefore determines the pool of TF precursors available for TF differentiation. During the final differentiation stage, Babo facilitates TF and germ cell differentiation, and promotes the accumulation of Broad-Z1, which is also a target of the steroid hormone ecdysone. Epistasis analysis shows that Activin controls cell proliferation in an ecdysone-independent manner and TF differentiation by affecting ecdysone targets. We propose that this mode of function allows Activin to balance proliferation and differentiation, and to equilibrate niche numbers. These results suggest a novel model for how niche numbers are corrected during development.
Cell-based therapies for experimental chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Papazova Diana A. , Oosterhuis Nynke R. , Gremmels Hendrik , van Koppen Arianne , Joles Jaap A. , Verhaar Marianne C.
Published: January 2015

Cell-based therapy is a promising strategy for treating chronic kidney disease (CKD) and currently the focus of preclinical studies. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate efficacy of cell-based therapy in preclinical (animal) studies of CKD, and determined factors affecting cell-based therapy efficacy in order to guide future clinical trials. 71 articles met inclusion criteria. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for outcome parameters including plasma urea, plasma creatinine, urinary protein, blood pressure, glomerular filtration rate, glomerulosclerosis and interstitial fibrosis. Sub-analysis for each outcome measure was performed for model-related (species, gender, model and timing of therapy) and cell-related (cell type, -condition, -origin, administration route and regime of therapy) factors. Overall, meta-analysis showed that cell-based therapy reduced development and progression of CKD. This was most prominent for urinary protein (SMD 1.34 95% CI [1.00-1.68]) and urea (1.09, 0.66-1.51), both p<0.001. Changes in plasma urea associated with changes in both glomerulosclerosis and interstitial fibrosis. Sub-analysis showed that cell type (bone marrow derived progenitors and mesenchymal stromal cells being most effective) and administration route (intravenous or renal artery injection) were significant predictors of therapeutic efficacy. Timing of therapy in relation to clinical manifestation of disease, and cell-origin and -dose, were not associated with efficacy. Our meta-analysis confirms that cell-based therapies improve impaired renal function and morphology in preclinical models of CKD. Our analyses can be used to optimize experimental interventions and thus support both improved preclinical research and development of cell-based therapeutic interventions in clinical setting.
Connections matter − how viruses use cell–cell adhesion components
Authors: Mateo Mathieu , Generous Alex , Sinn Patrick L. , Cattaneo Roberto
Published: January 2015

The epithelium is a highly organized type of animal tissue. Except for blood and lymph vessels, epithelial cells cover the body, line its cavities in single or stratified layers and support exchange between compartments. In addition, epithelia offer to the body a barrier to pathogen invasion. To transit through or to replicate in epithelia, viruses have to face several obstacles, starting from cilia and glycocalyx where they can be neutralized by secreted immunoglobulins. Tight junctions and adherens junctions also prevent viruses to cross the epithelial barrier. However, viruses have developed multiple strategies to blaze their path through the epithelium by utilizing components of cell–cell adhesion structures as receptors. In this Commentary, we discuss how viruses take advantage of the apical junction complex to spread. Whereas some viruses quickly disrupt epithelium integrity, others carefully preserve it and use cell adhesion proteins and their cytoskeletal connections to rapidly spread laterally. This is exemplified by the hidden transmission of enveloped viruses that use nectins as receptors. Finally, several viruses that replicate preferentially in cancer cells are currently used as experimental cancer therapeutics. Remarkably, these viruses use cell adhesion molecules as receptors, probably because – to reach tumors and metastases – oncolytic viruses must efficiently traverse or break epithelia.
Methodical approach to research of social and economic benefits of tourism activities at the regional level
Authors: Рубцова Наталья , Rubtsova Natalya
Published: January 2015

Among the factors in the development of tourist destinations the cooperation among economic subjects of the sphere of recreation and tourism occupies a special place. Foreign experts provided an evidence of a significant number of positive impacts of inter-firm cooperation and cooperation in the operation and development of a tourist destination, which necessitates a comprehensive assessment of socio-economic benefits of tourism activities, including an evaluation of the effectiveness of relationships between subjects in the sphere of recreation and tourism. This paper proposes a methodological approach to the study of social and economic benefits of tourist activities at the regional level, describes the main stages of its practical use: definition of the need for information collection and processing of raw data, evaluation of indicators, data analysis and development management decisions. Presented in this framework methodology involves assessing the socio-economic benefits of tourism activities in the region (a tourist destination) in three interrelated aspects: economic, social and effectiveness of relationships. Particular attention is paid to assessing the effectiveness of inter-firm relationships in the value chain of the tourist product as a component of social and economic benefits of tourism activities. A comprehensive assessment of the socio-economic benefits of tourism activities is required for the analysis of the possible ways of development of the sphere of recreation and tourism in the region, for the development of appropriate strategies which take into account both the existing potential of this sector, as well as socio-economic efficiency of the planned activities. In addition, the technique can be used as a reference and analytical tool for assessing the performance targets in terms of the effectiveness for the implementation of strategies for the development of tourism in the region. Practical use of the presented methodology is possible for assessing the socio-economic benefits of tourism activities, for regional, inter-regional studies and comparative studies of tourist destinations.
Business tourism and its implications on regional development: marketing aspects
Authors: Чхиквадзе Нелли , Chkhikvadze Nelli
Published: January 2015

The article examines the issues of marketing in the business travel market. Suggested is the concept of domestic professional tourism. The author denotes the importance of inter-regional partnerships in developing successful sales channels for the tourist product. For the development of this partnership contacts with regions and twin cities can be intensified, which will give an opportunity to establish business, cultural and scientific relations. Noted that in the process of development of such cooperation it is important to determine the status of the region, which can enter into inter-regional contacts and as a consumer of the regional tourism product, and as a partner, having a kindred tourist specialization. The role of territorial marketing as a tool to implement the strategy of regional development is also highlighted. Analyzed are levels of the tourism product in the formation of prices of territorial tourism products. Disclosed is the basis of companies that create territorial tourism products. The author demonstrates problems with branding areas, as well as the role of economic methods and marketing tools in the formation of an integrated tourist product. It is concluded that a tourism and recreation area appears in several forms: firstly, it is a product that should be promoted on the wide and local markets of tourist services; secondly, it is an administrative unit (subject), operated according to federal, state and local laws; third, it is a geographical unit (space) and has a certain resource, economic and industrial potential; fourth, it is a place where not only tourists visit but the local population resides. The significance of Public Relations for the successful promotion of the territory is high especially in the form of public relations and propaganda by creating public opinion about a product, service, manufacturer, seller, or country.
A study of the tourist potential of Аntalya coast in turkey
Authors: Куксова Ирина , Kuksova Irina , Певнева Дарья , Pevneva Darya
Published: January 2015

In many countries, tourism plays an important role in the creation of gross domestic product, the formation of additional jobs and providing local employment, activation of the foreign trade balance, has a significant impact on key sectors of the economy. The article focuses on Turkey, with its amazing tourist potential and ancient history. Turkey has a unique tourist and recreational potential, on its territory there are important natural resources, historical heritage objects. Described are the main tourist areas of Antalya - Alanya, Side, Belek, Aksu, Kemer, Beldibi, Goynuk, Kiris, Camyuva, Tekirova, each district has its own distinctive features, and some of them should be given special attention.
A model of the customized tourism product
Authors: Вапнярская Ольга , Vapnyarskaya Olga
Published: January 2015

The author gives an analysis of the evolution of scientific concepts of customization in relation to the tourism industry, proving the establishment of a new system paradigm of customization which manifests in the creation of conditions for the involvement of consumers in the process of designing, creating and implementing product. The paper shows that, in the individualization of the needs of the tourist product customization affects not only related or additional elements, but also the core of the product. In these circumstances, there is the desirability of individual instruments that would adapt the activities of modern tourist companies to the conditions and implementation of system customization. As one of such tools the author proposes a model of customized tourism product built on the basis of the model of T. Levitt. The basis of the generated model of the customized tourism product is the basic principle of customization - providing the customer an opportunity to participate in the formation of the desired product at any level of the product through the use of a variety of opportunities for service. Changed is the approach to the definition of the product - in the model it is considered as a set of functions and features, the best way satisfying individualized needs of each customer. Service is defined as the main tool of customization, ensuring the involvement of consumers in design, production, marketing, and others processes associated with the product.
Market analysis of mobile accommodation facilities for autotourists
Authors: Черепанов Даниил , Cherepanov Daniil , Ермаков Александр , Ermakov Aleksandr
Published: January 2015

The article deals with various options for mobile homes: from motorhomes and caravans for cars to mobile home facilities. Mobile homes, buildings or temporary structures may be in the form of mobile or portable containers, prefabricated structures of modules or panels, as well as structural elements and flexible transformable structures. These mobile homes are used as a means of placing the sleeper on holiday, accommodation and living in nature, including at the camp. It was found that for seasonal and temporary sleeper accommodation the most rational choice is a home, having mobility. Mobile homes are distinguished by features such as destination, shipping method, or the autonomy of delivery, the method of assembly, materials, equipment, type of plan and others. The main advantage of mobile homes is the ability to inexpensively change the place of their dislocation. Mobile homes for temporary accommodation of sleepers are also preferred because they relate to non-capital building structures and do not require special permits for their construction. This makes the development of caravanning, event tourism and cultural events more effective and less costly. Transformable modular structures have the ability to obtain the necessary level of comfort in residence with minimal time spent and negative impact on the environment.
Project method as an innovative technology for teaching a professional foreign language in the non-linguistic university
Authors: Костоварова Валентина , Kostovarova Valentina
Published: January 2015

The article is devoted to the value and role of project method in teaching a foreign language in non-language higher educational institutions specializing in tourism and services. Particular attention is paid to the fact that the method of educational projects with a professional orientation is necessitated by the new social order - to turn a foreign language from a passive object into an active action. It’s also noteworthy that foreign language becomes necessary for professional growth and is an indispensable condition for Russia´s participation in the Bologna process, so at the present stage the basic direction in teaching foreign languages is based on using the competency approach. The author, like many others, relates the method of projects to gaming methods, and results obtained in the course of collective action, and the final product are developed collectively and publicly defended. The article notes that it is important to teach students to think and apply their theoretical knowledge in practice. Students are happy to participate in collaborative business discussions, role-playing games and in various projects, which are determined by the types of communicative tasks.

The author seeks to trace the history of occurrence of the method of projects and its application in the practice of teaching foreign languages.

Particular attention is paid to the stages of the project, and the article provides instructional techniques of work in the development of communicative skills. The article traces the activities of the teacher and students at various stages of the project with the help of the table, which shows that each student must present their work and be responsible for its implementation. Based on the analysis of joint activity it is established that there is an interaction of students with each other and the teacher who becomes an equal partner and consultant.

The author concludes that, in contrast to traditional approaches, the use of active methods leads to the development of communicative competence and aims to create a sustainable motivation to learn a foreign language.
Organizational culture and cultural organization: the formation of new social spaces
Authors: Новичков Николай , Novichkov Nikolay
Published: January 2015

The article discusses the features of social systems in terms of their cultural manifestations. In particular, it is noted that the most social organization is a culture with a respective structure and cultural manifestations. Also, social organization is living within different cultural environments.

An organization´s culture is manifested through its mission, human relations, organizational culture, culture medium, the message the organization to external environment, cultural footprint of social organization.

The article defines the notion of a cultural organization and indicated that the image of a cultural organization should strive to all organizations in the conditions of increasing competition and the growing importance of the economy of experiences.

The human world consists of a set of relations, organizations and various values. Over the entire period of human history has been created and tested a number of different organizational forms of human coexistence and joint activities, starting from the community and the army and ending with corporations and virtual organizations.

Culture as a basic sphere of human activity, which determines not only the principles of attitudes and behavior, but also the development of society, has the most significant influence on the formation and development of all forms of organization of human relations.

Interpretation of social organization as a culture determines the emergence of new organizational forms. One such form is a cluster.

Contemporary social organization should strive to become an essential element of the culture area, community or audience, which is manifested in the cultural formation of social organization, from the behaviors associated with its people, and helping to shape the image of the future, not only the organization but also all related cultural community .

The paper also notes in particular the role and place of cultural organizations in modern Russian tourism sector as an industry, directly generating impressions and forming appropriate cultural community.
Parents and social mobility
Authors: Matthewman Ross
Published: January 2015

The issue of social mobility is of growing importance. With inequalities rising and the gap between rich and poor becoming more pronounced, there is now a real need for government to take steps.
Special educational needs care
Authors: Bayram Liz
Published: January 2015

Although a welcome update, the 2014 SEND Code of Practice provides a real challenge for childcarers looking to implement all of its changes and to disseminate appropriate knowledge throughout settings.
A rhyme for little thumbs
Authors: Rivolta Heidi
Published: January 2015

This short series of articles will focus on incorporating simple and fun French hand rhymes into your regular setting routine. This month, we are using a counting song, called Little Thumb [Petit pouce].
Beans and blancmange
Authors: Cutts Claire
Published: January 2015

Red Nose Day is not just a brilliant event that raises money for worthy causes both in the UK and around the world, it is an ideal opportunity to bring your community together and to have a whole load of fun!
Skin cleansing in aesthetic practice: what evidence is there to justify it?
Authors: Davies Emma
Published: January 2015

Over the years, non-surgical cosmetic procedures have become increasingly complex and invasive; however, training often does not cover, in any detail, how the skin should be prepared. A search for empirical evidence from which to propose a protocol for skin preparation before treatment proves unexpectedly challenging and has sparked discussion around present practices and experiences, the necessary conclusion being that formal, consensus protocols should be part of any training and adopted as standard. Aesthetic nurses have a responsibility to practise evidence-based nursing and deliver safe and effective treatments. The introduction of written policies and procedure protocols will work towards ensuring staff uniformly maintain standards of practice. This article will discuss best practice for skin cleansing and disinfecting based on available evidence.
What is acceptance and commitment therapy for body dissatisfaction?
Authors: Griffiths Catrin
Published: January 2015

Acceptance and commitment therapy is a third-wave cognitive behavioural therapy that encourages clients to recognise difficult appearance-related thoughts and feelings and engage in behaviours consistent with their personal values. As research investigating the effectiveness of this therapy is developing, Catrin Griffiths provides an overview of its applicability for body dissatisfaction
Avoiding litigation: a case study of an adverse event post facial laser hair removal
Authors: Luckman Mandy
Published: January 2015

Following the rise in laser hair removal procedures being performed, along with an array of cheap deals being posted online every day, lawyers are increasingly seeing clients with concerns about their treatment. In this month's legal column, Mandy Luckman describes the case of Emma—a patient who suffered burns, severe scarring and skin pigmentation post facial laser hair removal
Primary rectal melanoma - a case report
Authors: Das Somak , Mandal Tuhin S. , Paul Souvik , Datta Purnendu , Sinhababu Aloke K.
Published: January 2015

The most common site for malignant melanoma is skin, then eye and third is anorectal region. Primary anorectal malignant melanoma is still very uncommon. It is usually very aggressive and presents with altered bowel habit and rectal bleeding. Proctoscopy shows non-pigmented or lightly pigmented polypoid lesion. Histopathology is confirmatory. Early radical excision is mandatory. A 56 year-old female was presented with malignant melanoma of the lower third of rectum. We report this case for its rarity.
Parent‐Based Adolescent Sexual Health Interventions And Effect on Communication Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analyses
Authors: Santa Maria Diane , Markham Christine , Bluethmann Shirley , Mullen Patricia Dolan
Published: January 2015

CONTEXT

Parent‐based adolescent sexual health interventions aim to reduce sexual risk behaviors by bolstering parental protective behaviors. Few studies of theory use, methods, applications, delivery and outcomes of parent‐based interventions have been conducted.

METHODS

A systematic search of databases for the period 1998–2013 identified 28 published trials of U.S. parent‐based interventions to examine theory use, setting, reach, delivery mode, dose and effects on parent–child communication. Established coding schemes were used to assess use of theory and describe methods employed to achieve behavioral change; intervention effects were explored in meta‐analyses.

RESULTS

Most interventions were conducted with minority parents in group sessions or via self‐paced activities; interventions averaged seven hours, and most used theory extensively. Meta‐analyses found improvements in sexual health communication: Analysis of 11 controlled trials indicated a medium effect on increasing communication (Cohen's d, 0.5), and analysis of nine trials found a large effect on increasing parental comfort with communication (0.7); effects were positive regardless of delivery mode or intervention dose. Intervention participants were 68% more likely than controls to report increased communication and 75% more likely to report increased comfort.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings point to gaps in the range of programs examined in published trials—for example, interventions for parents of sexual minority youth, programs for custodial grandparents and faith‐based services. Yet they provide support for the effectiveness of parent‐based interventions in improving communication. Innovative delivery approaches could extend programs’ reach, and further research on sexual health outcomes would facilitate the meta‐analysis of intervention effectiveness in improving adolescent sexual health behaviors.
Bike Trail Difficulty Rating in the South Moravian Region Modelled Using Fuzzy Sets
Authors: Kolisko Pavel
Published: January 2015

The fuzzy sets are more suitable for modelling of the vagueness than the classical crisp sets. They present vague phenomenon and relations which are not exactly bounded but they are associated with their verbal expression. Inaccuracies of characteristics of the bike trail difficulty are connected to the area changes and it is necessary to evaluate and update them regularly. The analysis is solved by the compositional rule of inference methods especially by Mamdani’s and Larsen’s method. The difficulty is the result of rules processing with verbal variables for the type of road and slope. The suitability of methods is tested by certified and categorized parts of the bike trails. The modelling has been performed by rasters using software ArcGIS 10.1 and its geoprocessing tools.
Stability Determination of the Surface Area of the Prague Castle by the Periodically Measured Levelling Network and Robust Analysis
Authors: Štroner Martin , Urban Rudolf , Kubín Tomáš
Published: January 2015

In the area of Prague Castle there is already about 10 years of periodical measurement ofthe height changes in the buildings and structures being performed. The measurementmethod is precise levelling predominantly. Until now, these measurements have beenevaluated only locally with respect to each building and its stability without an overall viewof the situation of possible movements of individual parts of the surface Prague Castle.Whereas there are height shift of some points between epochs undoubtedly, a new andcomplete adjustment of each measured epoch and mutual assessment of changes betweenepochs using robust analysis was conducted. This comparison shows the relative movementof certain parts against another. The results are consistent with current knowledge of thegeology in the area of the Prague Castle.
Monitoring of Bridge Dynamics by Radar Interferometry
Authors: Lipták Imrich , Erdélyi Ján , Kyrinovič Peter , Kopáčik Alojz
Published: January 2015

The paper presents the possibilities of radar interferometry in dynamic deformationmonitoring of bridge structures. The technology is increasingly used for this purposethanks to high accuracy of realized measurements and possibility to measure deformationat multiple places of the monitored structure. High frequency of realized measurements (upto 200 Hz) enables to determine the most of significant vibration modes of bridgedeformation. This technology is presented on real case study of the cycle bridge over theriver Morava near to Bratislava (Slovak republic). A spectral analysis of vibrationfrequencies is performed by discrete Fourier transformation. The evaluation of correctnessof the obtained deformation is performed by comparison of the results with accelerometerand total station measurements and FEM (Finite Element Method) model of the structure.
Geodetic Measurement of Longitudinal Displacements of the Railway Bridge
Authors: Braun Jaroslav , Štroner Martin
Published: January 2015

The paper deals with geodetic measurements of mutual longitudinal displacements ofconstruction of the railway bridge and rails on the bridge in Klášterec nad Oh í.Construction of the bridge is made of steel with a concrete deck, which carries the stonesuperstructure and rails. The bridge is about 100 meters long and expected deformationsare in millimetres. The method of geodetic network with the expected standard deviationsof coordinates about 0.2 mm was chosen. The deformation of the structure was determinedto be 4 mm, the deformation of the rails was determined to be 1 mm, both as a result ofepoch comparison.
Measurement of Deformations by MEMS Arrays, Verified at Sub-millimetre Level Using Robotic Total Stations
Authors: Beran Tomas , Danisch Lee , Chrzanowski Adam , Bazanowski Maciej
Published: January 2015

Measurement of sub-millimetre-level deformations of structures in the presence of ambient temperature changes can be challenging. This paper describes the measurement of a structure moving due to temperature changes, using two ShapeAccelArray (SAA) instruments, and verified by a geodetic monitoring system. SAA is a geotechnical instrument often used for monitoring of displacements in soil. SAA uses micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) sensors to measure tilt in the gravity field. The geodetic monitoring system, which uses ALERT software, senses the displacements of targets relative to control points, using a robotic total station (RTS). The test setup consists of a central four-metre free-standing steel tube with other steel tubes welded to most of its length. The central tube is anchored in a concrete foundation. This composite “pole” is equipped with two SAAs as well as three geodetic prisms mounted on the top, in the middle, and in the foundation. The geodetic system uses multiple control targets mounted in concrete foundations of nearby buildings, and at the base of the pole. Long-term observations using two SAAs indicate that the pole is subject to deformations due to cyclical ambient temperature variations causing the pole to move by a few millimetres each day. In a multiple-day experiment, it was possible to track this movement using SAA as well as the RTS system. This paper presents data comparing the measurements of the two instruments and provides a good example of the detection of two-dimensional movements of seemingly rigid objects due to temperature changes.
Determination of Pavement Elevations by the 3D Scanning System and Its Verification
Authors: Křemen Tomáš , Štroner Martin , Třasák Pavel
Published: January 2015

It is necessary to be careful of geometric accuracy of the roadways when constructing them.Correct thickness of the individual construction layers together with roughness of thepavement belongs among important influences ensuring lifetime of the roadways andvehicles and for comfortable and safe car ride. It is necessary beside other things to havea reliable check measurement method at disposal so as to ensure the required accuracy ofthe individual construction layers will be achieved. The check measurement method mustbe able to measure a checked construction component with the required accuracy and withsufficiently high density describing not only global deviations, but also local deviations.

The highest requirements on accuracy are placed on the final construction layer of theroadway. Layer thickness and pavement roughness are being evaluated here. The 3Dterrestrial scanning method is currently offered for geometric checking of its realization.The article deals with testing of procedure of the pavement roughness measurement withthe 3D terrestrial scanning system and with its verification by a total station measurement.Emphasis is put on verification of accuracy of absolute heights of points in the 3D modelof the pavement and on size of random errors in the elevation component. Results of thetesting clarified using the 3D terrestrial scanning systems and their accuracy for check ofthe roadway surface.
Development technique for deep drawing without blank holder to produce circular cup of brass alloy
Authors: Saleh Ali Hassan , Ali Ammer Khalaf
Published: January 2015

Of this technique compared to the conventional deep drawing is that the circular cup can be carried out in single action press with limit In this paper a new mechanism for deep drawing was proposed to produce circular cup from thin plate without blank holder. In this technique the die assembly includes punch, die and die-punch. A 2D axisymmetric finite element model was built using DEFORM software. Effect of die geometry (half- cone angle) on maximum load, thickness distribution, strain distribution and effect of clearance ratio between punch and (die-punch) on the wrinkling of the cup were investigated. Three half-cone angles of die (15o, 30o and 45o) were used for forming sheet metal of brass (CuZn37) which had initial thickness of (1mm) at four clearance ratio (c/t) for die of 30o half-cone angle. Finite element model results showed good agreement with experimental results. Die of 30o half-cone angle with clearance ratio (c/t) of 0.9 gave the best product without wrinkling. The main advantage drawing ratio (LDR) of 1.86 and blank diameter to blank thickness ratio (d/t) < 86.
Meaningful Learning in a New Paradigm for Educational Accountability: An Introduction
Authors: Darling-Hammond Linda , Snyder Jon
Published: January 2015

This special issue furthers the conversation begun in the August 2014 of edition of Education Policy Analysis Archives in the article Accountability for College and Career Readiness: Developing a New Paradigm by Linda Darling-Hammond, Gene Wilhoit and Linda Pittenger. That paper posits that as schools across the country take on the challenge of preparing all children for success in college, career, and life, states must in turn move toward creating more aligned systems of assessment and accountability. The authors recommend “an accountability approach that focuses on meaningful learning, enabled by professionally skilled and committed educators, and supported by adequate and appropriate resources, so that all students regardless of background are prepared for both college and career when they graduate from high school” (p. 1). This issue focuses particularly upon accountability for meaningful learning with subsequent issues focusing on professional accountability and resource accountability.
Assessment and Accountability to Support Meaningful Learning
Authors: Marion Scott , Leather Paul
Published: January 2015

This paper presents an overview of New Hampshire’s efforts to implement a pilot accountability system designed to support deeper learning for students and powerful organization change for schools and districts. The accountability pilot, referred to as Performance Assessment of Competency Education or PACE, is grounded in a competency- based educational approach designed to ensure that students have meaningful opportunities to achieve critical knowledge and skills. These opportunities are judged by the outcomes students achieve and not by inputs such as seat time. Therefore, students must achieve these competencies before moving on to the next major learning targets and/or graduating from high school. High quality performance assessments play a crucial role in the PACE system because of the need to have assessments that measure the depths of student understanding of these complex learning targets. Performance assessments are used as both summative and interim measures in the PACE system as a way to document student learning of the competencies and to support remediation or extension interventions. The paper describes the system of assessments being implemented as part of the PACE pilot as well as providing a discussion of the technical quality issues the state is working to address as part of this accountability pilot. For example, being able to produce valid and comparable annual determinations for all students each year is a considerable technical challenge as well as documenting the degree to which all students are held to the same threshold expectations (equity). The paper concludes by relating the PACE initiative to the push for deeper and more meaningful learning for students.
Accountability Is More Than a Test Score
Authors: Turnipseed Stephan , Darling-Hammond Linda
Published: January 2015

The number one quality business leaders look for in employees is creativity and yet the U.S. education system undermines the development of the higher-order skills that promote creativity by its dogged focus on multiple-choice tests. Stephan Turnipseed and Linda Darling- Hammond discuss the kind of rich accountability system that will help students develop into the skilled adults that modern business and industry require.
The Fisher Hypothesis and Its Implications for Defined Benefits
Authors: Leung Andrew P.
Published: January 2015

Asset liability management is often employed for managing the risks associated with defined benefits. Liability Driven Investment is a recent phenomenon in financial circles, promising a coherent framework for achieving this aim. It has been focused on managing interest rate risks by appropriate debt strategies. However the formulation of debt strategies needs to take explicit account of one characteristic that affects most liabilities, namely inflation. This factor generates as much risk as interest rates; moreover it is intimately related to them. We examine this issue in depth, and consider the economic relationships between interest rates and inflation. This is conducted in the light of the Fisher Hypothesis. We show that this analysis has significant implications for nominal debt strategies.
Biodiversity and toxin production of cyanobacteria in mangrove swamps in the Red Sea off the southern coast of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Mohamed Zakaria A. , Al-Shehri Abdulrahman M.
Published: January 2015

This study investigated the diversity and toxin production of cyanobacteria forming microbial mats on the soil surface and mangrove pneumatophores in three different mangrove swamps in the Red Sea off the southern coast of Saudi Arabia. In total, 34 species belonging to 15 genera and five families were recorded. Benthic mats had higher numbers of species (25–31) than pneumatophore mats (10–12). Cyanobacterial biodiversity (H) and species evenness (E) were greater in benthic mats (H=2.52–2.83 and E=0.79–0.83) than in pneumatophore mats (H=1.7–1.82 and E=0.73–0.74). The results showed high similarity of species between different mangrove sites (67.6%–91.7%) and low similarity between benthic and pneumatophore mats at the same site (32.3%–35.75%). During this study, only nine cyanobacterial species were successfully isolated and tested for their toxicity. The extracts of these species exhibited toxicity to Artemia salina (LC50=0.3–5.1 mg l-1). Based on the results of ELISA and HPLC analyses, four species were found to produce microcystins (683–974 μg g-1) and three species produced saxitoxins (58.9–93.8 μg g-1). The presence of toxic cyanobacteria and their toxins in mangrove swamps may pose a risk for marine animals because these toxins can accumulate in aquatic food webs with a potential for transfer to higher trophic levels.
Sexual reproduction of the Lessepsian seagrass Halophila stipulacea in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Gerakaris Vasileios , Tsiamis Konstantinos
Published: January 2015

Sexual reproduction has hardly ever been reported in the Lessepsian seagrass Halophila stipulacea in the Mediterranean Sea. In the present study, fertile plants bearing fruits are reported for the first time from the North Aegean Sea, and for the second time from the whole Mediterranean Basin, confirming a successful and complete sexual reproduction of the species in the Mediterranean environment. In August 2012 on Chios Island, a large population of this plant in the northernmost limit of its Aegean Sea distribution was found and it was concluded that the fertility of the plants could be a response to the warming of the Mediterranean Sea, and may suggest that a further expansion of the species is occurring.
Language management in the regional conflicts in the Sudans
Authors: Jernudd Björn H.
Published: January 2015

The ruling elite at the center of Sudan emulates an “Arab” ideology in order to further its interests and legitimate its claims. Their ideology is defined by Arabic as the vehicle of divine expression, and the possession and use of Arabic is a source of their identity. People in the conflicted peripheries have reacted in various ways to the center's position on language and it is critical to the relation to South Sudan. This article attempts to bring together some facts of language management by people in and from the conflict zones of the Sudan, and also South Sudan.