bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of nano-silicon foliar application on safflower growth under organic and inorganic fertilizer regimes
Authors: Janmohammadi Mohsen , Amanzadeh Tahere , Sabaghnia Naser , Ion Viorel
Published: June 2016

Silicon nanoparticles have distinctive physicochemical characteristics and are able to enter into plants and impact the metabolism of plants as well as improve plant growth and yield under unfavourable environmental conditions. Besides, low soil organic matter content, imbalanced nutrient and inadequate water supply may adversely affect crop productivity in semiarid areas. To understand the effects of foliar spray of silicon dioxide nanoparticles (nSiO2) with application of farmyard manure (FYM) or inorganic fertilizer on morpho-physiological traits and yield of safflower, a field experiment was carried out in a highland semiarid region of Maragheh, northwest Iran. The experiment consisted of two levels of nSiO2 (0 and 20 mM) and four fertilizer regimes (control, 15 t ha−1 FYM, 30 t ha−1 FYM, 90 kg ha−1 N-P-K chemical fertilizer). Safflower plants were treated with nSiO2 suspension at leaf development, branching and capitulum emergence stages. Although the nSiO2 significantly improved some growth parameters such as canopy spread, stem diameter, plant height, ground cover and the number of achenes in capitulum, it did not affect achene yield and harvest index. However, fertilizer treatments considerably affected most of morpho-physiological traits, achene yield and yield components. The result showed that the best growth and the highest achene yield were achieved by application of 30 t ha−1 FYM before sowing. Application of high FYM increased the achene yield by 48% compared to the control, however, application of N-P-K chemical fertilizer or of 15 t ha−1 FYM improved achene yield only up to 17% over the no fertilizer condition. Moreover, this work revealed some positive effects of exogenous application of nSiO2 on safflower growth. This finding suggests that application of organic fertilizers with foliar spray of nSiO2 can improve safflower production and is an advisable agronomic option.
Contribution to the lichen flora of South East Greenland. IV. The Ammassalik area
Authors: Hansen Eric Steen
Published: June 2016

The paper lists 102 lichen taxa from the Ammassalik area, South East Greenland. Rinodina egedeana and Verrucaria erichsenii are new to East Greenland. Seven lichen taxa are new to South East Greenland, viz. Acarospora peliscypha, Caloplaca magni-filii, Lecanora atromarginata, Lecidella euphorea, Miriquidica nigroleprosa, Peltigera britannica and Rhizocarpon atroflavescens.
Extending laboratory automation to the wards: effect of an innovative pneumatic tube system on diagnostic samples and transport time
Authors: Suchsland Juliane , Winter Theresa , Greiser Anne , Streichert Thomas , Otto Benjamin , Mayerle Julia , Runge Sören , Kallner Anders , Nauck Matthias , Petersmann Astrid
Published: June 2016

Background:

The innovative pneumatic tube system (iPTS) transports one sample at a time without the use of cartridges and allows rapid sending of samples directly into the bulk loader of a laboratory automation system (LAS). We investigated effects of the iPTS on samples and turn-around time (TAT).

Methods:

During transport, a mini data logger recorded the accelerations in three dimensions and reported them in arbitrary area under the curve (AUC) units. In addition representative quantities of clinical chemistry, hematology and coagulation were measured and compared in 20 blood sample pairs transported by iPTS and courier.

Results:

Samples transported by iPTS were brought to the laboratory (300 m) within 30 s without adverse effects on the samples. The information retrieved from the data logger showed a median AUC of 7 and 310 arbitrary units for courier and iPTS transport, respectively. This is considerably below the reported limit for noticeable hemolysis of 500 arbitrary units.

Conclusions:

iPTS reduces TAT by reducing the hands-on time and a fast transport. No differences in the measurement results were found for any of the investigated 36 analytes between courier and iPTS transport. Based on these findings the iPTS was cleared for clinical use in our hospital.
Morphotectonic control of the Białka drainage basin (Central Carpathians): Insights from DEM and morphometric analysis.
Authors: Wołosiewicz Bartosz
Published: June 2016

The Białka river valley is directly related to a deep NNW-SSE oriented fault zone. According to the results of previous morphometric analyses, the Białka drainage basin is one of the most tectonically active zones in the Central Carpathians. It is also located within an area of high seismic activity.

In this study Digital Elevation Model (DEM) based, morphometric analyses were used to investigate the morphotectonic conditions of the watershed. The results reveal the relationships between the main tectonic feature and the landforms within the research area. The lineaments, as obtained from the classified aspect map, seem to coincide with the orientation of the main structures as well as the trends revealed by the theoretical Riedel-Skempton shear model. Base-level and isolong maps support the conclusion that the Białka and Biały Dunajec fault zones exert a strong influence on the morphology of the adjacent area.
The Idea of Enhancing Directional Energy Radiation by a Phased Antenna Array in UHF RFID System
Authors: Jankowski-Mihułowicz Piotr , Kawalec Damian , Węglarski Mariusz
Published: June 2016

The interrogation zone IZ is the most important parameter when RFID systems are considered. Its predictability is determined by the construction and parameters of antenna built in a read/write device. The IZ should be of sufficient size and appropriate to requirements established for an application of object automated identification. The method of shaping an antenna radiation pattern provides effective yet unconventional opportunities in this area. The idea and practical solution of the phased antenna array dedicated to UHF read/write devices are presented in the paper. On the basis of tests carried out, the authors pointed out the possibility of using developed devices for the synthesis of a determined IZ in anti-collision RFID system.
The Influence of Sintering Conditions on the Inkjet Printed Paths Resistance
Authors: Tomaszewski Grzegorz , Wałach Tadeusz , Potencki Jerzy , Pilecki Mariusz
Published: June 2016

The sintering of elements performed with the inkjet printing technique is one of the stages of flexible printed circuit manufacturing process. It is a crucial factor to determining the printed paths conductivity playing often an important role in the printed circuit. In this paper the study of the influence of thermal sintering conditions (temperature, time) on the resistance of paths made with inkjet printing on flexible substrates by using two electrically conductive inks was presented. The results of the investigations show that the sintering temperature is the main factor determining the paths resistance. Therefore, in some applications the sintering temperature higher than the one specified by the ink manufacturer can be used to decrease the paths resistance and to improve some circuit parameters. However, it should be noticed that the effective resistance decrease occurs only up to a certain temperature due to the appearance cracks in the printed paths.
An Energy Efficient QAM Modulation with Multidimensional Signal Constellation
Authors: Markiewicz Tomasz G.
Published: June 2016

Packing constellations points in higher dimensions, the concept of multidimensional modulation exploits the idea drawn from geometry for searching dense sphere packings in a given dimension, utilising it to minimise the average energy of the underlying constellations. The following work analyses the impact of spherical shaping of the constellations bound instead of the traditional, hyper-cubical bound. Balanced constellation schemes are obtained with the N-dimensional simplex merging algorithm. The performance of constellations of dimensions 2, 4 and 6 is compared to the performance of QAM modulations of equivalent throughputs in the sense of bits transmitted per complex (two-dimensional) symbols. The considered constellations give an approximately 0:7 dB to 1 dB gain in terms of BER over a standard QAM modulation.
Design of a Class-D Audio Amplifier With Analog Volume Control for Mobile Applications
Authors: El khadiri Karim , Qjidaa Hassan
Published: June 2016

A class-D audio amplifier with analog volume control (AVC) for portable applications is proposed in this paper. The proposed class-D consist of two sections. First section is an analog volume control which consists of an integrator, an analog MUX and a programmable gain amplifier (PGA). The AVC is implemented with three analog inputs (Audio, Voice, FM). Second section is a driver which consists of a ramp generator, a comparator, a level shifter and a gate driver. The driver is designed to obtain a low distortion and a high efficiency. Designed with 0.18 um 1P6M CMOS technology, the class-D audio amplifier with AVC achieves a total root-mean-square (RMS) output power of 0.5W, a total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) at the 8-Ω load less than 0.06% and a power efficiency of 90% with a total area of 1.74 mm2.
Water Accompanying Hydrocarbon Deposits as a Potential Source of Iodine, Lithium and Strontium
Authors: Uliasz-Misiak Barbara
Published: June 2016

Oil and natural gas fields are accompanied by formation waters, usually highly mineralized brines containing a variety of trace elements. Analyses carried out in various sedimentary basins around the world indicate that these waters are often enriched in elements such as iodine, lithium and strontium. Currently, these micronutrients are finding increasing application in the production of lithium-ion batteries and lithium batteries (lithium) and in the pharmaceutical, medical and pharmaceutical industry (iodine). Due to the development of production of LCD displays and batteries (e.g. for electric cars), the expected increase in demand for iodine and lithium is 2% and 1.5%, respectively.

The reserves of these elements are limited and unevenly distributed. Iodine is currently produced in the three countries: Chile (65% of the world production), Japan and the US. Lithium is produced in Argentina, Australia and Chile, while strontium is produced in China (50% of the global production), Spain and Mexico. Iodine, lithium and strontium are not produced in Poland and the total demand is met by imports.

Brines with high iodine content, occurring in the hydrocarbon deposits, have been found in oil basins in the United States, Canada and Germany. In the United States, this element is recovered from formation water. Lithium found in numerous formation waters in the US, Canada, Japan and Germany has not yet been recovered, while the construction of the pilot plant in Canada is underway. The increased strontium content has been found in waters accompanying hydrocarbon deposits in North America and China. However, strontium has not yet been recovered from the aforementioned deposits.

In Poland, the question of possible use of chemical elements dissolved in reservoir brines, with the exception of iodine, has not yet been studied. The above mentioned element (iodine) was recovered from brines in the area of Bochnia (Carpathian Foredeep), the only geological unit where an analysis of iodine content in the formation waters has been carried out in the recent years. The lithium and strontium content in the formation waters, as well as the question of their possible use, have not yet been studied.
A guide on how to build a novel home-made part task training simulator for cervical cerclage training
Authors: Sahbaz Ahmet , Aynioglu Oner , Isik Hatice
Published: June 2016

Cervical cerclage is a experience demanding procedure and which is difficult for most of the residents and maternal fetal medicine fellows to have the first experience on real patients. In this study we presented an in-expensive and easy to build model for cervical cerclage training.
New records of Cuniculus paca (Rodentia: Cuniculidae) in a temperate grassland dominated landscape of the Pampa region of Brazil and Uruguay
Authors: Leuchtenberger Caroline , Tirelli Flávia Pereira , Mazim Fabio Dias , Peters Felipe Bortolotto , de Oliveira Êmila Silveira , Cariolatto Letícia , Queirolo Diego
Published: June 2016

Cuniculus paca is considered locally threatened in some parts of its range mainly because of hunting pressure and habitat loss. The species is widely distributed in South and Central America. Agouti’s distribution in Brazil is broad, although there is no information on its occurrence in the Northeast region and in the western part of Rio Grande do Sul state. The species presents a marginal distribution in northeastern Uruguay. Here, we describe 16 new records of the species in the Pampa region, including the western part of Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil and Uruguay, expanding the C. paca known distribution.
Constraint Embedding for Vehicle Suspension Dynamics
Authors: Jain Abhinandan , Kuo Calvin , Jayakumar Paramsothy , Cameron Jonathan
Published: June 2016

The goal of this research is to achieve close to real-time dynamics performance for allowing auto-pilot in-the-loop testing of unmanned ground vehicles (UGV) for urban as well as off-road scenarios. The overall vehicle dynamics performance is governed by the multibody dynamics model for the vehicle, the wheel/terrain interaction dynamics and the onboard control system. The topic of this paper is the development of computationally efficient and accurate dynamics model for ground vehicles with complex suspension dynamics. A challenge is that typical vehicle suspensions involve closed-chain loops which require expensive DAE integration techniques. In this paper, we illustrate the use the alternative constraint embedding technique to reduce the cost and improve the accuracy of the dynamics model for the vehicle.
Using the Generalized Inverted Pendulum to Generate Less Energy-Consuming Trajectories for Humanoid Walking
Authors: Omran Sahab , Sakka Sophie , Aoustin Yannick
Published: June 2016

This paper proposes an analysis of the effect of vertical position of the pivot point of the inverted pendulum during humanoid walking. We introduce a new feature of the inverted pendulum by taking a pivot point under the ground level allowing a natural trajectory for the center of pressure (CoP), like in human walking. The influence of the vertical position of the pivot point on energy consumption is analyzed here. The evaluation of a 3D Walking gait is based on the energy consumption. A sthenic criterion is used to depict this evaluation. A consequent reduction of joint torques is shown with a pivot point under the ground.
Direct Strut-and-Tie Model for Reinforced Concrete Bridge Pier Cap
Authors: Hemant Kumar Vinayak , Sivaa Senthil N.A.K , Pradeep Kumar T V
Published: June 2016

A simple and direct Strut-and-Tie Model (STM) is proposed here to predict the ultimate shear strength of the reinforced concrete bridge pier cap for shear span to depth ratio of 0.4 to 2.4. The model is based on the Kupfer-Gerstle Biaxial Compression-Tension failure criterion which includes the concrete softening effect produced by the presence of transverse tensile stress. The earlier models consider the stress distribution factor for the varied stress distribution across the section by assuming it as linear function which is derived by satisfying equilibrium conditions. In this study the principal stresses have been evaluated by satisfying the compatibility condition at the time of impending failure which has been accounted for the effective area of concrete resisting tension. Also the softening effect has been included by using the formula for tensile strength of cracked concrete proposed by Belarbi and Hsu. The proposed model has been validated with 43 experimental results by author and from literature which confirm the coherency and conservativeness of the predicted results. The parametric study on ultimate shear strength is done so as to infer the relation between various abstract quantities such as compressive strain, shear capacity, span depth ratio and other material properties and get a deeper insight into the behavior of the Pier cap. Thus this paper tries to extend the practical application of Strut-and-Tie Model for reinforced concrete bridge pier cap in understanding the actual behavior of the structure on various dimensional and material parameters.
Determination of Zenith Tropospheric Delay and Precipitable Water Vapor using GPS Technology
Authors: Nistor Sorin , Buda Aurelian Stelian
Published: June 2016

In order to be able to be process GPS data, the GPS signal it has to pass the entire terrestrial atmosphere – both neutral atmosphere and ionosphere – which may cause an alteration of the GPS receiver to perform, resulting in large errors in the final position estimate. The dual frequency GPS receivers are affected by the influence of the atmosphere, especially by the troposphere. To estimate the delay caused by the troposphere and to obtain a high degree of accuracy, mapping function has to be used in the estimation process, which opens the door for remote sensing the atmosphere.

Because the wet component from the hydrostatic and non-hydrostatic part, is only 10% of the total neutral atmospheric part, its influence is considerate significant in the application of high-precision positioning in which GPS receivers are employed. The article presents the determination of the precipitable water vapor using relative using four permanent GPS stations. The estimation were done by using the Global Mapping Function - GMF and the apriori pressure and temperature from the GPT2 model.
The Influence of the Track Axis Curvature at Railway Filler-Beam Deck Bridges
Authors: Răzvan Marian Stănescu
Published: June 2016

The article presents a comparative study between the simplified method calculation proposed by the prescriptions of design codes and the analysis with the FEM program LUSAS [1], regarding the influence of the curvature of the track axis at railway bridges with steel beams embedded in concrete.

The study was made on three simply supported bridges with the openings chosen so as to cover the openings used for this constructive solution, namely 10m ≤L≤30m. For each analysed opening the curve radius of the track axis was varied, in the domain in which are representative as effects, namely 100m ≤R≤1500m. In the case of Lusas FEM analysis, a physically nonlinear analysis it was previously carried out, after which the cracked concrete was removed, as its participation in the structural stiffness is practically non-existent.

Studying the outcomes revealed by the two calculations presented, it can be concluded that the simplified method proposed by the design codes leads to a overvaluation of the track axis curvature influence at the railway filler-beam deck bridges.
Methodological Aspects of Qualitative-Quantitative Analysis of Decision-Making Processes
Authors: Gawlik Remigiusz
Published: June 2016

The paper aims at recognizing the possibilities and perspectives of application of qualitative-quantitative research methodology in the field of economics, with a special focus on production engineering management processes. The main goal of the research is to define the methods that would extend the research apparatus of economists and managers by tools that allow the inclusion of qualitative determinants into quantitative analysis. Such approach is justified by qualitative character of many determinants of economic occurrences. At the same time quantitative approach seems to be predominant in production engineering management, although methods of transposition of qualitative decision criteria can be found in literature. Nevertheless, international economics and management could profit from a mixed methodology, incorporating both types of determinants into joint decision-making models. The research methodology consists of literature review and own analysis of applicability of mixed qualitative-quantitative methods for managerial decision-making. The expected outcome of the research is to find which methods should be applied to include qualitative-quantitative analysis into multicriteria decision-making models in the fields of economics, with a special regard to production engineering management.
The Optimal Sequence of Production Orders, Taking into Account the Cost of Delays
Authors: Dylewski Robert , Jardzioch Andrzej , Krebs Irene
Published: June 2016

In flexible manufacturing systems the most important element in determining the proper course of technological processes, transport and storage is the control and planning subsystem. The key planning task is to determine the optimal sequence of production orders. This paper proposes a new method of determining the optimal sequence of production orders in view of the sum of the costs related to the delayed execution of orders. It takes into account the different unit costs of delays of individual orders and the amount of allowable delays of orders involving no delay costs. The optimum sequence of orders, in the single-machine problem, in view of the sum of the costs of delays may be significantly different from the optimal order, taking into account the sum of delay times.
Synthesis of Petri Net based Model of a Discrete Event Manufacturing System for Nonlinear Process Plan
Authors: Słota Adam , Zając Jerzy , Uthayakumar Marimuthu
Published: June 2016

This work presents a modelling approach for nonlinear process plan (NLPP) implementation in discrete event manufacturing system (DEMS). NLPP is used for the building of the modular structure of an Object Observable Petri Net model of DEMS. The general capabilities of DEMS are defined by resources’ operation templates and the transition incidence relation. Based on system specification and NLPP executed in the system, the modular model of DEMS is defined. The required steps for constructing a modular model through the integration of resource models are presented. The proposed approach to modular modelling is illustrated by means of a sample DEMS and an example of NLPP.
Prevalence and risk factors of electronic cigarette use among adolescents: Data from four Swedish municipalities
Authors: Geidne Susanna , Beckman Linda , Edvardsson Ingrid , Hulldin Johanna
Published: June 2016

Aims

To assess the prevalence rates and risk factors of electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use, with special focus on e-cigarettes containing nicotine, among grade 9 students (aged 15–16 years) in four different municipalities in Sweden.

Methods

A cross-sectional sample of 665 adolescents was collected in April 2014. The data was analysed using binary logistic regression analysis.

Results

The results show that 26% of adolescents in this study have smoked e-cigarettes (have ever used), while 19% have smoked e-cigarettes with nicotine or do not know whether or not they contained nicotine. The strongest risk factor for ever having used e-cigarettes (any type or with nicotine) was smoking conventional cigarettes. Having tried cigarettes and having tried snus, as well as using or having used alcohol and having smoked a water pipe were also statistically significant risk factors for ever use of any type of e-cigarettes but not for use of e-cigarettes with nicotine. There was no gender difference.

Conclusions

Our result show that the use of e-cigarettes tends to cluster with the use of other substances, such as other tobacco products and alcohol. As a relatively large share of the participating adolescents, more than a fourth, had smoked e-cigarettes, this rather new phenomenon requires monitoring as a part of the tobacco control.
The same old story? Continuity and change in Swedish print media constructions of cannabis
Authors: Månsson Josefin
Published: June 2016

Aims

The purpose of the study is to describe and analyse how cannabis is constructed in Swedish print media and if this has changed over time. Sweden is known for its prohibitionist cannabis policy, but this approach seems increasingly challenged on both international and domestic arenas. It is therefore important to see if and how this international change is mirrored and processed in a key arena such as print media.

Methods

Newspaper material from two years, 2002 and 2012, was included to analyse continuity and change. The theoretical backdrop for the study is social constructionism, and methodological concepts such as discourse and subject positions from discourse theory were used to investigate how cannabis and cannabis problems are constructed.

Results

The analysis showed that print media in both years seem to draw mainly on a juridical, a social problems and a medical discourse when portraying cannabis. It is through these discourses that some subject positions become relevant as users (e.g. youth) and as experts (e.g. police). Despite a strong continuity in these cannabis constructions, the analysis also shows signs of change. For example, in 2012 there are articles drawing on economic and recreational discourses, and there is a global outlook enabling new cannabis constructions.

Conclusion

The Swedish print media generally has a crime-centred and deterrent approach towards cannabis, with prohibition at the heart of the reporting. International events do however introduce discursive alternatives in 2012. It remains to be seen if these new ways of writing about cannabis will strengthen or challenge prohibitionist constructions.
Heart Tumors in 33 Fetuses - Review of Twenty-Two Years of the Single-Centre Experience
Authors: Więckowska Katarzyna , Piątek Katarzyna , Respondek-Liberska Maria
Published: June 2016

INTRODUCTION: Cardiac tumors (CT) have been diagnosed since the eighties of the last century. The three most commonly diagnosed types of CT are rhabdomyomas, teratomas and fibromas. Severe fetal disturbances, such as arrythmias, fetal hydrops, ventricular obstructions, may be associated with the heart tumor.

AIM OF THE STUDY: To present the key role of the echocardiographic examination in the perinatal care and to present some demographic changes in this population of the youngest patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: From the Filemaker database of the Department for Diagnosis and Prevention of Congenital Malformations, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital & Medical University of Lodz, all cases with prenatal diagnoses of cardiac tumor in singleton pregnancy were compiled over a 22-year period (1993–2015). 33 cases of heart tumors in fetuses had 72 fetal echo examinations. The average number of cases per year was 1,5 (range 1 – 5). The retrospective analysis of the material was performed using the Statistica package. The analysis included the assessment of the cardiovascular condition defined by Cardiovascular Profile Score, location and number of tumors; age, past obstetric history, place of residence of the mother, type of delivery and neonatal follow-up.

RESULTS: The number of fetuses with cardiac tumor cases did not increase during this period. The maternal age was 28,1 years (± 5,2 years) and was decreasing over time. The primigravidae constituted 60% of examined population. The history of past miscarriages was observed in 26% of women. The majority of tumors were detected and diagnosed in the third trimester – at mean 29,6 hbd, but the diagnosis was made earlier in the past decades (regression analysis, p=0,042). The average duration of pregnancy was 36,6 hbd (range: 27-42 hbd). There was no statistical difference between decades in term on pregnancy duration.

The cardiac tumors were more frequent in the female fetuses (71,4% to 28,6%; X2 test; p=0,006). The proportions between the groups of single and multiple tumors changed in last five years – currently the multiple tumors are more frequent (87,5%). The mortality in the group of single tumors was twice as high as in the group of multiple tumors. The percentage of cesarean sections between 1993 and 2005 was 67% and between 2006 and 2015 was 75% (p=0,63). The mortality of neonates with cardiac tumors declined over the period taken into account.

CONCLUSIONS: The perinatal care of the fetuses with cardiac tumors improved over last 20 years. The characteristics of analyzed population had shown that fetal CTs affected healthy, young mothers, more often primigravidae, more often female fetuses. The prevalence of CTs did not increase over time. The gestational age at the time of the diagnosis decreased, thus the period of fetal echo monitoring increased. However, the rate of cesarean sections also increased, which requires further studies and explanations.
Nautical electronic maps of S-411 standard and their suitability in navigation for assessment of ice cover condition of the Arctic Ocean
Authors: Pastusiak Tadeusz
Published: June 2016

The research on the ice cover of waterways, rivers, lakes, seas and oceans by satellite remote sensing methods began at the end of the twentieth century. There was a lot of data sources in diverse file formats. It has not yet carried out a comparative assessment of their usefulness. A synthetic indicator of the quality of data sources binding maps resolution, file publication, time delay and the functionality for the user was developed in the research process. It reflects well a usefulness of maps and allows to compare them. Qualitative differences of map content have relatively little impact on the overall assessment of the data sources. Resolution of map is generally acceptable. Actuality has the greatest impact on the map content quality for the current vessel’s voyage planning in ice.

The highest quality of all studied sources have the regional maps in GIF format issued by the NWS / NOAA, general maps of the Arctic Ocean in NetCDF format issued by the OSI SAF and the general maps of the Arctic Ocean in GRIB-2 format issued by the NCEP / NOAA. Among them are maps containing information on the quality of presented parameter. The leader among the map containing all three of the basic characteristics of ice cover (ice concentration, ice thickness and ice floe size) are vector maps in GML format. They are the new standard of electronic vector maps for the navigation of ships in ice.

Publishing of ice cover maps in the standard electronic map format S-411 for navigation of vessels in ice adopted by the International Hydrographic Organization is advisable in case is planned to launch commercial navigation on the lagoons, rivers and canals. The wide availability of and exchange of information on the state of ice cover on rivers, lakes, estuaries and bays, which are used exclusively for water sports, ice sports and ice fishing is possible using handheld mobile phones, smartphones and tablets.
Visual features of cartographic representation in map perception
Authors: Żyszkowska Wiesława
Published: June 2016

The author describes the properties and mechanisms of visual perception in the context of their significance to the principles of symbol design as used in cartography. Map perception relies on the process of visual perception. Therefore, the knowledge of its inner workings in the map environment allows cartographers to construct cartographic symbols in agreement with the properties of the visual system.

Visual perception involves neurosensory processes taking place between the eye and the short-term memory. As such, they operate independently of the beholder’s consciousness and significantly influence the information received by the map user. The author discusses the mechanisms of human vision and the nature of the process of visual perception. It also shows the relationships between the image characteristic and the visual system’s properties such as the optical resolution, visual adaptation, reactions of inhibition and reinforcement, reactions to the image characteristics – as well as the phenomena of contrast, grouping and spatial arrangement.

The principles of constructing map symbols that have been developed in the long course of cartography, and based mostly on the map makers’ intuition, find validation in the light of properties and mechanisms of visual perception. As discussed in the paper, the fundamental properties and basic mechanisms of human vision support the view that knowledge of how the visual system works provides foundation for articulating new mapping guidelines and cartographers’ calls for stricter observance of cartographic principles are fully justified.
The teaching of cartography and topography in the Polish primary school
Authors: Słomska Katarzyna , Korycka-Skorupa Jolanta
Published: June 2016

The authors present a content analysis of the selected textbooks for teaching the natural science in the Polish primary school in the scope of cartography and topography. Two series of textbooks edited by the Nowa Era publishing house and approved by the Ministry of National Education are used by the authors. The main aim of this analysis is to determine whether the textbooks meet the requirements of the new core curriculum. The psychological aspects that may cause the difficulties in learning the natural science for students of grades 4 through 6 of the primary school are also discussed.

The contents of textbooks are absorbed by the students in varying degrees. It is important, therefore, to take into account the psychological aspects of the students’ learning process and draw attention to the difficulties that may arise in the course of grade 4–6 instruction. Among them there are, inter alia, the difficulties in using a map scale, some problems with imagining the actual distances and areas, a height above the sea level and the relative heights, as well as the issues related to the students’ abilities to read a drawing of contour lines.

In the process of natural science education in the primary school, it is very important to develop the children’s abstract thinking, which causes the stimulation of their spatial imagination. The various types of teaching aids, which can be helpful for the both groups, as for the teachers, so for the students, are discussed in this article. These are the atlases, models, interactive teaching aids, books and educational games.

The analysis introduced in this article allows for a critical evaluation of the textbooks for primary school from the point of view of their content complacencies on cartography and topography with the new core curriculum.

Teaching the bases of cartography and topography from an early age is very important, but developing the ability to use a map requires the continuous exercises. Working with a map helps to develop not only the practical skills, but also the students’ attitudes having a positive impact on the development of such qualities as conscientiousness, accuracy and patience; it also has an invaluable impact on the students’ spatial imagination.
A certain sequence of functions involving the Aleph function
Authors: Agarwal P. , Chand M. , Onur Kiymaz İ. , Çetinkaya A.
Published: July 2016

Sequences of functions play an important role in approximation theory. In this paper, we aim to establish a (presumably new) sequence of functions involving the Aleph function by using operational techniques. Some generating relations and finite summation formulas of the sequence presented here are also considered.
Charmed hadron photoproduction at COMPASS
Authors: Wang Xiao-Yun , Guskov Alexey
Published: July 2016

Photoproduction of the charmonium-like state Zc
(4200) and the charmed baryon

Λ
c
*

$\it\Lambda _c^*$

(2940) is investigated with an effective Lagrangian approach and the Regge trajectories applying to the COMPASS experiment. Combining the experimental data from COMPASS and our theoretical model we estimate the upper limit of ΓZc
(4200)→J/ψπ to be of about 37 MeV. Moreover, the possibility to produce

Λ
c
*

$\it\Lambda _c^*$

(2940) at COMPASS is discussed. It seems one can try to search for this hadron in the missing mass spectrum since the t-channel is dominating for the

Λ
c
*

$\it\Lambda _c^*$

(2940) photoproduction.
Landscape transformation under the Gåsbreen glacier recession since 1899, southwestern Spitsbergen
Authors: Ziaja Wiesław , Dudek Justyna , Ostafin Krzysztof
Published: June 2016

Landscape changes of the Gåsbreen glacier and its vicinity since 1899 are described. Maps at 1:50 000 scale of changes of the glacier’s elevation and extent for the periods 1938–1961, 1961–1990, 1990–2010, and 1938–2010 are analyzed in comparison with results of the authors’ field work in the summer seasons 1983, 1984, 2000, 2005 and 2008. During all the 20th century, the progressive recession of the glacier revealed in a dramatic decrease in the thickness of its lower part, with a small reduction of its area and length. However, further shrinkage produced significant shortening and reduction in area which resulted in final decline of the Goësvatnet glacial dammed lake in 2002. Hence, the lowest (and very thick, up to 150–160 m) part of the former glacier tongue and dammed lake were transformed into a new terraced river valley south of the glacier and a typical marginal zone with glacial landforms north of the glacier. Since 1961, the equilibrium line altitude of the Gåsbreen glacier has risen from ca 350 to ca 500 m a.s.l. and now is located below the very steep rocky walls of the Mehesten mountain ridge, 1378 m a.s.l. Hence, the glacier is being fed by snow avalanches from these rocky walls and much more snow melts during the warmer summer seasons, stimulating a quicker recession of the lowest part of the glacier. This recession may be stopped only by significant climate cooling or increase in snow.
Modelling of the thermal regime of permafrost during 1990–2014 in Hornsund, Svalbard
Authors: Wawrzyniak Tomasz , Osuch Marzena , Napiórkowski Jarosław , Westermann Sebastian
Published: June 2016

The thermal state of permafrost is a crucial indicator of environmental changes occurring in the Arctic. The monitoring of ground temperatures in Svalbard has been carried out in instrumented boreholes, although only few are deeper than 10 m and none are located in southern part of Spitsbergen. Only one of them, Janssonhaugen, located in central part of the island, provides the ground temperature data down to 100 m. Recent studies have proved that significant warming of the ground surface temperatures, observed especially in the last three decades, can be detected not only just few meters below the surface, but reaches much deeper layers. The aim of this paper is evaluation of the permafrost state in the vicinity of the Polish Polar Station in Hornsund using the numerical heat transfer model CryoGrid 2. The model is calibrated with ground temperature data collected from a 2 m deep borehole established in 2013 and then validated with data from the period 1990–2014 from five depths up to 1 m, measured routinely at the Hornsund meteorological station. The study estimates modelled ground thermal profile down to 100 m in depth and presents the evolution of the ground thermal regime in the last 25 years. The simulated subsurface temperature trumpet shows that multiannual variability in that period can reach 25 m in depth. The changes of the ground thermal regime correspond to an increasing trend of air temperatures observed in Hornsund and general warming across Svalbard.
Female sporogenesis in the native Antarctic grass Deschampsia antarctica Desv.
Authors: Domaciuk Marcin , Leszczuk Agata , Szczuka Ewa , Kellmann-Sopyła Wioleta , Koc Justyna , Giełwanowska Irena
Published: June 2016

The development of megasporocytes and the functional megaspore formation in Deschampsia antarctica were analyzed with the use of microscopic methods. A single archesporial cell was formed directly under the epidermis in the micropylar region of the ovule without producing a parietal cell. In successive stages of development, the meiocyte was transformed into a megaspore tetrad after meiosis. Most megaspores were arranged in a linear fashion, but some tetrads were T-shaped. Only one of the 60 analyzed ovules contained a cell in the direct proximity of the megasporocyte, which could be an aposporous initial. Most of the evaluated D. antarctica ovules featured monosporic embryo sacs of the Polygonum type. Approximately 30% of ovules contained numerous megaspores that were enlarged. The megaspores were located at chalazal and micropylar poles, and some ovules featured two megaspores – terminal and medial – in the chalazal region, or even three megaspores at the chalazal pole. In those cases, the micropylar megaspore was significantly smaller than the remaining megaspores, and it did not have the characteristic features of functional megaspores. Meiocytes and megaspores of D. antarctica contained polysaccharides that were detectable by PAS-reaction and aniline blue staining. Starch granules and cell walls of megasporocytes, megaspores and nucellar cells were PAS-positive. Fluorescent callose deposits were identified in the micropylar end of the megasporocytes. During meiosis and after its completion, thick callose deposits were also visible in the periclinal walls and in a small amount in the anticlinal walls of megaspores forming linear and T-shaped tetrads. Callose deposits fluorescence was not observed in the walls of the nucellar cells.
Adsorption of volatile polonium species on metals in various gas atmospheres: Part II – Adsorption of volatile polonium on platinum, silver and palladium
Authors: Maugeri Emilio Andrea , Neuhausen Jörg , Misiak Ryszard , Eichler Robert , Dressler Rugard , Piguet David , Vögele Alexander , Schumann Dorothea
Published: July 2016

This work presents the results obtained from studying the interaction between polonium compounds formed in different atmospheres and platinum, palladium and silver surfaces obtained by thermochromatography. These results are of crucial importance for the design of cover gas filter systems for lead-bismuth eutectic (LBE)-based nuclear facilities such as accelerator driven systems (ADS). The results obtained from studying the interaction of polonium and platinum under inert atmosphere and reducing atmospheres with and without addition of moisture show that polonium is deposited at temperatures between 993 and 1221 K, with adsorption enthalpies ranging from –235 to –291 kJ mol−1, indicating a very strong adsorption of the polonium species present on platinum surfaces. The interaction between polonium and silver was investigated using purified inert, reducing and oxidizing carrier gases. Results show a deposition temperature between 867 and 990 K, with adsorption enthalpies ranging from –205 to –234 kJ mol−1. The interaction of polonium and palladium was studied in purified helium and purified hydrogen. For both conditions a deposition temperature of 1221 K was observed corresponding to an adsorption enthalpy of –340 kJ mol−1. No highly volatile polonium species was formed at any of the applied experimental conditions.
HbA1c as a Predictor of Dyslipidemia in Algerian Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Laissaoui Aicha , Allem Rachida , Azzoug Said , Yahiaoui Ibrahim , Belouazni Ahmed
Published: June 2016

Background and Aims: The aim of our study was to test whether HbA1c can serve as a predictor of dyslipidemia in type 2 diabetic patients.

Materials and Methods: 450 type 2 diabetic patients (165 males, 285 females), mean age of 58.7±9.9 years were included in this study. Venous blood samples were collected from all patients; serum was analyzed for HbA1c, fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides, high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and low density lipoprotein-C (LDL-C). LDL-C/HDL-C and TC/HDL-C risk ratio were also calculated. For the data evaluation, Pearson’s correlation coefficient and independent samples t-test were used. Statistical significance was defined by a probability level of p < 0.05.

Results: 399 (88.66%) of our patients had dyslipidemia. Low HDL-C was the most common form of dyslipidemia, observed in 311 patients (69.11%). Hypertriglyceridemia was found in 184 (40.88%) and elevated LDL-C in 229 (50.88%) patients. Values of HbA1c >7.0 % showed significant correlation with TC, LDL-C, TG, LDL-C/HDL-C and TC/HDL-C risk ratio, as compared to patients with HbA1c ≤ 7.0% (p<0.05 for all). HDL-C levels didn’t differ between the two groups (p= 0.322).

Conclusions: The study suggests the usefulness of HbA1c as a predictor of dyslipidemia for screening of type 2 diabetic patients at high risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Assessment of Nerve Conduction Study and Electroencephalogram Abnormalities in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Abass Farah N. , Abdul-Atheem Moshtak , Aswad Hanan F.
Published: June 2016

Background and aims: This study aims to evaluate the electroencephalographic and nerve conduction changes in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with and without peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and to investigate the relationship with other variables such as age, gender, duration of the diabetes and the degree of metabolic control.

Materials and methods: This was a cross-sectional study, including 100 patients with T2DM and 100 control subjects, aged 34 to 77 years. All patients enrolled in the study were subjected to full assessment, including: history, biochemical and electrophysiological tests.

Results: The study found that patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) in comparison to patients without DPN and control subjects were older, had longer duration of diabetes and poorer glycemic control reflected by fasting blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin. The electrophysiological findings showed that patients with DPN have significant differences in nerve conduction study (NCS) parameters when compared to patients without DPN and control subjects in the form of axonal degeneration and demyelination. They also had abnormalities of the electroencephalogram (EEG) which are correlated with nerve conduction study severity.

Conclusion: Routine NCS is an important method for evaluating DPN. Investigating sensory nerves of lower limbs is helpful in discovering the early stages of DPN when other tested nerves are normal. The F-wave can be used as a sensitive indicator for the early diagnosis of DPN and it can help to detect the subclinical lesions. EEG examination in diabetic patients with severe DPN is important in showing the defect in the central nervous system.
Estimated Glucose Disposal Rate (eGDR) – A Marker for the Assessment of Insulin Resistance in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Bîcu Mihaela L. , Bîcu Daniel , Gârgavu Sigina , Sandu Magdalena , Vladu Mihaela I. , Clenciu Diana , Moţa Eugen , Moţa Maria
Published: June 2016

Background and Aims: Studies have shown an increased incidence of chronic complications in people with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) with insulin resistance (IR) compared to people with T1DM without IR. Estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR) is an important indicator of IR in patients with T1DM, lower eGDR levels indicating greater IR. It was shown that T1DM patients with chronic complications (diabetic retinopathy - DR, diabetic peripheral neuropathy - DPN or diabetic kidney disease - DKD) exhibit higher IR compared to patients without chronic complications. The aim of our study was to evaluate eGDR as a marker for the assessment of IR in T1DM patients.

Materials and Methods: The study was observational, cross-sectional and included 140 T1DM patients with diabetes duration>10 years. The collected data were analyzed using the Statistic Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 software (IBM Corporation, Armonk, NY, USA).

Results: eGDR presented statistically significant correlations (p<0.05) with the presence of metabolic syndrome (MS), obesity, chronic complications of T1DM, cardiovascular risk (CVR) and smoking status in patients with T1DM duration >10 years.

Conclusions: eGDR represents a reliable marker for assessing the IR in T1DM.