bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lactic acid and hydrogen from glycerol via acceptorless dehydrogenation using homogeneous catalysts
Authors: Bottari Giovanni , Barta Katalin
Published: July 2015

Acceptorless dehydrogenation of alcohols has emerged as a powerful methodology for the valorization of biomass derived platform chemicals and building blocks. In this review we provide a short overview of the advantages and possible product outcomes of this method. The main focus will be devoted to the conversion of glycerol, which is the major waste product of biodiesel production, to lactic acid. While extensive research addresses the development of heterogeneous catalysts, recently new and highly active iridium and ruthenium complexes have also been reported. These novel homogeneous catalysts are even more active than the already reported heterogeneous systems and enable the direct conversion of glycerol into lactic acid and molecular hydrogen. While the product hydrogen might be used either as fuel or as reducing agent for other processes, lactic acid is a platform chemical widely employed by the polymer, pharmaceutical and food industries. The used catalytic methodology is atom-economic, waste-free and is uniquely suited for the efficient conversion of renewable resources.
Production of L3 Vowels: Is it Possible to Separate Them From L1 and L2 Sounds?
Authors: Lipińska Dorota
Published: July 2015

It is incontrovertible that acquisition of a sound system of a second language is always a complex phenomenon and presents a great challenge for L2 learners (e.g. Rojczyk, 2010a). There are numerous studies (e.g. Nowacka, 2010; Flege, 1991) which show that L2 learners whose first language has a scarce number of sounds, have problems to distinguish L2 sound categories and tend to apply their L1 segments to new contexts. It may be easily detectable in the case of vowels. There is abundance of studies examining L2 learners’ successes and failures in production of L1 and L2 vowels (e.g. Flege, 1992; Nowacka, 2010; Rojczyk, 2010a). Usually such projects show how difficult it is for L2 learners to separate “old” and “new” vowel categories. However, the situation becomes much more complicated when we think of third language (L3) production. While in the case of L2 segmental production the number of factors affecting L2 sounds is rather limited (either interference from learners’ L1 or some kind of L2 intralingual influence), in the case of L3 segmental production we may encounter L1®L3, L2®L3 or L3 intralingual interference. This makes separation of L3 sounds a much more complex process. The aim of this study is to examine whether speakers of L1 Polish, L2 English and L3 German are able to separate new, L3 vowel categories from their native and L2 categories. Being a part of a larger project, this time the focus is on German /oe/. This vowel was chosen since it is regarded as especially difficult for Polish learners of German and it is frequently substituted with some other sounds. A group of English philology (Polish-English-German translation and interpretation programme) students was chosen to participate in this project. They were advanced speakers of English who did not encounter any difficulties in communication with native speakers of this language and upperintermediate users of German. They had been taught both English and German pronunciation/practical phonetics during their studies at the University of Silesia. The subjects were asked to produce words containing analysed vowels, namely: P /u/, P /ɔ/, P /ɛ/, E /uː/, E /ɔː/ and G /oe/. All examined vowels were embedded in a /bVt/ context. The target /bVt/ words were then embedded in carrier sentences I said /bVt/ this time in English, Ich sag’ /bVt/ diesmal in German and Mówię /bVt/ teraz in Polish, in a non-final position. The sentences were presented to subjects on a computer screen and the produced chunks were stored in a notebook’s memory as .wav files ready for inspection. The Praat 5.3.12 speech-analysis software package (Boersma, 2001) was used to scroll through the audio files in order to locate an onset and offset of target vowels, measure the F1 and F2 frequencies and plot vowels on the plane. All analyses were also performed using Praat. The obtained results shed new light on L3 segmental production and L1 and L2 interference.
Speech Melody Properties in English, Czech and Czech English: Reference and Interference
Authors: Volín Jan , Poesová Kristýna , Weingartová Lenka
Published: July 2015

Two major objectives were set for the present study: to provide reference data for the description of Czech and English F0 contours, and to investigate the limits of the ‘interference hypothesis’ on Czech English data. Altogether, the production of 40 speakers in 2392 breath-group F0 contours was analyzed. The speech of 32 professional speakers of English and Czech provides reference values for various acoustic correlates of pitch level, pitch span and downtrend gradient. These values were subsequently used as a benchmark for a confirmation of the interference hypothesis through comparison with a further sample of 8 non-professional speakers of English and Czech-accented English. The native English speakers of both genders produced significantly higher pitch level indicators, wider pitch span and a steeper downtrend gradient than the reference native speakers of Czech. Although the pitch level of the Czech-accented material lies in between the two reference groups, the pitch span of this group is the narrowest, which indicates that factors of foreign-accentedness other than simply interference are in effect.
The Cartographic Method of Research in Exploring the Real Estate Market - A Case of Using Maps for the Introductory Analyses of the Lublin Suburban Commune of Konopnica
Authors: Nieścioruk Kamil
Published: July 2015

The paper deals with the introductory analysis of the real estate market of a suburban commune located near a big (voivodeship capital) city. The analysis is based mainly of the cartographic method of research. Besides data mining and preparation, maps play an important role here, presenting values acquired directly from the register of notarial deeds of estate sales and purchases, as well as values resulting from statistic computation, for example mean values of area or price, absolute numbers of transactions or real estate type. The spatial factor is also taken into consideration when it comes to more complex or specific analyses. The influence of distance understood as a metric and time factor, as well as regression analysis results are also visualized on maps. Such presentation is a good step towards advanced analyses providing maps are prepared according to the rules of cartography. The paper stresses that a map can be a great tool in aiding every stage of research, but may also cause misinterpretations and false conclusions when at least basic rules are not complied with.
The influence of curing time on the shear strength of fluidized fly ash
Authors: Gruchot Andrzej
Published: July 2015

The paper presents results of research on the influence of compaction and air and water curing on angle of internal friction and cohesion of fluidized fly ash from “Połaniec” Power Plant. It was stated that the increase in compaction resulted in an insignificant increase of the angle of internal friction and a quite significant increase of cohesion. While the type and time of curing had a great influence on the angle of internal friction and cohesion. The highest values of angle of internal friction were obtained in the air curing, and the lowest in the water curing whereas in case of cohesion there was an inverse relation. The rise of curing time resulted in largely increased cohesion and small changes of angle of internal friction.
Effect Of Coir Fibres On The Compaction And Unconfined Compressive Strength Of Bentonite-Lime-Gypsum Mixture
Authors: Tilak B. Vidya , Dutta Rakesh Kumar , Mohanty Bijayananda
Published: July 2015

This paper presents the effect of coir fibres on the compaction and unconfined compressive strength of a bentonite-lime-gypsum mixture. The coir fiber content varied from 0.5 to 2 %. The results indicated that the dry unit weight and the optimum moisture content of a bentonite – lime mix increased with the addition of gypsum. The unconfined compressive strength of the bentonite increased with the increase in the lime content up to 8 %. Beyond 8 %, the unconfined compressive strength decreased. The dry unit weight of the reference mix decreased, and the optimum moisture content increased with the addition of coir fibre. The unconfined compressive strength of the bentonite + 8 % lime mix increased up to 4 % with the gypsum. Beyond 4 %, the unconfined compressive strength decreased. The unconfined compressive strength of the reference mix increased with the addition of coir fibre up to a fibre content of 1.5 %. The unconfined compressive strength of the reference mix-coir fibre composite was less in comparison to the reference mix. The unconfined compressive strength of the bentonite increased with the addition of lime and gypsum and with the increase in the curing period. The improvement in the post-peak region was better for the reference mix with reinforced coir fibres as compared to the unreinforced reference mix. The improved post-peak behaviour of the bentonite-lime-gypsum-coir fibre mixture could boost the construction of temporary roads on such problematic soils. Further, its use will also provide an environmental motivation for providing a means of consuming large quantities of coir fibres.
Long-Term Weather Data Measurements From A Danish Climate Station And The Weather’s Influence On The Thermal Performance Of Solar Collectors
Authors: Skalík Lukáš
Published: July 2015

A weather data evaluation from a climate station in Lyngby, Denmark, was carried out. Twenty years of measurements show that the increase in global radiation was almost 3.5 kWh/m2 per year, corresponding to a growth of the yearly global radiation of 7 % for the last 20 years. The global radiation variation between the least sunny year to the sunniest year was 20%. The increase in diffuse radiation was 1.9 kWh/m2 per year, corresponding to 20 years’ growth of up to 7 %. The annual diffuse radiation of nearly 19 % varied from the least cloudy year to the cloudiest year. A small increase was measured for the ambient air temperature. The measurements showed a yearly increase of 0.04 K per year. The average yearly ambient air temperature variation from the coldest to the warmest year was 3.1 K. According to the seasonal growth of the parameters measured, the ambient air temperature and diffuse radiation increased the most in the summer period, while the global radiation significantly increased in the spring months. The calculations of the solar collector's thermal performance in Lyngby showed that the energy output was mostly dependent on beam radiation. The ambient air temperature did not have a high influence on the thermal performance of the solar collectors compared to the influence of the total solar radiation.
Moore-Penrose inverses of Gram matrices
leaving a cone invariant in an indefinite inner
product space
Authors: Appi Reddy K. , Kurmayya T.
Published: July 2015

In this paper we characterize Moore-Penrose inverses of Gram matrices leaving a cone invariant in
an indefinite inner product space using the indefinite matrix multiplication. This characterization includes
the acuteness (or obtuseness) of certain closed convex cones.
Stimulating Creativity Methods And Innovative Performance In European Countries
Authors: Şipoş Gabriela Lucia , Ionescu Alin
Published: July 2015

A widely debated topic during the last decades focuses on the companies’ opportunities to acquire corporate competitiveness due to research, innovation and development. Thus, in the context of increased competition and current global challenges, fostering creativity and innovation is a way to boost economic growth and welfare of European countries. New and original ideas, skills, competencies and innovations they all could enable to achieve competitive advantages. Creative ideas and innovative solutions are crucial for the European countries in order to overcome the current economic crisis.

This paper aims to study the impact of stimulating creativity methods used by companies on innovative performance of the country. The study is based on identifying correlations between using stimulating creativity methods – such as brainstorming sessions, financial incentives for employees to develop new ideas, job rotation of staff, multidisciplinary or cross-functional work teams, non-financial incentives for employees and training employees on how to develop new ideas or creativity – and, by the other hand, innovative performance of European countries, synthetically expressed by Summary Innovation Index. It also quantifies and scales the intensity of influence using each stimulating creativity method.

The results of this study can be a real help for companies to identify the most appropriate stimulating creativity methods in order to increase the innovative performance. Thereby, the main output of the study consists in the fact that using the most effective methods of stimulating creativity the companies will be able to increase their innovative potential and they could obtain long-term competitive advantages.
A Comparison of Hybrid Approaches for Turbofan Engine Gas Path Fault Diagnosis
Authors: Lu Feng , Wang Yafan , Huang Jinquan , Wang Qihang
Published: July 2015

A hybrid diagnostic method utilizing Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) and Adaptive Genetic Algorithm (AGA) is presented for performance degradation estimation and sensor anomaly detection of turbofan engine. The EKF is used to estimate engine component performance degradation for gas path fault diagnosis. The AGA is introduced in the integrated architecture and applied for sensor bias detection. The contributions of this work are the comparisons of Kalman Filters (KF)-AGA algorithms and Neural Networks (NN)-AGA algorithms with a unified framework for gas path fault diagnosis. The NN needs to be trained off-line with a large number of prior fault mode data. When new fault mode occurs, estimation accuracy by the NN evidently decreases. However, the application of the Linearized Kalman Filter (LKF) and EKF will not be restricted in such case. The crossover factor and the mutation factor are adapted to the fitness function at each generation in the AGA, and it consumes less time to search for the optimal sensor bias value compared to the Genetic Algorithm (GA). In a word, we conclude that the hybrid EKF-AGA algorithm is the best choice for gas path fault diagnosis of turbofan engine among the algorithms discussed.
Fruit Flies Of The Genus Campiglossa (Diptera, Tephritidae) In Iran, With The Key To Species
Authors: Namin S. Mohamadzade , Nozari J.
Published: July 2015

Seven species of Campiglossa occurring in Iran are reviewed, Campiglossa grandinata (Rondani) is recorded for the first time from Iran (Fars Province) and Cichorium intybus L. (Asteraceae) recorded as a new host plant for Campiglossa producta. A key to species is provided.
Rediscovery Of The Northern Mole Vole, Ellobius Talpinus (Rodentia, Cricetidae), At The Western Bank Of The Dnipro River, Ukraine
Authors: Rusin M. , Rashevska H. , Mylobog Y. , Stryhunov V.
Published: July 2015

Ellobius talpinus was supposed to become extinct from the westernbank of the river Dnipro. Aft er 50 years the species was found again in Dnipropetrovsk and Kherson Region. The brief description of the current distribution of the northern mole vole to the west of the Dnipro is given. Altogether 11 localities were found. The rediscovered populations may be treated as endangered in the region.
Diversity Of Mandibular Morphology In Some Carnivorans
Authors: Rahmat S. J. , Koretsky I. A.
Published: July 2015

Comparison of mandibular morphology of some aquatic (seals, walruses, and sea otters) and terrestrial (hyenas and pandas) carnivorans demonstrates a rather general pattern correlating size of condyloid angle, size of gape, and diet. Structural differences of carnivoran jaws reveal morphological and ecological adaptations that are directly correlated with availability of prey, diving depth, feeding competition and specialized feeding methods. Specifically, the inclination of the condyloid process relative to the axis of the alveolar row (= condyloid angle) can be used to determine dietary preferences, including size of prey. Generally, carnivorans with a large condyloid angle feed on larger prey, while a low condyloid angle suggests feeding on small prey or can be an advantageous feeding mechanism. Mirounga angustirostris (Northern elephant seal) displays sex-specific characters in cranial and postcranial elements. Likewise, significant sexually dimorphic differences in the size of condyloid angle imply that deeper-diving male Northern elephant seals have a feeding niche dissimilar to that of females. Morphological assessment of male M. angustirostris suggests they are bottom-feeding seals that utilize a suction-feeding mechanism to capture small prey and crush shells with their teeth, which become weaker as they age.
“Was de tael gansch het volk?” Comparatief onderzoek naar de Vlaamse en Slowaakse nationale beweging in de 19e eeuw: Een pleidooi om cultuurhistorisch te vergelijken in de neerlandistiek/ “Was the Language Representing the Whole Nation?” A Comparative Approach of the Flemish and Slovak National Movements in the 19th Century: A Plea for Comparative Research in Dutch Studies
Authors: Bossaert Benjamin
Published: July 2015

In this ongoing research we are going to have a look at the starting point for the burgeoning national feelings with two smaller nations: the Slovak and the Flemish national movement. Building on the methodological framework of nationalism researcher Miroslav Hroch, one can discern a threefold stage - model in the national movements of the smaller nations in Europe, which is a thesis still needing more empirical evidence. This article attempts to compare at least one aspect of early nineteenth-century nation - building: How were the literary societies functioning in both national movements? We are working in a time scope of the first half of the 19th century and ask ourselves the questions: until which extend reached literary societies? What was their impact? Which people were their readers, their public? Was their language, and their language-spreading aim representative for the whole nation? What similarities and differences can be found in Flanders and Slovakia in this field?

Important support can be obtained from the NISE - network, which attempts to create a database on a European scale in order to stimulate and optimize comparative and transnational research on nation building.
Logic and the Structure of the Web of Belief
Authors: Carlson Matthew
Published: July 2015

In this paper, I examine Quine's views on the epistemology of logic. According to Quine's influential holistic account, logic is central in the “web of belief” that comprises our overall

theory of the world. Because of this, revisions to logic would have devastating systematic consequences, and this explains why we are loath to make such revisions. In section1, I clarify this idea and thereby show that Quine actually takes the web of belief to have asymmetrical internal structure. This raises two puzzles. First, as I show in section 2, Quine's mature thoroughly naturalized view has it that logic is simply obvious, and this is explains why we do not typically consider revising it. While Quine presents this naturalized view as a way to make good on his earlier metaphor of centrality in a web of belief, I argue that the resources of Quine's naturalized epistemology cannot adequately explain why we are reluctant to revise logic. And, Quine seems to recognize this point himself. In light of this, I explain in section 3 how Quine can allow that our overall scientific theory has systematic structure in a way that is consistent with his naturalistic strictures. Second, the asymmetrical internal structure of the web of belief seems to be inconsistent with its being a holistic web at all. I defuse this problem in section 4 by showing how Quine distinguishes between structural and confirmational considerations. I close by using this distinction to show how Quine's view can evade Michael Friedman’s criticisms, and allow for important methodological distinctions between areas of the web of belief.
Monk on Russell’s Heart of Darkness
Authors: McDonough Richard
Published: July 2015

The paper argues that Russell’s fascination with Conrad’s Heart of Darkness reveals a positive aspect of Russell’s character neglected by Monk’s biography. Section 1 sketches some of the darker aspects of Russell’s character. §2 outlines the relevant themes in Heart of Darkness. §3 argues that Russell’s fascination both with Conrad and his novel derives from his resolute commitment to a painful exercise in self-knowledge. §4 explains the more positive perspective on Russell’s “strength of mind” that emerges from this argument.
Evolution of Mating Systems in Basidiomycetes and the Genetic Architecture Underlying Mating-Type Determination in the YeastLeucosporidium scottii
Authors: Maia Teresa M , Lopes Susana T , Almeida João M G C F , Rosa Luiz H , Sampaio José Paulo , Gonçalves Paula , Coelho Marco A
Published: July 2015

In most fungi, sexual reproduction is bipolar; that is, two alternate sets of genes at a single mating-type (MAT) locus determine two mating types. However, in the Basidiomycota, a unique (tetrapolar) reproductive system emerged in which sexual identity is governed by two unlinked MAT loci, each of which controls independent mechanisms of self/nonself recognition. Tetrapolar-to-bipolar transitions have occurred on multiple occasions in the Basidiomycota, resulting, for example, from linkage of the two MAT loci into a single inheritable unit. Nevertheless, owing to the scarcity of molecular data regarding tetrapolar systems in the earliest-branching lineage of the Basidiomycota (subphylum Pucciniomycotina), it is presently unclear if the last common ancestor was tetrapolar or bipolar. Here, we address this question, by investigating the mating system of the Pucciniomycotina yeast Leucosporidium scottii. Using whole-genome sequencing and chromoblot analysis, we discovered that sexual reproduction is governed by two physically unlinked gene clusters: a multiallelic homeodomain (HD) locus and a pheromone/receptor (P/R) locus that is biallelic, thereby dismissing the existence of a third P/R allele as proposed earlier. Allele distribution of both MAT genes in natural populations showed that the two loci were in strong linkage disequilibrium, but independent assortment of MAT alleles was observed in the meiotic progeny of a test cross. The sexual cycle produces fertile progeny with similar proportions of the four mating types, but approximately 2/3 of the progeny was found to be nonhaploid. Our study adds to others in reinforcing tetrapolarity as the ancestral state of all basidiomycetes.
ABSORB BVS Implantation in Bifurcation Lesions – Current Evidence and Practical Recommendations
Authors: Kraak Robin P , Grundeken Maik J , de Winter Robbert J ,   AMC Heartcenter, Academic Medical Center – University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands,   AMC Heartcenter, Academic Medical Center – University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands,   AMC Heartcenter, Academic Medical Center – University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands,   AMC Heartcenter, Academic Medical Center – University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands. E: j.j.wykzykowska@amc.uva.nl
Published: July 2015

The introduction of the ABSORB bioresorbable vascular scaffold (BVS) provides a new tool for stenting in interventional cardiology. Initially, relatively simple coronary artery lesions were treated with this novel device; nowadays, we are gaining clinical experience when treating a wide variety of lesions with the ABSORB BVS, including bifurcation lesions. Unfortunately, data are limited in terms of the use of the ABSORB BVS in coronary bifurcation lesions, so little is known about the safety and feasibility of these procedures. Bench testing and case reports showed that single provisional scaffold placement is feasible with fenestration of the scaffold towards the side branch and sequential non-compliant balloon inflation in the side and main branches. However, no prospective randomised clinical data with optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging for different bifurcation stenting techniques are available. Based on the available data and our own experience we would recommend the use of the provisional single scaffold technique and only to fenestrate the scaffold if a severely pinched ostium combined with impaired flow seen on angiogram.
Características de la caña de azúcar asociadas con toneladas de caña por hectárea y sacarosa (% caña)
Authors: Viveros Valens Carlos Arturo , Baena Garcia Diosdado , Salazar Villareal Fredy Antonio , Lopez Luis Orlando , Victoria Jorge Ignacio
Published: July 2015

En las etapas iníciales del proceso de selección clonal en caña de azúcar (Saccharum spp.) se realiza la selección indirecta para las variables toneladas de caña por hectárea (TCH) y porcentaje de sacarosa. Esta selección indirecta puede aumentar su eficiencia en la medida que se precise mejor el conocimiento acerca de la naturaleza y la magnitud de las asociaciones existentes entre las características de interés y entre éstas y los indicadores de productividad. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue estimar las correlaciones genéticas entre las variables de tipo agronómico (factores causales) y las de rendimiento (variables de respuesta), además descomponer su magnitud mediante análisis de sendero. Se evaluaron cinco caracteres de interés en caña de azúcar (altura, diámetro de tallos, población de tallos por metro, TCH y sacarosa (%caña)) en cinco localidades de la zona semiseca del valle del río Cauca para 17 variedades y dos testigos (CC 85-92 y MZC 74-275) en plantilla utilizando un diseño experimental Latice. Para estimar los coeficientes de correlación genética y de sendero (‘path coefficient’) se utilizó el software GENES. El análisis mostró que para obtener variedades con alto TCH y alta sacarosa (%caña), primero se deben seleccionar clones con altura superior que la variedad testigo CC 85-92 (334 cm) para asegurar un contenido alto de sacarosa y posteriormente hacer un segundo tamizado por tallos gruesos de diámetro mayor que el testigo (32 mm) y alta población de tallos igual o superiores que el testigo (14 tallos/m).
Variabilidade de plantas de soja originadas de sementes de diferentes níveis de qualidade fisiológica
Authors: Damero Cantareli Leandro , Braga Schuch Luis Osmar , Ciciliano Tavares Lizandro , De Araújo Rufino Cassyo
Published: July 2015

O objetivo foi avaliar a variabilidade entre plantas dentro de populações de soja estabelecidas em semen-tes com diferentes níveis de qualidade fisiológica (germinação de 96, 82 e 70%, respectivamente).  Foram utilizados lotes de sementes de soja, cultivar CD 202, em três níveis de qualidade (alta, média e baixa).  As parcelas foram constituídas por 1 linha de 7 m de comprimento espaçadas das demais parcelas 0.45 m.  O delineamento experimental utilizado foi de blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições.  Dentro das linhas de semeadura foram dispostas cerca de 50 sementes visando obter uma emergência com excesso de plantas para posterior desbaste.  A população inicial após o desbaste foi de 32 plantas/m2.  Para avaliação das variáveis respostas coletou-se todas as plantas distribuídas nos 6 m dentro de cada parcela, sendo feita as seguintes determinações: estatura de planta, diâmetro do caule, número de hastes por planta e número de vagens por planta.  As plantas colhidas foram avaliadas individualmente nos parâmetros men-cionados, e calculado o coeficiente de variação, que foi utilizado como um indicador da variabilidade entre plantas dentro das populações de plantas.  Conclui-se que sementes de baixa qualidade fisiológica ocasi-onam diminuição na sobrevivência de plantas no campo e aumento da variabilidade entre plantas na co-munidade vegetal.
 

 

 

 
Parameter Estimation of Power Function Distribution with TL-moments
Authors: Naveed-Shahzad Mirza , Asghar Zahid , Shehzad Farrukh , Shahzadi Mubeen
Published: July 2015

Accurate estimation of parameters of a probability distribution is of immense importance in statistics. Biased and imprecise estimation of parameters can lead to erroneous results. Our focus is to estimate the parameter of Power function distribution accurately because this density is now widely used for modelling various types of data.  In this study, L-moments, TL-moments, LL-moments and LH-moments of Power function distribution are derived. In addition, the coefficient of variation, skewness and kurtosis are obtained by method of moments, L-moments and TL-moments. Parameters of the density are estimated using linear moments and compared with method of moments and MLE on the basis of bias, root mean square error and coefficients through simulation study. L-moments proved to be superior for the parameter estimation and this conclusion is equally true for different parametric values and sample size.
Fundamental Concepts on Classification and Statistical Implicative Analysis for Modal Variables
Authors: Zamora-Matamoros Larisa , Díaz-Silvera Jorge Rey , Portuondo-Mallet Lariza
Published: July 2015

The present work offers some fundamental concepts of the Statistical Implicative Analysis for modal variables and proposes an index to establish the similarity between two modal variables. Expressions to calculate typicality and contribution of the individuals to the classes that are formed in the classification are also presented. This technique is illustrated by two examples, one with binary data, which allows  the coincidence between the formulas presented and the existent for the binary case to be shown, and the other for modal data with more than two modalities.
Alpha-Skew Generalized t Distribution
Authors: Acitas Sukru , Senoglu Birdal , Arslan Olcay
Published: July 2015

The alpha-skew normal (ASN) distribution has been proposed recently in the literature by using standard normal distribution and a skewing approach. Although ASN distribution is able to model both skew and bimodal data, it is shortcoming when data has thinner or thicker tails than normal. Therefore, we propose an alpha-skew generalized t (ASGT) by using the generalized t (GT) distribution and a new skewing procedure. From this point of view, ASGT can be seen as an alternative skew version of GT distribution. However, ASGT differs from the previous skew versions of GT distribution since it is able to model bimodal data sest as well as it nests most commonly used density functions. In this paper, moments and maximum likelihood estimation of the parameters of ASGT distribution are given. Skewness and kurtosis measures are derived based on the first four noncentral moments. The cumulative distribution function (cdf) of ASGT distribution is also obtained. In the application part of the study, two real life problems taken from the literature are modeled by using ASGT distribution.
A Note on Generalized Exponential Type Estimator for Population Variance in Survey Sampling
Authors: Shabbir Javid , Gupta Sat
Published: July 2015

Recently a new generalized estimator for population variance using information on the auxiliary variable has been introduced by Asghar, Sanaullah & Hanif (2014). In that paper there was some inaccuracy in the bias and MSE expressions. In this paper, we provide the correct expressions for bias and MSE of the Asghar et al. (2014) estimator, up to the first order of approximation. We also propose a new generalized exponential type estimator for population variance which performs better than the existing estimators. Four data sets are used for numerical comparison of efficiencies.
Combining Some Biased Estimation Methods with Least Trimmed Squares Regression and its Application
Authors: Kan-Kilinç Betül , Alpu Ozlem
Published: July 2015

In the case of multicollinearity and outliers in regression analysis, the researchers are encouraged to deal with two problems simultaneously. Biased methods based on robust estimators are useful for estimating the regression coefficients for such cases. In this study we examine some robust biased estimators on the datasets with outliers in x direction and outliers in both x and y direction from literature by means of the R package ltsbase. Instead of a complete data analysis, robust biased estimators are evaluated using capabilities and features of this package.
La importancia de incluir las competencias interculturales en las relaciones con población refugiada
Authors: May Grosser Sebastián
Published: July 2015

Este ensayo presenta la importancia de incorporar el desarrollo de competencias interculturales en el trabajo con población refugiada, reflexionado sobre el potencial que esto tiene tanto para la población refugiada, como para la población costarricense como país receptor.
Del arte a la locura y de la locura al arte: la expresión general de la patología
Authors: Varela-Sandoval María Alejandra , Villalobos-Morera Luis Diego
Published: July 2015

Cuando el arte se convierte en una locura hay una acción recíproca donde todo influye sobre un todo que es el artista en sí mismo, como un encadenamiento de procesos que llevan a la expresión genial. Este artículo es un acercamiento a la creatividad, psicopatología y la genialidad desde una construcción histórica de artistas concebidos como genios que han mostrado síntomas o características de desórdenes conductuales y emocionales como factor influyente en la expresión artística.
Using High Frequency LIMM to characterize the poling state of piezoelectric ceramic thin films
Authors: Stewart Mark , Cain Markys G
Published: July 2015

The Laser Intensity Modulation Method, LIMM, has been used to investigate the poling state of ceramic piezoelectric thin films. The frequency of the system has been extended to 70MHz to enable films of thicknesses down to 100nm to be measured. A unique development has been to sweep the DC bias applied to the sample whilst performing the LIMM measurement, thus giving pseudo PE loops. These PE loops are unique in that they represent the polarization state within a distinct depth of the film, whereas normally PE loops are a result of the complete film. This allows us to investigate processes occurring within different regions of the film.
3ω Measurements for Tracking Freezing Fronts in Biological Applications
Authors: Hodges Wyatt , Natesan Harishankar , Bischof John , Dames Chris
Published: July 2015

One approach to treating atrial fibrillation relies on freezing tissue of the heart wall. This surgical technology requires sub-millimeter spatial resolution when dynamically tracking the freezing of pulmonary vein; conventional techniques such as ultrasound lack the necessary precision. Here we use an electrothermal “3ω” method to track propagating freezing fronts in nearly real time. The heater line is excited with multiple frequencies simultaneously, and the freezing front detected as it passes through the various penetration depths due to the contrast between thermal conductivities on either side of the front. Comparison of water freezing experiments with video images further suggests the accuracy of the method. Analysis and experiments show how the uncertainty, time response, and measurement range depend on the frequencies and thermal conductivity contrast. Finally, the method is demonstrated on biological tissue as further proof of principle for medical applications.
Mercy as a Theological Term
Authors: Zyzak Wojciech
Published: July 2015

The author of the article analyses different meanings of the term ‘mercy’. He begins with the ancient use of the word by pagan philosophers. This is the background for the analysis of the term ‘mercy’ in the Old and New Testament. The biblical sources lead to the definition of dogmatic foundations of God’s Mercy and allow the ethical and moral aspects of the human mercy to be shown. Closely connected with the last is the social dimension of the mercy. The author also deals with other dimensions of the mercy, such as: pastoral, liturgical, psychological and juridical. He also discusses the meaning of the mercy in the spirituality and Christian art.
Manuscript Codices in the Library Collection of the Cistercian Abbey in Szczyrzyc
Authors: Marszalska Jolanta
Published: July 2015

The collection of manuscripts at the Cistercian library in Szczyrzyc amounts to 100 volumes, including four medieval codices dated between 1460-1494; 12 manuscript books dated to the 17th century; 57 dated to the 18th century, and 27 manuscripts dated to the 19th century. Most of them are textbooks, copies of theological, philosophical and legal treatises, works on rhetoric, liturgy, world history, mathematics and herbal medicine, as well as books of homilies for special occasions and feasts. The collection of manuscripts at the monastery in Szczyrzyc is mostly a functional one – it was used by the monks to study and broaden their philosophical, theological, legal and liturgical knowledge. Several codices contain the texts of homilies delivered at various churches on feast days and solemnities, written down by the monks of Szczyrzyc. The surviving codices are bound in simple covers made of damaged folios taken out from liturgical codices, including antiphonaries and graduals. Considering the small number of surviving books, it is difficult to discuss the interests or influences of particular authors and their works on the intellectual level of the religious community of Szczyrzyc.
A equidade na cobertura da Estratégia Saúde da Família em Minas Gerais, Brasil
Authors: Andrade Mônica Viegas , Noronha Kenya , Barbosa Allan Claudius Queiroz , Rocha Thiago Augusto Hernandes , Silva Núbia Cristina da , Calazans Júlia Almeida , Souza Michelle Nepomuceno , Carvalho Lucas Resende de , Souza Aline
Published: July 2015

A Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF) tem papel relevante na prevenção e no acompanhamento das famílias no Sistema Único de Saúde. O presente estudo tem como objetivo analisar a equidade na cobertura desses serviços ofertados na área urbana de Minas Gerais, Brasil. A pesquisa analisa diversos marcadores considerando quatro grupos-alvo: mulheres, gestantes, crianças e idosos, sendo representativa por macrorregião de saúde. Foram investigados em 2012, 6.797 domicílios, sendo entrevistados 5.820 mulheres, 1.758 crianças e 3.629 idosos. Para analisar a equidade, foram construídas taxas de cobertura da ESF por classe de riqueza e estimados índices e curvas de concentração. Os resultados revelam que a ESF é uma política equitativa. Os indicadores mostram que os domicílios mais pobres apresentam maiores taxas de visitação da ESF. Considerando a população residente nas áreas adscritas às equipes de saúde, o nível de cobertura é bastante elevado: 88% da população investigada receberam pelo menos uma visita dos profissionais da ESF nos últimos 12 meses, o que resulta em índices de concentração perto de zero.
Passivity of Conventional and CAD/CAM Fabricated Implant Frameworks
Authors: Araújo Gabriela Monteiro de , França Danilo Gonzaga Bernardo de , Silva Neto João Paulo , Barbosa Gustavo Augusto Seabra
Published: July 2015

The objective of this research was to evaluate the passivity by measuring the passive fit and strain development of frameworks screwed on abutments, made by CAD/CAM technology, and to compare these parts with samples manufactured by conventional casting. Using CAD/CAM technology, four samples were made from zirconia (Zircad) and four samples were manufactured from cobalt-chrome (CoCrcad). The control groups were four specimens of cobalt-chrome, made by one-piece casting (CoCrci), with a total of 12 frameworks. To evaluate the passive fit, the vertical misfit at the abutment-framework interface was measured with scanning electron microscopy (250×) when only one screw was tightened. The mean strain in these frameworks was analyzed by photoelasticity test. A significant difference in the passive fit was observed between the control and sample groups. CoCrcad exhibited the best value of passive fit (48.76±13.45 µm) and CoCrci the worst (187.55±103.63 µm); Zircad presented an intermediate value (103.81±43.15 µm). When compared to the other groups, CoCrci showed the highest average stress around the implants (17.19±7.22 kPa). It was concluded that CAD/CAM-fabricated frameworks exhibited better passivity compared with conventionally fabricated frameworks. CAD/CAM-fabricated Co-Cr frameworks may exhibit better passive fit compared with CAD/CAM-fabricated zirconia frameworks. Even so, similar levels of stress were achieved for CAD/CAM-fabricated frameworks.
The efficiency of electrocoagulation using aluminum electrodesin treating wastewater from a dairy industry
Authors: Valente Gerson de Freitas Silva , Mendonça Regina Célia Santos , Pereira José Antônio Marques
Published: July 2015

This research deals with the investigation of electrocoagulation (EC) treatment of wastewater from a dairy plant using aluminum electrodes. Electrolysis time, pH, current density and distance between electrodes were considered to assess the removal efficiency of chemical oxygen demand (COD), total solids (TS) and their fractions and turbidity. Samples were collected from the effluent of a dairy plant using a sampling methodology proportional to the flow. The treatments were applied according to design factorial of half fraction with two levels of treatments and 3 repetitions at the central point. The optimization of parameters for treating dairy industry effluent by electrocoagulation using aluminum electrodes showed that electric current application for 21 minutes, an initial sample pH near 5.0 and a current density of 61.6A m-2 resulted in a significant reduction in COD by 57%; removal of turbidity by 99%, removal of total suspended solids by 92% and volatile suspended solids by 97%; and a final treated effluent pH of approximately 10. Optimum operating condition was used for cost calculations show that operating cost is approximately 3.48R$ m-3.
Normal values of b-wave responses of full-field electroretinogram in Lhasa Apso dogs with cataracts according to age
Authors: Góes Ana C.A. , Villar Tatiane , Otsuki Denise A. , Lisak Ricardo , Pecora Ricardo A. , Safatle Angélica M.V.
Published: July 2015

Lhasa Apso dogs with immature, mature or hypermature cataracts were divided into four groups according to their age (G1: 1 to 3 years old, G2: 4 to 7 years old, G3: 8 to 11 years old, G4: more than 12 years old). All animals were evaluated under the same sedation protocol to allow the performance of the electroretinogram (ERG) exam to determine normal value of b-wave response of the full-field ERG according to age. Three ERG responses were recorded: rod, maximal and cone responses. The amplitude values and b-wave implicit time of the responses of all groups were compared and analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis test (variance analysis for non-repeated measures), followed by the Dunn post-test (when p<0,05). A significant decrease was observed in maximal responses' amplitude, when comparing the G4 group with G1 and G2. No statistically relevant differences were observed in the b-wave implicit time values between groups. The ERG values are directly influenced by the animal's age. Older patients presented a decrease in the amplitude of the maximal response. The study determined the normal parameters of ERG b-waves for Lhasa Apso dogs with cataract according to their age group.
Modos de aplicação de fósforo para duas cultivares de tomate
Authors: Mueller Siegfried , Suzuki Atsuo , Wamser Anderson F , Valmorbida Janice , Feltrim Anderson L , Becker Walter F
Published: July 2015

Dois experimentos foram realizados nas safras 2011/12 e 2012/13 na Epagri, Estação Experimental de Caçador, com o objetivo de avaliar três modos de adubação fosfatada, em solos com níveis baixos de fósforo, em duas cultivares de tomate. Em ambos os experimentos usou-se o delineamento experimental em blocos ao acaso, no esquema fatorial 3x2, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos consistiram na combinação de três modos de aplicação de fósforo (M1= aplicação de 100% da dose recomendada no sulco em pré-plantio; M2= aplicação de 50% da dose recomendada no sulco em pré-plantio e aplicação de 50% da dose recomendada em cobertura via irrigação por gotejamento; e M3= aplicação de 50% da dose recomendada, a lanço, junto à semeadura da aveia, cinco meses antes do plantio do tomate, e 50% no sulco em pré-plantio) com duas cultivares de tomate (Paronset e Alambra). A dose recomendada de fósforo foi de 800 kg/ha. Concluiu-se que os modos de aplicação de fósforo estudados afetam a produção do tomateiro, sendo os modos M2 e M3 de aplicação parcelada do fósforo os que proporcionaram as maiores produtividades. Recomenda-se a aplicação de fósforo utilizando o modo M3, pois proporciona maior produtividade e é o mais vantajoso economicamente. As cultivares não diferiram em relação à produtividade de frutos comerciais, mas a 'Paronset' se destacou da 'Alambra' por apresentar maior produtividade de frutos do tipo extra AA.
Nutritional Status, Body Surface, and Low Lean Body Mass/Body Mass Index Are Related to Dose Reduction and Severe Gastrointestinal Toxicity Induced by Afatinib in Patients With Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Arrieta Oscar , De la Torre-Vallejo Martha , López-Macías Diego , Orta David , Turcott Jenny , Macedo-Pérez Eleazar-Omar , Sánchez-Lara Karla , Ramírez-Tirado Laura-Alejandra , Baracos Vickie E.
Published: July 2015

Background.

The main reason for dose reduction of afatinib is gastrointestinal toxicity (GT). In a phase II study, we analyzed anthropometrical, nutritional, and biochemical factors associated with GT induced by afatinib.

Materials and Methods.

Patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer who progressed to prior chemotherapy received 40 mg of afatinib. Malnutrition was determined by Subjective Global Assessment, and lean body mass (LBM) was determined by computed tomography scan analysis using a pre-established Hounsfield unit threshold. Toxicity was obtained during four cycles by Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events.

Results.

Eighty-four patients were enrolled. Afatinib was administered as the second, third, and fourth line of treatment in 54.8%, 38.1%, and 7.12% of patients, respectively. Severe diarrhea, mucositis, and overall severe GT were present in 38.9%, 28.8%, and 57.5%, respectively. Of the patients, 50% developed dose-limiting toxicity (DLT). Patients with malnutrition have higher risk for severe GT. Patients with lower LBM and body mass index developed more DLT (71.4% vs. 18.8%).

Conclusion.

Malnutrition is associated with a higher risk of severe GT induced by afatinib. Determination of nutritional status and body composition are helpful in identifying patients at higher risk of severe GT and could allow initiating treatment with lower doses according to tolerance.

Implications for Practice:

Body composition analysis, specifically lean body mass quantification, and nutritional status assessment are significant clinical variables to take into account when assessing oncological patients. This study on patients with non-small cell lung cancer treated with afatinib showed the important impact that malnutrition and low lean body mass have on the risk for developing dose-limiting toxicity and severe gastrointestinal toxicity. Still more research needs to be done to explore dose adjustment according to lean body mass, especially in drugs that are given at fixed doses, such as afatinib. However, this study presents evidence for the clinical oncologist to have a closer follow-up with malnourished patients and even to consider a lower starting dose until therapeutic dose is achieved.