bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Educación Estadística en Venezuela. El Caso de la Educación Básica y Media, ¿Formando una Cultura Estadística?
Authors: Salcedo Audy
Published: July 2014

Autores como Gal (2002) han señalado la importancia que tiene para un ciudadano actual contar con una cultura estadística para ejercer a plenitud su ciudadanía. La variedad de información estadística a la cual está expuesto el ciudadano cada día es sólo un indicador de la necesidad de la cultura estadística que le permita comprender toda esa información. De allí que las sociedades han incorporado contenidos de estadística en la educación formal. Este informe de investigación describe y analiza la educación estadística en Venezuela, particularmente el caso de la Educación Básica (EB) y Educación Media (EM). Se utiliza una metodología de análisis documental para comparar los programas de estudios de matemáticas en EB y la EM venezolanos con los elementos que considera Gal (2002) necesarios para formar una cultura estadística. Posteriormente se consideran algunos indicadores de la enseñanza y el aprendizaje de la estadística en la EB y EM. Para ello se analizan los resultados de un cuestionario suministrado a docentes de matemática respecto a la enseñanza y los resultados del Sistema Nacional de Medición y Evaluación del Aprendizaje en cuanto a estadística, así como la Prueba Nacional de Ingreso a la Educación Superior (Prueba de Aptitud Académica). Los resultados de la comparación de los programas indican que los programas venezolanos son poco ambiciosos en cuanto a las metas que desean alcanzar para la formación de una cultura estadística del ciudadano egresado de la EB y EM. A esto se le une los indicadores considerados sobre enseñanza y aprendizaje, los cuales señalan que hay problemas en ambos aspectos. Al parecer, pocos docentes trabajan los contenidos de estadística en los niveles señalados y los estudiantes muestran poco dominio de las nociones fundamentales de esta disciplina. Pareciera que los egresados de la EB y EM adquieren pocos elementos de la cultura estadística durante su paso por esos niveles educativos.
La Enseñanza de la Inferencia Estadística en Carreras donde la Estadística Cumple un Rol Instrumental
Authors: Terán Teresita E.
Published: July 2014

El trabajo que se presenta se plantea y justifica a partir del problema que surge en la enseñanza de la Estadística en carreras de grado no estadísticas. En relación a la Inferencia Estadística, ésta es una de las grandes ramas de la Estadística y una herramienta metodológica fundamental en las ciencias empíricas ya que trata el asunto de la confianza en las conclusiones estadísticas. En cursos básicos de Ciencias Económicas, Ingeniería y Ciencias Veterinarias el aprendizaje de los temas relativos a Inferencia Estadística se considera difícil y los resultados insatisfactorios. La tecnología, por su parte, en el momento actual influye en el qué y cómo enseñar, lo que acentúa la necesidad de una continua revisión de contenidos y métodos condicionada por las hipótesis previas que determinan el aprendizaje. A través de un análisis bibliográfico de distintos autores sobre el tema, se perfila un marco teórico relativo a la cognición estadística y se acota un campo de estudio que permita hacer un aporte investigativo en la comprensión de aquellos temas en los que se detecten mayores dificultades y proponer una trayectoria didáctica. Se plantea este trabajo desde la Didáctica de la Estadística y desde la propia práctica docente como profesora de cursos introductorios de Estadística para alumnos de diversas especialidades, partiendo de los siguientes interrogantes: ¿cuál es el nivel de comprensión de los alumnos, sobre el tema, en un primer curso de Estadística de la universidad?; ¿existen desajustes entre lo que se pretende enseñar y lo que se aprende?; ¿qué dificultades y errores se pueden detectar?, ¿cuáles son los obstáculos de los cuáles devienen?; ¿qué propuestas teóricas en Educación Estadística nos proporcionan herramientas convenientes para el análisis conceptual y semiótico de temas de la Inferencia Estadística?; ¿qué metodología didáctica podría facilitar un aprendizaje significativo de determinados temas de la Inferencia Estadística?
Improved Performance Investigations on OFDM-RoF Transmission Links Using ODSB and OSSB Modulation Techniques
Authors: Kumar Naresh , Sharma Ajay K. , Kapoor Vinod
Published: July 2014

In this work, simulative investigation to evaluate the performance of OFDM-RoF transmission links using ODSB and OSSB modulation schemes at high transmission rate is reported. Further, the results have been reported by compensating the degradations introduced by fiber dispersion using DC fiber for the proposed SSB-OFDM-RoF transmission links and a comparison is presented for evaluating the performance of such systems with and without DC fiber. Our result shows that the OSSB performs better than ODSB modulation scheme as the later severely suffered with fading problems due to fiber dispersion. In case of OSSB with DC fiber dispersion compensation technique, an improvement in SNR ratio and total power received is achieved in comparison to OSSB without DC fiber.
MicroRNA‐125b induces tau hyperphosphorylation and cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Banzhaf‐Strathmann Julia , Benito Eva , May Stephanie , Arzberger Thomas , Tahirovic Sabina , Kretzschmar Hans , Fischer André , Edbauer Dieter
Published: July 2014

Sporadic Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent form of dementia, but no clear disease‐initiating mechanism is known. Aβ deposits and neuronal tangles composed of hyperphosphorylated tau are characteristic for AD. Here, we analyze the contribution of microRNA‐125b (miR‐125b), which is elevated in AD. In primary neurons, overexpression of miR‐125b causes tau hyperphosphorylation and an upregulation of p35, cdk5, and p44/42‐MAPK signaling. In parallel, the phosphatases DUSP6 and PPP1CA and the anti‐apoptotic factor Bcl‐W are downregulated as direct targets of miR‐125b. Knockdown of these phosphatases induces tau hyperphosphorylation, and overexpression of PPP1CA and Bcl‐W prevents miR‐125b‐induced tau phosphorylation, suggesting that they mediate the effects of miR‐125b on tau. Conversely, suppression of miR‐125b in neurons by tough decoys reduces tau phosphorylation and kinase expression/activity. Injecting miR‐125b into the hippocampus of mice impairs associative learning and is accompanied by downregulation of Bcl‐W, DUSP6, and PPP1CA, resulting in increased tau phosphorylation in vivo. Importantly, DUSP6 and PPP1CA are also reduced in AD brains. These data implicate miR‐125b in the pathogenesis of AD by promoting pathological tau phosphorylation.
Pediatric Advance Directives: Parents’ Knowledge, Experience, and Preferences
Authors: Liberman Danica B. , Pham Phung K. , Nager Alan L.
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVES:

To explore parents’ and caregivers’ experience, knowledge, and preferences regarding advance directives (ADs) for children who have chronic illness.

METHODS:

We conducted a prospective, cross-sectional survey of parents and caregivers of children who have chronic illness. During ambulatory medical visits, participants were asked about previous AD experience and knowledge, future preferences regarding AD discussions, their child’s past and current health status, and family demographics.

RESULTS:

Among 307 participants surveyed, previous AD experience was low, with 117 (38.1%) having heard of an AD, 54 (17.6%) having discussed one, and 77 (25.1%) having known someone who had an AD. Furthermore, 27 (8.8%) participants had an AD or living will of their own, and 8 (2.6%) reported that their chronically ill child had an AD. Previous AD knowledge was significantly more likely among parents and caregivers who had a college degree than those who did not have a high school diploma, yet significantly less likely among primarily Spanish-speaking parents and caregivers than those primarily English-speaking. Interest in creating an AD for the child was reported by 151 (49.2%) participants, and was significantly more likely among families who had more frequent emergency department visits over the previous year.

CONCLUSIONS:

The limited AD experience and knowledge of parents and caregivers of children who have chronic illness and their interest in creating an AD suggest an unmet need among families of children who have chronic illness, and an opportunity to enhance communication between families and medical teams regarding ADs and end-of-life care.
Socioeconomic Status and Wait Times for Pediatric Surgery in Canada
Authors: Szynkaruk Mark , Stephens Derek , Borschel Gregory H. , Wright James G.
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVES:

Even in a publicly funded health care system, access to care may be related to socioeconomic status (SES). For children, delays in surgical procedures can have profound functional, social, and psychological effects with lifelong impact. The purpose of this study was to determine whether SES was related to meeting surgical wait time access targets for children. We also assessed the effects of gender, age, and distance to hospital on meeting access targets.

METHODS:

Patient addresses, referral wait times, and surgical wait times were obtained for 39 287 surgical procedures between 2005 and 2011 at the Hospital for Sick Children. Using census data, we derived household income quintile, distance to hospital, and indices of social and material deprivation. These indices were correlated with the percentage of children meeting clinic referral wait time targets and receiving surgery within the Pediatric Canadian Access Targets for Surgery.

RESULTS:

Across all SES quintiles, 33% of children exceeded their referral wait time targets, and 28% of children exceeded their surgical wait time targets. Indices of material or social deprivation and age did not correlate with the time from referral to clinic consultation (P = .54, .40, and .58, respectively). Gender was statistically significant (P < .001), but the difference was small (odds ratio = 0.87 for girls). Distance was also statistically significant (P = .005), and these differences translate into clinically meaningful differences in meeting wait time targets. Regarding completion of surgical procedures, material deprivation, distance, and gender did not correlate with longer wait times for surgery (P = .44, .09, .59, respectively). Social deprivation was statistically significant (P = .02) but not clinically significant. Increasing patient age was significantly associated with increased proportion of out-of-window wait times (P < .001). SES did not affect the timeliness of completion of surgery even when the urgency of the surgery (priority level based on diagnosis) was considered.

CONCLUSIONS:

SES does not predict the timeliness of delivery for pediatric surgical services.
Stool Microbiota and Vaccine Responses of Infants
Authors: Huda M. Nazmul , Lewis Zachery , Kalanetra Karen M. , Rashid Mamunur , Ahmad Shaikh M. , Raqib Rubhana , Qadri Firdausi , Underwood Mark A. , Mills David A. , Stephensen Charles B.
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE:

Oral vaccine efficacy is low in less-developed countries, perhaps due to intestinal dysbiosis. This study determined if stool microbiota composition predicted infant oral and parenteral vaccine responses.

METHODS:

The stool microbiota of 48 Bangladeshi infants was characterized at 6, 11, and 15 weeks of age by amplification and sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene V4 region and by Bifidobacterium-specific, quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Responses to oral polio virus (OPV), bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG), tetanus toxoid (TT), and hepatitis B virus vaccines were measured at 15 weeks by using vaccine-specific T-cell proliferation for all vaccines, the delayed-type hypersensitivity skin-test response for BCG, and immunoglobulin G responses using the antibody in lymphocyte supernatant method for OPV, TT, and hepatitis B virus. Thymic index (TI) was measured by ultrasound.

RESULTS:

Actinobacteria (predominantly Bifidobacterium longum subspecies infantis) dominated the stool microbiota, with Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes increasing by 15 weeks. Actinobacteria abundance was positively associated with T-cell responses to BCG, OPV, and TT; with the delayed-type hypersensitivity response; with immunoglobulin G responses; and with TI. B longum subspecies infantis correlated positively with TI and several vaccine responses. Bacterial diversity and abundance of Enterobacteriales, Pseudomonadales, and Clostridiales were associated with neutrophilia and lower vaccine responses.

CONCLUSIONS:

Bifidobacterium predominance may enhance thymic development and responses to both oral and parenteral vaccines early in infancy, whereas deviation from this pattern, resulting in greater bacterial diversity, may cause systemic inflammation (neutrophilia) and lower vaccine responses. Vaccine responsiveness may be improved by promoting intestinal bifidobacteria and minimizing dysbiosis early in infancy.
Mineral composition as indicator of the origin of soils formed on carbonate rocks in the Bükk-Highland (NE Hungary)
Authors: Németh Eszter , Sajó I. , Bidló A.
Published: July 2014

Bedrock has an essential role in the formation of soils, it fundamentally determines mineral composition. The present research focuses on the minerals in forest soils formed in the Bükk Mountains (NE Hungary). The composition of soil minerals was in accordance with the geological features as well as with the changes in climate and vegetation, which provide a basis for tracking the past of the soil formation mechanisms (Nemecz, 2006). Thus, by studying the mineral composition the formation processes and development of the soils can be unveiled.According to the findings it can be assumed that the investigated soils, although formed primarily on solid limestone, cannot be the products of the weathering of limestone solely, as they also contain significant amounts of silicates. The major part of the soil forming materials presumably originates from earlier dust fallings or from alluvial deposits by erosion. The former assumption is confirmed by the fact that the investigated area is located at a high altitude, thus significant amounts of eroded material could only originate from a short distance, where the bedrock also consists of limestone. Further research is needed for more detailed knowledge on the mineral composition of the soils, thus on the development of the soils and the bedrock of the investigated area.
Revisiting real interest rate parity in Central and Eastern European countries: The Sequential Panel Selection Method
Authors: Chang Hsu-Ling
Published: July 2014

This study uses the Sequential Panel Selection Method (SPSM) proposed by Chortareas and Kapetanios (2009) to investigate the non-stationarity properties of real interest rates in 12 Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries. We are thereby able to test the validity of real interest rate parity (RIRP) among these countries. The SPSM can be used to decompose a panel of real interest rate series into two groups: a group of stationary series and a group of non-stationary series. We identify the stationary processes in the panel and demonstrate that RIRP holds for 10 of the 12 countries studied. Our findings show that real interest rate convergence among these 10 countries exhibits non-linear mean reversion toward RIRP equilibrium. The results have important policy implications for the CEE countries studied.
Vegetation exerts a greater control on litter decomposition than climate warming in peatlands
Authors: Ward Susan E. , Orwin Kate H. , Ostle Nicholas J. , Briones Maria J. I. , Thomson Bruce C. , Griffiths Robert I. , Oakley Simon , Quirk Helen , Bardgett Richard D.
Published: July 2014

Historically, slow decomposition rates have resulted in the accumulation of large amounts of carbon in northern peatlands. Both climate warming and vegetation change can alter rates of decomposition, and hence affect rates of atmospheric CO2 exchange, with consequences for climate change feedbacks. Although warming and vegetation change are happening concurrently, little is known about their relative and interactive effects on decomposition processes. To test the effects of warming and vegetation change on decomposition rates, we placed litter of three dominant species (Calluna vulgaris, Eriophorum vaginatum, Hypnum jutlandicum) into a peatland field experiment that combined warming with plant functional group removals, and measured mass loss over two years. To identify potential mechanisms behind effects, we also measured nutrient cycling and soil biota. We found that plant functional group removals exerted a stronger control over short‐term litter decomposition than did ~1°C warming, and that the plant removal effect depended on litter species identity. Specifically, rates of litter decomposition were faster when shrubs were removed from the plant community, and these effects were strongest for graminoid and bryophyte litter. Plant functional group removals also had strong effects on soil biota and nutrient cycling associated with decomposition, whereby shrub removal had cascading effects on soil fungal community composition, increased enchytraeid abundance, and increased rates of N mineralization. Our findings demonstrate that, in addition to litter quality, changes in vegetation composition play a significant role in regulating short‐term litter decomposition and belowground communities in peatland, and that these impacts can be greater than moderate warming effects. Our findings, albeit from a relatively short‐term study, highlight the need to consider both vegetation change and its impacts below ground alongside climatic effects when predicting future decomposition rates and carbon storage in peatlands.
Indications for repeated enema reduction of intussusception in children
Authors: Vujovic Dragana , Lukac Marija , Sretenovic Aleksandar , Krstajic Tamara , Ljubic Vesna , Sindjic-Antunovic Sanja
Published: July 2014

Introduction. Intussusception is a common abdominal emergency in early
childhood. It is idiopathic in more than 90% of cases with incidence of 1.5-4
per 1,000 live births. The treatment of choice is nonoperative hydrostatic or
air enema reduction. Objective. The aim of the study was to evaluate the
influence of clinical presentation and symptom duration in non-operative
treatment, considering the indications for delayed enema reduction and its
efficacy. Methods. From the total number of 107 patients with
intusussception, aged from 2 months to 14 years (median 9 months), 102 (95%)
patients with ileo-colic intussusceptions were treated initially by
ultrasound guided saline enema. Records were reviewed for patients with
failed initial treatment and delayed repeated enemas or operative procedure.
The predictor variable included duration of presenting symptoms. Results.
Successful treatment by hydrostatic saline enemas had 58/102 (57%) patients.
Success in reduction was greater if symptom duration was <24 hours (54/62
cases; 87%, p<0.001), compared with >24 hours, (4/45 cases; 9%). Despite
failed initial attempts, enema reduction was reattempted in 12 patients, with
success in 7/12 (60%) patients. Children with symptom duration >24 hours had
a greater risk of requiring surgery (41/45 cases; 91%, p<0.001), including 5
(5%) patients with ileo-ileal intussusceptions. Conclusion. The accuracy of
ultrasound guided saline enema in intussusception reduction is high. Delay in
presentation decreases success of non-operative treatment. Delayed enema
reduction is important therapeutic option for intussusceptions. Surgical
treatment is indicated in cases of complications.
Death caused by heat stroke: Case report
Authors: Savic Slobodan , Pavlekic Snezana , Alempijevic Djordje , Jecmenica Dragan
Published: July 2014

Introduction. Heat stroke is the most dangerous among numerous disorders
caused by elevated environmental temperature. It is characterized by an
increased body temperature of over 40?C, the dysfunction of the central
nervous system and the development of multiple organ failure. The aim of this
paper was to highlight problems in the clinical and post-mortal diagnosis of
fatal heat stroke. Case Outline. A 20-year-old male was found unconscious on
the street; on admission at the Emergency Center, Clinical Center of Serbia,
Belgrade, he was in a coma. The body temperature of 40?C was maintained
despite the applied therapy, meningeal signs were negative, tachycardia with
gallop rhythm, hypotension, bleeding from the nose and mouth, and presence of
skin bruises. Laboratory findings: highly elevated LDH and creatine kinase,
elevated serum creatinine, AST, and signs of DIC. Lethal outcome occurred 6
hours after admission, and the case remained clinically unsolved. Autopsy
showed signs of hemorrhagic diathesis, brain and pulmonary edema, and
microscopic examination revealed general congestion, internal bleeding in
various organs, cerebral edema, massive blood aspiration and pulmonary edema.
Toxicological and bacteriological examinations were negative. Based on these
findings and subsequently obtained data on the conditions at the workplace
where the young man had a part-time job, it was concluded that the violent
death was caused by heat stroke. Conclusion. Since heat stroke is associated
with a high mortality rate and high incidence of serious and permanent organ
damage in survivors, it is important to make the diagnosis of heat stroke as
quickly as possible and apply appropriate treatment. Misdiagnosis of heat
stroke, and consequently inadequate treatment, with a potential fatal outcome
for the patient, can be the reason for blaming doctors for the legal offense
of medical malpractice in failing to administer first aid.
Analysis of Portable Machine Tool Construction Containing Modular Components
Authors: Pawełko Piotr , Dolata Michał
Published: July 2014

The article presents the issue of designing portable machine tools in which module components are applied. Portable machine tools are mainly designed for machining of elements at the place of their final installation. Experience has shown that achieving high efficiency in the design of portable machine tools can only be reached through the use of mechatronic approach with the use of ready-made modular components (for example: ballscrew mechanisms, bearing units, linear guide systems). The designer of a machine tool must be aware of lack of information on selected parameters of these components. It is recommended to use simplified replacement models of these components and implement them to the model of entire machine tool to achieve desired static and dynamic characteristics. Authors of the article present an example of a modular component and its replacement model. They also present the results of calculations performed with the use of this.
Experimental Investigations of Normal Deformation Characteristics of Foundation Chocks Used in the Seating of Heavy Machines and Qevices Part II. Experimental Investigations of a Chock Cast of EPY Resin
Authors: Grudziński Paweł , Konowalski Konrad
Published: July 2014

This paper concerns in general the problem of the so-called rigid seatings of heavy machines and devices on foundations, by using foundation chocks traditionally made of steel, and now being more frequently replaced by foundation chocks cast of polymer materials specially developed for this purpose. It is a continuation and development of this problem tackled in Part I [1]. In that part, the technical and scientific aspects of the so-called rigid fastenings of machines to foundations have been discussed, and it has been shown that they are not perfectly rigid. Next, a description of the method and results of experimental studies of deformations carried out for a traditionally used steel chock has been presented. In Part II, described in this paper, the results of similar studies carried out for a chock cast of EPY resin, used nowadays more frequently for this purpose have been presented. Subsequently, a comparative analysis of the test results obtained for the two chocks investigated have been made and an explanation why the foundation chocks cast of polymer plastic fulfil better their tasks in machinery seatings than the traditionally used for this purpose steel chocks has been given.
The Influence of Technological Parameters and Geometric Features of a Cutting Edge on Cutting Forces during AZ91HP Alloy Milling
Authors: Gziut Olga , Kuczmaszewski Józef , Zagórski Ireneusz
Published: July 2014

This article presents the state of knowledge on cutting forces during the milling of light alloys. Research results presented in the paper concern cutting forces and their amplitudes depending on the technological parameters (vc, fz, ap) with the use of two carbide milling cutters having a different cutting edge geometry (Y=5° and Y=30°). Research and analysis of cutting forces appear to be a significant factor determining chip deformation, temperature and cutting area strain, among others. Lower values of cutting force components are observed in the case of Y=30° tool processing. For the purpose of this research casting magnesium alloy AZ91HP was selected.
The Effect of Salinity Stress on Germination Characteristics and Changes Of Biochemically of Sesame Seeds
Authors: Tabatabaei S.A. , Naghibalghora S.M.
Published: July 2014

Objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of salinity stress on germination characteristics and biochemical changes of sesame seeds. Salinity stress at osmotic potentials of 0 (as control), ⊟3, ⊟6, ⊟9 and ⊟12 bar were adjusted using NaCl before the start of the experiment. Our results showed that, the effect of salinity stress for all traits was significant. By increases of salinity stress, germination percentage, germination, normal seedling percentage, seedling length and dry weight were reduced the ascorbate peroxidase and catalase activity, also proline content were at minimum at control and increased with increase in salinity stress, expressed by the osmotic potential.
Ecological Risk and Economic Loss Estimation of Heavy Metals Pollution in The Beijiang River
Authors: He Jiajun , Zhang Huimin , Zhang Hui , Guo Xuan , Song Mingwei , Zhang Junhao , Li Xiaotao
Published: July 2014

The distribution and extent of heavy metal accumulation in the fluvial sediment of the Beijiang River are described. The potential toxicity of this pollution was quantified using a consensus based sediment quality guidelines (SQGs) method and the Hakanson potential ecological risk index. The concentrations of Hg, As, Cu, Zn, Pb, Ni and Cr were high enough to damage the sediment biota on a frequent basis. The potential ecological risk was much higher in the downstream, urbanized reaches of the river than in the upstream reaches which are still rural, but all sections of the river posed at least a moderate level of ecological risk. Estimates of the economic loss associated with these pollutions were appreciable, and were mainly due to Hg and Cu. The Beijiang River basin is heavily polluted, posing environmental risks for the downstream reaches of the Pearl River, and economic loss to the whole watershed.
Influence of Wastewater Treatment and The Method of Sludge Disposal on the Gasification Process
Authors: Werle Sebastian , Dudziak Mariusz
Published: July 2014

Municipal wastewater treatment results in the production of large quantities of sewage sludge, which requires proper environmentally accepted management before final disposal. Sewage sludge is a by-product of current wastewater treatment technologies. Sewage sludge disposal depends on the sludge treatment methods used in the wastewater treatment plant (anaerobic or aerobic digestion, drying, etc.). Taking into consideration presented given this information, a study concerning the effects of wastewater treatment processes and sewage sludge drying method on the sewage sludge gasification gas parameters was performed. Gasification is a prospective alternative method of sludge thermal treatment. For the purpose of experimental investigations, a laboratory fixed bed gasifier installation was designed and built. Two types of sewage sludge feedstock, SS1 and SS2, were analyzed. Sewage sludge SS1 came from a wastewater treatment plant operating in the mechanical and biological system while sewage sludge SS2 was collected in a mechanical, biological and chemical wastewater treatment plant with simultaneous phosphorus precipitation. The sludge produced at the plants was subject to fermentation and then, after being dehydrated, dried in a cylindrical drier on shelves heated up to 260ºC (sewage sludge SS1) and using hot air at a temperature of 150ºC in a belt drier (sewage SS2). The analysis shows that the sewage sludge properties strongly depend on the wastewater sources and the wastewater treatment processes. The gasification results, presented as a function of the amount of gasification agent, show that the greater oxygen content of SS1 caused a reduction in the reaction temperature. Paradoxically, this effect caused an increase in the quantity of combustible components in the gas. As expected, increasing the air flow rate caused a decrease in the heating value of the gas produced. A higher amount of oxidizer increases the amounts of noncombustible species and the volumetric fraction of nitrogen, thus reducing the heating value of the obtained gas. The higher hydrogen content in SS1 affects the gasification gas composition. As a result, combustible components are the majority of the syngas.
Changes of Nutrient Contents in Tomato Fruits Under The Influence of Increasing Intensity of Manganese Nutrition
Authors: Kleiber Tomasz
Published: July 2014

The aim of conducted in years 2008-2012 studies was to assess the efficiency of application of increasing manganese levels on the nutritive value of tomato fruits (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. cvs. ‘Alboney F1’ and ‘Emotion F1’), expressed in the contents of macro- and micronutrients. Plants were grown in rockwool with application of nutrient solution characterized the following chemical composition (in [mg dm–3]): N-NH4 2.2, N-NO3 - 230, P - 50, K - 430, Ca - 145, Mg - 65, Cl - 35, S-SO4 - 120, Fe - 2.48, Zn - 0.50, Cu - 0.07, pH -5.50, EC - 3.00 mS cm–1. The following manganese plant nutrition levels were examined (in mg Mn · dm–3): 0.06 (control), 0.3, 0.6, 1.2 (Experiment I), 2.4, 4.8, 9.6 and 19.2 (Experiment II); (denoted as Mn-0, Mn-0.3, Mn-0.6, Mn-1.2, Mn-2.4, Mn-4.8, Mn-9.6; Mn-19.2). The source of manganese was manganese sulfate (MnSO4 · H2O, 32.3% Mn). The nutritive value of tomato fruits changed significantly under the influence of the application of wide range of manganese concentrations. It was found a significant reduction of the content of phosphorus (Exp. I, II), potassium (Exp. II), calcium (Exp. I, II) and magnesium (Exp. I, II). Manganese influence on the decreasing content of other metallic micronutrients (Fe, Zn, Cu) in fruits. Cultivar had a significantly influence on the content of: nitrogen (except Mn-2.4, Mn-4.8, Mn-9.6), potassium (in Exp. II, except Mn-4.8), calcium (except for Mn-0.6, Mn-2.4), magnesium (except Mn-0.3 and Mn-2.4), iron (except Mn-1.2), manganese and zinc (except control combination) and copper (except Mn-0.6 and Mn-1.2). The highest contents of N, Ca and Mg in fruits were recorded for the application of Mn-0, while for P and K - at 0.3 mg Mn dm–3, whereas it was lowest for all these nutrients (except N) in the case of Mn-19.2 (Exp. II). The reduction of nutrient contents amounted to (% changes: from the lowest content to the highest content): N (11.3), P (48.1), K (24.8), Ca (75.4), Mg (57.5), Fe (59.2), Zn (65.4) and Cu (43.7).
Alleviation Of zinnia elegans Jacq. Seed Deterioration Using Hydrogen Peroxide and Organic Acids
Authors: Szopińska Dorota
Published: July 2014

The decrease of seed quality during storage is strongly associated with damage caused by free radicals. Some compounds of natural origin, known due to their antioxidative and antifungal properties, may be potentially used in organic production for seed treatment as an alternative to pesticides. The aim of the experiment was to study an ability of hydrogen peroxide and organic acid to improve germination, vigour and health of non-deteriorated and deteriorated zinnia seeds. Two seed samples, cv. Illumination and Orys, varying in initial infestation with fungi were tested. For deterioration seeds were kept at 30°C and 80% RH for 30 days. Seed quality tests were performed before and after deterioration for controls and seeds soaked in 3.0% hydrogen peroxide solution and in 1.0 and 5.0% solutions of ascorbic and lactic acids for 10, 30 and 60 min. The controls were untreated seeds, seeds soaked in 0.2% solution of Kaptan zawiesinowy 50 WP for 30 min and seeds soaked in distilled water for 10, 30 and 60 min. Treating zinnia seeds with organic acids more significantly affected seed germination and health after deterioration than before, and improvement of germination capacity was usually correlated with decrease of the percentage of abnormal diseased seedlings. Deterioration had no influence on mean germination time, whereas in particular cases treating seeds with hydrogen peroxide and organic acids negatively affected this parameter. After deterioration regardless of treatment increased number of seeds free from fungi. Lactic acid followed by hydrogen peroxide and ascorbic acid effectively limited growth of A. alternata, A. zinnia and Fusarium spp. on zinnia seeds, however at higher concentration negatively affected seed germination and vigour. Moreover, treating seeds with hydrogen peroxide and organic acids many a time increased seeds infestation with B. cinerea.
The Application of Random Noise Reduction By Nearest Neighbor Method To Forecasting of Economic Time Series
Authors: Miśkiewicz-Nawrocka Monika
Published: July 2014

Since the deterministic chaos appeared in the literature, we have observed a huge increase in interest in nonlinear dynamic systems theory among researchers, which has led to the creation of new methods of time series prediction, e.g. the largest Lyapunov exponent method and the nearest neighbor method. Real time series are usually disturbed by random noise, which can complicate the problem of forecasting of time series. Since the presence of noise in the data can significantly affect the quality of forecasts, the aim of the paper will be to evaluate the accuracy of predicting the time series filtered using the nearest neighbor method. The test will be conducted on the basis of selected financial time series.
The Externalities of Enterprises’ Innovative Activity – An Input-Output Approach
Authors: Świeczewska Iwona
Published: July 2014

The article assesses the impact of final demand for domestic products on the innovative activity of Polish enterprises. The activity is analysed in terms of their involvement in research and development (R&D) processes, which are considered crucial for an economy to be able to create a stock of knowledge. The main purpose of the analysis is to identify products that contribute to the largest increases in enterprises’ R&D expenditures. To study the effect of final demand on enterprises’ R&D activity, the input-output analysis method has been adopted. The presented analysis is part of author’s research on the intersectoral diffusion of knowledge in the Polish economy.
Changes in Urinary 8-Hydroxydeoxyguanosine Levels During Heptathlon Race in Professional Female Athletes
Authors: Samia Badiea Ali Abdel , Youssef Gehan Ahmed
Published: July 2014

Acute strenuous exercise can induce a state of oxidative stress affecting the involved muscles. Heptathlon is a multi-event exercise of two days duration and can be considered an acute, intensive endurance exercise. The purpose of this study is to compare the oxidative stress response to heptathlon events day by day and to determine the impact of this type of exercise on oxidative stress biomarkers.

The study subjects included eight heptathlon athletes who participated in the National First Class Republic competition in Egypt (October 19-21, 2011). Blood samples were collected at rest after exercise for two successive days and analyzed for malondialdehyde (MDA). Morning urine samples were collected one hour after exercise for each day and were analyzed for 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG). Results revealed a significant increase (p<0.05) in both plasma MDA and urine 8-OHdG levels after exercise regardless of the day. We concluded that exercise generates higher MDA levels compared to DNA strand breaks and oxidative DNA damage in athletes with antioxidant supplementation.
Gamma irradiation used on adult Tetranychus urticae Koch as a quarantine treatment
Authors: Osouli Shiva , Nejad Karim Haddad Irani , Ziaie Farhoud , Moghaddam Mohammad
Published: July 2014

The effect of gamma radiation with 0, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, and 450 Gy intensities on the longevity, total number of eggs, and the percent of hatched eggs laid by irradiated females of Tetranychus urticae Koch (Tetranychidae) was evaluated. Two different groups (0–24 h old and 48–72 h old) of adult females were irradiated. The results showed that 350 and 300 Gy doses significantly reduced the longevity of the 0–24 h old females and the 48–72 h old females. The younger females were more tolerant at lower dose rates than the older females. There was a quadratic relationship between dose rates and young females, while it was linear in older females. The total number of eggs laid by females of both ages was significantly reduced with a linear trend by 250 Gy irradiation. The eggs laid by females of both the 0–24 h olds and the 48–72 h olds lost their hatchability when the dose rate was 350 Gy. It was concluded, that applying a dose rate of 320 Gy on one of the mates (male or female) before mating, or a 300 Gy on both of them, would be sufficient to cause sterility in adult mites.
A Cross-Cultural Approach to Speech-Act-Sets: The Case of Apologies
Authors: Válková Silvie
Published: July 2014

The aim of this paper is to contribute to the validity of recent research into speech act theory by advocating the idea that with some of the traditional speech acts, their overt language manifestations that emerge from corpus data remind us of ritualised scenarios of speech-act-sets rather than single acts, with configurations of core and peripheral units reflecting the socio-cultural norms of the expectations and culture-bound values of a given language community. One of the prototypical manifestations of speech-act-sets, apologies, will be discussed to demonstrate a procedure which can be used to identify, analyse, describe and cross-culturally compare the validity of speech-act-set theory and provide evidence of its relevance for studying the English-Czech interface in this particular domain of human interaction.
Whither Restorativeness? Restorative Justice and the Challenge of Intimate Violence in Aboriginal Communities
Authors: Dickson-Gilmore Jane
Published: July 2014

The issue of partner and family violence in Aboriginal settings has long presented unique challenges for communities and criminal justice. Dissatisfaction with conventional legal responses, and especially with mandatory charging policies whose implications for victims and families are, at best, mixed, has initiated a shift toward restorative justice, which is perceived to be more culturally appropriate and respectful of Aboriginal families. However, there are significant challenges arising from issues of community, culture, and context that must be seriously engaged before restorative justice can offer viable, safe, and sustainable alternatives to Aboriginal communities struggling with violence. Drawing upon years of work with Cree communities, this article explores the realities of intimate violence and restorative responses, arguing that there is additional work to be done before restorative processes can be applied to intimate violence in these communities.
Open Access in China: A Study of Social Science Journals
Authors: Guo Fei , Xue Jing-Yuan , Li Ruo-Xi
Published: July 2014

To learn about the current situation of open access (OA) in Chinese social science journals, 714 journals listed in the Chinese Social Sciences Citation Index (CSSCI) in 2012 to 2013 were chosen to investigate, and search engines were used to analyze the OA status of these journals and their articles. The results showed that 13.73 per cent of journals in the CSSCI are OA, their OA format is mostly PDF, and 84.69 per cent of their OA resources are gathered from the publishing years 2004 to 2012. The level of OA journals focusing on different subjects is unbalanced in China. Articles from each journal published in 2007 were selected according to different standards to study the relationship of OA and citation. The results showed that the OA level of highly cited articles is higher than that of low- and non-cited articles. Factors that may restrict OA development in China were analyzed.
Turboroundabouts
Authors: Vasconcelos Luís , Silva Ana B. , Seco Álvaro M. , Fernandes Paulo , Coelho Margarida C.
Published: July 2014

A “turboroundabout” is a variation of the conventional multilane roundabout in which spiral road markings and raised lane dividers force drivers to follow a specific path according to their intended destination. This geometry eliminates weaving and cut-in conflicts by guiding drivers continuously from entry to exit. Turboroundabouts were conceived with the main aim of improving safety, but their practical benefits are relatively unknown. Likewise, the few existing studies on turboroundabouts do not allow definitive conclusions to be drawn about the delay and emissions performance characteristics of turboroundabouts; further research is needed. This research focused on the use of appropriate modeling methodologies to understand the effects of turboroundabouts on capacity, safety, and emissions in comparison with the effects of conventional single-lane and double-lane roundabouts. The results indicate that turboroundabouts have capacity levels comparable to those of two-lane roundabouts but are less robust concerning the directional split of the entry traffic; turboroundabouts lead to fewer traffic conflicts, but the traffic conflicts that do occur are more severe. The results also show that the implementation of turboroundabouts provides no advantages for emissions when the main concerns are carbon dioxide and oxides of nitrogen.
Saffron Samples of Different Origin: An NMR Study of Microwave-Assisted Extracts
Authors: Sobolev Anatoly , Carradori Simone , Capitani Donatella , Vista Silvia , Trella Agata , Marini Federico , Mannina Luisa
Published: July 2014

An NMR analytical protocol is proposed to characterize saffron samples of different geographical origin (Greece, Spain, Hungary, Turkey and Italy). A microwave-assisted extraction procedure was developed to obtain a comparable recovery of metabolites with respect to the ISO specifications, reducing the solvent volume and the extraction time needed. Metabolite profiles of geographically different saffron extracts were compared showing significant differences in the content of some metabolites.
Ecology of the African Maize Stalk Borer, Busseola fusca (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) with Special Reference to Insect-Plant Interactions
Authors: Calatayud Paul-André , Le Ru Bruno , Van den Berg Johnnie , Schulthess Fritz
Published: July 2014

Busseola fusca (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is an important pest of maize and sorghum in sub-Saharan Africa. One century after its first description by Fuller in 1901, inaccurate information based on earlier reports are still propagated on its distribution (e.g., absent from the lower altitudes in East Africa) and host plant range (e.g., feeding on a large range of wild grass species). This review provides updated information on the biology, distribution and genetics of B. fusca with emphasis on insect-plant interactions. Related to this, new avenues of stem borer management are proposed.
Filtration Behaviour and Fouling Mechanisms of Polysaccharides
Authors: Jamal Sondus , Chang Sheng , Zhou Hongde
Published: July 2014

This study investigated filtration behaviors of polysaccharides solutions, both alone and in mixture with proteins, in the short-time constant flux filtration with the focus on factors affecting the transmembrane pressure (TMP) increase rate, the irreversible filtration resistance, and the membrane rejection behavior. The results showed that the TMP increase rates in the short-time constant flux filtration of alginate solutions were significantly affected by the calcium addition, alginate concentration, and flux. Although the addition of calcium resulted in a decrease in the TMP increase rate, it was found that the irreversible fouling developed during the filtration increased with the calcium addition, implying that the double-sided effect of calcium on membrane filtration and that the TMP increase rate observed in the filtration does not always reflect the irreversible membrane fouling development. It was also found that for the filtration of solutions containing mixed alginate and BSA, alginate exerted a dominant effect on the TMP increase rate and the membrane exhibited a reduced rejection to both alginate and BSA molecules compared to that in the filtration of the pure alginate or BSA.
Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of the 2-(3-(2-Alkyl-6,8-diaryl-4-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinazolin-2-yl)propyl)-6,8-diarylquinazolin-4(3H)-ones
Authors: Mmonwa Mmakwena , Mphahlele Malose , El-Hendawy Morad , El-Nahas Ahmed , Koga Nobuaki
Published: July 2014

Iodine-catalyzed condensation of 2-amino-3,5-dibromobenzamide with cyclohexane-1,3-dione derivatives in refluxing toluene afforded the corresponding bisquinazolinones. Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling of the latter with arylboronic acids afforded tetraarylbisquinazolinones. The electronic absorption and emission properties of these tetraarylbisquinazolinones were measured in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and acetic acid by means of UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopic techniques in conjunction with quantum chemical methods to understand the influence of substituents on intramolecular charge transfer (ICT).
Vasorelaxation Induced by a New Naphthoquinone-Oxime is Mediated by NO-sGC-cGMP Pathway
Authors: Dantas Bruna , Ribeiro Thaís , Assis Valéria , Furtado Fabíola , Assis Kívia , Alves Jeziane , Silva Tania , Camara Celso , França-Silva Maria , Veras Robson , Medeiros Isac , Alencar Jacicarlos , Braga Valdir
Published: July 2014

It has been established that oximes cause endothelium-independent relaxation in blood vessels. In the present study, the cardiovascular effects of the new oxime 3-hydroxy-4–(hydroxyimino)-2-(3-methylbut-2-enylnaphtalen-1(4H)-one (Oxime S1) derived from lapachol were evaluated. In normotensive rats, administration of Oxime S1 (10, 15, 20 and 30 mg/Kg, i.v.) produced dose-dependent reduction in blood pressure. In isolated aorta and superior mesenteric artery rings, Oxime S1 induced endothelium-independent and concentration-dependent relaxations (10−8 M to 10−4 M). In addition, Oxime S1-induced vasorelaxations were attenuated by hydroxocobalamin or methylene blue in aorta and by PTIO or ODQ in mesenteric artery rings, suggesting a role for the nitric oxide (NO) pathway. Additionally, Oxime S1 (30 and 100 µM) significantly increased NO concentrations (13.9 ± 1.6 nM and 17.9 ± 4.1 nM, respectively) measured by nitric oxide microsensors. Furthermore, pre-contraction with KCl (80 mM) prevented Oxime S1-derived vasorelaxation in endothelium-denuded aortic rings. Of note, combined treatment with potassium channel inhibitors also reduced Oxime S1-mediated vasorelaxation suggesting a role for potassium channels, more precisely Kir, Kv and KATP channels. We observed the involvement of BKCa channels in Oxime S1-induced relaxation in mesenteric artery rings. In conclusion, these data suggest that the Oxime S1 induces hypotension and vasorelaxation via NO pathway by activating soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) and K+ channels.