bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Yield of Silphium Perfoliatum L. Depending on the Conditions of Cultivation
Authors: Shalyuta B.V. , Kostitskaya E.V.
Published: July 2018

The article presents the results of two-year studies on the influence of the method of sowing and the level of nitrogen application on the yield of seeds of Silphium perfoliatum L. − a new fodder crop for the conditions of Belarus. Silphium is precious for the nutritive value of green mass. According to the literature sources, dry matter contains 16-28% of protein, more than 60% of nitrogen-free extractives, 13-23% of sugars, high content of mineral substances, a small amount of fiber, adequate calcium and phosphorus, carotene, vitamin C. Mineral composition of Silphium contains 17.6% of dry matter, including 152.3 mg·kg−1 of ash. Macro elements: calcium – 18.1, phosphorus − 2.55, manganese – 4.48, potassium – 24.03, sodium – 0.40, sulphur – 0.40 mg· kg−1 of mg· kg−1 of dry matter. The mass of 1000 seeds was from 23.7 to 25.5 g. The seed germination was good and varied from 75% to 84%. It has been established that the best way to sow the Silphium is planting seedlings according to the 70x30 scheme. This option ensured the yield of seeds of 3.6 and 3.7 c/ha. The applying of increased doses of nitrogen fertilizers N90 and N120 and sowing seeds ensured the yield of seeds ranging from 3,6 to 3,9 c·ha−1.
The Effect of Ecological and Geographical Factors on Environmental Parameters as a Background for Vegetables Selection
Authors: Skaryna Uladzimir , Skaryna Vitali
Published: July 2018

The aim of the study is to find out the role of the ecological and geographical fator in obtaining sustainable yields and the assessment of the environment as a background for the selection in breeding of vegetable adaptive ability. Objects of research: winter garlic, vegetables beans, headed salad. Research was conducted in various ecological and geographical zones of Belarus, Russia, Uzbekistan. Environmental parameters as the background for selection were determined using Kilchevsky’s, L. V. Hotyleva’s (1985), technique, Kilchevsky (1985). Differences between testing points on environmental parameters for determining the trait “yielding capacity” have been revealed, maximum environmental productivity at assessing various genotype sets has been determined. Long-term research showed that sustainable productivity depends on the ability of a genotype to respond to environmental conditions. Based on the obtained results, statistical parameters of quantity traits of the parent material, their variability depending on ecological-geographical factor and the character of influence on the potential yields and ecological sustainability have been received. Using various ecological and geographical zones helps to reveal the potential of plants in given conditions on sustainability and productivity parameters. Testing of winter garlic, beans, head salad allowed differentiation of them according to adaptability capacity at various set of genotypes. It was found out that research must be carried out at highly productive and analyzing backgrounds to get the required material. One of the main methods enabling to increase plant selection efficiency is the use of natural ecological backgrounds.
Development of Female Torso Classification and Method of Patterns Shaping
Authors: Wu Xinzhou , Kuzmichev Victor , Peng Tian
Published: July 2018

Our study presents a new pattern-making approach that is composed of three major steps: to establish the new torso classification; to improve the pattern shaping method; to solve the problem of misfit of female dresses. New additional measurements were obtained from full bust, waist and hip circumferences and divided between front and back parts separately from 3D body scanning data. By creating 8 new torso subtypes Y1, Y2, A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2, which reflect the body characteristics and torso morphology through distribution of bust girth between the front and the back, we have developed the Chinese female torso classification. On the basis of the new classification and the Japanese method of pattern block drafting, we improved the method of calculation of waist darts and the shaping of two kinds of female dresses: first kind doesn’t have the horizontal waist seam (one-piece dress) and second kind has the waist horizontal seam (two-pieces dress containing from the top and the skirt). The new torso subtypes and new pattern block shaping approach are taken into attention as the body characteristics will significantly improve the quality of clothes. New method of pattern pieces shaping in according with the characteristic features of a 3D virtual avatar allows to integrate this virtual pattern-generating approach into the pattern-making systems.
Parameter Measurement of Biaxial Braided Composite Preform Based on Phase Congruency
Authors: Xiao Zhitao , Pei Lei , Zhang Fang , Sun Ying , Geng Lei , Wu Jun , Tong Jun
Published: July 2018

In this paper, a new method based on phase congruency is proposed to measure pitch lengths and surface braiding angles of two-dimensional biaxial braided composite preforms. Lab space transform and BM3D (block-matching and 3D filter) are used first to preprocess the original acquired images. A corner detection algorithm based on phase congruency is then proposed to detect the corners of the preprocessed images. Pitch lengths and surface braiding angles are finally measured based on the detected corner maps. Experimental results show that our method achieves the automatic measurement of pitch lengths and the surface braiding angles of biaxial braided composite preforms with high accuracy.
Implementing the Requirements of ISO 9001 and Improvement Logistics Processes in SMES Which Operate in the Textile Industry
Authors: Zimon Dominik , Gajewska Teresa , Malindzakova Marcela
Published: July 2018

The principal objective of the research was to determine the influence exerted by the implementation of standard quality management systems on the improvement of selected logistics processes in small and medium-sized enterprises, which operate in the textile industry. Empirical research was carried out by the authors in the year 2017 on a group of small and medium-sized enterprises that operate in the textile industry in Poland and Slovakia. The research involved 33 organizations (20 Polish, and 13 Slovak ones). The research process and the analysis of the acquired results made it possible to address the research questions posed and to state, among others, that standardized quality management systems exert a relatively large influence on perfecting selected subsystems and logistic processes in the researched organizations.
Circular Economy — Challenges for the Textile and Clothing Industry
Authors: Koszewska Małgorzata
Published: July 2018

The circular economy model has recently gained a lot of attention worldwide from scientists, business people and authorities. The importance of the transition towards a more circular economy has also been noticed in the European Union. The new regulations provide the enabling framework for the circular economy to flourish. At the same time, although there is no standardized approach to creating a circular economy, while defining appropriate policies, care must be taken that they are suitable for particular industries. The limits of the present linear economy model (take-make-waste) are extremely apparent when examining the textile and clothing industry. The transition to a circular economy requires significant changes in both production and consumption models. This article uses a literature review and industry examples to identify and evaluate challenges faced by the clothing and textile industry in adapting to the circular economy model.
Predicting Cotton Fibre Maturity by Using Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Farooq Assad , Sarwar Muhammad Ilyas , Ashraf Muhammad Azeem , Iqbal Danish , Hussain Azmat , Malik Samander
Published: July 2018

Cotton fibre maturity is the measure of cotton’s secondary cell wall thickness. Both immature and over-mature fibres are undesirable in textile industry due to the various problems caused during different manufacturing processes. The determination of cotton fibre maturity is of vital importance and various methods and techniques have been devised to measure or calculate it. Artificial neural networks have the power to model the complex relationships between the input and output variables. Therefore, a model was developed for the prediction of cotton fibre maturity using the fibre characteristics. The results of predictive modelling showed that mean absolute error of 0.0491 was observed between the actual and predicted values, which show a high degree of accuracy for neural network modelling. Moreover, the importance of input variables was also defined.
Different immunoreactivity of monomers and dimers makes automated free light chains assays not equivalent
Authors: Caponi Laura , Koni Elona , Romiti Nadia , Paolicchi Aldo , Franzini Maria
Published: July 2018

Background

The automated immunochemical serum free light chains (FLC) assays, Freelite (a polyclonal antiserum) and N Latex FLC (a mixture of monoclonal antibodies), are not interchangeable, as they may provide different results on a same sample. This study was aimed to establish if the calibrators contain FLC oligomers, and if different reactivity against monomers and dimers contributes to the discrepancy.

Methods

Gel filtration chromatography fractions of the calibrators were subjected to a Western blot (WB) and analyzed by each reagent. The procedure was repeated after pretreating the N Latex FLC calibrator with the reducing agent dithiothreitol (DTT).

Results

Both calibrators contain FLC dimers and monomers. Both reagents detect (with different sensitivity) FLC kappa monomers and dimers; instead, Freelite detects only FLC lambda dimers, while N Latex FLC detects only FLC monomers. After DTT treatment, only the N Latex lambda still detects FLC with reduced protein thiols, while the reactivity of all other reagents is abolished.

Conclusions

Due to their different reactivity against FLC monomers and oligomers, the Freelite and N Latex FLC are calibrated against different components of their own calibrators, making the two reagents not equivalent. The redox status of FLC determines the immunoreactivity not only of FLC dimers, but also of the monomers.
The clinical significance of borderline results of the Elia CTD Screen assay
Authors: Robier Christoph , Amouzadeh-Ghadikolai Omid
Published: July 2018

Background

Data on the clinical relevance of borderline results of solid-phase assays in the screening for antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are sparse. This study aimed to determine the clinical significance of borderline results of the Elia CTD Screen (ECS; Phadia/Thermo Fisher Scientific, Freiburg, Germany), a fluoroenzymeimmunoassay incorporating 17 recombinant human nuclear antigens.

Methods

We retrospectively examined the medical records of 143 subjects with borderline ECS results for ANA-associated autoimmune disorders (AASARD) and the association with the results of indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) and confirmatory assays for ANA.

Results

AASARD were diagnosed in 10 patients (7%) with systemic lupus erythematosus (n=5; four patients were prediagnosed and in clinical remission), polymyositis overlap syndromes (n=2), scleroderma, Raynaud’s syndrome and undetermined connective tissue disease (each n=1). Most frequently, homogeneous and nucleolar IIF patterns were found. Positive ANA subsets were observed in three patients. Furthermore, four patients were diagnosed with autoimmune liver diseases and yielded positive IIF in three and positive confirmatory assays in all cases. Taken together, 129 subjects had no AASARD. Within this group, 43 patients were IIF positive and most frequently showed speckled, unspecific nucleolar and only rarely homogeneous patterns. Positive ANA subsets were found in low concentrations near to the upper reference range in 18 subjects.

Conclusions

AASARD were observed in 7% of the subjects with borderline ECS and showed homogeneous or nucleolar IIF patterns in the majority of these cases. Our findings suggest that borderline results of the ECS can be clinically relevant and support the concept of a parallel or sequential screening for ANA by both ECS and IIF.
Comparative study of corrosion and corrosion-wear behavior of TiN and CrN coatings on UNS S17400 stainless steel
Authors: Olia Hossein , Ebrahimi-Kahrizsangi Reza , Ashrafizadeh Fakhreddin , Ebrahimzadeh Iman
Published: July 2018

Physical vapor deposition (PVD) multilayered coatings with titanium nitride and chromium nitride top layers were deposited on UNS S17400 alloy in an attempt to improve the corrosion and corrosion-wear resistance of this stainless steel in corrosive environments. The coatings were produced in an industrial chamber by cathodic arc PVD on heat-treated and mechanically polished stainless steel specimens. The microstructures of the substrates and coatings were characterized by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope equipped with an energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy system. To evaluate the corrosion and corrosion-wear resistance, reciprocating-sliding tribometer and electrochemical tests were conducted in 3.5% NaCl solution. The results showed that nitride coatings possess, in general, better corrosion and corrosion-wear resistance compared with bare S17400 substrates. Specimens with CrN top coating revealed a typical compact structure and superior corrosion resistance compared with substrate and TiN top coating. However, the sliding motion damaged the surface with some microcracks on the coating, which act as the diffusion channels for NaCl solution; both TiN and CrN top coats experienced approximately similar behavior in corrosion-wear open-circuit potential testing.
Beyond Dr. Google: the evidence on consumer-facing digital tools for diagnosis
Authors: Millenson Michael L. , Baldwin Jessica L. , Zipperer Lorri , Singh Hardeep
Published: July 2018

Over a third of adults go online to diagnose their health condition. Direct-to-consumer (DTC), interactive, diagnostic apps with information personalization capabilities beyond those of static search engines are rapidly proliferating. While these apps promise faster, more convenient and more accurate information to improve diagnosis, little is known about the state of the evidence on their performance or the methods used to evaluate them. We conducted a scoping review of the peer-reviewed and gray literature for the period January 1, 2014–June 30, 2017. We found that the largest category of evaluations involved symptom checkers that applied algorithms to user-answered questions, followed by sensor-driven apps that applied algorithms to smartphone photos, with a handful of evaluations examining crowdsourcing. The most common clinical areas evaluated were dermatology and general diagnostic and triage advice for a range of conditions. Evaluations were highly variable in methodology and conclusions, with about half describing app characteristics and half examining actual performance. Apps were found to vary widely in functionality, accuracy, safety and effectiveness, although the usefulness of this evidence was limited by a frequent failure to provide results by named individual app. Overall, the current evidence base on DTC, interactive diagnostic apps is sparse in scope, uneven in the information provided and inconclusive with respect to safety and effectiveness, with no studies of clinical risks and benefits involving real-world consumer use. Given that DTC diagnostic apps are rapidly evolving, rigorous and standardized evaluations are essential to inform decisions by clinicians, patients, policymakers and other stakeholders.
Adsorption behavior of Cd2+ ions using hydroxyapatite (HAp) powder
Authors: Thi Thom Nguyen , Thi Mai Thanh Dinh , Thi Nam Pham , Thu Phuong Nguyen , Buess-Herman Claudine
Published: July 2018

Pollution of heavy metals in water can affect the health of humans and the environment; therefore, removal of heavy metal ions is getting the attention of scientists. To reduce the negative impact of heavy metals on human health and the environment, Cd2+ ions present in water were treated using hydroxyapatite (HAp) as adsorbent. The effects of contact time, initial Cd2+ concentration, solution pH, and adsorbent mass on the adsorption capacity and efficiency of HAp were investigated. Cd2+ uptake was quantitatively evaluated using Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms. The maximum monolayer adsorption capacity was 119 mg/g. The experimental adsorption data were analyzed using three kinetic models: Lagergren’s pseudo-first-order law, McKay and Ho’s pseudo-second-order law, and the intra-particle diffusion model. The results showed that the Cd2+ removal process follows the pseudo-second-order law.
Vaporization heat of bound water in wood chemically modified via grafting and crosslinking patterns by DSC and NMR analysis
Authors: Guo Yingjie , Zhang Minghui , Xiao Zefang , Chen Haiou , Xie Yanjun
Published: July 2018

Radiata pine wood (W) was modified with acetic anhydride and glutaraldehyde (GA) resulting in WAcand WGAto various weight percent gains (WPGs), whereas in WActhe effect is due to grafting and in WGA, crosslinking. The heat of vaporization of bound water (BW) of the modified woods was studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and the mass loss (due to water loss) of the samples by thermogravimetry (TG). The temperature program was in both cases from 25 to 40°C with 10°C min−1. The adsorbed or condensed water in wood were observed via low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LFNMR). At a comparable WPG level, the LFNMR analysis showed that the interaction of water with WGAwas stronger than that with WAc. In both modified woods, a considerable reduction in the vaporization heat of BW was visible due to cell wall hydrophobization and bulking. The reduction of condensed water in micropores was lower for WGAthan WAc, probably because BW needs more energy to evaporate from the crosslinked stiff WGAcell walls.
Microencapsulation of Ammonium Bicarbonate by Phase Separation and Using Palm Stearin/Carnauba Wax as Wall Materials
Authors: Ding Baomiao , Zheng Quanhui , Pan Minhsiung , Chiou Yishiou , Yan Fengwei , Li Zhenshun
Published: July 2018

Ammonium bicarbonate microcapsules (AMBCMC) were prepared by phase separation method using palm stearin/carnauba wax (CNW) as wall materials. The morphology of AMBCMC showed that the microcapsules were mainly spherical shapes. DSC analysis results suggested that the microcapsule shells began melting at the temperature 47.9 °C, while the shells were thoroughly destructed at the temperature above 78.1 °C. The particle sizes of AMBCMC were chiefly distributed in the range of 30 ~ 300 μm. Ammonium bicarbonate (AMBC) in microcapsules was highly stable under different relative humidity, and AMBCMC was hardly damaged even at 95% relative humidity. The thermal stability of AMBC increased, while AMBC encapsulated in microcapsules still could decompose and release gas at 70 °C as well as free AMBC. Furthermore, AMBC encapsulated in microcapsules showed strong survivability in the presence of citric acid. The results indicated that the stability and compatibility of AMBC were effectively increased after microencapsulation.
Dehydration improves biomechanical strength of bioartificial vascular graft material and allows its long-term storage
Authors: Aper Thomas , Wilhelmi Mathias , Boer Ulrike , Lau Skadi , Benecke Nils , Hilfiker Andres , Haverich Axel
Published: July 2018

Introduction

We have recently reported about a novel technique for the generation of bioartificial vascular grafts based on the use of a compacted fibrin matrix. In this study, we evaluated the effects of a dehydration process on the biomechanical properties of compacted fibrin tubes and whether it allows for their long-term storage.

Materials and methods

Fibrin was precipitated from fresh frozen plasma by means of cryoprecipitation and simultaneously with a thrombin solution applied in a high-speed rotating casting mold. Subsequent dehydration of the fibrin tubes (29/38) was performed in dry air with a dilator inside the tube to prevent the collapse of the lumen. Dehydrated fibrin tubes were stored for six (n=9) and 12 months (n=10) at room temperature. Comparative analysis was done on initially generated and dehydrated fibrin tubes before and after storage to evaluate the effects of the dehydration process and storage on the biomechanical properties and structure of the tubes.

Results

Thirty-eight fibrin tubes were generated by high-speed rotation-molding from 142±3 mg fibrinogen with an inner diameter of 5.8±0.1 mm and a length of 100 mm. A centrifugal force of nearly 900×gcompacted applied fibrin, while fluid was pressed out of the matrix and drained from the mold via holes resulting in a 16-fold compaction of the fibrin matrix. Dehydration was characterized by shrinkage of the tubes to a diameter of 3.2±0.2 mm, while the length remained at 100 mm equivalent to a further two-fold compaction. The biomechanical strength of the dehydrated fibrin tubes significantly increased to values comparable to that of native ovine carotid arteries and maintained during the first 6 months of storage. After 12 months of storage, only five of 10 tubes were intact, and only one showed maintained biomechanical strength.

Discussion

Compaction of a fibrin matrix in high-speed rotation-moulding and subsequent dehydration enables for the construction of small-caliber fibrin grafts. Over and above, the dehydration process allows their storage and stockpiling as a prerequisite for clinical use.
Classification of Masses in Digital Mammograms Using the Genetic Ensemble Method
Authors: Thawkar Shankar , Ingolikar Ranjana
Published: July 2018

All over the world, breast cancer is the second leading cause of death in women above 40 years of age. To design an efficient classification system for breast cancer diagnosis, one has to use efficient algorithms for feature selection to reduce the feature space of mammogram classification. The current work investigates the use of hybrid genetic ensemble method for feature selection and classification of masses. Genetic algorithm (GA) is used to select a subset of features and to evaluate the fitness of the selected features, Adaptive boosting (AdaBoost) and Random Forest (RF) ensembles with 10-fold cross-validation are employed. The selected features are used to classify masses into benign or malignant using AdaBoost, RF, and single Decision Tree (DT) classifiers. The performance evaluation of classifiers indicates that AdaBoost outperforms both RF and single DT classifiers. AdaBoost achieves an accuracy of 96.15%, with 97.32% sensitivity, 95.90% specificity, and area under curve of AZ = 0.982 ± 0.004. The results obtained with the proposed method are better when compared with extant research work.
Detection of CagA, VacA, IceA1 and IceA2 virulent genes in Helicobacter pylori isolated from gastric ulcer patients
Authors: Fan Lijuan , Li Ran , Li Hongyun , Zhang Jian , Wang Lingyun
Published: July 2018

Background

Virulence factors of Helicobacter pylori including cagA, vacA, iceA and their association with clinical manifestation varied widely with different subpopulations. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of cagA, iceA1, iceA2, vacA, vacA s1/s2, vacA m1/m2, Western type cagA and East Asian type cagA virulence genes in H. pylori isolated from gastric ulcer patients and evaluate the association of these genes with gender, age, smoking and alcohol consumption.

Methods

Gastric biopsy samples from 172 patients were collected. H. pylori virulence genes, cagA, vacA, iceA1, iceA2, vacA s1/s2, vacA m1/m2, Western type cagA and East Asian type cagA were detected using polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results

Of the gastric biopsy samples collected, 48.3% of samples grew H. pylori. The vacA (68.7%) was the predominant virulence gene detected and associated with male patients and patients within the age group of 31–40 years. The cagA was the second most common gene detected and significantly associated with alcoholic patients.

Conclusions

H. pylori infection rate was 48.3% and was associated with patients who were smokers or had a history of smoking. The majority of our isolates were positive for any one of the virulence genes tested indicating that these isolates were highly virulent in nature.
Understanding the contribution of energy and angular distribution in the morphology of thin films using Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Bouazza Abdelkader , Settaouti Abderrahmane
Published: July 2018

The energy and the angular distribution of atoms are considered like two parameters most influent in the optimization of the sputtering and subsequently on the deposit, resulting in films having the desired properties (homogeneity in thickness, composition identical to that of the evaporated material). Moreover, a great influence on the shape and quality of thin films is obtained. In this work, a simulation with a Monte Carlo (MC) method is used to calculate the sputtering yield for different energies and angular distributions of atoms of metals (Cu, Al and Ag) and semiconductors (Ge, Si and Te) bombarded by different gas particles (Ar, Xe and Ne). Our results showed that when arriving at a certain energy value

E
max

E_{\rm max}

, sputtering yield will be in maximum

Y
⁢

1
max

Y1_{\rm max}

. Applying this

E
max

E_{\rm max}

and with variation in the angular distribution, we will obtain

θ
max

\theta_{\rm max}

corresponding to the maximum of sputtering yield

Y
⁢

2
max

Y2_{\rm max}

. These two values (

E
max

E_{\rm max}

,

θ
max

\theta_{\rm max}

) give the maximum of atoms sputtered and as a result, the films will be uniform. The obtained results are in very high agreement with other works, which validates our calculations.
Crystal structure of 2-(4-bromophenyl)-2,3-dihydro-1H-perimidine, C17H13BrN2
Authors: Zhang Min , Li Zhong-Yan , Yuan Xian-You , Yuan Lin
Published: July 2018

C17H13BrN2, orthorhombic, Pbca (no. 61), a = 9.995(4) Å, b = 13.845(5) Å, c = 20.213(7) Å, V = 2797.2(18) Å3, Z = 8, R
gt(F) = 0.0304, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0784, T = 296(2) K.
Crystal structure of (5-ethyl-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1,3-dioxan-5-yl)methanol, C14H20O4
Authors: Yuan Xian-You , Yuan Lin , Zhang Min , Li Zhong-Yan
Published: July 2018

C14H20O4, triclinic, P1̄, a = 6.1028(13) Å, b = 10.885(2) Å, c = 20.737(4) Å, α = 100.673(2)°, β = 92.465(2)°, γ = 98.973(2)°, V = 1333.5(5) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0431, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1225, T = 296(2) K.
The crystal structure of 1-((5-chloro-3-methyl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-4-yl)methyl)-1,3-diphenylurea, C24H21ClN4O
Authors: Zhang Xing-Tao , Wang Hai-Chao , Wang Teng , Liu Chao
Published: July 2018

C24H21ClN4O, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 10.2630(11) Å, b = 17.8954(16) Å, c = 12.3517(14) Å, β = 102.510(11)°, V = 2214.7(4) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0569, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1617, T = 293(2) K.
Crystal structure of catena-poly[(μ2-5-(tert-butyl)isophthalato-κ4
O,O′:O′′,O′′′)(-4′-(pyridin-4-yl)-2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine-κ3
N,N′,N′′)manganese(II)], C32H28N4O5Mn
Authors: Wang Yu-Fang , Wei Jing-Jing , Zhai Xiao-Hui
Published: July 2018

C32H28N4O5Mn, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 8.777(3) Å, b = 30.975(11) Å, c = 10.229(4) Å, β = 105.412(7)°, V = 2680.9(16) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0448, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1136, T = 296(2) K.
99Mo/99mTc radioisotope generator based on adsorption of 99Mo (VI) on cerium (IV) molybdate column matrix
Authors: El-Said Hassan , Ramadan Hala , Abbas Mahmoud , El-Hashash Maher
Published: July 2018

Based on neutron activated 99Mo, a procedure for preparation of 99Mo/99mTc radioisotope generator was developed. Batch equilibration method was used to investigate the sorption behavior of Mo (VI) (10−4 M) in chloride and nitrate solutions on cerium (IV) molybdate gel matrix using 99Mo radiotracer. The breakthrough sorption capacity of cerium molybdate gel matrix for 99Mo (VI) (3×10−2 M) were found to be 0.54 mmol/g of the sorbent [1 g column (0.6 cm i.d.)]. Elution performance of the generated 99mTc from cerium molybdate-99Mo chromatographic column was investigated as a function of inside diameter of the column, amount of the bed matrix and flow rate of the eluent. Based on the obtained results, 99Mo/99mTc radioisotope generator was prepared based on adsorption of neutron activated 99Mo (VI) of low specific activity onto chromatographic columns packed with 5 g cerium molybdate gel matrix. The radioactivity of 99mTc is periodically eluted with 10 mL 0.9% NaCl solution at a flow rate of 1 mL/min. Elution yield of 78±5% was obtained with high chemical, radionuclidic (99Mo breakthrough 1×10−3±0.3×10−3%) and radiochemical purity (97±2%).
Public and Private Provision of Railway Services: A Case Study from Slovakia
Authors: Jurikovič Martin , Tomeš Zdeněk
Published: July 2018

This article analyses a case study of passenger rail transport in Slovakia when operation of a commuter line to the capital city was changed from a public operator to a private one. This change brought about significant changes in the organisation of services. The private operator RegioJet introduced new rolling stock, a regular and more frequent timetable, peak and off-peak pricing, and additional on-board services. The results were remarkable, with passenger ridership increasing by 156% in 3 years. The article aims to compare the performance of public and private operators on this line in order to identify the reasons for the increased ridership. A customer survey was conducted and passengers were asked questions about their former and present travel behaviour. Based on data from the survey, a logit model was estimated in order to identify the factors behind increased usage and satisfaction. The results indicate that all passengers most highly valued the speed and comfort of the rail services. The new passengers valued highly reliability and quality of the improved service. These factors appealed especially to women, students, and car owners who were newly attracted to rail commuting.
Railway Finance in Europe
Authors: Nash Chris
Published: July 2018

Governments make substantial contributions to the finance of railways in Europe. This paper first considers the possible justifications for subsidies – namely normalisation of accounts, public service obligations, economies of density, relief of externalities on other modes, wider economic benefits and option values. It then considers the alternative ways of giving subsidies in the form of contributions to infrastructure costs, investment grants and subsidies to services. It concludes that there are good reasons for subsidising railways – in particular a first best argument for subsidising infrastructure will usually exist and a failure to do so will lead to fewer services being operated than are economically justified – but there is a need to ensure subsidies are used efficiently. Ways of achieving this include the setting of clear objectives and financial constraints, decentralisation of decision taking to focussed sector management, regulation and benchmarking of infrastructure costs and the introduction of competition for and in the market. Together these should reduce or eliminate the link between subsidies and inefficiency observed in earlier times.
The Underappreciated Connection between Rail Restructuring Strategies and Financing
Authors: Pittman Russell
Published: July 2018

The railways industry is a capital-intensive industry requiring very large initial and ongoing investment streams. Proposals to restructure the traditional state-owned monopoly railway in a particular country are often designed to address concerns not only regarding inefficient operations and monopoly stagnation but also the long-term unreliability of government financing, especially of the expensive infrastructure. In this regard, the connection between the particular rail restructuring strategy chosen by a country and the ability of the restructured entity to attract financing, especially private financing, merits a closer look.
Infrastructure Charges for International Train Services
Authors: Jost Frank
Published: July 2018

This paper sets out the evolution of international rail traffic in recent years and some of the legislative measures taken by the European Union to strengthen rail. If the same tools that have successfully been deployed for charges of domestic transport by rail are applied to cross border services, results will be systematically distorted to the detriment of cross border services.
Translating iconicities of classical Chinese poetry
Authors: Zhao Guangxu , Flotow Luise von
Published: July 2018

In the history of translating classical Chinese poetry, there are two kinds of translators. The first kind translate classical Chinese poetry “by way of intellectual, directional devices” (Yip, Wai-lim. 1969. Ezra Pound’s Cathay. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press: 16). What these translators are concerned with most is the coherence of their translations. They give little attention to the ideogrammic nature of Chinese characters. I call them traditional translators. These translators include those in the history of translating classical Chinese poetry from its beginning to the first decade of the twentieth century, although there are still some who translate classical Chinese poetry in this way later. The second kind of translator is highly interested in the images created by ideogrammic Chinese characters and tries to convey them in target language. We call them modernist translators. These translators are represented by some American modernist poets such as Ezra Pound, Amy Lowell, Florence Ayscough, etc. From the point of view of iconicity, modernist translators’ contribution lies in their concern with the iconic characteristics of Chinese characters. But they did not give enough attention to syntactical iconicity and textual iconicity in classical Chinese poetry.
Questions Around the Thue-Morse Sequence
Authors: Queffélec Martine
Published: July 2018

We intend to unroll the surprizing properties of the Thue-Morse sequence with a harmonic analysis point of view, and mention in passing some related open questions.
Motzkin’s Maximal Density and Related Chromatic Numbers
Authors: Srivastava Anshika , Pandey Ram Krishna , Prakash Om
Published: July 2018

This paper concerns the problem of determining or estimating the maximal upper density of the sets of nonnegative integers S whose elements do not differ by an element of a given set M of positive integers. We find some exact values and some bounds for the maximal density when the elements of M are generalized Fibonacci numbers of odd order. The generalized Fibonacci sequence of order r is a generalization of the well known Fibonacci sequence, where instead of starting with two predetermined terms, we start with r predetermined terms and each term afterwards is the sum of r preceding terms. We also derive some new properties of the generalized Fibonacci sequence of order r. Furthermore, we discuss some related coloring parameters of distance graphs generated by the set M.
On the Discrepancy of Two Families of Permuted Van der Corput Sequences
Authors: Pausinger Florian , Topuzoğlu Alev
Published: July 2018

A permuted van der Corput sequenceSbσ$S_b^\sigma$in basebis a one-dimensional, infinite sequence of real numbers in the interval [0, 1), generation of which involves a permutation σ of the set {0, 1,...,b −1}. These sequences are known to have low discrepancy DN, i.e.t(Sbσ):=lim supN→∞DN(Sbσ)/log N$t\left({S_b^\sigma } \right): = {\rm{lim}}\,{\rm{sup}}_{N \to \infty } D_N \left({S_b^\sigma } \right)/{\rm{log}}\,N$is finite. Restricting to prime basespwe present two families of generating permutations. We describe their elements as polynomials over finite fields 𝔽pin an explicit way. We use this characterization to obtain bounds fort(Spσ)$t\left({S_p^\sigma } \right)$for permutationsσin these families. We determine the best permutations in our first family and show that all permutations of the second family improve the distribution behavior of classical van der Corput sequences in the sense thatt(Spσ)<t(Spid)$t\left({S_p^\sigma } \right) < t\left({S_p^{id} } \right)$.
Metrical Star Discrepancy Bounds for Lacunary Subsequences of Digital Kronecker-Sequences and Polynomial Tractability
Authors: Neumüller Mario , Pillichshammer Friedrich
Published: July 2018

The star discrepancy

D
N
*

(
𝒫
)

$D_N^* \left( {\cal P} \right)$

is a quantitative measure for the irregularity of distribution of a finite point set 𝒫 in the multi-dimensional unit cube which is intimately related to the integration error of quasi-Monte Carlo algorithms. It is known that for every integer N ≥ 2 there are point sets 𝒫 in [0, 1)
d
with |𝒫| = N and

D
N
*

(
𝒫
)

=
O

(

(

log
 
N

)

d
-
1

/
N

)

$D_N^* \left( {\cal P} \right) = O\left( {\left( {\log \,N} \right)^{d - 1} /N} \right)$

. However, for small N compared to the dimension d this asymptotically excellent bound is useless (e.g., for N ≤ ed
−1).

In 2001 it has been shown by Heinrich, Novak, Wasilkowski and Woźniakowski that for every integer N ≥ 2there exist point sets 𝒫 in [0, 1)
d
with |𝒫| = N and

D
N
*

(
𝒫
)

≤
C

d
/
N

$D_N^* \left( {\cal P} \right) \le C\sqrt {d/N}$

. Although not optimal in an asymptotic sense in N, this upper bound has a much better (and even optimal) dependence on the dimension d.

Unfortunately the result by Heinrich et al. and also later variants thereof by other authors are pure existence results and until now no explicit construction of point sets with the above properties is known. Quite recently Löbbe studied lacunary subsequences of Kronecker’s (n
α)-sequence and showed a metrical discrepancy bound of the form

C

d

(

log
 
d

)

/
N

$C\sqrt {d\left({\log \,d} \right)/N}$

with implied absolute constant C> 0 independent of N and d.

In this paper we show a corresponding result for digital Kronecker sequences, which are a non-archimedean analog of classical Kronecker sequences.
An Extension of the Digital Method Based on b-Adic Integers
Authors: Hofer Roswitha , Pirsic Ísabel
Published: July 2018

We introduce a hybridization of digital sequences with uniformly distributed sequences in the domain of b-adic integers, ℤb,b ∈ℕ \ {1}, by using such sequences as input for generating matrices. The generating matrices are then naturally required to have finite row-lengths. We exhibit some relations of the ‘classical’ digital method to our extended version, and also give several examples of new constructions with their respective quality assessments in terms of t, T and discrepancy.
Construction of Uniformly Distributed Linear Recurring Sequences Modulo Powers of 2
Authors: Herendi Tamás
Published: July 2018

The aim of the present paper is to provide the background to construct linear recurring sequences with uniform distribution modulo 2s. The theory is developed and an algorithm based on the achieved results is given. The constructed sequences may have arbitrary large period length depending only on the computational power of the used machines.
Weak Universality Theorem on the Approximation of Analytic Functions by Shifts of the Riemann Zeta-Function from a Beatty Sequence
Authors: Sourmelidis Athanasios
Published: July 2018

In this paper, we prove a discrete analogue of Voronin’s early finite-dimensional approximation result with respect to terms from a given Beatty sequence and make use of Taylor approximation in order to derive a weak universality statement.
Highly effectual synthesis of 4,6-diarylpyrimidin-2(1H)-ones using N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediaminium-N,N′-disulfonic acid hydrogen sulfate as a dual-functional catalyst
Authors: Khanivar Roghayyeh , Zare Abdolkarim
Published: July 2018

The highly effectual synthesis of 4,6-diarylpyrimidin-2(1H)-ones via the one-pot multicomponent reaction of acetophenones with arylaldehydes and urea in the presence of trimethylsilyl chloride and a catalytic amount of the ionic liquid N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediaminium-N,N′-disulfonic acid hydrogen sulfate ([TMEDSA][HSO4]2) under solvent-free conditions has been described. The reaction results and conditions of the catalytic system have been compared with previously reported catalysts. [TMEDSA][HSO4]2 afforded better results in comparison with the reported catalysts in terms of one or more of these factors: yield, temperature, the reaction media, time, and generality. Moreover, a plausible reaction mechanism based on dual functionality of the catalyst has been proposed.
Sensory Adaptation to Chemical Cues by Vomeronasal Sensory Neurons
Authors: Wong Wen Mai , Nagel Maximilian , Hernandez-Clavijo Andres , Pifferi Simone , Menini Anna , Spehr Marc , Meeks Julian P.
Published: July 2018

Sensory adaptation is a source of experience-dependent feedback that impacts responses to environmental cues. In the mammalian main olfactory system (MOS), adaptation influences sensory coding at its earliest processing stages. Sensory adaptation in the accessory olfactory system (AOS) remains incompletely explored, leaving many aspects of the phenomenon unclear. We investigated sensory adaptation in vomeronasal sensory neurons (VSNs) using a combination ofin situCa2+imaging and electrophysiology. Parallel studies revealed prominent short-term sensory adaptation in VSNs upon repeated stimulation with mouse urine and monomolecular bile acid ligands at interstimulus intervals (ISIs) less than 30 s. In such conditions, Ca2+signals and spike rates were often reduced by more than 50%, leading to dramatically reduced chemosensory sensitivity. Short-term adaptation was reversible over the course of minutes. Population Ca2+imaging experiments revealed the presence of a slower form of VSN adaptation that accumulated over dozens of stimulus presentations delivered over tens of minutes. Most VSNs showed strong adaptation, but in a substantial VSN subpopulation adaptation was diminished or absent. Investigation of same- and opposite-sex urine responses in male and female VSNs revealed that adaptation to same-sex cues occurred at ISIs up to 180 s, conditions that did not induce adaptation to opposite-sex cues. This result suggests that VSN sensory adaptation can be modulated by sensory experience. These studies comprehensively establish the presence of VSN sensory adaptation and provide a foundation for future inquiries into the molecular and cellular mechanisms of this phenomenon and its impact on mammalian behavior.
Concept and Features of Legal Regime of Land for Domestic Waste Landfills
Authors: Kovalchuk Tetyana
Published: July 2018

The article is devoted to the concept and legal features of legal regime of solid domestic waste landfills, including legal relationship in the field of land remediation of solid domestic waste landfills after their termination. Basing on analysis of the special literature and the current legislation of Ukraine it is proposed to make amendments to the current Land Code of Ukraine, which enables to realize the goals and tasks of the modern state, regional, local, and objective environmental policy in practice.
Electrotechnical Model of Conductivity of Lead Telluride, Obtained by Method of Powder Pressing
Authors: Horichok I.V. , Galushchak M.O. , Semko T.O. , Matkivskiy O.M. , Dzumedzey R.O.
Published: July 2018

The results of study of thermoelectric properties of lead telluride obtained by method of powder pressing arepresented. A modified electrical model for interpreting the empirical dependences σ (T) is proposed, according towhich the compressed sample is represented by a system of crystallites with intergranular boundaries whoseproperties differ along and across the compression axis.
El domador de pulgas de Max Jiménez: una aproximación a su pensamiento filosófico
Authors: Arce Carla
Published: July 2018

El domador de pulgas (1936), novela de Max Jiménez Huete (1900-1947), escritor y artista plástico costarricense, representa la universalidad de su pensamiento en relación con su decepción de la humanidad. Jiménez, en esta obra, hace una simbolización fabulesca de la humanidad como resultado de la pérdida de valores de la sociedad.
Perspectivas y retos de la mujer guanacasteca: un análisis reflexivo desde la obra literaria de Joaquín García Monge
Authors: Cubero Vásquez Karol , Villanueva Monge Lucía
Published: July 2018

El propósito fundamental de la presente comunicación es promover un diálogo sobre el rol de la mujer en la obra literaria de Joaquín García Monge (1881-1958)  y su reflejo en la sociedad de Guanacaste de ayer y de hoy. En esta obra, se encuentran referentes claves implícitos en la vida de los personajes femeninos de García Monge y sus vivencias, permitiendo así establecer un análisis descriptivo y comparativo con el rol de la mujer en la sociedad guanacasteca. En los relatos de Joaquín García Monge, se nos invita a viajar al pasado y ser cómplices de acontecimientos vividos por mujeres que evocan estilos de vida, prejuicios y estereotipos muy latentes hoy para, de esta manera, enlazar el pasado con el presente y valorar el futuro desde esta concepción. Esta reflexión se une a la lucha por la igualdad de género y destaca los avances logrados y los desafíos por resolver según la voz, los aportes y las percepciones de las mujeres guanacastecas, académicas y estudiantes de la Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica, Sede Regional Chorotega, Campus Liberia.
Puesta en escena de Los pasos de la nostalgia: una entrevista a su creador Sebastián Ospina
Authors: Ospina Villalba Galia
Published: July 2018

En la Feria del libro de 2005 en Bogotá, el actor Sebastián Ospina se encontró con su amigo Víctor Paz Otero, quien estrenaba su novela La agonía erótica de Bolívar, el amor y la muerte.
Poemas 2014
Authors: Bonilla Corrales Karen Bonilla Corrales
Published: July 2018

No me atraen tus silencios, tus palabras atrapadas en la garganta, ni tus voces ahogadas por prejuicios.
La convulsión financiera del Perú y la liquidación del Banco Perú y Londres de 1925-1931
Authors: Lipa Sinche Âlvaro
Published: July 2018

El presente estudio analiza la correlación de la convulsión financiera, determinada por la caída en el precio de las exportaciones, el fenómeno del niño de 1925 y la intervención gubernamental a través de instituciones de fomento, además de los antecedentes de la liquidación del Banco Perú y Londres y el excesivo flujo de créditos colocados hacia la agro exportación. Por lo tanto se le pondrá atención al resultado ascendente del crédito agrícola, mediante la utilización de cuadros estadísticos e informes bancarios en un nivel desagregado complementando así el análisis cuantitativo. Finalmente el artículo tiende a analizar el estudio de las oscilaciones y condiciones cambiarias de los activos del Banco Perú y Londres que mediante las actas de directorio y las memorias del banco dejan explicar el contexto de su liquidación. Este estudio es la primera aproximación que evalúa la eficiencia financiera del crédito agrícola, en este sentido la información financiera de los archivos otorga un rico análisis para el desarrollo de su historia.