bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seventy Years Since the Establishment of the Skopje Military Hospital, 1944-2014
Authors: Donev Doncho , Gligorov Ilija , Naumovski Andreja
Published: May 2015

Aim: To present the phases and activities over the period of the existence and work of the Military Hospital in Skopje, from its establishment in 1944 to its transformation on 01.01.2010.

Methods: A retrospective study based on available archive materials, encyclopaedias and other sources of information and review of the relevant literature, and personal experiences, observations and memories of the authors and others.

Results: During the War of 1941-1945, the larger military units formed hospitals. On 15.11.1944, the hospital of the Headquarters of the People's Liberation Army and Partisan Detachments of Macedonia was moved from the village Gorno Vranovci to Skopje. The Military Hospital in Skopje received the status of permanent hospital of the 5th Army, and from 1945-1963 worked at the “Crescent” facility. After the earthquake in 1963, due to damage, it was partly moved to the hospital in Nish, and partly dispersed in pavilions. In 1971 a new military medical complex was put into operation, in which most belonged to the Military Hospital in Skopje. Until 1992 the military sanitation service was under the command of the then Yugoslav People's Army, and then was under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Defence of R. Macedonia. From 10.04.1992 to 2.06.1992 it served as a Military Hospital of the Army of R. Macedonia and then as the “Centre of Military Health Institutions” until 26.10.2001. Then it was renamed the Military Hospital of the Army of R. Macedonia until March 2008, when converted to the Ministry of Defence as “Military Health Service - Military Hospital”. On 01.01.2010 the Military Hospital was reshaped into: PHI Eighth of September City General Hospital, Skopje, and the Military Medical Centre.

Conclusion: The Military Hospital in Skopje over the period of its existence has been one of the key specialist-consultative and hospital facilities in the health system in R. Macedonia for providing health care to military beneficiaries and the civilian population.
Investing In Industrial-Technology Parks In City Development - A Cost-Benefit Analysis
Authors: Wojewnik-Filipkowska Anna , Kowalski Rafał
Published: May 2015

Cities are growing both quantitatively and qualitatively. The quantitative development of a city can be identified with the spatial expansion and changes in the function of certain areas. The city's development, therefore, requires the reconstruction of the spatial layout, but also needs certain capital expenditures, as exemplified by industrial-technology parks (ITPs). ITPs are a combination of the infrastructure function and performance which enable the exchange of information between scientific organizations and entrepreneurs. They are, therefore, a pro-development component of the urban development strategy. The aim of the study is to identify and quantify selected costs and benefits, as well as estimate the effectiveness of establishing certain parks from the point of view of local government units.

Industry parks and technology parks are diverse entities. Their general characteristics and types, based on a review of domestic and foreign literature, are presented in the first part of the work justifying the study. The second part introduces the industrial-technology parks which are present in Poland. In the third part of the study, the specificity of assessing the effectiveness of an industrial-technology park is described. Finally, the fourth part includes an analysis of investing in selected industrial-technology parks; the analysis consists of three phases: the identification of industrial and technological parks, the verification of the industrial-technology park with the legal and practical definition, and cost-benefit analysis. According to the Polish Agency of Information and Foreign Investment (PAIiIZ), industrial-technology parks focus primarily on filling the space with commercially efficient companies using modern technologies, attracting investment and creating jobs. All of these factors are taken into account in the analysis. The analysis is carried out according to the methodology of cost-benefit analysis (CBA) of investment projects.

Despite the diversity and dynamics of the structural features of the parks, the analysis confirms that the investment of public funds in industrial and technological parks is generally efficient in terms of socio-economic development.
Quasi-Public Real Estate Within The City Of Wrocław
Authors: Hełdak Maria , Stacherzak Agnieszka , Więckowicz Zofia
Published: May 2015

The study undertakes the subject of public shopping centers in Wrocław as representative of quasi-public space. Public space should enable public discussion, whereas the public events organized in malls have little to do with public debate. The users of shopping centers are usually consumers or business entities whose main goal is to improve the quality of their lives.

Public space should be available without any additional permission to use it. It should also be freely accessible and provide the opportunity for various people to congregate—this is seen as a positive feature of space that is worth visiting. Public space should also promote the notion of public property and encourage its users to express and exchange opinions. Contemporary malls serve as an attempt at providing a replacement for public space.

The study aims to represent the scale of shopping centers operating within the space of the city of Wrocław, the area they occupy and the economic consequences they entail for small entrepreneurs operating in the region where they exist.
Sex Differences in Lower Extremities Amputations in Patients with Diabetes - Five Year Nationwide Follow-Up Using Drg Data in Romania
Authors: Vereșiu Ioan Andrei , Bondor Cosmina , Iancu Silvia Ștefania
Published: May 2015

Background and Aims. The present study represents the first nationwide evaluation of lower extremities amputations (LEA) in diabetes patients in Romania. Material and

Methods. We used the disease related groups (DRG) data provided by the National School for Public Health, Management and Health Education, for the years 2006-2010 and stratified according to diabetes type, sex and age group. Results. There were 16873 patients with diabetes who underwent a total number of 24312 non traumatic LEA. A total of 22.55% of the patients had type 1 diabetes (T1DM) and 70.26 % had type 2 diabetes (T2DM). The rate of amputations decreased in T1DM and increased in T2DM, especially in elderly people. Male-to-female ratio of amputations was ~2:1 in T1DM and ~2.4:1 in T2DM. The predictions for the number of amputation episodes was approximated by the regression line y=286.8x-572728 r=0.97, p=0.005, d=0.95 in men, and by y=91.1x- 181511, r=0.98, p=0.004, d=0.95 in women ( where x is years and y is number of amputation episodes). Conclusions. Identifying certain age and sex groups of patients with diabetes in whom higher increase of LEA rates are observed imposes a change of strategy concerning prevention and curative measures.
About symptoms of patients with post traumatic brain injury psychiatric sequels
Authors: Mittler-Matica Roxana
Published: May 2015

Introduction: Because of high incidence, even if not permanently, some post traumatic brain injury (TBI) psychiatric sequels, are analysed. Material and methods: The paper refers to 1185 patients who were admitted to Section I Psychiatry, Neurology and Psychiatry Hospital, Oradea, during 2013 year. It was analysed the symptoms of those who suffered a TBI in the past; patients called: patients in the analysis group. The linear correlation coefficient was computed, in purpose to determine the relationship between duration relapses and number of symptoms. Results: It is observed a strong correlation between the years number of relapse (of post-TBI psychiatric disease) and the number of psychiatric symptoms associated. For 80% of psychiatric relapses after a TBI with loss of conscious (about patients in the analysis group), the TBI were suffered in infancy; such an incident in infancy may have severe influence on mental health. The psychiatric disease (for which they were admitted in hospital) worsened general health status at a percentage of 83.58% patients in the analysis group. The average by hospitalization days was 11.58; with approximation it was 12 days. Discussion: The most common symptoms of post-TBI psychiatric disease, which affects physical functionalities of patients in the analysis group, were: insomnia, fatigue, headache (64.66% have accused insomnia; 41.18% have accused weakness and / or fatigue; 33.34% have accused headache). Average by age of the patients in the analysis group with reduced instincts was 45.08 years. Women patients preserve better the instincts excepting defense instinct which diminishes more often compared to men patients in the analysis group.
Pituitary apoplexy: clinical features, management and outcome. Clinical study and review of the literature
Authors: Solomon Adriana Elena , Tataranu Ligia , Ciubotaru Vasile , Gorgan Mircea Radu
Published: May 2015

Background: Pituitary apoplexy is a clinical syndrome secondary to rapid expansion of the content of the sella and extension to suprasellar region, cavernous sinus, sphenoid sinus secondary to a bleeding, ischemic or mixed episode taking place in a pituitary adenoma. This episode will determine a significant compression of the optic nerves, optic chiasm, cavernous sinus and hypothalamus, which translates clinically most often by headache, visual disturbances, deceased level of consciousness and ophthalmoplegia. Material and methods: This paper presents a retrospective study over a period of five years, from January 2009 to December 2013 and includes 98 patients diagnosed with pituitary apoplexy and treated in the Third Department of Neurosurgery, Emergency Clinical Hospital Bagdasar-Arseni. Of the 98 patients, 62 were females (63.3 %) and 36 were males (36.7 %) with a ratio of female to male of 1.7:1. The patients were aged between 17 and 75 years old, average age being approximately 50 years. Follow-up period ranged from 2 months to 5 years. The main symptomsat presentation was sudden, intense headache, this symptom was encountered in 90 patients (91.83%), vomiting showed by 76 patients (77.55%), decreased visual acuity observed in 57 patients (58.16%), visual field deficits in 74 patients (75.51%), cranial nerves palsy (III, IV, VI) observed in 14 patients (14.28 %). Conclusions: Pituitary apoplexy is a disease that can endanger patients' lives. The clinical presentation may vary from minor symptoms to major neurological deficits and even death so early diagnosis and treatment are vital.
Delayed deterioration following the evacuation of posterior fossa extradural hematoma
Authors: Agrawal Amit , Kumar S. Satish , V. Umamaheswara Reddy
Published: May 2015

A missed or delayed detection of intracranial injuries can lead to progressive neuronal damage and secondary brain damage. We present a case of 45 year female presented 8 after the road traffic accident and had a large posterior extradural hematoma on left side with mass effect. In addition there was a small speck of right frontal contusion with localized cerebral edema. The patient initially improved after evacuation of the hematoma. However on 3rd post-operative day she was complaining of headache and became progressively drowsy. A follow up CT scan showed increase in peri-lesional edema around the right frontal contusion with squashing of the lateral ventricles suggestive of diffuse cerebral edema. The patient was shifted back to intensive care unit and responded well to further conservative management. In our patient the events could be collaborated well with existing evidence (presence of contrecoup contusion and on clinical deterioration at day 3).
Theoretical Analysis of Occupational Development Aspects from the Viewpoint of the Personality’s Constant Individual Traits Concept
Authors: Wilsz Jolanta
Published: May 2015

The concept of personality’s constant individual traits and its significance, as well as implications for problems connected with choosing an occupation have been presented in the paper. Selected theories of occupational development have been analyzed from the concept viewpoint and certain traits of occupational personality presented by authors of occupational development theories have been confronted with constant individual traits of personality.

Six types of J. Holland’s occupational personality (i.e. realistic, investigative, artistic, social. industrious and conventional) have been analyzed. The number of kinds of each type has been calculated, after considering constant individual traits of personality.

It has been concluded that due to constant individual traits of personality the processes connected with choosing an occupation should be highly individualised. Possibility of applying the concept to preparing a list of occupations and typology of occupational careers has been pointed out. Including constant individual traits of personality among basic determinants of occupational success has been suggested.
Training of Masters in Philology in Ukraine and Abroad: Search for Educational Strategies
Authors: Semenog Olena
Published: May 2015

The paper outlines the modernization experience of philology Master programs in Ukraine, the USA, Poland and Russia. It has been proved that the Masters’ training is on the search educational strategies phase, which allows to form a single educational space on the principles of internationalization, institutionalization, integration, cultural convergence, common goals and values. An important field of Masters’ training is a competency-based approach. It is based on the idea of flexibility, variability of programs, and profiling, philological integration with other humanities, criteria, standards and principles of improving the quality of education. Attention is focused on the formation of constructive-technological, operational, educational, reflective, educational, qualimetric and creative skills of future teachers. Among the perspective forms of education lecture is distinguished as it is focused on the co-creation and co-thinking of lecturer and students, monographic lectures. Among innovative teaching methods and assessment of Master training are selected case-method, cluster, reference compendium, portfolio, performance tests. The variability of final work is defined as an effective way of learning individualization. It has been proved that the result of Master’s training should be the specialist with a high level of social maturity, active citizenship, education, culture and responsibility for his professional and scientific activity.
Content Peculiarities of Bachelors’ in English Language and Literature Training at Universities of Switzerland Confederation
Authors: Baranovska Lilia , Zasluzhena Alla
Published: May 2015

The article is devoted to the content-analysis of peculiarities of Bachelors’ in the English language and literature training at Swiss universities. It has been revealed that domestic scientists have not paid special attention to this problem as the issues of future teachers’ training and future foreign languages teachers’ training in foreign universities, in particular in Germany, USA, Finland, Mexico, Great Britain, Hungary and Japan have been more studied.

The study of curricula at Swiss universities under conditions of credit-modular organization of educational process, which affects the structure of the content, choice of forms and methods of teaching and assessing students' academic achievements has allowed us to conclude that the student learning is based on the multicultural, competent and communicative approaches.

English language learning in the context of general linguistic picture of the world, its style and dialect importance is content particularity of this training. The communicative aspect of English study by Bachelors first appears in content acquirement of subjects “Exploring Sociolinguistics”, “Sociophonetics”. English is taught in the context of its understanding as a means of interaction under conditions of educational and cultural integration of the nations and a means of constructive polylogue in the country, that represents multicultural vector of bachelors’ training in philology.

The experience of Swiss universities can be adopted by native universities to create a multicultural and communicative personality of a future philologist.
Professional Training of the Unemployed: Foreign and Native Tendencies
Authors: Voliarska Olena
Published: May 2015

The article summarizes foreign and native tendencies in modern adult education. Their impact on the renovation of training the unemployed in Ukraine has been analyzed. It has been established that the system of adult training must meet the socio-economic, political and cultural changes in Ukraine. It has been indicated that defined tendencies should be considered when developing a strategy to modernize our system of training the unemployed. It has been pointed out that the organization and improvement of training the unemployed are caused by the interaction of three blocks: governance, social protection against unemployment, education market. Organized professional training in the employment sphere provides for developed infrastructure, which covers a range of organizations and agencies providing educational services and close cooperation of training with directions of socio-economic and educational policy. The role of the State Employment Service of Ukraine in professional training for the unemployed has been defined. Activities of specialists in professional training for adults is built according to the short-term and long-term forecasting and analytical-predictive control based on the world’s economic, cultural and educational tendencies.

Based on the theoretical analysis of foreign and native scientists’ works we have concluded that the main tendencies include proper educational tendencies and extra educational tendencies caused by global processes in the world, the problems of humanity, the growing role of education in the development of social consciousness in the professional development of modern competitive specialist
Approaches to Training Teachers of Adults in the UK
Authors: Chychuk Vadym
Published: May 2015

The article deals with the theoretical foundations of teacher training for adult students in the UK. It has been found out that the system of adult education is based on the andragogical approach that reveals patterns, psychological and pedagogical factors of effective learning. In applying the andragogical approach to adult education the following factors contribute to the learning process improvement: considering the motivation of adult learning, defining educational interests and needs of each adult student, the choice made by andragogue of the learning strategies and techniques designed to increase the professional level of adult education, practical implementation of knowledge and experience acquired by adult students in training process, taking into account the individual characteristics of each participant in the learning process, the desire to cooperate with the teacherandragogue. The theoretical basis of this process is the science of andragogics. It has been revealed that when working with an adult student, the following approaches are used: traditional didactic, problem-search, facilitating that are focused on the content and the learning process. Author determined specific approaches used in the UK for teaching adults, namely active, institutional, competence, synergy and others.
Teacher Professional Development Strategies in Australian Government and Professional Associations Documents
Authors: Kostina Ludmyla
Published: May 2015

Teacher in Australia is determined as an active participant of professional community with high level of collaboration, professional development coherent activities and collaborative learning practice. Thus, teacher quality is one of critical factors affecting student outcomes. The article touches upon the issue of the potential to improve secondary school teacher professional expertise in Australia. These are initiatives approved by Australian specific organizations at government and non-government levels. The author describes the goals and directions of secondary school teacher government support and government strong requirements for teacher professional learning. The article also considers the role of Australian professional education organizations in teacher professional growth. The analysis of the goals is carried out by means of government and professional education organizations documents. The author reports that social context of secondary school teacher professional development in Australia is provided through government education institutions. In support of this fact there is a range of government projects, programmes and documents approved at international and national levels and aimed to encourage lifelong quality teacher development. Furthermore, teacher professional development support is also organized by various Australian professional associations that work collaboratively. Moreover, these associations are not only focused on teacher professional development national standards, requirements and forms but global trends in professional learning and performance.
Peculiarities of Design Competence Formation in Future Clothing Engineering Educators in Ukraine and Foreign Countries
Authors: Bilyk Victoria
Published: May 2015

The importance of engineering pedagogical education for the global labour market has been characterized. The peculiarities of modern engineering pedagogical education formation in foreign countries consisting in economy globalization, transition to a high quality education and international cooperation enhancing have been presented. The essence of clothing engineering educators’ design competence being the professional’s ability to provide educational process with didactic design and productive one with technical documentation for the garment manufacture in accordance with the production norms and standards has been revealed.

On the basis of regulations and national and foreign experience (the USA, Australia, South Africa, European countries etc.) in clothing engineering educators’ training the peculiarities of future professionals’ design competence formation as a constituent of professional competence has been clarified. Training of future professionals in “Professional Education” specialisation is the first stage in obtaining the engineereducator qualification (Eastern European countries). The second stage means gaining pedagogical qualification in vocational pedagogical educational establishments on the basis of obtained engineering qualification. The third stage consists in obtaining engineering and pedagogical qualification based on technical training according to the learning outcomes in International Society for Engineering Pedagogy that documents teachers’ qualification and competence and registers them in the international register of engineering educators.
Prothrombotic risk mutations and polymorphisms in patients with hemophilia A – a preliminary study / Polimorfismele și mutațiile cu risc protrombotic la pacienții cu hemofilie A - studiu preliminar
Authors: Boeriu Estera , Şerban Margit , Neuner Bruno , Arghirescu Smaranda Teodora , Ioniţă Hortensia , Ursu Cristina Emilia , Ritli Ladislau , Talpoş Şerban , Jinca Cristian , Pătraşcu Jenel Marian
Published: May 2015

Introduction. In search for explanations of the clinical heterogeneity in patients with haemophilia (PwH) with the same mutation or degree of factor VIII deficiency, the coexistence of single or associated prothrombotic risk mutations has been widely evaluated. Objective. The evaluation of the frequency of prothrombotic risk mutations and polymorphisms in PwH in comparison with the general population. Method. The study was performed on 113 consecutive PwH consisting of PCR technology aiming to detect: factor V Leiden - G 1691A (FVL) and prothrombin (PT) - G 20210 A mutations, methylentetrahydrofolat - reductase (MTHFR) and plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1) polymorphisms. Results. Within the whole study group, 52.21% patients have been identified with associated prothrombotic risk mutations or polymorphisms, 40.70% with one and 7.08% without any such alterations. The global frequency was characterized by the predominance of PAI-1 polymorphism present in 82.29% and MTHFR in 52.21% of patients. Heterozygous variants of PT G20210A, FV G1691A, MTHFR and PAI-1 were found in 7.96%, 9.73%, 39.82% and 53.98% cases, respectively. According to the disease severity, in 89 patients with severe hemophilia, the following frequencies of polymorphisms were found: for MTHFR 52.80%, for FV G1691A 5.61%, for PT G20210A 8.99% and for PAI-1 polymorphism 79.77%. Conclusions. The frequency of FV, PT and PAI-1 genes alterations in our group of hemophilia patients is higher than in the normal population. Nevertheless, considering their uneven distribution in different ethnic groups and geographical regions, more studies on a larger age- and sex-matched patient population are needed.
Comparative assessment of bone regeneration by histometry and a histological scoring system / Evaluarea comparativă a regenerării osoase utilizând histometria și un scor de vindecare histologică
Authors: Lucaciu Ondine , Gheban Dan , Soriţau Olga , Băciuţ Mihaela , Câmpian Radu Septimiu , Băciuţ Grigore
Published: May 2015

Objective: The aim of this research is to evaluate the value of the histological score based on a histological record compared to the histometry for monitoring cranial bone defect healing. Methods: We designed a case -control study with a control and a study group. For a number of 60 CD1 mice representing the study group, a bone defect in the cranial bone was surgically induced and grafted with bone grafts obtained by tissue engineering. Bone grafts were obtained using embryonic stem cells seeded on a scaffold obtained from the red deer antler, and osteogenic basal and complex medium was used as differentiation medium. For other 30 CD1 mice representing the control group, a bone defect in the cranial bone was induced and left to heal without grafts. The regeneration process was assessed after 2 and 4 months using the histological healing scoring system and histometry. Results: The healing score was statistically significantly correlated with the defect size obtained by means of histometry (p<0.001). The evaluation of the parameters comprised in the healing score shows that regeneration of the bone diastasis was the most advanced in the group sacrificed at 4 months after plasty, which employed embryonic stem cells, a complex osteogenic differentiation medium and deer antler as scaffold. Conclusion: histological method based on a histological score is a valuable quantification system of bone regeneration comparable to histometry. Clinical Relevance: This study proves that the presented histological score can help the clinician in the process of bone regeneration evaluation.
Violence against Elderly Migrants and Its Consequences on Their Health: Experience from Monterrey, Mexico
Authors: Acharya Arun Kumar
Published: May 2015

In this paper, an attempt has been made to analyse how the violence and abuse against elderly migrants in Monterrey, Mexico affects their health. For this research, 257 elderly Mexican migrants were surveyed in the Metropolitan Area of Monterrey during 2012 through 2013. The study found that the majority of elderly people migrate to urban areas in search of a better economic opportunity. Once in the city, they are absorbed into the informal economic sectors. Results indicate that most of these elderly people suffer physical, sexual and psychological violence, as well as neglect and financial abuse from their employer, relatives, clients and pedestrians, which has an adverse effect on their health. Elderly migrants reported numerous health problems, where many of them were suffering from different types of injuries, stress and depression, among others. This paper concluded that violence suffered by elderly migrants has a significant impact on their health.
2D macro-mechanical FE simulations for machining unidirectional FRP composite: the influence of damage models
Authors: He Yanli , Davim Joao Paulo , Ma Yu’e
Published: May 2015

To investigate the influence of material damage models on machining simulation of unidirectional fiber-reinforced polymer composites (FRP), a two-dimensional (2D) macro-mechanical finite element (FE) model was developed. Four failure criteria in combination with two degradation models were implemented in the machining simulation. The simulation results were compared with experimental data in literature. It is shown that both failure criterion and degradation model have significant influence on the chip shapes, cutting forces and sub-surface damages. The cutting forces and chip shapes predicted by Maximum stress criterion with progressive damage model has a relatively better agreement with experimental observations. The simulated sub-surface damage also agrees with experiments for low fiber orientation angles.
Specific Energy of Hard Coal Under Load
Authors: Bogusz Anna , Bukowska Mirosława
Published: May 2015

The article presents results of experimental tests of energy parameters of hard coals under loading, collected from research sites located within five main geologic structures of Upper Silesian Coal Basin (GZW) - Main Trough, Main Anticline, Bytom Trough, Rybnik Trough and Chwałowice Trough. Coals from12 mines were analysed, starting with seams of group 200, through groups 400, 500, 600 and, finally, seams of group 700. Coal of each of the groups of seams underwent uniaxial compression stress of the energy parameters, in a servo-controlled testing machine MTS-810NEW, for the full range of strain of the tested coal samples. Based on the tests the dependence of different types of specific energy of longitudinal strain of coals on the value of uniaxial compression strength was determined. The dependence of the value of dissipated energy and kinetic energy of coals on the uniaxial compression strength was described with a linear function, both for coals which due to their age belong to various bed sand for various lithotypes of coal. An increase in the value of dissipated energy and in kinetic energy was observed, which was correlated with an increase in uniaxial compression strength of coal. The share of dissipated energy is dominant in the total energy of strain. Share of recoverable energy in the total energy of strain is small, independent of the compression strength of coals and is at most a few per cent high. In coals of low strength and dominant share of dissipated energy, share of recoverable energy is the biggest among the tested coals. It was shown that following an increase in compression strength the share of recoverable energy decreases, while the share of dissipated energy in the total energy increases. Further studies of specific energy of longitudinal strain of rocks in the full-range strain will be the next step inperfecting methodology of research into natural rock burst susceptibility of Carboniferous rock mass and changes in the susceptibility resulting from mining activity.
Numerical Estimation of the Pile Toe and Shaft Unit Resistances During the Installation Process in Sands
Authors: Konkol Jakub
Published: May 2015

Numerical simulations of a pile jacking were carried out. A Coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian (CEL) formulation was used to treat with large deformation problems. An Abaqus, a commercial Finite Element Method software suit, was used as a computing environment. The Mohr-Coulomb constitutive model was applied and the Coulomb model of friction was used to describe pile-soil interaction. Calculations were made for three different pile diameters. Toe and shaft unit resistances versus depth for each pile were investigated and plotted. CPT-based solutions were compared with the results of numerical simulations.
The Three-Dimensional Imaging of Rock Wall Surface with the Use of Computer-Based Image Processing and Analysis
Authors: Oleszko Krzysztof , Młynarczuk Mariusz
Published: May 2015

The paper presents two methods of digital mapping of rock walls in three dimensional space. The methods have been developed with the use of low-cost devices, which enable image acquisition, and processing methods based on digital image processing and analysis. Both methods are based on so-called shadow profilometry. One of those methods involved mapping the shape of the rock wall on casted mapped surface with analyzed laser lines. The second method was based on the analysis of projected set of bit planes. The planes were projected by computer projector. Both measurement methods have been tested in Miękinia porphyry quarry. The study involved rock wall measurements, which were repeated several times. The part of rock material was removed from the measured wall after each measurement. In order to verify the accuracy of the proposed methods of measurement, volume results obtained and based on digital methods were compared to the volume of removed rock material during measurement. Calculated results were characterized by small deviations which prove to be correct, and are a solid basis for further work on practical application of presented methods.
Analysis of Embedded Retaining Wall Using the Subgrade Reaction Method
Authors: Pasik Tomasz , Chalecki Marek , Koda Eugeniusz
Published: May 2015

This paper analyzes the distribution of internal forces and displacements of embedded retaining wall in Quaternary deposits and Tertiary clays. Calculations have been based on the Subgrade Reaction Method (SRM) for two different types of earth pressure behind the wall (active, at-rest) in order to show the differences resulting from adopting the limit values. An algorithm for calculation of “cantilever wall” using the Mathematica program was proposed.
Microstructure Characterization by Means of X-ray Micro-CT and Nanoindentation Measurements
Authors: Rajczakowska Magdalena , Stefaniuk Damian , Łydżba Dariusz
Published: May 2015

The aim of this paper is to present an example of the material microstructure characterization with the use of X-ray micro-CT and nanoindentation measurements. Firstly, the current scope of application of the aforementioned techniques is provided within different fields of science. Then, background of each of the methods is presented. The methodology of X-ray micro-CT is described with the emphasis on the Beer’s law formulation. In addition, the basics of the nanoindentation technique are outlined and major formulas for the hardness and Young’s modulus calculation are given. Finally, example results for a concrete sample are presented. The microstructure of the selected material is firstly characterized in terms of geometry using the results from the microtomograhy measurements, e.g., porosity and attenuation profiles, pore and aggregate size distribution, shape factor of pores, etc. Next, the results of the nanoindentation tests are provided, namely the hardness and Young’s modulus versus the height of the sample. The influence of the number of tests and statistical analysis on the final results is underlined.
Rock Strength Anisotropy in High Stress Conditions: A Case Study for Application to Shaft Stability Assessments
Authors: Watson Julian Matthew , Vakili Abouzar , Jakubowski Mateusz
Published: May 2015

Although rock strength anisotropy is a well-known phenomenon in rock mechanics, its impact on geotechnical design is often ignored or underestimated. This paper explores the concept of anisotropy in a high stress environment using an improved unified constitutive model (IUCM), which can account for more complex failure mechanisms. The IUCM is used to better understand the typical responses of anisotropic rocks to underground mining. This study applies the IUCM to a proposed rock shaft located in high stress/anisotropic conditions. Results suggest that the effect of rock strength anisotropy must be taken into consideration when assessing the rock mass response to mining in high stress and anisotropic rock conditions.
Optimization of the Infrastructure of Reinforced Concrete Reservoirs by a Particle Swarm Algorithm
Authors: Kia Saeed , Sebt Mohammad Hassan , Shahhosseini Vahid
Published: May 2015

Optimization techniques may be effective in finding the best modeling and shapes for reinforced concrete reservoirs (RCR) to improve their durability and mechanical behavior, particularly for avoiding or reducing the bending moments in these structures. RCRs are one of the major structures applied for reserving fluids to be used in drinking water networks. Usually, these structures have fixed shapes which are designed and calculated based on input discharges, the conditions of the structure's topology, and geotechnical locations with various combinations of static and dynamic loads. In this research, the elements of reservoir walls are first typed according to the performance analyzed; then the range of the membrane based on the thickness and the minimum and maximum cross sections of the bar used are determined in each element. This is done by considering the variable constraints, which are estimated by the maximum stress capacity. In the next phase, based on the reservoir analysis and using the algorithm of the PARIS connector, the related information is combined with the code for the PSO algorithm, i.e., an algorithm for a swarming search, to determine the optimum thickness of the cross sections for the reservoir membrane’s elements and the optimum cross section of the bar used. Based on very complex mathematical linear models for the correct embedding and angles related to achain of peripheral strengthening membranes, which optimize the vibration of the structure, a mutual relation is selected between the modeling software and the code for a particle swarm optimization algorithm. Finally, the comparative weight of the concrete reservoir optimized by the peripheral strengthening membrane is analyzed using common methods. This analysis shows a 19% decrease in the bar’s weight, a 20% decrease in the concrete’s weight, and a minimum 13% saving in construction costs according to the items of a checklist for a concrete reservoir at 10,000 m3.
Elastic Critical Axial Force for the Torsional-Flexural Buckling of Thin-Walled Metal Members: An Approximate Method
Authors: Kováč Michal
Published: May 2015

Thin-walled centrically compressed members with non-symmetrical or mono-symmetrical cross-sections can buckle in a torsional-flexural buckling mode. Vlasov developed a system of governing differential equations of the stability of such member cases. Solving these coupled equations in an analytic way is only possible in simple cases. Therefore, Goľdenvejzer introduced an approximate method for the solution of this system to calculate the critical axial force of torsional-flexural buckling. Moreover, this can also be used in cases of members with various boundary conditions in bending and torsion. This approximate method for the calculation of critical force has been adopted into norms. Nowadays, we can also solve governing differential equations by numerical methods, such as the finite element method (FEM). Therefore, in this paper, the results of the approximate method and the FEM were compared to each other, while considering the FEM as a reference method. This comparison shows any discrepancies of the approximate method. Attention was also paid to when and why discrepancies occur. The approximate method can be used in practice by considering some simplifications, which ensure safe results.
Risk Factors for Eating Disorders Among Male Adolescent Athletes / Dejavniki Tveganja Motenj Hranjenja Med Športniki V Adolescenci
Authors: Pustivšek Suzana , Hadžić Vedran , Dervišević Edvin
Published: May 2015

Objective. Eating disorders (ED) are an important and increasing problem in adolescents. The objective of this study was to examine the risk factors and the prevalence of risk for ED among male adolescent elite athletes and nonathletic controls. Differences between male athletes competing in aerobic, anaerobic and aerobic-anaerobic sports were examined as well.

Methods. This was a cross-sectional epidemiological study. A cross-sectional questionnaire survey and anthropometric measurements were conducted on 351 adolescents (athletes n = 228; controls n = 123). All participants were aged 15-17 at the time of measuring. Risk for ED was determined using a SCOFF questionnaire.

Results. The overall prevalence of the risk for ED in male adolescents was 24.8%, with no significant differences among athletes and controls or different subgroups of athletes (p>0.05), although the highest prevalence (37.2%) was registered in aerobic subgroup of athletes. Higher number of attempts to lose weight was associated with increased risk of ED in each group (athletes and controls). Other predictors referred to lack of breakfast and body composition in aerobic subgroup of athletes and number of meals and training frequency in anaerobic subgroup. The most common reasons for dieting were improvement of sport results (19.6-44.2%) and better self-esteem (41.5%) in athletes and controls respectively.

Conclusions. Participation in the competitive sport itself is not associated with the increased risk for ED. It seems that risk factors for ED for adolescent athletes competing in aerobic and anaerobic sports represent a subject that deserves consideration and further investigation in the future
Clinical, Genetic and Immunological Characteristics of Paediatric Autoimmune Polyglandular Syndrome Type 1 Patients in Slovenia / Klinične, Genetske nn Imunološke Značilnosti Otrok In Mladostnikov Z Avtoimunskim Poliglandularnim Sindromom Tipa 1 V Sloveniji
Authors: Bratanic Nina , Kisand Kai , Avbelj Stefanija Magdalena , Battelino Tadej , Trebusak Podkrajsek Katarina
Published: May 2015

Introduction. Autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 1 (APS-1) is an autosomal recessive disorder, caused by mutations in the AIRE gene. The major components of APS-1 are chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC), hypoparathyroidism (HP) and Addison’s disease (AD). Clinical, genetic and immunological characteristics of Slovenian paediatric APS-1 patients were investigated.

Methods. Existing medical records of 15 APS-1 patients were rewieved, when necessary, additional clinical and laboratory investigations were issued. AIRE gene analysis was performed to identify causative mutations, and autoantibodies against type I interferons were measured by luminescence immunoprecipitation system.

Results. Patients had one to eight different manifestations of the disease. CMC was present in all, HP in 12/15 (80 %) and AD in 8/15 (53 %) patients. Growth retardation, due to hyposomatotropism, growth hormone resistance, autoimmune thyroiditis, corticosteroid treatment, malabsorption or secretory failure of exocrine pancreas, was observed in altogether 7 (46 %) patients. Six different AIRE gene mutations were detected and p.R257X mutation was present in 63.3 % of pathological alleles. Antibodies against type I interferons were detected in all patients.

Conclusion. APS-1 is a rare disorder with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, which, if unrecognized or inadequately treated may be fatal. AIRE gene mutational analysis and autoantibodies against type I interferons are important in early identification of the disease. The aetiology of growth retardation was shown to be extremely diverse, frequently caused by less characteristic manifestations. APS-1 may affect patients’ quality of life in numerous ways, and may cause great psychosocial burden leading to depression and suicidal thoughts even in paediatric patients.
On a Cognitive Model of Semiosis
Authors: Konderak Piotr
Published: May 2015

What is the class of possible semiotic systems? What kinds of systems could count as such systems? The human mind is naturally considered the prototypical semiotic system. During years of research in semiotics the class has been broadened to include i.e. living systems (Zlatev, 2002) like animals, or even plants (Krampen, 1992). It is suggested in the literature on artificial intelligence that artificial agents are typical examples of symbol-processing entities. It also seems that (at least some) semiotic processes are in fact cognitive processes. In consequence, it is natural to ask the question about the relation between semiotic studies and research on artificial cognitive systems within cognitive science. Consequently, my main question concerns the problem of inclusion or exclusion from the semiotic spectrum at least some artificial (computational) systems. I would like to consider some arguments against the possibility of artificial semiotic systems and I will try to repeal them. Then I will present an existing natural-language using agent of the SNePS system and interpret it in terms of Peircean theory of signs. I would like also to show that some properties of semiotic systems in Peircean sense could be also found in a discussed artificial system. Finally, I will have some remarks on the status of semiotics in general.
Metaphoric Confinement of Information
Authors: Hetmański Marek
Published: May 2015

The aim of the paper is to determine how metaphors tackle the probable nature of information and uncertainty in the structure of the communication process. Since the cognitive theory of conceptual metaphors holds that metaphoric thinking and doing are unavoidable, they are employed often in explaining the communicating domains. The metaphorical conceptualizing is recognized in Shannon and Weaver’s Mathematical Theory of Communication where such abstract concepts as freedom of choice, choosing probabilities (possibilities), and uncertainty ware conceived in that way. It is described in accord with Reddy’s conduit metaphor and Ritchie’s toolmakers paradigm. In the paper the issue of both the advantages and disadvantages of metaphors is considered: mainly, how they can explain and predict ways in which people communicate their expectations or uncertainties as well as, more practically, how the probable/informational metaphors enable the management of knowledge in libraries or databases.
On Language Adequacy
Authors: Wybraniec-Skardowska Urszula
Published: May 2015

The paper concentrates on the problem of adequate reflection of fragments of reality via expressions of language and inter-subjective knowledge about these fragments, called here, in brief, language adequacy. This problem is formulated in several aspects, the most general one being: the compatibility of the language syntax with its bi-level semantics: intensional and extensional. In this paper, various aspects of language adequacy find their logical explication on the ground of the formal-logical theory of syntax T of any categorial language L generated by the so-called classical categorial grammar, and also on the ground of its extension to the bi-level, intensional and ex- tensional semantic-pragmatic theory ST for L. In T, according to the token- type distinction of Ch. S. Peirce, L is characterized first as a language of wellformed expression-tokens (wfe-tokens) - material, concrete objects - and then as a language of wfe-types - abstract objects, classes of wfe-tokens. In ST the semantic-pragmatic notions of meaning and interpretation for wfe-types of L of intensional semantics and the notion of denotation of extensional seman- tics for wfe-types and constituents of knowledge are formalized. These notions allow formulating a postulate (an axiom of categorial adequacy) from which follow all the most important conditions of the language adequacy, including the above, and a structural one connected with three principles of compositionality.