bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Qualitative assessment of attributes and ease of use of the ELLIPTA™ dry powder inhaler for delivery of maintenance therapy for asthma and COPD
Authors: Svedsater Henrik , Dale Peter , Garrill Karl , Walker Richard , Woepse Mark W
Published: December 2013

Background

Medications for respiratory disorders including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are typically delivered to the lung by means of a handheld inhaler. Patient preference for and ability to use the inhaler may influence their adherence to maintenance therapy, and adherence may affect treatment outcomes. In this study, patient experience of using a dry powder inhaler (DPI), the ELLIPTA™ DPI, in clinical trials of a new maintenance therapy for asthma and COPD was investigated. The ELLIPTA DPI has been designed to contain two separate blister strips from which inhalation powder can be delivered, and to be simple to use with a large, easy-to-read dose counter.

Methods

Semi-structured, in-depth, qualitative interviews were carried out 2–4 weeks after patients had completed one of six phase IIIa clinical trials using the ELLIPTA DPI. Interview participants were asked about their satisfaction with various attributes of the inhaler and their preference for the ELLIPTA DPI relative to currently-prescribed inhalers, and responses were explored using an inductive content analysis approach. Participants also rated the performance of the inhaler on several criteria, using a subjective 1–10 scale.

Results

Participants with asthma (n = 33) and COPD (n = 42) reported high levels of satisfaction with the ELLIPTA DPI. It was frequently described as straightforward to operate and easy to use by interview participants. Ergonomic design, mouthpiece fit, and dose counter visibility and ease of interpretation emerged as frequently cited drivers of preference for the ELLIPTA DPI compared with their current prescribed inhaler. Of participants with asthma, 71% preferred the ELLIPTA DPI to DISKUS™ and 60% to metered dose inhalers. Of participants with COPD, 86% preferred the ELLIPTA DPI to DISKUS, 95% to HandiHaler™, and 85% to metered dose inhalers. Overall average performance scores were >9 (out of 10) in participants with asthma and COPD.

Conclusion

The ELLIPTA DPI was associated with high patient satisfaction and was preferred to other inhalers by interview participants with asthma and COPD. The development of an inhaler that is regarded as easy and intuitive to use may have positive implications for adherence to therapy in asthma and COPD.

Trial registration

Asthma:NCT01165138,NCT01431950. COPD:NCT01053988,NCT01054885,NCT01009463,NCT01017952.
Intention to seek professional psychological help among college students in Turkey: influence of help-seeking attitudes
Authors: Seyfi Feyza , Poudel Krishna C , Yasuoka Junko , Otsuka Keiko , Jimba Masamine
Published: December 2013

Background

Depression rates are high among college students in Turkey, but often students do not seek mental health care. This study aimed to examine the association between attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help and intention to seek professional psychological help among such college students. We also examined the factors associated with students’ professional psychological help-seeking attitudes. We conducted this cross-sectional study among 456 conveniently sampled graduate and undergraduate students in Ankara. We collected students’ data using self-administered, structured questionnaires in the Turkish language and then analyzed the data using both descriptive and multivariate methods.

Results

In the multiple linear regression analyses, students’ attitudes towards seeking professional psychological help were positively associated with intention to seek such help (p < 0.001). Other factors positively associated with students’ attitudes towards seeking professional psychological help included the following: age (p < 0.001), perceived social support from family (p < 0.05), perceived social support from friends (p < 0.01), and perceived social support from significant other (p < 0.05). Students with less positive attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help were more likely to be men (p < 0.001), undergraduate students (p < 0.001), and students who were not aware of the presence of the on-campus counseling center (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Students’ positive attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help were positively associated with their intentions to seek such help. To encourage utilization of the counseling center inside the campus more frequently when in need, interventions might be necessary to improve students’ attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help—in particular among young male students.
Direct Oxidative Transformation of Glycerol into Acrylic Acid over Phosphoric Acid-added W–V–Nb Complex Metal Oxide Catalysts
Authors: Omata Kaori , Matsumoto Keeko , Murayama Toru , Ueda Wataru
Published: December 2013

The addition of phosphoric acid to W–Nb–O catalyst active for glycerol transformation to acrolein and to W–V–Nb–O catalyst active for direct transformation of glycerol to acrylic acid appreciably improved their catalytic performance. The phosphoric acid-added W–Nb–O catalyst gave acrolein yield of 81.8%, and the phosphoric acid-added W–V–Nb–O catalyst gave acrylic acid yield of 59.2% in the direct glycerol transformation. The improvement of the catalytic performance seems due to the increases of the acid amount and the Brønsted acidity.
The effect of nitrogen addition to Ar/CH4 gas mixture on microstructural characterization of nanocrystalline diamond
Authors: Lee Wei-Fang , Wu Chia-Yu , Lin Che-Tong , Peng Chiao-Yun , You Hui-Wen , Peng Pei-Wen
Published: December 2013

In the present study, nanocrystalline diamond (NCD) nanowire films were synthesized on silicon substrates, using microwave plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) with a CH4/Ar/N2 gas mixture at moderate temperatures. The influence of nitrogen concentration on the formation of NCD was investigated. The characteristics of NCD films were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, optical emission spectroscopy (OES), and a contact angle meter. NCD nanowire films with 300–500 nm length were grown with the incorporation of nitrogen. Heterostructures of sp3-bonded diamond nanowires and sp2-bonded graphite were synthesized by adding small amounts of nitrogen to the CH4/Ar gas mixture. Surface roughness became smooth and the grain size decreased as the nitrogen was introduced into the CH4/Ar gas mixture. With the increase of nitrogen concentration, the sp2/sp3 ratio of carbon bonds increased. The wettability of the NCD nanowire films was sensitive to the bonding structure. The hydrophobic and non-reactive properties of NCD nanowire films make them highly applicable for biomedical implants.
The Novel Secreted Factor MIG-18 Acts with MIG-17/ADAMTS to Control Cell Migration in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Kim Hon-Song , Kitano Yuko , Mori Masataka , Takano Tomomi , Harbaugh Thomas Edward , Mizutani Kae , Yanagimoto Haruka , Miwa Sayaka , Ihara Shinji , Kubota Yukihiko , Shibata Yukimasa , Ikenishi Kohji , Garriga Gian , Nishiwaki Kiyoji
Published: December 2013

The migration of Caenorhabditis elegans gonadal distal tip cells (DTCs) offers an excellent model to study the migration of epithelial tubes in organogenesis. mig-18 mutants cause meandering or wandering migration of DTCs during gonad formation, which is very similar to that observed in animals with mutations in mig-17, which encodes a secreted metalloprotease of the ADAMTS (a disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin motifs) family. MIG-18 is a novel secreted protein that is conserved only among nematode species. The mig-17(null) and mig-18 double mutants exhibited phenotypes similar to those in mig-17(null) single mutants. In addition, the mutations in fbl-1/fibulin-1 and let-2/collagen IV that suppress mig-17 mutations also suppressed the mig-18 mutation, suggesting that mig-18 and mig-17 function in a common genetic pathway. The Venus-MIG-18 fusion protein was secreted from muscle cells and localized to the gonadal basement membrane, a tissue distribution reminiscent of that observed for MIG-17. Overexpression of MIG-18 in mig-17 mutants and vice versa partially rescued the relevant DTC migration defects, suggesting that MIG-18 and MIG-17 act cooperatively rather than sequentially. We propose that MIG-18 may be a cofactor of MIG-17/ADAMTS that functions in the regulation of the gonadal basement membrane to achieve proper direction of DTC migration during gonadogenesis.
Impact of a Bronchiolitis Guideline on ED Resource Use and Cost: A Segmented Time-Series Analysis
Authors: Akenroye Ayobami T. , Baskin Marc N. , Samnaliev Mihail , Stack Anne M.
Published: December 2013

OBJECTIVE:

Bronchiolitis is a major cause of infant morbidity and contributes to millions of dollars in health care costs. Care guidelines may cut costs by reducing unnecessary resource utilization. Through the implementation of a guideline, we sought to reduce unnecessary resource utilization and improve the value of care provided to infants with bronchiolitis in a pediatric emergency department (ED).

METHODS:

We conducted an interrupted time series that examined ED visits of 2929 patients with bronchiolitis, aged 1 to 12 months old, seen between November 2007 and April 2013. Outcomes were proportion having a chest radiograph (CXR), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) testing, albuterol or antibiotic administration, and the total cost of care. Balancing measures included admission rate, returns to the ED resulting in admission within 72 hours of discharge, and ED length of stay (LOS).

RESULTS:

There were no significant preexisting trends in the outcomes. After guideline implementation, there was an absolute reduction of 23% in CXR (95% confidence interval [CI]: 11% to 34%), 11% in RSV testing (95% CI: 6% to 17%), 7% in albuterol use (95% CI: 0.2% to 13%), and 41 minutes in ED LOS (95% CI: 16 to 65 minutes). Mean cost per patient was reduced by $197 (95% CI: $136 to $259). Total cost savings was $196 409 (95% CI: $135 592 to $258 223) over the 2 bronchiolitis seasons after guideline implementation. There were no significant differences in antibiotic use, admission rates, or returns resulting in admission within 72 hours of discharge.

CONCLUSIONS:

A bronchiolitis guideline was associated with reductions in CXR, RSV testing, albuterol use, ED LOS, and total costs in a pediatric ED.
Jaboticaba (Myrciaria jaboticaba (Vell.) Berg.) peel improved triglycerides excretion and hepatic lipid peroxidation in high-fat-fed rats
Authors: Batista Ângela Giovana , Lenquiste Sabrina Alves , Moldenhauer Carolin , Godoy Juliana Teixeira , Reis Soely Maria Pissini Machado , Maróstica Júnior Mário Roberto
Published: December 2013

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of high-fat diets with 1%, 2%, and 4% freeze-dried jaboticaba peel on the serum, liver, and fecal lipid profile of obese rats. METHODS: Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 5 groups. Obesity was induced in four groups using a high-fat diet (35% lipids). One group was used as a high-fat diet control (High-fat group - HF). The other three high-fat-diet groups were given 1%, 2%, and 4% freeze-dried jaboticaba peel (High-Fat Jaboticaba - HFJ1, HFJ2, and HFJ4, respectively) in the last 40 experimental days. Blood and the liver were collected after 70 days of treatment and feces were collected in the last experimental week. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, and lipids were measured in the serum, liver, and dried feces. ffer in the experimental groups. HFJ2 group had the highest hepatic and fecal lipid contents compared with the group fed a diet with normal fat content (N), but low hepatic lipid peroxidation. HFJ4 group had the highest mean hepatic and fecal cholesterol levels. Hepatic triglyceride levels did not differ among the groups, and groups HFJ1 and HFJ4 presented the highest fecal triglyceride content. CONCLUSION: The amounts of jaboticaba peel used by this study did not protect against hepatic steatosis or undesired levels of other studied lipids, but it did increase fecal triglycerides. Lipid peroxidation in the liver decreased in the HFJ2 group.
A criação do Colégio de Pedro II e seu impacto na constituição do magistério público secundário no Brasil
Authors: Mendonça Ana Waleska P. C. , Lopes Ivone Goulart , Soares Jefferson da Costa , Patroclo Luciana Borges
Published: December 2013

Este trabalho se vincula a uma pesquisa mais ampla que tem como objeto de estudo o processo de construção de uma identidade profissional específica por parte de um segmento da categoria docente - o magistério público secundário - no Brasil, constituindo-se como um primeiro produto coletivo do grupo de investigação. A referida pesquisa parte de um recorte institucional e toma como alvo de estudo o Colégio Pedro II, que foi criado pelo governo imperial em 1837 e que, após a República, é mantido pelo governo federal, conservando, até meados do século XX, o caráter de instituição modelar para todo o ensino secundário brasileiro. O texto está dividido em duas partes. Na primeira, propõe-se a identificar o programa institucional que informou a criação do Colégio de Pedro II. Na segunda, desenvolve um estudo preliminar sobre a primeira geração de professores do Colégio, nomeados entre 1838 e 1847, buscando estabelecer uma caracterização geral: as formas de recrutamento; a distribuição pela diferentes disciplinas; as categorias docentes previstas nos estatutos de 1838; as trajetórias internas no Colégio, inclusive o tempo de docência na instituição; a formação acadêmica; a experiência docente anterior; as outras instituições educacionais/culturais em que atuavam, entre outros aspectos. As principais referências teóricas são os trabalhos de dois sociólogos franceses que se debruçaram sobre o processo de construção da identidade profissional docente, a saber: François Dubet e Claude Dubar.
Between-Lesion Discrepancies in Terms of Dysplasia, Cell Turnover and Diagnosis in Patients with Multiple Potentially Malignant Oral Lesions
Authors: Lucio Montebugnoli , Andrea Gabusi , Bartolomeo Gissi Davide , Fabio Cervellati , Dora Servidio
Published: December 2013

Objective:

The present study assessed patients with multiple oral lesions to evaluate the mis-estimation rate in terms of diagnosis and risk of malignant transformation when only one biopsy is performed.

Study Design:

Thirty-five patients presenting at least two white and/or red lesions in different oral mucosa sites with a final diagnosis of leuko/erythroplakias or lichenoid lesions were included, for a total of 70 biopsies.

Results:

Nineteen patients (54%) had at least one between-lesion discrepancy considering the presence/absence of dysplasia (10 patients), normal/high cell turnover (13 patients) or diagnosis (5 patients). Discrepancies were not related to clinical aspect or within-patient similarity of lesions.

Conclusions:

Multiple oral lesions in the same patient can significantly differ in terms of dysplasia, high cell turnover and, even diagnosis. Multiple biopsies are imperative and diagnosis as well as risk of malignant transformation should be formulated for each single lesion rather than for each individual patient.
Personal Self-Support Traits and Recognition of Self-referent and Other-Referent Information
Authors: Xia Ling-Xiang , Li Jun-Cheng , Song Yan , Hollon Steven D.
Published: December 2013

We explored the relationship between personality and recognition of self-referent/other-referent information with a Chinese indigenous personality construct of personal self-support. We administered a referential processing task (RPT) and an incidental recognition task to 69 undergraduate
students. The results revealed that personal independence and personal initiative (2 components of personal self-support) were associated with positive self-reference and other-reference effects. These findings suggest that people who have greater personal independence or personal initiative
than others do, have positive self- and other schemas. To our knowledge, in no previous study has it been found that personality is associated with processing other-referent information. Therefore, we believe that in our study we have made a contribution to furthering understanding of the
relationship between personality traits and positive other-referent information.
The Impact of Students' Perceptions of Assessment Tasks on Self-Eefficacy and Perception of Task Value: A Path Analysis
Authors: Alkharusi Hussain , Aldhafri Said , Alnabhani Hilal , Alkalbani Muna
Published: December 2013

Using path analysis, we examined the direct effects of students' perceptions of assessment tasks on self-efficacy, and the indirect effects through the students' perception of task value. Data were collected from 2,137 school students in Oman. Their perceptions in terms of congruence
with planned learning, authenticity, student consultation, transparency, and diversity were measured using Alkharusi's (2013) Arabic version of Dorman and Knightley's (2006) Perceptions of Assessment Tasks Inventory. Task value and self-efficacy were measured using items from Pintrich, Smith,
Garcia, and Mckeachie's (1993) Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire. Results showed that congruence with planned learning and authenticity had direct effects on self-efficacy. Student consultation and diversity affected self-efficacy indirectly via task value. Transparency had a
direct positive effect on self-efficacy. Therefore, students' perceptions of assessment tasks had both direct and indirect effects on their self-efficacy and their perception of task value.
Predictive importance of index of asymmetry in recovery following stroke
Authors: Stojanovic Biljana , Djurasic Ljubomir
Published: December 2013

Quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) has been proved as a powerfully
tool for prediction of the stage of residual functional disable. For
predictive value of QEEG, individual profile of every patient is most
important. It has been demonstrated that Index of brain symmetry (BSI)
present specific asymmetry of power spectra between two brain hemispheres and
it has been normalized from 0 (perfect symmetry) and 1 (maximal asymmetry).
Method: We included in our analysis 86 normal subjects in EEG recording. We
did frequency analysis using Fast Fourier transformation (FFT) in power
spectra for 16 derivations and 20 frequency bands, from 0 to 20Hz, with step
of 1. On the base of that data, we got normal distribution with coefficient
of variation less than 30%. We determined grades of frontier of allowance in
all derivations and in all frequency bands, in the conditions with closed
eyes and with eyes open in normal control. Maximal grade for each condition
was 320. In this way we appointed the standard. We recorded the EEG in
patient on admission and after two months of neurorehabilitation. We did the
same procedure in every patients and on the base of the standard we
calculated grades. On the base of calculated grades, we determine index of
asymmetry using formula (l-d)/(l+d) x 100, and make the curves. Curvilinear
of this curve and extent of its declination from 0 suggest on
electrophysiological stage of brain. Results: Index of asymmetry in patients
with poor long-lasting recovery is more, equal and little bit smaller on
control, after two months of rehabilitation in relation to first EEG
recording on admission. On the other hand in patients with good long-lasting
recovery. Index of assymmetry is reduced.
Determination of gas temperature in the plasmatron channel according to the known distribution of electronic temperature
Authors: Gerasimov Alexander , Kirpichnikov Alexander , Rachevsky Leonid
Published: December 2013

An analytical method to calculate the temperature distribution of heavy
particles in the channel of the plasma torch on the known distribution of the
electronic temperature has been proposed. The results can be useful for a
number of model calculations in determining the most effective conditions of
gas blowing through the plasma torch with the purpose of heating the heavy
component. This approach allows us to understand full details about the
heating of cold gas, inpouring the plasma, and to estimate correctly the
distribution of the gas temperature inside the channel.
Pronounced Reduction of Cutaneous Langerhans Cell Density in Recently Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Strom Alexander , Brüggemann Jutta , Ziegler Iris , Jeruschke Kay , Weiss Juergen , Al-Hasani Hadi , Roden Michael , Ziegler Dan ,   for the GDS Group
Published: December 2013

Immune-mediated processes have been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic polyneuropathy. Langerhans cells (LCs) are the sole dendritic cell type located in the healthy epidermis and exert tolerogenic immune functions. We aimed to determine whether alterations in cutaneous LC density and intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD) are present in patients with recently diagnosed type 2 diabetes. Skin biopsy specimens from the distal leg from 96 type 2 diabetic patients and 75 healthy control subjects were used for quantification of LC density and IENFD. LCs and IENFs were labeled using immunohistochemistry. Nerve conduction studies, quantitative sensory testing, and neurological examination were used to assess peripheral nerve function. LC density was markedly reduced in the diabetic group compared with the control group, but did not correlate with reduced IENFD or peripheral nerve function. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed a strong association between LC density and whole-body insulin sensitivity in women but not in men with diabetes. Prospective studies should establish whether the pronounced reduction of cutaneous LCs detected in recently diagnosed type 2 diabetes could promote a cutaneous immunogenic imbalance toward inflammation predisposing to polyneuropathy and foot ulcers.
A Psychoeducational Program to Restore Hypoglycemia Awareness: The DAFNE-HART Pilot Study
Authors: de Zoysa Nicole , Rogers Helen , Stadler Marietta , Gianfrancesco Carla , Beveridge Susan , Britneff Emma , Choudhary Pratik , Elliott Jackie , Heller Simon , Amiel Stephanie A.
Published: December 2013

OBJECTIVE

To develop and pilot a novel intervention addressing motivational and cognitive barriers to avoiding hypoglycemia in people with type 1 diabetes and persistent impaired awareness of hypoglycemia (IAH) despite training in flexible insulin therapy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A 6-week intervention using motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral techniques was designed. Diabetes educators were trained and supported in its delivery to 23 people with IAH (Gold score ≥4).

RESULTS

Twelve months postcourse, hypoglycemia awareness had improved (P < 0.001). Median (range) rates of severe hypoglycemia (SH) fell from 3 (0–104) to 0 (0–3) per person per year (P < 0.0001) and moderate from 14 (0–100) to 0 (0–18) per person per 6 weeks (P < 0.001). Worry and behavior around hyperglycemia improved. HbA1c was unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

A pilot intervention targeting motivation and cognitions around hypoglycemia engaged patients with resistant IAH and recurrent SH and was associated with significant improvement, supporting the hypothesis that these factors underpin problematic hypoglycemia.
Ex Situ Conservation of Rare Medicinal Plants in the Botanical Garden (Institute) of Academy of Sciences of Moldova
Authors: Ciocârlan Nina
Published: December 2013

This work refers to the native species of genus Astragalus L. (A. dasyanthus, A. ponticus), Adonis L. (A. vernalis, A. wolgensis) and Digitalis L. (D. lanata, D. grandiflora). The plants are cultivated in the Botanical Garden of Moldova in the field collection of the medicinal and aromatic plants. Investigation includes propagation aspects, research into cultivation techniques and conservation measures. The biological particularities and the phenologic rhythm are also registered. The obtained data shows the ecological flexibility of species and the possibility of preserving them in culture.
Check plots in field breeding experiments
Authors: Mejza Stanisław , Mejza Iwona
Published: December 2013

This paper deals with the problems of selection in the early stages of a breeding program. During the improvement process, it is not possible to use an experimental design that satisfies the requirement of replicating all the treatments, because of the large number of genotypes involved, the small amount of seed and the low availability of resources. Hence unreplicated designs are used. To control the real or potential heterogeneity of experimental units, control (check) plots are arranged in the trial. There are many methods of using the information resulting from check plots. All of the usually applied adjusting methods for unreplicated experiments are appropriate for some specific structure of soil fertility. Their disadvantage is the fact that, before and also after the experiment, we usually do not know what a kind of soil structure is present in the experiment. Hence we cannot say which of the existing methods is appropriate for a given experimental situation. The method of inference presented below avoids this disadvantage. It is always appropriate, because of the fact that a trend of soil variability is identified and estimated. In the paper the main tool used to explore this information will be based on a response surface methodology. To begin with we will try to identify a response surface characterizing the experimental environments. We assume that observed yield (or another trait) results directly from two components, one of them due to soil fertility and the other due to the genotype effect. This means that difference between observed yield and forecast can be treated as the estimate of a genotype effect. The obtained response surface will then be used to adjust the observations for genotypes. Finally, the data so adjusted are used for inferences concerning the next stage of the breeding program. The theoretical considerations are illustrated with an example involving yields of spring barley.
Optical Correlation Using Four Wave Mixing in a Highly Nonlinear Fibre for Real-Time Serialized Ultrafast Systems
Authors: Shalihah Fithriyah , Mitchell Arnan , Bui Lam
Published: December 2013

A method of all-optical correlation is proposed using the nonlinear phenomena Four Wave Mixing (FWM) of two different signals. The method shows a serial solution where correlation of an ultrafast real-time serialized broadband source is demonstrated using a Highly Non-Linear Fibre (HNLF) with correlation rate reaching 200MHz.
Towards the Applications of Algorithms for Inverse Solutions in EEG Brain-Computer Interfaces
Authors: Jagodzińska Urszula
Published: December 2013

Locating the sources of EEG signals (signal generators), i.e. indicating the places in the brain that the signals come from is the objective of the inverse problem in BCI applications using EEG. The two algorithms based on the methods used in the inverse problem: the linear least squares method and the LORETA1 method were compared. An analysis of the accuracy of locating the sources generating EEG signals on the basis of the two above mentioned methods was carried out with the use of the MATLAB programme. The findings made it possible to determine both the complexity of calculation involved in the methods under consideration and to compare the accuracy of the results obtained. Tests were done in which the inverse problem was solved on the basis of the data that were entered from the electrodes. Then potentials on electrodes were found by means of solving the forward problem once again Φ (Φ −Φ＾).Moreover, tests were conducted on simulated data describing current density at selected places in the brain. In this case potentials on the electrodes were found by means of solving the forward problem. Subsequently the inverse problem was solved and potentials at selected places in the brain were specified J(J −J＾). In the case of J(J −J＾) only the relative error was examined, while the variance was studied in both cases. As a result of doing the tests, it was proved that relative errors were the same in the SVD and PINV methods, while in the LORETA method the error was similar. The variance computed for these methods was more differentiated for each of the cases, which made it possible to compare the algorithms in a better way. Differentiation of the variances under 0.2 shows that the algorithms that have been analyzed work properly. On the basis of knowing the results of the inverse problem, an attempt was made to make a selection of the best features of the EEG signal which differentiates the classes. In the present work tests were conducted to examine the differentiation of selected classes. Welch’s t-statistics was used to differentiate and order them. The results of the tests present the order for three classes of thought tasks, i.e. imagining moving one’s left hand, imagining moving one’s right hand, imagining generating words beginning with a randomly chosen letter. The present work is an introduction to a wider classification of features which are made with the use of inverse solutions.
Geochronology and petrogenesis of granitoid rocks from the Goryczkowa Unit, Tatra Mountains (Central Western Carpathians)
Authors: Burda Jolanta , Gawęda Aleksandra , Klötzli Urs
Published: December 2013

The geochemical characteristics as well as the LA-MC-ICP-MS U-Pb zircon age relationship between two granitoid suites found in the Goryczkowa crystalline core in the Western Tatra Mountains were studied. The petrological investigations indicate that both granitoid suites were emplaced at medium crustal level, in a VAG (volcanic arc granites) tectonic setting. However, these suites differ in source material melted and represent two different magmatic stages: suite 1 represents a high temperature, oxidized, pre-plate collision intrusion, emplaced at ca. 371 Ma while suite 2 is late orogenic/anatectic magma, which intruded at ca. 350 Ma. These data are consistent with a period of intensive magmatic activity in the Tatra Mountain crystalline basement. The emplacement of granitoids postdates the LP-HT regional metamorphism/ partial melting at ca. 387 Ma and at 433-410 Ma, imprinted in the inherited zircon cores.
An account of the bio- and magnetostratigraphy of the Upper Tithonian—Lower Berriasian interval at Le Chouet, Drôme (SE France)
Authors: Wimbledon William A.P. , Reháková Daniela , Pszczółkowski Andrzej , Casellato Cristina E. , Halásová Eva , Frau Camille , Bulot Luc G. , Grabowski Jacek , Sobień Katarzyna , Pruner Petr , Schnabl Petr , Čížková Kristýna
Published: December 2013

This paper discusses the results of a study of the Le Chouet section, its lithologies, facies, magnetic properties and fossil record (ammonites, calcareous nannofossils, calpionellids and calcareous dinoflagellates). Data obtained have been applied to give a precise biostratigraphy for this carbonate sequence as well as a paleoenvironmental reconstruction. Its relationship to magnetostratigraphy, based on a modern study of a French site, is important. Investigation of the micro- and macrofossils shows that the site comprises a sedimentary sequence in the Microcanthum to Jacobi ammonite Zones, and the Chitinoidella, Crassicollaria and Calpionella Zones. Several calpionellid and nannofossil bioevents have been recorded on the basis of the distribution of stratigraphically important planktonic organisms. The site allows us to calibrate the levels of various biomarkers and biozonal boundaries, and correlate them with the magnetozones M20n, M19r and M19n.
Method for Evaluating Discomfort Glare Based on the Analysis of a Digital Image of an Illuminated Interior
Authors: Błaszczak Urszula Joanna
Published: December 2013

The article proposes a method for measuring discomfort glare which uses numerical description of the phenomenon in the form of a digital luminance distribution map recorded on a CCD array. Essential procedures for determining partial quantities which are necessary for calculation of UGR index are discussed in detail, along with techniques for measuring position index and size of light sources, with regard to the parameters of the registering system and coordinates of the images of the sources on the array.
Jubula hutchinsiae subsp. javanica (Hepaticae, Jubulaceae): a genus and species new for Thailand
Authors: Sukkharak Phiangphak
Published: December 2013

Jubula hutchinsiae (Hook.) Dumort. subsp. javanica (Steph.) Verd. collected from the Khao Soi Dao wildlife sanctuary, Chanthaburi province, is a new genus and species record for Thailand. A brief description based on Thai material is provided, with illustrations.
A Situational Theory of Advantages in Sport
Authors: Hämäläinen Mika
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this paper is to provide a systematic explanation of the concept of advantage in the context of sport competitions. Advantage is a common concept in sports, but it also holds ambiguities that need clarification. Let’s say, for example, that the national soccer team of Brazil is playing the national team of Finland and is ahead 5 to 0. Finland receives a penalty kick due to a refereeing error. At this point, which of the teams has the advantage? In this paper, I answer this question through a systematic explanation of the concept of advantage. My theory is based on Sigmund Loland’s view that advantage can be distributed both formally and informally in sport competitions. I will develop Loland’s notion of formal advantage by introducing what I call an absolute sense of advantage - a relation of superiority that is based on the performances of two competitors. I replace informal advantage with what I refer to as an expectancy sense of advantage, which is related to expectations regarding the absolute advantage. These two senses of advantage have different functions, and I conclude that advantage is a phenomenon that plays a vital role in all sport competitions through these two senses - absolute and expectancy.
The predictors of cholelithiasis in female patients with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Cojocaru Doina-Clementina , Mitu Florin , Dascălu Cristina , Manole Alina , Dima-Cozma Corina
Published: December 2013

Cholesterol gallstone disease is often associated with the metabolic syndrome. Female gender is an unmodifiable risk factor for cholelithiasis and, in its turn, the metabolic syndrome features a sexual dimorphism which warns that a global approach might overlook important discrimination. We carried out a retrospective analytical case-control study in order to perform a comparative analysis between two groups of female patients with metabolic syndrome and gallstones (n=60) or without gallstones (n=65). All the patients were investigated by abdominal ultrasound and met at least three criteria for the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome. Cases and controls were compared regarding anthropometric measurements, a complex lipid profile, and liver function tests. The risks associated with the likelihood of gallstones were estimated by means of cross-tabulation. In order to rank the significant variables we developed a binary logistic regression model which identified lean body weight ≤ 46.44 kg (OR 0.165; 95% CI 0.045–0.611; P = 0.007), total cholesterol ≥ 4.9 mmol/L (OR 15.948; 95% CI 2.700–94.205; P = 0.002), and direct bilirubin > 5.1 µmol/L (OR 0.056; 95% CI 0.013–0.235; P < 0.001), as variables with significant probability of association with the risk of gallstones in women with metabolic syndrome.
The Location (And Founding) of a Town of Poznań in Light of the Earliest Documents and Narrative Sources
Authors: Dobosz Józef
Published: December 2013

The paper addresses the issue of the origins of the town of Poznań founded in mid-13th century under German law. The birth of the charter town on the left bank of the Warta river is illustrated first and foremost by sources: documents from the mid-13th century, particularly a location charter of 1253, and narrative sources, e.g. The Wielkopolska Chronicle and yearly records written in Wielkopolska. The town was the work of Przemysł I, the duke of Wielkopolska, who sorted out property issues on the left bank of the Warta, made grants and granted privileges, erected his new castle next to the new town, and together with his brother Bolesław issued a location charter in 1253. The duke’s action resulted in the rise of one of the most important urban centers in medieval Poland.
Ethnic Structure of St Petersburg – Petrograd – Leningrad in the Period of 1703-1991
Authors: Garczyk Bartłomiej
Published: December 2013

This article presents a multinational and multireligious character of St. Petersburg since the founding of the city to the collapse of the Soviet Union. An ethnic and cultural mosaic was also an important feature in other centers of Russia, including Moscow and Odessa, as well as forming part of the national capital of the Russian Empire in Warsaw, Riga and Tallinn. St. Petersburg is a city but of a symbolic and unique character. It is the subject of literary impressions and creative inspiration for generations of artists. In addition, St. Petersburg - Petrograd - Leningrad was the capital of a multinational and multireligious Russian Empire, Soviet Russia, and since 1918, it was the second most important city of the Soviet Union. The author’s intention is also to present the history of St. Petersburg - Petrograd - Leningrad, as seen through the prism of the history of national minorities living in it.
Ocena zawartości rtęci w poziomach powierzchniowych i podpowierzchniowych intensywnie użytkowanych rolniczo gleb aluwialnych / Assessment of total mercury content in the surface and subsurface horizons in intensively used agricultural alluvial soils
Authors: Bartkowiak Agata , Jaworska Hanna , Różański Szymon
Published: December 2013

One of the major factors determining hazard for humans, animals and plants is the increased content of trace elements in the environment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the content of mercury in surface and subsurface horizons of alluvial soils intensively used for agriculture in aspect of relationship between soil components and Hg amount bound by the soil. The results showed that there was no mercury contamination and dominant component binding this element in analyzed soils was clay fraction. The determined concentrations of mercury were close to the geochemical background level.
Humus Substances and Soil Structure
Authors: Tobiašová Erika , Miškolczi Juraj
Published: December 2013

In this study, the soil structure of two soil types (Haplic Chernozems and Eutric Fluvisols) in four ecosystems (forest, meadow, urban and agro-ecosystem) with dependence on humus substances were compared. The stability of dry-sieved and waterresistant macro-aggregates and micro-aggregates with a dependence on the proportion of humus substance fractions was determined. Quantity of humus substances influenced mainly water-resistant aggregates. A positive correlation was recorded between size fraction of 2.3 mm and contents of humus substances (P < 0.01; r = +0.710) and fulvic acids (P < 0.05; r = +0.634), and negative correlation between size fraction of 0.5.1 mm and contents of humus substances (P < 0.05; r = -0.613) and fulvic acids (P < 0.01; r = -0.711). Humic acids influenced mainly the formation of dry-sieved aggregates and fulvic acids played an important role in micro-aggregate formation. The quality of humus substances influenced more intensively the formation of dry-sieved aggregates. There were positive correlations between optical parameters of humus substances and humic acids and larger dry-sieved aggregates (3.7 mm) and negative correlations with smaller (0.5.3 mm). The highest proportions of larger size of water-resistant aggregates (1. 20 mm) were in forest ecosystem, but smaller (0.25.1 mm) agreggates were dominated in agro-ecosystem.
Evaluation of Temporary Ramp Metering for Work Zones
Authors: Sun Carlos , Edara Praveen , Zhu Zhongyuan
Published: December 2013

Ramp metering has been successfully implemented in many states to improve traffic operations on freeways. Studies have documented the positive mobility and safety benefits of ramp metering. However, there have been no studies on the use of ramp metering for work zones. This paper reports the results from the first deployment of temporary ramp meters in work zones in the United States. Temporary ramp meters were deployed at seven work zones in Missouri. Safety measures such as driver compliance, merging behavior, speed differentials, lane changing, and braking maneuvers were extracted from video-based field data. Mobility analysis was conducted with a calibrated simulation model, and the total delays were obtained for under capacity, at capacity, and over capacity conditions. This evaluation suggests that temporary ramp meters should be deployed only at work zone locations where there is potential for congestion and turned on only during periods of high congestion. The compliance analysis showed that noncompliance could be a major safety issue in the deployment of temporary ramp meters. The use of a three-section instead of a traditional two-section signal head for ramp metering produced significantly higher compliance rates. Mobility analysis revealed that ramp metering produced delay savings for high traffic volume work zones. For flows below capacity, ramp metering is not recommended because it increases total delays.
Work Zone Lighting and Visual Performance
Authors: Bullough John D. , Besenecker Ute C. , Snyder Jeremy D. , Skinner Nicholas P.
Published: December 2013

In part because of the potential for high levels of glare from work zone illumination, recommendations for light levels from work zone illumination systems are substantially higher than for levels used along roadways in non–work zone locations. In a two-part study, requirements for work zone illumination light levels were assessed. First, levels for workers varying in age from 20 to 60 years were evaluated with the relative visual performance model, with and without the presence of visibility-reducing glare. Except for the smallest, lowest-contrast tasks performed by the older workers, an illuminance of 10 lx resulted in visibility well above the threshold even in the presence of glare, and an illuminance of 30 lx resulted in suprathreshold visibility for these conditions as well. The results of these computational analyses were largely confirmed in a full-scale, outdoor field demonstration attended by transportation agency engineers and highway contractors. Together, the findings suggest that when lighting systems provide sufficient glare control, light levels do not always need to be especially high to ensure adequate visibility for workers.
Injury Outcomes and Costs for Work Zone Crashes
Authors: Coburn John S. , Bill Andrea R. , Chitturi Madhav V. , Noyce David A.
Published: December 2013

The main objective of this research was to quantify the injury outcomes and develop reliable and comprehensive injury costs for work zone crashes based on crash type (rear-end, head-on, etc.) and crash severity, based on the KABCO scale (K, killed; A, incapacitating injury; B, nonincapacitating injury; C, possible injury; O, property damage only). A three-step methodology was used to quantify the comprehensive crash costs. All crashes in Wisconsin between 2001 and 2010 that were marked with a construction zone flag were identified and used in this analysis. The Wisconsin Crash Outcome Data Evaluation System database provided comprehensive injury costs based on the injury types and severities suffered by participants in study crashes. KABCO and maximum abbreviated injury score ratings were similar for property damage only and possible injuries. A vast majority of individuals with injuries classified as nonincapacitating and incapacitating actually sustained minor or moderate injuries only. This outcome suggests that the use of KABCO needs to be reconsidered. The calculated comprehensive costs for crash types with sufficient sample sizes were found to be up to 105%, 35%, and 50% larger than the default FHWA values for incapacitating, nonincapacitating, and possible injury crashes, respectively. Injury crash costs by crash type varied significantly. This variance indicates that developing crash-specific costs might result in more accurate benefit–cost analysis for the implementation of countermeasures.
Detection of Subsurface Joint Deterioration
Authors: Hoegh Kyle , Khazanovich Lev , Worel Benjamin James , Yu H. Thomas
Published: December 2013

Results of a blind test evaluation of various nondestructive testing techniques, including well-established methods such as chain dragging, rod sounding, and ground-penetrating radar, compared with an emerging ultrasonic array technology for determining the extent of concrete joint deterioration, are presented. Nondestructive testing at two concrete pavement joints at the Minnesota Road Research Facility was performed, and the results were independently evaluated and submitted to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Significant discrepancies in subsurface deterioration assessments were observed between these techniques. Forensic evaluation (trenching and coring) was used to resolve the discrepancies in test results. It was concluded that the ultrasound array analysis was the only method that could accurately determine the horizontal extent of the deterioration otherwise undetected by the other available nondestructive evaluation methods. Additionally, ultrasonic tomography analysis was able to determine the depth of the deterioration. These results make this emerging technology an attractive alternative to traditional nondestructive testing methods for assessment of concrete pavement joints.
Spectral Analysis of Surface Wave Scanning for Identifying Debonding Conditions between Hot-Mix Asphalt Layers in Pavements
Authors: Tinkey Yajai , Miller Patrick , Olson Larry D. , Heitzman Michael
Published: December 2013

A new system can be used for assessing the condition of hot-mix asphalt (HMA) pavements to detect debonding between HMA layers. The study was partly funded by a SHRP 2 project through the National Center for Asphalt Technology. The objective was to develop a reliable technique for determining the internal condition of HMA pavements that included debonding conditions between each layer. A prototype of an impact echo and spectral analysis of surface waves scanner (originally developed for assessment of bridge deck condition) with up to three pairs of transducer wheels was used in the project. Background on the development of the scanner and a case study performed on HMA pavements of known conditions at the National Center for Asphalt Technology's pavement test track are presented. The research investigation was performed as a blind study, and the actual pavement conditions were revealed to the research team after the initial data analysis and reporting of detected delamination conditions were completed.