bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Last Survey of Mycoplasma Bovis Prevalence in Polish Cattle Affected with Respiratory Syndrome
Authors: Dudek Katarzyna , Bednarek Dariusz
Published: February 2013

The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of Mycoplasma bovis infection in clinical cases of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) in 2011. There were examined 841 serum samples and 41 nasal swabs and lungs of cattle from different farms of six regions of Poland (13 provinces). The obtained results indicated that the mean prevalence of M. bovis infection in Polish cattle population suffering from BRD was 64.3% and among them 8.4% of the animals were highly positive. On the other hand, in particular regions, it altered - 72.0% in east region, 52.7% in central region, 66.4% in south region, 64.1% in north-west region, 56.5% in north region, and 58.8% in south-west region. It should be added that within the presented regions, the highest values (82.4%) were reported in south region (Malopolskie province), whereas the lowest ones (42.9%) were in east region (Lubelskie province). However, field strains of M. bovis were isolated from the lungs of affected cattle only in the north-west region of Poland (Zachodniopomorskie province).
Cytotoxicity of Some Nitroimidazole Derivatives - Comparative Studies on Human and Rat Hepatoma Cell Lines
Authors: Radko Lidia , Minta Maria
Published: February 2013

The cytototoxic potential of metronidazole, tinidazole, ronidazole, and ornidazole, using human and rat hepatoma cell lines (HepG2 and FaO) in culture was assessed. The cells were treated with drugs for 24, 48 and 72 h at 37 °C in 5% CO2 at concentrations of 0.1 to 200 μg/mL. Following the treatment period, the cells were assayed by four independent assays: MTT reduction, neutral red uptake (NRU), total protein content (TPC), and LDH leakage. The results suggest that nitroimidazoles are of low cytotoxic potential (EC50 >200μg/mL). The exception was ronidazole, which demonstrated a distinct endpoint sensitivity related to the species. EC50 (μg/mL) in human cells were: in MTT assay - 196±5.5 and 122±9.3 at 24 and 48 h, respectively, and in NRU assay - 150±1.25 at 72 h. Based on minimal toxic concentrations (EC20) for ronidazole, determined by all methods used in HepG2 cells, it could be concluded that their sensitivity was as follows: MTT>NRU>LDH>TPC.
Existential and psychological problems connected with Threat Predicting Process
Authors: Mamcarz Piotr
Published: February 2013

The aim of the article is to present a very important phenomenon affecting human integrity and homeostasis that is Threat Prediction Process. This process can be defined as “experiencing apprehension concerning results of potential/ actual dangers,” (Mamcarz, 2015) oscillating in terminological area of anxiety, fear, stress, restlessness. Moreover, it highlights a cognitive process distinctive for listed phenomenon’s. The process accompanied with technological and organization changes increases number of health problems affecting many populations. Hard work conditions; changing life style; or many social and political threats have influence on people’s quality of life that are even greater and more dangerous than physical and psychological factors, which, in turn, have much more consequences for human normal functioning. The present article is based on chosen case studies of a qualitative analysis of threat prediction process
Genital Herpes / Genitalni herpes
Authors: Jovanović Marina
Published: February 2013

Genital herpes is a chronic, nearly always active herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection of sacral ganglia, that may appear bilaterally and in more ganglia than previously thought. It represents one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections, and the most frequent cause of genital ulcer disease in the general populations of developed countries. It is caused by HSV type-2 (HSV-2) in 60-80% of cases, with HSV-1 infections causing the remainder. Genital herpes caused by HSV-1 is on the rise. Since genital HSV-1 infections have higher risk for transmission from mother to infant during delivery than HSV-2, they account for 30% of all cases of neonatal herpes. Serological studies have found prevalence of HSV-2 in the general population of developed contries to be up to 25%. Thirty years ago, herpes was defined as “Today’s Scarlet Letter”in the absence of reliable serological tests and highly effective medications, for diagnosis and treatment of genital herpes. In 2000, apart from virus isolation in cell culture (70% sensitivity), that has long been regarded as the diagnostic gold standard, type specific serological tests and higly effective antiviral agents have evolved. However, the following questions were raised: should serological testing be routinely recommended in asymptomatic patients; can antiviral therapy reduce asymptomatic shedding of the virus; can antiviral therapy reduce sexual transmission of infection; can antiviral therapy reduce acquisitation of viral copathogens, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)? Now, ten years later, we know the answers. Type specific HSV DNA detection by real-time PCR assays (100% sensitivity) are tests of choice for every person with recurrent genital ulcers lasting more than 4 days, and must be available in those laboratories currently performing a significant number of PCR tests for different purposes. Type specific IgG serology assays are indicated in all asymptomatic persons who are at increased risk for HSV infection. In sexually active patients experiencing ≥ 6 recurrences per year, daily supressive dose of acyclovir, valacyclovir or famciclovir should be discontinued after a maximum of a year of continuous antiviral therapy in order to reassess recurrence frequency. If necessary, the therapy should be restarted after at least two recurrences. With such expansive diagnostic possibilities and more aggressive therapeutic approaches, we can define genital herpes not as a “Scarlet Letter”, but as a “widespread untoward consequence of human sexuality”.
Multiple giant congenital nevi – a case report / Multipli gigantski kongenitalni nevusi – prikaz slučaja
Authors: Mikulić Vesna
Published: February 2013

Giant congenital melanocytic nevi are benign nevomelanocytic proliferations of 20 cm or more in diameter, present at birth. They are primarily found on the posterior trunk, but they may arise on any other part of the body, covering more than 2% of the body surface. Giant congenital nevi are major risk factors for the development of melanoma, and the risk has been estimated to be as high as 5-7%. Persons with giant congenital melanocytic nevi on the head, neck and along the midline of the back are at increased risk for leptomeningeal melanocytic lesions. Most patients with neurocutaneous melanosis present with neurologic manifestations of the disease in the first 2 years of life. Melanoma occurs in 62-80% of cases, but even without neoplasms, symptomatic neurocutaneous melanosis has a poor prognosis. This is a report of a 23-year-old female patient who presented with multiple congenital pigmented and pilous nevi covering over 2% of her total body surface, without malignant alterations or association with other abnormalities. At birth, a nevus covered her neck, shoulders and the upper left arm, whereas several nevi over 5cm in diameter were present in the gluteal region, on the abdomen and legs. During the first 2 years of life, the existing nevi increased in size and progressed into darker brown. New, smaller pigmented changes appeared on the whole body and the face, while at the age of 17 they reached their current size and layout. At puberty, nevi over 10cm in size grew dark hairs. There were neither melanoma nor skin tumor cases in the family. Nuclear magnetic resonance imaging was not performed in the childhood or later in life, but other parameters - neurologic and ophthalmologic findings were in normal range all the time, as was growth and development. A complete photo-documentation was made, including macroscopic and dermoscopic images and regular follow-ups continue. Giant congenital melanocytic nevi may cause considerable esthetic and psychosocial problems. Due to their high malignant potential, association with other abnormalities, no consensus on the treatment, and monitoring problems, giant congenital melanocytic nevi represent a therapeutic problem as well.
Lichen Planus in the Lines of Blaschko – A Case Report / Blaschko linearni lichen planus – prikaz slučaja
Authors: Perić-Hajzler Zorica , Zolotarevski Lidija , Šofranac Dušan , Kandolf Sekulović Lidija
Published: February 2013

Lichen planus is an acquired inflammatory disease of the skin, mucous membranes and nails. It is characterized by pruritic polygonal livid papules. The disease was first described by Erasmus Wilson in 1869. It is primarily a disease of adults, and it usually occurs between the ages of 30 and 60, without gender predominance. The exact incidence and prevalence of this disease are unknown, but it is thought to affect less than 1% of the general population (0.14 to 0.80%) (1).

A 63-year old male patient was admitted to our Department with itchy erythematous papules and plaques which appeared a month before admission. On admission, numerous erythematous and livid papules and plaques of polygonal shape up to 5 mm in diameter were present in the lines of Blaschko, along the left lower extremity, left side of the trunk and the left upper arm (Figures 1-3), while mucous membranes, nails and scalp were spared.

Blaschko-linear distribution of skin lesions was first described by a German dermatologist Alfred Blaschko in 1901 in his work ”The distribution of nerves in the skin and their relationship to diseases of the skin”. In 1978, Happle first published that genetic mosaicism was the cause of these peculiar skin changes (1,4,6). Although knowledge of mosaicism in the skin was further elucidated in articles of several authors (Taieb in 1994, Bolognia in 1994, Heide 1996), the exact mechanism and molecular basis for the development of Blashcko linear distribution has not been fully clarified yet (5). Blaschko lines may be related to X-linked, congenital and inflammatory dermatoses, and they may be found in several skin conditions like segmental forms of atopic dermatitis, erythema multiforme, pemphigus vulgaris, vitiligo, and granuloma annulare. This is a case report of a patient with a rare form of lichen planus, with typical clinical manifestations and with Blaschko-linear distribution. Lichen planus in the lines of Blaschko was also described in several other dermatoses: lichen striatus, lichen sclerosus, morphea, porokeratosis of Mibelli, mucinosis follicularis and psoriasis vulgaris. The treatment included topical corticosteroids under occlusion, due to comorbidities, with satisfactory response. Other options include, topical calcineurin inhibitors, intralesional and systemic corticosteroids, retinoids, phototherapy and in resistant cases that severely affect the quality of life methotrexate, cyclosporine and thalidomide.
Myofibroblastic Dermatofibroma: An Unusual Variant / Miofibroblastni Dermatofibrom: Neuobičajena Varijacija
Authors: Okoduwa Cynthia , Siperstein Robyn D. , Chen Wen , Malliah Rajit , Fitzhugh Valerie , Lambert W. Clark , Schwartz Robert A.
Published: February 2013

Myofibroblastic dermatofibroma (MFD) is an unusual neoplasm characterized by a predominance of myofibroblastic differentiation. It is extremely rare and it is not well described. Expressions of smooth muscle actin, CD34, S-100, desmin, CD31, and Factor XIIIa were evaluated along with hematoxylin-eosin and trichrome staining of fixed tissue specimens from a fibrohistiocytic neoplasm. The neoplasm demonstrated a storiform pattern characteristic of fibrohistiocytic origin. It was strongly and diffusely positive for smooth muscle actin and vimentin, and negative for all other stains performed. A trichrome stain showed the entire tumor to be blue, demonstrating the collagenous and fibrous tissue to a marked degree. MFD is a distinct variant of dermatofibroma characterized by a predominance of myofibroblastic differentiation.
A Triad of Exophtalmos, Pretibial Myxedema and Acropachy in a Patient With Graves’ Disease / Egzoftalmus, pretibijalni miksedem i akropatija − trijada prisutna kod obolelog od Grejsove bolesti
Authors: Paravina Mirjana , Stanojević Milenko , Veličković Mirjana , Petrović Stanoje , Milosavljević Mirjana
Published: February 2013

A classical triad of extrathyroidal manifestations of Graves’ disease known as EMO syndrome (exophthalmos, pretibial myxedema and osteoarthropathy) is a rare condition. This paper presents a 39-year old male patient who underwent chemo- and radiation therapy of the supradiaphragmatic area due to Hodgkin’s disease at the age of 35 and 36 leading to remission. Two years later, the patient developed general symptoms of Graves’ disease and ophthalmopathy, with high thyroid stimulating hormone levels. Four months later, the patient presented with pretibial myxedema. Thirteen months after the onset of the disease, higher levels of thyroxine and decreased levels of thyroid stimulating hormone were registered. The diagnosis of EMO syndrome was confirmed by radiologic and histopathological analyses. Thiamazole and intralesional corticosteroid therapy were administered, resulting in euthyreosis and decrease of pretibial myxedema. The question is whether the autoimmune thyroid disease was triggered by the previous disease, or by chemo- and radiation therapy..
Research on coal-water fuel combustion in a circulating fluidized bed / Badanie spalania zawiesinowych paliw węglowo-wodnych w cyrkulacyjnej warstwie fluidalnej
Authors: Kijo-Kleczkowska Agnieszka
Published: February 2013

In the paper the problem of heavily-watered fuel combustion has been undertaken as the requirements of qualitative coals combusted in power stations have been growing. Coal mines that want to fulfill expectations of power engineers have been forced to extend and modernize the coal enrichment plants. This causes growing quantity of waste materials that arise during the process of wet coal enrichment containing smaller and smaller under-grains. In this situation the idea of combustion of transported waste materials, for example in a hydraulic way to the nearby power stations appears attractive because of a possible elimination of the necessary deep dehydration and drying as well as because of elimination of the finest coal fraction loss arising during discharging of silted water from coal wet cleaning plants. The paper presents experimental research results, analyzing the process of combustion of coal-water suspension depending on the process conditions. Combustion of coal-water suspensions in fluidized beds meets very well the difficult conditions, which should be obtained to use the examined fuel efficiently and ecologically. The suitable construction of the research stand enables recognition of the mechanism of coal-water suspension contact with the inert material, that affects the fluidized bed. The form of this contact determines conditions of heat and mass exchange, which influence the course of a combustion process. The specificity of coal-water fuel combustion in a fluidized bed changes mechanism and kinetics of the process.
Application of trenchless methods for pipelines renovation on mining areas / Zastosowanie metod bezwykopowych do renowacji rurociągów na terenach górniczych
Authors: Kalisz Piotr , Pacześniowski Krzysztof
Published: February 2013

Several trenchless methods are currently applied to repair damaged pipelines of territorial development networks. There exist many technologies of pipelines renovation no always useful to repair pipelines on mining and post-mining areas. In the paper influence of mining exploitation onto pipelines was presented with special regard of pipelines after accomplished renovation with use of trenchless methods. An evaluation of these methods application possibilities to the renovation of pipelines on mining areas was also carried out.
New Reconstruction Technologies Of Safety Pillar In Mines / Nowoczesne Technologie Odbudowy Filara Bezpieczeństwa w Kopalniach
Authors: Gonet Andrzej , Stryczek Stanisław , Brudnik Krzysztof
Published: February 2013

Safety pillars are made around mines as a protection measure. This is especially important in salt mines where the surrounding waters are most hazardous. Without maintaining safe conditions the mine may be water-flooded as it was the case in one of the Polish mine “Wapno“. An original technology linking pipeline injection and hole injection methods has been used for the reconstruction of a safety pillar in the Salt Mine “Wieliczka“. This solution turned out to be successful when on 13 April 1992 the mine was saved from flooding after a disastrous water flux to the transverse working Mina. The presented technology can be efficiently used in various mines at the stage of designing, though their exploitation to the closing stage.
Forecasts And/Or Scenarios, Including Quantification of the Distance, Timing and Costs / Prognozy I/Lub Ich Scenariusze, w Tym Kwantyfikacja Obszaru Prognozowania, Czasu I Kosztów
Authors: Kaliski Maciej , Krupa Marcin , Sikora Andrzej
Published: February 2013

The paper addresses the problem of the forecasting and possible development of gas production from unconventional plays in Poland. As authors underline the potential of Polish shale gas is quite similar to US shales. Due to geological conditions, stage of development, size and location in more urban areas some experts compare Polish shale plays to Marcellus even. Document stated that from geographical and infrastructural points of view one can identify five different directions for export of natural gas surplus from Poland. It is important to notice that currently none of those routes physically exists - it means, that at present there are no infrastructure (or access to such infrastructure) for exporting of the Polish natural gas.
Building protection against the backdrop of current situation and growth perspectives for polish mining industry / Problematyka ochrony obiektów budowlanych na tle sytuacji i perspektyw rozwoju górnictwa w polsce
Authors: Florkowska Lucyna
Published: February 2013

This paper discusses issues involved in protecting buildings and utilities infrastructure located on areas affected by mining exploration. They have been presented against the backdrop of current situation and growth perspectives for Polish mining.

Characteristics of Polish mineral deposits have been determined and the scale of mining-induced impact has been given as an aggregate mining areas and regions. Current situation and growth perspectives have been evaluated through analysing geological concessions granted by Ministry of the Environment.

The nature of mining influences induced by underground coal - black coal being the most intensively explored mineral in the country - mining has been discussed. Building protection issues have also been presented from three angles: forecasting of mining influences, designing protections and structural health monitoring.
Maximum amplitudes in transient resonance of distributed-parameter systems / Amplitudy maksymalne w rezonansie przejściowym układów o parametrach rozłożonych
Authors: Michalczyk Jerzy
Published: February 2013

The application of the kinetic energy balance for the estimation maximum amplitudes of continuous systems in the transient resonance excited by the free coasting of unbalanced rotor or piston machines placed on the continuous system - was proposed in the study.

The exact as well as the approximate methods were shown. For the typical one- and two-dimensional systems the calculation formulae, useful for the engineering practice, were given.
Static and dynamic analyses of the stability of mining wastes (Ravaneti) in the Carrara marble area (Apuan Alps, Italy) / Analiza statyczna i dynamiczna stabilności hałd odpadów górniczych w regionie wydobycia marmurów Carrara (Alpy Apuańskie, Italia)
Authors: Oreste Pierpaolo , Soldano Silvia
Published: February 2013

The problem of the stability of “ravanetos” (debris piles of mining waste material extracted from the Apuan Alps, Italy) is very relevant, because of the consequences a landslide would have on the people and the existing civil infrastructures throughout the territory.

In this work, the stability of two ravanetos that can be considered as representative of those in the Carrara area has been studied: the Polvaccio ravaneto, a recent type of debris pile and the Torrione-Tecchione, an old debris pile at present undergoing re-naturalisation.

The study using the LEM (Limit Equilibrium Method) in a static and pseudo-static field, has made it possible to first carry out a back-analysis to define the most probable apparent cohesion and friction angle values of the material that makes up the ravanetos. Subsequently, it was possible to determine the intensity of the seismic wave that would be able to lead the two ravanetos to limit stability conditions and to determine the probability of such a seismic wave occurring in the next 50 years.

A more accurate analysis, carried out with a numerical method in the dynamic field, of the most critical condition (the Polvaccio ravaneto) has led to more conservative results (higher safety factors) than those obtained with the LEM. This result allows us to reveal how the LEM can be considered a cautionary instrument to judge the stability of debris piles during a seismic event and that the likelihood of a landslide occurring in the two studied representative ravanetos over the next 50 years is very slim.
The Influence of Operating Loads on the State of Stress and Strain in Selected Load-Bearing Elements of a Tower-Type Headgear Structure in the Light of the Experimental Data / Wpływ Obciążeń Eksploatacyjnych Na Stan Naprężenia Oraz Przemieszczenia Elementów Nośnych Konstrukcji Basztowej Wieży Szybowej W Świetle Przeprowadzonych Eksperymentów
Authors: Wolny Stanisław
Published: February 2013

In order that the ultimate state method should be applied to the strength analysis of the tower-type headgear structure, it is required that the design loads and endurance parameters be first established. For that purpose the characteristics of loads experienced by structural elements of the headgear structure are required (Wolny, 2012) as well as the numerical analysis of stresses and strains. Thus obtained results are verified through stress (strain) measurements taken in structural elements subjected to highest loads found on the basis of the stress map derived from numerical analysis, being the subject matter of the present study.

Strain (stress) measurements are taken on the beams located at the floor level +65.00 m on which the winding machines are positioned (drive shaft bearings, stators in the electric motors), as shown schematically in Fig. 2.

The strength analysis by numerical methods is restricted to those elements of the load bearing structure in the headgear at the level (+65.00) where the strain (stress) and measurements are taken and where loads are measured that give rise to the maximal strain changes (Wolny, 2012).

Alongside the strain (stress) measurements in the load-bearing elements of the headgear structure, measurements are taken of horizontal displacements at selected points of the structure with the use of an interferometric radar IBIS-S.

Results of the repeated numerical analysis of the state of stress, restricted to those elements of the load bearing structure in the tower-type headgear where the maximal loads are registered (Wolny, 2010), agree well with experimental data obtained from tests done on a real object. Therefore, the numerical analyses of the state of stress and strain in the load-bearing elements of the headgear structures operated in the Polish collieries lead us to the assumption that when analysing the geometry of the driving systems in the winding gear, the structures on which the elements of the winder installation are positioned ought to be treated as rigid. This conclusion is further corroborated by displacement measurements by geodetic methods taken on selected points of the tower-type headgear structure. An interesting point is that the tower-type headgear structure above its first floor level will behave as a rigid solid.
The Effect of Different Delivery Conditions on the Accelerated Degradation of Structural Steel in the Coal Mine Environment / Wpływ Różnego Stanu Dostawy Na Przyspieszoną Degradację Stali Konstrukcyjnej W Środowisku Kopalnianym
Authors: Pawłowski Bogdan , Bała Piotr
Published: February 2013

The main objective of this work was to determine the effect of different delivery conditions on the accelerated degradation of structural steels used for lifting beams (rails) of the monorail transport systems. Some of these rails, made of the same steel grade as others, undergoes accelerated corrosion in the coal mine environment. Corrosion degradation occurs much faster (more than two times faster), comparing to the same steel grade rails operated under the same conditions but with different microstructures. However, all the provided rails meet the requirements of appropriate standards for steel on the lifting beams of the monorail transport systems.

The investigations were carried out on rails made of the same steel grade but with different microstructures and showed that the main factor influencing the accelerated corrosion degradation of tested steels is the delivery condition, so-called “as rolled” condition. The greatest resistance to the accelerated corrosion showed rails in the normalized or normalizing rolling condition.
Evolution of Microclimatic Conditions in Paskov Mine / Ewolucja Warunków Mikroklimatycznych W Kopalni Paskov
Authors: Zapletal Pavel , Prokop Pavel , Košňovský Vítězslav
Published: February 2013

The main subject of this paper focuses on scientific and research activities conducted in the Institute of Mining Engineering and Safety of the VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava. Cooperation between the VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava and OKD A.S., the only representative of coal mining in the Ostrava-Karviná coal basin, has recently begun to develop again. This paper describes an example discussed in a certain study, which has been undertaken for the Paskov mine, OKD a.s., dealing specifically with the evolution of microclimate parameters in mines that depend on the progress of mining activity at deeper levels over a period of several years. To this end, a special program, aimed at determination of the necessary refrigerating capacity, was established at the VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava.
Charakterystyka mineralogiczno-chemiczna i teksturalna odpadów poflotacyjnych z przemysłu Zn-Pb pod kątem dalszych rozważań wykorzystania ich jako sorbentów
Authors: Wdowin Magdalena , Gruszecka Agnieszka
Published: February 2013

Streszczenie

Celem pracy była wstępna charakterystyka (mineralogiczna, chemiczna, teksturalna) odpadów poflota­cyjnych, stanowiących surowiec uboczny (odpadowy) przy uzyskiwaniu koncentratów cynkowo-ołowiowych, pod kątem dalszych analiz nad możliwością ich perspektywicznego (eksperymentalnego) wykorzystania jako sorbentów gazów kwaśnych (SO2 iCO2). Składowisko tych odpadów jest własnością ZGH „Bolesław" w Bukownie. Materiał badawczy stanowiła próbka odpadów poflotacyjnych pobrana ze stawu osadowego nr 1, leżącego w południowej części Stawu Zachodniego. Charakterystyka wytypowanych do badań materiałów obej­mowała podstawowe badania mineralogiczne (XRD, SEM-EDS), analizy chemiczne (oznaczenie zawartości wilgoci analitycznej, zawartości strat prażenia, podstawowego składu chemicznego, jak też pierwiastków śla­dowych) oraz wyznaczenie podstawowych parametrów teksturalnych (powierzchnia właściwa BET, rozkład i wielkość porów). Badania mineralogiczne wykazały, że materiał odpadowy stanowią głównie minerały węg­lanowe (w przewadze kalcyt, dolomit, ankeryt) oraz minerały stanowiące pozostałość po niewyflotowanych kruszcach (w przewadze galena, sfaleryt). Analiza chemiczna pozwoliła stwierdzić, iż w analizowanej próbce dominują związki wapnia, magnezu i żelaza uwarunkowane przewagą minerałów węglanowych w badanych odpadach. Wśród pierwiastków śladowych przeważa arsen, następnie mangan i bar, występujące jednak w ilości nie przekraczającej 1%. Analiza teksturalna wykazała, że materiał badawczy charakteryzuje się niską po­wierzchnią właściwą i dużymi rozmiarami cząstek. Przeprowadzone badania sugerują, że analizowany materiał charakteryzuje się ubogimi właściwościami adsorpcyjnymi, aczkolwiek mógłby on znaleźć zastosowanie w metodach odsiarczania, jak też neutralizacji dwutlenku węgla (karbonizacja). Należałoby jednak w tym celu przeprowadzić dodatkowe badania wymywalności metali ciężkich w środowisku kwasowym, jak też zastosować domieszki innych składników, takich jak cement czy zeolity, w celu immobilizacji niebezpiecznych składników odpadów.
QUANTITATIVE EVALUATION OF ENTERPRISE MARKETING ACTIVITIES
Authors: Ginevičius Romualdas , Podvezko Valentinas , Ginevičius Adomas
Published: February 2013

The growing competition on the international markets means that the importance of enterprise marketing activities is increasing. However, the attention paid to theoretical and practical marketing problems by enterprises is insufficient. This particularly refers to the analysis of marketing strategy effectiveness. It is not clear how marketing affects enterprise performance. To perform this analysis, the quantitative evaluation of enterprise marketing activities is required. Enterprise marketing is a complex multi-faceted phenomenon. Its various aspects are described by multidimensional and often oppositely directed criteria. Therefore, in this case, multicriteria evaluation methods can be successfully used for analysis. The state of the enterprise marketing system is described by sets of criteria. Therefore, the problem of adequate evaluation of their weights arises. Sometimes, it is possible to reduce the number of evaluation criteria by developing their hierarchical system. However, the question arises how the transformation of a single-level system of criteria into the respective multi-level system affects the calculation results.
A Survey of U.S. Laws for Health Information Security & Privacy
Authors: Akowuah Francis , Yuan Xiaohong , Xu Jinsheng , Wang Hong
Published: February 2013

As healthcare organizations and their business associates operate in an increasingly complex technological world, there exist security threats and attacks which render individually identifiable health information vulnerable. In United States, a number of laws exist to ensure that healthcare providers take practical measures to address the security and privacy needs of health information. This paper provides a survey of U.S. laws related to health information security and privacy, which include Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA),Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, Patient Safety and Quality Improvement Act of 2005, and Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH).The history and background of the laws, highlights of what the laws require, and the challenges organizations face in complying with the laws are discussed.
Research on the Cluster-Level Architectural Knowledge
Authors: Li Hao , Zhang Hong-jie , Zhou Kai-jing
Published: February 2013

The cluster-level architectural knowledge is the source to maintain sustainable competitive advantage of clusters. To develop the knowledge-based theory of clusters, the authors chose Dalian Software Park as the object of study, and work strictly according to scientific research process of the case study method. Firstly, they put forward the research questions and established the subject of the study according to the relevant literatures, and made a scientific study design to ensure the reliability and validity of the case study. Secondly, the authors collected research data and materials by the interview. Thirdly, the case analysis was carried out. Based on interview’s materials and secondary data analysis, they explored the content of the cluster-level architectural knowledge, discussed the roles played by different types of architectural knowledge in the development of industrial clusters and the impacts on the maintaining the competitive advantage of the clusters. The authors’ contribute by exploring the contents of the cluster-level architectural knowledge, which includes recognition of the strategies, convention, mutual benefit, industrial atmosphere, collective reputation, and institution.
Corpos. Uma anatomia política na Idade da Biotécnica
Authors: Pecoraro Rossano
Published: February 2013

Este artigo é dedicado ao exame filosófico das dinâmicas do poder (político, jurídico, médico- -científico) sobre a vida e os corpos na Idade da Biotécnica, no nosso mundo, no horizonte da cultura contemporânea. O nosso texto se articulará em torno de três eixos, a saber, a reconstrução genealógica dos elementos principais do “conceito” de biopolítica; as “relações” entrebíos e vontade de potência; a “técnica dos corpos” e a “política dos corpos”. Essencial, para o desdobramento e a fundamentação teorética do nosso discurso, será o diálogo e confronto com uma série de autores contemporâneos, in primis Friedrich Nietzsche, Michel Foucault, Jean-Luc Nancy, Roberto Esposito.
La filosofía de la técnica implícita en el primer Heidegger
Authors: Aníbal Chiappe Armando
Published: February 2013

En este artículo pretendo mostrar como la ontologización de la praxis, operada por Martin Heidegger en el período abarcado por sus Lecciones de Friburgo y Marburgo, puede contribuir en forma positiva a la fundamentación de una filosofía de técnica. La reformulación de la fenomenología vía la hermenéutica y la interpretación fenomenológica de Aristóteles que ofrece Heidegger es de una relevancia fundamental para el desarrollo de una hermenéutica de la acción técnica. El análisis de los comportamientos fundamentales descubridores de la vida (theoría, poíesis, praxis) y sus correspondientes tipos de saberes (sophía, tékne, phrónesis), y la nueva interpretación de oúsia y kínesis son de importancia fundamental para este intento. El objetivo principal es localizar una filosofía de la técnica implícita en la obra temprana de Heidegger y elaborar una tesis del trato operativo que reconstruye la problemática filosófica de la técnica desde un nuevo punto de partida.
A natureza do homem como fronteira (methórios) em Fílon de Alexandria e Gregório de Nissa
Authors: Silva Santos Bento
Published: February 2013

O exame do termo methórios na obra de Gregório de Nissa mostra que há uma inequívoca dependência de Filon de Alexandria. Gregório não o utiliza jamais para designar nem a continuidade da matéria e do espírito, no sentido estoico, nem a do espírito e do divino, no sentido platônico. Ele não admite continuidade em nenhum desses casos. Não obstante a condição de queda, o homem é dotado de espírito: isso fez com que ele se colocasse como ponto de demarcação (methórios) entre a matéria e o espírito. Em Gregório, porém, há um elemento novo em relação à tradição: para ele, o homem é methórios entre o mundo inteligível e o mundo sensível não enquanto representa uma transição de um ao outro (do sensível para o inteligível, como na tradição platônica), mas enquanto representa características opostas e irredutíveis. Nesse sentido, na qualidade de fronteira ou demarcação (methorios) entre duas realidades opostas, a liberdade humana enquanto tal deve escolher entre o bem e o mal. Em outras palavras: o que Gregório assevera não é tanto nem principalmente o fato de que o homem pertence às duas esferas, mas, antes de tudo, que este é livre para inclinar- -se para uma parte ou para outra parte. É, portanto, a liberdade que prevalece. Tal liberdade é considerada em sua qualidade essencial: voltar-se ora para o sensível, ora para o inteligível.
Railway Network of Romania’s Central Development Region: Current Situation and Evaluation of Development Plans Based on Graph Theory Model
Authors: Máthé Csongor , Tamási Erika , Schubert Géza
Published: February 2013

The present study focuses on the Central Development Region in Romania and attempts to highlight the deficiencies of the regional railway network, as well as to scientifically analyse the impact of new lines designed in the region. The current regional rail network is greatly determined by the historical development process of the railway, and therefore, in the first section, the most notable causes, milestones, and historical factors have been summarized. The goal of this paper has been to evaluate the current situation of the Central Region’s rail network and investigate the potential processes entailed by the line designed between Tîrgu Mureş and Sighişoara. For this, at first, some quantitative and qualitative analyses as well, including traffic and travel speed measurements have been carried out. Finally, using the analysis capabilities offered by the application of graph theory, we had the opportunity to perform a simulation with the planned rail line. Our conclusion is that the improvement of the Tîrgu Mureş rail accessibility toward Braşov could be considered as a real option, especially, as in the near feature, the motorway connection between these two important Transylvanian cities will be built, which will represent a huge challenge for the rail transport on this axis.
Unlocking the biochemical secrets of longevity: balancing healthspan and lifespan
Authors: Viña Jose , Borrás Consuelo
Published: July 2024

In an era of rising global life expectancies, research focuses on enhancing the quality of extended years. This review examines the link between mitochondrial function and aging, highlighting the importance of healthspan alongside lifespan. This involves significant human and economic challenges, with longer lifespans often accompanied by reduced well‐being. Addressing mitochondrial decline, exploring targeted interventions, and understanding the complexities of research models are vital for advancing our knowledge in this field. Additionally, promoting physical exercise and adopting personalized supplementation strategies based on individual needs can contribute to healthy aging. The insights from this Perspective article offer a hopeful outlook for future advances in extending both lifespan and healthspan, aiming to improve the overall quality of life in aging populations.
Poliovirus capsid protein VP3 can penetrate vascular endothelial cells
Authors: Mizutani Taketoshi , Ishizaka Aya
Published: July 2024

The poliovirus (PV) enters the central nervous system (CNS) via the bloodstream, suggesting the existence of a mechanism to cross the blood–brain barrier. Here, we report that PV capsid proteins (VP1 and VP3) can penetrate cells, with VP3 being more invasive. Two independent parts of VP3 are responsible for this function. Both peptides can penetrate human umbilical cord vascular endothelial cells, and one peptide of VP3 could also penetrate peripheral blood mononuclear cells. In an in vitro blood–brain barrier model using rat‐derived astrocytes, pericytes, and endothelial cells, both peptides were observed to traverse from the blood side to the brain side at 6 h after administration. These results provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying PV invasion into the CNS.
Enhancing Cycling Stability of Lithium Metal Batteries by a Bifunctional Fluorinated Ether
Authors: Tran Thanh‐Nhan , Cao Xia , Xu Yaobin , Gao Peiyuan , Zhou Hui , Guo Fenghua , Han Kee Sung , Liu Dianying , Le Phung ML , Weller J. Mark , Engelhard Mark H. , Wang Chongmin , Whittingham M. Stanley , Xu Wu , Zhang Ji‐Guang
Published: July 2024

The lifespan of lithium (Li) metal batteries (LMBs) can be greatly improved by the formation of inorganic‐rich electrode‐electrolyte interphases (EEIs) (including solid‐electrolyte interphase on anode and cathode‐electrolyte interphase on cathode). In this work, a localized high‐concentration electrolyte containing lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI) salt, 1,2‐dimethoxyethane (DME) solvent and 1,2‐bis(1,1,2,2‐tetrafluoroethoxy)ethane (BTFEE) diluent is optimized. BTFEE is a fluorinated ether with weakly‐solvating ability for LiFSI so it also acts as a co‐solvent in this electrolyte. It can facilitate anion decomposition at electrode surfaces and promote the formation of more inorganic‐rich EEI layers. With an optimized molar ratio of LiFSI:DME:BTFEE = 1:1.15:3, LMBs with a high loading (4 mAh cm−2) lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (LiNi0.8 Mn0.1 Co0.1) cathode can retain 80% capacity in 470 cycles when cycled in a voltage range of 2.8–4.4 V. The fundamental understanding on the functionality of BTFEE revealed in this work provides new perspectives on the design of practical high‐energy density battery systems.
Binding Angle Robustness of Plasmonic Nanorod Dimer Resonances
Authors: Hohenau Andreas , Bugnet Matthieu , Kapetanovic Viktor , Radtke Guillaume , Botton Gianluigi A. , Reichelt Nikita , Hohenester Ulrich , Krenn Joachim R. , Boubekeur‐Lecaque Leïla , Félidj Nordin
Published: July 2024

Narrow gaps between coupled plasmonic nano‐particles show strong optical field enhancements and spectrally adjustable resonance positions, making them attractive for surface enhanced spectroscopies. Gold nanorod dimers formed from nanorod solutions with narrow size distributions are intensely investigated in this context. However, the binding angle of rods coupled at their end faces is usually not controllable. Surprisingly, it is observed that this has only little effect on field enhancement and resonance energies. In this work, gold nanorod dimers are investigated by mapping their plasmon resonances using electron energy‐loss spectroscopy in a scanning transmission electron microscope. For a wide range of dimer orientations, a negligible influence of the angle between the two rods on the bonding and antibonding longitudinal dipole resonances is confirmed, in good agreement with numerical simulations. The results are interpreted via the predominant end‐coupling of the individual nanorod's plasmonic modes, as illustrated by an analytical charge coupling model. In addition, the simulations emphasize that conclusions from experimental data on the gap morphology on the size range of one nanometer can be ambiguous. In any case, the full understanding of the angle‐invariant resonances of nano‐rod dimers can further promote their controlled application in surface enhanced spectroscopy or ‐sensing.
Radical Difunctionalization of Unsaturated Hydrocarbons Employing the Same Functional Reagent
Authors: Tian Wen‐Chan , Dai Nan‐Nan , Lu Yue‐Jiao , Li Mu‐Han , Ruan Yiping , Li Ting , Wei Wen‐Ting
Published: July 2024

The radical difunctionalization of unsaturated hydrocarbons serves as an efficient means to rapidly construct molecular skeletons and synthesize‐highly valuable compounds. In this transformational process, diverse positions within unsaturated hydrocarbons are sequentially functionalized by a single radical precursor reagent, thereby achieving highly efficient and selective transformations that promote atom economy. Furthermore, this approach minimizes the generation of numerous byproducts stemming from cross‐coupling reactions between reactants, owing to the reduction of the number of participating components. Therefore, this review provides an in‐depth analysis of the radical difunctionalization of unsaturated hydrocarbons utilizing a single functional reagent in recent decades. The discussion is based on eight different radical classes (carbon‐, nitrogen‐, phosphine‐, oxygen‐, sulfur‐, selenium‐, tellurium‐, and chlorine‐centered radicals), emphasizing the mechanism of specific radical difunctionalization. It also analyzes in detail the regulation of key factors such as regional selectivity, and provides unique insights into reaction transformations.
Liquid Water Visualization in the Pt‐Loading Cathode Catalyst Layers of Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells Using Operando Synchrotron X‐ray Radiography
Authors: Yoshimune Wataru , Kato Akihiko , Hayakawa Tetsuichiro , Yamaguchi Satoshi , Kato Satoru
Published: July 2024

Water management is important for addressing the challenges posed by next‐generation fuel cell electric vehicles. Although X‐ray imaging techniques are useful for probing the mechanism of water transport in the gas diffusion layer of polymer electrolyte fuel cells, they cannot be easily applied to the Pt‐loading catalyst layer because of its low X‐ray transmittance due to the high absorption coefficient of Pt. Herein, a method to realize the high‐resolution X‐ray imaging of a 30 μm‐thick cathode catalyst layer in polymer electrolyte fuel cells using synchrotron X‐ray radiography is proposed, thus bridging the above gap. The results of operando synchrotron X‐ray radiography measurements reveal that water accumulation in the cathode catalyst layer depends on the cell temperature, feed gas humidity, and cell voltage, while time‐slice analysis shows that the water accumulation rate in the cathode catalyst layer immediately after the power generation is faster than that in the cathode gas diffusion layer. The proposed imaging method can be used to evaluate the water storage capacity of the catalyst layer and thus deepen the understanding of flooding phenomena and cold‐start behavior at subzero temperatures.
Hydrogen Spillover Mechanism at the Metal–Metal Interface in Electrocatalytic Hydrogenation
Authors: Li Yuefei , Li Linsen , Xu Shenglin , Cui Kai , Wang Tianshuai , Jiang Zhao , Li Jiayuan
Published: July 2024

Hydrogen spillover in metal‐supported catalysts can largely enhance electrocatalytic hydrogenation performance and reduce energy consumption. However, its fundamental mechanism, especially at the metal–metal interface, remains further explored, impeding relevant catalyst design. Here, we theoretically profile that a large free energy difference in hydrogen adsorption on two different metals (|ΔGH‐metal(i)−ΔGH‐metal(ii)|) induces a high kinetic barrier to hydrogen spillover between the metals. Minimizing the difference in their d‐band centers (Δϵd) should reduce |ΔGH‐metal(i)−ΔGH‐metal(ii)|, lowering the kinetic barrier to hydrogen spillover for improved electrocatalytic hydrogenation. We demonstrated this concept using copper‐supported ruthenium–platinum alloys with the smallest Δϵd, which delivered record high electrocatalytic nitrate hydrogenation performance, with ammonia production rate of 3.45±0.12 mmol h−1 cm−2 and Faraday efficiency of 99.8±0.2 %, at low energy consumption of 21.4 kWh kgamm−1. Using these catalysts, we further achieve continuous ammonia and formic acid production with a record high‐profit space.
Tandem Proton Transfer in Carboxylated Supramolecular Polymer for Highly Efficient Overall Photosynthesis of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Che Huinan , Yang Hongbin , Liu Bin , Ao Yanhui
Published: July 2024

Proton supply is as critical as O2 activation for artificial photosynthesis of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) via two‐electron oxygen reduction reaction (2e− ORR). However, proton release via water dissociation is frequently hindered because of the sluggish water oxidation reaction (WOR), extremely limiting the efficiency of photocatalytic H2O2 production. To tackle this challenge, carboxyl‐enriched supramolecular polymer (perylene tetracarboxylic acid—PTCA) is elaborately prepared by molecular self‐assembly for overall photosynthesis of H2O2. Interestingly, the interconversion between carboxyl as Brønsted acid and its conjugated base realizes rapid proton circulation. Through this efficient tandem proton transfer process, the spatial effect of photocatalytic reduction and oxidation reaction is greatly enhanced with reduced reaction barrier. This significantly facilitates 2e− photocatalytic ORR to synthesize H2O2 and in the meanwhile promotes 4e− photocatalytic WOR to evolve O2. Consequently, the as‐developed PTCA exhibits a remarkable H2O2 yield of 185.6 μM h−1 in pure water and air atmosphere under visible light illumination. More impressively, an appreciable H2O2 yield of 78.6 μM h−1 can be well maintained in an anaerobic system owing to in situ O2 generation by 4e− photocatalytic WOR. Our study presents a novel concept for artificial photosynthesis of H2O2 via constructing efficient proton transfer pathway to enable rapid proton circulation.