bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Nested Texture on a Landing-Judgment Task
Authors: Reardon Kimberly A.
Published: July 2017

Nested texture can be described as smaller units embedded within larger units or forms within forms (Gibson, 1966). This is reflected in real scenes, e.g., as one moves toward a surface the eye resolves more detail. With the advent of high-fidelity simulators we can now generate a hierarchy of texture patterns that emerge as a function of altitude, but how this affects pilot performance is unclear. This study examined the effect of nested texture with four types of displays in a landing-judgment task. Subjects viewed a simulated landing approach to a runway which stopped in “mid air” and were asked to indicate where they would land if they continued on the same path. Results show that when texture was nested as a function of altitude, performance was not significantly better than when texture was constant throughout the trial. Display type affected performance with subjects perceiving their aimpoint further down the runway as complexity of the texture increased. The landing-judgment study should be followed up with an active-control task before recommendations for visual displays are made.
American and Japanese Control-Display Stereotypes: Possible Implications for Design of Space Station Systems
Authors: Wong Clifford K. , Lyman John
Published: July 2017

This study examined the stimulus-response stereotypes of American (United States citizens) and Japanese (Japanese citizens) subjects on the issue of control-display arrangements. Three questions were investigated. First, do Japanese and Americans operators adhere to the same compatibility principles, e.g., clockwise-for-increase, for certain configurations? Second, do the operators show similar or different responses to certain configurations? Third, are there arrangements in which both populations show strong or weak stimulus-response stereotypes? A paper and pencil test that contained 24 different control-display configurations was administered to 58 American subjects and 58 Japanese subjects, all of whom were right-handed. Out of the 24 configurations, only one elicited similar and statistically significant response stereotypes from American and Japanese subjects. The arrangement that did so emphasized that three compatibility principles (clockwise-for-increase, nearness of control-cursor relation, and scale-side) be in agreement with each other. The results provide initial, albeit speculative, guidelines for the design of control-display systems in NASA's international space station. Since multicultural crews will inhabit the space station for long duration missions, control-display designs which elicit common, consistent, and extremely strong control-movement stereotypes from different cultural populations is a necessity.
Predicting Information Retrieval Performance
Authors: Peters Robert D. , Yastrop Gloria T. , Boehm-Davis Deborah A.
Published: July 2017

This research examined the effects two different cognitive individual differences (perceptual speed and spatial scanning) on information retrieval performance under two matched and two mismatched database format/query conditions. A graphic and a tabular form of an airline database were constructed, along with questions that required users to search through the database to determine the correct response. Two types of questions were designed - graphic and tabular. The data indicate that users are faster when the format of the information in the database matches the type of information needed to answer the question and that cognitive individual differences are differentially predictive of performance in the matched and mismatched conditions. Recommendations for database design are presented.
Deriving Menu Structures through Modal Block Clustering: A Promising Alternative to Hierarchical Techniques
Authors: Shurtleff Mark S. , Jenkins Joseph A. , Sams Michelle R.
Published: July 2017

Modal block clustering (MBC) is proposed as an approach more suited to the derivation of menu structures than hierarchical clustering techniques. Problems with the application of hierarchical techniques and pairwise similarity ratings (PWSR) from which the clusters are derived are discussed. MBC defines clusters based on the pattern of common command attributes and provides an objective way to determine the composition and number of menu panels to include in a menu structure. The method also objectively defines command redundancy for the menu panels. The method of MBC was applied to the 97 commands that comprise the CMS operating system resulting in 17 menu categories. The menu categories were used to design a help menu system. The MBC procedure provides a viable methodology for complex systems, such as CMS, which derive increased functionality from numerous command options. System designers can fruitfully and efficiently apply this methodology both to current systems and to proposed systems for which there are no expert users.
Teaching User Interface Development to Software Engineers
Authors: Perlman Gary
Published: July 2017

Most software engineers have weak backgrounds in areas where human factors engineers are strong: task analysis, applied psychology, and empirical evaluation. Software engineers can become better builders of user interfaces if they are instructed in these techniques, and that is the main goal of the Software Engineering Institute's graduate curriculum module on user interface development. Parts of the module provide instruction about when, where, and how consultants such as human factors engineers can contribute to the design and evaluation of user interfaces. It is critical that human factors engineers understand how they can contribute during development, so that they can have the greatest positive impact.
Hypertext: A Human Interface Frontier
Authors: Bair James , Kearsley Greg , Kochavy Yoram , Nicol Anne , Trigg Randall
Published: July 2017

This panel discusses the human interface considerations associated with hypertext. Panelists will present empirical, observational, or anecdotal data based upon their experiences with hypertext systems and users.
Consumers' Information Processing Objectives and Effects of Product Warnings
Authors: deTurck Mark A. , Goldhaber Gerald M.
Published: July 2017

Based on human information processing theory it was hypothesized that consumers' information processing objective would influence the amount of time they devoted to examining product labels, their memory for product safety information, and as a result, the likelihood they would comply with safety recommendations. More specifically, it was expected that compared to consumers with an impression-set processing objective, consumers with a memory-set processing objective would: 1) devote more time to examining product labels; 2) recall more safety-related information; and 3) be more likely to comply with safety recommendations. Results provided unequivocal support for the first two hypotheses and only partial support for the third hypothesis.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) System Interface Attributes: Survey and Analyses
Authors: Wilson Denise L. , Kuperman Gilbert G. , Crawford Robyn L. , Perez William A.
Published: July 2017

This study represents a first phase in the design of a human factors tool for artificial intelligence (AI) system assessment. Desirable attributes of AI interfaces were identified as a result of a review of the literature. A questionnaire was developed where explicit definitions were presented for 17 selected attributes. Nineteen AI system developers rated the attributes under four different context conditions: (1) no context (i.e., general application); (2) a bomber crew system; (3) a command and control station; and (4) an intelligence analyst position. Examination of the ratings showed that attributes associated with communication and education aspects of AI were given the lowest ratings, whereas attributes pertaining to tasks which impose a high level of time stress received the highest ratings of importance. The ratings data were subjected to Multidimensional Scaling (MDS) analyses where the following dimensions were determined: (1) tasks performed principally by the system versus tasks requiring system-human communication; and (2) system attributes that principally require algorithmic interpretation versus those that require a high level of AI capabilities.
A Militarized System with Complete Control Exercised without Hardware Switches
Authors: Maher Michael
Published: July 2017

This paper describes the Man-Machine Interface for a militarized radar system. The interface strives to achieve high reliability in terms of both hardware and operator performance, and allows a single operator the ability to control all aspects of the radar system. To accomplish this, a computer controlled touch input design has been assembled, is being tested, and can be fielded in the early 1990's. Reduction in operator fatigue and increases in operator proficiency are combined with the capabilities to minimize required training time and money, provide a system capable of cost effective updates and growth along with the ability for rapid, real time reconfiguration due to failed electronics or changing battlefield conditions.
Test and Evaluation of a Zero-G Treadmill Restraint System
Authors: Klute Glenn K. , Rodriguez Albert , Johnson Lyndon B.
Published: July 2017

Manned spaceflight missions result in human exposure to reduced gravity environments, during which the human body undergoes some pronounced physiological changes. Exercise has been identified as a practical and operationally acceptable countermeasure to the physiological responses to “zero-gravity”. At the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Johnson Space Center, a new treadmill is under development for use on Shuttle flights. One of the main challenges of this project is the development of an effective restraint system. The restraint system must place a body weight load on the subject while the subject exercises in zero-gravity. Additionally, the restraint system must allow the subject to exercise in zero-gravity at various percent grades (treadmill slopes). This paper discusses the restraint system of a prototype treadmill and zero-gravity test results. The results indicate the manually operated, prototype restraint system has some limitations and that a real-time feedback system utilizing a servo operated adjustment mechanism would significantly enhance performance.
The Effects of Age and Target Location Uncertainty on Decision Making in a Simulated Driving Task
Authors: Ranney Thomas A. , Simmons Lucinda A. S.
Published: July 2017

Spatial localization has been identified as an age-sensitive process in selective attention. Because visual search in driving involves uncertainty concerning the location of information necessary for maneuvering decisions, an experiment was conducted to examine the effects of age and target location uncertainty on a simulated driving task. Seventeen younger subjects (aged 30 to 45 years) and 13 older subjects (aged 65 to 75 years) completed three tasks including two reaction-time tasks and a simulated driving task. The reaction-time tasks included three conditions (simple left, simple right, and two-choice) in a laboratory and in a stationary vehicle. The simulated driving task was conducted on a closed driving course while subjects sat in a stationary vehicle. Subjects were required to select one of two lanes using information presented either on a changeable-message sign or on traffic signals. In the high-certainty condition, subjects were told where to look for relevant information; in the low-certainty condition, they were told that information could appear in either place. Response times were measured from sign or traffic signal onset to the subject's activation of the vehicle turn signal. The results indicated small, non-significant differences between age groups for the reaction-time tasks. Significant age-related differences were found in the simulated lane-selection task. Older subjects were 15% slower overall than the younger subjects. Uncertainty concerning the location of relevant information slowed decision-making speed for all subjects, but proportionately more for the older subjects (16% versus 11% for the younger age group). Uncertainty slowed responses to the changeable message sign more than to traffic signals for subjects in both age groups. The results are consistent with the spatial localization hypothesis, and suggest that older drivers may have more difficulty than younger drivers locating targets in visual search while driving. The results also suggest that effective use of changeable-message signs requires placement in locations with high expectancy, and allowing drivers sufficient time to locate the sign before reading the scrolling message.
A Model of Mechanisms Mediating Spatial Pattern Perception
Authors: Cannon Mark W.
Published: July 2017

A model consisting of multiple tuned and oriented spatial filters followed by non-linear transducer functions is described. The model was originally derived to account for human perception of contrast while viewing isolated stimuli. The model can also account for human estimates for the image sharpness of spatially filtered real world scenes. The model has several shortcomings uncovered by recent experimental results involving suppression of the apparent contrast of a foveally presented grating patch by a peripheral grating.
Effects of Stimulus Complexity and Cognitive Style on Spontaneous Interpretations of Line Graphs
Authors: Carswell C. Melody , Emery Cathy
Published: July 2017

Thirty adult subjects studied each of eighteen single-function line graphs for self-determined periods. The structural complexity of the stimulus graphs was varied in three ways: through addition of data points, reversal of trends, and elimination of symmetry. Subjects provided written interpretations immediately following examination of each graph. Indirect indices of comprehensibility (i.e., increased graph study times and increased content in the written interpretations) suggested that trend reversals were the primary determinant of complexity. While the number of data points and the presence or absence of symmetry were not associated with longer study times or greater overall content production, varying these structural features did lead to strategic shifts in the interpretive emphasis on global versus local features of the graphically-displayed data. Specifically, the presence of symmetry or the addition of data points led to increases in global content and decreases in local content. Lastly, cognitive style of subjects was systematically related to graphical interpretation. Impulsive subjects were less likely than reflective subjects to interpret local features of the graph, and were also less sensitive to variation in structural characteristics.
A Patient Identification System for Area Health Records
Authors: Coote Anna , Prior Tracy
Published: July 2017

The advent of area health boards in NSW created a need for patient identification systems to incorporate information held in several data bases. The concept of a unique health identifier system is outlined, including detail of record location, number issuing, privacy issues and implementation. The Illawarra Health Region experience of an area patient master index and an area record is described. (AMRJ 1988, 18(4), 145–149)
Adopt an MRA — An Education Program for Clinicians
Authors: Nicolaou Vicki , Turville Amanda
Published: July 2017

The ‘Adopt an MRA’ program aims to facilitate communication between clinicians and Medical Record Administrators (MRAs) regarding medical record documentation, coding, DRG assignment and general casemix issues, within the realms of a 650 bed Sydney Teaching Hospital. This paper aims to provide the reader with some insight into the background, processes and outcomes of the program.
Characterization of potential drug targeting folate transporter proteins from Eukaryotic Pathogens
Authors: Falade Mofolusho O. , Otarigho Benson
Published: July 2017

Background: Medically important pathogens are responsible for the death of millions every year. For many of these pathogens, there are limited options for therapy and resistance to commonly used drugs is fast emerging. The availability of genome sequences of many eukaryotic microbes is providing critical biological information for understanding parasite biology and identifying new drug and vaccine targets. 

Methods: We developed automated search strategies in the Eukaryotic Pathogen Database Resources (EuPathDB) to construct a protein list and retrieve protein sequences of folate transporters encoded in the genomes of 200 eukaryotic microbes. The folate transporters were categorized according to features including mitochondrial localization, number of transmembrane helix, and protein sequence relatedness. 

Results: We identified 234 folate transporter proteins associated with 63 eukaryotic microbes including 48 protozoa, 13 fungi the others being algae and bacteria. Phylogenetic analysis placed 219 proteins into a major clade and 15 proteins into a minor clade. All the folate transporter sequences from the malaria parasite, Plasmodium, belonged to the major clade. The identified folate transporters include folate-binding protein YgfZ, folate/pteridine transporter, folate/biopterin transporter, reduced folate carrier family protein and folate/methotrexate transporter FT1. About 60% of the identified proteins are reported for the first time. Phylogeny computation shows the similarity of the proteins identified. 

Conclusion: These findings offer new possibilities for potential drug development targeting folate-salvage proteins in eukaryotic pathogens.
Coronary CT angiography in acute chest pain
Authors: Goyal Nikhil , Stillman Arthur
Published: July 2017

Coronary computed tomographic angiography has become a reliable diagnostic tool in the evaluation of patients with chest pain. Studies have shown this modality to be accurate and safe when compared with conventional methods of assessing patients with chest pain. We review the recent developments with coronary computed tomographic angiography and devote particular attention toward its application to triage patients in the emergency department.
Recent advances in understanding Listeria monocytogenes infection: the importance of subcellular and physiological context
Authors: David Daryl J. V. , Cossart Pascale
Published: July 2017

The bacterial pathogen Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) is the causative agent of listeriosis, a rare but fatal foodborne disease. During infection, Lm can traverse several host barriers and enter the cytosol of a variety of cell types. Thus, consideration of the extracellular and intracellular niches of Lm is critical for understanding the infection process. Here, we review advances in our understanding of Lm infection and highlight how the interactions between the host and the pathogen are context dependent. We discuss discoveries of how Lm senses entry into the host cell cytosol. We present findings concerning how the nature of the various cytoskeleton components subverted by Lm changes depending on both the stage of infection and the subcellular context. We present discoveries of critical components required for Lm traversal of physiological barriers. Interactions between the host gut microbiota and Lm will be briefly discussed. Finally, the importance of Lm biodiversity and post-genomics approaches as a promising way to discover novel virulence factors will be highlighted.
The problem of demand for psychological services for employees of the ministry of internal Affairs and the population
Authors: Петров  , Petrov Vladislav , Мальцева  , Maltseva Tatyana
Published: July 2017

The article is devoted to the problem of obtaining psychological services by employees of the ministry of internal Affairs bodies. Set out for the provision of psychological services as a freelance (independent) experts, pricing and features of advertising, stereotypes in choosing a psychologist. Currently, employees in a less degree than the civilian population ready to applying for a paid psychological services. The material emphasizes the special importance of the development and improvement of the Institute of psychologists of the bodies of internal Affairs.
The development of Lymphoedema Network Wales to improve care
Authors: Thomas Melanie J , Morgan Karen
Published: July 2017

Lymphoedema Network Wales was developed in 2011, after receiving a £1 million recurring investment from the Welsh Government to implement its Lymphoedema Strategy. This article describes the creation of the network and the importance of capturing performance data. It will also provide information on the three programmes of work, covering service development, education and research, and innovations and technology. Within Wales, the focus of lymphoedema service delivery is on ‘prudent health care’, working with patients for patients and only doing what is necessary to gain a good result. Centring our service on evidence-based practice is vital to ensure achievable patient outcomes. The network has grown considerably over the past 6 years and is recognised as a forward-thinking and proactive service.
World Health Organization: providing global leadership for patient safety
Authors: Tingle John
Published: July 2017

John Tingle, Reader in Health Law at Nottingham Trent University, discusses a recent publication from the World Health Organization on making health care safer
Amputation predictors in diabetic foot ulcers treated with hyperbaric oxygen
Authors: Kaplan S.T. , Hemsinli D. , Kaplan S. , Arslan A.
Published: July 2017

Objective:

Although hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has long been used for diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), its effectiveness is still controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of HBOT in the management of DFUs and identify amputation predictors.

Method:

Patients with chronic DFUs (Wanger grade 2–5) were included in the study, which took place between January 2010 and December 2012. HBOT, 100% oxygen, 2.4 atmosphere absolute (ATA) for 120 minutes, was administered to all patients in addition to standard treatment. DFUs were monitored for at least 3 years, or until healing or amputation occurred.

Results:

Patients with a total of 146 chronic DFUswere recruited. Complete healing (69.6%) and significant improvement (17.9%) was observed in 87.5% of the patients. The cases with no improvement resulted in amputation (minor amputation: 15.0%; major amputation: 8.2%). The duration of diabetes (p=0.037), new wound formation (p=0.045), C-reactive protein (p=0.001) and Wagner grade (p=0.0001) were correlated with amputation in multiple regression analysis. Mortality was higher in the amputation group than in the non-amputation group (47.1 % versus 21.4 %, p=0.007).

Conclusion:

The inclusion of HBOT with standard treatment and a multidisciplinary approach may be useful in the treatment of DFUs. We found the most important predictors of amputation to be Wagner grade and wound infection. Multicentre, prospective, randomised studies are needed to provide more evidence.
Multi-level spine endoscopy
Authors: Middleton Scott D. , Wagner Ralf , Gibson J. N. Alastair
Published: July 2017

In the last ten years, there has been an exponential increase in endoscopic spinal surgery practice. With improvements in equipment quality and the availability of high definition camera systems, cervical endoscopic disc resection is now a viable alternative to anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) or disc arthroplasty for the treatment of disc prolapse and low grade stenosis. Based on the current literature, there is now strong evidence to support the use of transforaminal endoscopic approaches for the treatment of thoracic disc prolapse. There is now level I evidence to show that outcomes following transforaminal endoscopic discectomy (TED) are at least equivalent to those after open microdiscectomy, with an expected shorter operating time, lesser requirement for analgesia, reduced duration of post-operative disability, more rapid rehabilitation and lower costs of care. However, it should be recognised that there is a significant learning curve for TED. New endoscopic techniques with interlaminar approaches allow the decompression of central and lateral recess stenosis. Future developments will facilitate vision and access to the spine with 3D imaging and robotics at the forefront. We present a case report of whole spine endoscopic decompression to illustrate the potential of endoscopic surgery at all spinal levels.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2017;2:317-323. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.2.160087
Simplified Numerical Modeling of Energy Distribution in a Chinese Solar Greenhouse
Authors: Xu Hui , Zhang Yue , Li Tianlai , Wang Rui
Published: July 2017

Abstract.

Solar greenhouses are widely used in northeast China to grow vegetables in winter. The energy consumption and distribution were determined in field experiments using a solar greenhouse in northeast China by monitoring the environmental factors inside and outside. Each surface inside greenhouse irradiated with incoming solar radiation was calculated. The greenhouse temperature including the front roof, north roof, north wall, canopy, and soil was calculated based on daily meteorological variables forecast by simulation modeling of each part and comparing with the results obtained using individual meteorological data under greenhouse conditions. Chinese greenhouse day and night energy consumption was calculated and compared. During the coldest days, the conduction energy reached 45% by day and 54% at night. The front roof accounted for the conduction energy loss (day: 54%, night: 68%). When the indoor temperature of the greenhouse was maintained above 15°C, the best time for greenhouse heating was around 5 a.m. and total coal consumption in three months was approximately 5.1 t. Results show that this numerical model simulated the various paths of greenhouse energy flow and heating processes. We estimated the specific daily coal consumption to define a comprehensive heating strategy. Keywords: Chinese greenhouse, Energy balance, Energy calculation model, Energy consumption analysis.
Liquid N and S Fertilizer Solutions Effects on the Mass, Chemical, and Shear Strength Properties of Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Residue
Authors: He Yuxin , Presley DeAnn R. , Tatarko John
Published: July 2017

Abstract.

To improve stand establishment in high crop residue situations, the utility of fertilizer to stimulate microbial decomposition of residue has been debated. Field experiments assessed winter wheat () straw decomposition under different fertilizer rates and application timings at three sites in western Kansas following wheat harvest in 2011 and 2012. Treatments included urea ammonium nitrate (UAN) applied at rates of 0, 22.4, 44.8, or 67.2 kg N ha-1 and ammonium thiosulfate (ATS) applied at rates of 16.8 or 33.6 kg S ha-1. Residue was collected and characterized for physical and chemical parameters. A double shear box apparatus instrumented with a load cell measured the energy required to cut wheat straw. Photomicrography and image analysis software were used to measure the cross-sectional area of each individual wheat straw after shearing, and these data were used to calculate shear stress and specific energy parameters. Total C and N contents were measured for bulk wheat straw samples from each plot. Some differences among treatments or timing of application were observed for each of the measured parameters. However, the results were inconsistent, and few sampling periods had significant differences in wheat straw decomposition indicators as compared to the no-fertilizer control. For example, fertilizer rate and timing of application during summer 2012 and fall 2013 at the Hays site had impacts on wheat straw shear stress at the break point. Across site years, earlier (fall) fertilizer application generally resulted in lower remaining residue mass as compared to spring application. However, there were no differences when compared to the no-fertilizer control. Multivariate and linear regressions suggested that N content and C:N ratio could explain the results observed with respect to treatment effects on winter wheat residue decomposition. Keywords: Liquid fertilizer, Residue decomposition, Shear stress, Specific energy.
Profile Soil Property Estimation Using a VIS-NIR-EC-Force Probe
Authors: Cho Yongjin , Sudduth Kenneth A. , Drummond Scott T.
Published: July 2017

Abstract.

Combining data collected in-field from multiple soil sensors has the potential to improve the efficiency and accuracy of soil property estimates. Optical diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) has been used to estimate many important soil properties, such as soil carbon, water content, and texture. Other common soil sensors include penetrometers that measure soil strength and apparent electrical conductivity (ECa) sensors. Previous field research has related these sensor measurements to soil properties such as bulk density, water content, and texture. A commercial instrument that can simultaneously collect reflectance spectra, ECa, and soil strength data is now available. The objective of this research was to relate laboratory-measured soil properties, including bulk density (BD), total organic carbon (TOC), water content (WC), and texture fractions to sensor data from this instrument. At four field sites in mid-Missouri, profile sensor measurements were obtained to 0.9 m depth, followed by collection of soil cores at each site for laboratory measurements. Using only DRS data, BD, TOC, and WC were not well-estimated (R2 = 0.32, 0.67, and 0.40, respectively). Adding ECa and soil strength data provided only a slight improvement in WC estimation (R2 = 0.47) and little to no improvement in BD and TOC estimation. When data were analyzed separately by major land resource area (MLRA), fusion of data from all sensors improved soil texture fraction estimates. The largest improvement compared to reflectance alone was for MLRA 115B, where estimation errors for the various soil properties were reduced by approximately 14% to 26%. This study showed promise for in-field sensor measurement of some soil properties. Additional field data collection and model development are needed for those soil properties for which a combination of data from multiple sensors is required. Keywords: NIR spectroscopy, Precision agriculture, Reflectance spectra, Soil properties, Soil sensing.
Dissolved Constituents in Agricultural Drainage Waters
Authors: Zimmerman Brett A , Kaleita Amy L
Published: July 2017

Abstract.

Efflux of dissolved solutes in agricultural subsurface drainage systems adversely affects the ecosystems of receiving waters, degrades soil fertility, and represents an economic loss to farmers. These solutes are frequently studied without regard to their associated ions, which play a fundamental role in their transport characteristics. In this study, we conducted a literature review to identify major dissolved constituents in agricultural drainage waters characteristic of central Iowa and pinpointed causes of variability in the leaching rate of these constituents. This literature review is complemented by a thorough field investigation that analyzes major solute concentrations with respect to seasonal conditions, common cropping systems, and relationships among ions. Results from this investigation reveal that primary dissolved constituents consist of bicarbonate, calcium, nitrate, magnesium, chloride, sodium, and sulfate (in order of decreasing ppm concentration). Analysis of seasonal drainage samples showed that bicarbonate, calcium, and magnesium were present at greater concentrations during the post-growing season, while nitrate and chloride concentrations were greatest during the growing season. Seasonal variability of sulfate and sodium was negligible. Continuous corn and corn in annual rotation with soybeans had greater magnesium and chloride concentrations than soybeans in annual rotation with corn. Conversely, calcium concentrations were greater for soybean cropping systems compared to corn cropping systems. Bicarbonate and nitrate were not significantly different among any of the cropping systems. A strong correlation between bicarbonate and calcium suggests that agricultural lime dissolution was caused by mineral weathering, rather than by acidification due to N fertilizer applications or nitrification. An analysis of observed drainage flows, pH, and temperatures suggested that these parameters were not good indicators of differences in ionic composition. Keywords: Bicarbonate, Dissolved ions, Nitrate, pH, Subsurface drainage.
Predictive Control of Induction Motor Drive Using dSPACE Platform
Authors: Karlovský Pavel , Lettl Jiří
Published: July 2017

Recently, the induction motor drives have become very popular in the area of controlled drives. Nowadays, a great effort is put on increasing their efficiency. The most widely used control method is the direct torque control (DTC). However, this method suffers from the torque ripple and current waveform distortion. The modification using predictive algorithms is becoming a popular approach. This paper presents a predictive control on the dSPACE DS1103 system and compares the method with DTC.
Old Country Passions: An International Examination of Country Image, Animosity, and Affinity among Ethnic Consumers
Authors: Papadopoulos Nicolas , Banna Alia El , Murphy Steven A.
Published: July 2017

Ethnic consumers are an important market segment in both traditionally multicultural countries and newer destinations of growing immigration waves. Such consumers may carry with them “old country passions” that may influence their attitudes toward the products of countries perceived as friendly or hostile in relation to the consumers’ original home countries. This study is the first to examine together four place-related constructs—namely, country and people images, product images, affinity, and animosity—and their potential effects on purchase intentions for products from countries that may be perceived as friends or foes from the perspective of the ethnic consumers’ homeland, while also juxtaposing these measures against views toward a neutral “benchmark” country for comparison. The results show that country/people and product images, affinity, and animosity work differently depending on the target country; both affective and cognitive factors influence product and people evaluations; and attitudes vary in their predictive ability on purchase intentions. The article concludes with a discussion implications from the findings and directions for further research.
Semi-Analytical Solution for Free Vibration Differential Equations of Curved Girders
Authors: Song Y. , Chai X.
Published: July 2017

In this paper, a semi-analytical solution for free vibration differential equations of curved girders is proposed based on their mathematical properties and vibration characteristics. The solutions of in-plane vibration differential equations are classified into two cases: one only considers variable separation of non-longitudinal vibration, while the other is a synthesis method addressing both longitudinal and non-longitudinal vibration using Rayleigh’s modal assumption and variable separation method. A similar approach is employed for the out of- plane vibration, but further mathematical operations are conducted to incorporate the coupling effect of bending and twisting. In this case study, the natural frequencies of a curved girder under different boundary conditions are obtained using the two proposed methods, respectively. The results are compared with those from the finite element analysis (FEA) and results show good convergence.
Friction and Wear Behavior of 201HT Cast Aluminum Alloy with Various Competitive Material
Authors: Li R. , Chen L. J. , Su M. , Zeng Q. , Li H. , Liu Y.
Published: July 2017

The friction and wear properties of 201HT aluminum alloys and the corresponding competitive coupons were tested on an electrohydraulic servo face friction and wear testing machine (MM-U10G). The microstructures of the competitive coupons were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and consequently the corresponding friction and wear mechanisms were studied. The results demonstrated that: (1) the best competitive material of friction and wear performance of the 201HT was the 201HTC. (2) the 201HTC modified by carbon following the initial mill for oil storage of the micro-groove to be produced, increased the corresponding lubrication performance reduced the friction coefficient and wear rate effectively. (3) the 201HT-201HTC could obtain both better friction and wear mainly due to the initial process of grinding following the 201HT plastic deformation occurred in the surface and the formation of a series of re-melting welding points, whereas the 201HT material hardness would be similar to the 201HTC material hardness, which led into the competitive material friction and wear performance improvement.
Surface Analysis of Railway Buffers Heads Covered with Bronze Using Laser Cladding
Authors: Sitarz M. , Kurc-Lisiecka A. , Gamon W.
Published: July 2017

Railway buffers during the operation are staying in almost permanent contact with each other, creating friction node in the point of contact of two railway buffer heads. In consequence of overcoming track curves, turnouts and unevenness of track, the railway buffer heads moves relative to each other causing friction, which results in its wear. When the wear is excessive, it might be a reason to withdrawn vehicle from service, it causes flattening of buffer head, and in consequence its abnormal cooperation. To avoid this phenomenon the buffer heads should be covered with graphitized grease, but this method has many disadvantages. Accordingly, it was found that it would be beneficial to cover the buffer head with bronze using laser cladding. In this article the metallographic and mechanical analysis of the newly created top layer of railway buffer head are presented. In article the results from tribological tests conducted on Amsler test bench are also presented. Based on test results described in article concluded that the layer of bronze coat on working surface of railway buffer head can be beneficial from operational point of view.
Effect of Sr and Ti Addition on the Corrosion Behaviour of Al-7Si-0.3Mg Alloy
Authors: Uludağ M. , Kocabaş M. , Dışpınar D. , Çetin R. , Cansever N.
Published: July 2017

In the present study, the corrosion behaviour of A356 (Al-7Si-0.3Mg) alloy in 3.5% NaCl solution has been evaluated using cyclic/potentiodynamic polarization tests. The alloy was provided in the unmodified form and it was then modified with AlTi5B1 for grain refinement and with AlSr15 for Si modifications. These modifications yield to better mechanical properties. Tensile tests were performed. In addition, bifilm index and SDAS values were calculated and microstructure of the samples was investigated. As a result of the corrosion test, the Ecorr values for all conditions were determined approximately equal, and the samples were pitted rapidly. The degassing of the melt decreased the bifilm index (i.e. higher melt quality) and thereby the corrosion resistance was increased. The lowest corrosion rate was founded at degassing and as-received condition (3.9x10-3mm/year). However, additive elements do not show the effect which degassing process shows.
Analysis of Crystallization Process of Intensive Cooled AlSi20CuNiCoMg Alloy
Authors: Władysiak R. , Kozuń A. , Dębowska K. , Pacyniak T.
Published: July 2017

The work is a continuation of research concerning the influence of intensive cooling of permanent mold in order to increase the casting efficiency of aluminium alloys using the multipoint water mist cooling system. The paper presents results of investigation of crystallization process and microstructure of multicomponent synthetic hypereutectic alloy AlSi20CuNiCoMg. The study was conducted for unmodified silumin on the research station allowing the cooling of the special permanent sampler using a program of computer control. Furthermore, the study used a thermal imaging camera to analyze the solidification process of multicomponent alloy. The study demonstrated that the use of mold cooled with water mist stream allows in wide range to form the microstructure of hypereutectic multicomponent silumin. It leads to higher homogeneity of microstructure and refinement of crystallizing phases of casting.
Primary Structure and Mechanical Properties of AlSi2 Alloy Continuous Ingots
Authors: Wróbel T. , Szajnar J. , Bartocha D. , Stawarz M.
Published: July 2017

The paper presents the research results of horizontal continuous casting of ingots of aluminium alloy containing 2% wt. silicon (AlSi2). Together with the casting velocity (velocity of ingot movement) we considered the influence of electromagnetic stirring in the area of the continuous casting mould on refinement of the ingot’s primary structure and their selected mechanical properties, i.e. tensile strength, yield strength, hardness and elongation. The effect of primary structure refinement and mechanical properties obtained by electromagnetic stirring was compared with refinement obtained by using traditional inoculation, which consists in introducing additives, i.e. Ti, B and Sr, to the metal bath. On the basis of the obtained results we confirmed that inoculation done by electromagnetic stirring in the range of the continuous casting mould guarantees improved mechanical properties and also decreases the negative influence of casting velocity, thus increasing the structure of AlSi2 continuous ingots.
Comparative Calculation of the Fuel–Optimal Operating Strategy for Diesel Hybrid Railway Vehicles
Authors: Leska Maik , Aschemann Harald , Melzer Michael , Meinert Michael
Published: July 2017

In contrast to road-based traffic, the track as well as the corresponding duty cycle for railways are known beforehand, which represents a great advantage during the development of operating strategies for hybrid vehicles. Hence the benefits of hybrid vehicles regarding the fuel consumption can be exploited by means of an off-line optimisation. In this article, the fuel-optimal operating strategy is calculated for one specified track using two hybrid railway vehicles with different kinds of energy storage systems: on the one hand, a lithium-ion battery (high-energy storage) and, on the other, a double layer capacitor (high-power storage). For this purpose, control-oriented simulation models are developed for each architecture addressing the main effects contributing to the longitudinal dynamics of the power train. Based on these simulation models, the fuel-optimal operating strategy is calculated by two different approaches: Bellman’s dynamic programming, a wellknown approach in this field, and an innovative sensitivity-based optimisation.
Silver Cation Coordination Study to AsW9 Ligand – A Trilacunar Arsenotungstate Compound
Authors: Berta Lavinia , Gâz Andrei , Boda Francisc , Curticapean Augustin
Published: July 2017

Objective: The main objective of this research is to find the coordination ratio between AsW9and Ag+, as a preliminary study for synthesizing a new silver-arsenotungstate complex. Material and method: The ligand:cation molar ratio in complexes was determined by conductometric and potentiometric titrations of AsW9with silver salts: CH3COOAg, AgNO3. Results: The ratio was obtained from the inflexion points of the curves when molar ratio was plotted versus conductivity, or from the equivalence point when silver added volume was plotted versus pH value. Each graphic shows one point of inflexion corresponding to 1:1.54 ratio of AsW9:Ag+. In the same manner, the equivalent volumes determined by graphical method gave the ratio 1:1.53. The spectral results confirmed that a AsW9:Ag+complex was formed since the ligand absorption maxima values have been changed from 190 nm to 197 nm in the case of using AgNO3and 196 nm for CH3COOAg corresponding to the W=Odbond, and from 246.5 nm to 274 nm (AgNO3) and 270 nm (CH3COO-Ag+) for the W-Ob,c-W bond. Conclusions: Silver cation exhibit a preference for AsW9in a ratio of 3 to 2. This ratio can be associated to a sandwich type arrangement, with two trilacunary Keggin building blocks incorporating 3 metal cations in a tetrahedral geometry.
Analytical Methodologies for the Stereoselective Determination of Sibutramine: An Overview
Authors: Vlad Alexandru Robert , Hancu Gabriel , Kelemen Hajnal , Ciurcă Diana , Tero-Vescan Amelia
Published: July 2017

Sibutramine is a chiral anti-obesity drug which decreases food intake and increases energy expenditure. In therapy it is used as a racemic mixture; however both pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data have revealed enantioselective behavior of sibutramine and its major active metabolites. Several chromatographic and electrophoretic analytical methods have been published so far for the chiral determination of sibutramine from pharmaceutical preparations and biological samples. The current paper aims to provide a systematic review of the stereochemical aspects and analytical methods used for the enantiodetermination of sibutramine and its active enantiomers covering the last 15 years.
Functioning of the Local Groups of Action (LAG) in the Aspects of Sustainable Rural Development Policy
Authors: Michalcewicz-Kaniowska Małgorzata , Zajdel Małgorzata , Toader Cosmina-Simona
Published: July 2017

In recent years rural areas of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie voivodship have seen very significant changes, especially with the participation of the Rural Development Program 2007-2013. The aim of the article was to diagnose the factors determining the implementation and management of the Leader 2007-2013 program in the institutional and personnel aspect in the Kujawsko-Pomorskie voivodeship, and to diagnose the functioning of the Local Action Groups as the actors responsible for shaping the regional and local sustainable rural development policy, RDP 2007-2013 program. As a result of the research, there is a need to continue research leading to an assessment of the effectiveness of LAG activities and the creation of local leaders, which may have a significant impact on local community participation in moderating local development.
Use of Private Sector Dynamism in Japanese Public Library: Ebina City Central Library
Authors: Hirose Yoko
Published: July 2017

There has been increasing discussion in Japan regarding the use of private sector dynamism for public library management. This article focuses on Ebina City Central Library, Kanagawa, Japan. The library is managed by a private company in accordance with the “Designated Manager System”, one of the Government’s means of private sector use. Since renovation in Oct 2015, the library receives 56,000 visits monthly, an increase of 170 % compared to before. This article covers its service characteristics and the challenges for the future.
Licea parasitica (Myxomycetes) new to Belarus
Authors: Tsurykau Andrei
Published: July 2017

Licea parasitica (Zukal) G.W.Martin is reported new to Belarus. It was recorded in two localities, growing on both tree bark and epiphytic lichens in young Scots pine plantations in Gomel region, the south-eastern Belarus.