bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermographic Camera Use in Brake Oriented Friction Materials Tests / Użycie Kamery Termowizyjnej w Badaniach Hamulcowych Materiałów Ciernych
Authors: Skorupka Zbigniew
Published: May 2018

Friction brake temperature due to its influence on brakes’ operation is subject to many test and studies. Measurements methods of this important brake parameter are being continuously developed. In order to withstand difficulty in temperature evaluation in full brake system as well as in isolated friction pair is use of contactless measurement methods. Currently, the most widespread contactless testing method of the thermal effects is to measure infrared emission by pyrometers or thermographic (infrared) cameras. Thermal imaging method wasn’t used so far during aviation brake materials usefulness evaluation and certification testing performed in Instytut Lotnictwa Landing Gear Laboratory. In this paper, author described performed friction materials tests which were recorded with thermal imaging camera as well as evaluated usefulness of the method by comparing its accuracy to thermocouple measurement.
From Reliability to Resilience: Modern Challenges of Safety and Reliability Theory and Applications / Od Nieuszkadzalności Do Odporności: Współczesne Wyzwania Teorii i Inżynierii Niezawodności i Bezpieczeństwa
Authors: Nowakowski Tomasz
Published: May 2018

There are several trends of development of modern reliability theory; some of them are subjects of everyday engineering activity, like: quality control of mass production or “pure” reliability. But most of these issues, such as: effectiveness, survivability, safety, security, are currently the subject of many works of conceptual, modeling, case study or survey nature. The aim of this article is show how the performance requirements of technical objects were supplemented with: customer expectations (quality), abilities to prevent the loss of the object properties in operation time (reliability and maintainability), the effects of undesirable events and protection against them (safety and security) and the ability to restore performance (resilience).
Prioritizing Water Pipe Renewal Using Fuzzy Set Theory / Priorytetyzacja Odnowy Przewodów Wodociągowych z Zastosowaniem Teorii Zbiorów Rozmytych
Authors: Pietrucha-Urbanik Katarzyna
Published: May 2018

The aim of this paper is to present the novel approach to risk assessment in combination with failure and consequence analysis, depending on two parameters defined by the fuzzy functions: the repair time of water pipe and the cost of water pipe repair, what allow to determine particular risk levels. The presented methodology can be used to describe the functioning of the public water supply in terms of its renewal.
Perspective Correction For Image Processing
Authors: Oancea Romana , Bârsan Vlad , Molder Cristian
Published: May 2018

The paper proposes an algorithm for applying the perspective correction of images containing human faces. Based on the coordinates of the two eyes, of the center of the mouth and of a point on the line of the mouth, one can estimate the angle of inclination of the face. After applying the perspective correction, the area corresponding to the face can be used by a face recognition algorithm based on aspect in order to improve the good recognition rate.
Small Scale Test Method To Determine The Capacity Of The Ballistic Protection Materials To Mitigate The Blast Overpressure
Authors: Alil Luminiţa-Cristina , Matache Liviu , Badea Simona Maria , Ilie Florin
Published: May 2018

In order to design and implement ballistic protective equipment, several common stages in developing any product must be taken (technical studies, technological demonstrators, prototypes, etc.). The final stage should be the testing-assessing of development phase, followed by the homologation of the product obtained, which is a compulsory stage. In order to characterize the properties of shock waves passing through various materials and media (air, water, materials for ballistic protection), certain techniques and working procedures were established. The most common method is testing in the shooting range where the real conditions of a detonation can be faithfully reproduced. Such tests, however, despite being the most accurate and reliable way to check the shock waves mitigation properties of materials, in addition to being extremely dangerous activities, most often require expensive materials and full-scale structures. In the first stage of development, the new materials have to be selected through the small scale tests performed in laboratory. This paper presents one test procedure that could be used to determine the capacity of the ballistic protection materials to mitigate the effects of the shock wave in laboratory conditions and at low cost.
Uma avaliação do argumento ontológico modal de Plantinga
Authors: Faria Domingos
Published: May 2018

My aim in this paper is to critically assess Plantinga’s modal ontological argument for existence of God, such as it is presented in the book “The Nature of Necessity” (1974). Plantinga tries to show that this argument is (i) valid and (ii) it is rational to believe in his main premise, namely “there is a possible world in which maximal greatness is instantiated”. On the one hand, I want to show that this argument is logically valid in both systems B and S5 of modal logic. On the other hand, I think that this argument is not a good argument to show that God exists or that it is rational to believe in God.
Psychological Bases of the Foreign-Language Education of Seniors (Not Only) with Health Disability
Authors: de Morais Marianna Müller , Rapsová Lucia , Zimanová Radka
Published: May 2018

According to international documents, older people have a right to carry out and fully develop their abilities, skills and competences, as well as to have a dignified place and position in the society. Seniors with a certain kind of health disability have the same right as well. Due to this reason, it is indispensable and necessary to create suitable conditions for disabled seniors and to provide them a place for their personal development and self-fulfilment oriented on their fully valuable life in spite of their health disadvantage. The foreign-language education can be considered to be one of the possibilities of the self-fulfilment of seniors (not only) with health disability. Learning of a foreign language is an immanent part of education, however, it is necessary to keep certain specific features in the foreign-language education of this target group. This subject study is aimed on the analysis of psychological bases and chosen specific features of foreign-language education of seniors (not only) with health disability. It mentions chosen psycho-didactic aspects of the education of seniors (not only) with health disability. The study is an output of the authors from solving the research project of Scientific Grant Agency of the Ministry of Education, Science, Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic and the Slovak Academy of Sciences n.1/0176/15 called Paradigms in education of adults and seniors with disability in the residential care.
Res-E Support Policies in the Baltic States: Electricity Price Aspect (Part II)
Authors: Bobinaite V. , Priedite I.
Published: May 2018

Increasing volumes of electricity derived from renewable energy sources (RES-E) affect the electricity market prices and the prices for final electricity consumers in the Baltic States. The results of a multivariate regression analysis show that in 2013 the RES-E contributed to decreasing the electricity market prices in the Baltic States. However, the final electricity consumers pay for the promotion of RES-E through the approved RES-E component which has a tendency to increase. It is estimated that in 2013 the net benefits from the wind electricity promotion were achieved in Lithuania and Latvia while the net cost - in Estonia. This suggests that the economic efficiency of the wind electricity support scheme based on the application of feed-in tariffs was higher than that based on the feed-in premium.
Magnetic Field Gradiometer with Sub-Micron Spatial Resolution Based on Caesium Vapour in an Extremely Thin Cell
Authors: Auzinsh M. , Berzins A. , Ferber R. , Gahbauer F. , Kalnins U. , Rundans R. , Sarkisyan D.
Published: May 2018

In this paper we present a device for measuring the magnetic field and its gradient with a spatial resolution of several hundred nanometres. This device is based on caesium metal vapour confined to an extremely thin cell (ETC). To measure magnetic signals, we use absorption and very low laser powers, which might be appealing for modern fabrication techniques. A portable, fully automated device was constructed.
Vertical Handover Decision Algorithm for Heterogeneous Cellular-WLAN Networks
Authors: Polgár Zsolt Alfréd , Hosu Andrei Ciprian , Kiss Zsuzsanna Ilona , Varga Mihály
Published: May 2018

Multi-access and heterogeneous wireless communications are considered to be one of the solutions for providing generalized mobility, high system efficiency and improved user experience, which are important characteristics of the Next Generation Networks. This paper proposes a Vertical Handover (VHO) decision algorithm for heterogeneous network architectures which integrate both cellular networks and Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs). The cellular-WLAN and WLAN-WLAN VHO decisions are taken based on parameters which characterize both the coverage and the traffic load of the WLANs. Computer simulations performed in complex scenarios show that the proposed algorithm ensures better performance compared to “classical” VHO decision algorithms.
About the Profile Constancy by Curved Teeth Cylindrical Gear’s Cutter Head
Authors: Máté Márton , Gyéresi Hunor
Published: May 2018

Cylindrical gears with Archimedean spiral toothline represent a result of recent research. Similarly to the Öerlikon type bevel gears this type of gears cannot be grinded. This fact leads to the necessity of achieving best possible surface roughness while cutting using a specific cutter head. The paper presents the geometric model of the grinding technology applied for the main relief faces of the cutters and analyses the problems regarding the precision of the edge profile, its dependence with the technological setting parameters and the profile variation after the re-sharpenings. It concludes that the classic method of ground grinding allows a restricted number of resharpenings.
The Design of an Automated Plasma Diagnostic System – From Measurement to Signal Processing
Authors: Kutasi Nimród , Kenéz Lajos , Filep Emőd , Szöllösi István , Jakab Farkas László
Published: May 2018

The paper deals with the design of a new plasma diagnostic system consisting of a microcontroller based power supply for automatic control of the measurement using Langmuir probe, the communication interface of the power supply and the signal processing program.

The main motivation for the design of the automated plasma diagnostic system was given by our research in different methods of plasma nitriding of steels. During the nitriding process, it is important to achieve information about the plasma, which is the medium where the heat-treatment process is going on. The new diagnostic system is able to perform measurements during the nitriding process, thus we can analyze the plasma at different temperatures and gas mixtures. The obtained voltage-current curves are recorded and transmitted to the computer, where further signal processing is performed. The paper presents the design of the power supply, the measurement results and the developed signal processing software.
An Atlas Based Performance Evaluation of Inhomogeneity Correcting Effects
Authors: Lefkovits László , Lefkovits Szidónia , Vaida Mircea-Florin
Published: May 2018

In automated image processing the intensity inhomogeneity of MR images causes significant errors. In this work we analyze three algorithms with the purpose of intensity inhomogeneity correction. The well-known N3 algorithm is compared to two more recent approaches: a modified level set method, which is able to deal with intensity inhomogeneity and it is, as well, compared to an adaptation of the fuzzy c-means clustering with intensity inhomogeneity compensation techniques. We evaluate the outcomes of these three algorithms with quantitative performance measures. The measurements are done on the bias fields and on the segmented images. We consider normal brain images obtained from the Montreal Simulated Brain Database.
The Pannon Optimizier – A Linear Programming Solver for Research Purposes
Authors: Stágel Bálint , Tar Péter , Maros István
Published: May 2018

The simplex algorithm is one of the most widely used linear optimization algorithms. Although its history goes back to the 1950’s it is still an evergreen topic because it is usually the hidden computational engine behind other algorithms. Thus its performance heavily affects other optimization systems. The implementation of the simplex algorithm is not a trivial task. An efficient implementation uses very complex methods. Since most of the open-source systems can hardly be used for research purposes the development of a structured and well-documented system is relevant. In this talk we present our own state-of-the-art solver and our development experiences.
Religion and gender inequality: The status of women in the societies of world religions
Authors: Klingorová Kamila , Havlíček Tomáš
Published: May 2018

The status of women in society is very diverse worldwide. Among many important traits associated with the differentiation of gender inequality is religion, which itself must be regarded as a fluid concept with interpretations and practices ‘embedded’ and thus varying with respect to cultural and historical relations. Admitting the complexity of the issues, some religious norms and traditions can contribute to the formation of gender inequalities and to subordinate the role of women in society. Using an exploratory quantitative analysis, the influence of religiosity on gender inequality in social, economic and political spheres is examined. Three categories of states have emerged from the analysis: (a) states where the majority of inhabitants are without religious affiliation, which display the lowest levels of gender inequality; (b) Christian and Buddhist societies, with average levels of gender inequality; and (c) states with the highest levels of gender inequality across the observed variables, whose inhabitants adhere to Islam and Hinduism.
Regional differences in entrepreneurial perceptions and implications for the Romanian competitiveness policy
Authors: Nicolae Mariana , Ion Irina , Nicolae Elena
Published: May 2018

Understanding entrepreneurship as being spatially rooted transforms it in a regional and national competitiveness factor. Despite the increasing importance of the territorial dimension in supporting economic growth at policy and declarative levels, in practice, in Romania, the territorial structure and spatial organization of the economy contributes little to the national value added. In this context, we study regional differences in entrepreneurial initiative and perception and their possible impact on the national competitiveness strategy. We use primary data collected in three Romanian regions (Centre, North-East, Bucureşti-Ilfov) and conduct a statistical analysis of the data. The results indicate different comparative regional profiles. The regional differences in the intentions, motivations, barriers and limitation for entrepreneurship confirm the theoretical view that personal motivations of becoming an entrepreneur are determined by environmental conditions. We conclude that the regional differences should be taken into account in the elaboration of the competitiveness policy, corroborated with the results of other similar studies.
Rheumatoid Factor as a Potentiator of Anti-Citrullinated Protein Antibody-Mediated Inflammation in Early Undifferentiated Seronegative Osteoarthropathy
Authors: Spasovski Dejan , Genadieva-Stavric Sonja , Sotirova Tatjana , Brezovska-Kavrakova Julijana
Published: May 2018

Introduction. To compare the values and accuracy of the test in anticyclic citrullinated peptides antibodies, rheumatoid factor (RF), C-reactive protein (CRP) and disease activity index in early diagnosis of untreated psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Methods. Using the ELISA method of DIA-STATTM Anti CCP (Axis-Shield Diagnostics), sera of 70 participants were examined (35 untreated patients with PsA and 35 subjects from the healthy control group). RF and CRP were determined with the agglutination test (latex test). At the same time the sensitivity, specificity, predictive value for positive and negative testsand accuracy were determined.

Results. Of 35 patientswith PsA, 1 patient showed presence of anti-CCP antibodies (sensitivity test 2.86%), while RF was foundin 0 patients(sensitivity test 0%). In the healthy control group positivevalues for RF, CRP and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were detected in 1 patient.

Conclusion. ACPA antibodies have low sensitivity, but high specificity in PsA.
Anti-Vegf in Management of Macular Edema in Retinal Disease
Authors: Shekerinov Natasha T , Jordanova Vesna Dimovska , Bogoev Milco
Published: May 2018

Aim. To present new opportunities, clinical implications and benefits of the available VEGF therapy as a treatment of macular edema, which is a result of venous vascular occlusions, diabetic macular edema in diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration.

Background. The pathophysiology of macular edema is complex and various processes are involved in its development. It is actually an abnormal retinal capillary permeability and a disorder in the blood retinal barrier, which only increases the vascular permeability. This causes an expansion of the extracellular spaces, which leads to fluid accumulation, which additionally leads to macular thickening and eventual vision loss.

Methods. The studies included 40 patients, of whom17 was diagnosed with macular edema in diabetic retinopathy and were treated with anti-VEGF therapy. Also, there were 11 patients diagnosed with wet form of AMD, and 12 cases diagnosed with macular edema secondary to vein occlusion. This retrospective study of 18 months monitored the effects of visual acuity on Snellen chart and the effects of macula anatomy using Optical Coherent tomography /OCT/. All patients received intravitreal injection of Bevacizumab /Avastin/ of 1.25mg /0.04ml/ and were evaluated monthly or every 4 to 8weeks. We monitored the potential ocular and systematic side effects in all our cases.

Results. In the first group which included patients with edema due to venous vascular occlusion improvement of visual acuity in 58.33% patients, 25.0% showed no change in visual acuity and 16.66% showed slight worsening of 0.029 and regression of CMT entirely to 393.22 after 4.6 intravitreal injections on average. In the second group there was no improvement of VA 0.172 and reducing central macular thickness for 218.34μm by 5.6 intravitreal applications. The third group, 17 patients with macular edema due to diabetic retinopathy had stabilization of visual acuity, i.e. slight improvement in 8 of them by 0.14; and, in 9 and improvement of 0.21 and regression CMT, an average of 174.3 μm.

Although it has been shown that benefit of intravitreal use of Bevacizumab and improvement of visual acuity has not been always change hand in hand with the reduction of macular edema, the need for this kind of treatment in certain cases are needed to maintain stable CMT and VA in such patients.

Conclusion. Over the last few years monoclonal antibodies have become a standard therapy in treatment of wet form of AMD. Switch on anti-VEGF drugs has shown significant results in clinical and visual out-comes in patients with changes of the macula as a result of other disease. In fact, they caused a revolution in the treatment of refractory macular edema.
Cultural Institutes – Enablers of Sustainable Development
Authors: Oprean Constantin , Burdusel Eva Nicoleta , Qian Liu
Published: May 2018

The primary goal of this study is to examine the role of culture - as one of the most enduring, vital and long-lived components of sustainable development, with multifarious potential continuously explored and capitalized by individuals, communities or institutions. All definitions of the phrase sustainable development include culture as a sine-qua-non element that is also inextricably connected and interdependent with the other three pillars: economic, social and environmental. In this context of cultural centres worldwide, Confucius Institutes represent a successful and efficient managerial model by capitalizing on the most important resource of an organization: human capital.
Electrochemical behavior and conductivity measurements of electropolymerized selenophene-based copolymers
Authors: Alakhras Fadi
Published: May 2018

Electrochemical copolymerization of selenophene and thiophene was performed at a constant electrode potential. The obtained homopolymer films and copolymers were studied and characterized with cyclic voltammetry and conductivity measurements, from which conductivity values around 13.35 S · cm-1 were determined. The influence of the applied electropolymerization potential and the monomer feed ratio of selenophene and thiophene on the copolymers properties was investigated. The obtained copolymers showed good stability of the redox activity in an acetonitrile-based electrolyte solution. At higher polymerization potentials and at higher concentrations of thiophene in the feed, more thiophene units were incorporated into the copolymer chain. The conductivities of the copolymers were between those of homopolymers, implying that oxidation of both monomers was possible and the copolymer chains might accordingly be composed of both selenophene and thiophene units.
Evaluation of the acid properties of aluminossilicate MCM-22 material synthesized under static conditions
Authors: Rodrigues Meiry G. F. , Barbosa Antonielly S. , Coriolano Ana C. F. , Silva Edjane F. B. , Araujo Antonio S.
Published: May 2018

The hydrothermal synthesis of MCM-22 zeolite was carried out using silica, sodium aluminate and hexamethyleneimine, under static conditions at 150 °C for a period of 10 days, followed by washing with deionized water, drying overnight and calcination at 650 °C. The obtained material was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The XRD analysis evidenced that MCM-22 presented a well defined MWW structure. The FT-IR spectrum confirmed the efficiency of the hexamethyleneimine as an organic template used to direct the structure of the MCM-22 zeolite under static conditions. The SEM image indicated that the particles are spherical in shape, with a diameter of ca. 10 μm. The acid properties of the MCM-22 zeolite, as determined by n-buthylamine adsorption, were investigated in the temperature ranges of 105 to 300 °C and 300 to 525 °C, relative to medium and strong acid sites, respectively.
Investigation on room temperature photoluminescence of pure and aluminum doped zinc oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Srinivasan N. , Kannan J.C.
Published: May 2018

Pure and aluminum doped zinc oxide nanoparticles were prepared by soft chemical method. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by XRD, SEM-EDAX, UV-Vis, PL and FT-IR studies. XRD patterns revealed that the nanoparticles were crystallized in hexagonal wurtzite structure with an average particle size of 19 nm to 26 nm. The surface morphology was explored using SEM micrographs. The incorporation of aluminum was confirmed by EDAX and FT-IR studies. The band gaps of the particles were found from 3.48 eV to 3.53 eV through UV-Vis spectral studies. The defect related mechanism was investigated using PL measurements. The chemical functional groups in FT-IR spectra proved the formation of pure and aluminum doped zinc oxide nanoparticles.
Characterization of mechanical properties of barium titanate ceramics with different grain sizes
Authors: Trzepiecinski Tomasz , Gromada Magdalena
Published: May 2018

In this paper, three BaTiO3 powders of various particle size distributions were obtained as a result of mechanical activation in the mixer mill. Green barium titanate pellets and cylindrical specimens were fabricated by both uniaxial and isostatic pressing methods. As a result of the application of different maximal sintering temperatures, the obtained materials were characterized by various average grain sizes: 0.8 μm, 20 μm and 31.0 μm. The basic properties of sintered pellets and cylinders were determined and the influence of materials average grain size on their Young’s modulus and compressive strength were determined through compression tests in a uniaxial testing machine, Zwick/Roell Z100. The elastic properties were similar for tested materials with a different grain size. However, the microstructure of BaTiO3 strongly influenced the compressive strength.
Controllership Influences on the Restructuring of Slovenian Companies
Authors: Lebar Danijel , Kolar Iztok
Published: May 2018

Controllership, as an informational activity, is becoming a multidimensional function, about which numerous doubts exist as to whether to increase its independency and integrate it tightly with the decision-making process. Financial knowledge and business-analytical capabilities of carriers of controllership activity can offer support for operational, financial, and strategic restructuring. This is important when facing frequent business dynamics in order to enhance competitiveness and especially achieve short-term as well as strategic goals.
The Role of Accounting in a Society: Only a techn(olog)ical solution for the problem of economic measurement or also a tool of social ideology?
Authors: Horvat Robert , Korošec Bojana
Published: May 2018

The contribution juxtaposes the traditional neutralistic view on the role of accounting in a society as an activity of independent and unbiased measurement and presentation of real economic phenomena with the extended view on accounting as a socio-political practice and ideology. It also shows how the latter view impacts the understanding of the role of accounting and its reactions in light of the recent global financial crisis.
Fire Risk Analysis and Optimization of Fire Prevention Management for Green Building Design and High Rise Buildings: Hong Kong Experience
Authors: Yau Albert , Ho Samuel K. M.
Published: May 2018

There are many iconic high rise buildings in Hong Kong, for example, International Commercial Centre, International Financial Centre, etc. Fire safety issue in high rise buildings has been raised by local fire professionals in terms of occupant evacuation, means of fire-fighting by fire fighters, sprinkler systems to automatically put off fires in buildings, etc. Fire risk becomes an important issue in building fire safety because it relates to life safety of building occupants where they live and work in high rise buildings in Hong Kong. The aim of this research is to identify the fire risk for different types of high rise buildings in Hong Kong and to optimise the fire prevention management for those high rise buildings with higher level of fire risk and to validate the model and also to carry out the study of the conflict between the current fire safety building code and the current trend of green building design. Survey via the 7-point scale questionnaire was conducted through 50 participants and their responses were received and analysed via the statistical tool SPSS software computer program. A number of statistical methods of testing for significantly difference in samples were adopted to carry out the analysis of the data received. When the statistical analysis was completed, the results of the data analysis were validated by two Fire Safety Experts in this area of specialisation and also by quantitative fire risk analysis.
Reliability of B-Mode Ultrasound Imaging of the Lateral Abdominal Muscles in Healthy Children During the Active Straight Leg Raise Test
Authors: Linek Paweł , Saulicz E. , Wolny T. , Myśliwiec A.
Published: May 2018

Background: To date, reliability of ultrasound imaging (USI) measures of the abdominal muscles in children during the active straight leg raise (ASLR) test has not been confirmed. The aim of this study is to assess the intra-rater reliability of USI in measuring of the thickness and percent thickness change of the external oblique (EO), internal oblique (IO) and transversus abdominis (TrA) on both sides of the body during the ASLR test.

Material/Methods: Thirty-two healthy children between 10-12 years old participated in the study. Three repeated USI measurements were recorded, in supine and resting positions and during the ASLR test. In supine position, measurements were collected at the end of normal expiration. In the case of ASLR, measurements were collected when the person undergoing examination touched the transverse delimiter with the distal part of the lower leg. A repeat session of the measurements was carried out 6 to 8 days later.

Results: The use of mean value of the three repeated measurements showed that ICC3.3 fluctuated from 0.81 to 0.97 for OE, OI and TrA in resting position and during the ASLR test. In terms of percentage change of muscle thickness, the ICC3.3 result obtained for TrA, OE and IO were 0.86, 0.83 and 0.78, respectively.

Conclusions: The USI evaluation of the lateral abdominal muscles thickness at rest has high reliability in children between 10-12 years old. The USI of the actual thickness and reflex activity of OE, OI and TrA during the ASLR test, based on three repeated measurements, is also reliable. It is recommended to perform three repeated measurements for children between 10-12 years old. There is still a need to seek solutions that will decrease the SDD value while evaluating the reflex activity of the lateral abdominal muscles during the ASLR test.
The Use of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation of the Lower Limbs Skeletal Muscles in Cardiac Rehabilitation of Patients With Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Kucio Ewa , Polak A. , Kucio C.
Published: May 2018

Research conducted in recent years suggests that neuromuscular electrical stimulation of the lower limb muscles (NMES) may be an alternative to physical training in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). Through stimulating the work of the muscles, NMES raises the exercise tolerance, muscle mass and endurance in patients with CHF. A beneficial effect of NMES on muscle blood flow, aerobic enzymes activity, vascular endothelial function, decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines and improvement of quality of life has been indicated. It must be emphasized that NMES procedures are comfortable for patients with CHF due to lower exercise load and therefore less intense symptoms of dyspnea. Moreover, these procedures may be conducted at home (after prior training). The possible side effects include temporary muscle soreness and skin impairment resulting from improper placement of electrodes (patients in ambulatory conditions).
Marital quality and religiousness of couples parenting children with autism
Authors: Gosztyła Tomasz , Gelleta Kazimierz
Published: May 2018

A number of research projects have shown that both religiousness and quality of the marital relationship are important resources that can be used by parents rearing children diagnosed with autism. Our article brings up the link between religiousness of parents who have children with autism and the quality of their marriage. Fifty-three married couples (106 persons) living in Poland and bringing up children diagnosed as having autism were surveyed. Results obtained indicate that there is a relationship between parents’ religiousness (personal religiousness) and their marriage quality. These results can help family therapists, social workers and priests supporting couples parenting children with autism.
Systematics and faunistics of Neotropical Olethreutini, 1: Lobesia Guenée, 1845, Ophiorrhabda Diakonoff, 1966, Megalota Diakonoff, 1966, Eumarozia Heinrich, 1926, Zomaria Heinrich, 1926 and Alexiloga Meyrick, 1922 (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)
Authors: Razowski Józef , Becker Vitor Osmar
Published: May 2018

Six genera – Lobesia, Ophiorrhabda, Megalota, Eumarozia, Zomaria and Alexiloga – are treated, and the following species are described as new: Lobesia uncata sp. n., Eumarozia atrotincta sp. n., and Zomaria dyscrita sp. n. Alexiloga defluxana is removed from the synonymy of A. rubiginosana and four species are redescribed. Statherotis hyeroglypha is transferred to Ophiorrhabda.
Functional Factor Analysis In Sesame Under Water - Limiting Stress: New Concept On An Old Method
Authors: Mansouri Sadollah , Najafabadi Masood Soltani , Esmailov Maghsadollah , Aghaee Mostafa
Published: May 2018

Multivariate statistical analysis, through their ability to extract hidden relationship between various traits, has a wide application in breeding programs. Having physiological concept on the multivariate analysis, factor analysis was used to extract differential relationships between different components involving in assimilate partitioning in sesame under regular irrigation regime and limited irrigation. The analysis revealed that under regular irrigation regime, the stored and/or currently produced assimilates are allocated to the filling seeds. However, incidence of water shortage in the beginning of flowering time make shifts in assimilate partitioning from formation of new seeds or capsules to the not-matured pre-formed seeds, which results in seeds with more nutrient storage. This indicates the requirement for change in breeding strategies under sub-optimal condition. The possible common language between factor concept in multivariate analysis, QTLs in genetics, and transcription factors in molecular biology is indicated.
Effect of Alloying Type and Lean Sintering Atmosphere on the Performance of PM Components
Authors: Sundaram M. Vattur , Shvab R. , Millot S. , Hryha E. , Nyborg L.
Published: May 2018

In order to be cost effective and to meet increasing performance demands, powder metallurgy steel components require continuous improvement in terms of materials and process development. This study demonstrates the feasibility of manufacturing structural components using two different alloys systems, i.e. lean Cr-prealloyed and diffusion bonded water atomised powders with different processing conditions. The components were sintered at two different temperatures, i.e. 1120 and 1250 °C for 30 minutes in three different atmospheres: vacuum, N2- 10%H2 atmosphere as well as lean N2-5%H2-0.5%CO-(0.1-0.4)%CH4 sintering atmosphere. Components after sintering were further processed by either low pressure carburizing, sinterhardening or case hardening. All trials were performed in the industrial furnaces to simulate the actual production of the components. Microstructure, fractography, apparent and micro hardness analyses were performed close to the surface and in the middle of the sample to characterize the degree of sintering (temperature and atmosphere) and the effect of heat treatment. In all cases, components possess mostly martensitic microstructure with a few bainitic regions. The fracture surface shows well developed sinter necks. Inter- and trans-granular ductile and cleavage fracture modes are dominant and their fraction is determined by the alloy and processing route.
Density, Microstructure, Strength and Fractography of Spark Plasma and Conventionally Sintered Mn Steels
Authors: Tenerowicz-Zaba M. , Kupkova M. , Kabatova M. , Dudrova E. , Dzupon M. , Sulowski M.
Published: May 2018

The aim of the study was to investigate Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) of 1-3%Mn steels and compare the resultant microstructures, strengths and failure mechanisms with those of conventionally sintered materials. SPS was performed in a vacuum of 5 Pa at 1000°C for 15min under a uniaxial pressure of 20 MPa. The heating rate of 100°C/min was applied. For conventional processing, mixtures of powders were prepared in a Turbula mixer for 30 minutes. Samples were single pressed at 660 MPa, according to PN-EN ISO 2740 standard. Sintering of compacts was carried out in a laboratory tube furnace at 1120°C and 1250°C for 60 minutes in a mixture of 95%N2-5%H2. Heating and cooling rates were 75C°/min and 60°C/min, respectively. The density of SPS samples was higher (up to 7.37 g/cm3) than those after conventional sintering (up to 6.7 g/cm3). Yield strengths of SPS samples were in the range 920-1220 MPa, compared to the maximum of 602 MPa for conventionally sintered Fe-3%Mn-0.8%C. Transverse rupture strengths were the same for this alloy, 1234 MPa, but reached 1473 MPa for SPS 2Mn variant. Interfaces in SPS samples were significantly less contaminated with oxides, which is the result of a more favorable microclimate and pressure acting during SPS. These preliminary results indicate that further research on the SPS of Mn steels is warranted.
Microstructure, Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Behaviour of Iron - Manganese PM Materials Pressed and Sintered Once and Twice
Authors: Kupková M. , Hrubovčáková M. , Kabátová M. , Kupka M.
Published: May 2018

Elemental iron and manganese powders were blended to form mixtures containing 25, 30 and 35wt.% Mn. Mixtures were compressed into prismatic bars and sintered. Some of the bars were repressed and resintered. Compared to a bar pressed and sintered once, the bar pressed and sintered twice possessed a higher relative density, a higher bending stiffness, and a grid microindentation data set with a lower variance. Bars were immersed in Hank's solution for eight weeks. After this procedure, the bending stiffness were found reduced for all bars except for those pressed, sintered and only repressed, the bending stiffness of which remained unchanged. The repressing has most likely closed up throats connecting the clusters of pores with the free surface of a bar, reducing thus a surface area exposed to a corrosive attack. The resintering has opened up those throats, the electrolyte could fill accessible pores and corrosion weakened the near-surface material, reducing thus a bar's bending stiffness.
Structural Composition of Protozooplankton Communities in Relation to Environmental Factors in Shallow Lakes and Reservoirs of Rīga, Latvia
Authors: Buholce Linda , Līcīte Vita , Boikova Elmīra , Botva Uldis
Published: May 2018

Protozooplankton are dominant grazers of phytoplankton and an important component of the microbial food web, as a link between pico and nanoplankton to higher trophic levels. Their fast growing rate, relative abundance, biomass and diversity are used as indicators of organic and toxic pollution. The impact of urbanisation on ecosystems and their sustainability and biodiversity have recently been much studied. We studied the protozooplankton ciliate communities during the vegetation period from April to October in two small lakes (Bābelītis, Gaiļezers) and two reservoirs (Bolderāja, Saurieši). The largest peak of biomass (15.7 × 102 mg/l) was found in Gaiļezers Lake in August and of abundance (60.2 × 103 org/l) in Bābelītis Lake in July. The lowest biomass (0.006 mg/l) and abundance (0.12 × 103 org/l) were found in the Saurieši Reservoir station. The most abundant ciliates were from the order Oligotrichida.
Different Cytokine Profiles in Children with Acute Appendicitis and Acute Mesenteric Lymphadenitis / Atðíirîga Citokînu Grupas Seruma Iekaisuma Mediatoru Izpausme Akûta Apendicîta Un Akûta Mezenteriâla Limfadenîta Gadîjumâ Bçrniem
Authors: Zviedre Astra , Eòìelis Arnis , Tretjakovs Pçteris , Jurka Antra , Zîle Irisa , Pçtersons Aigars
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of serum cytokines in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis (AA) and acute mesenteric lymphadenitis (AML). Data were collected prospectively on 7 to 18 year old children (October 2010 - October 2013): 31 patients with AA, 26 patients with AML, and 17 patients with elective non-inflammatory surgical disease were selected as controls. Serum levels of IL-10, IL-12(p70), IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17, MCP-1, EGF, TNF-α were measured. Patients with AA had significantly increased serum levels of IL-6(1) (z = -3.72; p = 0.0002) and IL-10(1) (z = -2.81; p = 0.005) compared to AML before any treatment. The consecutive measurements of MCP-1 in serum demonstrated a significant difference within 72 hours in the AA group (Wilks’ Lambda test 0.80; F(2;29) = 3.5; p = 0.04) and also in the AML group (Wilks’ Lambda test 0.70; F(2;24) = 5.0; p = 0.01). The increased values of IL-6 and IL-10 were the most reliable cytokines one hour before surgical intervention for patients with AA. MCP-1 values changed significantly within 72 hours after patient hospitalisation but did not differ between the groups, and could not be a helpful serum biomarker in distinguishing patients with AA and AML.
Optimisation of Conditions for Extraction of Biologically Active Compounds from Common Bryophytes in Latvia / Latvijâ Augoðu Briofîtu Ekstrakcijas Apstâkïu Optimizâcijas Ietekme Uz Bioloìiski Aktîviem Sekundârajiem Metabolîtiem
Authors: Klaviòa Laura , Spriòìe Gunta
Published: May 2018

Bryophytes are the second largest taxonomic group in the plant kingdom. They contain a high number of biologically active compounds. Studies of their composition are important for understanding evolutionary processes in the plant kingdom. The aim of this study was to assess bryophyte secondary metabolite extraction options and to increase the yields of polyphenols and substances determining the free radical scavenging activity of bryophyte extracts. Similar studies have been conducted using higher plants as model organisms, but not using bryophytes. Comparison of five extraction methods (conventional, Soxhlet extraction, treatment with microwaves, ultrasound, and supercritical CO2 extraction) and several solvents with differing polarity showed microwave-assisted extraction as the most promising approach to obtain highest yields of extractives. The main factors that contributed to the efficiency of extraction were type of solvent, temperature, and the solvent to bryophyte mass ratio. The extracts obtained from bryophytes had remarkable antioxidant activity, the extent of which depended on the extraction conditions and bryophyte species. The extraction conditions can be optimised, and the total polyphenol content can be increased by up to 50% in comparison with the conventional approach.
The treatment of gingival recessions - Our experience
Authors: Chenchev Ivan Lulchev , Atanasov Dimitar Todorov , Vicheva Dilyana
Published: May 2018

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to compare the options for treatment of Miller’s Class I and Class II gingival recessions using coronally advanced flap (CAF) and platelet-rich fibrin membrane (PRFm) with CAF and connective tissue graft (CTG).

MATERIAL AND METHODS. A surgical treatment was carried out on 30 subjects (23 women and 7 men), with a total of 118 symmetrical recessions of Class I and Class II by Miller on different places of the jaws, using two different methods. On one side of the jaw was held a plastic covering of the recessions with CAF in combination with PRFm (test group), and on the other side – CAF in combination with connective tissue graft (control group). The clinical evaluation includes: gingival recession depth (GRD), probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), keratinized gingival width (KGW), gingival thickness (GTH), mean percent of root coverage (RC %). The results were observed six months postoperatively.

RESULTS. The average values for the GRD measured six months postoperatively for the control group were 0.37±0.36 mm and 0.70±0.41 mm for the test group. The results for CAL for the control group were 2.01±0.44 mm and 2.28±0.50 mm for the test group, while the mean percentage of root coverage (RC %) was 90.29±9.05% for the control group and 80.48±10.19% for the test group. The values for GTH were 1.04±0.16mm for the control group and 0.92±0.09 mm for the test group.

CONCLUSION. Both compared methods show good results in terms of all evaluated parameters. The group treated with CAF + CTG showed better results with a statistically significant difference for the RC% and the average values for GRD, GTH and CAL. The results of our study demonstrate a good potential for PRFm used in the treatment of Miller’s Class I and Class II gingival recessions.
Geotechnical Site Investigation Using S-waves with Implications for Ground Motion Analysis
Authors: Hassan Bilal , Butt Stephen D. , Hurich Charles A.
Published: May 2018

Evaluation results of shear wave attenuation-based ground motion restricted by fracture orientation and rheology, from among those of an extended experimental study, are presented herein. The issues of competence of fractured bedrock dynamically disturbed multilaterally are assessed. Disturbance is primarily modelled by Sh and Sv stimulation, given fracture orientation, while subjected to direct fracture stress regime conditions varying in time. Hence, directionalities of polarisation and stress are taken into consideration simultaneously following simple site-specific non-erodetic approach. Comparison of spectral curves and spectral ratio curves of attenuation with respect to variations of direction and stress emphasise the amplification of the ‘seismic response’ in one direction compared to the other, i.e. vertical vs. horizontal, in terms of weighing possibilities of or predicting structural integrity against failure. The composite analyses of multiple spectral curves not only enable determination of the orientation of the fracture set/s in space but also allow inferring the nature of more amplified response perpendicular to the crack surface compared to that of a response parallel to the crack surface.
Experience in Use of Project Method During Technology Lessons in Secondary Schools of the USA
Authors: Sheludko Inna
Published: May 2018

The article examines the opportunities and prospects for the use of experience of project method during “technology lessons” in US secondary schools, since the value of project technology implementation experience into the educational process in the USA for ensuring holistic development of children, preparing them for adult life, in which they will be able to realize themselves and benefit society, seems undeniable to improve the quality of Ukrainian education. Its structure and content accorded with national traditions and European standards have made possible the success of educational components of American secondary school. This encourages national scientists and teachers to identify and scientifically justify the ways how to use scientific achievements of American educational system. Given the above, we have defined the following objectives: to summarize progressive trends and innovative approaches to the quality training of students in national secondary schools; to formulate guidelines that will improve the efficiency of training Ukrainian students during technology lessons and as a result, will provide the successful integration of the national education system into the European educational space.
German Shepherd Dog Milk Composition and Its Changes During Lactation
Authors: Dokoupilová A. , Svobodová I. , Chaloupková H. , Kouřimská L. , Dvořáková B. , Končel R.
Published: May 2018

Milk composition of nine lactating German Shepherd nursing females was studied. The experiment took place at the breeding facility of Police of the Czech Republic (breeding centre for service dogs in Domažlice) in days 2−30 of the females’ lactation. Females were given a commercial granulated feeding mixture (starter category). Canine milk samples were analyzed using an infra-red instrument MilkoScan FT 120. Calculated mean values for colostrum (day 2 postpartum) and normal milk (days 4−29 postpartum) were: 23.86 and 24.63% for total solids, 8.14 and 7.22% for protein, 6.04 and 5.76% for casein, 10.22 and 11.32% for fat, 3.40 and 4.48% for lactose. German Shepherd milk showed almost no variation in composition after day 4 of lactation. Differences observed between colostrum and normal milk composition were statistically insignificant but not for lactose. No significant differences in density and other composition parameters between colostrum and normal milk were identified.