bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design Aspects and Test of an Inductive Fault Current Limiter
Authors: Arsénio Pedro , Vilhena Nuno , Murta-Pina João , Pronto Anabela , Álvarez Alfredo
Published: May 2014

Magnetic shielding inductive fault current limiters with high temperature superconducting tapes are considered as emerging devices that provide technology for the advent of modern power grids. The development of such limiters requires magnetic iron cores and leads to several design challenges regarding the constitutive parts of the limiter, namely the primary and secondary windings. Preliminary tests in a laboratory scale prototype have been carried out considering an assembly designed for simplicity in which the optimization of the magnetic coupling between the primary and secondary was not the main focus. This work addresses the design configuration of an inductive current limiter prototype regarding the assembly of the primary and secondary windings in the core. The prototype is based on a closed magnetic core wound by a primary, built from a normal electric conductor, and a short-circuited secondary, built from first generation superconducting tape. Four different design configurations are considered. Through experimental tests, the performance of such prototype is discussed and compared, in terms of normal and fault operation regimes. The results show that all the configurations assure effective magnetic shielding at normal operation regime, however, at fault operation regime, there are differences among configurations.
An Efficiency Analysis of Augmented Reality Marker Recognition Algorithm
Authors: Kurpytė Dovilė , Navakauskas Dalius
Published: May 2014

The article reports on the investigation of augmented reality system which is designed for identification and augmentation of 100 different square markers. Marker recognition efficiency was investigated by rotating markers along x and y axis directions in range from −90° to 90°. Virtual simulations of four environments were developed: a) an intense source of light, b) an intense source of light falling from the left side, c) the non-intensive light source falling from the left side, d) equally falling shadows. The graphics were created using the OpenGL graphics computer hardware interface; image processing was programmed in C++ language using OpenCV, while augmented reality was developed in Java programming language using NyARToolKit. The obtained results demonstrate that augmented reality marker recognition algorithm is accurate and reliable in the case of changing lighting conditions and rotational angles - only 4 % markers were unidentified. Assessment of marker recognition efficiency let to propose marker classification strategy in order to use it for grouping various markers into distinct markers’ groups possessing similar recognition properties.
Improving Speech Recognition Rate through Analysis Parameters
Authors: Eringis Deividas , Tamulevičius Gintautas
Published: May 2014

Speech signal is redundant and non-stationary by nature. Because of vocal tract inertness these variations are not very rapid and the signal can be considered as stationary in short segments. It is presumed that in short-time magnitude spectrum the most distinct information of speech is contained. This is the main reason for speech signal analysis in frame-by-frame manner. The analyzed speech signal is segmented into overlapping segments (so-called frames) for this purpose. Segments of 15-25 ms with the overlap of 10-15 ms are used usually.

In this paper we present results of our investigation of analysis window length and frame shift influence on speech recognition rate. We have analyzed three different cepstral analysis approaches for this purpose: mel frequency cepstral analysis (MFCC), linear prediction cepstral analysis (LPCC) and perceptual linear prediction cepstral analysis (PLPC). The highest speech recognition rate was obtained using 10 ms length analysis window with the frame shift varying from 7.5 to 10 ms (regardless of analysis type). The highest increase of recognition rate was 2.5 %.
Maidenhair tree (Ginkgo Bilobae) leaf extraction products in the light of Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) requirements
and medium of diversified polarity (εM)
Authors: Nowak Elżbieta , Nachajski Michał Jakub , Zgoda Marian Mikołaj
Published: May 2014

Model maidenhair tree (Ginkgo bilobae) leaf extracts were created basing on medium of diversified polarity (εM). Chromatographic analysis was performed with the HPLC method, with the so-called dry residue remaining after evaporating the dissolving agent from saturated aqueous solutions and from 0.1 mol HCl. Viscosity measure and surface activity estimations were conducted on phase boundary. Then, basic values of viscosity ([η], Mη) and hydrodynamic values (Ro, Robs., Ω) were calculated. Moreover, reference quercetin and rutin (rutoside) were used to mark the conversion contents of flavonoids in produced extracts with the UV method.
Antimicrobial activity of Capparis spinosa as its usages in traditional medicine
Authors: Mahboubi Mohaddese , Mahboubi Atefeh
Published: May 2014

Capparis spinosa roots and fruits are traditionally used for the treatment of diseases such as diarrhea and hemorrhoids. In the 10th century, farmers also used aqueous extract from its roots for disinfecting their plants’ seeds. Due to widespread use of this plant in traditional medicine, we evaluated different extracts (aqueous, methanol, ethanol and ethyl acetate) of fruits and roots of this plant against bacteria and fungi causing infections in plants or humans. The total phenolic and flavonoid content of extracts from fruits and roots and the antioxidant activity were evaluated. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated by microdilution assay in fluid medium. Among different extracts from roots and fruits, root ethyl acetate and fruit methanol extracts had higher total phenolic content, while fruit ethyl acetate extract contained higher total flavonoid content. The higher antioxidant activity was shown for roots ethanol extract (IC50=88 μg/ml). As its traditional uses, roots aqueous extract from C. spinosa exhibited inhibitory effect against bacteria and fungi with the exception of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. With the exception of fruit aqueous extract, other extracts (methanol, ethanol and ethyl acetate) from fruit and root exhibited good activity against microorganisms, especially fungi. This study reveals the traditional uses of roots and fruit extracts as antimicrobials agent.
Effect of Nutritionally Relevant Doses of Long-Chain N-3 Pufa on Lipid Status, Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Markers in an Average Middle-Aged Serbian Population / Uticaj Preporučenih Doza Dugolančanih N-3 Masnih Kiselina Na Lipidni Status, Oksidativni Stres I Markere Inflamacije Kod Ispitanika Srednjih Godina
Authors: Đuričić Ivana , Kotur-Stevuljević Jelena , Miljković Milica , Kerkez Mirko , Đorđević Vladimir , Đurašić Ljubomir , Šobajić Slađana
Published: May 2014

Background: This study investigated the effects of a nutritionally relevant intake of eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) fatty acids derived from oily fish or a fish oil supplement on selected cardiovascular risk factors in average middle-aged individuals.

Methods: Thirty-three participants were randomized to receive salmon (oily fish) providing 274 mg EPA + 671 mg DHA/day or a commercial fish oil supplement providing 396 mg EPA + 250 mg DHA/day in a cross-over trial over an 8-week period separated by a 6-month washout period. Blood samples were collected before and after each intervention and lipids, inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters were determined.

Results: Plasma levels of EPA, DHA and total n-3 fatty acids significantly increased after both interventions. A decreasing trend in triglycerides was more pronounced with salmon than with the fish oil supplement, but the changes noticed were not significant. Although there were no relevant changes in inflammatory marker concentrations at the end of both interventions, significant negative correlations were noticed between total plasma n-3 fatty acids and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule and Creactive proteinconcenthroughout the whole intervention period (p<0.05). Among the oxidative stress parameters, intervention with salmon showed a prooxidative effect through a superoxide anion increase (p=0.025). A relevant positive correlation was also found between its concentration and total plasma n-3 fatty acids (p<0.05). Other oxidative stress markers were not significantly influenced by the dietary interventions applied.

Conclusion: Following two sets of recommendations for n- 3 fatty acids intake aimed at the general public had only a moderate effect on the selected cardiovascular risk factors in average healthy middle-aged subjects over a short-term period
C-Reactive Protein Predicts Progression of Peripheral Arterial Disease in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A 5-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Popović Ljiljana , Lalić Katarina , Vasović Olga , Radojković Danijela Drašković , Rajković Nataša , Singh Sandra , Stošić Ljubica , Čivčić Miodrag , Hinić Ljiljana Škorić , Vujić Tatjana Petrović
Published: May 2014

Background: Previous studies have indicated that high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a risk factor for the peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in diabetes. This study aimed to evaluate the possible predictive significance of hs-CRP for the development and progression of PAD in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods: The study included 80 patients previously diagnosed with T2D, aged 45–70 years, divided into group A (T2D patients with PAD; n=38) and group B (T2D patients without PAD; n=42). After five years, all the patients were re-examined and divided into subgroups depending on de novo development of PAD or progression of previously diagnosed PAD. Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) measurement was used for PAD diagnosis and hs-CRP was determined by nephelometry.

Results: We found significantly higher hs-CRP levels in group A compared to group B, but only at baseline. Among the patients in group A, those with later progression of PAD (subgroup A1) had the highest levels of hs-CRP at baseline, although not significantly different from those in subgroup A2 (non-progressors). In contrast, hs-CRP level was significantly higher in subgroup B1 (progressors) in comparison to subgroup B2 (non-progressors) at both the first and second exam. Of all the investigated metabolic parameters, hs-CRP was the only independent predictor of PAD progression (OR=0.456, 95% CI=0.267–0.7815, p=0.004). The cut-off point for hs-CRP was 2.5 mg/L (specificity 75% and sensitivity 73.3%) with the relative risk for PAD of 2.93 (95% CI=1.351–6.3629).

Conclusions: Our study implies that hs-CRP can be used as a reliable predictor for the progression of PAD in patients with T2D.
Oxidative and Nitrosative Stress in Stable Renal Transplant Recipients with Respect to the Immunosuppression Protocol – Differences or Similarities? / Oksidativni I Nitrozativni Stres U Odnosu Na Imunosupresivni Protokol Kod Pacijenata Sa Stabilnom Funkcijom Presađenog Bubrega – Razlike I Sličnosti
Authors: Cvetković Tatjana , Veličković-Radovanović Radmila , Stojanović Dijana , Stefanović Nikola , Ignjatović Aleksandra , Stojanović Ivana , Sladojević Nikola , Pavlović Dušica
Published: May 2014

Background: The aim of the study was to evaluate parameters of oxidative and nitrosative stress as well as antioxidative parameters in a group of renal transplant recipients with stable graft function and no clinical signs of cardiovascular disease. We also aimed to determine the correlations among these parameters and to evaluate potential differences in all the biomarkers with regard to the immunosuppression protocol.

Methods: We enrolled 57 renal transplant recipients and 31 controls who were age and sex matched with the renal transplant recipients. All of the patients included in this study had post-renal transplant surgery at least 12 months earlier and were on standard immunosuppressive therapy. In this study, we determined thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances in plasma and red blood cells and advanced oxidation protein products, nitrosative stress parameters (asymmetric and symmetric dimethylarginine - ADMA and SDMA), and antioxidative parameters (total SH groups and catalase activity).

Results: The results of our study demonstrated that the levels of oxidative and nitrosative stress were significantly increased compared to the healthy population (p<0.01 except for plasma catalase activity p<0.05). Correlation analysis showed significant positive correlations between: ADMA and SDMA (p<0.01); ADMA and nitrates (p<0.05); SDMA and nitrates (p<0.05); between OS parameters in the experimental group; AOPP and SH groups (p<0.05) and TBARS in plasma and SH groups (p<0.01), SDMA and AOPP (p< 0.05); SDMA and TBARS in plasma (p<0.05); SDMA and SH groups (p<0.01); nitrates and SH groups (p<0.05).

Conclusion: There was no significant difference in oxidative and nitrosative stress parameters with respect to the immunosuppressive protocol.
Evaluating Mode Effects in Mixed-Mode Survey Data Using Covariate Adjustment Models
Authors: Vannieuwenhuyze Jorre T.A. , Loosveldt Geert , Molenberghs Geert
Published: May 2014

The confounding of selection and measurement effects between different modes is a disadvantage of mixed-mode surveys. Solutions to this problem have been suggested in several studies. Most use adjusting covariates to control selection effects. Unfortunately, these covariates must meet strong assumptions, which are generally ignored. This article discusses these assumptions in greater detail and also provides an alternative model for solving the problem. This alternative uses adjusting covariates, explaining measurement effects instead of selection effects. The application of both models is illustrated by using data from a survey on opinions about surveys, which yields mode effects in line with expectations for the latter model, and mode effects contrary to expectations for the former model. However, the validity of these results depends entirely on the (ad hoc) covariates chosen. Research into better covariates might thus be a topic for future studies.
Assessment of metal concentrations in tap-water – from source to the tap: a case study from Szczecin, Poland
Authors: Górski Józef , Siepak Marcin
Published: May 2014

The concentrations of Al, As, Cd, Cu, Pb, Zn, Ni, Fe and Mn were determined in June 2010 for 100 tap-water samples, collected directly at consumers in the older part of the city of Szczecin (Poland). Increased concentrations of metals were thus detected. This concerns mainly Fe (19% of samples showed concentrations above drinking-water quality standards) and Pb (5%). In some samples, the maximum admissible concentration levels for Mn, Cu and Ni were also exceeded. This was not the case for Al, despite the use of aluminium compounds during water treatment; the Al concentrations in treated water were, however, significantly higher than in raw water.

It was also found that (1) the corrosive properties of water (low alkalinity and increased concentration of sulphates), (2) the water-treatment processes causing a decrease of the pH and an increase of the CO2, and (3) transport of the treated water over long distances (30 km) provide favourable conditions for the leaching of metals from water-pipe networks. The type of material used in domestic plumbing and the content of Ce, Fe, Mn, Ni and Cd in the tap-water at consumers show a correlation. The high content of Pb is mainly a result of lead pipes connecting the network to the buildings
Investigation Into the Accuracy of 3D Surface Roughness Characteristics
Authors: Kumermanis M. , Rudzitis J. , Mozga N. , Ancans A. , Grislis A.
Published: May 2014

The existing standards for surface roughness cover only two dimensions, while in reality this is three-dimensional (3D). In particular, the 3D surface roughness parameters are important for solving the contact surface mechanics problems as related to the accuracy of 3D surface roughness characteristics. One of the most important factors for determination of 3D characteristics is the number of data points (NDP) on the x- and y-axes (i.e. in cut-off length). The NDP has a profound effect on the accuracy of measurement results, measuring time and volume of the output data (especially along the y-axis, where the NDP is identical to the number of parallel profiles). At a too small NDP the results will be incorrect and with too broad scatter, while a too large NDP - though not enlarging the range of basic information - considerably increases the measuring time. Therefore, the aim of the work was to find the optimal NDP for such surface processing methods as grinding, spark erosion and shot methods of surface treatment.
Reliability Assessment of a Turbogenerator Coil Retaining Ring Based on Low Cycle Fatigue Data
Authors: Olmi Giorgio , Freddi Alessandro
Published: May 2014

Turbogenerator coil retaining rings are shrunk-fitted onto the rotor over the coils, in order to restrain them against the centrifugal force. They are typically subjected to low cycle fatigue, with a cycle being completed at every machine switch-on and switch-off. The subject of this paper consists in the determination of the failure probability of a coil retaining ring. The failure mode of the ring cracking, when it swells in tension, due to the centrifugal force is here considered. The reliability assessment is preceded by the study of the input variables affecting the low-cycle fatigue load and of their stochastic distributions. This question is tackled by the experimental determination of the static, cyclic and fatigue curves of the involved material and by the application of a statistical model to compute related parameters and their standard deviations. Upon the determination of variable distributions, the probability of failure is estimated in the form of a cumulative distribution function by a computationally efficient methodology, based on the Advanced Mean Value approach. The obtained results account for the material response and the local stressstrain states at the most loaded coil retaining ring region. The determined probability at the end of the machine life, in the order of 10-12, is compatible with reference values for structures under fatigue in the mechanical and aeronautical fields.
Collision-Free Trajectory Planning for Mobile Manipulators Subject to Control Constraints
Authors: Pajak Grzegorz , Pajak Iwona
Published: May 2014

A method of planning collision-free trajectory for a mobile manipulator tracking a line section path is presented. The reference trajectory of a mobile platform is not needed, mechanical and control constraints are taken into account. The method is based on a penalty function approach and a redundancy resolution at the acceleration level. Nonholonomic constraints in a Pfaffian form are explicitly incorporated to the control algorithm. The problem is shown to be equivalent to some point-to-point control problem whose solution may be easier determined. The motion of the mobile manipulator is planned in order to maximise the manipulability measure, thus to avoid manipulator singularities. A computer example involving a mobile manipulator consisting of a nonholonomic platform (2,0) class and a 3 DOF RPR type holonomic manipulator operating in a three-dimensional task space is also presented.
Free Vibration of Piezo-Nanowires Using Timoshenko Beam Theory with Consideration of Surface and Small Scale Effects
Authors: Oveisi Atta
Published: May 2014

This paper investigates the influence of surface effects on free transverse vibration of piezoelectric nanowires (NWs). The dynamic model of the NW is tackled using nonlocal Timoshenko beam theory. By implementing this theory with consideration of both non-local effect and surface effect under simply support boundary condition, the natural frequencies of the NW are calculated. Also, a closed form solution is obtained in order to calculate fundamental buckling voltage. Finally, the effect of small scale effect on residual surface tension and critical electric potential is explored. The results can help to design piezo-NW based instruments.
MRI to delineate the gross tumor volume of nasopharyngeal cancers: which sequences and planes should be used?
Authors: Popovtzer Aron , Ibrahim Mohannad , Tatro Daniel , Feng Felix Y. , Haken Randall K. Ten , Eisbruch Avraham
Published: May 2014

Background. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been found to be better than computed tomography for defining the extent of primary gross tumor volume (GTV) in advanced nasopharyngeal cancer. It is routinely applied for target delineation in planning radiotherapy. However, the specific MRI sequences/planes that should be used are unknown.

Methods. Twelve patients with nasopharyngeal cancer underwent primary GTV evaluation with gadolinium-enhanced axial T1 weighted image (T1) and T2 weighted image (T2), coronal T1, and sagittal T1 sequences. Each sequence was registered with the planning computed tomography scans. Planning target volumes (PTVs) were derived by uniform expansions of the GTVs. The volumes encompassed by the various sequences/planes, and the volumes common to all sequences/planes, were compared quantitatively and anatomically to the volume delineated by the commonly used axial T1-based dataset.

Results. Addition of the axial T2 sequence increased the axial T1-based GTV by 12% on average (p = 0.004), and composite evaluations that included the coronal T1 and sagittal T1 planes increased the axial T1-based GTVs by 30% on average (p = 0.003). The axial T1-based PTVs were increased by 20% by the additional sequences (p = 0.04). Each sequence/plane added unique volume extensions. The GTVs common to all the T1 planes accounted for 38% of the total volumes of all the T1 planes. Anatomically, addition of the coronal and sagittal-based GTVs extended the axial T1-based GTV caudally and cranially, notably to the base of the skull.

Conclusions. Adding MRI planes and sequences to the traditional axial T1 sequence yields significant quantitative and anatomically important extensions of the GTVs and PTVs. For accurate target delineation in nasopharyngeal cancer, we recommend that GTVs be outlined in all MRI sequences/planes and registered with the planning computed tomography scans.
Searching for primaries in patients with neuroendocrine tumors (NET) of unknown primary and clinically suspected NET: Evaluation of Ga-68 DOTATOC PET/CT and In-111 DTPA octreotide SPECT/CT
Authors: Schreiter Nils Friedemann , Bartels Ann-Mirja , Froeling Vera , Steffen Ingo , Pape Ulrich-Frank , Beck Alexander , Hamm Bernd , Brenner Winfried , Röttgen Rainer
Published: May 2014

Background. To evaluate the clinical efficacy of In-111 DTPA octreotide SPECT/CT and Ga-68 DOTATOC PET/CT for detection of primary tumors in patients with either neuroendocrine tumor of unknown primary (NETUP) or clinically suspected primary NET (SNET).

Patients and methods. A total of 123 patients were included from 2006 to 2009, 52 received Ga-68 DOTATOC PET/CT (NETUP, 33; SNET, 19) and 71 underwent In-111 DTPA octreotide SPECT/CT (50; 21). The standard of reference included histopathology or clinical verification based on follow-up examinations.

Results. In the NETUP group Ga-68 DOTATOC detected primaries in 15 patients (45.5%) and In-111 DTPA octreotide in 4 patients (8%) (p < 0.001); in the SNET group, only 2 primaries could be detected, all by Ga-68 DOTATOC. In patients with NETUP, primary tumors could be found significantly more often than in patients with SNET (p = 0.01). Out of these 21 patients 14 patients were operated.

Conclusion. Ga-68 DOTATOC PET/CT is preferable to In-111 DTPA octreotide SPECT/CT when searching for primary NETs in patients with NETUP but should be used with caution in patients with SNET.
Neuromuscular Aspects of Anticipation in Preparing the Body for the Contact Structure in Motrice Performance
Authors: Botezatu Cristina , Andrei Carmen , Hillerin Pierre Joseph de
Published: May 2014

Anticipation is a crucial factor in acquiring motor skills. Generally, the anticipation involves the presence of a proactive control. The success of some actions in the sporting events depends on the player’s ability to quickly perceive the situations and to react immediately on them. In this context, anticipation refers to the response triggered by a stimulus before it appears. The difference between the anticipation and reaction rest in the fact that the reaction occurs after the stimulus appears, as for the anticipation, the neuromuscular mobilization occurs before the moment triggered by the appearance of the stimulus. Both concepts are interrelated. Therefore, an optimal anticipation will lead to an apparently very good reaction response, using different, by nature and location, mechanisms in the psycho-neuromotor chain. The goal of this research paper is to highlight certain objective elements in the dynamic training of the body forfuture contact and, after that to obtain an indicatory optimal anticipation, with the intention to use it in the primary selection phase in sports, demanding highly coordination skills.
Designing a Managerial Skills Model for Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of Professional Sports Clubs in Isfahan Province
Authors: Benar Nooshin , Ramezani Nejad Rahim , Surani Mahboobeh , Gohar Rostami Hamidreza , Yeganehfar Nastaran
Published: May 2014

The objective of this study is to examine and analyze skills of the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of professional sports clubs and to present and suggest an appropriate skills model for managers. The respondents of this study are all the managers in different managerial levels of Sepahan, Zob Ahan, Foolad e Mahan and Giti Pasand clubs in Isfahan Province. Validity of the questionnaire, which was made by the researchers and contained 19 questions with Likert 5sclaes, was approved by 15 professionals and professors in the field and using Cronbach Alpha Coefficient test, its stability was α = 0.97. Questionnaires were distributed among 83 managers of different units of the specific clubs and 76 questionnaires (91.5%) were returned as answered. Structural equation modeling and Amos16 Software were used for data analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. The results of the research showed all four Conceptual, Human, Technical and Political factors are significant skills for managers and suitability factors/indexes of the confirmatory factor model of the study had also proved these factors. The final design of this study demonstrates the existing high level of interaction among skills; as such managers need to be capable of all four skills and work toward improvement of the skills they are less capable of, because the high interaction of the skills with one another in this study’s model proves that weakness in one skill will cause less and lower capability level in other managerial skills.
The Milling of Material Inconel 718 with Indexables Cutting Inserts from Sintered Carbide
Authors: Janoš Miroslav , Mrkvica Ivan
Published: May 2014

In this document I am describing milling possibilities of nickel alloy Inconel 718. In the beginning is described use of nickel alloys in industry and division of nickel alloys. Further is described nickel alloy what I used - Inconel 718, on this material I make all my tests of machi-nability. Further chapters describe recommended cutting materials for nickel alloys milling. Cutters with exchan-geable sintered carbide blade plates were used as cutting tools company Pramet Tools s.r.o. Main goal was inve-stigate durability and wear of indexable cutting inserts for different cutting procedures. It was mainly about different combinations of used cutting speeds and feeds. The final part includes a summary of the results. The results are ones from first steps to definition of effective nickel alloy machining.
Evaluation of Capability of Roughness Measuring Device
Authors: Guniš Zdenko , Moravčíková Jana , Vagovský Juraj , Görög Augustín
Published: May 2014

The aim of this paper is the evaluation of capability of roughness measuring device SURFCOM 1900SD3. After elaboration of theoretical part of this paper, which is focused on literary study in the evaluation of measuring devices, experimental work was proposed in which conditions for measuring and evaluation of measured data are defined. After this definition of measuring conditions, experimental work was performed. For evaluation of roughness measuring device, 30 measurements on the gauge sample with exactly determined value of arithmetic mean deviation of the profile Ra was proposed. Evaluation was carried out using statistical methods, namely coefficients to define measuring device capability. The work contributed significantly to the assessment of capability of roughness measuring device SURFCOM 1900SD3, since it was required by practice.
Effect of Scanning Speed on the Accuracy of Measu-Red Values using Coordinate Measuring Machine
Authors: Guniš Zdenko , Vagovský Juraj , Görög Augustín
Published: May 2014

This paper is aimed to determine the effect of scanning speed on the coordinate measuring machine to the accuracy of the measured values. Experimental work focuses to measuring the circular sample with a prescribed diameter dimension on the coordinate measuring machine with a defined various scanning speed, and to detecting deviations of the measured values from conventional values of diameter of the circular sample. Detection of the interval of scanning speed where measured values were the closest to the conventional value of diameter of circular sample is the importance of this paper.
Reactor Vessel Internals Segmentation Experience using Mechanical Cutting Tools
Authors: Pospíšil Petr
Published: May 2014

Some commercial nuclear power plants have been permanently shut down to date and decommissioned using dismantling methods. Other operating plants have decided to undergo an upgrade process that includes replacement of reactor internals. In both cases, there is a need to perform a segmentation of the reactor vessel internals with proven methods for long term waste disposal. Westinghouse has developed several concepts to dismantle reactor internals based on safe and reliable techniques, including plasma arc cutting (PAC), abrasive waterjet cutting (AWJC), metal disintegration machining (MDM), or mechanical cutting. Mechanical cutting has been used by Westinghouse since 1999 for both Pressurized Water Reactors (PWR’s) and Boiling Water Reactors (BWR’s) and its process has been continuously improved over the years. The complexity of the work requires well designed and reliable tools. Different band saws, disc saws, tube cutters and shearing tools have been developed to cut the reactor internals. All of those equipments are hydraulically driven which is very suitable for submerged applications. Westinghouse experience in mechanical cutting has demonstrated that it is an excellent technique for segmentation of internals. In summary, the purpose of this paper will be to provide an overview of the Westinghouse mechanical segmentation process, based on actual experience from the work that has been completed to date.
Testing Aluminium Oxide based Ceramics at Irregular Interrupted Cut
Authors: Kyncl Ladislav , Cep Robert , Novacek Pavel , Schreier Jiri
Published: May 2014

This article discusses the test removable ceramic plates during machining with interrupted cut. Tests were performed on a lathe, which was clamped preparation which simulated us the interrupted cut. By changing the number plates mounted in a preparation it was a regular or irregular cut. When with four plates it was regular interrupted cut, the remaining three variants were already irregular cut. It was examined whether it will have the irregular intermittent cutting effect on the insert and possibly how it will change life of inserts during irregular interrupted cut.
Npp Safety in Slovakia According to Stress Tests After Accident in Fukushimi
Authors: Králik Juraj
Published: May 2014

This paper presents the new requirements to test of the safety and reliability of the NPP structures due to the last nuclear accidents in the world. The accidents of the NPP in Chernobyl and Fukushima give us the new inspiration to verify the safety level of the NPP structures. The probabilistic assessment of NPP structures for PSA level 2 of VVER 440 in the case of LOCA accident is presented. The results of the probabilistic nonlinear analysis of the NPP structures are presented.
Punching of Concrete Flat and Foundation Slabs
Authors: Fillo Ľudovít , Halvonik Jaroslav , Borzovič Viktor
Published: May 2014

This paper deals with punching of flat and foundation slabs. Te paper presents limiting values of maximum punching resistance of these slab structures with sudden and brittle mode of failure. In the paper are introduced graphs for design of flat and foundation slab thickness depending on load intensity, span length and reinforcement ratio.
Analysis of Dynamic Through Movement on Roundabout / Analýza Dynamického Průjezdu Okružní Křižovatkou
Authors: Cihlářová Denisa , Seidler Tomáš
Published: May 2014

Dynamic roundabout vehicle path is according to U.S. standards one of the parameters used to prove the validity of roundabout design. Under Czech law is roundabout design verification based on possibility of roundabout design vehicle path. But the question is whether the only a verification is enough especially if traffic is increasing [1]. The article is devoted to the analysis of dynamic roundabout vehicle path. Article dealt with the speed of through movement on roundabout, depending on the radius of the characteristic roundabouts points. In situ measurements were made on selected single-lane, four-leg roundabout. The aim of this work is to evaluate selected roundabout in terms of the dynamics vehicle path and then find out how much corresponds theoretical dynamic vehicle path to the real one.
Final Lining Behaviour in Extremely Low Temperatures / Chování Definitivního Ostění Při Extrémně Nízkých Teplotách
Authors: Ďuriš Lukáš , Aldorf Josef , Vojtasík Karel
Published: May 2014

Design of a tunnel lining is complex task. The tunnel lining structure works in close interaction with the surrounding rock mass. The value of the load depends on geotechnical circumstances, primary lining, shape and size of opening, construction technology and as well on the temperature distribution in a lining that is determined by climatic conditions. The article deals with the temperatures in the tunnel lining that are brought about by air temperature changes in tunnel space and a constant temperature inside the rock mass. This problem is solved making use of temperature records in tunnel, on the inner and outer surface of the tunnel lining and in rock mass measured at a motorway Tunnel Klimkovice. These records are analyzed and submit to FE model of the tunnel lining so that the lining temperature state is converted for a lining stress state.
Heat Accumulation to Underground Heat Storage Facilities / Akumulace Tepla Do Podzemního Zásobníku Tepla
Authors: Galas Otakar , Labudek Jiří , Martiník Lubomír , Michnová Lenka , Svatošová Irena
Published: May 2014

At present, the research team of the Department of Building Environments and HVAC is intensely engaged in long-term heat storage in ground tanks for long-term, strategic, development options. This research area is primarily addressed in Germany and Canada, where ground heat storages are always applied to large buildings that act as both the main source and consumer of heat. The aim of this research is to create alternative heat ground storage options for a complex of 3 houses using easily recyclable materials.
Laboratory Testing of Asphalt Belts Rheological Properties Exposed to Shear Loads / Laboratorní Měření Reologických Vlastností Asfaltových Pásů Při Smykovém Zatížení
Authors: Janulíková Martina , Čajka Radim , Matečková Pavlína , Buchta Vojtěch
Published: May 2014

At faculty of civil engineering research is underway which appears with application sliding joints into foundation structures for several years. These sliding joints are applied in order reduce friction from deformation horizontal load effect (effect of undermining or shrinkage and concrete creep and also in prestressed foundation structures in order to allow introduction of prestressing) and they are usually formed from asphalt belts. To better describe the behavior of asphalt belts in sliding joint, it is necessary to know their behavior under the action shear loads over time. For this purpose many laboratory tests are long conducted both for different load conditions (size of the horizontal and vertical loads, the influence of environmental temperature) and different kinds of materials. This paper presents the current knowledge on the basis of measurements carried out so far.
Special Influences Affecting the Price of Real Estate / Zvláštní Vlivy Působící Na Cenu Nemovitostí
Authors: Kulil Vladimír
Published: May 2014

The subject matter of this thesis is a proposal for a method of valuation of special effects that may have impact on real estate prices. It deals with proposed procedures for valuation of intangible assets, and definitions of such property. Special effects are in particular name, historical value, design, quality of layout, security aspects, accessibility, conflict groups of inhabitants in or near the property, and location. The value of special effects can be calculated as the difference between usual and material value of such property without coefficients of merchantability.
Carying Capacity Assessment of One-Shear Nail Joint of Cement-Splinter Boards / Ověření Únosnosti Jednostřižného Hřebíkového Spoje Cementoštěpkových Desek
Authors: Lokaj Antonín , Vavrušová Kristýna
Published: May 2014

The aim of this article is in description of behavior and bearing capacity of one-shear nail joint of cement-splinter boards with middle solid wood element. This is made on the base of destructive laboratory testing according to valid European standards [1]. In the second part of this paper there is described typical damage of these joints and comparison of these results with bearing capacity of the same way arranged and loaded joints, where however instead of cement-splinter boards solid wood boards were used.
Waiting Time on Large Roundabout - Case Study / Čas Čakania Na Veľkej Okružnej Križovatke - Prípadová Štúdia
Authors: Salaiová Brigita
Published: May 2014

Many studies showed, that waiting time of vehicles is important characteristic - has a significant effect on critical gap and capacity of roundabout. The results of analysis of waiting time of road vehicles and trams and its evaluation especially on a large roundabout are presented in the paper. The values of waiting time estimated from the results of a special traffic survey as well as calculated using HCM formula are compared.
Fostering Entrepreneurship and Building Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy in Primary and Secondary Education
Authors: Studdard Nareatha L. , Dawson Maurice , Jackson Naporshia L.
Published: May 2014

This paper focuses on the positives of introducing entrepreneurship education at the primary and secondary levels of education. Specifically, its central focus deals with building children’s entrepreneurial self-efficacy at a young age. Several benefits, of increasing self-efficacy at a young age, are outlined. Benefits, such as entrepreneurship training, not only train students but, it helps to prepare them for the new knowledge based economy. Further, entrepreneurship education should help increase the success and survival rates of women and minority entrepreneurs. Essential to this process, a new curriculum needs to be devised including its means of assessment. Lastly barriers to an entrepreneurship program are discussed; this includes financial, political and negative perceptions of entrepreneurship education.
Total Environmental Assessment Framework in an Organization
Authors: Molnár Pavol , Dolinsky Martin
Published: May 2014

Purpose of the article is to present the way of application of methodology of environmental metrics within the total environmental assessment framework. An inevitable part of sustainable development initiatives is sustainable measurement metrics. This kind of metrics is being represented by three sets of indicators: Environmental, Social and Economic. Sustainability measurement metrics tends to measure environmental safety (e.g.: Ecological footprint), social responsibility (e.g.: Global Reporting Initiative) and economic efficiency (e.g.: Net Present Value test). Studying behaviour of companies in sustainability measurement metrics application, using another scientific method is well welcomed. Methods used in article are synthesis, analysis, deduction and comparative analysis. We are synthesizing those methods in a presented model which examines quality of environmental improvements across departments of selected organization. In other words, the model is able to quantify an extent how individual managerial decision contributed towards overall improvement in environmental performance of whole organization. Model works with and additive elements. In order to derive results using multiplicative elements, we are using logarithmic method in a model. Scientific aim of the article is to synthesize scientific methods aimed at environmental performance measurement into unified and universal model usable by managements of small and medium-sized enterprises. The background of this mission is to ensure that environmental performance will be correctly reported, data delivered by various companies (organisations) will be benchmarkable and consequently, Corporate Social Responsibility concepts worked out by individual organizations will be trustable. In the article, we are discovering that use of proposed universal model has marketable outcomes. Thanks to an existence of thriving markets valuating triple bottom line of sustainability, results delivered by the model helped to a company PintInox, S. p. A. to succeed at such kind of market. Conclusions the article delivers are pointing out an importance of interdisciplinary cooperation within field of sustainable development.
Sport Sponsorship as a Promotional Tool: Special Focus in Albania Business-to-Business (B2B) Perspective
Authors: Koc Macit
Published: May 2014

Purpose of the article The purpose of this article is to determine whether Sport Sponsorship was utilized by some Albanian companies as a promotional tool in their marketing efforts. Since the world included low population with limited goods and products in the past, the marketing and selling of the products were very simple. As the population grew and economies started thriving more diverse products and attractive products and goods were represented with a higher quantity in the global markets. Albania was not an exception to this fact, especially in the fields of business to business marketing. The competition occurred between companies in an attempt to attract more customers for buying goods and services. Strategically located in Europe, an important part of business of sports “sport sponsorship” has become as important part of marketing communication mix for many companies in Albania today.

Therefore, the main aim of this paper is to provide better understanding of the use of a sport sponsorship as a communication tool in Albania and the objectives linked with this kind of sponsorship.

Methodology/methods This is a qualitative study, although a quantitative method is used. Four companies were analyzed, from different industries, and two of them are supporting local football team, whereas two are/were sponsoring national ones. Initially surveys were distributed to four well-known companies in Albanian market; it was somehow difficult to gather the results of the surveys in terms of “locating the person to communicate with on behalf of the company”. However, this was easily overcome by contacting in advance.Conclusions In conclusion, the overall conclusion of this paper was that, in Albania companies sponsor because of the team’s media appearance and the objectives from a sport sponsorship are to increase sales and make people more aware of their brand and become accustomed to it.
Experiences of People of Acadian Descent Receiving Hemodialysis in Southwest Nova Scotia
Authors: Tarakji Ahmad Raed , Surette Monique , Frotten Ruby , Wilson Katherine , Morley Catherine
Published: May 2014

We conducted a group interview with five hemodialysis patients of Acadian descent. Our purpose was to learn about their intakes of Acadian foods so we could tailor our advice for other Acadian patients receiving hemodialysis. This approach builds on evidence that addressing cultural aspects of food choice and aligning dietary recommendations with usual intakes create optimal conditions for diet adherence while preserving personal habits and heritage. In this study, “the Acadian diet” held multiple meanings for different participants, participants varied in their intakes of traditional Acadian foods, intakes of traditional Acadian foods were decreasing in younger generations, and the desire to preserve kidney function had priority over eating much-loved traditional foods. These findings support the practices of individualized nutritional and dialysis care and discourage generalized nutrition messages based on assumptions of homogeneity of all people within a cultural group.
Elevated White Blood Cell Count Is Associated with Higher Risk of Glucose Metabolism Disorders in Middle-Aged and Elderly Chinese People
Authors: Jiang Hua , Yan Wen-Hua , Li Chan-Juan , Wang An-Ping , Dou Jing-Tao , Mu Yi-Ming
Published: May 2014

White blood cell (WBC) count has been associated with diabetic risk, but whether the correlation is independent of other risk factors has hardly been studied. Moreover, very few such studies with large sample sizes have been conducted in Chinese. Therefore, we investigated the relationship between WBC count and glucose metabolism in china. We also examined the relevant variables of WBC count. A total of 9,697 subjects (mean age, 58.0 ± 9.1 years) were recruited. The subjects were classified into four groups, including subjects with normal glucose tolerance, isolated impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We found that WBC count increased as glucose metabolism disorders exacerbated. WBC count was also positively correlated with waist hip ratio, body mass index, smoking, triglycerides, glycosylated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and 2-h postprandial glucose. In addition, high density lipoprotein and the female gender were inversely correlated with WBC count. In patients with previously diagnosed T2DM, the course of T2DM was not correlated with WBC count. Our findings indicate that elevated WBC count is independently associated with worsening of glucose metabolism in middle-aged and elderly Chinese. In addition, loss of weight, smoking cessation, lipid-modifying therapies, and control of postprandial plasma glucose and HbA1c may ameliorate the chronic low-grade inflammation.