bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
¿Son conscientes las universidades de los cambios que se están produciendo en la Educación Superior?
Authors: García Peñalvo Francisco José
Published: February 2017

El editorial de este último número del volumen 17, correspondiente al año 2016, reflexiona sobre los cambios vertiginosos que se están dando en torno a la educación superior, con modelos de gestión y negocio basados en la virtualización de la formación y en una orientación hacia el mercado laboral, que ponen en entredicho el concepto tradicional de Universidad. La pregunta que subyace es si la Universidad, como institución, es consciente de todos estos movimientos y está preparada para dar una respuesta contundente que le permita adaptarse a las nuevas realidades de una Sociedad Digital, sin perder su hegemonía como garante universal de la generación y transmisión del conocimiento científico y humanístico; o, al contrario, fiel a su tradición más conservadora, continúa reforzando el andamiaje de su torre de marfil, alejándose más y más de esta realidad, segura de una posición de privilegio social que entiende inamovible.
MEGANTHIAS KINGYO (KON, YOSHINO AND SAKURAI, 2000) (PERCIFORMES: SERRANIDAE) FROM BITUNG, NORTH SULAWESI, INDONESIA: FIRST RECORD FROM THE SOUTHWESTERN PACIFIC OCEAN
Authors: Peristiwady Teguh , Koagouw Wulan , Du Jianguo , Makatipu Petrus Christianus
Published: February 2017

Eight specimens of Meganthias kingyo were collected from Bitung, North Sulawesi, Indonesia between 2008 - 2010. The specimens were caught from about 70-150 m off Lembeh Island. M. kingyo differs from M. natalensis by having the following characteristics: pores lateral line scales (43 vs. 49); pectoral rays (16 vs. ii.14); body depth (47.1 vs. 51.9); head length (31.0 vs. 38.2), body depth (47.1 vs. 52.9), caudal peduncle depth (12.1 vs. 14.2), pectoral fin length (28.0 vs. 34.3), pelvic fin length (33.6 vs. 31.1), anal fin base length (19.4 vs. 22.2), caudal fin length (66.9 vs. 35.3) and longest dorsal fin ray (48.5 vs. 27.4). Previously, this species has been reported from Houzan-sone, off Miyako and Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa, Japan; and herein is recorded from off Lembeh Island, North Sulawesi, Indonesia.
The Gay and Lesbian Movement in Belgium from the 1950s to the Present
Authors: Borghs Paul
Published: February 2017

The small country of Belgium has become one of the world’s frontrunners in the extension of legal rights to gay and lesbian people. Belgium was, for example, the second country in the world (after the Netherlands) to legalize marriage for same-sex couples. The Belgian gay and lesbian movement played an important role in the emancipation and acceptance of—and the extension of rights to—the gay and lesbian population. This contribution outlines the history of the Belgian gay and lesbian movement from its beginning in the 1950s to the present day.1 The Belgian gay and lesbian movement had a difficult start, followed by periods of success alternating with periods of tension and conflict. The gay and lesbian movement eventually became one of the most successful social movements in Belgium.
Fighting Corruption: Values Education and Social Pedagogy in Greece in the Middle of the Crisis
Authors: Kyridis Argyris , Christodoulou Anastasia , Vamvakidou Ifigeneia , Pavlis-Korres Maria
Published: February 2017

This article aims to outline a framework for the development of school and social practices for combating corruption in Greece through values education. The proposal’s particular contribution lies in the identification of a values education in Greece that would utilise and also strengthen the social pedagogical ethos. Our research proposal is mainly based on social pedagogical theory and methodology and on organised social pedagogical actions whose aim is to bring about improvement and change in social and educational mechanisms through intervention and especially through prevention.
Apresentação
Authors: Souza Valeska Virgínia Soares , Moraes Filho Waldenor Barros
Published: February 2017

Apresentação.
Aquisição da escrita na era virtual: incorporando os jogos digitais online
Authors: Ribeiro Andréa Lourdes
Published: February 2017

O presente trabalho se propõe a analisar como os jogos digitais podem contribuir para a aquisição da escrita. Acreditamos que o uso de jogos digitais online possa tornar o aprender a escrever mais lúdico, divertido e interessante, possibilitando inclusive a inserção das crianças no ambiente das novas tecnologias da comunicação e da informação. A metodologia desse estudo baseou-se na observação de crianças em processo de alfabetização jogando “Brincando com as vogais” de acesso gratuito na internet. A escolha deveu-se ao jogo mobilizar atividades específicas e pertinentes ao processo de conhecimento da escrita e ser bastante rico no uso de imagens, cores, sons e movimentos destinados ao público infantil. O acompanhamento do jogador e a reflexão sobre sua ação tomaram como parâmetros as teorias sobre os letramentos na cibercultura (LÉVY, 1999; SOARES, 2002; COSCARELLI, 2005), a aprendizagem com jogos digitais (GEE, 2004, 2007; PRENSKY, 2006) e a compreensão de como as crianças aprendem a escrever (FERREIRO & TEBEROSKY, 1991). As considerações foram pautadas em como as crianças jogam, o que e de que forma aprenderam com o jogo. Esperamos com essa análise contribuir para que o aprendizado da escrita inclua as possibilidades da era virtual, em especial, os jogos digitais online.
Right Thoracoabdominal Approach for Retrocardiac Paraganglioma Resection
Authors: Hinojosa Carlos A. , Laparra-Escareno Hugo , Anaya-Ayala Javier E. , Lizola Rene , Torres-Machorro Adriana , Gamboa-Domínguez Armando
Published: February 2017

Paragangliomas are rare extra-adrenal tumors of sympathetic or parasympathetic paraganglia origin; of these, mediastinal paragangliomas are 2% of all cases. We present the case of a 21-year-old woman with uncontrolled arterial hypertension who had a functioning 6.5 × 6.2-cm retrocardiac paraganglioma firmly attached to the pericardium. The patient underwent tumor resection via a right thoracoabdominal incision; this surgical approach enabled adequate exposure for complete resection without institution of cardiopulmonary bypass or need for cardiac reconstruction or autotransplantation. Ten months postoperatively, the patient was doing well and was no longer hypertensive.
Titanium Plug Closure after HeartWare Ventricular Assist Device Explantation in a 15-Year-Old Girl: First U.S. Experience
Authors: Lara Diego A. , Jeewa Aamir , Elias Barbara A. , McCullum Elizabeth O. , Denfield Susan W. , Dreyer William J. , Adachi Iki
Published: February 2017

We describe the case of a teenage girl with anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy who received a HeartWare ventricular assist device and underwent successful device explantation after cardiac recovery.

During device support, the patient's cardiac function returned to normal. Twelve months after implantation, we explanted the device via repeat median sternotomy. To close the hole in the left ventricular apex and preserve the sewing ring in case future device support is needed, we used a German-manufactured titanium plug, developed specifically for this purpose. To our knowledge, this is the first use of this plug in the United States.

The patient recovered uneventfully and was discharged from the hospital on postoperative day 11. Left ventricular biopsy specimens at explantation revealed the resolution of previous degenerative sarcomeric changes.

Our patient did well clinically; however, recurrent late anthracycline cardiotoxicity might subsequently cause her cardiac function to deteriorate. In this event, our use of the titanium plug to preserve the left ventricular sewing ring would enable easier device replacement than would other explantation options.
Complementary Results to Heuvers’s Characterization of Logarithmic Functions
Authors: Himmel Martin
Published: February 2017

Based on a characterization of logarithmic functions due to Heuvers we develop analogous results for multiplicative, exponential and additive functions, respectively.
The influence of vibrations on surface roughness formed during precision boring
Authors: Korzeniewski Dariusz , Znojkiewicz Natalia
Published: February 2017

In this paper, the analysis of vibrations on surface roughness generated during boring with the application of the conventional boring tool and one with the damper is presented. The experiments included the measurement of vibration accelerations carried out with the piezoelectric sensor, as well as the evaluation of surface roughness parameters after each machining pass. The obtained results reveal that in the investigated range, no stability loss was found. Furthermore, the growth of the rotational speed induces the increase of vibration level, as well as the growth of the differences between the vibration values generated during boring with the conventional tool and one equipped with damper. Vibrations have also the direct influence on the machined surface roughness. In case of the tool equipped with the damper, the tool’s overhang L had more intense influence than rotational speed n. However, for the conventional boring tool this dependency was unequivocal.
Spectral Polarimetric Observations of the Sun by the VIRAC RT-32 Radio Telescope: First Results
Authors: Bezrukov D.
Published: February 2017

The article describes microwave observations of the Sun with the radio telescope RT-32 of the Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Center. The observations were performed using a multichannel spectral polarimeter for the 6.3–9.4 GHz frequency range. A set of 2D microwave emission maps of the Sun for the Stokes I and V parameters has been obtained and analyzed.
Preparation of the VIRAC Radio Telescope RT-32 for e-VLBI Observations
Authors: Skirmante K. , Bezrukovs Vl. , Jekabsons N. , Shmeld I.
Published: February 2017

A fully steerable parabolic antenna RT-32 with the mirror diameter 32 m owned by the Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre (VIRAC) is available for fundamental and applied research in radio astronomy. The RT-32 is supplied with the receiving systems for the frequency range 327 MHz to 12 GHz. The equipment allows recording of signals in two channels with a bandwidth up to 1 GHz in each. The system has a high stability of the time frame, which is prerequisite for the Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) observations. In 2012 the RT-32 data receiving systems and the network infrastructure were prepared for the work in the e-VLBI mode. The systems were tested together with the Torun observatory, and later in the EVN e-VLBI observation session at 5 GHz. Experiments have shown that RT-32 is able to observe at a frequency range of 5 GHz and transfer the data in the e-VLBI mode with the speed up to 1 Gbps. The paper describes the current status of RT-32, the application of its receiving and data acquisition units for the e-VLBI observations and the results of the conducted e-VLBI observational experiments.
First Results of the VLBI Experiment on Radar Location of the Asteroid 2012 DA14
Authors: Nechaeva M. , Antipenko A. , Bezrukov D. , Bezrukovs Vl. , Dementjev A. , Dugin N. , Jekabsons N. , Khutornoy R. , Klapers M. , Konovalenko A. , Kulishenko V. , Nabatov A. , Nesteruk V. , Pupillo G. , Reznichenko A. , Salerno E. , Shmeld I. , Skirmante K. , Tikhomirov Yu. , Voytyuk V.
Published: February 2017

An international VLBI experiment on radio location of the asteroid 2012 DA14 was organized on 2013 February 15–16, during its flyby close to Earth. The purpose of observations was to investigate and specify orbital parameters of the asteroid, as well as to evaluate its rotation period and other characteristics. The irradiation of the asteroid was performed by the RT-70 transmitter at Evpatoria (Crimea, Ukraine), while the reflected signals were successfully accepted by the two 32 m radio telescopes at Medicina (Bologna, Italy) and Irbene (Ventspils, Latvia). Processing and interpretation of the data were performed both in the Radiophysical Research Institute at Nizhny Novgorod and in the Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Center. The first results of this experiment are presented and discussed.
New Observations of the Old Magnetic Nova GQ Muscae
Authors: Narloch W. , Kaluzny J. , Krzeminski W. , Pych W. , Rozyczka M. , Shectman S. , Thompson I. B. , Tomov T.
Published: February 2017

Photometric observations of GQ Mus performed between 1992 and 2011 are reported. We find that the total amplitude of the orbital modulation of its brightness decreased from ~ 0.9 mag in 1992 to ~ 0.2 mag in 2010, becoming comparable to the amplitude of chaotic flickering on a time scale of several minutes. Optical spectra obtained in 2001 and 2012 indicate continuing activity of GQ Mus. The spectra show broad emission lines of He II and H I typical for magnetic cataclysmic variables. The nova was found to be an UV-bright object in 2001 and 2012. We also show that the orbital period of GQ Mus has been constant between 1989 and 2010–2011.
IO Com: Is it a Non-secondary Minimum Star?
Authors: Taş Günay , Evren Serdar
Published: February 2017

Four-color photometry of IO Com, a detached eclipsing binary with a long period (~53 d), was accomplished in 2004–2008. The absolute astrophysical and orbital parameters of the system were determined by the analysis of the light and radial velocity curves. No secondary minima in the light curves were detected. It was revealed that IO Com is the system with a highly eccentric orbit consisting of the components of mid-F spectral types. The calculated masses and radii of the primary and secondary components are: 1.32
On the Mass Distribution of Stellar-Mass Black Holes
Authors: Malkov O. Yu.
Published: February 2017

The observational stellar-mass black hole mass distribution exhibits a maximum at about 8 M
⊙. It can be explained via the details of the massive star evolution, supernova explosions, or consequent black hole evolution. We propose another explanation, connected with an underestimated influence of the relation between the initial stellar mass and the compact remnant mass. We show that an unimodal observational mass distribution of black holes can be produced by a power-law initial mass function and a monotonic “remnant mass versus initial mass” relation.
On the Construction of a New 3D Atlas of Stellar Spectral Energy Distributions
Authors: Mironov A. V. , Zakharov A. I. , Moshkalev V. G. , Malkov O. Yu. , Kilpio E. Yu.
Published: February 2017

Modern spectrophotometric atlases are burdened with significant systematic errors. In particular, the problems of spectrum calibration in the ultraviolet region are not solved; different parts of the spectrum are not thoroughly fit to each other; spectra of (even bright) stars, obtained by different authors, display large discrepancies. Here we discuss a possibility to construct a new atlas of spectral energy distributions (SEDs) for a large set of stars by comparison of empirical stellar spectra in dozens of modern spectrophotometric atlases, as well as the comparison of synthetic and observed color indices in different multicolor photometric systems. In this way we suppose to exclude most of systematic errors and construct a new three-dimensional (spectral class, luminosity class, metallicity) atlas of empirical stellar spectra for several thousand stars. After exclusion of interstellar reddenings, a semi-empirical atlas of average SEDs can be constructed for about 150–200 spectral subtypes. This would allow us to make calibrations of spectrophotometric and photometric parameters in terms of spectral types and physical parameters (T
eff, log g, [m/H]) and to verify the accuracy of model stellar atmospheres.
Properties of Open Clusters in the Regions of the Local Bubble and the Eridanus Superbubble
Authors: Gozha M. L. , Marsakov V. A.
Published: February 2017

Features of the relative positions of open clusters and two superbubbles in the vicinity of the Sun, the Local Bubble and the Eridanus Superbubble, are considered. It is shown that the open clusters are concentrated toward the neutral gas shell of the Local Bubble, while there is a deficiency of clusters inside the cavity. All clusters associated with the Eridanus Superbubble belong to a compact group at the northern edge of the shell; no clusters are present inside the superbubble. Kinematics, age, and other physical and chemical properties of the clusters are investigated. It is found that the metal-deficient clusters and the clusters with high velocities are absent in the sample considered; i.e. the properties of the clusters associated with the Local Bubble and the Eridanus Superbubble are typical of the thin disk objects of the Galaxy.
Solving Stellar Astronomy Problems in the Orbital Stellar Stereoscopic Observatory Project
Authors: Chubey M. S. , Kouprianov V. V. , L’vov V. N. , Markelov S. V. , Bakholdin A. V. , Tsukanova G. I.
Published: February 2017

We propose to establish an Orbital Stellar Stereoscopic Observatory (OStSO) consisting of two identically equipped spacecrafts (SCs) in the vicinity of two Lagrangian libration points, L4 and L5, of the “Sun – Earth+Moon barycenter” system. The stereoscopic baseline length is

B
=
a

3

≈
259.111

$B = a\sqrt 3 \approx 259.111$

million km (86.4% of the Earth orbit diameter). Each of the two Tsukanova–Korsch three-mirror astrographs has an aperture of 1m and focal length of 30 m; the focal-plane CCD array is 350 mm in diameter. The expected astrometric accuracy is ±0.0007″ in a single measurement. Each frame in the scientific program is captured synchronously by the two astrographs, allowing to obtain instantaneous parallaxes of stars as far as up to 5 kpc, along with spectral energy distributions (SEDs) of point and extended sources in the Tholen filter system (Zellner et al. 1985) extended to 12–14 bands, including the integral one. We expect the project to provide a large amount of important information for stellar astronomy and for various studies of Galactic objects.
The First Light of Mini-MegaTORTORA Wide-Field Monitoring System
Authors: Biryukov A. , Beskin G. , Karpov S. , Bondar S. , Ivanov E. , Katkova E. , Perkov A. , Sasyuk V.
Published: February 2017

We describe the first light of a new 9-channel wide-field optical monitoring system with sub-second temporal resolution, Mini-MegaTORTORA, which is being tested now at the Special Astrophysical Observatory in Russian Caucasus. The system is able to observe the sky simultaneously in either wide (~900 deg2) or narrow (~100 deg2) fields of view, either in clear light or with any combination of color (Johnson B, V or R) and polarimetric filters installed, with exposure times ranging from 100 ms to 100 s. The primary goal of the system is the detection of rapid (with sub-second characteristic time scales) optical transients, but it may be also used for studying variability of sky objects over longer time scales.
Visual Binaries: Cross-Matching and Compiling of a Comprehensive List
Authors: Isaeva A. A. , Kovaleva D. A. , Malkov O. Yu.
Published: February 2017

Visual binary stars make up the largest set among observed types of binaries (currently more than 110 000 systems are known containing more than 230 000 components). However, statistical analysis of this sample is a complicated task because a number of catalogues of visual binaries contain various data for evidently overlapping sets of objects. To use the complete dataset, one needs to cross-match these catalogues, i.e. to gather all the available information on visual binary stars into a single list. We have compiled a comprehensive set of visual binaries using data from the current versions of the Catalog of Components of Double & Multiple stars (CCDM); Tycho Double Star Catalogue (TDSC), and The Washington Visual Double Star Catalog (WDS). The resulting list1 contains 130 873 pairs, and we also provide trigonometric parallaxes for 14 319 of them drawn mostly from the Hipparcos catalogue.
Observational Data and Orbits of the Asteroids Discovered at the Baldone Observatory in 2008–2013
Authors: Černis K. , Wlodarczyk I. , Eglitis I.
Published: February 2017

The paper presents statistics of the asteroids observed and discovered at the Baldone Observatory, Latvia, in 2008–2013 within the project for astrometric observations of the near-Earth objects (NEOs), the main belt asteroids and comets. CCD observations of the asteroids were obtained with the 0.80/1.20 m, f/3 Schmidt telescope and a ST-10XME 15 × 10 mm CCD camera. In the Minor Planet Circulars and the Minor Planet Electronic Circulars (2008–2013) we published 3511 astrometric positions of 826 asteroids. Among them, 43 asteroids were newly discovered at Baldone. For 36 of these asteroids the precise orbits are calculated. Because of short observational arc and small number of observations, a few asteroids have low-precision orbits and their tracks have been lost. For seven objects with poorly known orbits we present their ephemerides for 2015–2016. The orbits and the evolution of orbital elements of two asteroids, (428694) 2008 OS9 from the Apollo group and the Centaur (330836) Orius (2009 HW77), are recalculated including new observations obtained after 2011.
Structural Parameters of Star Clusters: Signal to Noise Effects
Authors: Narbutis D. , Bridžius A. , Semionov D.
Published: February 2017

We study the impact of photometric signal to noise on the accuracy of derived structural parameters of unresolved star clusters using MCMC model fitting techniques. Star cluster images were simulated as a smooth surface brightness distribution following a King profile convolved with a point spread function. The simulation grid was constructed by varying the levels of sky background and adjusting the cluster’s flux to a specified signal to noise. Poisson noise was introduced to a set of cluster images with the same input parameters at each node of the grid. Model fitting was performed using “emcee” algorithm. The presented posterior distributions of the parameters illustrate their uncertainty and degeneracies as a function of signal to noise. By defining the photometric aperture containing 80% of the cluster’s flux, we find that in all realistic sky background level conditions a signal to noise ratio of ~50 is necessary to constrain the cluster’s half-light radius to an accuracy better than ~20%. The presented technique can be applied to synthetic images simulating various observations of extragalactic star clusters.
Recurrent Symbiotic Nova V407 Cygni: Before and after Outburst in 2010
Authors: Esipov V. F. , Kolotilov E. A. , Shenavrin V. I. , Tarasova T. N. , Tatarnikov A. M. , Tatarnikova A. A.
Published: February 2017

We present the results of our
Binary Star Database: Binaries Discovered in Non-Optical Bands
Authors: Malkov Oleg Yu. , Tessema Solomon B. , Kniazev Alexei Yu.
Published: February 2017

The Binary star Database (BDB) is the world’s principal database of binary and multiple systems of all observational types. In particular, it should contain data on binaries discovered in non-optical bands, X-ray binaries (XRBs) and radio pulsars in binaries. The goal of the present study was to compile complete lists of such objects.

Due to the lack of a unified identification system for XRBs, we had to select them from five principal catalogues of X-ray sources. After cross-identification and positional cross-matching, a general catalogue of 373 XRBs was constructed for the first time. It contains coordinates, indication of photometric and spectroscopic binarity, and extensive cross-identification. In the preparation of the catalogue, a number of XRB classification disagreements were resolved, some catalogued identifiers and coordinates were corrected, and duplicated entries in the original catalogues were found.

We have also compiled a general list of 239 radio pulsars in binary systems. The list is supplied with indication of photometric, spectroscopic or X-ray binarity, and with cross-identification data.
Potential of a Spheroid with Generalized Exponential Density Distribution
Authors: Kondratyev B. P. , Kireeva E. N.
Published: February 2017

The internal potential of an inhomogeneous layered spheroid with a small ellipticity and general exponential density distribution is derived in an analytical form. The results are presented in the form of standard Gauss hypergeometric function and validated numerically. The computing time when using this formula is noticeably smaller than the time required by numerical integration.
Rurban Areas as Reflected in Lithuanian Territorial Planning Documents
Authors: Gražulevičiūtė-Vileniškė Indrė , Zaleskienė Erika
Published: February 2017

The research focus is the territorial planning documents of different level valid in the territory of Lithuania, and the phenomenon of rural-urban interface reflected in them. The methods applied include the desktop study aimed at determining the presence of rural-urban influence, the character of rurban landscapes, their potential, current state of their management and development possibilities as reflected in the existing planning documents. The conclusions demonstrated not only the presence and the fragmented character of rurban areas in Lithuania, but also their potential as representative and widely accessible accumulation of cultural heritage and exceptional landscape feature of the country.
Subjects and Objects of the Embodied Gaze: Abbas Kiarostami and the Real of the Individual Perspective
Authors: Gyenge Zsolt
Published: February 2017

It is widely accepted that Abbas Kiarostami’s cinema revolves around the representation of the gaze. Many critics argue that he should be considered a late modernist who repeats the self-reflexive gestures of modernist European cinema decades after they were first introduced. The present paper will contradict this assertion by investigating the problematic of the Kiarostamian gaze and analyzing the perceptual side of the act of looking. I will argue that instead of focusing on the gaze of the spectator directed towards the filmic image, he exposes a gaze that is fully integrated into the reality to be captured on film. The second part of the paper will explain this by linking the concept of gaze to the Lacanian concept of the order of the Real. Finally, I will contextualize all this by discussing the Iranian director’s position between Eastern and Western traditions of representation.
Finite-dimensional H∞ control of a parallel-flow heat exchange process
Authors: Sano H.
Published: February 2017

This paper is concerned with the H∞ control problem of a coupled transport-diffusion system with Neumann boundary condition, related to parallel-flow heat exchange process. It is shown that, by using the previous approach for a single diffusion system, the H∞ control problem can be solved by constructing a residual mode filter (RMF)-based controller which is of finite-dimension. A numerical simulation result is given to demonstrate the validity of the proposed method.
Minimum energy control of fractional positive continuous-time linear systems using Caputo-Fabrizio definition
Authors: Kaczorek T.
Published: February 2017

The Caputo-Fabrizio definition of the fractional derivative is applied to minimum energy control of fractional positive continuous- time linear systems with bounded inputs. Conditions for the reachability of standard and positive fractional linear continuous-time systems are established. The minimum energy control problem for the fractional positive linear systems with bounded inputs is formulated and solved.
FePt3 nanosuspension synthesized from different precursors – a morphological comparison by SAXS, DLS and TEM
Authors: Sarmphim P. , Soontaranon S. , Sirisathitkul C. , Harding P. , Kijamnajsuk S. , Chayasombat B. , Pinitsoontorn S. , Chingunpitak J.
Published: February 2017

Annealed iron-platinum (FePt) is ferromagnetic in a nanoscale regime which is necessary for energy and data storage, whereas the as-synthesized form of FePt-based nanoparticles exhibits superparamagnetism useful for biomedical applications. In this study, as-synthesized nanosuspensions from the reaction of Pt(acac)2 with Fe(acac)3 and Fe(hfac)3 are compared. X-ray diffraction (XRD) peaks for both samples are assigned to the FePt3 phase. As shown by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), nanoparticles synthesized by using Fe(acac)3 have a smaller average diameter, but larger polydispersity index and particle agglomerations. On the other hand, the nanoparticles synthesized by using Fe(hfac)3 can self-assemble into a longer range of patterned monolayer. Dynamic light scattering (DLS), measuring the size of cluster of nanoparticles as well as oleic acid and oleylamine at their surface, confirms that larger agglomerations in the sample were synthesized by using Fe(acac)3. In addition to the size distribution, magnetic properties were influenced by the composition of these nanoparticles.
Serum triglyceride measurements: the commutability of reference materials and the accuracy of results
Authors: Meng Qinghui , Zhou Weiyan , Zhang Chuanbao , Zeng Jie , Zhao Haijian , Zhang Tianjiao , Wang Donghuan , Zhang Jiangtao , Yan Ying , Chen Wenxiang
Published: February 2017

Background

We aimed to evaluate the commutability of external quality assessment (EQA) materials, aqueous solutions, and commercial reference materials (calibrators and controls), and the accuracy of routine systems for serum triglyceride measurements.

Methods

According to the clinical and laboratory standards institute (CLSI) EP14-A3 protocol, we analyzed 43 fresh patient specimens and 32 processed materials including lyophilized samples, human serum pools, liquid reagents, swine sera and aqueous solutions by 14 routine methods (evaluated methods) and an isotope dilution liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method (ID-LC/MS/MS) (comparative method). The accuracy of the routine method was evaluated by analyzing the absolute bias, relative bias, and the bias at three medical decision levels based on CLSI EP9-A3.

Results

Frozen serum samples and swine sera were commutable for all of the assays. The EQA/PT materials, commercial calibrators and control materials showed matrix effects differently on routine methods. The aqueous glycerol solutions were generally noncommutable for routine method. All except one routine analytical systems met the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) recommended analytical performance guideline analytical quality criteria for total error.

Conclusions

Matrix effects and calibration biases existed in measurements of serum triglyceride. Continued efforts are needed to improve the accuracy and comparability of routine measurements.
Appreciating Entrepreneurship: A New Approach for Field Research
Authors: Woodfield Paul , Woods Christine , Shepherd Deborah
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this paper is to explore the advantages and disadvantages of utilizing an appreciative inquiry approach for entrepreneurship research within the family business context. We argue that there is an opportunity to shift the focus of family business studies from a“deficit oriented approach” toward adopting a positive organizational lens through“appreciative inquiry” principles. We review the background to appreciative inquiry including from its inception in the 1980s; the definitions, principles, models for appreciative inquiry; and the theoretical foundations of the appreciative inquiry approach. We will draw on examples from a recent study that applied appreciative inquiry principles to investigate what worked well in entrepreneurial family businesses. By exploring the generative characteristics, we are better placed to understand the strengths of a family firm. This leads to research that presents what works well, and can be built on in family businesses, rather than objectifying the problems to be solved. Our contribution lies in how, as a positive organizational lens, appreciative inquiry principles inform research in the entrepreneurial family business context. In practice, finding the advantages and disadvantages of using an appreciative protocol could lead to future studies adopting this lens, and possibly past studies being reinvigorated with a shift of focus.
Selection and Assortment of The Variables Describing The Relationship between The Economy and The General Government Sector Size by Application of The LEM2 Algorithm
Authors: Skica Tomasz , Rodzinka Jacek , Fryc Barbara
Published: February 2017

This paper reverses the relatively frequent examined interrelation that links an impact of the public sector (and within it the general government sector) on the economy of the analyzed countries. The article analyses whether the size of the general government sector is a function of the economy expressed through variables that were adopted for research. Realization of the research objective that was raised in this article focused on typing, grouping and selecting variables that describe respectively: the economy and the size of the sector. For identifying relationships between variables assigned to each group, the LEM2 algorithm was used. Rules that were generated by the application of this algorithm provided not only information about the relationships of individual variables, but also provided an indication of how frequently they occurred in relation to the examined pairs of variables describing the economy and the size of the general government sector. The subject of research was EU Member States (their economy and public finance systems) and the research period was set on the years 2000 to 2013 (inclusive). Among the economic variables and variables describing the size of the sector, there were included both standard variables used in the analyzes dedicated to macroeconomic issues as well as variables that the authors’ team selected in order to test their applicability in describing the economy and the size of the general government sector. Such a composition of the variables is well-founded as, besides the main objective of this article (i.e. to establish a link between the economic situation and size of the general government sector) the additional effect of research, and that is the optimization of the selected variables that are used to explain the relationship of the economy and the size of the sector.
The New Institutional Economics-Main Theories
Authors: Obińska-Wajda Emilia
Published: February 2017

The aim of this article is to show that the New Institutional Economics is an interdisciplinary stream combining economics, law, organization theory, political sciences, sociology, and anthropology. The main theories which are part of the New Institutional Economics are: Agency Theory, Property Rights Theory and Transaction Costs Theory. The basic assumptions of these theories are mentioned in this paper. This article is an introduction to the New Institutional Economics and its main theories. For this purpose, it presents a brief guide for those who are interested in the New Institutional Economics. Finally, the article is accompanied by a short review of examples of empirical studies connected with these theories.
Saproxylic springtails (Collembola) of the Wigry National Park
Authors: Skarżyński Dariusz , Piwnik Agata , Krzysztofiak Anna
Published: February 2017

Faunistic and ecological studies on saproxylicCollembolaspecies were carried out in the Wigry National Park (NE Poland). Nine sites representingTilio-Carpinetum,Serratulo-PinetumandPeucedano-Pinetumhabitats each including three different levels of disturbance were visited twice in 2015. Samples from fallen logs in different stages of decay, neighboring litter and soil as well as arboreal epiphytes were taken on each visit. TheCollembolaspecimens were then extracted using Tullgren funnels resulting in a total of 73 838 specimens from 270 samples. Specimen identification revealed the occurrence of 63 species, including 5 saproxylobiontic, 7 saproxylophilous, 4 xerophilous species living in epiphytic mosses and lichens as well as 47 hemiedaphic or euedaphic species. This composition of saproxylic fauna seems to be typical for the region with the most diverse assemblages being found inTilio-Carpinetumhabitats, whileSerratulo-PinetumandPeucedano-Pinetumare clearly less diverse. Additionally, a slight decrease in the number ofCollembolaspecies with increasing forest disturbance was observed. Furthermore, an increase in the number ofCollembolaspecies with the degree of dead wood decomposition was also found. This indicates that saproxylic springtail assemblages are sensitive to anthropogenic changes.
Białystok inhabitants’ preferences concerning forest recreational services – the need for physical activity
Authors: Smoleński Marcin
Published: February 2017

This paper focuses on the market segmentation of recreational forest services using the concept of ‘sensation seeking’ for describing recreational expectations of town dwellers. The physical activity of town dwellers from the urban agglomeration of Białystok and the Knyszyn Forest (North-Eastern Poland) during outdoor recreation was analysed using this concept. The results of this research suggest that less than thirty percent of inhabitants of the Białystok agglomeration tend to be physically active during outdoor recreation. This is evidence of a low level of physical culture within the part of the society analysed in this study. Amongst all participants, only seven percent use the Knyszyn Forest for recreational purposes based on physical activity. The limited interest in active recreation in forests that we observed can be attributed to two main causes: 1) the lack of acceptance of a closed forest landscape as a recreational area; 2) the lack of recreational facilities in the Knyszyn Forest that would encourage healthy behaviour during active outdoor recreation.
Butt rot occurrence in plus trees of Silver fir Abies alba Mill. and Norway spruce Picea abies (L.) from the Carpathians
Authors: Chomicz-Zegar Elżbieta , Niemtur Stanisław , Kapsa Mariusz , Ambroży Sławomir
Published: February 2017

Due to its hidden character, butt rot occurrence is not commonly included in the assessment of plus trees’ health status. Thus, the trees’ varied susceptibility to wood decay is not a target of breeding efforts. The aim of the study was to determine the extent of butt rot in fir and spruce plus trees from Carpathian seed stands. We employed the novel and non-invasive diagnostic method of sonic tomography to determine presence and severity of decay at the base of 110 plus trees of silver fir and 42 of Norway spruce.

Butt rot in various stages of development occurred in 63% of investigated fir trees and in 45% of spruce trees. The proportion of damaged wood on the tomogram ranged from 0–38% in fir and 0–47% in spruce with similar average proportions of solid wood in all forest districts. The vast majority of trees was in the range of 80–90% solid wood. Plus trees of fir and spruce were affected by butt rot to a similar extent and the degree of damage increased with age in both species.

However, a large variation in susceptibility to butt rot was found between individual trees leading to the conclusion that the identification of old trees, which wood is not decayed, may be the basis for further research on the resistance to butt rot.
Study of Thermal Analysis of Selected Cellulose Fibres
Authors: Števulova Nadežda , Hospodárova Viola , Eštoková Adriana
Published: February 2017

This paper provides the investigation of thermal analysis of cellulose fibres which will be used into building materials as a partial filler replacement. Cellulosic fibres come from two various sources: bleached wood pulp and unbleached waste paper whereas these natural fibres have different cellulose contents and another manufacturing process. Natural fibres have been widely used as reinforcing fillers in composite materials in recent years. As a result, they are subjected to thermal degradation during composite processing. It is thus of practical significance to understand and predict the thermal decomposition process of natural fibres and the knowledge will help better design the composite process and estimate the influence on composite properties by the thermal decomposition of natural fibres. The results obtained from the thermal analysis of cellulosic fibres showed differences in their thermal decomposition and also differences in the weight loss due to their chemo-mechanical treatment, the presence of impurities and CaCO3originating from filler in paper making.
Comparative Study of Portland Cement-based and Zeolite-based Concretes in Terms of Hexavalent Chromium Leaching
Authors: Oravec Jozef , Estokova Adriana
Published: February 2017

The paper presents the results of the leaching study of Portland cement-based and zeolite-based concretes regarding water soluble hexavalent chromium. Three leaching water media (distilled water, rain water, and Britton-Robinson buffer) of various pH values were under investigation. The correlation between pH and leached-out concentrations of chromium was not confirmed. The content of hexavalent water-soluble chromium in leachates of zeolite-based concretes was found to be higher than that in leachates of Portland cement-based samples.
The European Union’s Activity in Regard to the Conflict in Ukraine Before the 2014 Presidential Election
Authors: Rulski Michał
Published: February 2017

Ukraine is the largest country that is included in European Neighborhood Policy. That is why the European Union should spotlight relations with this eastern partner, especially by foreign policy instruments like association agreement. The focus here is on the EU’s involvement in the Ukrainian crisis in period from Maidan revolution at the end of 2013, which was occasioned by the rejection of the association agreement with the EU by President Viktor Yanukovych, and to the presidential election in 2014. The main issue is to evaluate the EU’s scope to stabilize the political environment in the nearby neighborhood and eliminate threats, which are the results of war between Ukraine and Russia.
The Ukraine Crisis and Shift in us Foreign Policy
Authors: Woźniak Michał
Published: February 2017

War in Ukraine and the Russian annexation of Crimea are the events that changed the US policy towards Russia. The events in Ukraine forced the United States to take a closer look at Eastern and Central Europe. The United States’ policy during the Ukrainian crisis has been limited to sanctions and strong statements so far because in Ukraine there is an asymmetry of interests. Ukraine is much more important to Russia than to the United States. The United States may be willing to support the democratic and western aspiration of Ukrainians but will not risk a major conflict with Russia over it. However the crisis in Ukraine is not only about Ukraine or Russia. It is also about US credibility around the world. Both friends and foes are watching closely the American reaction to the situation. That is why the United States has increased its military presence in those NATO countries that share borders with Russia.
Desired Outcomes Through Deliberate Design: How the Communication Perspective Enhances Organizational Development
Authors: Chetro-Szivos John , Baldelli Sarah , Santon Colleen
Published: February 2017

The study includes an analysis and results of a Deliberately Developmental Organization (DDO) effort in an academic department. In this studyKegan and Lahey’s conception of a DDO is coupled with the Circular Questioning technique to deepen the intensity of the employees’ participation. The ultimate goal of a DDO is to enhance the employees’ personal development and thus improve the organization. The authors point to the communication perspective as a way to understand the centrality of dialogue in the DDO process. It was found that Circular Questioningas a means of intervention allowed the members to generate new thoughts and actionsthus building an understanding of their interdependence. It was clear their communication acted as a constitutive force, shaping the lives of the interactants and their future understanding and work in the organization.
The Emerging Outline of Selected HRM Business Practices In MNC In Central Europe – The Empirical Research Findings
Authors: Stor Marzena , Poór József , Szabo Katlin , Slavić Agneš , Zaharie Monica , Machova Renata
Published: February 2017

The main goal of the article is to present some selected research findings on HRM business practices in local subsidiaries of multinational corporations in Central Europe in the after-recovery time from the worldwide economic crisis. The main subjects of interest are these kinds of behaviors, activities and opinions which are exhibited by these organizations in association with the business strategies they follow and as a result of their responses to the global economic changes. The article covers such issues as: generic business strategies, competitive factors, centralization and decentralization of HRM at the corporate and local level, responsibility of decisions, critical areas of HRM, competencies of HRM managers and the importance of HRM knowledge flows. The research was conducted in 2016 and the respondents were asked about their HRM practices in a previous year. The presented research findings come from five countries: Hungary, Poland, Romania, Serbia and Slovakia. Although one of the final inferences says that expanding the formulated conclusions on the whole population would not be valid because of the selection, structure and size of the research sample, the conducted research has some cognitive value, especially that this field of knowledge and practice has been poorly recognized so far.
Meaning-Making Processes in Derivatives from Precedent Names
Authors: Golubkova Ekaterina , Zakharova Anastasia
Published: February 2017

The paper addresses the issue of meaning-making in a highly prolific and sprawling segment of English vocabulary – derivatives from precedent names (DPNs). The combination of cognitive linguistics methods applied to analyze the semantics of DPNs (Robin Hood cluster, Cinderella-based blends and Dorian Gray effect) permitted to account for their bias towards polysemy, which seems to be basically grounded in the process of metonymic zoom-in on the selected content in the event frame that describes the precedent name, oftentimes leading to domain extension and indeterminacy.
Towards Understanding of Conceptualisation in Cognitive Terminology
Authors: Manerko Larissa
Published: February 2017

The paper describes the nature of the concept in terminological research introspectively leading to a cognitively grounded framework and usage-based study in cognitive terminology, where conceptualization is revealed on the basis of the dynamic character of human scientific thinking, cognitive systems directly affecting terminological systems and professional discourse, and representing conceptual organization of special knowledge on the basis of linguistic and extra-linguistic factors.