bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case law relating to service provision changes under the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment)(TUPE) Regulations 2006
Authors: McMullen John
Published: May 2015

Dr John McMullen, partner in Short
Richardson & Forth LLP and a Visiting Professor of Law at
Durham University, considers the service provision change regime
under TUPE 2006 and likely impact on litigation, taking account
of the emerging case law. The article is published in Amicus
Curiae – Journal of the Society for Advanced Legal Studies at the
Institute of Advanced Legal Studies. The Journal is produced by
SALS at the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, University of
London. The article is based on a lecture given at the IALS in
May 2010 and draws on the text of the author's looseleaf work on
Business Transfers and Employee Rights.
Commemorating Sir David Hughes Parry
Authors: Parry R. Gwynedd
Published: May 2015

Brief article based on an edited transcript
of a seminar presentation given by Dr R. Gwynedd Parry of Swansea
University at the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies in October
2010 to mark the publication of his biography of Professor Sir
David Hughes Parry QC (founding Director of the IALS). The
article is published in Amicus Curiae – Journal of the Society
for Advanced Legal Studies at the Institute of Advanced Legal
Studies. The Journal is produced by SALS at the IALS (Institute
of Advanced Legal Studies, School of Advanced Study, University
of London).
Vom neuen guten Leben
Authors: Andreas Marcus
Published: May 2015

Vom Gorleben-Widerstand der »Freien Republik Wendland« bis zum ersten Parteiprogramm der Grünen: Die Vision vom guten Leben auf dem Lande machte in den 1980ern wieder Furore. In den 1990ern traten dann Ökodörfer an, die Utopie zu erneuern. Welche Erfahrungen werden im ›Abenteuer Lebensstil‹ kultiviert? Inwieweit gelingt es, damit zu einer Transformation gen Nachhaltigkeit beizutragen? Anhand des bekannten Projekts »Sieben Linden« untersucht Marcus Andreas anschaulich und kritisch die Bemühungen eines Ökodorfes um eine zeitgemäße Positionierung im Wandel.
Protest als Ereignis
Authors: Ertl Sarah
Published: May 2015

Die mediale Inszenierung von Protest ist sowohl Zeichen der Ausgewogenheit demokratischer Teilhabe als auch Manifestation gesellschaftlicher Machtstrukturen. Die Medien dienen den Protestgruppen als Tor zur Aufmerksamkeit breiter Öffentlichkeiten. Allerdings kann bereits das sprachliche Framing in der Berichterstattung Protest marginalisieren oder kriminalisieren. Sarah Ertl geht (den Implikationen) der Protestberichterstattung in ihrer demokratischen Einbettung anhand verschiedener Case Studies nach. Dabei gerät neben dem Graswurzel-Protest auch das Phänomen des »Astroturfings« - das Lancieren von vermeintlichem Graswurzel-Protest durch profitorientierte Organisationen - in den Fokus.
Anerkennen als Erfahrungsprozess
Authors: Bandelin Sebastian
Published: May 2015

Wie erfährt man Anerkennung? Sebastian Bandelins an der Sozialphilosophie des Pragmatismus orientierte Weiterentwicklung einer kritischen Theorie der Anerkennung zeigt: Anerkennen ist nicht als Bestätigung vorgängiger Identitätsansprüche zu verstehen, sondern als ein sozialer Prozess, in dessen Verlauf sich bestimmte praktische Selbstverhältnisse realisieren - und sodann durch ihre sozialen Folgen in eine Krise geführt, vor diesem Hintergrund kritisch reflektiert und schließlich überwunden werden. Der Begriff gelingender Anerkennung muss sich schließlich darauf beziehen, wie dieser Prozess der Erfahrung, in dem Selbstverständnisse und Handlungsformen hinterfragt und neu gebildet werden, in sinnvoller Weise organisiert werden kann.
Clinical Research in Metastatic Prostate Cancer: A Focus on Impact and Value
Authors: Hussain Maha , DiPaola Robert S.
Published: May 2015

KEY POINTS

Several therapies targeting the androgen receptor and other pathways have improved survival and quality of life for patients with metastatic prostate cancer.

Many costly therapeutic clinical trial efforts have failed to improve outcomes.

Prostate cancer is a complex disease. Its biologic heterogeneity warrants that future clinical trials be carefully designed to achieve higher levels of clinical impact by attention to targeting more critical pathways; integrating improved diagnostics; well-designed and powered clinical trials using multi-targeted strategies; and optimized timing of therapy.
The Changing Landscape of Phase I Trials in Oncology
Authors: Wong Kit Man , Capasso Anna , Eckhardt S. Gail
Published: May 2015

KEY POINTS

Several aspects of phase I trials have evolved in the current era of molecular targeted agents to adapt to the changing nature of anticancer therapy and to increase the efficiency of drug development.

Current phase I designs are increasingly integrating novel dose-escalation approaches and biomarker-driven selection of patients, as well as expanding study objectives to include the evaluation of efficacy and pharmacodynamics/pharmacokinetics in addition to safety.

Changes to the regulatory approval process have helped to expedite drug development, particularly for novel agents with a strong biologic rationale and proof of concept, validated predictive biomarker, and clear evidence of efficacy in early trials.

As a result of the substantial changes in phase I trial goals and conduct, there is a parallel shift toward multi-institutional trials and central study management by clinical research organizations.

The use of multi-institutional trials has a significant impact on the structure of phase I programs and the experience of investigators, particularly because of limited patient enrollment at each site.
Making Sense of Current and Emerging Therapies in Pancreatic Cancer: Balancing Benefit and Value
Authors: Ahn Daniel H. , Ko Andrew H. , Meropol Neal J. , Bekaii-Saab Tanios S.
Published: May 2015

Pancreatic cancer remains the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States with a dismal prognosis and a 5-year survival of less than 5% across all stages.1 In 2014, there were approximately 46,420 new cases of pancreatic cancer with only 9% of patients having localized disease.2 Given that the vast majority of patients present with advanced disease, much of the focus for drug development has been in the metastatic setting, which is evident with the advent of two combination chemotherapy regimens for this indication. Although conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy remains the standard of care, an ongoing search for novel therapeutic approaches continues. We will highlight several new approaches here, with a particular emphasis on immunotherapeutic strategies. We will also introduce concepts regarding the potential economic effects associated with the development and implementation of new treatments in pancreatic cancer.
Adjuvant Radiation for Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Dickie Colleen I. , Haas Rick , O'Sullivan Brian
Published: May 2015

Over recent decades, limb-preservation surgery in combination with radiotherapy achieves local control rates exceeding 90% for extremity soft tissue sarcoma (STS). Local control is not as successful for retroperitoneal sarcoma (approximately 60%) despite aggressive surgical approaches including en bloc resection of uninvolved adjacent organs combined with intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). This review will discuss the indications for adjuvant radiation therapy (RT) for primary presentation of soft tissue sarcoma: “What,” referring to the type and manner of planning and delivery of RT; “When,” referring to the timing and scheduling of RT; and “Why,” referring to the rationale for the use of RT will be addressed. From a practical stand point, this Educational Chapter on “adjuvant RT” will focus on pre- and postoperative RT in the context of gross total resection for extremity and retroperitoneal soft tissue sarcoma, the two most frequent paradigms for the use of adjuvant RT.
“Lassie,” “Toto,” and Fellow Pet Dogs: Poised to Lead the Way for Advances in Cancer Prevention
Authors: Knapp Deborah W. , Dhawan Deepika , Ostrander Elaine
Published: May 2015

Cancer causes substantial morbidity and takes the lives of over 8 million people worldwide each year. Advances in cancer prevention research are crucial, and animal models are key to this. There are many valuable experimentally induced cancer models, but these do not fully meet the needs for cancer prevention studies. Pet dogs with risks for naturally occurring cancer can fill important gaps in cancer prevention research. Using invasive urothelial carcinoma (iUC) as an example, the advantages of utilizing pet dogs include: (1) close similarities between dogs and humans in carcinogenesis, molecular and cellular features, invasive and metastatic behavior, and response to treatment, thus providing high relevance for comparative studies, (2) shared environment between dogs and humans to help identify not-yet-known environmental iUC risks, (3) strong breed-associated risk (5- to 21-fold increased risk compared with mixed breeds) that facilitates investigation of gene-environment interactions, screening, and early intervention, (4) large size of dogs (versus rodents) that allows collection of fluids and tissues via cystoscopy, and detailed imaging at multiple time points, and (5) acceptance for studies in which each participating dog can benefit while enjoying life in their family environment, and in which findings will help other dogs and humans. An ongoing 3-year study in Scottish Terriers (comparable to a 15- to 20-year study in humans) is aimed at defining genetic and environmental risk factors for iUC, effective methods for screening/early detection, and a successful secondary cancer prevention approach with very promising results to date. Pet dogs can indeed propel cancer prevention research.
In vitro permeation studies of phenolics from horse chestnut seed gels prepared with different polyacrylic acid polymer derivatives
Authors: Zelbienė Eglė , Draksiene Gailute , Savickas Arunas , Kopustinskiene Dalia , Masteikova Ruta , Bernatoniene Jurga
Published: May 2015

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of polyacrylic acid polymers (Ultrez 10, Ultrez 20, Carbopol 980, and Carbopol 940) on the viscosity and the in vitro permeation of phenolic compounds from the gel prepared from natural horse chestnut seed extract. Experiments were performed in the presence and in the absence of peppermint oil (Mentha piperita). Our results showed that peppermint oil decreased the viscosity of the gels and permeation of phenolic compounds from all gel samples. Results show that the highest content of phenolic compounds (1.758 μg cm-2) permeated in vitro from gel based on Carbopol Ultrez 20 without peppermint oil added (p < 0.05 vs. other tested polymers).
An ordered probit analysis of monetary policy inertia
Authors: Bayar Omer
Published: May 2015

The two leading explanations of the observed persistence in policy interest rate changes are monetary policy inertia and omitted serially correlated shocks. This paper addresses the persistence debate from the perspective of how to properly model policy rates. An ordered probit model is used to account for the discrete nature of interest rate adjustment, an aspect of policy absent in standard models. Ordered probit results show that the impact of inertia on interest rate setting is considerably smaller than indicated by standard models.
Testing the in vitro performance of hydroxyapatite coated magnesium (AZ91D) and titanium concerning cell adhesion and osteogenic differentiation
Authors: Kleinhans Claudia , Vacun Gabriele , Surmenev Roman , Surmeneva Maria , Kluger Petra Juliane
Published: May 2015

In the current study the in vitro outcome of a degradable magnesium alloy (AZ91D) and standard titanium modified by nanostructured-hydroxyapatite (n-HA) coatings concerning cell adhesion and osteogenic differentiation was investigated by direct cell culture. The n-HA modification was prepared via radio-frequency magnetron sputtering deposition and proven by field emission scanning electron microscopy and X-ray powder diffraction patterns revealing a homogenous surface coating. Human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSCs) adhesion was examined after one and 14 days displaying an enhanced initial cell adhesion on the n-HA modified samples. The osteogenic lineage commitment of the cells was determined by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) quantification. On day one n-HA coated AZ91D exhibited a comparable ALP expression to standard tissue culture polystyrene samples. However, after 14 days solely little DNA and ALP amounts were measurable on n-HA coated AZ91D due to the lack of adherent cells. Titanium displayed excellent cell adhesion properties and ALP was detectable after 14 days. An increased pH of the culture was measured for AZ91D as well as for n-HA coated AZ91D. We conclude that n-HA modification improves initial cell attachment on AZ91D within the first 24 h. However, the effect does not persist for 14 days in in vitro conditions.
Sources of PM10 Air Pollution in Rural Area in the Vicinity of a Highway In Žilina Selfgoverning Region, Slovakia
Authors: Jandačka Dušan
Published: May 2015

Particulate matter results as an aftermath of numerous distinctive processes in the atmosphere and they become a part of everyday life. Their harmful effect and impact on the ambient environment is determined predominantly by the presence of various chemical substances and elements. The chemical composition of these particles (organic and elemental carbon, mineral dust, sea aerosols, secondary particles, especially sulphates and nitrates, heavy metals and further elements) is mainly impacted on by their origin, whereas the primary source of the particulate matter is determined and specified by the profile of chemical elements and substances. Particulate Matter (PM) may originate in various natural resources or anthropogenic sources. Among the natural sources sea salt is to be counted on, dust of the earth crust, pollen and volcanic ashes. Anthropogenic sources do include, predominantly, burning fossil fuels in the fossil-fuel power plants, local heating of households, burning liquefied fossil fuels in the combustion engines of vehicles, noncombustion related emissions as a result of vehicular traffic, resuspension of the road-traffic-related dust.
A kinetic study on drinking water denitrification
using a membrane bioreactor
Authors: Petrovič Aleksandra , Goršek Andreja , Simonič Marjana
Published: May 2015

This study determines the basic parameters of
Monod kinetics for microbial growth within a membrane
bioreactor using the Zenon ZeeWeed 10 MBR system. The
influent nitrate concentration was kept at 70 ± 2 mg L-1
NO3
ˉ. During the experiments a constant concentration
of activated sludge was maintained at approximately
0.76 g L-1 under anoxic conditions. Sucrose was added to
the activated sludge as a carbon source. The Monod kinetic
parameters were calculated by numerical interpolation,
by considering experimental data. The maximum specific
growth rate of the biomass was determined to be 0.31 h-1,
half-saturation constant 5.4 mg L-1, and yield coefficient
0.35 mg biomass mg-1 COD. Afterwards, a dynamic
simulation was performed within the calculated
parameters. The dynamic concentration profiles for
substrate and biomass were determined at different
dilution rates within the range of 0.8 to 5 d-1.
Building bridges between Mathematics, Insurance and Finance
Authors: Durante Fabrizio , Puccetti Giovanni , Scherer Matthias
Published: May 2015

Paul Embrechts is Professor of Mathematics at the ETH Zurich specializing in Actuarial
Mathematics and Quantitative Risk Management. Previous academic positions
include the Universities of Leuven, Limburg and London (Imperial College).
Dr. Embrechts has held visiting professorships at several universities, including
the Scuola Normale in Pisa (Cattedra Galileiana), the London School of
Economics (Centennial Professor of Finance), the University of Vienna, Paris 1
(Panthéon-Sorbonne), theNationalUniversity of Singapore, KyotoUniversity,was
Visiting Man Chair 2014 at the Oxford-Man Institute of Oxford University and has
an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Waterloo, Heriot-Watt University,
Edinburgh, and the Université Catholique de Louvain. He is an Elected Fellow
of the Institute of Mathematical Statistics and the American Statistical Association,
Honorary Fellow of the Institute and the Faculty of Actuaries, Actuary-SAA,
Member Honoris Causa of the Belgian Institute of Actuaries and is on the editorial
board of numerous scientific journals.He belongs to various national and international
research and academic advisory committees. He co-authored the influential
books Modelling of Extremal Events for Insurance and Finance, Springer, 1997 [8]
andQuantitative RiskManagement: Concepts, Techniques and Tools, Princeton UP,
2005, 2015 [14] and published over 180 scientific papers. Dr. Embrechts consults
on issues in Quantitative Risk Management for financial institutions, insurance
companies and international regulatory authorities.
Equivalent or absolutely continuous probability measures with given marginals
Authors: Berti Patrizia , Pratelli Luca , Rigo Pietro , Spizzichino Fabio
Published: May 2015

Let (X,A) and (Y,B) be measurable spaces. Supposewe are given a probability α on A, a probability
β on B and a probability μ on the product σ-field A ⊗ B. Is there a probability ν on A⊗B, with marginals α and
β, such that ν ≪ μ or ν ~ μ ? Such a ν, provided it exists, may be useful with regard to equivalent martingale
measures and mass transportation. Various conditions for the existence of ν are provided, distinguishing
ν ≪ μ from ν ~ μ.
Local communities' knowledge of lignite surface mining – sources and level of satisfaction: examples from central Poland
Authors: Badera Jarosław
Published: May 2015

Developing of large-scale lignite excavation can often generate socio-environmental conflicts between mining-energy companies and various stakeholders, such as local communities or ecological organizations. In this context indication of potential channels of communication with local communities’ is needed to increase the level of their satisfaction with own knowledge and to optimize the social dialogue. The paper presents the results of a questionnaire survey conducted in selected communities of the Łódź voivodeship where surface mining exists at present (Kleszczów) or will be developed soon (Złoczew). They were realized with the Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing on the representative groups of adults. The paper contains analysis of two selected closed-type questions: the first one concerned self-assessment of knowledge level of lignite mining, the second one - sources of information on mining activity. Previous media reports on mining activity in the examined areas were analysed, too. As it seems, various means of social communication should be used: television and radio are the major source of information for local communities, printing press and the Internet are important as well. A detailed set of communication channels and the content of individual messages should be carefully selected for specific target groups (depending on gender, age and education). It should be emphasized that a properly conducted public debate may prove to be one of the factors determining the success of mining-energy investments and sustainable development of some regions.
Socio-economic problems in a mining town during the economy restructuring period on the example of Ruda Śląska, Poland
Authors: Mazurek Kinga
Published: May 2015

The 90s of the twientieth century carried a restructuring of the industry which involved the adaptation of enterprises to operate in a market economy, the workforce reduction and privatization of industrial facilities. Economic transformation has contributed to the socio-economic changes in industrial and mining towns. It affected the changes in the employment structure, changes in the number of population, migration decisions, the quality of medical care and municipal institutions support. Ruda Śląska is a typical mining town, history of which for nearly 200 years has been a consecutive period associated with the mining and heavy industries. This work is based on statistical data and approximates the effects of restructuring evident in Ruda Śląska. The presented characterization indicates that the situation prevailing in the city refers to the conditions of life in the most traditional mining regions of Central and Eastern Europe. Despite the significant reconstruction in the employment structure, Ruda Śląska retains partly its mining character. Population of the town is trying to cope with the need to adapt to new economic realities, among others, by changing the sector of economy to work in. Employment reductions have contributed to the increase of population migration. In conjunction with the natural loss it resulted in a decrease of the number of population and population aging. The support of the cities and sanitary facilities offered, among others, by social assistance centers and employment has great importance in overcoming the negative effects of the economic transformation.
Data sources on landscape structure in a highly industrialized area
Authors: Mazurek Kinga
Published: May 2015

Landscape may be described as a part of space characterized by a certain physiognomy, which is a dynamic system subject to evolution. An important factor influencing the type and condition of the landscape is human activity which shapes or rebuilds its structure. Interesting results may be obtained on comparison of archival cartographic materials with contemporary studies and zoning plans. The Upper Silesian Coal Basin is a region with a clearly transformed landscape. The determinant of the geographical environment transformation here is the anthropogenic factor. The study area includes the upper part of the Kłodnica catchment (229.6 sq km). The study is a review, and its aim is to systematize data sources used in the research on the transformation of landscape structure of a heavily industrialized area. In the first half of the nineteenth century created the "Urmesstischblätter" in the scale of 1:25 000. Afterwards preparations began to take new topographic images of the country (the "Messtischblätter"). In the 1990s initiated the development of a new topographic map (in the scale of 1:10 000). Recent data source is for example the project CORINE Land Cover 2006. There are many of various sources of data on land cover. An important aspect is the proper selection of documents and maps, and their proper interpretation.
Associations of power at VO2peak and anaerobic threshold with rank in British high performance junior surfers
Authors: Barlow Matthew John , Gresty Karen , Findlay Malcolm , Cooke Carlton
Published: May 2015

Purpose

The objective of this study was to determine the relationships of peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), power at VO2peak and power at the anaerobic threshold (AT) with national ranking in a sample of British high performance junior surfers.

Methods

Eighteen male surfers (aged 15.4 ± 1.4 years) from the British Junior Surfing team were tested for VO2peak and AT using an adapted kayak ergometer; national ranking was used to indicate performance level. The AT was identified as the point at which VE/ VO2 started to rise without a concomitant increase in E/VCO2. Spearman’s rank (rs) and partial correlations (rp) controlling for age were used to identify the relationships between the physiological variables and national ranking.

Results

Mean VO2peak was 3.1 ± 0.5 l • min–1 (47.7 ± 7.2 ml • kg–1 • min–1) and mean AT occurred at 48.1 ± 12.2 W. There were significant correlations between national ranking and power at VO2peak (rs = –0.549, p = 0.028), power at AT (rs = –0.646, p = 0.009), and age (rs = –0.579, p = 0.012). Significant partial correlations were established controlling for age between national ranking and power at VO2peak (rp = –0.839, p = 0.000) and power at AT (rp = –0.541, p < 0.046).

Conclusions

The power outputs associated with VO2peak and AT were significantly related to surfer ranking in this sample. However, due to the low coefficient of determination associated with the AT/ranking relationship, AT does not discriminate well between the ranking of surfers. These findings support the inclusion of power at VO2peak in assessment batteries for junior competitive surfers.
The effects of acoustic disturbance on anaerobic endurance in female volleyball players
Authors: Sienkiewicz-Dianzenza Edyta , Baranowska Monika Beata , Stupnicki Romuald
Published: May 2015

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to assess anaerobic endurance in volleyball players through repeated vertical jump performance under quiet and noisy conditions.

Methods

A group of 12 female players aged 19–28 year completed six sets of eight standing vertical jump jumps; jump height and heart rate before and after the protocol were measured in quiet and noisy (fan cheering) conditions.

Results

Maximum and minimum vertical jump heights were higher and intragroup differences were smaller in noisy than quiet conditions.

Conclusions

Vertical jump testing, a measure of physical activity typical of volleyball, is suitable for monitoring training effects. The influence of noise typical during volleyball matches had a positive effect on player performance and anaerobic endurance.
Effect of cadence on respiratory response during unloaded cycling in healthy individuals
Authors: Jastrzębska Agnieszka D. , Kowalski Marcin
Published: May 2015

Purpose

The aim of the study was to establish the respiratory response to unloaded cycling at different cadences.

Methods

Eleven healthy participants performed a maximal graded exercise test on a cycle ergometer to assess aerobic fitness (maximal oxygen consumption: 46.27 ± 5.41 ml • min–1 • kg–1) and eight 10-min unloaded pedaling (0 W) bouts at a constant cadence (from 40 to 110 rpm). Respiratory data were measured continuously during each effort and then averaged over 30 s. Blood samples were collected before and 2 min after each effort to monitor changes in acid–base balance.

Results

The efforts were performed at an intensity of 16.5–37.5% VO2peak. Respiratory response was not differentiated in cadences of 40, 50, 60 rpm. From 70 rpm, an increase in cadence was significantly associated with increased minute ventilation (F = 168.11, p < 0.000) and oxygen consumption (F = 214.86 p < 0.000) and, from 80 rpm, respiratory frequency (F = 16.06, p < 0.001) and tidal volume (F = 54.67, p < 0.000). No significant changes in acid-base balance were observed as a result of difference cadences.

Conclusions

Unloaded cycling at a cadence of 70 rpm or above has a significant effect on respiratory function and may be associated with the involvement of large muscle ergoreceptors (mechanoreceptors) stimulated by the frequency of muscle contractions.
Heat and Mass Transfer in a Second Grade Fluid Over a Stretching Vertical Surface in a Porous Medium
Authors: Baoku I.G. , Onifade Y.S. , Adebayo L.O. , Yusuff K.M.
Published: May 2015

The investigation deals with the combined heat and mass transfer in a mixed convection boundary layer flow over a stretching vertical surface in a porous medium filled with a viscoelastic second grade fluid. The partial differential equations governing the model have been transformed by a similarity transformation and the system of coupled-ordinary differential equations is solved by employing the shooting method with the fifth-order Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg iteration technique. Effects of various values of physical parameters embedded in the flow model on the dimensionless velocity, temperature and concentration distributions are discussed and shown with the aid of graphs. Numerical values of physical quantities, such as the local skin-coefficient, local Nusselt number and local Sherwood number are presented in a tabular form. It is observed that the boundary layer fluid velocity increases as the second grade parameter, mixed convection parameter and Prandtl number increase.
Analytical Investigation and Improvement of Performance of a Proton Exchange Membrane (Pem) Fuel Cell in Mobile Applications
Authors: Khazaee I.
Published: May 2015

In this study, the performance of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell in mobile applications is investigated analytically. At present the main use and advantages of fuel cells impact particularly strongly on mobile applications such as vehicles, mobile computers and mobile telephones. Some external parameters such as the cell temperature (Tcell ) , operating pressure of gases (P) and air stoichiometry (λair ) affect the performance and voltage losses in the PEM fuel cell. Because of the existence of many theoretical, empirical and semi-empirical models of the PEM fuel cell, it is necessary to compare the accuracy of these models. But theoretical models that are obtained from thermodynamic and electrochemical approach, are very exact but complex, so it would be easier to use the empirical and smi-empirical models in order to forecast the fuel cell system performance in many applications such as mobile applications. The main purpose of this study is to obtain the semi-empirical relation of a PEM fuel cell with the least voltage losses. Also, the results are compared with the existing experimental results in the literature and a good agreement is seen.
Determination of Material Parameters for Microbuckling Analysis of Fiber Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites
Authors: Romanowicz M.
Published: May 2015

This research focuses on studying the effect of the constitutive law adopted for a matrix material on the compressive response of a unidirectional fiber reinforced polymer matrix composite. To investigate this effect, a periodic unit cell model of a unidirectional composite with an initial fiber waviness and inelastic behavior of the matrix was used. The sensitivity of the compressive strength to the hydrostatic pressure, the flow rule and the fiber misalignment angle were presented. The model was verified against an analytical solution and experimental data. Results of this study indicate that a micromechanical model with correctly identified material parameters provides a useful alternative to theoretical models and experimentation.
Hybrid Ionic Liquid-Chitosan Membranes for CO2 Separation: Mechanical and Thermal Behavior
Authors: Santos Esther , Rodríguez-Fernández Enrique , Casado-Coterillo Clara , Irabien Ángel
Published: May 2015

Pure chitosan (CS) and hybrid ionic liquid-chitosan membranes loaded with 5 wt% 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate ([emim][Ac]) ionic liquid were prepared in order to improve the thermal behavior of supported ionic liquid membranes (SILMs) for CO2 separation. Gas permeability, solubility and diffusivity were evaluated in the temperature range 298–323 K. The temperature influence was well described in terms of the Arrhenius–van’t Hoff exponential relationships. Activation energies were calculated and compared with those obtained for SILMs with the same ionic liquid. The introduction of this ionic liquid in the hybrid solid membrane decreases the permeability activation energy, leading to a lower influence of the temperature in the permeability and diffusivity. Moreover, the thermal behavior is similar to pure chitosan membranes, and the mechanical strength and flexibility were improved due to the introduction of the ionic liquid in the polymer matrix.
Inverse problems for variable order differential operators with regular singularities on graphs
Authors: Yurko Vjacheslav A.
Published: May 2015

We study inverse spectral problems for ordinary
differential equations with regular singularities on compact
star-type graphs when differential equations have different orders
on different edges. As the main spectral characteristics we
introduce and study the so-called Weyl-type matrices which are
generalizations of the Weyl function for the classical
Sturm-Liouville operator. We provide a procedure for constructing
the solution of the inverse problem and prove its uniqueness.
Other-initiated repair in Italian
Authors: Rossi Giovanni
Published: May 2015

This article describes the interactional patterns and linguistic structures associated with other-initiated repair, as observed in a corpus of video recorded conversation in the Italian language (Romance). The article reports findings specific to the Italian language from the comparative project that is the topic of this special issue. While giving an overview of all the major practices for other-initiation of repair found in this language, special attention is given to (i) the functional distinctions between different open strategies (interjection, question words, formulaic), and (ii) the role of intonation in discriminating alternative restricted strategies, with a focus on different contour types used to produce repetitions.
Mechanical Properties of Granular Materials and Their Impact on Load Distribution in Silo: A Review
Authors: Horabik J. , Molenda M.
Published: May 2015

Mechanical properties of granular materials and their impact on load distribution in storage silo were discussed with special focus on materials of biological origin. Granular materials classification was briefly outlined. The evolution of constitutive models of granular materials developed in the frame of mechanics of continuum was addressed. Analytical methods, Finite Element Methods (FEM), and Discrete Element Methods (DEM) of estimation of silo pressure were discussed. Special attention was paid to the following issues: dynamic pressure switch in the first moment of silo discharge, asymmetry of loads due to eccentric discharge, and impact of uncontrolled increase of moisture content of grain on silo pressures.
Factors Affecting Microbial Contamination of Market Eggs: A Review
Authors: Svobodová J. , Tůmová E.
Published: May 2015

The aim of the review was to analyze the ways of microbial contamination, the protective mechanism of egg, and factors that affect the quantity of contamination and microbial penetration. Eggs can be contaminated during their formation in the infected reproductive organs of hens or after laying, when eggs are exposed to contaminated environment. The eggs are equipped against microbial contamination by several protective mechanisms comprising the presence of cuticle, eggshell, eggshell membranes, occurrence of some antibacterial proteins, and high pH value of albumen. There are several factors that affect the quantity of microbial contamination and penetration such as species of bacteria, the amount of microorganisms, storage conditions, quality of eggshell or number of pores.
Differences Among Czech Local Action Groups In Using Selected Principles Of Leader*
Authors: Pechrová M. , Boukalová K.
Published: May 2015

Local Action Groups (LAGs) are implementing LEADER principles in rural development. The aim of the paper is to create a typology of LAGs in the Czech Republic according to the factors linked to the individual features of LAG and to its organizational background. Four different groups of LAGs emerged: ‘stabilized’, ‘experienced’, ‘absorbing’, and ‘well-informed’. In the second step, it is assessed how particular groups fullfil selected features of the LEADER: knowledge transfer and bottomup approach. We conclude that ‘stabilized’ and ‘experienced’ LAGs, which are functioning for longer time and LAGs’ manager has longer experiences with LAG operation, have better knowledge transfer than those ‘absorbing’ or ‘well-informed’. This suggests that the rural development is realized by the so-called ‘project class’. On the other hand, the most active people cooperating with LAG management are in ‘experienced’ and ‘absorbing’ groups.
The effects of thermal residual stresses and interfacial properties on the transverse behaviors of fiber composites with different microstructures
Authors: Zhu Xiaojun , Chen Xuefeng , Zhai Zhi , Yang Zhibo , Chen Qiang
Published: May 2015

This study presents a new micromechanical model to investigate the effects of thermal residual stresses and interfacial properties on the transverse behaviors of SiC/Ti composites with different microstructures. In this model, the fiber-matrix interface is modeled by the bilinear cohesive zone model. The interface model is introduced into the generalized method of cells, which has the advantage of computational accuracy and efficiency. At the same time, the generalized method of cells is extended to consider thermal residual stresses within the fiber and matrix phases. Thermal residual stresses are found to have a significant influence on the transverse behaviors of the composites. Compared with the perfect interface, the transverse behaviors of the composites with weak interface bonding are much lower. Moreover, with the increase of fiber fraction, the stiffness of the composites increases before debonding occurs while the saturation stress decreases. The predicted results using the circular fiber model and considering thermal residual stresses are more consistent with the experimental values compared with the results using the square or elliptical fiber model. When the stress concentration factor is considered and the interface is weakly bonding, the strength predictions are much better than the results using the perfect bonding.
Renal Denervation After Symplicity HTN-3 – Back to Basics. Review of the Evidence
Authors: Persu Alexandre , Elmula Fadl Elmula M Fadl , Jin Yu , Os Ingrid , Kjeldsen Sverre E , Staessen Jan A ,   Pole of Cardiovascular Research, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Division of Cardiology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc (UCL), 10 Avenue Hippocrate, 1200, Brussels, Belgium. E: alexandre.persu@uclouvain.be,   Departments of General Internal Medicine, Cardiology and Nephrology, Ullevaal University Hospital; Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway,   Studies Coordinating Centre, Research Unit Hypertension and Cardiovascular Epidemiology, KU Leuven Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium,   Departments of General Internal Medicine, Cardiology and Nephrology, Ullevaal University Hospital; Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway,   Departments of General Internal Medicine, Cardiology and Nephrology, Ullevaal University Hospital; Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway,   Studies Coordinating Centre, Research Unit Hypertension and Cardiovascular Epidemiology, KU Leuven Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Vitak Development and Research, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
Published: May 2015

Renal sympathetic denervation (RDN) has been proposed as a new treatment modality in patients with apparent treatment resistant hypertension, a condition defined as office blood pressure elevation despite prescription of at least three antihypertensive drugs including a diuretic. However, the impressive fall in blood pressure reported after RDN in Symplicity HTN-2, the first randomised study, and multiple observational studies has not been confirmed in the US sham-controlled trial Symplicity HTN-3 and four subsequent prospective randomised studies, all published or presented in 2014. The blood pressure reduction documented in earlier studies may be largely due to non-specific effects such as improvement of drug adherence in initially poorly adherent patients (Hawthorne effect), placebo effect and regression to the mean. The overall blood pressure lowering effect of RDN seems rather limited and the characteristics of true responders remain largely unknown. Accordingly, RDN is not ready for clinical practice. In most patients with apparent drug-resistant hypertension, drug monitoring and subsequent improvement of drug adherence may prove more effective and cost-beneficial to achieve blood pressure control. In the meantime, research should aim at identifying characteristics of those few patients adherent to drug treatment and with true resistant hypertension who may respond to RDN.
Rhythm Management of the Atrial Fibrillation Patient: Practical Implementation of the 2012 ESC Guidelines
Authors: Mountfort Katrina , Karl-Heinz Kuck , Schilling Richard ,   Medical Writer, Radcliffe Cardiology, 7/8 Woodlands Farm, Cookham Dean, Berks, SL6 9PN. E: katsmountfort@virginmedia.com,   Asklepios Klinik St Georg, Hamburg, Germany,   St Bartholomew’s and Queen Mary University, London, UK
Published: May 2015

A symposium at the 2014 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) congress reviewed the 2012 update of the ESC guideline on rhythm management of atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. The guidelines now include catheter ablation of AF as first-line therapy in selected patients with symptomatic, paroxysmal AF. A panel comprising electrophysiologists and cardiologists discussed four clinical cases that illustrated the challenges faced in the day-to-day treatment of AF patients and how these guidelines can help inform treatment decisions. Among the key discussions were the importance of early treatment of AF and the dilemma faced in treating AF patients with recently implanted stent, where the risk of stroke must be balanced against the risk of stent thrombosis. The panel considered that among selected patients with paroxysmal AF and no structural heart disease, catheter ablation is reasonable as first-line therapy.
Capital multinacional y crisis textil en La Rioja
Authors: Climent López E.
Published: May 2015

Since the final eighties the textile industry is coming into a crisis in Spain. The most aparent event in La Rioja has been the crack of the enterprises of a multinational holding. This paper describes the evolution of these firms, put in connexion with the one of the regional textil industry, emphasizing the strategy of reorganisation against the crisis and comparing it with the one ofthe regionalfirms.
Integración de la vegetación en un modelo regional de erosión tras el fuego en el Prepirineo Occidental Oscense
Authors: Pérez Cabello F. , Riva Fernández J. de la
Published: May 2015

A metodology to make up and estímate the role of burnt vegetation into a qualitative erosion model is expossed for a regional scale by using several information sources within a GIS context
El microclima urbano de Logroño en invierno : un modelo espacial de comportamiento higrotérmico
Authors: Sobrón García Ignacio , Gómez Villar Amelia , Ortigosa Izquierdo Luis María
Published: May 2015

In this paper the winter temperature and humidity in Logroño (Spain) is studied, using data of different streets, squares and routes of the city. The analysis of the information permits to evaluate the intensity of urban heat island that shows a thermic difference of 3°C between the city centre and the outskirts (mean 1.7ºC). The authors have observed that the urban heat island does not respond to a central model. Logroño has hot or cold areas in relation to great routes, building desing and urban activities. The humidity is very conditioned by the proximity of the Ebro river. Using a GIS, a cartographic model of the urban heat island has been drawn.
Simuladores de lluvia y su aplicación a la Geomorfología : Estado de la cuestión
Authors: Cerdá A.
Published: May 2015

During the last decades, Geomorphologists have developed a huge variety of scientific instruments as in the field as in the laboratory. Within the invented apparatus stand out the rainfall simulators, which have been used with different objectives since the 30s. His scientific benefit produced an increase in the variety of sizes, drop-formers, frames, rainfall characteristics, etc., for rainfall simulators based on drop former (tips) and on spray-nozzles systems. This paper reviews the history and the evolution of the rainfall simulators, and discusses the advantages and inconvenience of the simulated rainfall. We also point out the main uses: soil erosion rates measurements runoff, infiltration, etc. In Spain, rainfall simulator expansion started during the 80s, although during the last decade they have been used for the majority of the soil erosion research groups. A broad literature revision is presented in order to give information of the designed rainfall simulator and the modifications of the original apparatus.
Una aproximación sedimentológica al aterramiento de embalses y la erosión en cuencas de montaña : el embalse de Barasona y la cuenca de Esera-Isábera (Pirineos centrales, Huesca)
Authors: Valero Garcés B. L. , Navas A. , Machín J.
Published: May 2015

A sedimentologic study of the Barasona reservoir (Central Pyrenees, Huesca province) and its catchment basin illustrates the spatial and temporal evolution of depositional processes in mountain basins. We analyze the sediment composition, identify sedimentary facies, and reconstruct the tri-dimensional geometry of the reservoir based on 20 cores and 3 profiles. Most of the sediment load to the Barasona reservoir is transported during flood events, which underlines the importance of the hydrologic regime of the rivers. Changes in mineral composition inform of sediment provenance and transport processes in the catchment are a. A preliminary chronology based on the identification of floods in the sedimentary record (sandy silt layers) allow to investigate the interaccions reservoir-catchment and changes in sedimentation rates through the last four decades. Physical factors as topography, lithology and drainage patterns appear to be majar controllers on soil erodibility. However, our study stresses the importance of human activity through changes in the use of the land. A better understanding of these processes is needed for suitable management of limited resources of soil and water and to alíviate reservoir sedimentation problems
Diferencias espaciales en la evolución del NDVI en la cuenca alta del Aragón : efectos de los caminos en el uso del suelo
Authors: Vicente Serrano S. M. , Lasanta T. , Romo A.
Published: May 2015

Se estudia la evolución del Indice de Vegetación Normalizado (NDVI) en el periodo 1993 –2000 en la cuenca Alta del Aragón (Pirineo occidental de Aragón) mediante imágenes de satélite NOAAAVHRR. Se comprueba que una parte importante del territorio muestra una tendencia positiva en los valores de NDVI, si bien se establecen algunos contrastes espaciales. Los valores más altos corresponden a los antiguos campos agrícolas, abandonados a lo largo del siglo XX, seguidos por las áreas de matorral y los pinares (cubiertas derivadas de un proceso de sucesión vegetal tras la extensificación productiva), mientras que el espacio cultivado y los pastos supraforestales (usos que mantienen una utilización más intensiva) poseen los valores más bajos. Estos resultados ponen de relieve el destacado papel de los cambios de uso del suelo en la evolución de la biomasa vegetal.
Torre Marimon : una pequeña cuenca hidrológica en el medio agrario mediterráneo
Authors: Josa March R. , Hereter Quintana A.
Published: May 2015

Se presenta la cuenca experimental de Torre Marimon (CETM), en primer lugar mediante los trabajos realizados para su caracterización (incluida la cartografía de parámetros edáficos) que permiten valorar su interés. A continuación se hace referencia a los principales resultados obtenidos: balance hídrico; erosión y degradación del suelo asociado al uso; efectos del sistema de laboreo en relación con el contenido de materia orgánica y a la disponibilidad de nutrientes. La cuenca lleva en funcionamiento desde 1993.