bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PCAOB Inspections of Smaller CPA Firms: The Perspective of Inspected Firms
Authors: Daugherty Brian , Tervo Wayne
Published: June 2010

SYNOPSIS: We solicit perceptions of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board’s (PCAOB) inspection process from the leadership of triennial firms (100 or fewer publicly traded audit clients, inspected triennially) receiving their initial inspection. Our research is motivated by a growing stream of academic research related to triennial firms. Practitioners have called for research to determine whether the performance of audits in the Sarbanes-Oxley era may fail to attain the stated objective of enhancing investor confidence in the capital markets. Academics note further PCAOB inspection research can provide important insights into the consequences of PCAOB inspection for auditors and other market participants. In general, smaller respondents reported initial PCAOB inspections resulted in a negative impact on many aspects of their audit practices, while medium and larger firms reported more favorable consequences. Collectively, responding firms evaluated their initial inspection team’s performance favorably, but were more critical of other aspects of the inspection process. Levels of satisfaction with nearly all aspects of PCAOB inspections appear to increase with firm size and the passage of time. We interpret our findings as suggesting the efficacy of PCAOB inspections may be enhanced by focusing on potential unintended consequences and inspection process modifications rather than on inspectors’ qualifications and actions.
Metameric thoracic lesion: report of a rare case and a guide to management
Authors: Kalhorn Stephen P. , Frempong-Boadu Anthony K. , Mikolaenko Irina , Becske Tibor , Harter David H.
Published: June 2010

Metameric lesions of the spine are rare. The authors present a case of patient with a complex metameric vascular lesion of the thoracic spine and describe a management strategy for this entity.
Long-term follow-up of the progression of ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament
Authors: Murakami Motoaki , Seichi Atsushi , Chikuda Hirotaka , Takeshita Katsushi , Nakamura Kozo , Kimura Atsushi
Published: June 2010

The authors report the case of a man with cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) who was observed for more than 26 years. Initial symptoms consisted of subtle numbness of the hands, and initial radiography showed small, segmental-type OPLL in the cervical spine. Lateral radiography of the cervical spine was performed every few years. Ossification accelerated for about 4 years during the follow-up. Segmental-type OPLL developed into mixed-type extensive OPLL. This case shows an accelerating maturation process of OPLL over the course of a few years. Segmental-type OPLL appears to represent an initial stage of extensive OPLL.
Prediction of Droplet Size and Velocity Distribution in Droplet Formation Region of Liquid Spray
Authors: Movahednejad Ehsan , Ommi Fathollah , Hosseinalipour S. Mostafa
Published: June 2010

Determining the distributions of size and velocity of droplets formed at the end of primary breakup region is followed in this paper. The droplet formation stage at the end of primary breakup is random and stochastic and it can be modeled by statistical means based on the maximum entropy principle (MEP). The MEP formulation predicts the atomization process while satisfying constraint equations based on conservations of mass, momentum and energy. This model is capable of considering drag force on produced droplets through gas-liquid interaction using new approach. The model prediction is compared favorably with the experimentally measured size and velocity distributions of droplets for sprays produced by the two nozzles of considerably different geometries and shows satisfactory agreement.
Neural Membrane Signaling Platforms
Authors: Wallace Ron
Published: June 2010

Throughout much of the history of biology, the cell membrane was functionally defined as a semi-permeable barrier separating aqueous compartments, and an anchoring site for proteins. Little attention was devoted to its possible regulatory role in intracellular molecular processes and neuron electrical signaling. This article reviews the history of membrane studies and the current state of the art. Emphasis is placed on natural and artificial membrane studies of electric field effects on molecular organization, especially as these may relate to impulse propagation in neurons. Implications of these studies for new designs in artificial intelligence are briefly examined.
Free Radical Scavenging Activity and Anthocyanin Profile of Cabernet Sauvignon Wines from the Balkan Region
Authors: Radovanović Blaga , Radovanović Aleksandra
Published: June 2010

The present study is focused on anthocyanin derivatives characterizing the antioxidant activity of Cabernet Sauvignon wines produced from different vineyard regions in the Balkans. These bioactive compounds were quantified with a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-diode array detection (DAD) method. The antiradical activity was estimated by the ability of the wine to scavenge the stable 2,2`-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical (DPPH·). The results show that the total anthocyanin content varied from 205.88 to 1940.28 mg/L, depending on agroclimatic factors and the enological practices of the corresponding vineyard region. The most prominent antocyanin in all investigated Cabernet Sauvignon wines was malvidin-3-O-monoglucoside, which accounted for 50.57% of total content, followed by its acetyl derivatives, 15.45%, and p-coumaryl derivatives 5.66%. The relationship between the anthocyanin derivatives and free radical scavenging activity is discussed. A high correlation between total anthocyanin content and DPPH· scavenging ability of tested wines was confirmed (r2 = 0.9619). The significant correlations were obtained between antiradical activity and the sum of 3-monoglucoside (r2 = 0.95594), the sum of 3-acetyl-3-glucoside (r2 = 0.9728) and the sum of p-coumaryl-3-glucoside (r2 = 0.8873) of wine samples. It can be concluded that, the anthocyanin composition can be used as biochemical marker for the authenticity of red grape cultivar and their corresponding single-cultivar wine.
Welcome to Religions, a New Open Access, Multidisciplinary and Comprehensive Online Journal
Authors: Kaufman Peter Iver
Published: June 2010

We always seem to be in the wake of some current event or controversy that reminds us just how important scholarly interest in religions has been, is, and will be. Fortunately, new sources for religious movements—even sources that illumine those movements’ origins—keep turning up, and many sources, long considered critical, are now accessible online. Furthermore, fresh developments in the disciplines that consistently make significant contributions to our understanding of religious personality, authority, devotion, and community—disciplines ranging from psychology, sociology, and anthropology to history, art history, philosophy, literary criticism, and political science—fuel general, as well as scholarly, interest in the world’s religions. Without exaggeration, one can claim we have an embarrassment of riches. Consequently, the study of religious crises, commitments, and critics of the latter has never been livelier. [...]
Assessing the Economic Importance of Recreational Fishing for Communities Along Lake Ontario
Authors: Connelly Nancy , Brown Tommy
Published: June 2010

A 2007 survey found that “tourist” anglers spent $43 million in communities in New York State along the Lake Ontario shoreline. Using IMPLAN, a computerized input–output economic software package, the indirect and induced economic impacts of those expenditures
was estimated. The total economic impact of recreational fishing to shoreline communities was $60 million, which was associated with approximately 1,000 jobs. A regression model was developed that explains fishing participation on Lake Ontario using biological and socioeconomic variables.
It predicts a decline in fishing participation over time on Lake Ontario. This model was used to forecast future economic impacts on Lake Ontario communities estimated at a loss of $19 million in 5 years. Some suggestions were offered for altering the downward economic trend.
Retiring North: Comparing Retirement Migration Decisions Among Residents who did and Past Visitors who did not Move to a Tourist Destination
Authors: Kuentzel Walter F. , Heberlein Thomas A.
Published: June 2010

Research on retirement migration decisions has found uniformly that natural amenities and recreational opportunities are primary decision-making factors among those who move to high-amenity rural-based tourism destinations. Most of the research, though, relies on interviews of existing
in-migrant retirees. Few studies have analyzed the decision-making process of past tourists who considered moving to the tourist destination, but instead moved elsewhere. Were scenic and recreational amenities less important to this group's retirement decision than other lifestyle or life
stage demands? This study compared retirement decisions among people who retired to the South Shore of Lake Superior with the retirement decisions of past tourists to the area who did not retire to this area. The results showed that the potential market of retirees among past visitors is a
small and select group who enjoy cold weather and appreciate the solitude and isolation of the winter season. The results also showed that recreational activities are neither a necessary nor sufficient condition for making a retirement migration decision. Recreation was important during retirement
years, but respondents were able to participate in preferred recreational activities regardless of where they lived. Finally, those who did not retire to the South Shore were more likely to be retiring “home,” where they grew up. They also valued quality health care, and opportunities
for shopping in retirement, while those who did retire to the South Shore were more likely to prefer solitude, peacefulness, and high-quality scenery in retirement.
Perspectives of Sacred Sites on Lake Superior: The Case of Apostle Islands
Authors: Salk Raintry , Schneider Ingrid E. , McAvoy Leo H.
Published: June 2010

Lake Superior and adjacent lands represent a range of meanings, including sacredness. Common understandings of sacred sites vary and thus may impede effective tourism and resource management. Therefore, this study sought to understand and differentiate the meaning of “sacred site”
among tourists and other stakeholders at the Apostle Island National Lakeshore. A multimethod approach was used. First, focus groups explored definitions among management groups, local non-Indian adjacent community residents, and local tribal members. Second, a mail questionnaire to visitors
identified common components. Predominately, sacred site was identified as a place that has special cultural, spiritual, or religious significance. Results provide insight for tourism destination managers and marketers to enable effective communication with visitors as well as other stakeholders.
Voyages to Kitchi Gami: The Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area and Regional Tourism Opportunities in Canada's First National Marine Conservation Area
Authors: Lemelin Raynald (Harvey) , Koster Rhonda , Woznicka Izabella , Metansinine Kirstine , Pelletier Hoss
Published: June 2010

With a substantial amount of natural (e.g., islands, estuaries, shoals) and cultural (e.g., pictographs, lighthouses, shipwrecks) heritage, the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area (LSNMCA), located in Northwestern Ontario, is a protected area steeped in history. Apart from
a few exceptions, this region of Ontario has lacked the opportunity to capitalize on potential tourism and recreational opportunities. An historic overview of the region highlights past tourism achievements, such as brook trout fishing in the Nipigon River, and the Rossport Fish Derby, and
indicates new tourism opportunities in Northwestern Ontario (e.g., sailing regattas and kayak symposia). The significance of tourism in a region largely dependent upon mining and forestry is also highlighted. The article then reviews the potential role of the LSNMCA in regional tourism development
by utilizing Kelleher's levels of stakeholder engagement framework. Although stakeholder involvement in the LSNMCA, according to Kelleher's model, requires further work, the establishment of this protected area (the very first of its kind in Canada) appears to be engaging stakeholders in regional
tourism development.
Facilitating Sustainable Tourism in Superior Country: The Tourism Resource Team
Authors: Messer Cynthia C. , Schneider Ingrid E. , Ukaga Okechukwu
Published: June 2010

To enhance understanding and application of sustainable tourism, a program based on best practices across the US was developed. The Tourism Resource Team (TRT) program provides technical assistance to communities encountering an obstacle to their sustainable tourism goals. Each TRT
project begins with a community-generated issue, includes site visits and meetings, as well as a presentation and report with recommendations to discuss with the community, and monitors progress with evaluation for 12 months. This article examines the TRT model and illustrates the process
with work done in Two Harbors on Minnesota's North Shore of Lake Superior. Implications for other Great Lakes communities are discussed.
The Circadian Clock‐controlled Transcriptome of Developing Soybean Seeds
Authors: Hudson Karen A.
Published: June 2010

A number of metabolic and physiological processes in plants are controlled by the circadian clock, which enables a plant to anticipate daily changes in the environment. Relatively little is known about circadian rhythms in developing seeds, which may be important for determining the extent and timing of nutrient storage in grain. Microarray expression profiling was used to identify genes expressed in developing soybean (Glycine max) seeds that are controlled by the circadian clock. Genes with predicted functions in protein synthesis, fatty acid metabolism, and photosynthesis totaling 1.8% of the mRNAs detected in seed were found to be expressed in a circadian rhythm. Known circadian and light‐controlled promoter elements were identified as over‐represented in the promoters of clock‐controlled seed genes, with the over‐represented elements varying according to the phase of circadian expression. A subset of circadian‐regulated genes were found to be expressed in different phases in developing seeds with respect to leaves from the same plants, many of which have roles in photosynthesis and carbon metabolism. These results help to characterize the genes and processes in seeds that may be regulated by the circadian clock, and provide some insight into organ‐specific phasing of clock controlled gene expression.
Development of Expressed Sequence Tag (EST)–based Markers for Genomic Analysis of a Barley 6H Region Harboring Multiple Net Form Net Blotch Resistance Genes
Authors: Liu Zhaohui , Faris Justin D. , Edwards Michael C. , Friesen Timothy L.
Published: June 2010

We previously identified a region near the centromere of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) chromosome 6H that harbors two closely linked net form net blotch resistance genes (rpt.r and rpt.k). In this study, we mined barley expressed sequence tag (EST) databases and developed EST‐derived markers for further mapping of this region in a population derived from ‘Rika’ and ‘Kombar’. Additionally, we did a comparative analysis of this region to other grass species. Fifteen newly developed markers were added to the previous map, and most were distributed within a 27.0‐cM interval spanning rpt.r and rpt.k. The two resistance loci were delineated to a 1.6 cM genetic interval. Comparison of mapped ESTs along chromosome 6H to wheat bin‐mapped ESTs suggests that rpt.r and rpt.k are most likely located on the long arm of chromosome 6H. Comparative analysis revealed that a 12.6‐cM region containing the two resistance loci is colinear with a region of rice chromosome 2 between 23.7 and 29.9 Mb with only a few rearrangements, and nearly the same level of colinearity was observed between barley and Brachypodium in this region. This work refines the genetic and physical location of rpt.r and rpt.k and provides an initial step toward the map‐based cloning of these two genes.
STABILITY AND DUCTILITY OF STRUCTURES
Authors: Kvedaras Audronis Kazimieras
Published: June 2010

„Stability and ductility of structures " The Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 16(2), p. 155-158
EVOLUTION AND STATE‐OF‐THE‐ART OF COLUMN STABILITY CRITERIA
Authors: Bjorhovde Reidar
Published: June 2010

The strength and stability of steel columns have been the subjects of a great many studies since the original work of Leonhard Euler in 1744 and 1759. Numerous examinations of elastic buckling of perfectly straight columns were conducted during the 19th century, the most famous being the studies of Engesser and Considère, with several series of column tests attempting to find agreement between theory and physical behavior. The research work continued in the 20th century, examining the influence of material and member imperfections, including the famous tangent modulus work of Shanley, and the resolution of the effects of material non‐linearity, residual stress and column out‐of‐straightness. The definitive solutions were only obtained in the 1970‐s, when modeling and numerical solutions allowed for the incorporation of all nonlinear effects. Since that time reliability and probabilistic solutions have provided state‐of‐the‐art criteria for limit state treatment of the column problem. These principles are now the bases of the design standards for columns in all of the countries in the world. The paper focuses on the major evolutions that have taken place, but especially the work over the past 40 years. Realistic treatment and representation of the strength of columns in actual structures have now been achieved by the engineering profession. Santrauka Plieniniu kolonu stiprumas ir pastovumas buvo daugelio tyrinejimu objektas, pradedant nuo originaliu Leonhardo Eulerio 1744 ir 1759 m. darbu. XIX a. buvo atlikta daugelis idealiai tiesiu kolonu tampriojo klupumo tyrimu, iš kuriu žymiausi buvo Engesero (Engesser) ir Konsideres (Considere) tyrimai, apeme kelias kolonu bandymu serijas. Jais siekta rasti derme tarp teorijos ir fizines elgsenos. Darbai buvo tesiami ir XX a., nagrinejant medžiagu ir elementu nuokrypiu poveiki, iskai‐tant gerai žinoma Šenlio (Shanley) liestines modulio darba, ir medžiagu netiesiškumo, liekamuju itempiu bei kolonu išklupimo poveikius. Galutiniai sprendiniai buvo gauti tik 1970 m., kai modeliavimas ir skaitiniai eksperimentai leido atsižvelgti i visus netiesinius poveikius. Nuo to laiko patikimumo ir tikimybiniai sprendiniai suteike šiuolaikinius kriterijus kolonu problemos ribiniu būviu traktuotei. Dabar šie principai yra visu pasaulio šaliu kolonu projektavimo normu pagrindas. Straipsnyje pristatytos pagrindines raidos kryptys, apžvelgiamas darbas, nuveiktas per pastaruosius 40 metu. Statybos profesionalai pasieke tikroviška dabartiniu statiniu kolonu stiprumo traktuote ir pateikima.
SLENDER THIN‐WALLED BOX COLUMNS SUBJECTED TO COMPRESSION AND BENDING
Authors: Pavlovčič Luka , Froschmeier Bernadette , Kuhlmann Ulrike , Beg Darko
Published: June 2010

This paper deals with tests on slender thin‐walled box columns, susceptible to instability of both types: to global Euler buckling as well as to local buckling of steel plates. Eight full‐scale tests were carried out with different global slenderness of welded and cold‐formed columns subjected to centric and eccentric compression. For the purpose of profound numerical simulations of tests, material properties were also tested, and the initial column geometry and residual stresses were carefully measured. The results of FEA simulations show good agreement with the test results. On verified numerical model the influence of different initial imperfections was studied.

Santrauka

Straipsnyje nagrinejami liaunuju dežinio skerspjūvio kolonu, jautriu abieju tipu nepastovumui ‐ bendrajam klupumui pa‐gal Euleri ir plieniniu plokšteliu vietiniam klupumui, eksperimentai. Buvo atlikti aštuoni centriškai ir ekscentriškai gniuždomu virintinio ir šaltai lankstyto skerspjūvio ivairaus liaunio kolonu natūriniai bandymai. Siekiant nuodugniai atlikti skaitini bandymu modeliavima, taip pat bandymu nustatytos mechanines plieno savybes ir kruopščiai išmatuoti visi pradiniai geometriniai nuokrypiai ir liekamieji itempiai. Skaitinio modeliavimo baigtiniu elementu metodu ir natūriniu bandymu rezultatai nedaug skiriasi. Tikrinamuoju skaitiniu modeliu buvo nagrinetas ivairiu pradiniu geometriniu netikslumu poveikis.
BEHAVIOUR OF PARALLEL GIRDERS STABILISED WITH U‐FRAMES
Authors: Virdi Kuldeep , Azzi Walid
Published: June 2010

Lateral torsional buckling is a key factor in the design of steel girders. Stability can be enhanced by cross‐bracing, reducing the effective length and thus increasing the ultimate capacity. U‐frames are an option often used to brace the girders, when designing through type of bridges and where overhead bracing is not practical. This paper investigates the effect of the U‐frame spacing on the stability of the parallel girders. Eigenvalue buckling analysis was undertaken with four different spacings of the U‐frames. Results were extracted from finite element analysis, interpreted and conclusions drawn.

Santrauka

Projektuojant plienines sijas šoninis sukamasis klupumas yra svarbiausias veiksnys. Pastovumas gali būti padidintas skersiniais ryšiais, mažinančiais veikiamaji ilgi ir padidinančiais ribine galia. U‐formiai remai yra dažna priemone sijoms išramstyti, kai projektuojami tiltai, kuriu laikančiosios konstrukcijos yra virš pakloto, o viršutiniai ryšiai yra nepraktiški. Šiame straipsnyje nagrinejamas U‐formiu remu tarpatramio poveikis lygiagrečiuju siju pastovumui. Tikravertis klupumo skaičiavimas buvo atliktas esant keturiems skirtingiems U‐formiu remu tarpatramiams. Aptarti rezultatai, gauti apskaičiavus baigtinius elementus, padarytos išvados.
INTEGRATED LOAD OPTIMIZATION OF ELASTIC‐PLASTIC AXISYMMETRIC PLATES AT SHAKEDOWN
Authors: Venskus Artūras , Kalanta Stanislovas , Atkočiūnas Juozas , Ulitinas Tomas
Published: June 2010

An elastic‐plastic axisymmetric steel bending plate subjected to a repeated variable load (RVL) is considered. The solution to the load optimization problem at shakedown is complicated because the stress‐strain state of the dissipative systems (e.g. the plate plastic deforming) depends on their loading history. A new algorithm for the load optimization problem combining von Mises and Tresca yield criterion based on the Rosen project gradient method is proposed. The optimization results are obtained by integrating the existing software and that created by the authors. Santrauka Nagrinejama tampriai plastine simetrine lenkiama plokšte, veikiama kintamosios kartotines apkrovos. Prisitaikančiu konstrukciju itempiu ir deformaciju būvis priklauso nuo apkrovimo istorijos. Plokštes apkrovos optimizavimo uždavinio matematiniame modelyje naudojamos stiprumo ir standumo salygos. I apkrovimo istorija atsižvelgiama, pasitelkiant ekst‐remines iražu ir ilinkius ribojančias ju normines reikšmes. Remiantis Rozeno projektuojamuju gradientu metodu sukurtas naujas apkrovos optimizavimo algoritmas, derinantis Mizeso ir Treska takumo salygas. Skaitinio pavyzdžio rezultatai gauti originalia autoriu kompiuterine programa.
EXAMINATION OF WORKER‐LOCATION MEASUREMENT METHODS AS A RESEARCH TOOL FOR AUTOMATED LABOR CONTROL
Authors: Navon Ronie , Goldschmidt Eytan
Published: June 2010

Automatic labor performance measurement is a challenging area of research. Little work has been done in this area due to its complexity and the absence of adequate research tools. The authors used the approach of indirect parameters to automate the performance measurement. In this approach, the location of the worker is measured as a function of time and special algorithms convert these data into labor inputs, or productivity. Research in this area requires a reliable method, or tool, for workers location measurement ‐ such a tool does not exist. Three methods of location measurement are examined in this paper as research tools for automated labor control: (1) manual simulation of location measurement, (2) GPS, and (3) video photography. The first two methods were found to be subjective, inaccurate and unreliable. The third was found to be suitable for the purpose of the present research. This method uses a classical time‐lapse technique, together with a video‐based method developed in the present research.

Santrauka

Automatizuotas darbu atlikimo ivertinimas yra aktuali tyrimu sritis. Šioje srityje nera atlikta daug tyrimu del jos sudetingumo ir tinkamu tyrimo priemoniu stokos. Ivertinimui automatizuoti autoriai taike netiesioginiu rodikliu būda. Šiame tyrime darbininko buvimo vieta matuojama kaip laiko funkcija ir naudojant specialius algoritmus šie duomenys konvertuojami i darbo ivesties duomenis, t. y. darbo našuma. Šio pobūdžio tyrimams reikia patikimo metodo ar priemones darbininku buvimo vietai nustatyti. Tačiau tokios priemones nera. Šiame tyrime nagrinejami trys vietos nustatymo metodai kaip automatizuotos darbo jegos kontroles priemones: 1) buvimo vietos nustatymo modeliavimas rankiniu būdu; 2) GPS; 3) fotografavimas. Pirmieji du metodai pasirode subjektyvūs, netikslūs ir nepatikimi. Nustatyta, kad trečiasis metodas tinkamas atliekamo tyrimo tikslui. Taikomas klasikinis chronometravimo būdas kartu su vaizdo irašymo metodika, parengta šio tyrimo metu.
PERFORMANCE OF CONCRETE EXPOSED TO FREEZING AND THAWING IN DIFFERENT SALINE ENVIRONMENTS
Authors: Šelih Jana
Published: June 2010

Selection of de-icing agent applied to the road surfaces can crucially affect the winter driving conditions as well as the deterioration of materials employed in the road structures in cold climates. In particular, concrete as one of the main construction load bearing materials can be affected. Road managers should therefore base their decisions regarding the selection of de‐icing agent not only on data regarding their defrosting potential but also on data related to deterioration rates of materials built in the road infrastructure system. The paper presents the results of a study where the influence of different types of de‐icing salts upon concrete performance was assessed in laboratory conditions. The theoretical background of freezing and thawing in the presence of de‐icing salts in concrete is summarized. Salt scaling tests were performed using 3 selected de‐icing salts on 3 different types of concrete. The mass scaled off the surface was weighed after every 5 freeze‐thaw cycles. The results obtained show that a CaCl2 solution has the most destructive effect upon concrete performance, regardless of the type of concrete. Deterioration was the least when a MgCl2solution was applied to the concrete surface.

Santrauka

Keliu paviršiams barstyti naudojamos druskos gali iš esmes pakeisti vairavimo salygas žiema ir paskatinti šalto klimato regionuose keliams naudojamu medžiagu senejima. Šios druskos ypač veikia betona kaip viena pagrindiniu statybinems konstrukcijoms naudojamu medžiagu. Parinkdami barstyti naudojamu medžiagu tipa keliu prižiūretojai turi atkreipti demesi ne tik i atitirpimo pajeguma, bet ir i duomenis, susijusius su keliu infrastruktūros sistemoje naudojamu medžiagu senejimu. Straipsnyje pateikti skirtingu tipu druskomis veikiamu betonu elgsenos eksperimentiniai tyrimai. Apibendrinti užšaldymo ir atšildymo ciklais drusku aplinkoje veikiamo betono elgsenos teoriniai tyrimai. Nagrinetas triju skirtingu drusku tipu poveikis trims skirtingu tipu betonams. Nuo paviršiu atšokusios mases buvo sveriamos kas penkis užšaldymo ir atšildymo ciklus. Gauti rezultatai, parode, kad CaCl2 turi didžiausia ardomaji poveiki betono elgsenai nepriklausomai nuo betono tipo. Senejimas buvo mažiausias naudojant MgCl2.
High sexual risk taking and diverging trends of HIV-1 and HIV-2 in the military of Guinea Bissau
Authors: Biague Antonio , Månsson Fredrik , Dias Francisco , Nantote Quinhin , Costa José , Andersson Sören , Nauclér Anders , Biberfeld Gunnel , Fenyö Eva-Maria , Norrgren Hans
Published: June 2010

Background: HIV and other sexually transmitted infections are a growing problem in the military personnel of Africa, and information about this problem in Guinea-Bissau is lacking. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence and trends of the HIV epidemics in the military forces of Guinea Bissau and to explore possible risk factors for HIV infection. Methodology: Repeated cross-sectional surveys of HIV-1 and HIV-2 were conducted between 1992 and 2005, and knowledge, sexual behaviour and risk factors for HIV-1 and HIV-2 in military personnel in Guinea-Bissau were assessed. Results: The seroprevalence of HIV-1, HIV-2 and HIV-1+HIV-2 dual reactivity was 1.1%, 8.4% and 0.1% in 1992-95, and in 2005 7.7%, 5.1% and 1.9%, respectively. Both the increase of HIV-1 and the decline of HIV-2 between 1992-95 and 2005 were significant when adjusted for age (p < 0.001 for both changes). Only a minority did not know how HIV transmits, but sexual risk taking was high. Several significant risk factors were found in univariate analyses for HIV-1 and HIV-2, but the only risk factor that remained significant after multivariate regression analysis was previous contact with a prostitute among HIV-1-positive subjects (single and dually reactive) (p < 0.01). Conclusion: The increasing trend of HIV-1 and the high risky sexual behavior illustrate the need for improvement in HIV/AIDS prevention efforts among military personnel in Guinea Bissau.
Norwegian scabies in a malnourished young adult: a case report
Authors: Subramaniam Girija , Kaliaperumal Karthikeyan , Duraipandian Jeyakumari , Rengasamy Gopal
Published: June 2010

A 19-year-old male was admitted to the medical ward with complaints of fever and swelling of the ankle and wrist joints of about two weeks' duration. The patient developed hyperkeratotic lesions of the skin over the hands, elbow and back about three weeks after admission. Antistreptolysin O, rheumatoid factor, and Widal tests as well as Chickungunya, brucella, HIV and antinuclear antibodies were negative. Culture of blood sample and pus aspirate from the ankle and chest yielded a pure growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis. Potassium hydroxide (KOH) mount of the scrapings from crusted skin lesions showed plenty of adult mites, eggs and faecal pellets of Sarcoptes scabiei. A diagnosis of crusted scabies with secondary bacterial infection was made and the patient was treated successfully with oral ivermectin, topical permethrin and vancomycin.
Activity of solvent extracts of Prosopis spicigera, Zingiber officinale and Trachyspermum ammi against multidrug resistant bacterial and fungal strains
Authors: Khan Rosina , Zakir Mohammad , Afaq Sadul H , Latif Abdul , Khan Asad U
Published: June 2010

Background: The emerging trends of multidrug resistance among several groups of microorganisms against different classes of antibiotics led different researchers to develop efficient drugs from plant sources to counter multidrug resistant strains. This study investigated different solvent extracts of Prosopis spicigera (P. Spicigera), Zingiber officinale, and Trachyspermum ammi (T. ammi) to determine their efficacy against multidrug resistant microbes. Methodology: Successive extractions of these plants were performed using a Soxhlet apparatus, using solvents with increasing polarities. Preliminary phytochemical analysis was also performed .Minimum inhibitory concentration was determined by a two-fold serial dilution method followed by determination of minimum bactericidal/fungicidal concentration. Multidrug resistant (MDR) strains of Candida albicans, Candida krusei, Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata, Escherichia coli and reference strains of Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus bovis were used in the study. Results: The ethanolic fraction of P. spicigera (least minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC] - 4.88 µg/ml) demonstrated a remarkable inhibition of the microorganisms while fractions obtained from those of Zingiber officinale (least MIC-78.125 µg/ml) exhibited little activity. The petroleum ether fraction of T. ammi (least MIC- 625 µg/ml) showed best activity when compared to its other fractions. Qualitative analysis of the phytoconstituents was also performed. Conclusions: The potency shown by these extracts recommends their use against multidrug resistant microorganisms. This study also showed that P. spicigera could be a potential source of new antimicrobial agents.
Unusual Presentation of Hydatid Cyst: Diagnosis with Bronchoscopy
Authors: Cakir Erkan , Ozaydin Sadik Erhan , Tasci Erdal , Baran Reha
Published: June 2010

Hydatid disease is one of the major health problems in countries where hydatidosis is endemic. Atypical radiological findings may lead to misdiagnosis or delay in diagnosis in these patients. A 13-year-old boy was presented who admitted to the hospital with a history of cough and hemoptysis for six months. He had a non-resolving pneumonia. Bronchoscopy showed endobronchial lesion and the diagnosis of hydatid disease was confirmed by pathological examination.
Role of intensive care unit environment and health-care workers in transmission of ventilator-associated pneumonia
Authors: Joseph Noyal Mariya , Sistla Sujatha , Dutta Tarun Kumar , Badhe Ashok Shankar , Rasitha Desdemona , Parija Subhash Chandra
Published: June 2010

Background: Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii have been reported to cause outbreaks of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in several studies. The high prevalence of these pathogens prompted us to study the different strains of these pathogens prevailing in our intensive care units (ICUs) and determine the role of ICU environment and health-care workers (HCWs) in the transmission of infection. Methodology: A prospective study was performed over a period of 15 months in two ICUs of Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Pondicherry, India. Surveillance samples were collected from the HCWs and the ICU environment. Quantitative antibiogram typing and PCR-RFLP were used for comparison of the isolates from the surveillance samples and VAP patients. Results: Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii were the most common potential VAP pathogens isolated from the surveillance cultures. Eight strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were present in our ICUs, but multi-drug resistant (MDR) strain 2 and strain 4 were the most prevalent strains. Six strains of Acinetobacter baumannii were found in our ICUs, of which MDR strain 1 and strain 3 were the most common. The strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii observed in the VAP patients were also found in the ICU milieu. Only one HCW was found to be the carrier of a Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain present in a VAP patient. Conclusions: The ICU environment was observed to be the potential reservoir for VAP pathogens; therefore, strict adherence to environmental infection control measures is essential to prevent health-care-associated infections.
Trends in precipitation: analysis of long annual and monthly time series from mainland Portugal
Authors: de Lima M. I. P. , Carvalho S. C. P. , de Lima J. L. M. P. , Coelho M. F. E. S.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. The purpose of this work is to investigate trends in annual and monthly precipitation in mainland Portugal by studying long time series. The data are from ten measuring stations scattered over mainland Portugal; some of the time series date back from the 19th century. Trends in these precipitation series were examined using the Mann-Kendall non-parametric trend test and the Sen's non-parametric method. Both full monotonic trends (i.e., over the record period) and partial trends were investigated. Results provide no evidences for rejecting the null hypothesis of no trend in annual precipitation, when a monotonic linear model was used. On the other hand, the analyses of partial trends in the time series identified a sequence of alternating decreasing and increasing trends in annual precipitation, which are sometimes statistically significant. This type of behaviour was also observed for the monthly precipitation.
Questions of importance to the conservation of global biological diversity: answers from the past
Authors: Willis K. J. , Bhagwat S. A.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. Paleoecological records are replete with examples of biotic responses to past climate change and human impact but how can we use these records in the conservation of current and future biodiversity? A recently published list of One Hundred Questions of Importance to the Conservation of Global Biological Diversity (Sutherland et al., 2009) highlights a number of key research questions that need a temporal perspective. Many of these questions are related to the determination of ecological processes in order to assess ecosystem function and services, climate change-integrated conservation strategies, and ecosystem management and restoration. However, it is noticeable that not a single contributor to this list was from the paleo-research community and that extremely few paleo-records are ever used in the development of terrestrial conservation management plans. This lack of dialogue between conservationists and the paleo-community is partially driven by a perception that the data provided by paleoecological records are purely descriptive and not of relevance to the day-to-day management and conservation of biological diversity. This paper illustrates, through a series of case-studies, how long-term ecological records (>50 years) can provide a test of predictions and assumptions of ecological processes that are directly relevant to management strategies necessary in order to retain biological diversity in a changing climate. This includes information on diversity baselines, thresholds, resilience, and restoration of ecological processes.
On the attribution of contributions of atmospheric trace gases to emissions in atmospheric model applications
Authors: Grewe V. , Tsati E. , Hoor P.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. We present a revised tagging method, which describes the combined effect of emissions of various species from individual emission categories, e.g. the impact of both, nitrogen oxides and non-methane hydrocarbon emissions on ozone. This method is applied to two simplified chemistry schemes, which represent the main characteristics of atmospheric ozone chemistry. Analytical solutions are presented for this tagging approach. In the past, besides tagging approaches, sensitivity methods were used, which estimate the contributions from individual sources based on differences in two simulations, a base case and a simulation with a perturbation in the respective emission category. We apply both methods to our simplified chemical systems and demonstrate that potentially large errors (factor of 2) occur with the sensitivity method, which depend on the degree of linearity of the chemical system. For some chemical regimes this error can be minimised by employing only small perturbations of the respective emission, e.g. 5%. Since a complete tagging algorithm for global chemistry models is difficult to achieve, we present two error metrics, which can be applied for sensitivity methods in order to estimate the potential error of this approach for a specific application.
Screen-level non-GTS data assimilation in a limited-area mesoscale model
Authors: Milelli M. , Turco M. , Oberto E.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. The forecast in areas of very complex topography, as for instance the Alpine region, is still a challenge even for the new generation of numerical weather prediction models which aim at reaching the km-scale. The problem is enhanced by a general lack of standard observations, which is even more evident over the southern side of the Alps. For this reason, it would be useful to increase the performance of the mathematical models by locally assimilating non-conventional data. Since in ARPA Piemonte there is the availability of a great number of non-GTS stations, it has been decided to assimilate the 2 m temperature, coming from this dataset, in the very-high resolution version of the COSMO model, which has a horizontal resolution of about 3 km, more similar to the average resolution of the thermometers. Four different weather situations have been considered, ranging from spring to winter, from cloudy to clear sky. The aim of the work is to investigate the effects of the assimilation of non-GTS data in order to create an operational very high-resolution analysis, but also to test the option of running in the future a very short-range forecast starting from these analyses (RUC or Rapid Update Cycle). The results, in terms of Root Mean Square Error, Mean Error and diurnal cycle of some surface variables such as 2 m temperature, 2 m relative humidity and 10 m wind intensity show a positive impact during the assimilation cycle which tends to dissipate a few hours after the end of it. Moreover, the 2 m temperature assimilation has a slightly positive or neutral impact on the vertical profiles of temperature, eventhough some calibration is needed for the precipitation field which is too much perturbed during the assimilation cycle, while it is unaffected in the forecast period. So the stability of the planetary boundary layer, on the one hand, has not been particularly improved by the new-data assimilation, but, on the other hand, it has not been destroyed. It has to be pointed out that a correct description of the planetary boundary layer, even only the lowest part of it, could be helpful to the forecasters and, in general, to the users, in order to deal with meteorological hazards such as snow (in particular snow/rain limit definition), or fog (description of temperature inversions).
Accelerated Life Models
Authors: Nikulin Mikhail
Published: June 2010

Failures of highly reliable units are rare. One way of obtaining complementary reliability information is to do accelerated life testing (ALT), that is, to use higher level of experimental factors, hence to obtain failures quickly. Another way of obtaining complementary reliability information is to measure some parameters which characterize the aging or wear of the product in time. Statistical inference from ALT is possible if failure time regression models relating failure time distribution with external explanatory variables (covariates, stresses) influencing the reliability are well chosen. Statistical inference from failure time‐degradation data with covariates needs even more complicated models relating failure time distribution, not only with external but also with internal explanatory variables (degradation, wear) which explain the state of units before the failures. In the last case models, for degradation process distribution are needed too. We discuss the most‐used failure time regression models used in statistics of accelerated trials for analysis of failure time and failure time‐degradation data with covariates.
Effective Application of Guided Local Search
Authors: Voudouris Christos , Tsang Edward P. K. , Alsheddy Abdullah
Published: June 2010

The Guided Local Search (GLS) algorithm is a metaheuristic technique that is a flexible and relatively simple to implement and apply, with few parameters to tune. The versatility of the method has been demonstrated by its several applications to problems with various structures and objectives from routing and scheduling to assignment problems and constraint optimization. In this article, we focus on the effective application of GLS. We do that by describing the details of the main algorithm and the two closely related methods of Fast Local Search (FLS) and Guided Fast Local Search (GFLS). Suggestions and insights on how to efficiently implement the techniques are provided. We also address modeling considerations such as the definition of GLS features and their costs for common classes of problems.
Closed‐Loop Supply Chains: Environmental Impact
Authors: Bloemhof Jacqueline M. , Corbett Charles J.
Published: June 2010

This article discusses how environmental impacts are measured in supply chains, starting with an overview of environmental impact measurement in general, then discussing studies of environmental impacts in traditional forward supply chains, in extended supply chains with disposal, and in closed‐loop supply chains, respectively.
Ice Hockey
Authors: Ingolfsson Armann
Published: June 2010

The author describes the game of ice hockey and the use of data analysis and mathematical modeling to answer questions of interest to ice hockey fans, coaches, and managers. Most of the discussion is in the context of the National Hockey League (NHL), the primary professional ice hockey league. Particular attention has been paid to two questions: when to pull the goalie, and how to estimate the probability that a particular NHL team will qualify for the playoffs.
Operations Research Society of
N
ew
Z
ealand
Authors: Mason Andrew
Published: June 2010

Founded in 1965, the Operations Research Society of New Zealand (ORSNZ) is a nationwide not‐for‐profit body comprising academics and public servants, consultants, and practitioners in industry. It currently has over 150 members within New Zealand and is affiliated to APORS, IFORS, and the Royal Society of New Zealand. The primary aim of the Society is to promote Operations Research and Management Science in New Zealand to industrial and academic groups.

The Society publishes a regular newsletter, organizes branch meetings in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, and runs an annual two‐day conference in late November/early December, with the conference location shifting between the University of Auckland, the University of Canterbury in Christchurch, and the University of Victoria in Wellington. The Society welcomes and financially supports international visitors to present at the conference and/or to speak at branch meetings.

For more information visit
http://www.orsnz.org.nz
Problem Structuring for Multicriteria Decision Analysis Interventions
Authors: Franco Luis A. , Montibeller Gilberto
Published: June 2010

Multicriteria decision analysis (MCDA) has been extensively used in management science as a tool for evaluating options in decisions, which involve the achievement of multiple objectives. Multicriteria methods have been widely researched from an axiomatic perspective; however, much less attention has been devoted to the process of structuring multicriteria decision models. Furthermore, despite the significance of problem formulation in organizational decision making, it is surprising that much of the MCDA literature has paid relatively minor consideration to the processes of articulating and defining a multicriteria problem. In this article, we examine the role of problem structuring in MCDA interventions from defining the problem situation and the required level of participation to structuring the multi‐criteria evaluation model. We comment on the challenges that a decision analyst faces in this context and on the modeling tools that may be employed to support problem structuring in MCDA interventions.
Semi‐Markov Decision Processes
Authors: Baykal‐Gürsoy Melike
Published: June 2010

Considered are infinite horizon semi‐Markov decision processes (SMDPs) with finite state and action spaces. Total expected discounted reward and long run average expected reward optimality criteria are reviewed. Solution methodology for each criterion is given; constraints and variance sensitivity are also discussed.
Statistical Analysis of Call‐Center Operational Data: Forecasting Call Arrivals, and Analyzing Customer Patience and Agent Service
Authors: Shen Haipeng
Published: June 2010

Call centers are increasingly important in our modern commerce. Academic research on call centers has been growing rapidly in the last couple of decades. We review statistical research about inbound call centers. We begin with a description of call‐center operational data, proceed with overviews of statistical research in the areas of call forecasting and analysis of customer patience and agent service times, and conclude with a discussion about challenges for future research.