bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Information Technology use in agriculture
Authors: Vanjara Pratik
Published: October 2017

Two major trends that have an effect on our planet: increase and urbanization. The anticipated increase for the primary one and half this century is discouraging. Betting on the estimate, there'll be nine to ten billion individuals by mid-century. This population is simply beneath seven billion that means that there'll be a couple of fifty percentage increases from the start to the center of this century. One could dialogue the relative accuracy of explicit models, however all of them agree that there'll be several, more mouths to enclose the approaching decades.

IT has reworked several different aspects of human endeavor and has helped produce systems for responding to a good varies of social group wants. Indeed, transportation, communication, national security, and health systems square measure utterly dependent thereon to perform even basic functions. However, data, and its automatic technological embodiment, has not compact agriculture to identical level.
Influence of substrate base on sports field covered with bermuda grass
Authors: Mateus Caroline De Moura D’Andréa , Tavares Armando Reis , Oliveira Maurício Roberto de , Jacon Camila Paula Rossetto Pescatori , Sartori Maria Márcia Pereira , Fernandes Dirceu Maximino , Bôas Roberto Lyra Villas
Published: October 2017

The sports field consists of three layers (sub-base, base (substrate) and grass). The base is  responsible for the radicular development of the grass, directly influencing the characteristics that provide quality, water drainage and lawn durability and allows athlete performance. The construction of sports field base generally follows USGA (United States Golf Association) recommendations for golf course greens. Sand is the main component based on its high capacity for drainage. This study aimed to define the best composition of the base for sports fields covered with Bermuda grass. The following treatments were evaluated: T1: sand; T2: sand (80%) + peat (20%); T3: sand (90%) + clay soil (10%); T4: sand (70%) + sandy soil (30%) during 12 months. The experimental design consisted of a randomized block design, with a 4 x 12 factorial design (treatments x months), with 3 replicates  and each plot measuring 3 x 4 m. During one full year, the following parameters were evaluated: surface traction of the turf, mechanical resistance of the base to penetration, humidity of the base, concentration of nutrients in grass clippings, and chemical analysis of the base. The tallest grass occurred in substrate of sand mixed with peat. This mixture also promoted the highest N and P levels in the leaves of Bermuda grass. Playability of the sports field, as determined by mechanical strength and surface traction, was unaffected by the type of substrate. The presence of peat, sand and clay soil mixed with sand promoted greater water retention at the base.
Intoxicaciones por detergentes tipo “pod”: un nuevo riesgo a considerar
Authors: Escorcia García Clara Lucia , Berrouet Mejia Marie Claire
Published: October 2017

Las intoxicaciones son una causa frecuente de consulta a los servicios de urgencias. En Colombia, el Sistema Nacional de Vigilancia en Salud Pública (SIVIGILA) ha reportado su aumento. Hasta la semana epidemiológica 41 del año 2016, se habían reportado 27,117 casos de intoxicación, con una ocurrencia de 55.6 por cada 100.000 habitantes, en su mayoría por medicamentos.

La población pediátrica está expuesta a diversos xenobióticos por sus actividades exploratorias, entre los cuales se cuentan los productos de limpieza. Los detergentes tipo “pod” (detergentes encapsulados) han ganado popularidad en nuestro país; uno de los riesgos que presenta esta clase de detergentes es su empaque, el cual guarda similitud con la apariencia de un dulce, lo cual lo hace atractivo a los niños, aumentando el riesgo de exposiciones accidentales.

Tradicionalmente se ha considerado que los productos de limpieza tienen bajo potencial de letalidad, sin embargo, hay nueva evidencia que demuestra que las intoxicaciones por detergentes generan riesgos gastrointestinales, neurológicos, metabólicos, respiratorios y renales, por lo cual es importante cambiar el paradigma de que los detergentes no tienen una toxicidad importante.
Uso y actitudes frente a los medicamentos naturales y homeopáticos en pacientes pediátricos: una encuesta entre médicos colombianos
Authors: Moreno Carlos Arturo , Riveros Huckstadt María Pilar
Published: October 2017

Antecedentes. El uso de la medicina complementaria y alternativa (MCA) ha ido en aumento en todo el mundo, no sólo en adultos, sino también en niños. A pesar del fuerte interés en la MCA, existe poca información publicada sobre su uso en la práctica clínica, especialmente para países no  angloparlantes y para la población pediátrica.

Objetivos Para comprender mejor el uso, el conocimiento y la actitud  de los médicos con respecto a los medicamentos naturales y la homeopatía, se llevó a cabo una encuesta internacional con participación de pediatras y médicos generales que atendían pacientes pediátricos en 6 países: Alemania, Rusia, Bulgaria, España, Colombia e Israel. En el presente trabajo, sólo los datos asociados a Colombia se analizan y comparan con los resultados generales.

Métodos. La encuesta internacional fué realizada mediante un enfoque de múltiples países. Los datos fueron recolectados entre mayo y junio de 2014 mediante un cuestionario en línea estructurado y gestionado para pediatras y médicos generales que atendían niños.

Resultados. En Colombia, un total de 51 médicos participaron en la encuesta: el 80 % de los encuestados eran pediatras y el 20 % eran médicos generales o médicos de atención primaria. El 12.7 % de las prescripciones y/o recomendaciones pediátricas estaban relacionadas con preparados homeopáticos, y el 8.6 % estaban relacionadas con la fitoterapia. Los medicamentos naturales y la homeopatía se usan comúnmente junto con los fármacos convencionales/tradicionales. Las enfermedades más comunes tratadas con homeopatía fueron infecciones del tracto respiratorio superior (42 %), las alergias (39 %), las infecciones recurrentes (35 %), los trastornos del sueño (32 %), los problemas abdominales agudos (26%), el cólico infantil (23 %) y los problemas de comportamiento (19 %). Los pacientes más representativos tratados con medicamentos naturales eran niños con padres preocupados por los efectos secundarios de los medicamentos convencionales (30 %), y que optaban por el uso de  medicinas naturales para ellos mismos (40 %). Se reportó una ligera tendencia al uso de medicamentos naturales en los pacientes más jóvenes (0 a 6 años) con enfermedades crónicas.

Conclusiones. La actitud hacia la MCA entre los profesionales de la salud en Colombia parece positiva. Es notable la diferencia entre los medicamentos homeopáticos y fitoterapéuticos: a pesar del uso tradicional de las plantas medicinales, en Colombia existen más prescripciones para homeopatía que para fitoterapia.
Implementation of a standard inner convolutional codec for DVB-T system using VHDL
Authors: Hussein Dina M. , Zekry Abdelhalim , Baioumy Said , El-Newagy Fatma
Published: October 2017

Forward error correction (FEC) plays a vital role in digital communication systems. DVB-T system uses FEC as a channel coding technique to restore any data lost through transmission to the receiver. DVB-T system uses two levels of error protection. The first level is applied in the data transmitted by using a Reed-Solomon RS (204, 188) code followed by a convolutional interleaver. The other level of error protection is a punctured convolutional inner coding followed by an inner interleave in which the data sequence is rearranged again to minimize the influence of burst errors.This paper describes the implementation of inner convolutional codec (Convolutional coder and Viterbi Decoder) and inner de/interleaving of a standard DVB-T system with a constrained length of 7 and a code rate of 2/3 using VHDL on virtex-6 FPGA xc6vlx240t. The designed channel convolutional encoder and Viterbi decoder follow European Standard ETSI EN 300 744 for digital terrestrial television. Verification of the design is accomplished by loop back and by comparison with the corresponding Xilinx core. Utilization and timing re-ports of the implemented device on Vertex 6 are included.
The Clock Slows Down
Authors: Magdoff Harry
Published: October 2017

Despite its inherent hazard of excess capacity, capitalism is distinguished by the vast, long-run expansion of its productive forces. How come? To answer this, we need to move from theory to history.Click here to purchase a PDF version of this article at the Monthly Review website.
The impact of periodized core training program on accurate service velocity of male tennis players aged 11-13
11-13 yaş arası erkek tenisçilerde periyotlanmış core antrenman programının isabetli servis hızına etkisi
Authors: Sever Ozan , Kır Rıdvan , Yaman Metin
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of periodized core training program on the serve velocity in male tennis players aged 11-13 years. 24 male nationally ranged (age 11.9±1.63, height 154.4±11.32, weight 43±8.76) participated to the study from a professional tennis club. Pre-post-training - control group design was applied and subjects were randomly assigned to Control Group and Training Group. Training Group participated to the core training program consisted of isometric and isotonic core stabilization exercises on stable and nonstable surfaces, three days in a week for 8 weeks in addition to tennis training sessions. Accurate service velocity, was assessed initially and at the end of the 8-week core program for both control and training groups. There was a significant improvement (6.6 %) in the serve velocity for the training group after the experiment, whereas there were no differences in the control group. Core stabilization training improved service velocity for young tennis players. It is recommended tennis coaches to apply periodized core stabilization exercises to young athletes and plan training programs in this way. Extended English abstract is in the end of PDF (TURKISH) file. ÖzetBu çalışmanın amacı 11-13 yaş arası erkek tenisçilerde periyodlanmış core antrenman programının isabetli servis hızına etkisini incelemektir. Çalışmaya profesyonel bir tenis kulübünden ulusal müsabık 24 erkek tenisçi (yaş 11.9±1.63, boy 154.4±11.32, ağırlık 43±8.76) katılmıştır. Araştırmada ön-test son-test kontrol gruplu model uygulanmış, denekler iki gruba rastgele atanmıştır. 12 sporcu Kontrol Grubunu, 12 sporcu ise Deney Grubunu oluşturmuştur. Deney Grubuna haftanın üç günü yarım saatlik 8 hafta boyunca toplamda 24 antrenman birimi stabil ve stabil olmayan yüzeylerde izometrik ve izotonik core stabilizasyon egzersizlerinden oluşan program, tenis antrenmanlarına ek olarak uygulanmıştır. Program öncesi ve sonrasında her katılımcı maksimal hızda 10 servis kullanarak en hızlı ve geçerli atışları kaydedilmiştir. Core antrenman uygulaması sonrası Kontrol Grubunun servis atış hızı değişmezken, Deney Grubu servis atış hızını ortalama 120.93 km/s hızdan 128.6 km/s hıza (% 6.6) çıkarmıştır. Core antrenman uygulamalarının genç tenisçilerde isabetli servis hızını olumlu etkilediği tespit edilmiştir. Tenis antrenörlerinin yüksek şiddet içermeyen, core antrenmanlarını ve stabilizasyon uygulamalarını genç sporcularda uygulamasının yararlı olacağı düşünülmekte ve antrenman programlarını buna göre planlamaları tavsiye edilmektedir.
Inflammatory Biomarkers and Liver Histopathology in Non-Uremic and Uremic Chronic Hepatitis C Patients
Authors: Tatar Bengu , Kose Sukran , Pala Emel , Tatar Erhan
Published: October 2017

Background: The aim of this study is to investigate the association between hepatic activity index (HAI) and fibrosis score (FS) with inflammation biomarkers in non-uremic and uremic hepatitis C positive patients. Methods: Fifty chronic hepatitis C (cHepC) positive patients, having a liver biopsy were included in this study. Liver biopsies were scored according to modified ISHAC scoring system. 25 healthy controls of similar age and gender were also enrolled as control group. Serum YKL-40, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), thrombocyte/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), CRP and Immunoglobulin (IgG, A and M) levels were used to determine inflammation. AST to Platelet Ratio Index (APRI) score was also evaluated. According to biopsy findings patients were divided into 2 groups: low (0–2) and severe (3–6) FS. Results: Patients with cHepC had increased inflammation compared to the healthy controls. End-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients had higher levels of inflammation markers (NLR, IgG, CRP and YKL-40) and lower HCV RNA levels, HAI and FS compared to non-uremic patients. When patients were grouped into 2 according to FS as mild and severe, IgG (p < 0.001), YKL-40 (p = 0.02) levels and APRI score (p = 0.002) were significantly higher compared to mild FS (p = 0.002). YKL-40 levels (t value: 3.48; p = 0.001) and APRI score (t value: 4.57, p < 0.001) were found as independent associated with FS in non-uremic patients. However, in adjusted models, only APRI score (t value: 3.98, p = 0.002) was an independent associated with FS in ESRD patients. Conclusion: In non-uremic cHepC patients, YKL-40 levels and APRI score may be valuable markers of FS. In ESRD patients, there is not sufficient data for prediction of HAI and FS. In these patients, APRI score may provide better information.
Early Diagnosing and Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis, Benefits of Anti-Citrullinated Peptides Examination
Authors: Belakova Gabriela , Manka V. , Zanova E. , Racay P.
Published: October 2017

Background: Anti-citrullinated peptides antibodies (ACPA) are specific for rheumatoid arthritis and have been implicated in disease pathogenesis. ACPA examination is a new component of ACR/EULAR 2010 classification criteria for rheumatoid arthritis. ACPA positivity predicts a more erosive disease course with severe joint damage and extra-articular manifestations. Objectives: To evaluate the benefits of ACPA examination in patients with early undifferentiated arthritis and patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Methods: We examined patients with arthritis and tested them for ACPA positivity. In every individual patient we evaluated if ACPA examination was necessary to establish the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, or to change treatment, or if the diagnosis could have been established without ACPA examination (ACR/EULAR 2010 classification criteria was met without ACPA scoring). Results and Conclusions: We examined 833 patients with arthritis. There were 43 patients, or 62 % of a subgroup of 69 who were ACPA positive whose ACPA examination was not needed - ACR/EULAR criteria was met without ACPA scoring. This number represents 5.1 % of the total number examined. There were 15 patients, or 22 % of the subgroup and 1.8 % of the total whose diagnosis was revised to rheumatoid arthritis due to ACPA positivity - ACR/EULAR criteria was met solely with ACPA scoring. There were 11 patients (16 % and 1.3 %) whose medication was changed due to ACPA positivity. ACPA examination is useful in 3,1 % of all examined patients. When we correlate data on ACPA positive patients, 38 % of the patients profit from ACPA examinations. Considering the relatively low price of ACPA testing, this examination should not be excluded.
Selected Oxfordian brachiopods from Zalas (Cracow Upland, Poland)
Authors: Radwańska Urszula
Published: October 2017

Small brachiopods of the families Craniidae Menke, 1828 and Thecidellinidae Elliott, 1958 were selected from the Oxfordian sequence which lies transgressively upon a Variscan rhyodacite laccolite exposed at Zalas in the Cracow Upland, southern Poland, a site which is well-known due to various kinds of ubiquitous fossils. The craniids include three species: Craniscus bipartitus (Münster in Goldfuss, 1837), Craniscus tripartitus (Münster in Goldfuss, 1837) and Craniscus antiquior (Jelly, 1843), and the thecidellinids - two species: Rioultina zalasensis sp. nov. and Rioultina wapiennensis Krawczyński, 2008. The species described herein indicate tropical or subtropical waters, and a moderately (?) deep character of the sea basin at Zalas.
Sevoflurane and isoflurane genotoxicity in kidney cells of mice
Authors: Brozović Gordana , Oršolić Nada , Rozgaj Ružica , Knežević Fabijan , Knežević Anica Horvat , Maričić Martina , Krsnik Dajana , Benković Vesna
Published: October 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the DNA damage and repair in kidney cells of Swiss albino mice after repeated exposure to sevoflurane and isoflurane and compare their detrimental effects. We used the alkaline comet assay to establish the genetic damage and measured three parameters: tail length, tail moment, and tail intensity of comets. These parameters were measured immediately after exposure to the above mentioned inhalation anaesthetics, two hours, six hours, and 24 hours later and were compared with the control group. Mean values of all three parameters were significantly higher in experimental groups compared to the control group. DNA damage in kidney cells of mice exposed to sevoflurane increased continuously before it reached its peak 24 hours after exposure. Isoflurane induced the highest DNA damage two hours after exposure. Levels of DNA damage recorded 24 h after cessation of exposure to both tested compounds suggest that sevoflurane was slightly more genotoxic than isoflurane to kidney cells of mice. According to these results, the currently used volatile anaesthetics sevoflurane and isoflurane are able to damage DNA in kidney cells of mice. Such findings suggest a possibility for similar outcomes in humans and that fact must be taken into account in everyday clinical practice.
The comparative context and methodology of literary history in Hanuš Jelínek’s Histoire de la littérature tchèque
Authors: Zelenka Miloš
Published: October 2017

The paper evaluates the importance of the French-written Histoire de la littérature tchèque I–III [The History of Czech Literature] (1930–1935) by Hanuš Jelínek (1878–1944), a leading expert and authority on French–Czech cultural relations. His synthetic work destined for French readers and completed outside the modern methodological context of the 1930s draws on Ernest Denis’ concept of Czech literary development as the ‘literature of struggle’ against the German element, while its composition is inspired by Arne Novák’s history written in German, and his expository method follows in the footsteps of his mentor Jaroslav Vlček. Therefore, Jelínek conceives literary development as a continual motion of ideas within an aesthetic form, as a subject-stratified, multi-layered story unified by the central outlook enabling him on the one hand to emphasise the nationally defensive aspect of Czech literature, and, on the other hand, to present it through parallels and illustrative examples within the European perspective. Jelínek’s Histoire, supplemented with a number of his own translations of Czech authors, is a particular narrative–historical genre – the epitome of the young Czech nation’s cultural policy and an archetype of cordial relations between the Czechoslovak and French cultures.
Hanuš Jelínek - František Gellner’s Translator: Coquetry and Ironic Mask
Authors: Boutan Jean
Published: October 2017

Although Hanuš Jelínek gives a rather marginal place to the poet František Gellner both in his History and in his Anthology of Czech Literature, he tends to express particular sympathy for him, sharing with him the Bohemianism of the student years in Paris. A close study of his few translations of Gellner’s poems into French reveals his romantic and cosmopolitan interpretation of the work, contributing to a definition of Jelínek’s own stylistic choices.
Václav Hladík. The Direct (and Forgotten) Predecessor of Hanuš Jelínek
Authors: Hnilica Jiří
Published: October 2017

The article studies the major stages in the life of the Czech journalist and writer Václav Hladík. This native of Prague died prematurely in 1913. In particular, the study tries to demonstrate his connections to another remarkable figure of cultural transfer – Hanuš Jelínek. In the first place, these included his work for the literary periodical Lumír, followed by his activities in the area of Czech-French relations. It was Hladík that introduced Jelínek to Parisian salons. The paper draws attention to personal continuity as well as a qualitative shift in Czech Francophilia at the turn of the 20th century.
Frič’s Fat and Lean Years in Paris
Authors: Hesová Petra
Published: October 2017

The article focuses on the elucidation of the broader context of the cultural, social and political activities of Josef Václav Frič during his emigration to Paris. It outlines the circumstances of his efforts to promote the Czech issue in Europe and popularise it among the wider public. It thus draws attention to Frič’s key platforms of sociability and communication: the possibilities of contemporary periodicals and the first association of compatriots in France, Českomoravská beseda (Czech–Moravian Beseda). The accompanying visual material includes representative examples of extant archival materials from Frič’s legacy and from the collection of his personal library.
‘The power of a country resting in agriculture is always stronger than that based on factories, which will, if indecently proliferated, only produce a large number of beggars.’
Authors: Raška Jakub , Měřička Matěj
Published: October 2017

This article is devoted to an early discussion of pauperism and the social question in the early stage of Central European industrialisation on the pages of periodicals of the Habsburg Monarchy with an emphasis on Czech journalism. The authors attempt to follow the development of the discussion from the beginning of the 1830s until the collapse of the revolution of 1848. They pay attention to the semantic dynamics of the terms and discourse that were used in connection with mass poverty, as well as the foreign models that contributed to the specific expression of ideas of the causes of the social question and its solutions. The paper studies the development of mass poverty representation at the time from the general Romantic rejection of the modernisation process to proposals for solutions to the social question, which had already been formulated on the basis of affiliation to a political group.
Lajos Kossuth and the Hungarian Revolution in Czech Society (with an Emphasis on the Works of Karel Havlíček and Ludwig Rittersberg)
Authors: Pokorná Magdaléna
Published: October 2017

Lajos Kossuth (1802–1894) has been the symbol of not only the revolution in Hungary in 1848 but also of the Hungarian national movement in general. The article draws attention to some major published reflections of Hungarian politics and mainly its representatives in the Czech press in 1848–1852 with particular focus on Lajos Kossuth in the texts by the journalists Karel Havlíček (periodical production) and Ludwig Rittersberg (Kapesní slovníček novinářský a konversační /A Pocket Dictionary of Journalism and Conversation/). With respect to the genre diversity of their publications (the periodically issued press in the case of Havlíček and collected works, albeit of journalistic character, in the case of Rittersberg), however, it would be almost purposeless to compare these two testimonies of the period in question in detail. Each of them fulfilled their role in the public space: one was engaged in news reporting, whereas the other, after some time, remembered the values, people or events gradually forgotten in the changing political situation after the defeat of the revolution. Although Havlíček and Rittersberg were not in entire ideological agreement and alienated during the revolutionary period, they both criticised Kossuth’s national policy towards Slavs. Havlíček’s Národní noviny [National Newspaper] and his Slovan [The Slav] as well as his publication Duch Národních novin [The Spirit of the National Newspaper] and Epištoly kutnohorské [The Kutná Hora Epistles] were officially forbidden in 1850–1851; likewise the publication of Rittersberg’s work in the Austrian monarchy was forcibly interrupted at the entry ‘Medakovič’ in 1852. In this connection, the author also mentions the prepared glossary of another part of Rittersberg’s work, which remains unprocessed in the Literary Archives of the Museum of Czech Literature, paying attention to Rittersberg’s focus on major Hungarian figures, life and institutions. In the next part of the work, the author, based on her analysis of the list of prohibited publications (Chronologicko-abecední seznam tisků zakazáných v monarchii podle nařízení ministerstva vnitra z roku 1851 a tiskového nařízení policejních úřadů z roku 1852 /A Chronological-Alphabetical List of Publications Prohibited in the Monarchy According to a Decree of the Ministry of the Interior of 1851 and a Press Regulation of Police Authorities of 1852/) has provided specific examples of the restrictions to which the books published on the topic of Hungarian revolution had been subjected. Nevertheless, the governmental authorities were not satisfied with the policy of prohibiting individual publications, so that, in the end, a ban was imposed on 3 March 1853 on any information on Kossuth as well as on the Italian revolutionary Mazzini and on their ‘treacherous proclamations’.
Public Presentation of Non-European Cultures at the Turn of the 19th and 20th Centuries. Part 2: “From Worlds Afar” – The Lecture Activity of Enrique Stanko Vráz
Authors: Todorovová Jiřina
Published: October 2017

The way in which the Czech public learned about exotic countries at the end of the 19th and 20th centuries was dependent above all on the ability of travellers to convey their experience in literary form, as travelogue, or to communicate their experiences directly – in lecture form. From the 1890s lectures were accompanied by the projection of slides. One of the best-known travellers, and an excellent lecturer, was Enrique Stanko Vráz (1860–1932). The Náprstek Museum holds an extensive collection of glass slides from his estate. Vráz filled the periods in between his various world travels with intensive lecture activity, and the themes of his lectures grew wider with the increasing number of journeys he undertook. Information gained from Vráz’s lectures had a marked effect on the outlook of broad swathes of the population of the Czech lands on the life and cultures of non-European areas.
Ibn Quzmān Between Ribera, Nykl and Asín and the Newly Created Escuela de Estudios Árabes of Madrid (1932–1933)
Authors: Ženka Josef
Published: October 2017

In 1933, the newly founded Escuela de Estudios Árabes of Madrid printed Nykl’s edition of Dīwān Ibn Quzmān as its inaugural book. The Nykl papers held at the Náprstek Museum offer great insight into the working method of an orientalist of the first half of the 15th century. It is the aim of this article to demonstrate the author’s preparations and, through them, to analyze author’s working method, his relations to his predecessor Julián Ribera and reasons behind the final form of the book. The significant use of Nykl’s papers in the article demonstrates the importance of personal papers for mapping the writing and publishing processes.
The Dragon Robe as the Professional Dress of the Qing Dynasty Scholar-Official (The Náprstek Museum Collection)
Authors: Heroldová Helena
Published: October 2017

Dragon robes were worn by scholar – officials who were members of bureacracy of the Qing dynasty in China (1644–1911). The cut and design of the robes were uniform, but the embellishment and motifs including religious symbols were individual and personal. Dragon robes as a garment with high homogeneity and visibility is compared to the “organisational dress” worn by members of contemporary Western organisations. The meaning of both garments is found to be similar, especially as they convey social roles within the organisation and society.
Loudness Functions and Binaural Loudness Summation in Bilateral Cochlear Implant Users
Authors: Kordus Monika , Żera Jan
Published: October 2017

Loudness functions and binaural loudness summation was investigated in acoustically stimulated bilaterally implanted cochlear implant users. The study was aimed at evaluating growth of loudness functions and binaural loudness summation in cochlear implant subjects as a function of stimulus presentation level at different frequencies. Loudness was assessed using a rating procedure on a scale of 0 to 100. Three experimental conditions were tested: monaural right, monaural left and binaural, each with bands of noise with center frequencies of 0.25, 1, and 4 kHz. Fifteen implanted and five normal-hearing subjects (control group) participated in the experiments. Results demonstrated large variability in the slopes of the loudness functions and the presence of loudness summation in bilateral cochlear implant users, with large individual differences among subjects.
Numerical Study of the Effect of Furrows on Biosonar Beamforming in Aselliscus Stoliczkanus Bat
Authors: He Weikai , Feng Jianxiong , Gao Li , Zhang Zhiwei , Lu Hongwang
Published: October 2017

The Aselliscus Stoliczkanus bat, studied here, has intricately shaped structures surrounding the nostrils. These structures are hypothesised to have influence on animals’ acoustic radiation patterns. Using micro-tomography scanning technique, a 3D digital model of the noseleaf is reconstructed and biosonar beam pattern is analysed using a finite element method based on the 3D noseleaf model. The present research focuses on the conspicuous furrows in noseleaf, and our analysis allows to conclude the followings: a) structural details in noseleaf of Aselliscus Stoliczkanus bat can produce acoustic effects even if it is not adjacent to the nostrils, b) the furrows possess frequency-selective characteristics, c) the furrows have the function to manipulate the direction and width of the outgoing ultrasound wave.
Journal Bearing Fault Detection Based on Daubechies Wavelet
Authors: Narendiranath Babu T. , Himamshu H.S. , Prabin Kumar N. , Rama Prabha D. , Nishant C.
Published: October 2017

Journal bearings are widely used to support the shafts in industrial machinery involving heavy loads, such as compressors, turbines and centrifugal pumps. The major problem that could arise in journal bearings is catastrophic failure due to corrosion or erosion and fatigue, which results in economic loss and creates major safety risks. Thus, it is necessary to provide suitable condition monitoring technique to detect and diagnose failures, and achieve cost savings to the industry. Therefore, this paper focuses on fault diagnosis on journal bearing using Debauchies Wavelet-02 (DB-02). Nowadays, wavelet transformation is one of the most popular technique of the time-frequency-transformations. An experimental setup was used to diagnose the faults in the journal bearing. The accelerometer is used to collect vibration data, from the journal bearing in the form of time domain. This was then used as input for a MATLAB code that could plot the time domain signal. This signal was then decomposed based on the wavelet transform. The fast Fourier transform is then used to obtain the frequency domain, which gives us the frequency having the highest amplitude. To diagnose the faults various operating conditions are used in the journal bearing such as Full oil, half loose, half oil, fault 1, fault 2, fault 3 and full loose. Then the Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) is used to classify faults. The network is trained based on data already collected and then it is tested based on random data points. ANN was able to classify the faults with the classification rate of 85.7%. Thus, the test process for unseen vibration data of the trained ANN combined with ideal output target values indicates high success rate for automated bearing fault detection.
Scientific Ideas Included in the Concepts of Bioacoustics, Acoustic Ecology, Ecoacoustics, Soundscape Ecology, and Vibroacoustics
Authors: Ozga Agnieszka
Published: October 2017

The paper discusses the research areas which are placed in the modern science on the borderline between ecology and acoustics. It is explained what ideas are included in the concepts of bioacoustics, acoustic ecology, ecoacoustics, and soundscape ecology. The results obtained in these domains are compared with those received in vibroacoustic research presented at the Polish WIBROTECH conference cycle. The paper suggests an inventory of research topics connected with acoustics and ecology. In the second part of the paper the author presents the possibilities of ambisonic technology of recording and listening to sounds for the analysis in bioacoustic research.
Appraisal of Noise Level Dissemination Surrounding Mining and Industrial Areas of Keonjhar, Odisha: a Comprehensive Approach Using Noise Mapping
Authors: Lokhande Satish K. , Dhawale Satyajeet A. , Pathak Samir S. , Gautam Rakesh , Jain Mohindra C. , Bodhe Ghanshyam L.
Published: October 2017

Noise mapping is a well-established practice among the European nations, and it has been follow for almost two decades. Recently, as per guidelines of the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS), India, noise mapping has been made mandatory in the mining expanses. This study is an effort to map the noise levels in nearby areas of mines in the northern Keonjhar district. The motive of this study is to quantify the existing A-weighted time-average sound level (LAeq,T ) in the study area to probe its effects on the human dwellings and noise sensitive areas with the probability of future development of the mines, roads, and industrial and commercial zone. The LAeq,T was measured at 39 identified locations, including industrial, commercial, residential, and sensitive zones, 15 open cast mines, 3 major highways, and 3 haulage roads. With the utilisation of Predictor LimA Software and other GIS tools, the worked out data is mapped and noise contours are developed for the visualisation and identification of the extent and distribution of sound levels across the study area. This investigation discloses that the present noise level at 60% of the locations in silence and residential zone exposed to significantly high noise levels surpasses the prescribed limit of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), India. The observed day and night time LAeq, T level of both zones ranged between 43.2-62.2 dB(A) and 30.5-53.4 dB(A), respectively, whereas, the average Ldn values vary between 32.7 and 51.2 dB(A). The extensive mobility of heavy vehicles adjoining the sensitive areas and a nearby plethora of open cast mines is the leading cause of exceeded noise levels. The study divulges that the delicate establishments like schools and hospitals are susceptible to high noise levels throughout the day and night. A correlation between observed and software predicted values gives R2 of 0.605 for Ld, 0.217 for Ln, and 0.524 for Ldn. Finally, the mitigation measure is proposed and demonstrated using a contour map showing a significant reduction in the noise levels by 0-5.3 dB(A).
Exterior Noise Due to Interaction of Tyre-Thermoplastic Transverse Rumble Strips
Authors: Haron Zaiton , Othman Mohd Hanifi , Hee Lim Meng , Yahya Khairulzan , Hainin Mohd Rosli , Darus Nadirah , Leong Mohd Salman
Published: October 2017

Transverse rumble strips (TRS) are a common choice to reduce vehicle speed and increase driver alertness on roadways. However, there is a potential trade-off using them on rural roadway due to the noise problem created when vehicles go over the strips. The present study investigated the noise level, spectral analysis, and the possible noise generation mechanism when the TRS is hit by a vehicle. Tenraised- rumbler (RR) and three-layer-overlapped (TLO) TRS were selected in this study as they have received complaints from the public. Results showed that RR generated a relatively higher noise and impulse at a low speed, and increased sound level in each octave band. Based on these results, RR may irritate human ears even when the vehicle travels at a low speed. It was found that RR increased all noise generation mechanisms of tyre-pavement interaction whilst TLO increased structural resonance, sidewall and surface texture vibration.
Noise and Infrasonic Noise at Workplaces in a Wind Farm
Authors: Pleban Dariusz , Radosz Jan , Smagowska Bożena
Published: October 2017

Dynamic development of wind power should take into account requirements resulting from environmental protection and human health. However in the case of occupational exposure to noise emitted by wind turbines (workplaces of wind turbine operation personnel, including persons performing maintenance) there are no documented data in literature in this regard. An example of pilot assessments of noise and infrasonic noise at workplaces in a wind farm is presented in the paper. The results of measurements and assessments of noise emitted by the wind turbines Vestas V80-2.0 MW show that noise does not constitute health hazard for wind farm workers. Furthermore infrasonic noise emitted by the wind turbines Vestas V80-2.0 MW is not an annoyance agent for wind farm workers.
The Study of the Proscenium Area in an Opera House
Authors: Sygulska Anna , Brawata Krzysztof
Published: October 2017

The paper describes issues of the proscenium area shown on the example of two opera houses. The subject of the analysis was the design of the Chamber Opera House in Kalisz and the already existing building of the Opera House in Krakow. It covers the influence of the proscenium walls and forestage ceiling on the acoustic conditions in the auditorium. Another subject of the investigation was the influence of the primary proscenium, designed in the very first opera houses in Baroque. The analyses were carried out by means of two computer softwares: Ray Model and Catt Acoustic, and such parameters as sound strength (G), reverberation time (RT), early decay time (EDT), C80(clarity) index and center time (TS) were calculated. The parameters were further analyzed in the auditorium for three positions of the sound source on the stage.
Comparison of Two Types of Combined Measures, STI and U50, for Predicting Speech Intelligibility in Classrooms
Authors: Cho Young-Ji
Published: October 2017

The present study reports on the speech intelligibility as measured by speech transmission index (STI) and useful-to-detrimental sound ratios (U50) in university classrooms. Acoustic measurements were made in 12 quietly occupied university classrooms. The measured impulse responses of the classrooms were used to determine the modulation transfer function, m(F), for the STI calculation according to IEC 60268-16. U50values were determined from both signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) and C50values. The mean STI and frequency-weighted U50values for the 12 occupied classrooms were strongly linearly related. The results showed that classrooms with U50values of about +0.5 dB correspond to STI values of 0.60, indicating ‘good’ acoustical conditions for speech intelligibility. The results illustrate that the U50measure can be a more practically useful means of assessing and understanding room acoustics conditions for real speech communication in active classrooms.
Mindfulness and Complex Identities in Equity Training: A Pilot Study
Authors: Sánchez-Flores Mónica J.
Published: October 2017

Equity (diversity, anti-oppression) training refers to teaching self-awareness of social location, privilege/disadvantage that mainstream culture perpetuates, and working self-reflectively for equity in everyday interactions amid diversity. This paper investigates the efficacy of equity training on the basis of mindfulness, compassion, and an intersectional/complex identity. Mindfulness refers to a vivid awareness of the present moment, of one’s own embodiment, thoughts, and emotions, fostering self-awareness and compassion. A complex conception of identity in an intersectional approach recognizes that people hold multiple statuses and I propose that this helps them self-identify with both privilege and disadvantage beyond dichotomic notions, finger pointing, and angry reactions. I first discuss the relevant theory of intersectionality and compassion, and consider the significance of this kind of approach to equity training. I then report the outcome of my pilot study that compares the impressions of two small groups of trainees in different equity workshops who were interviewed: The target group attended a workshop based on mindfulness exercises within an intersectional framework, and the comparison group attended a workshop not based on mindfulness, but that included information about privilege, disadvantage, and compassion. The findings point to an enhanced and emotionally involved self-awareness in respondents that participated in the target group workshop, based on mindfulness and empathy enhancing exercises.
Endothelin-1 Gene Polymorphisms rs5370, rs1476046, and rs3087459 are not Associated with Diabetic Nephropathy in Caucasians with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Šeruga Maja , Kariž Stojan , Makuc Jana , Završnik Matej , Cilenšek Ines , Gazdikova Katarina , Caprnda Martin , Kruzliak Peter , Petrovič Daniel
Published: October 2017

Background:Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a major microvascular complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Several lines of evidence implicate the endothelin (ET) system in the pathophysiology of DN. The aim of the present study was to analyze if genetic polymorphisms of the ET-1 (EDN1) gene affect susceptibility to DN in Caucasians with T2DM.

Materials and methods:The study population consisted of 651 Caucasian subjects with T2DM of more than 10 years’ duration: 276 patients with DN (cases) and 375 patients without evidence of DN (controls). Polymorphisms in ET-1 (EDN1) gene, rs5370, rs1476046, and rs3087459, were studied.

Results:Genotype distributions of the studied polymorphisms showed no significant difference between cases and controls.

Conclusions:We provide evidence that the rs5370, rs1476046, and rs3087459 polymorphisms ofEDN1gene are not risk factors for DN in Caucasians with T2DM.
Glycemic Variability and Vascular Complications in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Caprnda Martin , Mesarosova Dasa , Ortega Pablo Fabuel , Krahulec Boris , Egom Emmanuel , Rodrigo Luis , Kruzliak Peter , Mozos Ioana , Gaspar Ludovit
Published: October 2017

Background:Presence of macro- and microvascular complications in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) is not only related to chronic hyperglycemia represented by glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) but also to acute glycemic fluctuations (glycemic variability, GV). The association between GV and DM complications is not completely clear. Aim of our study was to evaluate GV by MAGE index in patients with type 2 DM and to verify association of MAGE index with presence of macro- and microvascular DM complications.

Methods:99 patients with type 2 DM were included in the study. Every patient had done big glycemic profile, from which MAGE index was calculated. Anthropometric measurements, evaluation of HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and assessment for macrovascular (coronary artery disease – CAD; peripheral artery disease – PAD; cerebral stroke – CS) and microvascular (diabetic retinopathy – DR; nephropathy – DN; peripheral neuropathy – DPPN) DM complications were done.

Results:Average MAGE index value was 5.15 ± 2.88 mmol/l. We found no significant differences in MAGE index values in subgroups according to presence of neither CAD, CS, PAD nor DR, DN, DPPN. MAGE index value significantly positively correlated with FPG (p < 0.01) and HbA1c (p < 0.001) and negatively with weight (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:In our study we failed to show association of MAGE index with presence of macrovascular and microvascular complications in patients with type 2 DM. However, this negative result does not necessarily disprove importance of glycemic variability in pathogenesis of diabetic complications.
Clean Coal Technologies – a chance for Poland’s energy security. Decision-making using AHP with Benefits, Opportunities, Costs and Risk Analysis
Authors: Sobczyk Eugeniusz J. , Wota Aldona , Kopacz Michał , Frączek Jarosław
Published: October 2017

The comprehensive use of available domestic energy resources, mainly coal and lignite, is the basis for the development of Poland’s economy and energy security due to the country’s large resource base. The implementation of clean coal technologies (CCT) is a necessary condition for maintaining coal’s leading position in Poland. Coal gasification technologies are seen as potentially attractive for the Polish economy, both for the chemical sector as well as for the mining sector. Working on the commercial implementation of coal gasification technologies, which ensures the effective substitution of scarce hydrocarbon fuels, will be a challenge to Polish industrial policy and support for CCT. This paper presents an analysis of coal gasification technologies using the decision support procedures, BOCR and SWOT analyses. These procedures helped determine the ranking of technologies and the types of development strategies plausible for the analysed technological variants. Taking into consideration the conditions of the Polish economy, the highest-ranking technologies included those aimed towards the production of methanol with the geological sequestration of carbon dioxide (CCS). In the case of underground coal gasification, it was found that the technology is not yet ready for implementation on a commercial scale and investment is subject to very high risk.
Transforming Nursing Education: Fostering Student Development towards Self-Authorship
Authors: Del Prato Darlene M.
Published: October 2017

Nurse educators share a common goal: To foster student development in ways that fully prepare graduates for the challenges of contemporary practice. As patient acuity continues to escalate the responsibilities of the nurse and the nurse educator have become daunting. Contemporary practice requires a self-authored perspective that allows the nurse to appraise knowledge, weigh evidence, make autonomous decisions, and question authorities when warranted. Nurse leaders have called for transformation in nursing education through the application of evidence-based pedagogies that promote complex thinking and professional formation. This article introduces self-authorship theory and constructive-developmental pedagogy as a framework for enacting the pedagogical reform called for by nursing leaders. Drawing on the Carnegie study recommendations for nursing education reform, the article describes three constructive-developmental principles faculty can incorporate into their current practice to foster student development towards self-authorship and describes the implications of constructive-developmental pedagogy for substantive transformation in nursing education.
Language and identity construction: Evidence from the ethnic minorities of Armenia
Authors: Schulze Ilona
Published: October 2017

The Republic of Armenia is for the most part an ethnically homogenous country. According to the 2011 census, the share of ethnic minorities is about 1.9 percent of the population, comprising eleven registered minorities and at least two additional groups, namely the Udi and Tat refugee minorities. This article examines the different values that ethnic minorities of Armenia assign to language in the process of identity construction. Despite their cultural and religious diversity, the ethnic minorities of Armenia have a feature in common: none of the groups originates from the territory of the present-day Republic of Armenia, and in each instance immigration occurred under Tsarist or Soviet rule. Various social and historical factors related to migration condition the relevance of language for individual ethnic minorities. In some cases, these factors also influence collective self-perception in a way that is inconsistent with actual language practices and actual linguistic competence. The present article is descriptive in nature and aims at characterizing the role that language plays in identity construction by minority groups within a predominantly mono-ethnic country.