bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INDICADORES DE SUSTENTABILIDADE NA PUCRS: UMA ANÁLISE A PARTIR DO PROJETO REDE DE INDICADORES DE AVALIAÇÃO DA SUSTENTABILIDADE EM UNIVERSIDADES LATINO-AMERICANAS
Authors: Wachholz Chalissa Beatriz , Carvalho Isabel Cristina De Moura
Published: August 2015

O projeto da Rede de Indicadores de Avaliação da Sustentabilidade em Universidades Latino-Americanas (RISU) é uma iniciativa da Universidade Autônoma de Madrid (UAM), realizado em 2014, que contou com a participação de 65 Universidades Latino-Americanas, distribuídas entre Argentina, Brasil, Colômbia, Costa Rica, Chile, Guatemala, México, Peru, República Dominicana e Venezuela. No Brasil, participaram treze universidades das regiões Sul e Sudeste, sendo três Universidades Paulistas, uma Paranaense, quatro Catarinenses e cinco Gaúchas, dentre as quais está a Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS). O instrumento utilizado neste projeto foi um questionário com 114 indicadores distribuídos em onze temáticas de possível aplicação da sustentabilidade nas Universidades: políticas de sustentabilidade; sensibilização e participação; responsabilidade socioambiental; docência; investigação e transferência; urbanismo e biodiversidade; energia, água, mobilidade, resíduos e contratação responsável. Este artigo é, portanto, uma análise dos resultados destes indicadores na Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, que há alguns anos vem apostando em um processo de ambientalização, tanto da formação de futuros profissionais quanto da pesquisa e da produção de conhecimento para a resolução de problemas ambientais, configurando-se como um espaço educador-sustentável. Desta forma, o objetivo, tanto da participação no projeto RISU quanto da análise dos resultados, integra os esforços de ambientalização da universidade. Os resultados apresentados oferecem um panorama do desempenho da universidade para cada um dos eixos temáticos abordados pelos indicadores e discute possíveis melhorias em alguns destes eixos e frentes de ação.
Directional sensitivity of differential pressure sensors of gas velocity used in manual gravimetric measurements of dust emissions from stationary sources / Czułość kierunkowa różnicowo-ciśnieniowych czujników prędkości gazu stosowanych w manualnych pomiarach grawimetrycznych emisji zanieczyszczeń pyłowych ze źródeł stacjonarnych
Authors: Szulikowski Jerzy , Kateusz Przemysław
Published: August 2015

Manual measurements of distribution of gas velocity in conduits of flue gas installations using systems with differential pressure sensors of velocity are often performed for the requirements of determining emissions of dust pollutants from industrial process plants to the atmosphere. The aim is to determine an axial velocity profile. Flows in measuring sections are not always coaxial along the run of the duct; they are characterized by different directions of the velocity vector at various measuring points. The determination of actual directions of vectors of local velocities giving a guarantee of an accurate calculation of the axial velocity is often not possible from the technical point of view and the measurement of the velocity is carried out with the parallel setting of the sensor head in relation to the axis and the walls of the conduit. Then the knowledge of the directional sensitivity of the applied velocity sensor allows either to eliminate the axial velocity measurement error or to take it into account by the uncertainty of this measurement. For specific situations of two-dimensional variation of direction of the velocity vector, the directional sensitivity characteristics and in consequence the characteristics of error have been determined for three sensors adopted to tests: a zero pressure dust sampling probe with the anemometric function as an element of the gravimetric dust sampler and comparatively - two commonly used Pitot tubes: types S and L.
Duckweed does not improve the efficiency of municipal wastewater treatment in lemna system plants / Rzęsa nie poprawia efektywności oczyszczania ścieków komunalnych w oczyszczalniach typu Lemna System
Authors: Ozimek Teresa , Dąbrowski Wojciech , Florkiewicz Maria
Published: August 2015

This study investigated the operation of three full-scale Lemna System surface fl ow municipal wastewater treatment plants, built according to the Lemna Corporation design. These plants consist of two ponds, the first aerated and the second for duckweed, with a barrier grid in the latter to ensure uniform plant distribution across its area. According to designers duckweed improves the efficiency of wastewater treatment. The three treatment plants are situated in central Poland and they differ in the occurrence of duckweed, two of them, located in Raków and Bąkowiec, operate without duckweed. and the third in Falęcin Stary, Lemna minor covers ca. 90% of second pond surface. The efficiency of Lemna System wastewater treatment was found not to differ between the plants with and without duckweed. The aerated pond played the main role in reduction of pollutants in the investigated Lemna Systems
Identification of processes controlling chemical composition of pit lakes waters located in the eastern part of Muskau Arch (Polish-German borderland) / Identyfikacja procesów kształtujących skład chemiczny wód zbiorników zlokalizowanych na obszarach pogórniczych we wschodniej części Łuku Mużakowa (pogranicze polsko-niemieckie)
Authors: Lutyńska Sylwia , Labus Krzysztof
Published: August 2015

Exploitation of lignite within the area of Muskau Arch, carried out from the mid-nineteenth century, contributed to the transformation of the natural environment and changes in water regime. In the post-mining subsidences pit lakes were formed. The chemical composition of waters is a consequence of the intensive weathering of pyrite (FeS2), which is present in Miocene lignite-bearing rock forming the embankments of the lakes. This process leads to the formation of Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) and finally acidification of lake waters.

This paper presents results of the identification of hydrogeochemical processes affecting the chemistry of waters from these reservoirs carried out using the speciation and statistical (cluster and factor) analyses. Cluster analysis allowed to separate from the analyzed group of anthropogenic reservoirs 7 subgroups characterized by a similar chemical composition of waters. The major processes affecting the chemistry of waters were identified and interpreted with help of factor and speciation analysis of two major parameters (iron and sulfur).
Magneto Convection in a Layer of Nanofluid With Soret Effect
Authors: Chand Ramesh , Rana Gian Chand
Published: August 2015

Double diffusive convection in a horizontal layer of nanofluid in the presence of uniform vertical magnetic field with Soret effect is investigated for more realistic boundary conditions. The flux of volume fraction of nanoparticles is taken to be zero on the isothermal boundaries. The normal mode method is used to find linear stability analysis for the fluid layer. Oscillatory convection is ruled out because of the absence of the two opposing buoyancy forces. Graphs have been plotted to find the effects of various parameters on the stationary convection and it is found that magnetic field, solutal Rayleigh number and nanofluid Lewis number stabilizes fluid layer, while Soret effect, Lewis number, modified diffusivity ratio and nanoparticle Rayleigh number destabilize the fluid layer.
Application of Analytical Solution for Extended Surfaces on Curved and Squared Ribs
Authors: Brestovič Tomáš , Jasminská Natália , Lázár Marián
Published: August 2015

The presented article discusses how to increase heat transfer through ribbed surfaces and it is oriented to the mathematical representation of temperature fields and the total thermal flow. The complexity of solving for some types of ribs with variable cross-section requires the application of numerical methods, which are applied consequently to the planar rib as well. In this case there was chosen the finite- difference method (FDM). During solution of the cylindrical ribs the FDM method is preferably used directly with regard to the complexity of solving for infinite sums and improper integrals in Bessel functions. In conclusion is assessed the application suitability of the calculation procedure applied to curved ribs. This procedure is usually used to planar ribs. At the same time it is pointed out the possibility of using this method for calculation of the total thermal flow through cylindrical ribs, which have got the squared form.
Friction-Induced Oscillations of a Non-Asbestos Organic Pin Sliding on a Steel Disc
Authors: Nosko Oleksii , Nagamine Takuo , Mori Hiroki , Sato Yuichi
Published: August 2015

Friction-induced oscillations result in deterioration of performance of disc brakes and are generally undesired. We conduct experimental study of friction-induced oscillations in a non-asbestos organic material / steel pair used in disc brakes of motor vehicles. The tests are done by use of a pin-on-disc machine in which the pin sample is supported on a deformable beam. The adjustable friction parameters are the disc velocity, contact pressure and temperature. The tests show that the friction coefficient decreases with the sliding velocity and increases with the temperature. The friction-induced tangential oscillation of the pin sample occurs with a frequency equal to the first natural frequency of the beam. The effects of the disc velocity and temperature on the oscillation characteristics are investigated. The oscillation amplitude increases with the disc velocity on the interval of velocities below 2 m/s. Temperature changes of several tens of degrees Celsius lead to the oscillation occurrence / decay. The obtained results can be useful for prognostication of friction-induced oscillations in disc brakes with non-asbestos organic pads.
Integrated Multimotor Electrical DC Drive for Metallurgical Rolling Table
Authors: Gała Marek , Jagieła Kazimierz , Jąderko Andrzej , Rak Janusz
Published: August 2015

A drive system of a section of a metallurgical rolling table consisting of six dc motors, 2220 amperes of total current, fed from a single ABB reversible thyristor converter has been described in this paper. Autonomous excitation circuits of the motors are fed from independent thyristor converters working in the so called MULTIFEX system linked with a supervisory high power converter. There are presented schemes of the DSL communication realized by FEX excitation cards of the motors using the SDSC card of the DCS-800-S02 converter and logic control system based on a PLC controller. The parameterization of the DCS-800 converter and the DCF 803 excitation systems was conducted using the DriveWindow software tool. Significant waveforms of voltages, currents and the estimated motor velocity are described and presented for the idle run as well as during transporting sheets discharged from a pusher furnace.
Comparative Analysis of Two Methods of Assessment Wear of Dental Materials
Authors: Wojda Sylwia M.
Published: August 2015

Wear of dental materials used for permanent dental fillings has a significant impact on their lifetime. Wear products generated during chewing process involving direct tribological contact between a composite and tooth enamel can cause damage not only to enamel itself but also to the entire tooth structure thus affecting the patient’s the health. It is essential therefore to assess the process of wear rates as well as the usefulness and effectiveness of the method used to measure these values. As there are a number of different methods used to quantify the loss of dental materials subjected to friction, eg.: scanning digital 3D models of dental casts, confocal microscope scanning or profilographometer measurements, the authors chose to analyze two selected research methods using confocal microscopy and profilographometer to assess their effectiveness. Two commercially available composite dental materials, i.e. ES and FFE previously subjected to friction tests in contact with human dental enamel, were used for the analysis.
Survey of Existence Results in Nonlinear Peridynamics in Comparison with Local Elastodynamics
Authors: Emmrich Etienne , Puhst Dimitri
Published: August 2015

We give an overview on existence results in nonlinear peridynamics, a nonlocal elasticity theory, and compare these results with those known for classical nonlinear elastodynamics. In peridynamics, it is possible to obtain stronger results under equal or even less restrictive assumptions on the stress.
Carbon balance in harvested wood products in Slovakia / Bilancia uhlíka v drevných produktoch na Slovensku
Authors: Raši Rastislav , Cienciala Emil , Priwitzer Tibor , Palán Štěpán , Pavlenda Pavel
Published: August 2015

The forests in Slovakia are managed according to the forest management plans. The limits for cuttings are prescribed according to the rules of sustainable forest management. Thus, the produced timber becomes the sustainable natural resource. The purpose of wood use has implications for the carbon balance. Wood products for long term use represent a carbon pool from which carbon is released according to decay of products. The method for calculation and results of carbon balance of harvested wood products in Slovakia are provided in this paper. According to the results, the total amount of carbon stored in the harvested wood products in Slovakia have had an increasing trend in the last years and reached almost 15 Tg. The calculation follows the methods and good practice guidance arising from the Kyoto Protocol.
Morley’s Trisector Theorem
Authors: Coghetto Roland
Published: August 2015

Morley’s trisector theorem states that “The points of intersection of the adjacent trisectors of the angles of any triangle are the vertices of an equilateral triangle” [10]. There are many proofs of Morley’s trisector theorem [12, 16, 9, 13, 8, 20, 3, 18]. We follow the proof given by A. Letac in [15].
Euler’s Partition Theorem
Authors: Pąk Karol
Published: August 2015

In this article we prove the Euler’s Partition Theorem which states that the number of integer partitions with odd parts equals the number of partitions with distinct parts. The formalization follows H.S. Wilf’s lecture notes [28] (see also [1]).

Euler’s Partition Theorem is listed as item #45 from the “Formalizing 100 Theorems” list maintained by Freek Wiedijk at http://www.cs.ru.nl/F.Wiedijk/100/ [27].
Introduction to Diophantine Approximation
Authors: Watase Yasushige
Published: August 2015

In this article we formalize some results of Diophantine approximation, i.e. the approximation of an irrational number by rationals. A typical example is finding an integer solution (x, y) of the inequality |xθ − y| ≤ 1/x, where 0 is a real number. First, we formalize some lemmas about continued fractions. Then we prove that the inequality has infinitely many solutions by continued fractions. Finally, we formalize Dirichlet’s proof (1842) of existence of the solution [12], [1].
Two Axiomatizations of Nelson Algebras
Authors: Grabowski Adam
Published: August 2015

Nelson algebras were first studied by Rasiowa and Białynicki- Birula [1] under the name N-lattices or quasi-pseudo-Boolean algebras. Later, in investigations by Monteiro and Brignole [3, 4], and [2] the name “Nelson algebras” was adopted - which is now commonly used to show the correspondence with Nelson’s paper [14] on constructive logic with strong negation.

By a Nelson algebra we mean an abstract algebra

〈L, T, -, ¬, →, ⇒, ⊔, ⊓〉

where L is the carrier, − is a quasi-complementation (Rasiowa used the sign ~, but in Mizar “−” should be used to follow the approach described in [12] and [10]), ¬ is a weak pseudo-complementation → is weak relative pseudocomplementation and ⇒ is implicative operation. ⊔ and ⊓ are ordinary lattice binary operations of supremum and infimum.

In this article we give the definition and basic properties of these algebras according to [16] and [15]. We start with preliminary section on quasi-Boolean algebras (i.e. de Morgan bounded lattices). Later we give the axioms in the form of Mizar adjectives with names corresponding with those in [15]. As our main result we give two axiomatizations (non-equational and equational) and the full formal proof of their equivalence.

The second set of equations is rather long but it shows the logical essence of Nelson lattices. This formalization aims at the construction of algebraic model of rough sets [9] in our future submissions. Section 4 contains all items from Th. 1.2 and 1.3 (and the itemization is given in the text). In the fifth section we provide full formal proof of Th. 2.1 p. 75 [16].
Epidemiological risks of endoparasitoses spread by municipal waste water
Authors: Dudlová A. , Juriš P. , Jarčuška P. , Čisláková L. , Papajová I. , Krčméry V.
Published: August 2015

The occurrence of developmental stages of endoparasite germs (cysts, oocysts, protozoa, and helminth eggs) as an indirect detection factor of endoparasitoses circulation in the environment, was examined in raw municipal wastewater, sludge and biologically cleaned waste water. Examination of municipal wastewater and sludge from five monitored wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in east Slovakia, from various fractions of municipal wastewater, confirmed 35.87 % positivity of samples for the endoparasitic germs. Among of all analysed samples 11.09 % were protozoan oo(cysts) and 20.87 % were helminth eggs. 3.91 % of samples showed positivity to both the helminth eggs and protozoan oo(cysts). In the raw wastewater the protozoa comprised of Giardia spp. (1.08 %) and Entamoeba spp. (1.08 %). The helminth eggs primarily consisted of Ascaris spp. (4.35 %) and strongyle-type eggs (3.26 %). No germs of protozoa or helminths were found in the treated wastewater. However, the highest presence of the germs was found in drained stabilised sludge. The average number of oo(cysts)/kg was 2.86±0.24 and the average number of helminth eggs/kg was 5.77±0.09. In all kinds of sludge, obtained during the process of wastewater treatment, there were protozoan (Giardia spp., Cryptosporidium spp., Entamoeba spp.) and helminths eggs (Ascaris spp., Trichuris spp., Taenia spp., Hymenolepis spp., or strongyle-type eggs) presented. In drained (condensed) stabilised sludge the eggs of Capillaria spp. and Toxocara spp. were also detected. From the epidemiological aspect the sewage sludge, due to high concentration of protozoal oo(cysts) or helminth eggs, represents a significant epidemiological risk for the endoparasitoses dissemination.
Serological survey for canine angiostrongylosis in Slovakia
Authors: Miterpáková M. , Schnyder M. , Schaper R. , Hurníková Z. , Čabanová V.
Published: August 2015

In recent years Angiostrongylus vasorum has become another important heart parasite of dogs besides Dirofilaria immitis, with intense spread into new areas of Europe. The first two cases of canine angiostrongylosis in Slovakia were observed in 2013, demonstrating that this life-threatening parasitic disease of dogs has expanded into this territory too. One year after the first A. vasorum findings, a serological survey was conducted to assess the current distribution of this parasitic infection in dogs from Slovakia. Serum samples from 225 dogs were collected from 29 veterinary practices situated in 22 districts of Slovakia and tested by ELISA for the presence of circulating A. vasorum antigens and additionally for the detection of specific antibodies against A. vasorum. Fourteen samples (6.22 %) were seropositive in at least one ELISA. Of these, 7 dogs (3.11 %) were only antibody-positive and 4 dogs (1.78 %) were positive only for circulating A. vasorum antigen. Three animals out of 225 examined (1.33 %) were positive in both ELISAs
Seasonal variability of the composition and structure of parasite communities of red porgy, Pagrus pagrus (Perciformes: Sparidae) off Brazil
Authors: Soares I. A. , Luque J. L.
Published: August 2015

A study of seasonal variation of metazoan parasite community of Pagrus pagrus was conducted between January and December 2012. Two hundred forty specimens of Pagrus pagrus were collected in four seasons (autumn and winter in dry season and spring and summer in rainy season) from off the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Twenty one species of metazoan parasites were found, with larvae of Hysterothylacium sp. being the dominant species. The highest values of prevalence and abundance was during the rainy season with peak prevalence of monogeneans and nematodes, period of action of the South Atlantic Central Waters (SACW) and reproductive activity of the host, suggesting that the sasonal variation in the parasites community was influenced for these phenomena.
Additional study of the morphology of eggs and miracidia of Eurytrema coelomaticum (Trematoda)
Authors: Pinheiro J. , Franco-Acuña D. O. , Oliveira-Menezes A. , Brandolini S. V. P. B. , Adnet F. A. O. , Lopes Torres E. J. , Miranda F. J. B. , Souza W. De , Damatta R. A.
Published: August 2015

The morphology of the eggs and miracidia of Eurytrema coelomaticum was analyzed. The eggshell presented different composition according to the maturation stage of the egg, as seen by distinct birefringence after polarized light microscopic analysis. Detailed morphology of the brownish eggs, measuring 44.97±3.83 (38.67 - 51.40) μm in length and 30.71±2.54 (25.79 -34.47) μm in width, and the different electrondensities of the inner, middle and outer layers of the eggs were determined using light (bright field and DIC) and electronic microscopy (scanning and transmission). The morphometry of the eggs is in accordance to those measures presented in previous studies. The miracidia were observed using light microscopy, inside and outside the egg. It was possible to observe the terebratorium at the anterior end of the body, the ciliated epidermal plates, placed according the formula E=2E1 + 2E2, and the interepidermal ridge, but eyespots were not observed. The excretory vesicle was laterally placed in the posterior middle of the body and the germ balls were observed. The miracidium inside the egg was observed by routine techniques, but the miracidium was not well preserved. Thus, the eggs were processed using high pressure-freeze substitution technique and reasonable preservation was achieved. The cilia covering the larval body, with a typical ciliary organization, the terebratorium with folds and the junction of the epidermal ciliated cell with the larval body were seen. For the first time detailed information on the eggs and miracidia of E. coelomaticum is given, which can be the basis for new studies.
Description of Paratylenchus (Gracilacus) straeleni (De Coninck, 1931) Oostenbrink, 1960 (Nematoda: Criconematoidea, Tylenchulidae) from hazelnut in Turkey and its comparison with other world populations
Authors: Akyazi F. , Felek A. F. , Čermák V. , Čudejková M. , Foit J. , Yildiz S. , Háněl L.
Published: August 2015

Paratylenchus (Gracilacus) straeleni (De Coninck, 1931) Oostenbrink, 1960 was detected for the first time in Turkey. Our studied population was found in the rhizosphere soil of hazelnut orchards in Ordu. Females and males were studied morphologically and morphometrically by light microscopy and molecularly by sequencing the D2-D3 of the 28S rDNA gene. We present here the morphological and molecular characterisation, phylogenetic analysis of examined population and comparison of variability of worldwide known populations of P. straeleni.
Christen und Muslime im 9. Jahrhundert in Italien und Spanien. Gewalt und Kontakt, Konzeptualisierung und Wahrnehmung
Authors: Herbers Klaus
Published: August 2015

Der Aufsatz zielt auf einen Vergleich des Verhältnisses zwischen Christen und Muslimen in Italien und auf der Iberischen Halbinsel im 9. Jahrhundert. Vor dem Hintergrund der wissenschaftlichen Diskurse zur Entstehung Europas, zur Frage der Beschaffenheit des Kulturkontakts (friedliches Zusammenleben gegenüber dem Zusammenstoß der Kulturen) sowie zum Gewaltpotential in den monotheistischen Religionen werden verschiedene Konstellationen untersucht. Dabei ergibt die Interpretation des italischen Materials, für das die „päpstlichen“ Quellen zentral sind, dass Konfrontationsmuster vielfach weniger religiös als staatlich geprägt waren. Auch pragmatisches Handeln durch Tribute und Schutzzahlungen sowie Konflikte mit den benachbarten Gemeinschaften wie Neapel oder Amalfi gehören in den Kontext der Auseinandersetzung. Die Lebensumstände der Christen unter muslimischer Herrschaft auf der Iberischen Halbinsel erwiesen sich andererseits durch den Blick auf Binnenstrukturen (in Abkehr von der essentialistischen Definition der „Mozaraber“) ebenso als komplexer. Die Konzeptionen in den kleinen christlichen Reichen des Nordens scheinen entscheidend gewesen zu sein, um Bilder des Mit- und Gegeneinanders auf der Iberischen Halbinsel zu prägen. Aus dem Vergleich der Begrifflichkeiten, der Binnendifferenzierungen innerhalb der christlichen Gruppen, des pragmatischen Handelns und der insgesamt nur diffusen, eher polemisch geprägten Wahrnehmung religiöser Vorstellungen der anderen Seite ergeben sich vergleichend die verschiedenen genannten Gemeinsamkeiten, aber auch Unterschiede (zum Beispiel hinsichtlich der Kreuzzugskonzeptionen). Als deren Ursache können unter anderem die Rolle des Papsttums in Italien sowie die unterschiedlichen politischen Voraussetzungen beider Räume angesehen werden.
Hedgerows Have a Barrier Effect and Channel Pollinator Movement in the Agricultural Landscape
Authors: Klaus Felix , Bass Julia , Marholt Lisa , Müller Birte , Klatt Björn , Kormann Urs
Published: August 2015

Agricultural intensification and the subsequent fragmentation of semi-natural habitats severely restrict pollinator and pollen movement threatening both pollinator and plant species. Linear landscape elements such as hedgerows are planted for agricultural and conservation purposes to increase the resource availability and habitat connectivity supporting populations of beneficial organisms such as pollinators. However, hedgerows may have unexpected effects on plant and pollinator persistence by not just channeling pollinators and pollen along, but also restricting movement across the strip of habitat. Here, we tested how hedgerows influence pollinator movement and pollen flow. We used fluorescent dye particles as pollen analogues to track pollinator movement between potted cornflowers Centaurea cyanus along and across a hedgerow separating two meadows. The deposition of fluorescent dye was significantly higher along the hedgerow than across the hedgerow and into the meadow, despite comparable pollinator abundances. The differences in pollen transfer suggest that hedgerows can affect pollinator and pollen dispersal by channeling their movement and acting as a permeable barrier. We conclude that hedgerows in agricultural landscapes can increase the connectivity between otherwise isolated plant and pollinator populations (corridor function), but can have additional, and so far unknown barrier effects on pollination services. Functioning as a barrier, linear landscape elements can impede pollinator movement and dispersal, even for highly mobile species such as bees. These results should be considered in future management plans aiming to enhance the persistence of threatened pollinator and plant populations by restoring functional connectivity and to ensure sufficient crop pollination in the agricultural landscape.
Modelling the Portevin-Le Chatelier effects in aluminium alloys: a review
Authors: Tamimi S. , Andrade-Campos A. , Pinho-da-Cruz J.
Published: August 2015

Plastic deformation processes are among the most demanding processes in manufacturing because they lead to different microstructure features in the materials produced. Various dislocation patterns can be induced by plastic strain under different conditions. A serrated yielding/jerky flow in some dilute alloys, such as aluminium-magnesium alloys during plastic deformation, is a well-known phenomenon under certain regimes of strain rate and temperature, as reported in a significant number of works. The serrated features in these materials reflect the so-called Portevin-Le Chatelier effects. These undesirable effects are due to the interaction between solute atoms and mobile dislocation during the plastic deformation, which is known as dynamic strain ageing. There are a significant number of theoretical and numerical investigations that have focused on describing the serrated behaviours of these materials during plastic deformation. Hence, the fundamental objective of this paper is to provide a general review of different constitutive modelling in regards this feature. The typical material models and new constitutive models describing this feature are presented. In addition, applications of the models are provided along with their respective advantages and disadvantages.
Convex underestimating relaxation techniques for nonconvex polynomial programming problems: computational overview
Authors: Keller André A.
Published: August 2015

This paper introduces constructing convex-relaxed programs for nonconvex optimization problems. Branch-and-bound algorithms are convex-relaxation-based techniques. The convex envelopes are important, as they represent the uniformly best convex underestimators for nonconvex polynomials over some region. The reformulation-linearization technique (RLT) generates linear programming (LP) relaxations of a quadratic problem. RLT operates in two steps: a reformulation step and a linearization (or convexification) step. In the reformulation phase, the constraint and bound inequalities are replaced by new numerous pairwise products of the constraints. In the linearization phase, each distinct quadratic term is replaced by a single new RLT variable. This RLT process produces an LP relaxation. The LP-RLT yieds a lower bound on the global minimum. LMI formulations (linear matrix inequalities) have been proposed to treat efficiently with nonconvex sets. An LMI is equivalent to a system of polynomial inequalities. A semialgebraic convex set describes the system. The feasible sets are spectrahedra with curved faces, contrary to the LP case with polyhedra. Successive LMI relaxations of increasing size yield the global optimum. Nonlinear inequalities are converted to an LMI form using Schur complements. Optimizing a nonconvex polynomial is equivalent to the LP over a convex set. Engineering application interests include system analysis, control theory, combinatorial optimization, statistics, and structural design optimization.
Essential oils reduce autonomous response to pain sensation during self-monitoring of blood glucose among children with diabetes
Authors: Małachowska Beata , Fendler Wojciech , Pomykała Agnieszka , Suwała Szymon , Młynarski Wojciech
Published: August 2015

Essential oils were proven to possess analgesic activity in adults. Children with diabetes are exposed to highly painful interventions such as self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG).

An evaluation of the analgesic properties of two essential oils during SMBG in diabetic children.

We included 73 hospitalized children (age<18 years) with well-controlled type 1 diabetes.

The study extended over a period of 1 month (2 weeks for control group and 1 week for orange and lavender oil application). The measurements were performed four times per day in a shared room during SMBG. Pain intensity was evaluated by visual analog scale (VAS) and change of baseline heart rate (ΔHR%). An aromatherapy device was used to disperse essential oils in the testing room.

We performed 647 individual measurements of pain intensity and ΔHR%. Girls reported higher VAS scores [median, Me 0.5 (interquartile range, IQR 0–1) vs. 0 (IQR 0–0.5), p=0.0036]. Both age and duration of diabetes correlated with ΔHR% [

Aromatherapy decreased the autonomic response to a painful stimulus by lowering ΔHR%, but did not affect the perception of pain reported by VAS.
Effect of auditory guided imagery on glucose levels and on glycemic control in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Gelernter Renana , Lavi Gila , Yanai Livia , Brooks Ronit , Bar Yakira , Bistrizer Zvi , Rachmiel Marianna
Published: August 2015

To assess the effect of auditory guided imagery (AGI) on glucose levels, glycated hemoglobin (HbA

A blinded randomized controlled study comparing the effect of AGI accompanied by background music and background music solely (BMS). The study included 13 children, (7–16 years). The participants were connected to continuous glucose monitoring system for 5 days (short phase), and the outcome measure was the change in mean interstitial glucose concentration (IGC). Participants listened to the recording twice a week for 12 weeks (long phase), and the outcome measures were changes in QOL and in HbA

Mean IGC decreased in both AGI and BMS groups while listening. HbA

Listening to AGI is a potential approach for improving glycemic control and glucose levels in youth with T1DM, but further research is required.
Use of the triglyceride to HDL cholesterol ratio for assessing insulin sensitivity in overweight and obese children in rural Appalachia
Authors: Bridges Kristie Grove , Jarrett Traci , Thorpe Anthony , Baus Adam , Cochran Jill
Published: August 2015

Studies have suggested that triglyceride to HDL-cholesterol ratio (TRG/HDL) is a surrogate marker of insulin resistance (IR), but information regarding its use in pediatric patients is limited. This study investigated the ability of TRG/HDL ratio to assess IR in obese and overweight children.

The sample consisted of de-identified electronic medical records of patients aged 10–17 years (n=223). Logistic regression was performed using TRG/HDL ratio as a predictor of hyperinsulinemia or IR defined using homeostasis model assessment score.

TRG/HDL ratio had limited ability to predict hyperinsulinemia (AUROC 0.71) or IR (AUROC 0.72). Although females had higher insulin levels, male patients were significantly more likely to have hypertriglyceridemia and impaired fasting glucose.

TRG/HDL ratio was not adequate for predicting IR in this population. Gender differences in the development of obesity-related metabolic abnormalities may impact the choice of screening studies in pediatric patients.
Phenotypic and molecular characterization of the causal agent of chafer beetle mortality in the wheat fields of the Kurdistan province, Iran
Authors: Karimi Keivan , Arzanlou Mahdi , Ahari Asadollah Babai , Ghazi Mostafa Mansour
Published: August 2015

We report the first case of chafer beetle [Anisoplia austriaca(Herbst 1783)] mortality caused byActinomucor elegansvar.elegansin wheat fields of the Kurdistan province, Iran. For three years, dead larvae ofAnisoplia austriacawere collected from wheat fields of the Kurdistan province. Similar isolates of a fast-growing fungus were recovered from all samples. The fungal isolates were identified asA. elegansvar.elegansbased on morphological and cultural characteristics. The identity of the species was further confirmed using sequence data of the ITS (Internal Transcribed Spacer) region of ribosomal DNA. Koch’s postulates were fulfilled by the inoculation of the larvae ofA. austriacaandGalleria mellonella(Linnaeus, 1758) (as the model insect) using the spore suspension ofA. elegansvar.elegans. The viability of sporangiospores was evaluated using a spore dilution technique on germination medium. The results on the pathogenicity (100% mortality inA. austriacalarvae) and viability tests (germination: 95.45%) demonstrated thatA. elegansvar.eleganscan be considered as a potential biocontrol agent against the chafer beetle. Field experiments are still required to evaluate the capacity ofA. elegansas a biological control agent.
Effects of silvicultural techniques on the diversity of microorganisms in forest soil and their possible participation in biological control of Armillaria and Heterobasidion
Authors: Kwaśna Hanna , Walkowiak Lucyna , Łakomy Piotr , Behnke-Borowczyk Jolanta , Gornowicz Roman , Mikiciński Artur , Gałązka Stanisław , Szewczyk Wojciech
Published: August 2015

Effects of different pre-planting soil preparations and post-harvest wood debris applications in a clear-cut Scots pine plantation, on the abundance, diversity, and activity of culturable microorganisms were investigated. The investigation was done 9 years after the re-plantings had been done. This formed part of an investigation of silvicultural practices for conservation and the biological control ofArmillariaandHeterobasidionin northern temperate forests (Poland). The treatments being compared, were expected to have altered the soil’s physical and chemical properties, and consequently, its biological properties. Only soft-rot microfungi from the Ascomycota and Zygomycota were detected in the soil. Fungi, including those antagonistic toArmillariaandHeterobasidion, were more abundant after shallow ploughing than after deep ploughing or ridging, and where chipped rather than coarse wood debris was left on the soil surface or incorporated. Scots pine trees had the most biomass and the least mortality after ridging and leaving coarse wood debris on the surface (associated with only a relatively moderate abundance of fungi).
Fusarium head blight (FHB) and Fusarium spp. on grain of spring wheat cultivars grown in Poland
Authors: Lenc Leszek , Czecholiński Grzegorz , Wyczling Dariusz , Turów Tomasz , Kaźmierczak Arkadiusz
Published: August 2015

Eighteen spring wheat cultivars, recommended for commercial production in northern Poland, were assessed for Fusarium head blight (FHB) in natural non-epidemic conditions, from 2011 to 2013. Assessment was based on FHB incidence (proportion of heads with symptoms), disease severity (DS; proportion of bleached spikelets per head), proportion ofFusariumdamaged kernels (FDK), and spectrum ofFusariumspp. colonising the kernels. Fusarium head blight incidence and DS often differed significantly among cultivars and years. There was a strong positive correlation between FHB incidence and DS. Fusarium head blight incidence and DS were not correlated with the June–July temperatures, and were only occasionally correlated with the total June–July rainfall. There was a weak positive correlation between FHB incidence and proportion of FDK. There was a strong positive correlation between DS and proportion of FDK. The cultivar affected colonisation of kernels byFusariumspp.Fusarium poaewas the FHB pathogen isolated most often.Fusarium poaecolonised 6.0% of the kernels, on average, but up to 12.0% on individual cultivars. OtherFusariumspecies were less frequent:F. avenaceumin 5.6% of kernels,F. culmorumin 5.3%,F. tricinctumin 2.8%,F. graminearumin 1.5%, andF. sporotrichioidesin 1.2%.Fusarium equisetioccurred sporadically. The importance ofF. poaein the FHB complex is emphasised. All cultivars expressed ‘moderate FHB resistance’ if evaluated according to FHB incidence. Cultivars Arabella, Izera, Kandela, Monsun, Ostka Smolicka, and Struna expressed ‘moderate susceptibility’, and Bombona, Hewilla, Katoda, KWS Torridon, Łagwa, Nawra, Parabola, Radocha, SMH 87, Trappe, Tybalt, and Waluta expressed ‘susceptibility’ if evaluated by the proportion of FDK. Cultivars differed within the ‘moderately resistant’, ‘moderately susceptible’, and ‘susceptible’ categories. Cultivars Arabella, Izera, Kandela, Monsun, Ostka Smolicka, and Struna were the most promising and their resistance traits may be useful in FHB management.
The Reverse Task of Discrete Mechatronic Vibration Systems With Negative Stiffness and Capacitance Elements
Authors: Białas Katarzyna , Buchacz Andrzej , Gałeziowski Damian
Published: August 2015

By the use of different distribution methods of dynamical characteristics in the form of slowness function, mechatronic discrete systems have been synthesized. Each model consists of mechanical discrete part and a piezostack actuator connected to LxRxCx external network that has to comply with dynamical requirements in the form of poles and zeros. External network can work within different configurations. In this paper, one investigates the influence of negative parameters of stiffness in mechanical replacement models and capacitance in final mechatronic structures, after dimensionless transformations and retransformations
Design and Application of Compliant Mini-Grippers for Handling Chemicals
Authors: Lates Daniel , Noveanu Simona , Vencel Csibi
Published: August 2015

In this paper we propose an original configuration of a compliant mini-gripper for handling chemicals. The compliant mini-gripper is 3D modeled and analyzed with finite element method. To use it in a wider range of containers designed for laboratories we made several variants of fasteners. In order to obtain a functional prototype in a scale appropriate to characterize the system, we determined the material properties of the gripper and developed an experimental stand for characterizing the system with mini-gripper. Finally, we compared the movements of the experimental grip, made according to the movement of the bellows type actuator, determined based on, analytical and numerical results
Extended Finite Element Numerical Analysis of Scale Effect in Notched Glass Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composite
Authors: Abdellah Mohammed Y. , Alsoufi Mohammad S. , Hassan Mohamed K. , Ghulman Hamza A. , Mohamed Ahmed F.
Published: August 2015

Nominal strength reduction in cross ply laminates of [0/90]2s is observed in tensile tests of glass fiber composite laminates having central open hole of diameters varying from 2 to 10 mm. This is well known as the size effect. The extended finite element method (XFEM) is implemented to simulate the fracture process and size effect (scale effect) in the glass fiber reinforced polymer laminates weakened by holes or notches. The analysis shows that XFEM results are in good agreement with the experimental results specifying nominal strength and in good agreement with the analytical results based on the cohesive zone model specifying crack opening displacement and the fracture process zone length
Two-Mass Dynamic Absorber of a Widened Antiresonance Zone
Authors: Cieplok Grzegorz , Sikora Marian
Published: August 2015

Attempts to perform synthesis of a passive vibroinsulation two-mass system intended for the simultaneous reduction of machine frame vibrations and forces transmitted to foundations by supporting elements were undertaken in the study. In view of the variable frequency of the machine operation, it was necessary for the frequency interval, encompassed by the vibroinsulation system operation, to be within given limits. On the grounds of properties of the linear massive-elastic system formulated in the works of Genkin and Ryaboy (1998), the problem of vibroinsulation system synthesis was formulated in the parametric type optimisation approach with equality and inequality limitations. For piston compressor vibroinsulation, the mass and elasticity matrices of the vibroinsulating system, as well as its physical structure, were determined. Its operation was verified on the basis of simulation investigations, taking into account the system loss and transient states
Dynamic Modeling and Analysis of a Lightweight Robotic Manipulator in Joint Space
Authors: Wolinski Łukasz , Malczyk Paweł
Published: August 2015

The primary importance of the paper is the application of the efficient formulation for the simulation of open-loop lightweight robotic manipulator. The framework employed in the paper makes use of the spatial operator algebra and the associated equations are expressed in joint space. This compact representation of the manipulator dynamics makes it possible to solve the robot forward and inverse dynamics problems in a recursive and fast manner. In the current form, the presented algorithm can be applied for the dynamics simulation of an open-loop chain system possessing any number of joints. Specifically, the formulation has been successfully applied for the analysis of the 7DOF KUKA LWR robot. Results from a number of test cases for the robot demonstrate the verification of the calculations
How Close to Reality is the „as-is” Business Process Simulation Model?
Authors: Gawin Bartlomiej , Marcinkowski Bartosz
Published: August 2015

Background and Purpose: Business process simulation (BPS) model is based on real-life data form sources like databases, observations and interviews. It acts as “as-is” business scenario can used for reengineering. The main challenge is to gather relevant data and to develop simulation model. Research aims to elaborate BPS model and to systematically assess how close to reality it is.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The research has been performed in Polish telecommunications company. Authors investigate technical process of expanding cellular network. After elaborating “as-is” model, authors use ADONIS simulation tool to run a series simulations and confront simulation results with actual historical events. After this, assessment whether computer simulation model can precisely map real-life business process - and consequently act as credible basis for process improvement - is made.

Results: The simulation model has been constructed with data from the WfMS database, observations, staff knowledge and their experience. Fully equipped simulation model is found to allow reconstructing the historical execution of business activity with low margin for error. Some limitation were identified and discussed.

Conclusion: BPS is not a popular approach for process reengineering and improvement yet. Data collection issues for BPS that require adopting process mining techniques and additional information sources are among the reasons for that. In our study, computer simulation outputs are compatible with historical events. Hence the model reflects the business reality and can be taken as a reference model while redesigning the process.
Systems Approach to Standardisation, Classification and Modelling of Managed Events for Tourism
Authors: Jakulin Tadeja Jere , Golob Aleksandra
Published: August 2015

Background and Purpose: The standardisation and classification of managed events provide a legislative basis to distinguish events managed for tourism in their characteristics and quality. The systems approach to standardisation and classification of managed events is a unique, holistic view of event management quality and event organization in tourism. It enables a clear overview of a researched topic and provides adequate support to design and decision-making. In this paper, we explain the meaning of standardisation and classification for Slovenian legislation related to event management. We present the importance of a systems approach methodology for event categorization and classification as it relates to the quality of event management organization, the quality of staff, the quality of the event program and the quality of event services.

Objectives: Provide an overview of events in tourism, related definitions and information gathered from scientific authors, which serves as current systems approach principles with which we want to achieve the desired results, positive changes in legislation; in our case-in the field of managed event quality for tourism through standardisation and classification of events on the national level in Slovenia.

Method: A descriptive method and systems approach methods are fundamental methodological principles in our analysis. In the context of a systems approach, we used qualitative modelling and constructed causal loop models (CLD) of the legislative system of events and investments in the events. We also used context-dependent modelling (SD model) in a frame of systems dynamics.

Results: We present the most appropriate solution to eliminate our problem or question about how to achieve high quality and unique events within event tourism and with event management, thereby creating added value to an event legislative system. We explain suggestions for achieving triple-bottom elements through well-designed quality standards and classification of events, which leads to an optimal categorization of events.

Conclusion: From a systems point of view, event tourism processes, including event management, are systems consisting of people and technologies with the purpose of designing, producing, trading and deploying the idea of an event. It is necessary to transform the current Slovenian legislative system of events and prepare a document which standardizes and classifies events based on systems approach methodology.