bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Global South and North: Why Informality Matters
Authors: Hodder Rupert 
Published: June 2016

AbstractInformality in the global south thought to matter because it is a threat, or a stage on the road, to (or embedded in) formality; or because it is a permanent condition acceptable on its own terms and has the potential to keep formal bureaucratic organizations running and in touch with citizens. These understandings of informality also share an assertion: that the quality of informality is different – almost genetically so – from formality. The purpose of my remarks here is to point this discussion in another direction. I argue that the difference between informality and formality is only conceptual. The supposition that there exists in fact an informal-formal dichotomy, dualism or dialectic, and its use as an analytical lens, produces apparent features which it cannot easily account for. I illustrate these features and then go on to sketch out another approach and its implications.
A novel approach to the green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles: the use of agro-wastes, enzymes, and pigments
Authors: Adelere Isiaka A. , Lateef Agbaje 
Published: June 2016

AbstractThe green synthesis of nanoparticles has received great attention in recent times owing to its advantages such as cost effectiveness, simplicity, eco-friendliness, biocompatibility, and wide applications over the conventional chemical and physical methods. Various kinds of biomolecules from microorganisms and plants have been successfully utilized for the synthesis of metallic and nonmetallic nanoparticles, and these have been well documented. However, the recent increase in the fabrication of metallic nanoparticles using agro-wastes, enzymes and microbial and plant-derived pigments and their respective areas of applications have not been compiled as a review article. Therefore, the present efforts have been aimed at compilation of reports on the use of these novel bio-resources for the green synthesis of nanoparticles. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review article on the green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles using diverse agro-wastes, enzymes, and pigments of biological origin. It is envisaged that the compendium will bring to the fore the emerging importance of these bio-resources for nanobiotechnological applications.
Nanostructured targets for TNSA laser ion acceleration
Authors: Torrisi Lorenzo , Calcagno Lucia , Cutroneo Mariapompea , Badziak Jan , Rosinski Marcin , Zaras-Szydlowska Agnieszka , Torrisi Alfio 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
Nanostructured targets, based on hydrogenated polymers with embedded nanostructures, were prepared as thin micrometric foils for high-intensity laser irradiation in TNSA regime to produce high-ion acceleration. Experiments were performed at the PALS facility, in Prague, by using 1315 nm wavelength, 300 ps pulse duration and an intensity of 1016 W/cm2 and at the IPPLM, in Warsaw, by using 800 nm wavelength, 40 fs pulse duration, and an intensity of 1019 W/cm2. Forward plasma diagnostic mainly uses SiC detectors and ion collectors in time of flight (TOF) configuration. At these intensities, ions can be accelerated at energies above 1 MeV per nucleon. In presence of Au nanoparticles, and/or under particular irradiation conditions, effects of resonant absorption can induce ion acceleration enhancement up to values of the order of 4 MeV per nucleon.
Studies of plasma interactions with tungsten targets in PF-1000U facility
Authors: Ladygina Maryna S. , Skladnik-Sadowska Elzbieta , Zaloga Dobromil R. , Sadowski Marek J. , Kubkowska Monika , Kowalska-Strzeciwilk Ewa , Krawczyk Natalia , Paduch Marian , Miklaszewski Ryszard , Garkusha Igor E. 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
This paper presents results of experimental studies of tungsten samples of 99.95% purity, which were irradiated by intense plasma-ion streams. The behaviour of tungsten, and particularly its structural change induced by high plasma loads, is of great importance for fusion technology. The reported measurements were performed within a modified PF-1000U plasma-focus facility operated at the IFPiLM in Warsaw, Poland. The working gas was pure deuterium. In order to determine the main plasma parameters and to study the behaviour of impurities at different instants of the plasma discharge, the optical emission spectroscopy was used. The dependence of plasma parameters on the initial charging voltage (16, 19 and 21 kV) was studied. Detailed optical measurements were performed during interactions of a plasma stream with the tungsten samples placed at the z-axis of the facility, at a distance of 6 cm from the electrode outlets. The recorded spectra showed distinct WI and WII spectral lines. Investigation of a target surface morphology, after its irradiation by intense plasma streams, was performed by means of an optical microscope. The observations revealed that some amounts of the electrodes material (mainly copper) were deposited upon the irradiated sample surface. In all the cases, melted zones were observed upon the irradiated target surface, and in experiments performed at the highest charging voltage there were formed some cracks.
Microwave plasma for hydrogen production from liquids
Authors: Czylkowski Dariusz , Hrycak Bartosz , Miotk Robert , Jasiński Mariusz , Mizeraczyk Jerzy , Dors Mirosław 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
The hydrogen production by conversion of liquid compounds containing hydrogen was investigated experimentally. The waveguide-supplied metal cylinder-based microwave plasma source (MPS) operated at frequency of 915 MHz at atmospheric pressure was used. The decomposition of ethanol, isopropanol and kerosene was performed employing plasma dry reforming process. The liquid was introduced into the plasma in the form of vapour. The amount of vapour ranged from 0.4 to 2.4 kg/h. Carbon dioxide with the flow rate ranged from 1200 to 2700 NL/h was used as a working gas. The absorbed microwave power was up to 6 kW. The effect of absorbed microwave power, liquid composition, liquid flow rate and working gas fl ow rate was analysed. All these parameters have a clear influence on the hydrogen production efficiency, which was described with such parameters as the hydrogen production rate [NL(H2)/h] and the energy yield of hydrogen production [NL(H2)/kWh]. The best achieved experimental results showed that the hydrogen production rate was up to 1116 NL(H2)/h and the energy yield was 223 NL(H2) per kWh of absorbed microwave energy. The results were obtained in the case of isopropanol dry reforming. The presented catalyst-free microwave plasma method can be adapted for hydrogen production not only from ethanol, isopropanol and kerosene, but also from different other liquid compounds containing hydrogen, like gasoline, heavy oils and biofuels.
The role of magnetic energy on plasma localization during the glow discharge under reduced pressure
Authors: Chodun Rafal , Nowakowska-Langier Katarzyna , Zdunek Krzysztof , Okrasa Sebastian 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
In this work, we present the first results of our research on the synergy of fields, electric and magnetic, in the initiation and development of glow discharge under reduced pressure. In the two-electrode system under reduced pressure, the breakdown voltage characterizes a minimum energy input of the electric field to initiate and sustain the glow discharge. The glow discharge enhanced by the magnetic field applied just above the surface of the cathode influences the breakdown voltage decreasing its value. The idea of the experiment was to verify whether the contribution of potential energy of the magnetic field applied around the cathode is sufficiently effective to locate the plasma of glow discharge to the grounded cathode, which, in fact, is the part of a vacuum chamber wall (the anode is positively biased in this case). In our studies, we used the grounded magnetron unit with positively biased anode in order to achieve favorable conditions for the deposition of thin films on fibrous substrates such as fabrics for metallization, assuming that locally applied magnetic field can effectively locate plasma. The results of our studies (Paschen curve with the participation of the magnetic field) seem to confirm the validity of the research assumption. What is the most spectacular - the glow discharge was initiated between introduced into the chamber anode and the grounded cathode of magnetron ‘assisted’ by the magnetic field (discharge did not include the area of the anode, which is a part of the magnetron construction).
Advanced laboratory for testing plasma thrusters and Hall thruster measurement campaign
Authors: Szelecka Agnieszka 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
Plasma engines are used for space propulsion as an alternative to chemical thrusters. Due to the high exhaust velocity of the propellant, they are more efficient for long-distance interplanetary space missions than their conventional counterparts. An advanced laboratory of plasma space propulsion (PlaNS) at the Institute of Plasma Physics and Laser Microfusion (IPPLM) specializes in designing and testing various electric propulsion devices. Inside of a special vacuum chamber with three performance pumps, an environment similar to the one that prevails in space is created. An innovative Micro Pulsed Plasma Thruster (LμPPT) with liquid propellant was built at the laboratory. Now it is used to test the second prototype of Hall effect thruster (HET) operating on krypton propellant. Meantime, an improved prototype of krypton Hall thruster is constructed.
The Effect of Coaching Practices on Psychological Contract Fulfillment of Student-Athletes
Authors: Rezania Davar , Gurney Robert 
Published: June 2016

AbstractWe examine the relationships between coaching practices, psychological contract fulfillment and the impact it has on satisfaction and in-role behavior of student-athletes. We surveyed a total of 183 student-athletes in Canada. Utilizing Partial Least Squares path modeling algorithm, the results confirm that the extent of psychological contract fulfillment is positively related to satisfaction and role-behavior. In addition, practices of compensation, information sharing, and security (i.e. ensuring continuation of position on the team) are related to fulfillment of psychological contracts. However, the data does not provide support for the idea that training is related to the fulfillment of psychological contracts. The results suggest that universities can manage students-athletes’ expectations by institutionalizing coaching practices that signal commitments for compensation, information sharing, and provide assurance of position on the team. Such practices have potential to improve the athlete’s performance.
Affective States and Performance Outcomes – The Findings of Preliminary Research Involving Pentathletes
Authors: Samełko Aleksandra , Guszkowska Monika 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
Introduction. The aim of this article is to discuss the relationship between affective states experienced by athletes and the outcome of their performance. The article presents the findings of a pilot study which made it possible to determine the relationship between the emotional states, mood, and level of stress of a group of pentathletes and the outcomes they achieved in a sports competition. Material and methods. The study involved 12 senior modern pentathletes, including 7 male and 5 female athletes. The following standard psychology questionnaires were used in the study: the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), and the Profile of Mood State (POMS). Performance was assessed based on the number of points achieved by the pentathletes in particular events in the pentathlon, which are held according to the rules set by the International Modern Pentathlon Union (UIPM). Results. The findings of the study confirmed that there was a correlation between the athletes’ mood and emotions and the outcome of their performance. The level of stress strongly negatively correlated with both the outcome they expected to achieve and the one they actually achieved for the combined event (running and shooting). For this event a relationship was also found between the athletes’ affective states and their outcomes: in running and shooting there was a positive and statistically significant correlation between the level of positive emotions and anger and the results achieved. However, friendliness, one of the other affective state variables that were measured, correlated negatively with the outcomes of the athletes’ performance. Conclusions. In the group of pentathletes who participated in the study, a high level of anger was associated with better outcomes, and a high level of friendliness had an adverse effect on the results achieved. The findings of the current study confirm that there is a relationship between affective states and performance outcomes, but the findings do not correspond with Morgan’s iceberg profile.
Effect of the matrix plasticization behavior on mechanical properties of PVC/ABS blends
Authors: Liu Baijun , Wang Yinglin , Gao Yuan , Zhong Rui , Zhang Fucai , Zhang Mingyao , Zhang Huixuan 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) grafted copolymer prepared by emulsion polymerization was used to modify different molecular weight poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC) resins. The effects of the molecular weight of the PVC resins on dynamic mechanical analyses (DMA) of PVC/ABS blends and matrix plasticizing behavior on the impact mechanical properties and the morphology were investigated. The tan δ peaks of PVC/ABS blends occurred at the same temperature obtained by DMA, indicating that miscibility of PVC/ABS blends was independent of the molecular weight of PVC. The notched Izod impact test results indicated that the amount of polybutadiene (PB) rubber needed for the brittle-ductile transition (BDT) increases together with the molecular weight of PVC when milled at 165°C. Increasing the operation temperature and adding the plasticizer dioctyl phthalate (DOP) could change the matrix plasticizing extent and the BDT. At a milling temperature of 165°C, the BDT was reached only with 3.6 wt% PB when DOP was added, in contrast to the addition of 7.2 wt% PB in the absence of DOP. The morphology of different plasticized degree of PVC/ABS blends was studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showing that the PVC-1/ABS blends milled at 165°C showed a larger unstained area than the other series of PVC blends.
Waterborne epoxy-modified polyurethane-acrylate dispersions with nano-sized core-shell structure particles: synthesis, characterization, and their coating film properties
Authors: Sun Jing , Fang Huagao , Wang Haili , Yang Shanzhong , Xiao Shengrong , Ding Yunsheng 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
Waterborne epoxy-modified polyurethane-acrylate (EPUA) dispersions with nano-sized core-shell structure particles, with polyacrylate (PA) as core and epoxy-modified polyurethane (EPU) as shell, were successfully prepared via a two-step procedure. The waterborne EPU dispersions were first synthesized to serve as seeds, and then the butyl acrylate (BA) and methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomers were introduced into EPU particles to form polymeric core by radical polymerization under the assistance of ultrasonic treatment. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy revealed that the epoxy and PA components were successfully incorporated onto the chain of the PU and EPU to form EPU and EPUA, respectively. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) photograph demonstrated that the EPUA particles have the core-shell structure. The as-prepared EPUA coating films exhibited good thermo-stability and mechanical properties, as revealed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and tensile testing, respectively. The results of potentiodynamic polarization curves and immersion corrosion testing in 5 wt% NaCl aqueous solution both demonstrated that the anticorrosive properties of EPUA mainly depended on the mass content of PA, with the optimized value of 30 wt%.
Manufacturing of amber particles suitable for composite fibre melt spinning
Authors: Ļašenko Inga Ļ , Gaidukovs Sergejs , Rombovska Jūlija 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
Polyamide fibre containing amber particles was fabricated. The amber particles were obtained by grinding technology using planetary ball-mills. Scanning electron microscopy and granulometry testing were used to characterise the structure and the size of prepared amber particles. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to analyse the chemical structure of the amber particles. The amber particles were characterised with average size up to 3 μm. The chemical composition of amber before and after the grinding remained unchanged. The amber particles were melt-extruded using polyamide 6 as the matrix. Melt spinning processing was used to fabricate polyamide-amber filaments. Pre-oriented yarns and fully drawn yarns were obtained after hotdrawing experiments. Reported experimental findings of amber composite fibre could be important for textile applications.
Diagnostic value of tumour markers Ca-125 and CEA in the diagnostics of malignant pleural fluids
Authors: Žentiņa Dace , Stuķēna Inga , Grīnberga Sarma , Krams Alvils , Lejnieks Aivars 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
The significance of carbohydrate (cancer) antigen 125 (Ca-125) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) tumour markers levels in differential diagnostics of malignant and benign pleural effusion was studied. Within this prospective study, 121 patients with fluids of various aetiology in the pleural cavity were analysed. Malignant pleural effusion was detected in 55 patients, parapneumonic effusion in 28 patients, transudative effusion of cardiac origin in 31 patients, pancreatitis in one patient and tuberculous pleurisy in five patients. The highest accuracy in diagnosis of malignancy was observed for Ca-125 and CEA levels in the pleural fluid: 75.2% at cut-off value ≥1452 U/mL and 76.9% at cut-off value ≥6.58 ng/mL, respectively. We conclude that the level of tumour markers in pleural fluid has additional diagnostic significance in the differential diagnosis of malignant and benign pleural effusions.
The impact of R1and R3a genes on tuber resistance to late blight of the potato breeding clones
Authors: Zoteyeva Nadezhda , Skrabule Ilze , Mežaka Ieva , Vilcāne Daiga , Usele Guna , Rostoks Nils 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
Potato breeding clones were evaluated for resistance to late blight (agent Phytophthora infestans) using tuber inoculation tests and for presence of the resistance alleles of R1 and R3a genes in polymerase chain reaction tests. Among clones tested those expressing high, moderate and low resistance were identified. The data were analysed for the impact of R1 and R3a genes on tuber resistance to late blight in tested plant material. In previous evaluations performed on smaller amount of clones the tuber resistance levels significantly depended on presence/absence of the resistance allele of R3a gene and did not depend on presence of R1 gene allele. In the current study the statistical analyses did not prove the significant difference in resistance levels depending on presence of the resistance alleles, neither of R1 gene, nor of R3a gene. Tuber resistant clones bearing R3a gene resistance alleles still noticeably prevailed over the clones bearing the alleles of R1 gene as well as over the clones bearing the no resistance alleles of both genes. In several cases the resistance of clones with detected resistance allele of R1 gene was higher compared to those derived from the same crosses and showing amplification of the allele of R3a gene or those with no resistance alleles. Clones accumulating the resistance alleles of both (R1 and R3a) genes expressed high tuber resistance accompanied by necrotic reaction.
Distributed activation energy modelling for pyrolysis of forest waste using Gaussian distribution
Authors: Dhaundiyal Alok , Singh Suraj B. 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
The paper focuses on the influences of some factors significant to pyrolysis of forestry biomass on the asymptotic solution of the non-isothermal nth-order distribution energy model (DAEM) using Gaussian distribution. Investigated parameters are the integral upper limit, the frequency factor, and the heating rate parameters of the Gaussian distribution. The influence of these factors has been used for evaluating the kinetic parameters of the non-isothermal nth-order Gaussian distribution from thermogravimetric analysis of forest waste.
Participation in Public Consultations on Spatial Planning Documents. The Case of Poznań City
Authors: Kaczmarek Tomasz , Wójcicki Michał 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
This article seeks to present the development od public participation in local spatial planning in Poland. An assessment was made of the procedure of preparing planning documents and forms of their consultation with residents. To achieve this goal, use was made of the results of a survey research conducted among participants of public consultations in Poznań in the years 2012-2014. It is stressed that it is necessary to improve the decision-making process in urban spatial planning by accommodating not only traditional but also new forms and instruments of public participation.
Historical Determinants of Regional Divisions of Georgia and their Implications for Territorial Governance
Authors: Mądry Cezary , Kaczmarek-Khubnaia Julia 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
Georgia can be characterised by its turbulent history, centuries-old traditions, and a great ethnic diversity. This makes it necessary to include historical determinants, in addition to geopolitical and economic factors, when making a regional analysis of its territory and contemporary governance issues. Five stages of the development of the present territorial division of Georgia are distinguished. They have been identified by means of an analysis of key events (critical junctures) of significance in the formation of its historical regions. Additionally, their influence at each of the three levels of the current territorial division of independent Georgia is discussed, in particular in the context of territorial governance.
A Survey on Renewable Energy Development in Malaysia: Current Status, Problems and Prospects
Authors: Alam Syed Shah , Nor Nor Fariza Mohd , Ahmad Maisarah , Hashim Nik Hazrul Nik 
Published: June 2016

Abstract
Energy demand in Malaysia is increasing over seven per cent a year, while forty per cent of the energy is supplied from conventional fossil fuel. However, a number of social barriers have mired the social acceptance of renewable energy among the users. This study investigates the current status of renewable energy, problems and future outlook of renewable energy in Malaysia. A total of 200 respondents were surveyed from Klang Valley in Malaysia. Majority of the respondents use energy to generate electricity. Although some respondents reported using solar energy, there is lack of retail availability for solar energy. The findings show that limited information on renewable energy technologies, lack of awareness, and limited private sector engagement emerged as major barriers to sustainable renewable energy development. In addition, the respondents suggest for increasing policy support from the government to make information more accessible to mass users, provide economic incentives to investors and users, and promote small-community based renewable energy projects. The study suggests that the government begin small scale projects to build awareness on renewable energy, while academically, higher learning institutions include renewable energy syllabus in their academic curriculum. The study concluded that to have sustainable renewable energy development, government’s initiative, private sector engagement and users awareness must be given priority.