bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Bayesian Multiresolution Approach for Noise Removal in Medical Magnetic Resonance Images
Authors: Sahu Sima , Singh Harsh Vikram , Kumar Basant , Singh Amit Kumar 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
A Bayesian approach using wavelet coefficient modeling is proposed for de-noising additive white Gaussian noise in medical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In a parallel acquisition process, the magnetic resonance image is affected by white Gaussian noise, which is additive in nature. A normal inverse Gaussian probability distribution function is taken for modeling the wavelet coefficients. A Bayesian approach is implemented for filtering the noisy wavelet coefficients. The maximum likelihood estimator and median absolute deviation estimator are used to find the signal parameters, signal variances, and noise variances of the distribution. The minimum mean square error estimator is used for estimating the true wavelet coefficients. The proposed method is simulated on MRI. Performance and image quality parameters show that the proposed method has the capability to reduce the noise more effectively than other state-of-the-art methods. The proposed method provides 8.83%, 2.02%, 6.61%, and 30.74% improvement in peak signal-to-noise ratio, structure similarity index, Pratt’s figure of merit, and Bhattacharyya coefficient, respectively, over existing well-accepted methods. The effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated by using the mean squared difference (MSD) parameter. MSD shows the degree of dissimilarity and is 0.000324 for the proposed method, which is less than that of the other existing methods and proves the effectiveness of the proposed method. Experimental results show that the proposed method is capable of achieving better signal-to-noise ratio performance than other tested de-noising methods.
Predictors of the Czech learners’ acquisition of selected English phonemes
Authors: Černá Monika , Ivanová Jaroslava , Myslivec Jaroslav 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
The study investigates predictors of the acquisition of selected English phonemes in a foreign language context. Czech students’ pronunciation was diagnosed by two tests; their ability to produce seven selected phonemes was assessed. Furthermore, data regarding the students’ learning histories was obtained through a questionnaire. Then a multiple regression analysis was conducted in order to identify predictors of the acquisition of the selected phonemes. The analysis uncovered several factors, the most significant being pre - school exposure to English and positive attitudes to English in adolescence, which appeared to influence the subjects’ pronunciation positively. Interestingly, several factors which relate to learning English at school appeared to exert a negative influence on the acquisition of the selected phonemes. Furthermore, besides the importance of long-term exposure to English starting before the age of six, the study also underscored the importance of metacognition in relation to autonomous learning.
Politeness strategies in written communications: the issue of Iranian EFL learners
Authors: Karimkhanlooei Giti , Vaezi Narges 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
The approximation of the pragmatic knowledge of English language learners to native speakers has been a realm of concern for the scholars and researchers in applied linguistics. Thus, this research was an endeavor to figure out the association between the proficiency level and politeness strategies and external/internal modifications in written communication skills in the speech act of requests in Iranian English language learners. To this end, a written Discourse Completion Test (DCT), adapted from Rose (1994), including 8 situations was administered to elicit data from Iran Language Institute120 female and male EFL learners, 60 upper-intermediate and 60 intermediate. The data were sorted out using Brown and Levinson’s politeness strategies taxonomy (Brown and Levinson 1987) and external/internal modifications developed by Faerch and Kasper (1989). The written request utterances provided by each participant were analyzed in terms of frequency and types of politeness strategies, namely, positive, negative, bald on record, and off-record as well as external/internal modifications utilized in requests. The Pearson Chi-Square test results revealed that there was a statistically significant difference between upper-intermediate and intermediate learners’ type of politeness strategies and external/internal modifications.
Teaching the grammar of questions and negations: an innovative approach
Authors: Machová Dagmar Masár 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
This article presents an innovative approach to teaching English tenses, more precisely to teaching the grammar of questions and negative sentences. It describes, analyses and compares the innovative top-down approach with the traditional methods. It introduces the reader to the theoretical concept of the English predicate structure, on which the new approach is based. Consequently, the paper explains how the theoretical approach may be beneficial in practice, i.e. in English language teaching. Compared to the traditional methods, the paper shows that the grammar of questions and negatives of all tenses can be explained using three simple rules. Finally, the paper lists the advantages and disadvantages of the new method and suggests suitable target students.
Teaching English pronunciation by non-native teachers as seen by Slovak teachers
Authors: Bodorík Michal 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
The English language has become the so called “world wide language” due to the fact that it is used globally in many spheres of everyday life - education, business, labour market, technology, tourism, travel and others. In Slovakia, the educational system supports schools in the acquisition of the language by granting more English classes per week, by financing textbook materials, by bridging teaching practice with research as well as making English a mandatory subject of school leaving exams.
One of the crucial components in the English language education of Slovak learners appears to be the pronunciation. This language feature has its specificities and therefore it must be approached carefully. Although many researchers in Slovakia have focused on various aspects of English pronunciation, this article aims at the English teachers and their perception of this important issue. The survey focuses on Slovak teachers’ opinions about teaching English pronunciation to non-native learners, more specifically, about teaching techniques, error corrections, textbook materials and university teacher training.
Comparative Analysis of Machinability of Nitinol Alloy Using Weighted Radar Diagram
Authors: Kowalczyk Małgorzata , Niżankowski Czesław 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
The paper presents an attempt to analyze comparative machinability of two different varieties of nitinol alloy type, or compare the susceptibility of these materials to change the volume, shape and dimension of adopted machining conditions. The machinability of the material can not be fully determined numerically by only one independent factor. Therefore multivariate analysis technique of weighted diagram radar was developed by authors. This technique allowed for the comprehensive identification machinability analyzed varieties of nitinol alloy exclusively on the basis of the specified in literature directional material properties and general recommendations tool manufacturers on the cutting conditions. In the paper the full usefulness of this technique to demonstrate the differences in machinability of different varieties of the same species alloy, without the need for lengthy and cost-intensive experimental trials was presented.
Design of graphene-based polarization-insensitive optical modulator
Authors: Hu Xiao , Wang Jian 
Published: January 2018

AbstractBy exploiting the electroabsorption effect of graphene, we present a graphene-based polarization-insensitive optical modulator. The waveguide structure consists of a silica substrate, high-index silicon strip waveguide, Si3N4dielectric spacer, two graphene layers, and two metal electrodes. The modulator performance is comprehensively studied in terms of attenuation, insertion loss, modulation depth, and bandwidth. We achieve broadband >16 dB attenuation graphene-based optical modulator over a 35 nm wavelength range (covering C band) with an imbalance of no >1 dB and insertion loss of <2 dB for transverse magnetic and transverse electric polarized modes. Moreover, the electrical properties such as energy per bit consumption (Ebit) are also studied.
Investigation of genotoxicity in river sediments
Authors: Šestinová Oľga , Findoráková Lenka , Hančuľák Jozef , Špaldon Tomislav 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to develop a useful screening method to assess genotoxic effect of polluted bottom sediments from the water reservoir Ružin No.I. The Hornád and Hnilec Rivers drained a former mining area, have been polluted in the long-term by heavy metals (Cu, As, Sb, Hg), which significantly contributed to environmental degradation. Genotoxicity of bottom sediment was evaluated by test SOS-ChromoPadTM 3.0 for solid samples without extraction. The mentioned test represents simple, quick and direct sediment phase toxicity testing procedure. In this test bacterial strain Escherichia coli K12 PQ37 was used. The results of SOS-ChromoPadTM 3.0 showed that sample Hornád has low potential genotoxic effect on the environment. It was determined on the basis of slight blue colouration of chromogenic paper at the point of sediment application. The sample Hnilec was negative. This test allows significantly reduce the time for obtaining information about sediments genotoxicity and accept necessary security proceeding in time.
Diamagnetic cobalt(III)tris(o-ethylxanthate) and nickel(II)bis(o-ethylxanthate)
Authors: Varga Filip , Titiš Ján , Rajnák Cyril , Moncoľ Ján , Boča Roman 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
Diamagnetic [Co(xanth)3] and [Ni(xanth)2] complexes have been prepared by reaction of Co(II) and Ni(II) salts with potassium O-ethyl xanthate (Kxanth). The isolated Co(III) and Ni(II) complexes have been characterized by single-crystal X-ray crystallography, UV-VIS and IR spectroscopy, computational methods, and magnetic measurements.
Toward Radical New Testament Discipleship
Authors: Yarnell Malcolm B. 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
Radical New Testament disciples may benefit from placing the 16th century South German Anabaptist theologian Pilgram Marpeck in conversation with the 20th century Swiss Reformed theologian Karl Barth. Marpeck and Barth will enrich ecumenical Christfollowers within both the Reformed and the Free Church traditions even as they remain confessional. Our particular effort is to construct a soteriology grounded in discipleship through correlating the coinherent work of the Word with the Spirit in revelation, through placing human agency within a divinely granted response to the gracious sovereignty of God, and through providing a holistic doctrine of individual and communal life in union with Christ.
Iridoids from Cornus mas L. and their potential as innovative ingredients in cosmetics
Authors: Nizioł-Łukaszewska Zofia , Wasilewski Tomasz , Bujak Tomasz , Osika Paweł 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
Dogwood berries represent a valuable source of a variety of active ingredients. A group that deserves special attention comprises iridoids – compounds with potent antioxidant, antiinflammatory and antibacterial properties. The present study is an attempt to obtain an innovative plant material from dogwood berries. To this end, water and water/ethanol-based extracts (1:1) were prepared and, as the next step, an iridoids-rich fraction was isolated. The total content of iridoids was determined spectrophotometrically, and antioxidant properties of the isolates were concurrently assessed. Additionally, skin whitening activity of isolated fractions was assessed on the basis of tyrosinase inhibition measurement. The testing schedule also involved the formulation of model washing systems based on anionic surfactants. The effect of adding the fractions obtained by the above method on the irritant potential was assessed by determining the zein number
Constitutional Judges and Secession. Lessons from Canada … twenty years later
Authors: Spigno Irene 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
In constitutional theory, the referendum is an instrument that allows for the expression of the popular will in government decisions and through which people are asked to vote directly on an issue or policy. Over the last decades, the referendum has been the instrument used by minority groups to claim their independence supported by popular will. This paper examines trends in constitutional jurisprudence on the issue of independence referendums. The birth of this constitutional trend can be found in the 1998 decision by the Supreme Court of Canada in the Reference Re Secession of Quebec. The principles developed therein have been further explored in two recent cases, issued by the Italian Constitutional), and by the Spanish Constitutional Tribunal in the latest decision of the Catalonia saga (Judgment no. 114/2017).
Women’s rights and minorities’ rights in Canada. The challenges of intersectionality in Supreme Court jurisprudence
Authors: Scotti Valentina Rita 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
After a discussion of the impact of the principle of equality, entrenched in the Charters approved in Canada since the 1867 British North American Act, this essay then focuses on the related Supreme Court’s adjudications. A brief analysis of the case-law concerning gender equality is followed by the discussion of cases of Aboriginal and Muslim women with the aim of assessing whether intersectionality represents for these groups of women a source of double discrimination. Brief concluding remarks discuss the challenges deriving from the different options for accommodating the principle of equality with cultural rights.
Therapeutic efficacy of specific immunotherapy for glioma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hanaei Sara , Afshari Khashayar , Hirbod-Mobarakeh Armin , Mohajer Bahram , Amir Dastmalchi Delara , Rezaei Nima 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
Although different immunotherapeutic approaches have been developed for the treatment of glioma, there is a discrepancy between clinical trials limiting their approval as common treatment. So, the current systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to assess survival and clinical response of specific immunotherapy in patients with glioma. Generally, seven databases were searched to find eligible studies. Controlled clinical trials investigating the efficacy of specific immunotherapy in glioma were found eligible. After data extraction and risk of bias assessment, the data were analyzed based on the level of heterogeneity. Overall, 25 articles with 2964 patients were included. Generally, mean overall survival did not statistically improve in immunotherapy [median difference=1.51; 95% confidence interval (CI)=−0.16–3.17; p=0.08]; however, it was 11.16 months higher in passive immunotherapy (95% CI=5.69–16.64; p<0.0001). One-year overall survival was significantly higher in immunotherapy groups [hazard ratio (HR)=0.69; 95% CI=0.52–0.92; p=0.01]. As the hazard rate in the immunotherapy approach was 0.83 of the control group, 2-year overall survival was significantly higher in immunotherapy (HR=0.83; 95% CI=0.69–0.99; p=0.04). Three-year overall survival was significantly higher in immunotherapy as well (HR=0.67; 95% CI=0.48–0.92; p=0.01). Overall, median progression-free survival was significantly higher in immunotherapy (standard median difference=0.323; 95% CI=0.110–0.536; p=0.003). However, 1-year progression-free survival was not remarkably different between immunotherapy and control groups (HR=0.94; 95% CI=0.74–1.18; p=0.59). Specific immunotherapy demonstrated remarkable improvement in survival of patients with glioma and could be a considerable choice of treatment in the future. Despite the current promising results, further high-quality randomized controlled trials are required to approve immunotherapeutic approaches as the standard of care and the front-line treatment for glioma.
Flexible Pavement Design Criterion Based on Octahedral Shear Stresses
Authors: Lazăr Ştefan Marian , Răcănel Carmen 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
The judicious pavement design is the key factor in achieving the longest service life and the lowest maintenance and rehabilitation costs. It is based on the consideration of the phenomena in which the pavement structures are subjected to exploitation and the limitation of their destructive effects.
The aim of this study is to verify the possibility of implementing in the flexible pavement structures design practice of another design criterion based on limiting the bituminous mixtures creep phenomenon and that to be called: The criterion of admissible octahedral shear stresses in the bituminous layers.
Estimation of octahedral shear stresses is done with a calculation model based on finite element method, and hereafter referred to as 2D ASFEM (2D Axi-Symmetric Finite Element Model). The paper presents the results obtained by modeling several specific calculation assumptions for the behaviour of flexible pavement structures in service.
The study underlines the fact that the Octahedral Shear Stresses Ratio (OSSR) can be an additional design criterion to be taken into account when designing flexible pavement structures alongside other established criteria.
Globalization of Nanoengineers’ Professional Training: Foreign Experience
Authors: Tretko Vitaliy , Vashkurak Yuriy 
Published: January 2018

AbstractConceptual bases of globalization influence onto engineer education in the field of nanoelectronics as well as formation of global skills necessary for life and work in a globalized society have been considered. Modern state of incorporating the global dimension into the process of future nanoelectronics engineers’ learning has been analyzed. Key skills and conditions of providing connection between results of learning and the global dimension in the engineering education have been defined. Possibilities of the global dimension realization (elaboration of new methods and approaches), integration of the education content on the principles of consistency and interdisciplinary nature as well as monitoring of learning results have been suggested. Special attention has been paid to implementation of the global dimension into the engineering profession that includes three aspects: generic themes, generic skills and generic dispositions. Main directions of developing the system of engineering education in the field of nanoelectronics have been specified. It has been defined that incorporation of the global dimension into the learning process of future engineers in the field of nanoelectronics encompasses five stages: the substantiation of key skills that define global dimension in engineering education; the provision of connection between the results of learning and global dimension in engineering education; the determination of opportunities to realize global dimension (elaboration of new methods and approaches); the integration of the learning content on the basis of consistency and interdisciplinary principles; the monitoring of learning results. In the result of the carried out research it has been concluded that the basis of conceptual approaches to engineering training of future specialists in the field of nanoelectronics is the logics and the content of the “engineer” notion, specifics of engineering activities in the field of nanoelectronics, as well as their functional duties in the context of globalization challenges. The process of introduction of the global dimension into the content of engineering programs in nanoelectronics encourages the development of an engineer’s personality at all the levels – individual, national and global.
Interdisciplinarity in Higher Petroleum Education in the Context of International Standards
Authors: Tymkiv Nadiya 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
The article deals with the problem of interdisciplinarity impact on higher petroleum education in Ukraine. Different views on the essence of interdisciplinarity, especially in the context of higher petroleum education, have been presented. It has been indicated that many scholars have studied the essence of interdisciplinarity within higher education systems of different countries and identified that interdisciplinarity encompasses a combination or interrelation of various sciences that are embodied in engineering training process. Interdisciplinarity is considered as one of the effective tools to support enthusiasm of young generation for petroleum engineering; to increase motivation of future petroleum experts; and to enhance the efficiency of collaboration between professionals from different fields. In reality, interdisciplinary approach is very often confused with multidisciplinarity when educators give students knowledge from various disciplines without making the link between them into a coordinated whole. It has been concluded that interdisciplinarity or interdisciplinary approach can be regarded as a natural training context in which boundaries between knowledge systems tend to be erased and a new teaching paradigm is required. It has been revealed that implementation of interdisciplinary approach in engineering programmes necessitates the development of such an educational framework that would provide educators with the relevant methods, tools, and models for design of interdisciplinary engineering curricula regarding specific learning outcomes and ensure support for faculty members to improve their own competence in the interdisciplinary issues. The standards and guidelines of international educational interdisciplinarity of degree programmes in petroleum engineering are analyzed in the article.
Using Information Technologies in Professional Training of Future Security Specialists in the USA, Great Britain, Poland and Israel
Authors: Kyslenko Dmytro 
Published: January 2018

AbstractThe paper discusses the use of information technologies in professional training of future security specialists in the United States, Great Britain, Poland and Israel. The probable use of computer-based techniques being available within the integrated Web-sites have been systematized. It has been suggested that the presented scheme may be of great significance for organization of security specialists’ professional training in Ukrainian higher education institutions as it promotes searching for an individual paradigm in processing various data and adjusting to modern challenges of an information soceity. The process of expanding learning techniques through information technologies has been emphasized; four directions of US Education Reform have been outlined; the distinctive features of theory and methodology of using information technologies in the United States have been highlighted. The learning models in Israel have been described; the aim of future specialists’ training in Poland has been formulated. The methodological and practical components offuture security specialists’ training of have been analyzed. It has been indicated that nowadays Great Britain has the most detailed education standards in Europe. It has been pointed out that studying experience of other countries contributes to determining a strategy for using information technologies in education. It has been concluded that methodical and practical training of future security specialists for using information technologies should be related to practical skills. It has been found out that motivation play an important role in developing future security specialists’ practical skills. It has been proved that pedagogical professionalism promotes achievements of science and technology. Prospects for further researches are seen in studying the peculiarities of professional training of future security specialists in leading European countries.