bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Statics and Kinematics in Cyclic Behaviour of Semi-Rigid Steel Structures
Authors: Moldovan Corina - Ana 
Published: January 2017

AbstractThe contribution presents a set of seismic analyses of multi - storey steel structures with semi-rigid beam column connections acted upon by seismic actions. Semi-rigidity of the structures beam to column connections is conferred by two types of beam to column connections: top and seat and web angle (TSW) and end-plate (EP) joints. Computed numerical results are associated to two classes (static and kinematic) of seismic behaviour parameters expressing the two contradictory effects of semi-rigidity. On one hand, the lateral flexibility induces larger lateral displacements while, on the other hand, it attracts smaller base shear seismic forces. Also, the constitutive relation M − θrinduced into semi- rigid beam column connections by seismic actions is presented. The results are presented in their numerical form and in a comparative graphical manner allowing for relevant comments and conclusions
Impact of Tax Relief on Public Finance
Authors: Bikas Egidijus , Jurevičiūtė Lina 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
Tax reliefs are optional, but a very important element of the taxation system. This element is used for different purposes by a country’s government institutions. Tax reliefs are a form of tax expenditure that helps to reduce budget revenues. Tax reliefs influence individual and corporate financial behaviour and can have positive or negative effects on the economic and social factors. In the last few years, expansion of tax relief has attracted worldwide attention because of the fact that, after the global financial crisis, many countries are still suffering from fiscal deficits, and expansion of tax relief has not contributed to solving this problem. Tax reliefs are presupposed to be a fiscal policy tool of significance in various subsystems of public finances. The main aim of this article is to examine the impact of personal income tax reliefs on Lithuanian public finances. To achieve this aim, statistical information was systemized; Monte Carlo method was used to group data by horizontal rows and logical links analysed, which helped to evaluate the influence of tax reliefs on public finances. In the simulations, the Monte Carlo method helped to simulate random samples, which were then examined by adapting the conclusions of the theory of probability and mathematical statistics methods.
Is unstable reliable? Oxygen conditions in the ecological status assessment of lakes
Authors: Soszka Hanna , Pasztaleniec Agnieszka , Kolada Agnieszka 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
The Water Framework Directive introduces the requirement for ecological status assessment based primarily on aquatic organisms and supporting physico-chemical elements, including oxygen conditions. The criteria for assessing oxygen conditions applied in routine lake monitoring in Poland are based on the mean hypolimnetic saturation with oxygen at the peak of summer stagnation in stratified lakes, and on the oxygen content at the bottom in the summer in polimictic lakes. The currently used oxygen criteria usually cause dismay, particularly if biological elements indicate at least good ecological status and the oxygen conditions are the only reason for lowering status class. The aim of the article is to present the scale of variability of oxygen conditions in selected lakes within the last two decades and to analyse the limitations and conditions of applying this indicator in routine monitoring, assessment and classification of Polish lakes. Data from the years 1999–2015 on oxygen and thermal conditions in a set of nine benchmark lakes in Poland were examined and the reasons for changeability in water oxygenation from year to year were discussed. Alternative oxygen indicators were considered as well as oxygen standards based on fish protection requirements that have been adopted in some European countries. It was suggested that when assessing lake ecological status, data on the oxygen conditions from a number of years must be taken into consideration, e.g., for the analysis of trends in lake trophy changes or for documenting the effects of remedial actions in lake catchment areas in long time frames.
Nonlinear optical response of some Graphene oxide and Graphene fluoride derivatives
Authors: Liaros Nikolaos , Orfanos Ioannis , Papadakis Ioannis , Couris Stelios 
Published: January 2017

AbstractThe nonlinear optical properties of two graphene derivatives, graphene oxide and graphene fluoride, are investigated by means of the Z-scan technique employing 35 ps and 4 ns, visible (532 nm) laser excitation. Both derivatives were found to exhibit significant third-order nonlinear optical response at both excitation regimes, with the nonlinear absorption being relatively stronger and concealing the presence of nonlinear refraction under ns excitation, while ps excitation reveals the presence of both nonlinear absorption and refraction. Both nonlinear properties are of great interest for several photonics, opto-fluidics, opto-electronics and nanotechnology applications.
The role of industrial processes in the reduction of selected greenhouse gases emission
Authors: Sadowski Maciej , Romańczak Anna , Kargulewicz Iwona 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
The paper presents an analysis of the selected anthropogenic greenhouse gases (GHG) emission sources in industrial processes, as well as the mitigation policies and measures in Annex I Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. [Text of the United Nations … 1992].The main gas in this category is carbon dioxide, but several countries have a dominant share of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) with a clear upward trend in their emissions. In Poland, the majority of the GHG emissions from industrial processes come from three categories: refrigeration and air-conditioning (HFCs), cement production (CO2) and ammonia production (CO2). An analysis of the policies and measures implemented or planned in this group of countries shows that voluntary programs and agreements among governments and stakeholders are the most effective. A crucial element of the voluntary programs is the support to assist enterprises in the transition to the best low carbon technologies and practices.
Cephaloziella konstantinovae (Cephaloziellaceae, Marchantiophyta), A New Leafy Liverwort Species from Russia and Mongolia Identified by Integrative Taxonomy
Authors: Mamontov Yuriy S. , Vilnet Anna A. 
Published: January 2017

AbstractIn the course of a taxonomic study of the genusCephaloziella(Spruce) Schiffn. (Cephaloziellaceae, Marchantiophyta) in Asia, the new speciesCephaloziella konstantinovaeMamontov & Vilnet,sp. nov., from the eastern regions of Russia and from the Republic of Mongolia was discovered. The new species is formally described and illustrated here. Morphologically it is similar toC. divaricatavar.asperifolia(Taylor) Damsh., but differs in its leaf shape and thin-walled, inflated stem and leaf cells. The new species can be distinguished from otherCephaloziellataxa by the following characters: (i) female bracts entirely free from each other and from bracteole, (ii) perianth campanulate, (iii) cells of perianth mouth subquadrate, (iv) capsule spherical, (v) seta with 8–10 + 4–6-seriate morphology, and (vi) elaters with 1–2 spiral bands. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of nrITS1-5.8S-ITS2 and chloroplasttrnL-F sequences from 63 samples (34 species, 23 genera) confirm the taxonomical status of the new species. Five specimens ofC. konstantinovaeform a clade placed sister to a clade ofC. elachista(J. B. Jack) Schiffn. andC. rubella(Nees) Warnst.
Effective energy measurement using radiochromic film: application of a mobile scanner
Authors: Gotanda Tatsuhiro , Katsuda Toshizo , Gotanda Rumi , Kuwano Tadao , Akagawa Takuya , Tanki Nobuyoshi , Tabuchi Akihiko , Shimono Tetsunori , Kawaji Yasuyuki , Takeda Yoshihiro 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
The effective energy calculated using the half-value layer (HVL) is an important parameter for quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC). However constant monitoring has not been performed because measurements using an ionization chamber (IC) are time-consuming and complicated. To solve these problems, a method using radiochromic film (GAFCHROMIC EBT2 dosimetry film (GAF-EBT2) with slight energy dependency errors), a mobile scanner and step-shaped aluminum (SSAl) filter is developed. The results of the method using a mobile scanner were compared with those of the recommended method using an IC in order to evaluate its applicability. The difference ratios of the effective energies by each method using a mobile scanner with GAF-EBT2 were less than 5% compared with results of an IC. It is considered that this method offers a simple means of determining HVL for QA and QC consistently and quickly without the need for an IC dosimeter.
A Hybrid Fuzzy-SVM classifier for automated lung diseases diagnosis
Authors: Ben Hassen Donia , Ben Zakour Sihem , Taleb Hassen 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
A novel scheme for lesions classification in chest radiographs is presented in this paper. Features are extracted from detected lesions from lung regions which are segmented automatically. Then, we needed to eliminate redundant variables from the subset extracted because they affect the performance of the classification. We used Stepwise Forward Selection and Principal Components Analysis. Then, we obtained two subsets of features. We finally experimented the Stepwise/FCM/SVM classification and the PCA/FCM/SVM one. The ROC curves show that the hybrid PCA/FCM/SVM has relatively better accuracy and remarkable higher efficiency. Experimental results suggest that this approach may be helpful to radiologists for reading chest images.
Do duties of students of medicine be cause for stress?
Authors: Lis-Sochocka Marta , Chylińska-Wrzos Patrycja , Wawryk-Gawda Ewelina , Bulak Kamila , Jodłowska-Jędrych Barbara 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
Introduction. For young adults, one of the sources of peer interaction problems is the fact that they are burdened with an increasing number of duties and their pace of life increases. Since they are usually burdened with huge amount of study material, medicine students are particularly vulnerable.
Aim. The aim of this work was to determine the relationship between their obligations, stress levels and their peer or family relationships.
Material and methods. The study involved 242 students (148 women and 94 men) of the first year of daily studies, aged 18-30 (median - 20 years). The assessment was performed in March 2016, and the research tool was an anonymous survey. This took into account, inter alia, data on the demands of their studies, and their peer and family affinities.
Results. Using the results, around 71% of all respondents consider themselves to be over-burdened with the obligations resulting from their choice of study. Among these, women were more likely to self-assess themselves as overburdened (65%). Moreover, out of all respondents, approx. 27% of all, considered excessive workload as a major source of stress. This, however, does not significantly affect their peer and family relationships, because approx. 95% of all respondents consider such these to be be either good or rather good.
Conclusions. Medical students are burdened with responsibilities. This can be a source of stress, but overall, does not affect social and family associations.
Do medical students have a positive outlook on the world?
Authors: Chylińska-Wrzos Patrycja , Lis-Sochocka Marta , Wawryk-Gawda Ewelina , Bulak Kamila , Jodłowska-Jędrych Barbara 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
Introduction. Upon entering diverse fields of medical science, young people are on the cusp of adulthood. They change their environment and take on new responsibilities, which often translates to stress and depression.
Aim. The main objective of the work was to assess the psychological health in students of Medical University of Lublin.
Material and Methods. The research tool was a questionnaire containing information regarding mental health of first-year students of medicine. The results were statistically analysed in Statistica 11.0, utilising Pearson’s Chi Squared test of independence, with significance set at p<0.05.
Results. Most respondents (55.79%), whether male or female, rarely feel sadness. About 43% of respondents replied that they employ different strategies of coping with stress. 33.47% of all students stated that whenever any problems appear they look for support from their families. Generally, around 47% of all students are happy with their lives. There were, statistical signification between the sex of the students and psychological well-being, and between the sex and the ways of dealing with depression.
Conclusions. Despite the significant stress to which these young people are exposed, they are relatively strong mentally and have a positive outlook towards the lives.
A comparison of anterior teeth color among Polish, Saudi and Taiwanese students of dentistry
Authors: Alrifai Mosa , Alharby Hassan , Zubrzycka-Wróbel Joanna , Chałas Renata 
Published: January 2017

Abstract
Introduction. Color of teeth is undoubtedly one of the most important factors considering patients’ satisfaction with the quality of their restoration, especially in the anterior region of the mouth. Therefore, the determination of color is an integral part of esthetic dentistry and therefore it should be given the highest importance in dentistry in order to achieve the esthetic requirements of patients.
Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate tooth color in 3 different ethnic groups and its relationship with gender and type of tooth using a clinical spectrophotometer.
Material and methods. A total of 90 dental students of the Medical University of Lublin was divided into three groups of 30 each according to participant’s ethnicity, which was as follows: Polish, Saudi Arabian and Taiwanese. Then, different divisions were made according to gender as well as the type of teeth. The tooth color was identified by spectrophotometer. The data was statistically analyzed.
Results. For the Vita Classical shade guide, A3.5 shade was the most frequently chosen in Taiwanese and Saudi students’ teeth. However, the most common shade observed for the anterior teeth of Polish students was A3. The most common shade among males was A3.5 and in females A3 was the most frequent shade. In all 360 central incisors, overall, the most common shades noticed were A2, D3 and C1. In all 360 lateral incisors, D3, A3 and A2 were the most frequent shades for this group of teeth. In all 360 canines, A3.5 and A3 were the most common shade with almost half of the number of canines in this study was measured with A3.5.
Conclusions. Based on the performed preliminary research, it was observed that Polish students tend to have brighter teeth than Saudis which in turn have even brighter teeth than Taiwanese students. It was also noted that men are more likely to have darker shade values than women. Central incisors have higher values of tooth color than lateral incisors and canines.
Preserving fertility in pseudomyxoma peritonei, a novel approach
Authors: Sheehan Lisa A. , Mehta Akash M. , Sawan Saladin , Dayal Sanjeev P. , Mohamed Faheez , Moran Brendan J. , Cecil Tom D. 
Published: January 2017

AbstractBackgroundCytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is the gold standard treatment for patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) but involves routine bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Young women wishing to maintain fertility may be reluctant to pursue this. An alternative strategy in women with low-grade PMP has been explored in the form of laparoscopic evacuation of pelvic and ovarian mucin with resection of the appendiceal tumour.MethodsBetween January 2012 and January 2015, four young women (aged 28–35 years) with PMP seeking to maintain fertility underwent laparoscopy, appendicectomy and pelvic mucinous evacuation and washout. Data regarding intra-operative and histopathological findings were collected. Endpoints were fertility-related outcomes and oncological follow-up.ResultsInfertility was a presenting symptom in three of the four women. All four had significant pelvic mucinous disease on radiological imaging and were offered CRS and HIPEC as definitive treatment, but chose laparoscopy with appendicectomy and copious irrigation and washout of the pelvis with stripping of mucinous disease off the ovarian surfaces. Postoperative histology demonstrated a low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm (LAMN) in all patients with acellular mucin or low-grade mucinous carcinoma peritonei in the peritoneal cavity. All patients successfully conceived subsequently and gave birth to healthy babies. After 12–29 months follow-up, all women are well with no radiological or laparoscopic evidence of disease recurrence.ConclusionsIn patients with low-grade PMP, initial therapeutic laparoscopy can restore fertility, whilst providing short- to medium-term disease control. This modality in young women wishing to have children appears to be a feasible alternative to immediate CRS and HIPEC.
Obesity Influence on Insulin Activity and Resting Metabolic Rate in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Doros Rodica , Lixandru Daniela , Petcu Laura , Picu Ariana , Mitu Manuela , Tudosoiu Janeta , Ionescu-Tîrgoviste Constantin 
Published: January 2017

AbstractBackground and Aims. Diabetes mellitus and obesity modify the resting metabolic rate (RMR) in opposite directions. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between RMR, insulin activity and adipocytokines in type 2 diabetes patients with associated obesity. Material and Method. Anthropometric and biochemical measurements, bioimpedance body composition, C peptide, insulin, proinsulin, adiponectin, leptin, indirect calorimetry measured RMR were determined in 306 (53% male, 54.9% obese) diabetic patients. Results. RMR, C peptide, insulin, proinsulin, Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA) IR, HOMA %B, leptin increased and adiponectin decreased with body mass index (BMI). BMI had a statistical significant higher effect size on fat mass (FM), leptin (0.652-0.339 eta squared), moderate positive effect size on fat-free mass (FFM), insulin, C peptide, RMR, HOMA %B (0.228 - 0.155 eta squared) and lower effect size on HOMA-IR, adiponectin, proinsulin-to-adiponectin ratio, proinsulin (0.098-0.062 eta squared). RMR had positive correlations with FFM (r=0.633), BMI (r=0.300), proinsulin-to-adiponectin ratio (r=0.218), HOMA1-IR (r=0.176), proinsulin (r=0.151), insulin (r=0.144), fasting plasma glucose (r=0.132), fat mass (r= 0.131), triglycerides (r = 0.119), proinsulin-to-insulin ratio (r= 0.117) and negative with age (r=-0.368), HDL cholesterol (r=-0.284), adiponectin(r=-0.282) and leptin (r=-0.178). Conclusions RMR was correlated with HOMA IR and insulin resistance biomarkers, but not with HOMA %B and C peptide.
The change in NT-pro-BNP and post-PTMC echocardiography parameters in patients with mitral stenosis. A pilot study
Authors: Safi Morteza , Bayat Fariba , Ahmadi Zahra , Shekarchizadeh Masood , Khaheshi Isa , Naderian Mohammadreza 
Published: January 2017

Abstract

Background. The change in the level of NT-pro-BNP (N-terminal-pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide) is now considered as a reflection of the hemodynamic alterations and its circulatory reductions reported early after successful PTMC (percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy). The present study aims to assess the change in the level of NT-pro BNP following PTMC in patients with mitral stenosis and also to determine the association between circulatory NT-pro-BNP reduction and post-PTMC echocardiography parameters.

Methods. Twenty five symptomatic consecutive patients with severe MS undergoing elective PTMC were prospectively enrolled. All patients underwent echocardiography before and also 24 to 48 hours after PTMC. Peripheral blood samples were taken for measurement of NT-pro-BNP before as well as 24 to 48 hours after PTMC. The patients were also classified in group with normal sinus rhythm or having atrial fibrillation (AF) based on their 12-lead electrocardiogram.

Results. It was shown a significant decrease in the parameters of PPG (Peak Pressure Gradient), MPG (Mean Pressure Gradient), PHT (Pressure Half Time), PAP (Pulmonary Arterial Pressure), LAV (Left Atrial Volume), and also a significant increase in MVA (Mitral Valve Area) RVS (Right Ventricular S velocity), and strains of lateral, septal, inferior and anterior walls of LA following PTMC. The mean LVEF remained unchanged after PTMC. The mean NT-pro-BNP before PTMC was 309.20 ± 17.97 pg/lit that significantly diminished after PTMC to 235.72 ± 22.46 pg/lit (p = 0.009). Among all echocardiography parameters, only MPG was positively associated with the change in NT-pro-BNP after PTMC. Comparing the change in echocardiography indices between the patients with normal rhythm and those with AF, lower change in PAP was shown in the group with AF. However, more change in the level of NT-pro-BNP after PTMC was shown in the patients with AF compared to those without this arrhythmia.

Conclusion. PTMC procedure leads to reduce the level of NT-pro-BNP. The change in NT-pro-BNP is an indicator for change in MS severity indicated by decreasing MPG parameter. Lower change in PAP as well as higher change in NT-pro-BNP is predicted following PTMC in the group with AF compared to those with normal sinus rhythm.
Is the use of AGILE patency capsule prior to videocapsule endoscopy useful in all patients with spondyloarthritis?
Authors: Gheorghe Andrada , Zahiu Denise Carmen Mihaela , Voiosu Theodor Alexandru , Mateescu Bogdan Radu , Voiosu Mihail Radu , Rimbaş Mihai 
Published: January 2017

Abstract

Background and aims. As already known, spondyloarthritis patients present a striking resemblance in intestinal inflammation with early Crohn’s disease. Moreover, the frequent use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is an important part of their treatment. Both conditions could lead to intestinal stenoses. Therefore we proposed to investigate the usefulness of the patency capsule test in patients with spondyloarthritis.

Material and methods. 64 consecutive patients (33 males; mean age 38 ± 11 years) that fulfilled the AMOR criteria for seronegative spondyloarthropathy (59.4% ankylosing spondylitis) lacking symptoms or signs of intestinal stenosis were enrolled and submitted to an AGILE™ capsule patency test followed by a video capsule endoscopy (PillCam SB2™), as part of a protocol investigating the presence of intestinal inflammatory lesions. After reviewing the VCE recordings, the Lewis score (of small bowel inflammatory involvement) was computed.

Results. In only 5 patients (7.8%) of the study group, the luminal patency test was negative. However, there was no retention of the videocapsule in any of the patients. From the 59 patients with a positive patency test, 3 patients presented single small bowel stenoses (two with ulcerated overlying inflamed mucosa, one cicatricial), all being traversed by the videocapsule along the length of the recording. None of the patients with a negative test had bowel stenoses. There was no correlation between the patency test and the Lewis score, the C reactive protein value, diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease, or the family history of spondyloarthritis, psoriasis or inflammatory bowel disease.

Conclusion. The AGILE patency capsule does not seem to be a useful tool for all patients with spondyloarthritis prior to small bowel videocapsule endoscopy (ClinicalTrial.gov ID NCT 00768950).