bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Das 4. Makkabäerbuch und Flavius Josephus. Die rezeptionsgeschichtliche Bedeutung des slavischen Josephus
Authors: Bukovec Predrag
Published: March 2012

The Jewish-Hellenistic apokryphon Fourth Maccabees was written by an anonymous author and could probably be dated at ca. 100 AD. Throughout the centuries up to the present time researchers have ascribed this writing to the Jewish-Roman historiographer Flavius Josephus. There is one passage in the so-called Slavonic Josephus, which has not yet been considered as a witness for that identification: Here the Russian redactor combines allusions and key words from 4 Macc and interpolates them into the Jewish War. In this way he brings forth the assumption, that Flavius Josephus was the author of 4 Macc, to a radical conse­quence. In the following study this disputed passage is re-analysed and evaluated. We also compare it with the older witnesses from the Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages, that see in Flavius Josephus the author of 4 Macc (Eusebius, Hieronymus, Philostorgius and the Suda).
Behavioral and Social Phenotypes in Boys With 47,XYY Syndrome or 47,XXY Klinefelter Syndrome
Authors: Ross Judith L. , Roeltgen David P. , Kushner Harvey , Zinn Andrew R. , Reiss Allan , Bardsley Martha Zeger , McCauley Elizabeth , Tartaglia Nicole
Published: March 2012

OBJECTIVE:

To contrast the behavioral and social phenotypes including a screen for autistic behaviors in boys with 47,XYY syndrome (XYY) or 47,XXY Klinefelter syndrome (KS) and controls and investigate the effect of prenatal diagnosis on the phenotype.

METHODS:

Patients included 26 boys with 47,XYY, 82 boys with KS, and 50 control boys (ages 4–15 years). Participants and parents completed a physical examination, behavioral questionnaires, and intellectual assessments.

RESULTS:

Most boys with XYY or KS had Child Behavior Checklist parental ratings within the normal range. On the Child Behavior Checklist, mean problem behaviors t scores were higher in the XYY versus KS groups for the Problem Behavior, Externalizing, Withdrawn, Thought Problems, and Attention Problems subscales. On the Conners’ Parent Rating Scale–Revised, the XYY versus KS group had increased frequency of hyperactive/impulsive symptoms (P < .006). In addition, 50% and 12% of the XYY and KS groups, respectively, had scores >15 for autism screening from the Social Communication Questionnaire. For the boys with KS, prenatal diagnosis was associated with fewer problem behaviors.

CONCLUSIONS:

A subset of the XYY and KS groups had behavioral difficulties that were more severe in the XYY group. These findings could guide clinical practice and inform patients and parents. Boys diagnosed with XYY or KS should receive a comprehensive psychoeducational evaluation and be screened for learning disabilities, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and autism spectrum disorders.
Incidence and Cost of Injury Among Youth in Agricultural Settings, United States, 2001–2006
Authors: Zaloshnja Eduard , Miller Ted R. , Lawrence Bruce
Published: March 2012

OBJECTIVE:

Estimate the annual US incidence and cost of fatal and nonfatal youth injury in agricultural settings.

METHODS:

We used 2001–2006 Childhood Agricultural Injury Survey data to estimate the incidence of nonfatal injury and 2001–2006 Multiple Cause of Death data to estimate the incidence of fatal injury. To estimate the costs for injuries suffered by youth working/living in agricultural settings, we multiplied the number of injuries times published unit costs by body part, nature of injury, and age group.

RESULTS:

An average of 26 655 agricultural injury incidents occurred annually to youth (ages 0–19) in the United States during the period 2001–2006 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 24 263–29 046). These injuries cost society an estimated $1.423 billion per year in 2005 dollars (95% CI: $1.333 billion–$1.513 billion). Fatalities alone cost an estimated $420 million per year. Work related injuries annually cost $347 million or 24.4% of the total cost (95% CI: 20.3%–28.5%). Most agricultural youth injuries were not work related.

CONCLUSIONS:

We found that, similarly to adult agricultural injuries, youth agricultural injuries tend to be more severe and more costly than nonagricultural injuries. Only 1.4% of injured youth in the United States were hospitalized in 2000, but 14% of youth injured in agriculture were hospitalized in 2001–2006. To address this serious problem, prevention should focus on better controlling both child access to agricultural recreational activities and child assignment to agricultural work tasks that exceed developmental norms.
Rising National Prevalence of Life-Limiting Conditions in Children in England
Authors: Fraser Lorna K. , Miller Michael , Hain Richard , Norman Paul , Aldridge Jan , McKinney Patricia A. , Parslow Roger C.
Published: March 2012

BACKGROUND:

Life-limiting conditions (LLCs) describe diseases with no reasonable hope of cure that will ultimately be fatal. For children with these diseases, palliative care services should be available but few data are available to estimate the burden of these conditions.

METHODS:

Children (0–19 years) with LLCs were identified within an English Hospital Episode Statistics dataset (2000/2001–2009/2010) by applying a customized coding framework of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, disease codes. Prevalence per 10 000 population (0–19 years) was calculated by age, diagnostic group, ethnicity, deprivation, and region for each year.

RESULTS:

The Hospital Episode Statistics extract contained 175 286 individuals with 1 or more LLCs of which congenital anomalies were the most common (31%). Prevalence increased over 10 years from 25 to 32 per 10 000 population. Prevalence in the South Asian (48 per 10 000); black (42 per 10 000); and Chinese, mixed, and “other” (31 per 10 000) populations were statistically significantly higher compared with the white population (27 per 10 000). Prevalence shows an inverse J-shaped relationship with 5 categories of deprivation, with the highest prevalence in the most deprived areas and the lowest in the second least deprived.

CONCLUSIONS:

In 2010, the prevalence of LLCs in children in England was double the previously reported estimates and had increased annually in all areas over the past decade. This clearly identifies an escalating need for specialist pediatric palliative care services. When planning services for these increasing needs, the excess prevalence in ethnic minority groups, especially in deprived areas, needs to be considered.
Effects of ion-exchange treatment on bromate formation and oxidation efficiency during ozonation
Authors: Echigo S. , Itoh S. , Niwa A.
Published: March 2012

Ion-exchange treatment is a promising technique for removing hydrophilic compounds during drinking water treatment. In this study, we applied several different ion exchangers (i.e., anion exchange resins and a hydrotalcite compound) to bromide removal to minimize bromate formation during ozonation. It was found that ion-exchange treatment affected ozone and hydroxyl radical concentration profiles as well as bromate ion concentration after ozonation. Selecting an appropriate ion exchanger is important to achieve both the oxidation of target contaminants and the reduction of bromate ion during ozonation.
Residual chlorine management based on quantitative estimation of chlorine consumption by inner wall surfaces of distribution pipes
Authors: Fuchigami T. , Terashima K. , Bandow H.
Published: March 2012

In real residual chlorine management practices, a simple criterion is required for evaluating chlorine consumption by inner wall surfaces of water distribution pipes. The amount of chlorine consumed by 1 m2 of the inner wall surface of a pipe per hour (J-value) can be used for this purpose. To estimate the J-value for a pipe, a zero-order rate equation was adopted for chlorine reduction caused by a pipe wall, based on laboratory experimental results. The J-value was closely related to characteristics of the pipe material. The J-value for old unlined metallic pipes was extremely large (J > 18 mg m−2 h−1), whereas that for plastic polymer pipes was very small (J < 0.08 mg m−2 h−1). The J-value for cement mortar lined pipes increased exponentially with increasing water temperature. This paper proposes an effective method on the basis of J-value for residual chlorine management practices. First, this method is used to identify those pipes which consume relatively more chlorine than other pipes. Maximum allowable residence time (MART), within which the required minimum chlorine concentration can be maintained, can also be estimated by this method. MART is useful to determine necessary and sufficient measures for shortening water residence time in identified pipes.
Efficacy of ceramic water purifiers coated with colloidal Ag doped TiO2 against polyaromatic hydrocarbons and pathogens in Sierra Leone
Authors: Hansen M. L. , Vieira A. , Antizar-Ladislao B.
Published: March 2012

With the urgency and demand for access to safe drinking water still present across the developing world this paper assesses the potential for combining the photocatalytic properties of titanium dioxide (TiO2) doped with silver (Ag) with the ceramic water purifier (CWP), a simple point of use water treatment device developed by Potters for Peace. The aim of the work is to provide a low cost, low energy and low environmental impact water treatment solution, suitable for use in rural and peri-urban Sierra Leone. The ability of TiO2 and colloidal Ag to remove humic substances, ubiquitous organic contaminants (PAHs) and pathogens in solution and as a CWP coating has been investigated under similar conditions to those found in Sierra Leone. This study showed an almost complete removal of Escherichia coli using TiO2, Ag or Ag doped TiO2 coatings (>99%); a high removal (80%) of PAHs in the permeate by CWP coated with Ag doped TiO2, and a removal of 40 and 60% HA in the permeate by CWP coated with Ag and TiO2, respectively.
The development of species-specific probes for a quantitative estimation of non-cultured bacteria in groundwater samples
Authors: Ultee Annemieke , Hahn Ines , Schwarz Stephanie , König Helmut
Published: March 2012

The aim of this study was to quantify different bacteria in drinking water production wells that supply the city of Mainz (capital of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany). Knowledge of the counts of individual microorganisms is important for the appraisal of the hygienic and sensory quality of drinking water. Specific 16S rRNA probes were designed for 14 previously identified but non-cultured bacterial species (Ferribacterium limneticum, Hydrogenophaga sp., Methylotenera sp., Janthinobacterium sp., Pseudomonas sp., Rhizobium selenireducens, Rhodoferax sp., Nitrosomonadaceae bacterium, Thauera sp. and five strains which could not be identified to species level). With fluorescence in situ hybridization the titer of these species was determined. Total bacterial counts were 4.3 × 104 cells/mL (April) and 4.0 × 104cells/mL (December). The highest relative counts were observed for Methylotenera sp. (4.6–21.7%), F. limneticum (6.1–10.2%), Janthinobacterium sp. (6.1–7.1%), strain K-S10-Sep02 (5.8–5.9%) and Nitrosomonadaceae bacterium (4.8–5.9%). These organisms accounted for 50% (April) and 29% (December) of the total counts. Finally, single water production wells that supply drinking water were studied for the counts of Methylotenera sp., F. limneticum and Janthinobacterium sp. These counts differed between the wells and did not reflect counts in the drinking water treatment plant.
No simple solution to waterborne fungi: various responses to water disinfection methods
Authors: Hageskal Gunhild , Tryland Ingun , Liltved Helge , Skaar Ida
Published: March 2012

Control strategies against waterborne fungi have been studied only to a small degree. In order to increase knowledge of the effect of water treatment on waterborne fungi, the dose–response effect of four commonly used drinking water disinfection methods was tested on selected fungal species: Aspergillus calidoustus, Penicillium spinulosum, Trichoderma viride and Fusarium solani. These species are all common in Norwegian drinking water, and are regarded as emerging pathogens, toxigenic and/or food contaminants. Spore suspensions were treated with ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, ozone, chlorine and chloramine. Three different doses were tested for each disinfectant and all doses were repeated three times. Bacillus subtilis was included as a control for the disinfection processes and to compare the resistance. P. spinulosum and T. viride were resistant to chlorine and chloramine. They were also very tolerant to UV-irradiation and ozone, although the highest doses of ozone had a small inactivation effect, especially on T. viride. Ozone was found to be most effective against fungi in general. It is apparent that fungal species may have very different properties when it comes to tolerance to water disinfection, and the inactivation of B. subtilis spores cannot be used as an indicator of fungal spore inactivation after water treatment.
Investigation into the occurrence of aquatic invertebrates throughout drinking water purification plants
Authors: Ferreira L. , Du Preez H. H.
Published: March 2012

World-wide, invertebrates are found in most drinking water networks; however, limited data and information are available on the occurrence of invertebrates throughout the purification process. During this investigation, temporal and spatial variations in the invertebrate composition occurring throughout a conventional Drinking Water Purification Plant (DWPP) and the abiotic drivers responsible for their occurrence were investigated. Samples destined for invertebrate and water quality analyses were collected and multivariate statistical analysis was performed on the data obtained. Copepoda, Rotatoria, Cladocera, Ostracoda and Diptera were the dominant groups found in the source water and occurred throughout the purification process. A higher total biomass occurred throughout the purification process, in particular after sedimentation and filtration, compared with the total biomass entering the DWPP. The water quality variables measured were within the optimum ranges of invertebrates. The present study proved the theory that purification plants are an important source of invertebrates occurring in the drinking water distribution network. Strategies should be implemented to improve coagulation (by using coagulants/flocculants to increase the pH above 10.5), flocculation, sedimentation (by removing sludge and algae) and filtration (by optimizing filter bed maintenance) and general filter house ‘housekeeping’.
Is Kant’s conception of radical evil radical enough
Authors: Lolic Marinko
Published: March 2012

Kant?s philosophical critical attitudes provoked strong reactions, not only
philosophical, but the general public. Among those of his ideas, which have
been provoking severe philosophical misunderstandings and controversy are:
?Which in theory is not worth, that has no use in practice?, ?The rights not
to lie?, ?against the rights of citizens to revolt?, etc. After all, the most
attention in the great public was provoked by his idea about radical evil. In
this short reflection, we will try to point out the main points of this
philosophical misunderstanding and to make a little more explicit the concept
of radical evil.
(Post-)Yugoslav anti-war engagement: A research topic awaiting attention
Authors: Bilic Bojan
Published: March 2012

(Post-)Yugoslav anti-war contention has remained an under-theorised topic
almost twenty years after the end of the wars of Yugoslav succession. Rather
than focusing on the ?ontogenesis? of individual pacifist enterprises, this
paper examines the reasons for which (post-)Yugoslav anti-war activisms have
been marginalised in recent East European sociological scholarship. I argue
that a thorough appreciation of these phenomena requires a Yugoslav/regional
approach which has not been favoured by post-Yugoslav social science
scholars. This article also offers a critical reading of the existing
attempts to theorise (post-) Yugoslav anti-war activisms. It criticises their
failure to draw upon the rich conceptual ap?paratus of social movement
theories developed within Western political sociology over the last couple of
decades. In spite of the fact that the concept of ?social movement? may be
contested in the context of post-Yugoslav anti-war engagement on the basis of
its quantitative marginality, this should not deter (post-)Yugoslav social
scientists from applying and refining Anglo-Saxon social movement theories in
a culturally sensitive manner. Specific dynamics of anti-war activism
occurring within an armed conflict has not been sufficiently studied. This is
an important knowledge lacuna where regional sociologists could offer a
substantive contribution.
The role of the father in the development of psychosis
Authors: Avramaki Elissavet , Tsekeris Charalambos
Published: March 2012

In psychoanalysis, fathering has not received much analytical at?tention and
only little is known about the actual impact of paternity on the development
of certain psychopathology. This paper seeks to carefully examine and
critically discuss the impact of fathering on psychotic individuals. It
elaborates on the importance of the father in the healthy development of the
children, as well as on the consequences that his absence entails for their
psyche. Drawing on a Lacanian analytical framework, it is argued that,
nowadays, the paternal figure has significantly lost its previous status. The
gradual extinction of the paternal function, within the contemporary cultural
environment, is mainly because of important social and legal changes in the
familial structure, such as the increase of single-parent families and the
legalization of the adoption of children by gay couples.
Results of mycological and mycotoxicological investigations of corn-based feed for dairy cow diet
Authors: Skrinjar Marija , Jakic-Dimic Dobrila , Soso Vladislava , Blagojev Nevena , Veskovic-Moracanin Slavica , Geric Tamara
Published: March 2012

In this study, fungal contamination was determined as well as total aflatoxin
B1(AB1), ochratoxin A (OTA) and zearalenon (ZEA) levels in corn-based feed
samples obtained from four different farms in Serbia (n=35) during one year.
Mycotoxins were detected in feed using the VICAM fluorometric method. It was
determined that 97.14% of all samples were contaminated with moulds which
belonged to following genera: Absidia, Acremonium, Aspergillus, Cladosporium,
Geotrichum, Eurotium, Fusarium, Mucor, Mortierella, Oidiodendron,
Penicillium, Rhizopus, Scopulariopsis, Syncephalastrum, Trichoderma,
Ulocladium and Wallrothiella. A total of 58 different species were
identified. Total mould count per 1 g ranged from 1.00 log cfu/g (dried corn
silage - autumn, fresh corn silage - summer and corn grain silage - spring)
to 7.32 log cfu/g (dried corn silage - winter). Mycotoxins were isolated from
28.5% of samples: ZEA was found in summer (220-240 ?g/kg) and in spring (240
?g/kg) in concentrate samples; OTA was detected in winter in dried corn
silage (16 ?g/kg) and in spring (12 ?g/kg); all samples were AB1 free.
Blood count and number of somatic cells in milk of cows infected with Coxiella burnetii
Authors: Radinovic Miodrag , Bobos Stanko , Pajic Marija , Vidic Branka , Rasic Zoran , Davidov Ivana , Spegar Rade
Published: March 2012

The objective of the work was to examine the intensity of the local immune
response of the mammary gland and the changes in the differential blood count
of chronically infected cows. An experiment was performed on a group of cows
with Q fever serologically proven using the ELISA test (IDEXX). Based on the
ELISA test results, an experimental group of ten infected cows was formed.
Blood was sampled from the experimental cows, and cumulative milk samples
were taken. The number of erythrocytes was determined spectrophotometrically,
and the number of leucocytes using the method according to B?rker - T?rk. The
blood analysis established an increased number of erythrocytes, while the
number of leucocytes was within the limits of physiological values. The milk
samples were used for the determination of the number of somatic cells using
flow cytometric measurements. The processing of the milk samples established
an average number of somatic cells of 853.000 /mL milk.
Trichinellosis epidemics in AP Vojvodina in the period 2000-2009
Authors: Seguljev Zorica , Vidic Branka , Ilic Svetlana , Petrovic Vladimir , Petrovic Mladen , Ristic Mioljub , Prica Nadezda
Published: March 2012

In the observed decade, 1300 cases of trichinellosis were registered in
Vojvodina, including three with a lethal outcome. The lethality was 0.23%.
The incidences of trichinellosis ranged from 2.2/100,000 to 13.6/100,000. The
rate of incidence depends both on the number of epidemics and the size of the
epidemic reported in a year. Most incidences were reported in 2002 and 2005,
as a consequence of the spread of trichinellosis through the purchase of
infested food. The epidemic of trichinellosis in the Middle Banat district
that started at the end of 2001 is considered to be the largest outbreak of
human trichinellosis in Vojvodina, when 313 people got sick. In most of the
cases the affected people reported they had eaten smoked sausages. The high
incidence of trichinellosis in 2005 was a consequence of three
thrichinellosis outbreaks that had been spreading through infested smoked
sausages originating from illegal production and trade. More than 200 cases
of trichinellosis were reported in Vojvodina. Today, Srem is still considered
a hyperendemic area, because more than 30% of all the epidemics occur in this
area. The available data indicate that trichinellosis is spread all over
Vojvodina and that the absence of control results in the risk from the
incidence of human trichinellosis. In many European countries the
epidemiological situation is stable, but in our country trichinellosis is the
most important zoonotic disease. This unstable epidemiological situation is
the consequence of the widespread infection, culinary customs, and the fact
that there is inadequate control of meat and meat products in households and
illegal trade.
Diffuse disconnectivity in traumatic brain injury: a resting state fMRI and DTI study
Authors: Tang Cheuk , Eaves Emily , Dams-O’Connor Kristen , Ho Lap , Leung Eric , Wong Edmund , Carpenter David , Ng Johnny , Gordon Wayne , Pasinetti Giulio
Published: March 2012

Diffuse axonal injury is a common pathological consequence of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Diffusion Tensor Imaging is an ideal technique to study white matter integrity using the Fractional Anisotropy (FA) index which is a measure of axonal integrity and coherence. There have been several reports showing reduced FA in individuals with TBI, which suggest demyelination or reduced fiber density in white matter tracts secondary to injury. Individuals with TBI are usually diagnosed with cognitive deficits such as reduced attention span, memory and executive function. In this study we sought to investigate correlations between brain functional networks, white matter integrity, and TBI severity in individuals with TBI ranging from mild to severe. A resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging protocol was used to study the default mode network in subjects at rest. FA values were decreased throughout all white matter tracts in the mild to severe TBI subjects. FA values were also negatively correlated with TBI injury severity ratings. The default mode network showed several brain regions in which connectivity measures were higher among individuals with TBI relative to control subjects. These findings suggest that, subsequent to TBI, the brain may undergo adaptation responses at the cellular level to compensate for functional impairment due to axonal injury.
Synaesthesia: cross activations, high interconnectivity, and a parietal hub
Authors: Specht Karsten
Published: March 2012

This review summarizes the most recent studies on synaesthesia, particularly studies on grapheme-colour synaesthesia, time-space synaesthesia, and coloured-hearing synaesthesia. Based on behavioural as well as neuroimaging studies, there is emerging evidence that synaesthesia is not only caused by the cross activation of two sensory areas but that it may require additional binding processes, which are assumed to take place in the parietal lobe. However, divergent results exist with respect to the lateralization of this effect, i.e. whether it is the left or right parietal lobe most responsible. Studies also indicate that attention modulates the synaesthetic experience. Furthermore, it has been shown that synaesthetes demonstrate a higher level of connectivity, thus supporting the view of a genetic pre-disposition of synaesthesia.
Lithium: Molecular interactions, clinical actions
Authors: Catalán Johanna , Quezada María
Published: March 2012

Lithium is one of the most widely used drugs in neuropsychopharmacology. Preclinical scientists have made several advances in ascertaining the molecular mechanisms of action of this cation; such as its ability to stabilize monoamine levels, to interact with second messengers, and its neuroprotective effects, possibly over suicidal behaviors. Nevertheless, there remains a gap of knowledge between the pharmacological advances and the number of reliable clinical trials, creating a lack of evidence-based medicine to support medical prescriptions. In this review we examine lithium’s molecular mechanisms of action and evaluate their relevance in clinical applications.
A Graphical Approach to Yield and Boundary Surfaces of Selected Hypoplastic Constitutive Equations
Authors: Sikora Z. , Ciesla P.
Published: March 2012

The article describes how to identify the boundary and yield surface for hypoplastic constitutive equations proposed by Wu, Gudehus and Bauer. It is shown how to identify and plot the surfaces for any equation in this class. Calculation errors are analyzed characteristic for applied set of numerical formulas. In the paper there are computer links to the source code prepared in the MATLAB system, based on instructions in the article. A sample consitutive domains are shown, plotted using the attached computer program.
Computing Internodal Conductivities in Numerical Modeling of two Dimensional Unsaturated Flow on Rectangular Grid
Authors: Szymkiewicz A. , Burzynski K.
Published: March 2012

This paper compares numerical solutions of transient two-dimensional unsaturated flow equation by using different averaging schemes for internodal conductivities. Averaging methods such as arithmetic mean, geometric mean, upstream weighting, and integrated mean are taken into account, as well as a recent approach based on steady-state approximation. The latter method proved the most flexible, producing relatively accurate solutions for both downward and upward flow cases.
The Influence of Selected Material and Technological Factors on Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Reactive Powder Concrete (RPC) / Wpływ Wybranych Czynników Materiałowych I Technologicznych Na Własciwosci Mechaniczne I Mikrostrukture Betonów Z Proszków Reaktywnych (BPR)
Authors: Zdeb T. , Sliwinski J.
Published: March 2012

The paper deals with the properties and microstructure of Reactive Powder Concrete (RPC), which was developed at Cracow University of Technology. The influence of three different curing conditions: water (W), steam (S) and autoclave (A) and also steel fibres content on selected properties of RPC was analyzed. The composite characterized by w/s ratio equal to 0.20 and silica fume to cement ratio 20%, depending on curing conditions and fibres content, obtained compressive strength was in the range from 200 to 315 MPa, while modulus of elasticity determined during compression was about 50 GPa. During three-point bending test load-deflection curves were registered. Base on aforementioned measurements following parameters were calculated: flexural strength, stress at limit of proportionality (LOP), stress at modulus of rapture (MOR), work of fracture (WF), and toughness indices I5, I10 and I20. Both amount of steel fibres and curing conditions influence the deflection of RPC during bending.
Influence of Hybrid Fibers on Toughness Behavior of High Strength Flowing Concrete
Authors: Dawood Eethar Thanon , Ramli Mahyuddin
Published: March 2012

This study investigates the use of steel fibers and hybrid composite with a total fibers content of 2% on the high strength flowing concrete and determines the density, compressive strength, static modulus of elasticity, flexural strength and toughness indices for the mixes. The results show that the inclusion of more than 0.5% of palm fibers in hybrid fibers mixes reduces the compressive strength. The hybrid fibers can be considered as a promising concept and the replacement of a portion of steel fibers with palm fibers can significantly reduce the density, enhance the flexural strength and toughness. The results also indicates that the use of hybrid fibers (1.5 steel fibers + 0.5% palm fibers) in specimens increases significantly the toughness indices and thus the use of hybrid fibers combinations in reinforced concrete would enhance their flexural toughness & rigidity and enhance their overall performances
Health awareness, motor performance and physical activity of female university students
Authors: Konczos Csaba , Bognár József , Szakály Zsolt , Barthalos István , Simon István , Oláh Zsolt
Published: March 2012

Health awareness, motor performance and physical activity of female university students

Study aim: To assess body composition, health awareness and cardiorespiratory fitness in female university students differing in volume of obligatory physical activity classes.

Material and methods: 109 female students of the University of West Hungary volunteered to participate in the study. The subjects were divided into two groups according to frequency and volume of obligatory physical activity: students of recreation and health education programmes (RHE; n = 27) and of social pedagogy, tourism and catering, and teacher training programmes (STT; n = 82). Basic somatic characteristics were measured, body composition was assessed by bioelectrical impedance, cardiorespiratory fitness was evaluated using the Rockport Fitness Walking Test and health behaviour was assessed by questionnaire method. Student's t-test for independent samples, the U Mann Whitney test or chi-square test were used in data analysis.

Results: RHE students had higher values of percentage muscle mass (p<0.05) and of cardiorespiratory performance (p<0.001), they also declared significantly more frequently (p<0.001) practicing leisure physical activity as compared with the STT group. However, in both groups the symptoms of unhealthy behaviour were observed.

Conclusions: Although beneficial effects of augmented physical activity on body composition, cardiorespiratory performance and attitudes towards taking up leisure-time activity was noted, attention should be paid to symptoms of unhealthy behaviour observed in female students. This support the need for including obligatory physical education classes in university curriculum and the importance of education and promotion of healthy behaviour among the students.
Impact of Land Use Changes and Dynamic Vegetation Changes on Vascular Flora Diversity in Małków–Bartochów (the Warta River Valley)
Authors: Woziwoda Beata , Michalska-Hejduk Dorota
Published: March 2012

The paper presents the changes of vascular plant flora in the Małków–Bartochów peatland area (the Warta River valley) which took place over a 40-year period. Vanishing, permanent and new components of the flora are presented with a special focus on valuable (protected by the law, threatened and locally rare) species. Changes in the share of ecological groups are estimated and discussed. Anthropogenic and natural factors, directly or indirectly influencing (in the past and at present) flora composition, are noted and analyzed.
Anthropogenic Causes of Peatland Species Vanishing in the Glinno Ługi Area
Authors: Woziwoda Beata , Komperda Agata
Published: March 2012

The paper presents information about the occurrence and state of preservation of valuable peat-bog species as well as about the threats facing them. The anthropopressure-related changes which occurred in the habitat of the Glinno Ługi peatland and their influence on the flora are presented and discussed.
An Attempt at Assessment of Alnetum Incanae Lüdi 1921 Transformations in the Skawica River Valley (The Beskid Żywiecki MTS)
Authors: Skowronek Izabela , Babczyńska-Sendek Beata , Chmura Damian
Published: March 2012

The paper presents an attempt at assessment of Alnetum incanae LÜDI 1921 transformations in the Skawica River valley. The field studies were carried out in the whole Skawica valley. On the basis of phytosociological relevés, the participation of species which prefer riparian habitats, the number and cover of anthropophytes, including invasive plants, were analyzed. The presence of synanthropic sites was also taken into consideration. The research demonstrated that in the study area phytocoenoses of the Alnetum incanae association have primarily retained natural character, in spite of a noticeable influence of human impact. The results suggested that the vicinity of synanthropic sites does not eliminate natural components of phytocoenosis.
Transformation of Forest Vegetation after 40 Years of Protection in the Tomczyce Nature Reserve (Central Poland)
Authors: Kiedrzyński Marcin , Zielińska Katarzyna , Grzelak Paulina
Published: March 2012

The Tomczyce nature reserve is characterized by a degenerated forest vegetation. We assume that the regeneration process was possible to launch after the establishment of the nature reserve in 1968. The vegetation of the Tomczyce forest complex was characterized for the first time by Jakubowska-Gabara (1976) whose studies were taken as a basis of our research. The phytocenoses after 40. years of protection have a greater participation of species with higher trophic and moisture requirements. The regeneration process in communities with pine trees is caused by an expansion of broad-leaved trees and shrubs. Transformation of forest vegetation causes a decrease in cover of thermophilous and heliophilous species. On the other hand, species of oak-hornbeam forests as well as anthropophytes are in expansion. Planning of the protection activities in the nature reserve needs to include these dynamic tendencies of the vegetation.
Estimation of Population Size of Dentaria Enneaphyllos in the Vicinity of the Bełchatów Brown Coal Mine and the Attempt of Its Metaplantation
Authors: Kurowski Józef K. , Koczywąs Ewelina , Pieńkowski Michał
Published: March 2012

The impact of anthropopressure on the flora in the vicinity of the Bełchatów Brown Coal Mine in Central Poland has been substantially strong. Consequently, certain changes in habitat conditions have been observed, leading to a decline in particular species stands. Mechanical damage, as well as the mine and power plant expansion have contributed to further species decline in the area. Ex situ conservation, e.g. metaplantation from native to secondary localities seems an efficient method of ensuring the species survival in the local flora. One of the species is to be found in Wola Wydrzyna (under the Forest District Administration of Bełchatów) is Drooping Bittercress Dentaria enneaphyllos. Its population was first recorded in the area in 1979. However, since 2009 the forest complex has undergone a regular expansion of the Bełchatów Brown Coal Mine. The forest area is to be utilised for the future Szczerców coal deposit. Therefore, in 2000 the method of Dentaria enneaphyllos metaplantation was applied.
Multi-degree of freedom robust control of the CNC X-Y table PMSM-based feed-drive module
Authors: Pietrusewicz Krzysztof
Published: March 2012

Multi-degree of freedom robust control of the CNC X-Y table PMSM-based feed-drive module

The paper presents results of studies on linear synchronous motors controlled in CNC feed axes through an intelligent digital servodrive. The research includes a conceptual design of an open servodrive control system and identification of dynamic models of a test stand with an open CNC system. Advantages of robust control over the classic one are discussed. A hybrid predictive approach to robust control of milling machine X-Y table velocity is proposed and results of simulation tests are presented. was prepared during the work for the Ministry of Science and Higher Education grant number N N502 336936, (acronym for this project is M.A.R.I.N.E. multivariable hybrid ModulAR motIon coNtrollEr), while its main purpose is the development of new robust position/velocity model-based control system, as well as to introduce the measurement of the actual state into the switching algorithm between the locally synthesized controllers. Such switching increases the overall robustness of the machine tool feed-drive module. The paper is the extended version of material proposed in [10].
Thermal effects on magnetic hysteresis modeling
Authors: Ladjimi A. , Mékideche M. , Babouri A.
Published: March 2012

Thermal effects on magnetic hysteresis modeling

A temperature dependent model is necessary for the generation of hysteresis loops of ferromagnetic materials. In this study, a physical model based on the Jiles-Atherton model has been developed to study the effect of temperature on the magnetic hysteresis loop. The thermal effects were included through a model of behavior depending on the temperature parametersMsandkof the Jiles-Atherton model. The temperature-dependent Jiles-Atherton model was validated through measurements made on ferrite material (3F3). The results have been found to be in good agreement with the model.
Etiopathological aspects of Elaphostrongylus cervi and Varestrongylus sagittatus infections in red deer in Bulgaria
Authors: Panayotova-Pencheva Mariana S. , Alexandrov Marin T.
Published: March 2012

One hundred and ten faecal samples and five lungs of red deer (aged 2 to 8 years) coming from the State Hunting Enterprise Vitinya in Bulgaria (Balkan Mountain) were examined. A larvoscopic examination of the faeces and helminthological necropsies, pathoanatomical and histological examinations of the lungs were performed. The overall prevalence of protostrongylids was 70% (77/110), and the prevalence ofElaphostrongylus cerviandVarestrongylus sagittatuswas 68% (75/110), and 27% (30/110), respectively. In 25% (28/110) of the faecal samples, mixed infection withV. sagittatusandE. cerviwas found. Mixed protostrongylid infections with those two species were detected in lungs of all animals. The macroscopic lesions found in the lungs parasitized by those helminths were classified as follows: gray, dark-red to black stained portions on the lungs surface varying in shape and size; brown-black nodes clearly differentiated from the surrounding tissue; small, hard subserous nodules. The most frequently observed microscopic abnormalities were desquamatous bronchitis, alveolitis associated with accumulations of alveolar macrophages and eosinophilic granulocytes, haemorrhages in the alveoli and the alveolar septa, development of parasitic granulomas in the interstitium as well as a peribronchial, perilobular, disseminated and intralobular hyperplasia of the lymphoid tissue. The macroscopic and microscopic alterations depended on the species of the parasites found in the inflammatory areas. The infections withE. cerviwere most often associated with the lesions on the lungs surface varying in color, shape and size and with the small, hard subserous nodules, and those withV. sagittatus– with the brown-black nodes clearly differentiated from the surrounding tissue.
The effect of acute exposure to herbicide Gardoprim Plus Gold 500 SC on haematological and biochemical indicators and histopathological changes in common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.)
Authors: Dobšíková Radka , Blahová Jana , Modrá Helena , Škorič Miša , Svobodová Zdeňka
Published: March 2012

The study was focused on the assessment of effects of herbicide preparation Gardoprim Plus Gold 500 SC (terbuthylazine and S-metolachlor as active substances) on haematological and biochemical indices as well as tissue histopathological changes in common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.). Forty eight one- to two-year-old fish were divided into two groups, i.e. 24 fish were treated with 13.0 mg·l-1 of Gardoprim Plus Gold 500 SC and 24 fish were used in control. The experiment was conducted according to OECD method No. 203 Fish, Acute Toxicity Test. Experimental carp showed a significant decrease in leukocyte and lymphocyte counts (P < 0.01) and haematocrit value (P < 0.05) in haematological profile. In biochemical indices, a significant increase in glucose, aspartate aminotransferase, ammonia (P < 0.01), and lactate dehydrogenase (P < 0.05) and a significant decrease in inorganic phosphorus, triglycerides (P < 0.01), and chlorides (P < 0.05) were found in exposed carp compared to control. Histopathological examination revealed lesions in gills and liver. The decline in both leukocyte and lymphocyte counts indicates decreased nonspecific immunity of treated common carp. Increase in ammonia and glucose concentrations, and in catalytic activities of lactate dehydrogenase and aspartate aminotransferase can be related to stress burden, and alteration of liver cell function, respectively, in experimental carp compared to control fish. The study uniquely contributes to the evaluation of the effect of two-component herbicide preparation on common carp.
Comparison of nutritional values of pheasant and broiler chicken meats
Authors: Straková Eva , Suchý Pavel , Karásková Kateřina , Jámbor Márk , Navrátil Petr
Published: March 2012

The aim of this study was to compare the nutritional and dietetic values of the meat of chickens of the common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus L.) intensively fattened until 90 days of age to the meat of broiler chickens fattened until 40 days of age. Breast muscles in pheasants contained higher protein content on a dry matter basis (930.57 g·kg-1 in females, 937.23 g·kg-1 in males) and lower fat content (29.58 g·kg-1 in females, 29.92 g·kg-1 in males) as compared to thigh muscles (protein: 781.80 g·kg-1 in females, 810.07 g·kg-1 in males, fat: 163.74 g·kg-1 in females, 140.71 g·kg-1 in males). Breast muscles in both females and males contained less calcium (0.67 g·kg-1 in females, 0.57 g·kg-1 in males) and more phosphorus (10.16 g·kg-1 in females, 9.72 g·kg-1 in males) compared to the thigh muscles in which the mean calcium content was 1.28 g·kg-1 in females and 1.32 g·kg-1 in males, and the mean phosphorus content was 9.31 g·kg-1 in females and 9.23 g·kg-1 in males. Breast and thigh muscles in both female and male pheasants contained higher protein content and lower fat content compared to broiler meat. The calcium content in pheasant meat was lower whereas the phosphorus and magnesium contents were higher compared to broiler meat. Pheasant meat with high content of protein and low fat content is very valuable foodstuff and its dietetic value exceeds that of broiler meat. There is a lack of scientific literature on this subject which has not been studied in detail yet. This study extends the current scope of scientific knowledge in this field.
Evaluation of toxicity after periocular and intravitreal administration of carboplatin in rabbit eyes
Authors: Darsová Denisa , Pochop Pavel , Vajner Luděk , Kodetová Daniela , Uhlík Jiří , Kukačka Jiří , Dotřelová Dagmar
Published: March 2012

The aim of this study was to characterize the extent of toxicity of focal carboplatin administration and to identify the dose limiting toxicity in rabbit eyes depending on administered concentrations. New Zealand white male rabbits (n = 18) were treated with 1 of 3 regimens: a single periocular injection of 15 mg of carboplatin (group I), a single periocular injection of 30 mg of carboplatin (group II) and a single transcorneal intravitreal injection of 0.05 mg of carboplatin (group III). Ophthalmologic examinations and vitreous samplings were performed under dissociative anaesthesia at regular intervals during next 2 (groups I and III) or 3 (group II) weeks. Carboplatin concentrations in vitreous samples were assessed by atomic absorption spectroscopy. At the end of experiments, all rabbit eyes were obtained for histopathologic examination. Clinical and histological evidence of toxicity was graded into four grades according to anatomical structures of the rabbit eye. The dose limiting toxicity was reached in group II after periocular injection of 30 mg of carboplatin and in group III after intravitreal injection of 0.05 mg of carboplatin. No systemic toxicity was observed in any group. Focal carboplatin administration may decrease systemic exposure to this cytotoxic drug in the retinoblastoma treatment. This moreover suggests that focal carboplatin administration is a promising approach and challenge for advanced retinoblastoma chemotherapy.
Effects of amlodipine on bone metabolism in male albino Wistar rats
Authors: Gradošová Iveta , Živná Helena , Švejkovská Klára , Palička Vladimír , Tichý Aleš , Živný Pavel
Published: March 2012

Amlodipine (dihydropyridine-type calcium channel blocker) is a widely used agent for the treatment of hypertension in human and veterinary medicine but detailed information about its effects on bone metabolism are missing. Therefore, the aim of our study was to investigate the effect of amlodipine on bone metabolism in male albino Wistar rats. Amlodipine (0.3 mg/100 g body weight; gavage) was administered to 8 rats for 8 weeks. Control group (n = 8) received aqua pro inj. (0.2 ml/100 g body weight; gavage). Bone marker concentrations of carboxy-terminal cross-linking telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I) and aminoterminal propeptide of procollagen type I in serum, and of bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP) in both serum and bone homogenate were measured by enzyme immunoassay. We investigated the expression of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) in proximal tibia using Western blotting, and bone mineral density was measured by Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry in lumbar and caudal vertebrae and in femoral areas. Mechanical properties of the femurs were measured by three-point bending of the shaft and compression testing of the femoral neck. After 8 weeks of amlodipine administration there was a significant decrease in serum concentrations of BALP (p= 0.0009) and CTX-I (p= 0.003), and the content of BALP in bone homogenate (p= 0.026) compared to the control. In addition, Western blot analysis indicated increased BMP-2 protein concentration after amlodipine administration. Our findings suggest that amlodipine has a retarding influence on bone metabolism in rats by decreasing bone turnover, which probably in consequence increases expression of BMP-2.