bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of operating parameters on spiramycin removal by nanofiltration membrane
Authors: Zhao Changwei , Fan Weihong , Wang Tao , Hou Deyin , Luan Zhaokun
Published: October 2013

Spiramycin removal from wastewater using four nanofiltration (NF) membranes (NF270, NF90, ESNA1-K1 and ESNA1-LF2-LD) was studied. The effects of operating pressure, feed temperature, feed concentration, cation and anion ions on the permeate flux rate and spiramycin rejection were investigated. The results show that increasing operating pressure resulted in the increase of both permeate flux and spiramycin rejection. The flux rate increased almost linearly with temperature, while the spiramycin rejection decreased. The permeate flux rate declined relatively with increasing feed concentration of spiramycin for NF270 and ESNA1-LF2-LD membranes compared with NF90 and ESNA1-K membranes. The presence of cations reduced spiramycin rejection, with the strength of influence for the NF270 NF membrane following the order Mg2+>Ca2+>K+. The presence of anions also resulted in decreased spiramycin rejection, the strength of the effect following the order NO3−>Cl−>SO42− for the NF270 membrane.
Empirical regression models for estimating nitrogen removal in a stormwater wetland during dry and wet days
Authors: Guerra Heidi B. , Park Kisoo , Kim Youngchul
Published: October 2013

Due to the highly variable hydrologic quantity and quality of stormwater runoff, which requires more complex models for proper prediction of treatment, a relatively few and site-specific models for stormwater wetlands have been developed. In this study, regression models based on extensive operational data and wastewater wetlands were adapted to a stormwater wetland receiving both base flow and storm flow from an agricultural area. The models were calibrated in Excel Solver using 15 sets of operational data gathered from random sampling during dry days. The calibrated models were then applied to 20 sets of event mean concentration data from composite sampling during 20 independent rainfall events. For dry days, the models estimated effluent concentrations of nitrogen species that were close to the measured values. However, overestimations during wet days were made for NH3-N and total Kjeldahl nitrogen, which resulted from higher hydraulic loading rates and influent nitrogen concentrations during storm flows. The results showed that biological nitrification and denitrification was the major nitrogen removal mechanism during dry days. Meanwhile, during wet days, the prevailing aerobic conditions decreased the denitrification capacity of the wetland, and sedimentation of particulate organic nitrogen and particle-associated forms of nitrogen was increased.
Constructed wetlands as an alternative restoration measure for shallow lakes
Authors: Bozic M. , Nikolic G. , Rudic Z. , Raicevic V. , Lalevic B.
Published: October 2013

This paper deals with the consequences of cultural eutrophication and unconventional solutions for shallow lake restoration. Cultural eutrophication is the primary problem that affects especially shallow lakes, due to their physical characteristics (e.g. shallow depth, lack of stratification). Palic Lake, a very shallow Pannonian lake, received treated municipal wastewaters coming from the lagoons of a wastewater treatment plant. The sewage discharge mainly increased the nutrient load to the lake in the last decades. The lake sustainability is affected by inappropriate quality of water that flows into the lake, and abundance of deposited sediment. The technology that can provide both improvement of water quality and resolution of the sediment problem is a constructed wetland, which is designed to utilise the natural processes involving wetland vegetation, soil and their associated microbial assemblages to assist in additional water treatment. The technical solution is based on three key aspects: quality and quantity of deposited sediment, enriched by nutrients; effluent quality; desired lake water quality. A designed constructed wetland can accomplish the desired water quality and gradually remediate deposited sediment.
Influence of conditioning agents and enzymic hydrolysis on the biochemical methane potential of sewage sludge
Authors: Marañón Elena , Negral Luis , Fernández-Nava Yolanda , Castrillón Leonor
Published: October 2013

Biochemical methane potential (BMP) tests have been carried out on sewage sludge from two wastewater treatment plants to assess the effect of additives (FeCl3 and two cationic polyelectrolytes) used in sludge dewatering. BMP tests were also carried out on the concentrated solid phase from the enzymic hydrolysis pre-treatment (42 °C, 48 h). FeCl3 had no significant effect on specific methane production, obtaining 242–246 LCH4/kgVSo. The effect of the combination of polyelectrolyte and FeCl3 depended on the polyelectrolyte and the sludge, but generally led to an increase in specific methane production (25–40%). When enzymic hydrolysis was applied as a pre-treatment, specific methane production increased from 6.8% in the sludge containing FeCl3 to 20% in the sludge without FeCl3, although the increases were not statistically significant. In terms of LCH4/kgVSrem, a general improvement was achieved both by means of additives and by enzymic hydrolysis. However, this improvement was only significant in the case of sludge which had undergone previous enzymic hydrolysis (62%) and in the untreated sludge containing a polyelectrolyte and FeCl3 (24%). Cationic polyelectrolytes inhibited solid–liquid separation during enzymic hydrolysis and, although the presence of only FeCl3 did not affect this separation, a significant decrease (32%) in LCH4/kgVSrem was observed.
Walking with functional electrical stimulation and unlocking braces in thoracic-level paraplegia
Authors: Bobet Jacques , Chong Suling , Rolf Robert , Stein Richard
Published: October 2013

Walking was tested in 4 people with thoracic-level paraplegia using
stimulation of quadriceps muscles, the flexor reflex and unlocking
knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFO). Heart rate, speed, distance, kinematics and
ground reaction forces were measured while subjects walked using a walker.
None of the subjects could walk without the system; all could walk
continuously for at least 4 minutes with it. Joint angles and some other
kinematic features resembled normal walking, but the walking was too slow
(average speed: 3.8 m/min.) and too demanding (heart rate: 128 b/min;
physiological cost index: 15 b/m) to be practical. Subjects supported about
1/3 of their weight with their arms during stance and about 2/3 during swing.
Our results suggest that the braces reduced the effort needed and that the
low speeds were due to both a lack of power at push-off and the time needed
to stabilize the hip and trunk. The high heart rates arose from excessive
contraction of the arm and trunk muscles for balance and propulsion.
Microbiological Air Contamination in Premises of the Primary Health-care
Authors: Karwowska Ewa , Miaśkiewicz-Pęska Ewa , Andrzejewska-Morzuch Dorota
Published: October 2013

The aim of this research was to evaluate the microbiological indoor air contamination level in chosen facilities of the primary health-care for adults and children. The total numbers of mesophilic bacteria, staphylococci, coli-group bacteria and moulds in both surgery rooms and patients’ waiting rooms were determined. Air samples were collected with a MAS 100 impactor and the concentration of microorganisms was estimated by a culture method. The microbiological air contamination level was diverse: the number of mesophilic bacteria ranged from 320 to 560 CFU/m3, number of staphylococci - 10-305 CFU/m3, coli group bacteria - 0-15 CFU/m3 and moulds - 15-35 CFU/m3. The bacteriological contamination level of the air in examined community health centers was higher than described in the literature for hospitals and exceeded the acceptable values proposed for the surgery objects.
Differences in Ice Cover in the Anthropogenic Reservoir of Pławniowice in the Years 1986–2012
Authors: Kostecki Maciej
Published: October 2013

The article presents changes in the thickness and duration of the ice cover found in the restored anthropogenic water reservoir of Pławniowice. It also defines the role the ice cover plays in the formation of the reservoir limnological cycle. Characteristic and significant changeability of the ice cover thickness and duration was observed. The changes in the ice cover demonstrate that they are cyclical but not regular. The ice cover did not always form in the analyzed period. It happened twice, i.e. in 1988 and 2007 (a gap of 20 years). The longest lake freezing period lasted 119 days. Changes in the ice cover duration also show certain periodicity. The shortest periods occurred approx. every 7 years. Maximum values of the ice cover thickness ranged between 10 and 52 cm. There is a relation between the ice cover thickness and its duration period. The rate of increase in the ice cover thickness varied between 0.296 and 3.6 cm/d. The hypolimnion removal impact on the ice cover duration period and thickness was not observed. On the other hand, the ice cover duration period affects the spring circulation duration. Thus, it has an influence on the oxygen balance of the limnic ecosystem.
Genetic Diversity in Domestic and Introduced Wheats
Authors: Hudcovicová Martina , Ondreičková Katarína , Hauptvogel Pavol , Kraic Ján
Published: October 2013

A set of 33 wheat EST-SSR markers was designed and 18 from them were polymorphic and used for assessment of genetic diversity within 36 introduced genotypes of hexaploid bread wheat. Altogether 105 alleles were detected, in average 3.18 alleles per locus. Maximum number of alleles 14 was detected at the locus TDI389708. Five the most polymorphic markers were used for the evaluation and comparison of genetic variation within 46 domestic (Slovak) wheat genotypes and 36 introduced (foreign) wheat genotypes. The number of alleles per used primer pair within domestic genotypes varied from 7 to 19, with an average of 13.2 alleles, an average gene diversity 0.846 and PIC 0.980 per locus. The number of alleles per primer within introduced genotypes varied from 7 to 14, with an average of 10.8 alleles, an average gene diversity 0.780 and PIC 0.958 per locus. The level of polymorphism in EST- SSRs was sufficient for discrimination between genotypes and variation within domestic genotypes was slightly higher than in introduced genotypes. Variation revealed by 5 selected EST-SSR markers clustered genotypes according to origin. Domestic and introduced wheats were grouped distinctly into two separate groups.
The Polymorphism of Cytogenetic Markers in the Farm and Wild-Living Raccoon Dog (Nyctereutes Procyonoides) / Polimorfizm Markerów Cytogenetycznych U Jenota (Nyctereutes Procyonoides) W Populacjach Hodowlanych I Dziko Żyjących
Authors: Bugno-Poniewierska Monika , Wroński Mariusz , Potocki Leszek , Pawlina Klaudia , Wnuk Maciej , Jeżewska-Witkowska Grażyna , Słota Ewa
Published: October 2013

The raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) is a mammalian species that belongs to Canidae family, order Carnivora. This species represents both animals living in the wild and farm animals used in the fur industry. Raccoon dogs have the most ‘primitive’ karyotype among Canidae family. The Chinese raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides procyonoides) is characterised by a variable number of chromosomes (2n = 54 + 0-4 B). B chromosomes are supernumerary chromosomes occurring in addition to the basic set of A chromosomes in the cells of many organisms. The function and origin of these additional chromosomes is not clear. The aim of this work was to determine possible karyotypic differences between wild-living and farm populations, using methods of classical and molecular cytogenetics. The most useful cytogenetic markers to analyse karyotype polymorphism of canine are the number of B chromosomes and nucleolar organizer regions. A variation was identified in the number of B chromosomes and nucleolar organizer regions (NORs) in cells between wild-living and breeding populations.
Validation of 10 Microsatellite Loci for Their use in Parentage Verification and Individual Identification in the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog Sharplanina / Walidacja 10 Loci Mikrosatelitarnych Do Kontroli Pochodzenia Oraz Identyfikacji Osobniczej Jugosłowiańskiego Psa Pasterskiego Z Szar Płaniny
Authors: Dimitrijevic Vladimir , Stevanovic Jevrosima , Savic Mila , Petrujkic Branko , Simeunovic Predrag , Milosevic Ivan , Stanimirovic Zoran
Published: October 2013

The aim of the study was to assess a commercially available microsatellite panel for use in paternity and identification analyses in the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog Sharplanina, an ancient livestock guarding breed. Allele frequencies for 10 microsatellite loci (PEZ01, FHC2054, FHC2010, PEZ05, PEZ20, PEZ12, PEZ03, PEZ06, PEZ08 and FHC2079) were determined in 103 unrelated Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog individuals. The loci revealed varied levels of polymorphism (five to 12 alleles), with an average of 7.83 per locus. Average values of observed heterozygosity and polymorphic information content (PIC) were 0.64 and 0.66, respectively. Nine out of 10 microsatellite markers were highly informative with PIC values higher than 0.5. The obtained value of combined power of exclusion (0.9989) confirms usefulness of this panel of microsatellites for parentage verification, while the value of combined power of discrimination of 0.9999 clearly shows that the panel can conclusively identify individual dogs. In conclusion, the results obtained suggest that the selected set of commercially available microsatellite markers may be used as a routine tool for parentage verification and individual identification in the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog. Although analysis of genetic variability of the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog was not the primary focus of the study, the established values of major diversity indices disclose a highly variable gene pool in the breed.
The Quality of Porcine Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Their Osteo- and Adipogenic Cell Derivatives – The Level of Proapoptotic Bad Protein Expression / Jakość Mezenchymalnych Komórek Macierzystych Świni Oraz Ich Pochodnych Zróżnicowanych W Kierunku Komórek Szeregu Osteo- I Adipogennego – Poziom Ekspresji Proapoptotycznego Białka Bad
Authors: Opiela Jolanta , Bartel Żaneta , Romanek Joanna , Wieczorek Jarosław , Wilczek Piotr
Published: October 2013

The aim of the research was to evaluate the quality of porcine mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and MSC-derived osteoblasts/osteocytes (bone cells) and adipocytes (fat cells). This evaluation was performed on the basis of molecular analysis for proapoptotic BAD protein expression. MSCs isolated from the pig bone marrow were cultured in vitro for five weeks in three types of culture media: differentiating towards the osteoblasts/osteocytes (O) and adipocytes (A) and non-differentiating, control medium (C). In all groups of cells, the relative extent of BAD protein expression was estimated by western blotting. Significant differences in the posttranslational abundance of BAD proteins were noted between MSCs differentiated into the osteogenic and the adipogenic cell lineages (P<0.05). Summarizing the results, we conclude that posttranslational level of BAD protein expression can be used as a reliable marker for assessing the quality of both MSCs and their cell derivatives. Interestingly, the semi-quantitative profile of BAD protein expression in differentiated cells turned out to be lower than that observed in undifferentiated cells, demonstrating that the culture conditions used for pro-osteogenic or pro-adipogenic cellular transformation did not affect negatively the quality of MSCs.
Determination of allowable fluid temperature during start-up operation of outlet header under the assumption of constant and temperature-dependent material properties
Authors: Rząsa Dariusz , Duda Piotr
Published: October 2013

Modern supercritical power plants operate at very high temperatures and pressures. Thus the construction elements are subjected to both high thermal and mechanical loads. As a result high stresses in those components are created. In order to operate safely, it is important to monitor stresses, especially during start-up and shut-down processes. The maximum stresses in the construction elements should not exceed the allowable stresses that are defined according to boiler regulations. It is important to find optimum operating parameters, that can assure safe heating and cooling processes. The optimum parameters define temperature and pressure histories that can keep the highest stresses within allowable limit and reduce operation time as much as possible. In this paper a new numerical method for determining optimum working fluid parameters is presented. In this method, properties of steel can be assumed as constant or temperature dependent. The constant value is taken usually at the average temperature of the operation cycle. For both cases optimal parameters are determined. Based on these parameters start-up operations for both cases are conducted. During entire processes stresses in the heated element are monitored. The results obtained are compared with German boiler regulations - Technische Regeln fur Dampfkessel 301.
The effect of reduced heat transfer in a micropolar fluid in natural convection
Authors: Rup Kazimierz , Dróżdż Agata
Published: October 2013

This paper presents the numerical solution to the unsteady natural convection problem in micropolar fluid in the vicinity of a vertical plate, heat flux of which rises suddenly at a given moment. In order to solve this problem the method of finite differences was applied. The numerical results have been presented for a range of values of the dimensionless material properties and fluid Prandtl number. The analysis of the results shows that the intensity of the heat transfer in micropolar fluid is lower compared to the Newtonian fluid.
A simplified mathematical model of a U-tube steam generator under variable load conditions
Authors: Laskowski Rafał , Lewandowski Janusz
Published: October 2013

A steam generator in a nuclear power plant with a light water reactor is a heat exchanger, in which the heat is being transferred from the primary to the secondary loop (it links the primary and secondary loops). When the power plant is running, the inlet parameters (temperatures and mass flow rates) on both sides of the steam generator can change. It is important to know how the changes of these parameters affect the steam generator performance. The complexity of the processes taking place in the steam generator makes it difficult to create a simulator reflecting its performance under changed conditions. In order to simplify the task, the steam generator was considered as a ‘black box’ with the aim of examining how the changes of the inlet parameters affect the changes of the outlet ones. On the basis of the system (steam generator) response, a simple mathematical model of the steam generator under variable load conditions was proposed. In the proposed model, there are two dimensionless parameters and three constant coefficients. A linear relation between these dimensionless parameters was obtained. The correctness of the model was verified against the data obtained with a steam generator simulator for European Pressured Reactor and AP-600 reactors. A good agreement between the proposed model and the simulator data was achieved.
Supercritical power plant 600 MW with cryogenic oxygen plant and CCS installation
Authors: Kotowicz Janusz , Dryjańska Aleksandra
Published: October 2013

This article describes a thermodynamic analysis of an oxy type power plant. The analyzed power plant consists of: 1) steam turbine for supercritical steam parameters of 600 °C/29 MPa with a capacity of 600 MW; 2) circulating fluidized bed boiler, in which brown coal with high moisture content (42.5%) is burned in the atmosphere enriched in oxygen; 3) air separation unit (ASU); 4) CO2 capture installation, where flue gases obtained in the combustion process are compressed to the pressure of 150 MPa. The circulated fluidized bed (CFB) boiler is integrated with a fuel dryer and a cryogenic air separation unit. Waste nitrogen from ASU is heated in the boiler, and then is used as a coal drying medium. In this study, the thermal efficiency of the boiler, steam cycle thermal efficiency and power demand were determined. These quantities made possible to determine the net efficiency of the test power plant.
The thermal-flow behavior of the working chamber in an oil-free scroll compressor
Authors: Rak Józef
Published: October 2013

The paper presents the full transient, two-dimensional finite volume method numerical calculations of the classical involute scroll compressor geometry. The purpose of the study was to develop and evaluate an adaptable implementation of numerical fluid mechanics and thermodynamics modeling procedure with a mesh deformation. The methodology consisting in the compression chamber geometry preparation, mesh generation and governing equations solving was described. The evaluation was carried by simulating an adiabatic compression process and the results were compared with the theoretical zero-dimensional model and the existing research concerning the scroll chamber computational fluid dynamics modeling. It has been shown that the proposed modeling routine results in good accuracy for the scroll compressors study applications.
Method of high heat flux removal by usage of liquid spray cooling
Authors: Smakulski Przemysław
Published: October 2013

High heat flux removal are important issue in many perspective applications such as computer chips, laser diode arrays, or boilers working on supercritical parameters. Electronic microchips constructed nowadays are model example of high heat flux removal, where the cooling system have to maintain the temperature below 358 K and take heat flux up to 300 W/cm2. One of the most efficient methods of microchips cooling turns out to be the spray cooling method. Review of installations has been accomplished for removal at high heat flux with liquid sprays. In the article are shown high flux removal characteristic and dependences, boiling critical parameters, as also the numerical method of spray cooling analysis.
A study of transcritical carbon dioxide cycles with heat regeneration
Authors: Trela Marian , Kwidziński Roman , Butrymowicz Dariusz
Published: October 2013

The paper presents an efficiency analysis of two transcritical CO2 power cycles with regenerative heaters. For the proposed cycles, calculations of thermal efficiency are given for selected values of operating parameters. It was assumed that the highest working temperature and pressure are in the range from 600 to 700 °C and 40 to 50 MPa, respectively. The purpose of the calculations was optimization of the pressure and mass flows in the regenerative heaters to achieve maximum cycle efficiency. It follows that for the assumed upper CO2 parameters, efficiency of 51-54% can be reached, which is comparable to the efficiency of a supercritical advanced power cycle considered by Dostal.
Influence of dietary fiber addition on some properties of yoghurt
Authors: Damian Cristina
Published: October 2013

The objective of this work was to study the effect of different dietary fibers on rheological properties of yoghurts fortified with these fibers [1, 2, 3]. Commercial fibers from apple and inulin were used. The effect of addition of dietary fibers in yoghurt [4, 5] was investigated by a rotational viscometer, Brookfield viscometer (Brookfield Engineering Inc., Model RV-DV I Prime) with RV spindles. The Brookfield viscometer DV I Prime with disk spindles represents an easy and cheap method for rheological characterization of non-Newtonian fluids, in this case of yoghurt. Syneresis and pH did not show any difference, while only apple fiber yoghurt showed colour differences compared to control.
Fatty acid and fat soluble vitamins composition of raw and cooked Black Sea horse mackerel
Authors: Merdzhanova Albena , Stancheva Mona , Dobreva Diana A. , Makedonski Lyubomir
Published: October 2013

The fat soluble vitamins, as well as n3 and n6 fatty acids (FA) are essential compounds of fish lipids and exclusively provided by the diet. Fish is sometimes eaten raw, but it is usually thermal processed before consumption. Temperature processing of fish tissue enhances its taste, inactivates pathogenic microorganisms and increases its shelf life. The fat soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D3 and E) and fatty acids are considered to be susceptible to oxidation during heating (cooking) process. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of steaming (10 min at 90°C) and frying (5 min on the each side with sunflower oil) on fat soluble vitamins and fatty acids composition in Horse mackerel (Trahurus mediterraneus) fish fillets. Vitamins A, D3 and E were analyzed simultaneously using RP-HPLC. The fatty acid composition was analyzed by GC-MS. The amounts of vitamin A (retinol) in cooked fish fillets (for both heat treatments) decreased significantly, compared to their content in the raw samples. In contrast vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) content affects only by steaming, while changes on vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) was observed solely after frying process. The highest content of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) were observed after steaming, whereas fried samples presented higher values of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) due to significant increase in linoleic acid (C18:2n6). During steaming did not reduce significant n3 and n6 PUFA levels, while frying caused a large reduction of n3 PUFAs. The ratio of n3/n6 was markedly lower in fried samples than in raw and steamed mackerel. In conclusion the Black Sea Horse Mackerel is a good source of vitamin D3, vitamin E and n3 PUFAs. After steaming and frying process there were minimum losses in the contents of cholecalciferol and alpha-tocopherol, while retinol was reduced nearly a half. The process of frying affects most significantly three fatty acids groups, whereas after steaming was observed little influence on fatty acids profile.
Trace element levels of three mushroom species
Authors: Dobrinas Simona , Soceanu Alina , Stanciu Gabriela , Popescu Viorica , Arnold Luiza Georgiana
Published: October 2013

The aim of this study was to determine Cu, Fe and Cr contents of three species of fresh mushrooms and canned mushrooms: white and brown champignon (Agaricus bisporus) and Pleurotus Ostreatus. Were analyzed various plant parts: stem, cap and cuticle of fresh mushrooms and only stem and cap for canned mushrooms. The levels of trace metals of mushroom samples collected from regions of Romania, Poland and Turkey were determined by UV/Visible spectrometry - standard addition method after digestion method. The contents of investigated trace metals in mushroom samples were found to be in the range of 0.01 - 2.26 mg/Kg for chromium, 2.02 - 430.67 mg/Kg for copper and 240.40 - 7952.89 mg/Kg for iron. The iron content was found to be higher than those of the other two minerals in all the samples. Mushrooms species in the highest levels of trace elements were found white champignon for Cu and Fe and brown champignon for Cr.
Field testing of a magnesium oxide-lime-calcium chloride hydrochloric acid based filter
Authors: Karunanithi Margandan , Agrawai Rachana , Singh Keshaw , Sharma Saroj , Qanungo Kushal , Acharya Rajeev
Published: October 2013

Field trials of a MgO-Lime-CaCl2-HCl filter has been carried out to test the operation of the filter during actual user conditions. Water quality parameters like pH, TDS, Ca, Mg hardness, total alkalinity, SO4-2, Cl- were found to be within permissible limits in the water obtained from the filter except nitrate, whose concentration was above permissible limits in the raw ground water itself. The dosage of HCl had to be adjusted and fixed in the field trials. In comparison to the laboratory trials conducted earlier it was found that during the field trials there was on an average 6% reduction in the fluoride removal efficiency of the filter. Operational user problems of filter were found and were addressed in the village.
High temperature PEM fuel cell steady-state transport modeling
Authors: Ionescu Viorel
Published: October 2013

A fuel cell is a device that can directly transfer chemical energy to electric and thermal energy. Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) are highly efficient power generators, achieving up to 50-60% conversion efficiency, even at sizes of a few kilowatts. There are several compelling technological and commercial reasons for operating H2/air PEM fuel cells at temperatures above 100 °C; rates of electrochemical kinetics are enhanced, water management and cooling is simplified, useful waste heat can be recovered, and lower quality reformed hydrogen may be used as the fuel. All of the High Temperature PEMFC model equations are solved with finite element method using commercial software package COMSOL Multiphysics. The results from PEM fuel cell modeling were presented in terms of reactant (oxygen and hydrogen) concentrations and water concentration in the anode and cathode gases; the polarization curve of the cell was also displayed.
Use of the electro-separation method for improvement of the utility value of winter rapeseeds
Authors: Kovalyshyn S.J. , Shvets O.P. , Grundas S. , Tys J.
Published: October 2013

The paper presents the results of a study of the use of electro-separation methods for improvement of the utility value of 5 winter rapeseed cultivars. The process of electro-separation of rapeseed was conducted on a prototype apparatus built at the Laboratory of Application of Electro-technologies in Agriculture, Lviv National Agriculture University. The process facilitated separation of damaged, low quality seeds from the sowing material. The initial mean level of mechanically damaged seeds in the winter rapeseed cultivars studied varied within the range of 15.8-20.1%. Verification of the amount of seeds with mechanical damage was performed on X-ray images of seeds acquired by means of a digital X-ray apparatus. In the course of analysis of the X-ray images, it was noted that the mean level of mechanical damage to the seeds after the electro-separation was in the range of 2.1-3.8%. The application of the method of separation of rapeseeds in the corona discharge field yielded a significant reduction of the level of seeds with mechanical damage. The application of the method in practice may effectively contribute to improvement of the utility value of sowing material or seed material for production of edible oil.
DMA thermal analysis of yacon tuberous roots
Authors: Blahovec J. , Lahodová M. , Kindl M. , Fernández E.C.
Published: October 2013

Specimens prepared from yacon roots in first two weeks after harvest were tested by dynamic mechanical analysis thermal analysis at temperatures between 30 and 90°C. No differences between different parts of roots were proved. There were indicated some differences in the test parameters that were caused by short time storage of the roots. One source of the differences was loss of water during the roots storage. The measured modulus increased during short time storage. Detailed study of changes of the modulus during the specimen dynamic mechanical analysis test provided information about different development of the storage and loss moduli during the specimen heating. The observed results can be caused by changes in cellular membranes observed earlier during vegetable heating, and by composition changes due to less stable components of yacon like inulin.
The Frequency of Allele CCR5∆32 in a Serbian Population / UČESTALOST ALELA CCR5∆32 U SRPSKOJ POPULACIJI
Authors: Đorđević Valentina , Timotijević Gordana , Pruner Iva , Radojković Dragica , Milovanović Boško , Miljković Đorđe
Published: October 2013

Background: The mutant CCR5Δ32 allele confers resist- ance to HIV infection. Several hypotheses regarding its ori- gin and persistence in the human population have been proposed. It is assumed that the Δ32 mutation was intro- duced in Northern or Eastern Europe and that it spread to the south. Although the frequency of CCR5Δ32 was deter- mined in numerous European nations and regions, further data are needed to complete the puzzle of CCR5Δ32 dis- tribution within the continent.

Methods: To this end, CCR5Δ32 frequency was determined in a Serbian population (sample size 352). DNA was extracted from peripheral whole blood and polymerase chain reaction specific for CCR5 gene was performed. A reaction product of 263 bp was obtained from the wild- -type CCR5 sequence and a product of 231 bp was ob- tained from the truncated CCR5Δ32 sequence.

Results: Overall allele frequency of CCR5Δ32 is 4.55%; 0.57% of individuals in the examined population are homo- zygous and 8.52% are heterozygous for CCR5Δ32.

Conclusions: The determined frequency of the CCR5Δ32 allele in a Serbian population is unexpectedly low, consid- ering ethnically related populations. Keywords: CCR5, Δ32, Serbia.
The Effects of Human Wild-Type and Fals Mutant L144P SOD1 on Non-Vascular Smooth Muscle Contractions / EFEKTI HUMANE NORMALNE I FALS MUTIRANE L144P SOD1 NA NEVASKULARNE KONTRAKCIJE GLATKIH MIŠIĆA
Authors: Nikolić-Kokić Aleksandra , Oreščanin-Dušić Zorana , Slavić Marija , Spasojević Ivan , Stević Zorica , Spasić Mihajlo , Blagojević Duško
Published: October 2013

Background: Mutated copper, zinc-containing superoxide dismutase (SOD1) may self-aggregate, an event that could also be an initial cause of motor neuron malfunction leading to disease onset. The effects of human mutated SOD1 pro- tein from the blood of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FALS) patients bearing Leu144Phe (L144F) mutation were compared to wild-type (WT) human SOD1 derived from healthy examinees, for enzymatic activity and the effects on isometric contractions of non-vascular smooth muscle.

Methods: We isolated WT and L144F SOD1 enzymes from eight patients with FALS, L144F mutation in exon 5 and eight healthy controls. We then investigated SOD1 activities in the obtained samples by the adrenaline method and pro- filed them electrophoretically. Finally, we applied WT and L144F SOD1 on the isolated rat uterus.

Results: L144F SOD1 showed lower superoxide-dismutating activity compared to WT human SOD1. We found that, in contrast to WT human SOD1, mutated L144F does not induce smooth muscle relaxation.

Conclusions: Our data suggest that the lack of relaxation of muscle tonus in the presence of mutated SOD1 may have pathogenic feedback effects in FALS.
Association of Mitochondrial DNA Variants and Cognitive Impairment of Phenylketonuria Patients / POVEZANOST VARIJANTI U MITOHONDRIJALNOJ DNK I KOGNITIVNOG FENOTIPA KOD PACIJENATA SA FENILKETONURIJOM
Authors: Klaassen Kristel , Đordevič Maja , Petrov Maja Stojiljkovič , Pavlović Sonja
Published: October 2013

Background: Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic disorder caused by phenylalanine hydroxylase gene (PAH) mutations. If left untreated, PKU patients develop severe mental retardation potentially due to neurodegeneration. This is the first study that investigates presence of mitochondrial DNA variants in PKU patients, m.10398A, reportedly associated with neurodegenerative diseases and m.10410T.

Methods: We analyzed 64 PKU patients and 50 healthy controls from Serbian population. PKU patients were categorized into groups according to time of diagnosis and compliance to low-phenylalanine diet. The IQ was determined according to age-appropriate scales.

Results: We detected m.10398A and m.10410T variants by direct sequencing. Frequency of m.10398A was similar in patients and healthy controls (82.81% and 82.00% respectively) suggesting their identical ethnic background. No variation was detected for m.10410. In group with late diagnosis and poorly controlled diet, no statistically significant difference in average IQ was found between patients with m.10398A and m.10398G. The same was shown for PKU patients with higher IQ, diagnosed at neonatal screening and treated with low-phenylalanine diet. However, when patients carrying p.L48S, a PAH mutation with inconsistent effect, were excluded from the study, presence of m.10398A variant was associated with lower IQ.

Conclusions: This study emphasizes the importance of neonatal screening and good control of low-phenylalanine diet in PKU patients. Statistical analysis did not indicate clear impact of mitochondrial DNA variant m.10398A on IQ of PKU patients, except when PAH genotype was also considered. Studies in larger cohorts will elucidate the association between PAH gene mutations, mitochondrial DNA variants and complex PKU cognitive phenotype.
Effects of Calcium Administration on Parathyroid Gland, NaPi 2a Cotransporter and PTH1R in an Animal Model of the Andropause / EFEKTI TRETMANA KALCIJUMOM NA PARATIREOIDNU ŽLEZDU, NAPI 2A KOTRANSPORTER I PTH1R U ANIMALNOM MODELU ANDROPAUZE
Authors: Živanović Jasmina , Filipović Branko , Medigović Ivana , Ajdžanović Vladimir , Tanić Nikola , Miler Marko , Milošević Verica
Published: October 2013

Background: Increased risk of osteoporotic bone fractures represents the adverse event in andropausal men. Due to diminished calcium absorption in elderly, its supplementa- tion is used for prevention and treatment of advanced-age osteoporosis.

Methods: Sixteen-month-old Wistar rats were divided into sham-operated (SO), orchidectomized (Orx) and Ca2+- treated orchidectomized (Orx+Ca) groups. Ca2+ (28.55 mg/kg b.w.) was administered intramuscularly for 3 weeks, while the SO and Orx received vehicle alone. Parathyroid glands (PTG) were analyzed histomorphometrically, while the expression of NaPi 2a mRNA from kidneys was deter- mined by real time PCR. NaPi 2a and PTH1R abundance was detected immunofluorescently. Serum and urine parameters were determined biochemically.

Results: The PTG volume was 15% (p<0.05) greater in Orx rats than in the SO group. In Orx+Ca2+ animals, PTG vol- ume was decreased by 17% (p<0.05), when compared to the Orx rats. Orchidectomy led to an increment of serum PTH of 13% (p<0.05) compared to the SO group, while Orx+Ca decreased it by 10% (p<0.05) when compared to Orx animals. The intensity of the NaPi 2a signal was reduced in Orx rats, in comparison with the SO group. Orx+Ca2+ treatment increased the abundance of NaPi 2a, compared to the Orx group. In Orx rats, the staining for PTH1R was stronger when compared to the SO group, while the Orx+Ca2+ treatment induced reduction of the PTH1R immunofluorescence, compared to Orx animals. Orchidectomy increased Pi urinary concentrations by 8% (p<0.05), in comparison with the SO control, while in the Orx+Ca2+ group urinary Pi concentration was 5% lower (p<0.05) than for the Orx rats.

Conclusions: Our results indicate that Ca2+ administration reduces the PTH serum level and the presence of PTH1R, while increased abundance of NaPi 2a cotransporter posi- tively regulates Pi urine reabsorption in an animal model of the andropause.
The History of DNA Sequencing / ISTORIJAT SEKVENCIRANJA DNK
Authors: Gužvić Miodrag
Published: October 2013

During the last decade, the cost of DNA sequencing technologies has decreased several orders of magnitude, with the proportional increase of speed and throughput. Human Genome Project took almost 15 years to complete the sequence of the human genome. With the second and third generation technologies, this can be done in the matter of days or hours. This progress and availability of sequencing instruments to virtually every researcher leads to replacing of many techniques with DNA sequencing and opens new venues of research. DNA sequencing is used to investigate basic biological phenomena, and is probably going to be increasingly used in the context of health care (preimplantation diagnostics, oncology, infectious diseases). Current trends are aiming towards the price of 1000$ for sequencing of one human genome. Without any doubt, we can expect improvement of existing and the development of fourth generation technologies in the coming years.
The Impact of Immediate Verbal Feedback on Swimming Effectiveness
Authors: Zatoń Krystyna , Szczepan Stefan
Published: October 2013

The main objective of the study was to determine the impact of immediate verbal feedback on swimming effectiveness. Swimming effectiveness was expressed in the subjects reaching their objective, i.e., maximum swimming velocity. The study involved 64 subjects divided into two groups (experimental group n=32; control group n=32). Two measurements - initial (pre-test) and final (post-test) - were conducted. The subjects swam a distance of 25 m front crawl at maximum velocity. The experimental groups received immediate verbal feedback focused on stroke lengthening, as a shorter stroke length is regarded as the most common reason behind lower swimming velocity. From this perspective, lengthening the stroke is important due to its relation with mechanics and energetics in all styles of swimming. The control group received no verbal feedback. All tests were recorded via video cameras (50 samples·s-1). The analysis of the kinematic movement parameters (horizontal average swimming velocity over 15m, time achieved over 15m) was carried out by means of the SIMI Reality Motion Systems 2D software. Analysis of variance with repeated measurements with a Tukey’s test demonstrated statistically significant differences (p<0.05) in the tested groups in the case of the kinematic parameters measured in the study. Immediate verbal feedback (IVF) caused an increase of the average horizontal swimming velocity by 2.92% (0.04 m·s-1). Consequently, the average time needed by the swimmers to cover the distance (15m) decreased by 2.94% (0.36s). The results confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed method of teaching and improving the swimming technique using IVF.
Italian Early Adolescent Females’ Intrinsic Motivation in Sport: An Explorative Study of Psychological and Sociorelational Correlates
Authors: Zucchetti Giulia , Candela Filippo , Rabaglietti Emanuela , Marzari Alessandra
Published: October 2013

Using self-determination theory (SDT), this study simultaneously investigated the relationships between intrinsic motivation, psychological factors (sport enjoyment, social self-efficacy), and sociorelational factors (perceived coaching behaviors) by subsequently testing whether psychological factors mediate the relationships between social-relational factors and intrinsic motivation. One hundred and twentyseven early adolescent females from several teams of the Italian Volleyball Society completed a self-report questionnaire. Results showed that female athletes’ intrinsic motivation was associated with a) sport enjoyment and b) perceived coaching behaviors (e.g., training and instruction, social support). Second, results showed that training-and-instruction coaches’ leadership style affected intrinsic motivation via the females’ enjoyment in sport. This study provided further insights into unknown associations among psychological, sociorelational factors and intrinsic motivation, highlighting the innovative role of sport enjoyment as a key factor for sustaining intrinsic motivation. Original and useful behavioral suggestions will be given to the coaches in order to sustain female athletes’ sport enjoyment and their intrinsic motivation.
Application of Inclinometer Measurements for Relative Horizontal Displacement Investigations on Landslide Grounds
Authors: Malarski Ryszar , Nagórski Kamil , Woźniak Marek
Published: October 2013

One of the basic criterion for safety evaluation of structures erected on embankment or sliding slopes is relative horizontal displacement at different elevations. Relative horizontal displacements beneath ground surfaces are performed with inclinometer measurements. This report presents results on horizontal relative ground displacements with the probe SISGEO S242SV30. Investigations were performed with two inclinometer columns 14m height embedded in Warsaw Bank Slope. Mean square error of single observation was determined and mean relative errors of relative displacements in relation to column height. On the basis measurement results several relevant recommendations and practical hints were formulated allowing to avoid survey blunders and discrepancies in measuring procedures often encountered. Detailed inclinometer horizontal displacement measurements results at Warsaw hillside St Ana’s Church grounds were listed and presented.
Prospects of Metrological Provision Linear Geodetic of Measurements on the Geodetic Test Field
Authors: I.S. Trevoho , I.M. Tsyupak
Published: October 2013

This paper gives brief information on existing metrological support for the Yavoriv of scientific of the geodetic of test field (SGTF) for testing of modern of surveying equipment (rangefinders, electronic total stations and GNSS receivers). Analyzed ways to improve the fundamental geodetic network and the standard linear of basis, as working standards for testing, in accordance, GNSS receivers and a rangefinders, as well as for study an accuracy technology of GNSS leveling.
Generalized model for the nonlinear dynamics of plasma waves driven unstable by energetic ions near the stability threshold
Authors: Galant Grzegorz
Published: October 2013

In this paper, an attempt to develop the original single mode theory describing the nonlinear dynamics of a linearly unstable plasma wave, excited by the resonant interaction with energetic ions near the stability threshold to the case of n interacting plasma modes has been made. The effects of an energetic ion source and classical collisional processes represented by the Krook, diffusion and dynamical friction (drag) collision operators are included in the model. For numerical purposes, the problem has been reduced to ten nonlinearly coupled integro-differential equations. In comparison to the previous papers, the system revealed similar (the steady-state, oscillation, and blow-up solutions), as well as quite new types of the amplitudes behaviour, i.e. different levels of competition between the modes.
Optically stimulated luminescence dating of young fluvial deposits of the Middle Elbe River Flood Plains using different age models
Authors: Kunz Alexander , Pflanz Dorthe , Weniger Tobias , Urban Brigitte , Krüger Frank , Chen Yue-Gau
Published: October 2013

In the last few decades optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating has become an important tool in geochronological studies. The great advantage of the method, i.e. dating the depositional age of sediments directly, can be impaired by incomplete bleaching of grains. This can result in a scattered distribution of equivalent doses (DE), leading to incorrect estimation of the depositional age. Thoroughly tested protocols as well as good data analysis with adequate statistical methods are important to overcome this problem. In this study, samples from young fluvial sand and flood plain deposits from the Elbe River in northern Germany were investigated to compare its depositional ages from different age models with well-known historical dates. Coarse grain quartz (100–200 μm and 150–250 μm) and polymineral fine grains (4–11 μm) were dated using the single aliquot regenerative (SAR) dose protocol. The paleodose (DP) was calculated from the DE data set using different approaches. Results were compared with the development of the Elbe River, which is well-documented by historical records and maps covering the last 1,000 years. Depending on the statistical approach it can be demonstrated that depositional ages significantly differ from the most likely depositional age. For the investigated coarse grain quartz samples all ages calculated from the MAM-3UL, including their uncertainties, are within the historical documented age. Results of the polymineral fine grain samples are overestimating the historically documented depositional age, indicating undetectable incomplete bleaching. This study shows the importance of using an adequate statistical approach to calculate reliable OSL ages from fluvial sediments.