bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wave-like beads on nanofibers by blown bubble spinning
Authors: Dou Hao , He Ji-Huan , Liu Hong-Yan
Published: February 2015

This paper observed wave-like beads with average size of 40 nm on the surface
of nanofibers obtained by the blown bubble spinning. Theoretical analysis
demonstrates that some perturbed waves are produced on the surface of the
moving jets before solidification. The resultant fibers have many potential
applications in water/ air filtration.
Analysis of rainfall variation under climate change in Miyun reservoir
Authors: Chen Xiao-Juan , Yang Xiao-Hua , He Jun , Xia Xing-Hui , Mujere Never
Published: February 2015

Miyun reservoir is a surface water source of the city of Beijing. This paper
explores the relationship between reservoir basin runoff and climate change.
Statistical analyses are employed to analyze the variations in rainfall, air
temperature, and runoff in the reservoir basin. Results show uneven
inter-annual variability in rainfall data series. Air temperature show a
rising trend with 1993 and 1994 being the two significant mutation years.
Runoff has been decreasing over the years. Based one inter-annual analysis,
July and August had the largest runoff. Elastic analysis shows no significant
relationship between rainfall and runoff.
Effect of environmental condition on ventilation rate of special standard bars
Authors: Miao Qian , Rong-Chaoyang R , Zhang Qing , Shao Jia-Cun , Cheng Jing , Su Zhong-Di , Zhang Kai , Yan Wei-Wei
Published: February 2015

Standard bar of ventilation is the equipment extensively used in the tobacco
industry to calibrate the variety of testing machines. The bar?s performance
that is usually affected by ambient conditions is numerically studied in this
paper. Firstly, the geometry of standard bar is obtained by an optical
microscopic 3-D measurement. Then, Solidworks is used to build the 3-D model
of standard bar and Gambit is used to mesh the model. Finally, the
performance of standard bar under variant ambient conditions is analyzed by
Fluent. Compared with the experimental data, the numerical results are found
to be quite accurate, and it is found that the ventilation rate increases
linearly as temperature rise and decreases non-linearly with the growth of
pressure.
Effect of circumferential wave number on stability of suspension flow
Authors: Wang Feng-Hui , Zhu Yu-Chuan , Wan Zhan-Hong , You Zhen-Jiang
Published: February 2015

The linear stability analysis is carried out for the suspension flow of
spherical particles between a rotating inner cylinder and a stationary
concentric outer cylinder. The mass conservation equation and Navier-Stokes
equation are applied to the continuous fluid phase and the particle phase.
Results of stability analysis show that the increase of wave number in the
circumferential direction attenuates the effect of the axial wave number on
the amplification factor. The ratio of particle density to fluid density
increasing above 0.1 amplifies the flow instability, while it can be weakened
with higher circumferential direction wave number. Effect of the critical
Taylor number on the amplification factor is reduced by increasing the
circumferential direction wave number. The flow stability is affected by the
geometry of flow field (the radius ratio) at non-zero circumferential
direction wave numbers.
Oscillation criteria for half-linear function differential equations with damping
Authors: Liu Jun , Luo Hong-Ying , Liu Xi
Published: February 2015

In this paper, a class of half-linear functional differential equations with
damping are studied. By using the generalized Riccati transformation and
integral average skills, new oscillation criteria are obtained which
generalize and improve some known results.
Lie symmetry group of (2+1)-dimensional Jaulent-Miodek equation
Authors: Ma Hong-Cai , Deng Ai-Ping , Yu Yao-Dong
Published: February 2015

In this paper, we consider a system of (2+1)-dimensional non-linear model by
using auxiliary equation method and Clarkson-Kruskal direct method which is
very important in fluid and physics. We construct some new exact solutions of
(2+1)-dimensional non-linear models with the aid of symbolic computation
which can illustrate some actions in fluid in the future.
Approximate solutions of fractional non-linear evolution equations
Authors: Gu Xiu-Fen , Wang Qiu-Ya , Zhang Meng , Liu Yan-Qin
Published: February 2015

A novel method which is based on variational iteration method, Laplace
transform, and homotopy perturbation method is proposed, and this new method
is applied to obtain the approximate solution of the fractional non-linear
Boussinessq-type equation. The fractional Lagrange multiplier is accurately
determined by the Laplace transform and the non-linear term can be easily
handled by He?s polynomials. The result demonstrates accuracy and fast
convergence of this new algorithm.
A Toda lattice hierarchy with variable coefficients and its multi-wave solutions
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Di Wang
Published: February 2015

Starting from the Toda spectral problem, a new Toda lattice hierarchy of
isospectral equations with variable coefficients is constructed through the
discrete zero curvature equation. In order to solve one special case of the
derived Toda lattice hierarchy, a series of appropriate transformations are
utilized. As a result, a new uniform formula of N-wave solutions is obtained.
Temperature distribution of an infinite slab under point heat source
Authors: Wu Zhao-Chun , Cheng Dao-Lai
Published: February 2015

The temperature field in an infinite slab under an instantaneous or
continuous point heat source is studied numerically. The numerical results
reveal the temperature distribution and its change regularity, which are
significant for the temperature control encountered in many practical
manufacturing processes, such as the laser treatment processes on the surface
of films, welding and cutting, and even the design of measuring devices for
thermal properties of material.
Thermal properties of wool fabric treated by phosphorus-doped silica sols through sol-gel method
Authors: Zhang Wei , Xing Tie-Ling , Zhang Qiang-Hua , Chena Guo-Qiang
Published: February 2015

Wool fabric was treated with silica sol and phosphorus doped silica sol by
sol-gel method in order to improve its thermal properties and flame
retardance. The thermal stability, combustion behavior, and smoke suppression
of the control and finished wool fabric were analyzed using thermogravimetric
analysis, limited oxygen index, micro combustion calorimeter, and smoke
chamber. The results showed that wool fabric treated by phosphorus doped
silica sol had excellent thermal properties and flame retardance with higher
final char residue and LOI value. Furthermore, heat release rate and smoke
density results indicated the safety performance of the treated wool fabric
on fire.
Thermal-mechanical behavior of sandwich panels with closed-cell foam core under intensive laser irradiation
Authors: Li Zhi-Qiang , Song Wei-Dong , Tang Hui-Ping , Wang Zhi-Hua , Zhao Long-Mao
Published: February 2015

Temperature field and thermal deformation of sandwich panels with closed-cell
aluminum alloy foam core and heat-protective layer, which are subjected to
Gaussian laser beam intensively irradiating, are investigated numerically. In
transient heat analysis models, the influence of thermal conductivity,
specific heat, and thickness of heat-protective layer on the temperature rise
of the sandwich panels is calculated. In stress analysis models, a sequence
coupled numerical method is utilized to simulate the thermal stress and
deformation of sandwich panels induced by thermal expansion. Simulation
results indicate that the temperature at center of sandwich panel increases
firstly and then drops gradually with the increase of thermal conductivity of
heat-protective layer after laser irradiation, and the critical thermal
conductivity is obtained, while it decreases with the increase of specific
heat and thickness of heat-protective layer. The thermal stress verifies the
?Cyclo-hoop effect?, i. e. radial stress is compression stress in ?hot zone?
and tension stress in ?cold zone?. The max thermal deformation of sandwich
panels slightly increases with the increase of thickness of heat-protective
layer for given specific heat and thermal conductivity.
Thermochemical ablation of carbon/carbon composites with non-linear thermal conductivity
Authors: Li Wei-Jie , Huang Hai-Ming , Hu Yu-Meng
Published: February 2015

Carbon/carbon composites have been typically used to protect a rocket nozzle
from high temperature oxidizing gas. Based on the Fourier?s law of heat
conduction and the oxidizing ablation mechanism, the ablation model with
non-linear thermal conductivity for a rocket nozzle is established in order
to simulate the one-dimensional thermochemical ablation rate on the surface
and the temperature distributions by using a written computer code. As the
presented results indicate, the thermochemical ablation rate of a solid
rocket nozzle calculated by using actual thermal conductivity, which is a
function of temperature, is higher than that by a constant thermal
conductivity, so the effect of thermal conductivity on the ablation rate of a
solid rocket nozzle made of carbon/carbon composites cannot be neglected.
Energy and exergy analysis of heat pump using R744/R32 refrigerant mixture
Authors: Wang Fang , Fan Xiao-Wei , Chen Jie , Lian Zhi-Wei
Published: February 2015

An energy and exergy analysis of heat pump with blends of refrigerant mixture
R744/R32 was carried out. The coefficient of performance and exergy
efficiency of the system were studied with different mass fraction of R744 in
the blends and different heat source temperatures. The volumetric heat
capacity, condensing pressure, discharge temperature, and compression ratio
were also investigated. The results indicate that at a certain concentration
(15/85 by mass), the blends achieve better performance, and are superior to
those of R22, the results also show that the new refrigerant mixture is an
attractive option for promising alternative refrigerant.
Bio-mimic design of PM2.5 anti-smog masks
Authors: Shen Jing , Chen Rou-Xi , He Ji-Huan
Published: February 2015

The basic property of anti-smog masks is to block PM2.5 with excellent air
permeability. A multi-layer nanofiber woven fabric with hierarchical
structure is the best candidate for this purpose.
Gas reservoir evaluation for underbalanced horizontal drilling
Authors: Li Gao , Meng Ying-Feng , Wei Na , Xu Zhao-Yang , Li Hong-Tao , Xiao Gui-Lin , Zhang Yu-Rui
Published: February 2015

A set of surface equipment for monitoring the parameters of fluid and
pressure while drilling was developed, and mathematical models for gas
reservoir seepage and wellbore two-phase flow were established. Based on
drilling operation parameters, well structure and monitored parameters, the
wellbore pressure and the gas reservoir permeability could be predicted
theoretically for underbalanced horizontal drilling. Based on the monitored
gas production along the well depth, the gas reservoir type could be
identified.
Computation and measurement of air temperature distribution of an industrial melt blowing die
Authors: Wu Li-Li , Huang Dong-Hui , Xu Chuan , Chen Ting
Published: February 2015

The air flow field of the dual slot die on an HDF-6D melt blowing non-woven
equipment is computed numerically. A temperature measurement system is built
to measure air temperatures. The computation results tally with the measured
results proving the correctness of the computation. The results have great
valuable significance in the actual melt blowing production.
Evaluation of different measurements for effective thermal conductivity of fibrous materials
Authors: Tian Ming-Wei , Qu Li-Jun , Zhu Shi-Feng , Guo Xiao-Qing , Sun Ya-Ning , Ma Zhi-You , Han Guang-Ting , Sun Kai-Kai , Tang Xiao-Ning
Published: February 2015

Effective thermal conductivity is generally recognized as the intrinsic
factor to reveal the thermal responses of fibrous materials. Here, two
typical measurements, the step-wise transient method and the guarded hot
plate method, were utilized to identify their feasibility for the effective
thermal conductivity of fibrous materials (non-woven fabric and twill fabric)
with different stacking layers.
Optimal design for the dual slot die in melt blowing process
Authors: Wu Li-Li , Cheng Ting-Ting , Xu Chuan , Chen Ting
Published: February 2015

The parameters of the dual slot die in an industrial melt blowing equipment
are designed optimally using the orthogonal experimental design method. The
air flow fields of different die parameters are simulated. Effects of the die
parameters are analyzed using variance analysis. The results show that the
inset distance and slot width have significant effects on the air flow field
while effect of the slot angle is unremarkable.
Risks of Psychiatric Disorders and Suicide Attempts in Children and Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Butwicka Agnieszka , Frisén Louise , Almqvist Catarina , Zethelius Björn , Lichtenstein Paul
Published: February 2015

OBJECTIVE

To assess the risk of psychiatric disorders and suicide attempts in children with type 1 diabetes and their healthy siblings.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed a population-based case-cohort study of individuals born in Sweden between 1973 and 2009. Children with type 1 diabetes (n = 17,122) and their healthy siblings (n = 18,847) were identified and followed until their 18th birthday. Their risk of psychiatric disorders was compared with that of matched control subjects.

RESULTS

The risk of psychiatric morbidity in children with type 1 diabetes compared with the general population was tripled within 6 months after the onset of diabetes (hazard ratio [HR] 3.0 [95% CI 2.7–3.4]) and doubled within the total observation period (HR 2.1 [95% CI 2.0–2.2]). An increased risk was noted in suicide attempts (HR 1.7 [95% CI 1.4–2.0]) and in most categories of psychiatric disorders. The risk of psychiatric disorders in probands declined from HR 2.7 (95% CI 2.2–3.3) for those in the cohort born 1973–1986 to 1.9 (95% CI 1.8–2.0) in those born 1997–2009. The risk for any psychiatric disorders among siblings of patients with type 1 diabetes was estimated to be HR 1.1 (95% CI 1.0–1.1), and there was no increased risk in any of the specific category of disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

Children with type 1 diabetes are at high risk of psychiatric disorders, which seems to be a consequence of the disease rather than due to a common familial etiology. The results support recommendations on comprehensive mental health surveillance in children with type 1 diabetes, especially in recently diagnosed children.
Using Exit Surveys to Assess Counterproductive Work Behaviors: A Case Study
Authors: Pecker Gabriela , Fine Saul
Published: February 2015

Counterproductive work behaviors are notoriously difficult to measure in applied settings. As a result, many organizations are unable to reliably evaluate the frequency and antecedents of these behaviors. Exit surveys provide a unique opportunity for measuring potentially sensitive organizational issues but have yet to be widely adopted for measuring counterproductive work behaviors. The present paper describes a case study in which an exit survey was designed to study counterproductive work behaviors in a large telecommunications company. The results of this study suggest that a similar methodology may be beneficial for other organizations looking to better understand and manage these potentially damaging behaviors.
How Motivational and Calm Music May Affect the Prefrontal Cortex Area and Emotional Responses: A Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) Study
Authors: Bigliassi Marcelo , Barreto-Silva Vinícius , Altimari Leandro R. , Vandoni Matteo , Codrons Erwan , Buzzachera Cosme F.
Published: February 2015

Using functional near-infrared spectroscopy, the present study investigated how listening to differently valenced music is associated with changes in hemoglobin concentrations in the prefrontal cortex area, indicating changes in neural activity. Thirty healthy people (15 men; M age = 24.8yr., SD = 2.4; 15 women; M age = 25.2yr., SD = 3.1) participated. Prefrontal cortex activation, emotional responses (heart rate variability), and self-reported affective ratings were measured while listening to calm and motivational music. The songs were presented in a random counterbalanced order and separated by periods of white noise. Mixed-model repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) evaluated the relationships for main effects and interactions. The results showed that music was associated with increased activation of the prefrontal cortex area. For both sexes, listening to the motivational song was associated with higher vagal withdrawal (lower HR) than the calm song. As expected, participants rated the motivational song with greater affective valence and higher arousal. Effects persisted longer in men than in women. These findings suggest that both the characteristics of music and sex differences may significantly affect the results of emotional neuroimaging in samples of young adults.
The Three-Dimensional Architecture of the Internal Capsule of the Human Brain Demonstrated by Fiber Dissection Technique
Authors: Cristina Goga , Klara Brinzaniuc , I.S. Florian , Mena R. Rodriguez
Published: February 2015

The fiber dissection technique involves peeling away white matter fiber tracts of the brain to display its three-dimensional anatomic arrangement. The intricate three-dimensional configuration and structure of the internal capsule (IC) is not well defined. By using the fiber dissection technique, our aim was to expose and study the IC to achieve a clearer conception of its configuration and relationships with neighboring white matter fibers and central nuclei. The lateral and medial aspects of the temporal lobes of twenty, previously frozen, formalin-fixed human brains were dissected under the operating microscope using the fiber dissection technique.

The details of the three-dimensional arrangement of the fibers within the IC were studied and a comprehensive understanding of their relations was achieved. The white matter fiber dissection provides an enhanced perspective of the intricate architecture of the internal structure of brain. This enhanced understanding of intrinsic brain anatomy, particularly of functional highly relevant fiber systems such as the internal capsule, is essential for performing modern neurosurgical procedures.
The Challenge of Enterocutaneous Fistulae
Authors: A. Berro , Silvia Savin , D. Costea , Maria Tomita , Ana Maria Nichifor , T.S. Nitu , M. Savin , V. Sarbu
Published: February 2015

During a period of three years (01.01.2009-31.12.2011), 17 cases of enterocutaneous fistulas arising from the small intestine were managed.

The majority of the fistulas (76%) resulted from surgical complications. There were 6 females and 11 male patients. The mean age of the patients was 40 years. For 9 out of 17 patients (52%) the fistulae arose from the proximal small gut (duodenum and jejunum) and in the remaining 48%, from the ileum.

Octreotide was used for 11/17 patients (64%). Enteral nutrition was used for 9/17 patients (52%), while re-feed from the proximal gut fistulae was used in 4/9 patients (44%) in order to maintain the nutrition of the above mentioned subjects.

Only one fistula (6%) closed spontaneously. There were 2 deaths (12%) in this study. For 14 out of 17 patients (82%) the surgical intervention at some stage was required for successful closure of intestinal fistula. Aggressive surgical treatment with judicious use of octreotide, nutritional support, stoma care and control of sepsis significantly improves the outcome of small intestinal fistulae.
Difference of Height, Body Mass Index and Self-Assessment Among High-School Students in Constanta County- A Comparison between Rural and Urban Areas
Authors: S. Chirilâ , L.T Hangan , V. Broascâ , Beatrice Severin , Elena Mocanu
Published: February 2015

The increasing prevalence of obesity among high-school students is a public health problem, as more and more children are facing it.[5] Education has a great impact on the way young people deal with this problem. A significant effect on the behaviour of the pupils is the background they have, differences between children from rural areas compared to children from urban areas in terms of BMI being documented. A number of 185 high-school students from two schools in Constanta, from urban and rural areas were interviewed and data about height and weight was collected.

The results show that there is no statistically significant difference of the height between teenagers from urban and rural area, but there is a statistically significant association between area and BMI-z score distribution. Also, a higher number of teenagers from urban area underestimate their weight status compared to teenagers from rural areas.
Locking or Non-locking Hook Plate in Treatment of Unstable Lateral Clavicle Fracture
Authors: Al. O. Şerban , B. Obadâ
Published: February 2015

The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes and complications of locking or nonlocking clavicular hook plate for fixation of unstable lateral clavicle fractures. All patients with unstable Neer type II lateral clavicle fractures were operated in our hospital from January 2011 to December 2012. The included participants received either locking or nonlocking clavicular hook plate operations. Demographic data, medical records and radiographs were reviewed retrospectively. At the last follow-up, shoulder function was evaluated with Constant-Murley scoring system. Our findings suggest that locking clavicular hook plates are equally useful for treating unstable lateral clavicular fractures, but in face of complicated ones, the locking hook plate would not get more benefits than nonlocking hook plate.
Laparoscopic Repair for Perforated Duodenal Ulcer
Authors: A. Cotirleţ , E. Tincu , Raluca Coşa , E. Popa , Laura Gavril , O. Unc , I. Iordache
Published: February 2015

Perforated peptic ulcer (PPU), despite antiulcer medication and Helicobacter eradication, is still the most common indication for emergency gastric surgery associated with high morbidity and mortality. Perforated peptic ulcer is a common abdominal disease that is treated by surgery. The development of laparoscopic surgery has changed the way to treat such abdominal surgical emergencies but there is no consensus on whether the benefits of laparoscopic closure of perforated peptic ulcer outweigh the disadvantages such as prolonged surgery time and greater expense. However we can say that laparoscopic repair is a viable and safe surgical option for patients with perforated peptic ulcer disease and should be considered with the necessary expertise available.
European Renal Best Practice Guideline on Kidney Donor and Recipient Evaluation and Perioperative Care
Authors: Spasovski Goce , Cochat Pierre , Claas Frans HJ , Heemann Uwe , Pascual Julio , Dudley Chris , Harden Paul , Hourmant Marivonne , Maggiore Umberto , Salvadori Maurizio , Squifflet Jean-Paul , Steiger Jurg , Torres Armando , Viklicky Ondrej , Zeier Martin , Vanholder Raymond , Biesen Wim Van , Nagler Evi , Abramowicz Daniel
Published: February 2015

The Clinical Practice Guideline on evaluation of the kidney donor and transplant recipient was developed following a rigorous methodological approach aiming to provide information and aid decision-making to the transplant professionals. Thus, this document should help caregivers to improve the quality of care they deliver to patients with no intention it is defined as a standard of care. In this short version of the guidelines we present 112 statements about the evaluation of the kidney transplant candidate as well as the potential deceased and living donor, the immunological work-up of kidney donors and recipients and the perioperative recipient care. The extended version of the guidelines with methods, rationale and references is published in Nephrol Dial Transplant (2013) 28: i1-i71; doi: 10.1093/ndt/gft218 and can be downloaded freely from http://www.oxfordjournals.org/our_journals/ndt/era_edta.html.
Podocytes and Proteinuric Kidney Disease
Authors: Koroshi Alketa , Idrizi Alma
Published: February 2015

Glomerular disease is the most common cause of endstage renal disease (ESRD), accounting for almost two thirds of cases. In glomerular disease, alterations of po-docytes are of particular importance. Podocyte loss represents a central mediator of glomerular sclerosis. Toxic, genetic, immune, infectious, oxidant, metabolic, hemody-namic, and other mechanisms can all target the podo-cytes. These mechanisms provide new insight into the unique dynamic microenvironment that each individual podocyte inhabits and how it can turn hostile to survival. At the same time, they raise new therapeutic challenges to preserve glomerular function by containing podocyte injury and limiting its spread, both in podo-cytopathies and in other progressive glomerular diseases. Treatment strategies should aim at enhancing podocyte survival. The renin-angiotensin axis blockade, apart from its antifibrotic and intraglomerular hemodynamic effects, has an important role in preventing podocyte loss. However, only long-term observational studies can clarify if many patients will benefit from podocyte-targeted treatment such as abatacept or similar agents.
Cystatin C versus creatinine-based GFR formula in CKD patients
Authors: Abrishami Zahra , Mahdavi-Mazdeh Mitra , Minoo Farzanehsadat , Amerian Monireh
Published: February 2015

Introduction. Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is the main tool to assess kidney function. Some experts suggest cystatin C as a more precise and accurate indicator than creatinine to calculate GFR. This study is designed to assess if cystatin C is more helpful in early diagnosis and better follow-up of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients who may benefit more from appropriate and timely management.

Methods. We studied 312 patients in different stages of CKD and normal kidney function as control. GFR based on creatinine (Jaffe and enzymatic) and cystatin C were calculated and compared.

Results. A total of 146(46.8%) patients were male with a mean age of 53±17.5 years. The patients were divided into 3 groups based on GFR (>60 cc/min/1.73m
2, 30< GFR<60cc/min/1.73m
2, 15<GFR<30cc/min/1.73m
2). No significant differences in GFR estimation based on creatinine and cystatin C were found.

Conclusions. There were no significant differences between serum cystatin C-based formula and creatinine-based formula for GFR calculation. Therefore, they can be used interchangeably.
Low Serum Zinc Level May be Related to Higher Doses of EPO in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Yegenaga Itir , Aydin Zeki
Published: February 2015

Introduction. Anemia is a complication of chronic renal failure observed in patients on hemodialysis (HD) affecting morbidity and mortality of these patients. It is associated with erythropoietin (EPO) deficiency and can be treated by human recombinant erythropoietin (hrEPO). Iron deficiency has been reported as the first line cause for inadequate response to this treatment. Zinc deficiency in hemodialysis (HD) patients was previously reported and the relationship between iron and zinc deficiencies has been known for years. The aim of this study was to find out the relationship between serum zinc level, anemia and rhEPO consuming in HD patients.

Methods. A total of 69 HD patients and 34 healthy individuals were included in the study. Serum zinc levels, clinical, hematologic, biochemical parameters and rhEPO doses were evaluated.

Results. Serum zinc levels were found to be lower in HD patients in comparison to those in the control group (29.92±12.94, 44.82±27.69μg/dL, respectively) (p<0.001). There was a positive correlation between serum zinc and hemoglobin (Hb) in the control group (R2=0.06). In HD patients who needed less then 8000U/week rhEPO, Hb levels (p<0.05) and serum zinc levels were higher. Serum zinc and Hb levels were found to be higher in patients who were under HD treatment for more than 12 months (10.05±1.06 vs 10.69±1.29; p=0.022 and 26.96±13.29 vs 30.88±12.61; p=0.178).

Conclusions. HD patients who needed lower dose of EPO had higher serum zinc levels. Although the difference was not statistically significant, these results provide evidence that serum zinc level should be taken into consideration especially in HD patients resistant to EPO therapy.
Alexithymia Construct in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Pop-Jordanova Nada , Polenakovic Momir
Published: February 2015

Introduction. The concept of alexithymia means dysfunction in emotional awareness, social attachment, and interpersonal relating. The study was performed to evaluate the alexithymia construct in patients treated with chronic maintenance haemodialysis.

Methods. TAS-20 was applied as a measure of alexithymia to a group of 230 patients, mean age 55.5±13.5 years, recruited from three dialysis centers.

Results. The results obtained showed that 50% of patients were alexithymic, and 18% had possible alexithy-mia. A small positive correlation was shown between age and obtained scores for alexithymia (r=0.025). Duration of dialysis also positively influenced the alexithymia scores (r=0.013). In addition, the duration of dialysis was significantly influenced by age (ANOVA 0.004, p<0.05). Factors analysis showed that F1 and F2 were not influenced by age or duration of dialysis. Only factor F3 (externally oriented thinking) was very perceptible and influenced by the age and the duration of dialysis (ANOVA p=0.016; <0.05).

No significant differences in scores between males and females were obtained. Only F1 was higher in males (p<0.05). The scores obtained for alexithymia were compared between healthy population and cancer and dialysis patients. Patients with chronic diseases were more alexithymic than healthy people (p< 0.05).

Conclusions. The alexithymia construct is a permanent personality trait related to neurobiological brain specifics. An alexithymia construct can influence the prognosis and outcome of dialysis patients as well as of other diseases. The psychological support for mediating alexithy-mia should be included in the therapeutic protocols, especially for end-stage renal diseases.
Aspergillus Peritonitis in Chronic Peritoneal Dialysis Patients: Review of the Literature and Report of Two Cases
Authors: Yilmaz Fatih , Uslu Himmet Bora , Bora Feyza , Suleymanlar Gultekin , Sanli Turkan , Ersoy Fevzi
Published: February 2015

Although gram positive bacteriae are the most common causative microorganisms of chronic peritoneal dialysis (CPD) peritonitis, fungi are responsible for 1-15% of all cases. On the other hand, fungal peritonitis episodes may potentially cause serious consequences such as resistance to treatment, extended hospital stay and also a higher probability of death. Fungal peritonitis due to Aspergillus spp is relatively uncommon, but its mortality rate and severity is known to be even higher. It was our aim to conduct a review of the medical literature regarding the treatment and clinical outcome of Aspergillus related CPD peritonitis and to present two cases with Aspergillus related CPD events. Our current knowledge and the outcome of our two cases suggest that, despite the use of recommended therapeutic measures, Aspergi-llus induced fungal peritonitis in CPD patients may still be fatal. Therefore, there is a need for development of more efficient therapeutic approaches including the type, dose and route of antifungal therapy.
A Stepwise Diagnosis of Sarcoidosis Presenting with Renal Impairment and Hypercalcemia
Authors: Alp Alper , Akdam Hakan , Meteoglu Ibrahim , Ceylan Emel , Cengiz Arzu , Taskin Fusun , Akar Harun , Yenicerioglu Yavuz
Published: February 2015

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem, immune-mediated, granulomatous disease. Clinical presentation of this disease may vary; in majority of cases (~90%) thoracic involvement is the leading sign. Although renal involvement is thought to be uncommon in sarcoidosis this entity may not be so rare. Hypercalcemia seems to be the most likely cause of sarcoidosis-associated renal disease, it can even cause acute renal failure in 1-2% of sarciodosis patients. Immediate treatment is appropriate whenever organ function is threatened or when symptoms are severe. We present a case of sarcoidosis with hypercalcemia excluding other clinical conditions, which may potentially confuse the diagnosis.
Kidney Transplant in an Old Woman-A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Orlic Lidija , Mikolasevic Ivana , Sladoje-Martinovic Branka , Racki Ivan Bubic and Sanjin
Published: February 2015

The number of elderly patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) as well as those with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are increasing worldwide. Renal transplantation is now the treatment of choice for all ESRD patients, including those that are aged 65 or over. Namely, there is a growing evidence that elderly patients, in the absence of contraindications, have better outcomes after renal transplantation than alternative forms of RRT. Although survival, quality of life and economic advantages have been shown after transplantation, renal transplantation is still infrequently offered to older patients. Hereby, we present a case of an old woman who was transplanted in 1994 when “senior” program was still not established and when kidney transplantation at this age was rarity in many countries. She lived 16 years and 8 months with a well-functioning graft and died at the age of 89.
Sonication (Ultrasound) Affects In Vitro Growth of Hybrid Cymbidium
Authors: Teixeira da Silva Jaime A. , Dobránszki Judit
Published: February 2015

The use of ultrasound or sonication has been shown to stimulate growth and development of several plant species. No study exists on the impact of sound on Cymbidium growth in vitro. Using sonication at 60 Hz for several time periods, the response on new protocorm-like body (neo-PLB) formation on Teixeira Cymbidium (TC) medium was examined, as was the response on in vitro plant organogenesis. Sonication for 5 or 10 min stimulated neo-PLB formation significantly more than plant growth regulator (PGR)-free TC medium without sonication (negative control) and more than 1, 20 or 45 min sonication, but significantly less than control TC medium containing PGRs NAA and Kin (positive control) after 60 days in culture. Sonication, when applied to PLBs, did not influence most plantlet-related growth parameters. Flow cytometric analyses registered an increase in endoreduplication in sonicated PLB tissues. Sonication at 60 Hz has a PLB-promoting effect, but is not as effective as PGRs.
Lichens from Manor Parks in Minsk Region (Belarus)
Authors: Yatsyna Alexander
Published: February 2015

A total of 158 species of lichens, three lichenicolous and three non-lichenized saprobic fungi were identified in 27 old manor parks in Minsk region, Belarus. The number of lichen species per a manor park ranged from 28 to 76 species. Lichenized fungi were collected on eight substrate types, the highest number of epiphytic lichens (77 species) were found on Tilia cordata. Eight lichen species (Agonimia allobata, Anisomeridium polypori, Arthonia arthonioides, Biatoridium monasteriense, Psoroglaena dictyospora, Reichlingia leopoldii, Sclerop-hora farinacea, Sclerophora peronella) were reported for the first time from Belarus.
Biological and biochemical properties in evaluation of forest soil quality
Authors: Błońska Ewa , Lasota Jarosław
Published: February 2015

The aim of this study was to assess the possibility of using biological and biochemical parameters in the evaluation of forest soil quality and changes caused by land use. The study attempted to determine a relationship between the enzymatic activity of soil, the number of earthworms and soil physico-chemical properties. The study was carried out in central Poland in adjoining Forest Districts (Przedbórz and Smardzewice). In soil samples taken from 12 research plots, basic physico-chemical properties, enzyme activity (dehydrogenase, urease) and density and biomass of earthworms were examined. Enzyme activity showed a large diversity within the forest site types studied. The correlations between the activity of the enzymes studied and C/N ratio indicated considerable importance of these enzymes in metabolism of essential elements of organic matter of forest soils. Urease and dehydrogenase activity and earthworm number showed susceptibility to soil pH, which confirmed relationships between enzyme activity and abundance of earthworms and soil pH in H2O and KCl.
Mechano-sorptive creep of Portuguese pinewood chemically modified
Authors: Barroso Lopes Duarte , Mai Carsten
Published: February 2015

The effect of chemical modification on mechano-sorptive creep in bending was studied by experimental work. Stakes with 20 × 20 × 400 mm RTL of Portuguese wood species (Pinus pinaster Aiton) modified with 1,3-dimethylol-4,5- dihydroxyethyleneurea (DMDHEU), m-methylated melamine resin (MMF), tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and amid wax (WA) were measured under asymmetric moistening conditions over a period of 42 days (app. 1000 hours) with stress level (SL) of 12 MPa, according to ENV 1156.

The cell wall treatments (DMDHEU and MMF resins) had shown significant reduction of creep (creep factors, kc) when compared to untreated wood under similar conditions. Both types of resins and levels of treatments (different WPG) did not shown significant effects.

In the lumen fill treatments, deposit material of TEOS did not affected the creep behaviour (kc); Wax treatment was shown a particular compliance of creep due to avoid exchange moisture (by the hydrophobic effect of wax).

The anti-creep efficiency (ACE) correlated better than other mechanical or physical properties imparted by the modification process
Comparative evaluation of preservation and growth of spruce climatypes based on long-term provenance trials in Russia
Authors: Nikolaeva Marina A. , Faizulin Danial Kh. , Potokin Alexander Ph , Jamaleev Oleg A.
Published: February 2015

The article presents the results of provenance trials carried on the Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.), the Siberian spruce (Picea obovata Ledeb.) and hybrid forms of these two species. The trails were laid in 1977-1978 according to wide-scale All-Union program of 1972 year (Prokazin 1972) in the Arkhangelsk, Vologda, Leningrad regions and the Republic of Bashkortostan. The results of the most recent inventory of provenance trials as well as analyses of preservation and growth of spruce progenies with different geographical origin are presented.

One of the main factors affecting spruce progeny survival was north-south distance between seed collection locality and test locality. At the time of the study (2010-2012), in the Vologda and Arkhangelsk regions, spruce progeny preservation was higher in the case of mother stands distant to the north. On the contrary, in the Leningrad region and the Republic of Bashkortostan, preservation of northern climatypes’ progenies was lower during the whole period of plantations’ growth. With the change of seed collection locality towards west-east direction, a correlation between progeny preservation and geographical origin factors was non-existent (Vologda, Arkhangelsk regions) or weak (Leningrad region, Republic of Bashkortostan).

The most successful growth and the lowest preservation were observed under the conditions of sharp-continental climate, in provenance trials carried out in the Bashkortostan Republic. In the north of Russia, in provenance trials in the Arkhangelsk region there was observed the slowest spruce growth. On the whole, at all the objects under investigation, Norway spruce progenies and hybrid forms with Norway spruce properties showed better growth parameters when compared to those of the Siberian spruce.
Predictions on Availability and Possibilities of the use of Wood for Energy Purposes in Europe and in Poland
Authors: Kaliszewski Adam , Gołos Piotr
Published: February 2015

The paper presents the results of studies concerning the availability and possibilities of the use of wood for energy purposes in Europe and in Poland. It describes in detail the current use of wood for energy production purposes, as well as predictions on volume, composition, and sources of energy wood. It also presents the results concerning potential impact of energy wood harvesting on wood industries. The paper concludes that the question of utilization of forest biomass for large-scale energy generation is very complex and has far-reaching consequences for environment, society and economy. So as to be effective, wood resources management should give a priority to wood-based production of the greatest added value, and energy generation should be a closing-down stage in the wood value chain
Variability of Selected Traits of Ips Typographus (L.) (Col.: Scolytinae) Populations In Beskid Żwiecki (Western Carpathians, Poland) Region Affected By Bark Beetle Outbreak
Authors: Grodzki Wojciech , Starzyk Jerzy R. , Kosibowicz Mieczysław
Published: February 2015

In 2010-2012, investigations on Ips typographus populations were carried out in Norway spruce stands recently affected by bark beetle outbreak in the Beskid Żywiecki Mts. in Poland. The aim of the study was to test the usefulness of several traits describing I. typographus populations for evaluation of their actual outbreak tendency. Infestation density, sex ratio, gallery length, progeny number and beetle length were used as the traits. Trait variability was analyzed in relation to infested tree mortality in the current year of observation and outbreak tendency defined by the comparison of data on tree mortality in the current year and that in the year before.

The highest infestation density was found in the stands representing the highest tree mortality in the current year and in those characterized by decreasing outbreak tendency. The gallery system with 2 maternal galleries dominated. The sex ratio of attacking beetles inclined towards females (63.8%) and remained stable during 3 years of observations; the highest percentage of females was found in locations being in stabilization/latency outbreak phase. The length of maternal galleries was somewhat negatively affected by infestation density and positively correlated with the number of progeny in the gallery. The average beetle length was 4.800 mm (± 0.293), ranging between 3.718 and 5.817 mm and being the highest in the uppermost class of tree mortality recorded in the current year of observation. The shortest beetles were collected in the stands with increasing outbreak tendency, and slightly longer - in the stands with outbreak stable and decreasing tendencies.

None of the traits tested can be selected as a direct indicator for prediction of outbreak tendency in I. typographus populations. Possible reasons of variability in the analyzed traits are discussed. The traits indicate that I. typographus in the study area represent very high reproductive potential, thus the risk of repeated outbreak is very high
Height-Diameter Models for Mixed-Species Forests Consisting of Spruce, Fir, and Beech
Authors: Petráš Rudolf , Bošeľa Michal , Mecko Julian , Oszlányi Julius , Popa Ionel
Published: February 2015

Height-diameter models define the general relationship between the tree height and diameter at each growth stage of the forest stand. This paper presents generalized height-diameter models for mixed-species forest stands consisting of Norway spruce (Picea abies Karst.), Silver fir (Abies alba L.), and European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) from Slovakia. The models were derived using two growth functions from the exponential family: the two-parameter Michailoff and three-parameter Korf functions. Generalized height-diameter functions must normally be constrained to pass through the mean stand diameter and height, and then the final growth model has only one or two parameters to be estimated. These “free” parameters are then expressed over the quadratic mean diameter, height and stand age and the final mathematical form of the model is obtained. The study material included 50 long-term experimental plots located in the Western Carpathians. The plots were established 40-50 years ago and have been repeatedly measured at 5 to 10-year intervals. The dataset includes 7,950 height measurements of spruce, 21,661 of fir and 5,794 of beech. As many as 9 regression models were derived for each species. Although the “goodness of fit” of all models showed that they were generally well suited for the data, the best results were obtained for silver fir. The coefficient of determination ranged from 0.946 to 0.948, RMSE (m) was in the interval 1.94-1.97 and the bias (m) was -0.031 to 0.063. Although slightly imprecise parameter estimation was established for spruce, the estimations of the regression parameters obtained for beech were quite less precise. The coefficient of determination for beech was 0.854-0.860, RMSE (m) 2.67-2.72, and the bias (m) ranged from -0.144 to -0.056. The majority of models using Korf’s formula produced slightly better estimations than Michailoff’s, and it proved immaterial which estimated parameter was fixed and which parameters were free
Application of Network Analysis for Development and Promotion of Sustainable Tourism in Public Forests
Authors: Brach Michał , Górski Dariusz
Published: February 2015

The issue of sustainable tourism within valuable natural areas has been extensively discussed ever since the emergence of sustainable development philosophy in the 1990s. In view of growing public interest in nature recreation and tourism development, the importance of addressing this subject matter has hitherto increased significantly. The main objective of the present paper was to offer a tool for supporting development and promotion of sustainable tourism in Poland’s forests managed by the State Forests - National Forest Holding. GIS technology, and specific tools for network analysis were used in the project. During task realization, only free and open software sources were used. The work was performed based on the example of the Forest District Żołędowo (Regional Directorate of State Forests in Toruń, Poland) with the use of District’s spatial data resources. A web application was created to present information about tourist attractions and infrastructure on an interactive map with tools for route planning. As a result, there has been developed the web mapping application which provides general access to tourism related information and enables planning touristic routes by pre-specified criteria. Implemented routing algorithms can help traffic management and further protection of the areas vulnerable to anthropogenic pressures. The system created not only promotes attractive tourist sites but also, supports targeting tourist traffic, and accordingly - adds to the progress of sustainable tourism
Diversity of Ancient Woody Species in Urban Forests
Authors: Fornal-Pieniak Beata , Ollik Marcin , Zaraś-Januszkiewicz Ewa , Żarska Barbara
Published: February 2015

Mostly parks and forest are the most important ‘green islands’ in urban ecological network. Urban forests are belong to green areas and collected many plant species. The main aim of the article was characteristic of ancient plant species in urban forests in Tarnów. The field studies were carried out in years 2011-2012. It covered 80 phytosociological records on the area 500 m2 in herb layer of urban forests and in forest nature on oak-hornbeam. The results showed that many ancient plant species were growing in urban forest but less than in nature reserves