bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defining primary anal cancer tumour volume on FDG–PET – an initial assessment of semi–automated methods
Authors: Smith Drew , Joon Daryl Lim , Schneider Michal , Lau Eddie , Knight Kellie , Foroudi Farshad , Khoo Vincent
Published: December 2021

Purpose Clinician inexperience, intra–observer and inter–observer variations in tumour definition may affect staging, radiotherapy target definition, and treatment outcomes, particularly in rare cancers. The purpose of this study was to assess the correlation between semi–automated methods of primary anal cancer (AC) definition and our current clinical standard of manual clinician definition using 18F–FDG–PET imaging and to provide recommendations for clinical use. Methods All patients referred for chemoradiotherapy for AC between 2012 and 2016 were prospectively enrolled, with all 18F–FDG–PET imaging acquired within one year of chemoradiotherapy collected. Three methods of primary AC definition were performed on all PET datasets. Manual definition by an experienced radiologist was considered the clinical standard for comparison of volume and coincidence (Dice coefficient) in our study. Semi–automated techniques assessed included a gradient–based SUV (SUV–gradient) method and a SUV threshold method with a range of thresholds relative to SUVmax (40 (T40), 50 (T50) and 60% (T60)). Results Ten patients were enrolled with 33 PET study sets available for analysis. While all methods created contours on pre– and post–treatment scans, manual definition of PET–avid disease was only necessary on 11 of the 33 study sets. SUV–gradient and T40 defined contours were not statistically different in volume to the clinical standard (p = 0.83 & 0.72 respectively). The observed Dice coefficient relative to the manual clinician contours were 0.75 and 0.73 for the SUV–gradient and T40 methods respectively. Conclusions It is possible to define gross AC using SUV–based methods, with the SUV–gradient–based method followed by the T40 method most closely correlating with our current clinical standard. The SUV–gradient–based method studied is housed within a proprietary clinical system. A semi–automated approach that uses a vendor neutral T40 method and the clinician’s knowledge and skill appears optimal in defining AC. With this approach AC may be defined reliably to enhance efficiencies in radiotherapy and nuclear medicine processes, and to support clinicians in identifying and defining this rare disease. Trial registration ANZCTR, ACTRN12620000066987. Registered 28 January 2020–Retrospectively registered, https://www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12620000066987.aspx
Analysis of gamma index using in-house developed heterogeneous thorax phantom
Authors: Bagdare Priyusha , Dubey Swati , Kumar Ghosh Sanjay , Bhandigare Shital
Published: December 2021

Quality assurance (QA) before patient treatment plays a major role in complex radiotherapy (RT) treatment planning. Phantoms are the standard materials that are used for the pre-treatment QA of patients. Contemporary phantoms used in RT are mainly water-based, having simple geometry and of uniform density. These phantoms dose not replicate the exact heterogeneities of the actual human body. The present work aims to evaluate the results of relative dosimetry performed on in-house developed heterogeneous thorax phantom (HTP) using an electronic portal imaging device (EPID). To perform the relative dosimetry, contours were drawn on HTP at three different locations and intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), as well as Rapid ARC (RA), were generated on it to compare the fluence obtained on TPS as well as on linac machine. The gamma evaluation results indicate a strong correlation between planned and the measured fluence. We found the EPID-based QA done on HTP explore its property as a QA tool and it can further be used to perform patient-specific relative dosimetry.
Superficial radiotherapy and volumetric modulated Arc therapy for skin cancers within hamartomatous skin in patient with PTEN mutation: A case report
Authors: El-Turk Nicole , Holt Nicola , Gorjiara Tina , Gottschalk Gavin , Krieger Laurence , Berglund Lucinda J. , Fogarty Gerald B.
Published: December 2021

Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) gene acts as a tumour suppressor gene. Mutations of this gene are a step in the development of many cancers. Sufferers can have large fields of symptomatic hamartomatous skin change especially in sun exposed areas. RT has been reported to cause increased acute toxicity in this cohort. A 78-year-old fit male had a confirmed PTEN variant LRG_311t1 Exon 5, c353A>C. Symptomatic skin lesions of left frontal scalp and left nasal ala were confirmed on punch biopsy to be basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and he was referred for definitive radiotherapy (RT). He was treated with lesion based superficial radiotherapy to the left nasal ala to a total dose of 50 Gy in 25 fractions given at 5 fractions per week using a Xstrahl 300 machine via a 3cm circle applicator at 30cm source surface distance with a generating energy of 100 kV. The left frontal scalp was treated with a field-based volumetric modulated arc therapy technique to a planning target volume (PTV) of 74.8cm3 to 45 Gy with a simultaneous integrated boost PTV to 55 Gy of 4.1 cm3 to the BCC, all in 25 fractions. He developed the expected desquamation, erythema and mucositis within the nasal field and desquamation and erythema in the left temple. The PTEN mutation had no visible increase on the acute side effect profile compared with those without the mutation. After more than 6 months, the areas treated with RT remained clear of symptomatic hamartomatous skin change with no late toxicities. To our knowledge this is the longest benefit received of any treatment for fields of symptomatic hamartomatous skin change associated with PTEN mutation. It is also a report of not observing increased acute toxicity of RT in the definitive treatment of skin cancer in those with proven PTEN mutation. This one case adds evidence that definitive RT to skin may be delivered safely in this cohort. More studies with multiple patients with longer follow up are needed to confirm that those suffering with PTEN mutation can be safely and successfully treated with definitive RT for skin cancer and fields of symptomatic hamartomatous skin change with no increase in late effects.
Lesion-based radiotherapy of the ears, lips and eyelids for skin cancer
Authors: Tanous Anthony , Tighe David , Bartley Julie , Gottschalk Gavin , Gilmour Tanya , Lotz Nicholas , Fogarty Gerald B.
Published: December 2021

Purpose: This study is a retrospective audit of radiotherapy (RT) for skin cancer of the ear, eyelid, and lip in Sydney, Australia. The growth of referrals to a tertiary radiation oncology service over a specific time period were also assessed. Materials and Methods: The records of patients who received RT to the external ear, eyelid or lip between January 1 2007 and April 30 2020 were reviewed. Patient, tumour, treatment and outcome factors were recorded. Results: 147 patients with a mean age of 73 years (range: 33-96) were identified as eligible for inclusion. 165 lesions were treated and 18 patients had multiple treatment events. Of all the treated lesions, 81 were basal cell carcinoma (49.2%), 65 cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (39.4%), 7 lentigo maligna (LM) (4.2%), 2 sebaceous carcinoma (1.2%), 2 merkel cell carcinoma (1.2%), 4 Bowen’s disease (2.4%), 2 actinic change (1.2%) and 2 keloid treatments (1.2%). The mean follow-up was 42 weeks. Definitive RT, that is, RT given as primary treatment rather than post operatively, was given in 108 cases. There were five cases of BCC recurrence and three cases of cSCC recurrence within 3 - 61 months. These were successfully salvaged in six cases (75%). Late side effects were seen in 26 patients with abnormal cosmetic results being the most common late effect (6/26; 23.1%). Conclusion: Lesion-based RT for skin cancer of the ear, eyelid, and lip can be delivered safely and is effective. Definitive RT may be preferable to surgery especially when tissue loss may lead to poor functional and cosmetic outcomes.
Subtherapeutic levels of voriconazole in continuous renal replacement therapy patients
Authors: Azócar Manuel , Barraza Marlon , Torres JP , Acuña Carlos , Morales Jorge
Published: December 2021

Voriconazole is an antifungal widely used in the treatment of invasive fungal infections, thus pharmacokinetic monitoring is highly important to achieve appropriate dosages. It has been described that patients undergoing continuous renal replacement therapy did not see plasma voriconazole concentrations altered. Two cases are presented in which subtherapeutic voriconazole plasma levels are obtained while the patients are in continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration.
First Report of Potato Viruses Infecting Lamium purpureum in Ukraine
Authors:   Zabolotny Institute of Microbiology and Virology, NAS of Ukraine, Kyrychenko A.M. , Bohdan M.M. ,   Zabolotny Institute of Microbiology and Virology, NAS of Ukraine, Snihur H.O. ,   Zabolotny Institute of Microbiology and Virology, NAS of Ukraine,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Shcherbatenko I.S. ,   Zabolotny Institute of Microbiology and Virology, NAS of Ukraine, Antipov I.O. ,   National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine
Published: December 2021

Weeds as reservoirs for destructive plant pathogens have a significant impact on the viral epidemiology, ecology and, as a result, on local economy, and are therefore being investigated in many parts of the world. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate virus occurrence in red dead-nettle plants (Lamium purpureum L.) widespread in urban and field conditions throughout the in the Kyiv region of Ukraine. Methods. Field crop observations, visual diagnosis, biological testing of the virus, immunoassay (ELISA), polymerase chain reaction with reverse transcription (RT-PCR), sanger sequencing of partial genome sequences of PVX, PVY, PVS, PVM. Results. The results obtained in the study indicate that Lamium plants could be alternative weed hosts of number important viral diseases including potatoes and other vegetables. Serological and molecular test results evidence plants were infected by Potato virus X, Potato virus Y, Potato virus M, Potato virus S and therefore Lamium L. species can serve as a potential source of inoculum for wide range of vegetables and ornamentals. This study is the first report of Lamium plants being naturally infected with Potato virus M and Potato virus S in central Europe. Conclusions. These plants are alternative host of mixed infection with viruses belonging to different families: Alphaflexiviridae, Betaflexiviridae and Potyviridae.
On the Jumps of Volume, Enthalpy and Entropy at the Melting Point, the Thermal Conductivity and Thermal Diffusivity for F.C.C. Au: the Temperature- and Pressure-Dependences
Authors: Hoc Nguyen Quang  , Tinh Bui Duc  , Hien Nguyen Duc  , Viet Le Hong 
Published: December 2021

The melting temperature, the jumps of volume, enthalpy and entropy at the melting point, the isothermal compressibility, the thermal expansion coefficient, the heat capacity at constant volume, the Grüneisen parameter, the Debye temperature, the electrical resistivity, the thermal conductivity, and the thermal diffusivity for defective and perfect f.c.c. metals are studied by combining the statistical moment method (SMM), the limiting condition of the absolute stability of the crystalline state, the Clapeyron–Clausius equation, the Debye model, the Grüneisen equation, the Wiedemann–Franz law, and the Mott equation. Numerical calculations are carried out for Au under high temperature and pressure. The calculated melting curve of Au is in good agreement with experiments and other calculations. Obtained results are predictive and orient towards new experiments.
Structural and Physical Properties of Ultrathin Bismuth Films
Authors: Karbivskyy V. L. , Zaika V. V. , Karbivska L. I. , Kurgan N. A. , Zueva N. O.
Published: December 2021

Bismuth films are interesting objects for research because of the many effects occurring when the film thickness is less than 70 nm. The electronic band structure changes significantly depending on the film thickness. Consequently, by changing the film thickness, it is possible to control the physical properties of the material. The purpose of this paper is to give a brief description of the basic structural and physical properties of bismuth films. The structural properties, namely, morphology, roughness, nanoparticle size, and texture, are discussed first, followed by a description of the transport properties and the band structure. The transport properties are described using the semi-metal–semiconductor transition, which is associated with the quantum size effect. In addition, an important characteristic is a two-channel model, which allows describing the change in resistivity with temperature. The band structure of bismuth films is the most interesting part due to the anomalous effects for which there is still no unambiguous explanation. These effects include anomalous spin polarization, nontrivial topology, and zone changes near the edge of the film.
Microstructure Evolution of the Carbon Steels During Surface Severe Plastic Deformation
Authors: Vasylyev M. O. , Mordyuk B. M. , Voloshko S. M. , Lesyk D. A.
Published: December 2021

The review is devoted to the state-of-the-art views on the microstructure evolution in structural and tool carbon steels during the surface severe plastic deformation (SPD). The main focus is on the effects of the nanocrystallization in the near-surface area of the low-carbon steel (C 0.05–0.2%), medium-carbon steel (C 0.35–0.65%), and high-carbon steel (C 1.0–1.5%). It is reviewed the following advanced surface SPD methods for the metal surfaces in recent years: an ultrasonic impact peening (UIP), high-frequency impact peening (HFIP), air blast shot peening (ABSP), surface mechanical attrition treatment (SMAT), and laser shock peening (LSP). Microstructure evolution before and after SPD is studied by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The effects of the SPD parameters on the nanocrystalline modification of such main phase components of the carbon steels as ferrite, pearlite, and cementite are analysed. The atomic mechanism of the nanocrystallization is presented. The strain-hardening effect induced by SPD is demonstrated by the data of the near-surface microhardness profiles.
The Role of Stress–Strain State of Gas Turbine Engine Metal Parts in Predicting Their Safe Life
Authors: Duriagina Z. A. , Kulyk V. V. , Filimonov O. S. , Trostianchyn A. M. , Sokulska N. B.
Published: December 2021

The influence of various factors on the workability of critical metallic parts of a gas turbine engine (GTE) is analysed and systematized. As shown, compressor blades fail as a result of foreign-objects’ damage, gas corrosion, and erosion. Compressor blade roots in most cases fail due to fretting wear caused by vibrations, while the fir-tree rim of turbine discs fails due to low-cycle fatigue (LCF) damage and creep. An increase in the radial gaps between the rotor and stator of the turbine reduces the thrust force and causes changes in the gas-dynamic loading of the engine components. Additional oxidation of metal parts is observed under the action of hot gases from the combustion chamber. The principles of material selection for manufacturing turbine blades and disks, concepts of alloying heat-resistant alloys, and modern methods of surface engineering due to applying protective oxidation-resistant coatings, in particular, chemical vapour deposition (CDV), physical vapour deposition (PVD), air plasma spraying (APS), etc., are also described. To predict the lifetime of turbine disks, it is proposed to use the modified Walker model and Miner’s rule. To specify the time before the failure of the metal blades of the turbine, it is proposed to use the finite element method. To monitor the working-surfaces’ deformations of the gas turbine engine, it is recommended to use optical-digital methods.
Regions of the North-West of Russia: Analysis of the Conditions for the Implementation of Social Innovation
Authors: Soloveva Tatiana S.
Published: December 2021

Introduction. International experience shows that social innovation is an important tool for regional development, although this type of innovation is a relatively new phenomenon for Russia. On the basis of the research conducted, the article analyzes the conditions for the implementation of social innovation which has a significant potential to meet the challenges of territorial development.

Materials and Methods. Based on materials from open sources, as well as on an expert survey conducted by the Vologda Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences with the direct participation of the author, the conditions for the implementation of social innovation prevailing in the constituent entities of the Northwestern Federal District of the Russian Federation were analyzed in the context of legal, infrastructural, economic, and socio-cultural components. Using the results of the expert survey, a quantitative assessment of the level of development of the conditions for the implementation of social innovation was given. The main barriers preventing the reproduction of social innovation within the territory under consideration were revealed.

Results. The study has revealed that in the regions of the Northwestern Federal District the conditions for the implementation of social innovation are at the stage of active development: infrastructure and legislation are being formed; financial, tax and property support is being provided; educational programs are being implemented. The study has also shown that there are a number of problematic aspects associated with the underdevelopment of the regulatory framework, with the lack of Centers for innovation in the social sphere in a number of constituent entities, with the limited availability of some financial instruments, with low social and innovative activity of people, etc.

Discussion and Conclusion. The results obtained are supported by other studies, which substantiates the need for policy adjustment towards improving the relevant regulatory framework, economic conditions, infrastructure, and socio-cultural environment. The research materials can be used by regional authorities when making managerial decisions to support social innovation; they can also be useful for further studies within the framework of the issues under consideration.
Environmental and Economic Prerequisites for Russiaʼs Transition to a Low-Carbon Economy
Authors: Yashalova Natalia N. , Ruban Dmitry A.
Published: December 2021

Introduction. Environmental and climatic problems of the Russian Federation have attracted considerable attention from scientists, politicians, as well as the general public. Human activities are a major cause of pollution and global warming, which necessitates the search for a new way of economic development reducing the adverse impact on the environment. The authors consider a low-carbon economy aimed at simultaneously solving economic, environmental, and climatic problems as such a guideline. Based on the research conducted the article identifies the constituent entities of the Russian Federation in which pilot projects for the transition of enterprises and cities to low-carbon development are most expedient to implement. The gained experience should be applied in other regions of the country in the future.

Materials and Methods. Data from the Federal State Statistics Service and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of the Russian Federation on 20 most populated constituent entities of the country were analyzed. In order to identify the regions with the largest volumes of various types of pollution, the data ranking method was applied. The authors have also carried out an analysis of relative indicators of natural resource intensity associated with emission into the atmosphere, discharges of polluted wastewater, and production of municipal solid waste.

Results. The performed analysis has shown the heterogeneity of the environmental and economic development of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation. It has been concluded that among the regions considered, it is most expedient to implement pilot projects for low-carbon development in cities and in “polluting” industries located in the Kemerovo, Sverdlovsk, and Chelyabinsk Regions, as well as in the Krasnoyarsk Territory.

Discussion and Conclusion. The results of the study can be used in the development of environmental programs, as well as in the development of directions for mitigating the environmental impact in the most polluted regions of the country and in industries with high natural resource intensity.
Regional Investment Market in the Sphere of Waste Management: Dynamics, Structure, Evaluation Methodology
Authors: Ivanova Irina A. , Busalova Svetlana G. , Gorchakova Elmira R.
Published: December 2021

Introduction. Developing environmental entrepreneurship and attracting investments in the sphere of waste management are relevant for increasing the sustainability of economic systems in the circumstances of catastrophic environmental pollution, climate change, and depletion of natural resources. Based on the conducted research, the article assesses the impact of industrial and consumer waste generation on the development of the regional investment market in the sphere of waste management. Materials and Methods. A systemic analysis of the databases of the Federal State Statistics Service characterizing the development of the investment market in the sphere of waste management was performed using the correlation, factor, and regression (linear and nonlinear) methods of analysis, as well as the analysis of variance. On the basis of econometric dynamic modeling using instrumental variables, the study has revealed the dependence of the volume of investment in fixed assets in the Russian Federation aimed at environmental protection and rational use of natural resources on the volume and structure of generated industrial and consumer waste. Results. The volume of investment in fixed assets in the Russian Federation aimed at environmental protection and rational use of natural resources has been prognosticated taking into account the statistical criteria; conclusions have been drawn about strong influence of the dynamics of industrial and consumer waste generation. Based on the conducted research, proposals for increasing investment activity in the sphere of waste management have been formulated. Discussion and Conclusion. The sphere of waste management has a high development potential enabling this sector of the Russian economy, with appropriate competent investment policy, to solve not only environmental, but also significant macroeconomic problems. The results obtained can be used when elaborating and implementing measures aimed at the development of a waste management system, the key exogenous parameter of which, determining the magnitude of the macroeconomic effect, is the volume of investment in the production of waste collection and processing equipment.
Problems of Implementation of the State Youth Policy in the Reflection of Regional Youth
Authors: Shapovalova Inna S.
Published: December 2021

Introduction. The relevance of the research is due to the modern transformation of the institute of state youth policy, the change in its functions, and the need to reflect on the results of outgoing forms of administration and work with youth. Based on the conducted research, the article assesses the satisfaction of young people with the organization of the main measures to support all of their life strategies implemented by the governing bodies in the field of state youth policy. Materials and Methods. The results of a survey of young people aged 16 to 30, conducted in the Belgorod Region in 2020-2021, were used as the research materials. Based on the developed tools, including using online forms, 866 respondents were interviewed; students and working youth were interviewed through a street survey. The uniformity of diagnostics for each life strategy made it possible to obtain a comparative evaluation matrix in all areas of the state youth policy. Results. Regional Russian youth have given a reflexive assessment of the key problematic points in the implementation of the state youth policy and youth support; their interest in and the potential of involvement in activities and projects related to youth issues have been revealed. A map of youth satisfaction with the activities proposed by the governing bodies in the field of the state youth policy has been drawn. Discussion and Conclusion. The youth satisfaction with the situation that exists today in the field of state youth policy management is assessed as quite low, which makes it possible to conclude that the proposed measures are insufficiently effective and to raise the question of proposing new formats and strategies for developing work with youth. The research materials may be in demand by state youth policy administration bodies, state and municipal government bodies, youth organizations, and educational institutions. The data obtained can be a scientific increment for sectoral sociology (sociology of youth) in the methodological and demonstrative terms.
The faces of death
Authors: Smith Jeffrey E
Published: December 2021

The Rural Cemetery Movement ushered in a new way of thinking about cemeteries in American society after 1831. As these cemeteries became civic assets, they were widely visited by people and became a mediated space for articulating and expanding collective memory. The gravestones and monuments in these cemeteries erected in the second half of the nineteenth century combined increasingly secular messages and memory in a sacrosanct setting, thus blurring the lines in cemeteries between the secular and the sacred.
Cytotoxic Activity Studies of p-Chloro and Fluoro Substituted Formazan Derivatives on Lung and Prostate Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: TÜRKOĞLU Gülşen , AKKOÇ Senem
Published: December 2021

The cytotoxic activity properties of formazan derivatives (CF and FF) bearing halogen chlorine and fluorine groups placed at para position in 1-phenyl ring have been systematically investigated in this work. The synthesized two compounds were tested as anticancer agents against human cancerous cell lines for 48 h. The results obtained showed that these two compounds have cytotoxic effect towards screened cell lines. Particularly, compound FF having p-fluoro had more antiproliferative activity compared to CF in both studied cancer cell lines.
Researches Regarding the Influence of Organic and Mineral Fertilization on the Soil Parameters and Total Crude Protein Content of Forages from a Permanent Meadow by Cluster Analysis (Part 1)
Authors: HĂRMĂNESCU Monica , MOISUC Alexandru
Published: December 2021

This paper presents researches regarding the influence of organic (sheep manure) and NPK mineral fertilizers on the soil parameters and total crude protein content (%) of forages, harvested in the middle of May, 2008, from a permanent meadow situated near Grădinari, in Caraş-Severin district. The studied permanent meadow was organized in ten trials fertilized with different doses of NPK mineral fertilizers, organic (sheep manure) and organic-mineral fertilizers. For each trial was made five replications. The total nitrogen content (%) was determinated by Kjeldahl method, and total crude protein was calculated by multiplying total nitrogen content with 6.25. The soil pH was determinated in aqueous solution (ratio soil / water = 1/10) using potentiometric method. Mobile forms of potassium and phosphorus were determinated by Egner-Riehm-Domingo method, extracted from soil with an acetate-lactate solution buffered at pH= 4.6, at 1/5 soil-solution ratio. The statistical interpretation was performed with Multivariate Exploratory Techniques, Cluster Analysis, implemented in Statistica 6 software.

Using Cluster Analysis is possible to show the influence of organic and mineral fertilizers on the soil parameters (pH, total nitrogen content, mobile form of P, and mobile form of K) and total crude protein content of forages from the permanent meadow from Gradinari (Caraş-Severin District) by grouping all ten experimental trials in three main groups.
Characteristics of Soils in the Huedin Area Destined for Potato Cultivation
Authors: MĂRGHITAS Marilena , RUSU Mihaela , TOADER Constantin , FIŢ Eva Maria
Published: December 2021

Potato is an extremely valuable food species, as well as fodder crop and industrial plant. Potato is ranked among the primary world crops, due to its great ecological plasticity, falling after wheat, rice and maize, while the highest productions can be obtained in temperate areas.

The Huedin micro-area is geographically situated in the Huedin depression, on the Transylvanian side of the Apuseni Mountains, at a 550-700 altitude. The geomorphological characterization includes dimly-inclined mounds to hills of different expositions. It accounts for a surface of over 8000 ha, out of which homogenous ecologic territories favourable for potato cultivation of over 40 bonitation points cover a surface of 1710 ha. The average ponderate grade of micro-area bonitation is 52 points and accounts for an average soil production potential of 26 tons potato tubers/ha.

From a pedological point of view, the brown soils area, respectively luvisol, brown clay illuvial soils, namely the preluvisol and pseudorendsines, namely the calcareous Phaeozem.

The paper aims at describing the main soil types, typical preluvisol, namely the brown clay illuvial one and the typical Luvisol, respectively the brown lluvial soil, which are favourable for potato cultivation in the Huedin micro-area, both for seeding potato and consumption.
Researches for the Modernization of Silage Fodder Distribution Technologies for Cattle
Authors: NEDELCU Ancuta , CIUPERCA Radu , MANEA Dragos
Published: December 2021

In order to modernize and turn account the foddering technologies for cattle in live stock farms, a state of the art machine has been achieved aiming to perform several operations within the fodder distributing technology: silage displacement, loading, mincing and mixing, hay and straw bale chopping, fodder automating weighing, mixing homogenizing and distributing the obtained fodder mixture.

The paper presents the results of researches aimed to obtain a special hydraulically driven equipment of displacing and loading the ensilage fodder, its characteristics and mathematical model for calculating the required power PE , the hydraulic power PH , in view of properly choosing the hydraulic equipment.
Protection and Conservation of the Soils Properties Influenced by the Organic Agriculture System
Authors: PAULETTE Laura , MORAR Gavrila , OROIAN Ioan , SÎRBU Camelia , GHEOLŢAN Oana , NEAG Cristina
Published: December 2021

Organic agriculture is considered to be a durable system, in which the manure utilization assures a high quality of the production obtained and also of the soil’s properties. Through application of high quantities of the organic fertilizers, in dozes of 50t/ha and 100 t/ha of manure, comparatively with variants fertilized with NPK and unfertilized variants, results showed an improvement of the soil’s properties to all cultures as fallowed: pea-beans, wheat, potato and maize. The results obtained on argic phaeozem revealed that 50 t/ha manure applied on soil lead to increased the hydro stability of the soils aggregates between 5 and 8%, increased values of wilting point coefficient and also the pH values between 0,5 and 1 to all cultures. A higher quantity of manure, 100 t/ha has not showed high differences compare to witness regarding the aggregate stability and led to increase of the CO values, which means a negative effect during the drought season when plant cannot take the water from showers, which will be held from soil. Regarding the organic matter content, the values were different depending on culture and their efficiency to use manure. Thus, the differences between witness and 100 t/ha manure variant were the highest, at pea (2.12) and wheat culture (1.76).
Integrated Weed Management for Maize Crop in Croatia
Authors: SVEČNJAK Zlatko , BARIĆ Klara , MAĆEŠIĆ Dubravko , DURALIJA Boris , GUNJAČA Jerko
Published: December 2021

Concern about the effects of herbicides on the environment is the main stimulus to reduce their use in maize (Zea mays L.). Field research was conducted over two years to evaluate the efficacy of integrated weed management combining two seedbed practices at planting (no-till vs. tilled seedbeds), mechanical (0-3 inter-row cultivations) and chemical (none, band- and broadcast applied herbicide) methods on maize grain yield. Although seedbed practice had no effect on crop emergence, tilled seedbeds tended to produce larger grain yield than no-till seedbeds because of better control of early germinating weeds. Consequently, grain yield in no-till seedbeds consistently increased with each cultivation up to three passes because of improved weed control. However, the largest yield in tilled seedbeds occurred with two cultivations and then slightly decreased following third cultivation pass. Band herbicide application (50 % reduction in herbicide use compared to broadcast application) resulted in higher yield than one cultivation alone, whereas opposite responses occurred after multiple cultivation passes. Grain yield responded positively to one and two cultivation passes even when weeds were controlled by pre-emergence chemical method. Our findings indicated that banded herbicide application provided effective weed control in maize crop when complemented with two inter-row cultivations regardless of the method of seedbed preparation; thus making a viable option for Croatian farmers to lower herbicide load on the environment.
Vegetal Waste and Animal Manure Processing for Ensuring Agricultural Farms Energy Independence
Authors: CHIŢOIU Mihai , VLĂDUŢ Valentin , MILITARU Mirela , VOICEA Iulian
Published: December 2021

. Agricultural waste has a very high potential for the biogas yielding process. Using the waste has its advantages in the fact that it is a pollutant factor for the environment, it helps the sustainible development of the energies reserve and leads to an overall drop in pollution due to low emmissions.

Biogas obtained from animal manure and/or agricultural residue can be used by farmers in the purpose of lowering energy costs, in this way they can transform a problem into an opportunity. Through the biogas release process, the feeding material is transformed into a nitrogen rich fertilizer that can be used for the soil, without other interventions, and so the manure (pork and bird droppings, etc.) doesn’t need treatment.

In this paper the current state of national and international biogas use, new solutions, optimization methods, alternative materials and future possible opportunities, different results obtained over time.
Fatty Acids, Phytosterols and Chlorophylls in Leaves of Apple Cultivars (Malus Domestica Borkh)
Authors: DULF Francisc , ANDREI Sanda , MATEA Cristian , BUNEA Andrea , PINTEA Adela
Published: December 2021

The aim of the present study was to investigate the fatty acids, sterols and chlorophylls content and profile in leaves of apple cultivars (Malus domestica Borkh) which are intended to be cryopreserved. Quantitative GC-FID was used for phytosterols and fatty acids analysis, while chlorophylls were determined by a spectrophotometric method.

Total phytosterols ranged from 189.6 to 463 mg/total lipid extract. The highest phytosterols content was found in Romus 3 and Romus 4 cultivars. The most important phytosterols in all leaves samples were: β-sitosterol, sitostanol, Δ5-avenasterol, 24-methylenecycloartenol and Δ7-stigmastenol. Some other minor sterols were also identified: campesterol, stigmasterol, citrostadienol.

Fatty acids analysis revealed important quantitative differences, with a total content ranging from 77.4 mg/g to 245 mg/g. The major fatty acid in all samples was α-linolenic acid with 40 - 55 %, followed by palmitic acid with 17.5 - 25 %, linoleic acid 7 - 14 % and oleic acid 4.7 - 9.6 % of total fatty acids.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids represent the major fraction, comprising 54-65 %. The ration between unsaturated and saturated fatty acids ranged between 2.1 - 3.2. The high degree of unsaturation is characteristic to green tissues. The chlorophyll a content ranged between 1.39 – 2.3 mg/g fresh weight, while chlorophyll b was found at 0.6 - 0.98 mg/g. The ratio chl a/chl b was close to
Average Trends over Millennia of Evolution Supervised by Genetic Algorithms. Analysis of Phenotypes Associations
Authors: JÄNTSCHI Lorentz , BOLBOACĂ Sorana , DIUDEA Mircea , SESTRAŞ Radu
Published: December 2021

. A genetic algorithm (GA) had been developed and implemented in order to identify the optimal solution in term of determination coefficient and estimation power of a multiple linear regression approach of structure-activity relationships. The Molecular Descriptors Family for structure characterization of a sample of 206 polychlorinated biphenyls with measured octanol-water partition coefficients was used as case study. The research aimed to analyze the degree of association between number of viable phenotypes in cultivar in generations in which the evolution occurred and the selection and survival strategies. The GA was repeated for 46 times and the Anderson-Darling test was used to compared the distribution laws of populations occurred by using different pairs of survival and selection strategies. Here the records of association of phenotypes in pairs of four were analyzed and the conclusions were highlighted.
Solar Energy Use in Dryers as an Alternative Energy Source in Agriculture
Authors: MILITARU Mirela , POSTELNICU Elena , CHIŢOIU Mihai , VLĂDUŢ Valentin
Published: December 2021

Solar energy represents one of the future energy sources with a high potential, used as an alternative to conventional methods, especially during summer. The advantages of using solar energy are multiple, this type of energy being virtually endless and free, and its use has no negative effects on the environment, being regarded as a clean energy source.

Solar energy has multiple applications in agriculture, one of its benefits being that it is used for dryers as an alternative energy source, especially in regions with a high solar potential. In this paper different types of fruits and vegetable dryers, nationally and abroad are presented, as well as results obtained from different methods of solar dryers.
Research Regarding Potatoes Crop Control Against Diseases and Pests-Unconventional Biotechnics of Colorado Beetle Control (Leptinotarsa Decemlineata Say.) in the Ards Turda Conditions
Authors: MUREŞANU Felicia , FENEŞAN Maria , NAGY Elena , MALSCHI Dana , IVAŞ Adina
Published: December 2021

Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) is and will remain the main pest of potato crops. It seeks to combat it, more so as enable transmission of the virus X (PVC) and could reach total causing damage, in an attack early harvest losses are possible in 50 to 80% while a later attack, they can reach up to 30%. This pest developed resistance to a wide range of insecticides, which has enhance management studies determined based on a better and more thorough understanding of the ecology pest. In currently there are different methods based on biological products, various chemicals (pheromones) that causes certain behaviors (in this case aggregation) with efficiency superior, clean, reducing the quantities of toxic chemicals in the cultivation of potatoes, there is not resistance (as happens with insecticides), and thus do not affect consumer health tubers of potatoes.

The paper presents results under the program Agral-CEEX from S.C.D.A. Turda during 2006-2008, regarding the use of unconventional biotechnics control or limitation under ETD (Economic Thresholds for Pest ) of the Colorado beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say.) from the potato crop. This method was tested based on the use of compositions biotechnics pest attraction that obtained at the Institute of Chemistry Cluj-Napoca, which were used as traps for beetle aggregation pheromone in Colorado; two variants were synthesized pheromone of aggregation, V1-PEG and V2 -ExFr.

Adults to follow this pest abundance and attack rate (%) in each variant. Pitfalls of both V1-PEG, and in those of V2-ExFr were found near the Colorado beetle, many insects in the same order as proof that these aggregation pheromones are efficiency and can be placed in management integrated control, using this method to potato crop. Also using this method biotechnics -aggregation pheromone- to reduced chemical treatments needed to pest control and protect wildlife be helpful existing default
Study Regarding Salmonella spp. as a Biomarker of Quality and Traceability on Poultry Department
Authors: BALS Cristina
Published: December 2021

The safety of food and poultry meat consists in not containing factors or elements of biological risk, which are physical and chemical harmful for the consumer and which could cause negative consequences after ingestion.

In this direction leads this present work which has as target theme, the biomarker analysis of Salmonella spp. over the entire poultry department. The checking of each stage was difficult but in the same time necessary, because of the existence of so many sources of contamination, encountered during the entire process of chicken growth, a process that includes: breeding parents, the egg, the one day chicken, factors of environment from the warehouse of growth, transport, slaughter process and the storage and disposal poultry meat.

The analyzed Biomarker has been present in some cases during study period, which requires rigorous control by regularly monitoring it in each segment.
Food Safety Management for Primary Food Production
Authors: BRINZAN Oana , MURESAN Claudia , TIGAN Eugenia
Published: December 2021

Food safety, as legislative demands are clearly ask, is not compulsory just for food industry but is regarding all entrepreneurs that are a part of food chain, from primary food producers like farms, to consumer as final step. The prerequistite programs for primary food producers are helping them to implement a simple and practical HACCP system and it will make them more competitive on the market.
Impact of Packaging on Bread Physical and Chemical Properties
Authors: CIOBAN Camelia , ALEXA Ersillia , SUMALAN Renata , MERCE Iuliana
Published: December 2021

The present work presents a packaging system that slows down the degrading and ageing processes of bakery products as well as mould appearance.

There have been selected three packing methods: the packing in PE folio, PP folio, PP punched folio and the packing in a small bag specially designed to preserve bakery products.

The selection has been done function of physical – mechanic and chemical properties of the packaging materials and according to the requirements of a good preservation of the packed product.

The PE folio has a good mechanical resistance, a good permeability to gases and a high impermeability to water vapors.

The PP folio has a greater contraction, a better transparency and better mechanical properties than the polyethylene. The permeability to water and gas vapors is lower than that of the polyethylene.

The complex material based on textile / PE has superior physical and chemical properties and a high impermeability to moisture, gas and flavors.

The experimental bread packaging methods prove a tight link among the permeability to water vapors, the duration of the product freshness and the mould appearance.

The specially designed small bag made of two cotton lays and one polyethylene lay preserves the freshness of sliced bread, because the bread does not get dry or wet.

After a 7-day storage period, the contamination degree with Penicillium frequetans of the sample packed in PP punched folio is of 5%.

The contamination degree with Penicillium nigricans and frequetans of the sample packed in PP folio is of 85%.

The sample packed in the cotton bag is 10% contaminated with Aspergillus fumigates, and the one packed in polyethylene folio is 20% contaminated with Aspergillus versicolor and Penicillium frequetans.
The Influence of Lipolytic Enzymes on the Content of Fatty Acids from Holland Cheese
Authors: JIMBOREAN Mirela , LASLO Cornel , TIBULCA Dorin , BELE Constantin , PINTEA Adela , PAUCEAN Adriana , TIBULCA Aurora
Published: December 2021

The aim of the present paper is to study the variation of fatty acids content during the ripening of semihard cheese (type Holland), after adding in the milk, used for the coagulation, of a lipolytic enzymes, and the comparison with the data obtained from the analysis of a witness cheese (without enzymes added) obtained and ripen in the same technological conditions. For investigations were collected and analyzed samples at different times during ripening.
Volatile Fraction Composition of Acacia (Robinia Pseudoacacia) Honey from Romania, Spain and Check Republic
Authors: KÁDÁR Melinda , JUAN-BORRÁS Marisol , HELLEBRANDOVA Magdalenka , DOMÉNECH Eva , ESCRICHE Isabel
Published: December 2021

The aim of this work was to evaluate the volatile fraction profile of acacia raw honey from different countries: Romanian, Spain, and Czech Republic. A melissopalynological analysis was conducted on all the batches in order to verify them as belonging to this type of honey.

A number of 35 volatile compounds, more specifically: 2 acids, 10 alcohols, 7 aldehydes, 3 ketonas, 2 esters, 5 hydrocarbons, 4 terpenes, 1 furanes and 1 sulfur compound were identified by Purge and Trap-Thermal Desorption-GC/MS. The overall volatile profile of this honey allowed its classification by geographical origin. The promising results proved its usefulness for the differentiation of honey according to their origin. However further research on a higher number of samples is required in order to confirm this expectation.
Differentiation of Acacia, Sunflower and Tilia Honeys from Different Countries Based on Sugar Composition, Physicochemical and Color Parameters
Authors: KÁDÁR Melinda , JUAN-BORRÁS Marisol , HELLEBRANDOVA Magdalenka , DOMÉNECH Eva , ESCRICHE Isabel
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this work was to characterize three different types of honey (sunflower, tilia, and acacia) commercialized in Spain, Romania, and Czech Republic from the point of view of their values on physical-chemical (HMF, diastase activity, moisture, electrical conductivity), sugar composition and colour parameters. A multivariate analysis made it possible to differentiate these three types of honey according to the parameters analysed. However, it was found that the country had less influence in its differentiation than the variety of honey.
Influence of Genotype and Agrofond on the Quality of Wheat Varieties from Transylvania
Authors: MAN Simona , MUSTE Sevastita , POP(BIROU) Anamaria , CHIRCU Carmen , MURESAN Vlad , KADAR Rodica
Published: December 2021

The paper presents and analyzes the baking quality indices of indigenous wheat varieties (Arieşan, Apullum and Dumbrava) grown at S.C.D.A. Turda during 2008-2009 crop year, under agrofond influence. Results showed that the genetics and technological factors contribute to change in fairly wide limits of chemical composition of wheat grain. Experiencing the three wheat varieties different doses of organic fertilizers (N50P50K50 kg/ha şi N50P50K50 + N50P30 kg/ha), crude protein values range between 13,73% (N50P50K50 kg/ha ) and 15,78% (N50P50K50 + N50P30 kg/ha) in Arieşan variety, between 12,71% (N50P50K50 kg/ha ) şi 15,13% (N50P50K50 + N50P30 kg/ha) in Apullum variety and between 12,95 (N50P50K50 kg/ha ) şi 15,05% (N50P50K50 + N50P30 kg/ha) in Dumbrava variety. Also the values of wet gluten content varies between 32,55% influenced by N50P50K50 kg/ha and between 37,65% - 39,05% influenced by N50P50K50 + N50P30 kg/ha.