bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Matrix Metalloproteinase 20 Co-expression With Dentin Sialophosphoprotein in Human and Monkey Kidneys
Authors: Ogbureke Kalu U.E. , Koli Komal , Saxena Geetu
Published: September 2016

We recently reported the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 20 (MMP20), hitherto thought to be tooth specific, in the metabolically active ductal epithelial cells of human salivary glands. Furthermore, our report indicated that MMP20 co-expressed and potentially interacts with dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), a member of the small integrin-binding ligand N-linked glycoproteins (SIBLINGs). Our earlier reports have shown the co-expression of three MMPs, MMP2, MMP3, and MMP9, with specific members of the SIBLING family: bone sialoprotein, osteopontin, and dentin matrix protein 1, respectively. This study investigated the expression of MMP20 and verified its co-expression with DSPP in human and monkey kidney sections and human mixed renal cells by IHC, in situ proximity ligation assay, and immunofluorescence. Our results show that MMP20 is expressed in all segments of the human and monkey nephron with marked intensity in the proximal and distal tubules, and was absent in the glomeruli. Furthermore, MMP20 co-expressed with DSPP in the proximal, distal, and collecting tubules, and in mixed renal cells. Consistent with other SIBLING–MMP pairs, the DSPP–MMP20 pair may play a role in the normal turnover of cell surface proteins and/or repair of pericellular matrix proteins of the basement membranes in the metabolically active duct epithelial system of the nephrons.
Expert opinions about the use of comprehensive nutrition protocol in practice for obesity prevention
Authors: Bizjak Mojca , Peršolja Melita , Zadnik Stirn Lidija
Published: September 2016

Introduction: Obesity is associated with a number of chronic diseases. The research aimed to determine the effectiveness of nutrition assessment when using a comprehensive nutrition protocol at primary health service. Methods: A real life situation was analysed for the positive and negative factors in the newly formed comprehensive nutritional protocol. These factors were identified by a group decision-making and a SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Treats) and subsequently numerically evaluated with the Analytic Hierarchy Process method which included expert opinions. Results: According to experts, the most important factors justifying the introduction of the protocol in practice are "equal treatment for all subjects" and "precisely prepared manual", followed by "individual treatment" and "health status improvements". The two most important negative factors are "dependence on other professionals" and "subjects will not be able to follow the protocol". Discussion and conclusion: Expert opinions favour the introduction of nutrition protocol in clinical practice to ensure equal treatment of all subjects, and enhance obesity prevention with the accompanying detailed instructions. For this reason, further research should address the foundation of dietetic counselling services at the primary level of healthcare, so that physicians could refer obese people to individual nutritional therapy, which may reduce the prevalence of obesity.
Cerebral Venous Thrombosis after a Cesarean Delivery
Authors: Ehler Edvard , Kopal Aleš , Mrklovský Milan , Košťál Milan
Published: September 2016

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a serious condition affecting mostly women. This report concerns two cases of women who developed CVT within 14 days of cesarean delivery. Magnetic resonance angiography of the brain (venous phase) is the best modality to diagnose the condition, and parenteral application of low-molecular-weight heparin is the most beneficial treatment. The first patient was found to have an elevated factor VIII level. In the second patient, homozygosity of the C677T mutation in the 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene was found. The puerperal period and Cesarean Section (CS) are risk factors for thrombotic complications, including CVT. It is necessary to search for risk factors in a patient’s history and within the group of at-risk patients to prolong preventive administration of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH). CVT (including puerperium related) is not a detrimental to future pregnancies.
Sarcoidosis and Lung Cancer
Authors: Kobayashi Naohiro , Nakamura Ryota , Kurishima Koichi , Sato Yukio , Satoh Hiroaki
Published: September 2016

Background: Although sarcoidosis as well as lung cancer are frequently encountered common diseases, their metachronous or synchronous occurrence in the same patient is very rare. Methods: The charts of lung cancer patients, diagnosed between 1980 and 2007 in our hospital, were reviewed. Results: We found 3 cases with sarcoidosis and lung cancer. The first case had lung cancer 16 years after the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. The second case had two different metachronous lung cancers 18 and 10 years after the diagnosis of sarcoidosis. The third case detected these two diseases simultaneously. In simultaneously detected cases, it is difficult to determine whether noncaseating epithelioid cell granulomas coexisting with lung cancer represent sarcoid reaction or genuine systemic sarcoidosis. Conclusions: Either causality or coincidence, lung cancer, a condition that can be observed in patients with sarcoidosis, should be considered in the differential diagnosis when suspicious findings of it are discovered.
The Enigma of Consciousness – Philosophic and Scientific Approach
Authors: A Skutchanova A , Saniova B
Published: September 2016

Consciousness is enigmatic beast. It is present with us, comforting, and intuitive core of us. Yet this familiar beast, if we try to touch and describe it, escapes. Questioning and exploring consciousness accompanies mankind since ever. In 20thcentury we met never before seen states of severe disorders of consciousness – nonresponding people with eyes wide open. Also advancements in general anesthesia made us reexplore this phenomena.

Article sums up current philosophic and two most prominent current neuroscientific approaches to what consciousness is and how we can assess it in other human beings. These theories may extend our understanding of ourselves and also help to asses this core quality in our patients in moments, when they do not intelligibly respond or do not respond at all.
Influence of Modification and Casting Technology on Structure of IN-713C Superalloy Castings
Authors: Binczyk F. , Cwajna J. , Gradoń P. , Mańka M.
Published: September 2016

The paper presents the results concerning impact of modification (volume and surface techniques), pouring temperature and mould temperature on stereological parameters of macrostructure in IN713C castings made using post-production scrap. The ability to adjust the grain size is one of the main issues in the manufacturing of different nickel superalloy castings used in aircraft engines. By increasing the grain size one can increase the mechanical properties, like diffusion creep resistance, in higher temperatures. The fine grained castings. on the other hand, have higher mechanical properties in lower temperatures and higher resistance to thermal fatigue. The test moulds used in this study, supplied by Pratt and Whitney Rzeszow, are ordinarily used to cast the samples for tensile stress testing. Volume modification was carried out using the patented filter containing cobalt aluminate. The macrostructure was described using the number of grains per mm2, mean grain surface area and shape index. Obtained results show strong relationship between the modification technique, pouring temperature and grain size. There was no significant impact of mould temperature on macrostructure.
3DP Technology for the Manufacture of Molds for Pressure Casting
Authors: Skorulski G.
Published: September 2016

The paper presents the use of rapid prototyping technology of three dimensional printing (3DP) to make a prototype shell casting mold. In the first step, for identification purposes, a mold was prepared to enable different alloys to be cast. All molds being cast were designed in a universal CAD environment and printed with the zp151 composite material (Calcium sulfate hemihydrate) with a zb63 binder (2-pyrrolidone). It is designated to be used to prepare colourful models presenting prototypes or casting models and molds. The usefulness of 3DP technology for use with copper alloys, aluminum and zinc was analyzed. The strength of the mold during casting was assumed as a characteristic comparative feature in the material resistance to high temperature, the quality of the resulting casting and its surface roughness. Casting tests were carried out in vacuum – pressure casting. The casting programs applied, significantly increased the quality of castings and enabled precise mold submergence. Significant improvement was noted in the quality compared to the same castings obtained by gravity casting.
Wear Resistance of Steel 20MnCr5 After Surfacing with Micro-jet Cooling
Authors: Tarasiuk W. , Piwnik J. , Węgrzyn T. , Sieteski D.
Published: September 2016

This paper presents results of experimental research concerning the impact of an innovative method of micro-jet cooling on the padding weld performed with MIG welding. Micro-jet cooling is a novel method patented in 2011. It enables to steer the parameters of weld cooling in a precise manner. In addition, various elements which may e.g. enhance hardness or alter tribological properties can be entered into its top surface, depending on the applied cooling gas. The material under study was steel 20MnCr5, which was subject to the welding process with micro-jet cooling and without cooling. Nitrogen was used as a cooling gas. The main parameter of weld assessment was wear intensity. The tests were conducted in a tribological pin-on-disc type position. The following results exhibit growth at approximately 5% in wear resistance of padding welds with micro-jet cooling.
A Review on Current and Emerging Application Possibilities for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Beloev Ivan H.
Published: September 2016

This paper presents a review on current and emerging application possibilities for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The introduction section of the paper briefly describes some of the application areas in which drones are currently being used. The next chapters of the paper describe more detailly the use of UAVs for aerial photography, filming, security and logistics, GIS, land and water surveys. The main focus of the last chapters is on the advantages and the disadvantages of the drones usage in precision agriculture, wildlife and nature observations and archaeology. The last chapters also provide information on how the advanced information technology solutions can be implemented in order to provide means for fighting invasive species, to increase the yield of certain crops, to monitor and predict flooding, wildfires and other disasters, etc. This paper provides only overview of the most interesting and widely available applications of the UAVs, but there are also many other more specific and dedicated solutions for implementation of the drones for different purposes.
Quality Control in Production Processes
Authors: Prístavka Miroslav , Kotorová Martina , Savov Radovan
Published: September 2016

The tools for quality management are used for quality improvement throughout the whole Europe and developed countries. Simple statistics are considered one of the most basic methods. The goal was to apply the simple statistical methods to practice and to solve problems by using them. Selected methods are used for processing the list of internal discrepancies within the organization, and for identification of the root cause of the problem and its appropriate solution. Seven basic quality tools are simple graphical tools, but very effective in solving problems related to quality. They are called essential because they are suitable for people with at least basic knowledge in statistics; therefore, they can be used to solve the vast majority of problems.
Magic Realism, Minimalist Realism and the Figuration of the Tableau in Contemporary Hungarian and Romanian Cinema
Authors: Pieldner Judit
Published: September 2016

The paper surveys two modes of representation present in contemporary Hungarian and Romanian cinema, namely magic realism and minimalist realism, as two ways of rendering the “real” in the Central Eastern European geocultural context. New Hungarian Film tends to display narratives that share the features of what is generally assumed as being magic realist, accompanied by a high degree of stylization, while New Romanian Cinema is more attracted to creating austere, micro-realistic universes. The paper argues that albeit apparently being forking modes of representation that traverse distinct routes, magic realism and minimalist realism share a set of common elements and, what this study especially focuses on, converge in the preference for the tableau aesthetic. The paper examines the role of tableau compositions andtableaux vivantsin representative films of the Young Hungarian Film and the Romanian New Wave, namely Szabolcs Hajdu’sBibliothèque Pascal(2010) and Cristian Mungiu’sBeyond the Hills(După dealuri, 2012). An excessive use of the tableau can be detected in both films, with many thematic connections, in subtle interwovenness with female identiy and corporeality performed as a site of traumatic experiences, upon which (institutional, colonial) power relations are reinscribed. The tableau as a figuration of intermediality performs the tension between the sensation of the “real” and its reframed image, and proves especially suitable for mediating between low-key realism and highly stylized forms.1
When the Copywriter is the Protagonist. History and Intermediality in Pablo Larraín’sNo(2012)
Authors: Zucconi Francesco
Published: September 2016

Through films such asTony Manero(2008),Santiago 73,Post Mortem(2010), andNo(2012), the productions of Chilean director Pablo Larraín have focused on the historical and political themes that marked the last decades in the life of his country: the putsch against Salvador Allende and Augusto Pinochet’s dictatorship. This paper analyses the last film of the trilogy, dedicated to the 1988 Chilean national plebiscite and the communication battle between supporters of the “Yes” and “No” sides. Why does Larraín identify the copywriter René Saavedra as the main character of the film? And why does the film accord such importance to the advertising campaign in recounting the historical reality of democratic transition? How does the fictional film remediate the archival footage of the 1988 campaign? To answer these questions, this paper investigates the film as an audiovisual form of interpretation of historical events and film montage as an intermedial “authentication” of the archival documents relating to this traumatic past.
Accommodating the Mess: The Politics of Appropriation in It for Others (2013)
Authors: Blair Paula
Published: September 2016

In response to Chris Marker and Alain Resnais’s collaborative meditation on art and colonialism in Statues Also Die (1953), Duncan Campbell’s video installation It for Others (2013) takes a complex approach to presenting a Marxist criticism of the commoditization of art and culture. This article considers the intermedial and intertextual properties of It for Others as an example of convergence culture that transcends postmodern quotation and pastiche. While the film is apparently a bricolage of visual artefacts, it is in fact an intricately woven audiovisual essay concerned with the appropriation of not only colonized objects as its narration makes clear, but also of still images, moving images, written texts, sound samples, and the labour that produced them. The article examines how the film troubles notions of documentary realism and truth through its acts of appropriation that reflexively criticize the commercial appropriation and commoditization of artworks and histories. It also reflects on the film’s Marxist approach to related issues around authorship, ownership and access to artworks, particularly in the light of the film’s acknowledgement in prize culture.
Media-Morphosis. Intermediality, (Re-)Animation and the Medial Uncanny in Tsukamoto Shinya’sTetsuo: The Iron Man(1989)
Authors: Player Mark
Published: September 2016

Operating self-sufficiently on the fringes of the Japanese film industry for almost his entire career, the work of independent filmmaker Tsukamoto Shinya1 is perhaps best-known for its uncompromising, musical freneticism, as well as its corporeal spectacle. However, Tsukamoto’s dynamic clashing of visual media signifiers, such as those of theatre and television (industries within which he also operated prior to his film career during the 1980s), and how these impact upon his reflexive cinematic style, has yet to be fully considered. Drawing on Laura Mulvey’s conception of the ‘uncanny’ in response to cinema’s potential to confuse animate and inanimate, as well as Tsukamoto’s own under-discussed background in experimental street theatre and television advertising production, this essay seeks to examine Tsukamoto’s unique method of stop motion photography within his signature, self-produced featureTetsuo: The Iron Man(1989). The intention is to show that these hyperbolic sequences instil not only an uncanniness in their live-action subjects, who are rendered inanimate then reanimated to form staccato, cyborg characters, but also a ‘medial uncanny’ that simultaneously emulates and subverts the qualities of a vast range of visual media, particularly television and its associated post-medial peripherals and artefacts.
Existence of three positive solutions for boundary value problem with fractional order and infinite delay
Authors: Benaouda Hedia
Published: September 2016

In this paper we investigate the existence three positives solutions by using Leggett-Williams fixed point theorem in cones for three boundary value problem with fractional order and infinite delay.
Systèmes dynamiques algébriquement complètement intégrables et géométrie
Authors: Lesfari A.
Published: September 2016

In this paper I present the basic ideas and properties of the complex algebraic completely integrable dynamical systems. These are integrable systems whose trajectories are straight line motions on complex algebraic tori (abelian varieties). We make, via the Kowalewski-Painlevé analysis, a detailed study of the level manifolds of the system. These manifolds are described explicitly as being affine part of complex algebraic tori and the flow can be solved by quadrature, that is to say their solutions can be expressed in terms of abelian integrals. The Adler-van Moerbeke method’s which will be used is primarily analytical but heavily inspired by algebraic geometrical methods. We will also discuss several examples of algebraic completely integrable systems : Kowalewski’s top, geodesic flow on SO(4), Hénon-Heiles system, Garnier potential, two coupled nonlinear Schrödinger equations and Yang-Mills system.
Local convergence radius for the Mann-type iteration
Authors: Măruşter Ştefan
Published: September 2016

A procedure to estimate the local convergence radius for a Mann-type iteration is given in the setting of a finite dimensional space. In particular we obtain the estimation of radius for classical Newton method. Numerical experiments are presented showing the efficiency of the proposed procedure in comparison with other known methods. In some cases our procedure gives the maximum local convergence radius.
On the Local Convergence of an Eighth-order Method for Solving Nonlinear Equations
Authors: Argyros Ioannis K. , Kansal Munish , Kanwar V.
Published: September 2016

We present a local convergence analysis of an eighth-order method for approximating a locally unique solution of a non-linear equation. Earlier studies such as have shown convergence of these methods under hypotheses up to the seventh derivative of the function although only the first derivative appears in the method. In this study, we expand the applicability of these methods using only hypotheses up to the first derivative of the function. This way the applicability of these methods is extended under weaker hypotheses. Moreover, the radius of convergence and computable error bounds on the distances involved are also given in this study. Numerical examples are also presented in this study.
Higher-Order Geodesic Equations from Non-Local Lagrangians and Complex Backward-Forward Derivative Operators
Authors: El-Nabulsi Rami Ahmad
Published: September 2016

Starting with an extended complex backwardforward derivative operator in differential geometry which is motivated from non-local-in-time Lagrangian dynamics, higher-order geodesic equations are obtained within classical differential geometrical settings. We limit our analysis up to the 2nd-order derivative where some applications are discussed and a number of features are revealed accordingly.
A note on the Miller-Tucker-Zemlin model for the asymmetric traveling salesman problem
Authors: Sawik T.
Published: September 2016

An enhancement of the Miller-Tucker-Zemlin (MTZ) model for the asymmetric traveling salesman problem is presented by introducing additional constraints to the initial formulation. The constraints account for ordering of boundary nodes as well as all successive nodes in the salesman tour. The enhanced MTZ subtour elimination constraints are computationally compared with the basic MTZ constraints and the version of MTZ lifted by Desrochers and Laporte. The proposed enhancement shows improved performance on a number of asymmetric TSPLIB instances.
Model predictive control of multilevel cascaded converter with boosting capability – a simulation study
Authors: Wiatr P. , Kazmierkowski M.P.
Published: September 2016

This paper presents a multilevel cascaded H-bridge 5-level converter with boosting capability. The standard solution for boosting voltage in power electronic devices is based on a DC-DC converter with a bulky inductor. However, inductor is a problematic component of a power electronic converter because usually it has to be individually designed and produced for every device and also because its size and weight do not allow for compact construction. This paper presents model predictive control (MPC) method that gives boosting capability for the presented converter. A novel contribution of this paper is the development of a predictive model of the converter and cost function enabling output current control and capacitor voltage balancing.
Prevalence of pseudonatremia in a clinical laboratory – role of the water content
Authors: Langelaan Marloes L.P. , Kamp Linda , Zandijk Eric , Raijmakers Maarten T.M.
Published: September 2016

Background:

Sodium concentration is a frequently used marker to discriminate between differential diagnoses or for clinical follow-up. Pseudonatremia, as a result of indirect ion-selective electrode (ISE) measurements in automated chemistry analyzers, can lead to incorrect diagnosis and treatment. We investigated whether the estimated water content, based on total protein and lipid concentrations, can be used to reduce diagnoses of pseudonatremia.

Methods:

Indirect and direct ISE measurements of sodium were compared in blood samples from intensive care unit (ICU) (n = 98) and random non-ICU patients (n = 100). Differences between direct measurements using whole blood and lithium-heparin plasma were also determined. Water content, estimated by a linear combination of total protein and lipid concentrations, was used to correct indirectly measured sodium concentrations. The prevalence of pseudonatremia was evaluated in the ICU patient group.

Results:

An absolute difference of 3 mmol/L was observed between direct measurements using lithium-heparin plasma and whole blood, with higher concentrations in plasma. Additionally, we observed that differences between indirect and direct measurements displayed a linear relationship with the estimated water content. The prevalence of pseudohypernatremia after indirect measurements (32%) was reduced when measurements were corrected for water content (19%).

Conclusions:

In critically ill patients
Evaluation Of The Macroeconomic Stability Of Central And Eastern European Countries With A View Toward Their Membership In The European Union. Multidimensional Risk Analysis
Authors: Pera Jacek
Published: September 2016

The economies of European countries have been undergoing constant turbulence for several years. This is the consequence of a range of factors, in particular: the 2007 crisis; violations of the convergence criteria and fiscal discipline; problems with the liquidity of international financial markets; depreciation of the euro currency; increasing unemployment in European Union Member States; the slow increase in productivity in the majority of EU economies; growing indebtedness of public finance sectors; problems with retirement schemes – in particular with correlation between their effectiveness and unemployment and low rate of natural increase. Thus, the author posits that it is important to analyse the key aspects related to these economic parameters which may affect this process in a significant way and decide the risk of its occurrence. This is the assumed aim of this work. The work shows the results of the author’s own study, carried out with the use of different methods, such as the macroeconomic stabilisation pentagon, the Scoreboard, and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. The variety of test methods employed results on one hand from the problem's complexity, and on the other from a profound analysis of all dependencies and risks resulting from this complexity. The conducted study shows that there is a significant correlation between the Scoreboard parameter imbalances and the intensity of crisis phenomena in case of violations of the acceptable thresholds in terms of current account balance, net international investment position, export market shares, nominal unit labour costs, real house prices, private sector debt, government debt, and the unemployment rate. The imbalances of these eight indicators may form an adverse macroeconomic environment favouring the occurrence of intense crisis phenomena, which means that they should be subject to special monitoring. The shapes of the macroeconomic stabilisation pentagon for CEEC economies in 2014 shows that none of the analysed countries is characterised by total filling of the pentagon. This means that the economic situation in these countries is not stable and requires constant monitoring. The figures related to all analysed indicators, apart from GDP, are characterised by a flattened shape, which is characteristic for such a situation.
Fatty Acid Composition and β-Carotene Content in Egg Yolk of Laying Hens Fed with Linseed, Paprika and Marigold
Authors: Spasevski Nedeljka , Čolović Dušica , Rakita Slađana , Ikonić Predrag , Đuragić Olivera , Banjac Vojislav , Vukmirović Đuro
Published: September 2016

Eggs enriched with n-3 fatty acids and natural pigments are desirable in human food chain due to numerous benefits for health. In this study, we investigated the effects of inclusion of co-extruded linseed and sunflower meal into laying hens’ diet and replacement of synthesized pigment with paprika and marigold flower as sources of natural pigments. Four hundred 18–wk-old Bovan laying hens divided in two groups (control and experiment) were fed for 12 weeks. Fatty acids and β-carotene were monitored every fourth week and successively analyzed. Significantly (p<0.05) increased content of α-linolenic acid in egg yolk in the experimental group in comparison to the control group was observed with addition of linseed, paprika and marigold in laying hens’ nutrition. Nearly the same tendency was observed in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) content. Supplementation of the co-extruded linseed and sunflower meal into laying hens’ diet demonstrated significantly (p<0.05) lower n-6/n-3 FA ratio in experimental group compared to control group. The obtained results showed that the synthetic pigment added to laying hens’ diet provided better pigmentation of egg yolks after one and two months of the feeding trial than paprika and marigold flower. The concentration of β-carotene in egg yolks increased in experimental group after three months of the treatment, and that was the first time that concentrations of β-carotene did not significantly (p < 0.05) differ among control and experimental group, which shows that paprika and marigold flower as sources of natural pigments can successfully replace synthetic pigment. We shall continue research in this field with other supplemented mixtures, as there are indices for other potential feed enhancements among oily seeds and herbs.
Physioloigical and Morphological Parametrers of Cultivated Plants as Indicators of Water Quality
Authors: Žunić Antonije , Vuković Slavica , Fatima De Alpendurada Maria , Lazić Sanja , Gvozdenac Sonja , Šunjka Dragana
Published: September 2016

By using biological assay in the laboratory were tested quality and impact of the water to the selected test plants: buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) and cabbage (Brassica oleracea). Water was analyzed from two locations from the River Douro in Portugal. Physico-chemical analysis of general parameters in the water samples indicate that electrical conductivity and ammonium were detected in values exceeding MAC, according to Portuguese regulations on water quality. Also, in the analyzed samples of water in quantities that exceed the maximum allowable concentration values are: arsenic (As), selenium (Se), iron (Fe), magnesium (Mg). In tested samples several pharmaceuticals were detected. The obtained results indicate differences in tolerance of the test plants towards the quality of water. Physiological parameters (germination energy and germination) are not good indicators of water quality and more reliable can be considered some morphological traits (length, fresh and dry weight of root and shoot), that reacted in inhibition or stimulation, depending on water quality.
Water-Yield Relations of Drip Irrigated Watermelon in Temperate Climatic Conditions
Authors: Pejić Borivoj , Mačkić Ksenija , Pavković Srdjan , Ljevnaić-Mašić Branka , Aksić Miroljub , Gvozdanović-Varga Jelica
Published: September 2016

The objective of the study, conducted in Vojvodina a northern part of the Serbia Republic, was to analyse the effect of drip irrigation on yield, evapotranspiration and water productivity of watermelon (Cirullus lanatus Thunb.) grown with plasticulture. Irrigation was scheduled on the basis of water balance method. Daily evapotranspiration was computed using the reference evapotranspiration and crop coefficient. The yield of watermelon in irrigation conditions (37,28 t/ha) was significantly higher compared to non irrigated (9,98 t/ha). Water used on evapotranspiration in irrigation conditions was 398 mm and 117 mm on non irrigated variant. The crop yield response factor of 1,04 for the whole growing season reveals that relative yield decrease was nearly equal to the rate of evapotranspiration deficit. The values of irrigation water use efficiency and evapotranspiration water use efficiency were 9,93 kg/m3 and 10,29 kg/m3 respectively. The determined results could be used as a good platform for watermelon growers in the region, in terms of improvement of the optimum utilization of irrigation water.
Change management in lean enterprise
Authors: Furman Joanna , Kuczyńska-Chałada Marzena
Published: September 2016

The main purpose of the paper is the analysis of a process of change focusing particularly on the concept of slimmed production (Lean) and its implementation in the enterprise. A case study method was chosen as a research tool because it offers wide array of techniques and means of gaining and analysing data.

A metallurgical company was evaluated as a case study in this article. Thanks to the implementation of Autonomous Maintenance the company reached a growth in skills and responsibility for work done and a reduction in malfunction at work places. Thus, total process maintenance (TPM) as one of the Lean concept tools whose implementation significantly influences industrial workers’ competences was chosen for the analysis. Referring to the bibliography on change management, the article focused on one of the changes in particular – the change in human resources management (namely in employees' skills) in steel and manufacturing companies.
Pre-Processing and Modeling Tools for Bigdata
Authors: Hashem Hadi , Ranc Daniel
Published: September 2016

Modeling tools and operators help the user / developer to identify the processing field on the top of the sequence and to send into the computing module only the data related to the requested result. The remaining data is not relevant and it will slow down the processing. The biggest challenge nowadays is to get high quality processing results with a reduced computing time and costs. To do so, we must review the processing sequence, by adding several modeling tools. The existing processing models do not take in consideration this aspect and focus on getting high calculation performances which will increase the computing time and costs. In this paper we provide a study of the main modeling tools for BigData and a new model based on pre-processing.
Polynomial Time Algorithms for Variants of Graph Matching on Partial k-Trees
Authors: Nagoya Takayuki
Published: September 2016

In this paper, we deal with two variants of graph matching, the graph isomorphism with restriction and the prefix set of graph isomorphism. The former problem is known to be NP-complete, whereas the latter problem is known to be GI-complete. We propose polynomial time exact algorithms for these problems on partial k-trees.
Second generation energy crops and farmland birds – Central and East European perspective
Authors: Kaczmarek Jan M. , Tryjanowski Piotr
Published: September 2016

The development of cellulosic bioethanol and other second-generation (2G) biofuels has gone through various phases during the last few years. The prospect of technological breakthroughs stimulates extensive research on turning cellulose into bioethanol or biodiesel. Agricultural or forestry residues and some plants, referred to as ‘lignocellulosic energy crops’ or ‘second generation (2G) energy crops’ can provide feedstock for new types of biofuels. The impact of lignocellulosic energy crops on farmland birds has been relatively well studied. This is surprising since the technology of converting these crops into fuel has so recently been developed. However, we believe that some questions regarding potential bird use of 2G energy crops have still not been answered. In Europe, most research has been carried out in agricultural areas of Western Europe. However, Central & Eastern Europe host the highest densities of farmland birds and, in general, the highest biodiversity. There is huge potential for 2G energy cropping due to large areas of mainly marginal land. We have outlined possible discrepancies between the results obtained from W. Europe and potential relationships between birds and 2G energy crops in Central Europe.
First report of Leptospira infections in red deer, roe deer, and fallow deer in Poland
Authors: Żmudzki Jacek , Jabłoński Artur , Arent Zbigniew , Zębek Sylwia , Nowak Agnieszka , Stolarek Agnieszka , Parzeniecka-Jaworska Marta
Published: September 2016

Introduction: Recently in Europe an increase in the population of red deer (Cervus elaphus), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), and fallow deer (Dama dama) has been observed. Research on the prevalence of Leptospira infections in Polish cervids has been performed for the first time.

Material and Methods: During 2014/2015 hunting season, 147 blood samples from red deer, roe deer, and fallow deer were collected. The animals originated from different geographical regions across Poland. Serum samples were tested by microscopic agglutination test (MAT) for the presence of specific antibodies to the following Leptospira serovars: Icterohaemorrhagiae, Grippotyphosa, Sejroe, Tarassovi, Pomona, Canicola, Bratislava, Hardjo, Ballum, Zanoni, Hebdomadis, and Poi.

Results: Serum antibody titres specific to Grippotyphosa, Pomona, and Zanoni serovars were found; none of the sera were positive for any of the other serovars. Out of 147 serum samples only 7 were positive, which gave an overall prevalence of 4.8% in the tested animal population.

Conclusion: The low Leptospira antibody titres along with the low number of positive serum samples in deer indicate that these animals may not act as significant reservoirs of Leptospira for either humans or animals in Poland.
Technological and nutritional properties of ostrich, emu, and rhea meat quality
Authors: Horbańczuk Olaf K. , Wierzbicka Agnieszka
Published: September 2016

In recent years a growing demand for ratite meat, including ostrich, emu, and rhea has been observed all over the world. However, consumers as well as the meat industry still have limited and scattered knowledge about this type of meat, especially in the case of emu and rhea. Thus, the aim of the present review is to provide information on technological and nutritional properties of ostrich, emu, and rhea meat, including carcass composition and yields, physicochemical characteristics, and nutritive value. Carcass yields and composition among ratites are comparable, with the exception of higher content of fat in emu. Ostrich, emu, and rhea meat is darker than beef and ratite meat acidification is closer to beef than to poultry. Ratite meat can be recognised as a dietetic product mainly because of its low level of fat, high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), favourable n6/n3 ratio, and high iron content in comparison with beef and chicken meat. Ratite meat is also rich in selenium, copper, vitamin B, and biologically active peptides such as creatine (emu) and anserine (ostrich), and has low content of sodium (ostrich). The abundance of bioactive compounds e.g. PUFA, makes ratite meat highly susceptible to oxidation and requires research concerning elaboration of innovative, intelligent packaging system for protection of nutritional and technological properties of this meat.
Green to blue-green quartz from Rakowice Wielkie (Sudetes, south-western Poland) – a re-examination of prasiolite-related colour varieties of quartz
Authors: Platonov Alexej N. , Szuszkiewicz Adam
Published: September 2016

The green colour of prasiolite, defined as naturally occurring transparent macrocrystalline α-quartz with primary colouration, results from the optical absorption centred at ~13,660 cm−1 and attributed to the FeVI
2+→FeVI
3+ intervalence charge transfer (Platonov et al. 1992). However, optical absorption spectroscopy of blue-green to green quartz from Rakowice Wielkie, Sudetes, south-western Poland, shows that its primary colouration results from the combination of this band and absorptions at ~18,500 cm−1 and ~16,250 cm−1. The first is assigned to a hole centre Fe4+
s(Fe3+
s-e−) combined with an electron centre Fe2+
I6(Fe3+
I6+e−), while the second from AlO4
4− defects. The quartz is blue-green if the 18,500 cm−1 prevails and becomes pale green if the 16,250 cm−1 band predominates. These colours seem to represent intermediate colour varieties between amethyst and prasiolite. We also suggest that spectral features of coloured quartz varieties might be useful indicators of changes in the physical- and chemical characteristics of the mineral-forming fluids.
Payment Cards
Authors: Kantnerová Liběna
Published: September 2016

The aim of this paper is to analyze the use of payment cards in retail in the Czech Republic from the side of clients (buyers) and the side of sellers. Questionnaires for clients examine satisfaction with cards and the service connected with them. Sellers’ satisfaction with the profit and function of cards is analyzed. The data indicated that 92% of the 352 respondents in South Bohemia had a payment card and more than 35% had more than one card. In retail, 70% of sellers had a payment terminal.
To be or not to be a neurovascular conflict: importance of the preoperative identification of the neurovascular conflict in the trigeminal neuralgia
Authors: Turliuc Dana Mihaela , Dobrovăţ B. , Cucu A. I. , Turliuc Ş. , Trandafir Daniela , Costea Claudia Florida
Published: September 2016

The trigeminal neuralgia caused by neurovascular compression is a neurosurgical pathology requiring the preoperative identification as exact as possible of the neurovascular conflict. In this case, neuroimaging is very useful, as it allows not only the determination of the neurovascular conflict of the trigeminal nerve, but also the correct indication of an adequate surgical approach.
Biblical descriptions of spinal neurological and neurosurgical pathology
Authors: Turliuc S. , Costea Claudia Florida , Cucu A.I. , Dumitrescu Ana-Maria , Dumitrescu Gabriela Florenta , Turliuc Dana Mihaela
Published: September 2016

The Holy Bible includes descriptions of the spine with both neurosurgical and neurological implications and most spinal disorders presented have been briefly described and display a mystical nature. The Holy Bible is a book full of sacred precepts and not a medical encyclopedia as it was written in the context of that age, and in a language that had to be understood by people of that era. This paper aims to give a short presentation of several diseases of the spine mentioned in the Holy Scripture in order to identify the most common disease among the Jews during biblical times and attempts to provide their diagnosis.
Predictors for outcome after surgery for traumatic acute subdural hematoma
Authors: Atanasov Vladimir A. , Popov Rumen V.
Published: September 2016

Introduction: Acute traumatic subdural hematoma (ASDH) is one of the most frequent conditions in neurosurgery demanding emergency surgery. The aim of the study was to identify factors influencing outcome in patients who had surgery for evacuation of ASDH. Methods: From 2005 to 2012 eighty-five patients at age above 18 years had surgery for evacuation of ASDH. Outcome was measured according GOS at discharge and was dichotomized as “favorable outcome” (GOS 4 to 5) and “unfavorable outcome” (GOS 1 to 3). These factors were evaluated with univariate and logistic regression analysis for significance with outcome. Results: The mean age of the 85 patients was 62.7 years (SD±18.5). 45.9% patients were with favorable outcome and 54.1% had unfavorable outcome. Patients with GCS score 3-8 (54.1%) had 80.4% unfavorable outcome whereas 78.6% of patients with GCS score 13-15 (32.9%) had favorable outcome. All patients with nonreactive pupils (bilaterally or unilaterally - 31.8%) had unfavorable outcome whereas patients (36.5%) with both reactive pupils (36.5%) had in 80.6% favorable outcome. All patients (40%) with Rotterdam CT scores 5 and 6 had unfavorable outcome. The factors determining outcome were admission GSC score, Rotterdam CT scores, and prothrombin time. Conclusion: Patients who have GSC score of 3, unresponsive pupil(s) or have Rotterdam CT scores 5 and 6 have little chance of survival. Patients with coagulopathy have two times more unfavorable outcome. The patients with ASDH should have surgery as soon as possible after correction of vital parameters in order to avoid deterioration which can be very rapid and irreversible.
Iatrogenic lumbar Pseudomeningocele: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Rege S.V. , Patil Harshad
Published: September 2016

Lumbar pseudomeningocele is an uncommon complication of lumbar spine surgeries. This occurred due to extradural encapsulated cerebrospinal fluid collection after accidental durotomy or un-repairable dural tear. On review of literature only 58 cases have been reported so far. Magnetic resonance imaging is the investigation of choice for diagnosis of pseudomeningocele. Herein author has described a case of iatrogenic pseudomeningocele after lumbar spine surgery and its management.
Role of Sertraline in insomnia associated with post traumatic brain injury (TBI) depression
Authors: Ansari Ahmed , Jain Akhilesh , Mittal R.S. , Sharma Achal , Sharma Anand , Gupta I. D.
Published: September 2016

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of disability (1, 2). Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia, are very common following traumatic brain injury and have been reported in frequencies from 40% (3) to as high as 84% (4). Sleep disruption can be related to the TBI itself but may also be secondary to neuropsychiatric (e.g., depression) or neuromuscular (e.g., pain) conditions associated with TBI or to the pharmacological management of the injury and its consequences. Post-TBI insomnia has been associated with numerous negative outcomes including daytime fatigue, tiredness, difficulty functioning: impaired performance at work, memory problems, mood problems, greater functional disability, reduced participation in activities of daily living, less social and recreational activity, less employment potential, increased caregiver burden, greater sexual dysfunction, and also lower ratings of health, poor subjective wellbeing. These negative consequences can hamper the person’s reintegration into the community, adjustment after injury, and overall QOL. (5) The connection between depression and insomnia has not been investigated within the post TBI population to a great extent. For the general population, clinically significant insomnia is often associated with the presence of an emotional disorder (6). Fichtenberg et al. (2002) (7), in his study established that the strongest relationship with the diagnosis of insomnia belonged to depression. Given the high prevalence of depression during the first 2 years following TBI (8), a link between depression and insomnia among TBI patients makes innate sense. The present study aims at assessing role of sertralline in post TBI insomnia associated with depression.
Redox Status in Patients with Femoral Neck Fractures
Authors: Pesic Goran , Jeremic Jovana , Stojic Isidora , Vranic Aleksandra , Cankovic Marija , Nikolic Tamara , Jeremic Nevena , Matic Aleksandar , Srejovic Ivan , Zivkovic Vladimir , Jakovljevic Vladimir
Published: September 2016

The femur transfers the body weight from the pelvic bone to the shinbone. Femur fractures are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among the group of locomotor apparatus injuries, especially in the elderly population. Considering that oxidative stress occurs as a result of increased production of free radicals that damage cell function and cause numerous pathological conditions and diseases, the aim of this study was to investigate oxidative stress parameters in older patients with femoral neck fractures. This clinical study included 70 patients, of which 35 had femoral neck fractures (26 males and 9 females), while the other half of the patients formed the matched control group. Markers of oxidative stress (NO2
−, TBARS, H2O2 and O2
-) and anti-oxidative enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GSH) were measured. Results showed that the levels of O2
- increased, while levels of NO2
-, H2O2 and all the antioxidative enzymes decreased in patients with femoral neck fractures. These findings indicate that fractures cause oxidative stress, probably because of the reduced activity of osteoblasts and the increased activity of osteoclasts.