bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cooperation of agents in complex systems based on supervision
Authors: Čapkovič František
Published: May 2014

Complex systems consist of many cooperating devices. To have a transparent view on the system structure, as well as on the structural interconnections and cooperation of the subsystems, it is useful to synthesize the complex systems systematically in a prescribed order, even in analytical terms (if possible). The supervision of the subsystems seems to be a very suitable approach to accomplish these demands, and consequently it makes the complex systems diagnostics easier. The substantial agents (i.e., the agents of material nature − e.g., devices like particular production lines, robots, numerically controlled machines, etc.) can be coordinated and forced to cooperation by means of efficiently synthesized supervisors. The cooperation process has the character of DES (Discrete-Event Systems), because any system (including continuous systems), has minimally two discrete states - idle and working. DES control theory can be successfully utilized in supervisor synthesis. There are several approaches to modeling the agents and the process of supervisor synthesis. The Petri net-based approach is one of them. Place/Transition Petri Nets (P/T PN) are used here for modeling the behaviour of particular agents, as well as in the computational parocess used for the supervisor synthesis. Two main methods of the P/T PN-based supervision will be used, namely (i) the supervision based on the place invariants (P-invariants) of P/T PN, utilizing only the state vector during the supervisor synthesis, and (ii) the extended supervision utilizing not only the state vector, but also the control vector and Parikh’s vector. The efficiency of the proposed approach is illustrated in a case study.
Programming learning style diagnosis scheme using pso-based fuzzy knowledge fusion
Authors: Gou Jin , Chen Meizhen , Luo Wei , Hou Feng
Published: May 2014

Different students have different learning styles, which are corresponding to their performances and make them behave differently in the learning process. Discovering the learning style of the students can help the development of teaching plans the students would accept more likely. It is a pity that few people dedicate to programming the learning style diagnosis. In view of the learning style, which is always closely linked with the learning performance, the programming learning behavior is introduced to programme the learning style diagnosis. This paper identifies the learning style of programming students in the learning process through their behavior preferences. To make the diagnosis more accurate, Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm is introduced. The experiments invite junior students, senior students, graduate students and teachers of the College of Computer Science and Technology in the authors’ university to fill out questionnaires as data. The experimental results show that PSO provides a great contribution.
Intelligent methods for process control and diagnostics of a mill fan system
Authors: Doukovska Lyubka A. , Vassileva Svetla I.
Published: May 2014

The intelligent methods for process control and diagnostics of the mill fan system is an established field of scientific and applied investigations. In the present paper several types of process control approaches with different structures are considered. In order to choose the most efficient one, comparative analysis is carried out. The mill fans are a basic element of the dust-preparing systems of steam generators with direct breathing of the coal dust in the furnace chamber. Such generators in Bulgaria are the ones in Maritsa East 2 Thermal Power Plant, in Maritsa East 3 Thermal Power Plant and also in Bobov Dol Thermal Power Plant. The subject of this research is a device from Maritsa East 2 Thermal Power Plant. This is the largest thermal power plant on the Balkan Peninsula. Standard statistical and probabilistic (Bayesian) approaches for diagnostics are inapplicable to estimate the mill fan technical state due to non-stationarity, non-ergodicity and the significant noise level. The possibility to predict eventual damages or wearing out without switching off the device is significant for providing faultless and reliable work, avoiding the losses caused by planned maintenance.
Review Of Theories And Models Of Economic Growth
Authors: Piętak Łukasz
Published: May 2014

The subject of this article is a review of the theories and models of economic growth. In the first section, the author analyzes the theories of economic growth, such as Schumpeter’s, Lewis’s and Rostow’s theory. In the second part there is a review of the models of economic growth. In this part the author divides models into two groups: exogenus models and endogenus models. The article finishes with conclusions concerning the issues discussed. The method used in writing the article is an analysis of the English and Polish literature on the subject.
The Study Effect of Nitrogen, Azotobacter Spp. and Azospirillum Spp. on Phenological and Morphological Traits of Durum Wheat Cultivars in Dehloran Region, Iran
Authors: Aazadi M.S. , Siyadat S.A. , Mehdi Poor Syahbidi M. , Younesi E.
Published: May 2014

This experiment was carried out in the form of factorial split in the model random complete block design in three replicates. In this design three kinds of durum wheat including Yavarous, Karkheh, Seimareh were planted in the main plots and three levels of 40, 80 and 120 kg net nitrogen in hectare which it had been provided from source of urea and three levels of bio fertilizer including Azotobacter spp. and Azospirillum spp. and without using bio fertilizer (control) as factorial were cultivated in secondary plots. Before cultivation, amount of seeds which it must be mixed with together Azospirillum spp. and Azotobacter spp. bacteria’s, it was mixed together water and sugar with 2% density of wet and in proportion of 2 kg in 100 kg seeds were mixed with seeds. The irrigation of blocks was separately done for preventing from mixture of bacteria. This research will have a new asped for/in order to effect of biological fertilizers in replacement with/to fertilizers and it hasn't demonstrate its comparison on durum wheat in the region by now. Finally, with interpretation of results obtained from this research defined that positive effect of biological fertilizers on growth that before they have verified about plants, also, they are true about grains such as wheat. So, considering the obtained results from this research, it is seemed that application of suitable biological fertilizers can be effective in increase of function, improvement of growing traits of wheat and decrease nitrogen fertilizer.
Response of Leaf Area Index, Vegetative and Reproductive Phases of Two Cotton (Gossypium Hirsutum L.) Cultivars at Different Regimes of Irrigation Scheduling
Authors: Ali A. , Khalik T. , Ahmad A.
Published: May 2014

The experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of different regimes of irrigation schedule on various vegetative and reproductive stages of cotton crop. The results showed that irrigation effect was non significant for number of plants m-2, while I4 treatment produced maximum number of monopodial branches 2.18, but statistically it was at par with I3, I5. I4 treatment showed maximum number of sympodial branches (20.43), followed by I3 (18.63). F.H-900 showed statistically higher sympodial branches (18.34) than the F.H-901 (17.08). Maximum number of flowers per plant was formed in the I4 treatment (101.00), followed by I3 (96.31) and 15 (92.23). Significantly higher number of flowers and boll drops was recorded in treatment I1, followed by I2. Flowers and boll drop per plant decrease with increase in irrigations applied to crop. Minimum number of flowers (60.45) and bolls (16.98) dropped per plant were in I4 and 13 (65.0 and 22.72, respectively).
Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis in Advanced Lines of Rapeseed (Brassica Napus L.) for Yield Components
Authors: Ul-Hasan Ejaz , Mustafa H.S.B. , Bibi Tahira , Mahmood T.
Published: May 2014

The present research was carried out to determine the best selection criteria for yield improvement in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.). Nine genotypes of Brassica napus were sown at Oilseeds Research Institute, Faisalabad, during the years 2011- 2012, to evaluate the means and components of variability (genotypic and phenotypic), heritability (h2 B.S), correlation (genotypic and phenotypic) and path analysis for yield and various yield components. At phenotypic and genotypic level, seed yield/plant had significant positive correlation with plant height, seeds/plant and siliqua/plant. A positive and highly significant genetic relationship was found between plant height and seeds/plant, siliqua length and seeds/siliqua, days to maturity and 1000 seed weight, days to flowering and seeds/plant, days to maturity and seeds/plant. Path coefficient revealed that the seeds/siliqua, 1000 seed weight, days to flowering, days to maturity and seeds/plant had direct positive contribution towards seed yield per plant. For rapeseed breeding seed per plant was the variable with maximum potential of selection for seed yield improvement because this trait possessed high h2 B.S, highly significant positive correlation and maximum positive direct effects with yield
Effects of Water Stress and Potassium on Quantity Traits of Two Varieties of Mung Bean (Vigna Radiata L.)
Authors: Fooladivanda Z. , Hassanzadehdelouei M. , Zarifinia N.
Published: May 2014

Water stress is known as the major threat to reduced growth and yield of plants in arid and semi-arid regions. Potassium is one of the indicators of plant responses to water stress. To evaluate the impact of water stress and levels of potassium on yield and yield components of two varieties of mung bean (Vigna radiata) (promising lines VC6172 and Indian), an experiment in the form of split factorial, based on randomized complete block design with three replicates was conducted in 2011, at the research farm of Safi-Abad Dezfool, Iran (latitude 32°16’ N, longitude 48°26’ E and altitude 82.9 m above sea level) .Water stress in three levels: irrigation at 120 (no stress), 180 (moderate stress) and 240 (severe stress) mm evaporation from pan, were allocated to the main plots and potassium fertilizer at three levels (0, 90, 180 kg /ha) and two varieties of mung bean (promising line VC6172 and Indian) were allotted to the sub-plots. Results showed that water stress and potassium fertilizer significantly affect all traits. The highest grain yield (2093 kg /ha) was obtained from no stress treatment in the case of 180 kg /ha potassium. Total dry matter, number of pods and grain yield, were significantly different between the two varieties. The interaction between fertilizer and variety, on dry matter and grain yield and the interaction between irrigation and variety, on dry matter were significant. We conclude that use of potassium fertilizer can reduce the adverse effects of water stress.
On the Commutativity of a Certain Class of Toeplitz Operators
Authors: Louhichi Issam , Randriamahaleo Fanilo , Zakariasy Lova
Published: May 2014

One of the major goals in the theory of Toeplitz operators on the Bergman space over the unit disk D in the complex place C is to completely describe the commutant of a given Toeplitz operator, that is, the set of all Toeplitz operators that commute with it. Here we shall study the commutants of a certain class of quasihomogeneous Toeplitz operators defined on the harmonic Bergman space.
Eulerian Three-Phase Flow Model Applied to Trickle-Bed Reactors
Authors: Burghardt Andrzej
Published: May 2014

The majority of publications and monographs present investigations which concern exclusively twophase flows and particulary dispersed flows. However, in the chemical and petrochemical industries as well as in refineries or bioengineering, besides the apparatuses of two-phase flows there is an extremely broad region of three-phase systems, where the third phase constitutes the catalyst in form of solid particles (Duduković et al., 2002; Martinez et al., 1999) in either fixed bed or slurry reactors. Therefore, the goal of this study is to develop macroscopic, averaged balances of mass, momentum and energy for systems with three-phase flow. Local instantaneous conservation equations are derived, which constitute the basis of the method applied, and are averaged by means of Euler’s volumetric averaging procedure. In order to obtain the final balance equations which define the averaged variables of the system, the weighted averaging connected with Reynolds decomposition is used. The derived conservation equations of the trickle-bed reactor (mass, momentum and energy balance) and especially the interphase effects appearing in these equations are discussed in detail.
A Study on Polymer Particle Flow in a Disk Zone of a Screw-Disk Extruder
Authors: Rydzkowski Tomasz , Michalska-Pożoga Iwona
Published: May 2014

The paper presents the summary of research on polymer melt particle motion trajectories in a disc zone of a screw-disk extruder. We analysed two models of its structure, different in levels of taken simplifications. The analysis includes computer simulations of material particle flow and results of experimental tests to determine the properties of the resultant extrudate. Analysis of the results shows that the motion of melt in the disk zone of a screw-disk extruder is a superposition of pressure and dragged streams. The observed trajectories of polymer particles and relations of mechanical properties and elongation of the molecular chain proved the presence of a stretching effect on polymer molecular chains.
Introducing good money: legal tender problem or question of structured approach?
Authors: Omercevic Edo
Published: May 2014

The aim of this paper is to theoretically analyse the issues concerning the introduction of alternative moneys. A brief performance evaluation of the current monetary system, as well as two alternatives, namely gold and a private currency, i.e. the Swiss WIR, is followed by a historical look at the relationship between legal tender laws and Gresham’s Law. The significance of legal tender laws in introducing alternative moneys is questioned and the focus is shifted to the political and ideological problems. It is pointed out that a professional and structured approach needs to be adopted to successfully introduce monetary substitutes. The derived conclusion is that legal tender laws are not the major factor hindering the introduction of alternative moneys, but that a range of legal, economic and political factors require a dedicated and professional approach to enable the private sector to work on better exchange mechanisms.
COI gene geographic variation of Gypsy moth (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) and a TaqMan PCR diagnostic assay
Authors: Qian Lu , An Yulin , Song Junxian , Xu Mei , Ye Jianlin , Wu Cuiping , Li Bin , Hao Dejun
Published: May 2014

Gypsy moth, an important forest/urban pest worldwide, is separated into the European and Asian subspecies, and has important quarantine significance. Diagnostic technique that can accurately and quickly distinguish subspecies is lacking. This study aimed to evaluate genetic difference between the subspecies, and subsequently to develop a reliable and high throughput molecular based diagnostic tool for distinguishing the subspecies. COI genes of 25 gypsy moth samples from China, Russia, Mongolia, Japan and the United States were sequenced. DNASTAR analysis revealed that gypsy moth COI gene was 1531bp long. The UPGM phylogenetic tree constructed based on the COI gene indicated that European subspecies (U.S. population) and Asian subspecies were distinctively divided into two branches. Japanese populations had a far distantly relationship with other Asian populations forming a separate branch. There was a single base substitution (base transformation only) at 14 consistent locations between Asian and American populations, but 13 of them coded the same amino acid. A MGB proper and TaqMan assay was designed base on the base substitution at 406th bp that coded a different amino acid. This allele typing assay took only 4 hours and could accurately distinguish gypsy moth subspecies of Europe and Asia. The study enriches the knowledge basis of genetic differentiation of gypsy moth subspecies. And more importantly the TaqMan assay is the first report of such diagnostic tool that could deliver rapid and accurate results and suitable for routine quarantine inspections to distinguish Asian and European gypsy moth subspecies. This study was supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China (Science and technology supporting project: 2012BAK11B03; International cooperation project: 2009DFA31950) and Jiangsu Entry and Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau (2014KJ45).
DNA Barcoding of Red Sea Fishes from Saudi Arabia – The first approach
Authors: Trivedi Subrata , Affan Raafat , A Alessa Abdulrahman Hirab , A Ansari Abid , Dhar Bishal , Mahadani Pradosh , K Ghosh Sankar
Published: May 2014

DNA barcoding is a worldwide initiative. Although there is a campaign to barcode all fishes, there is no information on the DNA barcoding of Red Sea fishes. With the aim of strengthening the BOLD/barcode database with the sequences of Red sea fishes this preliminary study was conducted with six different fish species collected from coastal waters of Tabuk in Saudi Arabia. Among the six fish samples collected from the same sampling site, two sequences were novel. So, it is necessary to carry out large scale sampling covering a bigger area of Red Sea because there is high possibility to detect new/cryptic species from the unexplored biodiversity rich Red Sea.
The use of ammonium sulfate as an inhibitor of dioxin synthesis in iron ore sintering process
Authors: Łechtańska Patrycja , Wielgosiński Grzegorz
Published: May 2014

The main air pollutants in the sintering process of iron ore are polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) and harmful dust. Ore sintering on sinter strands is one of the first technology steps in the ironworks. It is a process in which iron ore is crushed, subjected to annealing and mixed with appropriate additives, and then sintered in order to produce sinter which is the main component of iron in the blast furnace process. PCDD/Fs emissions were measured and the addition of ammonium sulfate as an inhibitor of the synthesis of dioxins in the sintering process of iron ore was studied.
Estimation of the effectiveness of nbpt for limiting ammonia emission from urea based on the field experiments
Authors: Marcinkowski Tadeusz , Wardencki Waldemar
Published: May 2014

The effectiveness of the ammonia emission reduction from NBPT-stabilized urea was investigated in 2011 during a field experiment on a grassland plot fertilized with a one-time dose of 60 kg N/ha. The obtained reduction coefficient of ammonia emission equaled 73% and 39-51% relative to urea without the inhibitor and ammonium nitrate, respectively.
Impact of Filter Characteristics and Optical Signal Parameters on Interchannel Crosstalk
Authors: Kowalczyk Agnieszka , Perlicki Krzysztof
Published: May 2014

In this paper we present analysis of the influence of filter characteristics of Wavelength Division Multiplexing network components and transmission parameters over interchannel crosstalk for symmetric and asymmetric transmission. The simulation was carried out for bit rate 10 Gb/s, 40 Gb/s and 100 Gb/s considering the following modulations: DPSK, DQPSK and OOK. The obtained results show that OOK and DQPSK modulation are better than DPSK modulation in terms of crosstalk occurring during the transmission of signals in Wavelength Division Multiplexing systems.
Compact Muon Solenoid Decade Perspective and Local Implications
Authors: Romaniuk Ryszard S.
Published: May 2014

The Compact Muon Solenoid CMS is one of the major detectors of the LHC Large Hadron Collider accelerator. The second, a competitive brother, is Atlas. The accelerator complex in CERN was shut down for two years, after two years of exploitation, and will resume its work in 2015. During this break, called long shutdown LS1 a number of complex components, including electronics and photonics, will be intensely refurbished. Not only the LHC itself but also the booster components and detectors. In particular, the beam luminosity will be doubled, as well as the colliding beam energy. This means tenfold increase in the integrated luminosity over a year to 250fb−1/y. Discovery potential will be increased. This potential will be used for subsequent two years, with essentially no breaks, till the LS2 in 2017. The paper presents an introduction to the research area of the LHC and chosen aspects of the CMS detector modernization. The Warsaw CMS Group is involved in CMS construction, commissioning, maintenance and refurbishment, in particular for algorithms and hardware of the muon trigger. The Group consists of members form the following local research institutions, academic and governmental: IFD-UW, NCBJ-´Swierk and ISEWEiTI- PW.
Fusion 2050 – European and Polish Perspective
Authors: Romaniuk Ryszard S.
Published: May 2014

Fusion, in all its varieties, is a very current subject of science and technology. The results of strongly exothermic reaction of thermonuclear fusion between nuclei of deuterium and tritium are: helium nuclei and neutrons, plus considerable kinetic energy of neutrons of over 14 MeV. DT nuclides synthesis reaction is probably not the most favorable one for energy production, but is the most advanced technologically. More efficient would be possibly an aneutronic fusion. The EU by its EURATOM agenda prepared a Road Map for research and implementation of Fusion as a commercial method of thermonuclear energy generation in the time horizon of 2050.The milestones on this road are tokomak experiments JET, ITER and DEMO, and neutron experiment IFMIF. There is a hope, that by engagement of the national government, and all research and technical fusion and plasma communities, part of this Road Map may be realized in Poland. The infrastructure build for fusion experiments may be also used for material engineering research, chemistry, biomedical, associated with environment protection, power engineering, security, etc. Construction of such research and industrial accelerator and tokomak infrastructure may have potentially a profound meaning for the development of science and technology in Poland.
Tracing Fault Effects in FPGA Systems
Authors: Węgrzyn Mariusz , Sosnowski Janusz
Published: May 2014

The paper presents the extent of fault effects in FPGA based systems and concentrates on transient faults (induced by single event upsets - SEUs) within the configuration memory of FPGA. An original method of detailed analysis of fault effect propagation is presented. It is targeted at microprocessor based FPGA systems using the developed fault injection technique. The fault injection is performed at HDL description level of the microprocessor using special simulators and developed supplementary programs. The proposed methodology is illustrated for soft PicoBlaze microprocessor running 3 programs. The presented results reveal some problems with fault handling at the software level.
Experimental Study on the Role of 5-Ht2 Serotonin Receptors in the Mechanism of Anti-Inflammatory and Antihyperalgesic Action of Antidepressant Fluoxetine
Authors: Kostadinov Ilia D. , Delev Delian P. , Murdjeva Marianna A. , Kostadinova Ivanka I.
Published: May 2014

INTRODUCTION: Fluoxetine is an antidepressant that has anti-inflammatory and antihyperalgesic effects in experimental models of pain and inflammation. The AIM of the present study was to determine the role of 5-HT2 receptors in the mechanism of anti-inflammatory and antihyperalgesic action of fluoxetine after single and repeated administration of the drug. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 40 male Wistar rats were randomly divided in five groups (n = 8) treated for 14 days with saline (control), diclofenac (positive control), fluoxetine, cyproheptadine (5-HT2 antagonist), and fluoxetine + cyproheptadine, respectively. We used the experimental model of inflammation induced by intraplantar injection of carrageenan and nociceptive test with mechanical pressure on the inflamed hind paw. RESULTS: Single and repeated administration of fluoxetine showed that it had significant anti-inflammatory and antihyperalgesic effects when compared with the control (p < 0.05). Cyproheptadine did not change significantly the anti-inflammatory effect of fluoxetine in the first 4 hours, after a single administration. At 24 hours the combination did not differ statistically when compared with the control. Cyproheptadin did not change significantly the anti-inflammatory effect of fluoxetine after repeated administration. After prolonged treatment the group that received fluoxetine + cyproheptadine showed a statistically significant increase in paw pressure to withdraw the hind paw compared with that treated with fluoxetine alone (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Fluoxetine has anti-inflammatory and antihyperalgesic effects in the carrageenan model of inflammation. 5-HT2 receptor mediated its anti-inflammatory effect in single dose treated animals. Spinal 5-HT2 receptors are involved in the antihyperalgesic effect of fluoxetine after repeated administration
Long Term Follow Up of Complete Bladder Exstrophy Repair. A Case Report
Authors: Mouskou Stella , Dionysis Theodoros T. , Aivazoglou Theodoros , Kapouleas George P.
Published: May 2014

OBJECTIVE: Bladder exstrophy is a congenital anomaly which is not always successfully managed by surgery. Major goals of surgical intervention in such cases are preservation of normal renal function, development of adequate bladder function and urinary continence and avoidance of future urinary tract infections. We present 5-year data on a patient who underwent complete repair of the bladder exstrophy. CASE REPORT: We describe a full term female infant who presented at birth with complete bladder exstrophy. Complete repair of the condition was performed 3 days after birth (Ransley technique). During hospitalization the patient had a positive urinary culture with Candida lusitaniae, enterococcus and septicemia with Klebsiella pneumoniae ESBL. The patient had no complications until the age of 20 months when she developed an episode of pyelonephritis and five further episodes of cystitis with E. coli. Radiographic testing showed small bladder capacity (23 ml at the age of 3 years), bilateral vesicoureteral reflux, a long stenotic urethra and no loss of renal function. Because of the recurrent urinary tract infections, dilatations of the stenotic urethra (Scheldinger technique) were successfully performed at the age of 3. Twenty-two months later the child had negative urinary cultures, a normal renal function and had also gained partial control of the bladder sphincters. CONCLUSIONS: Surgical repair of bladder exstrophy remains a challenging surgery for the pediatric urologist. Following surgical correction both early and long-term post-operative complications may be present. Longitudinal follow up is required by an experienced team of health care professionals
The influence of different thinning methods on dominance coefficients of future crop trees in even-aged Scots pine stands
Authors: Zachara Tadeusz
Published: May 2014

The research aim was to evaluate the influence of different thinning methods on future crop tree growth. Investigations were conducted on permanent Scots-pine experimental plots, established in 1960s and 1970s in Kozienice, Łąck, Parciaki and Janów Lubelski Forest Districts. To assess the response to thinning of future crop trees, their dominance coefficients were used. These are defined as quotients for each given future crop tree diameter and average stand diameter (WP1), the average dominant layer diameter (WP2) and the average diameter of 100 thickest trees per hectare (WP3). The difference between each coefficient value at the beginning and at the end of the measurement period was used as a measure of the thinning effect. On Kozienice, Łąck and Parciaki plots the differences between treatments were significant, especially in the period after first thinning. The increase of WP3 coefficient occurred in a case of strong thinning - TS1 and TS2. On plot Parciaki also the moderate thinning TU1 and TU2 had a significant influence on change of this coefficient. On plot Janów Lubelski the influence of treatment has not been stated in the first 5-year period but in the next one. Analyses of changes in the dominance coefficients confirmed the hypothesis that the WP3 coefficient is very useful as it is the most stable indicator of future crop-tree position in a stand. On Kozienice, Łąck and Parciaki plots the significant differences between treatments were stated, especially in the period after first thinning. The influence of thinning treatment on the plot Janów Lubelski was not considered for the first 5-year period but in the next one. All reactions to thinning were slower on this plot, possibly because of the relatively poor site conditions. This was a long-term effect. The results obtained suggest that very intense thinning of Scots pine stands should only be implemented under a restricted set of conditions - in healthy, not neglected, forest stands. Classical moderately-selective thinning is preferable to intense thinning and is the most convenient option for pine stands
Genetic variability of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and Norway spruce (Picea abies L. Karst.) natural regeneration compared with their maternal stands
Authors: Nowakowska Justyna Anna , Zachara Tadeusz , Konecka Agata
Published: May 2014

The genetic variability and biodiversity of tree populations ensure the stability and sustainability of forest ecosystems. New research tools based on molecular DNA markers enable precise characterisation of forest genetic resources, i.e. detection of different allele frequencies in mature trees and progeny populations. The paper describes the genetic structure of mature stands of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) in Oława Forest District and Norway spruce (Picea abies L. Karst.) in Jawor Forest District and stands of their respective progeny. In the Scots pine stand, there was a slight increase (0.6%) in heterozygosity level and a larger increase (4.9%) in the inbreeding coefficient of progeny trees. In the Norway spruce stand, despite a small reduction (0.9%) in heterozygosity, a similar increase (4.6%) in the inbreeding coefficient of progeny was revealed. In both stands, allele richness and the partition probability of basic clustering were high. Both pine and spruce adults and progeny trees were characterised by high levels of genetic similarity (96% and 79%, respectively). Gene flow between the mature and progeny populations was high (Nm > 1) for both Scots pine and Norway spruce. Conservation of the gene pool within forest tree stands requires an increase in the proportion of natural regeneration. To estimate the extent to which genes are transmitted between adult trees and their progeny, more studies are needed, especially taking into account the influence of silviculture measures, like selective tree cutting, on the genetic variability of the younger generation. These results confirm that the gene pool was conserved when transmitted between the stands studied, as well as highlight the usefulness of such a study for silvicultural purposes
The Upper Cretaceous ophiolite of North Kozara – remnants of an anomalous mid-ocean ridge segment of the Neotethys?
Authors: Cvetković Vladica , Šarić Kristina , Grubić Aleksandar , Cvijić Ranko , Milošević Aleksej
Published: May 2014

This study sheds new light on the origin and evolution of the north Kozara ophiolite, a part of the Sava-Vardar Zone. The Sava-Vardar Zone is regarded as a relict of the youngest Tethyan realm in the present-day Balkan Peninsula. The north Kozara ophiolite consists of a bimodal igneous association comprising isotropic to layered gabbros, diabase dykes and basaltic pillow lavas (basic suite), as well as relicts of predominantly rhyodacite lava flows and analogous shallow intrusions (acid suite). The rocks of the basic suite show relatively flat to moderately light-REE enriched patterns with no or weak negative Eu-anomaly, whereas those of the acid suite exhibit steeper patterns and have distinctively more pronounced Eu- and Sr- negative anomalies. Compared to the known intra-ophiolitic granitoids from the Eastern Vardar Zone, the acid suite rocks are most similar to those considered to be oceanic plagiogranites. The new geochemical data suggest that the basic suite rocks are similar to enriched mid-ocean ridge basalts. The geochemical characteristics of the acid suite rocks indicate that their primary magmas most probably originated via partial melting of gabbros from the lower oceanic crust. Our study confirms the oceanic nature of the north Kozara Mts rock assemblage, and suggests that it may have formed within an anomalous ridge setting similar to present-day Iceland.
The recent fault kinematics in the westernmost part of the Getic nappe system (Eastern Serbia): Evidence from fault slip and focal mechanism data
Authors: Mladenović Ana , Trivić Branislav , Antić Milorad , Cvetković Vladica , Pavlović Radmila , Radovanović Slavica , Fügenschuh Bernhard
Published: May 2014

In this study we performed a calculation of the tectonic stress tensor based on fault slip data and all available focal mechanisms in order to determine the principal stress axes and the recent tectonic regime of the westernmost unit of the Getic nappe system (Gornjak-Ravanica Zone, Eastern Serbia). The study is based on a combined dataset involving paleostress analyses, the inversion of focal mechanisms and remote sensing. The results show dominant strike-slip kinematics with the maximal compression axis oriented NNE-SSW. This is compatible with a combined northward motion and counterclockwise rotation of the Adria plate as the controlling factor. However, the local stress field is also shown to be of great importance and is superimposed on the far-field stress. We managed to distinguish three areas with distinct seismic activity. The northern part of the research area is characterized by transtensional tectonics, possibly under the influence of the extension in the areas situated more to the northeast. The central and seismically most active part is dominated by strike-slip tectonics whereas the southern area is slightly transpressional, possibly under the influence of the rigid Moesian Platform situated to the east of the research area. The dominant active fault systems are oriented N-S (to NE-SW) and NW-SE and they occur as structures of either regional or local significance. Regional structures are active in the northern and central part of the study area, while the active fault systems in the southern part are marked as locally important. This study suggests that seismicity of this area is controlled by the release of accumulated stress at local accommodation zones which are favourably oriented in respect to the active regional stress field.
Joint interpretation of gravity and magnetic data in the Kolárovo anomaly region by separation of sources and the inversion method of local corrections
Authors: Prutkin Ilya , Vajda Peter , Bielik Miroslav , Bezák Vladimír , Tenzer Robert
Published: May 2014

We present a new interpretation of the Kolárovo gravity and magnetic anomalies in the Danube Basin based on an inversion methodology that comprises the following numerical procedures: removal of regional trend, depth-wise separation of signal of sources, approximation of multiple sources by 3D line segments, non-linear inversion based on local corrections resulting in found sources specified as 3D star-convex homogenous bodies and/or 3D contrasting structural contact surfaces. This inversion methodology produces several admissible solutions from the viewpoint of potential field data. These solutions are then studied in terms of their feasibility taking into consideration all available tectono-geological information. By this inversion methodology we interpret here the Kolárovo gravity and magnetic anomalies jointly. Our inversion generates several admissible solutions in terms of the shape, size and location of a basic intrusion into the upper crust, or the shape and depth of the upper/lower crust interface, or an intrusion into the crystalline crust above a rise of the mafic lower crust. Our intrusive bodies lie at depths between 5 and 12 km. Our lower crust elevation rises to 12 km with and 8 km without the accompanying intrusion into the upper crust, respectively. Our solutions are in reasonable agreement with various previous interpretations of the Kolárovo anomaly, but yield a better and more realistic geometrical resolution for the source bodies. These admissible solutions are next discussed in the context of geological and tectonic considerations, mainly in relation to the fault systems.
Probing Electronic Properties of Graphene on the Atomic Scale by Scanning Tunneling Microscopy and Spectroscopy
Authors: Gao Li
Published: May 2014

Atomic scale investigations of the electronic properties of graphene are playing a crucial role in understanding and tuning the exotic properties of this material for its potential device applications. Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and spectroscopy (STS) are unique techniques for atomic scale investigations and have been extensively used in graphene research. In this article, we review recent progresses in STM and STS studies of the electronic properties of suspended graphene as well as graphene supported by different substrates including graphite, metals, silicon carbide, silicon dioxide and boron nitride.
Determinants of growing herbs in polish agriculture
Authors: Spychalski Grzegorz
Published: May 2014

The paper describes basic determinants of the medical plant cultivation in Polish agriculture. The author discussed economic background of the introduction of these plants indicating the role of pharmaceutical industry in herb usage. Then, there is a presentation of results of the survey study carried out among farmers from the Wielkopolska region. Approximately 10% of the farms cultivate medicinal plants but more than 50% declare some interest in this kind of production, what indicates a big potential. Farmers think that herbs are economically attractive crops if the sale is guaranteed and the price is satisfactory. The demand for medicinal plants is developing and expanding for e.g. dietary supplements and other health-promoting products. Therefore, it can be concluded that cultivation of medicinal plants is the prospective direction of agricultural production and an important element of additional income of Polish farmers.
SRC kinase mrna transcription changes in testosterone-induced rat ventral prostate lobes under the influence of epilobium angustifolium extract
Authors: Kujawski Radosław , Bartkowiak-Wieczorek Joanna , Bogacz Anna , Karasiewicz Monika , Mikołajczak Przemysław Ł. , Czerny Bogusław , Mrozikiewicz Przemysław M.
Published: May 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of standardized crude aqueous Epilobium angustifolium L. extract [100 mg/kg/day, p.o.] on the expression level of SRC kinase mRNA - a representatives of non-genomics xenobiotics signaling pathway in prostate ventral lobes of testosterone-induced, castrated rats. We have shown that in all analyzed groups induced by testosterone an elevation of SRC kinase mRNA transcription was observed, in comparison to control animals (not receiving the testosterone), (p<0.05). Finasteride in rats induced by testosterone caused the strongest inhibition of SRC mRNA transcription (p<0.05). In rats receiving testosterone and the plant extract a ca. 90% decrease of mRNA level was observed vs. testosterone-induced animals (p<0.05), while in testosterone-induced animals receiving concomitantly E. angustifolium extract and finasteride the observed reduction reached 87.3% (p<0.05).

We did not observed, however, any positive feedback between studied plant extract and finasteride in the inhibitory activity (p<0.05). Further experimental studies should be performed in order to the understanding the molecular basis of interactions, the efficacy and safety of tested plant extract.
Chemical constituents and insecticidal activity of the essential oil from fruits of foeniculum vulgare miller on larvae of khapra beetle (trogoderma granarium everts)
Authors: Ghanem Iyad , Audeh Adnan , Alnaser Amer Abu , Tayoub Ghaleb
Published: May 2014

The objective of current study was to determine the chemical constituents and fumigant toxicity of essential oil isolated by hydro-distillation from dry fruit of bitter fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Miller). The chemical composition of the essential oil was assessed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Constituents of the oil were determined as α-pinene (1.6%) and limonene (3.3%), fenchone (27.3%), estragol (3.9%), and (E)-anethole (61.1%). The fumigant toxicity of the essential oil was tested on larvae of the stored product insect Trogoderma granarium Everts. The mortality of larvae was tested at different concentrations ranging from 31.2 to 531.2 μl/l air and at different exposure times (24 and 48 h). Probit analysis showed that LC50 and LC90 following a 48 h-exposure period for essential oil were 38.4 and 84.6 μl/l, respectively. These results showed that the essential oil from F. vulgare may be applicable to the management of populations of stored-product insects.
Sleep-Related Offline Learning in a Complex Arm Movement Sequence
Authors: Malangré Andreas , Leinen Peter , Blischke Klaus
Published: May 2014

Sleep is known to elicit off-line improvements of newly learned procedural skills, a phenomenon attributed to enhancement consolidation of an internal skill representation. In the motor domain, enhancement consolidation has been reported almost exclusively for sequential-finger-tapping skills. The aim of the present study was to extend the notion of sleep-related enhancement consolidation to tasks closer to everyday motor skills. This was achieved by employing a sequence of unrestrained reaching-movements with the non-dominant arm. Fifteen reaching-movements had to be executed as fast as possible, following a spatial pattern in the horizontal plane. Terminating each movement, a peg had to be fitted into a hole on an electronic pegboard. Two experimental groups received initial training, one in the evening, the other one in the morning. Subsequently, performance in both groups was retested twelve, and again 24 hrs later. Thus, during retention each individual experienced a night of sleep, either followed or preceded by a wake interval. Performance error remained low throughout training and retests. Yet mean total execution time, indicative of task execution-speed, significantly decreased for all individuals throughout initial training (no group differences), and significantly decreased again in either group following nocturnal sleep, but not following wake. This finding does not appear to result merely from additional practice afforded at the time of retests, because only after a night of sleep individuals of both experimental groups also revealed performance improvement beyond that estimated from their initial training performance.
Effect of Choline Supplementation on Rapid Weight Loss and Biochemical Variables Among Female Taekwondo and Judo Athletes
Authors: Elsawy Gehan , Abdelrahman Osama , Hamza Amr
Published: May 2014

Taekwondo and judo competitions are divided into weight categories. Many athletes reduce their body mass a few days before competition in order to obtain a competitive advantage over lighter opponents. To achieve fast body mass reduction, athletes use a number of nutritional strategies, including choline supplementation. The goal of this study was to identify the effects of choline supplementation on body mass reduction and leptin levels among female taekwondo and judo athletes. Twenty-two female athletes (15 taekwondo and 7 judo athletes) were selected from different weight categories and divided into two groups, according to weight. The players in the experimental group took choline tablets for one week before a competition. The results revealed significant differences between pre- and post-competition measurements of leptin, free plasma choline, urine choline and urine malondialdehyde levels; body mass was also reduced in the post-competition measurements. In conclusion, choline supplementation could rapidly reduce body mass without any side effects on biochemical levels or static strength.
Measurement of Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Children from Two Commonly Used Field Tests After Accounting for Body Fatness and Maturity
Authors: Hamlin Michael J. , Fraser Meegan , Lizamore Catherine A. , Draper Nick , Shearman Jeremy P. , Kimber Nicholas E.
Published: May 2014

Body fat and maturation both influence cardiorespiratory fitness, however few studies have taken these variables into account when using field tests to predict children’s fitness levels. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between two field tests of cardiorespiratory fitness (20 m Maximal Multistage Shuttle Run [20-MST], 550 m distance run [550-m]) and direct measurement of VO2max after adjustment for body fatness and maturity levels. Fifty-three participants (25 boys, 28 girls, age 10.6 ± 1.2 y, mean ± SD) had their body fat levels estimated using bioelectrical impedance (16.6% ± 6.0% and 20.0% ± 5.8% for boys and girls, respectively). Participants performed in random order, the 20-MST and 550-m run followed by a progressive treadmill test to exhaustion during which gas exchange measures were taken. Pearson correlation coefficient analysis revealed that the participants’ performance in the 20-MST and 550-m run were highly correlated to VO2max obtained during the treadmill test to exhaustion (r = 0.70 and 0.59 for 20-MST and 550-m run, respectively). Adjusting for body fatness and maturity levels in a multivariate regression analysis increased the associations between the field tests and VO2max (r = 0.73 for 20-MST and 0.65 for 550-m). We may conclude that both the 20-MST and the 550-m distance run are valid field tests of cardiorespiratory fitness in New Zealand 8-13 year old children and incorporating body fatness and maturity levels explains an additional 5-7% of the variance.
Adrenergic Response to Maximum Exercise of Trained Road Cyclists
Authors: Janikowska Grażyna , Kochańska - Dziurowicz Aleksandra , Żebrowska Aleksandra , Bijak Aleksandra , Kimsa Magdalena
Published: May 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate adrenergic responses in the peripheral blood of trained road cyclists at rest, at maximal intensity of incremental bicycle exercise test, and during 15 minutes of recovery, as well as the relationship between them. Competitive male road cyclists, in the pre-competitive phase of a season, mean age 21.7 ± 6.4 years, and BMI 20.7 ± 0.8 kg·m-2, performed an incremental test on a bicycle ergometer with unloaded cycling for 5 min, then increased the load to 40 W every 3 min, up to maximal exercise intensity. The plasma catecholamine concentrations (epinephrine, norepinephrine) and oxygen uptake were estimated. The expression of 132 genes related to the adrenergic system in leukocytes was measured. A statistically significant increase in plasma epinephrine concentration (p < 0.01) was observed in response to exercise. The mean of maximal oxygen uptake was 65.7 ± 5.5 ml·kg-1·min-1. The RGS2 gene expression was highest regardless of the test phase for all athletes. The effort had a statistically significant influence on ADRB2 and RAB2A expression. In addition, the RAB2A, ADM and HSPB1 expression level increased during recovery. We can conclude that plasma epinephrine concentration and genes related to the adrenergic system such as ADM, ADRB2, CCL3, GPRASP1, HSPB1, RAB2A, RGS2 and ROCK1 seem to have an influence on the response to high-intensity exercise in trained cyclists.