bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of thyme oil on small intestine integrity and antioxidant status, phagocytic activity and gastrointestinal microbiota in rabbits
Authors: Placha Iveta , Chrastinova Lubica , Laukova Andrea , Cobanova Klaudia , Takacova Jana , Strompfova Viola , Chrenkova Maria , Formelova Zuzana , Faix Stefan
Published: February 2013

The effects of 0.5 g thyme oil per kg dry matter (DM) of diet on duodenal tissue integrity, antioxidant status, phagocytic activity and selected microbiota in the caecum and faeces of rabbits were studied. Twenty-four rabbits were divided into two groups and were fed a commercial granulated diet for growing rabbits (CD) with access to water ad libitum. The first group was fed the CD, while to the CD of the second group thyme oil was added. Intestinal integrity was tested by measuring the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER). Thyme oil significantly increased the value of total antioxidant status (TAS) in the blood plasma and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity in the liver, and it decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration in the duodenal tissue. Thyme oil resulted in strengthened intestinal integrity, as the essential oil supplementation significantly increased TEER values in the experiment. The faecal microbiota of rabbits was almost completely balanced in both groups, and only a slight decrease was found in the microbial population at day 42 of the trial. In both groups, the bacterial counts were generally lower in the caecum than in the faecal samples. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with 0.5 g/kg DM thyme oil may improve intestinal integrity, and it may have an antioxidant effect. A tendency was also found for thyme oil to stimulate the abundance of some microbes beneficial in the rabbit gut.
High-Resolution Computed Tomography Findings for Patients With Drug-Induced Pulmonary Toxicity, With Special Reference to Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis-Like Patterns in Gemcitabine-Induced Cases
Authors: Tamura Masaki , Saraya Takeshi , Fujiwara Masachika , Hiraoka Sayuki , Yokoyama Takuma , Yano Kinuko , Ishii Haruyuki , Furuse Junji , Goya Tomoyuki , Takizawa Hajime , Goto Hajime
Published: February 2013

Background.

Gemcitabine (GEM) is widely used as a chemotherapeutic agent. However, pulmonary toxicity has been rarely observed with GEM use. This article aims to determine the incidence and causes of drug-induced pulmonary toxicity, and to classify the high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) findings for antitumor therapy-associated pulmonary toxicity based on characteristic patterns and pathological considerations, with a special focus on GEM-associated pulmonary toxicity (GAPT).

Methods.

Medical records of all patients with drug-induced pulmonary toxicity seen at Kyorin University hospital between April 2006 and December 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. The study examined correlations between HRCT and the assessed pathological or clinical findings, with a specific focus on antitumor drugs.

Results.

We identified 66 patients with drug-induced pulmonary toxicity. Among the antitumor drugs, GEM was the primary offending agent (n = 8) for pulmonary toxicity followed by docetaxel and gefitinib. HRCT patterns for the eight GAPT patients included the non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP; n = 5) and the hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP)-like pattern (n = 3). In contrast, four patients in the study were found to have the HP-like pattern, with three cases associated with GEM and one case associated with imatinib mesylate. The transbronchial lung biopsy or video-assisted thoracic surgery specimens for these patients showed granuloma or organizing tissue with a random distribution that was independent of the respiratory bronchiole. These results appeared to correspond to the HRCT-determined centrilobular nodules.

Conclusion.

GEM was the leading cause of drug-induced pulmonary toxicity in the patients examined in this study. This toxicity appears as NSIP or an HP-like pattern during HRCT examinations. This HP-like pattern may be useful for diagnosing GEM-induced pulmonary toxicity, as well as demonstrating granuloma or organizing tissue during lung pathology examinations.
Carbon foam derived from lignosulfonates: a preliminary study
Authors: Despaux Marie , Creunier Paul , Birot Marc , Deleuze Hervé
Published: February 2013

Self-standing highly porous interconnected carbonaceous foams have been produced by a thermal foaming process from several industrial lignosulfonates. The physical activation of some obtained green carbon foams has been conducted in order to generate some microporosity. The porous characteristics of the foams, in terms of cells and pores sizes, and total porosity have been studied for all materials prepared.
Chronic nitrogen deposition alters the structure and function of detrital food webs in a northern hardwood ecosystem
Authors: Gan Huijie , Zak Donald R. , Hunter Mark D.
Published: February 2013

During the next century, atmospheric nitrogen (N) deposition is projected to more than double, potentially slowing litter decomposition by altering microbial community composition and function. If the flow of energy though detrital food webs is diminished by the slowing of decay under higher rates of atmospheric N deposition, this agent of global change could also negatively impact the abundance and composition of soil fauna. To test this hypothesis, we studied soil faunal communities in four sugar‐maple‐dominated forests that comprise a long‐term N deposition experiment. To examine whether changes in soil faunal communities could then feed back to influence litter decay, litterbags with13C‐enriched aspen litter were placed in the forest floor in one study site. The microbial community within the litterbags was characterized using PLFA analysis. Overall, long‐term experimental N deposition reduced the abundance of microarthropods (ambient vs. experimental N deposition: 7844 vs. 4357 individuals/m2, respectively;P= 0.004). We attribute this overall decline partly to the reduced energy flow entering the detrital food web, which has been documented in previous work in our system. Although there was no difference in microarthropod species richness between N deposition treatments, there was a shift in community composition within the most abundant group (Oribatida), indicating species‐specific responses to N deposition. Experimental N deposition reduced the number of microarthropods colonizing litterbags by 41% (P= 0.014). This was associated with a reduction in13C mobilization from leaf litter into microbial biomass. Overall, this study demonstrates that chronic N deposition has a detrimental effect on the soil detritus food web, and that the negative effect may feed back to influence litter decay and ecosystem functioning.
Seismic Design of Base-Isolated Buildings in Mexico. Part 1: Guidelines of a Model Code
Authors: Tena-Colunga Arturo
Published: February 2013

The updated version for the Manual of Civil Structures (MOC), a model seismic code in Mexico, was published in 2008. MOC also is incorporating guidelines for the seismic design of base-isolated structures this year 2012, being the first Mexican code to include such recommendations. This paper summarizes the most relevant aspects of these guide-lines, their relations to other guidelines worldwide and research efforts conducted in Mexico and worldwide to improve the seismic design of base-isolated structures.
Predicting Macro- and Microvascular Complications in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Tanaka Shiro , Tanaka Sachiko , Iimuro Satoshi , Yamashita Hidetoshi , Katayama Shigehiro , Akanuma Yasuo , Yamada Nobuhiro , Araki Atsushi , Ito Hideki , Sone Hirohito , Ohashi Yasuo ,   for the Japan Diabetes Complications Study Group and the Japanese Elderly Diabetes Intervention Trial Group
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE

To develop and validate a risk engine that calculates the risks of macro- and microvascular complications in type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed pooled data from two clinical trials on 1,748 Japanese type 2 diabetic patients without diabetes complications other than mild diabetic retinopathy with a median follow-up of 7.2 years. End points were coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, noncardiovascular mortality, overt nephropathy defined by persistent proteinuria, and progression of retinopathy. We fit a multistate Cox regression model to derive an algorithm for prediction. The predictive accuracy of the calculated 5-year risks was cross-validated.

RESULTS

Sex, age, HbA1c, years after diagnosis, BMI, systolic blood pressure, non-HDL cholesterol, albumin-to-creatinine ratio, atrial fibrillation, current smoker, and leisure-time physical activity were risk factors for macro- and microvascular complications and were incorporated into the risk engine. The observed-to-predicted (O/P) ratios for each event were between 0.93 and 1.08, and Hosmer-Lemeshow tests showed no significant deviations between observed and predicted events. In contrast, the UK Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) risk engine overestimated CHD risk (O/P ratios: 0.30 for CHD and 0.72 for stroke). C statistics in our Japanese patients were high for CHD, noncardiovascular mortality, and overt nephropathy (0.725, 0.696, and 0.767) but moderate for stroke and progression of retinopathy (0.636 and 0.614). By combining macro- and microvascular risks, the classification of low- and high-risk patients was improved by a net reclassification improvement of 5.7% (P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk engine accurately predicts macro- and microvascular complications and would provide helpful information in risk classification and health economic simulations.
Physical Activity Energy Expenditure and Glucose Control in Pregnant Women With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Kumareswaran Kavita , Elleri Daniela , Allen Janet M. , Caldwell Karen , Westgate Kate , Brage Soren , Raymond-Barker Philippa , Nodale Marianna , Wilinska Malgorzata E. , Amiel Stephanie A. , Hovorka Roman , Murphy Helen R.
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE

To describe activity patterns in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes and evaluate the impact of increased structured physical activity on glucose control.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Physical activity energy expenditure (PAEE) and glucose levels (continuous glucose monitoring) were measured in 10 pregnant women with type 1 diabetes (age 33.2 years, gestation 20 weeks, BMI 27.9 kg/m2, diabetes duration 16.6 years, HbA1c 6.5% [48 mmol/mol], insulin pump duration 2.4 years) during a day at home (free-living) and during a 24-h visit incorporating controlled diet and structured physical activity with light intensity activity (three 20-min self-paced walks) and moderate intensity activity (two 50-min sessions of brisk treadmill walking). PAEE was evaluated through individually calibrated combined heart rate and movement sensing.

RESULTS

Free-living PAEE was comparable to that under controlled study conditions (3.8 and 5.1 kcal/kg/day, P = 0.241), with women achieving near to the recommended 30 min of moderate physical activity (median 27 min [interquartile range 14–68]). During the free-living period, more time was spent in light activity (10.3 vs. 7.2 h, P = 0.005), with less sedentary time (13.0 vs. 14.9 h, P = 0.047) and less moderate activity (27 vs. 121 min, P = 0.022). The free-living 24-h mean glucose levels by continuous glucose monitoring were significantly higher (7.7 vs. 6.0 mmol/L, P = 0.028). The effect of controlled diet and exercise persisted overnight, with significantly less time spent hyperglycemic (19 vs. 0%, P = 0.028) and less glucose variability (glucose SD 1.3 vs. 0.7 mmol/L, P = 0.022).

CONCLUSIONS

A controlled diet and structured physical activity program may assist women with type 1 diabetes in achieving optimal glucose control during pregnancy.
Glucose Variability Assessed by Low Blood Glucose Index Is Predictive of Hypoglycemic Events in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes Switched to Pump Therapy
Authors: Crenier Laurent , Abou-Elias Charlotte , Corvilain Bernard
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether subgroups of type 1 diabetic patients with different glucose variability indices respond differently to continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) in terms of reduced hypoglycemic events.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We studied 50 adults with long-standing type 1 diabetes switched to CSII because of persistently high A1C or frequent hypoglycemia despite well-managed intensive basal-bolus therapy. We compared A1C, hypoglycemic events, and glucose variability from self-monitoring of blood glucose profiles at baseline and after 6 months of CSII. Regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of response.

RESULTS

In multivariate analysis, baseline low blood glucose index (LBGI) was the best independent predictor of hypoglycemia outcome on CSII (R2 = 0.195, P = 0.0013). An ROC curve analysis demonstrated a sensitivity of 70.8% (95% CI 48.9–87.4) and specificity of 73.1% (52.2–88.4) by using the LBGI cutoff of 3.34 as predictor of reduction of hypoglycemia on CSII. By grouping patients by LBGI tertiles, we found a 23.3% reduction in hypoglycemic events (<60 mg/dL [3.3 mmol/L]) in the third tertile (range 4.18–9.34) without change in A1C (P < 0.05). Conversely, the first tertile (range 0.62–2.05) demonstrated the greatest A1C reduction, −0.99% (P = 0.00001), but with increasing hypoglycemia.

CONCLUSIONS

Baseline LBGI predicts the outcome of type 1 diabetic patients who switch to CSII in terms of hypoglycemia.
Analysis of a Two-level Schwarz Method with Coarse Spaces Based on Local Dirichlet-to-Neumann Maps
Authors: Dolean Victorita , Nataf Frédéric , Scheichl Robert , Spillane Nicole
Published: February 2013

Coarse grid correction is a key ingredient in order to have scalable
domain decomposition methods. For smooth problems, the theory and practice of
such two-level methods is well established, but this is not the case for
problems with complicated variation and high contrasts in the coefficients.

In a previous study, two of the authors introduced a coarse space
adapted to highly heterogeneous coefficients using the low frequency modes of
the subdomain DtN maps. In this work, we present a rigorous analysis of a
two-level overlapping additive Schwarz method with this coarse space,
which provides an automatic criterion for the number of modes that need to be
added per subdomain to obtain a convergence rate of the order of the constant
coefficient case. Our method is suitable for parallel implementation and its
efficiency is demonstrated by numerical examples on some challenging problems
with high heterogeneities for automatic partitionings.
Schwarz Type Solvers for -FEM Discretizations of Mixed Problems
Authors: Beuchler Sven , Purrucker Martin
Published: February 2013

This paper investigates the discretization of mixed variational formulation as, e.g., the Stokes problem
by means of the hp-version of the finite element method.
The system of linear algebraic equations is solved by the preconditioned Bramble-Pasciak conjugate gradient method.
The development of an efficient preconditioner requires three ingredients, a preconditioner related to the components of the velocity modes,
a preconditioner for the Schur complement related to the components of the pressure modes and a discrezation by a stable finite element pair
which satisfies the discrete inf-sup-condition.
The last condition is also important in order to obtain a stable discretization scheme.
The preconditioner for the velocity modes is adapted from fast $hp$-FEM preconditioners for the potential equation.
Moreover, we will prove that the preconditioner for the Schur complement can be chosen as a diagonal matrix
if the pressure is discretized by discontinuous finite elements. We will prove that the system of linear algebraic equations can
be solved in almost optimal complexity.
This yields quasioptimal hp-FEM solvers for the Stokes problems and the linear elasticity problems.
The latter are robust with respect to the contraction ratio ν.
The efficiency of the presented solver is shown in several numerical examples.
ReSySTER: A hybrid recommender system for Scrum team roles based on fuzzy and rough sets
Authors: Colomo-Palacios Ricardo , González-Carrasco Israel , López-Cuadrado José Luis , García-Crespo Ángel
Published: February 2013

Agile development is a crucial issue within software engineering because one of the goals of any project leader is to increase the speed and flexibility in the development of new commercial products. In this sense, project managers must find the best resource configuration for each of the work packages necessary for the management of software development processes in order to keep the team motivated and committed to the project and to improve productivity and quality. This paper presents ReSySTER, a hybrid recommender system based on fuzzy logic, rough set theory and semantic technologies, aimed at helping project leaders to manage software development projects. The proposed system provides a powerful tool for project managers supporting the development process in Scrum environments and helping to form the most suitable team for different work packages. The system has been evaluated in a real scenario of development with the Scrum framework obtaining promising results.
Nonparametric statistical analysis for multiple comparison of machine learning regression algorithms
Authors: Trawiński Bogdan , Smętek Magdalena , Telec Zbigniew , Lasota Tadeusz
Published: February 2013

In the paper we present some guidelines for the application of nonparametric statistical tests and post-hoc procedures devised to perform multiple comparisons of machine learning algorithms. We emphasize that it is necessary to distinguish between pairwise and multiple comparison tests. We show that the pairwise Wilcoxon test, when employed to multiple comparisons, will lead to overoptimistic conclusions. We carry out intensive normality examination employing ten different tests showing that the output of machine learning algorithms for regression problems does not satisfy normality requirements. We conduct experiments on nonparametric statistical tests and post-hoc procedures designed for multiple 1×N and N ×N comparisons with six different neural regression algorithms over 29 benchmark regression data sets. Our investigation proves the usefulness and strength of multiple comparison statistical procedures to analyse and select machine learning algorithms.
Novel fault detection criteria based on linear quadratic control performances
Authors: Krokavec Dušan , Filasová Anna
Published: February 2013

This paper proposes a new approach to designing a relatively simple algorithmic fault detection system that is potentially applicable in embedded diagnostic structures. The method blends the LQ control principle with checking and evaluating unavoidable degradation in the sequence of discrete-time LQ control performance index values due to faults in actuators, sensors or system dynamics. Design conditions are derived, and direct computational forms of the algorithms are given. A simulation example subject to different types of failures is used to illustrate the design process and to demonstrate the effectiveness of the method.
Designing a ship course controller by applying the adaptive backstepping method
Authors: Witkowska Anna , Śmierzchalski Roman
Published: February 2013

The article discusses the problem of designing a proper and efficient adaptive course-keeping control system for a seagoing ship based on the adaptive backstepping method. The proposed controller in the design stage takes into account the dynamic properties of the steering gear and the full nonlinear static maneuvering characteristic. The adjustable parameters of the achieved nonlinear control structure were tuned up by using the genetic algorithm in order to optimize the system performance. A realistic full-scale simulation model of the B-481 type vessel including wave and wind effects was applied to simulate the control algorithm by using time domain analysis.
Functional relationships between gaze behavior and movement kinematics when performing high bar dismounts – an exploratory study
Authors: Heinen Thomas , Velentzas Konstantinos , Vinken Pia M.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The aims of this study were, first, to investigate visual spotting and, second, to explore the functional relationships between movement structure and gaze behavior in gymnasts as they perform preparatory giant swings (traditional and scooped technique) and dismounts (single straight and double tucked salto) with increasing difficulty on the high bar. It was predicted that visual spotting would occur in all experimental tasks.

Methods

Relationships between gaze behavior and movement kinematics were explored to provide a clearer picture of how gaze is interconnected with the kinematics of dismounts on the high bar. For this purpose, kinematic parameters were measured with an optical movement-analysis system while gaze behavior was measured by using a portable and wireless eye-tracking system.

Results

The measurement of gaze behavior revealed that gymnasts use visual spotting in all three tasks showing fixations throughout the whole movement. Each task was furthermore characterized by a sequence of visual fixations that was thought to serve specific movement goals. In particular, fixations during the downswing phase of the preparatory giant swings were significantly correlated with the movement phases when beginning the hip extension and flexion in the “kick through” as well as with the athlete’s distance of flight during the dismounts.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that gymnasts can use visual spotting during preparatory giant swings and dismounts on the high bar and that there are functional relationships between different fixations and specific movement goals.
Assessing body culture level and its association with the level of physical activity in university students
Authors: Tucunduva Bruno Barth Pinto
Published: February 2013

Purpose

Subjective values of physical activity are important for promoting active lifestyles. In theoretical research, body culture is the most appropriate term to analyze the complexity between exercise and human culture. The main goal of this study is to assess body culture level and to analyze its influence on physical activity levels.

Methods

An online questionnaire containing the Exploratory Questionnaire of Body Culture Concepts, developed exclusively for this research, plus a short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and a number of general identification questions were used to analyze body culture level.

Results

310 university students responded to the survey. A significant association between high body culture level and physical activity level was found.

Conclusions

The assessment of body culture level helps to analyze the trends of physical activity. The role of cultural complexity of human movement should be considered as an important variable in the promotion of an active lifestyle.
Quercetin inhibits degranulation and superoxide generation in PMA stimulated neutrophils
Authors: Pečivová Jana , Mačičková Tatiana , Sviteková Klára , Nosáľ Radomír
Published: February 2013

Activated neutrophils represent the main source of myeloperoxidase (MPO), superoxide (SO) and subsequently derived oxygen metabolites. They have important microbicidal activities, however in inflammatory conditions they may secondarily attack surrounding tissues. Overproduction of reactive oxygen species, prolonged or excessive liberation of MPO and other effective yet also toxic substances from neutrophils may participate in disturbed apoptosis, intensify the inflammatory processes and result in serious human diseases. The inhibitory effect of quercetin on PMA stimulated SO generation in isolated human neutrophils was found to be dosedependent, without affecting the activity of intact isolated neutrophils. At comparable conditions, quercetin was more potent in inhibiting MPO release than SO generation. Our results indicate that quercetin could support resolution of inflammation through decreased activity of neutrophils, i.e. respiratory burst and degranulation.
Influence of iron and copper consumption on weight gain and oxidative stress in adipose tissue of Wistar rats
Authors: Tinkov Alexey A. , Ajsuvakova Olga P. , Shehtman Alexandr M. , Boev Viktor M. , Nikonorov Alexandr A.
Published: February 2013

The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of iron and copper consumption on weight gain and development of oxidative stress in adipose tissue of rats. Control rats obtained pure drinking water. Iron-treated groups of animals obtained FeSO4•12Н2О with drinking water in concentrations of 3 and 6 mg/l, while copper-treated rats obtained CuSO4 in concentrations of 4.88 and 9.76 mg/l. The animals of the 6th group received a mixture of FeSO4•12Н2О and CuSO4 in the respective concentrations of 3 and 4.88 mg/l in drinking water. All animals received a standard chow. The final weight of rats from all the experimental groups, especially in those obtaining the combination of iron and cooper, exceeded the control values. Maximal weight of fat pads was observed in animals receiving drinking water with 3 mg/l FeSO4•12Н2О, 4.88 and 9.76 mg/l CuSO4, and the mixture of FeSO4•12Н2О and CuSO4. The maximal intensity of free radical processes, as estimated by the concentration of fluorescent modified amino acids and the intensity of chemiluminescence in adipose tissue homogenates, was observed in rats obtaining iron in the concentration of 3 mg/l in the drinking water.
Open Innovations and Living Labs: Promises or Challenges to Regional Renewal
Authors: Karppi Ilari
Published: February 2013

The paper brings to the foreground modes and strategies of organising purposeful action that may be conductive to local and regional actors’ successful coping in the more and more competitive environment. The paper is pragmatist by its approach in a sense that it emphasises preconditions and possibilities for making ideas work. However, to do this is a difficult task. In the maze of multifaceted information flows and revolutionary technologies for reaching them enterprises and public actors need to find and construct better structured information that really helps them to operate. The paper introduces two sets of case activities that build on open innovation and living lab approaches in their attempts to make the boundaries between organisations and their environment more permeable. Its findings support the structuralist idea that spatial attributes matter more than as a mere venue, platform, or even container of social action. The venues studied in the paper are unique: one of the oldest still remaining factory buildings in the innermost core of the city of Tampere and a re-used loghouse in a peri-urban landscape outside the city. They both serve now as true exploratory spaces with no functional or institutional lock-ins stemming from them to bond their present-day users.
Innovation and New Path Creation: The Role of Niche Environments in the Development of the Wind Power Industry in Germany and the UK
Authors: Carpenter Juliet , Simmie James , Conti Elisa , Povinelli Fabiana , Kipshagen Joschka Milan
Published: February 2013

This paper seeks to explore the issues of innovation and new path creation in the UK and Germany, illustrated through the case of the modern wind power industry. Taking an evolutionary perspective drawing on path dependence theory, the paper examines the role of niche environments in the creation of new economic pathways. The research finds that new economic pathways are more likely to develop in places where niche conditions provide receptive environments for innovations to flourish. The policy implications of the research include the importance of supporting niche environments that encourage growth in new sectors and the need for financial support to bring innovations to market, to encourage the development of new economic pathways.
Stand structure and populations of yew (Taxus baccata L.) in the Cisy Rokickie and Bogdanieckie Cisy reserves
Authors: Dobrowolska Dorota , Olszowska Grażyna , Niemczyk Marzena
Published: February 2013

Yew Taxus baccata L. is an endangered tree species in parts of Europe. In Poland small populations grow in forest reserves. The study was conducted in two reserves established particularly for the protection of yew populations located in the region of Pomerania. The aim of the study was to know the number, vitality and growth conditions of natural yew regeneration and to identify threats to the regeneration of the species. The stand structure and regeneration of yew was described in 30 circular plots. The main tree species in stand canopy was Scots pine, however in Bogdanieckie Cisy beech also made up an important element of the stand. The density of yew regeneration was greater in Bogdanieckie Cisy than in Cisy Rokickie; the number of yew seedlings was 5000 individuals per hectare in Boganieckie Cisy and 3332 individuals per hectare in Cisy Rokickie. The vitality of yew regeneration was better under the beech-pine canopy in Bogdanieckie Cisy reserve than in Cisy Rokickie. Yew regeneration is grazed in the Cisy Rokickie reserve even though the fence. The forest floor influenced the amount of yew regeneration; the greater cover of herbs the lower the density of yew regeneration. The presence of yew in all phases (from seedlings to small trees) that regeneration processes continue in both reserves.
Adipocytokines, Neuropeptide Y and Insulin Resistance in Overweight Women with Gynoid and Android Type of Adipose Tissue Distribution
Authors: Orbetzova Maria M. , Koleva Daniela I. , Mitkov Mitko D. , Atanassova Iliana B. , Nikolova Julia G. , Atanassova Pepa K. , Genchev Gencho D.
Published: February 2013

The AIM of the study was to compare the levels of certain adipose tissue hormones in
women with the two main morphological types of obesity - android and gynoid obesity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 2 groups of age- and weight-matched women
with android (n = 32) and gynoid (n = 27) type of obesity, and a group of age-matched
healthy women (n = 24) with normal weight and body constitution. Leptin, resistin, tumour
necrosis factor α (TNFα), neuropeptide Y (NPY), glucose and insulin were measured.HOMA index was calculated.

RESULTS: Leptin levels in the women with gynoid obesity did not differ significantly from
those in the controls and the women with android obesity. The controls had significantly
lower leptin levels compared with the android obesity women. NPY was significantly higher
in the control women compared to the women with android obesity and did not differ significantly between the two groups of obese women. TNFα levels in all groups were very
similar. Resistin did not show significant differences between all groups but tended to have
the lowest levels in the controls. In the women with android obesity, insulin was significantly
higher than that in the women with gynoid obesity and the controls. Insulin resistance
was found in the women with android obesity only. Basal insulin and HOMA index in the
women with gynoid obesity did not differ significantly from the values in the control group.

CONCLUSION: The results from this study contribute to understanding the association of
adipose tissue hormones and insulin resistance in obesity. When adipose tissue is predominantly
distributed in the abdominal area at similar amount and percentage of body fats,
leptin production is higher and insulin resistance develops. In the gynoid type of adipose
tissue predisposition, overt insulin resistance is not found, leptin levels does not differ significantly from those in the control group.
The effect of the kind of Fe chelate on yielding and quality of greenhouse tomato fruits
Authors: Chohura Piotr , Kołota Eugeniusz , Komosa Andrzej
Published: February 2013

A two-year-greenhouse experiment was designed to investigate the effect of four chelates, differing in percentage of Fe content and the kind of Fe bonding ligand: Fe 8 Forte (EDTA+HEEDTA), Fe 9 Premium (DTPA), Fe 13 Top (EDTA) and Librel Fe DP7 (DTPA), on the yield and fruit quality of the ‘Merkury’ F1 greenhouse tomato cultivar grown in peat substrate. Each of the tested fertilisers was applied in three different doses in order to reach the level of 50, 75 or 100 mg available Fe per 1 dm-3 of growing medium. In the control treatment the amount of this nutrient was equal to 17.9 mg dm-3. The tomato was cultivated from transplants on benches in the period from the beginning of April to the end of July.

The highest marketable yield of tomato fruits was obtained from plants fertilised with Fe 9 Premium (DTPA), while the lowest was from the treatment with Fe 13 Top (EDTA) chelate. Both of these sources of iron were equally efficient for the early crop yield, which was significantly higher than that of other tested fertilisers. Irrespective of the Fe source, the most favourable dose of this nutrient for marketable and early fruit yield was 50 mg Fe dm-3. Both tested factors had little effect on fruit composition. The only exception was a significant drop of vitamin C content in the treatment supplied with Fe 9 Premium and an increment of Na in the case of Fe 13 Top use. The increase of Fe in the growing medium up to 75 and 100 mg dm-3 adversely affected the amount of P in tomato fruits.
The effect of preliminary chilling of broccoli transplants on some antioxidative parameters
Authors: Leja Maria , Długosz-Grochowska Olga , Grabowska Aneta , Kunicki Edward
Published: February 2013

The aim of this study was to introduce older transplants of broccoli into field conditions to shorten their growing period and to obtain a crop with a high nutritive value. The additional storage of relatively old (four- and eightweek- old) transplants in a cold chamber before planting in the field shortens the growing period; however, it can influence the chemical composition of the leaves and heads. According to earlier research, the preliminary chilling of transplants affected the high yielding of broccoli; a determination of the quality of plants, including select health-promoting properties, was necessary for their full characteristics.

In the present work, the four- and eight-week-old broccoli transplants were kept at 2°C either for one or two weeks before planting in the field. Catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) activity as well and the accumulation of phenolic compounds were determined in the leaves of the transplants before and after chilling. The same parameters were detected in the leaves and heads of broccoli at harvest time. The effect of low temperature treatment on CAT activity was observed only at the stage of transplants; however, the increased activity of POD stimulated by chilling was maintained during the growing period until the harvest. The reaction of the plants to low temperatures can be connected with their mechanism against stress conditions and seems to vary in the case of those antioxidative enzymes. The effect of chilling on the accumulation of phenolics (total, cinnamic acid derivatives, flavonols) was noted only in transplants and was not evident during the harvest.

The differences observed between the individual seasons of the experiment, both in enzyme activity and synthesis of phenolics, were most likely caused by the differing climatic conditions
Physical properties of Christmas Lima bean at different moisture content
Authors: Aghkhani M.H , Ashtiani S.H. Miraei , Motie J. Baradaran , Abbaspour-Fard M.H.
Published: February 2013

Some moisture-dependent physical properties of Christmas Lima were investigated. Results of experiments on rewetted Christmas Lima bean seed showed increasing in length, width, thickness, geometric mean diameter, volume, sphericity, mass, 1 000 seeds mass, projected area and terminal velocity.Adecreasing trend for bulk density and true density was observed. Both static and dynamic coefficients of friction increased as the moisture content increased. The highest static (0.59) and dynamic coefficients of friction (0.34) were found on the rubber surface. The average rupture force, rupture deformation and rupture energy were investigated under compression loading. These characteristics were determined as functions of moisture content, compression orientations and deformation rates. At all deformation rates, rupture deformation and rupture energy of the Christmas Lima bean generally increased with increase of moisture content. Moreover, rupture force decreased for compression along the X- and Y-axis.
Composted municipal waste effect on chosen properties of calcareous soil
Authors: Hamidpour M. , Afyuni M. , Khadivi E. , Zorpas A. , Inglezakis V.
Published: February 2013

A 3-year field study was conducted to assess effects of composted municipal waste on some properties, distribution of Zn, Cu in a calcareous soil and uptake of these metals by wheat. The treatments were 0, 25, 50 and 100 Mg ha-1 of municipal solidwastewhichwas applied in three consecutive years. The application of composted municipal waste increased the saturated hydraulic conductivity, the aggregate stability,the organic carbon content and electrical conductivity, whereas it slightly decreased the soil pH and bulk density. A significant increase in the concentration of Zn and Cu were observed with increasing number and rate of compost application. The distribution of Zn and Cu between the different fractions in untreated and treated soils showed that the majority of Zn and Cu were in the residual form. Finally, the levels of Zn and Cu were higher in grains of wheat grown in composttreated plots compared to that grown in the control plots.
Effect of Cephalaria syriaca addition on rheological properties of composite flour
Authors: Karaoðlu M.M.
Published: February 2013

The study was carried out to investigate the effect of whole and defatted Cephalaria syriaca flour on the rheological properties of composite flours that used in bran bread production. Cephalaria syriaca products were used to replace 0.25, 0.75, 1.25, 1.75, and 2.25% of wheat-wheat bran composite flour, and its rheological and fermentative properties were measured by farinograph, extensograph and rheofermentometre. The data showed that the rheological parameters of flours were greatly modified by addition of Cephalaria syriaca. The rheological properties of wheatwheat bran composite flour added with whole and defatted Cephalaria syriaca flour were considerably improved with regard to especially extensograph characteristics such as dough resistance, area (energy), ratio number and rheofermentometer parameters such as Hm, T1, Tx, volume loss and gas retention, as compared to control. However addition of Cephalaria syriaca products adversely affected the farinograph characteristics. Generally, these effects of both whole and defatted Cephalaria syriaca flour increased, as the addition level increased. Maximum Tx, gas retention and area (energy) of dough were obtained from wheat-wheat bran composite flour added with 1.75% whole Cephalaria syriaca flour, while the highest dough stability was at addition level of 0.25% whole Cephalaria syriaca flour.
Comparison of susceptibility of leaves on short-term UV-B irradiation
Authors: Skórska E. , Murkowski A.
Published: February 2013

The effects of short-time ultraviolet-B irradiation (0.74 kJ m-2 d-1) at light on cucumber and peppermint leaves were studied.Aconsiderable decrease of the most important chlorophyll fluorescence parameters values mainly in the cucumber leaves, compared to the control, was observed. It indicates damages as well as at a donor and acceptor side of photosystem II, specially in the oxygen evolving complex, electron transport and connected with the dark reactions. In the peppermint leaves these values were unchanged or slight decreased. After 24 h from disappearing of the applied UV-B stress, adverse changes became established, especially in the cucumber leaves show irreversible damages of photosystem II. Coefficient of nonphotochemical quenching increased by 50% in the peppermint leaves, while in cucumber remained unchanged. Chlorophyll delayed luminescence coefficient was decreased by 36% in the UV-B irradiated cucumber leaves and by 25% in the peppermint leaves. Content of ultraviolet-absorbing compounds was higher in peppermint leaves by 78% than in the cucumber. Generally, peppermint seemed to be more tolerant to the applied UV-B radiation compared to cucumber.
Identification of different wheat seeds by electronic nose
Authors: Zhou Bo , Wang Jun , Qi Jinfeng
Published: February 2013

The potential of electronic nose to distinguish of wheat seeds was studied. The reproducibility and practicability of electronic nose data was evaluated by repeating the analysis of samples with a time difference of two months. The principle components analysis and linear discriminant analysis were applied to the generated patterns to distinguish the varieties of wheat seeds. The results showed that they could distinguish the wheat varieties properly. The stepwise discriminant analysis and a three-layer backpropagation neural network were developed for pattern prediction models. The results showed that both models could identify the wheat varieties, the back-propagation neural network presented the higher percent of correct classifications in comparison to stepwise discriminant analysis.Moreover, gas chromatographymass spectrometry analysis of the headspaces of same samples confirmed that electronic nose as a powerful tool is able to identify thewheat seeds.
Physical properties of coriander seeds at different moisture content
Authors: Balasubramanian S. , Singh K.K. , Kumar R.
Published: February 2013

Physical properties of coriander seeds were determined at moisture content of 3.5-17.7%, d.b. The major axis and 1 000 seeds mass were found to decrease nonlinearly with increase in seed moisture. The medium and minor axes, geometric mean diameter, sphericity, unit volume, surface area and angle of repose increased linearly. Bulk density decreased linearly, however the true density increased non-linearly. The coefficient of static friction increased nonlinearly for different surfaces with increase in moisture level and its maximum was found for plywood surface. The rupture force and energy absorbed decreased linearly with increasing moisture content.
Sustainability assessment of road bridges
Authors: Mensinger Martin , Pfaffinger Marjolaine , Schnell Wolfgang
Published: February 2013

The reason why sustainability criteria at the time have hardly any influence on the choice of a bridge design is that it is an extensive procedure which takes too much time to be done during the planning phase and so mostly the cheapest building price is thedecisivefactor. For easily making decisions with a holistic view, it is important to know the key factors that really have a noteworthy influence on the sustainability, considering the whole life cycle and not only the construction phase. Therefore, sustainability assessment is carried out on several bridges with similar boundary conditions. Itwasfound thatone of themost important parametersis a correctpicture of futurescenariosandthat one structureshould alwaysbeconsideredonlyas partof an entireconstruction stage.
Temperature Effect of Flat Steel Box Girder in Suspension Bridge
Authors: Miao Changqing , Feng Zhaoxiang , Wang Yichun
Published: February 2013

Based on case engineering Runyang Bridge, the temperature gradient of flat steel box girder in suspension bridge was continuously observed. According to the analysis of measured datum, the temperature gradient on flat steel box girder was proposed. With three temperature gradient models (JTG D60-2004 specification in China, EuroCode 1 and the temperature gradient which was proposed in this paper), the control sections stress was calculated by finite element program ANSYS. The calculated result indicates that the temperature gradient that was put forward in JTG D60-2004 specification and EuroCode 1 for calculating stress of flat steel box girder is not suitable to apply to flat steel box girder and inclines to be unsafe. The temperature gradient on flat steel box girder which was proposed in this paper was reasonable.
Stability Analysis on Middle Steel Pylon of Taizhou Yangtze River Bridge
Authors: Song Lijia , Zhang Zhen , Ma Rujin , Chen Airong
Published: February 2013

Stability of the steel middle pylon is a significant issue to be discussed for Taizhou Yangtze River Bridge. With consideration to the middle pylon initial deficiency and integration-region related bucking, a finite element analysis is performed to simulate the stability of the middle pylon. Firstly, a total bridge frame model is established for elastic and elastic-plastic analysis. Secondly, shell element is introduced for detailed simulation of the pylon and combined with beam element to establish the total bridge model. According to the analysis results, the initial deficiency has no significant impact on the analysis results. Elastic-plastic stability analysis of frame model shows the stability safety factor of middle pylon is 2.417 in the most unfavourable situation, much less than the result of elastic analysis. Analysis adopting hybrid model presents result consistent with the frame model, and demonstrates both the local and entire instability process clearly.
Self-adaptive fairing of steel box girder design and studies of flutter stability by CFD numerical simulation
Authors: Zhan Hao , Xiaomin Pan , Bowei Ning
Published: February 2013

The long-span bridge is greatly influenced by the wind. This paper introduces the self-adaptive fairing with the wind guide pipe. The self-adaptive fairing are on both sides of the steel box girder , the angle is adjusted according to wind direction and the wind guide pipe opened at the same time. It can improve the aerodynamic characteristics and wind-resistant stability.Self-adaptive fairing is composed of the following parts: the movable wind guide plate, the fixed wind guide plate, the wind guide pipe, the cover plate of the wind guide tube, the servo system, the sensor system and the control system. Also in this paper, the computational fluid dynamic method was used to study flutter stability of the main beam with self-adaptive fairing. Establishes two dimensional bending and torsion fluid-structure interaction model to study how the angle of fairing and wind guide pipe influence flutter critical wind speed. The numerical simulation results shows that the angle of fairing changes with the direction of wind and opening of the wind guide pipe can raise critical wind speed of the flutter. This provides a new innovative way for designing a wind-resistant longspan bridge.
Mobility, Market Exchange and Livelihood Transition: Fulbe Flexibility in Tanout, Niger
Authors: Greenough Karen
Published: February 2013

The Woδaaбe and Katsinen-ko'en Fulбe of Tanout, Niger, in the northern Sahel practise slightly different strategies of (agro)pastoral production, with consequently differing patterns of mobility. They engage in similar market exchanges (livestock, grain, fodder) and forms of livelihood transitions in both directions along a pastoralism-agropastoralism axis. Case studies of seven households (three Woδaaбe and four Katsinenko'en) illustrate the complexity of these practices over a year and a half. If researchers and policy makers are to gain an operational understanding of the risks, opportunities and strategies that characterize the actual agropastoral continuum and the different cultures that engage it, they should extend their analyses beyond the rigidity of agro/pastoral models to the complex relationships these groups of producers have within their ecological and socio-economic environments.