bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructure and Corrosion Resistance of Composite nc-TiO2/Ni Coating on 316L Steel
Authors: Ledwig P. , Dubiel B.
Published: December 2017

The aim of this work was to obtain composite of nc-TiO2/Ni coatings on 316L steel and to characterize their corrosion resistance. In order to investigate the influence of the addition of TiO2nanoparticles, both pure Ni and composite nc-TiO2/Ni coatings were electrodeposited from nickel citrate baths. The microstructure of the coatings was examined by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The nc-TiO2/Ni coatings were about 10 μm thick. Their microstructure consisted of TiO2nanoparticles uniformly distributed in nanocrystalline Ni matrix. The corrosion resistance of the coatings was measured using impedance spectroscopy and polarization curves techniques in Ringer’s solution. It was determined that the addition of nano-TiO2particles improved corrosion resistance and reduced corrosion rate of the coated steel.
Structural Transformations Versus Hard Particles Motion in the Brass Ingots
Authors: Wołczyński W. , Ivanova A.A. , Kwapisiński P. , Olejnik E.
Published: December 2017

A mathematical method for the forecast of the type of structure in the steel static ingot has been recently developed. Currently, the method has been applied to structural zones prediction in the brass ingots obtained by the continuous casting. Both the temperature field and thermal gradient field have been calculated in order to predict mathematically the existence of some structural zones in the solidifying brass ingot. Particularly, the velocity of theliquidusisotherm movement and thermal gradient behavior versus solidification time have been considered. The analysis of the mentioned velocity allows the conclusion that the brass ingots can evince: chilled columnar grains-, (CC), fine columnar grains-, (FC), columnar grains-, (C), equiaxed grains zone, (E), and even the single crystal, (SC), situated axially. The role of the mentioned morphologies is analyzed to decide whether the hard particles existing in the brass ingots can be swallowed or rejected by the solid / liquid (s/l) interface of a given type of the growing grains. It is suggested that the columnar grains push the hard particles to the end of a brass ingot during its continuous casting.
Decorative Borders in Chinese Folk Prints. Insight into the Náprstek Museum Collections
Authors: Olivová Lucie
Published: December 2017

The article examines the printed borders which adorn a moderate number of Yangliuqing prints from the collections of the Náprstek Museum. They are made up of auspicious elements common in the symbolism of Chinese folk art. Their design differs and falls at least into two groups. The reason behind placing the border on a picture is yet unclear.
Imperial Dragon in the Roaring Twenties: Qing Dynasty Dress Re-Made
Authors: Heroldová Helena
Published: December 2017

The study focuses on the methodology of research on recycled clothing. Two Chinese Dragon Robes from the collection of the Náprstek Museum were remade as a men’s jacket and a woman’s evening dress. Both examples are described, analysed and interpreted from two points of view: as authentic Dragon Robes in its original Imperial China setting, as well as newly made clothes in the context of the early 20thcentury Western culture.
Masks from Indonesia in the Náprstek Museum
Authors: Kerlogue Fiona
Published: December 2017

Masks from Indonesia have been worn in performances in a number of contexts. In Java, masked drama occurred in the royal courts as well as in the countryside. In Bali masks are still a feature of daily life in connection with performances in temples and at life cycle ceremonies. Balinese masks relate to a range of genres. In Kalimantan masks are mostly used in rituals connected with rice-growing. Indonesian masks in the Náprstek Museum collections all come from one of these contexts, most having been used and later discarded, while some were made especially for the tourist market.
Seven Egyptian Mummified Heads from the Collections of the Náprstek Museum
Authors: Oktábcová Lubica , Jungová Gabriela , Bučil Jiří , Pečený Jakub , Onderka Pavel
Published: December 2017

The paper presents results of CT and external examination of seven ancient Egyptian mummified isolated human heads from the collections of the National Museum – Náprstek Museum of Asian, African and American Cultures. It is the first preliminary outcome regarding isolated parts of mummies from a multi-disciplinary project that aims to map all ancient Egyptian mummified material in public collections of the Czech Republic. The heads are well preserved and exhibit a variety of mummification techniques and materials.
Preliminary Report on the Twelfth Excavation Season of the Archaeological Expedition to Wad Ben Naga
Authors: Onderka Pavel , Vrtal Vlastimil , Gatzsche Alexander
Published: December 2017

The twelfth excavation season of the Archaeological Expedition to Wad Ben Naga focused on archaeological exploration of the Typhonium (WBN 200) and the Palace of Queen Amanishakheto (WBN 100), and on conservation of structures located in Central Wad Ben Naga.
Precise Receiver Clock Offset Estimations According to Each Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) Timescales
Authors: Thongtan Thayathip , Tirawanichakul Pawit , Satirapod Chalermchon
Published: December 2017

Each GNSS constellation operates its own system times; namely, GPS system time (GPST), GLONASS system time (GLONASST), BeiDou system time (BDT) and Galileo system time (GST). They could be traced back to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) scale and are aligned to GPST. This paper estimates the receiver clock offsets to three timescales: GPST, GLONASST and BDT. The two measurement scenarios use two identical multi-GNSS geodetic receivers connected to the same geodetic antenna through a splitter. One receiver is driven by its internal oscillators and another receiver is connected to the external frequency oscillators, caesium frequency standard, kept as the Thailand standard time scale at the National Institute of Metrology (Thailand) called UTC(NIMT). The three weeks data are observed at 30 seconds sample rate. The receiver clock offsets with respected to the three system time are estimated and analysed through the geodetic technique of static Precise Point Positioning (PPP) using a data processing software developed by Wuhan University - Positioning And Navigation Data Analyst (PANDA) software. The estimated receiver clock offsets are around 32, 33 and 18 nanoseconds from GPST, GLONASST and BDT respectively. This experiment is initially stated that each timescale is inter-operated with GPST and further measurements on receiver internal delay has to be determined for clock comparisons especially the high accuracy clock at timing laboratories.
Additions to the Migration of Szekler Youth—an Overview of Statistical Data and Existing Literature
Authors: Bálint Gyöngyvér
Published: December 2017

This paper aims to summarize the migration processes affecting Szeklerland based on the available official statistical data and the main results of the sociological and anthropological studies regarding the region. Emigration has been present in Szeklerland for more than 150 years. Measuring the extent of international migration—because of the significant illegal migration—is always problematic. The recording of migration in Romanian statistical data is clearly deficient. In estimating the extent of emigration, the most accurate are the international data. In the light of these, migrants of the two Szekler counties (Harghita and Covasna) can be put to approximately 12–15% of the population (62,000–85,000 people). The influence of migrants upon the emitting society is very significant: among secondary-school graduates from Sfântu Gheorghe (the biggest Szekler city), 58% have at least one person in the family with migration experience or staying abroad at the moment of the survey. Almost half of the migrant family members left for work. The most relevant destination countries are Hungary, Germany, Austria, Italy, England, and the USA. At the end of 2014, almost three quarters (72%) of secondary-school graduates from Sfântu Gheorghe were planning to emigrate in the near future. The causes and the consequences of migration in Szeklerland are multiple—they can be described with a combination of economic, incomplete, and transnational migration theories. And they can be completed with the concept of socialization deficit and the sense of personal deficiency it causes, which seems to be the primary motor of migration in Szeklerland.
An “Alien” or a Stranger Indeed?
Authors: Switat Mustafa
Published: December 2017

With respect to the current migration crisis in Europe, the term “alien” is generally identified with the Arab or Muslim (for many people: Arab = Muslim) communities. The article contains an analysis of the origins, history, and effects of this phenomenon, illustrated with the example of the Arabs in Poland – a country where both of those communities are small, where there are few immigrants as a rule, and which is not directly impacted by the refugee crisis. In general, there were no negative experiences in Polish–Arabic relations, but—due to the lack of knowledge and personal interactions with members of the Arab (Muslim) diaspora—many Poles perceive them as aliens. Why are they aliens? When did they start being aliens? And if they have always been aliens, then are they aliens indeed? In the paper, I will present an analysis of the way members of the Arab diaspora are perceived as aliens and their sense of alienness in Poland. The analysis is based on the field study of this community, with emphasis on the differences between the Arab migration to Poland/Eastern European countries and their migration to other European states. Additionally, a new theory of inclusion of an alien will be presented along with proposals concerning how to “tame” an alien for the sake of a common, conflict-free existence—because “alien” often simply means the unknown and/or the unwanted to be known.
Hijab(istas)—as Fashion Phenomenon. A Review
Authors: Nistor Laura
Published: December 2017

In the present article, I am shortly reviewing some aspects which can be regarded as important in considering the hijab a fashion phenomenon. The social media provides us with various images in which the hijab is presented as a form of fashionable accessory, it is adapted to various modern outfits. The literature on such fashionable takes of the hijab assesses that they can be interpreted as statement messages about women’s empowerment. On the other hand, such adaptations also speak about the emergence of various subcultures about Muslim youth, which in accordance with the global sameness of youth are using social media in order to send messages and connect with each other. After a brief presentation on the role of bottom-up diffusion of fashion innovations, I am reviewing, grosso modo, two representations of the hijab: the hijab as a religious symbol and the hijab as a (fashion) manifesto about women’s empowerment.
The Griever as a Stranger. A Discussion
Authors: Bálint Blanka
Published: December 2017

The study is, in fact, an interpretation alternative that tries to identify a griever as a stranger in a previously familiar medium. This may refer to an inner strangeness when the griever discovers a kind of strangeness in his or her relationship with himself or herself that questions his or her earlier identity or a feeling of strangeness in relation to friends and acquaintances. In the systematization of the feeling of strangeness in relation to others, I used Schütz’s “homecomer” model of a returning veteran as a starting point. This approach brings us closer to understanding the difficulties of relating to grievers.
Innovation in construction materials engineering versus sustainable development
Authors: Czarnecki L. , Van gemert D.
Published: December 2017

Innovation in construction is presented as a necessary aspect in the answer that the construction industry must provide to solve its negative impact on the environment. Original and innovative research is only part of the work to be accomplished. More important is the implementation of innovation in practice, where traditions are strongly rooted in society, and safety and long term reliability are required. Lessons from nature and study of durable examples handed down from the pasts serve as guidelines to innovative approaches that contribute to sustainability.
The use of multi-criteria optimization to choose solutions for energy-efficient buildings
Authors: Basińska M.
Published: December 2017

The goal of this paper was to optimize the building envelope and technical equipment in the building through the mitigation of the global cost value, and then to evaluate the influence of the chosen assumptions on the primary energy index. The analyses carried out using global cost method allow for finding the cost optimal solution but only for the some range of primary energy index variability. In order to find the optimal solutions it was proposed to use the multi-criteria optimisation, assuming the following as basic criteria: a global cost value and investment prices increase (economic criteria), a primary energy index (energy-related criterion), an emission of carbon dioxide (environmental criterion). The analysed case study refers to the technical solutions for the residential buildings with the usable energy demand at the level of 40 and 15 kWh/m2/a. The presented method might be applied to different types of buildings: those being designed and those being the subject of the thermo-modernisation. The results demonstrate that the proposed model allows for classification of the alternative technical solutions regarding the designing process and the building’s technical equipment. The carried out analyses indicate the economic possibility to achieve the low energy building standard and show the need to concentrate the activities related to the installation technology and used energy source.
Laboratory testing of low temperature asphalt concrete produced in foamed bitumen technology with fiber reinforcement
Authors: Chomicz-Kowalska A.
Published: December 2017

The paper presents the design process and test results of warm mix asphalt concrete produced with modified foamed bitumen and recycled synthetic fiber reinforcement. Recycling and low-temperature asphalt production techniques are now seen as the possibilities to increase the sustainability and energy effectiveness of road construction. Although low processing temperatures permit increased use of reclaimed and recycled materials in new asphalt mixes, they sometimes result in impaired service performance. The aim of this article was to present a possibility of producing a better performing asphalt concrete (in comparison to a control hot-mix) at lower temperatures. For this purpose two road paving bitumens modified with a surface active agent and a Fischer-Tropsch wax thoroughly tested for their basic, rheological characteristics and foaming performance. Selected binders were used for producing two control mixes (hot-mix and foamed warm mix with 35/50 bitumen) as well as the experimental mix with the modified 50/70 bitumen and an addition of synthetic fiber material from recycling of automotive tires. Basic properties of the mixes were tested (air void content, moisture susceptibility with one freeze-thaw cycle, wheel tracking) along with stiffness moduli and fatigue resistance. It was concluded that the control foamed warm-mix performed significantly worse than the hot-mix, while the experimental warm-mix with modified bitumen and fiber additive exhibited increased performance and resistance to fatigue and moisture.
Experimental validation of numerical static calculations for a monolithic rectangular tank with walls of trapezoidal cross-section
Authors: Buczkowski W. , Szymczak-Graczyk A. , Walczak Z.
Published: December 2017

The article presents the results of validation of static calculations carried out for a monolithic rectangular tank with walls of trapezoidal cross-section. Static calculations were made with the use of software based on the finite element method (FEM) and the finite difference method (FDM) in terms of energy (including spatial static work of the tank). Validation of the results was conducted on a concrete tank model using an innovative measurement tool, i.e. a coordinate measuring arm with a touch probe.
A novel formulation of 3D spectral element for wave propagation in reinforced concrete
Authors: Rucka M. , Witkowski W. , Chróścielewski J. , Burzyński S. , Wilde K.
Published: December 2017

The paper deals with numerical simulations of wave propagation in reinforced concrete for damage detection purposes. A novel formulation of a 3D spectral element was proposed. The reinforcement modelled as the truss spectral element was embedded in the 3D solid spectral finite element. Numerical simulations have been conducted on cuboid concrete specimens reinforced with two steel bars. Different degradation models were considered to study the real behaviour of bended beams.
The optimal online control of the instantaneous power and the multiphase source’s current
Authors: Siwczyński M. , Hawron K.
Published: December 2017

The paper presents the new optimal real-time control algorithm of the power source. The minimum of the square-instantaneous current was assumed as an optimal criterion, with an additional constraint on source instantaneous power. The mathematical model of a multiphase source was applied as a voltage-current convolution in the discrete time domain. The resulting control algorithm was the recursive digital filter with infinite recursion.
Design and analysis of interior composite-rotor bearingless permanent magnet synchronous motors with two layer permanent magnets
Authors: Sun X. , Su B. , Chen L. , Yang Z. , Li K.
Published: December 2017

In this paper, a new type of interior composite-rotor bearingless permanent magnet synchronous motors (BPMSMs) with two layer permanent magnets (PMs) is proposed. In order to reduce the torque ripple of this kind of motors, the sizes of PMs are optimized. Moreover, the magnetic field analysis of the interior composite-rotor BPMSM with two layer PMs is carried out by the finite element method (FEM). The corresponding static electronic magnetic characteristics at no load, including magnetic field, PM flux linkage and inductance, are studied in detail. In addition, electromagnetic torque characteristics and suspension force characteristics are also investigated thoroughly. The results of the analysis and simulation lay a significant foundation for further research on the interior composite-rotor BPMSMs with two layer PMs.
Economic and environmental analysis of a hybrid solar, wind and pumped storage hydroelectric energy source: a Polish perspective
Authors: Jurasz J. , Mikulik J.
Published: December 2017

This paper introduces a mixed integer non-linear mathematical model for a simulation of a hybrid energy source consisting of photovoltaics (PV), wind turbines (WT) and pumped storage hydroelectricity (PSH). The concept of PV–WT–PSH has been well described and evaluated for sparsely populated or remote areas such as islands. Here, due to the rapid development of renewable energy sources and most importantly the variable (non-dispatchable) energy sources such as wind and solar, the idea of wind and solar powered PSHs has been investigated in the context of the national energy system. The economic and environmental impact of the proposed hybrid has been assessed. The results reveal that to cover almost 40% of the energy demand one should expect the energy cost to increase by 25%.
Assessment of methods of marking LED sources with the power of equivalent light bulb
Authors: Tabaka P. , Rozga P.
Published: December 2017

This article presents considerations on the assessment of marking LED sources with the power of an equivalent light bulb. This problem was studied both on the basis of calculations and measurements performed. 17 LEDs of different powers and luminous fluxes were tested. Calculations assessing conformity with the declared power showed that an important disadvantage for most of the LED sources results from the method of marking them with the power of an equivalent light bulb from the point of view of the luminous flux emitted. Manufacturers do not do this correctly, misleading the potential user. Meanwhile, measurements performed in different ambient temperatures indicated that for only 4 from among the 13 LED sources studied the given value of the power of an equivalent light bulb may be recognized as in accordance with the actual state of affairs and still with a reservation that specified ambient temperature shall be required. In other cases the values of power quoted are either understated or overstated.
Full-order observers for linear fractional multi-order difference systems
Authors: Wyrwas M.
Published: December 2017

The paper is devoted to the construction of observers for linear fractional multi–order difference systems with Riemann–Liouville– and Grünwald–Letnikov–type operators. Basing on the Z-transform method the sufficient condition for the existence of the presented observers is established. The behaviour of the constructed observer is demonstrated in numerical examples.
Financial optimisation of the scheduling for the multi-stage project
Authors: Klimek M. , Łebkowski P.
Published: December 2017

The paper analyses the problem of discounted cash flow maximising for the resource-constrained project scheduling from the project contractor’s perspective. Financial optimisation for the multi-stage project is considered. Cash outflows are the contactor’s expenses related to activity execution. Cash inflows are the client’s payments for the completed milestones. To solve the problem, the procedure of backward scheduling taking into account contractual milestones is proposed. The effectiveness of this procedure, as used to generate solutions for the simulated annealing algorithm, is verified with use of standard test instances with additionally defined cash flows and contractual milestones.
Surface modification of AZ91 magnesium alloy using GTAW technology
Authors: Iwaszko J. , Strzelecka M. , Kudła K.
Published: December 2017

In this study, surface remelting treatment of the AZ91 magnesium alloy by means of welding using a non-consumable electrode in an inert gas shield was carried out. Three variants of surface treatment were used, i.e. the single torch variant with a single heat source without cooling down the samples, the single torch variant with a single heat source and a cooling system with liquid nitrogen, and the double welding torch variant with a double heat source in the torches operating in a tandem configuration. Experimental verification of the applied apparatus solutions was based on both macro- and microstructural assessment of the obtained effects. Comparative analysis of the variants used and the obtained microstructural results allowed the authors to indicate the deficiencies and limitations of particular solutions and to single out the best solution that would be useful for modifying the surface layers of magnesium alloys, as well as other materials having a strong oxygen affinity.
Squeeze flow modeling with the use of micropolar fluid theory
Authors: Kucaba-Piętal A.
Published: December 2017

The aim of this paper is to study the applicability of micropolar fluid theory to modeling and to calculating tribological squeeze flow characteristics depending on the geometrical dimension of the flow field. Based on analytical solutions in the lubrication regime of squeeze flow between parallel plates, calculations of the load capacity and time required to squeeze the film are performed and compared – as a function of the distance between the plates – for both fluid models: the micropolar model and the Newtonian model. In particular, maximum distance between the plates for which the micropolar effects of the fluid become significant will be established. Values of rheological constants of the fluids, both those experimentally determined and predicted by means of using equilibrium molecular dynamics, have been used in the calculations. The same analysis was performed as a function of dimensionless microstructural parameters.
Natural transverse vibrations of helical springs in sections covered with elastic coatings
Authors: Michalczyk K.
Published: December 2017

It has been demonstrated in previous studies that local elastomer coatings covering the end coils of helical springs can efficiently reduce the amplitudes of circum-resonant vibrations in such springs. The analysis of the influence that elastic coatings have on the frequencies and modes of natural transverse vibrations of springs is presented in this paper. The concept of the equivalent beam of the Timoshenko type is utilized in calculations of the frequencies and modes of transverse vibrations. The model developed allows users to determine the frequencies and modes of symmetric as well as antisymmetric vibrations of axially loaded springs with elastic coatings of arbitrary length. A comparison of the results obtained using FEM analysis, in which the model represented the actual spring geometry, with the results obtained by means of the presented model indicates its high accuracy.
Phenolic compounds, bioactive content and antioxidant capacity of the fruits of mulberry (Morus spp.) germplasm in Turkey
Authors: Gundogdu Muttalip , Canan Ihsan , Gecer Mustafa K. , Kan Tuncay , Ercisli Sezai
Published: December 2017

The study was carried out in 2014 and 2015, and aimed to determine some important biochemical and antioxidant characteristics of the fruits of mulberry (Morus spp.) cultivars and genotypes found in Malatya (Turkey). Phenolic compounds (protocatechuic acid, vanillic acid, ellagic acid, rutin, quercetin, gallic acid, catechin, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, syringic acid, p-coumaric acid, o-coumaric acid, phloridzin and ferulic acid), organic acids, sugars, vitamin C and antioxidant capacity were analyzed in sampled fruits. The results showed that most of the biochemical content and antioxidant capacities of the cultivars and genotypes were significantly different from one another (p < 0.05). Among the phenolic compounds, rutin (118.23 mg 100 g-1), gallic acid (36.85 mg 100 g-1), and chlorogenic acid (92.07 mg 100 g-1) were determined to have the highest values for most of the fruit samples. Malic acid and citric acid were dominant among the organic acids for all the cultivars and genotypes except 44-Nrk-05. Glucose was measured as a more abundant sugar than fructose and sucrose in all samples. Antioxidant capacity, on the other hand, varied between 6.17 and 21.13 μmol TE g-1 among the cultivars and genotypes analyzed.
Labour Contribution and Productivity in the European Union: A Cluster Analysis
Authors: Batóg Jacek
Published: December 2017

The paper deals with an analysis of dynamics and the differentiation of basic features that characterize employment in European Union countries. The conducted research considered characteristics of the labour force such as the share of total labour compensation in the GDP, the number of hours worked and labour productivity. According to economic theory, this last variable plays a crucial role in the formation of the long-term economic growth. Also examined in the paper was the influence of the economic crisis on the behaviour of the indicated variables. A main statistical data source was the Total Economy Database published by the Conference Board. It can be seen from the results of the research that there exists growing international differences between the basic characteristics of labour force utilization and productivity. The conclusions were drawn on the grounds of a cluster analysis, which allowed deriving homogenous groups of countries according to the specificity of labour utilization and efficiency.
Forecasting Euro Area Inflation Using Single-Equation and Multivariate VAR–Models
Authors: Gerdesmeier Dieter , Roffia Barbara , Reimers Hans-Eggert
Published: December 2017

Forecasting inflation is of key relevance for central banks, not least because the objective of low and stable inflation is embodied in most central banks’ mandates and the monetary policy transmission mechanism is well known to be subject to long and variable lags. To our best knowledge, central banks around the world use conditional as well as unconditional forecasts for such purposes. Turning to unconditional forecasts, these can be derived on the basis of structural and non-structural models. Among the latter, vector autoregressive (VAR)-models are among the most popular tools.

This study aims at assessing and deriving a set of unconditional forecasts for euro area inflation based on several specifications which take into account the information content of, inter alia, monetary and credit variables. The models are ordered and based on their in-sample performance and the “best” model is selected accordingly. The results indicate that the inclusion of money and credit variables in the information set improves the quality of the forecasts over a horizon of one to eight quarters. This supports the view that central banks should regularly monitor developments in money and credit.
Monetary Policy and Industrial Output in the BRICS Countries: A Markov-Switching Model
Authors: Kutu Adebayo Augustine , Ngalawa Harold
Published: December 2017

This paper examines whether the five BRICS countries share similar business cycles and determines the probability of any of the countries moving from a contractionary regime to an expansionary regime. The study further examines the extent to which changes in monetary policy affect industrial output in expansions relative to contractions. Employing the Peersman and Smets (2001) Markov-Switching Model (MSM) and monthly data from 1994.01–2013.12, the study reveals that the five BRICS countries have similar business cycles. The results further demonstrate that the BRICS countries’ business cycles are characterized by two distinct growth rate phases: a contractionary regime and an expansionary regime. It can also be observed that the area-wide monetary policy has significantly large effects on industrial output in recessions as well as in booms. It has also been established that there is a high probability of moving from state one (recession) to state two (expansion) and that on average, the probabilities of staying in state 2 (expansion) are high for each of the five countries. It is, therefore, recommended that the BRICS countries should sustain uniform policy consistency (monetary policy), especially as they formulate and implement economic policies to stimulate industrial output.
Consumers’ Competences as a Stimulant of Sustainable Consumption
Authors: Kiełczewski Dariusz , Bylok Felicjan , Dąbrowska Anna , Janoś-Kresło Mirosława , Ozimek Irena
Published: December 2017

The paper contains considerations on the issue of sustainable consumption whose stimulator may be consumer competences. The problem can be examined in the cognitive, emotional and behavioural dimensions. Besides the theoretical approach, the authors have presented findings of the research carried out for the purposes of the project “Consumer Competences as a Stimulant of Innovative Behaviours and Sustainable Consumption” (2011/03/B/HS4/04417) financed from resources provided by the National Science Centre. The research involved a research sample of 1,000 Poles meeting specific criteria established by the authors. The obtained empirical material allowed for the construction of the consumer competence index which took into account the following variables: Knowledge of the consumer’s rights and ways of use thereof (Knowledge), Planning measured with the following variables (Planning), Making rational consumption choices measured with the following variables (Rationality), Autonomy of choices measured with the following variables (Sovereignty). Three groups of consumers were singled out and characterised in the study, namely: highly competent consumers, consumers with a medium level of competences, and consumers with low competences.
Decision Support Methods for Supply Processes in the Floral Industry
Authors: Kutyba Agata , Mikulik Jerzy
Published: December 2017

The aim of this paper was to show the application of the ABC and AHP (multi-criteria method for hierarchical analysis of decision processes) as an important part of decision making in supply processes which are realized in the floral industry. The ABC analysis was performed in order to classify the product mix from the perspective of the demand values. This in consequence enabled us to identify the most important products which were then used as a variant in the AHP method.
Capacity of Neural Networks and Discriminant Analysis in Classifying Potential Debtors
Authors: Piasecki Krzysztof , Wójcicka-Wójtowicz Aleksandra
Published: December 2017

Identifying potential healthy and unsound customers is an important task. The reduction of loans granted to companies of questionable credibility can influence banks’ performance. A prior identification of factors that affect the condition of companies is a vital element. Among the most commonly used methods we can enumerate discriminant analysis (DA), scoring methods, neural networks (NN), etc. This paper investigates the use of different structure NN and DA in the process of the classification of banks’ potential clients. The results of those different methods are juxtaposed and their performance compared.
A Kernel Probabilistic Model for Semi-supervised Co-clustering Ensemble
Authors: Zhang Yinghui
Published: December 2017

Co-clustering is used to analyze the row and column clusters of a dataset, and it is widely used in recommendation systems. In general, different co-clustering models often obtain very different results for a dataset because each algorithm has its own optimization criteria. It is an alternative way to combine different co-clustering results to produce a final one for improving the quality of co-clustering. In this paper, a semi-supervised co-clustering ensemble is illustrated in detail based on semi-supervised learning and ensemble learning. A semi-supervised co-clustering ensemble is a framework for combining multiple base co-clusterings and the side information of a dataset to obtain a stable and robust consensus co-clustering. First, the objective function of the semi-supervised co-clustering ensemble is formulated according to normalized mutual information. Then, a kernel probabilistic model for semi-supervised co-clustering ensemble (KPMSCE) is presented and the inference of KPMSCE is illustrated in detail. Furthermore, the corresponding algorithm is designed. Moreover, different algorithms and the proposed algorithm are used for experiments on real datasets. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can significantly outperform the compared algorithms in terms of several indices.
Detection of fluoroquinolone residues in milk using Yersinia spp. strains: towards better sensitivity for flumequine determination
Authors: Navrátilová Pavlína , Vyhnálková Jana , Vorlová Lenka
Published: December 2017

Introduction: Plate diffusion methods play an important role in the monitoring system for antimicrobial agents in raw materials and foodstuffs of animal origin. The aim of this work was to select a Yersinia spp. strain for the plate diffusion method based on sensitivity to a fluoroquinolone, namely flumequine. Another aim was to determine the optimal conditions of the method with the selected strain of Yersinia ruckeri CCM 8467 and to determine the detection capability (CCβ) of this method for residues of selected fluoroquinolones in milk.

Material and Methods: Optimum method conditions were set: cell concentration in the test agar at the level of 9.105–106 CFU/mL, discs with a diameter of 12.7 mm, Antimicrobial Inhibitor Test Agar with a pH of 6.0, and incubation at 30°C for at least 18 h and up to 24 h.

Results: With respect to the maximum residue limit (MRL), the Y. ruckeri plate method demonstrated the lowest sensitivity to flumequine. The CCβ of the method for flumequine was in the concentration of 100 μg/L−1 (twice the MRL). The study also confirmed that the method exhibits very good sensitivity to the other tested fluoroquinolones, which were marbofloxacin (30 μg/L, 0.4 MRL), ciprofloxacin (10 μg/L, 0.1 MRL), and enrofloxacin (20 μg/L, 0.2 MRL), but lower sensitivity to danofloxacin (42 μg/L, 1.4 MRL).

Conclusion: The method with the CCM 8467 strain of Y. ruckeri showed a higher sensitivity to flumequine than the method with the ATCC 11303 strain of E. coli.
Antiviral and immunoregulatory role against PCV2in vivoof Chinese herbal medicinal ingredients
Authors: Yang Haifeng , Chen Xiaolan , Jiang Chunmao , He Kongwang , Hu Yiyi
Published: December 2017

Introduction:The aim of the research was to investigate the antiviral and immunoregulatory effects of saikosaponin A, saikosaponin D, Panax notoginseng saponins, notoginsenoside R1, and anemoside B4 saponins commonly found in Chinese herbal medicines.

Material and Methods:control mice were challenged intramuscularly (im) with 0.2 mL of porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) solution containing 107TCID50of the virus/mL. Mice of high-, middle-, and low-dose saponin groups were initially challenged im with 0.2 mL of PCV2 solution and three days later treated intraperitoneally (ip) with one of five saponins at one of three doses (10, 5, or 1 mg/kg b.w.). In the drug control group, mice were dosed ip with 10 mg/kg b.w. of a given saponin, and mice in a blank control group were administered the same volume of normal saline.

Results:The results revealed that the saponins could reduce the incidence and severity of PCV2-induced immunopathological damage,e.g. body temperature elevation, weight loss, anaemia, and internal organ swelling. In addition, it was seen that the saponins could affect the immunoglobulin levels and protein absorption.

Conclusion:The data suggested that the saponins might effectively regulate immune responses.
Effect of intrauterine infusion ofMomordica charantiaL. on oxidative stress and pregnancy rate in infertile cows
Authors: Emre Birten , Korkmaz Ömer , Temamoğulları Füsun , Zonturlu Abuzer Kafar , Koyuncu İsmail , Özkaraca Mustafa , Cengiz Mehmet
Published: December 2017

Introduction:The effect of intrauterine administration ofMomordica charantiaL. (MC) extract on oxidative changes and pregnancy rate in infertile cows was investigated.

Material and Methods:Endometrial smear specimens were taken from 40 cows with fertility problems for cytological examination, and the cows were randomly divided into two groups: group I (n = 20) was subjected to intrauterine administration of 40 mL (0.25 g/mL) of MC extract, group II (n = 20) was subjected to intrauterine administration of 40 mL of pure olive oil. Blood samples were taken starting from the day of administration of MC extract or olive oil (day 0) and then for three weeks at weekly intervals (days 7, 14, 21). Blood serum samples were evaluated for total antioxidant capacity (TAS), total oxidant level (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH), and nitric oxide (NO) levels. In addition, on the 14thday following treatment, two doses of PGF2α were administrated to all cows at 14-day intervals. Following the second PGF2α administration, insemination and GnRH administration was performed at the 60thh after PGF2α treatment. Smear samples were stained with Giemsa and immunohistochemically to determine cytological changes and inflammatory status.

Results:According to cytological findings, subclinical endometritis was a prevalent disorder in cows with infertility problem (82.5%; 33/40). Additionally, 60.6% (20/33) of the cows with subclinical endometritis had acute inflammation, whereas remaining 13 cows had chronic endometritis. Of the cows with subclinical endometritis, 50% (8/16) and 35% (6/17) became pregnant in group I and II, respectively (P > 0.05). Although the oxidative stress parameters showed similarities between both groups (P > 0.05), there was a significant difference (P < 0.001) between the groups in terms of mean NO and LOOH levels (NO – 31.20 ± 11.38vs44.53 ± 11.50 μmol/L and LOOH – 1.22 ± 0.37vs1.89 ± 0.36 μmol/L).

Conclusion:The obtained results indicated that MC administration, especially in the presence of active inflammation, may improve the pregnancy rate by positive reduction of oxidative changes.
Effect of amifostine on sperm DNA fragmentation and testes after radioiodine treatment
Authors: Sen Cigdem Cebi , Yumusak Nihat , Atilgan Hasan Ikbal , Sadic Murat , Koca Gokhan , Korkmaz Meliha
Published: December 2017

Introduction: Radioactive iodine (RAI) is commonly used for the treatment of hyperthyroidism caused by Graves’ disease or thyroid nodules. However, information available on the impact of RAI therapy on male gonadal function is scarce. This study aimed to determine any possible damage to testicular tissue and sperm quality caused by RAI therapy, and the radioprotective effect of amifostine against such damage.

Material and Methods: In total, 36 rats were randomly allocated to three groups, including a control group, RAI group (111 MBq Iodine-131), and RAI + amifostine group (111 MBq Iodine-131 and a single dose of 200 mg/kg amifostine). Blood and epididymal sperm samples were taken for hormone analyses and the evaluation of spermatological parameters. The TUNEL assay and haematoxylin-eosin were used to stain testicular tissue samples to detect histological changes and apoptosis.

Results: The groups differed insignificantly for the testicular mass index and spermatozoa concentration. However, spermatozoa motility and percentage of viable spermatozoa were higher in the RAI + amifostine group, compared to the RAI group. Sperm DNA fragmentation and the index of apoptotic germ cells significantly decreased in the amifostine group, in comparison to the radioiodine group. While the testosterone levels showed no significant change, the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels significantly decreased in the RAI + amifostine group.

Conclusion: All histopathological parameters and some spermatological parameters showed that RAI therapy caused statistically significant damage of testicular tissue and this damage was reduced by amifostine.
Diagnostic reliability of different RT-PCR protocols for the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 14 (BTV-14)
Authors: Orłowska Anna , Żmudziński Jan F. , Smreczak Marcin , Trębas Paweł , Marzec Anna
Published: December 2017

Introduction: The reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is one of the most extensively used methods for identification of animals infected with bluetongue virus (BTV). There are several RT-PCR protocols published and several real-time RT-PCR (rtRT-PCR) commercial kits available on the market. Because Poland faced BTV-14 infection in 2012, different protocols were implemented in the country to confirm the RT-PCR results positive for this virus. The article presents a comparative study of several RT-PCR protocols and discusses their diagnostic reliability and applicability.

Material and Methods: Six rtRT-PCR/RT-PCR protocols were compared for the laboratory diagnostic of fourteen BTV-14 isolates circulating in Poland in 2012–2014.

Results: All 14 isolates were positive in the protocols of Shaw et al. (18), a commercial LSI NS3 kit, and Eschbaumer et al. (5). Four out of fourteen BTV-14 isolates gave positive results in Hoffmann’s 2 and 6 protocols and none of the 14 isolates yielded positive results in Maan et al. (8) method. Phylogenetic study of a short fragment of 450 nt of BTV segment 2 (258–696 positions) revealed 100% identity within Polish variants and with Russian and Spanish isolates.

Conclusion: The paper points to the possible false negative results in the diagnosis of BTV infections depending on the protocol used.
Application of the AhR reporter gene assay for the determination of PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs in feed samples
Authors: Piskorska-Pliszczyńska Jadwiga , Małagocki Paweł , Furga Beata , Gembal Magdalena , Cebulska Joanna
Published: December 2017

Introduction: Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL-PCBs) belong to a well-known group of pollutants. Present in feedstuffs, they bioaccumulate in tissues of food-producing animals. Food is the source of over 90% of human PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs intake. Thus, feed control is one of the pillars of the EU strategy and a mean of reducing human exposure. The article presents AhR based reporter gene bioassay method for PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs analysis in feed and its validation results.

Material and Methods: Analytes were extracted from samples with fat. Subsequently, fat and other interferences were removed from extract using sulphuric acid modified silica. Extract was further cleaned and PCDD/Fs separated from DL-PCBs using carbon column. Contaminants detection was performed using H1L6.1c3 cell line, which produces luciferase in response to AhR ligands present in extract.

Results: Performance characteristics (repeatability, reproducibility, and apparent recovery) fulfil the requirements of Regulation 2017/771/EU. The positive correlation between bioassay and reference HRGC-HRMS method was confirmed. Moreover, the role of screening method used in connection with the confirmatory HRGC-HRMS method in providing feed and food safety has been discussed.

Conclusion: Bioassay is a useful method for dioxin and DL-PCBs analysis, allowing cost reduction of monitoring programmes with minimal risk of false negative results.
MDA and GSH-Px activity in transition dairy cows under seasonal variations and their relationship with reproductive performance
Authors: Colakoglu Hatice Esra , Yazlik Murat Onur , Kaya Ufuk , Colakoglu Ekrem Cagatay , Kurt Serdal , Oz Burcu , Bayramoglu Rustem , Vural Mehmet Rifat , Kuplulu Sukru
Published: December 2017

Introduction:The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the blood glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels under seasonal variations in dairy cows during transition period, and to assess the relationship between chosen reproductive parameters, GSH-Px, and MDA.

Material and Methods:Holstein cows calving in January were assigned into winter group (n = 42), while cows calving in August were assigned into summer group (n = 42). Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein 21, 14, and 7 days before calving, at calving (0 day), and 7, 14, and 21 days after calving. Reproductive parameters obtained from farm records were evaluated.

Results:In both groups of cows, GSH-Px activity decreased from 21 days before calving to day 0, and it gradually continued to increase until 21 days after calving. GSH-Px activity was higher in winter group compared to summer group during the transition period (P < 0.05). MDA levels in both groups increased over time starting from 21 days before calving to 0 day, but it gradually decreased thereafter. MDA levels were higher in summer group compared to winter group during the transition periods (P < 0.05). Summer group of cows showed higher intervals of calving-to-oestrus, calving-to-conception, and higher insemination index (P < 0.01). Negative correlation was recorded between GSH-Px and MDA during all examination days (P < 0.01). MDA levels correlated with calving to conception interval on day 21 before calving and day 0 (P < 0.01) and insemination index on day 0 and 21 days after calving (P < 0.01). GSH-Px activity was negatively correlated with calving to conception interval on day 21 before calving, day 0, and 21 days (P < 0.01) after calving. Negative correlation on day 21 before calving and day 0 was also determined between GSH-Px and insemination index (P < 0.01).

Conclusion:This study showed that blood oxidant and antioxidant levels have affected the fertility parameters in cows under seasonal variations.