bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Cr and Fe co-doping on structural, optical, electrical and magnetic properties of titanium dioxide (TiO2)
Authors: Waseem Salma , Anjum Safia , Mustafa Lubna , Dar Anum , Bashir Farooq , Zia Rehana
Published: September 2015

A series of Ti0.9Fe0.1-xCrxO2 (where x = 0.0, 0.02, 0.04, 0.6, 0.08, 0.10) was synthesized using the powder metallurgy route. The structural, morphological, magnetic, optical and electrical properties were investigated by X-ray diffractometry (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), UV-Vis spec­troscopy and four probe technique, respectively. The rutile phase was confirmed by XRD analysis which was also verified by Raman spectroscopy. It was observed that the grain size increased as the concentration of Cr increased. M-H loops ex­tracted from VSM analysis revealed anti-ferromagnetic, weak ferromagnetic and paramagnetic behaviors at room temperature. The band gap energy and resistivity measurements exhibited the semiconducting nature of Ti0.9Fe0.1-xCrxO2 based diluted magnetic semiconductors.
Coupling between plasmonic films and nanostructures: from basics to applications
Authors: Maurer Thomas , Adam Pierre-Michel , Lévêque Gaëtan
Published: September 2015

Plasmonic film-nanoparticles coupled systems have had a renewed interest for the past 5 years both for the richness of the provided plasmonic modes and for their high technological potential. Many groups started to investigate the optical properties of film-nanoparticles coupled systems, as to whether the spacer layer thickness is tens of nanometers thick or goes down to a few nanometers or angstroms, even reaching contact. This article reviews the recent breakthroughs in the physical understanding of such coupled systems and the different systems where nanoparticles on top of the spacer layer are either isolated/random or form regular arrays. The potential for applications, especially as perfect absorbers or transmitters is also put into evidence.
Assessment of selenium compounds use in limitation of petroleum impact on antioxidant capacity in sandy soil / Ocena wykorzystania związków selenu w ograniczeniu oddziaływania substancji ropopochodnych na pojemność antyoksydacyjną gleby lekkiej
Authors: Stręk Michał , Telesiński Arkadiusz
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study is to assess the selenium (on two oxidation states +IV and +VI) effect on antioxidant capacity in light soil contaminated with gasoline and diesel fuel. The soil used in experiment is characterised by granulometric composition of loamy sand with organic carbon content of 8.7 g·kg−1. Different combinations of gasoline or diesel fuel in dosage 1 or 5%, and H2SeO3 and H2SeO4 in dosage 0.05 mmol Se·kg−1 were added into soil. In the period of 35 days at weekly intervals, antioxidant capacity of the soil in methanol and alkali extracts was determined. Soil contamination with petroleum caused the decrease in antioxidant capacity. Selenium application increased in antioxidant capacity in extracts. In the case of uncontaminated soil, this effect was higher for selenium on the oxidation state +VI, and in soil that contained petroleum for selenium on the oxidation state +IV.
The destruction of natural river reaches due to improper land development - an example of the valleys of Czadeczka and Krężelka rivers (Beskid Śląski Mts) / Niszczenie naturalnych odcinków koryt rzecznych na skutek niewłaściwej zabudowy – przykład dolin Czadeczki i Krężelki (Beskid Śląski)
Authors: Malik Ireneusz , Wistuba Małgorzata , Czajka Agnieszka , Łuszczyńska Katarzyna , Czaja Stanisław
Published: September 2015

Channels of Czadeczka and Krężelka rivers (Beskidzie Śląski Mts) are at present subjected to regulation because of which these rivers have lost their natural character, partially still preserved. The reasons for the river regulation have been analysed. Using archival maps, the buildings erection time has been analysed on valley floors, in the immediate vicinity of river channels for the period 1790-2012. Next, the distribution of existing buildings has been compared with hydraulic structures in the channels developed in order to regulate the Czadeczka and the Krężelka reaches, such as: concrete and stone embankments reinforcing the channel banks, check dams on channel bottoms. Results indicate a strong correlation between the number of buildings on valley floors in the 20th century and channel regulation. The mechanism of destroying rare, preserved natural river reaches is based on irrational permission allowing construction of buildings in areas threatened by floods and lateral erosion of rivers. Consequently, the inhabitants, in fear of floods and erosion of land or house foundations, seek river regulation that gives them a false sense of security. Natural river reaches are destroyed though efficient protection against floods and lateral erosion is still not provided and the range of possible losses increases even more due to continued building erection.
Concentrations of zinc, cadmium and lead in the hoof horn of the European bison (Bison bonasus bonasus) / Zawartość cynku, kadmu i ołowiu w ścianie rogowej racicy żubra Europejskiego (Bison bonasus bonasus)
Authors: Skibniewska Ewa M. , Skibniewski Michał , Kośla Tadeusz , Kołnierzak Marta
Published: September 2015

The aim of the study was the assessment of zinc, cadmium and lead concentrations in the hoof horn of the European bison free ranging in Białowieża Primeval Forest.

The investigation material comprised hoof samples collected from animals eliminated during annual selection. Animals were divided depending on gender (males and females). Metals content was determined using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry method (ICP-MS). Mean metals concentrations in hoof were: 114.1, 0.15 and 0.45 mg·kg-1 dry matter for zinc, cadmium and lead, respectively. A significantly correlated dependence at p ≤ 0.05 was observed between the zinc and lead content in the material studied. No statistically significant differences in the metals content were observed depending on gender. It can be stated, that zinc, cadmium and lead concentrations in the hoof wall of the European bison from Białowieża primeval forest are in the reference values determined for the hair coat of other ungulates species
Profile distribution of mercury in selected urban soils / Profilowe rozmieszczenie rtęci w wybranych glebach miejskich
Authors: Różański Szymon , Dąbkowska-Naskręt Halina , Jaworska Hanna
Published: September 2015

With the expansion of urbanization, the increase of pollutants in air, soil and water is observed. The major source of Hg in urban soils is fossil fuel combustion, and these soils become important indicators of contaminants in the soil environment.

The aim of the research was to determine the distribution of mercury in urban soil profiles on the basis of their physicochemical properties and origin.

Analysed soils come from the city centre of Bydgoszcz, from park and square areas intended for recreation. Research was conducted on four soil profiles: Mollic Regosol (Technic), Skeletic Regosol (Technic), Eutric Regosol (Loamic), Eutric Regosol (Endoclayic). Determined in most profiles artefacts were pieces of bricks, concrete, glass, garbage, slag, asphalt, tar, and charcoals in proportion up to 25% of the volume. In soil samples basic soil parameters and the total content of mercury were determined (using atomic absorption spectrometer AMA-254).

Determined parameters and the total mercury content of analysed soils of Bydgoszcz city were typical for urban areas, and the soils were classified as noncontaminated of this metal (total Hg content 0.009-1.114 mg.kg-1, mean 0.218 mg.kg-1). In most analysed soils the source of Hg was atmospheric deposition and addition of human-made materials. It was confirmed by significant correlation coefficient -0.415 (p<0.05), calculated between Hg content and percent of course fragments (Ø>2mm), among which artefacts were very common. Profile distribution of mercury was mainly the result of antropopression but also the concentration of Hg in parent material. Spatial differentiation of Hg content between tested soil profiles was related with localisation (vicinity of heavy traffic roads).
Factors affecting heavy metals accumulation in potato tubers / Czynniki wpływające na akumulację metali ciężkich w bulwach ziemniaka
Authors: Musilova Janette , Bystricka Judita , Vollmannova Alena , Volnova Beata , Hegedusova Alzbeta
Published: September 2015

Soil is one of the most important sources of plant foods’ contamination by heavy metals which enter into human and animal organisms via the food chain. From the observed metals (Zn, Cu, Ni, Pb, Cd) the enhanced total contents of Cd and contents of mobile forms of Pb were determined. Especially mobile forms of Pb in soil (0.100-0.295 mg∙kg-1), higher than the critical value, represent a risk resulting in the high content of Pb in potatoes (0.244-0.855 mg∙kg-1 FM). The high significant correlations between soil and potatoes in values of Pb content and were between soil pH values and Pb content in potatoes were confirmed in two from three potato cultivars (P-value < 0.01). No correlation was confirmed between humus content in soil and Pb content in potatoes.
Differences in ability of selected amaranth cultivars to accumulate risky metals / Zróżnicowana zdolność wybranych odmian szarłatu (Amaranhtus) do pobierania i akumulacji metali ciężkich z gleb
Authors: Vollmannova Alena , Margitanova Eva , Toth Tomas , Stanovic Radovan , Bojnanska Tatiana , Cicova Iveta , Benkova Michaela
Published: September 2015

The objective of the study is to compare the degree of accumulation of risky metals by seeds and aboveground biomass of five amaranth cultivars cultivars (Golden Giant, Rawa, Annapurna, Oscar Blanco, Koniz), as well as to assess the metal input extent in system soil-plant. The soil of amaranth cultivation was uncontaminated with the exception of Cd and Pb contents, those were 40% and 10% higher than limits given for the soil extract by aqua regia and by NH4NO3, respectively. In seeds of all investigated amaranth cultivars the maximal allowed amounts for Cd and Pb were by 60-100% and 25-200% (respectively) exceeded. In aboveground amaranth biomass 0.17-12.25 fold higher amounts of heavy metals were determined in comparison to amaranth seeds. Our results confirm, that amaranth seeds and leaves as food raw materials could represent a risk to the health of the consumer from the aspect of high Cd and Pb amounts. Because of the ability to produce abundance of biomass and at the same time to accumulate high amounts of dangerous heavy metals amaranth could be used as a potential plant for a soil phytoremediation. The results confirmed the ability of amaranth to accumulate metals even from relatively „clean“ soil
The comparison of efficiency of Fenton and photo-Fenton treatment of stabilised landfill leachate / Porównanie efektywności oczyszczania odcieków z ustabilizowanego składowiska odpadów komunalnych w procesie Fentona i foto-Fentona
Authors: Kwarciak-Kozłowska Anna , Krzywicka Aleksandra
Published: September 2015

The goal of this article was to compare the efficiency of Fenton and photo-Fenton reaction used for stabilised landfill leachate treatment. The mass ratio of COD:H2O2 was fixed to 1:2 for every stages. The dose of reagents (ferrous sulphate/hydrogen peroxide) was different and ranged from 0.1 to 0.5. To determine the efficiency of treatment, the BOD (biochemical oxygen demand COD (chemical oxygen demand), TOC (total organic carbon) , ammonia nitrogen and BOD/COD ratio was measured. The experiment was carried out under the following conditions: temperature was 25ºC, the initial pH was adjusted to 3.0. Every processes were lasting 60 minutes. The most appropriate dose of reagents was 0.25 (Fe2+/H2O2). It was found that the application of UV contributed to increase of COD, TOC and ammonia removal efficiencies by an average of 14%.
The Relationship between Polarized Moonlight and the Number of Pest Microlepidoptera Specimens Caught in Pheromone Traps
Authors: Nowinszky László , Puskás János , Barczikay Gábor
Published: September 2015

Pheromone traps were deployed in Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County (Hungary) between 1982 and 1988, in 1990 and also between 1993 and 2013. These traps attracted 8 Microlepidoptera species:Phyllonorycter blancardella, P. corylifoliella,Anarsia lineatella,Eupoecilia ambiguella,Lobesia botrana,Grapholita funebrana,G. molestaandCydia pomonella. We examined the trapping data of these species in the context of lunar phases and polarized moonlight. Catches of the European Vine Moth (Lobesia botrana) and the Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella) were higher in the First Quarter, whereas catches of Peach Twig Borer (Anarsia lineatella), Vine Moth (Eupoecilia ambiguella), Plum Fruit Moth (Grapholita funebrana) and Oriental Fruit Moth (Grapholita molesta) were larger in the Last Quarter. Catches of the other two species, the Spotted Tentiform Leafminer (Phyllonorycter blancardella) and Hawthorn Red Midget Moth (P. corylifoliella), were higher in both the First and Last Quarters. When using pheromone traps, insects do not fly to a light source, so moonlight does not modify either the catching distance or flight activity. However, at high levels of polarized moonlight, pheromone trap catches will increase, as in the case of light-trap catches. The results are comprehensible when one considers that the target species can fly both during the daytime and also at night.
Postoperative Acute Respiratory Failure In Patients Treated Surgically For Goiters
Authors: Buła Grzegorz , Mucha Ryszard , Paliga Michał , Truchanowski Witold , Gawrychowski Jacek
Published: September 2015

was to present a clinical picture, treatment and prognosis regarding patients who developed acute respiratory failure (ARF) while treated surgically for a goiter.

A total of 3810 patients were treated for goiters between 2008 to 2013. Symptoms of postoperative ARF were recognized in 39 (1%) patients.

Symptoms of postoperative ARF were a postoperative hemorrhage in 31 (79.4%), lymphorrhagia in 1 (2.6%), bilateral paralysis of recurrent laryngeal nerves in 6 (15.4%) and acute circulatory – respiratory failure in 1 (2.6%). Postoperative hemorrhage appeared in 19 patients operated for nodular goiter, 4 with a retrosternal nodular goiter, 1x nontoxic recurrent retrosternal nodular goiter, 1x toxic recurrent retrosternal goiter nodular goiter, 2x Graves'goiter and 4x with malignant goiter. The cause of hemorrhage was parenchymal bleeding from the stumps and / or short neck muscles (29x), arterial bleeding (1x) and bleeding into the subcutaneous tissue (1x). Massive lymphorrhagia appeared as a result of damage to the thoracic duct after total thyroidectomy due to papillary thyroid carcinoma with cervical lymph node dissection on the left side. All patients who were diagnosed with bilateral paralysis of RLN, tracheostomy was performed.

Of all 39 patients who underwent surgery two died – one in 6 days after surgery due to myocardial infarction, and another as a result of micropulmonary embolism and acute circulatory – respiratory failure in 18 hours after surgery.

1. The most frequent causes of acute respiratory failure in postoperative period are a hemorrhage from the operation site and bilateral paralysis of recurrent laryngeal nerves. 2. Acute postoperative respiratory failure is an indication for postoperative wound revision
Non-Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve
Authors: Buła Grzegorz , Mucha Ryszard , Paliga Michał , Koziołek Henryk , Niedzielski Zbigniew , Gawrychowski Jacek
Published: September 2015

was to assess the frequency of non-recurrent laryngeal nerves (Non-RLN).

A total of 6110 patients were operated in our hospital between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2013 for various goiters (5429) and various types of hyperparathyroidism (618). Laryngeal nerve was exposed during operation in 1700 patients from superior aperture of the chest to superior aperture of the larynx. Identification process of RLN was started with dissecting inferior thyroid artery (ITA) and its junction with the nerve. Then main trunk of the nerve was exposed backwards till the region of superior aperture of the chest together with the end portion till the nerve outlet to the larynx.

In the group of 1700 patients, RLN was exposed bilaterally in 1400 (82.4%) and unilaterally in 300 (17.6%). In the group of 3100 dissected RLNs the course of RLN was observed on the right side in 1710 patients and on the left in 1390. Irreversible nature RLN was shown in four cases (0.1%) – four women (02%) aged 42-55 (mean 49.3) – three operated for non-toxic nodular goiter and one for primary hyperparathyroidism. Each time the Non-RLN was seen on the right side. The other patients manifested recurrent character RLN. Moreover, interstitial course of RLN was found on the left side in one man.

Non recurrent laryngeal nerve is a rare anatomical variation, occurring more frequently on the right side. Surgeon during surgery of the thyroid and parathyroid glands should be aware of its existence to avoid damage.
Late Band Migration After SAGB. Case Report
Authors: Meissner Wiktor , Krokowicz Łukasz , Bobkiewicz Adam , Drews Michał
Published: September 2015

Obesity, a major public health issue of the 21
Multifocal Extra-Adrenal Paraganglioma – Case Report
Authors: Dobosz Łukasz , Dobrzycka Małgorzata , Franczak Paula , Wieczorek Jagoda , Kobierska-Gulida Grażyna , Dobosz Marek
Published: September 2015

Paraganglioma is a rare neoplasm originating from extra-adrenal pheochromocytes of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system. It is usually benign and the treatment method of choice is a complete resection of the tumour. The authors present a case of 66-year-old female patient with a multifocal benign retroperitoneal paraganglioma, which was completely removed during surgery.
Automobile Driver Fingerprinting
Authors: Enev Miro , Takakuwa Alex , Koscher Karl , Kohno Tadayoshi
Published: September 2015

Today’s automobiles leverage powerful sensors and embedded computers to optimize efficiency, safety, and driver engagement. However the complexity of possible inferences using in-car sensor data is not well understood. While we do not know of attempts by automotive manufacturers or makers of after-market components (like insurance dongles) to violate privacy, a key question we ask is: could they (or their collection and later accidental leaks of data) violate a driver’s privacy? In the present study, we experimentally investigate the potential to identify individuals using sensor data snippets of their natural driving behavior. More specifically we record the in-vehicle sensor data on the controllerarea- network (CAN) of a typical modern vehicle (popular 2009 sedan) as each of 15 participants (a) performed a series of maneuvers in an isolated parking lot, and (b) drove the vehicle in traffic along a defined ~ 50 mile loop through the Seattle metropolitan area. We then split the data into training and testing sets, train an ensemble of classifiers, and evaluate identification accuracy of test data queries by looking at the highest voted candidate when considering all possible one-vs-one comparisons. Our results indicate that, at least among small sets, drivers are indeed distinguishable using only incar sensors. In particular, we find that it is possible to differentiate our 15 drivers with 100% accuracy when training with all of the available sensors using 90% of driving data from each person. Furthermore, it is possible to reach high identification rates using less than 8 minutes of training data. When more training data is available it is possible to reach very high identification using only a single sensor (e.g., the brake pedal). As an extension, we also demonstrate the feasibility of performing driver identification across multiple days of data collection
Evaluating MT systems with BEER
Authors: Stanojević Miloš , Sima’an Khalil
Published: September 2015

We present BEER, an open source implementation of a machine translation evaluation metric. BEER is a metric trained for high correlation with human ranking by using learning-to-rank training methods. For evaluation of lexical accuracy it uses sub-word units (character n-grams) while for measuring word order it uses hierarchical representations based on PETs (permutation trees). During the last WMT metrics tasks, BEER has shown high correlation with human judgments both on the sentence and the corpus levels. In this paper we will show how BEER can be used for (i) full evaluation of MT output, (ii) isolated evaluation of word order and (iii) tuning MT systems.
Grasp: Randomised Semiring Parsing
Authors: Aziz Wilker
Published: September 2015

We present a suite of algorithms for inference tasks over (finite and infinite) context-free sets. For generality and clarity, we have chosen the framework ofsemiring parsingwith support to the most common semirings (e.g. Forest, Viterbi, k-bestand Inside). We see parsing from the more general viewpoint of weighted deduction allowing for arbitrary weighted finite-state input and provide implementations of both bottom-up (CKY-inspired) and top-down (Earley-inspired) algorithms. We focus on approximate inference by Monte Carlo methods and provide implementations ofancestral samplingandslice sampling. In principle, sampling methods can deal with models whose independence assumptions are weaker than what is feasible by standard dynamic programming. We envision applications such as monolingual constituency parsing, synchronous parsing, context-free models of reordering for machine translation, and machine translation decoding.
3,5-Dichlorophenol Removal From Wastewater Using Alternative Adsorbents
Authors: Kobetičová Hana , Lipovský Marek , Wachter Igor , Soldán Maroš
Published: September 2015

The main objective of this paper is to evaluate the efficiency of 3,5-dichlorophenol removal from wastewater by using alternative low cost adsorbents. Waste from the production and processing of metals (black nickel mud, red mud) and a biosorbent (Lemna minor) were used for this research. Initial concentration of the contaminant was 4 mmol L−1, the contact time of sorbent and waste water was 0 - 48 hrs and the temperature during experiment was 25 ± 0.2 °C. The results show that the highest removal efficiency of 3,5 - dichlorophenol (58.18 %) was reached by the red mud in 48 hours.
Sorption Kinetics Of Selected Heavy Metals Adsorption To Natural And Fe(III) Modified Zeolite Tuff Containing Clinoptilolite Mineral
Authors: Sirotiak Maroš , Lipovský Marek , Bartošová Alica
Published: September 2015

In the research described in this paper, studied was sorption capacity of natural and ferric modification of zeolite tuff containing mineral clinoptilolite from the Nižný Hrabovec deposit to remove potentially toxic metals (ionic forms of chromium, nickel, copper and aluminium) from their water solutions. We reported that the Fe (III) zeolite has an enhanced ability to sorption of Cu (II), and a slight improvement occurs in the case of Cr (VI) and Ni (II). On the other hand, the deterioration was observed in the case of Al (III) adsorption.
The Study Into Potential Enhacement Of Metalworking Fluids Biodegradability By The Application Of O3/UV
Authors: Gerulová Kristína , Tatarka Ondrej , Štefko Tomáš , Škulavík Tomáš
Published: September 2015

The increase in mineralization and biodegradability of MWFs by ozone/ultraviolet in comparison with ozone were investigated. Studied were two similar synthetic fluids pre-treated by the combination of the O3/UV advanced oxidative method. Expectations that the pre-treatment could enhance biodegradability of the metalworking fluid were not confirmed. The combined oxidation process at the defined conditions resulted in 1-35 % decrease of the achieved primary degradation level. Samples were prepared from real concentrates and diluted to approximately 350 mg/L of TOC.
The FTA Method And A Possibility Of Its Application In The Area Of Road Freight Transport
Authors: Poliaková Adela
Published: September 2015

The Fault Tree process utilizes logic diagrams to portray and analyse potentially hazardous events. Three basic symbols (logic gates) are adequate for diagramming any fault tree. However, additional recently developed symbols can be used to reduce the time and effort required for analysis. A fault tree is a graphical representation of the relationship between certain specific events and the ultimate undesired event (2). This paper deals to method of Fault Tree Analysis basic description and provides a practical view on possibility of application by quality improvement in road freight transport company.
Analysis Of Provided Service Quality In Flowers And Living Plants Transport
Authors: Poliaková Adela
Published: September 2015

This paper analyses quality of the living flowers and plants transportation. A part of this paper compares the demands for a particular transport mode and a practical demonstration of these transport modes within a specific transport mode. The paper presents a survey of quality of services provided by individual transport modes.
Selected Aspects Of The Risk In The Supply Chain In Context Of The Supplier Quality Management
Authors: Koblen Ivan , Lestyánszka Škůrková Katarína
Published: September 2015

The introductory part of the paper underlines the importance of "Risk-based thinking" in the Quality Management System (QMS) and risk in the supply chain, as a principle part of the QMS. After introducing the key terms, the authors focused on the principle part of the article - explanation of the external and internal supply chain risks and the main factors concerning the supply risks, demand risks and environmental risks (as cardinal types of external supply chain risks) as well as the manufacturing and process risks, network/planning and control risks (as most important types of internal supply chain risks). The authors inform on the selected supply chain risk management tools, especially on those which are linked to the appropriate utilization of quality management tools.
Experience Of Implementing The Integrated Management System In Manufacturing Companies In Slovakia
Authors: Lestyánszka Škůrková Katarína , Kučerová Marta , Fidlerová Helena
Published: September 2015

In corporate practice, the term of Integrated Management System means a system the aim of which is to manage an organization regarding the quality, environment, health and safety at work. In the first phase of the VEGA project No. 1/0448/13 “Transformation of ergonomics program into the company management structure through interaction and utilization QMS, EMS, HSMS”, we focused on obtaining information about the way or procedure of implementing the integrated management systems in manufacturing companies in Slovakia. The paper considers characteristics of integrated management system, specifies the possibilities for successive integration of the management systems and also describes the essential aspects of the practical implementation of integrated management systems in companies in Slovakia.
The Analysis of Early Maladaptive Schemas which Facilitate High Performance in Women Handball and Rugby Players
Authors: Gherghişan Alina-Isabela
Published: September 2015

Starting with the assumption of the interdependence between psyche and soma and considering the idea that performance is rooted in the history of each athlete as a unique individual, but also in the collective history of the team to which the athlete belongs, the present study aims to identify those elements in terms of early maladaptive schemas, part of each player’s personal history that stimulates a “repair and healing game” at group level, with reference to the specific sport practiced, leading to high-level athletic performance. In order to meet the objectives of the study we used the psychological instrument YSQ (Young’s Schemas Questionnaire) as individual assessment tool. Existing data were obtained from the components of two national teams, women, senior level, the national rugby 7s team, and the national handball team. There were tested two hypotheses, specifically: (1) There is a common spectrum of early maladaptive schemas for the rugby and handball players considering the similarities between the two sports; (2) There are significant differences in which it concerns early maladaptive schemas between the rugby players and the handball players, considering the specific of each sport. Both hypotheses of the study confirm, the results outlining an interesting dynamic in both sports considered.
Effects of Altering the Number of Players and the Dimensions of the Playing Area on the Possession Characteristics in Youth Australian Football
Authors: Pill Shane , Elliott Sam
Published: September 2015

This research compared the effects of altering the number of players and the dimensions of the playing area on the possession characteristics in youth (under-14) Australian football. A modified ‘small sided game’ (SSG) 12-a-side version was compared to the full field ‘adult’ 18-a-side game. Games were video recorded and the possession characteristics later coded using the Dartfish Easy Tag program. It was found that the additional players in the 18-a-side version led on average to more tagged events (technical actions) per 18 minute period of play; however, there was a decrease in the number of tagged events per player. It was also observed that there were more scoring actions in the SSG 12-a-side game play than in the 18-a-side. The SSG 12-a-side version provided more technical actions per player in each play period and so it is suggested that it constructs a better educational experience, and therefore game development, than the 18-a-side game recommended for Australian football from under-11.
Species Composition of the Benthic Macroinvertebrates on the Coastline Vegetated Rocky Substrates of the Southern Caspian Sea
Authors: Ghasemi Amir Faraz
Published: September 2015

For studying benthic macrofaunal composition associated with seagrass rocky beds of the southern Caspian Sea, two time samplings were carried out along the coast line in the winter and summer of 2013. In total, 1,286 specimens of the five species were identified: Pontogammarus maeoticus, Balanus improvisus, Mytilaster lineatus, Palaemon elegans and Alitta succinea. The total recorded abundance was 5,675 and 755 ind./m2, with a biomass of 147,271 and 31,238 mg/m2 in the winter and summer respectively. The collected species in this study are generally non-indigenous (except P. maeoticus) and could potentially have an effect on native benthic fauna, as an additional food source could facilitate the commercially exploited fish stocks. Thus further studies are required to monitor their potential interactions on the Caspian Sea fauna
Molecular Methods for the Detection of Natural Hybrids in Sturgeon Populations
Authors: Burcea Alexandru , Florescu Iulia Elena , Dudu Andreea , Georgescu Sergiu Emil , Costache Marieta
Published: September 2015

Due to construction of the Iron Gates dams, the Lower Danube has suffered a decrease in sturgeon populations. The dams have decreased sturgeon habitat area, which in turn has caused an overlap of reproduction areas for all sturgeon species. The ease with which sturgeon species can create hybrid offsprings gave rise to an increase in the number of hybrid sturgeon species now found in the Lower Danube area. We propose a set of molecular methods for hybrid species using DNA markers represented by microsatellites and mitochondrial DNA. This identification data and methodology is important for use on sturgeon farms due to the need to correctly identify species of sturgeons. Using the proposed methodologies, it is possible to avoid identification errors that might appear when using only morphological criteria to idenfy sturgeons
The Assessment of Community Interest Fish Species from Protected Area Rosci0229
Authors: Florea Luiza , Strătilă Sorin Dorin , Costache Mioara
Published: September 2015

In the protected area ROSCI0229 Siriu were named three fish species of community interest: Gobio uranoscopus frici Vladykov, 1925, Barbus petenyi Heckel, 1847 and Cottus gobio Linné, 1758. Out of 193 fish collected in 2010, 49 were Barbus petenyi and 37 Cottus gobio. In the three monitored rivers (Buzău River, Siriu River, and Crasna River), Barbus petenyi was present in two of them and Cottus gobio was present in all of them. According to the analytical indices of population, frequency, numerical abundance and density we assessed a favorable population status for Barbus petenyi in Buzău River and a medium favorable population status for Cottus gobio in Buzău River and its tributaries Crasna River and Siriu River.
Effects of River Regulation on Plant Dispersal and Vegetation
Authors: Omelchuk Oksana , Prots Bohdan
Published: September 2015

This study compares the vegetation and seed deposits of free-flowing parts of a river with those regulated by straightening, as well as identifying the correlation between the breadth of the river-bed, existent vegetation and distribution of plant species along the river corridor. The 31 sampling plots in the Ukrainian Carpathians, at an equal distance of four km from each other, were positioned across different vegetation zones. Vegetation and seed bank data were collected. The study showed that effective distribution of plants has a place in native (non-regulated) river-corridors with a river-bed breadth of 15-30 m. The reduction and straightening of the river-bed decrease the number of species that can be dispersed along river. The percentage of seeds of alien species greatly increases, from 0.1% in the free-flowing to 10% in the regulated parts of rivers. River regulation causes transformation of native vegetation communities in these plots into associations of invasive herbaceous perennial species; such as associations of Helianthus tuberosus and Solidago gigantea. The analyses do not show a clear link between the breadth of the river-bed and number of invasive species in the vegetation community. The research suggests that river regulation has a clear negative effect on vegetation by decreasing the resistance of plant communities to alien species
Rhodeus Sericeus Amarus Bloch, 1782; Monitoring Elements in the New Natura 2000 Context in Croatia
Authors: Bănăduc Doru , Curtean-Bănăduc Angela
Published: September 2015

The action framework at the European Union level for the conservation of biodiversity was set up based on the Birds Directive (79/409/EEC) and Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC). One principal element of the implementation of these two significant Directives in Croatia is the set up of a Natura 2000 network of protected areas, a network which should be based on a specific monitoring plan at Croatian national level for each species which is considered of community interest. In this general context, this study suggests a set of monitoring elements for Rhodeus sericeus amarus for the Croatian Continental Biogeographical Region. The suggestions are based on eight selected criteria: Croatian national borders proximity sectors overlay; very good quality populations of Rhodeus sericeus amarus in terms of population density and structure (e.g. protected areas) in characteristic good habitats; habitats which need ecological reconstruction to allow this fish species populations structure ameliorate or natural repopulation; key sectors with importance for connectivity (e.g. lotic sectors between different important sectors, rivers confluence areas, etc.); sectors influenced by human impact like: industrial pollution point sources, sectors influenced by agricultural diffuse sources of pollution, sectors influenced by habitats modifications (watercourses remodeling, watercourses regulation, etc.), geographically extreme monitoring sections in the most-upstream and mostdownstream sections of the rivers, in this species range and in the near outer proximities of these extremes
MHD Natural Convective Flow in an Isosceles Triangular Cavity Filled with Porous Medium due to Uniform/Non-Uniform Heated Side Walls
Authors: Javed Tariq , Siddiqui Muhammad Arshad , Mehmood Ziafat , Pop Ioan
Published: September 2015

In this article, numerical simulations are carried out for fluid flow and heat transfer through natural convection in an isosceles triangular cavity under the effects of uniform magnetic field. The cavity is of cold bottom wall and uniformly/non-uniformly heated side walls and is filled with isotropic porous medium. The governing Navier Stoke's equations are subjected to Penalty finite element method to eliminate pressure term and Galerkin weighted residual method is applied to obtain the solution of the reduced equations for different ranges of the physical parameters. The results are verified as grid independent and comparison is made as a limiting case with the results available in literature, and it is shown that the developed code is highly accurate. Computations are presented in terms of streamlines, isotherms, local Nusselt number and average Nusselt number through graphs and tables. It is observed that, for the case of uniform heating side walls, strength of circulation of streamlines gets increased when Rayleigh number is increased above critical value, but increase in Hartmann number decreases strength of streamlines circulations. For non-uniform heating case, it is noticed that heat transfer rate is maximum at corners of bottom wall.
Synthesis, characterization and molecular structure of a dinuclear uranyl complex supported by N,N′,N″,N′″-tetra-(3,5-di-tert-butylsalicylidene)-1,2,4,5-phenylenetetraamine
Authors: Schnorr René , Handke Marcel , Kersting Berthold
Published: September 2015

The preparation, characterization and the molecular structure of a dinuclear uranyl complex [(UO2)2L(OCMe2)2] supported by the bis-salophen ligand N,N′,N″,N′″-tetra-(3,5-di-tert-butylsalicylidene)-1,2,4,5-phenylenetetraamine (L4–) is described. [(UO2)2L(OCMe2)2] was prepared by reaction of uranyl nitrate with the neutral, protonated form of the ligand (H4L) in acetone. From a saturated acetone solution [(UO2)2L(OCMe2)2]·1.5(OCMe2) crystallizes triclinically, space group P1̅ with a = 1522.7(2), b = 1751.4(2), c = 1815.4(2) Å, α = 109.16(1), β = 99.29(1), γ = 105.29(1)° and Z = 2. Each uranium atom is surrounded in a distorted pentagonal bipyramidal fashion by two O and two N atoms of the salicylidene units, one O atom of an acetone ligand, and the two oxo groups. The cyclic voltammogram of [(UO2)2L(OCMe2)2] shows two quasi-reversible redox processes centered at +0.57 V and +0.82 V vs. Fc+/Fc attributed to the sequential oxidation of the coordinating phenolates to phenoxyl radicals. The crystal structure of an ethanol solvate of H4L was also determined by X-ray crystallography. H4L·5EtOH: triclinic, space group P1̅, a = 1003.4(3), b = 1187.7(3), c = 1905.1(5) Å, α = 75.75(2), β = 78.74(2), γ = 66.66(2)°, Z = 1.
18F-FDG PET/CT in the post-operative monitoring of patients with adrenocortical carcinoma
Authors: Ardito A , Massaglia C , Pelosi E , Zaggia B , Basile V , Brambilla R , Vigna-Taglianti F , Duregon E , Arena V , Perotti P , Penna D , Terzolo M
Published: September 2015

Context

The role of 18F-labeled 2-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) in the post-operative monitoring of patients with adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is still unclear.

Objective

To assess the accuracy of FDG PET/CT to diagnose ACC recurrence in a real world setting.

Design and methods

Retrospective evaluation of data of 57 patients with presumed ACC recurrence at CT scan who underwent FDG PET/CT within a median time of 20 days. We compared the results of either FDG PET/CT or CT with a gold standard confirmation of recurrence (positive histopathology report of removed/biopsied lesions or radiological progression of target lesions at follow-up) to assess their diagnostic performance at different body sites to correctly categorize target lesions. We also assessed whether FDG PET/CT findings may be useful to inform the management strategy.

Results

In 48 patients with confirmed ACC recurrence, we found that FDG PET/CT had lower sensitivity than CT in diagnosing liver and lung recurrences of ACC. FDG PET/CT had higher specificity than CT in categorizing liver lesions. FDG PET/CT had a greater positive likelihood ratio than CT to identify liver and abdominal ACC recurrences. The management strategy was changed based on FDG PET/CT findings in 12 patients (21.1%).

Conclusions

The greater sensitivity of CT may be partly expected due the specific inclusion criteria of the study; however, the greater specificity of FDG PET/CT was particularly useful in ruling out suspected ACC recurrences found by CT. Thus, use of FDG PET/CT as a second-line test in the post-operative surveillance of ACC patients following CT finding of a potential recurrence may have a significant impact on patient management.
Role of the endocannabinoid system in the mechanisms involved in the LPS-induced preterm labor
Authors: Bariani María Victoria , Domínguez Rubio Ana Paula , Cella Maximiliano , Burdet Juliana , Franchi Ana María , Aisemberg Julieta
Published: September 2015

Prematurity is the leading cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. There is a strong causal relationship between infection and preterm births. Intrauterine infection elicits an immune response involving the release of inflammatory mediators like cytokines and prostaglandins (PG) that trigger uterine contractions and parturition events. Anandamide (AEA) is an endogenous ligand for the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. Similarly to PG, endocannabinoids are implicated in different aspects of reproduction, such as maintenance of pregnancy and parturition. Little is known about the involvement of endocannabinoids on the onset of labor in an infectious milieu. Here, using a mouse model of preterm labor induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), we explored changes on the expression of components of endocannabinoid system (ECS). We have also determined whether AEA and CB antagonists alter PG production that induces labor. We observed an increase in uterineN-acylphosphatidylethanolamine-specific phospholipase D expression (NAPE-PLD, the enzyme that synthesizes AEA) upon LPS treatment. Activity of catabolic enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) did not change significantly. In addition, we also found that LPS modulated uterine cannabinoid receptors expression by downregulatingCb2mRNA levels and upregulating CB1 protein expression. Furthermore, LPS and AEA induced PGF2a augmentation, and this was reversed by antagonizing CB1 receptor. Collectively, our results suggest that ECS may be involved in the mechanism by which infection causes preterm birth.
Early Career Experiences of Pediatricians Pursuing or Not Pursuing Fellowship Training
Authors: Byrne Bobbi J. , Katakam Shesha K. , Frintner Mary Pat , Cull William L.
Published: September 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Choosing career paths can be difficult decisions for residents contemplating fellowship training. This study compares the experiences of early career pediatricians who did and did not pursue fellowships.

METHODS:

We analyzed national, weighted data from pediatricians 8 to 10 years after residency (n = 842). Work environment, work–life balance, and satisfaction were compared for pediatricians who had pursued fellowship training (fellowship trained) and those who did not pursue fellowship training (generalist trained). Logistic and linear regression examined the independent effects of fellowship training while controlling for demographic differences.

RESULTS:

A total of 39% of the pediatricians (328/842) pursued fellowship training. The fellowship-trained group was less likely than the generalist-trained group to spend time in direct patient care and more likely to report learning opportunities in their work environment. This group was also more likely to report an income of ≥$150 000, although no difference was found when only full-time pediatricians were examined. Generalist-trained pediatricians were more likely to work <50 hours per week, have flexibility with their schedules, and be satisfied with time spent with their own children. Pediatricians in both the fellowship-trained and generalist-trained groups generally found their work to be rewarding and were satisfied with their lives.

CONCLUSIONS:

Although residents need to consider important life and career differences when contemplating fellowship training and general care, pediatricians in both groups can achieve overall life and career satisfaction.
Respiratory Bronchiolitis–Associated Interstitial Lung Disease in Childhood: New Sequela of Smoking
Authors: Sismanlar Tugba , Aslan Ayse Tana , Turktas Haluk , Memis Leyla , Griese Matthias
Published: September 2015

Childhood interstitial lung diseases are rare disorders of largely unknown etiology characterized by variable types and degrees of parenchymal inflammation. Disease spectrum and prognosis considerably from those in adults. Respiratory bronchiolitis–associated interstitial lung disease (RB-ILD) is a well-described entity occurring almost exclusively in adults who are current heavy cigarette smokers. We describe an 11-year-old boy with failure to thrive, dry cough, and exertional dyspnea for 1 year who was diagnosed with RB-ILD due to heavy passive smoking exposure. Although RB-ILD is well defined in smoking adults, there are no reports in the English literature in nonactive smokers, especially in childhood.
High School Students’ Use of Electronic Cigarettes to Vaporize Cannabis
Authors: Morean Meghan E. , Kong Grace , Camenga Deepa R. , Cavallo Dana A. , Krishnan-Sarin Suchitra
Published: September 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use is increasing rapidly among high school (HS) students. Of concern, e-cigarettes can be used to vaporize cannabis, although use rates among adolescents are unknown. We evaluated lifetime rates of using e-cigarettes to vaporize cannabis among all lifetime e-cigarette users (27.9%), all lifetime cannabis users (29.2%), and lifetime users of both e-cigarettes and cannabis (18.8%); common means of vaporizing cannabis including hash oil, wax infused with Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and dried cannabis; and demographic predictors of using e-cigarettes to vaporize cannabis.

METHODS:

In the spring of 2014, 3847 Connecticut HS students completed an anonymous survey assessing e-cigarette and cannabis use.

RESULTS:

Vaporizing cannabis using e-cigarettes was common among lifetime e-cigarette users, lifetime cannabis users, and lifetime dual users (e-cigarette 18.0%, cannabis 18.4%, dual users 26.5%). Students reported using e-cigarettes to vaporize hash oil (e-cigarette 15.4%, cannabis 15.5%, dual users 22.9%) and wax infused with THC (e-cigarette 10.0%, cannabis 10.2%, dual users 14.8%) and using portable electronic vaporizers to vaporize dried cannabis leaves (e-cigarette 19.6%, lifetime cannabis 23.1%, lifetime dual users 29.1%). Binary logistic regression indicated that male students (odds ratio [OR] = 2.05), younger students (OR = 0.64), lifetime e-cigarette users (OR = 5.27), and lifetime cannabis users (OR = 40.89) were most likely to vaporize cannabis using e-cigarettes. Rates also differed by HS attended.

CONCLUSIONS:

Rates of vaporizing cannabis using e-cigarettes were high. These findings raise concerns about the lack of e-cigarette regulations and the potential use of e-cigarettes for purposes other than vaping nicotine.