bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Source and sink dynamics in meta‐ecosystems
Authors: Gravel Dominique , Guichard Frédéric , Loreau Michel , Mouquet Nicolas
Published: July 2010

We present a theory extending the source–sink concept with an ecosystem perspective. We analyze a model for meta‐ecosystem dynamics in a heterogeneous environment to study how the spatial flows of materials such as inorganic nutrients and nutrients sequestered into producers, herbivores, and detritus affect the community dynamics. We show that spatial flows of an inorganic nutrient (direct nutrient flow) and organic matter (indirect nutrient flow) through detritus, producer, or herbivore compartments can reverse the source–sink dynamics of a local ecosystem. More precisely, the balance between such direct and indirect nutrient flows determines the net direction of nutrient flows between two ecosystems of contrasted productivities. It allows a sink to turn into a source and vice versa. This effect of nutrient flows on source and sink dynamics is robust to the ecosystem structure (with and without herbivores) and to specific ecosystem compartments contributing to nutrient flows (primary producers, herbivores, or detritus). Ecosystems in distinct localities thus interact together with the structure at one place influencing that of the other. In meta‐ecosystems, the source–sink dynamics of an organism is not only constrained by its dispersal from the source to the sink, but also by the fertility and community composition in the neighborhood responsible for spatial flows of nutrients and energy. The meta‐ecosystem perspective provides a powerful theoretical framework to address novel questions in spatial ecosystem ecology.
Improved diagnostic strategy for foot-and-mouth disease in Bulgaria
Authors: Polichronova L. , Georgiev G. , Teneva A. , Chakarova S. , Chenchev I.
Published: July 2010

Foot-and-mouth-disease is severe, highly contagious disease of cloven - hoofed animals that affects large animal livestock species and various wildlife species. Different countries has a different FMD status which require a disparate approach defining the diagnostic and control strategy. A variety of new diagnostic tests and procedures was developed to improve FMD laboratory diagnosis. The aim of this study is to evaluate the contemporary diagnostic tools and the ability of our laboratory to detect FMD virus or viral genome in field samples and cell culture fluids using an Ag ELISA, TaqMan real-time RT-PCR and Virus isolation combined with chromatographic - LFD (lateral flow devises) tests. .
Presence of Listeria monocytogenes at goats
Authors: Ivanovic S. , Zutic M. , Pavlovic I.
Published: July 2010

Listeriosis is the infectious disease of numerous mammals' species, including cattle, sheep, goat, pigs, and humans. Cause is Listeria monocytogenes, widespread in the nature and relatively resistant microorganism. Listeria come in environment by excretes of sick humans and animals as well as of clinically healthy organisms. This microorganism can be found in waste and water, soil, plants, feedstuffs, walls and floors of the buildings where live animals, various kinds of foods of plant and animal origin, as well as in animals and people. In goats, the disease is manifested in the form of abortion, encephalitis and septicemia. After infection, sometimes there are no clinical symptoms and goats come to the slaughterhouse as clinically healthy animals (latent infection). When the goats come to the slaughterhouse, it is n not necessary the transmission of the cause to meat, but it can be transferred to the equipment, walls, floors, aprons and boots. In our study, twenty clinically healthy goats, slaughtered in slaughterhouse, were tested - one hyperemic uterus and meat of all goats. Floor swabs (from nine different locations) and swabs from the carriage bottom (20 swabs) in which were placed intestines and uterus were taken three days after slaughter. Uterus and carriage swabs were tested according to method RES, chapter 2.10.14.B.1. and meat by ISO 11290 / 1:1996 (E). From the uterus, which was slightly hyperemic it was isolated Listeria monocytogenes and from five samples of floor and three samples of the carriages. It was not isolated from meat samples. These results indicate the possibility of indirect transmission of this bacterium to meat.
Effect of transgenesis on quality and yield of rabbit meat
Authors: Dragin S. , Chrenek P. , Stancic B. , Bozic A. , Petrovic M.M.
Published: July 2010

In this paper results of the effect of transgenesis on quality and yield of rabbit meat are presented. During the trial body mass of transgenic progeny of F1 generation was monitored and compared to control group (nontransgenic animals of same age). Subsequent to slaughtering, meat yield, ratio between certain musculature parts and meat quality (proteins, lipids, water) were analyzed. Obtained data was compared to control group of animals of same age but standard genotype. Meat colour was evaluated on apparatus Specol 11 and expressed as percentage of remission on wave length of 540 ?m. Content of elements in thigh muscle was established subsequent to dry mineralization in spectro-photometer UNICAM 939 Cambridge UK. Phosphorus content was measured spectro-photometrically on apparatus SPECOL 11. Subsequent to measuring and systematization, data was statistically analyzed and processed. Arithmetic mean values for certain groups of data were calculated, and their values compared using t-test (Hadzivukovic, 1991). Changes established in regard to content of water, lipids, energy and water binding capacity, were relative to changes in histological structure and level of metabolic processes. It is possible that these changes are result of pleiotropic effect of integrated gene. However, in order to confirm and interpret these changes, it is necessary to carry out further researches of the microscopic structure and metabolic processes of muscle tissues in transgenic rabbits.
n-alkanes in needle waxes of Pinus heldreichii var. pancici
Authors: Nikolic Biljana , Tesevic Vele , Djordjevic Iris , Jadranin Milka , Todosijevic Marina , Bojovic Srdjan , Marin Petar
Published: July 2010

This is the first report of n-alkanes in needle epicuticular waxes of variety of Bosnian pine, Pinus heldreichii var. pancici. n-Hexane extracts of needle samples, originated from seven isolated localities in Serbia, were analysed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results exhibited nalkanes in epicuticular waxes ranging from C18 to C33. The most abundant alkanes were C27, C23, C25 and C29 (12.53 %, 12.46 %, 12.00 % and 10.38 % on average, respectively). The carbon preference index (CPItotal) of Pinus heldreichii var. pancici ranges from 1.1 to 2.1 (1.6 on average), while average chain length (ACLtotal) ranges from 25.0 to 25.8 (25.3 on average). A high level of individual quantitative variation in all of these hydrocarbon parameters was also obtained. The obtained results were compared with the bibliographic references for Pinus heldreichii var. leucodermis and other species of the Pinus genus.
Comparison of nuclear data of 64Cu production using an accelerator by TALYS 1.0 code
Authors: Sadeghi Mahdi , Seyyedi Solaleh , Gholamzadeh Zohreh
Published: July 2010

The extensive use of 64Cu (T1/2 = 12.7 h) as a positron and electron emitter radioisotope in recent years has ensured its potential to serve a dual role in the development of molecular agents in PET and radioimmunotheraphy drugs in oncology. The TALYS 1.0 code was used to calculate excitation functions for induced proton, deuteron and alfa-particles on 64Zn, 66Zn, 67Zn, 68Zn, 70Zn, 62Ni, and 64Ni up to 50 MeV. According to the data acquired by the TALYS 1.0 code, thick-target integral yield of the induced charged particles on the enriched targets was achieved.
A cost-based empirical model of the aggregate price determination for the Turkish economy: A multivariate cointegration approach
Authors: Zeren Fatma , Korap Levent
Published: July 2010

This paper tries to examine the long run relationships between the aggregate consumer prices and some cost-based components for the Turkish economy. Based on a simple economic model of the macro-scaled price formation, multivariate cointegration techniques have been applied to test whether the real data support the a priori model construction. The results reveal that all of the factors, related to the price determination, have a positive impact on the consumer prices as expected. We find that the most significant component contributing to the price setting is the nominal exchange rate depreciation. We also cannot reject the linear homogeneity of the sum of all the price data as to the domestic inflation. The paper concludes that the Turkish consumer prices have in fact a strong cost-push component that contributes to the aggregate pricing.
Methodological basis for macroeconomic projections in countries exposed to pressures and shocks: Example of Serbia
Authors: Kovacevic Miladin , Stamenkovic Stojan
Published: July 2010

The presented Macroeconomic Projections Model is based on a 'pre-established' model for projecting the balance of payment linked with the balance of gross domestic product use. Such a model is the 'authentic! one, designed by authors, i.e. based on a no theoretical concept of modelling the macroeconomic equilibrium, but it has a 'heuristic' (experiential) character. The idea for designing such a model comes from the fact that theoretical models involve numerous equations that are to be solved, with numerous parameters to be estimated, including also the problem of linearity (smoothness) of longterm analytical curves, as well as the problem of an undeveloped market, a closed economy or an economy that is fragile in its relations with foreign countries, the problem of 'turning' points, different internal or external shocks, etc.
A unitary account of conceptual representations of animate/inanimate categories
Authors: Kovic Vanja , Plunkett Kim , Westermann Gert
Published: July 2010

In this paper we present an ERP study examining the underlying nature of semantic representation of animate and inanimate objects. Time-locking ERP signatures to the onset of auditory stimuli we found topological similarities in animate and inanimate object processing. Moreover, we found no difference between animates and inanimates in the N400 amplitude, when mapping more specific to more general representation (visual to auditory stimuli). These studies provide further evidence for the theory of unitary semantic organization, but no support for the feature-based prediction of segregated conceptual organization. Further comparisons of animate vs. inanimate matches and within-vs. between-category mismatches revealed following results: processing of animate matches elicited more positivity than processing of inanimates within the N400 time-window; also, inanimate mismatches elicited a stronger N400 than did animate mismatches. Based on these findings we argue that one of the possible explanations for finding different and sometimes contradictory results in the literature regarding processing and representations of animates and inanimates in the brain could lie in the variability of selected items within each of the categories, that is, homogeneity of the categories.
Theory of mind and preschoolers' understanding of implicit causality in verbs: A comparison between Serbian and Hungarian children
Authors: Major Agota , Franco Fabia , Zotovic Marija
Published: July 2010

This study aims to investigate the effect of theory of mind, age and mother tongue on the implicit causality effect in preschoolers from two different language backgrounds. Serbian and Hungarian native speakers aged 3-7 years participated in the study. After taking part in a Theory of Mind task, children were presented verbs in simple 'Subject verb Object' sentences describing interactions between two participants, with the interactions being based on emotional, mental or visual experiences. Children were asked 'Why does S verb O?' and their responses were categorized as containing an inference about the sentence-S or the sentence-O. The results show that Theory of Mind is a significant factor in the emergence of implicit causality, with age of participants and mother tongue being also contributing to explaining patterns of implicit causality.
Young people's leisure time: Gender differences
Authors: Videnovic Marina , Pesic Jelena , Plut Dijana
Published: July 2010

Over the last three decades, topics relating to young peoples leisure time have become increasingly more present in academic literature. Among the numerous studies that delve into this subject, results point towards a relationship between the way teenagers spend their leisure time and their gender. In this study we wanted to answer the question if gender differences were evident in the way secondary school students in Serbia spent their leisure time. This problem was not looked into in more detail among secondary school students in Serbia. We conducted a survey on a sample of 922 secondary school teenagers from the 1st to 4th grade (ages 15-19) from nine Serbian towns. Research in this field commonly uses the rating scale. In this paper we have constructed an instrument that represents a methodological innovation in approaching a particular set of problems. It was a questionnaire. The task was to name all the activities they participated in, and the time frame in which the activities took place, over the course of one weekday and the Saturday of the previous week. The activities which best differentiate these two groups of surveyed teenagers are: sports, studying, computer use, spending time at friends' homes and grooming. We did not discover differences in participating in creative activities while foreign studies show that such activities are more typical for girls.
Most important etiologic factors in the development of genital prolapse
Authors: Mladenovic-Segedi Ljiljana , Segedi Dimitrije
Published: July 2010

Introduction The incidence of genital prolapse depends on numerous factors. The contribution of race, gender and genetic factors is significant. However, additional factors of initiation, promotion and decomposition are necessary if a person with the genetic predisposition to genital prolapse begins to suffer from it. At least 50% of parous women are believed to suffer from genital prolapse of various degrees. Moreover, the prevalence of genital prolapse increases with age. The prevalence of genital prolapse is expected to be even higher in the future due to the extension of the lifespan of women worldwide. Objective The aim of this study was to determine the most common etiologic factors in the development of genital prolapse in the population of Serbia. Methods The study was conducted as prospective and included 50 women who underwent surgical treatment due to the problems caused by genital prolapse. Results Mean age of the women was 58.74 years. Twenty percent of the women had the menstrual cycle, while 80% were in menopause. Mean menopause period was 8.88 years. None of the women used hormone replacement therapy. Mean BMI was 27.395 kg/m2. Twenty-eight percent of the women were of normal weight, while 72% of the women were obese (42% were obese and 30% were severely obese). Ninety-eight percent of the women were parous, and mean parity was 2.08. Mean birth weight of neonates was 3682.77 g. Sixty-four percent of the women did physical labour and lifted heavy objects. Conclusion Vaginal childbirth is one of the most important initiating factors. The most significant promoting factor is obesity and heavy labour. Ageing and entering menopause are the most important factors of decomposition as well as the occurrence of clinical manifestations of the pelvic floor dysfunction. .
Hormones of thyroid gland in sera of rats treated with different dose of concentrated potassium iodine solutions
Authors: Markovic Ljiljana , Mihailovic-Vucinic Violeta , Aritonovic Jelena
Published: July 2010

Introduction Potassium iodine (KI) is used as a drug therapy for treating numerous diseases such as small-vessel vasculitis, erythema nodosum, vasculitis nodularis, Sweet's syndrome, tuberculosis and granulomatosis, and for iodized salt. At the same time, KI can be harmful. Iodine intake may increase the frequency of thyroiditis in humans, and may induce the occurrence of experimental thyroiditis (ET) in animals. Investigations on an experimental model for the examination of thyroiditis in Wistar rats have clearly showed morphological changes in the rat thyroid evoked by KI administration. Objective The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of low and high doses of KI on the thyroid gland of Wistar rats and determine the effect on hormone status (T4, T3 and TSH) in this rat strain. Methods Two groups of rats from the Wistar strain were treated with a low iodine dose (225 ?g/g BW) and with a high iodine dose (675 ?g/g BW) of KI solutions. Untreated nonimmunized animals served as controls. The solution was administrated daily intraperitoneally during the period of 26 consecutive days. Results Monitoring hormone status (TSH, T3 and T4) and morphological changes it was found that therapeutic doses of KI applied in treatment induced the occurrence of experimental thyroiditis (chronic destructive Hashimoto's thyroiditis in humans) and cell necrosis in animals not carrying a genetic susceptibility. Significant inflammatory changes were observed in rats treated with a high iodine dose. Conclusion The early iodine induced cell necrosis and inflammation in the nonimmunized animals without genetic susceptibility is a new experimental model of thyroiditis. .
Tumours of the heart: Diagnostic dilemma
Authors: Rankovic Ljiljana , Borzanovic Milorad , Vukovic Milan , Radovic Aleksandar , Gradinac Sinisa
Published: July 2010

Introduction Mitral annular calcification is a degenerative process of the fibrosus support structure of the mitral apparatus, usually spreading over the posterior mitral leaflet. Case Outline A 66-year-old woman with shortness of breath and palpitations was referred to our institution. Echocardiography showed a round, echo-dense mass, resembling a tumour, in the posterior mitral annulus, with the third degree mitral regurgitation. Based on the findings, surgical treatment was suggested involving removal of the tumour and correction of mitral valve insufficiency. During surgery the posterior annulus was incised, whitish caseous material was aspirated and the developed cavity was closed. A bioprosthetic valve was placed in the mitral position. The aspirated material was sent to bacteriological and histological analysis. Eight days after surgery control echocardiography and CT scan of the heart showed absence of the mass. Pathohistological finding was nonspecific. Bacteriology showed Staphylococus spp. Thirteen days after surgery the patient was discharged in stabile condition. Conclusion Mitral annular calcification is a common degenerative disorder particularly in elderly persons. As the diagnosis very often remains unrecognised imitating a tumor formation, precise diagnostics is necessary before possible surgery. .
Treatment of multiple fractures in a patient wounded by aircraft bombing
Authors: Golubovic Zoran , Stojiljkovic Predrag , Mitkovic Milorad , Trenkic Srbobran , Vukasinovic Zoran , Lesic Aleksandar , Kosutic Milomir , Milic Dragan , Najman Stevo , Golubovic Ivan , Visnjic Aleksandar
Published: July 2010

Introduction Aircraft cluster bombs can cause severe fractures characterized by extensive destruction of affected tissues and organs. Case Outline We present the methods and results of treatment of multiple fractures (left supracondilar humeral fracture, comminuted fracture of the distal right tibia, fracture of right trochanter major without dislocation and fracture of the right second metacarpal bone) in a 24-year old soldier after multiple wounding by a cluster bomb. After short pre-operative preparation a surgical debridement of all wounds was done in general anesthesia and the fractures of the humerus and tibia were stabilized with the Mitkovic-type external fixator after adequate reposition. For the reconstruction of bone defect of the tibia we used the method of bone transport using the Ilizarov external fixator. Conclusion Radical wound debridement, abundant rinsing, leaving the wound open, administration of antibiotics and antitetanus immunization, external fixation and early reconstruction of soft tissue and bone defects are the basic elements of the treatment of serious fractures caused by war injuries and aimed at saving the extremities. .
Suicidal asphyxiation by propane-butane mixture inside a plastic bag: Case report
Authors: Zivkovic Vladimir , Jukovic Fehim , Nikolic Slobodan
Published: July 2010

Introduction Volatiles are easily accessible and widely used in a form of liquid petroleum gas. Death as a consequence of inhalation of volatiles can be either accidental or suicidal. Case Outline We present a 62-year-old men who committed suicide by placing a plastic bag over the head and inhaling propane-butane mixture from a domestic gas tank. A rubber hose was attached to the tank valve and connected with the plastic bag. The body of the deceased showed signs of advanced postmortal changes. A suicidal note was found at the scene. Conclusion Propane-butane mixture, i.e. liquified petroleum gas leads to the depletion of oxygen in the air consequently causing hypoxia and anoxia, and therefore, unconsciousness and eventual death. The mechanisms of death in cases of volatile inhalation include cardiac arrhythmias, reflex cardiac vagal inhibition, and/or central nervous system depression. Similar mechanisms occur in cases of asphyxiation with a plastic bag. The reconstruction of the event in this case was based, not so much on autopsy findings (because of significant putrefaction changes), but on the police investigation and traces found at the scene. .
Left-handedness and health
Authors: Milenkovic Sanja , Belojevic Goran , Kocijancic Radojka
Published: July 2010

Hand dominance is defined as a proneness to use one hand rather than another in performing the majority of activities and this is the most obvious example of cerebral lateralization and an exclusive human characteristic. Left-handed people comprise 6-14% of the total population, while in Serbia, this percentage is 5-10%, moving from undeveloped to developed environments, where a socio-cultural pressure is less present. There is no agreement between investigators who in fact may be considered a left-handed person, about the percentage of left-handers in the population and about the etiology of left-handedness. In the scientific literature left-handedness has been related to health disorders (spine deformities, immunological disorders, migraine, neurosis, depressive psychosis, schizophrenia, insomnia, homosexuality, diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, sleep apnea, enuresis nocturna and Down Syndrome), developmental disorders (autism, dislexia and sttutering) and traumatism. The most reliable scientific evidences have been published about the relationship between left-handedness and spinal deformities in school children in puberty and with traumatism in general population. The controversy of other results in up-to-now investigations of health aspects of left-handedness may partly be explained by a scientific disagreement whether writing with the left hand is a sufficient criterium for left-handedness, or is it necessary to investigate other parameters for laterality assessment. Explanation of health aspects of left-handedness is dominantly based on Geschwind-Galaburda model about 'anomalous' cerebral domination, as a consequence of hormonal disbalance. .
Heat-balance integral to fractional (half-time) heat diffusion sub-model
Authors: Hristov Jordan
Published: July 2010

The fractional (half-time) sub-model of the heat diffusion equation, known as Dirac-like evolution diffusion equation has been solved by the heat-balance integral method and a parabolic profile with unspecified exponent. The fractional heat-balance integral method has been tested with two classic examples: fixed temperature and fixed flux at the boundary. The heat-balance technique allows easily the convolution integral of the fractional half-time derivative to be solved as a convolution of the time-independent approximating function. The fractional sub-model provides an artificial boundary condition at the boundary that closes the set of the equations required to express all parameters of the approximating profile as function of the thermal layer depth. This allows the exponent of the parabolic profile to be defined by a straightforward manner. The elegant solution performed by the fractional heat-balance integral method has been analyzed and the main efforts have been oriented towards the evaluation of fractional (half-time) derivatives by use of approximate profile across the penetration layer.
A new approach to entropy production minimization in diabatic distillation column with trays
Authors: Spasojevic Momcilo , Jankovic Milovan , Djakovic Damir
Published: July 2010

Previous approach to direct numerical minimization of entropy production in diabatic distillation column in order to determine heat quantity to be exchanged at trays was based on temperatures on trays as control variables and it was applied only to simple binary columns. Also, previously developed theoretical models for determining optimal exchanged heat profile were determined only at such columns and while they were approximated they produced worse results than numerical minimum of entropy production. In this paper, as control variables for minimization, exchanged heat on the trays is used. It enables application to complex multicomponent diabatic columns. Ishii-Otto global method, based on model linearization and iterative solution by Newton-Raphson technique, is applied for solving column mathematical model. Needed thermodynamical properties for ideal systems are calculated using Lewis-Randall ideal solution model, and for non-ideal slightly polar systems they are calculated using Soave equation of state. Five direct methods are used for numerical optimization. Applied approach is successfully demonstrated at frequently used example of distillation of benzene and toluol mixture by using for these purposes specially written program. Simplex method appeared to be the most convenient optimization method for the considered problem.
A numerical study for inward solidification of a liquid contained in cylindrical and spherical vessel
Authors: Rajeev Kirby , Das Subir
Published: July 2010

This study presents a numerical solution of inward solidification of phase change material contained in cylinder/sphere. Here, constant thermal property is assumed throughout the analysis for the liquid, which is initially at fusion temperature. The governing dimensionless equations of the above problem and boundary conditions are converted to initial value problem of vector matrix form. The time function is approximated by Chebyshev series and the operational matrix of integration is applied. The solution is utilized iteratively in the interface condition to determine the time taken to attain a fixed interface position.
Solution of the inverse radiation problem for anisotropically scattering medium using the control volume finite element method
Authors: Grissa Hajer , Askri Faouzi , Albouchi Fethi , Ben Nasrrallah
Published: July 2010

In this paper, an inverse analysis is performed for the estimation of radiative parameters from the measured temperature profile in an absorbing, emitting, and anisotropically scattering medium. The control volume finite element method is employed to solve the direct problem in a 3-D rectangular furnace. The inverse problem is formulated as an optimization problem between the calculated and the experimental data and the Levenberg-Marquardt method is used for its solution. The sensitivity analysis is made in order to determine whether it is possible to identify the parameters. Also, the effects of angular and spatial grid numbers and the initial guesses on the accuracy of the inverse problem are investigated. This method combination, which is applied for the first time to solve 3-D inverse radiation problem, has been found to accurately predict the unknown parameters.
Effective thermal conductivity modeling with primary and secondary parameters for two-phase materials
Authors: Palaniswamy Kumar , Venugopal Raja , Palaniswamy Karthikeyan
Published: July 2010

In this article, the collocated parameter models are used to estimate the effective thermal conductivity of the two-phase materials including the effect of various inclusions in the unit cell. The algebraic equations are derived using unit cell based isotherm approach for two dimensional spatially periodic medium. The geometry of the medium is considered as a matrix of touching and non-touching in-line octagon and hexagon cylinders. The models are used to predict the thermal conductivity of numerous two-phase materials (maximum conductivity ratio of 1000 and concentration ranging between 0 and 1). The estimated thermal conductivity data is in good agreement with the experimental data within ?15.84%, ?18.14% maximum deviation, respectively, from octagon and hexagon cylinders for various two-phase systems. The obtained results are compared with a wide range of experimental data for various geometrical configurations to estimate the effective thermal conductivity of two-phase materials.
An evaluation of the BFD curve based upon wood crib fires performed in an ISO 9705 room
Authors: Xu Qiang , Griffin Gregory , Jiang Yong , Jin Cong
Published: July 2010

The BFD curve fitting method of Barnett is adopted to study the compartment temperature-time curves for a series of wood crib fires in an ISO 9705 room. The nominal fire sizes were 0.15 MW, 0.25 MW, 0.5 MW, and 1.0 MW. The cribs were positioned at the corner or the center of the floor of the room. The temperatures within the compartment were measured using two thermocouple trees with 10 thermocouples on each tree; these measured the compartment temperature from floor to ceiling. No flashover occurred during the tests, and the compartment temperature can be well described by a two-zone model. BFD curve fitting was performed for all 20 temperature-time curves in the upper and lower zones of the compartment for each test. The fitting error is evaluated for all tests. This empirical model needs more tests to verify and optimize.
Wind power plant resilience
Authors: Afgan Naim , Cvetinovic Dejan
Published: July 2010

A wind energy system transforms the kinetic energy of wind into mechanical or electrical energy that can be harnessed for practical use. Mechanical energy is most commonly used for pumping water in rural or remote locations. Electrical energy is obtained by connecting wind turbine with the electricity generator. The performance of the wind power plant depends on the wind kinetic energy. It depends on the number of design parameter of the wind turbine. For the wind power plant the wind kinetic energy conversion depends on the average wind velocity, mechanical energy conversion into electricity, and electricity transmission. Resilience of the wind power plant is the capacity of the system to withstand changes of the following parameters: wind velocity, mechanical energy conversion into electricity, electricity transmission efficiency and electricity cost. Resilience index comprise following indicators: change in wind velocity, change in mechanical energy conversion efficiency, change in conversion factor, change in transmission efficiency, and change in electricity cost. The demonstration of the resilience index monitoring is presented by using following indicators, namely: average wind velocity, power production, efficiency of electricity production, and power-frequency change. In evaluation of the resilience index of wind power plants special attention is devoted to the determination of the resilience index for situation with priority given to individual indicators.
Mathematical modeling and optimization of tri-generation systems with reciprocating engines
Authors: Stojiljkovic Mirko , Stojiljkovic Mladen , Blagojevic Bratislav
Published: July 2010

Tri-generation systems are used to simultaneously produce electrical, heating, and cooling energy. These systems are usually more efficient than conventional systems for separate production and have smaller distribution losses since they are often located closer to the consumer. For achievement of the best technical and/or financial results, tri-generation plants have to be properly, i. e. optimally designed and operated. Operational optimization is used for short term production planning, control of tri-generation systems operation and as a part of design level optimization. In this paper an approach to operational optimization of tri-generation plants with reciprocating engines is presented with the following mathematical model. It is also explained how this algorithm might be embedded in some larger optimization procedure. In this approach, the importance of the part load performance of different units of the tri-generation systems is emphasized, especially of co-generation unit, i. e. engine generator set and thus it relies on manufacturers' data and is characterized with relatively high level of details examined. Mathematical model is based on the equipment performance based constraints and demand satisfaction based constraints with the possibility to add more equations if appropriate. Objective function for optimization is benefit-cost function. Optimal operation regimes for typical days for each month are obtained and analyzed. Impact of electrical energy price on pay-back period and primary energy saving is analyzed. Primary energy savings are determined and compared to maximal value that could be obtained.
Managing the exploitation life of the mining machinery for a limited duration of time
Authors: Vujic Slobodan , Stanojevic Radoslav , Ivanov Vencislav , Zajic Borislav , Miljanovic Igor , Maksimovic Svetomir , Bosevski Stefko , Benovic Tomo , Hudej Marjan
Published: July 2010

The paper discusses the theoretical concept and illustrates the practical application of models with limited interval based on dynamic programming, suitable for optimization of exploitation life of mining machinery that have a shorter life cycle such as: bulldozers, scrapers, dumpers, excavators equipped by a smaller capacity operating element, as well as some others machinery.
A partial backlogging inventory model for non-instantaneous deteriorating items with stock-dependent consumption rate under inflation
Authors: Chang Jinh , Lin Feng
Published: July 2010

In this paper, we derive a partial backlogging inventory model for noninstantaneous deteriorating items with stock-dependent demand rate under inflation over a finite planning horizon. We propose a mathematical model and theorem to find minimum total relevant cost and optimal order quantity. Numerical examples are used to illustrate the developed model and the solution process. Finally, a sensitivity analysis of the optimal solution with respect to system parameters is carried out.
The construction of the firm's performance evaluation model on outsourcing activities: Application of the fuzzy synthesis
Authors: Kung-Yung Chaang , Yan Tzung-Ming
Published: July 2010

The purpose of this study is to apply Fuzzy Synthesis Judge to set up a model of performance evaluation criterion used to assess the quality of enterprise's outsourcing management. This study adopts means of literature review and expert-based interviews to contribute to an adequate evaluation criteria used to measure the performance of outsourcing activities. In terms of data collection and analysis, the participants consist of experts in aviation industry. By means of questionnaire distribution to experts, the data analysis is applied with fuzzy synthesis judge to examine the weight value. Consequently, this study utilizes fuzzy synthesis judge to qualify the performance evaluation and determine the optimal model used to examine the efficiency of outsourcing management. This study offers a model of evaluation criterion which makes it possible for enterprises to make the best outsourcing performance.
A fuzzy approach to evaluation and management of therapeutic procedure in diabetes mellitus treatment
Authors: Tadic Danijela , Popovic Predrag , Djukic Aleksandar
Published: July 2010

In this paper a new fuzzy model (FMOTPD2) is developed and by this model the measures of beliefs are determined so that one of the groups of possible therapeutic procedures is optimal for each patient of type 2 diabetes on hospital treatment. The choice of therapeutic procedure on individual level, which is one of the demands of modern medicine, means that each therapeutic procedure is to be evaluated by multiple and different criteria. In this paper, evaluation criteria are classified into two groups: (1) common criteria by which medicines used by the type 2 diabetes patients are being evaluated and (2) specific criteria, by which the patients' 1h state of health with type 2 diabetes mellitus is being estimated. Generally, the relative importance and values of these criteria are different. It is assumed that (a) the relative importance of evaluation criteria is defined by a team of medical experts and described by linguistic expressions and (b) the values of evaluation criteria are determined by evidence data, anamnesis and a diagnostic process. They can be crisp or uncertain. The most often used linguistic expressions describing the relative importance of evaluation criteria are modeled by triangular fuzzy numbers. The rest of uncertainties, which exist in developed model are described by discrete fuzzy numbers. A new algorithm for determining a unified fuzzy portrait of treated therapeutic procedures for each patient is given. It enables calculation of the measures of beliefs that some therapeutic procedures are more optimal than the others. The developed model is illustrated by examples with real word data collected in a hospital.
Vielfältiger Lebensraum, Ruhe, Sensibilisierung – Auerhuhnförderung auf drei Ebenen | A diverse habitat, tranquillity, awareness raising – capercaillie conservation on three levels
Authors: Stettler Maria , Christen Roland
Published: July 2010

The diversely structured moor landscape on the left-hand flank of the Sarnen Aa Valley is considered an optimal habitat for the capercaillie. According to the Swiss Capercaillie Action Programme, approximately half the ca-percaillie population of the central Northern Alps is to be found in Canton Obwalden. Obwalden therefore has a particular responsibility towards this species, which the Canton meets by measures on three levels: forest management (1), protected wildlife areas (2) and information and awareness raising (3). In forest reserves the forest can develop in an almost unhindered manner. The capercaillie with its dependence on varied, structured forests profits from the creation of such reserves. A differentiated procedure taking into account the habitat needs of the capercaillie permitted us to identify the forest areas in which the capercaillie would most profit from forest improvement measures. In these areas trees were felled in order to enhance the habitat value for the capercaillie and indicator plots were established to monitor the effectiveness of these measures. The funding was made available within the new Programme Agreement “Biodiversity in Forests” of Confederation and Cantons (1). The provision of wildlife protection areas is our response to increasing disturbances. The highly sensitive capercaillie is a main target species for the creation of such wildlife areas (2). These measures need to be understood and supported by the public, which is why the third focus of Canton Obwalden is placed on public relation activities (3).
The earliest known Australian bird painting: a Rainbow Lorikeet,Trichoglossus haematodus moluccanus(Gmelin) by Moses Griffith, painted in 1772
Authors: WILLIS R. J.
Published: July 2010

A previously unknown painting of the rainbow lorikeet, Trichoglossus haematodus moluccanus (Gmelin),1by the Welsh artist Moses Griffith (1747–1819), servant to Thomas Pennant, appears to be the earliest painting of an Australian bird. The painting, dated 1772, depicts a specimen likely taken to England by Joseph Banks, following Cook's First Voyage (1768–1771), and seen by Pennant and Griffith in London in September 1771.
Fishing with cormorants
Authors: JACKSON CHRISTINE E.
Published: July 2010

Using cormorants to catch fishes has been a means of livelihood in China and Japan for centuries. As a sport enjoyed by fishermen it has been practised in the West only intermittently. The methods of training the birds which were used in each country, both in the east and the west, varied considerably, although all the training was based on the cormorant's natural ability to swim underwater in the pursuit of fishes, to catch hold of one in the notched beak and carry it to the surface. Left to its own devices, the cormorant then manoeuvres the fish in order to swallow it whole, head first. While it is chasing the fishes underwater, a shoal is dispersed in panic and some rise to the surface, an advantage exploited by the Italian sport of shooting fishes raised by the cormorants. In other countries cormorants arc trained to bring the fish to the fisherman's hand.
The status of Gideon Mantell's “first”Iguanodontooth in the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Authors: YALDWYN JOHN C. , TEE GARRY J. , MASON ALAN P.
Published: July 2010

A worn Iguanodon tooth from Cuckfield, Sussex, illustrated by Mantell in 1827, 1839, 1848 and 1851, was labelled by Mantell as the first tooth sent to Baron Cuvier in 1823 and acknowledged as such by Sir Charles Lyell. The labelled tooth was taken to New Zealand by Gideon's son Walter in 1859. It was deposited in a forerunner of the Museum of New Zealand, Wellington in 1865 and is still in the Museum, mounted on a card bearing annotations by both Gideon Mantell and Lyell. The history of the Gideon and Walter Mantell collection in the Museum of New Zealand is outlined, and the Iguanodon tooth and its labels are described and illustrated. This is the very tooth which Baron Cuvier first identified as a rhinoceros incisor on the evening of 28 June 1823.
Henry De la Beche and the plesiosaur's neck
Authors: NORMAN D. B.
Published: July 2010

There was a close relationship, as neighbours, friends and colleagues, between the triumvirate of Henry Thomas De la Beche, William Daniel Conybeare and William Buckland, who were among the most important and influential members of the Geological Society of London during the decades immediately following its foundation in 1807. Their mutually supportive work on, and interest in, the geology and fossils of their local Dorset coast, meant that each had a great familiarity with the Lias (Lower Jurassic) and its fossil flora and fauna. Henry De la Beche was, however, also blessed with artistic flair, combined with a witty and satirical eye; this has been revealed in his renowned cartoons and caricatures.

Much has been made of the originality (both scientific and artistic) of De la Beche's Duria Antiquior, a wonderful image of prehistoric life in the Liassic Seas of Dorset that was sketched during 1830. Re-examination of Duria reveals an attention to detail that is remarkable – though perfectly understandable in the light of his friends' and his own geological survey work in Dorset. The dominant central image, of a plesiosaur (Plesiosaurus dolichodeirus) being bitten across the neck by an ichthyosaur (Temnodontosaurus platyodon), has been attributed to a word picture created by William Conybeare during an exchange of letters with Henry De la Beche in 1824. In fact the evocative image may have much more to do with the nature of preservation of a remarkable skeleton, representing the first complete plesiosaur skeleton and discovered by Mary Anning in 1823, than has been recognised previously.
Georges Cuvier's paper museum of fossil bones
Authors: RUDWICK MARTIN
Published: July 2010

The research on fossil bones by Georges Cuvier (1769–1832) is an instructive example of the making of scientific knowledge in the indoor setting of a museum. The trajectory of his specimens can be followed all the way from their collection in the field to their publication as engravings with explanatory text. Cuvier's resources at the Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle in Paris were greatly enlarged by his accumulation of a “paper museum”. He appealed to other naturalists to send him accurate drawings of fossil bones. These functioned as paper “proxies” for specimens that in reality remained elsewhere. Such visual “mobiles” were far from immutable, however, because they were transformed not only by the processes of drawing and engraving but also by Cuvier's use of visual rhetoric: he made them give persuasive support to his zoological and geological interpretations of fossil bones.
I coloured a map: Darwin's attempts at geological mapping in 1831
Authors: ROBERTS MICHAEL B.
Published: July 2010

In his autobiography describing his geology of 1831 Darwin wrote, “on my return to Shropshire I coloured a map of parts around Shrewsbury.” There are four extant maps in the Cambridge University Library, which fit this description. Two, at a scale of ⅞ inch to 1 mile, are of Anglesey and Llanymynech and are hand-drawn copies of Evan's map of North Wales, and are without geological annotation. The other two of Shrewsbury and Kinnerley have a scale of 1 inch to 1 mile and are copied from Baugh's Map of Shropshire (1808). These contain orange shading to the west of Shrewsbury indicating New Red Sandstone, but make no allowance for drift. The Shrewsbury map includes some attempted stratigraphic boundaries and marks four sites; A, B, C and D. These maps demonstrate Darwin's grasp of geology before his Welsh tour with Sedgwick in August 1831. They show his realisation of the need of a topographic base map, an acquaintance of the conventions of geological mapping in shading and the marking of boundaries. These maps form an early part of Darwin's considerable geological activity in the summer of 1831.
The study of the natural sciences and botanical and zoological illustration in Tuscany under the Medicis from the sixteenth to the eighteenth centuries
Authors: TOMASI LUCIA TONGIORGI
Published: July 2010

A vast body of botanical and zoological illustrations was produced in Tuscany between the sixteenth and the eighteenth century. This artistic activity was made possible by the humanistic-scientific tradition which had been established in Florence during the late fifteenth century, and was further encouraged by the Medici dynasty. The contributions made by three uniquely talented and original artists are discussed. Jacopo Ligozzi produced paintings of plants and animals whose scientific accuracy and artistic quality far surpassed anything achieved by his predecessors. The miniaturist Giovanna Garzoni produced floral paintings for the Medici family. Bartolomeo Bimbi combined the genre of botanical and zoological illustration with that of the still life to create works of striking originality.

The crucial role played by the new scientific institutions created during the Renaissance is also discussed. A permanent artists' studio was set up in the mid-sixteenth century at Pisa Botanic Garden. Members of Accademia del Cimento in Florence engaged in pioneering studies with the microscope, a newly invented instrument which gave scientists and artists an entirely new perspective on the natural world. The scientist Francesco Redi carried out important work with the help of the artist Filizio Pizzichi who prepared stunning microscopic studies of insects.