bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of supplementation on the tissue composition of the commercial cuts of cross-bred F1 (Boer × SPRD) finished in native pasture
Authors: Silva Rayana de Medeiros , Pereira Filho José Morais , Silva Anderson Luiz Nascimento da , Cezar Marcílio Fontes , Silva Aderbal Marcos de Azevêdo , Oliveira Nadjanara Souza
Published: July 2010

The present study aimed to assess the effect of levels of supplementation with concentrate on the tissue composition of commercial cuts of goats finished in native pasture. It was used 24 non-castrated cross-bred F1 (Boer × SPRD) goats at the age of 120 days, with initial average body weight (BW) of 15.52 kg distributed in four levels of supplementation with concentrated feed (0.0; 0.5; 1.0 and 1.5% of body weight in dry matter) and slaughtered at 25.12 kg; 26.62 kg; 28.56 kg and 29.19 kg, respectively, corresponding to 218 days of life. The carcass was sectioned in the half, and from the left half of the carcass, the following cuts were separated: leg, loin, ribs, shoulder and neck, which were dissected into muscle, bone and fat, with the results expressed in weight and yield of the tissues in relation to the weight of the cut. Supplementation incresead the muscle weight, as well as the fat weight and yield and decreased the muscle:fat relationship; however there was no influence on the proportion of muscle in the five studied cuts. Therefore, in order to obtain better finished commercial meat cuts, supplementation of 1.0 and 1.5% of body weight is recommended. Nevertheless, supplementation is unnecessary for obtaining lighter meat cuts with a good proportion of muscle.
Indicadores de desempenho relacionado ao parto de fêmeas suínas de primeiro e segundo partos
Authors: Bianchi Ivan , Lucia Junior Thomaz , Deschamps João Carlos , Schneider Augusto , Rabassa Viviane Rohrig , Corrêa Marcio Nunes
Published: July 2010

Foi realizado um estudo para identificar parâmetros de desempenho associados a indicadores de eficiência durante o parto de fêmeas suínas. Foram coletados os seguintes dados de 636 partos e 7.100 leitões nascidos: ordem de parto, número de leitões nascidos vivos, natimortos, mumificados, total de nascidos, aplicação de ocitocina, uso de palpação vaginal, momento do nascimento de cada leitão e do início e final do parto. O intervalo médio de nascimento dos leitões foi de 16,7 minutos e a duração média do parto, de 247 minutos. A duração média do parto aumentou conforme o total de leitões nascidos, o uso de ocitocina e a ocorrência de palpação vaginal. O total de nascimentos nos partos longos (> 211 min), de 13,1 leitões, foi maior que nos partos curtos (< 210 min), de 11,7 leitões, portanto, quanto maior o total de nascidos, maior a duração do parto. As leitegadas foram maiores nas fêmeas de segundo parto (12,8) em comparação àquelas de primeiro parto (11,9). A duração do parto é influenciada pelo total de leitões nascidos, que é maior em fêmeas de segundo parto e está associada à maior ocorrência de leitões natimortos e mumificados.
Beef cuts yield of steer carcasses graded according to conformation and weight
Authors: Pascoal Leonir Luiz , Lobato José Fernando Piva , Restle João , Vaz Fabiano Nunes , Vaz Ricardo Zambarda , Menezes Luís Fernando Glasenapp de
Published: July 2010

The experiment evaluated total and individual yield of commercial cuts, bones, and trimmings of carcasses from 38 Braford steers at 22 months of age finished in a feedlot. Carcasses were ranked according to three conformation classes (good minus = score 10; good = score 11; good plus = score 12), and three weight classes (heavy = 229.4 kg, intermediate = 205.0 kg, and light = 184.0 kg, ranging from 222.9 to 250.4, 201.5 to 209.0, and 170.0 to 190.3 kg, respectively). Carcass cold shrinkage was not affected by conformation, but it was significantly lower in heavy (1.83%) than in intermediate (2.53%) and in light carcasses (2.30%), which were not different among each other. Carcass flank percentage was not affected by conformation, but it was significantly higher in heavy (13.93%) and intermediate carcasses (13.87%) as compared to light carcasses (13.07%). Deboned beef cuts (78.08%) of carcasses of steers, bone (16.57%), and trimmings (5.23%) yields and losses due to deboning (0.12%) were not significantly affected by carcass weight. However, when they were evaluated according to conformation classes, those with better conformation showed higher meat cut yield (78.75 vs 77.92 and 77.29%). Conformation affects meat cut yield of carcasses of young steers while carcass weight does not show this characteristic.
Full remission and relapse of obsessive-compulsive symptoms after cognitive-behavioral group therapy: a two-year follow-up
Authors: Braga Daniela Tusi , Manfro Gisele Gus , Niederauer Kátia , Cordioli Aristides Volpato
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess whether the results obtained with 12 sessions of cognitive-behavioral group therapy with obsessive-compulsive patients were maintained after two years, and whether the degree of symptom remission was associated with relapse. METHOD: Forty-two patients were followed. The severity of symptoms was measured at the end of cognitive-behavioral group therapy and at 18 and 24 months of follow-up. The assessment scales used were the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale, Clinical Global Impression, Beck Depression Inventory, and Beck Anxiety Inventory. RESULTS: The reduction in symptom severity observed at the end of treatment was maintained during the two-year follow-up period (F = 57.881; p < 0.001). At the end of the treatment, 9 (21.4%) patients presented full remission, 22 (52.4%) presented partial remission, and 11 (26.2%) had unchanged scores in the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale. After two years, 13 patients (31.0%) presented full remission, 20 (47.6%) had partial remission, and 9 (21.4%) had unchanged Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scalescores. The full remission of symptoms at the end of the treatment was a protective factor against relapse (χ2 = 4,962; df = 1; p = 0.026). CONCLUSION: Our findings underscore the importance of attaining full remission of obsessive-compulsive symptoms during treatment and the need for new therapeutic strategies to achieve this.
Formas de ver as pessoas com deficiência: um estudo empírico do construto de concepções de deficiência em situações de trabalho
Authors: Carvalho-Freitas Maria Nivalda de , Marques Antônio Luiz
Published: July 2010

As pesquisas sobre a inserção de pessoas portadoras de deficiência no mercado de trabalho têm sugerido, explícita ou implícita, que a maneira como a deficiência é vista, pelos gestores e colegas de trabalho, é um elemento importante para a compreensão da dimensão da diversidade. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi identificar e testar empiricamente um construto que pudesse auxiliar a entender a forma como a deficiência é vista por profissionais que atuam ou possam vir a atuar com pessoas com deficiência (PcDs). A pesquisa foi realizada com 227 alunos de cursos de especialização em Administração de três universidades. O método utilizado foi: o modelo de equações estruturais. Por meio do teste do modelo, pode-se verificar que os dados empíricos suportam a existência do construto - concepções de deficiência em situações de trabalho - que pressupõe que, diante da deficiência, as pessoas tendem a construir explicações para justificar a diferença das PcDs. Essas explicações são modalidades de pensamento que qualificam a deficiência e avaliam as possibilidades de trabalho dos portadores de deficiência e estão intimamente ligadas às matrizes históricas que lhes deram origem. Essa premissa foi suportada pela estrutura multidimensional das concepções de deficiência em situações de trabalho que se reflete em seis fatores: dimensão espiritual, dimensão baseada em pressupostos da normalidade, dimensão baseada na inclusão, desempenho, vínculo e benefícios.
Variation in energy density of Loricariichthys platymetopon (Siluriformes: Loricariidae) in the upper Paraná River basin
Authors: Garcia Daniela Aparecida , Benedito Evanilde
Published: July 2010

The present study described the variations in energy density from skeletal muscles of Loricariichthys platymetopon in relation to body size, sex, gonadal development stages, sampling site and habitat type (lotic, semi-lotic and lotic). Samplings were performed between June 2002 and August 2006 in points located in the upper Paraná River floodplain, Rosana Reservoir and Diamante Stream. The energy density from each muscle sample of 212 specimens was determined using an adiabatic calorimeter. The correlations between the variables 'muscle energy density' and 'specimen standard length' were not significant. Only in the Rosana Reservoir there was a significant difference in energetic means between 'sex'. Otherwise, due to the gonadal development stage, a significant difference between energetic means was recorded only for males from the upper Paraná River floodplain and for both sexes in Rosana Reservoir. The density of muscle energy ranged from 4,170 to 5,540 cal/g DW (dry weight), with the means (± standard deviation) of 5,140± 0.06 cal/g DW in the Reservoir, 4,950±0.25 cal/g DW in the stream and 4,920 ±0.18 cal/g DW in the floodplain. Furthermore, we also detected a significant difference between the energy means from the different sampled sites, but the same was not registered among the analyzed habitats. In conclusion, the variation in muscle energy density from L. platymetopon may occur. The occurrence of variation between the sexes depends on the site, and the density variation among the stages depends on both the site and 'sex'. In summary, the spatial variation in muscle energy density from this species strengthens the idea that this factor is not a constant parameter, so it should not be applied in bioenergetics modeling and in the quantification of energetic balance as an unique value.
Karyotypic diversity between allopatric populations of the group Hoplias malabaricus (Characiformes: Erythrinidae): evolutionary and biogeographic considerations
Authors: Blanco Daniel Rodrigues , Lui Roberto Laridondo , Bertollo Luiz Antonio Carlos , Margarido Vladimir Pavan , Moreira Filho Orlando
Published: July 2010

Three populations of the group Hoplias malabaricus from the hydrographic basins of the São Francisco, Araguaia/Tocantins and Xingu Rivers in Brazil were analyzed using classic cytogenetic methods (Giemsa staining, C-banding and Ag-NORs) and molecular methods (fluorescent in situ hybridization with 18S rDNA, 5S rDNA and 5SHindIII satellite DNA probes). The chromosome markers allowed the characterization of these populations as belonging to karyomorph A and the detection of inter-population divergences. These differences likely stem from different evolutionary histories resulting from geographic isolation between populations associated to the dispersive mode of these organisms, reinforcing genetic diversity in the group Hoplias malabaricus.
A honeymoon in Brazil: the spawning behavior of an exotic reef fish in the western south Atlantic
Authors: Luiz Osmar J , Sazima Ivan , Waib Luis F , Ferreira Carlos Eduardo L
Published: July 2010

The reproductive strategies of surgeonfishes of the genus Acanthurus are well known for all Atlantic species except the Monrovia doctorfish, Acanthurus monroviae, an eastern Atlantic surgeonfish whose biology remains largely unknown. We provide here the first account on the spawning behavior of A. monroviae, an exotic fish on rocky reefs of southeastern Brazilian coast.
Reproductive and population parameters of discus fish Symphysodon aequifasciatus Pellegrin, 1904 (Perciformes: Cichlidae) from Piagaçu-Purus Sustainable Development Reserve (RDS-PP), lower Purus River, Amazonas, Brazil
Authors: Rossoni Felipe , Amadio Sidinéia , Ferreira Efrem , Zuanon Jansen
Published: July 2010

The ornamental discus fish Symphysodon aequifasciatus Pellegrin, 1904, is a popular endemic cichlid species from the Amazon basin, however scientific information concerning biology and ecology in its natural habitat is scarce despite its importance on the international aquarium trade. In this study we evaluated reproductive parameters of S. aequifasciatus in natural habitat in Piagaçu-Purus Sustainable Development Reserve (RDS-PP), lower Purus River, Brazilian Amazon. Males are more frequent in the larger size classes and this might be related to the complex breeding behavior known for S. aequifasciatus. Values of L50 for both sexes corresponded to more than 60% of the maximum attained length which may indicate that energy allocation for somatic growth takes longer in S. aequifasciatus than in other species. Average fecundity for female discus was 1490, ranging from 950 to 1892 oocytes and its correlations with standard length and total weight were very low, probably due to the highly compressed discus' body shape. Egg size distribution showed four types of patterns, indicating one to four modes besides the reserve oocytes group. Our results indicate that S. aequifasciatus shows total spawning, in the beginning of flooding period, with the peculiar capacity of releasing multiple egg batches as a strategy that potentially enhances reproductive success.
Identification of adrenal genes regulated in a potassium-dependent manner
Authors: Dierks Alexander , Lichtenauer Urs D , Sackmann Simone , Spyroglou Ariadni , Shapiro Igor , Geyer Marcel , Manonopoulou Jenny , Reincke Martin , Hantel Constanze , Beuschlein Felix
Published: July 2010

Potassium and angiotensin II are the main stimulators of aldosterone secretion from the adrenal cortex. As potassium-induced in vivo gene regulation in the adrenal cortex has not been studied in detail, we applied a stepwise screening approach: first, we investigated the effects of chronic potassium substitution in mice. Microarray analysis of adrenal glands revealed a set of genes (set A) that were counter-regulated in a high potassium (HP) and low potassium substitution group, while others (set B) were highly upregulated in the HP intake group. In a second step, time dependency of expression changes of these pre-defined genes was studied following short-term potassium stimulation experiments in vivo. Thirdly, dose dependency of potassium-induced gene regulation was investigated in vitro. Finally, to provide indirect evidence for the potential relevance of the detected changes for autonomous aldosterone secretion, expression analysis of aldosterone-producing adenomas was compared with normal adrenal glands. While most investigated genes were similarly regulated following long- and short-term potassium stimulation in vivo, observed changes were reproducible in NCI h295R adrenocortical cells mostly for the set of genes identified in the HP group (set B). Similarly, in Conn's adenomas, mostly genes from set B displayed changes in expression pattern in comparison to normal adrenal glands, while genes from set A were mostly unchanged. Thus, while in vivo models can help in identifying genes potentially involved in potassium-dependent aldosterone secretion, these findings also underline the necessity to interpret potassium-induced gene regulation on the basis of the experimental setting.
Models for inference in dynamic metacommunity systems
Authors: Dorazio Robert M. , Kéry Marc , Royle J. Andrew , Plattner Matthias
Published: July 2010

A variety of processes are thought to be involved in the formation and dynamics of species assemblages. For example, various metacommunity theories are based on differences in the relative contributions of dispersal of species among local communities and interactions of species within local communities. Interestingly, metacommunity theories continue to be advanced without much empirical validation. Part of the problem is that statistical models used to analyze typical survey data either fail to specify ecological processes with sufficient complexity or they fail to account for errors in detection of species during sampling. In this paper, we describe a statistical modeling framework for the analysis of metacommunity dynamics that is based on the idea of adopting a unified approach, multispecies occupancy modeling, for computing inferences about individual species, local communities of species, or the entire metacommunity of species. This approach accounts for errors in detection of species during sampling and also allows different metacommunity paradigms to be specified in terms of species‐ and location‐specific probabilities of occurrence, extinction, and colonization: all of which are estimable. In addition, this approach can be used to address inference problems that arise in conservation ecology, such as predicting temporal and spatial changes in biodiversity for use in making conservation decisions. To illustrate, we estimate changes in species composition associated with the species‐specific phenologies of flight patterns of butterflies in Switzerland for the purpose of estimating regional differences in biodiversity.
Experimental drought in a tropical rain forest increases soil carbon dioxide losses to the atmosphere
Authors: Cleveland Cory C. , Wieder William R. , Reed Sasha C. , Townsend Alan R.
Published: July 2010

Climate models predict precipitation changes for much of the humid tropics, yet few studies have investigated the potential consequences of drought on soil carbon (C) cycling in this important biome. In wet tropical forests, drought could stimulate soil respiration via overall reductions in soil anoxia, but previous research suggests that litter decomposition is positively correlated with high rainfall fluxes that move large quantities of dissolved organic matter (DOM) from the litter layer to the soil surface. Thus, reduced rainfall could also limit C delivery to the soil surface, reducing respiration rates. We conducted a throughfall manipulation experiment to investigate how 25% and 50% reductions in rainfall altered both C movement into soils and the effects of those DOM fluxes on soil respiration rates. In response to the experimental drought, soil respiration rates increased in both the −25% and −50% treatments. Throughfall fluxes were reduced by 26% and 55% in the −25% and −50% treatments, respectively. However, total DOM fluxes leached from the litter did not vary between treatments, because the concentrations of leached DOM reaching the soil surface increased in response to the simulated drought. Annual DOM concentrations averaged 7.7 ± 0.8, 11.2 ± 0.9, and 15.8 ± 1.2 mg C/L in the control, −25%, and −50% plots, respectively, and DOM concentrations were positively correlated with soil respiration rates. A laboratory incubation experiment confirmed the potential importance of DOM concentration on soil respiration rates, suggesting that this mechanism could contribute to the increase in CO2 fluxes observed in the reduced rainfall plots. Across all plots, the data suggested that soil CO2 fluxes were partially regulated by the magnitude and concentration of soluble C delivered to the soil, but also by soil moisture and soil oxygen availability. Together, our data suggest that declines in precipitation in tropical rain forests could drive higher CO2 fluxes to the atmosphere both via increased soil O2 availability and through responses to elevated DOM concentrations.
Real Time Three Dimensional Fetal Echocardiography Using Two Dimensional Array Technology
Authors: Maulik Dev , Mundy David , Bennett Timothy
Published: July 2010

Three dimensional (3D) echocardiography represents a major paradigm shift in medical ultrasound
imaging. As opposed to reconstructed 3D echocardiography which is based on a series of two dimensional images, the
revolutionary development of the two dimensional (2D) matrix phased array transducer permits true real time live 3D
imaging of the fetal heart. Preliminary experience has demonstrated that real time/live 3D echocardiography is not
only feasible in assessing the fetal cardiac anomalies, it also permits unique comprehensive views of the fetal
heart that are unattainable with 2D echocardiography. With further evolution of the technology, and appropriate
education and training RT3D echocardiography may evolve as a powerful supplement to conventional 2D
echocardiography.
Rendering Cardiac Volumes in Three and Four-Dimensional Ultrasonography
Authors: Espinoza Jimmy
Published: July 2010

This chapter summarizes different approaches currently used to examine the fetal heart using three and
four-dimensional ultrasonography with a particular emphasis on multiplanar display and novel rendering
modalities. These new imaging modalities provide important insight into the normal and abnormal fetal cardiac
anatomy and function and have the potential to reduce the operator dependency that characterizes twodimensional
ultrasound.
Particulate Drug Delivery: Recent Applications of Natural Biopolymers
Authors: A. Attama Anthony , F. Builders Philip
Published: July 2010

Polymers fall into three broad categories: natural, semi-synthetic and synthetic.
Polymers are widely used in pharmaceutical systems as drug carriers, adjuvants, suspending and
emulsifying agents. The word "polymer" which means "many parts", is derived from the Greek
words poly, meaning "many," and meros, meaning "parts". Polymers are widely found in nature
and occur in many forms. The human body contains many natural polymers such as proteins and
nucleic acids, while cellulose is the main structural component of plants. Cellulose, starch, lignin,
chitin, and various polysaccharides are of natural origin. These materials and their derivatives
offer a wide range of properties and applications in drug delivery. Natural polymers are usually
biocompatible and biodegradable. In this chapter, sources and applications of natural biopolymers
in particulate drug delivery systems such as microparticles and nanoparticles, which are currently
widely investigated as drug delivery systems, were discussed.
Challenges of the Use of Natural Biopolymers in Drug Delivery
Authors: Nicholas C.  Obitte  , Edwin O.  Omeje
Published: July 2010

Drug delivery and pharmacokinetics have remained important components of
therapeutic and biomedical practice for many decades. In recent time, the world has witnessed
rapid progress in developments of different drug delivery protocols, especially as it regards the
use of degradable biopolymers. This became a viable research and economic venture with
parallel progress in inter-related fields of biomaterial science, biotechnology, nanotechnology
and pharmacology. Recent advances in material science, biomaterial development and tissue
engineering are changing the face of medicine in the present age. Biopolymers and drug
delivery systems offer the “ideal” conceptual framework for improving the efficacy of existing
drug formulations and developing new treatments. Interestingly, there are extensive researches
so far carried out in the area of biodegradable materials for controlled release of drug which
circumvents the need for removal of non-degradable drug-depleted devices. Many
biodegradable polymers have been evaluated for their suitability as matrix for drugs, including
polyesters, polycarbonates, natural and synthetic polyamides, phosphate esters,
polyphosphazenes and polyanhydrides. Current and novel drug delivery approaches involve
the application of these polymers in a variety of devices, including biodegradable polymer
shape-memory polymers, targeted nanoparticle conjugates and miniaturized drug delivery
devices. These approaches have greatly improved the delivery of drugs to target sites that
would have been ordinarily impossible by conventional therapeutic routes. In this chapter, we
will discus some key recent and relevant advances in the use of biopolymers for drug delivery.
Thereafter, the challenges still ahead will be presented. In all, biopolymers promise rewarding
prospects for the world in this 21st century and beyond.
An Overview of Synthetic Biopolymers in Drug Delivery
Authors: A. Attama Anthony , C. Uzochukwu Ikemefuna , C. Onunkwo Godswill
Published: July 2010

This chapter discusses synthetic biopolymers and their application in drug delivery.
Numerous delivery techniques, taking advantage of the functional properties of synthetic
polymers, have been successfully developed for various routes of administration. A polymer is
synthesized by chemically combining many small molecules to form one giant molecule.
Synthetic polymers can be classified as addition polymers or condensation polymers, formed
from monomer units. Currently, synthetic materials with biomimetic properties are attracting
growing attention as possible new dosage forms or drug delivery platforms and the potential
applications of these increasingly sophisticated polymers in drug delivery will be discussed.
This chapter treats synthetic biopolymers according to the following format: Introduction to
biopolymers; General uses of biopolymers; Classes of synthetic and biosynthetic biopolymers;
Some synthetic schemes of biopolymers; Special uses and applications of synthetic
biopolymers in drug delivery; Advantages of synthetic biopolymers in drug delivery;
Limitations of synthetic biopolymers; The future of synthetic biopolymers.
Novel Nasal Delivery Systems Based on Synthetic Biopolymers
Authors: U. Agu Remigius , J. Lyzenga Wendy , I. Ugwoke Michael
Published: July 2010

Suitability of the nasal route for both local and systemic delivery of drug substances
stems from several advantages including high vascularity, large surface area, avoidance of firstpass
metabolism, ease of drug administration, rapid attainment of therapeutic blood drug levels
and possibly high systemic bioavailability. In spite of these advantages, there are some challenges
facing this non-invasive drug delivery approach. Rapid removal of administered drugs by
respiratory mucociliary clearance system often results in low absorption, especially for large
molecular weight compounds. This problem may be addressed using novel delivery systems such
as mucoadhesive formulations. This chapter will focus on novel formulation strategies with
synthetic biopolymers for systemic drug delivery via the nasal route.
Protein and Gene Delivery: Recent Applications of Synthetic Biopolymers
Authors: Benjamin A.  Ezekoye  , Charles O.  Esimone
Published: July 2010

Synthetic biopolymers (especially the biodegradable polymers) have been
extensively researched for their applications in targeted and controlled release (CR) of
different therapeutic agents. These synthetic polymers, including (but not limited to)
polylactide-polyglycolide copolymers, polyacrylates and polycaprolactones, are being
increasingly used in the formulation of novel microparticulate and nanoparticulate delivery
systems. The applicability of microparticles and nanoparticles based on these synthetic
biopolymers in protein, drug, vaccine delivery and gene therapy is rapidly expanding. In this
chapter, we have focused on this novel synthetic biopolymer technology as it relates to the
delivery of genes and therapeutic proteins: the syntheses and characterization of the particles,
encapsulation or loading of therapeutic agents, protein/gene stability, release and expression.
The toxic and safety issues in connection with use of these synthetic biopolymers and the
potential usefulness of this delivery system are also discussed.
Application of electrochemically synthesized ferrate(VI) in the purification of wastewater from coal separation plant
Authors: Cekerevac Milan , Nikolic-Bujanovic Ljiljana , Mirkovic Marko , Popovic Negica
Published: July 2010

The oxidative and coagulation efficiency of Na2FeO4 solution, electrochemically generated by trans-passive anodic oxidation of electrical steel in 10M NaOH solution, is confirmed in the process of purification of heavily contaminated wastewater from coal separation plant. The decontamination efficiency is evaluated comparing the values of selected contamination parameters obtained by chemical and biochemical analysis of plant effluent water and water obtained after decontamination with ferrate(VI) solution in relatively simple laboratory procedure. The sample of 450 ml of wastewater is treated in laboratory conditions with 100cm3 solution of 1 mg dm-3 Na2FeO4 in 10M NaOH. The chemical analysis of effluent water after treatment have shown almost 3 times lower permanganate index, about 3 times lower iron content, 1.45 times lower As3+ content, 7.35 times lower ammonia content. Turbidity and chemical oxygen demand (COD) is reduced for more than 5.77and 13.4 times, respectively. The suspended and colloid matter is eliminated from effluent water after treatment with ferrate(VI) solution. Also, biochemical exploration has confirmed high efficiency of ferrate(VI) in organics and microbial elimination showing 7.1 times lower 5-days bio-chemical oxygen demand (BOD5), and total elimination of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria from effluent water. According to standards on quality of industrial wastewater effluents, it may be concluded that ferrate(VI) treatment of wastewater almost completely eliminates excess of dangerous chemicals and pathogen bacteria, with the exemption of arsenic. Thus, ferrate(VI) shows capable performance in treatment of coal separation plant wastewater.
On the synthesis of Bi-based precursors for lead-free solders development
Authors: Gandova V. , Lilova K. , Malakova H. , Huber B. , Milcheva N. , Ipser H. , Vrestal J. , Vassilev G.
Published: July 2010

Preliminary studies on the design of lead-free solders precursors by wet chemistry methods are presented. The main objective is to assess the impact of the way of hydroxide precipitates preparation on the metal elements content of the precipitates. Namely, ternary hydroxide mixtures of three systems: a. Cu(II), Bi(III), Sn(II); b. Cu(II), Bi(III), Sb(III); and c. Cu(II), Bi(III), Zn(II) were prepared, firstly, by single-element precipitation and, secondly, by co-precipitation. Thereafter, all mixtures were reduced by using hydrogen gas. Both, the initial mixtures and the reduced samples were studied by X-ray diffraction, optical and scanning electron microscopes. The chemical compositions of the precipitates were determined experimentally and their dependence on the pH was verified. It was found that alloying occurred during the reduction procedure, but in some cases the reduction was not complete (i.e. oxide phases rest in the samples). This might be a huge obstacle to use such an approach for the preparation of lead-free solders. Moreover, the materials obtained after reductions apparently are bulk alloys, thus, the preparation of small-sized metal particles would be a challenge. Another key feature to be addressed in future studies is the correlation between the chemical compositions of the parent solution and these of the corresponding precipitates.
Mechanical and magnetic properties of composite materials with polymer matrix
Authors: Grujic A. , Talijan N. , Stojanovic D. , Stajic-Trosic J. , Burzic Z. , Balanovic Lj. , Aleksic R.
Published: July 2010

Many of modern technologies require materials with unusual combinations of properties that cannot be met by the conventional metal alloys, ceramics, and polymeric materials. Material property combinations and ranges have been extended by the development of composite materials. Development of Nd-Fe-B/polymer composite magnetic materials has significantly increased interest in research and development of bonded magnets, since particles of Nd-Fe-B alloys are proved to be very suitable for their production. This study investigates the mechanical and magnetic properties of compression molded Nd-Fe-B magnets with different content of magnetic powder in epoxy matrix. Mechanical properties were investigated at ambient temperature according to ASTM standard D 3039-00. The obtained results show that tensile strength and elongation decrease with an increase of Nd-Fe-B particles content in epoxy matrix. The modulus of elasticity increases, which means that in exploitation material with higher magnetic powder content, subjected to the same level of stress, undergoes 2 to 3.5 times smaller deformation. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to examine the morphology of sample surfaces and fracture surfaces caused by the tensile strength tests. The results of SQUID magnetic measurements show an increase of magnetic properties of the investigated composites with increasing content of Nd-Fe-B particles.
Thermodynamic description of the C-Ge and C-Mg systems
Authors: Hu B. , Du Y. , Xu H. , Sun W. , Zhang W.W. , Zhao D.
Published: July 2010

The thermodynamic modeling for the C-Ge and C-Mg systems is performed by the CALPHAD method. The enthalpy of formation for Mg2C3, the experimental value of which is not available in the literature, is obtained via first-principles calculation to refine the thermodynamic modeling of the C-Mg system. A comparison of the thermodynamic calculations with the available literature data shows that the presently obtained two sets of thermodynamic parameters for the C-Ge and C-Mg systems can well describe the these two systems.
Thermodynamic analysis and characterization of alloys in Bi-Cu-Sb system
Authors: Zivkovic D. , Minic D. , Manasijevic D. , Kostov A. , Talijan N. , Balanovic Lj. , Mitovski A. , Zivkovic Z.
Published: July 2010

The results of thermodynamic analysis and characterization of some alloys in Bi-Cu-Sb lead-free solder system are presented in this paper. Thermodynamic analysis was done using general solution model, while optic microscopy, hardness and electroconductivity measurements were used in order to determine structural, mechanic and electric characteristics of selected samples in section from bismuth corner with molar ratio Cu:Sb=3:7.
The small-scale structure of the Magellanic stream as a foundation for galaxy evolution
Authors: Stanimirovic S. , Gallagher J.S.III , Nigra L.
Published: July 2010

The Magellanic Stream (MS) is the nearest example of a gaseous trail formed by interacting galaxies. While the substantial gas masses in these kinds of circumgalactic structures are postulated to represent important sources of fuel for future star formation, the mechanisms whereby this material might be accreted back into galaxies remain unclear. Recent neutral hydrogen (HI) observations have demonstrated that the northern portion of the MS, which probably has been interacting with the Milky Way's hot gaseous halo for close to 1000 Myr, has a larger spatial extent than previously recognized, while also containing significant amounts of small-scale structure. After a brief consideration of the large-scale kinematics of the MS as traced by the recently-discovered extension of the MS, we explore the aging process of the MS gas through the operation of various hydrodynamic instabilities and interstellar turbulence. This in turn leads to consideration of processes whereby MS material survives as cool gas, and yet also evidently fails to form stars. Parallels between the MS and extragalactic tidal features are brie'y discussed with an emphasis on steps toward establishing what the MS reveals about the critical role of local processes in determining the evolution of these kinds of systems.
Study of Compton broadening due to electron-photon scattering
Authors: Srinivasa Rao
Published: July 2010

We have investigated the effects of Compton broadening due to electron-photon scattering in hot stellar atmospheres. A purely electron-photon scattering media is assumed to have plane parallel geometry with an input radia?tion field localized on one side of the slab. The method is based on the discrete space theory of radiative transfer for the intensity of emitted radiation. The solution is developed to study the importance of scattering of radiation by free electrons in high temperature stellar atmospheres which produces a brodening and shift in spectral lines because of the Compton effect and the Doppler effect arising from mass and thermal motions of scattering electrons. It is noticed that the Comptonized spectrum depends on three parameters: the optical depth of the medium, the temperature of the thermal electrons and the viewing angle. We also showed that the Compton effect produces red shift and asymmetry in the line. These two effects increase as the optical depth increases. It is also noticed that the emergent specific intensities become completely asymmetric for higher optical depths.
Calculation of velocity dispersion of the nearby galaxies using different stellar template libraries
Authors: Lalovic Ana
Published: July 2010

We present the central velocity dispersion measurements of the nearby galaxies from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS). Using the sample from the paper by Ho et al. 2009, we have selected 23 galaxies for which we calculate the velocity dispersion. We have used the Penalized Pixel-Fitting code (Cappellari and Emsellem2004) to measure the velocity dispersion throughout the four chosen spectral regions: (3800,4568)?A, (4568,5336)?A, (5336,6104) and (6104,6872)?A. In all these regions, we have separately calculated dispersions and corresponding errors. We found that the measured values may vary with the change of spectral region, but, if weighted properly with the measure of the goodness of the fit, the final results will be shifted coloser to those for the best fitting regions. We have also tested how the use of different spectral libraries (Miles, Valdes and Elodie databases) influences measurements and we showed that they do not affect measurements much. However, Elodie stellar library introduces the smallest errors in the velocity dispersion and it is the most stable throughout all four spectral regions. For these reasons it should be used preferentially when dealing with the SDSS spectra. We compare the results with the above mentioned paper and find a reasonable agreement. The agreement with the dispersions available in the HyperLeda database is very poor. The best agreement is obtained with SDSS measurements. We believe that our measurements are useful since SDSS velocity dispersions measurements are not available for many galaxies and the method of calculation of the velocity dispersion outlined in this work enables calculation of velocity dispersion for any galaxy. Of course, spectra with signal-to-noise ratio below 20 should be taken with caution.
The proximities of asteroids and critical points of the distance function
Authors: Milisavljevic Slavisa
Published: July 2010

The proximities are important for different purposes, for example to evaluate the risk of collisions of asteroids or comets with the Solar-System planets. We describe a simple and efficient method for finding the asteroid proximities in the case of elliptical orbits with a common focus. In several examples we have compared our method with the recent excellent algebraic and polynomial solutions of Gronchi (2002, 2005).
CCD measurements of double and multiple stars at NAO Rozhen. IV
Authors: Cvetkovic Zorica , Pavlovic R. , Boeva S.
Published: July 2010

Using the 2 m telescope of the Bulgarian National Astronomical Observatory at Rozhen observations of 30 double or multiple stars were carried out during two half nights on July 20 and 21, 2009. This is the fourth series of measurements of CCD frames of double and multiple stars obtained at Rozhen. In this paper we present the results for the position angle and separation for 23 double and 5 multiple stars (35 pairs) which could have been measured.
The Influence of Flower Structures on the Seeds Productivity of the Carrot Breeding Lines
Authors: Dyki Barbara , Nowak Renata , Stępowska Anna
Published: July 2010

The Influence of Flower Structures on the Seeds Productivity of the Carrot Breeding Lines

The aim of the study was to examine the morphological diversity of flowers of male-sterile (CMS) and male-fertile breeding lines of carrot and its influence on seed setting.

In examined male-sterile carrot population stamens are transformed into petal-like structures of different shapes. It was observed that in some anther-like structures sporogenic tissue degenerates. It is supposed that decrease of seeds productivity of carrot breeding lines could be caused by morphological abnormalities of mother and father-parental flowers. Degeneration of pollen, the absence of endothecium, which is responsible for opening the anthers and growth of pollen tubes on the external area of the pistil, decreasing the number of functional pollen influence negatively fertilization. Moreover, other specific traits of male-sterile mother plants, as reduction of nectaries size, pistils deformation, ovule and embryo degeneration also inhibit process of seed setting. The lowest amount of seeds produced plants with multiple stigma pistils and nectaries deformations. Male-sterile plants with white flower petals, big nectaries, exposed, doubled pistils and big ovaries produced more seeds than the other mother plants.
Tomato Carrying MI-1.2 Gene as a Host-Plant to the Two-Spotted Spider Mite (Tetranychus urticae Koch): Results of Laboratory Evaluation
Authors: Godzina Monika , Kiełkiewicz Małgorzata , Szymczykiewicz Katarzyna
Published: July 2010

Tomato Carrying MI-1.2 Gene as a Host-Plant to the Two-Spotted Spider Mite (Tetranychus urticae Koch): Results of Laboratory Evaluation

Mi-1.2 gene contributes to the resistance of tomato plants against some species of herbivores (i.e. nematodes, aphids) that are sap-feeders. In this study, two genotypes of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L. syn. Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) plants with dominant (Motelle cv) and recessive (Moneymaker cv) Mi-1.2 alleles were evaluated as a host-plant to the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae Koch, Acari: Tetranychidae). Plants were grown under glasshouse conditions. The effect of tomato genotypes on T. urticae bionomy was estimated on cut leaflets in controlled photoperiod, temperature and humidity (L/D=16/8 h; D/N temp.=23/20°C; RH=70%). Results of laboratory evaluation showed that both the bionomy and population parameters of T. urticae reached a very similar or even higher value on plants with dominant Mi-1.2 allele than on plants with recessive one. A relatively high value of T. urticae parameters on plants resistant to root knot nematodes indicates that the mite has potential to develop rapidly. This allows the mite population to reach the density causing marked damage to plant in a short time. It is concluded that the presence of Mi-1.2 gene product in tomato plants does not significantly affect the reproductive potential of T. urticae. Therefore, Mi-1.2 gene cannot be a satisfying source of plant resistance to this mite-herbivore generalist.
Humic Acid Decreased Hazardous of Cadmium Toxicity on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)
Authors: Haghighi Maryam , Kafi M. , Fang P. , Gui-Xiao L.
Published: July 2010

Humic Acid Decreased Hazardous of Cadmium Toxicity on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)

The binding of Cd to humic acid was studied. The influence of a Cd-humic complex on enzyme activities (superoxide dismutases, peroxidases), availability of Cd, and biomass compared with the behavior of no treatment (control). It was examined through a hydroponics system in lettuce. Treatments were: control (no additions), humic acid (0, 100 and 1000 mg·L-1), and Cd (0, 2 and 4 mg·L-1). Enzyme activities increased significantly with increasing rates of cadmium. A significant increase (P<0.05) in cadmium content of leaves result in a considerable decrease in the biomass (P<0.05). It can be concluded that the humic acid applied in the media led to a decrease the metal adsorption by plant. This material can be used to reduce the availability and mobility of heavy metals in the soils, too.
Effect of Potassium Foliar Nutrition on Changes in the Content of Carotenoid Pigments and on Some Parameters of the Nutritional Value of Tomato Fruit
Authors: Jędrszczyk Elżbieta
Published: July 2010

Effect of Potassium Foliar Nutrition on Changes in the Content of Carotenoid Pigments and on Some Parameters of the Nutritional Value of Tomato Fruit

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of potassium foliar nutrition on changes in the content of carotenoid pigments and on some parameters of the nutritional value of tomato fruit. The experiments were conducted on three tomato cultivars: Faustine F1, Atut F1 and Magnus F1. All trial plots with plants were additionally fertilized with 0.3% Final K and 0.3% Kalisol whilst in the control plots no foliar nutrition with potassium was applied. The chemical composition of tomato fruit depended on two factors: tomato cultivar and fertilization method and differed from year to year of investigation. In 2005 neither the cultivar nor the foliar fertilization affected the level of β-carotene while the fertilization with Final K resulted in the increase of lycopene content compared with the control. In 2006 and 2007 the fruits from treatments fertilized with Kalisol had significantly higher content of β-carotene and lycopene in compareson with those treated with Final K. The obtained results do not clearly show the effect of potassium foliar fertilization on the increase of dry matter, sugars or acids contant in tomatoes. Foliar fertilization with Kalisol increased the content of L-ascorbic acid in tomatoes in 2005 and 2007. In 2006 the content of this acid in fruit treated with Kalisol was at the same level as untreated plants but higher in plants treated with Final K. The effect of foliar nutrition with potassium had a variable influence on the level of the investigated macroelements (K, P, Ca, Mg). The content of β-carotene was positively correlated with the content of phosphorus and negatively correlated with the acidity of fruit.
Changes of Physical and Chemical Traits of Roots of Different Carrot Cultivars Under Cold Store Conditions
Authors: Gajewski Marek , Szymczak Paweł , Danilcenko Honorata
Published: July 2010

Changes of Physical and Chemical Traits of Roots of Different Carrot Cultivars Under Cold Store Conditions

The objective of this three-year study, performed in 2006-2008, was to determine the influence of long-term cold storage on some physical and chemical parameters influencing nutritive and biological value of carrots of different storage root colours and shapes. Eight carrot cultivars were chosen for the experiment: Perfekcja, Interceptor F1, Vita Longa, Nebula F1, Purple Haze F1, Deep Purple F1, Mello Yello F1 and White Satin F1. Quality parameters of the carrots, including CIE L*a*b* colour parameters of the whole roots and juice, root firmness (with HPE firmness tester), dry matter, soluble solids, sugars, total phenolics, total carotenoid, antioxidant activity of the whole roots and juice (with DPPH method), were determined directly after harvest and after 6-month storage of the roots at 0-1°C and 97% RH. The results showed significant influence of the storage on most of the quality traits of the roots, particularly colour, firmness, soluble solids and phenolics content. These changes were also related to the cultivars. Storage of the carrot roots caused a decrease in their firmness. Soluble solids and sugars content showed a tendency to increase during the storage period. Storage of the carrots resulted in decreasing nitrates content and increasing phenolics and carotenoid compounds content in the roots. Antioxidant activity of carrot juice showed small increasing tendency resulting from the storage of the roots, but antioxidant activity of the roots decreased.