bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alkaline disinfection of urban wastewater and landfill leachate by wood fly ash
Authors: Ivanković Tomislav , Hrenović Jasna , Itskos Grigorios , Koukouzas Nikolaos , Kovačević Davor , Milenković Jelena
Published: January 2015

Wood fly ash is an industrial by-product of the combustion of different wood materials and is mostly disposed of as waste on landfills. In our preliminary experiments, wood ash exhibited antibacterial activity against urban wastewater bacteria and we focused on wood fly ash as a potential substrate for wastewater disinfection. The addition of ash at a concentration of 10 g L-1 (1 %) caused an instant increase of pH in urban wastewater and landfill leachate. High pH (10.1-12.7) inactivated bacterial populations in the wastewater and the removal of faecal coliforms and intestinal enterococci after 6 h of contact was 100 % (below the detection limit; <1 CFU per mL) with the most efficient ash sample (ash from combustion of beech) both in urban wastewater and landfill leachate. Properly chosen wood fly ash, i.e. one that tends to increase the pH to the greatest extent, proved to be a very effective disinfection substrate. Considering that water treated with wood ash has a high pH and needs to be neutralised before discharge, ash would be suitable for disinfection of leachates when smaller volumes are treated
Pericardial effusion as the first manifestation of occupational tuberculosis in a health care worker
Authors: Flego Veljko , Lender Dubravka Matanić , Bulat-Kardum Ljiljana
Published: January 2015

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease and, apart from protecting patients, attention must be given to protecting the persons who come in contact with them, especially nurses and medical practitioners. A 43-yearold immunocompetent male nurse developed occupationally disseminated TB after contact with patients affected by active TB (culture positive) while working in a psychiatric hospital. The first manifestation of the disease was exudative pericarditis with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MT) confirmed two months after pericardiocentesis and evacuation of 1200 mL of pericardial effusion. Many lymph nodes showed histologic findings of granulomatous inflammation with necrosis. Treatment with antituberculosis drugs caused complications, including transient short-term medication-induced toxic hepatitis, prolonged fever, left pleural nonspecific effusion, and mononeuritis of the right peroneus nerve. The treatment lasted 14 months and led to permanent consequences, including fibrothorax with restrictive ventilation disorders and reduced diffusion of the alveolar-capillary membrane. This case highlights the need to improve the protection of health care workers who are in contact with TB patients, as well as the usefulness of the tuberculin skin test and QuantiFERON-TB test, which can be used to identify early latent TB
Sex-, tissue-, and exposure duration-dependent effects of imidacloprid modulated by piperonyl butoxide and menadione in rats. Part I: oxidative and neurotoxic potentials
Authors: Yardimci Mustafa , Sevgiler Yusuf , Rencuzogullari Eyyup , Arslan Mehmet , Buyukleyla Mehmet , Yilmaz Mehmet
Published: January 2015

Earlier research has evidenced the oxidative and neurotoxic potential of imidacloprid, a neonicotinoid insecticide, in different animal species. The primary aim of this study was to determine how metabolic modulators piperonyl butoxide and menadione affect imidacloprid’s adverse action in the liver and kidney of Sprague-Dawley rats of both sexes. The animals were exposed to imidacloprid alone (170 mg kg-1) or in combination with piperonyl butoxide (100 mg kg-1) or menadione (25 mg kg-1) for 12 and 24 h. Their liver and kidney homogenates were analysed spectrophotometrically for glutathione peroxidase, glutathione S-transferase, catalase, total cholinesterase specific activities, total glutathione, total protein content, and lipid peroxidation levels. Imidacloprid displayed its prooxidative and neurotoxic effects predominantly in the kidney of male rats after 24 h of exposure. Our findings suggest that the observed differences in prooxidative and neurotoxic potential of imidacloprid could be related to differences in its metabolism between the sexes. Co-exposure (90-min pre-treatment) with piperonyl butoxide or menadione revealed tissue-specific effect of imidacloprid on total cholinesterase activity. Increased cholinesterase activity in the kidney could be an adaptive response to imidacloprid-induced oxidative stress. In the male rat liver, co-exposure with piperonyl butoxide or menadione exacerbated imidacloprid toxicity. In female rats, imidacloprid+menadione co-exposure caused prooxidative effects, while no such effects were observed with imidacloprid alone or menadione alone. In conclusion, sex-, tissue-, and duration-specific effects of imidacloprid are remarkable points in its toxicity
Cathelicidin – Its Structure, Function and the Role in Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Polcyn-Adamczak Magdalena , Niemir Zofia I.
Published: January 2015

Antimicrobial peptides are widely distributed in nature, and they are found in both Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes. Due to their characteristics, structure, functions and mode of action, they are divided into several groups. The only member of this family occurring in humans is cathelicidin - LL-37. It is produced as an inactive hCAP18 propeptide. The propeptide’s C-terminal fragment becomes a mature peptide subsequently to its enzymatic cleavage. LL-37 contains 37-amino acid residues, folds into α-helical structure and has amphipathic properties. Cathelicidin mechanism of action consists in the binding of LL-37 to the bacterial phospholipid membrane until a threshold concentration is reached, followed by the cytoplasm disintegration and leakage, and, finally, cell death. The peptide is expressed in several cells, for instance in the epithelial cells of testis, keratinocytes in the skin, leukocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, as well as T, B, and NK cells. Cathelicidin is a multifunctional molecule. It can serve as a mediator in inflammatory processes and/or as a natural antibiotic against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It is chemotactic for mononuclear cells, neutrophils, eosinophils, mast cells and T lymphocytes. LL-37 induces expression of chemokines, neutralises endotoxins, stimulates angiogenesis and apoptosis, as well as it boosts wound healing. Recent data have revealed an important role of LL-37 in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus due to an impaired degradation of components in the neutrophil extracellular traps
DTA and DSC study on the effect of mechanical dispersion on poly(tetrafluorethylene) properties
Authors: Dumitraşa Mihai
Published: January 2015

Poly(tetrafluorethylene) particles were obtained by mechanical processing of the formed polymer (Teflon bar). In order to assess the effect of mechanical wear on polymer properties, their melting and crystallization behaviour was investigated by DSC and DTA, and the results were compared to the ones obtained for the native polymer. An increase of the crystallinity degree and an accentuated decrease of the average molecular weight were found for the samples submitted to mechanical wear, as a result of mechanical degradation of the polymer
Polyvinyl alcohol/chitosan/montmorillonite nanocomposites preparation by freeze/thaw cycles and characterization
Authors: Părpăriţă Elena , Cheaburu Cătălina N. , Pațachia Silvia Florica , Vasile Cornelia
Published: January 2015

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CS) based hydrogels are often chosen to obtain hydrogels as being considered non-toxic for human body. The present study aims the preparation and physical chemical characterisation of hydrogels based PVA and CS by using an environmental friendly method i.e. freeze/thaw. In this method the only parameters affecting the hydrogels’ properties is the PVA concentration in solution, time and number of cycles of freezing / thawing. Repeated freezing and thawing cycles resulted in production of a highly elastic polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel with higher degree of crystallization. Adding chitosan in polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel is giving to the newly formed material, biocompatibility and antibacterial properties due to the free amino groups of chitosan. Higher mechanical and thermal characteristics of PVA/CS based hydrogels were obtained by addition of a small amount of inorganic nanoparticles (montmorillonite clay, C30B) into the matrix (i.e. 1%). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), near-infrared chemical imaging spectroscopy (NI-CI), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TG), swelling and rheological measurements were used to characterize the polyvinyl alcohol/chitosan/montmorillonite properties. The swelling degree increased with decreasing chitosan content in hydrogels and the variation is opposite in nanocomposites, decreasing after introducing the nanoclay. The swelling behaviour was influenced by the presence of the nanoparticles. The plasticizer effect of the nanoparticles was reflected by obtaining a more compact hydrogel network with higher mechanical and thermal properties. The proposed materials can be a promising alternative in biomedical applications
Non-parametric kinetic analysis of thermogravimetric data for the thermal degradation of poly(tetrafluorethylene)
Authors: Dumitraşa Mihai
Published: January 2015

Thermal degradation of Teflon was investigated by thermoanalytical methods (TG and DTA). In the kinetic analysis of the experimental data, the NPK method proves to be a valuable tool, allowing for some new kinetic aspects of the degradation process to be obtained. Analysis of the computed isothermal and isoconversional vectors provided some insight into the reaction kinetics. Two different initiation pathways were suggested to control the global degradation kinetics, their relative contribution being temperature-dependant
Biocomposites obtained from wood saw dust using ionic liquids
Authors: Croitoru Catalin , Patachia Silvia
Published: January 2015

The paper presents a new method of wood composites obtaining, as a potential alternative to traditional non-ecological processes involving the use of phenol-based resins. The novelty of the method consists in using only two components, namely wood and an alkylimidazolium chloride ionic liquid. A fraction of wood sawdust dissolves in the ionic liquid, and by water addition it precipitates, acting as a natural binder for the remaining wood particles. FTIR and XRD spectroscopy analysis confirmed the presence of the dominating amorphous cellulose II anomer in the structure of the wood composites. By comparing to the reference, the obtained composites present lower wettability and higher resistance to compression
Detection of Several Virulence Properties, Antibiotic Resistance and Phylogenetic Relationship in E. Coli Isolates Originated from Cow Mastitis
Authors: Seyda Cengiz , Gökçen Dinç , Ünlü Söğüt Mehtap
Published: January 2015

Cow mastitis caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli) exhibits various local and systemic clinical signs at varying degrees of severity. The aim this study was to elucidate the virulence properties, antibiotic resistance and phylogenetics of 56 E. coli strains. Of all the studied strains, 12 were positive for hemolytic properties and 38 were positive for biofilm production. Additionally, 55 of the strains were positive for multiple resistances in bacteriological tests. PCR analysis revealed that 42 strains carried the traT gene, 20 strains had the shiga toxin gene (stx1-stx2), and 8 strains carried the intimin gene (eae), but all strains were negative for aerobactin gene (aer). All strains encoding shiga toxin genes were also positive for stx1, but only 4 strains were positive for stx2. There were no significant differences in virulence genes between antibiotic-resistant and antibiotic-susceptible strains. The random amplifi ed polymorphic DNA-polymerase chain reaction patterns revealed the existence of 13 main groups with 4 subgroups of E. coli. In this study, E. coli strains causing intramammary infections and originating from various sources might show resistance against common antibiotics. Pathogenity of E. coli that cause clinical mastitis, and prognosis of the infection might be predicted by obtaining the traT gene. Additionally, antibiotic resistance should be investigated at the genomic level to detect the relationship between virulence factors and antibiotic resistance. In field conditions, development of antibiotic resistance is the main cause of mastitis treatment failure. Thus, antibiotic resistance profiles in herds should be monitored and effective antibiotics should be administered
Influence of Epinephrine and Medetomidine on Systemic Absorption of Lidocaine Applied Epidurally in Anesthetized Swine
Authors: Marija Lipar , Rajka Turner , Berislav Radišić , Lovorka Grgurević , Igor Erjavec , Nataša Brajenović , Irena Brčić Karačonji , Marko Samardžija , Dražen Vnuk
Published: January 2015

Epinephrine and alpha 2 agonist drugs are often used with epidural anesthesia to minimize local anesthetic systemic absorption, as well as to prolong the duration of the block. The aim of the current study was to determine by which extent epinephrine and medetomidine influenced lidocaine systemic absorption rate following epidural application. This was achieved by monitoring the serum lidocaine concentration in a porcine model. During general anesthesia, the first group received epidurally plane lidocaine, the second received lidocaine containing epinephrine (1 : 80.000), and the third lidocaine with medetomidine (15 μg/kg). Venous blood samples were taken before and 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60 and 90 minutes following epidural administration of the anesthetic. The effects of epinephrine and medetomidine were comparable. They both failed to cause a significant decrease in serum lidocaine concentration (p>0.05). In these settings we were unable to demonstrate a greater capacity of these two adrenergic agonists for reducing lidocaine systemic uptake and, accordingly, its systemic toxicity potential.
Classical Swine Fever: Active Immunisation of Piglets with Subunit (E2) Vaccine in the Presence of Different Levels of Colostral Immunity (China Strain)
Authors: Jasna Prodanov-Radulović , Radoslav Došen , Vladimir Polaček , Tamaš Petrović , Igor Stojanov , Radomir Ratajac , Miroslav Valčić
Published: January 2015

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of the subunit vaccine against virulent CSF infection in piglets deriving from sows vaccinated with China strain. The experimental research included 34 piglets aged 45 days (13 naïve and 21 piglets originating from sows immunized with China strain CSFV). Three experimental groups consisting of seven animals each were formed based on serological examination of piglets aged 40 days. At the age of 45 days, the piglets were vaccinated with a subunit vaccine. After revaccination, the piglets were challenged with a virulent CSFV strain. With the aim of controlling virus shedding, two susceptible piglets were introduced into each group. After challenge, clinical monitoring of animals was performed, and blood samples were obtained to detect viremia and the presence of antibodies against CSF. The control of CSFV shedding by vaccinated, artificially infected piglets was performed by RT-PCR analysis of oropharyngeal and rectal swabs. After death or sacrifice of the animals, autopsy was performed along with the gross pathological examination and tissue sampling with the purpose of determining the presence and distribution of CSFV (ELISA and RT-PCR). Application of the subunit vaccine in piglets originating from sows vaccinated with China-strain resulted in a good active immune response. Following challenge virus shedding was confirmed, but without contact infection in susceptible animals in cohabitation. The results indicate that the subunit vaccine may have a potential application in the control of CSF in enzootic regions.
Seroprevalence of Cat Leptospirosis in Belgrade (Serbia)
Authors: Sonja Obrenović , Sonja Radojičić , Nataša Stević , Danica Bogunović , Slobodanka Vakanjac , Miroslav Valčić
Published: January 2015

With its epizootiological characteristics, the territory of the municipality of Belgrade city is a potentially important locality for the maintenance and spreading of a number of serovars of Leptospira interrogans. In order to evaluate the epizootiological situation as far as animal leptospirosis in the Belgrade region is concerned, from January 2012 until June 2013 the prevalence of cat leptospirosis has been evaluated. The standard microagglutination test (MAT) was used to determine animals sero positive to different serovars that belong to L. interrogans sensu lato complex. The antigens used were: Icterohaemorrhagiae, Grippotyphosa, Pomona, Canicola, Bratislava, Batavie, Sejroe, Pyrogenes, Australis and Autumnalis. Out of the total number of tested animals, there were 43 (26.7%) positive to one, two or three serovar(s). Out of a total of 43 positive sera 20 (46.5%) samples were positive to more than one leptospira serovar
Inulin Diet Intervention on Chemopreventive and Inflammatory Markers in Tumorigenesis of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Emília Hijová , Viktoria Szabadosova , Jana Štofilová , Rastislav Salaj , Alojz Bomba
Published: January 2015

The aim of this experiment was to investigate the infl uence of inulin administration on chemopreventive and inflammatory markers in dimethylhydrazine induced colorectal cancer development in rats. A group of 30 Sprague-Dawley rats was divided into a control group (CG), a group with dimethylhydrazine (DMH), and a group given dimethylhydrazine combined with the prebiotic (DMH+PRE). Dimethylhydrazine injection significantly (p<0.001) elevated the immunoreactivity chemopreventive markers COX-2, NFκB, iNOS, elevated serum and jejunal mucosa levels of proinfl ammatory cytokine IL-2, and decreased serum and jejunal mucosa levels of regulatory cytokine IL-10. Inulin diet intervention significantly suppressed immunoreactivity of COX- 2, NFκB, iNOS positive cells in the tunica mucosae and tela submucosae of rat colon tissue, increased levels of IL-2 and decreased levels of IL-10. By determining the chemopreventive markers COX-2, iNOS and NFkB, which can be characterized as inflammatory markers, we confirmed the presence of inflammation in the colon as the number of COX-2, NFkB and iNOS immunoreactive cells was significantly higher after DMH application than in the control group. These findings indicate that dietary intake of inulin suppressed the expression of the observed markers, which play an important role in carcinogenesis and inflammation, which predispose the use of inulin in the prevention or treatment of human chronic diseases and its use as a nutritional supplement in veterinary medicine.
Oxidative Stress, Skin Aging and Antioxidant Therapy / Oksidacioni Stres, Starenje Kože I Antioksidaciona Terapija
Authors: Stojiljković Dragana , Pavlović Dušica , Arsić Ivana
Published: January 2015

Skin aging is a dynamic process that occurs due to chronological and photo-aging caused by the influence of external factors, especially ultraviolet-UV radiation. Cumulative oxidative stress, formation of free radicals and their adverse effects on biological systems in the skin cells is a common mechanism of both skin aging processes. The formed reactive oxygen species-ROS can lead to the oxidation of cell`s building molecules. Lipid peroxidation, membrane protein damage and DNA mutation may lead to many structural, functional and aesthetic changes in the skin and can also initiate development of many diseases.

One of the skin defense mechanisms is antioxidant defense where enzymes and other antioxidant substances react directly with ROS, preventing them from reaching their biological target. Antioxidant substances have the ability to bind free radicals, caused by oxidative stress, and may have significance in prevention and/or therapy of various skin diseases, as well as in slowing the skin aging process. Topical application of antioxidants, such as vitamin C and E, coenzyme Q10 and polyphenolic compounds may provide the strengthening of the skin endogenous protection system and protection from harmful effects of ROS and oxidative damage to the skin.

This article outlines the impact of oxidative stress on the chronological and photo- aging, its mechanism of action, the changes that occur on/in the skin during the aging process. Substances with antioxidant characteristics, which can be used in the prevention of chronological and/or treatment of photo-aging of the skin are shown.
The Rectifying Developable and Rectifying Gaussian Surface of Curves in Pseudo-Galilean Geometry
Authors: Şahin Tevfik , Yilmaz Murteza
Published: January 2015

In this paper, we give the classification of the singularities of pseudo- Galilean spherical Darboux image, rectifying Gaussian surface and the rectifying developable of curve in pseudo-Galilean space. We also establish the relationships between the singularities and geometric invariants of curves which are deeply related to its order of contact with pseudo-Galilean helices.
Permutative Renamings in the Extended Fraenkel-Mostowski Set Theory
Authors: Alexandru Andrei , Ciobanu Gabriel
Published: January 2015

In the new framework of the extended Fraenkel-Mostowski set theory, we define an extended interchange function as an action on a permutation group, and a new notion of permutative renaming by generalizing an existing notion of finitary permutative renaming. Some algebraic and combinatorial properties of permutative renamings expressed by using the Fraenkel-Mostowski axioms remain valid in the new framework even if we replace one axiom with a weaker axiom.
Fractional Order Pettis Integral Equations with Multiple Time Delay in Banach Spaces
Authors: Benchohra Mouffak , Mostefai Fatima-Zohra
Published: January 2015

This paper is devoted to study the existence of solutions under the Pettis integrability assumption for an integral equation of fractional order with multiple time delay in Banach space by using the technique of measure of weak noncompactness. Mathematics Subject Classification 2010: 26A33, 34A08.
Radical of a-Ideals in Mv -Modules
Authors: Forouzesh F. , Eslami E. , Borumand Saeid A.
Published: January 2015

In this paper, we introduce the notion of the radical of an ideal in MV - algebras. Several characterizations of this radical is given. We define the notion of a semi-maximal ideal in an MV -algebra and prove some theorems which give relations between this semi-maximal ideal and the other types of ideals in MV -algebras. Also we prove that A/I is a semi-simple MV -algebra if and only if I is a semi-maximal ideal of an MV -algebra A. The above notions are used to define the radical of A-ideals in MV -modules and investigate some properties. Mathematics Subject Classification 2010: 03B50, 03G25, 06D35
PROPERTY (Bgw) AND PERTURBATIONS
Authors: Rashid M.H.M. , Prasad T.
Published: January 2015

A Banach space operator T satisfies property (Bgw) if the complement in the approximate point spectrum σa(T) of the semi-B-essential approximate point spectrum σSHF+-(T) coincides with the set of isolated eigenvalues of T of Unite multiplicity E°(T). We find conditions for Banach Space operator tosatfafy the property (Bgw). We also study the stability of property (Bgw) under perturbations by nilpotent operators, by finite rank operators, by quasi-nilpotent operators and by Riesz operators commuting with T.
Characterizations of Spacelike Slant Helices In Minkowski 3-Space
Authors: Gök İ. , Nurkan S. Kaya , Ilarslan K. , Kula L. , Altinok M.
Published: January 2015

In this paper, we investigate tangent indicatrix, principal normal indicatrix and binormal indicatrix of a spacelike curve with spacelike, timelike and null principal normal vector in Minkowski 3-space E3 1 and we construct their Frenet equations and curvature functions. Moreover, we obtain some differential equations which characterize for a spacelike curve to be a slant helix by using the Frenet apparatus of spherical indicatrix of the curve. Also related examples and their illustrations are given. Mathematics Subject Classification 2010: 53A04, 53C50.
WPZI RINGS AND STRONG REGULARITY
Authors: Wei Junchao
Published: January 2015

In this paper, we study the strong regularity of left SF rings and obtain the following results: Let R be a left SF ring. If R satisfies one of the following conditions, then R is a strongly regular ring: 1) R is a left WPZI ring; 2) R is a right WPZI ring; 3) R is a right weakly semicommutative ring; 4) R is a semicommutative ring; 5) R is a reversible ring.
Positional Accuracy of Gps Satellite Almanac
Authors: Ma Lihua , Zhou Shangli
Published: January 2015

How to accelerate signal acquisition and shorten starting time are key problems in the Global Positioning System (GPS). GPS satellite almanac plays an important role in signal reception period. Almanac accuracy directly affects the speed of GPS signal acquisition, the start time of the receiver, and even the system performance to some extent. Combined with precise ephemeris products released by the International GNSS Service (IGS), the authors analyse GPS satellite almanac from the first day to the third day in the 1805th GPS week (from August 11 to 13, 2014 in the Gregorian calendar). The results show that mean of position errors in three-dimensional coordinate system varies from about 1 kilometer to 3 kilometers, which can satisfy the needs of common users.
Hydrological Impacts of Various Land Cover Types in the Context of Climate Change for Zala County
Authors: Csáki Péter , Kalicz Péter , Brolly Gábor Béla , Csóka Gergely , Czimber Kornél , Gribovszki Zoltán
Published: January 2015

The water balance of Zala County was analyzed using remote-sensing based actual evapotranspiration (ETA) (Kovacs 2011) and runoff (R) in the context of land cover types. The highest mean ETA rates were determined for water bodies (658 mm/year) and wetlands (622 mm/year). Forests have higher values than agricultural areas, and the lowest rates belong to artificial surfaces. Mean annual runoff is the largest on artificial surfaces (89 mm/year), and it decreases on the other land cover types. For climate change impact analysis a Budyko-model was used in spatially-distributed mode. The parameter of the Budyko-model (α) was calculated for pixels without surplus water. For the extra-water affected pixels a linear model with β-parameter (actual evapotranspiration / panevapotranspiration) was used. These parameters (α and β) can be used for evaluating future ETA and R in spatially-distributed mode. According to the predictions, the mean annual evapotranspiration may increase about 27 mm while the runoff may decrease to the one third to the present amount by end of the century
Detecting Trends in the Annual Maximum Discharges in the Vah River Basin, Slovakia
Authors: Jeneiová Katarína , Kohnová Silvia , Sabo Miroslav
Published: January 2015

A number of floods have been observed in the Slovak Republic in recent years, thereby raising awareness of and concern about flood risks. The paper focuses on the trend detection in the annual maximum discharge series in the Vah River basin located in Slovak Republic. Analysis was performed on data obtained from 59 gauging stations with minimum lengths of the observations from 40 years to 109 years. Homogeneity of the time series was tested by Alexandersson test for single shift at 5% level of significance. The Mann-Kendall trend test and its correction for autocorrelated data by Hamed and Rao (1998) were used to analyse the significance of detected changes in discharges. The series were analysed at different lengths of 40, 50, 60 years and whole observation period. Statistically significant rising and decreasing trends in the annual maximum discharge series were found in different regions of the Vah River catchments
Changes in Snow Storage in the Upper Hron River Basin (Slovakia)
Authors: Kotríková Katarína , Hlavčová Kamila , Fencík Róbert
Published: January 2015

An evaluation of changes in the snow cover in mountainous basins in Slovakia and a validation of MODIS satellite images are provided in this paper. An analysis of the changes in snow cover was given by evaluating changes in the snow depth, the duration of the snow cover, and the simulated snow water equivalent in a daily time step using a conceptual hydrological rainfall-runoff model with lumped parameters. These values were compared with the available measured data at climate stations. The changes in the snow cover and the simulated snow water equivalent were estimated by trend analysis; its significance was tested using the Mann-Kendall test. Also, the satellite images were compared with the available measured data. From the results, it is possible to see a decrease in the snow depth and the snow water equivalent from 1961-2010 in all the months of the winter season, and significant decreasing trends were indicated in the months of December, January and February
Effect of Roasting Conditions on Concentration in Elements of Vietnam Robusta Coffee
Authors: Van Cuong Tran , Hong Ling Liu , Kang Quan Guo , Jin Shang , Shu Jie Song , Le Linh Tran , Duc Tiep Tran
Published: January 2015

Vietnam Robusta Coffee was roasted at different roasting degree and roasting temperature and 9 element concentrations (K, Mg, Ca, Na, Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn and Pb) of roasted coffee were analyzed by Flame atomic absorption method (FAAS) in this study. The results showed that the concentrations were ranged in 1447.97 ~ 1342.10 (mg/100g), 768.22 ~ 1259.44 (μg/g),10.35 ~ 13.15 (μg/g), and 17.38 ~ 20.97 (μg/g) for element of K, Ca, Cu and Mn in green and roasted coffee beans, respectively. All determined elements were the smallest value in green coffee, then increased with increasing roasting level and reached the highest value in Spain roast (roasting temperature of 250°C). Mg concentration ranged in 682.70 ~ 3647.73 (μg/g); Fe concentration ranged in 37.20 ~ 53.44 (μg/g); Zn concentration ranged in 5.97 ~ 6.89 (μg/g) and Pb concentration ranged in 2.18 ~ 15.04 (μg/100g). Concentrations of all determined elements didn’t change with the increased roasting process.
Property Prediction of Dry Common Carp (Cyprinus Carpio) During Storage by Kinetic Model
Authors: Qian Lu , Giurgiulescu Liviu
Published: January 2015

Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is an important food resource in European and Asian countries. Nowadays, common carp after drying process is appreciated by the transportation agency and food industry because of its low transportation cost. Changes of acid value (AV), total bacterial count (TBC), and peroxide value (PV) were reported in this study. We found that the changes of AV, TBC and PV of dry common carp fitted the first order reaction model and the reaction energies of changes of AV, TBC, and PV during storage were 4.56 kJ/mol, 2.21 kJ/mol, and 2.33 kJ/mol, respectively. This study will provide theoretical knowledge to food factories relating with dry fish storage and transportation.
Milk and Dairy Products Labeling in Romania
Authors: Georgescu Cecilia , Ognean Claudia Felicia , Tita Ovidiu
Published: January 2015

The present communication contains research and experimental investigations regarding the labelling process of dairy products in tight relation with the national and European legislative requirements. Two methods have been used during the marketing research regarding the information present on the labels of alimentary products: the method based on documentation-observation and comparative analysis of data and information collected from the consume market in Sibiu. The method based on documentation and observation has been carried out using the observation sheet and contained the following analysis criteria: The name of the product, Country origin of the product (location of the producer). Synthesizing the results and the conclusions emerged as a result of the marketing research carried out with the purpose of contouring a labelling model of alimentary products, it can be stated that the dynamics of the alimentary products market in Romania is moderate and restrained by the economical and social factors and even by the still reduces promotion of a healthy alimentary education, with the complementary protection of human health and environment.
Generalized Modeling of the Human Lower Limb Assembly
Authors: Cofaru Ioana , Huzu Iulia
Published: January 2015

The main reason for creating a generalized assembly of the main bones of the lower human member is to create the premises of realizing a biomechanic assisted study which could be used for the study of the high range of varieties of pathologies that exist at this level. Starting from 3D CAD models of the main bones of the lower human member, which were realized in previous researches, in this study a generalized assembly system was developed, system in which are highlighted both the situation of an healthy subject and the situation of the situation of a subject affected by axial deviations. In order to achieve these purpose reference systems were created, systems that are in accordance with the mechanical axes and the anatomic axes of the lower member, which were later generally assembled in a manner that provides an easy customization option
Considerations on the Selection of Materials for Prosthetic Parts Obtained by Incremental Forming
Authors: Cotigă Carmen , Bologa Octavian , Deac Cristian
Published: January 2015

Incremental forming is a novel but promising procedure for the flexible manufacturing of parts starting from metal sheets. It could be very useful in the medical area and especially in orthopedic prosthetics, where each part needs to be very precisely made, but at the same time has to have a unique shape. In this context, the selection of the material that could best satisfy the manufacturing and usage requirements is very important. The current paper suggests a unified parameter that could be used for assessing the suitability of a specific material for the manufacturing, by incremental forming, of prosthetic parts that would be used in human surgery
Zeolite - A Natural Filter Material for Lead Polluted Water
Authors: Neamţu Corina Ioana , Pică Elena Maria , Rusu Tiberiu
Published: January 2015

Reducing the concentration of lead ions in a wastewater using zeolite has proven to be a successful water treatement method, all over the world. Putting the two media (solid and liquid) in contact in static conditions had good results regarding the concentration of the filtered solution, the pH and the electric conductivity, depending on the values of certain parameters such as the amount of the zeolite, volume of the solution or interaction time. The present study highlights the zeolite ability to retain the lead ions from a solution, in dynamic interaction conditions between the two environments, in a short interaction time. The results confirmed the effectiveness of ion exchange water treatment method in the conditions set, emphasizing once again the properties of the filter material - the zeolite
Augmented Reality a Review on Technology and Applications
Authors: Petruse Radu Emanuil , Bondrea Ioan
Published: January 2015

We present in this paper an overview of the concepts and potential industrial Augmented Reality applications that can be very efficient. We also present the basic technological requirements for an AR system
Light-Emitting Devices Based on New Phenanthroline Derivates
Authors: Prelipceanu Marius , Graur Adrian
Published: January 2015

An investigation of film forming properties, electrical characteristics, optical and electroluminescence properties of a recently synthesized pyrrolo[1,2-a][1,10]phenanthroline derivatives (RA) has been reported. The results indicate that these new materials can be used for manufacturing organic devices as lightemitting diodes. Various device structure and thickness have been considered in experiments. The poly(pphenylenevinylene)- PPV has been used as transporting layer while the RA as emitting layer. Good rectification behaviour with a switch-on voltage in range of 3 V and 7 V has been exhibited by these devices. Yellow-green light with of 96 cd⋅m-2 luminance has been found for the OLED based on the double layer structure 100 nm Indium Tin Oxide(ITO)/50 nm PPV/60 nm RA/100 nm Al
An Analysis Regarding the Possibility of Using Fuzzy Logic in Inventory Management
Authors: Stoia Claudiu-Leonardo
Published: January 2015

The paper presents a brief state-of-the-art survey regarding the use of fuzzy logic in inventory management. Its goal is to motivate enthusiastic entrepreneurs to take into account the benefits of using fuzzy logic inventory control systems. It offers a guide to model an inventory system having a free fuzzy tool as starting point
Considerations Regardingthe Integration-Intrication Processin the Nature and Technology
Authors: Tecaru Berekmeri Camelia Velia , Blebea Ioan
Published: January 2015

The big challenges in education and R&D activities in the century just started are related on the complexity and transdisciplinarity understanding and promotion.The approaches are necessary in order to understand the unity of the world we live in through the unity of knowledge.The complexity is the result of the integration process.The paper presents fundamentals of the integration-intrication process in the nature and technology.The concept of integronics and the basic principles of the integration process are outlined too. Also the main features of mechatronics as environment for transdisciplinarity learning and the concept of integral education promotion are presented.The advanced mechatronics and the embedded systems are fundamentals of the cyberphysical systems of the future
Improving Electrical Efficiency of Edm Power Supply
Authors: Toma Emanoil , Simion Carmen Mihaela
Published: January 2015

This paper briefly presents the principal types of Pulse Generators for Electrical Discharge Machining and ways to improve electrical efficiency. A resonant converter with series-parallel LCC circuit, for EDM applications, was analyzed by PSpice simulation. The performances of EDM Power Supply were improved by adding an energy recovering - voltage limiter circuit. The shape of current pulse was changed by adding a supplementary MOSFET Switch in parallel with the gap. Two or more converters can be parallelized, in this way output current can be changed. A bloc-schema was conceived for EDM experimental set up
The Ås Temperature Series in Southern Norway–Homogeneity Testing And Climate Analysis
Authors: Gjelten Herdis M. , Nordli Øyvind , Grimenes Arne A. , Lundstad Elin
Published: January 2015

Homogeneity is important when analyzing climatic long-term time series. This is to ensure that the variability in the time series is not affected by changes such as station relocations, instrumentation changes and changes in the surroundings. The subject of this study is a long-term temperature series from the Norwegian University of Life Sciences at Ås in Southern Norway, located in a rural area about 30 km south of Oslo. Different methods for calculation of monthly mean temperature were studied and new monthly means were calculated before the homogeneity testing was performed. The statistical method used for the testing was the Standard Normal Homogeneity Test (SNHT) by Hans Alexandersson. Five breaks caused by relocations and changes in instrumentation were identified. The seasonal adjustments of the breaks lay between -0.4°C and +0.5°C. Comparison with two other homogenized temperature series in the Oslo fjord region showed similar linear trends, which suggests that the long-term linear temperature trends in the Oslo fjord region are not much affected by spatial climate variation.
Spatial Differentiation Of Global Solar Radiation in Toruń And its Suburban Area (Central Poland) in 2012
Authors: Kejna Marek , Uscka-Kowalkowska Joanna , Araźny Andrzej , Kunz Mieczysław , Maszewski Rafał , Przybylak Rajmund
Published: January 2015

: This article investigates the spatial distribution of global solar radiation (K↓) in Toruń and its suburbs, observed in 2012. Measurements were taken at 12 points (7 within the city and 5 in the suburban area) using CNR4 net radiometers and automatic weather stations (Vantage Pro+). At all locations, the diurnal and annual courses of K↓ were typically related to the Earth’s rotational movement and changes in the sun’s declination over the year, and disturbed by clouds and atmospheric phenomena that enhance the extinction of solar radiation. A substantial spatial diversity of K↓ was observed in Toruń and its suburbs. The annual sum of K↓ at several urban locations accounted for over 70% of the solar radiation in the open space outside the city. The amount of incoming solar radiation in the urban area was more restricted in winter (<50%) than in summer (approx. 70%). The diurnal courses of K↓ were heavily disturbed by local obstacles which cast shadows (causing a considerable decrease of K↓), but there were instances of increases in K↓ (122%) augmented by radiation reflected from roofs, walls and windows surrounding the measurement point. The spatial diversity of K↓ in the urban area is heterogeneous, due to local meteorological conditions (cloudiness, fog, smog and airborne dust) and the obscuring of the horizon.
Water Temperature and its Diversity in the Deepest Lakes of the Tuchola Forest and the Kashubian and Brodnickie Lakelands
Authors: Skowron Rajmund , Piasecki Adam
Published: January 2015

This study presents the results of monthly examinations of the vertical distribution of water thermal structure (2008-2011) carried out over a four-year period in the deepest lakes located in the Kashubian and Brodnickie Lakelands and the Tuchola Forest1. Three lakes were selected for examination (Raduńskie Górne, Zbiczno and Ostrowite). Their maximum depths slightly exceed 40 m, and their surface areas range from 121 to 362.5 ha. The results of the measurements show that, despite only minor differences in depth, water temperature varied significantly between the studied lakes. These differences were mainly apparent in the extent of the epilimnion, water thermal stratification, and in the water temperature in the bottom-most layers in summer and winter. The diversity in thermal stratification of the lakes is mainly determined by their morphometric properties, their location above sea level, and the dynamic influences of winds.
Variability of Geological and Engineering Conditions in River Valleys: The Example of The Upper Vistula River Valley
Authors: Labak-Mechowska Ewa
Published: January 2015

Fluctuations in groundwater levels are usually associated with the seasonal variability of precipitation and evapotranspiration. This has an effect on the carrying capacity of soil and on foundation engineering structures in river valleys. The analysis concerns the example of the Upper Vistula River valley. It presents the geological, groundwater and geological engineering conditions of the researched area through seasonal variations in groundwater level. Based on the results of soil and groundwater analyses, a preliminary assessment was made of the bearing capacity and aggressiveness of the water. An analysis of steel and concrete construction elements was carried out. It was estimated that precipitation has an influence on the strength parameters of soil. With a rise of the groundwater table, physical and mechanical parameters deteriorate. However, a drop in the level of the groundwater table causes an improvement in the strength parameters of soil.
Body balance in a free-standing position in road and off-road cyclists
Authors: Hebisz Paulina , Hebisz Rafal , Zaton Marek
Published: January 2015

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare body balance in road and off-road cyclists, immediately before and after the racing season.

Material/Methods: Twenty individuals participated in the study and they were divided into two groups: specialists in road-cycling (n = 10) and in off-road cycling (n = 10). Immediately before and after the five-month racing season stabilographic trials were carried out (at rest and after progressive exercise). In assessing body balance the distance and velocity of the centre shifts (in the anterior-posterior and left-right direction) were analysed. The tests were performed with the cyclists’ eyes open, eyes closed, and in feedback.

Results: After the racing season, in the off-road cyclists’ group, distance and velocity of the centre of pressure shifts increased after a progressive exercise.

Conclusions: In the off-road cyclists’ group the balance of the body in the sagittal plane deteriorated after the racing season. Moreover, after the racing season off-road cyclists were characterized by a worse balance of the body, compared to road cyclists
Are changes in HSPA1A, HSPB1 and LDHb genes expression during physical performance ”till exhaustion” independent of their exercise possibility?
Authors: Jastrzebski Zbigniew , Zychowska Malgorzata
Published: January 2015

Background: The aim of the study was to designate changes in the expression of HSPA1A, HSPB1 and LDHb in elite rowers after completing a test “till exhaustion” on a rowing ergometer. Finally, we searched for the answer whether there are significant correlations between the expression of the genes and anaerobic threshold (AnT) or the maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max).

Material/Methods: The research was conducted on the sample of 9 Polish lightweight male rowers (23.7 ±3.77 yrs, 72.7 ±1.76 kg, 183.6 ±4.58 cm). To determine AnT and VO2max, the subjects performed the test “till exhaustion” with an increasing load on a rowing ergometer. Directly before and after the test, blood samples were collected from the ulnar vein in order to isolate genetic material. RNA was extracted from white cells of venous blood by the chemical method. 2 μg RNA for the reverse transcription was used and the expression of HSPA1A, HSPB1 and LDHb was determined by Real time PCR reaction. To assess the intensity of expression, the ΔΔCt method was used.

Results: The study showed an increased expression of HSPA1A and HSPB1 and a decreased one of LDHb. Moreover, post-training changes of the genes activity in white blood cells occurred immediately and could be determined directly after the termination of exertion.

Conclusions: No significant correlations between the expression of the genes and anaerobic threshold (AnT), maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) were stated
Underweight, overweight and obesity in boys and girls at the age of 7-18 years from the Podlaskie Province (Poland) in the years 1986 and 2006
Authors: Saczuk Jerzy , Wasiluk Agnieszka
Published: January 2015

Background: The objective of this study was to determine changes in the group size of girls and boys with proper BMI values and their peers with underweight, overweight and obesity in a twenty-year time span.

Material/Methods: In 1985 and 1986,20,353 boys and girls were examined, and 20 years later, 10,705 students. Measurements of body height and body mass were taken, which enabled calculating values of the Body Mass Index (BMI). The statistical significance of differences between mean values obtained in 1986 and 2006 was verified with Student’s test for independent variables. The statistical significance of differences between the number of girls and boys classified to each group in respect of the whole group surveyed in 1986 and 2006 was determined with the χ² test.

Results: The greatest generation changes in the mass-to-height proportions were noted in the youngest children from the Podlaskie Province. It was higher by 1.66% in pupils with 2

Conclusions: The results may suggest that a greater percentage of the young generation will be characterized by improper mass-to-height proportions