bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of numerical and experimental results of water -pipe wall interaction
Authors: Heidari Ali , Ghassemi Poria
Published: March 2015

Tube wall analysis on unsteady network flow of pipe shows that the column is separated when it reached to vapor pressure. In this study, we experiment dynamic behavior of fluid distribution pipe system. The model used in is a straight suspended pipe, which is striked by a solid steel bar. Then the results of pressure change in different parts of pipe has been studied and compared with valid results.
Expanding Downward: Innovation, Diffusion, and State Policy Adoptions of Universal Preschool
Authors: Curran F. Chris
Published: March 2015

Framed within the theoretical framework of policy innovation and diffusion, this study explores both interstate (diffusion) and intrastate predictors of adoption of state universal preschool policies. Event history analysis methodology is applied to a state level dataset drawn from the Census, the NCES Common Core, the Book of the States, and other sources. Significant predictors of policy adoption include greater Democratic control of the state legislature and the prolonged presence of a targeted preschool program. Regional proximity is not found to be a significant predictor of policy adoption. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.
Performance evaluation of common rail direct injection (CRDI) engine fuelled with Uppage Oil Methyl Ester (UOME)
Authors: Basavarajappa D.N. , Banapurmath N. R. , Khandal S.V. , Manavendra G.
Published: March 2015

For economic and social development of any country energy is one of the most essential requirements. Continuously increasing price of crude petroleum fuels in the present days coupled with alarming emissions and stringent emission regulations has led to growing attention towards use of alternative fuels like vegetable oils, alcoholic and gaseous fuels for diesel engine applications. Use of such fuels can ease the burden on the economy by curtailing the fuel imports. Diesel engines are highly efficient and the main problems associated with them is their high smoke and NOx emissions.  Hence there is an urgent need to promote the use of alternative fuels in place of high speed diesel (HSD) as substitute. India has a large agriculture base that can be used as a feed stock to obtain newer fuel which is renewable and sustainable. Accordingly Uppage oil methyl ester (UOME) biodiesel was selected as an alternative fuel. Use of biodiesels in diesel engines fitted with mechanical fuel injection systems has limitation on the injector opening pressure (300 bar). CRDI system can overcome this drawback by injecting fuel at very high pressures (1500-2500 bar) and is most suitable for biodiesel fuels which are high viscous. This paper presents the performance and emission characteristics of a CRDI diesel engine fuelled with UOME biodiesel at different injection timings and injection pressures. From the experimental evidence it was revealed that UOME biodiesel yielded overall better performance with reduced emissions at retarded injection timing of -10° BTDC in CRDI mode of engine operation.
Potential of Wind Energy in Albania and Kosovo: Equity Payback and GHG Reduction of Wind Turbine Installation
Authors: Qafleshi Mevlan , R. Kryeziu Driton , Aliko Lulezime
Published: March 2015

The energy generation in Albania is completely from the hydropower plants. In terms of GHG emissions this is 100% green. In Kosovo 97% of energy is generated from lignite fired power plants. Apart the energy generation, the combustion process emits around 8000 ktCO2/yr and 1.5 Mt of ash in the form of fly and bottom ash. In both countries there is no MWh power generated from wind energy, i.e. this energy source is not utilized. Here, a proposed project for five locations in Albania and Kosovo has been analyzed in detail with the aim of installing a 1kW wind turbine off-grid. The method of study is based on the application of RETScreen International program software. This proposed model is intended to replace a base case- a diesel generator with installed capacity 7kW.  The locations are selected three in Albania: Vlora, Korça and Elbasan, and two in Kosovo: Prishtina and Prizren. All are in different altitudes. By the calculation of RETScreen program, it has been analyzed the feasibility of the proposed projects by installing a wind turbine at hub’s height 20m. The climate data for each location were retrieved by the RETScreen program from NASA. Generally, the calculation of financial parameters for the investments came out to be positive, the impact of GHG reduction very significant. A 5500 USD investment for the implementation of proposed case showed an equity payback time of 2-3 yrs and GHG reduction of 2.2 tCO2/yr. The electricity delivery to load only from this 1 KW wind turbine resulted to be between 1.6-17 MWh/yr.
Energy Efficient Dryer with Rice Husk Fuel for Agriculture Drying
Authors: Djaeni M. , Asiah N. , Suherman S , Sutanto A. , Nurhasanah A.
Published: March 2015

Energy usage is crucial aspect on agriculture drying process. This step spends about 70% of total energy in post harvest treatment. The design of efficient dryer with renewable energy source is urgently required due to the limitation of fossil fuel energy. This work discusses the performance of air dehumidification using rice husk fuel as heat source for onion, and paddy drying. Unlike conventional dryer, the humidity of air during the drying was dehumidified by adsorbent. Hence, the driving force of drying can be  kept high.  As consequences, the drying time and energy usage can be reduced. Here, the research was conducted in two step: laboratory and pilot scale tests. Results showed that the lowering air humidity with rice husk fuel has improved the energy efficiency. At operational temperature 60oC, the heat efficiency of 75%  was achieved.
Direct Ethanol Production from Breadfruit Starch (Artocarpus communis Forst.) by Engineered Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation (ESSF) using Microbes Consortium
Authors: Farida Iftachul , Syamsu Khaswar , Rahayuningsih Mulyorini
Published: March 2015

Breadfruit (Artocarpus communis Forst.) is one of sources for ethanol production, which has high starch content (89%). Ethanol production from breadfruit starch was conducted by Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation (SSF) technology using microbes consortium. The aim of the research was to examine a method to produce ethanol by SSF technology using microbes consortium at high yield and efficiency. The main research consisted of two treatments, namely normal SSF and enginereed SSF. The results showed that normal SSF using aeration and agitation during cultivation could produce ethanol at 11.15 ± 0.18 g/L, with the yield of product (Yp/s) 0.34 g ethanol/g substrate; and yield of biomass (Yx/s) 0.29 g cell/g substrate, respectively. A better result was obtained using engineered SSF in which aeration was stopped after biomass condition has reached the end of the exponential phase. The ethanol produced was 12.75 ± 0.04 g/L, with the yields of product (Yp/s) 0.41 g ethanol/g substrate, and the yield of cell (Yx/s) 0.09 g cell/g substrate.
Characterization and Performance Test of Palm Oil Based Bio-Fuel Produced Via Ni/Zeolite-Catalyzed Cracking Process
Authors: Kadarwati Sri , Wahyuni Sri
Published: March 2015

Catalytic cracking process of palm oil into bio-fuel using Ni/zeolite catalysts (2-10% wt. Ni) at various reaction temperatures (400-500oC) in a flow-fixed bed reactor system has been carried out. Palm oil was pre-treated to produce methyl ester of palm oil as feedstock in the catalytic cracking reactions. The Ni/zeolite catalysts were prepared by wetness impregnation method using Ni(NO3)2.6H2O as the precursor. The products were collected and analysed using GC, GC-MS, and calorimeter. The effects of process temperatures and Ni content in Ni/zeolite have been studied. The results showed that Ni-2/zeolite could give a yield of 99.0% at 500oC but only produced gasoline fraction of 18.35%. The physical properties of bio-fuel produced in this condition in terms of density, viscosity, flash point, and specific gravity were less than but similar to commercial fuel. The results of performance test in a 4-strike engine showed that the mixture of commercial gasoline (petrol) and bio-fuel with a ratio of 9:1 gave similar performance to fossil-based gasoline with much lower CO and O2 emissions and more efficient combustion
Performance and Feasibility Analysis of a Grid Interactive Large Scale Wind/PV Hybrid System based on Smart Grid Methodology Case Study South Part – Jordan
Authors: H. Alsafasfeh Qais
Published: March 2015

Most recent research on renewable energy resources main one goal to make Jordan less dependent on imported energy with locally developed and produced solar power, this paper discussed the efficient system of Wind/ PV Hybrid System to be than main power sources for south part of Jordan, the proposed hybrid system design based on Smart Grid Methodology,  the solar energy will be installed on top roof of  electricity subscribers across the Governorate of Maan, Tafila, Karak and Aqaba and the wind energy will set in one site by this way the capital cost for project will be reduced also the  simulation result show   the feasibility  is a very competitive and feasible cost . Economics analysis of a proposed renewable energy system was made using HOMER simulation and evaluation was completed with the cost per kilowatt of EDCO company, the net present cost is $2,551,676,416, the cost of energy is 0.07kWhr with a renewable fraction of 86.6 %.
Optimum Tilt Angle at Tropical Region
Authors: Soulayman S , Sabbagh W
Published: March 2015

: One of the important parameters that affect the performance of a solar collector is its tilt angle with the horizon. This is because of the variation of tilt angle changes the amount of solar radiation reaching the collector surface. Meanwhile, is the rule of thumb, which says that solar collector Equator facing position is the best, is valid for tropical region? Thus, it is required to determine the optimum tilt as for Equator facing and for Pole oriented collectors. In addition, the question that may arise: how many times is reasonable for adjusting collector tilt angle for a definite value of surface azimuth angle? A mathematical model was used for estimating the solar radiation on a tilted surface, and to determine the optimum tilt angle and orientation (surface azimuth angle) for the solar collector at any latitude. This model was applied for determining optimum tilt angle and orientation in the tropical zones, on a daily basis, as well as for a specific period. The optimum angle was computed by searching for the values for which the radiation on the collector surface is a maximum for a particular day or a specific period. The results reveal that changing the tilt angle 12 times in a year (i.e. using the monthly optimum tilt angle) maintains approximately the total amount of solar radiation near the maximum value that is found by changing the tilt angle daily to its optimum value. This achieves a yearly gain in solar radiation of 11% to 18% more than the case of a solar collector fixed on a horizontal surface.
Modelling the Kinetics of Biogas Production from Mesophilic Anaerobic Co-Digestion of Cow Dung with Plantain Peels
Authors: Kayode Latinwo Ganiyu , Enahoro Agarry Samuel
Published: March 2015

This work investigated the effect of plantain peels as co-substrate in the anaerobic digestion of cow dung for efficient and high biogas production. The biogas experiments were carried out in two different 5 L anaerobic digesters and incubated for 40 days at ambient mesophilic temperatures (28 oC to 34 °C). The results showed that co-digestion of cow dung with plantain peels as co-substrate reduced start-up time for biogas generation and increased biogas yield by 18% as compared to cow dung alone. Peak biogas production was obtained for both digesters at pH of 6.7 and 6.9 as well as temperature of 29 and 30oC, respectively. Modelling study revealed that exponential plot simulated better in both ascending and descending limb than the linear plot the biogas production rates in biogas production from cow dung co-digested with plantain peels and cow dung alone, respectively. Logistic growth model and modified Gompertz plot showed better correlation of cumulative biogas production than exponential rise to maximum plot. These results show that biogas production can be enhanced efficiently through co-digestion process.
Variations of wave energy power in shoaling zone of Benin coastal zone
Authors: A. Houekpoheha Mathias , B. Kounouhewa Basile , T. Hounsou Joël , N. Tokpohozin Bernard , V. Hounguevou Jean , N. Awanou Cossi.
Published: March 2015

Today, we observe at the population level, that the improvement in comfort is accompanied by an increase in the electrical energy required. The predicted exhaustion of fossil energy resources maintains some speculation. Their unequal geographical distribution justifies the energy dependence of Benin overlooked from outside. So it is urgent to explore the various sources of renewable energy available to Benin. In this work, using measurements made ​​by the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA-Benin) as part of the extension of the port of Cotonou, with Boussinesq equations (Peregrine) and Stokes waves dispersion relation, we characterized the variations of various swell parameters (height, wavelength, velocities) in the shoaling zone on the study site and proceeded to estimate variations in wave energy power from deep waters to the bathymetric breaking point. Finally, the zone with high energy power (where the conversion of this energy into electrical energy would be profitable) of these waves is highlighted on the site, the local water depth at the point of breaking waves is evaluated and results obtained allowed to justify the very energetic character take by these swells on this coast when they are close to the beach.
Biodiesel Production From the Microalgae Nannochloropsis by Microwave Using CaO and MgO Catalysts
Authors: Hindarso Herman , Aylianawati Aylianawati , Edy Sianto Martinus
Published: March 2015

The needs of world petroleum are increased; in contrast, the fuel productions are getting decreased. Therefore, it has lead to the search for bio-fuel as an alternative energy. There are several different types of biofuel, such as biodiesel, ethanol, bioalcohol, and biogas. Biodiesel is typically made by chemically reacting lipids from a vegetable oil or animal fat with an alcohol producing fatty acid esters, such as methyl or ethyl ester. The present study aimed to study the effect of temperature (50, 60 and 65°C), reaction time (1 to 5 minutes) dan types of catalyst (CaO dan MgO of 1 and 3 %) in the production of biodiesel from microalgae by the transesterification process using microwave methods. It also studied the characteristics of biodiesel which had the greatest yield in the present study, i.e. flash point, cetane number, density, viscosity, and FAME. The greatest yield was 99.35% and obtained with combination of 3% MgO catalyst quantity at temperature of 60°C, in 3 minutes reaction time. At this process conditions, the biodiesel has a flash point of 122°C, cetane number of 55, density of  0.89, viscosity of 5 cP and FAME of 75.12 %.
Competitive Vices
Authors: Branco Fernando , Villas-Boas J. Miguel
Published: March 2015

In markets, firms must compete following a set of rules determined by laws, regulations, and social practices or pressures. This article investigates the effect of the degree of competition on the extent to which firms invest in behaving according to the rules of the marketplace. The authors model investments in following these rules as increasing the firm's marginal costs of production and decreasing its probability of being caught violating the market rules (and thus losing profits). They show that greater competition leads to smaller investments in following the market rules. This leads to (1) the existence of a social optimum degree of competition that is less than perfect competition and (2) more competition in general, thus prompting greater optimal monitoring efforts. Stricter market rules can lead to greater investments in satisfying the market rules and to lower production. The authors also present results on the likelihood of firms having broken the market rules depending on relative market shares, optimal monitoring, and the effect of dynamics on the incentives to satisfy the market rules.
Symphyotrichum ciliatum in Romania: trends of
spread and invaded plant communities
Authors: Sîrbu Culiţă , Ferus Peter , Eliaš Jr. Pavol , Samuil Costel , Oprea Adrian
Published: March 2015

Symphyotrichum ciliatum was reported as
invasive in Romania in the early 1970s. In this study we
have analysed its invasion history, current distribution
in Romania, habitat preferences and the associated plant
communities. Data recorded during our recent field work,
as well as from herbaria and previously published papers,
were used in the analysis. This data confirms its invasive
character. Given the abrupt increase in the slope of the
invasion curve during the last decade, we can assume that
S. ciliatum is still far from reaching the saturation phase of
its invasion in Romania. Habitats invaded by this species
are mostly anthropogenic herb stands associated with rail
and road transport networks, and the continental inland
salt steppes. The classical methodology of the Zürich-
Montpellier school was used for the field phytosociological
research and the classification of the investigated
communities was done using the deductive method. The
phytocoenoses dominated by S. ciliatum were classified
as derivate communities. The description of these
communities included data about plant composition,
synecology and distribution in the study area.
Activated hydrogen peroxide decolorization of a model azo dye-colored pulp
Authors: Walger Elsa , Rivollier Camille , Marlin Nathalie , Mortha Gérard
Published: March 2015

Recovered fibers are reused for manufacturing bright paper after deinking and fiber decolorization. This second process generally starts with an alkaline hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) stage, referred to as P. However, the color-stripping effect of P is often limited due to the low reactivity of H2O2on the azo groups of dyes. The purpose of this study was to improve the removal of these azo dyes by H2O2. A bleached kraft pulp was dyed with a model azo dye and submitted to activated H2O2bleaching. Phenanthroline and copper(II)-phenanthroline (Cu-Phen) served as activating compounds. The color-stripping trials were carried out at weak or conventional alkaline pH. The results were mainly evaluated in terms of dye removal index and degree of polymerization of cellulose. The theoretical composition of Cu-Phen in the bleaching conditions was calculated by means of the geochemical software PHREEQC. The results show that Cu-Phen was able to activate H2O2color stripping, although it was accompanied by additional cellulose degradation. Moreover, the color stripping was more effective under alkaline conditions, in which case CuPhen(OH)2would be present. Two hypotheses are proposed to explain this activated decolorization: a free radical mechanism and the influence of CuPhen(OH)2as an activating species.
Indium antimonide nanowires arrays for promising thermoelectric converters
Authors: Gorokh G. G. , Obukhov I. A. , Lozovenko A. A.
Published: March 2015

The authors have theoretically substantiated the possibility to create promising thermoelectric converters based on quantum wires. The calculations have shown that the use of quantum wires with lateral dimensions smaller than quantum confinement values and high concentration and mobility of electrons, can lead to a substantial cooling of one of the contacts up to tens of degrees and to the heating of the other. The technological methods of manufacturing of indium antimonide nanowires arrays with high aspect ratio of the nanowire diameters to their length in the modified nanoporous anodic alumina matrixes were developed and tested. The microstructure and composition of the formed nanostructures were investigated. The electron microscopy allowed establishing that within each pore nanowires are formed with diameters of 35 nm and a length of 35 microns (equal to the matrix thickness). The electron probe x-ray microanalysis has shown that the atomic ratio of indium and antimony in the semiconductor nanostructures amounted to 38,26% and 61,74%, respectively. The current-voltage measurement between the upper and lower contacts of Cu/InSb/Cu structure (1 mm2) has shown that at 2.82 V negative voltage at the emitter contact, current density is 129,8 À/ñì2, and the collector contact is heated up to 75 degrees during 150 sec. Thus, the experimental results confirmed the theoretical findings that the quantum wire systems can be used to create thermoelectric devices, which can be widely applied in electronics, in particular, for cooling integrated circuits (processors), thermal controlling of the electrical circuits by changing voltage value.
Physiologic aspects of designing hidden information systems based on visible optical radiation
Authors: Brailovskii V. V. , Rozhdestvenskaya M. G. , Pislar I. V. , Poshak O. V.
Published: March 2015

The paper presents the methodology and experimental results of the study of human eye sensitivity in central and peripheral vision field to the visible light pulses. The experimental results show that transmission systems based on visible rays can work in hidden mode. Conditions providing hidden transmission differ significantly for day and night light levels. At low light levels (at night) the non-perceptive nature of the pulsed light which is applied in the information transfer process should be used. In this case an optical transmitter is perceived as «usual» illuminant. In daylight, light pulse can be invisible at certain values of duration and frequency of the light pulses for central and peripheral vision. For example, light pulses with the duration of 5•10–6 s in the range from 20 to 200 Hz are «invisible».
CdZnTe- and TlBr-detectors response simulation for registration of the mixed beta- and gamma-radiation
Authors: Skrypnyk A. I.
Published: March 2015

One of the approaches for reconstructing the spectra of the mixed beta- and gamma-radiation, produced by wide band-gap semiconductor detectors, and the subsequent identification of radionuclides that are comprised in the mixture composition is a method based on various methods of spectral deconvolution. The presence of the detector response functions for each individual source of radiation is a key point in the studying such techniques. The response of TlBr- and CdZnTe-detectors to gamma-rays from 90Sr and 137Cs was simulated by Monte-Carlo method via Geant4 package. The computer experiments were conducted with using a -filter and without it. It was shown that optimal thickness of the Al -filter required for complete suppressing the conversion electrons in the 137Cs spectrum is 0.5 mm. The modification of 661.7 keV photopeaks with a using -filter was investigated.
Analysis of energy processes in pulse converters of AC electric power
Authors: Kadatsky A. F. , Rusu A. P.
Published: March 2015

The article presents the analysis of energy processes in switched-mode AC-AC converters of buck, boost and buck-boost types. The mathematical model of energy processes is obtained. The mathematical model is generalized to DC-DC and AC-AC converters, to three basic types of converters and considers possibility of autotransformer inclusion of an inductor.
It is shown that the use of bi-directional switches allows both DC and AC conversion of electrical energy regardless of the load type and also supports recuperation of electrical energy back to the source. It is shown that the maximum value of instant power in a load circuit in AC—AC converters exceeds twice the rated value of load power in comparison with DC—DC converters. It is shown that the energy capacity of an inductor in AC—AC converters exceeds twice the energy capacity of DC—DC converters at the identical rated power of conversion. It is shown that the energy capacity of an inductor in converters of buck and boost types depends on the ratio of input and output voltage. Also, the energy capacity of an inductor in converters of buck-boost type does not depend on the ratio of input and output voltage. It is shown that the energy capacity of an inductor in converters of buck and boost types is lower than the energy capacity of an inductor in the converter of buck-boost type.
Investigation of contact resistivity for Au—Ti—Pd—n-Si ohmic contacts for impatt diodes
Authors: Basanets V. V. , Slepokurov V. S. , Shinkarenko V. V. , Kudrik R. Ya. , Kudrik Ya. Ya.
Published: March 2015

Both contact resistivity of Au—Ti—Pd—n-Si ohmic contact and mechanism of current flow are studied in the 100—360 K temperature range. A method is proposed for reduction of error in determination of contact resistivity based on analysis of statistical dependences of the measured contact resistivity values (which are in the range of (0.9—2)•10–5 Ω•cm2). On the basis of the contact resistivity temperature dependence, it is found for an ohmic contact with barrier height of 0.22 eV that the field mechanism of current flow is predominant in the 100—200 K temperature range, while thermal-field emission with activation energy of 0.08 eV is predominant in the 200—360 K temperature range.
Statistical analysis and optimization of igbt manufacturing flow
Authors: Baranov V. V. , Borovik A. M. , Lovshenko I. Yu. , Stempitsky V. R. , Trung Tran Tuan , Shelibak Ibrahim
Published: March 2015

The use of computer simulation, design and optimization of power electronic devices formation technological processes can significantly reduce development time, improve the accuracy of calculations, choose the best options for implementation based on strict mathematical analysis. One of the most common power electronic devices is isolated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), which combines the advantages of MOSFET and bipolar transistor. The achievement of high requirements for these devices is only possible by optimizing device design and manufacturing process parameters. Therefore important and necessary step in the modern cycle of IC design and manufacturing is to carry out the statistical analysis. Procedure of the IGBT threshold voltage optimization was realized. Through screening experiments according to the Plackett-Burman design the most important input parameters (factors) that have the greatest impact on the output characteristic was detected. The coefficients of the approximation polynomial adequately describing the relationship between the input parameters and investigated output characteristics ware determined. Using the calculated approximation polynomial, a series of multiple, in a cycle of Monte Carlo, calculations to determine the spread of threshold voltage values at selected ranges of input parameters deviation were carried out. Combinations of input process parameters values were determined randomly by a normal distribution within a given range of changes. The procedure of IGBT process parameters optimization consist a mathematical problem of determining the value range of the input significant structural and technological parameters providing the change of the IGBT threshold voltage in a given interval. The presented results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed optimization techniques.
Influence of the effectiveness of raw materials on the reliability of thermoelectric cooling devices. Part I: single-stage TEDs
Authors: Zaikov V. P. , Meshcheryakov V. I. , Gnatovskaya A. A. , Zhuravlev Yu. I.
Published: March 2015

Increase of the reliability of information systems depends on the reliability improvement of their component elements, including cooling devices, providing efficiency of thermally loaded components. Thermoelectric devices based on the Peltier effect have significant advantages compared with air and liquid systems for thermal modes of the radio-electronic equipment. This happens due to the absence of moving parts, which account for the failure rate.
The article presents research results on how thermoelectric efficiency modules affect the failure rate and the probability of non-failure operation in the range of working temperature of thermoelectric coolers. The authors investigate a model of relative failure rate and the probability of failure-free operation single-stage thermoelectric devices depending on the main relevant parameters: the operating current flowing through the thermocouple and resistance, temperature changes, the magnitude of the heat load and the number of elements in the module.
It is shown that the increase in the thermoelectric efficiency of the primary material for a variety of thermocouple temperature changes causes the following: maximum temperature difference increases by 18%; the number of elements in the module decreases; cooling coefficient increases; failure rate reduces and the probability of non-failure operation of thermoelectric cooling device increases. Material efficiency increase by 1% allows reducing failure rate by 2,6—4,3% in maximum refrigeration capacity mode and by 4,2—5,0% in minimal failure rate mode when temperature difference changes in the range of 40—60 K.
Thus, the increase in the thermoelectric efficiency of initial materials of thermocouples can significantly reduce the failure rate and increase the probability of failure of thermoelectric coolers depending on the temperature difference and the current operating mode.
Deposition of borophosphosilicate glass films using the TEOS–dimethylphosphite–trimethylborate system
Authors: Turtsevich A. S. , Nalivaiko O. Y.
Published: March 2015

Modernization of horizontal low pressure deposition system has been performed. The liquid source delivery system using the bubblers has been developed. The PSG and BPSG film deposition processes and film properties using TEOS-Dimethylphosphite-TEB system have been studied. It is shown that the use of dimethylphosphite allows varying the phosphorus concentration in the wide range. It is found that the optimal range of the total boron and phosphorus concentration ensuring the acceptable topology planarity and resistance to defect formation during storage is 8.7±0.3 wt% when the phosphorus concentration is 3.0—3.8 wt%. It is found that at use of the TEOS-DMP-TEB system the depletion of the phosphorus concentration along reaction zone does not occur, and the total dopant concentration is practically constant. At the same time the deposition rate of BPSG films is 9.0—10.0 nm/min and the good film thickness uniformity are ensured. The as-deposited films have “mirror-like surface” that is proof of minimal surface roughness. The BPSG films with optimal composition are characterized by the reduced reaction capability against atmospheric moisture.
Phospho‐tyrosine dependent protein–protein interaction network
Authors: Grossmann Arndt , Benlasfer Nouhad , Birth Petra , Hegele Anna , Wachsmuth Franziska , Apelt Luise , Stelzl Ulrich
Published: March 2015

Post‐translational protein modifications, such as tyrosine phosphorylation, regulate protein–protein interactions (PPIs) critical for signal processing and cellular phenotypes. We extended an established yeast two‐hybrid system employing human protein kinases for the analyses of phospho‐tyrosine (pY)‐dependent PPIs in a direct experimental, large‐scale approach. We identified 292 mostly novel pY‐dependent PPIs which showed high specificity with respect to kinases and interacting proteins and validated a large fraction in co‐immunoprecipitation experiments from mammalian cells. About one‐sixth of the interactions are mediated by known linear sequence binding motifs while the majority of pY‐PPIs are mediated by other linear epitopes or governed by alternative recognition modes. Network analysis revealed that pY‐mediated recognition events are tied to a highly connected protein module dedicated to signaling and cell growth pathways related to cancer. Using binding assays, protein complementation and phenotypic readouts to characterize the pY‐dependent interactions of TSPAN2 (tetraspanin 2) and GRB2 or PIK3R3 (p55γ), we exemplarily provide evidence that the two pY‐dependent PPIs dictate cellular cancer phenotypes.
Kinase‐two‐hybrid: towards the conditional interactome
Authors: Ochoa David , Beltrao Pedro
Published: March 2015

The dynamics of the protein–protein interaction network and how it responds to biological perturbations remain difficult to assay by most traditional techniques. A novel kinase‐dependent yeast two‐hybrid framework by Stelzl and colleagues (Grossmann et al, 2015) provides a new prism to study how tyrosine phosphorylation regulates the changes in the interactome under varying conditions.
Genetic Interaction Landscape Reveals Critical Requirements for Schizosaccharomyces pombe Brc1 in DNA Damage Response Mutants
Authors: Sánchez Arancha , Roguev Assen , Krogan Nevan J , Russell Paul
Published: March 2015

Brc1, which was first identified as a high-copy, allele-specific suppressor of a mutation impairing the Smc5-Smc6 holocomplex in Schizosaccharomyces pombe, protects genome integrity during normal DNA replication and when cells are exposed to toxic compounds that stall or collapse replication forks. The C-terminal tandem BRCT (BRCA1 C-terminus) domain of fission yeast Brc1 docks with phosphorylated histone H2A (γH2A)-marked chromatin formed by ATR/Rad3 checkpoint kinase at arrested and damaged replication forks; however, how Brc1 functions in relation to other genome protection modules remains unclear. Here, an epistatic mini-array profile reveals critical requirements for Brc1 in mutants that are defective in multiple DNA damage response pathways, including checkpoint signaling by Rad3-Rad26/ATR-ATRIP kinase, DNA repair by Smc5-Smc6 holocomplex, replication fork stabilization by Mrc1/claspin and Swi1-Swi3/Timeless-Tipin, and control of ubiquitin-regulated proteolysis by the COP9 signalosome (CSN). Exogenous genotoxins enhance these negative genetic interactions. Rad52 and RPA foci are increased in CSN-defective cells, and loss of γH2A increases genotoxin sensitivity, indicating a critical role for the γH2A-Brc1 module in stabilizing replication forks in CSN-defective cells. A negative genetic interaction with the Nse6 subunit of Smc5-Smc6 holocomplex indicates that the DNA repair functions of Brc1 and Smc5-Smc6 holocomplex are at least partially independent. Rtt107, the Brc1 homolog in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, has a very different pattern of genetic interactions, indicating evolutionary divergence of functions and DNA damage responses.
Hemospray: A novel therapeutic option in the management of acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Szalai Milán , Kullmann Tamás , Durcsán Henryka , Regőczi Henriett , Kiss Gyöngyi , Rácz István
Published: March 2015

Introduction: Early endoscopic diagnosis and endoscopic therapy are very important in cases of acute gastrointestinal bleeding. Hemospray is an inorganic powder with hemostatic properties recently proposed for the treatment of acute gastrointestinal bleeding. Aim: The aim of the authors was to report the first Hungarian experience obtained with Hemospray in patients with acute gastrointestinal bleeding. Method: During a 14-month period 10 acute upper gastrointestinal bleeder patients were treated endoscopically with Hemospray in 11 settings. In 5 patients previous endoscopic hemostatic methods failed and in the remaining 5 patients Hemospray was administrated as a first-line therapy. Results: Primary hemostasis was achieved in 9 of the 10 patients treated with Hemospray. Two patients died during hospitalization (uncontrolled arterial bleeding in one patient and hepatic encephalopathy in the other one patient). Primary hemostasis and hemodynamic stability were achieved in each of the 4 patients who had thrombopenia. Conclusions: Hemospray as a rescue therapy may ensure primary hemostasis in severe acute gastrointestinal bleeding even in cases with thrombopenia. Orv. Hetil., 2015, 156(13), 528–531.
Sulfonylureas in today’s blood glucose lowering therapy.New data on advantages and potential barriers of an “old” antidiabetic group
Authors: Winkler Gábor
Published: March 2015

Sulfonylurea compounds have been basic elements of antidiabetic treatment in type 2 diabetes for a long time. However, with the introduction of incretin type insulin secretagogues it is often arises, whether is still there a place for sulfonylureas in the today’s therapy. To answer this question the author overviews general pharmaceutical characteristics of the sulfonylurea compounds as well as individual particularities of the second generation derivatives used at present in Hungary. The author details also the most important differences between incretin type drugs − first of all dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors − and sulfonylureas. On the basis of available data it can be concluded in accordance with the latest international guidelines, that sulfonylureas have still role in the blood glucose lowering therapy of type 2 diabetes, though they became somewhat pushed back among insulin secretagogue type drugs. If a sulfonylurea compound is the drug of choice, it is important to select the appropriate molecule (in case of normal renal function gliclazide or glimepiride). It is also important to re-educate the patient, as well as to apply the minimal dose providing the desired glycaemic effect. Orv. Hetil., 2015, 156(13), 511–515.
Mechanical circulatory support saves lives – three years’ experience of the newly established assist device program at Semmelweis University
Authors: Fazekas Levente , Sax Balázs , Hartyánszky István , Pólos Miklós , Horkay Ferenc , Varga Tamás , Rácz Kristóf , Németh Endre , Székely Andrea , Paulovich Erzsébet , Heltai Krisztina , Zima Endre , Szabolcs Zoltán , Merkely Béla
Published: March 2015

Introduction: Since the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the first heart transplantation in Hungary in 2012 the emerging need for modern heart failure management via mechanical circulatory support has evolved. In May 2012 the opening of a new heart failure and transplant unit with 9 beds together with the procurement of necessary devices at Semmelweis University accomplished this need. Aim: The aim of the authors was to report their initial experience obtained in this new cardiac assist device program. Method: Since May, 2012, mechanical circulatory support system was applied in 89 cases in 72 patients. Indication for support were end stage heart failure refractory to medical treatment and acute left or right heart failure. Results: Treatment was initiated for acute graft failure after heart transplantation in 27 cases, for end stage heart failure in 24 cases, for acute myocardial infarction in 21 cases, for acute postcardiotomy heart failure in 14 cases, for severe respiratory insufficiency in 2 cases and for drug intoxication in one case. Among the 30 survivor of the whole program 13 patients were successfully transplanted. Conclusions: The available devices can cover all modalities of current bridge therapy from short term support through medium support to heart transplantation or long term support and destination therapy. These conditions made possible the successful start of a new cardiac assist device program. Orv. Hetil., 2015, 156(13), 521–527.
ALR, the multifunctional protein
Authors: Balogh Tibor , Szarka András
Published: March 2015

ALR is a mystic protein. It has a so called “long” 22 kDa and a “short” 15 kDa forms. It has been described after partial hepatectomy and it has just been considered as a key protein of liver regeneration. At the beginning of the 21st century it has been revealed that the “long” form is localized in the mitochondrial intermembrane space and it is an element of the mitochondrial protein import and disulphide relay system. Several proteins of the substrates of the mitochondrial disulphide relay system are necessary for the proper function of the mitochondria, thus any mutation of the ALR gene leads to mitochondrial diseases. The “short” form of ALR functions as a secreted extracellular growth factor and it promotes the protection, regeneration and proliferation of hepatocytes. The results gained on the recently generated conditional ALR mutant mice suggest that ALR can play an important role in the pathogenesis of alcoholic and non-alcoholic steatosis. Since the serum level of ALR is modified in several liver diseases it can be a promising marker molecule in laboratory diagnostics. Orv. Hetil., 2015, 156(13), 503–509.
Cardiovascular side effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the light of recent recommendations.Diclofenac is not more dangerous
Authors: Horváth Viktor József , Tabák Gy. Ádám , Szabó Gergely , Putz Zsuzsanna , Koós Csaba Géza , Lakatos Péter
Published: March 2015

Among their beneficial effects, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may also exert several side effects which depend on the dosage and the type of these medications. The most frequent gastrointestinal side effects usually develop shortly after the beginning of their administration, but others such as cardiovascular interactions (which are present much less frequently than gastrointestinal side effects) can also occur after the beginning of drug administration without a latency period. For a long-term treatment, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are most frequently used in the elderly population where patients typically have high cardiovascular risk and take other medicines, e.g. low dose acetylsalicylic acid that can interact with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; in this aspect diclofenac may cause less side effects. In this review, the authors briefly review cardiovascular side effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, the processes which potentially influence them, therapeutic consequences and their interaction with acetylsalicylic acid. Orv. Hetil., 2015, 156(13), 516–520.
A Conceptual Model for Ionic Transport in Cement-based Materials in Conditions of Externally Applied Electric Field
Authors: Susanto A. , Koleva D.A. , Koenders E.A.B. , van Breugel K.
Published: March 2015

The transport properties, i.e. microstructural behavior and mechanisms related to water and ionic transport within the pore network of cement-based materials can be considered as an indicator for durability and to predict service life of concrete structures. Hence, the investigation of ionic transport is very important to asses ionic diffusion and ionic migration that potentially affect microstructural development of the bulk cement-based matrix. External electric fields are commonly accelerating ion (and water) migration. Numerical works on simulation of these phenomena have been reported, however, most of them consider only a constant ionic diffusion coefficient. This paper deals with the application of the Poisson-Nernst-Planck equations to simulate ionic transport in cement-based systems exposed to external electric potential by considering time dependent diffusion coefficient. The simulation involves solving the equation of mass conservation of individual ionic species coupled with electrostatic potential. Profiles of ionic concentrations and ionic distribution in cement-based systems are presented and discussed.
Physical attributes of ultisol of Brazil's northeastern semiarid under organic farming of wine grapes
Authors: Feitosa Jardenia R. , Mendes Alessandra M.S. , Olszevski Nelci , Cunha Tony J.F. , Cortez Jorge W. , Giongo Vanderlise
Published: March 2015

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of organic farming of wine grapes under physical and chemical characteristics of Ultisol Brazil's northeastern semiarid region. The samples of soil were collected from the row and interrow of the farming and from the fallow area, at the depths of 0.0-0.10, 0.10-0.20, 0.20-0.30 and 0.30-0.60 m. The samples were collected at six and twelve months after the culture implementation to evaluate the state of aggregation, bulk density and total soil porosity, flocculation index and organic matter contents, calcium, magnesium, and sodium. The results were submitted to statistical analysis. The adoption of organic farming contributed to the soil aggregation process. The bulk density and total soil porosity did not differ significantly between the evaluations, but were within the critical limits for sandy soils. The index flocculation did not have a great influence on the aggregates formation, being this process influenced by organic matter. The period of one year was considered short to obtain conclusive results in improving the soil quality by organic farming, since there are difficulties in tropical soils in promoting significant increases in organic matter content in short time.
The effects of Cyclosporin A and Heteropterys tomentosaon the rat liver
Authors: Freitas Karine M. de , Almeida Jacqueline M. , Monteiro Juliana C. , Diamante Maria Aparecida S. , Vale Jéssica S.F. do , Camargo Camila , Jorge Marçal H.A. , Dolder Heidi
Published: March 2015

Cyclosporin A (CsA) is a widely employed immunosuppressive drug that is associated with several side effects, among then hepatotoxicity. Heteropterys tomentosais a Brazilian plant efficient in reducing damage caused by CsA on the rat testis and prostate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of CsA and H. tomentosa(administered isolated or simultaneously) on the liver of Wistar rats. The animals were treated daily with water (control), CsA (15mg/kg/day), H. tomentosainfusion or CsA+H. tomentosa, for 21 or 56 days. The treatments did not alter liver morphology or cause fibrosis. H. tomentosaadministered for 21 days increased the number of hepatocyte nuclei and Kupffer cell volumetric proportion. After 56 days of treatment, H. tomentosaadministration did not alter the parameters analyzed. Biochemical plasma dosages and liver stereology showed impairment caused by CsA-treatment after 21 days; these results were not observed after 56 days of treatment. The simultaneous treatment with CsA and H. tomentosafor 21 or 56 days did not alleviate nor accentuate CsA hepatic effects. The present study showed that the 21 days treatment with CsA caused more alteration to the liver than the 56 days treatment; this could be related to hepatic recovery after the long term treatment.
Plant-pollinator interactions in Crambe abyssinicaHochst. (Brassicaceae) associated with environmental variables
Authors: Simioni Lívia C. , Mussury Rosilda M. , Mauad Munir , Dresh Daiane M. , Pereira Fabricio F. , Scalon Silvana P.Q.
Published: March 2015

Despite the economic importance of Crambe abyssinica, the present study is the first report on bees that occur with this species, and could aid in developing alternative methods for controlling insect pests without seriously impacting pollinators. The present study examined the following questions: (1) Which species are potential pollinators of C. abyssinica? (2) How do environmental conditions influence pollinator visitation fluctuations? Insects were sampled on a weekly basis between 08:00 and 16:00 during five weeks of flowering. When the results of analyses of variance were significant, the data was adjusted using regression equations at a 5% level of probability; the environmental variables were examined using Pearson's correlation coefficient. Apis mellifera, Geotrigona mombuca, Exomalopsis (Exomalopsis) fulvofasciata, Plebeia sp. and Dialictus sp. were observed visiting C. abyssinica flowers. A. melliferaand G. mombucawere observed to be potential pollinators, with the former demonstrating visitation peaks during flowering weeks II and IV at 12:00 and 08:00, respectively and the latter visiting during weeks III and IV at 12:00 and 10:00, respectively. Environmental factors such as temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed have different effect on the activity of bees.