bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crop and Location Specific Agricultural Drought Quantification: Part III. Forecasting Water Stress and Yield Trends
Authors: McDaniel Rachel L. , Munster Clyde , Nielsen-Gammon John
Published: July 2017

Abstract. Agriculture is the largest water consumer, with 70% of global water withdrawals being used for irrigation. Water scarcity issues are being exacerbated by drought and population increases, making efficient water resource management in agricultural production increasingly important. The objective of this article is to evaluate the use of short-term weather forecasts for agricultural drought prediction. A crop-specific, linear regression drought analysis technique was used in this study. This study takes place in the upper Colorado River basin (UCRB) in west Texas. Five variables associated with agricultural drought (precipitation, temperature, biomass production, soil moisture depletion, and transpiration) were scaled and used to estimate cotton yields. The yield percentiles were used as a drought index. Precipitation and temperature were forecasted with a two-week lead time using probable scenarios based on historical data. The other three variables were estimated using the SWAT model. Forecasts were generated for each week of the growing season from 2010 through 2013. Four statistics were used to evaluate model performance, including the Nash-Sutcliffe coefficient of efficiency (NSE), the coefficient of determination (R2), and two error indices, the percent bias (PBIAS) and the RMSE-observations standard deviation ratio (RSR). Comparing the variables using the forecasted weather data to those using the observed weather data revealed that four of the five performed satisfactorily. Temperature performed the best statistically, with an NSE of 0.85 and PBIAS of 9.4%. Precipitation (NSE = 0.51, PBIAS = -34%), cumulative biomass (NSE = 0.69, PBIAS = -38%), and transpiration (NSE = 0.53, PBIAS = 11%) also performed well. However, the soil moisture depletion forecasts (NSE = 0.28, PBIAS = 11%) were unsatisfactory. The forecasted cotton yield trends (NSE = 0.72, PBIAS = -12%) and drought index (NSE = 0.76, PBIAS = -13%) both performed satisfactorily, indicating that this forecasting method may be used for decision making related to agricultural water management, including irrigation timing. Keywords: Crop modeling, Drought, Drought index, Forecasting, Hydrologic modeling, SWAT, Water conservation, Water management, Water stress.
Comparison of Estimates of Nitrogen Excretion by Squab Broilers, Broilers, and Roasters: Implications for Ammonia Emissions
Authors: Martin, Jr. John H. , Swaney Dennis P. , Greene Daniel B.
Published: July 2017

Abstract.

In 2003, the National Research Council recommended the use of process-based modeling to help provide scientifically sound estimates of ammonia and other pollutant emissions from animal feeding operations (AFOs) for use in regulatory and management programs. Because the primary source of ammonia emissions from AFOs is excreted nitrogen (N), the development of process-based models logically must begin with the quantification of nitrogen excretion and how it varies over time when growing animals are being produced. The objective of this study was to begin the development of such a process-based model by characterizing the relationship between age and nitrogen excretion in squab broiler, broiler, and roaster production based on protein intake as a function of feed consumption and retention. Application of our findings to a typical 1,486 m2 house revealed estimates of annual nitrogen excretion rates with values ranging from 7,656 kg for roaster production to 10,149 kg for combined broiler and roaster production. This assumes uniform layout periods of 14 days. We estimate peak daily excretion rates for squab broiler, broiler, roaster, and combined broiler and roaster production to be 60.5, 57.6, 38.9, and 57.6 kg d-1, respectively. Keywords: Ammonia emissions potential, Broilers, Nitrogen excretion, Roasters, Squab broilers.
Field Evaluation of Controlled Traffic Farming in Central Europe Using Commercially Available Machinery
Authors: Galambošová Jana , Macák Miroslav , Rataj Vladimír , Antille Diogenes L. , Godwin Richard J. , Chamen William C. T. , Žitnák Miroslav , Vitázková Bozena , Dudák Jozef , Chlpík Juraj
Published: July 2017

Abstract. The progressive increase in the size and weight of farm machinery causes concerns due to the increased risk of soil compaction that arises from non-organized vehicle traffic. Controlled traffic farming (CTF) offers an effective means to manage compaction by confining all load-bearing wheels to the least possible area of permanent traffic lanes. Although CTF is relatively well-established in Australia and in some countries in Northern Europe, its benefits and suitability for Central European conditions have not been demonstrated. A long-term experimental site was established in 2010 in Nitra, Slovakia, using a 6 m “OutTrac-CTF” system with shallow non-inversion tillage practices. The 16 ha experimental field of loam soil is representative of land used for arable cropping in Central Europe. Four traffic intensities (non-trafficked, one traffic event per year with a single pass, multiple passes with permanent traffic lanes, and random traffic) were evaluated using two traffic systems: controlled (CTF) and non-controlled traffic farming (referred to as random traffic farming or RTF). This article reports the findings derived from the first four years of the project and focuses on the effects of traffic systems on yields observed in cereal crops (winter wheat, spring barley, and maize) grown at the site in a rotation cycle. Significant differences (p < 0.1) in yield are reported due to the heterogeneity of the field and the seasonal effect of weather. The results of this investigation suggest that CTF systems have potential to increase production sustainably in arable farming systems in Central Europe. Well-designed CTF systems using commercially available machinery allow for reductions in the area affected by traffic of up to 50% compared with random, non-organized traffic systems. Results also show that in years when soil moisture was not limiting, the yield penalty from a single (annual) machine pass was relatively small (~5%). However, in dry years, compaction caused by multiple machinery passes may lead to yield losses of up to 33%. When considering the ratio of non-trafficked to trafficked area within the different CTF systems evaluated in this study, yield improvements of up to 0.5 t ha-1 for cereals are possible when converting from RTF to CTF. Given the assumptions made in the analyses, such yield increases translate into increased revenues of up to 117 USD ha-1 (1 Euro= 1.1 USD). For Central European farming systems, the main benefit of CTF appears to be improved efficiency and enhanced agronomic stability, especially in dry seasons, where the significant yield penalty from machinery passes is likely. Keywords: Crop performance, Economic return, Field efficiency, Soil compaction, Traffic systems, Yield penalty.
Phosphorus, Iron, and Aluminum Losses in Runoff from a Rotationally Grazed Pasture in Georgia
Authors: Endale Dinku M. , Schomberg Harry H. , Fisher Dwight S. , Owens Lloyd B. , Jenkins Michael B. , Bonta James V.
Published: July 2017

Abstract.

Well-managed grazing systems can provide valuable ecosystem services, such as reducing sediment and phosphorus (P) loading to nearby waterways. However, the available long-term data to fully support this hypothesis are limited. In this article, we describe flow-weighted concentrations (FWCs) and loads for dissolved reactive P (DRP), total P (TP), iron (Fe), and aluminum (Al) over 11 years (1999-2009) from a 7.8 ha rotationally grazed pasture (W1) near Watkinsville, Georgia. The region is characterized by Fe and Al rich and acidic Ultisols. Cattle numbering 21 to 224 (mean 91) grazed W1 on 69 occasions for 1 to 71 d (mean 19.2). Of 74 runoff events, 20 occurred when the monthly rainfall was below the long-term average (deficit period) and 54 occurred during non-deficit periods. Samples were collected from 43 of 74 runoff events for nutrient analyses. Event FWC (mg L-1) ranged from 0.38 to 7.07 for DRP (mean 1.91), from 0.36 to 7.60 for TP (mean 2.43), from 0.03 to 0.55 for Fe (mean 0.23), and from 0.43 to 553 µg L-1 for Al (mean 65 µg L-1). Event load (kg ha-1) ranged from 0.00 to 0.45 for DRP (mean 0.10), from 0.00 to 0.55 for TP (mean 0.12), from 0.00 to 0.11 for Fe (mean 0.02), and from 0.00 to 0.10 for Al (mean 0.01). The total load (kg ha-1) was 4.12 for DRP, 5.12 for TP, 0.71 for Fe, and 0.25 for Al. DRP accounted for 80% of the TP FWC and load. Cattle presence increased sediment load, but the difference was not statistically significant. There was high correlation between Fe and DRP loads (r = 0.87), a likely indicator of erosion-induced losses due to cattle treading. Cattle presence increased FWCs but not loads for DRP and TP. The FWCs for DRP and TP were not different between deficit and non-deficit periods, but mean loads were 3-fold to 4-fold greater during non-deficit periods. Means from the six largest P loss events were 3-fold greater for FWC and 7-fold greater for load than the remaining 37 events. These six large events accounted for 53% of the total P load. Less than 1% of the inorganic P applied and redeposited through manure was lost in runoff. The study demonstrated that hydrologic transport processes were the dominant drivers of pollutant fluxes and highlighted the possible mitigation of pollutant fluxes through grazing management that includes maintenance of good grass cover, effective rotational grazing, and limited fertilization. Keywords: Calving, Cattle, Dissolved reactive phosphorus, Drought, Eutrophication, Manure, Runoff, Total phosphorus, Water quality.
Effect of Moisture Content and Orientation on Force-Deformation Behavior of Pigeon Pea Grains during Uniaxial Compression
Authors: Singh Neetu , Vishwakarma Rajesh Kumar , Shivhare U. S. , Basu Santanu , Vijaya Raghavan G. S.
Published: July 2017

The force-deformation behavior of pigeon pea grains and its correlation with moisture content was studied. Hertz’s theory of contact stresses was applied to predict the splitting and failure of cotyledons during uni-axial compressive loading between two rigid parallel plates. The apparent modulus of elasticity of pigeon pea decreased from 280.52 to 9.29 MPa when force was applied normal to the hilum joint (horizontal loading), whereas it decreased from 208.08 to 33.37 MPa when force was applied in the direction of the hilum joint (vertical loading) with an increase in moisture content from 5.28% to 34.568% (d.b.). At higher moisture contents (15.17% and above), the grains yielded after considerable deformation, thus showing a change in nature from brittle to ductile. Distribution of stresses below the point of contact were calculated and plotted to predict the location of the critical point, which was found at 0.45 to 0.75 mm and at 0.50 to 0.67 mm below the contact point in vertical and horizontal loading, respectively, depending on moisture content. The bio-yield of pigeon pea grains was due to breakage of the cotyledons in horizontal loading, whereas it was due to separation of the cotyledons in vertical loading. Separation of the cotyledons from each other was initiated before yielding of the cotyledons at lower moisture contents, and thus splitting of the seed took place. Keywords: Contact stresses, Hertz theory, Mechanical properties, Pigeon peas, Splitting.
Longevity and Performance of a Subsurface Drip Irrigation System
Authors: Lamm Freddie R. , Rogers Danny H.
Published: July 2017

Abstract.

System longevity is an important economic factor to minimize amortized investment costs for subsurface drip irrigation (SDI), especially when growing lower-value commodity crops such as field corn. Kansas State University established a research site in 1989 at a research center to study SDI. One research study area was used for continuous production of SDI corn for 27 seasons without dripline replacement. Normalized plot flowrates for 23 separate plots after 27 seasons were within ±5% of their first annually measured value. Hydraulic performance of the driplines and emitters was measured and in the laboratory for excavated dripline samples after the SDI system was decommissioned in the fall of 2015. There were similar results from both and laboratory tests of the used driplines, with excellent coefficients of variation (CV) of approximately 3%, lower quartile distribution uniformities (DUlq) of 96 to 97, and Christiansen uniformity coefficients (UC) of approximately 98. The performance results of the excavated driplines were as good as or better than the performance of some unused driplines that had been in storage since 1990. Long SDI system life appears possible in the U.S. Central Great Plains when the systems are properly designed, installed, and maintained. The long system life (27 seasons and 26.5 years) improves the economic competitiveness of SDI with alternative irrigation systems such as center-pivot sprinkler systems, which are currently the predominant irrigation system in the region. The SDI system was decommissioned at the end of the 2015 crop growing season due to leaks arising from breakdown in the plastic material, rather than due to any clogging concerns and subsequent lower application uniformity. Keywords: Distribution uniformity, Drip irrigation, Flow variation, Microirrigation, Subsurface drip irrigation.
The Latin American School of Medicine (Elam): Admissions, Academics and Attitudes
Authors: Afra Jiwa
Published: July 2017

With the Cuban health system hailed as one of the best in the world, its doctors have a high reputation in the field of primary care in less-developed countries. This article provides an insight into the Latin American School of Medicine (Escuela Latinoamericana de Medicina (ELAM)) as a means of helping our understanding of the process involved in creating a medical workforce that is suited to the developing world. The article reviews the available peer-reviewed literature and evaluates additional media to make an assessment of the curriculum and teaching and learning experience at ELAM. The findings reveal an insightful way of selecting students from low-income backgrounds and teaching that mimics curricula seen at medical schools in the UK, with the addition of modules in homeopathic medicine and a focus on placements in primary care. The article reveals some problems for students who have struggled to adapt their skills to fit the healthcare systems in their home countries. Attitudes towards students are generally positive, though there are a number of reports on student welfare issues. The article concludes that the overwhelming impression is that students are happy to compromise on small comforts in exchange for a subsidised medical education.
The Kingdom of Norway
Authors: Mugnier Clifford J.
Published: July 2017

The Grids & Datums column has completed an exploration of
every country on the Earth. For those who did not get to enjoy this
world tour the first time, PE&RS is reprinting prior articles from
the column. This month's article on the Kingdom of Norway was
originally printed in 1999 but contains updates to their coordinate
system since then.
Analysis of Ledger-Stand Joints in the Aluminum Modular Scaffold
Authors: Błazik-Borowa E. , Pieńko M. , Robak A. , Borowa A. , Jamińska-Gadomska P.
Published: July 2017

This paper concerns an approach to model the ledger-stand joints of modular scaffolds. Based on the analysis of the working range of the ledger (represented by a linear relationship between load and displacement), two models of the ledger-stand joint are analysed: first - with flexibility joints and second - with rigid joints and with a transition part of lower stiffness. Parameters are selected based on displacement measurements and numerical analyses of joints, then they are verified. On the basis of performed research, it can be stated that both methods of joint modelling recommended in this paper, can be applied in engineering practices.
Geotechnical Evaluation of Clayey Soil Contaminated with Industrial Wastewater
Authors: Karkush M. O. , Al-Taher T. A. A.
Published: July 2017

The impacts of industrial wastewater contamination on the geotechnical properties of clayey soil have been studied in the research presented in this paper. The contaminant in question is industrial wastewater released from Thi-Qar oil refinery as a by-product of production, and the soil samples obtained from Thi-Qar oil refinery plant in Al-Nassyriah (a city located in the south of Iraq). The geotechnical properties of contaminated soil samples were compared with those of intact soil to measure the effects of such a contaminant. The soil samples were obtained from three locations in the study area; representing the highly contaminated area, the slightly contaminated area, and the intact area used as a reference for comparison of test results. The results of the tests showed that the contaminant causes an increase of natural moisture content, field unit weight, Atterberg’s limits, and maximum dry unit weight, as well as an increase of the compression index and the coefficient of vertical consolidation. Also, the contaminant causes a decrease in specific gravity, the optimum moisture content initial void ratio, the swelling index, the coefficient of permeability, and cohesion between soil particles.
Comparison of Optimal Costs of Axially Loaded RC Tension Members Using Indian and Euro Standards
Authors: Shenbagam N. Karthiga Alias , Arunachalam N.
Published: July 2017

The aim of this study is to find the cost design of RC tension with varying conditions using the Artificial Neural Network. Design constraints were used to cover all reliable design parameters, such as limiting cross sectional dimensions and; their reinforcement ratio and even the beahviour of optimally designed sections. The design of the RC tension members were made using Indian and European standard specifications which were discussed. The designed tension members according to both codes satisfy the strength and serviceability criteria. While no literature is available on the optimal design of RC tension members, the cross-sectional dimensions of the tension membersfor different grades of concrete and steel, and area of formwork are considered as the variables in the present optimum design model. A design example is explained and the results are presented. It is concluded that the proposed optimum design model yields rational, reliable, and practical designs.
Optimum Positioning of Shear Walls for Minimizing the Effects of Lateral Forces in Multistorey-Buildings
Authors: Titiksh A. , Bhatt G.
Published: July 2017

Shear walls are the most commonly used lateral load resisting systems in high rises. They have high plane stiffness and strength which can be used to simultaneously resist large horizontal loads while also supporting gravity loads. Hence it is necessary to determine effective and ideal locations of shear walls. Shear wall arrangement must be absolutely accurate, if not, it may cause negative effects instead. In this project, a study has been carried out to determine the effects of additions of shear walls and also the optimum structural configuration of multistory buildings by changing the shear wall locations radically. Four different cases of shear wall positions for G+10 storey buildings have been analyzed by computer application software ETABS. The framed structure was subjected to lateral and gravity loading in accordance with the Indian Standards provision and the results were analyzed to determine the optimum positioning of the shear walls.
Electrical Properties of Multilayer Systems Composed of Foundry Tooling and Moulding Sand
Authors: Gal B. , Granat K.
Published: July 2017

Within the research, selected multilayer technological systems created as combinations of water-glass containing moulding sand with foundry tooling, were characterised on the grounds of their electrical properties. By measuring resonance frequency and quality factor of a waveguide resonance cavity, real component of permittivity εr’ and loss tangent tgδ were determined for multilayer foundry systems with various qualitative and quantitative compositions. It was demonstrated that combination of a sandmix and foundry tooling with known dielectric properties results in a system with different physico-chemical properties, whose relation to the parameters of individual components of the system is undefined at this research stage. On the grounds of measurement results, theoretical value of microwave heating power, dissipated in unit volume of the selected multilayer foundry system, was determined. Knowledge of theoretical heating power and evaluation of physical, chemical and structural changes occurring in moulding sands exposed to microwaves in such a technological system makes a ground for empirical modelling of the process of microwave heating of foundry moulds and cores.
The Effect of Additive “B” on the Properties of Foundry Sands with Hydrated Sodium Silicate Made by Floster Technology
Authors: Izdebska-Szanda I. , Kamińska J. , Angrecki M. , Palma A. , Stefański Z.
Published: July 2017

The aim of the study was to determine the applicability of a new product added to water glass-containing foundry sands hardened with ethylene glycol diacetate. The new additive designated by the symbol “B” is a composition of aqueous solutions of modified polyalcohols, improving the sand knocking out properties. The scope of studies included testing various mechanical and technological properties of foundry sand mixtures, such as permeability, friability, life cycle of cores and knocking out properties. In the technological studies, two types of water glass with different values of the silica modulus and density, designated as R145 and R150, were used. Moulding sands were prepared with the additive “B”. For comparison, reference sands with water glass but without the additive “B” were also made. In Part I of the article, the results of studies of the effect of additive “B” on the properties of foundry sands with water glass hardened by CO2blowing were discussed.
Physicochemical Properties of Silicon Cast Iron
Authors: Stawarz M. , Kajzer W. , Kajzer A. , Dojka M.
Published: July 2017

The article presents results of pitting corrosion studies of selected silicon cast irons. The range of studies included low, medium and high silicon cast iron. The amount of alloying addition (Si) in examined cast irons was between 5 to 25 %. Experimental melts of silicon cast irons [1-3] were conducted in Department of Foundry of Silesian University of Technology in Gliwice and pitting corrosion resistance tests were performed in Faculty of Biomedical Engineering in Department of Biomaterials and Medical Devices Engineering of Silesian University of Technology in Zabrze. In tests of corrosion resistance the potentiostat VoltaLab PGP201 was used. Results obtained in those research complement the knowledge about the corrosion resistance of iron alloys with carbon containing Si alloying addition above 17 % [4-6]. Obtained results were supplemented with metallographic examinations using scanning electron microscopy. The analysis of chemical composition for cast irons using Leco spectrometer was done and the content of alloying element (silicon) was also determined using the gravimetric method in the laboratory of the Institute of Welding in Gliwice. The compounds of microstructure were identify by X-ray diffraction.
Determination of Chromite Sands Suitability for Use in Moulding Sands
Authors: Stec K. , Podwórny J. , Psiuk B. , Kozakiewicz Ł.
Published: July 2017

Using the available analytical methods, including the determination of chemical composition using wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescent spectroscopy technique and phase composition determined using X-ray diffraction, microstructural observations in a highresolution scanning microscope equipped with an X-ray microanalysis system as well as determination of characteristic softening and sintering temperatures using high-temperature microscope, the properties of particular chromite sands were defined. For the study has been typed reference sand with chemical properties, physical and thermal, treated as standard, and the sands of the regeneration process and the grinding process. Using these kinds of sand in foundries resulted in the occurrence of the phenomenon of the molding mass sintering. Impurities were identified and causes of sintering of a moulding sand based on chromite sand were characterized. Next, research methods enabling a quick evaluation of chromite sand suitability for use in the preparation of moulding sands were selected.
Numerical Simulation of Directional Solidification Process of Single Crystal Ni- Based Superalloy Casting
Authors: Szeliga D. , Kubiak K. , Sieniawski J.
Published: July 2017

The analysis of influence of mould withdrawal rate on the solidification process of CMSX-4 single crystal castings produced by Bridgman method was presented in this paper. The predicted values of temperature gradient, solidification and cooling rate, were determined at the longitudinal section of casting blade withdrawn at rate from 1 to 6mm/min using ProCAST software. It was found that the increase of withdrawal rate of ceramic mould results in the decrease of temperature gradient and the growth of cooling rate, along blade height. Based on results of solidification parameter G/R (temperature gradient/solidification rate), maximum withdrawal rate of ceramic mould (3.5 mm/min), which ensures lower susceptibility to formation process of new grain defects in single crystal, was established. It was proved that these defects can be formed in the bottom part of casting at withdrawal rate of 4 mm/min. The increase of withdrawal rate to 5 and 6 mm/min results in additional growth of susceptibility of defects formation along the whole height of airfoil.
Reducing the Negative of the Iron in the Alloy Based on Al-Si-Mg by Manganese
Authors: Podprocká R. , Bolibruchová D. , Chalupová M.
Published: July 2017

In Al-Si alloy the iron is the most common impurity and with presence of other elements in alloy creates the intermetallic compounds, which decreases mechanical properties and increases of porosity. The cause of the negative effect of intermetallic particles on the mechanical properties is that it is more easily break off the tension load as the aluminium matrix or small particles of silicon. By adding suitable alloying elements, also known as iron correctors, is possible to reduce this harmful effect. In the article is evaluated influence of manganese on microstructure with performed EDX analysis selected intermetallic phases and tensile test and measurement of length of Al5FeSi phase. For realization experiments was used AlSi7Mg0.3 alloy with increased iron content. Manganese was added in the amount 0.3 wt. %, 0.6 wt. %, 0.8 wt.% and 1,2 wt. %. From performed measurements it has been concluded, that increased amount of manganese, i.e. Mn/Fe ratio, does not have significant influence on mechanical properties AlSi7Mg0.3 alloy in the melted state.
An Interval Estimator for Chlorine Monitoring in Drinking Water Distribution Systems Under Uncertain System Dynamics, Inputs and Chlorine Concentration Measurement Errors
Authors: Łangowski Rafał , Brdys Mietek A.
Published: July 2017

The design of an interval observer for estimation of unmeasured state variables with application to drinking water distribution systems is described. In particular, the design process of such an observer is considered for estimation of the water quality described by the concentration of free chlorine. The interval observer is derived to produce the robust interval bounds on the estimated water quality state variables. The stability and robustness of the interval observer are investigated under uncertainty in system dynamics, inputs, initial conditions and measurement errors. The bounds on the estimated variables are generated by solving two systems of first-order ordinary differential equations. For that reason, despite a large scale of the systems, the numerical efficiency is sufficient for the on-line monitoring of the water quality. Finally, in order to validate the performance of the observer, it is applied to the model of a real water distribution network.
Element Partition Trees For H-Refined Meshes to Optimize Direct Solver Performance. Part I: Dynamic Programming
Authors: Aboueisha Hassan , Calo Victor Manuel , Jopek Konrad , Moshkov Mikhail , Paszyńka Anna , Paszyński Maciej , Skotniczny Marcin
Published: July 2017

We consider a class of two- and three-dimensional h-refined meshes generated by an adaptive finite element method. We introduce an element partition tree, which controls the execution of the multi-frontal solver algorithm over these refined grids. We propose and study algorithms with polynomial computational cost for the optimization of these element partition trees. The trees provide an ordering for the elimination of unknowns. The algorithms automatically optimize the element partition trees using extensions of dynamic programming. The construction of the trees by the dynamic programming approach is expensive. These generated trees cannot be used in practice, but rather utilized as a learning tool to propose fast heuristic algorithms. In this first part of our paper we focus on the dynamic programming approach, and draw a sketch of the heuristic algorithm. The second part will be devoted to a more detailed analysis of the heuristic algorithm extended for the case of hp-adaptive grids.
Preparation and Characterization of Levofloxacin-Loaded Nanofibers as Potential Wound Dressings
Authors: Pásztor Noémi , Rédai Emőke , Szabó Zoltán-István , Sipos Emese
Published: July 2017

Objective: The study aimed at obtaining and characterizing levofloxacin-loaded, poly(ε-caprolactone) electrospun nanofiber formulations to be used as antibacterial wound dressings. Methods: Drug-loaded nanofibers were obtained by the electrospinning process and their morphology was determined using scanning electron microscopy. Structural analysis of the prepared nanofibers was carried out using differential scanning calorimetry and dissolution testing was performed in order to determine drug release. Results: Both nanofiberous formulations (containing 20 % and 50 % w/w levofloxacin) showed dimensions in the range of few hundred nanometers. Thermograms indicated that the formulation containing 20% levofloxacin was totally amorphized, showing a rapid release of the active, in 20 minutes. Conclusions: The poly(ε-caprolactone)-based electrospun nanofibers, containing levofloxacin presented suitable characteristics for obtaining potential antibacterial wound dressings.
Investigation of Foliar Fertilization in Maize Production
Authors: Jakab Péter , Zoltán Gábor , Festő Dávid , Komarek Levente
Published: July 2017

The experiment was designed to study the effect of foliar fertilisation on the yield and some generative factors of maize in 2016. It was set on the territory of SZTE Tangazdaság Ltd in Hódmezővásárhely meadow chernozem soil. Three different foliar fertilizer products were applied in three replication randomised small plot experiment. The products were sprayed out individually and combined with each other as well, so there were six treatments and the control. In 2016 the amount of precipitation in the vegetation period of maize was higher than the average by 23.7 mm. Therefore this year was favourable for maize production. The data obtained during the experiment were processed by single factor variant analysis. Owing to the favourable dispersion of rainfall in the vegetative period of maize, the yields were relatively high. The average yield harvested from the control plots was 11.37 t/ha, and that of the treated parcels ranged from 11.61 and 12.86 t/ha. The foliar fertilizer products and their combinations increased the yield of maize, but this growing was not significant. By the using of foliar fertilization the generative factors of maize did not change significantly.
The Determine of Sugar Beet Nutrition Problems in Konya Plain’s Soils
Authors: Dursun Nesim , Gezgin Sait , Özcan Mehmet Musa
Published: July 2017

This study was aimed to determine the deficiency or excessivity of nutrients for sugar beet crop in Konya plain. The results showed that the pH value was found as 7.65 and soils were classified as sodic; the organic matter was 1.59% and 92.9% of the soil samples was poor in terms of the organic matter. The mean lime content (CaCO3) was determined capacity was 26.07 and 97.1% of the soil samples was limy and the mean cation Exchange capacity was 26.07 me/100g, and it was varied between 10.72 me/100g and 44.7 me/100g. The mean available NH4+NO3 nitrogen content, phosphorus and potassium for crop were as 0.059%, 10.21 ppm and 1.39 me/100g, respectively. According to the these results, NH4+NO3nitrogen and potassium amounts were sufficient while the phosphourus content was sufficient in 65.8% and insufficient in 34.2%. Cu and Mn content in soil samples were adequate. The sufficient amounts of Zn, B and Fe were 85.7%, 45.8% and 95.7% and their insufficient amounts were 14.53%, 54.2% and 4.3%, respectively. According to the result of leaf analyses, the content of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium and sodium were sufficient. The deficiencies of iron, zinc and bor were found in 4.3%, 14.3% and 38.6% of the total samples, respectively.
The Analysis of Production and Culling Rate With Regard to the Profitability in a Dairy Herd
Authors: Horváth József , Tóth Zsanett , Mikó Edit
Published: July 2017

As milk prices move away from production costs, dairy farms are under increased pressure to find ways to protect profitability on the farm. Producers have some problems that they can improve. Improve the milk production, produce more milk to sell focused on quality (reduce the amount of high level of somatic cell count). The deterioration of animal health status (lameness, mastitis and different metabolic disorders) can have a serious impact on cow productivity, causing pain and discomfort, production losses and might result in a decision to cull the animal. Improving herd reproductive performance is an important aspect of profitable farm management. The aim of this work is to analyse milk production, reasons of culling and culling rate in different lactation on a dairy cattle farm.
Development Of Test Rig System For Calibration Of Temperature Sensing Fabric
Authors: Husain Muhammad Dawood , Atalay Ozgur , Atalay Asli , Kennon Richard
Published: July 2017

A test rig is described, for the measurement of temperature and resistance parameters of a Temperature Sensing Fabric (TSF) for calibration purpose. The equipment incorporated a temperature-controlled hotplate, two copper plates, eight thermocouples, a temperature data-logger and a four-wire high-resolution resistance measuring multimeter. The copper plates were positioned above and below the TSF and in physical contact with its surfaces, so that a uniform thermal environment might be provided. The temperature of TSF was estimated by the measurement of temperature profiles of the two copper plates. Temperature-resistance graphs were created for all the tests, which were carried out over the range of 20 to 50°C, and they showed that the temperature and resistance values were not only repeatable but also reproducible, with only minor variations. The comparative analysis between the temperature-resistance test data and the temperature-resistance reference profile showed that the error in estimation of temperature of the sensing element was less than ±0.2°C. It was also found that the rig not only provided a stable and homogenous thermal environment but also offered the capability of accurately measuring the temperature and resistance parameters. The Temperature Sensing Fabric is suitable for integration into garments for continuous measurement of human body temperature in clinical and non-clinical settings.
Die Steiermärkische Landesbibliothek im neuen Joanneumsviertel
Authors: Kocher-Lichem Katharina
Published: July 2017

Die Steiermärkische Landesbibliothek ist die größte und älteste Landesbibliothek Österreichs und wurde 1811 von Erzherzog Johann als Leseanstalt gegründet. Sie präsentiert sich heute in der Umgebung von eindrucksvoller zeitgenössischer Architektur offen und transparent als öffentliche und wissenschaftliche Universalbibliothek. Mit Veranstaltungen wie Lesungen, Ausstellungen, Recherche-Einführungen für Schüler und Studierende und Kinder- und Jugendveranstaltungen geht die Landesbibliothek aktiv auf die Steirerinnen und Steirer zu.
AKON – Ansichtskarten Online
Authors: Müller Christa , Mokre Jan , Hintersonnleitner Michael
Published: July 2017

Die Österreichische Nationalbibliothek verfügt in ihren Sammlungen über umfangreiche Bestände an historischen Ansichtskarten aus aller Welt. 75 000 urheberrechtsfreie Ansichtskarten mit topografischen Motiven wurden digitalisiert, mit Georeferenzdaten versehen und über die Web-Applikation AKON
Morphology and contractile gene expression of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells in response to short-term cyclic uniaxial strain and TGF-β1
Authors: Rashidi Neda , Tafazzoli-Shadpour Mohammad , Haghighipour Nooshin , Khani Mohammad-Mehdi
Published: July 2017

Previous studies have shown smooth muscle induction in adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) caused by long-term cyclic stretch. Here we examined the capability of the short-term straining with time steps of 4, 8, 16 and 24 h alone or combined with TGF-β1on smooth muscle induction of rabbit ASCs. Alterations in cell morphology were quantified through the cell shape index and orientation angle, and expression levels of α-SMA,SM22-α,h-caldesmonandcalponin3markers were examined using the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Moreover, F-actin cytoskeleton organization was observed by fluorescence staining. Mechanical strain either alone or combined with growth factor treatment caused significant up-regulation of both early and intermediate smooth muscle cells (SMCs) specific markers during the initial hours of stimulation peaking in 8 to 16 h. Furthermore, gradual alignment of cells perpendicular to the strain direction during loading time, and cell elongation resembling contractile SMC phenotype, together with alignment and reorganization of F-actin fibers were observed. Considering previously reported protein up-regulation in following days of straining, the effects of short-term cyclic stretch on smooth muscle induction of ASCs were revealed which can be helpful in achieving functional contractile SMCs through synergistic mechano-chemical regulation of ASCs as an appealing cell source for vascular tissue engineering.
Algae in sphagnum epiphyton from the mires of the Subpolar Urals
Authors: Sterlyagova Irina , Shabalina Julia
Published: July 2017

Species diversity of algal communities of sphagnum epiphyton was studied in six mountain and plain mires of the Subpolar Urals (Russia). A total of 154 species and intraspecific taxa from six divisions were identified. The highest species richness was recorded for Bacillariophyta (96 taxa) and Charophyta (33) divisions. Species Kobayasiella parasubtilissima, Tabellaria flocculosa and Eunotia lunaris had high abundance. Dominant communities were often formed by Eunotia lunaris, E. mucophila, Kobayasiella parasubtilissima and Pinnularia subcapitata. CCA analysis showed that conductivity and altitude above the sea level are the main factors affecting the development of algae in the studied mires.
Distribution, state and conservation of Equisetum telmateia in Lithuania
Authors: Gudžinskas Zigmantas , Rasimavičius Mindaugas
Published: July 2017

Conservation of endangered plant species requires a thorough knowledge about the present state of their populations and habitats as well as identification of current and potential threats. The aim of this research was to evaluate current distribution, state of habitats and the size of populations of Equisetum telmateia (Equisetaceae) in Lithuania as well as to reveal the main threats and requirement for the conservation of this species. Analysis of all available information revealed that E. telmateia currently occurs in seven localities in Lithuania, mainly in the southern part of the country. One formerly recorded population in the south-western part of Lithuania has become extinct. Two reported localities in the environs of Druskininkai (southern Lithuania) are doubtful, because the reports have been based on misidentified specimens. Locality of E. telmateia in the western part of the country probably has been provided erroneously and one locality in the south-eastern region of Lithuania should be verified and the identity of the species requires confirmation. Total area occupied by the stands of E. telmateia in Lithuania is 2.41 ha. Most frequently this species grows in river valleys or close to rivers and occupies alluvial forest habitats, which frequently creates complexes with habitats of mineral-rich springs or springs with tufa formations. Occasionally it grows in the habitats of forests of slopes, tall herb fringe communities and hay meadows. Sporulation of E. telmateia in Lithuania is poor: no fertile shoots were registered in two studied populations, whereas in other localities few fertile shoots were recorded. Evaluation of the status of E. telmateia in Lithuania applying the IUCN criteria resulted in its categorization as a vulnerable species. The main threats for E. telmateia are forest logging and changes in habitat hydrological regime, though wild animals, human activities and invasive plant species also have certain negative impact on the populations of this species.
New multidimensional approaches to poverty measurement in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Delalić Adela , Somun-Kapetanović Rabija , Resić Emina
Published: July 2017

Unlike the standard unidimensional poverty indices, based mostly on monetary poverty measures, multidimensional poverty indices may include numerous non-monetary poverty indicators. This study utilized fuzzy and Alkire – Foster (AF) and fuzzy methodology to assess the poverty level in Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) and to compare the results with official poverty assessments. In addition to consumption as a monetary measure, we constructed AF and fuzzy indices by including numerous non-monetary measures that indicate housing quality, possession of durable goods and the household structure. AF multidimensional indices for B&H are calculated based on data from Household Budget Surveys (2004, 2007 and 2011) and fuzzy poverty indices are calculated based on data from HBS 2011. This research has found the differences in the values, direction and dynamics between unidimensional and multidimensional approaches to poverty measurement. Authors state that it is not sufficient to base the creation of more efficient social policies and poverty reduction strategies exclusively on unidimensional indices that address just one dimension of poverty.
The interrelationship between media reports and the recession in Croatia
Authors: Čižmešija Mirjana , Sorić Petar , Lolić Ivana
Published: July 2017

This paper builds upon the Economist’s R-word (recession) index by forming a Croatian version of a media news-based economic uncertainty measure. Using the web archives of the four major Croatian news portals (Index.hr, Jutarnji list, Večernji list and 24 sata), an extensive database of as much as 531107 news articles is formed. The R-word index is obtained by calculating the monthly share of recession-related articles. This way Croatia is placed among the few rare world countries which have their own version of this index. It is found that the index is a leading indicator of economic activity in Croatia, preceding GDP growth rates by two months. Using rolling window correlations, the authors also prove that economic agents react to uncertainty shocks in the most intensive manner precisely at the onset of an economic crisis, while the correlation decreases in periods of more stable economic growth rates.
The long-run impact of personal income taxation on economic development: Evidence from Croatia
Authors: Palić Irena , Žmuk Berislav , Grofelnik Barbara
Published: July 2017

Since the endogenous growth model appeared in the economic theory, taxation has been considered as one of the key determinants of the economic growth. In the public finance theory, taxation is considered to have a negative impact on economic growth, which is explained by implications of tax revenues distortions on the economic activity. This assumption has been investigated by many empirical studies. The aim of this paper is to analyse the impact of personal income taxation on economic conditions in Croatia in the long-run. After providing a brief insight into the economic and the public finance theory regarding taxation and economic growth, previous relevant research is presented. The empirical analysis of the impact of personal income taxation on economic conditions in Croatia is conducted using the Johansen cointegration approach. The existence of cointegration is examined and the error correction model is estimated using monthly data from January 2000 to March 2016. The results of the research show that personal income taxation in Croatia has a significant negative impact on the economic growth in the long-run, which is in line with the economic theory and relevant empirical research.
To what degree are philosophy and the ecological niche concept necessary in the ecological theory and conservation?
Authors: Parentoni Martins Rogério
Published: July 2017

Ecology as a field produces philosophical anxiety, largely because it differs in scientific structure from classical physics. The hypothetical deductive models of classical physics are simple and predictive; general ecological models are predictably limited, as they refer to complex, multi-causal processes. Inattention to the conceptual structure of ecology usually imposes difficulties for the application of ecological models. Imprecise descriptions of ecological niche have obstructed the development of collective definitions, causing confusion in the literature and complicating communication between theoretical ecologists, conservationists and decision and policy-makers. Intense, unprecedented erosion of biodiversity is typical of the Anthropocene, and knowledge of ecology may provide solutions to lessen the intensification of species losses. Concerned philosophers and ecologists have characterised ecological niche theory as less useful in practice; however, some theorists maintain that is has relevant applications for conservation. Species niche modelling, for instance, has gained traction in the literature; however, there are few examples of its successful application. Philosophical analysis of the structure, precision and constraints upon the definition of a ‘niche’ may minimise the anxiety surrounding ecology, potentially facilitating communication between policy-makers and scientists within the various ecological subcultures. The results may enhance the success of conservation applications at both small and large scales.