bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance analysis of solar assisted multigenerational system using therminol VP1 based nanofluids: A comparative study
Authors: Khan Muhammad , Amber Khuram , Ali Hafiz , Abid Muhammad , Ratlamwala Tahir , Javed Samina
Published: March 2019

The application of the nanofluids is suggested to enhance and improve the efficiency of solar thermal power system. In the present study, three different nanofluids (Fe2O3/therminol VP1, SiO2/therminol VP1, and Cu/therminol VP1) are numerically investigated in parabolic dish solar collector that is further integrated to a combined cycle for power and hydrogen production. Heat rejects from the power cycle is also utilized to drive a single effect absorption (LiBr-water) system. Furthermore, a comprehensive energy, exergy and exergo-environmental analysis are carried out by varying several input parameters and their influence on overall energetic and exergetic efficiencies, network output and rate of hydrogen generation is assessed. The engineering equation solver is employed to conduct the parametric study. Outcomes of the study demonstrate that the SiO2/VP1 has the better characteristics among the investigated nanofluids. The overall energetic efficiency of the SiO2/VP1, Fe2O3/VP1, and Cu/VP1 is almost 38.79%, 38.74%, and 37.53%, while overall exergetic efficiency is 41.72%, 41.66%, and 40.36%, respectively at 1000 Wm-2. The exergoenvironmental impact coefficient and impact index are noticed to be reduced for all the three nanofluids as mass-flow rate increases. The hy-drogen production rate for SiO2/VP1 is maximum and has observed to be increased by increasing the ambient temperature. Increase in nanoparticles concentration also rises the exergetic efficiency but reduces the thermal conductivity of the nanofluids. Coefficient of performance is noticed to be increased with rise in evaporator temperature, whereas, it is reduced by increasing the generator temperature.
Heat transfer on magnetohydrodynamic stagnation point flow through a porous shrinking/stretching sheet: A numerical study
Authors: Abbas Munawwar , Bhatti Muhammad , Rashidi Mohammad
Published: March 2019

This article examines the numerical study of heat transfer analysis on MHD stagnation point flow past a permeable shrinking/stretching sheet through a porous media. The governing equations have been reduced to the ODE by utilizing similarity variables. The obtained highly non-linear coupled differential equations have been solved by implementing a numerical scheme labeled as successive linearization method. The influences for the pertinent parameters on velocity profile and temperature profile is debated and demonstrated graphically. Numerical comparisons in some special cases have been brought along the prevailing literature, and it is noticed that the current outcomes are in good concord.
Development and experimental validation of a TRNSYS model for energy design of air-to-water heat pump system
Authors: Kassai Miklos
Published: March 2019

The object of this research work is the comparison of the annual primary energy consumption of different types of heating systems, using two different calculation methods. The TRNSYS 18 software makes use of dynamic simulation, while the WinWatt software calculates according to the Hungarian implementation of EPBD (Decree No. 7/2006). There were differences in results which could be caused by the more precise calculation of the TRNSYS software. Differences were shown also in the weather data used by the two computer tools that had one of the most important effects on the results according this investigation. The number of heating degree days used by TRNSYS is 10% less, than that the Hungarian decree provides. Using the yearly measured energy consumption data given by the inhabitant of the investigated family house, the validation of the developed dynamic building energy simulation model by TRNSYS could be also achieved with good agreement.
Impact of Deterrence and Inertia on Information Security Policy Changes
Authors: Malimage Kalana , Raddatz Nirmalee , Trinkle Brad S. , Crossler Robert E. , Baaske Rebecca
Published: March 2019

This study examines the impact of deterrence and inertia on information security policy changes. Corporations recognize the need to prioritize information security, which sometimes involves designing and implementing new security measures or policies. Using an online survey, we investigate the effect of deterrent sanctions and inertia on respondents' intentions to comply with modifications to company information security policies. We find that certainty and celerity associated with deterrent sanctions increase compliance intentions, while inertia decreases respondents' compliance intentions related to modified information security policies. Therefore, organizations must work to overcome employees' reluctance to change in order to improve compliance with security policy modifications. They may also consider implementing certain and timely sanctions for noncompliance.
HLA Class II Antigen Processing and Presentation Pathway Components Demonstrated by Transcriptome and Protein Analyses of Islet β-Cells From Donors With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Russell Mark A. , Redick Sambra D. , Blodgett David M. , Richardson Sarah J. , Leete Pia , Krogvold Lars , Dahl-Jørgensen Knut , Bottino Rita , Brissova Marcela , Spaeth Jason M. , Babon Jenny Aurielle B. , Haliyur Rachana , Powers Alvin C. , Yang Chaoxing , Kent Sally C. , Derr Alan G. , Kucukural Alper , Garber Manuel G. , Morgan Noel G. , Harlan David M.
Published: March 2019

Type 1 diabetes studies consistently generate data showing islet β-cell dysfunction and T cell–mediated anti-β-cell–specific autoimmunity. To explore the pathogenesis, we interrogated the β-cell transcriptomes from donors with and without type 1 diabetes using both bulk-sorted and single β-cells. Consistent with immunohistological studies, β-cells from donors with type 1 diabetes displayed increased Class I transcripts and associated mRNA species. These β-cells also expressed mRNA for Class II and Class II antigen presentation pathway components, but lacked the macrophage marker CD68. Immunohistological study of three independent cohorts of donors with recent-onset type 1 diabetes showed Class II protein and its transcriptional regulator Class II MHC trans-activator protein expressed by a subset of insulin+CD68− β-cells, specifically found in islets with lymphocytic infiltrates. β-Cell surface expression of HLA Class II was detected on a portion of CD45−insulin+ β-cells from donors with type 1 diabetes by immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. Our data demonstrate that pancreatic β-cells from donors with type 1 diabetes express Class II molecules on selected cells with other key genes in those pathways and inflammation-associated genes. β-Cell expression of Class II molecules suggests that β-cells may interact directly with islet-infiltrating CD4+ T cells and may play an immunopathogenic role.
Postprandial Aminogenic Insulin and Glucagon Secretion Can Stimulate Glucose Flux in Humans
Authors: Ang Teddy , Bruce Clinton R. , Kowalski Greg M.
Published: March 2019

Insulin and glucagon exert opposing actions on glucose metabolism, and their secretion is classically viewed as being inversely regulated. This is, however, context specific as protein ingestion concomitantly stimulates euglycemic insulin and glucagon secretion. It remains enigmatic how euglycemia is preserved under these conditions. Accordingly, we examined the systems-level mechanisms governing such endocrine control of glucose homeostasis. Eight healthy participants completed a water (control) and multidose whey protein ingestion trial designed to augment the protein-induced endocrine response. Glucose kinetics were measured using stable isotope tracer methodology. Protein ingestion induced marked hyperaminoacidemia, hyperinsulinemia (approximately sixfold basal), and unprecedented hyperglucagonemia (approximately eightfold basal) while suppressing free fatty acids. Both glucose disposal (Rd) and endogenous glucose production (EGP) increased by ∼25%, thereby maintaining euglycemia. This demonstrates 1) that protein ingestion can stimulate glucose Rd and EGP, 2) that postprandial inhibition of adipose lipolysis does not suppress EGP, and 3) that physiological hyperglucagonemia can override the hepatic actions of insulin, rendering the liver unresponsive to insulin-mediated EGP suppression. Finally, we argue that glucagon is a bona fide postprandial hormone that evolved to concurrently and synergistically work with insulin to regulate glucose, amino acid, and nitrogen metabolism. These findings may have implications for glucagon receptor antagonist or agonist-based therapies.
Glucagon Receptor Antagonist–Stimulated α-Cell Proliferation Is Severely Restricted With Advanced Age
Authors: Lam Carol J. , Rankin Matthew M. , King Kourtney B. , Wang Melinda C. , Shook Brian C. , Kushner Jake A.
Published: March 2019

Glucagon-containing α-cells potently regulate glucose homeostasis, but the developmental biology of α-cells in adults remains poorly understood. Although glucagon receptor antagonists (GRAs) have great potential as antidiabetic therapies, murine and human studies have raised concerns that GRAs might cause uncontrolled α-cell growth. Surprisingly, previous rodent GRA studies were only performed in young mice, implying that the potential impact of GRAs to drive α-cell expansion in adult patients is unclear. We assessed adaptive α-cell turnover and adaptive proliferation, administering a novel GRA (JNJ-46207382) to both young and aged mice. Basal α-cell proliferation rapidly declined soon after birth and continued to drop to very low levels in aged mice. GRA drove a 2.4-fold increase in α-cell proliferation in young mice. In contrast, GRA-induced α-cell proliferation was severely reduced in aged mice, although still present at 3.2-fold the very low basal rate of aged controls. To interrogate the lineage of GRA-induced α-cells, we sequentially administered thymidine analogs and quantified their incorporation into α-cells. Similar to previous studies of β-cells, α-cells only divided once in both basal and stimulated conditions. Lack of contribution from highly proliferative “transit-amplifying” cells supports a model whereby α-cells expand by self-renewal and not via specialized progenitors.
Randomized Trial of a Tailored Cognitive Behavioral Intervention in Type 2 Diabetes With Comorbid Depressive and/or Regimen-Related Distress Symptoms: 12-Month Outcomes From COMRADE
Authors: Cummings Doyle M. , Lutes Lesley D. , Littlewood Kerry , Solar Chelsey , Carraway Marissa , Kirian Kari , Patil Shivajirao , Adams Alyssa , Ciszewski Stefanie , Edwards Sheila , Gatlin Peggy , Hambidge Bertha
Published: March 2019

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the effect of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) plus lifestyle counseling in primary care on hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in rural adult patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and comorbid depressive or regimen-related distress (RRD) symptoms.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This study was a randomized controlled trial of a 16-session severity-tailored CBT plus lifestyle counseling intervention compared with usual care. Outcomes included changes in HbA1c, RRD, depressive symptoms, self-care behaviors, and medication adherence across 12 months.

RESULTS

Patients included 139 diverse, rural adults (mean age 52.6 ± 9.5 years; 72% black; BMI 37.0 ± 9.0 kg/m2) with T2D (mean HbA1c 9.6% [81 mmol/mol] ± 2.0%) and comorbid depressive or distress symptoms. Using intent-to-treat analyses, patients in the intervention experienced marginally significant improvements in HbA1c (−0.92 ± 1.81 vs. −0.31 ± 2.04; P = 0.06) compared with usual care. However, intervention patients experienced significantly greater improvements in RRD (−1.12 ± 1.05 vs. −0.31 ± 1.22; P = 0.001), depressive symptoms (−3.39 ± 5.00 vs. −0.90 ± 6.17; P = 0.01), self-care behaviors (1.10 ± 1.30 vs. 0.58 ± 1.45; P = 0.03), and medication adherence (1.00 ± 2.0 vs. 0.17 ± 1.0; P = 0.02) versus usual care. Improvement in HbA1c correlated with improvement in RRD (r = 0.3; P = 0.0001) and adherence (r = −0.23; P = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

Tailored CBT with lifestyle counseling improves behavioral outcomes and may improve HbA1c in rural patients with T2D and comorbid depressive and/or RRD symptoms.
Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose in Youth-Onset Type 2 Diabetes: Results From the TODAY Study
Authors: Weinstock Ruth S. , Braffett Barbara H. , McGuigan Paul , Larkin Mary E. , Grover Nisha B. , Walders-Abramson Natalie , Laffel Lori M. , Chan Christine L. , Chang Nancy , Schwartzman Beth E. , Barajas Rose Ann , Celona-Jacobs Nicole , Haymond Morey W. ,   for the TODAY Study Group
Published: March 2019

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is associated with lower HbA1c in youth with type 2 diabetes taking oral medications only or after starting insulin for persistently elevated HbA1c.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Treatment Options for Type 2 Diabetes in Adolescents and Youth (TODAY) study participants (n = 699) taking oral medications were asked to perform SMBG twice daily. After reaching primary outcome (PO) (HbA1c ≥8% [64 mmol/mol]) over 6 months or an inability to wean from temporary insulin because of metabolic decompensation), insulin glargine was started. HbA1c and percent of SMBG (SMBG%) (percent days when the meter was used one or more times) before and after PO were analyzed.

RESULTS

SMBG declined over time and was inversely related to HbA1c (P < 0.0001). Of 298 youth who reached PO and started insulin, 282 had SMBG data. At PO, mean ± SD age was 15.8 ± 2.3 years, BMI 35.5 ± 7.9 kg/m2, and HbA1c 9.6 ± 2.0% (81 ± 21.9 mmol/mol); 65.3% were female. Median SMBG% was 40% at PO, which increased to 49% after 6 months and fell to 41% after 1 year on insulin. At PO, 22% of youth checked ≥80% of days, which increased to 25% and fell to 19% after 6 and 12 months using insulin, respectively. At PO, compared with those who checked <80%, youth who checked ≥80% were younger and with a lower BMI, HbA1c, and blood pressure. SMBG ≥80% was associated with ≥1% reduction in HbA1c at 6 and 12 months after insulin initiation.

CONCLUSIONS

Low SMBG adherence was common and associated with higher HbA1c. Optimal SMBG frequency in youth using or not using insulin, and whether less frequent SMBG is a marker for overall worse self-care, require further study.
PEMANFAATAN RUANG PUBLIK SEBAGAI WADAH TRANSAKSI KULINER PADA LURUNG KAMPUNG PAJEKSAN – JOGONEGARAN, YOGYAKARTA
Authors: Nurhadi Septi Kurniawati
Published: March 2019

Abstract : Pajeksan and Jogonegaran kampongs are located in central city of Yogyakarta, while the lurung Pajeksan – Jogonegaran kampongs is the border as well as the main axis for the people living that are currently evolving as the houses for workers in the Malioboro area. The beneficial usage of the lurung has grown as the fulfillment of the people’s need for food. The usage is increasing and posing an intervention on the lurung space. This research is aimed to discover the use and the influence of culinary transaction space, culinary activity and form of element transaction space in the community of lurung Pajeksan - Jogonegaran kampongs. This is done by using the Behavior mapping. The result of identifying and analyzing is use to obtain the special characteristic that happen in the society so that they are able to keep their existence. The usage patterns of public space as the culinary transaction space in lurung Pajeksan - Jogonegaran kampongs is linier and it follows the shape of an elongated lurung with the greatest usage occurs at the junction of the driveway towards the kampongs. The usage of the lurung is directly related to the aspect of environment, neighborhood, and economic aspectKeyword : Lurung Pajeksan – Jogonegaran,The Usage of Lurung, and Culinary Transaction Space Abstrak: Kampung Pajeksan dan Jogonegaran merupakan dua kampung yang terletak di pusat kota Yogyakarta, sedangkan lurung kampung Pajeksan – Jogonegaran merupakan batas sekaligus menjadi poros utama kehidupan warga yang saat ini kampung tersebut berkembang sebagai hunian bagi pekerja di kawasan Malioboro. Pemanfaatan lurung berkembang sebagai pemenuhan kebutuhan pangan warga kampung. Pemanfaatan tersebut kian meningkat dan menimbulkan intervensi ruang pada badan lurung. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pemanfaatan dan pengaruh wadah transaksi kuliner, aktivitas kuliner serta elemen pembentuk wadah transaksi yang dilakukan masyarakat pada lurung kampung Pajeksan–Jogonegaran. Hal tersebut dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode Behavior mapping. Hasil identifikasi dan analisis tersebut digunakan untuk memperoleh kekhasan yang terjadi dalam masyarakat sehingga dapat mempertahankan keberlangsungannya. Pola pemanfaatan ruang publik sebagai wadah transaksi kuliner yang terdapat pada lurung kampung Pajeksan – Jogonegaran berbentuk linier memanjang yang mengikuti bentuk lurung dengan pemanfaatan terbesar terjadi pada persimpangan menuju jalan masuk kampung. Pemanfaatan tersebut tidak terlepas dari aspek lingkungan,ketetanggaan,dan ekonomi.Kata Kunci: Lurung kampung Pajeksan - Jogonegaran, Pemanfaatan lurung, dan Wadah Transaksi Kuliner.
Influence of the color of the refrigeration body on its thermal parameters
Authors: Perz Karolina , Mamoński Łukasz , Rewolińska Aleksandra
Published: March 2019

The article discusses the issue of the impact of the color of refrigeration bodies on the thermal parameters of insulation. The tests of the density of heat flux flowing through metal claddings were carried out, and then their heat transfer coefficient was calculated on their basis. In the further part of the article, the influence of the body colour on the thermal conductivity of a three-layer wall consisting of an insulating core (expanded polystyrene) and two external claddings of different colour was analyzed. On the basis of the obtained results, it can be stated that the colour of the body affects the value of heat that passes through it.
Influence of the abrasive grain trajectory on the machining of thin-walled cylinder liners of internal combustion engines with variable kinematics of honing
Authors: Sender Piotr
Published: March 2019

Honing with variable kinematics has a number of advantages in comparison to traditional honing [1-19], such as less tool wear [12, 13], lower processing temperature [13], better surface quality [12, 13] and less deviation of cylindricity [13]. The article discusses the influence of the variable kinematics on the machining process.
Basic abrasive waterjet cutting process parameters
Authors: Spadło Sławomir , Krajcarz Daniel
Published: March 2019

The article presents the basic parameters characterizing the abrasive water jet cutting, such as: water pressure (pw), cutting speed (vf), abrasive mass flow rate (ma) and the distance between forming nozzle and the cut material (l). Each of the mentioned parameters of the cutting process has been described in a separate subsection. The authors of the article focused primarily on the aspects related to the possibility of achieving maximum efficiency of the machining process while maintaining the assumed quality of cutting for individual cutting parameters. A detailed analysis of the topic was enabled the authors own research and an available literature on this subject. A closer understanding of the phenomena accompanying the abrasive waterjet cutting (AWJ) process and obtaining characteristics that would describe the influence of the tested output parameters in the function of input parameters will enable optimization of AWJ cutting process.
Multi-gear hub prototype for manual wheelchairs - design and operation
Authors: Wieczorek Bartosz , Kukla Mateusz , Wieczorek Romuald
Published: March 2019

The article discusses the construction of a multi-speed gear hub for manual wheelchairs. This device enriches the manual string drive by three gears. The article describes the construction of a functional prototype of a patented technical solution. On the basis of the proto-type, the functionality of the device was tested and on this basis the corrections necessary to be introduced in the final product were defined.
Electric marine ferries – a Norwegian example
Authors: Forkiewicz Marcin , Wolski Leszek
Published: March 2019

When it comes to the implementation of e-mobility (electro-mobility) solutions, Norway is a world leader. The scientific expedition to the Norwegian fjords, organised as part of the ELMAR project in 2018, created an opportunity to visit selected passenger ferries and car and passenger ferries. The experience gained by the authors during that visit is presented in this article.
PENGARUH MINAT BACA DAN PERAN DOSEN PEMBIMBING TERHADAP KEBERHASILAN PENULISAN TUGAS AKHIR
Authors: Damanik Bahrudi Efendi
Published: March 2019

Abstract: The purpose of the study is to examine whether there is an influence of reading interest and the role of supervisors partially or simultaneously on the success of writing the final assignment. The research was conducted at AMIK Tunas Bangsa Pematangsiantar by taking a sample of 78 people from 369 population populations using calculations using Slovin formula. The method used is the survey method and data collection carried out through observation, interviews, and distributing questionnaires using a Likert scale as a measuring device. The sampling technique using purposive sampling is a sampling technique of data sources with certain considerations, the analytical technique used is multiple lenier analysis techniques. In analyzing the data used several descriptive analysis techniques to determine the distribution of respondents' answers to the overall concept being measured, quantitative analysis using numbers and calculations with statistical methods. The results of the analysis show that partial reading interest has a positive and significant effect on the success of the final assignment, tcount> t table (3.167> 1.991), the role of partial supervisor is positive and significant effect on the success of the final assignment, tcount> t table (2.915> 1.991), reading interest and the role of supervisors simultaneously have a positive and significant effect on the success of the final assignment where the value of Fcount> Ftable is (20,094> 3,12).
Diagnostic utility of ultrasonography for detection of the cause and location of ureteral obstruction in cats: 71 cases (2010–2016)
Authors: Wormser Chloe , Reetz Jennifer A. , Drobatz Kenneth J. , Aronson Lillian R.
Published: March 2019

OBJECTIVE To assess the utility of ultrasonography to detect the cause and location of ureteral obstruction in cats and to identify factors associated with agreement between ultrasonographic and surgical findings.

STUDY DESIGN Retrospective case series.

ANIMALS 71 cats.

PROCEDURES Medical records were searched to identify cats that had ureteral obstruction diagnosed ultrasonographically and that subsequently underwent exploratory laparotomy. Patient signalment, ultrasonographic findings, interventions performed, and surgical findings were recorded. Cause and location of ureteral obstruction as assessed by ultrasonography were compared with surgical findings. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value of ultrasonography for detection of ureteroliths and strictures were calculated. Statistical analysis was performed to identify factors associated with agreement between ultrasonographic and surgical findings.

RESULTS There was significant, moderate agreement between ultrasonographic and surgical findings for the cause and location of ureteral obstruction. Signalment variables, ureter affected (left vs right), and presence of retroperitoneal effusion were not associated with this agreement. Sensitivity was 98% and 44%, specificity was 96% and 98%, and positive predictive value was 98% and 88% for detection of ureteroliths and strictures, respectively, by ultrasonography.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Ultrasonography was highly sensitive for detection of ureteroliths that caused ureteral obstruction but was considerably less sensitive for detection of ureteral strictures in the study population. Future prospective studies are needed to determine the role of advanced imaging in assessing cats with ureteral abnormalities. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2019;254:710–715)
Apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma in cats: 30 cases (1994–2015)
Authors: Amsellem Pierre M. , Cavanaugh Ryan P. , Chou Po-Yen , Bacon Nicholas J. , Schallberger Sandra P. , Farese James P. , Kuntz Charles A. , Liptak Julius M. , Culp William T. N. , Robat Cecilia S. , Powers Barbara E.
Published: March 2019

OBJECTIVE To describe the signalment, clinical signs, biological behavior, and outcome for cats with apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma (AGASACA) that underwent surgical excision.

DESIGN Retrospective case series.

ANIMALS 30 client-owned cats.

PROCEDURES Databases of 13 Veterinary Society of Surgical Oncology member–affiliated institutions were searched for records of cats with a histologic diagnosis of AGASACA that underwent tumor excision. For each cat, information regarding signalment, clinical signs, diagnostic test results, treatment, and outcome was extracted from the medical record. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to determine median time to local recurrence (TLR), disease-free interval (DFI), and survival time. Cox regression was used to identify factors associated with TLR, DFI, and survival time.

RESULTS Perineal ulceration or discharge was the most common clinical sign in affected cats. Eleven cats developed local recurrence at a median of 96 days after AGASACA excision. Incomplete tumor margins and a high nuclear pleomorphic score were risk factors for local recurrence. Nuclear pleomorphic score was negatively associated with DFI. Local recurrence and a high nuclear pleomorphic score were risk factors for death. Median DFI and survival time were 234 and 260 days, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results indicated that, in cats, perineal ulceration or discharge should raise suspicion of AGASACA and prompt rectal and anal sac examinations. Local recurrence was the most common life-limiting event in cats that underwent surgery for treatment of AGASACA, suggesting that wide margins should be obtained whenever possible during AGASACA excision. Efficacy of chemotherapy and radiation therapy for treatment of cats with AGASACA requires further investigation. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2019;254:716–722)
The Effect of a Probiotic Preparation Containing Bacillus subtilis PB6 in the Diet of Chickens on Redox and Biochemical Parameters in Their Blood
Authors: Abramowicz Katarzyna , Krauze Magdalena , Ognik Katarzyna
Published: March 2019

The aim of the study was to select a dosage and time of administration of a probiotic preparation containing live cultures of Bacillus subtilis and enriched with choline to obtain the most beneficial effect on the antioxidant and biochemical status of the blood of chickens and to improve their growth performance. A total of 980 one-day-old Ross 308 chickens (7 replications of 20 individuals each) reared until their 42nd day of life were used in the experiment. The chickens were divided into seven groups of 140 each. The control group did not receive any additives. The T1 groups received a probiotic in the amount of 0.05 g/L (T1-0.05), 0.1 g/l (T1-0.1) or 0.25 g/l (T1-0.25) throughout the rearing period, while the T2 groups received the same doses of the probiotic, but only during days 1–7, 15–21 and 29–35 of rearing. Administration of a preparation containing Bacillus subtilis bacteria was shown to increase the level of ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), vitamin C, and uric acid (UA), while reducing the level of peroxides (LOOH), malondialdehyde (MDA), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), the share of low-density fractions of cholesterol (LDL), and activity of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), asparagine aminotransferase (AST), γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT) and creatinine kinase (CK). An increase in the high-density fractions of cholesterol (HDL) and a decrease in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were noted as well. The results of the study indicate that 0.25 g/l of the probiotic, administered continuously (T1), clearly has the most beneficial effect in terms of enhancing antioxidant potential and reducing the level of stress indicators, without disturbing overall metabolism in the body. During the 42 days of rearing each chicken received 33.3 CFUx1011
Bacillus subtilis from the probiotic preparation. The body weight gain of chickens from T1-0.1, T1-0.2 and T2-0.25 groups was higher (P≤0.027) and more favourable compared to G–C group.
Slant helices of (k, m)-type in 𝔼4
Authors: Yilmaz Münevver Yildirim , Bektaş Mehmet
Published: March 2019

In the present work, we define new type slant helices called (k,m)-type and we conclude that there are no (1,k) type (1 ≤ k ≤ 4) slant helices. Also we obtain conditions for different type slant helices.
On extensions of Baer and quasi-Baer modules
Authors: Hashemi Ebrahim , Yazdanfar Marzieh , Alhevaz Abdollah
Published: March 2019

Let R be a ring, MR a module, S a monoid, ω : S → End(R) a monoid homomorphism and R * S a skew monoid ring. Then M[S] = {m1g1 + · · · + mngn | n ≥ 1, mi ∈ M and gi ∈ S for each 1 ≤ i ≤ n} is a module over R ∗ S. A module MR is Baer (resp. quasi-Baer) if the annihilator of every subset (resp. submodule) of M is generated by an idempotent of R. In this paper we impose S-compatibility assumption on the module MR and prove: (1) MR is quasi-Baer if and only if M[s]R∗S is quasi-Baer, (2) MR is Baer (resp. p.p) if and only if M[S]R∗S is Baer (resp. p.p), where MR is S-skew Armendariz, (3) MR satisfies the ascending chain condition on annihilator of submodules if and only if so does M[S]R∗S, where MR is S-skew quasi-Armendariz.
Learning Effectiveness and Students’ Perceptions in A Flexible Learning Course
Authors: Müller Claude , Stahl Michael , Alder Mark , Müller Maximilian
Published: March 2019

With flexible learning, students gain access and flexibility with regard to at least one of the following dimensions: time, place, pace, learning style, content, assessment or learning path. Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) has launched a new flexible learning study format called FLEX, a blended learning design allowing students to be more flexible as to when and where they study. It reduces classroom learning time, replacing some of it with an e-learning environment for self-study that includes instructional videos. In a pilot phase, we conducted a semi-experimental study on the learning effectiveness of FLEX. Students’ perceptions of the new study format FLEX were found to be positive. In addition, the final test results of students in the FLEX programme were similar to those of other students, despite classroom learning time was reduced by about half.
Influence of extracts from Rhodiola rosea and Rhodiola kirilowii on the development of alcohol tolerance in rats
Authors: Szulc Michał , Mularczyk Piotr , Grządzielski Patryk , Zakowicz Przemysław , Kujawski Radosław , Gryszczyńska Agnieszka , Buchwald Waldemar , Teżyk Artur , Krajewska-Patan Anna , Kamińska Ewa , Mikołajczak Przemysław Ł.
Published: March 2019

Introduction:
Rhodiola rosea (RR) and Rhodiola kirilowii (RK) are well known for their influence on central nervous system, however their impact on the development of alcohol tolerance has not yet been proven.

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the ability of RR and RK roots extracts to inhibit the development of alcohol tolerance in vivo, both, peripheral (metabolic) and central ones.

Methods: Male Wistar rats were treated with RR and RK extracts (p.o.) and ethanol (i.p.) for ten consecutive days. On the first, third, fifth and eighth days the hypothermic action of ethanol was measured, while on the ninth day the loss of righting reflex was examined. On the tenth day rats were treated with assigned extract and sacrificed 1 h after the ethanol injection.

Results: Both extracts inhibited development of tolerance to the hypothermic action of ethanol. The observed effect seems to be specific since none of the extracts affected body temperature in water-treated animals. RK extract also prolonged the hypnotic action of ethanol. RR-treated rats had higher blood-ethanol concentrations, in contrast to RK ones.

Conclusions: RR and RK extracts inhibited the development of tolerance to the hypothermic action of ethanol. Prolongation of the hypnotic action of ethanol by RK extract may be associated with influence on the central nervous system, while the RR one also inhibited the development of metabolic tolerance.
Antioxidant potential of Hippophae rhamnoides L. extracts obtained with green extraction technique
Authors: Muzykiewicz Anna , Zielonka-Brzezicka Joanna , Klimowicz Adam
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Antioxidants, isolated from different plant parts, are widely used due to their ability to prevent the development of so-called oxidative stress. Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) is one of the plants with expected antioxidant properties.

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the antioxidant activity of ethanolic, methanolic and acetonic extracts of H. rhamnoides leaves, ripe and unripe fruits obtained by ultrasound-assisted extraction.

Methods: To estimate the antioxidant potential of the extracts the DPPH, FRAP, ABTS and Folin-Ciocalteu methods were applied. Moreover, the influence of the extrahent, as well as extraction time, on this activity was evaluated.

Results: Sea buckthorn leaf extracts showed higher activity, contrary to the fruit extracts. Moreover, higher activity of ripe fruit extracts compared to unripe material extracts was found. To obtain the highest content of antioxidants in the extracts, ultrasound-assisted extraction for 60 min with methanol should be applied.

Conclusions: The presented in vitro results could lead to the conclusion that H. rhamnoides seems to be a valuable source of antioxidants to be applied in various branches of industry.
Berberis vulgaris alleviates Levodopa-induced dyskinesia in male mice
Authors: Mokarian Faezeh , Famitafreshi Hamidreza , Jahromy Mahsa Hadipour
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Parkinson’s disease is a chronic debilitating disease and many patients use Levodopa as a major treatment. However, this drug in long-term use causes a serious condition that is known as Levodopa-induced dyskinesia (LID). Berberis vulgaris (BV) has been known to be a good potential medication for neurologic diseases such as movement disorders. The aim of this study is to investigate the usefulness of BV for LID in mice.

Material and methods: In this study, 48 adult male mice were randomly divided into six groups: 1) saline group, 2) MPTP + LID, 3) MPTP + LID + BV (5 mg/kg), 4) MPTP + LID + BV (10 mg/kg), 5) MPTP + LID + BV (20 mg/kg). MPTP (1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine) (30 mg/kg/day/i.p.) was used to induce Parkinson’s disease and Levodopa (50 mg/kg/day/i.p.) was used to induce LID. After induction of LID, mice received intraperitoneally (i.p.) different dosages of BV for 25 days. To investigate movement disorder improvement (dyskinesia), AIMS (Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale) and cylinder tests were used.

Results: Mice that received BV at dosages of 10 and 20 mg/kg/day showed improvement in AIMS and the cylinder test.

Conclusion: BV is a useful drug for treating LID. So, parkinsonian disease patients may get a beneficial effect after treatment with BV for LID.
Oils from fruit seeds and their dietetic and cosmetic significance
Authors: Michalak Monika , Kiełtyka-Dadasiewicz Anna
Published: March 2019

Plant-origin oils are an essential element of the diet, affecting the preservation of health, but also of significant importance for the care of skin and its appendages. Among fats of plant origin, oils from fruit seeds are an important group. They are a rich source of fatty acids, tocopherols, tocotrienols, carotenoids, flavonoids, phytosterols and other bioactive compounds that have positive effect in relation to specific functions of the human body. Fruit seed oils play an important role in health prophylaxis, because they prevent the development of diseases of civilisation, alleviate the effects of stress and slow down the ageing process of the body. Due to the beneficial effects on the skin, they are also used in cosmetology. In formulations of cosmetic preparations, plant oils are the basis for the administration of other active ingredients, but they are also used due to their biological properties. The article discusses in detail the composition, dietary and cosmetic importance of oil from the seeds of raspberries, blackcurrants, rose hips and grapes.
Nutritional value and health-promoting properties of Agaricus bisporus (Lange) Imbach
Authors: Golak-Siwulska Iwona , Kałużewicz Alina , Wdowienko Siergiej , Dawidowicz Luiza , Sobieralski Krzysztof
Published: March 2019

The white button mushroom Agaricus bisporus (Lange) Imbach is an edible mushroom of top economic significance. In recent years the consumption of fruiting bodies of this species has been increasing in Poland. The article characterises the chemical composition and health-promoting properties of white button mushrooms. The latest scientific research confirms that the fruiting bodies of white button mushroom have high nutritional value. They contain good quality proteins, necessary unsaturated fatty acids, fibre, some vitamins and numerous minerals. Apart from that, white button mushroom fruiting bodies contain a wide range of bioactive substances, which have a positive influence on health, such as polysaccharides, glyco-proteins, tocopherols, polyphenols and other antioxidants, e.g. ergothioneine. Apart from the antioxidant properties, the white button mushroom also has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, anticancer, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective and anti-atherosclerotic activities.
Measuring Change in ‘Hybrid Factories’: Longitudinal Study of Japanese Manufacturing Subsidiaries in Poland
Authors: Olejniczak Tomasz , Itohisa Masato , Abo Tetsuo , Kumon Hiroshi
Published: March 2019

Objective: This article illustrates how, on the subsidiary level, the mixture of management practices in Japanese manufacturing subsidiaries operating in Poland changes over time.

Methodology: Study represents the first, rigorous, longitudinal replication of Japanese Multinational Enterprise Study Group hybridization studies conducted using the original methodology. Researchers visited eight original research sites and measured changes after fourteen years in six of them.

Findings: The results indicate significant change in terms of manufacturing practices as well as in the localization of management. On the other hand, there has been practically no change in terms of equipment, organizational culture, and procurement methods.

Value Added: Article contributes to the existing literature in two ways. First it confirms dynamic nature of hybridization trough a longitudinal exploration of changes that took place in management practices. Secondly, it combines JMNESG methodology with the most recent developments in research methods, increasing its clarity and replicability thus paving a way for future longitudinal studies of hybridization.

Recommendations: Based on this research future studies could replicate JMNESG studies in various locations and contexts thus providing further insights into the nature of change in the hybrid factories operating around the world and the nature of Japanese management over the last 20 years.
The impact of using modern irrigation techniques on the ancient Mougheul palm grove, South-West of Algeria
Authors: Rezzoug Cherif
Published: March 2019

To resist against a hostile environment, the oases of Saoura developed ingenious techniques of catchment and sharing of water to exploit the rare and precious waters of the groundwater. But the intervention of modern irrigation techniques has disrupted the entire oasis system inside the oasis such as the spring, the palm grove and the ksar. These techniques have overexploited the groundwater supplying the palm grove in terms of quantity and quality.

For centuries, the oases of Mougheul used only the source (with a flow of 25 dm3∙s−1 in 2001) which is inside the oasis to irrigate the parcels and herds. After the year 2005, the state decided to supply the city of Bechar with drinking water through the catchment field of Mougheul through five modern boreholes, which had a profound impact on the oasis, its surroundings, and the whole artesian source.

In this work, we study the impact of the use of modern catchment systems on the water source and the life of the Mougheul population. By interviewing farmers and landowners about the impact of groundwater scarcity on the oasis. This allowed knowing the current state of the oasis and the reasons for its deterioration.
Controlling of optical band gap of the CdO films by zinc oxide
Authors: Kati Nida
Published: March 2019

In this study, CdZnO films prepared at different ratios of dopants (CdO:ZnO = 5:5, CdO:ZnO = 6:4, and CdO:ZnO = 8:2) were coated on glass surface by using the sol-gel spin coating technique. After this process, surface structure and optical properties of the CdZnO films was investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The surface structure of the CdZnO films depended on the content of ZnO and CdO in the films. Low percentage of CdO films were very similar to the ZnO film but higher amount of CdO resuted in granular structures together with pure structure of ZnO in the films. Eg values of produced CdZnOs depended on the additions of CdO and ZnO. The obtained Eg values of the produced CdO:ZnO = 5:5 (S3), CdO:ZnO = 6:4 (S4), and CdO:ZnO = 8:2 (S5) films are 2.5 eV, 2.49 eV, and 2.4 eV, respectively.
Effect of Mn content in Fe(1−x)MnxB (x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1) on physical properties - ab initio calculations
Authors: Gueddouh A. , Benghia A. , Maabed S.
Published: March 2019

Structural, electronic, intrinsic magnetic, anisotropic elastic properties, sound velocities and Debye temperature of Fe1−xMnx B (x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1) transition metal monoborides have been studied by first-principles calculations within the method of virtual crystal approximation (VCA) based on density-functional theory (DFT) through generalized gradient approximation (GGA). The average magnetic moment per cell increased with increasing of Mn content, which could be associated with the relationship between the composition and magnetic properties. The observed magnetic behavior of Fe1−xMnx B compounds can be explained by Stoner model. Lattice parameters and Debye temperature agree well with the experimental values. Furthermore, we have plotted three-dimensional (3D) surfaces and planar contours of the directional dependent Young and bulk moduli of the compounds on several crystallographic planes, to reveal their elastic anisotropy versus Mn content (x) in Fe1−xMnx B.
Effect of pellet size and additive on silica carbothermic reduction in microwave furnace for solar grade silicon
Authors: Cherif Fillali , Ahmed Ilyes Baba , Abderrahmane Abdelkader , Hamzaoui Saad
Published: March 2019

Silicon as a raw material for solar cells can be produced by numerous methods. The carbothermic reduction of silica using electric arc furnace is the most widely used process in silicon industry. This paper presents a new approach to produce solar grade silicon using microwave furnace. Pellets of different sizes were prepared from a mixture of silica and carbon using water and polyvinyl alcohol as binder agents. Raman spectra indicated a peak at about 515 cm−1 attributed to silicon in the pellets prepared with polyvinyl alcohol, and peaks at about 523 cm−1 and 794 cm−1 attributed to silicon and silicon carbide, in the pellets prepared with water. The pellet size affects the absorption of microwave energy emitted from the magnetrons. Polyvinyl alcohol as a binder agent is promising for the production of silicon using microwave furnace.
Radionuclide neutron source trajectories in the closed nuclear fuel cycle
Authors: Stanisz Przemysław , Cetnar Jerzy , Oettingen Mikołaj
Published: March 2019

The highest efficiency in the usage of nuclear energy resources can be implemented in fast breeder reactors of generation IV. It is achieved thanks to the ability of consuming minor actinides (MAs) in energy production. One of the options to use this benefit is full recycling of MAs to close the nuclear fuel cycle. Monte Carlo burn up (MCB), an integrated burn-up calculation code, deals with the complexity of the burn-up process which is applied to the European Lead-cooled Fast Reactor (ELFR). MCB uses continuous energy representation of cross section and spatial effects of full core reactor model; however, it automatically calculates nuclide production in all possible reactions or decay channels. Multi-recycling of MAs can cause an intensified build-up of curium, berkelium and californium. Some of their isotopes are strong neutron emitters from spontaneous fission, which hinders fuel recycling. The implementation of a novel methodology for trajectory period folding allows us to trace the life cycle of crucial MAs from the beginning of the reactor life towards the state of adiabatic equilibrium. The result of the analysis performed is presented, showing the sources of strong contribution to the neutron production rate. The parametric sensitivity analysis method for selected nuclide reactions is applied, revealing sensitivity of transmutation chains for the production of neutron emitter isotopes.
Development and reproduction of Trichogramma cacoeciae Marchal, 1927 (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) on Cydia pomonella (Linnaeus, 1758) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) eggs
Authors: Mansour Mohammed
Published: March 2019

The effects of temperature treatments (15, 20, 25, 30, 35 ±1ºC), parasite age, host age, and availability of food on the development and reproduction of the egg parasite Trichogramma cacoeciae on Cydia pomonella eggs, were examined. The results showed that temperature had a profound effect on the mean number of parasitized eggs/females and the survival of immatures to the adult stage. Parasitization was highest on the 1st day after emergence, gradually decreasing for the next 2-10 days (depending on the temperature); it reached a peak at 25±1 ºC. The results also showed an inverse relationship between temperature, developmental time and mean adult longevity; the rate of development increased and longevity decreased with increasing temperature. The availability of food (honey) increased the parasitization rate, and the younger the host (C. pomonella eggs), the more susceptible it was to parasitization.
Testing the Functionality and Performance of a Rail Damper
Authors: Mazilu Traian , Răcănel Ionuţ Radu , Stoicescu George
Published: March 2019

The rail dampers are mechanical devices which work as dynamic absorbers to reduce the rail vibration and rolling noise. The paper shows the experimental results from the functionality and performance testing of an experimental demonstrative rail damper. The vibration attenuation takes the highest values, namely 6-22 dB, between 160 and 1000 Hz.