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Background The seeds of many plant species can be dispersed over long distances in animal fur (epizoochory). Quantifying epizoochory in the wild is, however, challenging, since it is difficult to measure the retention times of seeds in fur. These retention times depend on the acceleration that seeds experience and that can detach seeds from fur. Wildlife collars containing accelerometers may thus provide crucial information on epizoochorous seed dispersal. However, this is only the case if acceleration of the animal’s neck (where collars are attached) is informative of acceleration of the animal’s main body (where most seeds are transported). Methods We used accelerometers to simultaneously measure acceleration at the neck, breast and the upper hind leg of 40 individuals of eight mammal species spanning a large range of body masses (26–867 kg). We then quantified maximum acceleration as the 95%-quantile of the resultant acceleration (of all measured values in data intervals of 5 s). Results Maximum acceleration was comparable between the neck and breast but substantially higher at the hind leg. Maximum acceleration measured by neck collars and body mass jointly explained 81% of the variance in maximum acceleration of the breast and 62% of the variance in maximum acceleration of the leg. Conclusions Acceleration measured by neck collars is informative of the acceleration experienced by seeds attached to other body parts (breast and leg). When combined with animal movement data and lab measurements of how fur acceleration affects seed release and retention times, widely used collar accelerometers can thus be used to assess distances of epizoochorous seed dispersal.

The paper presents four study versions: an aeration process and three stationary water oxygenation processes. In the aeration process, atmospheric air (21% O2 and 79% N2) is introduced into a pool of water. In the oxygenation process are introduced successively: - A gaseous mixture of atmospheric air and a certain volume of oxygen taken from a cylinder. - Low nitrogen air. - A mixture of atmospheric air and ozone. For the four versions, the experimental installations, the calculation results and the experimental obtained ones in case of the change of the dissolved oxygen concentration in the water are exposed. The electricity consumption for the four versions is analyzed at a certain time, when the initial concentration of dissolved oxygen in the water reaches the saturation concentration.

Background: Despite the fact that keratoconus has been tipically defined as a noninflammatory condition, recent research has promoted the role of inflammatory factors and protein changes of tear film in disease progression. Aims: to determine the level of serum albumin, lactoferrin and lyzozyme in tears of keratoconic patients and their correlations with corneal biomechanical properties. Subjects and methods: 16 eyes of keratoconus patients and 14 eyes of control cases were enrolled in an observational prospective study. We performed a complete ophthalmological examination on all participants. In order to determine the concentration of tear film proteins, a minimum of 20 microlitres of tears from the lower conjunctival fornix were collected from each subject and measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis. Results: The level of lactoferrin measured in the tear film was significantly decreased in the keratoconus group compared to the normal subjects in all cases (p Conclusions: We can state that the protein composition of tears is modified in keratoconus by increased levels of protein with inflammatory properties such as albumin or by decreased levels of protein with anti-inflammatory properties such as lactoferrin.

The paper presents two constructive solutions in the field of fine bubble generators that serve to aerate the water. Two installations for experimental researches have been designed and built in connection with the two constructive solutions. The dissolved oxygen concentration was experimentally determined. The theoretical and experimental results for the two constructive solutions are compared showing a good coincidence in relation to the results reported in the literature.

Keratoconus is a progressive ectatic disorder characterised by irregular myopic astigmatism and loss of visual acuity due to corneal thinning. Corneal collagen crosslinking is the treatment recognised to stop the progression of keratoconus. Our study evaluates and compares visibility and depth of the stromal demarcation line after corneal collagen crosslinking using anterior segment optical coherence tomography between two groups:crosslinking with dextran-based and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose-based riboflavin solutions. Our work proved a better visibility and a deeper demarcation line when we used HPMC-based riboflavin. Also the study revealed that HPMC-based riboflavin is associated with better biomechanical outcomes than dextran-based riboflavin.

The aim of this study was firstly to determine and quantify the dry eye symptomatology of patients with keratoconus, in comparison with those without this condition and secondly to evaluate the suitability of the spin probe method of electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy in analysis of tears secretion. As such were considered two groups of patients for evaluation: 36 cases with keratoconus (keratoconus group) and 36 cases without ocular disease (control group). Besides general ophthalmological examination we have conducted Schirmer test I, tears break-up time (BUT) and quantify the answers about dry eye symptomatology to establish ocular surface disease index (OSDI). We have included a prospective correlation of ophthalmologic parameters with parameters of the spin probes added in tear secretions collected from both groups of patients. The results show that the value of OSDI for patients with keratoconus was higher (41.07 � 23.68) than the corresponding value of the control group (14.63 � 9.27). Also, the patients with keratoconus present lower mean values for BUT and Schirmer tests comparatively with the cases from control group. The electron paramagnetic resonances spectra of the spin probe CAT16 in tear secretions obtained from patients revealed changes that can be related with ophthalmologic parameters.

Glaucoma represents the main cause of irreversible blindness in the world and for this consideration, the interest in a quick and precise diagnosis and progression of the disease, prior to the appearance of irreversible damage, has been continuously rising. Glaucoma risk factors are already well known, but current studies reveal that it is necessary to make a proper analysis of the intraocular pressure (IOP) to obtain an accurate diagnosis, so we must take into consideration corneal properties that might affect IOP measurements. Starting from corneal geometrical properties represented by central corneal thickness (CCT) and continuing with biomechanical properties represented by corneal hysteresis (CH) and corneal resistance factor (CRF) we reviewed the value of investigating corneal properties in ocular hypertension (OH), primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and normal tension glaucoma (NTG) patients. We can now say that CCT plays an important role in diagnosing glaucoma because it may mask the real value of the IOP and also, in setting the target for the IOP needed to stop disease progression. Also, CH is a factor that needs to be screened from the first consult of a glaucoma patient or suspect because it is correlated to the response to treatment, visual field (VF) and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) progression and could anticipate the future evolution and patients prognosis. Both CCT and CH are factors that must be thought-about when we encounter a glaucoma suspect. CCT has a predictive role in OH and NTG patients, while CH has on the other hand a prognostic role in POAG, OH and NTG patients.

Tear composition is a source of information on the health state of the eye. Dry eye syndrome represents nowadays a common disorder that can be associated with other eye diseases, in particular keratoconus. As such, we focussed on the correlation of selected protein levels with ophthalmic parameters and, as a novelty, we explored the possible correlation of these data, classically used in examination, with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectral parameters of spin probes. Three groups of patients with (i) dry eye syndrome, (ii) dry eye syndrome and keratoconus and (iii) healthy eyes were considered. Tears were collected from the subjects to determine the levels of total protein, lactoferrin, lysozyme and human serum albumin, and to record the EPR spectra of spin probes with fatty acid-like structures: 5-doxyl stearic acid (5-DSA) and 4-(N,N′-dimethyl-N-hexadecyl)ammonium-2,2′,6,6′-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl iodide (CAT16). In tear secretion, the EPR spectra of spin probes showed two components, one with slow dynamics and another one revealing a quasi-isotropic, rapid motion. We analysed in depth the changes observed in the EPR spectra of 5-DSA for the reason that the differences in dynamics between the 5-DSA components are more evident. The challenge of this study was to provide an alternative to biochemical analysis in monitoring the evolution of the health state of patients diagnosed with dry eye syndrome or keratoconus using the information provided by EPR spectra of spin probes. The results indicate a decreased contribution of the EPR component with rapid motion following treatment, and a significant correlation with the Schirmer and/or BUT values.

This paper presents a way to solve the transfer rate equation of oxygen in water. After running a calculation program, the graph of the function that indicates the increase of the dissolved oxygen concentration in the water as a function of time is plotted. Constructed in an original manner, the experimental installation allows the measurement of the increase of the dissolved oxygen concentration in water. The experimental obtained results are compared with the theoretically obtained data.

Considering that in certain papers the aeration processes are confused with the oxygenation processes, a distinction between them must be made. The paper presents modern water aeration and oxygenation installations. The experimental results obtained for the two categories of installations are highlighted. Theoretical and experimental researches aim to increase the concentration of dissolved oxygen in water; this can be done in two ways: I - by introducing atmospheric air into the water; II - by introducing a gaseous mixture consisting of atmospheric air and oxygen. Version II is better, the results being shown in Figure 11.

The paper presents experimental researches able to demonstrate that the aeration installations with mobile fine bubble generators are more efficient than the classic ones with fixed, fine bubble generators. The paper develops water aeration researches by introducing two types of fine air bubble generators: I. Fixed fine air bubble generators, which generate Ø II. Mobile fine air bubble generators that move in the volume of water subject to aeration. The theoretical and experimental results are presented for the two versions. According to experimental data, aeration with mobile FBG is more efficient in terms of oxygen transfer from atmospheric air to a stationary water mass.

Water aeration systems are highly efficient if the dispersion of air in the water is carried out in a controlled and uniform manner. The use of fine bubble generators ensures this and in addition, creates a small loss of pressure when air passes through them. The paper demonstrates that producing as few air bubbles as possible leads to a more efficient aeration process. Two water aeration installations are compared: - The first has a perforated plate with 152 orifices Ø 0.1 mm; - The second has four perforated plates, each with 113 orifices Ø 0.05 mm; Both installations are successively supplied with the same flow rate of compressed air, at the same temperature and at the same initial dissolved oxygen concentration in the water.

Aim: to determine the values of biomechanical parameters (corneal hysteresis - CH, corneal resistance factor - CRF and keratoconus match index - KMI) in patients with keratoconus and their first degree family members. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the importance of assessing corneal biomechanics in subjects at risk of developing the primary ectasia. Materials and methods: 48 participants divided into three groups were analyzed in an observational study after a complete ophthalmological exam with the primary focus on Ocular Response Analyzer. Results: The mean values of CH, CRF, and KMI in the group of relatives were lower compared with the controls but higher when compared with keratoconus patients. We noted significant differences of CH and CRF between all three groups, while in the case of KMI, only the keratoconus group presented statistically significant differences compared with the relatives, respectively with the healthy subjects. Conclusions: the decreased values of CH and CRF may raise the question whether corneal biomechanics could be an adjuvant tool in the screening of a first-degree family member of a keratoconus patient in the attempt of the early detection of a possible forme fruste keratoconus.

Glaucoma is known as an optic neuropathy prone to progression that determines characteristic not only structural (loss of the ganglion cells as well as their axons) but also functional defects (visual field loss). Objective: To evaluate the possibility of applying ganglion cell complex analysis (GCC) in patients who associate ocular hypertension with tilted disc and marked peripapillary atrophy. Methods: In order to evaluate its components, GCC can be investigated using the Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) revealing: ganglion cell layer (cells bodies), inner plexiform layer (dendrites and synapses), and nerve fiber layer (axons). Our study included 196 eyes divided into 3 groups: 52 diagnosed with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), 63 with ocular hypertension (OH), and 81 healthy (normal) eyes (NE). All eyes were submitted to a complete ophthalmologic checkup that involved advanced optic nerve and GCC evaluation. Results: A positive statistically significant correlation was identified between the GCC thickness and the RNFL in all three categories taken into account: R=0,6, p

The rotating machine, to which the paper relates, refers to the following: A rotating machine construction solution that can be used as a power machine (steam engine, pneumatic engine) The same construction solution can be used as a working machine (pump, fan, and compressor). The constructive solution and the operating principle of the rotating machine are presented, the flow rate and the machine power computation model is indicated. At the end of the paper, the machine effective efficiency is experimentally determined.

The paper presents experimental tests and theoretical studies of a Stirling engine cycle applied to a &beta, type machine. The finite physical dimension thermodynamics (FPDT) method and 0D modeling by the imperfectly regenerated Schmidt model are used to develop analytical models for the Stirling engine cycle. The purpose of this study is to show that two simple models that take into account only the irreversibility due to temperature difference in the heat exchangers and imperfect regeneration are able to indicate engine behavior. The share of energy loss for each is determined using these two models as well as the experimental results of a particular engine. The energies exchanged by the working gas are expressed according to the practical parameters, which are necessary for the engineer during the entire project, namely the maximum pressure, the maximum volume, the compression ratio, the temperature of the heat sources, etc. The numerical model allows for evaluation of the energy processes according to the angle of the crankshaft (kinematic&ndash, thermodynamic coupling). The theoretical results are compared with the experimental research. The effect of the engine rotation speed on the power and efficiency of the actual operating machine is highlighted. The two methods show a similar variation in performance, although heat loss due to imperfect regeneration is evaluated differently.

The paper presents methods for measuring the dissolved oxygen concentration in water; the electrical method is presented by presenting an experimental installation designed and built in the laboratories of POLITEHNICA University in Bucharest. For the creation of fine air bubbles, a bubble generator with 0.1 mm orifices processed by spark-erosion was used. The results of the experimental researches on the measurement of dissolved oxygen in water are presented.

Keratoconus is a progressive corneal ectasia that may lead to severe visual impairment due to the irregular astigmatism caused by corneal thinning. In addition to its association with atopy, eye rubbing, or genetic component, late reports suggest the involvement of inflammation in the pathogenesis of the disease. Our aim was to determine the concentration of IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, RANTES, IFN gamma, and TNF alpha in the tear film of patients with keratoconus and their first degree family members. We analyzed forty-eight participants in an observational cross-sectional study. The diagnosis of keratoconus had to be confirmed in addition to a minimum of 47 D corneal refractive power by corneal topography readings provided by a Placido-based topography system and analysis of the pattern: irregular astigmatism with an asymmetric “bow-tie.” As for the other groups, the most important diagnosis criteria were a normal topographic pattern with a regular astigmatism. 17 keratoconus patients, 16 relatives, and 15 controls were recruited after clinical assessment as part of the research. The cytokine’s mean values were similar in the keratoconus group and the relatives’ samples but significantly higher compared to the controls. Important differences were found in IL-4 levels between keratoconus patients and relatives and between relatives and controls (mean difference of 302.42, p<0.0016 and 219.16, p<0.033, Tukey’s HSD procedure). In the keratoconus group, using the CORR procedure, we found statistically strong correlations of IL-6 lacrimal concentrations with the disease stage (r=0.56, p<0.01), keratometry (r=0.55, p<0.02), pachymetry (r=−0.64, p<0.048), and corneal hysteresis (r=−0.53, p<0.02). Cytokine overexpression may be relevant for the inflammatory etiology of keratoconus. In conclusion, in the case of some first degree family members, the elevated tear biomarkers may represent a supplementary risk factor.

The purpose of this paper aims to present the basic mechanism of the technique that represents the logical sequence of motor actions, objectively necessary in order to make it effective. It should be understood as a system of factors (spatial, temporal, dynamic and energetic), that are in close correlation, which results in a higher efficiency motor action. We have presented in this paper the basic mechanism and the main link to the three throwing, according to the authors quoted. Each throw contains different technical elements within the basic mechanism. We synthesized the technical elements on each throw, javelin, disc and hammer.

The paper presents the influence of the water height layer on the dissolved oxygen concentration. The connection between the dissolved oxygen concentration in water, the water height layer and the oxygenation process efficiency are presented. The increase of dissolved oxygen concentration in water function of time, the efficiency and effectiveness of oxygenation process for different hydrostatic load, are theoretical determined. The computing results are compared with the values of experimentally measurements. The performance of the oxygenation plant increase with increased water layer height above the fine bubble generator.

The air filtering device allows the airflow at the exit of filter cartridge to generate very small bubbles called microbubbles (O < 100 μm). The size of the air bubble injected into the water tank depends on the orifice size in the microbubbles generator perforated plate. The paper presents the theoretical and experimental researches results on the use of air filtration cartridges to the achievement of micro air bubbles.

Physical training includes a whole system of measures ensuring a high functional capacity of the body by the high level of development of basic motor skills and specific morphological indices optimal values - and a perfect functional health status. The purpose of the study pertains to highlight the effectiveness of exercises and specific means of playing basketball on improving general and specific physical training of students in high school(Alexe, 1993), (Ardelean, 1982), (Colibaba-Evuleţ, Bota, 1998), (Programele scolare , 2001) , (Ghid Metodologic, 2001). As a methodology in addressing physical training in basketball we should highlight a series of operations: • first operation in addressing physical training is the dominant driving qualities accurate, thus basketball, a domain experts have characterized as the effort being based on specific quality motor resistance manifested under the speed, strength and skill; • the second operation consists in characterizing specific effort basketball game. This characterization is correlated with the quality of the dominant motive. We note that the effort is characterized through the following parameters: intensity, duration (volume), complexity, metabolic processes of energy release. In basketball specific effort is characterized as: maximal and submaximal, variable intensity and duration, with brief interruptions, very complex and diversified schemes manifestation of motor skills and factors of performance or resistance under speed, flash, technical, tactics and tension, mixed (aerobic anaerobic points)( Demeter,1981),( Dragnea, 1991); • the third operation is to establish the dynamics of the training effort (i.e. increases and decreases in effort) that is how it is planned and programmed physical training.

The aim is to improve primary physical education process based on the use of means and methods into capacity-building athletic conditional. Along with driving skills, driving skills must be the primary objectives of the physical education lesson content. Regardless of the material conditions (room, devices, materials) or weather (rain, snow, fog, cold), development of motor skills should be first. It is preferred that the lesson of physical education, physical attributes are not placed at random. Rank actions for developing motor skills in physical education class must be determined depending on the nature of that effort in order to ensure optimal volume or intensity and ensure the return of the body. School athletics is athletics during the initiation, which, from the earliest years of school children begin to learn the basic mechanisms specific athletic evidence. These are important for the influence they have both in developing basic motor skills, but also in developing the childs motor skills for daily activity, it’s natural that you have athletic exercises. As such athleticism is one of the core subjects in school physical education (Cârstea, 1993; Mitra, 1977). There was almost no sports discipline in which technical structure finds itself at least one of the specific movements of athletics. For this the correct assimilation exercises and skills learned in school athletics should be the most correct, and we refer to running, jumping and throwing, in all their manifestations. The exercises in school athletics are structured according to three specific groups, such as: running, jumps, throws (Ionescu-Bondoc, 2007), (Programele scolare, 2001).

This paper presents monitoring results obtained using digital, automated and optical fiber extensometers for ground surface displacement measurements in two case-studies located in the Buzau Carpathians and Subcarpathians, Romania. The main objective of this research is to accurately estimate the landslide displacement rates in order to be able to predict the time of landslide reactivation. In the case of the Colţi Church landslide (the Buzau Carpathians), correlations between displacement and precipitation are reported. In the case of the Maguricea landslide (the Buzau Subcarpathians), results obtained using a conventional extensometer (automated type) are compared with those obtained using an optical fiber system. Differences of 0.11mm/day were noted between displacement rates obtained using a conventional extensometer and an optical fiber system.

The approach to minimal land lots shows how a reduced area of terrain can be utilized to create an efficient, high-density version of the single-family dwelling while maintaining a decent rapport between built and construction-free areas.

The end of the 20th century was preserving and handing down the concept of economic growth as the main goal of most of the governments and economic advisers, even if the world was integrating in a mondialist system. This economic model lasted for a long time, but it will not survive the 21st century, when the development of nations will depend increasingly on the security of natural resources. Progress now depends on a much more profound economic transformation than it has been possible so far, especially since countries around the world rely on the availability of renewable and nonrenewable resources to meet their rising needs and expectations. The transition from the traditional economic paradigm to that based on the sustainable or ecological economy takes years of changes at all levels – from theory to practice. The aim of this paper is to introduce the progressive visions of some outstanding specialists who have looked for solutions to make a sustainable economy possible. The transition to a world sustainable economy implies admitting the fact that human economy is just a part of the global ecosystem which encompasses it.

The Sibiciu Basin is located in Romania between the Buzau Mountains and the Buzau Subcarpathians (Curvature Carpathians and Subcarpathians). The geology of the basin consists of Paleogene flysch deposits represented by an alternation of sandstones, marls, clays and schists and Neogene deposits represented by marls, clays and sands. The area is affected by different types of landslides (shallow, medium-deep and deep-seated failures). In Romania, in the last decades, direct and indirect methods have been applied for landslide susceptibility assessment. The most utilized before 2000 were based on qualitative approaches. This study evaluates the landslide susceptibility in the Sibiciu Basin using a bivariate statistical analysis and an index of entropy. A landslide inventory map was prepared, and a susceptibility estimate was assessed based on the following parameters which influence the landslide occurrence: slope angle, slope aspect, curvature, lithology and land use. The landslide susceptibility map was divided into five classes showing very low to very high landslide susceptibility areas.

The May–August 2005 heavy rainstorm events in Romania triggered a large number of geomorphic hazards of great magnitude, consisting of primarily floods and landslides. Some of the most affected regions were the Curvature Carpathians and Subcarpathians. This paper addresses the effects of rainfall on slopes, especially in the middle sector of the Sibiciu basin (the Buzau Carpathians) outlining the significant landslide damage along the road connecting the Colţi and Alunis villages. The landslides are analyzed in terms of geologic, geomorphic and engineering geologic features, focusing on the Colţi–Alunis landslide which had the greatest impact on the road displacement. The related environmental and social impacts are also discussed.

The principle of subsidiarity is meant to demarcate the exercise of competences between the EU and its Member States and to balance the claim for regulatory power which these two legal worlds make. This article takes the view that subsidiarity has not proven so far to be a very useful touchstone in this regard. Moreover, there are still shortcomings in its envisaged application based on the legal framework provided by the Lisbon Treaty. It is therefore suggested that an approach beyond subsidiarity should be taken in future research in order to shed more light on how powers are balanced in practice in the EU. This approach submits for exploration the following hypothesis: the competences between the EU and its Member States are demarcated in daily practice by negotiating and balancing national discretionary powers, rather than defined through the legal framework and application of subsidiarity. In this view, two paths of research are proposed. The first identifies the Council, more specifically its de facto decision-making body, the Committee of Permanent Representatives (Coreper), as an arena for using Member States’ national discretionary powers in the process of negotiating legislation at the ex ante EU law-making level. The second view suggests an analysis of how the powers are balanced at the ex post law-making level by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) when assessing the principle of proportionality and thereof the margin of discretion left to the Member States in protecting their national powers and interests. These two specific perspectives are to be placed in the broader perspective of achieving national interests while still contributing to the unity of EU law-making.

Objects: To investigate the variability of the corneal hysteresis in primary open angle glaucoma(POAG) patients.

The paper presents the results of landslide susceptibility maps elaboration for the Sibiciu, Panatau and Saratel basins (Buzau Carpathians and Subcarpathians, Romania) and the assessment of landslide displacements using extensometers in Romania. The landslide susceptibility maps were elaborated using the bivariate statistical analysis and the index of entropy. Observations concerning landslide displacements using extensometers were focused on two test sites located in the Ivanetu Summit (the Colti church area) and the Buzau Subcarpathians (Maguricea landslide). The system measurement from Maguricea landslide using optical fiber is the first system installed on a test site in Europe. The studies were elaborated in cooperation with Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia and the Public Works Research Institute, Tsukuba, Japan.

For a long period of time, economists did not understand or assimilate the importance of the laws of thermodynamics regarding the material and social universe, completely ignoring the entropic process, by which the total energy of a closed system moves from low entropy to high entropy, from organization to disorganization. In this context, the paper deals with a new view on the interpretation of economic processes, through the law of entropy in thermodynamics, presented by Nicholas Georgescu-Roegen, a professional economist of Romanian origin, the product of a rarely encountered transdisciplinarity in scientific literature.