bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Different Resistance Training Load Schemes on Strength and Body Composition in Trained Men
Authors: Lopes Charles Ricardo , Aoki Marcelo Saldanha , Crisp Alex Harley , de Mattos Renê Scarpari , Lins Miguel Alves , da Mota Gustavo Ribeiro , Schoenfeld Brad Jon , Marchetti Paulo Henrique
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of moderate-load (10 RM) and low-load (20 RM) resistance training schemes on maximal strength and body composition. Sixteen resistance-trained men were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: a moderate-load group (n = 8) or a low-load group (n = 8). The resistance training schemes consisted of 8 exercises performed 4 times per week for 6 weeks. In order to equate the number of repetitions performed by each group, the moderate load group performed 6 sets of 10 RM, while the low load group performed 3 sets of 20 RM. Between-group differences were evaluated using a 2-way ANOVA and independent t-tests. There was no difference in the weekly total load lifted (sets × reps × kg) between the 2 groups. Both groups equally improved maximal strength and measures of body composition after 6 weeks of resistance training, with no significant between-group differences detected. In conclusion, both moderate-load and low-load resistance training schemes, similar for the total load lifted, induced a similar improvement in maximal strength and body composition in resistance-trained men.
Somatotype, Level of Competition, and Performance in Attack in Elite Male Volleyball
Authors: Giannopoulos Nikiforos , Vagenas George , Noutsos Konstantinos , Barzouka Karolina , Bergeles Nikolaos
Published: August 2017

This study investigated the relationship between somatotype, level of competition, and performance in attack in elite level male volleyball players. The objective was to test for the potential covariation of competition level (Division A1 vs. A2) and playing position (hitters vs. centers vs. opposites) considering performance in attack. Anthropometric, body composition and somatotype variables were measured according to the Heath-Carter method. The attack actions of 144 players from 48 volleyball matches were analyzed and their performance was rated using a 5-point numerical scale. Results showed that players of Division A1 were taller, heavier, more muscular, and less endomorphic compared to those of Division A2. MANOVA and follow-up discriminant function analysis revealed somatotype differences among playing positions with centers and opposites being endomorph-ectomorph and hitters being central. Centers performed constantly better than hitters and opposites regardless of the division and somatotype. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that variables defining ectomorph and endomorph players, centers, and players of Division A1 significantly determined the relative performance superiority and were able to explain the variation in performance by almost 25%. These results could be taken into account by coaches when assigning players to particular playing positions or when designing individualized position-specific training programs.
Variability of Metabolic Power Data in Elite Soccer Players During Pre-Season Matches
Authors: Hoppe Matthias Wilhelm , Baumgart Christian , Slomka Mirko , Polglaze Ted , Freiwald Jürgen
Published: August 2017

This study aimed to determine the within-subject variability of GPS-derived metabolic power data in elite soccer players across several pre-season matches and compare the variability of high metabolic power, velocity, acceleration and deceleration running. Additionally, differences in metabolic power data among playing positions and relationships with various physical abilities were also investigated. Metabolic power data from 12 outfield starting players competing in the German Bundesliga were collected during five pre-season matches using GPS-technology (10 Hz). The players were also tested for speed, agility, power and intermittent endurance. Variability of global metabolic power data such as energy expenditure (CV = 2.2-7.0%) was lower than that for high-intensity including time ≥20 W·kg-1 (CV = 14.0-26.2%). Variability of high metabolic power (≥20 W·kg-1; CV = 14.1 ± 3.5%) was comparable to that of high velocity (≥15.5 km·h-1; CV = 17.0 ± 6.2%), acceleration (≥3 m·s-2; CV = 11.1 ± 5.1%) and deceleration running (≤-3 m·s-2; CV = 11.9 ± 4.5%) (p > 0.05, ES < 0.2). Defenders had a largely higher overall energy expenditure than midfielders and attackers (p < 0.01, ES > 0.6). Overall energy expenditure and cost were largely to very largely correlated with 5 m speed and 22 m agility sprint time and counter movement jump height (r = -0.70-0.69, p < 0.05). The detected variability indicates that global GPS-derived metabolic power data in elite soccer players from a single preseason match should be preferably used for practical applications. Contrary, high-intensity indicators should be interpreted cautiously and repeated match observations are recommended to establish meaningful high-intensity profiles of the players. Differences among playing positions and relationships with explosive physical abilities indicate that metabolic power analyses can provide new insights into the mechanics and energetics of soccer.
Opinion paper: Data provenance challenges in
biomedical research
Authors: Baum Benjamin , Bauer Christian R. , Franke Thomas , Kusch Harald , Parciak Marcel , Rottmann Thorsten , Umbach Nadine , Sax Ulrich
Published: August 2017

In this opinion paper we provide an
overview of some challenges concerning data provenance in biomedical
research. We reflect current literature and depict some
examples of existing implicit or explicit provenance aspects in some
standard data types in translational research.
Furthermore, we assess the need of further data
provenance standardization in biomedical informatics.
Basic data provenance should provide a recall about the origin of the
data, transformation process steps,
support replication and presentation of the data. Even
though usable concepts for the documentation of data provenance can be found
in other fields as early as 2005, the penetration rate
in biomedical projects and in the biomedical literature is quite
low. The awareness for the necessity of basic data
provenance has to be raised, the education of data
managers has to be further improved.
The Warranty of the Right to Defense under an Operating European Department of Public Prosecution
Authors: Palcu Pavel
Published: August 2017

Both in the European Union and in European doctrine was widely discussed the ratione materiae of the future European Public Prosecutor. In terms of the Lisbon Treaty its jurisdincion is limited to crimes that threaten the Union’s financial interests, but at the same time the Council of Europe may extend this competence by unanimous decision and other serious offenses. European Public Prosecutor is now one of the main objectives of the European Union and is one of the priorities of the common space of freedom, security and justice for the next five years. Still looking for ways and methods useful for the implementation of these goals, but two conditions must be met: it must be a useful institution, well embedded in the EU institutions and must be based on our national legal traditions that have proven their relevance. Finally, it gives a substantial importance to defense lawyers and rights in various stages of the procedure, both in the contentious matter of freedom and during the performance of an adversarial procedure.
Creating an anti-corruption norm in Africa: Critical reflections on legal instrumentalization for development
Authors: Ocheje Paul D.
Published: August 2017

This article reflects critically on the instrumental value of law in the anti-corruption struggle in Africa. Three questions are central to this reflection: (a) Is the instrumental use of law to achieve a developmental purpose, such as anti-corruption, defensible in theory and practice? (b) Is law necessary to, and/or adequate for, the creation of an anti-corruption norm? (c) Why do the developing countries perform so poorly in the fight against corruption in comparison with their wealthier, industrialized counterparts? While the article defends the instrumentalization of law in this regard, it argues that the African normative context of corruption throws up peculiar challenges. The article suggests that these challenges must be confronted in order to liberate the full potential of law in the struggle against corruption.
Network-Oriented Approach to Distributed Generation Planning
Authors: Kochukov O. , Mutule A.
Published: August 2017

The main objective of the paper is to present an innovative complex approach to distributed generation planning and show the advantages over existing methods. The approach will be most suitable for DNOs and authorities and has specific calculation targets to support the decision-making process. The method can be used for complex distribution networks with different arrangement and legal base.
Evaluation of Fibre Lifetime in Optical Ground Wire Transmission Lines
Authors: Grunvalds R. , Ciekurs A. , Porins J. , Supe A.
Published: August 2017

In the research, measurements of polarisation mode dispersion of two OPGWs (optical ground wire transmission lines), in total four fibres, have been carried out, and the expected lifetime of the infrastructure has been assessed on the basis of these measurements. The cables under consideration were installed in 1995 and 2011, respectively. Measurements have shown that polarisation mode dispersion values for cable installed in 1995 are four times higher than that for cable installed in 2011, which could mainly be explained by technological differences in fibre production and lower fibre polarisation mode dispersion requirements in 1995 due to lack of high-speed (over 10 Gbit/s) optical transmission systems. The calculation methodology of non-refusal work and refusal probabilities, using the measured polarisation mode dispersion parameters, is proposed in the paper. Based on reliability calculations, the expected lifetime is then predicted, showing that all measured fibres most likely will be operational within minimum theoretical service life of 25 years accepted by the industry.
The Analysis of Electrical Energy Consumption of the Impact Screwdriver During Assembly of Fixed Threaded Joints
Authors: Grinevich I. , Nikishin Vl. , Mozga N. , Laitans M.
Published: August 2017

The paper deals with the possibilities of reducing the consumption of electrical energy of the impact screwdriver during the assembly of fixed threaded joints. The recommendations related to a decrease in electrical energy consumption would allow reducing product costs but so far there have been no such recommendations from the producers of the tool as to the effective operating regimes of the impact screwdrivers in relation to electrical energy consumption and necessary tightening moment of the nut. The aim of the study is to find out the economical operating mode of the electrical impact screwdriver when assembling fixed threaded joints. By varying the set speed of the rotor head and working time of the impact mechanism, there is an opportunity to determine electrical energy consumption of the tool for the given tightening moment. The results of the experiment show that at the same tightening moment obtained the electrical energy consumption of the impact screwdriver is less at a higher starting set speed of the rotor head but shorter operating time of the impact mechanism than at a lower speed of the rotor head and longer operating time of the impact mechanism.
A Framework for Creating Value from Fleet Data at Ecosystem Level
Authors: Kinnunen Sini-Kaisu , Hanski Jyri , Marttonen-Arola Salla , Kärri Timo
Published: August 2017

As companies have recently gotten more interested in utilizing the increasingly gathered data and realizing the potential of data analysis, the ability to upgrade data into value for business has been recognized as an advantage. Companies gain competitive advantage if they are able to benefit from the fleet data that is produced both in and outside the boundaries of the company. Benefits of fleet management are based on the possibility to have access to the massive amounts of asset data that can then be utilized e.g. to gain cost savings and to develop products and services. The ambition of the companies is to create value from fleet data but this requires that different actors in ecosystem are working together for a common goal - to get the most value out of fleet data for the ecosystem. In order that this could be possible, we need a framework to meet the requirements of the fleet life-cycle data utilization. This means that the different actors in the ecosystem need to understand their role in the fleet data refining process in order to promote the value creation from fleet data. The objective of this paper is to develop a framework for knowledge management in order to create value from fleet data in ecosystems. As a result, we present a conceptual framework which helps companies to develop their asset management practices related to the fleet of assets.
Local Regularity Analysis with Wavelet Transform in Gear Tooth Failure Detection
Authors: Nissilä Juhani
Published: August 2017

Diagnosing gear tooth and bearing failures in industrial power transition situations has been studied a lot but challenges still remain. This study aims to look at the problem from a more theoretical perspective. Our goal is to find out if the local regularity i.e. smoothness of the measured signal can be estimated from the vibrations of epicyclic gearboxes and if the regularity can be linked to the meshing events of the gear teeth. Previously it has been shown that the decreasing local regularity of the measured acceleration signals can reveal the inner race faults in slowly rotating bearings. The local regularity is estimated from the modulus maxima ridges of the signal’s wavelet transform. In this study, the measurements come from the epicyclic gearboxes of the Kelukoski water power station (WPS). The very stable rotational speed of the WPS makes it possible to deduce that the gear mesh frequencies of the WPS and a frequency related to the rotation of the turbine blades are the most significant components in the spectra of the estimated local regularity signals.
Perception of biotech trees by Slovak university students – a comparative survey
Authors: Moravčíková Jana , Matušíková Ildikó , Nemeček Peter , Blehová Alžbeta , Balážová Želmíra , Gálová Zdenka , Mészáros Patrik , Kraic Ján
Published: August 2017

Acceptance of genetically modified plants is restricted in EU by legislation, while the attitude of public is not favourable as well. Surveys show that knowledge about GM plants is getting increased. Newly developed strategies on GM safety for environment can be a crucial aspect for the (partial) acceptance in future. GM trees as non-edible plants might appear as more admissible, however, are relatively rarely discussed. We performed a comparative survey on knowledge and perception of GM forest trees among students at four Slovak universities. We also compared their responses between as well as with the outcome of similar cross-country survey in frames of the COST Action FP0905. The results point to very similar attitude of Slovak students when compared with students from other countries, no significant difference between responses of males and females, but also influence of age as well as orientation of their study (natural sciences vs. economy) on view of GM tree safety and placing on the market.
Genetic diversity of Acinetobacter spp. adapted to heavy metal polluted environments
Authors: Šipošová Nikola Š , Liptáková Veronika , Kvasnová Simona , Kosorínová Petra , Pristaš Peter
Published: August 2017

Multiple metallotolerant bacterial strains were isolated from soil and drainage water samples collected from three industrially heavy metals polluted areas in Slovakia. Obtained bacterial isolates were identified using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and bacterial isolates that belonged to the Acinetobacter genus were subjected for the further study. A. calcoaceticus was found to be prevalent species among analyzed Acinetobacter spp. strains, followed by A. lwoffii and A. johnsonii. A. calcoaceticus strains exhibited higher minimum inhibitory concentration to Mn, Zn, and Cu cations compared to A. lwoffii and A. johnsonii. On the other hand minimum inhibitory concentration to Co and Ni were identical in all Acinetobacter spp. isolates. Genetic analyses demonstrated multiple plasmids presence in A. lwoffii and A. johnsonii but not in A. calcoaceticus. Using ERIC-PCR the presence of two different genotypes of A. calcoaceticus was detected in heavy metal polluted environments in Slovakia.
Zinc bioaccumulation by microbial consortium isolated from nickel smelter sludge disposal site
Authors: Kvasnová Simona , Hamarová Ľudmila , Pristaš Peter
Published: August 2017

Heavy metal pollution is one of the most important environmental issues of today. Bioremediation by microorganisms is one of technologies extensively used for pollution treatment. In this study, we investigated the heavy metal resistance and zinc bioaccumulation by microbial consortium isolated from nickel sludge disposal site near Sereď (Slovakia). The composition of consortium was analyzed based on MALDI-TOF MS of cultivable bacteria and we have shown that the consortium was dominated by bacteria of genus Arthrobacter. While consortium showed very good growth in the zinc presence, it was able to remove only 15 % of zinc from liquid media. Selected members of consortia have shown lower growth rates in the zinc presence but selected isolates have shown much higher bioaccumulation abilities compared to whole consortium (up to 90 % of zinc removal for NH1 strain). Bioremediation is frequently accelerated through injection of native microbiota into a contaminated area. Based on data obtained in this study, we can conclude that careful selection of native microbiota could lead to the identification of bacteria with increased bioaccumulation abilities.
Violent Conflicts and Neutral Legations: A Case Study of the Spanish and Swiss Legations in Wartime Japan
Authors: Lottaz Pascal
Published: August 2017

This article explores the way in which the Spanish and the Swiss legations in Japan acted and reacted to violent change in the international environment. By looking at the period of Japanese wartime aggression in Asia and the Pacific from 1931–1945, it analyzes key moments for both diplomatic missions, when changes abroad or at home led their respective diplomats to take a stance beyond the regular representation of national interests. The article argues that violent conflicts impacted the diplomatic behavior of the legations in Japan heavily. They were shaped by new policies in reaction to the violence, while sometimes also engaging in shaping such policies themselves.
Nest-site selection and population trend of Collared Pratincoles (Glareola pratincola) breeding in agricultural habitats of the Nagykunság region (Hungary)
Authors: Kiss Ádám , Monoki Ákos , Végvári Zsolt
Published: August 2017

The Collared Pratincole (Glareola pratincola), which was once a typical breeding species of the sodic grasslands of the Great Plain, has become threatened with extinction from Hungary. It disappeared from the traditional grassland breeding sites before the 2000 and is currently breeding only in three sites in agricultural environments in Hungary. The objectives of our research were to find links between the use of shallow wetlands and the breeding behaviour of the species and to identify the characteristics of its breeding on ploughed fields. Data were collected between 2008 and 2016 as part of preparations for the conservation of the largest population which is found in the Nagykunság. We found a positive correlation between colony size and the area of the nearby wetland. We calculated the proportion of habitat-types used for nesting, and found that cultivated fields and fallow lands were the most important. Additionally, we also found that colony sizes were substantially smaller during the research period than those found earlier in the traditional grassland habitats. Finally, we found a positive trend in the size of the population during the research period.
The cranial morphometrics of the wildfowl (Anatidae)
Authors: Pecsics Tibor , Laczi Miklós , Nagy Gergely , Csörgő Tibor
Published: August 2017

Wildfowl (Anatidae) are a diverse group of birds and globally distributed. These birds feed by widely varying methods, there are generalist and specialist species. In a number of vertebrate taxa trophic specializations have led to distinct differences in the morphology of the skull, like in birds. Our knowledge and understanding of the relationship between cranial morphology and feeding mechanism of wildfowl are limited. The aim of this article is to increase our knowledge of the relationship between skull shape and foraging habits and find the identifiable attributes of the differently adapted groups. We used morphometric methods with 7 linear measurements of the skull. We used principal component (PC) analysis to identify the groups with different foraging habits. The PCs were related to measurements which represent the demanded muscle mass for feeding and the amount of capable food items. The grazers have a narrower bill and bigger bone surface which requires more muscle tissue than the broad billed filter-feeders. We observed the structural and functional differences between grazers and filter-feeders. There are no important differences in the bill measurements between omnivore dabbling and diving ducks. Only the bill is not enough to deduce the foraging habits.
First evidence for carrion–feeding of Eurasian Eagle-owl (Bubo bubo) in Bulgaria
Authors: Milchev Boyan , Spassov Nikolay
Published: August 2017

Three cases of carrion-feeding with remains of artiodactyls (0.3%, n=1104 samples with food remains) have been documented in a long term diet study of Eurasian Eagle-owls (Bubo bubo) in 53 localities at Southeastern Bulgaria. Bone pieces of a sheep/goat (Ovis aries/Carpa hircus), a Fallow Deer (Dama dama) and a Domestic Pig (Sus scrofa dom.) in three Eurasian Eagle-owl breeding localities (5.7%) prove extremely rare feeding on carrion. Northern White-breasted Hedgehog (Erinaceus roumanicus), rats (Rattus sp.), waterbirds and gallinaceous birds (total 59.5-72.6% by biomass) constituted the main portion of the diets with carrion remains. The comparisons between food niche breadths, diet composition, average prey biomass and values of superpredation of the annual diets in the three localities have not supported the carrion-feeding of the Eurasian Eagle-owl as a result of food shortages.
Survey of the Urban Bell in the Belfry of St. Trinity Church in Krosno
Authors: Oleniacz Grzegorz , Skrzypczak Izabela , Ślęczka Lucjan , Świętoń Tomasz , Rymar Marta
Published: August 2017

Urban is one of the three bells in the belfry of St. Trinity Church in Krosno. It is the largest one, with diameter equal to 1,535 mm and it is commonly considered as one of the largest historical bells in Poland. The total mass of all the three bells is close to 4,200 kilograms, so the dynamic actions produced by swinging have a great effect on the supporting structure and on the tower. However, the exact weight of the biggest bell isn't known, and for safety reasons it should be estimated in order to verify the real dynamic forces affecting the structure. The paper describes the method of Urban bell’s survey using terrestrial laser scanning and a total station as a task to estimate its weight by determining its volume.
Intended Use of a Building in Terms of Updating the Cadastral Database and Harmonizing the Data with other Public Records
Authors: Buśko Małgorzata
Published: August 2017

According to the original wording of the Regulation on the register of land and buildings of 2001, in the real estate cadastre there was one attribute associated with the use of a building structure - its intended use, which was applicable until the amendment to the Regulation was introduced in 2013. Then, additional attributes were added, i.e. the type of the building according to the Classification of Fixed Assets (KST), the class of the building according to the Polish Classification of Types of Constructions (PKOB) and, at the same time, the main functional use and other functions of the building remained in the Regulation as well. The record data on buildings are captured for the real estate cadastre from other data sets, for example those maintained by architectural and construction authorities. At the same time, the data contained in the cadastre, after they have been entered or changed in the database, are transferred to other registers, such as tax records, or land and mortgage court registers. This study is the result of the analysis of the laws applicable to the specific units and registers. A list of discrepancies in the attributes occurring in the different registers was prepared. The practical part of the study paid particular attention to the legal bases and procedures for entering the function of a building in the real estate cadastre, which is extremely significant, as it is the attribute determining the property tax basis.
Left anterior descending coronary artery dissection during ventricular tachycardia ablation – case report
Authors: Kordic Kresimir , Manola Sime , Zeljkovic Ivan , Benko Ivica , Pavlovic Nikola
Published: August 2017

Fascicular left ventricular tachycardia (VT) is the second most frequent idiopathic left VT in the setting of a structurally normal heart. Catheter ablation is curative in most patients with low complication rates. We report a case of ostial left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) occlusion during fascicular ventricular tachycardia ablation.

Dissection was the most likely cause of LAD obstruction. To the authors’ best knowledge, this is the first case reporting selective LAD dissection during electrophysiology study with no left main coronary artery (LMCA) affection.
Empty nose syndrome
Authors: Cabac Vasile , Polovei Veronica , Istratenco Ala
Published: August 2017

Empty nose syndrome (ENS) is a clinical entity lacking consensual meaning, illustrating a rare nose surgery complication, particularly of nasal conchae surgery, which results in the destruction of the normal nasal tissue. In severe forms it may become debilitating; the inability in identification and appreciation of this syndrome turns detrimental to the patient. Physiopathology remains controversial, which probably implies disorders caused by excessive nasal permeability, affecting neurosensory receptors as well as the humidification functions and conditioning of inhaled air. Neuropsychological involvement is being suspected. Symptomatology is both variable and changeable, the most evident sign outlining paradoxical nasal obstruction. The diagnosis is based on a series of symptoms that need to be collected precisely, the objective examination that highlights the permeability of nasal fossae. The management is problematic; there are implemented a complete range of simple hygiene and humidification techniques of the nasal cavity and, for more severe cases, surgery is provided, regardless of technique, the surgery targeting partial filling of the nasal airways. Prevention is the most essential strategy along with basic conservative surgical techniques.
Computed-tomography volumetric study of the ethmoid labyrinth
Authors: Bulescu Ioan Alexandru , Munteanu Octavian , Stanciulescu Razvan , Pantu Cosmin , Enyedi Mihai , Filipoiu Florin , Budu Vlad Andrei
Published: August 2017

Morphological variability of paranasal sinuses is well known for endoscopic surgeons and anatomists alike. The ethmoid sinus is the most complex and variable of all paranasal sinuses, due to the fact that its development is not yet well known and is influenced by many factors. Volumetric studies of the sinuses have been made using dried skulls, cadaver heads and imaging studies, but there are still not sufficient data in order to name a standard value for each sinus. Few data can be found especially regarding the ethmoid sinus. In this paper, we measured the volumes of ethmoid lateral masses, and for anterior and posterior groups of cells, using imaging studies and a volumetric feature of our imaging studies. Results showed an average volume between 7.34 cm3 and 8.39 cm3 for the ethmoid lateral mass, between 4.33 cm3 and 4.92 cm3 for the anterior ethmoid and between 3.01 cm3 and 3.47 cm3 for the posterior ethmoid groups. We also found that the average volume of the anterior ethmoid occupies between 58-59% of the whole volume, while the posterior ethmoid occupies only 41-42% of this volume.
Investigation of biomarker variations post-return of spontaneous circulation following an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest
Authors: Golea Adela , Rusu Adriana , Dumulesc Christiana , Bala Cornelia
Published: August 2017

Objective: The objective of this research was to describe evolution of several biomarkers post-return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) following an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Methods: Thirteen adult patients were divided in 2 groups according to their survival status at 30 days, survivors (alive at 30 days or discharged alive) and non-survivors (not alive at 30 days). Glycemia, lactate, C-reactive protein (CRP), neurofilament heavy chain (NfH) and presepsin were assessed at pre-set time-points, during OHCA and the first 72 hours post-ROSC. Results: In survivors, lactate levels decreased steadily throughout the 72 hours from a maximum observed during OHCA; in non-survivors, it increased during ROSC, then decreased abruptly at 2 hours post-ROSC and remained lower than in survivors for up to 24 hours. Glycemia at all-time points within the first 24 hours and CRP levels at 2 hours post-ROSC were higher in non-survivors, but this observed difference was not statistically significant. The variation of NfH was bi-modal, with peaks at 12 and 48 hours. The interpretation of NfH was limited by the large number of samples outside the limit of detection. Conclusion: Glycemia, lactate and CRP showed different patterns of evolution in survivors and non-survivors and should be further investigated as potential predictors of survival after ROSC
Prediction of acute pancreatitis severity via the combined analysis of inflammatory biomarkers and coagulation parameters
Authors: Rajkovic Snezana Tesic , Dinic Biljana Radovanovic , Djordjevic Miodrag , Marjanovic Goran , Grgov Sasa
Published: August 2017

Introduction. Timely assessment of severity of acute pancreatitis is needed to avoid severe systemic complications by making optimal therapeutic approach and correct prognosis of the disease. The aim of the study was to establish the role of several inflammatory biomarkers and coagulation parameters in prediction of AP severity, and also to propose a mathematical formula which allows their combined use for the same purpose. Material and Methods. The prospective study included 70 patients with AP. The patients were divided into groups: mild (group I), moderate (group II) and severe AP (group III). All patients were further classified into two groups: group A (mild AP) and group B (moderate and severe AP). Biochemical markers, inflammatory biomarkers and coagulation factors were tested in all patients. Results. Based on the results of Mann-Whitney,s test, it can be concluded that groups A and B are significant different from each other for CRP (p<0.05). Using the Wald’s stepwise forward method, a prediction model with CRP, PCT, D-dimer1, D-dimer3, fibrinogen1 and fibrinogen3 parameters as predictors of the severity of AP was obtained. The percentage of successful prediction of moderate or severe AP based on this model was 76.9%. The use of ROC analysis with the introduced linear combination from the logistic regression yielded equally good or even better results in the assessment of the severity of AP with the combined use of analyzed parameters. Conclusion. The combined analyses of biohumoral markers and coagulation parameters presented in the form a mathematical formula enabled a more accurate, rapid, rational and clinically available prediction of the severity of AP.
Corporate Governance and Human Resource Management in Nigeria’s Downstream Petroleum Sector
Authors: Oyewunmi Olabode A. , Adeyemi Kenneth S. , Ogunnaike Olaleke O.
Published: August 2017

The emergence of a ‘new world economy’ makes it imperative for corporate entities to adjust their corporate values, practices and internal processes. This paper explored the interrelatedness of selected corporate governance practices and human resource management outcomes. The paper relied on established corporate management theories as a platform for empirical consideration of selected issues relative to four established players in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector. A descriptive method was adopted and data was collected via a survey of 112 respondents. Contextual arguments were captured to achieve a robust appreciation of issues affecting individual participation and operations of corporate entities. The study found that there is a significant relationship between corporate governance practices and human resource management outcomes. Requisite conclusions and recommendations were provided in the light of empirical and theoretical findings.
Regional Incomes Structure Analysis in Slovak Republic On the Basis of EU-SILC Data
Authors: Terek Milan
Published: August 2017

The paper deals with the regional incomes structure analysis in Slovak republic on the basis of European Union statistics on income and living conditions in Slovak republic data. The empirical probability mass function and empirical cumulative distribution function is constructed with aid of given sampling weights. On the basis of these functions the median, medial, standard deviation and population histogram of the whole gross household incomes for the whole Slovak republic and separately for eight Slovak regions are estimated and compared.
Working Capital Management Policies and Returns of Listed Manufacturing Firms in Ghana
Authors: Adam Anokye M. , Quansah Edward , Kawor Seyram
Published: August 2017

This study sought to determine the effects aggressive/conservative current asset investment and financing policies have on firms′ return for six manufacturing firms listed at Ghana Stock Exchange for a period of 2000-2013. Data were obtained from the annual reports of the firms and the Ghana Stock Exchange. The study adopted longitudinal explanatory non-experimental research design applied to dynamic panel ARDL framework in analyzing the data. The results revealed that the current asset investment and financing policies have highly significant positive effects on returns to equity holders in the long-run. The empirical evidence suggests that conservative current asset investment policies increase firms return while conservative financing policies yields negative returns. The study therefore would enable finance managers to be able to fashion out the appropriate working capital management policies. A firm pursuing conservative current asset investment policy should balance it with aggressive current asset financing policy in order to enhance profitability and create value for their investors.
Linkage map construction and QTL analysis for Betula platyphylla Suk using RAPD, AFLP, ISSR and SSR
Authors: Zhang Kaixuan , Wang Dan , Yang Chuanping , Liu Guanjun , Liu Guifeng , Zhang Hanguo , Lian Lian , Wei Zhigang
Published: August 2017

A linkage map for Betula platyphylla Suk was constructed based on RAPD, ISSR, AFLP and SSR markers by a pseudo-testcross mapping strategy. A F1segregating population including 80 progenies was obtained from the cross between two superior trees selected from Qinghai and Wangqing provenance, respectively. The paternal map was constructed with 282 markers consisting of 14 major and 15 minor (5 triplets and 10 doublets) linkage groups and spanning 1131 cM at an average distance of 4.0 cM between adjacent markers. The maternal map has 277 markers consisting of 15 major and 8 minor (5 triplets and 3 doublets) groups covering 1288 cM at an average distance of 4.6 cM between adjacent markers. In the same pedigree we investigated association of genetic markers with seedling stem height and circumference. The composite interval mapping was used to detect the number of quantitative trait loci and their position on the genetic linkage maps. Three QTLs (one on the male map and two on the female map) were found explaining 13.4%, 17.5% and 18.8% of the trait variation, respectively.
Influence of geographic distance and genetic dissimilarity among clones on flowering synchrony in a Teak (Tectona grandis Linn. f) clonal seed orchard
Authors: Lyngdoh N. , Gunaga R. P. , Joshi Geeta , Vasudeva R. , Ravikanth G. , Shaanker R. Uma
Published: August 2017

Influence of genetic dissimilarity among teak (Tectona grandis Linn. f.) clones on flowering synchrony was studied in a Clonal Seed Orchard (CSO) of teak in Karnataka, Southern India. Flowering phenology was monitored for all the 24 teak clones of the CSO and flowering synchrony between clones was assessed adopting a novel ‘overlap index’. Genetic dissimilarity among these clones was assessed adopting DNA based ISSR (Inter Simple Sequence Repeats) analysis. Large variation in the time of ‘flower initiation’ and of ‘peak flowering initiation’ was observed among the clones belonging to diverse sources, suggesting large asynchronous flowering. Cluster analysis based on ISSR marker indicated that the clones originating from a same source clustered together and there was a clear segregation based on their origin. Correlation analysis revealed a significant negative association between the average Jaccards’s dissimilarity index between pairs of clones and average peak flowering overlap index. Clones from geographically diverse regions had high genetic dissimilarity and also showed high flowering asynchrony within them.
Effect of monoclonal and assorted seedling rootstocks on long term growth and yield of Hevea clones
Authors: Gireesh T. , Varghese Y. Annamma , Woeste K. E. , Mercykutty V. C. , Marattukalam J.G.
Published: August 2017

Seven Hevea brasiliensis clones were evaluated on two types of rootstocks, assorted seedling rootstocks (AR) and monoclonal rootstock (MR) over 19 years. Influence of rootstock on scion growth and rubber yield was assessed based on juvenile height, circumference of the main trunk (cm), number of branches, branching height and cumulative dry rubber yield (g per tree per tapping, conventionally abbreviated gt-1 t-1). Highest cumulative yield (g per tree per tapping) over the 12 years for which the trees were tapped was obtained from clone RRII 105 (MR: 1076 g per tree per tapping and AR: 497 g per tree per tapping), followed by RRII 203 (MR: 661; AR: 538), RRII 208 (MR: 477; AR: 486), RRII 118 (MR: 497; AR: 452). Gl 1 yielded the least, 219 g per tree per tapping (MR) and 378 g per tree per tapping (AR); GT1 produced 335 g per tree per tapping (MR) and 375 g per tree per tapping (AR). RRII 118 had the greatest circumference at age 19 (91.4 cm on MR) 88.8 on AR, followed by RRII 105 (MR: 87.4 cm AR: 89.2 cm) and GT 1 (MR: 88.5 cm; AR: 84.4cm). Effect of scion clone was significant (p<0.01) only for trunk circumference at opening, but not for cumulative rubber yield at age 11 (4 years after opening) or cumulative rubber yield at age 19 (12 years after opening). Most importantly, rootstock and clone × rootstock interaction did not significantly affect rubber yield or tree circumference at any evaluation time. There was no evidence to suggest that growth and yield of clones was influenced significantly by rootstock type.
Clonal fertility variation and its effects on the effective population size in the seed orchard of dioecious species, Fraxinus rhynchophylla
Authors: Kang Kyu-Suk , Kim Chang-Soo
Published: August 2017

The numbers of female and male flowers were assessed in a clonal seed orchard of Fraxinus rhynchophylla for four consecutive years from 2004 through 2007. The female and male flowers of the grafts from 48 clones were counted individually over the crown. Fertility variation was calculated by sibling coefficient that is related to the coefficient of variation in parental flower assessment. Estimated maternal and paternal fertilities were not constant but varied from year to year, and they were also found to be weakly correlated. The effective numbers of clones serving as male and female parents were calculated from the sibling coefficients of maternity and paternity. We applied two theoretical approaches to estimate the clonal effective population sizes based on 1) fertility variation (i.e., effective number of parents, N(c)) and 2) gender balance (effective population size, Ne
e) among parental genotypes. The values of Ne
(c) were higher in the years with abundant flowering and seed production, while sibling coefficients were lower. On average (pooled), the maternal, paternal and clonal values of Ne
(c) were calculated to be 17.3, 21.0 and 38.1 respectively. The Ne
(c) for maternal gamete gene pool was ranged from 9.8 to 16.7. The values of Ne for paternal gamete gene pool were generally higher (ranged from 14.9 to 21.9) than those for maternal. When pooled, the Ne was 47.2 and the values of Ne were higher when the gender ratio was more balanced. An option of equal seed harvest might be good to mitigate fertility variation and to improve gene diversity of seeds.
Physiological and Protein Responses to Drought in Four Pine Seedlings
Authors: He C. Y. , Zhang J. G. , Duan A. G.
Published: August 2017

Physiological and protein responses to drought stress in four pine seedlings, Pinus armandi Franch. (Pa), Pinus tabulaeformis Carr. (Pt), Pinus bungeana Zucc. ex Endl. (Pb) and Pinus sylvestris L. var. mongolica Litv. (Ps), were investigated using differential proteomics and water physiological indices. Firstly, the water physiological data showed that the decline rate of net photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance, leaf water potential, turgor pressure except for under moderate drought stress was as follows: Pa>Ps>Pt>Pb. Pb and Pa always maintained the highest and lowest swelling pressure, respectively. Secondly, cluster analysis of 343 proteins indicated that the four pine species were classified into three groups with a genetic distance coefficient of 0.065. That is, five-needle-pine group (Pa), three-needle-pine group (Pb), two-needle-pine group (Pt and Ps), and the genetic distance between Pb and Pa was the farthest. The result was consistent with the declined rate in above physiological indices. Finally, for the differential proteomics analyzed, a total of 13 different proteins (P values < 0.01) changed significantly, the number of differentially expressed proteins was more in Pa (accounting for 46.2%) than the other three species, and 8 proteins were identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time -of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). These proteins are quite diverse in their functions and involved in photosynthesis, osmotic regulation and functioning as signal transduction. These results suggested that the sensitivities of the four pine species to drought were possibly related to genetic distance.
Developing breeding and deployment options for Douglas-fir in New Zealand: breeding for future forest conditions
Authors: Dungey H. S. , Low C. B. , Lee J. , Miller M. A. , Fleet K. , Yanchuk A. D.
Published: August 2017

Genetic improvement of Douglas-fir in New Zealand was initiated in 1955 with large provenance trials established in the late 1950’s. These trials illustrated that material from the coast of Oregon and California grew faster than other provenances tested. Further collections were made to evaluate provenance and familylevel performance from these two areas, and in 1996 additional trials were established at four low-altitude sites across New Zealand. Genotype×environment (GxE) interaction among these sites was found to be important for diameter at breast height (DBH), less important for stem straightness and malformation and not important for outerwood acoustic velocity (a surrogate for wood stiffness). Heritabilities were low to moderate for all growth traits, and very low for malformation. Heritability for needle cast due to Swiss needle cast, measured as needle retention on the one site where infection was relatively high, was moderate at 0.37, and was likely a major factor creating GxE interactions for growth among sites. The heritability of wood acoustic velocity was moderate to high at individual sites (0.26-0.74) and across sites (0.49). Individual- trait selection revealed the potential for good genetic gains to be made when selecting the top 20 families for diameter growth (an average of 10.7%), straightness (an average of 11.5%) and acoustic velocity (an average of 7.0%). When we examined predicted genetic gains while selecting for needle retention and/or DBH, we found that selecting for needle cast at the affected site did not compromise DBH gains at that site. Selecting for genotypes with low needle cast at the affected site did, however, reduce gains for DBH estimated across all sites. In order to maximise gains across the current Douglas-fir growing estate, a division of growing sites between those known and predicted to be affected by needle cast and those not affected would seem appropriate. This is particularly relevant given recent climate modelling work suggests that Swiss needle cast will become more important in the South Island, and even more destructive in the North Island of New Zealand. We suggest addressing differences in site through the development of separate deployment populations.
Effect of Different Progeny Test Strategies in the Performance of Eucalypt Clones
Authors: Furtini I.V. , Ramalho M. A. P. , Abad J. I. M. , Aguiar A. M.
Published: August 2017

The objective of the present study was to investigate whether the performance of an individual in clonal testing was affected by the location of the initial selection. The study also evaluated the effect of mass selection and BLUP (Best Linear Unbiased Prediction) on the performance of individuals in the progeny test and the clonal test. In the progeny test, 62 half-sib E. grandis families, 68 half-sib E. urophylla families and 62 full-sib families between E. grandis and E. urophylla, plus four checks were evaluated totaling 196 treatments. The experiments were carried out at three sites: Aracruz and São Mateus, in Espírito Santo State and Caravelas, Bahia State, Brazil. The 1000 best individuals were classified by mass selection and BLUP. In the clonal tests 257 clones were evaluated in two locations: Aracruz and Caravelas. In both the progeny test and the clonal test, two years after planting, the circumference at breast height and basic wood density were measured and the sum of standardized variables (Z) was estimated for simultaneous selection of both characteristics. The results indicated that the origin of the individual in a progeny test had a small effect on the performance of the clone when evaluated in other environments; the estimates of realized heritability and the linear regression coefficient were small in all the selection strategies. Thus, the correlation between the performance of trees selected in progeny tests and their respective clones in the clonal test was small.