bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Caponization on Meat Quality of Greenleg Partridge Cockerels
Authors: Calik Jolanta , Połtowicz Katarzyna , Świątkiewicz Sylwester , Krawczyk Józefa , Nowak Joanna
Published: April 2015

The objective of the study was to determine the effect of caponizing Greenleg Partridge cockerels on slaughter parameters and meat quality. In total 80 Greenleg Partridge cockerels were assigned to two groups with 40 birds per group. Group I (control) consisted of uncastrated cockerels and group II contained birds that were castrated at 8 weeks of age. Birds were kept until 24 weeks of age and fed the same diet ad libitum. Body weight was recorded at 1, 8, 16 and 24 weeks of age. Dressing percentage, proportion of breast and leg muscles, giblets and abdominal fat, and microstructure of the pectoralis superficialis muscle were determined postmortem. Physicochemical characteristics of meat (pH, CIE L*a*b* colour, water holding capacity, drip loss, thawing loss, cooking loss, shear force, texture parameters and chemical composition) were determined and sensory evaluation was performed. The castration of Greenleg Partridge cockerels contributed to increases in body weight, dressing percentage, and carcass muscle and fat content, and changed the colour of bird skin and muscles. The leg muscles of capons were characterized by higher pH24h, better water holding capacity, a tendency for higher fat concentration, and better sensory quality. The breast muscles of castrated cockerels lost more water and were tougher than the same muscles from uncastrated cockerels, but received better scores for flavour. In conclusion, the results of this study indicate that the caponized Greenleg Partridge cockerels can be used as a valuable material for production of high quality meat.
Synchronization Protocols in Spanish Merino Sheep: Reduction in Time to Estrus by the Addition of eCG to a Progesterone-Based Estrus Synchronization Protocol
Authors: Gardón Juan Carlos , Escribano Begoña , Astiz Susana , Ruiz Salvador
Published: April 2015

An appropriate management of reproduction allows ewes to breed at a more intensive rhythm, more compatible with economic efficiency of farms. Hence, the objectives of the present work were to evaluate a traditional estrus synchronization protocol (based on medroxyprogesterone acetate-impregnated intravaginal sponges combined or not with equine chorionic gonadotropin) on a Merino sheep herd during the breeding season, in order to determine the best working protocol for this breed. A total of 277 sheep, blocked by age (200 ewes and 77 ewe lambs) were randomly allocated to four groups, two of ewes (E and Ee) and two of ewe lambs (L and Le). All females received 60 mg MAP (medroxyprogesterone acetate) sponges on the first day. At the day of removal the animals of groups Ee and Le received 450 IU of eCG (equine chorionic gonadotropin). Mean estrus synchronization rate was 92.06% and similar among groups. Time to estrus was shorter for Ee (46.93±12.44 h) and Le (44.34±10.76 h), when compared to treatments without eCG (60.60±20.46 h and 58.68±17.72 h for E and L, respectively; P<0.05 for both). Pregnancy rates were 71.35 and 72.86% for ewes and ewe lambs, respectively, and similar among groups. Lambing rates were lower in ewes (1.36) than in ewe lambs (1.85) with no significant effect of eCG. The study demonstrates the efficacy of the synchronization method with MAP and the reduction in the time to estrus induced by eCG in Spanish Merino ewes and ewe lambs during the breeding season.
Incidence of Footpad Dermatitis and Hock Burns in Broilers as Affected by Genotype, Lighting Program and Litter Type
Authors: Škrbić Zdenka , Pavlovski Zlatica , Lukić Miloš , Petričević Veselin
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study was to define the conditions for improving broiler leg health, thus ultimately promoting broiler welfare and greater economic efficiency of production, by investigating the effects of litter type, lighting program, or genetic predisposition on the incidence and severity of footpad dermatitis and hock burns. The study was conducted on broiler genotypes (G) Hubbard Classic and Ross 308. Litter (L) was either chopped straw or wood shavings. Lighting programs (LP) were applied when broilers were eight days old. One lighting program (LP1) was designed so that chicks between 8 to 39 days of age were exposed to 16L:4D:2L:2D, and received 23L:1D between 40 to 42 days of age. The other lighting program (LP2) was a gradual extension of photoperiod after restrictions in the second week: 16L:8D (8-14 days), 16L:3D:2L:3D (15-21 days), 16L:2D:4L:2D (22-28 days), 16L:1D:6L:1D (29-35 days) and 23L:1D (36-42 days). Evaluations of footpad lesions and hock burn, according to the method described by Thomas et al. (2004), were carried out individually for each bird, on days 21 and 42. Based on the average score and the frequency of the worst forms of footpad dermatitis, better growing conditions for broilers were found when wood shavings were used as litter material rather than the chopped straw (P<0.01), and when a lighting program with gradual lengthening of photoperiod and with intermittent light/ dark periods (LP2) was applied, compared to a moderate-constant photoperiod lighting program (LP1) (P<0.01). The Ross 308 broiler genotype, despite its lower body weight, showed a greater tendency to develop footpad dermatitis and hock burns. Hock burns developed more slowly than footpad dermatitis, and thereby, would be likely to exhibit a smaller adverse effect on broiler welfare and quality of chicken feet.
Polymorphism and Bioinformatics Analysis of Growth Differentiation Factor 9 Gene in Lori Sheep
Authors: Zamani Pouya , Abdoli Ramin , Deljou Ali , Rezvan Hosein
Published: April 2015

Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) is a fecundity major gene affecting prolificacy in sheep. In the present study, genetic variation of a 380-bp fragment in GDF9 gene exon 1 was investigated in 100 Lori ewes. Single-strand conformational polymorphism (SSCP) and DNA sequencing methods were used to detect single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of the studied fragment. A SNP (g.306G>A), known as G1 mutation, with two genotypes (GG and AG) was found in two different SSCP patterns of GDF9 gene exon 1, deducing an amino acid (AA) exchange (p.Arg87His). Frequencies of the AG and GG genotypes were 37.65% and 62.35%, respectively. Also, the estimated allelic frequencies for the A and G alleles were 18.825% and 81.175%, respectively. The observed nucleotide sequences were subjected to alignment analysis and it was found that the studied fragment had more than 99.7% similarity with some sequences reported for other breeds of sheep. Two different secondary and 3D protein structures were predicted for A and G alleles. Moreover, the A and G alleles had different isoelectric pH values (8.7 and 9, respectively). The observed genotypes tended to have a significant association with litter size (P<0.10) where average litter size of GG ewes was slightly (20%) higher than for AG animals. With respect to the results of the present study, it seems that more studies are needed to evaluate the mutations in other fragments of this gene or other genes in Lori sheep.
Changes of Nitrogen Compounds During Ensiling of High Protein Herbages – A Review
Authors: Fijałkowska Maja , Pysera Barbara , Lipiński Krzysztof , Strusińska Danuta
Published: April 2015

Losses of crude protein during ensiling of herbages, in contrast to carbohydrates, do not affect the reduction of its content; their form is changed into greater solubility non-protein compounds and also highly degraded forms, which lower the efficiency of the microbial protein synthesis in the rumen. These processes are accompanied by a change of amino acid composition of herbage protein and decrease in intestinal digestibility of protein from feeds as a result of the formation of indigestible complexes with carbohydrates (ADIN). Reduction of protein degradation in silages is achieved by accelerated acidity through addition of acids or dominance of homofermentative bacteria. The positive effects of fermentation inhibitors or sorbents use, as well as the wilting of raw material on the level and rate of protein degradation were demonstrated by many researchers. A greater contribution of protein nitrogen and reduction of deamination in silages can also be obtained by using bacteria inoculants. Increasing the proportion of protein nitrogen is accompanied by the improved efficiency of microbial protein synthesis.
Knitting Technologies And Tensile Properties Of A Novel Curved Flat-Knitted Three-Dimensional Spacer Fabrics
Authors: Li Xiaoying , Jiang Gaoming , Nie Xiaolin , Ma Pibo , Gao Zhe
Published: April 2015

This paper introduces a knitting technique for making innovative curved three-dimensional (3D) spacer fabrics by the computer flat-knitting machine. During manufacturing, a number of reinforcement yarns made of aramid fibres are inserted into 3D spacer fabrics along the weft direction to enhance the fabric tensile properties. Curved, flat-knitted 3D spacer fabrics with different angles (in the warp direction) were also developed. Tensile tests were carried out in the weft and warp directions for the two spacer fabrics (with and without reinforcement yarns), and their stress–strain curves were compared. The results showed that the reinforcement yarns can reduce the fabric deformation and improve tensile stress and dimensional stability of 3D spacer fabrics. This research can help the further study of 3D spacer fabric when applied to composites.
Prevalence of Asymptomatic Carriers of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia Coli (STEC) in Dairy Cattle Farms in the Governorate of Blida (Algeria)
Authors: Baazize-Ammi Djamila , Gassem Ouahiba , Derrar Fawzi , Izri Kahina , Brahim-Errahmani Mohamed , Gagnon Jean , Guetarni Djamel , Chebloune Yahia
Published: April 2015

We investigated whether dairy beef cattle raised in Algeria are Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) carriers. Stx1 and stx2 genes were analysed in DNA isolated from 200 faecal samples collected from adult dairy cows from 27 randomly selected farms in Blida, North Algeria, after amplification by PCR. Samples from 61 (30.5%) animals out of the 200 were positive and were located in 18 farms with a prevalence of 66.7%. Interestingly, no sample from any cow was positive for only the stx2 gene, while in contrast, samples from 51 cows were positive for the stx1 gene alone (83.6%) and those from 10 other cows were positive for both stx1 and stx2 genes (16.4%). It should be noted that the faecal samples infected with pathogens carrying the two genes originated from 4 out of the 18 farms that were found to be positive, with a rate of 22.2%.
Chlamydia Psittaci Strains from Broiler Chickens Induce Histopathological Lesions and Mortality in SPF Chickens
Authors: Yin Lizi , Kalmar Isabelle , Chiers Koen , Debyser Isolde , Vanrompay Daisy
Published: April 2015

A detailed study on histopathological lesions induced by two C. psittaci outer membrane protein A (ompA) genotype B strains (10/423 and 10/525) and one genotype D strain (10/298) in experimentally infected (aerosol) specific pathogen free (SPF) chickens was performed. The strains were derived from Belgian and French commercially raised broilers with pneumonia. Both genotype B and D strains induced conjunctivitis, rhinitis, sinusitis, tracheitis, bronchitis, pneumonitis, airsacculitis, splenitis, hepatitis, nephritis, and enteritis in sequentially (days 2 to 34 post infection) euthanized chickens. Inflammation of the ovaries was only observed in genotype D infected chickens. Overall, the genotype D strain caused more severe gross and histopathological lesions and mortality (54.5%) early upon infection. The genotype D strain seemed to replicate faster as severity of the lesions increased more quickly. C. psittaci is a primary pathogen in chickens, and efficient monitoring and control of this emerging zoonotic pathogen is urgently needed.
Occurrence of Animal-Origin Constituents in Feeds
Authors: Weiner Anna , Paprocka Ilona , Gołębiowska Agata , Kwiatek Krzysztof
Published: April 2015

The aim of the study was to gather and analyse available data concerning the presence of terrestrial animal constituents in feeds in Poland. A microscopic method of identification of the contaminants was used. Between 2012 and 2013, overall 16 139 samples of feeds were analysed, from which 282 (1.75%) contained elements from terrestrial animals. The percentage of feeds contaminated with such elements was lower in 2013. In 2012, among 8 499 samples analysed, 203 (2.39%) contained ingredients of animal origin, and in 2013, the elements were found in 79 (1.03%) out of 7640 samples. The percentage of feed samples positive for processed animal protein was relatively low and steadily decreasing. Furthermore, the microscopic method demonstrated to be a very sensitive technique for the detection of constituents of animal origin.
Commercial Metal-Based Nanocolloids - Evaluation of Cytotoxicity
Authors: Małaczewska Joanna , Siwicki Andrzej Krzysztof
Published: April 2015

The purpose of the study was to determine the cytotoxicity of commercial silver, gold, and copper nanocolloids towards two established cell lines (NIH/3T3 and GMK) and primary chick embryo cell culture (CECC), using routine colorimetric assays: MTT, NRU, and LDH, which enable a preliminary evaluation of the mechanism of cytotoxic effect of the tested substances. The MTT assay evaluates the activity of mitochondria, NRU assay reveals the damage to lysosomes, while LDH assay shows injuries to the cytoplasmic membrane. The NRU assay proved to be non-applicable to the tested nanocolloids, most probably due to the interaction of nanoparticles with neutral red dye, which affected the colorimetric reaction. The MTT assay was more sensitive than LDH because the intercellular effect of a substance occurs before permanent damage to the cytoplasmic membrane. Silver nanocolloid was distinguished by the highest cytotoxicity, irrespective of the applied cell model, although the other two metals showed some cytotoxic effects as well, with gold nanocolloid being more toxic than copper one. Although the primary chick embryo cell culture, as a model reflecting more faithfully the conditions in a living organism than continuous cell lines, was undistinguished by elevated tolerance to the most toxic silver nanocolloid, it showed the tendency to recovery from the growth suppression with longer exposure after the application of less toxic gold and copper nanocolloids.
Prediction of the Spatial Distribution of Bovine Endemic Fluorosis Using Ordinary Kriging
Authors: Li Lin , Dong Jing , Dong Jiageng , Yu Bo , Peng Jichang , He Jianbin
Published: April 2015

The aim of the studies was to develop an alternative method which could overcome the lack of sampling to improve the efficiency of control efforts for bovine endemic fluorosis. The spatial distribution characteristics of the disease were analysed and a prediction model for the estimation of fluorosis distribution in some districts in northwest Liaoning province in China was established. The model used ordinary kriging, and was evaluated using cross-validation. Analysis showed that the distribution of the disease was spatial autocorrelation. The prediction error of the cross-validation (ME = -0.0092, PMSE = 0.627, AKSE = 0.597, and RMSP = 1.007) and comparison with the actual disease distribution indicated that the prediction map accurately distributed bovine endemic fluorosis. It is feasible to predict bovine endemic fluorosis in the area by using ordinary kriging and limited data.
Effect of 28-Day Exposure to Fenpropathrin on the Activities of Serum Alanine Transaminase and Liver Antioxidant Enzymes in Mice
Authors: Nieradko-Iwanicka Barbara , Borzęcki Andrzej
Published: April 2015

Fenpropathrin (FEN) was administered intraperitoneally in doses of 2.38 mg/kg, 5.9 5mg/kg, or 11.9 mg/kg b.w. to mice for 28 consecutive days. FEN did not significantly affect the activity of alanine transaminase (ALT) in the sera. Superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities were significantly elevated in the liver after a 28-d exposure to moderate or highest doses of the pesticide. These results demonstrate that the 28-day exposure to FEN leads to an up-regulation of expression of antioxidant enzymes in response to an oxidative stress in mouse liver without causing a significant increase in ALT activity.
Synthesis, biological evaluation, quantitative-SAR and docking studies of novel chalcone derivatives as antibacterial and antioxidant agents
Authors: Alam Mohammad Sayed , Rahman S. M. Mostafizur , Lee Dong-Ung
Published: April 2015

In the present study, a series of chalcone derivatives including 17 new compounds were synthesised; their antibacterial activities against eleven bacteria, and their free radical-scavenging activities using DPPH were evaluated. All compounds showed significant antibacterial activities against both Grampositive and Gram-negative bacteria. In particular, compound IIIf strongly inhibited Staphylococcus aureus (JMC 2151) and Enterococcus faecalis (CARS 2011-012) with MIC values of 6.25 μg mL
Misdiagnosis of macroamylasemia in pregnancy as pancreatitis
Authors: Eser Ayla , Akgun Nilufer , Yuce Ebru , Kafali Hasan
Published: April 2015

Background: While elevated serum amylase in the presence of abdominal pain can be indicative of pancreatitis, differential diagnosis of macroamylasemia depends on additional assessment of serum lipase and urinary amylase. The present report concerns misdiagnosis of pancreatitis in a pregnant woman with elevated serum amylase but normal lipase.

Highlights: The patient was a nulligravid woman on her first pregnancy diagnosed with pancreatitis in her 32nd week plus 3 days of gestation, on the basis of elevated serum amylase and abdominal pain, after treatment for premature contractions and antepartum vaginal bleeding with ritodrine HCl and nifedipine. She was started on painful and invasive intravenous hydration; oral intake was stopped. Repeat elevated serum amylase suggested that the patient might in fact have macroamylasemia, not pancreatitis.

Conclusions: Normal serum lipase levels should be considered as a likely indication of an alternative cause of elevated serum amylase to pancreatitis, and urinary amylase should be routinely checked to assist in differential diagnosis to avoid unnecessary and invasive treatment and stress to pregnant women.
The Decomposition Process of Insurance Operations
Authors: Gąsiorkiewicz Lech
Published: April 2015

This study sets out an original concept of the decomposition process of insurance operations. The first part of the paper presents the concept of the process, the process-based approach and process management. The further part identifies the processes carried out in insurance companies and discusses the purposes of implementing them. The final part of the study presents an example of the practical application of the process-based approach to issues of financial management of an insurance company.
Mind-Set Metrics: Consumer Attitudes and the Bottom Line
Authors: Srinivasan Shuba
Published: April 2015

Including mind-set metrics like cognitions, affects and intentions in marketing models helps explain the effect of marketing on hard facts like sales and profit and also improves marketing decisions. Mind-set metrics have longer wear-in times than most marketing mix activities and can therefore serve as leading indicators. They allow time for managerial action before market performance itself is affected.
The mind-set effects are not identical for all types of products or in all marketing settings. Four criteria – potential, responsiveness, stickiness and sales conversion – help determine and make clear the connection between marketing actions, attitudinal metrics and sales outcomes for different product types and brands. These criteria can also be used in prediction models and to determine the optimal budget for individual marketing activities.
The joint modeling of mind-set metrics, marketing mix actions and financial outcomes are relevant and helpful to CMOs and CFOs alike. Such information enables marketing managers to understand the effect of marketing actions while offering financial accountability of marketing to CFOs.
Italian Property Outlaws: From the Theory of the Commons to the Praxis of Occupation
Authors: Quarta Alessandra , Ferrando Tomaso
Published: April 2015

Since the unsuccessful experiment of the Rodotà Commission, Italy has become a laboratory in the intellectual construction and practical defense of the
Solar production of WO3: a green approach
Authors: Villafán Vidales Heidi Isabel , Jiménez-González Antonio , Bautista-Orozco Alejandro , Arancibia-Bulnes Camilo A. , Estrada Claudio A.
Published: April 2015

The tungsten trioxide (WO
Disparagement humor and prejudice: Contemporary theory and research
Authors: Ford Thomas E. , Richardson Kyle , Petit Whitney E.
Published: April 2015

In this article we review contemporary research testing Martineau’s (
Humor as an abrasive or a lubricant in social situations: Martineau revisited
Authors: Janes Leslie , Olson James
Published: April 2015

In Martineau’s seminal chapter on the social functions of humor, he postulated some of the ways in which disparagement humor shapes social behavior. This research paper discusses three research studies that compared the effects of other-deprecating humor and self-deprecating humor on the observer and examines how they relate to Martineau’s theory. In our research, we hypothesized that people who observe ridicule of others experience “jeer pressure.” This inhibiting effect on behavior was expected to result in conformity to others’ opinions, fear about failing or standing out, and conventional thinking. In the first two studies, participants observed videotapes containing self-ridiculing humor, other-deprecating humor, or non-ridiculing/no humor. Participants then completed tasks assessing conforming, fear of failure, and creativity. Results of both studies showed that participants who observed ridicule of others were more conforming and more afraid of failing than participants who observed self-deprecating humor or the control condition. Study 3 examined the effects of ridicule of others versus self-deprecating humor on creativity using a more sophisticated creativity measure, and less caustic humor. Results supported the hypothesis that observing self-deprecating humor would result in higher levels of creativity compared to the other-ridicule condition. Implications of these findings for Martineau’s model are discussed.
Hung out to dry: use and consequences of disparagement humor on American Idol
Authors: Montemurro Beth , Benfield Jacob A.
Published: April 2015

Humor can be a means of social control and establishing boundaries between social groups. Disparagement humor, which is belittling and degrading while laughing at a target, is such a means of social control. Through the use of disparagement humor, people establish in-groups and out-groups and audiences of disparagement can enjoy vicarious superiority, as long as they are not members of the targeted out-group. In this paper, we look at the way disparagement humor is used on a mass stage, the popular reality television program
The rhetoric of disparagement humor: An analysis of anti-semitic joking online
Authors: Weaver Simon
Published: April 2015

Studies of humor informed by an understanding of rhetoric offer a number of conceptual tools for the analysis of disparagement humor. This article examines recent rhetorical approaches to humor analysis and evaluates their strengths and weaknesses. Where possible, it seeks to synthesise these approaches for what might be called an emerging methodological branch of humor studies. Although not all rhetorical analysts can be considered critical theorists, the article argues for the particular usefulness of these approaches for critical humor studies. A sample of 28 online anti-Semitic jokes is used to illustrate the various methods of rhetorical humor analysis. The discussion examines the fundamental assumptions, propositions, uniqueness and limitations of each theory. The central observation is that rhetorical humor analysis provides methods that add to disparagement theory. This central observation is supported by three points: that humor is structured with rhetorical devices that might, in various ways, convince; that the context of utterance influences the meaning of humor and thus the context of utterance is rhetorical; and, that the discursive content of humor provides the material to be reinforced.
It’s just a (sexist) joke: comparing reactions to sexist versus racist communications
Authors: Woodzicka Julie A. , Mallett Robyn K. , Hendricks Shelbi , Pruitt Astrid V.
Published: April 2015

Two experiments test whether using humor moderates the effect of the type of prejudice (racist or sexist) on evaluations of discriminatory communications. Experiment 1 examined a) the offensiveness of sexist and racist humor and b) whether jokes were judged as confrontation-worthy compared to statements expressing the same prejudicial sentiment. Racist jokes and statements were rated as more offensive and confrontation-worthy than sexist statements and jokes, respectively. Additionally, sexist jokes were rated as less offensive than sexist statements. Experiment 2 examined a) the perceived appropriateness of three responses (ignoring, saying “that’s not funny,” or labeling as discrimination) to sexist or racist jokes and b) the likeability of the confronter. Saying “that’s not funny” was the most acceptable response to jokes, but labeling a racist joke as racism was perceived as more appropriate than labeling a sexist joke as sexism. Finally, confronters of racism were liked more than those who confronted sexism.
Measurement of the Logistic Customer Service Level in Commercial Cargo Motor Transport Companies
Authors: Kadłubek Marta , Jereb Borut
Published: April 2015

The term of logistic customer service is defined as the abilities or skills to meet the customer’s requirements and expectations, chiefly in terms of the time and place of deliveries, while using all available forms of logistic activity, including transport, storage, and the management of inventories, information and packages. As each of the logistic activities has an effect on the customer receiving right product or service, in its proper condition, in the correct time and space, and at reasonable costs, so seeking the proper service comes down to managing logistic activities in such a manner, as to achieve the essential level of customer satisfaction at the lowest possible costs.

The identified elements of logistic customer service in an organization are placed on a specific level, as assessed from the perspective of the purchasers' expectations. Among various methods for measuring customer service level, or quality, which are described in the literature on the subject, the SERVQUAL is recognized as one of the most effective. The SERVQUAL method relies on measuring the differences that exist between the quality, as perceived by a customer, and the quality demanded by that customer from a specific service. In order to determine the difference, both the customer's expectations for the service level, and their fulfilment by a specific organization need to be examined at the same time.

The elements of logistic customer service of the Silesian Province’s (region in southern Poland) commercial cargo motor transport enterprises under study are placed on a measurable level, as evaluated from the perspective of the recipients of offered transport services. The measurement of the logistic customer service level, as found in the entities examined, was made using the SERVQUAL method. The survey questionnaire used in the study was constructed based on 22 logistic customer service determinants. Questionnaire forms were filled by 294 customers of 147 Silesian Province’s commercial cargo motor transport enterprises examined, i.e. two customers of each enterprise.

The article presents theoretical basis for the measurement of the logistic customer service level by the SERVQUAL method, description of acquiring the research material, analysis of examination results and conclusions.
They Walked Together: Owen Barfield, Walter O. Field, Cecil Harwood, C.S. Lewis
Authors: Hipolito Jane
Published: April 2015

For C. S. Lewis, the walks that he took each Eastertide with Owen Barfield, Walter O. Field, and Cecil Harwood epitomized friendship. Although they were distinctly unlike in personality and were not all interested in the same things, the four “cretaceous perambulators” shared core ideals and aspirations. Their writings evidence the wonderful strengths of their friendship.
C. S. Lewis, Reluctant Convert and (not so) Ordinary Anglican
Authors: Mănăstireanu Dănuţ
Published: April 2015

After some passing considerations on the reception of Lewis in Romania, the present paper discusses the role played by Anglicanism in the late personal commitment of C.S. Lewis to the Christian faith, after years of atheism, scepticism, and agnosticism. It argues that in fact Anglicanism contributed very little to Lewis’s (re)conversion to Christianity. Furthermore, the paper agrees with the generally accepted idea that the particular calling that Lewis felt he had, that of being a Christian apologist, made him wary of being associated with the defence of any specific Christian tradition. In virtue of this special calling, Lewis also reacted quite strongly against certain aspects of Anglicanism, like, for instance, the ordination of women to priesthood, which he perceived as an obstacle to ecumenism and, implicitly, to an effective defence of the Christian faith in the public arena. In spite of all this, there is little doubt that Lewis has fully and unreservedly adopted Anglicanism as his preferred version of Christianity. From this particular stance, the life and ministry of C.S. Lewis made a huge public impact in the twentieth century and beyond. In light of the undeniable influence he had on the intellectual and religious scene in the last hundred years, one may ask not so much how Anglican was Lewis, but, rather, ‘why isn’t Anglicanism more like Lewis’.
Training on Sustainable Use of Water in the Processing Industry / Usposabljanje o trajnostni rabi vode v predelovalni industriji
Authors: Moretti Melita , Markič Mirko
Published: April 2015

The aim of this article is to present research results on the influence of factors of sustainable water use training (management support of training, co-worker support of training, incentives for using skills acquired during training) and the influence of this training on technical efficiency and employee efficiency. The article is based on an empirical study of 328 medium and large companies in the Slovene processing industry. The findings show that the training factors have a statistically significant and positive effect on sustainable water use training and that training has a positive effect on technical efficiency. They also offer new theoretical knowledge as well as practical guidelines for anyone working in the sustainable development management of natural resources.
E-business in Micro Companies: Lessons learned / E-poslovanje v mikro podjetjih – nova spoznanja
Authors: Zabukovšek Simona Sternad , Šišovska Irena , Mravljak Monika , Bobek Samo
Published: April 2015

E-business is entering its mature stage. E-business in large companies has been researched in several surveys, whereas SMEs and micro companies have been researched less often. Micro companies are, together with SMEs, a critical part of national economies worldwide; both are central to the EU’s development strategies. It is well known that, in an information society, business models are driven by e-business concepts, and e-business models are emerging. An in-depth understanding of e-business use in micro companies is crucial for the success of such companies. The main purpose of this paper is to research the intensity of e-business use, advantages and disadvantages of e-business, the biggest problems of e-business implementation/maintenance, and attitude toward trends of e-business in micro companies. The paper presents findings from a survey carried out on a sample of micro companies. Data were collected via an e-questionnaire, and results were calculated using SPSS. The data confirmed that e-business in micro companies is most often used in connection with e-banking; e-business with the government also appears to be very important.
Protarchanara brevilinea FENN, 1864 – a moth species new to Poland (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Nowacki Janusz , Wąsala Roman
Published: April 2015

This is the first record of Protarchanara brevilinea (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) from Poland. It was found in Western Pomerania, NW Poland.
Tracking markers of response inhibition in electroencephalographic data: why should we and how can we go beyond the N2 component?
Authors: Albares Marion , Lio Guillaume , Boulinguez Philippe
Published: April 2015

Response inhibition is a pivotal component of executive control, which is especially difficult to assess. Indeed, it is a substantial challenge to gauge brain-behavior relationships because this function is precisely intended to suppress overt measurable behaviors. A further complication is that no single neuroimaging method has been found that can disentangle the accurate time-course of concurrent excitatory and inhibitory mechanisms. Here, we argue that this objective can be achieved with electroencephalography (EEG) on some conditions. Based on a systematic review, we emphasize that the standard event-related potential N2 (N200) is not an appropriate marker of prepotent response inhibition. We provide guidelines for assessing the cortical brain dynamics of response inhibition with EEG. This includes the combined use of inseparable data processing steps (source separation, source localization, and single-trial and time-frequency analyses) as well as the amendment of the classical experimental designs to enable the recording of different kinds of electrophysiological activity predicted by different models of response inhibition. We conclude with an illustration based on recent findings of how fruitful this approach can be.
The adaptive and maladaptive continuum of stress responses – a hippocampal perspective
Authors: Suri Deepika , Vaidya Vidita A.
Published: April 2015

Exposure to stressors elicits a spectrum of responses that span from potentially adaptive to maladaptive consequences at the structural, cellular and physiological level. These responses are particularly pronounced in the hippocampus where they also appear to influence hippocampal-dependent cognitive function and emotionality. The factors that influence the nature of stress-evoked consequences include the chronicity, severity, predictability and controllability of the stressors. In addition to adult-onset stress, early life stress also elicits a wide range of structural and functional responses, which often exhibit life-long persistence. However, the outcome of early stress exposure is often contingent on the environment experienced in adulthood, and could either aid in stress coping or could serve to enhance susceptibility to the negative consequences of adult stress. This review comprehensively examines the consequences of adult and early life stressors on the hippocampus, with a focus on their effects on neurogenesis, neuronal survival, structural and synaptic plasticity and hippocampal-dependent behaviors. Further, we discuss potential factors that may tip stress-evoked consequences from being potentially adaptive to largely maladaptive.
The Effects of Absolute Pitch and Tone Language on Pitch Processing and Encoding in Musicians
Authors: Hutka Stefanie A. , Alain Claude
Published: April 2015

Absolute pitch (AP) is the rare ability to identify or produce a specific pitch without a reference pitch, which appears to be more prevalent in tone-language speakers than non-tone-language speakers. Numerous studies support a close relationship between AP, music, and language. Despite this relationship, the extent to which these factors contribute to the processing and encoding of pitch has not yet been investigated. Addressing this research question would provide insights into the relationship between music and language, as well as the mechanisms of AP. To this aim, we recruited AP musicians and non-AP musicians who were either tone-language (Mandarin and Cantonese) or non-tone language speakers. Participants completed a zero- and one-back working memory task using music and non-music (control) stimuli. In general, AP participants had better accuracy and faster reaction times than participants without AP. This effect remained even after controlling for the age at which participants began formal music lessons. We did not observe a performance advantage afforded by speaking a tone language, nor a cumulative advantage afforded by having AP and being a tone-language speaker.
A Spectral Pitch Class Model of the Probe Tone Data and Scalic Tonality
Authors: Milne Andrew J. , Laney Robin , Sharp David B.
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we introduce a small family of novel bottom-up (sensory) models of the Krumhansl and Kessler (1982) probe tone data. The models are based on the spectral pitch class similarities between all twelve pitch classes and the tonic degree and tonic triad. Cross-validation tests of a wide selection of models show ours to have amongst the highest fits to the data. We then extend one of our models to predict the tonics of a variety of different scales such as the harmonic minor, melodic minor, and harmonic major. The model produces sensible predictions for these scales. Furthermore, we also predict the tonics of a small selection of microtonal scales—scales that do not form part of any musical culture. These latter predictions may be tested when suitable empirical data have been collected.
Strengthening the Muslim Community in Indonesia and Beyond: The 2013 Islamic Solidarity Games in Palembang
Authors: Trotier Friederike
Published: April 2015

The city of Palembang hosted the third Islamic Solidarity Games (ISG) in September/October 2013 and welcomed 39 nations to this sporting event. In particular, I seek to address the question of to what extent the ISG served as a tool to unite Muslims of Indonesia, especially of Palembang, and Muslims from participating countries. The motto of the games, “Unity in Harmony”, conveyed a strong desire to strengthen the Muslim community and identity in Indonesia and worldwide. However, several issues indicate a discrepancy between ideal of the motto and the reality of the games in Indonesia. The perceived exclusion of other religious groups and the discussion about the “appropriate” clothing of female athletes were among some of the sticking points during the ISG. Furthermore, the unbridled nationalism which was exhibited by local spectators whenever Indonesia faced Malaysia hints to tensions between Muslim communities of different nations.DOI: 10.15408/sdi.v22i1.1388
Al-Shawkah al-Siyāsīyah li al-Afkār al-Dīnīyah: Al-Ḥarakah al-Tajdīdīyah al-Islāmīyah wa al-ṭarīq ilá Nuqṭat Iltiqā’ al-Islām wa al-Dawlah
Authors: Munhanif Ali
Published: April 2015

The article describes the transformation process of political Islam in Indonesia. Focusing on the early development period of the New Order regime, the paper seeks to examine how the period of intense conflict between Islamic political movements and the State was successfully resolved in the political arena. The conflicts developed at the beginning of independence. In 1966 the emergence of the New Order regime prevailed because of the military. The New Order marked the beginning of extensive efforts to stabilize the Indonesian political order and to find solutions for the problems of religious politics. Leaders and figures of the Islamic movements responded vehemently to the process as they sought to resolve the conflicts between Islam and the State. The modernization of Islamic thought in the 1970s marked an important moment for the search of alternatives. The modernization movement inspired a wide variety of accommodative policies within the New Order for religious agendas that were incorporated into the State political structure. The result is that the elements of an “Islamic state” could be implemented within the State institutions, without changing the national constitution of the Republic of Indonesia.DOI: 10.15408/sdi.v22i1.1389
Al-Islām wa al-Malāyū wa al-Siyādah fī al-Muḥīṭ: Sulṭanat Brunei wa al-Isti‘mār Eropa fī Borneo
Authors: Darmadi Dadi
Published: April 2015

The politics and trade in Southeast Asia since the 7th century had seen the early rise of Brunei as an important port in Borneo. When the Malacca fell to the Portuguese in 1511, Islam spread to northern Borneo.  Brunei grew as a new, powerful Islamic sultanate; European traders stopped by its port as they bought spices in the Moluccas. Friendships and conflicts of interest between the two powers were exacerbated by the issue of Christianization and Islamization. In the 16th century the conflicts forced Brunei to defend and expand its territory from North Borneo to the Philippines. This article discusses the Sultanate of Brunei‘s early growth in the 15th and 16th Centuries particularly related to the political context of religion and trade in Southeast Asian waters.  The article presents reasons why their initial encounters with Europeans, especially the Portuguese and Spaniards, were important not only for Brunei’s dynamic history, but also for the establishment of its Islamic and Malay identities in later periods.DOI: 10.15408/sdi.v22i1.1390
Modified Excipients in Novel Drug Delivery: Need of the Day
Authors:   Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab-140401, Kanojia Neha , Kaur Loveleen ,   Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab-140401, Nagpal Manju ,   Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab-140401, Bala Rajni ,   Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab-140401
Published: April 2015

Drug products not only contain “actives” that confer the intended therapeutic benefits such as pain relief or act on particular part of the body, but contain other materials that are also “functional” with respect to the drug product. These are known as excipients and specific functionality which they confer to a particular product is independent upon the process used to add the excipient to the formulation and its exact location within the final dosage form. Introduction of novel drug delivery systems and new drug moieties lead to the need for new excipients with varied characteristics. Development of new excipient entities and their evaluation is a costly procedure; modification of existing excipients is very easy, more economical and less time consuming. The development of excipients that are capable of fulfilling multifunctional roles such as enhancing drug bioavailability and drug stability as well as controlling the release of the drug according to the therapeutic needs is one of the most important prerequisites for further progress in the design of novel drug delivery systems. The main focus of this article is on synthetic novel excipients that perform multiple functions in pharmaceutical formulations.
Association of ABO Blood Groups with Cardiovascular Diseases in Adult Indian Population
Authors:   Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shri Sarvajanik Pharmacy College, Mehsana 384001, India, Sahita Pooja , Anand Indermeet Singh ,   Professorand Head, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Shri Sarvajanik Pharmacy College, Mehsana 384001, India, Shah Manisha ,   Lab Director, CIMS Hospital, Ahmedabad 380060, India
Published: April 2015

This study was designed to investigate whether there was an association between ABO blood groups and major cardiovascular diseases (ischemic heart diseases) in adult Indian population. The present retrospective study analyzed ABO blood groups among 1527 patients with documented IHD, who were treated at CIMS Hospital in Ahmedabad city from January to December, 2011 comparing with a control group of 860 subjects. Data were analyzed with GraphPad Prism 6.0 and by using chi square test. A p-value less than 0.05 were considered as +statistically significant. No significant difference in distribution of ABO blood groups was seen in patients with IHD (A, 21.95%; B, 35.41%; AB, 8.61%; O, 34.01%) and also after adjustment for common cardiovascular risk factors such as age, gender, addiction history, obesity, hypertension, diabetes in these patients (A, 25.47%; B, 37.53%; AB, 9.04%; O, 27.94%) as compared to the controls (A, 22.32%; B, 35.58%; AB, 8.83%; O, 33.25%), p-value = 0.9916 and 0.2778 respectively. The findings of the study suggest that there seems to be no correlation between various ABO blood groups and development of cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, the prevalence of major risk factors was equal in patients with different blood groups and blood groups had no impact on development of cardiovascular pathogenesis in individual subjects.
Analytical Method Development and Validation for Assay of Rufinamide Drug
Authors:   Lord Shiva College of Pharmacy, Sirsa, Haryana, India, Singh Jitender , Sangwan Sonia ,   Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab-140401, Grover Parul ,   Lord Shiva College of Pharmacy, Sirsa, Haryana, India, Mehta Lovekesh ,   Lord Shiva College of Pharmacy, Sirsa, Haryana, India, Kiran Deepika ,   Lord Shiva College of Pharmacy, Sirsa, Haryana, India, Goyal Anju ,   Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab-140401
Published: April 2015

A simple, rapid, sensitive, cost effective, and reproducible reverse phase high performance liquid chromatographic (RP-HPLC) method was developed and validated for the stability testing of rufinamide. The proposed RP-HPLC method was developed on phenome-nex LunaR C-18 5Î¼m,250 mm Ã— 4.6 mm id. Column (at ambient temperature) and a mobile phase consisting of phosphate buffer: acetonitrile (60:40) was delivered at a flow rate of 1.0ml/ min. The analyte was detected by using a UV detector at the wavelength of 293 nm. The method was found to be linear over the concentration range of 50- 150 Î¼gml-1 (r2=0.999). 30. The retention time of rufinamide was 4.717 min.