bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Physiological and Productivity Effects of Heat Stress in Cattle – A Review
Authors: Herbut Piotr , Angrecka Sabina , Godyń Dorota , Hoffmann Gundula
Published: April 2019

A trend of global warming has been observed over the last few years and it has often been discussed whether there is an effect on livestock. Numerous studies have been published about heat stress in cattle and its influence on the physiology and productivity of animals. Preventing the negative effects of heat stress on cattle is essential to ensure animal welfare, health and productivity. Monitoring and analysis of physiological parameters lead to a better understanding of the adaptation processes. This can help to determine the risk of climate change and its effects on performance characteristics, e.g. milk yield and reproduction. This, in turn, makes it possible to develop effective measures to mitigate the impact of heat load on animals. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the current literature. Studies especially about the physiological and productive changes due to heat stress in cattle have been summarised in this review. The direction of future research into the aspect of heat stress in cattle is also indicated.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Streptococci Most Frequently Isolated from Czech Dairy Cows with Mastitis
Authors: Šlosárková Soňa , Nedbalcová Kateřina , Bzdil Jaroslav , Fleischer Petr , Zouharová Monika , Staněk Stanislav , Kašná Eva , Pechová Alena
Published: April 2019

The aim was to investigate the antimicrobial susceptibility of most frequently isolated streptococci from Czech dairy herds. A total of 3,719 quarter milk samples were collected and cultivated between January 2017 and June 2018 from cows with clinical or subclinical mastitis from 112 farms. Only one isolate of each species, collected from the same farm per six-month period, was included in the susceptibility testing. The susceptibilities of Streptococcus uberis (163 isolates) and S. dysgalactiae (25 isolates) to 10 antimicrobials (penicillin – PEN, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid – AMC, ceftiofur – EFT, clindamycin – CLI, gentamicin – GEN, streptomycin – STR, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole – SXT, enrofloxacin – ENR, tetracycline – TET, rifampicin – RIF) from 9 groups were determined by measuring their minimum inhibitory concentrations. The percentages of resistant S. uberis isolates to the antimicrobials were as follows: TET (63.2%), STR (52.1%), CLI (30.1%), and RIF (2.5%). Intermediate susceptibility was found to RIF (63.2%), PEN (35%), ENR (2.5%), EFT (1.8%), and AMC (1.2%). All the S. uberis isolates were susceptible to GEN and SXT (100%). However, only 6.7% of S. uberis isolates were susceptible to all tested antimicrobials, and 38.7% of isolates were multidrug resistant (≥ 3 groups of antimicrobials). All the S. dysgalactiae isolates were susceptible to PEN, AMC, EFT, GEN, SXT, and ENR (100%). Resistant S. dysgalactiae isolates were found to TET (60%), STR (28%), CLI (12%), and intermediate to TET (24%) and RIF (20%). Sixteen percent of S. dysgalactiae isolates were multidrug resistant. The relatively high occurrence of (multiple) resistance, relative to mastitis pathogens, highlights the importance of monitoring this condition in dairy herds.
Effect of Fractionated Seminal Plasma on Sperm Characteristics Following Cryopreservation of Boar Semen
Authors: Wasilewska-Sakowska Karolina , Zasiadczyk Łukasz , Fraser Leyland
Published: April 2019

This study aimed to investigate the effect of fractionated seminal plasma (SP) on boar sperm characteristics following cryopreservation. Gel filtration chromatography yielded two fractions: SP1 with more than 40 kDa (>40 kDa) and SP2 with less than 40 kDa (<40 kDa). The fractionated SP (SP1 and SP2), whole seminal plasma (wSP) and Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS) were used for the treatment of semen before freezing-thawing. Besides the analysis of sperm motility characteristics, plasma membrane integrity (PMI), acrosome integrity, and viability (Vybrant Apoptosis Assay) were analyzed in pre-freeze and post-thaw (PT) semen. Among the analyzed pre-freeze sperm parameters, rapid movement was markedly affected by boar and treatment. Furthermore, boar and treatment were significant sources of variations in PT semen quality. Treatment with wSP caused a marked reduction in PT semen quality compared with BTS, SP1 or SP2. Wide variations in PT acrosome integrity and viability were observed in spermatozoa treated with BTS and the fractionated SP, being significantly higher in the SP1- and SP2-treated samples. However, PT semen quality did not differ between semen samples treated with SP1 and SP2. Representative electrophoretic profiles of sperm proteins from each treatment showed quantitative and qualitative differences, indicating varying effects of the cryopreservation procedure on the sperm membrane integrity. The findings of this study indicated that the cryoprotective effects of the SP components varied among boars and that different components of the fractionated SP exerted varying effects on sperm functions following cryopreservation. It could be suggested that the variable protective protein components of either fractionated SP ameliorated alterations in the sperm membranes during cryopreservation, resulting in reduced susceptibility to cryo-damage.
Analysis of Genetic Parameters of Carcass Traits and Daily Gain of Native Breed Pigs Raised in Poland
Authors: Szyndler-Nędza Magdalena , Eckert Robert , Tyra Mirosław , Żak Grzegorz , Szulc Karolina , Blicharski Tadeusz
Published: April 2019

The aim of the study was to determine genetic parameters of live performance traits in pigs of three native breeds maintained in Poland. As part of the conservation programmes, the Puławska (Puł), Złotnicka White (ZW) and Złotnicka Spotted (ZS) breeds are monitored for productivity based on performance test results of these breeds. The study included 6042 gilts and 2406 boars of the Puławska breed, 866 Złotnicka White gilts, and 903 Złotnicka Spotted gilts. The genetic parameters were estimated separately for each breed, and also separately for sexes in the case of the Puławska breed. The components (co)variance and genetic parameters were estimated using the REML method for the animal model taking into account different combination of fixed and random effects. Convergence of the iterative process was achieved by the selection of AIREML algorithm. The coefficients of genetic and phenotypic correlations between measurements of slaughter traits and daily gain were low for all breed groups. In turn, the relationships between backfat thickness measurements and carcass meat percentage were estimated as high. Only the correlations of slaughter traits with loin eye height were not uniform for the analysed breed groups. The coefficients of heritability (h2) were high and intermediate for all breeds and sexes. The highest heritability coefficients were obtained for daily gain (0.58 in ZW to 0.80 in Puł gilts), followed by backfat thickness (0.37 in Puł gilts to 0.64 in ZW) and carcass meat percentage (0.40 in ZS to 0.56 in ZW). The lowest coefficients were obtained for loin eye height (0.24 in Puł boars to 0.40 in ZW). The estimated genetic parameters could be used to verify selection indices of the breeds included in the genetic resources conservation programmes.
Progesterone Supplementation During the Pre-implantation Period Influences Interferon-Stimulated Gene Expression in Lactating Dairy Cows
Authors: Serrano-Pérez Beatriz , Rizos Dimitrios , López-Helguera Irene , Molina Ester , Garcia-Ispierto Irina , López-Gatius Fernando
Published: April 2019

This study examined the effect of progesterone (P4) supplementation from Days 16 to 18 post-AI on interferon-stimulated gene (ISG) expression on Day 19 in high-producing dairy cows. Gene expression levels were measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Possible relationships between ISG expression and the incidence of pregnancy failure were also investigated. Cows were alternately assigned on Day 16 post-AI to a control (C: n = 13) or treatment group (P4: n = 14). Out of 27 cows, 12 returned to oestrus before pregnancy diagnosis and 9 were diagnosed as pregnant on Day 28. ISG expression was assessed in all cows. Expression levels for the genes OAS1, ISG15, MX1 and MX2 were higher for pregnant than for non-pregnant cows (P=0.04; P<0.001; P=0.02; P=0.045; respectively). A significant (P=0.01) interaction was observed between the treatment and positive pregnancy diagnosis groups on Day 28 post-AI for the probability of showing ISG expression. This interaction suggests that in cows not pregnant on Day 28, P4 supplementation may have led to increased ISG15 mRNA expression on Day 19. Lower ISG15 expression was detected for cows returning to oestrus than for pregnant cows (P<0.001). However, cows with a negative pregnancy diagnosis showed intermediate values, differences being non-significant when compared to cows returning to oestrus or pregnant cows. Our results suggest that P4 supplementation during the pre-implantation period promotes conceptus signalling.
Evaluation of Supplementation of Defatted Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae Meal in Beagle Dogs
Authors: Lei X.J. , Kim T.H. , Park J.H. , Kim I.H.
Published: April 2019

The objective of this experiment was to test the effects of supplementation of defatted black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae (BSFL) meal in beagle dogs. A total of nine healthy female beagles (initial body weight 12.1 ± 1.76 kg) were fed grain-based diets with three levels of BSFL meal (0, 1% or 2%) in a 42-day feeding trial. At the end of week 6 of the experiment, all dogs were intraperitoneally challenged with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at 100 μg/kg of body weight. Albumin concentration was linearly increased with increasing BSFL meal level (P<0.05). A linear increase (P<0.05) in calcium concentration was observed when increasing dietary BSFL meal. Although dietary treatments did not affect the digestibility of ether extract, the digestibility of dry matter and crude protein were linearly increased with increasing the level of BSFL meal. The concentration of tumor necrosis factor-α was linearly decreased but glutathione peroxidase (GPx) concentration was linearly increased when increasing the level of BSFL meal at 6 h after challenge (P<0.05). In addition, there were quadratic increases in concentrations of GPx and superoxide dismutase with increasing dietary BSFL meal level at 3 h after challenge (P<0.05). These findings from the present study demonstrate that BSFL meal can be supplemented in the diet to convert beneficial effects to beagle dogs, indicated as improved digestibility of dry matter and crude protein and anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative capacity.
Structure–Property of Wet-Spun Alginate-Based Precursor Fibers Modified with Nanocarbons
Authors: Szparaga Grzegorz , Brzezińska Magdalena , Pabjańczyk-Wlazło Ewelina , Puchalski Michał , Sztajnowski Sławomir , Krucińska Izabella
Published: April 2019

The results of studies assessing the influence of the addition of carbon nanofillers, such as multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and graphene oxide (GO) that differ in size and structure, on the molecular and supramolecular structure and properties of alginate fibers that might be prospective precursors for carbon fiber (PCF) industry are presented in this article. The investigation was carried out by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), and tension testing. In the frame of the current study, two types of alginate fibers were examined and compared: alginic acid and calcium alginate fibers. Alginic acid fibers were formed by chemical treatment of calcium alginate fibers with hydrochloric acid due to the fact that Ca2+ ions presented in the fibers were expected to adversely affect the prospective carbonization process. This investigation brought important conclusions about the influence of nanofillers on the physical properties of the final material. Understanding the link between the incorporation of carbon nanostructures and a possible influence on the formation of ordered carbon structures in the precursor fibers brings an important opportunity to get insights into the application of alginate fibers as a prospective base material for obtaining cost-efficient carbon fibers.
Mechanism of Electrical Conductivity in Metallic Fiber-Based Yarns
Authors: Xie Juan , Miao Menghe , Jia Yongtang
Published: April 2019

We explore the conductive mechanism of yarns made from metallic fibers and/or traditional textile fibers. It has been proposed for the first time, to our knowledge, that probe span length plays a great role in the conductivity of metallic fiber-based yarns, which is determined by the probability and number of conductive fibers appearing on a cross section and their connecting on two neighboring sections in a yarn’s longitudinal direction. The results demonstrate that yarn conductivity is negatively influenced to a large extent by its length when metallic fibers are blended with other nonconductive materials, which is beyond the scope of conductivity theory for metal conductors. In addition, wicking and wetting performances, which interfere with fiber distribution and conductive paths between fibers, have been shown to have a negative influence on the conductivity of metallic fiber-based yarns with various structures and composed of different fiber materials. Such dependence of the conductivity on the probe span length, as well as on the moisture from air and human body, should get attention during investigation of the conductivity of metallic fiber-based composites in use, especially in cases in which conductive yarns are fabricated into flexible circuit boards, antennas, textile electrodes, and sensors.
Influence of Modified Cationic Starch in a Mixed Poly(Vinyl Alcohol)/Cationic Starch Solution on the Electrospinning Process and Web Structure
Authors: Šateikė Jurgita , Milašius Rimvydas
Published: April 2019

Nanofibers were electrospun from bicomponent poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and modified cationic starch (CS) mixed solution PVA/CS with different mass ratios (75/25, 50/50 and 35/65) at a total concentration of 12 wt% for all polymer compositions. For comparison, pure PVA solution was used. Electrospinning technique Nanospider (Elmarco, Czech Republic) with a rotating electrode with tines was used to obtain nanofibrous web. The influence of prepared polymer solution compositions on the structure and morphology of nanofibers and webs were investigated. Analyzing the structure and morphology of the formed nanofiber webs, it was noticed that the fineness nanofibers were formed from the PVA/CS solution with a mass ratio of 50/50. This ratio of solution also lets us to obtain the nanofibrous web with less sticked nanofibers on spunbond. The increase in the CS ratio by more than 50/50 had a negative influence on the diameter of nanofibers and the structure of nanofibrous web.
Distance to Radiotherapy and Demand – Projection of the Effects of Establishing New Radiotherapy Facilities in Poland by 2025
Authors: Czerwiński Adam Michał
Published: April 2019

In 2015, the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Poland introduced the Polish strategic plan for radiotherapy development and investment. Given that radiotherapy utilisation depends on the distance a patient must travel to undergo the treatment, the main goal of the plan was to increase equitable access to radiotherapy in Poland by establishing new facilities in new locations by 2025. This study constitutes the first step towards an economic evaluation of this plan by adopting spatial interaction models to project the expected increase in the demand for radiotherapy (3%). Moreover, it adds to the current research on the relation between distance and demand for healthcare services in the following ways. First, it flags the importance of using spatial econometrics to healthcare utilisation studies in the presence of spatial autocorrelation. Furthermore, it proposes a quantitative method for assessing the expected impact of establishing new facilities on utilisation. Finally, it formally confirms the dependence between radiotherapy utilisation and distance in Poland, which has been previously shown to exist in other countries.
The development of HPLC-DAD method for determination of active pharmaceutical ingredient in the potassium 2-((4-amino-5-(morpholinomethyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)thio) acetate substance
Authors: Shcherbyna Roman , Parchenko Volodymyr , Varynskyi Boris , Kaplaushenko Andriy
Published: April 2019

Derivatives of 1,2,4-triazole are actively researched by scientists and synthetic pharmacologists. The last studies have shown that potassium 2-((4-amino-5-(morpholinomethyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)thio)acetate with low toxicity series exhibits antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties. Therefore, the purpose of this work was to develop a method for determining the API in the potassium 2-((4-amino-5-(morpholinomethyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)thio)acetate substance using the method of high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD). As a result of this work, it is shown that the developed method is specific and meets the requirements of linearity, accuracy and precision. The results of determining the contents of the API in real samples indicate that the method can be proposed to control the quality of the potassium 2-((4-amino-5-(morpholinomethyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)thio)acetate substance.
Acute liver injury in the course of lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma
Authors: Kuzemko-Baranowska Dorota , Baranowski Dariusz , Prystupa Andrzej
Published: April 2019

Non-Hodgkin lymphomas are malignant neoplasms whose incidence rates increase each year. These also include neoplasms rare in the general population. The present case report described a patient with lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (LPL) and rapid liver damage. In most cases, infiltration of the liver is rare in advanced stages of hematopoietic malignancies when hepatomegaly, cholestatic jaundice and organ failure are observed. The patient’s history includes non-specific abdominal pain that was accompanied by general symptoms such as nocturnal hyperhidrosis, subfibrile temperature and fever, as well as weight loss. The above complaints aggravate with an increase in organ size. The laboratory findings initially demonstrated moderately elevated concentrations of transaminases. In our case, the baseline biochemical indices of liver function were found to be normal. During the next days of hospitalisation, the features of liver damage intensified and were accompanied by liver failure. The gold diagnostic standard is a biopsy of the bone marrow and the organ affected. Since the patient’s condition deteriorated and liver failure developed, the diagnosis was established based on trephine biopsy of the bone marrow. Chemotherapy was implemented; despite the treatment applied, the patient’s clinical condition did not improve. Two months after the onset of first symptoms the patient died.
Effect of tirapazamine on selected kidney parameters in rats treated with cisplatin
Authors: Sysa Marcin , Pawlowski Kamil , Slabczynski Piotr , Burdan Franciszek , Dudka Jaroslaw
Published: April 2019

Hypoxic cancer cells are more aggressive and responsible for more efficient metastasis and recurrence. It seems worth-while, hence, to supplement current cytostatic drugs therapy (i.e. cisplatin) with hypoxia cytotoxic agents (i.e. tirapazamine), the toxicity of which is activated by hypoxia. Cisplatin and tirapazamine can change a redox equilibrium and consequently lead to changes in cell metabolism, fibrosis and apoptosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cisplatin/tirapazamine toxicological synergism. In doing so we tested selected kidney oxidative stress parameters, as well as nephrotoxicity markers, in plasma and urine. Once a week for 6 weeks, rats received intraperitoneally two doses of tirapazamine (5 or 10 mg/kg bw), 2 hours before cisplatin (2 mg/kg bw) was applied. Our results show that Tirapazamine (TP) had no significant adverse effect on the redox balance, oxidative stress and kidney function in rats receiving cisplatin (CP). However, TP significantly increased protein concentration in the kidneys of rats. In all tested groups, a significant decrease in NADH concentration in kidneys was recorded, which could indicate disorder in the cell metabolism. TP also was found to have prevented bacterial infection caused by CP. In summary, there was no nephrotoxic synergy of TP with CP at an unacceptable level.
Asymptomatic traumatic neuroma
Authors: Wrona Katarzyna , Mocarska Agnieszka , Wrona Wojciech , Grzycka-Kowalczyk Luiza , Burdan Maciej , Falek Artur , Karbownik Adrian , Burdan Franciszek
Published: April 2019

A rare case of asymptomatic traumatic neuroma, triggered by the performed amputation within the right thigh due to the osteosarcoma is reported. The MRI examination has shown a focal lesion at the end of the sciatic nerve, with isointense signal and weak contrast enhancement on T1-, high signal on T2-weighted images, without restriction diffusion on DWI. The morphology did not significantly change after 12 months, which confirms the primary diagnosis. The main limitation of the case is the lack of histological confirmation, since the lesion was not removed.
Evaluation of interleukin-6 concentration in the liver of Albino Swiss mice after intoxication with various doses of patulin
Authors: Borzecki Pawel , Borzecka Agnieszka , Chylinska-Wrzos Patrycja , Lis-Sochocka Marta , Wawryk-Gawda Ewelina , Jodlowska-Jedrych Barbara
Published: April 2019

Patulin is a mycotoxin produced by many species of the fungi. The toxic action of patulin mainly affects the gastrointestinal tract and the immune system. The aim of our work was to assess the toxic effect of patulin, based on the analysis of interleukin IL-6 concentrations in the liver of test animals loaded with different doses of this mycotoxin. The research was conducted on mice which were assigned to 6 groups receiving different doses of active substances. After decapitation, their livers were taken for laboratory testing.

Our studies have shown that chronic intoxication with patulin at 0.1 LD50 leads to a statistically significant increase in IL-6 concentration in the liver of the animals. We also found that the loading of experimental animals with a single dose of patulin in the amount of 0.5 LD50 and 0.2 LD50 also leads to a statistically significant increase in this interleukin in the examined organ. There was no difference in its concentration compared to the control group only after the single dose of the lowest concentration of patulin, while the highest average IL-6 concentration was recorded in the liver of animals loaded with the highest single dose of patulin. After applying, one-time doses of this mycotoxin in the amount of 0.2 LD50 and 0.1 LD50, the mean concentrations of IL-6 in the liver in animals from these groups were statistically significantly lower.

In conclusion, the analysis of the obtained results confirms the fact of the hepatotoxic effect of patulin.
Meristic and Morphometric Variations of Barred Spiny EEL Macrognathus pancalus Populations from Bangladeshi Freshwaters: An Insight Into Landmark-Based Truss Network System
Authors: Sarower-E-Mahfuj Md. , Khatun Ambia , Boidya Puja , Samad Md. Abdus
Published: April 2019

The present research focuses to examine the meristic and landmark-based morphometric variations of barred spiny eel Macrognathus pancalus from four populations namely Dhakuria beel, Jessore (DBJ); Bohnni boar, Gopalgonj (BBG); the Arial kha river, Madaripur (AKRM) and the Nabaganga river, Jhenidah (NRJ) in Bangladeshi freshwaters. Six meristic counts were compared among four populations and significant differences were observed in number of caudal fin rays and number of pelvic fin rays in all meristic characters. The truss protocol was used in the present study based on six general morphometrics and fifteen truss measurements. Univariate statistics showed that five (standard length (SL), upper jaw length (UJL), lower jaw length (LJL), head depth (HD) and inter orbital (IO)) of six morphometric and eleven truss networks (viz. 2-3, 3-4, 5-6, 6-7, 7-8, 1-8, 2-8, 3-8, 3-7, 4-7 and 5-7) among fifteen truss measurements differed significantly. Cannonical discriminate function analyses were conducted among samples and the populations were fully intermingled. Pooled within-group correlation showed morphometric and landmark measurements; the first discriminant function (DF) accounted for 79%, the second DF accounted for 15.9% and third DF accounted for 5.1% of group variability. An euclidian dendrogram was prepared based on morphometric and truss measurements in four populations, where two clusters were mainly formed, in which first cluster formed by NRJ population was fully separated, and the second cluster was formed by two populations of AKRM and DBJ. Additionally, a subcluster BBG was formed with AKRM. On the basis of morphometric and truss measurements, 68.8%, 83.6%, 55.6% and 80% of original grouped cases were correctly classified in NRJ, AKRM, DBJ and BBG, respectively. These results specify the presence of different stocks of fish from four aquatic habitats. This study is highly significant for proper conservation and effective management of M. pancalus populations as well as for the scientific community for further research.
The Problem of Plastic Waste and Microplastics in the Seas and Oceans: Impact on Marine Organisms
Authors: Kurtela Antonia , Antolović Nenad
Published: April 2019

A global problem of today is the large amount of waste in the seas and oceans, primarily plastic waste. It is estimated that every year 1.25 to 2.41 million tons of plastic material is being carried by rivers into the seas and oceans. Waste is a major problem for marine organisms, causing entanglement, choking, strangulation, malnutrition and death. In 1972 the problems caused by microplastics, particles smaller than 5 mm, were first observed. Such particles bind pathogenic microorganisms on to their surface. Increasing quantities of microplastics have been found in the stomachs of fish, and also in shellfish that feed by filtering sea water. Ingested by marine organisms, such plastics may eventually pass through the food web and can end up ingested by humans. In addition, plastic releases chemical compounds whose effect on marine organisms and humans has still not been studied. Many international and state organizations offer solutions through recycling plastic waste, as well as reducing the production of plastic materials and informing the public about the problem.
Relationships Between Otolith Dimensions and Body Growth of North African Catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) from the Upper Basin of the Sakarya River, Turkey
Authors: Yılmaz Savaş , Emiroğlu Özgür , Aksu Sadi , Başkurt Sercan , Polat Nazmi
Published: April 2019

The relationships between otolith size and body length of North African catfish Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822), collected from Sakaryabaşı (the main spring area of the Sakarya River) between July 2014 and November 2014, were examined. Length-weight relationship was also calculated for overall specimens. The wild fish were captured by electrofishing using SAMUS 725MP. A total of 132 individuals ranging from 13.6 to 59.0 cm in total length and from 15.9 to 1755.0 g in weight were sampled. The lagenar otolith (asteriscus) length and height, and the utricular otolith (lapillus) length and width were recorded for each fish. The relationships between otolith measurements and fish somatic growth were described by a non-linear function (power model). The t test revealed no considerable differences in these relationships between left and right otoliths. The ANCOVA test on the relationships between total length and otolith variables did not show significant differences between females and males. All relationships were highly significant and the mean percent prediction errors were less than 7%. The results showed that otolith growth reflected body growth.
’Jakeš’s Children’. Media Portrayal of Namibian Child Refugees in Slovakia
Authors: Jakubcová Martina
Published: April 2019

The paper provides an insight into ‘Slovak group’ of Namibian children taken to Czechoslovakia. As a form of a communist solidarity help to the country fighting for its freedom, the children were raised and educated in newly established boarding school in Považská Bystrica from September 1989. Their stay, and particularly their sudden unexpected repatriation in 1991, raised questions not only among general public, but also in print media of those days. The article therefore discusses the media portrayal of the Slovak group of Namibian children with a special accent on the shifts in media interpretations in time. The overall research combines a biographical and historical design with the use of the qualitative analysis of print media outputs.
Gurraacha: An Indigenous Inter-Ethnic Peace Building and Conflict Resolution Institution among the People of South Central Ethiopia
Authors: Kuto Lenin , Bacha Ayehu , Taye Gemechu
Published: April 2019

This article deals with Gurraacha institution, which is very important in inter-ethnic peace building and resolving conflict among people of south-central Ethiopia. This institution was named after the Oromo term ‘Gurraacha’ (literally meaning black) to indicate its power in inter-ethnic peace building and conflict resolution. It is one element of Oromo Gadaa system which was established time immemorial to sustain peace between Oromo and non-Oromo neighboring ethnic groups. The data for this study was collected through interview, observation and focus group discussions in 2014 and 2015. As revealed by this study, Gurraacha institution is a guarantee for sustaining peace among people of south-central Ethiopia by managing conflict over boundary, grazing land, looting of cattle and water points. Overall, the study concluded that Gurraacha institution has real significance in inter-ethnic peace-building, sustaining social harmony and inter-ethnic conflict resolution. In Gurraacha institution, people rebuild lost peace and order of Waaqa (God) by performing purification rituals. There is no corruption in Gurraacha institution since all activities are undertaken according to Waaqa’s law and order. There is no false oath in this institution because such act is believed to have negative consequences. The oath of Gurraacha institution which are made during reconciliation process transcend generations. This institution is the model of conflict transformation which is hardly found in today’s world. Therefore, using this indigenous institution for future policy formulation in the country as inter-ethnic peace building and conflict resolution model is important for the realization of sustainable peace and development.
Pre-Incubation and its Effect on the Development and Malformations of The Chick Embryo
Authors: Janikovičová L. , Demčišáková Z. , Luptáková L. , E Petrovová
Published: April 2019

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of eggs stored with and without pre-incubation on chick embryos with emphasis on: embryo body, heart weight, malformations, and mortality. For this study, a total of 120 chick embryos were divided into three groups, based on the length of storage before hatching (3, 7 and 10 days). Observations of the weight of chick embryo bodies, chick embryo hearts, and the level of mortality and appearance of malformations were noted. With an increase in days stored, the chick embryo’s weight decreased. The pre-incubation period had a positive effect on the weight of chick embryo, and chick hearts. Malformations, including: hydrocephalus, open body cavity and underdeveloped wings, were observed in all three groups, with the highest proportion seen in the pre-incubated hatching eggs stored for 10 days; this group also displayed the highest level of mortality. Non-pre-incubated eggs showed the most promise with better results in all experimental groups. In conclusion, the research suggests the optimal storage for chick embryos to be 3 days, with lowest levels of mortality, malformations and limited effects on the body and heart weight.
In Vitro Inhibition of Biofilm Formation by Staphylococcus Aureus Under the Action of Selected Plant Extracts
Authors: Piegerová A. , Koščová J. , Schusterová P. , Nemcová R. , Kryvtsova M.
Published: April 2019

In our study we investigated the ability of selected plant extracts to inhibit the formation of biofilms produced by Staphylococcus aureus. In the first phase, we focused on the optimisation of conditions for the correct method of an approach. For optimisation, we standardized the culture media and the bacterial culture in order to obtain interpretable results. The TSB (Tryptone Soya Broth) medium was used for the preparation of an inoculum from the bacterial suspension. For the in vitro tests of antibiofilm activity against the species Staphylococcus aureus CCM 3953, we used propylene glycol (PG) plant extracts from sage and rosemary, prepared in three different concentrations of 0.01 %, 0.05 % and 0.1 %. The tests were implemented in microtitre plates using crystal violet dye at 0.1 % concentration for visualization of the intensity of a biofilm. The results were obtained, by spectrophotometric measurements at a wavelength of 550 nm. Both rosemary and sage plant extracts had a significant effect on the formation of a biofilm by S. aureus. The antibiofilm activity was concentration-dependent as the formation of biofilm was reduced more effectively with increasing concentration of the extracts. The best antibiofilm activity was observed with 0.1 % rosemary extract resulting in 94 % inhibition of the biofilm formation.
Prevalence of Endoparasites in Carnivores in a Zoo and a Wolves Park in Germany
Authors: Schieber M.-C. , Štrkolcová G.
Published: April 2019

Endoparasites have the potential to cause significant health problems in humans and other animals. Consequently, particularly the endoparasites of a zoonotic nature are of great interest to health authorities and scientists. This study investigated the prevalence of different intestinal parasite species of carnivores kept in captivity. Altogether 36 pooled samples of faeces obtained from individual animal enclosures from the Neunkircher Zoo and Wolfspark Werner Freund in Germany were examined. The samples were analysed by means of a flotation concentration method with the use of Faust and Kozák-Mágrová solution. Out of a total of 36 samples, 19 were positive for endoparasites (52.78 %). Furthermore, 13 out of 19 positive samples were protozoans (68.42 %).
Contamination of Sandpits with Soil-Transmitted Helminths Eggs in an Urban Environment
Authors: Bystrianska J. , Papajová I. , Šoltys J. , Sasáková N.
Published: April 2019

The aim of this study was to monitor the occurrence of the propagative stages of intestinal endoparasites in dog excrements collected within the close proximity of sandpits in an urban environment (Košice, Slovakia) and to determine the level of sandpits contamination with soil-transmitted helminths (STHs). A total of 201 dog faecal samples were examined for the presence of helminth eggs with 10.95 % of the samples being positive. In faeces the most prevalent eggs were those of Toxocara canis (7.46 %). The contamination of sand with STH eggs in 84 sandpits was also investigated. Toxocara spp. eggs were found in 21.43 % of the sandpits. The eggs from the family Ancylostomatidae and Toxascaris leonina were also present. Taenia type eggs and Trichuris sp. eggs occurred less frequently. In some samples, not only monoinfection but also co-infection with eggs of 2‒3 helminth species were detected. In conclusion, the environmental contamination of sandpits with STHs eggs might pose a significant threat to the public health.
The relationship between sex steroids, insulin resistance and body compositions in obese women: A case-control study
Authors: Sayın Seher , Kutlu Ruhuşen , Kulaksızoğlu Mustafa
Published: April 2019

Background

Obesity causes many health problems and affects the quality and duration of life negatively. We aimed to investigate the relationship between sex steroids, insulin resistance and body compositions in obese women.

Methods

This study was carried out on a sample of 150 premenopausal women who were referred to the Outpatient Clinic of Family Medicine between 2014–2015. A survey about their socio-demographic characteristics was carried out, and anthropometric parameters were measured. LDL-C, HDL-C, total cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose, insulin, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), total/free testosterone levels were measured in the blood. Body compositions were assessed with a bioelectrical impedance device. For insulin resistance, Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA-IR) was calculated.

Results

In our study, a significant association was found between high glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-C, TG, insulin, insulin resistance and low HDL-C, SHBG, DHEA-S levels with obesity (p<0.05). There was no statistically significant relationship between estradiol, total/free testosterone and obesity (p>0.05).

Conclusions

In our study, high glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-c, TG, insulin, insulin resistance and low HDL-C, SHBG, DHEA-S levels were associated with obesity. This relationship leads to many diseases, especially diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. Therefore, obesity is a disease that needs to be monitored closely, frequently and treated properly.
Assessment of selected exercise-induced CD3+ cell subsets and cell death parameters among soccer players
Authors: Nowak Robert , Kostrzewa-Nowak Dorota
Published: April 2019

Background

Molecular mechanisms of biological adaptation to training in professional soccer players are unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of progressive physical effort on peripheral T-cells and their molecular response.

Methods

Thirteen soccer players form Pogo Szczecin S.A., a top league soccer club, (median age 21, range 18– 31, years old) performed progressive efficiency tests on a mechanical treadmill until exhaustion at the start (period 1) and the end (period 2) of a competition round. Venous blood T-lymphocyte subsets, selected hallmarks of cell death and plasma cytokine levels were determined by flow cytometry three times: pre-exercise, post-exercise, and in recovery.

Results

Although significant changes in T, Tc and Tc-naïve cell percentages were found in both periods, Th-naïve cell percentages were altered only in period 1. Post-exercise IL-10 plasma levels were higher than pre-exercise, while an increase in TNF-α levels was noticed in recovery from both periods. An increase in recovery IL-12p70 levels was observed in the second period. Increases in the percentage of T-cells with disrupted mitochondrial membrane potentials, elevated levels of phosphorylated H2AX histones and increases in early apoptotic T-cells were also observed.

Conclusions

The immune system in soccer players creates space for naïve CD3+CD8+cells by inducing mechanisms of cell death. It seems that the cumulative effect of physical activity during a competition round induced an adaptive mechanism, since the cell death process was induced faster during period 2.
Evaluation of paraoxonase, arylesterase, and homocysteine thiolactonase activities in patients with diabetes and incipient diabetes nephropathy
Authors: Ayan Durmuş , Şeneş Mehmet , Çaycı Ayşe Banu , Söylemez Sibel , Eren Nezaket , Altuntaş Yüksel , Öztürk Feyza Yener
Published: April 2019

Background

The aim of this study is to examine the relationship among the changes in activities of paraoxonase (PON), arylesterase (ARE) and homocysteine thiolactonase (HTLase) enzyme having antioxidant properties and the development of diabetic nephropathy (DN), one of the most common complications of diabetes.

Methods

Normoalbuminuric type-2 diabetic patients (Group II, n=100), microalbuminuric type 2 diabetic patients (Group III, n=100) and the control group (Group I, n=100) were included in the study. The age and gender of the patient groups matched with the age and gender of the control group. HTLase, PON and ARE enzyme activities were measured by the spectrophotometric method using a g-thiobutyrinolactone, paraoxon, and phenylacetate substrates respectively. In this study, an autoanalyzer application was developed in order to measure HTLase enzyme activity for the first time.

Results

Serum HTLase, ARE and PON activities of Group III and Group II were significantly low compared to HTLase, ARE and PON results of Group I (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Based on our results, PON, ARE and HTLase enzyme activities were found to be decreased due to the increase in the degree of DN.
Imitatio Christi and Imitatio Dei: High Christology and Ignatius of antioch’s Ethics
Authors: Hartog Paul A.
Published: April 2019

Scholars have long noted Ignatius of Antioch’s statements of high christology. Jesus, who as God appeared in human form (Eph. 19.3), is ‘God in man’ (Eph. 7.2) and is ‘our God’ (Eph. inscr.; 15.3; 18.2; Rom. inscr.; 3.3; Polyc. 8.3). Jesus Christ is included in such ‘nas-cent trinitarian’ passages as Eph. 9.1 and Magn. 13.1-2. Yet further treasures remain to be mined, and the specific vein I will explore is the integration of Ignatius’ high christology with his ethics. His paraenesis is rooted in ‘the mind of God’, also described as ‘the mind of Christ’ (Eph. 3.2; Phld. inscr.), who is ‘the God who made you so wise’ (Smyrn. 1.1; cf. Eph. 17.2). Ignatian moral instruction combines ‘the will of God and Jesus Christ’ (Trall. 1.1), ‘the honor of the Father and the honor of Jesus Christ’ (Trall. 12.2), and ‘the love of God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ’ (Phld. 1.1). Believers are to be ‘imitators of God’ (Trall. 1.2) as well as ‘imitators of Jesus Christ’ (Phld. 7.2). Ignatius even prayed that he would be ‘an imitator of the suffering of my God’ (Rom. 6.3; cf. Eph. 10.3). Ignatian exhortation thus merges an imitatio Christi with an imitatio Dei. Arising from his particular experiences and specific circumstances, Ignatius’ contextualized paraenesis elevates the Son to an authoritative status parallel to that of the Father. The interplay of christology and ethics also underscores a multi-leveled understanding of ‘unity’ and a multivalent use of ‘flesh and spirit’.
Reassessing Justin Martyr’s Binitarian Orientation In 1 Apology 33
Authors: Presley Stephen O.
Published: April 2019

Many scholars argue that Justin is either inconsistent or confused in his view of the Spirit in relation to the Logos. The most decisive section in this discussion is 1Apol. 33, where Justin appears to confuse the titles and unify the functions of the Logos and the Spirit. This essay argues that this apparent confusion is conditioned by Justin’s particular christological reading of Isaiah 7:14 in order to meet the demands of his own understanding of the apostolic faith. The interpretation of Isaiah 7:14 is a unique case with multiple external hermeneutical pressures imposing upon his exegesis, including those coming from competing Jewish exegesis, Greco-Roman mythology, and Marcionite interpretations. At the same time, Justin reads scripture within his own Christian community. Justin’s exegesis of Isaiah 7:14 attempts to account for these external pressures by focusing upon the particular Lukan terminology of ‘Power’ rather than ‘Spirit’ in Luke 1:35, which downplays the function of the Spirit in the incarnation in order to demonstrate that the Logos has come in power. This exegetical move exposes him to binitarian allegations, but does not suggest that Justin is, in fact, a binitarian. What this suggests, however, is that in 1Apol. 33 Justin actually resists confusing the Logos and the Spirit even when a text uses the language of ‘Spirit’, because his exegetical concern is focused on the Logos coming in power. Justin’s exegetical treatment of Isaiah 7:14 and Luke 1:35 reflects the way he is reasoning through the textual and theological complexities of the christological interpretation of scripture and does not suggest that he confuses the functions of the Logos and the Spirit.
Athenagoras on the Divine Nature: The Father, the Son, and the Rational
Authors: Bingham D. Jeffrey
Published: April 2019

This essay demonstrates that Athenagoras’ theology is primarily concerned, not with the creative activity of God, as L.W. Barnard has argued, but rather with the immateriality of the divine nature and the unity of the Father and the Son. It is this two-fold basis of distinction and unity that makes the apprehension of God possible only by mind and reason. Since the divine nature is heavenly and immaterial, such apprehension cannot occur in the physical realm as promoted in pagan worship, but must take place in the mind through the Son, who is the Logos or Mind, the Reason and Wisdom of the Father. Athenagoras’ assertion that the immaterial God can only be apprehended by reason emphasizes the distinction between God and matter, while the unity of the Father and Son in God’s acts and teachings highlights the role of reason in the soul’s apprehension of the divine. One must be conformed to the Son, who is the Reason of God, in order to apprehend God the Father, and Athenagoras evokes the ethical dimension of reason in the soul’s apprehension of the divine. As the soul follows the Son in obeying his teachings, it is conformed to the Son, thereby becoming rational and engaging in rational worship, focusing on the heavenly rather than the earthly. Thus it is in ethical conduct that Christians are essentially pure in spirit and rational in worship, as they are directed by the Son, who is unified with the Father, to apprehend the immaterial God.
Baptism in Irenaeus of Lyons: Testimony to and Participation with the Triune God
Authors: Graham Christopher A.
Published: April 2019

Irenaeus of Lyons wrote Demonstration of the Apostolic Preaching (Epideixis) to encourage his readers of the solidity of their faith, especially as this faith was connected to baptism under the threefold seal: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The threefold nature of the baptismal formula drives Irenaeus’ discussion in Epid. 3-7 and is the point with which he concludes the work, saying, ‘error, concerning the three heads of our seal, has caused much straying from the truth’ (Epid. 100). Irenaeus structures the intervening chapters to show how Christian baptism is both a testimony to and participation with the Triune God referenced in the baptismal formula. The lack of explicit structural markers within the body of the text has resulted in a neglect of the trinitarian character of its structure. This article explores the manner in which Irenaeus of Lyons’ Demonstration provides insight into his understanding of the nature and activity of the Triune God based on his conviction that Christian baptism is both a testimony to and a participation with that Triune God.
Context dependency as a Function of Prediction Error-Based Attention
Authors: Rosas Juan M. , Nelson James Byron
Published: April 2019

Context dependence of information has been shown to be based, at least in part, on the attention contexts received at the time of training. Recent research suggests that attention to irrelevant contexts may be a byproduct of the activation of a general exploratory attentional mechanism prompted by high prediction errors associated with situations of uncertainty. Alternatively, low prediction errors may engage an attentional mechanism of exploitation in situations in which contexts play a relevant role. A selective review discusses the potential of this approach to explain context switch effects from an attentional perspective.