bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interfaces entre o processo de legitimação do grupo escolar como instituição de saber e a ressignificação do lugar simbólico de Ouro Preto como cidade monumento
Authors: Viega Juliana Goretti Aparecida Braga , Galvão Ana Maria De Oliveira
Published: September 2014

O objetivo deste artigo é discutir como a construção de uma imagem de lugar de memória preservada para Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, influiu no processo de legitimação do Grupo Escolar D. Pedro II, criado naquela cidade. O período investigado foi de 1900 a 1920, e as fontes analisadas foram: relatórios, ofícios, listas, atas de exames dos(as) alunos(as), a legislação estadual, anais da Câmara dos Deputados mineira, atas da Câmara de Vereadores de Ouro Preto, jornais, dados estatísticos e duas obras sobre a cidade. Fundamentamo-nos, principalmente, nas noções de representação, de Roger Chartier, e de produção de lugar, de Michel de Certeau. Nossas análises nos permitiram concluir que o Grupo Escolar não nasceu legitimado. A construção de sua importância foi gradativa e influenciada pela produção de um sentido histórico para Ouro Preto. Parte dos agentes políticos municipais resistiu à criação do Grupo, talvez motivada pela perda do status de capital de Minas pela cidade e por seus elos com o regime imperial. Tais vínculos têm como uma de suas expressões o nome da escola.
Corpos feridos, trajetórias interrompidas pela agroindústria brasileira: duas leituras a partir de Bertolt Brecht e Upton Sinclair
Authors: Bosi Antônio De Pádua
Published: September 2014

Este artigo pretende discutir duas questões relacionadas à agroindústria a partir de uma comparação histórica entre as visões de Upton Sinclair e Bertolt Brecht sobre o trabalho nos frigoríficos nos Estados Unidos (1904-1931) e os frigoríficos de aves na atualidade. Tais questões dizem respeito ao processo de acumulação de capital e à degradação do trabalho e dos trabalhadores neste setor.
Optimization of the gas flow in a GEM chamber and development of the GEM foil stretcher
Authors: Noto Francesco , de Smet , Bellini Vincenzo , Cisbani Evaristo , Librizzi Francesco , Mammoliti Francesco , Sutera Maria
Published: September 2014

The gas electron multiplier technology has been proven to tolerate rat e
larger than 50 MHz/cm2 without noticeable aging and to provide sub resolution
on working chambers up to 45 cm x 45 cm. A new gas electron multiplier-based
tracker is under development for the Hall A upgrade at Jefferson Lab. The
chambers of the tracker have been designed in a modular way: each chamber
consists of 3 adjacent gas electron multiplier modules, with an active area
of 40 cm x 50 cm each. We optimized the gas flow inside the gas electron
multiplier module volume, using the COMSOL physics simulator framework; the
COMSOL-based analysis includes the design of the inlet and outlet pipes and
the maximization of the uniformity of the gas flow. We have defined the
procedures for the assembling of the gas electron multiplier modules and
designed a mechanical system (TENDIGEM) that will be used to stretch the GEM
foils at the proper tension (few kg/cm); the TENDIGEM is based on the
original design developed at LNF.
Inventories of Asian textile producers, US cotton exports, and the exchange rate
Authors: Durmaz Nazif
Published: September 2014

The present paper develops a model with US cotton exports depending on the
stock-to-use ratio, trade weighted exchange rates, and the relative cotton
prices. The role of inventories in cotton consumption is examined in five
textile producing cotton importers, China, Indonesia, Thailand, South Korea,
and Taiwan. Cotton inventory dynamics is diverse among Asian textile
producers. Relative prices have negative effect in all markets as expected.
Exchange rate elasticities show that effects should be examined for each
separate market. Changes in rates of depreciation also have stronger effects
than exchange rate. Results reveal that these countries are not all that
homogenous.
Environmental Kuznets Curve for the Informal Sector of Turkey (1950-2009)
Authors: Elgin Ceyhun , Öztunalı Oğuz
Published: September 2014

In this study we investigate the empirical relationship between the size of
the informal sector (as percentage of official GDP), carbon dioxide and
sulfur dioxide emissions in Turkey by using annual data from 1950 to 2009 and
conducting a time-series analysis using cointegration techniques. This
analysis is crucial as pollution emissions may lead to unfavorable weather
conditions and potentially cause environmental impacts that may adversely
affect the global economy. The empirical analysis shows evidence towards the
existence of an inverted-U relationship between relative informal sector size
and environmental pollution indicators in the long-run. That is small and
large sizes of the shadow economy are associated with little environmental
pollution and medium levels of the size of the shadow economy are associated
with higher levels of environmental pollution. Moreover, using multivariate
cointegration techniques, we suggest and test an economic mechanism to
account for this observation. This also helps us to prescribe various policy
recommendations regarding pollution and energy use.
Missing — The People's Voice: Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development
Authors: Pike Patricia
Published: September 2014

Sustainable development in education for future economic growth has always been a global focal point for non-governmental agencies across the world. This article highlights the extensive work the Organisation for Economic Co-operation Development (OECD) has achieved over time, constructing contemporary society as we know it today, continually leading the way in educational research and development globally. The research produced by the OECD is closely monitored and followed by many policy makers. In contrast, this article also critically reflects on the adverse effects of using a neo-liberal approach to educational reforms, which seems to be the backbone of the OECD approach to educational development, in the desperate race for economic improvement worldwide. The ideology provides us with many advantages in terms of economic growth, but at what price? Although the mission of the OECD is clearly established, room for criticism arises when the site predominantly spotlights broader issues rather than pursuing specific matters such as child poverty in schools, or thoe loss of indigenous knowledge. As the OECD continues to assess its own progress and strive for improvement, discussions around alignment of culture and specific needs of individual countries need to be taken into serious consideration.
Openness — A Way Forward: Development Education Research Centre
Authors: Hare-Heremia Mahora
Published: September 2014

Education is a vital aspect in the lives of humankind. It contributes and shapes our future as citizens of the world. To understand it is to discover the many hidden talents the world has in store for all. The Development Education Research Centre (DERC) holds many resources that aid in the development of education at a global level. With the excellent people skills associated with the centre, the vast amount of research conducted by them has and will continue to be a great investment in the world of tomorrow. The aims and objectives of the centre give greater insight into the development and importance of global education.
Critical Revolutionary Pedagogy is Made by Walking: In a World Where Many Worlds Coexist
Authors: McLaren Peter , Jandric Petar
Published: September 2014

This conversation is the first systemic attempt to capture Peter McLaren's ideas about the relationships between critical revolutionary pedagogy and virtuality. It introduces the main problems with educational postmodernism, explains Peter's return towards the Marxist-humanist trajectory, and addresses contemporary challenges to Marx's dialectical thought. It analyses global changes in the structure of production, and juxtaposes the mass society shaped by one-way media such as television with the network society shaped by bi-directional communication powered by the Internet. The conversation reveals critical potentials of ecopedagogy at the intersections between education and information and communication technologies and analyses the main messages from Ivan Illich. It explores the main features of the emerging digital cultures, identifies underlying values and ideologies, and links them to the divisions between the global South and the global North. It analyses distinct features of contemporary youth movements and revisits the emerging transformations of the concept of the state. It looks into the relationships between information and power, explores algorithmic regulation through technological innovation, and analyses various challenges pertaining to ‘big data’. Finally, it provides a brief insight into Peter McLaren's modus operandi and his personal thoughts and feelings about information and communication technologies.
Multi-Agent Auction Based Simulation Tool for an Insurance Policy Market
Authors: Lavendelis Egons , Grundspenkis Janis
Published: September 2014

The paper presents a simulation tool for automated interactions between insurance companies and their clients during the travel insurance buying process. Insurance deal evaluation model using price and insured risks has been developed based on the study of the Latvian insurance market. The proposed model is used together with well-known agent auction protocols, thus providing a multi-agent negotiation protocol. It allows automating one-to-many negotiations between client and insurance companies simulating electronic insurance policy marketplace. The simulation tool has been developed using the MASITS methodology and tool, thus providing a case study for the methodology and tool for a new type of systems
Virtual Observation Environment for Training and Monitoring of Insurance Software End-Users
Authors: Lavendels Jurijs , Krischuk Mikola , Sitikovs Vjaceslavs , Bulins Zigmunds
Published: September 2014

Technological tools for the mastering of insurance software product remotely by end-users are described. To ensure distance training, two independent channels have been simultaneously used: one for video-audio conference providing trainer-trainee(s) communication and second one for collaboration between a trainer and trainee(s) showing software execution and control over trainee’s working with the software. The proposed solution has been approbated in several focus groups that give an evidence of its practical viability and applicability
The Freedom of Expression of Members of the Armed Forces Under the European Convention on Human Rights In Jokšas V. Lithuania
Authors: Kirchner Stefan , Maria Vanessa
Published: September 2014

Freedom of expression is one of the most fundamental rights in a democratic society. In fact, the freedom to express one’s opinion and to impart, as well as to receive, information, is essential for the participation in the democratic process. The ability to make decisions as a citizen requires access to information; the participation in the life of the society requires the ability to express one’s opinions. It is imperative that in a democratic society, as it is envisaged by the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), everybody is able to express their views, regardless as to whether these views correspond to the views of those who are in power. This ability is one of the key differences between democracy anddictatorship. In particular in the nation-states of Eastern Europe, which have only known freedom for a bit less than a quarter of a century, the growth of democratic structures is inextricably linked to the ability to exercise this right. But while human rights in principle pit the citizen against the State, the citizen who serves the State in a professional function might also wish to express opinions that go against the view of those who are entrusted with leading the State. This is particularly the case when it comes to members of the armed forces. The jurisprudence of the Convention organs with regard to the right of public officials and other State agents to express their opinion freely is not as coherent as it is with regard to other questions concerning the ECHR. In a case decided in late 2013, the European Court of Human Rights dealt with this question with regard to Lithuania. In this article, the authors look at the question of how far the State can restrict the freedom of expression of members of the armed forces under the European Convention on Human Rights.
Free Monadic Tarski and MMI3-Algebras
Authors: Entizne Rosana V. , Monteiro Luiz F. , Savini Sonia M. , Viglizzo Ignacio D.
Published: September 2014

MMI3-algebras are a generalization of the monadic Tarski algebras as defined by A. Monteiro and L. Iturrioz, and a particular case of the MMIn+1-algebras defined by A. Figallo. They can also be seen as monadic three-valued Łukasiewicz algebras without a first element. By using this point of view, and the free monadic extensions, we construct the free MMI3-algebras on a finite number of generators, and indicate the coordinates of the generators. As a byproduct, we also obtain a construction of the free monadic Tarski algebras.
Weak Homomorphisms of Coalgebras Beyond Set
Authors: Kianpi Maurice
Published: September 2014

We study the notion of weak homomorphisms between coalgebras of different types generalizing thereby that of homomorphisms for similarly typed coalgebras. This helps extend some results known so far in the theory of Universal coalgebra over Set. We find conditions under which coalgebras of a set of types and weak homomorphisms between them form a category. Moreover, we establish an Isomorphism Theorem that extends the so-called First Isomorphism Theorem, showing thereby that this category admits a canonical factorization structure for morphisms
Microscopic and Strongly Microscopic Sets on the Plane. Fubini Theorem and Fubini Property
Authors: Karasinska A. , Wagner-Bojakowska E.
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we introduce the notions of microscopic and strongly microscopic sets on the plane and obtain a result analogous to Fubini Theorem.
On a Class of h-Fourier Integral Operators
Authors: Harrat Chahrazed , Senoussaoui Abderrahmane
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we study the L2-boundedness and L2-compactness of a class of h-Fourier integral operators. These operators are bounded (respectively compact) if the weight of the amplitude is bounded (respectively tends to 0).
One Can Hear the Area of a Torus by Hearing the Eigenvalues of the Polyharmonic Operators
Authors: Guo Shunzi , Jin Jinyun
Published: September 2014

This paper considers the asymptotic properties for the spectrum of a positive integer power l of the Laplace-Beltrami operator acting on an n-dimensional torus T. If N(λ) is the number of eigenvalues counted with multiplicity, smaller than a real positive number, we establish a Weyl-type asymptotic formula for the spectral problem of the polyharmonic operators on T, that is, as λ → +∞

N (λ) ~ ωn (VolT)λn/21 /2(π)n

where ωn is the volume of the unit ball in ℝn and Vol T is the area of T, which gives the information of the area of the torus based on the spectrum of the polyharmonic operators.
On Some New Sequence Spaces and Statistical Convergence Methods for Double Sequences
Authors: Belen Cemal , Yildirim Mustafa
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we introduce some new double sequence spaces with respect to an Orlicz function and define two new convergence methods related to the concepts of statistical convergence and lacunary statistical convergence for double sequences. We also present some inclusion theorems for our newly defined sequence spaces and statistical convergence methods
On (m,n)-Derivations of Some Algebras
Authors: Shen Qihua , Li Jiankui , Guo Jianbin
Published: September 2014

Let A be a unital algebra, δ be a linear mapping from A into itself and m, n be fixed integers. We call δ an (m, n)-derivable mapping at Z, if mδ(AB) + nδ(BA) = mδ(A)B + mAδ(B) + nδ(B)A for all A,B ∈ A with AB = Z. In this paper, (m, n)-derivable mappings at 0 (resp. IA ⊕ 0, I) on generalized matrix algebras are characterized. We also study (m, n)-derivable mappings at 0 on CSL algebras. We reveal the relationship between this kind of mappings with Lie derivations, Jordan derivations and derivations.
Remarks on Occasionally Weakly Compatible Maps Versus Occasionally Weakly Compatible Maps
Authors: Deepmala  , Pathak H. K.
Published: September 2014

. In this paper, we discuss some important and interesting remarks on the concept of occasionally weakly compatible (owc) mappings, which is an active and interesting area of research in the present era. Also, we discuss here the lapses of several authors in quoting the definition of owc maps and provide the corrected proof by including some additional conditions on their results.
Examples of Non-Conformal Submersions from Spheres with Umbilical Fibers
Authors: Zawadzki Tomasz
Published: September 2014

We directly prove that the foliation of the sphere S2n+1, the leaves of which are intersections of all complex linear 2-dimensional subspaces of ℂn+1 translated by a constant vector p, defines a submersion that is horizontally conformal if and only if p=0. We generalise this result to the cases of S4n+3 and S15 with foliations constructed using quaternionic and octonionic structure (resp.) in an analogous way
Integration on Differential Spaces
Authors: Dziewa-Dawidczyk Diana , Pasternak-Winiarski Zbigniew
Published: September 2014

The generalization of the n-dimensional cube, an n-dimensional chain, the exterior derivative and the integral of a differential n-form on it are introduced and investigated. The analogue of Stokes theorem for the differential space is given
Screening of various solvents and extracts of Achillea latiloba Ledeb. ex Nordm for antibacterial and antifungal activities
Authors: Ertürk Ömer
Published: September 2014

In this study the antibacterial and antifungal activities of extracted Achillea latiloba Ledeb. ex Nordm (Asteraceae) samples in acetone, ethyl acetate, ethanol, methanol and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) from Trabzon Province (Turkey) were investigated. Antimicrobial activity of A. latiloba varied depending on the extract of samples, dosage of extracts, and the extraction solvents for all test microorganisms. Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus salivarius, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enteritidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes, Streptococcus mutans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus licheniformis, Micrococcus luteus, Bacillus subtillis, Proteus vulgaris and Candida albicans were studied with use of disc diffusion and agar dilution method. The results indicated that each of the crude extracts of Achillea latiloba exhibited a more or less pronounced antibacterial and antifungal potency both in Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi. While in the Gram-negative group, the most sensitive microorganism to Achillea latiloba were S. enteritidis and Streptococcus mutans which is Gram-positive. In the Gram-positive group, the microorganisms most sensitive to Achillea latiloba were Streptococcus mutans and L. monocytogenes. However, the least sensitive microorganism was P. vulgaris. The results presented in this paper suggest that Achillea latiloba possesses additional antimicrobial activities that has an effect against some Gram-negative, Gram-positive bacteria and fungi.
Composition, biological properties and therapeutic effects of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia L). A review
Authors: Prusinowska Renata , Śmigielski Krzysztof B.
Published: September 2014

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is a shrub of the family Lamiaceae, native to the Mediterranean region. The material used for herbal purposes includes lavender flowers (Lavandula flores) containing essential oil (3%), anthocyanins, phytosterols, sugars, minerals, and tannins. The qualitative and quantitative composition of the essential oil of lavender is variable and depends on genotype, growing location, climatic conditions, propagation, and morphological features. The essential oil contains over 300 chemical compounds. The dominant components are linalool, linalyl acetate, terpinen-4-ol, acetate lavandulol, oci-mene, and cineole. Lavender essential oil has good antioxidant and antimicrobial activities and a significant positive effect on the digestive and nervous systems. Lavender extract prevents dementia and may inhibit the growth of cancer cells, while lavender hydrolate is recommended for the treatment of skin problems and burns.
A Specific Problem of Mechanism Synthesis
Authors: Buśkiewicz J.
Published: September 2014

A technique for path synthesis is employed to design a feeder for carrying products between two points. The feeder is assumed to be a one degree of freedom system of six links connected by means of revolute joints. The mathematical basis of the concept is presented. An exemplary solution is presented and discussed
Graph Models of Automobile Gears - Kinematics
Authors: Drewniak J. , Kopeć J. , Zawiślak S.
Published: September 2014

In the present paper, kinematical analysis of an automotive gear is described. Versatile graph based methods have been utilized for this purpose. An application of mixed, contour and bond graphs gives the same results. It allows the detection of possible mistakes as well as a deeper insight into the designed artifact. The graphs can also be used for further analyses which will be published in a separate document
Static and Dynamic Analysis of a Pump Impeller with a Balancing Device Part I: Static Analysis
Authors: Kundera C. , Martsinkovsky V.A.
Published: September 2014

This part of the work presents the design and static analysis of an impeller for a single-stage pump. The impeller is directly connected with a balancing device. The impeller needs to have a properly designed system of longitudinal and lateral clearances on both sides. With the simplifying assumptions concerning the flow and distribution of pressure in the longitudinal and lateral clearances, the static analysis involved deriving relationships between the impeller geometry and the basic performance parameters of the pump. A numerical example was used to show the calculation procedure of static characteristics for the predetermined parameters
The Analysis of Pedaling Techniques with Platform Pedals
Authors: Stępniewski A.A. , Grudziński J.
Published: September 2014

The paper analyzes a pedaling technique with platform pedals in which the influence of the geometric and tribological parameters on the torque course of the active forces in the crank rotation axis is determined. Distribution of forces of feet acting on pedals as a function of the crank rotation angle was performed and on this basis the specific pedaling zones and their ranges and the courses of the value of variable active torque and pedaling work during the full cycle were determined. The course of changes in the movements in the ankle joint is described with a function depending on the crank and limb position and loading of the joint. A numerical example has also been presented and a discussion of the results has been carried out
Panel Attrition: How Important is Interviewer Continuity?
Authors: Lynn Peter , Kaminska Olena , Goldstein Harvey
Published: September 2014

We assess whether the probability of a sample member cooperating at a particular wave of a panel survey is greater if the same interviewer is deployed as at the previous wave. Previous research on this topic mainly uses nonexperimental data. Consequently, a) interviewer change is generally nonrandom, and b) continuing interviewers are more experienced by the time of the next wave. Our study is based on a balanced experiment in which both interviewer continuity and experience are controlled. Multilevel multiple membership models are used to explore the effects of interviewer continuity on refusal rate as well as interactions of interviewer continuity with other variables. We find that continuity reduces refusal propensity for younger respondents but not for older respondents, and that this effect depends on the age of the interviewer. This supports the notion that interviewer continuity may be beneficial in some situations, but not necessarily in others.
Predictions vs. Preliminary Sample Estimates: The Case of Eurozone Quarterly GDP
Authors: D’Elia Enrico
Published: September 2014

Economic agents are aware of incurring a loss in basing their decisions on their own extrapolations instead of on sound statistical data, but this loss may be smaller than the one related to waiting for the dissemination of the final data. Broad guidelines on deciding when statistical offices should release preliminary and final estimates of the key statistics may come from comparing the loss attached to users’ predictions with the loss associated to possible preliminary estimates from incomplete samples. Furthermore, the cost of delaying decisions may support the dissemination of very early estimates of economic indicators, even if their accuracy is not fully satisfactory from a strict statistical viewpoint. Analysing the vintages of releases of quarterly Euro area GDP supports the view that even very inefficient predictions may beat some official preliminary releases of GDP, suggesting that the current calendar of data dissemination requires some adjustment. In particular, actual “flash” estimates could be anticipated, while some later intermediate releases are likely less informative for the users.
Developing Calibration Weights and Standard-Error Estimates for a Survey of Drug-Related Emergency-Department Visits
Authors: Kott Phillip S. , Day C. Daniel
Published: September 2014

This article describes a two-step calibration-weighting scheme for a stratified simple random sample of hospital emergency departments. The first step adjusts for unit nonresponse. The second increases the statistical efficiency of most estimators of interest. Both use a measure of emergency-department size and other useful auxiliary variables contained in the sampling frame. Although many survey variables are roughly a linear function of the measure of size, response is better modeled as a function of the log of that measure. Consequently the log of size is a calibration variable in the nonresponse-adjustment step, while the measure of size itself is a calibration variable in the second calibration step. Nonlinear calibration procedures are employed in both steps. We show with 2010 DAWN data that estimating variances as if a one-step calibration weighting routine had been used when there were in fact two steps can, after appropriately adjusting the finite-population correct in some sense, produce standard-error estimates that tend to be slightly conservative.
Third species of Monophyllorchis (Orchidaceae) discovered in Panama
Authors: Kolanowska Marta
Published: September 2014

A new species of Monophyllorchis Schltr. is described and illustrated based on Panamanian material. In habit the species resembles M. maculata Garay and its flowers are similar to M. microstyloides (Rchb. f.) Garay. The new entity is placed within an identification key for Monophyllorchis species.
Canine mammary carcinoma cell line are resistant to chemosensitizers: verapamil and cyclosporin A
Authors: Król M. , Pawłowski K.M. , Majchrzak K. , Mucha J. , Motyl T.
Published: September 2014

Cancer chemotherapy can fail in many ways. One of the most significant is the development of multiple drug resistance (MDR), which constitutes a serious clinical problem. The development of MDR relates to the expression of a major membrane pump, P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Thus, currently one of the goals of experimental and clinical oncology is to decrease its activity. So far, many different P-gp inhibitors are available, but their efficacy is still questionable and requires further study.

The aim of our study was to assess an impact of classical P-gp inhibitors (verapamil and cyclosporin A) in the reversion of multidrug resistance in canine mammary cancer cells. We used two cell lines isolated from mammary tumors and two cell lines isolated from their lung metastases. All of them showed P-gp over-expression confirmed using Real-time rt-PCR, Skan^R screening station and confocal microscopy. The FACS analysis showed that in three of the examined cell lines, treatment with verpamil/cyclosporin A was ineffective to reverse cancer chemoresistance. However, more studies in this field are required.
The in vitro effect of commercially available noble metal nanocolloids on the splenocyte proliferative response and cytokine production in mice
Authors: Małaczewska J.
Published: September 2014

Noble metal nanoparticles, currently among the most popular types of nanomaterials, are capable of penetrating through biological barriers once they enter a living organism. There, they can permeate into organs possessing the reticuloendothelial system, such as the spleen. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of commercial nanocolloids of noble metals (silver, gold and copper), recommended by the manufacturer as dietary supplements, on the in vitro viability, proliferative activity and production of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL- 10 and TNF-α) by mouse splenocytes.

All of the analyzed colloids had some effect on the activity of mouse splenocytes. Silver colloid was characterized by high toxicity - concentrations of 1.25 ppm and above substantially depressed the viability of cells as well as their proliferative activity and ability to synthesize cytokines. The other two colloids were far less toxic than nanosilver, although their non-toxic concentrations had a significant effect on the production of cytokines by mitogen activated splenocytes. The colloid of gold decreased the level of IL-2, and the colloid of copper caused an increase in IL-2, IL6 and Il-10. At the same time, copper colloid alone induced the synthesis of IL-1β in mitogen unstimulated cells. The results indicate that colloids of noble metals are capable of affecting the activity of immunocompetent cells in important peripheral organs of the immune system.
Changes in Th1 and Th2 cytokine concentrations in ileal Peyer’s patches in gilts exposed to zearalenone
Authors: Obremski K.
Published: September 2014

GALT induces tolerance to foreign food antigens and plays an important role in the development of food allergies and the inflammatory bowel disease. The immune function of GALT is significantly influenced by an equilibrium between Th1 and Th2 subpopulations and the cytokines they produce. Th1 cytokines participate in the induction of a cell-mediated immune response, whereas Th2 cytokines induce powerful antibody-mediated responses. Changes in Th1/Th2 cell polarization of an immune response are associated with susceptibility to autoimmune and infectious diseases. This experiment investigated changes in cytokine levels produced by Th1 and Th2 cells in ileal Payer’s patches in gilts exposed to ZEN doses below the NOEL (approximately 8 μg kg-1 BW) for 14, 28 and 42 days. A significant linear increase in IL-4 (40.32 ± 1.55 ng mg-1 - 137.60 ± 29.96 ng mg-1), and IL-10 (5.99 ± 0.15 ng mg-1 - 16.39 ± 1.11 ng mg-1) concentrations was observed. An increase in Th1 (IL-2 and IFN-γ) cytokine levels was also noted in the experimental group, but it was not statistically significant. An HPLC analysis of Peyer’s patches in group E animals revealed a linear increase in ZEN concentrations (3.65 ± 0.91 ng g-1 - 4.72 ± 1.85 ng g-1) and an absence of α-ZEL. IL-4 stimulates monocytes and macrophages, it induces the production of proinflammatory cytokines and it may directly and indirectly contribute to the development of inflammatory foci. Higher IL-4 levels could shift polarization toward Th2 cells, stimulate B cells to undergo class switching to produce IgE and contribute to the development of allergies.
Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of Bordetella bronchiseptica strains isolated from pigs in Poland
Authors: Stępniewska K. , Urbaniak K. , Markowska-Daniel I.
Published: September 2014

A total of 209 Bordetella bronchiseptica (Bbr) strains isolated from pigs were examined. Phenotypic study included: biochemical characterization (motility, catalase, oxidase, urease activity, nitrate reduction and growth on MacConkey agar) and antimicrobial susceptibility (disc diffusion method). Genotypic studies based on detection of three genes encoded virulence factors, such as: flagella (fla), dermonecrotoxin (dnt), and exogenous ferric siderophore receptor (bfrZ), using PCR.

Most of the Bbr strains tested had a homogeneous biochemical profile. 97.6% of them provided suitable results in biochemical tests. All Bbr isolates tested showed high resistance to penicillin (100%), linco-spectin (100%) and ceftiofur (97.9%). Over 57% and 43% of Bbr strains were resistant to ampicillin and amoxicillin, respectively. All Bbr isolates showed high sensitivity to most chemotherapeutics used such as enrofloxacin (97.9%), tetracycline (97.9%), oxytetracycline (97.9%), amoxicillin with clavulonic acid (95.8%), florfenicol (90.4%), and gentamicine (77.6%). Over of 94% of Bbr strains were moderately susceptible to norfloxacine.

Molecular analysis confirmed that almost all evaluated Bbr strains (94.7%) possessed the fla gene. A lower percentage of isolates had the dnt gene (72.7%) and the lowest percentage of strains (51.7%), had the bfrZ gene.
Effect of short-term rapid ventricular pacing followed by pacing interruption on arterial blood pressure in healthy pigs and pigs with tachycardiomyopathy
Authors: Skrzypczak P. , Zyśko D. , Pasławska U. , Noszczyk-Nowak A. , Janiszewski A. , Gajek J. , Nicpoń J. , Kiczak L. , Bania J. , Zacharski M. , Tomaszek A. , Jankowska E.A. , Ponikowski , P. , Witkiewicz W.
Published: September 2014

Ventricular tachycardia may lead to haemodynamic deterioration and, in the case of long term persistence, is associated with the development of tachycardiomyopathy. The effect of ventricular tachycardia on haemodynamics in individuals with tachycardiomyopathy, but being in sinus rhythm has not been studied. Rapid ventricular pacing is a model of ventricular tachycardia. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of rapid ventricular pacing on blood pressure in healthy animals and those with tachycardiomyopathy. A total of 66 animals were studied: 32 in the control group and 34 in the study group. The results of two groups of examinations were compared: the first performed in healthy animals (133 examinations) and the second performed in animals paced for at least one month (77 examinations). Blood pressure measurements were taken during chronic pacing - 20 min after onset of general anaesthesia, in baseline conditions (20 min after pacing cessation or 20 min after onset of general anaesthesia in healthy animals) and immediately after short-term rapid pacing. In baseline conditions significantly higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure was found in healthy animals than in those with tachycardiomyopathy. During an event of rapid ventricular pacing, a significant decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure was found in both groups of animals. In the group of chronically paced animals the blood pressure was lower just after restarting ventricular pacing than during chronic pacing. Cardiovascular adaptation to ventricular tachycardia develops with the length of its duration. Relapse of ventricular tachycardia leads to a blood pressure decrease more pronounced than during chronic ventricular pacing
Effect of vaginal administration of prostaglandin E2 and/or 17β-estradiol on luteal function and histological characteristics of the cervix in cyclic pigs
Authors: Przygrodzka E. , Andronowska A. , Janowski T. , Zięcik A.J.
Published: September 2014

The overall objective of this study was to examine the effect of vaginal administration of prostaglandin E2(PGE2) and/or17β-estradiol (E2) on luteal function maintenance and histological properties of the porcine cervix. For this purpose, crossbred gilts were divided into three groups (n=5 per group) supplied on days 11-16 of the estrous cycle with suppositories containing: (1) placebo (Group I, Control); (2) 0.4 mg of E2(Group II); (3) 0.4 mg of E2and 2 mg of PGE2(Group III). Blood samples were collected on days 11-19 of the estrous cycle to determine the concentration of progesterone (P4). Additionally, to examine local effects of the hormones applied, segments from the uterine and vaginal parts of the cervix and from the ovaries were collected post-mortem. Prolonged luteal function and extended synthesis of P4were observed in 2 of 5 gilts receiving PGE2 and E2 simultaneously (Group III). Then, these gilts were subdivided into Group IIIA (n=2; presence of corpora lutea on the ovaries) and Group IIIB (n=3; lack of corpora lutea). Increased levels of plasma P4were observed in Group IIIA on days 15-19 compared to Group IIIB and on days 16-19 compared to Group I and Group II (P<0.05; P<0.01; P<0.001, respectively). In the cervix of gilts in Groups II and III, enlarged blood vessels in the lamina propria of both parts of the cervix were observed. Furthermore, in Group II the epithelium of the uterine part of the cervix was thicker (P<0.001). Our study confirmed the proposed luteotrophic/antiluteolytic actions of E2and PGE2applied intravaginally. These results are significant considering that very low doses of E2were used when compared to previous attempts. Despite the inadequate response to treatments in some of the gilts, the local effects of these hormones on the histological properties of the porcine cervix suggest that further improvements in the vaginal administration route might help to elaborate new methods for enhancing the luteal function in the pig.
Using of immunocytochemistry in differential diagnosis of neoplasms of serosal cavities in dogs
Authors: Przeździecki R. , Sapierzyński R.
Published: September 2014

The presence of tumor within the serosal cavities, often connected with accumulation of serosal effusion, is a quite common problem in the small animal veterinary medicine. The first step in diagnosis of such cases is cytopathological examination. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the usefulness of cytology and immunocytochemistry, using commercially available antibodies (anti-cytokeratin, anti-vimentin, and anti-desmin), in differential diagnosis of malignant tumors located within serosal cavities in dogs. The final cytological diagnosis of carcinoma/adenocarcinoma, sarcoma, and mesothelioma was obtained on the basis of routine cytopathology and immunocytochemistry, and then confirmed by histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Cytoplasmic immunoreactivitiy of normal mesothelid cells and cytoplasmic immunoreactivity of hyperplastic mesothelial cells revealed constant and strong expression of all examined intermediate filaments: cytokeratin, vimentin and desmin. Application of routine cytopathology and immunocytochemistry allowed 32 neoplastic tumors to be detected: 19 cases of carcinomas/adenocarcinomas, 6 cases of sarcomas, 7 cases of mesotheliomas. Immunostaining of cytopathological samples with chosen set of antibodies: anti-cytokeratin, anti-vimentin, anti-desmin is a useful, and low invasive test for differentiation between mesotheliomas and carcinomas/adenocarcinomas in dogs.
Effect of age and breeding season on sperm acrosin activity in the arctic fox (Alopex lagopus L.)
Authors: Stasiak K. , Janicki B.
Published: September 2014

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of age and reproductive season on selected properties of semen from the arctic fox, Alopex lagopus L. The experiment used 40 ejaculates collected manually from 6 animals (3 foxes aged one year and 3 foxes older than three years). Statistically less semen (0.39 cm3) was collected from the young compared to the older animals, and the ejaculates obtained were characterized by higher concentration of spermatozoa (195.04 x 106/cm3). In turn, sperm acrosomal extracts from the older animals contained statistically more acrosin (6,4 mU/106 spermatozoa). In the sperm acrosomal extracts prepared during the first semen sampling, the mean acrosin activity did not exceed 2.3 mU/million spermatozoa. At subsequent semen sampling dates, the activity of the analysed enzyme increased to reach 7.72mU/million spermatozoa. In the extracts obtained from the semen collected at the end of the breeding season of arctic foxes, the acrosin activity again reached a value obtained at the beginning of the season.
Post-harvest Salmonella spp. prevalence in turkey carcasses in processing plant in the northeast part of Poland
Authors: Zdrodowska B. , Liedtke K. , Radkowski M.
Published: September 2014

Turkeys carcasses at selected point after slaughter on dressing line in poultry were sampled and analyzed for Salmonella. These slaughter turkeys came from the northeast part of Poland. The examinations were carried out in each month of 2009. Three hundred turkeys were selected at random from a commercial slaughter line, immediately after completing the cooling process. The percentage of these 300 turkeys from which Salmonella spp. were isolated was relatively high (8.3%; Salmonella positive results were observed in 25 cases). The lowest Salmonella spp. rate (1.3 %) for slaughter birds was found in the fourth quarter, and the highest contamination rate at 18.6% was found, in the third quarter. The serological types of Salmonella spp. isolated from the whole turkey carcasses were S. Saintpaul, S. Senftenberg, S. Anatum, S. Heidelberg, S. Hadar, S. Typhimurium and S. Infantis.
Pharmacological characteristics of metamizole
Authors: Jasiecka A. , Maślanka T. , Jaroszewski J.J.
Published: September 2014

Metamizole (dipyrone) is a popular analgetic, non-opioid drug, commonly used in human and veterinary medicine. In some cases, this agent is still incorrectly classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Metamizole is a pro-drug, which spontaneously breaks down after oral administration to structurally related pyrazolone compounds. Apart from its analgesic effect, the medication is an antipyretic and spasmolytic agent. The mechanism responsible for the analgesic effect is a complex one, and most probably rests on the inhibition of a central cyclooxygenase-3 and activation of the opioidergic system and cannabinoid system. Metamizole can block both PG-dependent and PG-independent pathways of fever induced by LPS, which suggests that this drug has a profile of antipyretic action distinctly different from that of NSAIDs. The mechanism responsible for the spasmolytic effect of metamizole is associated with the inhibited release of intracellular Ca2+ as a result of the reduced synthesis of inositol phosphate. Metamizole is predominantly applied in the therapy of pain of different etiology, of spastic conditions, especially affecting the digestive tract, and of fever refractory to other treatments. Co-administration of morphine and metamizole produces superadditive, antinociceptive effects. Metamizole is a relatively safe pharmaceutical preparation although it is not completely free from undesirable effects. Among these side-effects, the most serious one that raises most controversy is the myelotoxic effect. It seems that in the past the risk of metamizole- induced agranulocytosis was exaggerated. Despite the evidence showing no risk of teratogenic and embryotoxic effects, the drug must not be administered to pregnant women, although it is allowed to be given to pregnant and lactating animals. This paper seeks to describe the characteristics of metamizole in the light of current knowledge.
Blood-brain barrier permeability imaging using perfusion computed tomography
Authors: Avsenik Jernej , Bisdas Sotirios , Popovic Katarina Surlan
Published: September 2014

Background. The blood-brain barrier represents the selective diffusion barrier at the level of the cerebral microvascular endothelium. Other functions of blood-brain barrier include transport, signaling and osmoregulation. Endothelial cells interact with surrounding astrocytes, pericytes and neurons. These interactions are crucial to the development, structural integrity and function of the cerebral microvascular endothelium. Dysfunctional blood-brain barrier has been associated with pathologies such as acute stroke, tumors, inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases.

Conclusions. Blood-brain barrier permeability can be evaluated in vivo by perfusion computed tomography - an efficient diagnostic method that involves the sequential acquisition of tomographic images during the intravenous administration of iodinated contrast material. The major clinical applications of perfusion computed tomography are in acute stroke and in brain tumor imaging.
Three-dimensional analysis of cavity wall deformation after composite restoration of masticatory teeth
Authors: Manchorova-Veleva Neshka А.
Published: September 2014

AIM: The aim of the present work was to study the size of cavity wall deformation in eight class I and II defects after composite restoration.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: 1. Creating a geometric model - data on the size of the left maxillary second premolar were obtained from a routine craniofacial scanning of a 20-yearold patient with a 2,5 Dental CT scanner (General Electric), with high resolution and 0.625mm-thin slices. The contour of each of the 33 cross-sections of tooth 25 was delineated using graphics software (CorelDraw 7.0) and transferred to a specialized product for engineering design (SolidWorks Offi ce Premium 2010, SolidWorks Corp. USA). The pulp cavity and periodontal ligament were created in the same manner and were integrated in the premolar body; 2. Generation of a fi nite element method - the geometric model was exported

to specialized software for analysis by the fi nite element method - COSMOSWorks 2010, which automatically builds a 3D fi nite elements mesh. Based on the generated model, eight additional models of class I and II cavities with different geometries, adhesive layer and nanofi lled composite restorations were constructed. The polymerization shrinkage was modelled by thermal deformation, with a negative temperature difference (cooling), corresponding to the actual volume shrinkage of the composite materials by 2.1%.

RESULTS: In models A and B, the maximum cavity wall displacement was small - 0.014 mm and 0.015 mm, respectively. In models A1, B1, C1 and C, the displacement was at the expense of large deformation of the dental tissues. The maximum cavity wall displacements were 0.020 mm, 0.026 mm, 0.020 mm, 0.035 mm, respectively. The least cavity wall displacement was in models A2 and B2 with 0.008 mm and 0.017 mm, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS: The least displacement resulting from cavity wall deformation is found in patient-friendly class I and II preparations. Preservation of the dental tissues reduces the risk of mechanical pressure on the dentinal lymph and the likelihood of post-operative sensitivity.
Combining NHC bis-Phenolate Ligands with Oxophilic Metal Centers: A Powerful Approach for the Development of Robust and Highly Effective Organometallic Catalysts
Authors: Bellemin-Laponnaz Stéphane , Dagorne Samuel , Dümpelmann Ralf , Steffanut Pascal
Published: September 2014

The present paper describes an overview of a novel family of tridentate NHC pincer ligand in which two phenoxide moieties are directly connected to the nitrogen atoms of a central N-heterocyclic carbene. It was envisioned that such a structure might be suitable for coordination to a
variety of metal centers across the periodic table, including oxophilic metals. Various metal complexes bearing such ligand are indeed readily accessible in high yields via straightforward routes. Interestingly, a robust zirconium–NHC complex was found to polymerize rac-lactide
in a highly controlled, living and stereoselective manner to afford heterotactic PLA.
Molecular Switches as Platforms for Information Processing
Authors: Pischel Uwe
Published: September 2014

This article shows how to teach molecules the basics of logic and how to integrate complicated logic operations with relatively simple molecules. A special focus is put on the realization of multi-level fluorescent switches with chemical inputs as well as on the demonstration of various memory-based operations with all-optical photochromic switches.