bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pterostilbene inhibits inflammation by promoting the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 in the rat nucleus pulposus
Authors: Lee Soo-Min , Jiao Li-Yan , Jiang Li-Bo , Liu Shu-Hao , Lee Maka , Wu Wei , Zhang Jian
Published: January 2018

Pterostilbene (PTE), a natural plant extract, has an anti-inflammatory effect; however, whether PTE could protect nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) in the intervertebral disk from inflammation remains unclear. Primary NPCs isolated from Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were cultured, and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) analysis was used to test the cytotoxicity of PTE. The effect of PTE on interleukin-1β (IL-1β)-induced inflammation was analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and a Griess test. Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and a nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection were used to assess the involvement of Nrf2 in the anti-inflammatory mechanism of PTE on NPCs. The results of the CCK-8 analysis showed that PTE produced no cytotoxicity in NPCs at 20 μM for 24 h. PTE suppressed the production of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and inhibited the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) induced by IL-1β. PTE could promote the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 in NPCs. In addition, Nrf2 silence reversed the inhibitory effect of PTE on the production of NO and PGE2 and the expression of COX-2 and iNOS. These results indicate that PTE inhibits inflammation in the rat nucleus pulposus by promoting the nuclear translocation of Nrf2.
Framing the Ukraine crisis: A comparison between talk show debates in Russian and German television
Authors: Lichtenstein Dennis , Esau Katharina , Pavlova Lena , Osipov Dmitry , Argylov Nikita
Published: January 2018

This article examines the framing of the Ukraine crisis in German and Russian television political talk shows. Informed by peace journalism and constructive journalism, it investigates how Russian and German shows frame the Ukraine crisis and to what extent constructive and destructive frames are used. Qualitative content analysis of 20 shows (10 Russian and 10 German) enables examination of frame content and their constructive or destructive character. While constructive frames address situational causal interpretations and constructive problem treatments, destructive frames blame one party for the crisis and apply either no treatment or a destructive one. Findings reveal that shows in both countries provide different frames on both the situation inside Ukraine and international tensions between Russia and the West. While large parts of both strands of the debates are destructive in character, the country’s shows include more constructive frames in different periods of the crisis.
Vascular birth marks
Authors: Loe Sian
Published: January 2018

Approximately 1 in 300 children are born with a vascular birth mark, excluding salmon patch. The majority cause few symptoms, however, some can cause multiple medical problems. The more common vascular birth marks are salmon patch, haemangioma, port wine stain and venous malformation. This article aims to provide an overview of common presentations, complications and possible treatments for both children and adults with vascular birth marks.
A Rare Case of Sphingomonas paucimobilis Meningitis in the Absence of Cerebrospinal Fluid Pleocytosis
Authors: Mehmood Hassan , Khan Noman , Ullah Saad , Ullah Asad , Marwat Asghar
Published: January 2018

Sphingomonas paucimobilis is a nonfermentative gram-negative bacillus of low pathogenicity. The organism has been involved in causing a wide range of infections in community and hospital settings. Only 3 cases of meningitis caused by this organism have been reported so far. We report a rare case of S paucimobilis meningitis who presented with atypical symptoms. A 50-year-old female presented with headache, dizziness, chills, shakiness, and neck pain along with nuchal rigidity. On physical examination, severe neck rigidity along with decreased range of motion was noticed. Her cerebrospinal fluid showed gram-negative rods, and she was started on meropenem. The cerebrospinal fluid grew S paucimobilis sensitive to meropenem. She subsequently showed significant improvement and was discharged home on intravenous meropenem for 21 days and showed complete recovering in 5 weeks.
Unheard Complaints: Integrating Captioning Into Business and Professional Communication Presentations
Authors: Clegg Geoffrey M.
Published: January 2018

This article explores pedagogical frameworks closely associated with d/Deaf and hard-of-hearing persons from the perspective of a disabled instructor to increase student awareness of the needs of diverse audiences they will encounter in the workforce. The author argues that students and instructors can use captioning theory to strategize one of the harder business communication genres, the presentation, for d/Deaf audiences to make communication more accessible. By raising critical awareness of the limits of technology, current trends in pedagogy, and disability, this article seeks to further the conversation about providing accessibility for disabled users in the classroom.
Lecturers’ Leadership Practices and Their Impact On Students’ Experiences of Participation with Implications for Marketing Higher Education Services
Authors: Andy-Wali Hope Adanne , Wali Andy Fred
Published: January 2018

This study investigates the impact of lecturers’ leadership practices on students’ experiences of participation within a case university in the UK’s HE sector. The qualitative phenomenological research strategy, specifically the focus group interview approach, was used for data collection. Two key focus group interviews were conducted with a total of 15 participants. The thematic template and content analysis techniques were used for data analysis with NVivo 11. Findings showed that lecturers in the case university were transformational in their approaches to teaching and learning. Second, findings revealed that four highly coded themes characterized participants’ positive experiences of academic participation and they include: Teaching and learning quality; Academic versatility; Supportive academic leadership and Lecturers’ accessibility. This study makes theoretical contribution as it validates the relevance of transformational leadership theory. This study is original because it is the first to propound the ‘transformational teaching and learning framework’ which comprises four themes.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Effects of hPMSCs on granulosa cell apoptosis and AMH expression and their role in the restoration of ovary function in premature ovarian failure mice
Authors: Zhang Hongqin , Luo Qianqian , Lu Xueyan , Yin Na , Zhou Dongli , Zhang Lianshuang , Zhao Wei , Wang Dong , Du Pengchao , Hou Yun , Zhang Yan , Yuan Wendan
Published: January 2018

Background

This study was performed to determine the effects of human placenta mesenchymal stem cell (hPMSC) transplantation on granulosa cell apoptosis and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) expression in autoimmune drug-induced premature ovarian failure (POF) mice. The aim of this research is to investigate the mechanisms of hPMSCs on ovarian reserve capacity.

Methods

The POF mice model was established by injection of zona pellucida 3 peptide (pZP3). hPMSC transplantation was conducted by intravenous injection into mice following pZP3 treatment. The follicle number was examined by histopathology. The serum levels of FSH, LH, E2, AMH and anti-zona pellucida antibody (AzpAb) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. AMH and FSHR expression in the ovary was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis. Granulosa cell apoptosis of the ovaries was examined by In Situ Cell Death Detection Kit. Granulosa cells were isolated and treated with SiAmh interference and hPMSC supernatant to observe the effects of AMH expression on granulosa cell apoptosis in vitro.

Results

The results showed that hPMSC transplantation can significantly recover the estrus cycle in the POF group. Morphological staining showed that the basal follicles and sinus follicles after hPMSC transplantation were higher in POF mice than in those without treatment, and the follicle number was significantly decreased with atresia. The serum levels of FSH, LH and AzpAb in the hPMSC transplantation group were reduced considerably, but the E2 and AMH levels were significantly increased. After hPMSC transplantation, the AMH and FSHR expression in ovarian tissue was significantly higher than in the POF group as determined by immunochemistry and western blot analysis. The FSHR expression was shown in granulosa cells only, and FSHR expression increases with AMH expressed in the ovary; granulosa cell apoptosis was decreased following hPMSC transplantation. The same results were observed from the in-vitro study.

Conclusions

hPMSC transplantation can significantly improve the serum levels of high gonadotropin and low estrogen of POF mice, promote follicular development, inhibit excessive follicular atresia and granulosa cell apoptosis, and improve the ovarian reserve capacity. The mechanism may be achieved by increasing the expression of AMH and FSHR in ovaries.
TLC separation and antioxidant activity of flavonoids from Carissa bispinosa, Ficus sycomorus, and Grewia bicolar fruits
Authors: Gwatidzo Luke , Dzomba Pamhidzai , Mangena Mkululi
Published: January 2018

Background

Carissa bispinosa, Ficus sycomorus, and Grewia bicolar are edible fruit plants that grow in the wild. The plants produce yellow-, red-, and purple-colored fruits and thus can be good sources of flavonoids for fighting oxidative reactions in humans, food, and the pharmaceutical industry. The present study aimed at isolating flavonoids from C. bispinosa, F. sycomorus, and G. bicolar fruits and determining their antioxidant activity using the 2, 2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2, 2-azino-bis 3-ethylbenz-thiaz-oline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) model radical assays.

Methods

Analytical and preparative thin-layer chromatography was used to isolate flavonoids from the fruits using methanol/chloroform/hexane (7:2:1, v/v/v) as a mobile phase system. The ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging methods were used to test for the antioxidant activity of the samples, using quercetin and catechin as reference standards.

Results

Thin-layer chromatographic profiling revealed two different types of flavonoids from each plant. C. bispinosa yielded two flavonoid bands, Rf values 0.11 and 0.38; G. bicolar yielded two flavonoid bands, Rf values 0.63 and 0.81; and F. sycomorus also yielded two types of flavonoids, Rf values 0.094 and 0.81. All the extracted flavonoids exhibited significant antioxidant activity of over 80% at a concentration of 200 mg/L. The order of radical scavenging activity for the 200-mg/L samples is G. bicolar Rf (0.81) > C. bispinosa Rf (0.113) > F. sycomorus Rf (0.094) > F. sycomorus Rf (0.047) > C. bispinosa Rf (0.38) > G. bicolar Rf (0.63). G. bicolar (Rf = 0.81) exhibited antioxidant activity that was superior to that of catechin.

Conclusion

The present study results show that C. bispinosa, F. sycomorus, and G. bicolar contain different flavonoid types with significant antioxidant activity of over 80% at a concentration of 200 mg/L. Therefore, the fruits can be used as a source of natural antioxidants which can be used as nutraceuticals to promote health, as preservatives to delay peroxidation of foods, and as flavoring for packed foods.
The most important skin diseases of the sheep and the goat
Authors: GIADINIS (Ν. Δ. ΓΙΑΔΙΝΗΣ) N. D. , SARIDOMICHELAKIS (Μ.Ν. ΣΑΡΙΔΟΜΙΧΕΛΑΚΗΣ) M. N.
Published: January 2018

Skin diseases of small ruminants may have an economical impact, apart from the fact that some of them can be transmitted to humans. In this review article, the most important environmental, nutritional, parasitic, bacterial, fungal, viral, immune-mediated and neoplastic skin diseases of the goat and sheep are presented, emphasising on the clinical features, the diagnosis and the treatment.
Meat production of the Boutsko breed of ewes in Epirus
Authors: FOLINAS (Γ. Σ. ΦΩΛΙΝΑΣ) G.
Published: January 2018

A flock of 244 hill sheep of the indigenous Boutsko breed of Epirus (NW of Greece), 1-6 years old, reared under a transhumance system was used to study the growth of suckled lambs and their carcass quality. The results of the study have been summarized as follows: 1) Birth liveweight of lambs was 4.3 ±0.12 Kg (single males), 3.9±0,10 Kg (single females) (P<0.05) and 3.6±0.08 Kg (twins) (P<0.01). The corresponding liveweights at slaughterwerell.2±0.25Kg, 10.7±0.23Kg and 11.3±0.36 Kg and their carcass weights 7.1 ±0,17 Kg, 7.1±0,17 and 6.9 ±0.26 Kg. 2) The conclusion drawn from the results of this study is that the Boutsko breed is a useful and well adapted genotype of sheep. However, its meat productivity is very low and could be improved by further within breed selection and/or grazing on improved pasture.
Postparturient liver diseases of dairy cattle (Ketosis, fatty liver). I. Etiology and Pathogenesis
Authors: PANOUSIS (Ν. ΠΑΝΟΥΣΗΣ) Ν. , KARATZIAS (Χ. ΚΑΡΑΤΖΙΑΣ) H.
Published: January 2018

Two of the commonest in practice postparturient liver diseases of dairy cows, ketosis and fatty liver, are discussed in this paper. It is not uncommon for both diseases to occur simultaneously, or each to act as a predisposing factor for the other. These diseases share a common etiology and pathogenesis, which are energy imbalance and disruption of normal carbohydrate metabolism during the period of high milk yield. Poor herd management during the dry period and hormonal changes accompanying parturition, have been associated with fat utilization for energy production, which in turn leads to fatty infiltration of the liver and ketosis.
Case report of urinary tract infection in sows of a commercial pig unit
Authors: SAOULIDIS (Κ. ΣΑΟΥΛΙΔΗΣ) K. , KRITAS (Σ.Κ. ΚΡΗΤΑΣ) S. K. , SARRIS (Κ. ΣΑΡΡΗΣ) K. , ROUBIES (Ν. ΡΟΥΜΠΙΕΣ) N. , KYRIAKIS (Σ.K. ΚΥΡΙΑΚΗΣ) S. C.
Published: January 2018

In this paper, a case of urinary tract infection in sows of a commercial pig unit is presented for the first time in Greece. Within a period of one year, 21 cases of specific infection were recorded, representing 5.8% of the farrowings in the farm. The symptoms were obvious around the 3rd to 4th week post mating and were keeping on for 2 to 7 days. Anorexia, thirst, blood in the urine and subsequent death or survival with gradual loss of body condition were the main findings. A significant correlation between the number of sows that died, and the number of sows showing anorexia (p<0,05), or showing hypothermia (p<0,05) was observed. The average number of live born piglets at the last parturition compared to the respective figure during the previous parturitions was markedly reduced (p<0,05). The findings of microscopic and biochemical examination of the urine were indicative of infection, while biochemical examinations of blood samples of diseased sows have shown significantly increased urea (BUN) and creatinine levels (p<0,05). Bacteriological culture of urine samples have shown the presence of increased numbers of bacteria (>106/ml) such as Escherichia coli and Actinomyces suis in almost all ill sows. It is concluded that porcine urinary tract infections may cause serious problems for pig enterprises as may be directly correlated with reproductive performance and viability of the sows.
Field trial on the efficacy of a new fenbendazole/praziquantel combination against nematodes and cestodes of dogs
Authors: HIMONAS (Χ. ΧΕΙΜΩΝΑΣ) C. , SOTIRAKI (Σ. ΣΩΤΗΡΑΚΗ) S. , PAPADOPOULOS (Η. ΠΑΠΑΔΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) E. , PFISTER K.
Published: January 2018

The gastrointestinal parasitism of dogs and cats due to nematodes and cestodes is particularly common. In most cases animals are infected with both groups of parasites. The control of such mixed infections is carried out with nematocidal and cestocidal drugs administered either separately or combined. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of a new fenbendazole/praziquantel (CANIQUANTEL PLUS®) combination against nematodes and cestodes of dogs. Toward this end 30 naturally infected dogs were divided into 2 groups: one (n=20) was treated with 50mg fenbendazole and 5mg praziquantel/kg b.w. for two consecutive days and the other (n=10) was not treated and served as the control group. Faecal examinations were carried out on the day of treatment as well as 10 days later. The efficacy level of this combined drug was found to be 98.2% and no adverse reactions were observed. It is concluded that, this anthelmintic combination may be safely used for the satisfactory control of mixed gastrointestinal parasitic infections in dogs.
Isolation of Salmonella from the egg-laying producing plant
Authors: KOIDIS (Π. ΚΟΙΔΗΣ) P. , BORI (Μ. ΜΠΟΡΗ) M.
Published: January 2018

In the present paper, the presence of Salmonella spp. in the egg-laying hens producing plants in Thessaloniki area was studied. In total, 2.230 eggshell samples, 588 samples surfaces from floor, walls, conveyor belts, utensils and packaging areas, 168 feed samples and 68 water samples were examined. The survey showed that the rate of contamination in the eggshells was 0.29-3.29% (mean value 1.65%). The contamination rate of the surrounding area of the cages (floor, walls, conveyor belts) and the surfaces in the packaging areas were 6.81% and 7.58% respectively. The feed was contaminated at a rate of 0-6.6% (mean value 4.2%), while all the water samples were free of Salmonella spp. Eighty-six strains of Salmonella were isolated belonging to the S. enteritidis serotype (76.8%), S. bredeney (20.29%) and S. Heidelberg (2,3%). The high prevalence of S. enteritidis, in contrast to the other serotypes, isolated from the eggshells, from the area of the egg producing plants and the feed, showed that strict preventive measures should be applied for the protection of public health and the avoidance of dispersion of Salmonella in the environment.
Histopathological findings in canine dirofilariosis
Authors: KALDRYMIDOU (Ε. ΚΑΛΔΡΥΜΙΔΟΥ) E. , PSYCHAS (Β. ΨΥΧΑΣ) B. , POUTAHIDIS (Θ. ΠΟΥΤΑΧΙΔΗΣ) Th. , PAPAIOANNOU (Ν. ΠΑΠΑΪΩΑΝΝΟΥ) N. , POLIZOPOULOU (Ζ. ΠΟΛΥΖΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) Z.
Published: January 2018

The lesions found in ten dogs with severe chronic dirofilariosis were studied. In the lungs, the most significant changes were observed in the endarterium of the pulmonary artery branches. Also, remarkable were the vascular thrombosis and the granulomatous inflammatory response of the pulmonary parenchyma. The presence of severe granulomatous inflammation in the endarterium of the pulmonary artery branches in one dog, is considered significant, because this finding has been reported only in cat In the liver, congestion, intravascular coagulation in the portal system and fibrosis were found. The severity of hepatic lesions was not correlated with the number of adult heartworms found in the posterior vena cava. The kidneys showed mild to moderate membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis and intravenus blood coagulation.
Canine atopic dermatitis (atopy)
Authors: SARIDOMICHELAKIS (Μ. Ν. ΣΑΡΙΔΟΜΙΧΕΛΑΚΗΣ) M. N. , KOUTINAS (Α.Φ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) A. F.
Published: January 2018

Canine atopic dermatitis is a common clinical entity, characterized by pruritus due to sensitization against common enviromental allergens. It has been proven that there is strong breed predisposition. Genetically programmed dogs overproduct reaginic antibodies (IgE and/or IgGd) after their exposure to airborne allergens (dust mites, epithelia, pollens and molds) which consequently fix themselves to the mast cells of the skin. After reexposure to the same allergens these cells degranulate, with subsequent release of many pharmacologically active substances (histamine, leucotrienes, Prostaglandines etc). However, this is a rather simplistic explanation; the true pathogenesis of atopy is more complicated and still not well understood. Clinical signs first appear between 6 months and 3 years of age. Pruritus, the mainstay of atopy, can be seasonal or perennial. Skin lesions, appearing in later, are attributed to pruritus and/or to secondary complications (staphylococcal pyoderma, seborrhea, dry skin, Malassezia dermatitis). The diagnosis, based on history and clinical findings, necessitates exclusion of other pruritic skin diseases and identification of the offending allergens by using the intradermal test and/or serology (ELISA, RAST). The latter method is diagnostically inferior to intradermal skin test due to the high rate of false positive reactions. Therapeutic options include avoidance of the allergens responsible for sensitization, systemic therapy with glucocorticoids, antihistamines and essential fatty acids in various combinations, topical antipruritic therapy, hyposensitization which is the best therapeutical modality for the perennial form of the disease and management of secondary complications as well as of other concurrent allergic skin diseases, such as food and flea allergy.
Survival of Listeria monocytogenes during storage of soft cheeses Galotyri and Touloumotyri at 5°C and 12°C
Authors: PAPAGEORGIOU (Δ. Κ. ΠΑΠΑΓΕΩΡΠΟΥ) D. K. , BORI (Μ. ΜΠΟΡΗ) M. , MANTIS (Α. ΜΑΝΤΗΣ) A.
Published: January 2018

Soft spreadable cheeses Galotyri and Touloumotyri were inoculated with Listeria monocytogenes strains Scott A or California (CA), to contain 3.6-7.5 x 105 CFU/g of cheese and stored at 5°C and 12°C f or 30d and 40d respectively. The initial pH of the cheeses Galotyri and Touloumotyri were 4.35 (S.D.±0.08) and 4.53 (S.D. ±0.06) respectively, and remained relatively constant during the entire experiment. Fat in dry mater was 50.06% (S.D. ±1.16) in Calotyri and 37.43% (S.D. ±0.62) in Touloumotyri cheese. Values of moisture content of cheeses were 68.04% (S.D. ±0.36) and 73.01% (S.D.±0.14) respectively. The NaCl content for Galotyri and Touloumotyri cheeses was 1.54% (S.D.±0.12) and 1.03% (S.D. ±0.10) respectively. Duplicate samples of cheeses were used for enumeration of L. monocytogenes and pH. Listeria counts were obtained by surface plating on lithium chloride phenylethanol moxalactam agar (LPM). Selected Listeria colonies were confirmed biochemically. Viability loss of L. monocytogenes in Galotyri cheese was rapid, but the pathogen survived for more than 40 d in Touloumotyri cheese. During storage of Galotyri cheese at 5°C and 12°C, population of both strains of L. monocytogenes decreased significantly (P<0.01) to less than 10 viable cells/g of cheese, within 7 to 16 d for 7 trials. At that time population of L. monocytogenes decreased by 2.9-4.55 Log10 CFU/g. Estimated D-value was 2.17 d (S.D. ±1.02) for the 7 trials. Only for one trial L. monocytogenes was counted up to 24 d, but was not survived more than 26 d. The reduction of population was statistically significant (P<0.01) for this trial also. Cold enrichment up to 8 weeks of samples in which L. monocytogenes was not counted, indicated that the pathogen survived for 16 d up to 27 d in a l l trials. Both strains of L. monocytogenes survived for more than 40 d during storage of Touloumotyri cheese at 5°C and 12°C. Population of L. monocytogenes decreased significantly (P<0.05) by 0.98 to 1.96 Log10 CFU/g during storage of Touloumotyri cheese at 5 °C and 12 °C. After 40d of storage of cheese, populations of the pathogen ranged from 5.3 to 51 χΙΟ3 CFU/g. Calculation indicated that survivors of the pathogen represent the 1.1% up to 10.6% of the initial population of L. monocytogenes inoculated to the cheese.
Treatment of retention of fetal membranes in cattle
Authors: GRUNERT E. , SARATSIS (Φ. ΣΑΡΑΤΣΗΣ) Ph.
Published: January 2018

The method of treating retention of fetal membranes in cattle depends mainly on etiology. Detachment of the fetal membranes by infusing calcium preparations or administering drugs promoting uterine contractions is effective only in cases due to uterine inertia. Alternatively, it is possible to control retention administrations of broad spectrum antibiotics in adequate dosages, so as to ensure the establishment of a new pregnancy with minimum loss of time. In the rare event of retention due to premature closure of omphalic vessels or to overipe placentomes, it is necessary to take the required therapeutic and precautionary measures.
Microbiological, histological, technological, and toxicological preliminary study of dog's canned food
Authors: RANTOS (Σ. ΡΑΝΤΟΣ) S. , PANTOULAS (Λ. ΠΑΝΤΟΥΛΑΣ) L. , SARAKATSIANOS (Ι. ΣΑΡΑΚΑΤΣΙΑΝΟΣ) I. , ROZOS (Γ. ΡΟΖΟΣ) G. , PAPAIOANNOU (Ν. ΠAΠΑΪΩΑNNOΥ) N.
Published: January 2018

During this study canned food for dogs of six firms were investigated (42 samples totally). Microbiologically the following parameters were checked: the commercial sterility, the water activity (aw), the pH, the presence of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria after incubation of tins in 25 ° C for 28 days, 32 ° C for 21 days and 55 ' C for 8 days. Histologically, the existence of different kinds of tissues was examined. Technologically Weende's analysis and separation of the tin's content were made. Toxicologically, the concentration of lead and cadmium were countered. The results showed that dog's canned food, in Greece, are supersterillised. Muscular, adipose and connective tissue are used for their production as well as byproducts and soya proteins by some firms. The results of Weende's analysis are in full agreement with the amount of nutriments that they were written on tins' labels.
Identification, confirmation and quantification of sulfonamides in kidney and meat of food-producing animals by HPLC-PDA
Authors: TIRPENOU A. Ε. , TSIGOURI (Α. Δ. ΤΣΙΓΟΥΡΗ) A. D. , GOUTA (E.H. ΓΟΥΤΑ) E. H.
Published: January 2018

Residue monitoring in animal husbandry and in food of animal origin is based on the implementation of a Surveillance Scheme, according to the legislation (Directive 86/469/EEC1, N. D. 497/89% Regulation (EEC) 2377/903, Directive 96/23/EU4). Among our obligations as a European Union National Reference Laboratory (EU-NRL), we have to develope screening and confirmatory methods. Towards the development and validation of these confirmatory techniques, als for the group of antimicrobials, a method has been developed for sulfa drug determination. These substances are used extensively in livestock for therapeutic as well as for growth promotin purposes. Diserens et al., 19915 method with our modifications, is used in our laboratory to confirm the Four Plate Test6 suspect kidney and meat samples sent from the Regional Field Laboratories (RFLs) of the Ministry of Agriculture. The method's steps are: extraction, concentration and quantitative elution of sulfa drugs using Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) and their identification, confirmation and quantitation by HPLC/UV with a Photo Diode Array detector. The column used was Hypersil ODS, 5 μιη (250 x 4.6 mm) and the mobile phase was 0.01 M ammonium acetate buffer pH 4.6/MeOH at a gradient mode. The wavelength was monitored at 266 nm, the flow rate of the mobile phase was l.lmL.min ' and the injection volume was 20 μL. 12 sulfonamides can be simultaneously detected in one run at concentrations as low as 20 μg/kg. The recovery ranges from 60 to 88% for spiked samples at the Maximum Residue Limit of 100 μg/kg.
The effectiveness and the consequences of the use of recombinant bovine somatotropin
Authors: BROZOS (Χ. Ν. ΜΠΡΟΖΟΣ) C. N. , SARATSIS (Φ. ΣΑΡΑΤΣΗΣ) Ph.
Published: January 2018

Growth hormone (also known as somatotropin) plays a dominant role on the development and metabolism of mammalians. Since the early 1950's it has been known that the administration of somatotropin in milk productive animals leads to an increase in milk yield. Nevertheless, its high cost of manufacture didn't allow the massive application, until recently. Genetic engineering achieved the production of recombinant bovine somatotropin (bST) and therefore has permitted the commercial use. Numerous of publications confirm a 10-30% increase in dairy cattle milk yield after bST administration. The mechanism of action of bST involves a series of orchestrated changes in the metabolism of body tissues so that more nutrients can be used for milk synthesis. Long-term bST administration has no effects on animal welfare. The reproductive system od bST treated cows seems to be prone to disorders. These disorders have been found to be insignificant. Advanced quality of management is necessary to accomplish maximum bST response in dairy cattle. BST is homologous to that of sheep and therefore can be successfully used in ewes as well. Due to the large number of dairy ewes in Greece, this is of great importance to Greek animal industry.
Global Leadership Education: Upping the Game
Authors: Goryunova Elizabeth , Jenkins Daniel M.
Published: January 2018

While scholars recognize that digital technology is a major tool employed by contemporary learners to access knowledge, its full capacity is yet to be utilized. This paper investigates opportunities to increase individual learning engagement and knowledge retention in higher education and corporate environments through integrating educational content with innovative digital technology. Currently, within commonly adopted e-learning platforms, the most utilized online content delivery and student progress assessment tools in leadership education appear to be discussion-based instruction, along with written assignments, and research projects (Jenkins, 2016). To inform leadership educators’ choice in innovative tools for increased effectiveness of instruction, this paper shares an experience of delivering integrated global leadership education pedagogical content (i.e., cross-cultural competency instruction for graduate management class at a U.S.-based public university) within a gamified real-time multiuser learning platform—MyAltis—and discusses implications for leadership education.
Thriving in Complexity: A Framework for Leadership Education
Authors: Watkins Daryl , Earnhardt Matthew , Pittenger Linda , Roberts Robin , Rietsema Kees , Cosman-Ross Janet
Published: January 2018

Technological advances, globalization, network complexity, and social complexity complicate almost every aspect of our organizations and environments. Leadership educators are challenged with developing leaders who can sense environmental cues, adapt to rapidly changing contexts, and thrive in uncertainty while adhering to their values systems. In a complex leadership context, inadequate leader responses can result in devastating organizational impacts akin to the butterfly effect from chaos theory. This paper advances a simple model for leadership education based on a program we designed to develop leaders who understand the nature of complex systems, reliably use their ethical value systems, are emotionally intelligent and resilient, and can adapt to emergent situations.
The cyclical and intergenerational effects of perinatal domestic abuse and mental health
Authors: Moncrieff Gill
Published: January 2018

Domestic abuse and mental health disorders are particularly dangerous during the perinatal period, due to their effects on both the mother and the developing fetus. Furthermore, domestic violence and mental health appear to be linked, which can result in these issues being passed down through generations. In order for health professionals to respond efficaciously, pre-registration and ongoing training is needed on how to ask, respond, provide support and refer women on to appropriate supportive agencies. High-quality research is also needed to improve outcomes.
Ground-Dwelling and Vegetation Ant Fauna in Southern Brazilian Grasslands
Authors: Dröse William , Podgaiski Luciana Regina , Cavalleri Adriano , Feitosa Rodrigo Machado , Mendonça Jr Milton
Published: January 2018

Non-forest ecosystems, as natural grasslands from Southern Brazil, are still neglected in conservation policies. Measuring their biodiversity is one of the main steps to generate management strategies for these habitats. This study aims to (i) describe grassland ant richness and composition in Rio Grande do Sul state, and (ii) compare ant communities sampled on the ground and in grassland vegetation, adding to our knowledge of habitat use patterns and vegetation associated species. Six sites were sampled, three belonging to the Pampa biome and three in highland region from the Atlantic Forest biome. Ant fauna was collected once per year in summer during four years in each site with pitfalls traps and sweeping nets. Overall, 29,812 ant individuals were sampled belonging to eight subfamilies, 30 genera e 106 species. The grasslands of Pampa accumulated 91 species and 45 exclusive species, while highland grasslands summed up 61 species and only 15 exclusive species. Species composition differs between biomes as well as between sampling methods. Ant communities sampled from vegetation represented a clear subset of the fauna sampled with pitfall traps, and indication analysis showed only two species associated with this stratum: Myrmelachista gallicola and Pseudomyrmex nr. flavidulus. This study highlights the importance of Southern Brazilian grasslands and the need for specific conservation strategies for the natural grasslands from each biome.
Insecticidal Activities of Compounds from Sweet Flag (Acorus Calamus) against Red Imported Fire Ants Solenopsis invicta (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Kafle Lekhnath , Shih Cheng-Jen
Published: January 2018

Due to public health and environmental issues, alternatives of synthetic pesticides have been researched for a long time. We also evaluated the toxicity and repellency of the sweet flag (Acorus calamus) powder and two bioactive compounds (α-asarone and β-asarone) against workers of the red imported fire ant (RIFA), Solenopsis invicta under laboratory conditions. Sweet flag powder applied at 1 mg/cm2 or more provided 100% ant mortality within 18 hours, and repelled almost 97% of ants within one hour. Β-asarone was the faster acting compound against RIFA compared to α-asarone and sweet flag powders. The LT50 values inclined exponentially with the increase in the application rate of the test items. On the other hand, repellency did not increase with the increase in the application rate of the test items, but did with the increase in exposure time. Based upon the results of this study, α-asarone and β-asarone, as well as sweet flag powders could be another alternative tool to control the RIFA.
Acute Hypotension After Moderate-Intensity Handgrip Exercise in Hypertensive Elderly People
Authors: Souza Luiz R. , Vicente Joyce B. , Melo Geiziane R. , Moraes Vivian C. , Olher Rafael R. , Sousa Iorrany C. , Peruchi Luiz H. , Neves Rodrigo V. , Rosa Thiago S. , Ferreira Aparecido P. , Moraes Milton R.
Published: January 2018

Souza, LR, Vicente, JB, Melo, GR, Moraes, VC, Olher, RR, Sousa, IC, Peruchi, LH, Neves, RV, Rosa, TS, Ferreira, AP, and Moraes, MR. Acute hypotension after moderate-intensity handgrip exercise in hypertensive elderly people.J Strength Cond Res32(10): 2971–2977, 2018—Isometric handgrip (IHG) training is effective in reducing blood pressure (BP), but little is known about the occurrence of acute hypotension by postisometric exercise hypotension (PIEH) and the underlying mechanisms. Ten sedentary hypertensive elderly people (7 women and 3 men) individuals, with a mean age of 73.2 ± 2.2 years and systolic BP (SBP) of 135.1 ± 6.5, were included; they were hypertensive for 13.2 ± 3.1 years and were receiving medications. These patients underwent 2 experimental sessions of isometric exercise using a portable hydraulic handgrip dynamometer: (a) sham session with 3% of maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) and (b) experimental isometric session with 30% MVIC, completing a total of 8 sets of 1-minute contraction and 1-minute rest-pause (overload of work = 51.7 kgf·min). Blood pressure and heart rate were evaluated at rest and 1, 5, 10, 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes postexercise. Blood lactate (Lac) and salivary nitric oxide (NO−) were collected at rest, 0, 30, and 60 minutes postexercise. The SBP presented a reduction as of the tenth minute postexercise to session 30% MVIC (Δ = −14.4 at −18.7 mm Hg,p< 0.05). At 60-minute postexercise, the SBP was 30% lower vs. 3% MVIC (−20.2 mm Hg,p= 0.006). There were no differences for the other cardiovascular parameters and vasoactive substances for both sessions (p> 0.05). These results demonstrated that the IHG exercise with a higher overload of work induced PIEH in hypertensive elderly people, but there was no association with Lac and NO−. Therefore, this IHG model with easy execution, quick adherence, short duration, and a portable equipment can be an excellent adjuvant strategy for the control and prevention of hypertension.
Assessing Crack Susceptibility of Asphalt Concrete Mixtures with Overlay Tester
Authors: Garcia Victor M. , Miramontes Alejandro , Garibay Jose , Abdallah Imad , Nazarian Soheil
Published: January 2018

This paper reports on a newly proposed methodology for characterizing asphalt concrete (AC) mixtures with the Overlay Tester (OT). The methodology considers two stages of cracking (i.e., crack initiation and crack propagation). The crack initiation is represented by the critical fracture energy (CFE) parameter obtained from the load displacement curve of the first loading cycle, while the crack propagation is represented by the crack progression rate (CPR) parameter. A design interaction plot of these two parameters is proposed for evaluating and assessing the cracking resistance of AC mixtures. More than 250 OT results from ten different AC mix types were used to set the preliminary acceptance limits for the CFE and CPR parameters. Preliminary implementation suggests that the proposed OT test method is a promising tool for the evaluation of the cracking resistance of AC mixtures.
Identification of Two Distinct Working Memory-Related Brain Networks in Healthy Young Adults
Authors: Egli Tobias , Coynel David , Spalek Klara , Fastenrath Matthias , Freytag Virginie , Heck Angela , Loos Eva , Auschra Bianca , Papassotiropoulos Andreas , de Quervain Dominique J.-F. , Milnik Annette
Published: January 2018

Working memory (WM) is an important cognitive domain for everyday life functioning and is often disturbed in neuropsychiatric disorders. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies in humans show that distributed brain areas typically described as fronto-parietal regions are implicated in WM tasks. Based on data from a large sample of healthy young adults (N= 1369), we applied independent component analysis (ICA) to the WM-fMRI signal and identified two distinct networks that were relevant for differences in individual WM task performance. A parietally-centered network was particularly relevant for individual differences in task measures related to WM performance (“WM dependent”) and a frontally-centered network was relevant for differences in attention-dependent task performance. Importantly, frontal areas that are typically considered as key regions for WM were either involved in both WM-dependent and attention-dependent performance, or in attention-dependent performance only. The networks identified here are provided as publicly available datasets. These networks can be applied in future studies to derive a low-dimensional representation of the overall WM brain activation.
IMPLEMENTASI METODE GRABBING PADA WEB PENYEDIA INFORMASI BEASISWA
Authors: Dauni Popon , Ferdiana Egi , Slamet Cepy , Atmaja Aldy Rialdy
Published: January 2018

ABSTRAK Beasiswa adalah pemberian berupa bantuan keuangan dalam pendidikan yang diberikan kepada pelajar yang bertujuan untuk keberlangsungan pendidikannya. Beasiswa tersebut diberikan oleh suatu lembaga pemerintah atau sebuah yayasan. Informasi mengenai beasiswa yang ditawarkan biasanya dapat kita lihat di internet melalui suatu website. Jenis beasiswa yang ditawarkan juga beraneka ragam, baik beasiswa dalam negeri ataupun beasiswa dari luar negeri. Namun, banyaknya penyedia beasiswa yang menggunakan website membuat pencari beasiswa kesulitan untuk mendapat informasi beasiswa dalam satu waktu. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membuat portal informasi yang dapat memudahkan para pencari beasiswa untuk mendapatkan informasi yang dibutuhkan. Metode grabbing digunakan dalam penelitian ini untuk mengambil informasi pada suatu halaman website yang dituju, kemudian dikumpulkan dalam satu portal website yang baru. Sehingga, apabila terdapat informasi baru terkait beasiswa dapat dengan mudah untuk didapatkan. Aplikasi ini menggunakan bahasa pemrograman PHP dan menggunakan library cURL dalam berkomunikasi dengan berbagai internet protokol.   ABSTRACT The scholarship is a gift of financial assistance to students who aim for continuity of their education. The scholarship can be awarded by a government or foundation. The information of scholarship usually can be accessed on a website by using the internet. There are many types of scholarship such as for domestic and overseas scholarship. However, the amount of scholarship information makes the peoples difficult to find the scholarship exactly at a time. The purpose of research is making a portal information to facilitate scholarship seekers to obtain required information of scholarship. Grabbing method is able to retrieve information on a website and collected in a new website scholarship portal. Thus, if there is a new scholarship information, the portal can be easily obtained getting information. PHP programming language and cURL library are implemented in this research to communicate with various internet protocols.How to Cite : Dauni, P. Ferdiana, E. Selamet, C, Atmadja, A.R. (2017). IMPLEMENTASI METODE GRABBING PADA WEB PENYEDIA INFORMASI BEASISWA. Jurnal Teknik Informatika, 10(2), 169-182. doi:10.15408/jti.v10i2.6823Permalink/DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15408/jti.v10i2.6823
Jorge Amado, Pablo Neruda e Nicolás Guillén: História da Literatura, histórias de recepção
Authors: Da Silva Márcia Rios
Published: January 2018

Neste artigo, propõe-se uma reflexão acerca da trajetória intelectual e literária de Jorge Amado, Pablo Neruda e Nicolás Guillén, tomada como uma dimensão altamente relevante na construção de histórias de recepção, mas ignoradas pela História da literatura. Como intelectuais de esquerda, comprometidos com as questões sociais do seu tempo, esses escritores tornam-se referência em seus países, e no exterior, na defesa da democracia e contra os regimes ditatoriais. Aproximados pela atuação na esfera pública e na vida cultural e pela consagração extraordinária de público, expandiram significativamente a recepção de suas produções literárias, por várias gerações de leitores, o que impõe pensar o engajamento político (SARTRE, 2004) como potência na formação de público. Essa discussão busca apoio nos estudos de recepção (JAUSS, 2009), histórias de literatura (MOREIRA, 2002, OLINTO, 2002) e escrita da história (BURKE, 1992).********************************************************************Jorge Amado, Pablo Neruda and Nicolás Guillén: Literature History and stories of receptionAbstract: The article aims at proposing a reflection about the intelectual and literary pathways of Jorge Amado, Pablo Neruda and Nicolás Guillén taken as a highly relevant dimension in the construction of stories of reception but ignored by Literature History. Being leftist intellectuals, committed with the social issues of their times, these writers became reference in their countries and abroad as being in favor of democracy and against dictatorial regimes. They were brought together by their public attitude as well as in their intelectual lives and were extraordinarily applauded by the people in general. As a result, they expanded significantly the reception of their literary production throughout several generations of readers which leads to think of their political engagement (SARTRE, 2004) as a powerful tool in formation of an audience. The discussion in this article seeks support in the theory of reception (JAUSS, 2009), stories of literature (MOREIRA, 2002, OLINTO, 2002) and historical writing (BURKE, 1992).Keywords: stories of literature; Reception; Jorge Amado; Pablo Neruda; Nicolás Guillén.
“Eu sou negra”: entrevista com Ana Maria Gonçalves
Authors: Oliveira Amanda , Hülsendeger Margarete , Moreira Maria Eunice
Published: January 2018

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Pharmacokinetic study on hirsutine and hirsuteine in rats using UPLC–MS/MS
Authors: Han Aixia , Lin Guanyang , Cai Jinzhang , Wu Qing , Geng Peiwu , Ma Jianshe , Wang Xianqin , Lin Chongliang
Published: January 2018

An ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS) method was established to determine hirsutine and hirsuteine in rat plasma. Pharmacokinetics of hirsutine and hirsuteine in rats after intravenous or oral administration has been investigated using this developed UPLC–MS/MS method, and bioavailability of the two drugs was calculated. Diazepam was used as internal standard, and UPLC BEH column (2.1 mm × 50 mm, 1.7 μm) was used at temperature of 40 °C. The mobile phase was composed of acetonitrile and water (containing 0.1% formic acid) at a gradient elution flow rate of 0.4 mL/min. Nitrogen was used as desolvation gas (800 L/h) and conical gas (50 L/h). The multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) model was applied to quantitatively analyze hirsutine m/z 369 → 226, hirsuteine m/z 367 → 169.9, and diazepam (internal standard) m/z 285.1 → 193.3. Rat plasma samples were deproteinized using acetonitrile prior to UPLC–MS/MS analysis. Within the concentration range of 1–200 ng/mL, the linearity of hirsutine and hirsuteine in plasma was good (r > 0.995), and the lower limit of quantitation was 1 ng/mL. Relative standard deviations of intra-day precision for hirsutine and hirsuteine were ≤6.1% and ≤5.9%, respectively, and those of inter-day precision were ≤6% and ≤7.7%. Accuracy for hirsutine and hirsuteine ranged between 92.3% and 104.8%. Bioavailability of hirsutine and hirsuteine was 4.4% and 8.2%, respectively. The method is sensitive and fast with good selectivity and was successfully applied in the pharmacokinetic studies after intravenous and oral administration of hirsutine and hirsuteine.
Development and validation of a new isocratic RP-HPLC method for simultaneous determination of sodium metabisulfite and sodium benzoate in pharmaceutical formulation
Authors: Ivković B. , Brborić J. , Dobričić V. , Čudina O.
Published: January 2018

A simple and convenient reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method for simultaneous separation, identification, and determination of sodium metabisulfite and sodium benzoate in pharmaceutical formulation has been developed and validated. Chromatographic separation was achieved on RP column Zorbax Extend C-18 (150 × 4.6 mm i.d., 3.5 μm particles), and mixture of 0.1% phosphoric acid and acetonitrile in the ratio 62:38 (v/v) was used as a mobile phase. The flow rate was set at 1.0 mL/min with detection wavelength of 275 nm. The method was successfully validated according to International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines acceptance criteria. The method is selective, as no interferences were observed at retention times corresponding to these analytes. Results of regression analyses (r) and statistical insignificance of calibration curve intercepts (p) proved linearity of the method in defined concentration ranges for sodium metabisulfite and sodium benzoate (0.05–0.15 mg/mL). Relative standard deviations calculated for both analytes in precision testing were below the limits defined for active pharmaceutical ingredients (analysis repeatability: <2%; intermediate precision: <3%). Recovery values were between 98.16% and 101.94%. According to results of robustness testing, chromatographic parameters are not significantly influenced by small variation of acetonitrile content in mobile phase, column temperature, and flow rate. Finally, the method was applied for quantitative determination of investigated preservatives in real sample analysis.