bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of the duration of in vitro maturation and incubation with an activating agent on the hatching capacity of bovine parthenotes - short communication
Authors:   Department of Veterinary Sciences, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Autonomous University of Ciudad Juarez, Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico, Orozco-Lucero Ernesto , Orozco-Galindo Bianca V. , Quintero-Elisea Juan A. , Itza-Ortiz Mateo F. , Chavez-Solano Marbella , Carrera-Chávez José M. , Varela-Ramirez Armando , Quezada-Casasola Andrés
Published: November 2020

The period of both in vitro maturation (IVM) and incubation with oocyte activators affects the blastocyst yield following parthenogenetic activation (PA). Nevertheless, it is still unknown how these conditions impact the expansion and hatching rates of bovine parthenogenetic blastocysts. The objective of this study was to assess the influence of the duration of IVM and exposure to the activating agent, 6-dimethylaminopurine (6-DMAP), on a number of developmental parameters in bovine parthenotes, including: Cleavage, blastocyst formation, expansion, and hatching. Slaughterhouse oocytes were subjected to different periods of IVM. Subsequently, eggs were first parthenogenetically activated for five minutes with ionomycin and then incubated for distinct lengths of time with a second activator, 6-DMAP. The treatments were: a) Control: 22 h IVM/4 h 6-DMAP; b) 22 h IVM/5 h 6-DMAP; c) 24 h IVM/4 h 6-DMAP; and d) 24 h IVM/5 h 6-DMAP. Developmental stages were evaluated at day 4 and day 8 of in vitro culture (IVC). No differences were detected in most developmental parameters. However, the duration of IVM and incubation with 6-DMAP significantly affected (P<0.05) hatching capacity considering the number of blastocysts (Hatch./Blast.). Also, this same variable was higher (P<0.05) in group b) 22 h IVM/5 h 6-DMAP (45.89 ± 12.59%), as compared to c) 24 h IVM/4 h 6-DMAP (6.67 ± 6.67%). In conclusion, the length of IVM and incubation with 6-DMAP influenced parthenogenetic development, where 22 h IVM/5 h 6-DMAP was the condition producing the highest Hatch./Blast. rate in bovine parthenotes.
The Model of Implementation 0f Property Distribution After Divorce of Local Wisdom Perspective in Madura
Authors: Pakendek Adriana , Astutik Anni Puji
Published: November 2020

This study's purpose is to reveal and determine the implementation model of the distribution of marital property after divorce from the perspective of Madurese local wisdom. This research uses the empirical juridical method; according to Ronny Hanitijo Soemitro, a law that is empirically a symptom of society, on the other hand, can be studied as a variable (independent variable) which causes consequences on various aspects of social life. In social studies, the law is not conceptualized as an independent (autonomous) normative phenomenon, but as social institutions which are associated in real terms with other social variables. The results of this study are: a model for the implementation of post-divorce marital property distribution in the perspective of Madurese local wisdom, with the wisdom of distributing marital assets after divorce by distributing them into several models or forms as follows: (1) following the distribution model according to the positive legal arrangement of Indonesia, namely what is regulated in state law and is decided by the Religious Court, that the distribution of marital assets, namely widows or divorced widowers, each has the right to a half of the marital assets as long as it is not stipulated otherwise in other agreements in marriage. Meanwhile, based on the Article 37 of Law Number 1 the Year 1974 concerning the marriage, if the marriage breaks up due to divorce, marital assets is regulated according to their respective laws. Meanwhile, according to the Civil Code (KUH Perdita), Article 128, after the dissolution of marital assets, their marital assets are divided between husband and wife, or between their heirs, without question of which party the goods originated from. (2) the post-divorce model of the distribution of marital assets in the perspective of Madurese local wisdom is based on the wisdom of each individual soul or soul of a divorced husband and wife. The wisdom of each of these minds or souls is partly rooted in the Madurese community, which in this paper is called wisdom. As part of local wisdom in Madura, the distribution of marital assets is carried out by means of mediation (abeq remember) attended by community leaders.
Inji Efflatoun: White Light
Authors: Lenssen Anneka
Published: November 2020

The Egyptian artist Inji Efflatoun (1924-1989) is widely recognized as a major avant-garde figure in Egyptian modernist history as well as a feminist activist who petitioned for women’s suffrage, amendments to family law, and for worker’s rights. Perhaps most famously, she was among the first cohort of women to be arrested as a political prisoner; she served a four-year sentence under President Gamal Abdel Nasser for her work with the Egyptian Communist Party (1959-1963). Most scholarship on Efflatoun has followed the artist’s autobiographical narrative in treating the artist’s dual activities – political action and artistic practice – as essentially opposed. This essay proposes an adjustment to this frame, arguing instead for recognizing the artist’s theoretically-informed response to gendered somatophobia (fear of the body) as a central aspect of both commitments. The essay examines the darkness of Efflatoun’s early surrealist paintings as a pairing with the «white light» of her 1970s paintings, thereby revealing the artist’s ongoing inquiry into possibilities for kinship based on copresence rather than appearance.
Effect of Partial Substitution of Fine Aggregate with Copper Slag on Mechanical and Durability of High Performance Concrete-A Review
Authors:   Associate Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Zakir Husain College of Engineering and Technology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India, Khan Rizwan Ahmad
Published: November 2020

The challenge before the construction industry is to meet the demand of the efficient and economically viable construction materials posed by the huge infrastructural needs. Many nations are observing an expeditious growth in the field of construction necessitating the utilization of natural reserves for the expansion of infrastructure. This expansion is giving a warning to available reserves of nature. The natural ingredients, fine aggregates and coarse aggregate constitute more than 70% volume of the concrete. The availability of these resources is decreasing at a very high pace. In fact due to the severe problem with the availability of natural sand, the construction industry is faced with the pressing need to consider available options to lessen the reliance on natural aggregates. Copper slag being a waste material, can be used as an option for fine aggregates. The substitution of fine aggregate from nature with waste materials from industries such as copper slag offers economic and technical dominance, which are of pronounced significance in the present scenario. This study is, based on the critical review of the development of High Performance Concrete (HPC) by replacing fine aggregate with copper slag by observing various other researches and reviews. The key intent of this paper is to closely look at the copper slag utility as an unconventional material to be used as a substitute of fine aggregate and its effect on mechanical and durability parameters of HPC.
Physico-Chemical Properties of Soil Collected from Chandrabhaga River in Kalmeshwar, Nagpur, Maharashtra
Authors:   Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, Bhalerao Science College, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India, Watkar Amita M
Published: November 2020

Soil, itself means Soul of Infinite Life. Soil is the naturally occurring unconsolidated or loose covering on the earth’s surface. Physical properties depend upon the amount, size, shape, arrangement, and mineral composition of soil particles. It also depends on the organic matter content and pore spaces. Chemical properties depend on the Inorganic and organic matter present in the soil. Soils are the essential components of the environment and foundation resources for nearly all types of land use, besides being the most important component of sustainable agriculture. Therefore, assessment of soil quality and its direction of change with time is an ideal and primary indicator of sustainable agricultural land management. Soil quality indicators refer to measurable soil attributes that influence the capacity of a soil to function, within the limits imposed by the ecosystem, to preserve biological productivity and environmental quality and promote plant, animal and human health. The present study is to assess these soil attributes such as physical and chemical properties season-wise.
Microplastics: Holistic overview of source, identification, interaction, health and environmental implications and strategies of abatement
Authors: Sunday Nworie Felix
Published: November 2020

Microplastic (MP) is currently a subject of discussion in all parts of the world because it has increasingly over the years become the dominant source of pollution in marine ecosystem. Huge number of these Mps emanate from waste management, decommissioning of ships and oil rigs, plastic products in aquaculture and fishery, sewage treatment, consumer products, agricultural production, transportation, offshore oil and gas production and city dust and wears. Microplastic are characteristically non- biodegradable or durable, exhibits buoyancy, travel long distances, complex with toxic chemicals and bioaccumulate being invisible to the human eye. Classification of MPs into primary and secondary based on source and established standard protocols visa-vis the sampling and identification in matrices were critically reviewed. Physicochemical processes for identification of MPs such as pyrolysis-Gas chromatography/Mass spectrometry, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, SEM-GS and TGA/MS were reviewed. Deleterious chemicals such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), dioxins, phthalates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and persistent organic chemicals (POCs) associated with MPs and mechanisms of chelation were appraised. Several menace and health hazards such as hepatic inflammation, genetic mutation, increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) /oxidative stress, tissue necrosis and proliferation of cells linked with MPs were also discussed. Furthermore, green approaches to arresting the menace such as replacing polymer products with biopolymer an eco-friendly alternative, recycling of plastic products, use of paper bags and glass materials and abrogation of consumer products laced with microbeads were advocated.
Apiin-induction of β-apiosidase production by Aspergillus sp. strains
Authors: Karkeszová Klaudia , Illeová Viera , Kis Peter , Mastihuba Vladimír , Polakovič Milan
Published: November 2020

β-Apiosidase is a rare glycosidase applied in winemaking for flavour enhancement. This enzyme is involved in the release of volatile terpenes by hydrolysis of their odourless glycosidic precursors. It is found as a minor component in commercial pectinase/cellulase preparations. Microbial production of β-apiosidase by two Aspergillus sp. strains was investigated. Apiin-induced production of this extracellular glycosidase was confirmed only during the cultivation of Aspergillus niger CBS 554.65 but the high productivity value reported in the work of Dupin et al. (1992) J. Agric. Food Chem. 40(10): 1886—1891 could not be reproduced. The achieved productivity was by far not satisfactory considering the apiin cost. Commercial enzyme preparations with β-apiosidase side-activity thus remain a better alternative as the enzyme source for biocatalytic applications.
Determination of phosphate in water by flow coulometry
Authors: Manová A. , Beinrohr E.
Published: November 2020

In this work, the possibility of flow coulometry application as coulometric titration was studied. The method was used to analyze phosphates in wastewater samples. The principle of the determination consisted in the formation of molybdophosphate and its subsequent one-electron electrolytic reduction. The present method is applicable under optimal conditions in the concentration range of 1.5 × 10−6 to 5.5 × 10−5 mol/dm3. Detection limit of the method is 3.42 × 10−7 mol/dm3. Mineralization step has been proved a problem in total phosphate content determination. If mineralization was not carried out, only inorganic soluble phosphates were determined. It is a new method characterized by its simplicity of instrumentation and handling, which is a prerequisite for its further use in the field of trace analysis.
Ultrasound Proven Monosodium Urate Crystal Deposits in the Joints are Associated with Smaller Kidney Size, Decreased Intrarenal Blood Flow and Arteriosclerotic Type Vascular Changes
Authors: Gancheva R. , Kundurzhiev T. , Kolarov Zl. , Koundurdjiev A.
Published: November 2020

Objective: To establish the association between ultrasound (US) burden with articular MSU crystals and renal morphology, blood supply, function and arteriosclerotic carotid arteries alterations in gout patients, individuals with asymptomatic hyperuricemia and no sign of inflammatory arthritis and psoriatic arthritis subjects with asymptomatic hyperuricemia.

Methods: 121 consecutive patients were included: 85 patients with gout, 27 subjects with asymptomatic hyperuricemia and 9 psoriatic arthritis patients. Subjects underwent US of both kidneys, common carotid arteries and bilateral US of the joints of the hands, elbows, knees, ankles and feet. For intrarenal blood flow we judged by measuring the renal resistive index (RRI). By US of the carotid arteries were determined intima-media thickness (IMT), common carotid artery resistive index (CCARI) and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques was registered.

Results: Individuals with articular US MSU deposits compared to those without had higher RRI (p = 0.035) and smaller kidney size (p = 0.014), but renal parenchymal thickness (p = 0.893), echogenicity (p = 0.291), IMT (p = 0.165), CCARI (p = 0.097), the frequency of nephrolithiasis (p = 0.438) and atherosclerotic plaques (p = 0.830) were similar. Subjects with US evidence of MSU crystals in two or more joint regions had the highest RRI (p = 0.002) and CCARI (p = 0.019). Compared to gout patients the risk of MSU crystal accumulation in the joints of asymptomatic hyperuricemia group was lower by 82.7%, OR = 0.173 (95% CI; 0.060 – 0.498, p = 0.001), while in psoriatic arthritis patients the risk was lower by 82%, OR = 0.180 (95% CI; 0.038-0.861, p = 0.032).

Conclusions: This study points out that subjects with larger extent of articular MSU burden have greater vascular stiffness. The accumulation of MSU crystals in the joints may be associated with the accumulation of crystals mainly in the renal interstitium.
Biatrial Thromboembolism with Paradoxical Embolism Through Persistent Foramen Ovale
Authors: Petrova V. , Petrova D. , Vekov T. , Georgiev A. , Danov V.
Published: November 2020

We present a case of a biatrial thrombus penetrating through the PFO against the background of massive bilateral pulmonary thromboembolism in a 75-year-old patient. Because of the rare condition, there are no literature data on consensus treatment. Due to the patient’s clinical status and the results of the diagnostic tests, for the specific clinical case was made a decision for emergency surgical thrombectomy with PFO closure.
Clinical Case: SARS-CoV-2 Reactivation After a Heavy Workout
Authors: Marchev S. , Hadzhimineva N. , Simidchiev A.
Published: November 2020

We present a clinical case of a patient with reactivation of SARS-CoV-2 infection after strenuous exercise in the gym. Reactivation of the virus was confirmed after detecting SARS-CoV-2 in a nasopharyngeal swab sample using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The clinical symptoms of the patient – fever and shortness of breath, as well as the presence of IgM antibodies further confirmed the diagnosis. The subjective complaints of persistent shortness of breath for more than a few weeks were noted.
Diabetes Risk Profile for an Argeş County Adult Sample – Findrisc Score Characteristics
Authors: Roşescu Ruxandra , Cînpeanu Oana Cristina , Teodorescu Claudiu , Tarcea Monica
Published: November 2020

The prevalence of diabetes has doubled in the last 4 decades in Romania. Our goal was to identify the risk profile in a group of Argeş county patients based on the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC) score and main variables analysed. Our study was based on a pilot study on a group of 103 patients. The Finnish Diabetes Risk Score was used to calculate the risk of developing diabetes for our patients. In our group, the FINDRISC score was not statistically significantly correlated with body mass index, but was statistically significantly correlated with hypertriglyceridemia, low HDL-Cholesterol levels, hyperuricemia, hyperglycemia, and hypertension. The older you get, the higher your risk of developing diabetes. The present study demonstrates the importance of lifestyle in terms of the risk of developing diabetes, supporting the need to implement more effective health education measures on a balanced lifestyle and establishing interdisciplinary mechanisms of collaboration between physician, nutritionist and psychologist to promote health.
Musculoskeletal Pain Evaluation: McGill Pain Questionnaire Versus Multidimensional Pain Evaluation Scale
Authors: Boţan Adriana , Chiş Monica , Copotoiu Sanda-Maria
Published: November 2020

The first and most important step in pain management is to correctly assess it. Short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire-2(SF-MPQ-2) and Multidimensional Pain Evaluation Scale (MPES) are valid and reliable tools used in clinical practice and research. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments applied for pain relief. 27 patients were included in the study, of which 12 were outpatients and 15 were inpatients. Statistical and clinical significant differences were obtained only for the inpatient group on the MPES (p=0.00, difference between means=3.07) and for 3 out of 4 domains of the SF-MPQ-2 (p=0.01, 0.01 and 0.00 and the difference between means=2.60, 2.00 and 2.20 for continuous pain, neuropathic pain and affective descriptors, respectively). Outcomes of pain management are better for inpatients due to a combination of analgesic drugs with physical medicine and rehabilitation procedures and a strict monitoring during their hospitalization.
Reconstruction of a Lower Lip Defect with Bilateral Nasolabial Musculocutaneous Flap. Case Report
Authors: Helgiu Alina
Published: November 2020

Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common form of malignant tumour in the lower lip and its radical excision sometimes leads to complex defects. The treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the lower lip is mainly surgical and consists of complete excision of the tumour, followed by immediate reconstruction. Although the nasolabial flap is a common flap used in the reconstruction of facial defects, it is an underestimated option in the reconstruction of the lower lip. We describe the reconstruction of a large defect of the lower lip that includes the bilateral commissures and ¼ of the upper lip, left side, in a 76-year-old male patient. Bilateral musculocutaneous nasolabial flap was used, with good functional results and an acceptable cosmetic result. We believe that the nasolabial flap is a good alternative for large lip defects both for patients with an affected general condition, but also as an alternative to existing flaps.
Giant Uterine Leiomyoma in a Young Woman as an Accidental Finding Due to an Ultrasound for Digestive Symptoms Caused by Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Gastritis – A Case Report
Authors: Laslo Alexandru
Published: November 2020

Uterine leiomyoma is the most common benign tumour encountered in female genital pathology. It originates from the level of the smooth muscle tissue, and from the morphological point of view, the tumour is well delimited, being surrounded by a pseudocapsule. We report a case of a 46-year old woman who, following a CT scan performed for epigastric abdominal pain and nausea, showed a dense bulky tumour formation, with multiple hyperdense inclusions inside and well-defined areas of necrosis, with maximum axial diameters of 133/168/249 mm (LL / AP / CC), having as a starting point most likely the uterine upper pole. A total hysterectomy is performed, with bilateral anexectomy, and the histopathological examination describes a giant subserosal leiomyofibroma of the uterus with signs of hyaline degeneration, left hydrosalpinx with strong stasis of the left tube, follicular hemorrhagic cysts of the left ovary.
The “Sitting” Position and Its Implications in Dental Technology. General Aspects of Improving the Quality of Life - Part I
Authors: Burcea Claudia-Camelia , Perieanu Mădălina Violeta , Perieanu Viorel Ştefan , Burlibaşa Mihai , Tănase Gabriela , Ionescu Camelia , Babiuc Iuliana , Cristache Corina Marilena , Costea Radu , Donciu Irina , Oancea Luminiţa , Ionescu Ileana , Marcov Elena-Cristina , Maliţa Mădălina , Beuran Irina Adriana
Published: November 2020

Specifically, maintaining a prolonged sitting position is considered to be associated with an increased risk of musculoskeletal disorders in the back, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, hips, knees and legs. The purpose of this study is to generate data, which can be used to support decisions on improving the health of dental technicians, whose basic activity is carried out in a sitting position at the work table, in order to improve the quality of life. Implementation of ergonomic measures, in the area where professional activities directly affect the physical and mental health of the employee, is of great importance.
The dynamics of agri-food trade between the EU28 and East African Community (EAC)
Authors: Zdráhal Ivo , Verter Nahanga , Bečvářová Věra
Published: November 2020

The increasing number of regional blocs and interdependence of nations have become important aspects of global economic integration. The European Union (EU28) as one of the most advanced regional bodies has had preferential trade agreements with other regional bodies, such as the East African Community (EAC). Historically, the EU28 has been the EAC’s leading trading partner. Against this background, this paper analyses the dynamics of bilateral trade in agri-food between the two regional blocs for the period 2000–2018, using the battery of empirical tools.

The findings indicate that even though the EU has finalised trade agreements with the EAC, it holds on the region regarding trade has diminished. The EAC bloc has diversified its trading partners (to other African countries, India and China) beyond the EU28 markets. The results further reveal that the EU28 has comparative advantages in 32 out of 46 agri-food products in trading with EAC. The export concentration ratios show the EU28 slightly concentrated more in exporting products to the EAC than EAC to the Union. The BCG findings reveal (un)competitive and/or promising (dropping) products in export structures of both regions. By and large, the results indicate certain shifts in the comparative advantage, specialisation/diversification of exports and competitiveness of specific products on the bilateral level between EU28 and EAC. Policymakers, especially from EAC should continue to create enabling environments to stimulate food processing, trade and monitor changes in trade patterns or shocks within the framework of the Partnership Agreement.
Life cycle assessment of fermented milk: yogurt production
Authors: Ghinea Cristina , Leahu Ana
Published: November 2020

Yogurt is a fermented milk product, resulted through milk acidification by lactic acid bacteria, highly appreciated worldwide. In this study, life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology was applied for modelling of environmental impacts associated with yogurt production. The system boundaries include the following activities: milk processing, transport, solid waste and wastewater treatments. Functional unit set for this study is 1 kg of produced yogurt. The input and output data were collected from various sources like reports, databases, legislation. All these data were used further in the impact assessment stage performed with GaBi software which includes LCA methods like CML2001 - Jan. 2016, ReCiPe 1.08, UBP 2013, EDIP 2003 and others. Results showed that the global warming potential (GWP) determined for yogurt was 2.92 kg CO2 eq. per kg of yogurt, while acidification potential (AP) was approximately 0.014 kg SO2 eq. per kg of yogurt. It was observed that the main contributor to all impact categories is consumption of electricity during the yogurt production, mainly in the pasteurization, evaporation and cooling stages. 61.4% of the emissions resulted from transportation of raw materials contributes to GWP, while 38.3% to photochemical ozone creation potential (POCP). Emissions from wastewater treatment are contributing especially to the eutrophication potential (EP), while emission from solid waste landfilling are contributing mainly to POCP.
Dietary effect of Saccharomyces cerevisiae with or without molasses in rice husk based-diet on performance and health status of goats
Authors: Arilekolasi T. A. , Omotoso O. B. , Faluyi O. B. , Fajemisin A. N. , Alokan J. A.
Published: November 2020

This study was conducted to investigate the impact of introducing Saccharomyces cerevisiae with or without molasses in a diet based on rice husk on the health status of goats. Thirty (30) West African Dwarf (WAD) goats with mean weight of 10.46 ± 0.06 kg were randomly allotted to five dietary treatments of six goats per treatment in a completely randomized design experiment for 84 days. The goats were fed five formulated diets of rice husks anaerobically fermented for 7days with S. cerevisiae with or without molasses at graded levels. Nutrient composition of feed, daily nutrient intake, apparent digestibility coefficients, weekly weight gain/change by the goats were evaluated. At the end of the feeding trial, faeces, urine and blood samples were collected and analysed using standard procedures. The efficacy of the diet containing a combination of S. cerevisiae and molasses in ratio 1:1 as a feed additive, coupled with fermentation was proven by the concomitant reduction in fibre content. All the growth criteria (feed intake, live weight gain and feed conversion ratio), blood profiles and serum minerals measured favoured goats fed this Diet 3. No mortality was recorded during the trial. Conclusively, introducing S. cerevisiae with molasses at equi-ratio nutritionally enhances optimal rice husk utilization in goats’ nutrition and supported productive performance and their health status.
Active ingredients from oil by-products modulate spleen inflammatory and antioxidant response in pigs
Authors: Taranu Ionelia , Gras Mihail Alexandru , Habeanu Mihaela , Pistol Gina Cecilia , Lefter Nicoleta , Palade Mihai Laurentiu , Ropota Mariana , Chedea Veronica Sanda , Marin Daniela E.
Published: November 2020

Grape seed cakes (GSC) resulted from grape seed oil extraction represent a by-product rich in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, polyunsaturated fatty acids, fibres, minerals, vitamins etc known for their beneficial anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-oxidative and immune-modulatory effects. In the present study, we have investigated the effects of dietary grape seed cakes bioactive compounds on several anti-inflammatory and antioxidative biomarkers in spleen of pigs during fattening phase. Twelve crossbred TOPIG hybrid fattening pigs were allocated to two experimental treatments: 1) commercial diet (control group) and 2) a diet including 5% grape seed cakes (GSC group) for 24 days. At the end of experimental period (day 24) pigs were sacrificed and spleen samples were collected and stored at –80°C until analysis. The results showed that GSC diet lowered the gene expression as well as the protein concentration of pro-inflammatory markers: interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β, -52.66%, p<0.05) and interferon gamma (IFN-γ, -42.13%, p<0.05) and had a tendency to decrease that of interleukin 6 (IL-6, -13.25%), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α, -9.06%) and interleukin 8 (IL-8, -11.08%) when compared to control diet confirming the anti-inflammatory properties of GSC’s active ingredients. The total splenic antioxidant capacity (TEAC) and gene expression of antioxidant enzymes (catalase-CAT and glutathione peroxidase-GPx) were higher in spleen of pigs fed GSC diet than in control group suggesting also the antioxidative potential of GSC. The results related to the molecular mechanism showed a higher expression of gene encoding for PPAR-γ and for Nrf2 in spleen of pigs receiving the GSC diet (Fc 1.81 and 1.58) suggesting that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect of this diet is probably exerted by PPAR-γ and Nrf2 pathway. Further, other percent of dietary GSC inclusion need to be investigated in order to obtain a more complex response related to biomarkers which characterise the fattening/obesity process.
Development of Alternative Tourism in Kosovo – Peja Region
Authors: Kuq Bekë , Elezaj Elvis , Hasanaj Petrit
Published: November 2020

In the concept of alternative tourism, the dynamic growth of cultural tourism can be explained by the fast growth of demand for trips to various cultural attractions and amenities. Alternative tourism is a form of tourism that is not well-known and promoted in our country, but which presents high economic development potential. Alternative tourism is based on the use of natural potentials and cultural heritage and encourages interaction with nature, people and community. Peja District is an important tourist destination in Kosovo especially in rural areas, which are popular and frequently visited by local visitors and tourists from the European Union. History, culture and tradition are the main sources of tourism development in Peja region. The position of extension, the protected environment, the fertile lands, etc. are the elements that identify the city of Peja as a tourist town, which is visited throughout the year by visitors from different countries. Such tourism will be just green, sensitive, progressive, harmonious, responsible, eco, community; all characteristics fall under the heading “alternative tourism”. The goal of the paper is to provide readers with knowledge about alternative tourism in Peja municipality.
Analysis and Design of 10-Element Yagi-Uda Antenna
Authors: Abdulhamid Mohanad
Published: November 2020

The main aim of this paper is to come up with a 10-element Ultra High Frequency (UHF) aerial with optimal spacing that gives clear TV reception. A Yagi antenna is chosen for this study due to its high directionality, broadband capability, high gain and the availability of materials locally. An attempt is made to simulate the entire antenna and test it on a Samsung TV set.
New Perspectives in Developing the Balance Scorecard Concept
Authors: Marcu Gheorghe
Published: November 2020

The main role for researchers and organizational theorists is to translate their statements and principles into practical tools applicable in the management activity. Sometimes, these tools used in managerial practice are not rigorously developed and applied, some eventually contradicting the initial assumptions. However, most of the times, the concepts go through a natural cycle of developing, harmonizing and refining their own statements and demonstrations, with the support of the authors and / or other researchers. Also, the manifestation in management of any action that claims the increase of the performances in the financial or non-financial fields must be accompanied by a set of measuring and evaluation tools. Robert Kaplan and David Norton are best known as the originators of the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) concept which adds to the managerial equation the imperative necessity of aligning the individual and organizational effort with the organizational vision and strategic objectives, in a whole defined by four perspectives: financial, customer and stakeholder, internal processes and organizational capacity of learning and growth. Balanced Scorecard is a concept used in private and public sector organizations, used to point / highlight the vision, missions, strategic goals of an organization, to evaluate the performance of strategic management and to be used as a tool as well effective internal communication. Over the time, like any other concept in the field of social sciences, BSC goes through a continuous process of adaptation and improvement of its own statements, methods and tools.
Tactical Scenarios and Essential Requirements for the Missions of Subunits in the Context of the Current Security Environment
Authors: Văidean Gligor
Published: November 2020

In the context of conflicts and threats specific to the security environment generated by the political, military, economic, social, technological and cultural challenges, as well as the obvious threat of the new COVID-19 virus to public health presented in the previous subchapter, we consider it imperative that we understand both the role of the military organization and the process by which the list of essential requirements for fulfilling the mission of the military organization is identified and established (Mission Essential Task List-METL). The identification of the relevant tactical scenarios, built on real facts extracted from the current world context, the analysis of the combat capacity of the subunits contributes to the realistic and adequate elaboration of a framework for the missions of the subunits.
Mycorrhizal symbiosis of alien and invasive tree species
Authors: Wilgan Robin
Published: November 2020

The introduction of alien tree species has become a world wide phenomenon over the last centuries and the cultivation of these species is an economically important branch of forestry in many countries. However, the cultivation of alien plant species poses the threat of introducing potentially invasive species, both trees and its mutualistic symbionts, such as mycorrhizal fungi. Mycorrhizal fungi are obligatory symbionts and a key element in the proper development and functioning of trees. It is thought that mycorrhizal fungi may also profoundly influence the invasiveness of alien tree species worldwide, with the proper fungal species acting as a driver to make this invasion possible. Co-invasion of alien trees and its mutualistic symbionts are well-known in the case of pines and co-invading ectomycorrhizal fungi in the southern hemisphere.

Invasive tree species constitute a major ecological and economic problem through intense competition and modification of local habitats leading to a decline in biodiversity and potentially threatening many rare, native and endangered species, including fungi. Despite the fundamental role that fungi have in the functioning of forests, the impact alien tree species could have on mycorrhizal fungi in native forest ecosystems has not received much attention.

Understanding the relationships between mycorrhizal fungi and alien tree species can allow us to better predict and counter- act alien species invasions, which is necessary in order to maintain biodiversity and preserve native ecosystems. On top of that, climate change could threaten some European tree species and thus free ecological niches for other species, like alien, invasive or potentially invasive trees.
Drug-Induced Acute Tubulointerstitial Nephritis
Authors: Rădulescu Daniela
Published: November 2020

Nowadays, incidence of drug-induced acute tubulointerstitial nephritis is on the rise due to increased access of the patients to a variety of both prescribed and over-the-counter drugs. Acute kidney injury and hypersensitivity manifestations are the main features of acute tubulointerstitial nephritis.

Classically considered reversible after prompt withdrawal of the offending medication, recent decades revealed potential for evolution to chronic kidney disease. This article presents the challenges in the diagnosis and treatment and also evolutive features of allergic acute tubulointerstitial nephritis induced by drugs.
Identical STEMI Pattern in Two Siblings with Different Risk Factors
Authors: Gerculy Renata , Libenciuc Camelia , Rat Nora , Kovacs Istvan , Chitu Monica , Benedek Imre , Benedek Theodora
Published: November 2020

Environmental factors may have an important role in the development of coronary heart disease. However, it is not clearly understood yet how the genetic factors interplay with the environmental ones in the onset of acute myocardial infarction. The early onset of coronary artery disease in cases with a positive family history suggests a certain role of genetic predisposition, but the open question remains: could environmental differences contribute to this predisposition? This case report describes similar coronary angiographic findings of two brothers who developed acute myocardial infarction in their early 40s, after being exposed to different environmental risk factors.
Left Ventricular Assist Device-Related Complications
Authors: Clement Alexandra , Anghel Larisa , Sascău Radu , Stătescu Cristian
Published: November 2020

Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) has emerged as a safe, durable, and revolutionary therapy for end-stage heart failure patients. Despite the appearance of newer-generation devices that have improved patient outcomes, the burden of adverse events remains significant. Although the survival rate for patients with LVAD is appreciated to be 81% at 1 year and 70% at 2 years, the incidence of adverse events is also high. Over time, both early and late postimplant complications have diminished in terms of prevalence and impact; however, complications, such as infections, bleeding, right heart failure, pump thrombosis, aortic insufficiency, or stroke, continue to represent a challenge for the practitioner. Therefore, the aim of this review is to highlight the most recent data regarding the current use of LVAD in the treatment of end-stage heart failure, with a specific focus on LVAD-related complications, in order to improve device-related outcomes. It will also revise how to mitigate the risk and how to approach specific adverse events. Withal, understanding the predisposing risk factors associated with postimplant complications, early recognition and appropriate treatment help to significantly improve the prognosis for patients with end-stage heart failure.
Myocardial Injury and Myocarditis in SARS-CoV-2 Patients
Authors: Libenciuc Camelia , Licu Răzvan-Andrei , Hodas Roxana , Chitu Monica , Benedek Imre
Published: November 2020

Myocarditis is one of the relatively common complications of respiratory infection with SARSCoV-2. As several patients confirmed with the new SARS-CoV-2 are known with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and data from the literature show negative prognosis and a higher risk of complications, this subgroup of subjects represents a particular situation. Therefore, an adequate understanding of the mechanisms involved in myocardial injury and interaction between COVID-19 and CVD is essential for optimal further management. Studies have proved that in COVID-19 patient myocarditis is determined via three pathological mechanisms of cardiomyocyte injury: direct viral cell entry and binding to ACE2, vasculitis-mediated injury, and systemic inflammatory response leading to pro-inflammatory cytokine discharge. Studies show that the incidence of myocarditis in patients with SARS-CoV-2 is relatively low, 4.8%, but myocardial damage occurs in more than 25% of critical cases in the form of acute fulminant myocarditis with severe hemodynamic degradation, or develops when the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection intensifies. The mortality rate in myocarditis from COVID-19 infection ranges between 50–70%, with poorer prognosis and a higher risk of complications in CVD patients. As in all of these cases increased troponin and natriuretic peptide levels proved to be a negative prognostic factor, for risk stratification and prompt treatment, cardiac biomarkers should be evaluated in all patients with COVID-19.
Allergies in Dental Practice – Questionnaire-Based Study
Authors: Lőrincz Hajnal , Kovács Henrietta Zsófia , Kerekes-Máthé Bernadette
Published: November 2020

Background: Allergy is one of the most widespread diseases in this century. Allergy-causing materials used in dentistry are most frequently metals, such as nickel, cobalt, palladium, and amalgam, certain components of dental composites, denture resin materials, and even certain mouthwash components. The aim of this study was to assess dentists’ experience regarding allergies occurring in their practice among patients and among dental team members.

Material and methods: We conducted a questionnaire-based study, in which 104 dentists responded.

Results: Immediate allergic reactions were more often caused by different drugs, detergents, and anesthetics, while delayed allergic reactions were mostly caused by acrylates. Allergic reactions occurred more often among women than men, but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.3).

Conclusions: Our results suggest that allergies in dentistry appear mainly among adults, caused mostly by acrylates, metals, and different drugs. Immediate allergic reactions are often present, and mostly women are susceptible to allergies.
A Case of Acute Myocardial Injury – MINOCA or Myocarditis?
Authors: Libenciuc Camelia , Licu Răzvan-Andrei , Kovacs Istvan , Chitu Monica , Benedek Imre
Published: November 2020

Myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) has been defined as clinical presentation of an acute coronary syndrome with laboratory evidence of myocardial necrosis, but with coronary stenosis of less than 50% on coronary angiography. On the other side, myocarditis is an inflammatory response triggered by viral, bacterial, fungal, lymphocytic, eosinophilic, or autoimmune myocardial injury, which may be associated with elevated myocardial necrosis serum biomarkers. We present the case of a young male patient with acute chest pain, ST-segment elevation, and high-sensitivity troponin levels of 22,162 ng/L.
Connecting hillslope and runoff generation processes in the Ethiopian Highlands: The Ene-Chilala watershed
Authors: Addisie Meseret B. , Ayele Getaneh K. , Hailu Nigus , Langendoen Eddy J. , Tilahun Seifu A. , Schmitter Petra , Parlange J.-Yves , Steenhuis Tammo S.
Published: November 2020

Effective watershed planning requires an understanding of the hydrology. In the humid tropical monsoon climates and especially in volcanic highland regions such as the Ethiopian Highlands, the understanding of watershed processes is incomplete. The objective is to better understand the hydrology of the volcanic regions in the humid highlands by linking the hillslope processes with the discharge at the outlet. The Ene-Chilala watershed was selected for this study. The infiltration rate, piezometric water levels and discharge from two nested sub watersheds and at the watershed outlet were measured during a four-year period. Infiltration rates on the hillsides exceeded the rainfall intensity most of the time. The excess rain recharged a perched hillside aquifer. Water flowed through the perched aquifer as interflow to rivers and outlet. In addition, saturation excess overland flow was generated in the valley bottoms. Perched water tables heights were predicted by summing up the recharge over the travel time from the watershed divide. Travel times ranged from a few days for piezometers close to the divide to 40 days near the outlet. River discharge was simulated by adding the interflow from the upland to overland flow from the saturated valley bottom lands. Overland flow accounted only for one-fourth of the total flow. There was good agreement between predicted and observed discharge during the rain phase therefore the hillslope hydrologically processes were successfully linked with the discharge at the outlet.
An empirical model for describing the influence of water content and concentration of sulfamethoxazole (antibiotic) in soil on the total net CO2 efflux
Authors: Fér Miroslav , Kodešová Radka , Kalkušová Barbora , Klement Aleš , Nikodem Antonín
Published: November 2020

The aim of the study was to describe the impact of the soil water content and sulfamethoxazole, SUL, (antibiotic) concentration in soil on the net CO2 efflux. Soil samples were taken from topsoils of a Haplic Fluvisol and Haplic Chernozem. Soil samples were packed into the steel cylinders. The net CO2 efflux was measured from these soil columns after application of fresh water or SUL solution at different soil water contents. The experiments were carried out in dark at 20°C. The trends in the net CO2 efflux varied for different treatments. While initially high values for water treatment exponentially decreased in time, values for solution treatment increased during the first 250–650 minutes and then decreased. The total net CO2 effluxes measured for 20 hours related to the soil water content followed the second order polynomial functions. The maximal values were measured for the soil water content of 0.15 cm3 cm−3 (Haplic Fluvisol with water or solution, Haplic Chernozem with solution) and 0.11 cm3 cm−3 (Haplic Chernozem with water). The ratios between values measured for solution and water at the same soil water contents exponentially increased with increasing SUL concentration in soils. This proved the increasing stimulative influence of SUL on soil microbial activity.
Leonard Horner in Bonn 1831–1833, finding loess and being incorporated into Lyell’s Loess Legion
Authors: Smalley Ian
Published: November 2020

Leonard Horner (1785–1864) was a pioneer in the study of loess. His 1836 paper on the geology of Bonn contained detailed descriptions of loess in the Rhine valley. He identified and presented loess as an interesting material for geological study. He investigated loess in the crater of the Rodderberg with Charles Lyell in 1833. He presented the first significant paper on loess in Britain in 1833, but it was not published until 1836. With the assistance of G.A. Goldfuss and J.J. Noegerath he conducted early studies of the Siebengebirge and published the first geological map of the region, and the first picture of loess, at Rhondorf by the Drachenfels. He became the eleventh person to be included in the list of loess scholars which Charles Lyell published in volume 3 of the Principles of Geology. These were Leonhard, Bronn, Boue, Voltz, Steininger, Merian, Rozet, Hibbert in 1833, Noeggerath, von Meyer in 1835, Horner in 1837. Horner arrived after the publication of his studies on the loess at Bonn in 1836.
Sum of the spaces on ordered setting
Authors: Al-shami T. M.
Published: November 2020

One of the divergences between topology and ordered topology is that some topological concepts such as separation axioms and continuous maps are defined using open neighborhoods or neighborhoods without any difference, however, they are distinct on the ordered topology according to the neighborhoods: Are they open neighborhoods or not? In this paper, we present the concept of sum of the ordered spaces using pairwise disjoint topological ordered spaces and study main properties. Then, we introduce the properties of ordered additive, finitely ordered additive and countably ordered additive which associate topological ordered spaces with their sum. We prove that the properties of being T

i
-ordered and strong T

i
-ordered spaces are ordered additive, however, the properties of monotonically compact and ordered compact spaces are finitely ordered additive. Also, we define a mapping between two sums of the ordered spaces using mappings between the ordered spaces and deduce some results related to some types of continuity and homeomorphism. We complete this work by determining the conditions under which a topological ordered space is sum of the ordered spaces.