bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Physical-Chemical Indexes, Sugars, Pigments and Phenolic Compounds of Fruits from Three Apple Varieties at the End of Storage Period
Authors: Muresan Andruta Elena , Muste Sevastita , Borsa Andrei , Vlaic Romina Alina , Muresan Vlad
Published: December 2016

Apples are the most cultivated and consumed fruits in the world. They not only taste great, but there are also rich sources of monosaccharides, pigments, fibers, functional compounds such as polyphenols which are well-known for their antioxidant action. Due to the high level of apples consumption, it is important to monitor and know the detailed chemical composition of this fruits on the market shelf. The aim of this paper was to study the detailed chemical composition of apples from three varieties. Samples from three varieties (Ionathan, Golden Delicious and Starkrimson) were taken from the Romanian market. Individual sugars composition was performed by HPLC, total polyphenols content by Folin Ciocalteu method, antioxidant capacity by using the DPPH test, while pigments were analysed by spectrophotometric specific methods and the total starch content measured by a polarimetric method. Water content, acidity, total soluble solids and pH were also monitored through specific methods. There were found differences between varieties particularly in relation to the polyphenols content, carotenoids and chlorophyll. Regarding the individual sugars composition, fructose and glucose were predominant followed by sucrose for all samples. Values of starch, moisture, acidity, total soluble solids and the pH were according to other apple varieties found in literature. These results provide important information regarding the chemical composition of apple varieties from Romanian market, for both human direct consumption and industrial processing.
Use of Rice and Soy Flour in Obtaining Assortment "Pogăcele with Cracklings"
Authors: SALANTA Liana Claudia , MAN Simona , TOFANA Maria , PAUCEAN Adriana , ORBAN Margit , POP Carmen R. , NAGY Melinda
Published: December 2016

„Pogăcele with cracklings” are a traditional Transylvanian product, highly valued by consumers, they are usually served as appetizers or snacks. The purpose of this study was to optimize the classical recipe of „Pogăcele with cracklings” by gluten free-flours and wheat grass addition to a contribution of bioactive compounds. Two experimental (V2 and V3) variants, obtained by substituting wheat flour with 30% of soy and rice flour were obtained. The addition of soy and rice flour in the traditional product improved its sensory and nutritional qualities. The results showed that the V3 achieved the highest degree of acceptability. Also, comparative with V1 this variant recorded a decrease of fats content and an increase of protein and ash.
Development of functional beverage from wheat grass juice
Authors: SALANTA Liana Claudia , TOFANA Maria , DOMOKOS Boglarka , SOCACI Sonia A. , POP Carmen R. , FARCAS Anca C.
Published: December 2016

The juice from wheat grass is called "green blood" and is an excellent detoxifying, facilitating the elimination of toxins and fats from body. In the form of fresh juice, it has high concentrations of chlorophyll, active enzymes, vitamins and other nutrients. The aim of this work was the development and characterization of a functional beverage from green wheat juice by adding apple and limes. The antioxidant capacity, vitamin C, polyphenols and flavonoids content were quantified by using spectrophotometry. The final product was pasteurized and evaluated by the content of bioactive compounds during storage at intervals of 7 and 14 days. During storage there were found slight decreases of the contents of bioactive compounds. The juice obtained has a sweet-sour taste, a unique flavor and a very pleasant smell. This product targets all categories of consumers and represents an ideal morning snack for those who are concerned about a healthy lifestyle.
The Bioavailability of Astaxanthin Is Dependent on Both the Source and the Isomeric Variants of the Molecule
Authors: MIMOUN-BENARROCH Myriam , HOGOT Cindy , RHAZI Larbi , NIAMBA Claude Narcisse , DEPEINT Flore
Published: December 2016

Astaxanthin is a marine carotenoid that has a number of potential health benefits, including a very strong antioxidant potential. Present in the flesh of salmonids and shellfish, its natural sources currently on the market for food supplements come from the algae Haematococcus pluvialis and krill. However other natural sources can be found and may be of interest. Cellular uptake studies were performed on Caco-2/TC7 colonic cells. The cells were cultured on a semi-permeable membrane to create a polarized and functional epithelium, representative of the intestinal barrier. Four sources of astaxanthin were selected and compared; synthetic, natural extracts from bacteria, algae or yeast. Astaxanthin was incorporated at a concentration of 5µM into mixed micelles and applied to cultured cells and concentration of astaxanthin measured by HPLC in both apical and basolateral compartments. Small variations in bioavailability were observed at 3 hours. After 6 hours, only the algae source of astaxanthin was still present in the apical compartment as the esterified form. Structure-activity relationships are further discussed. Animal experiments using yeast and algae sources in different types of matrices confirm the role of source and formulation in the bioavailability potential of astaxanthin.
The Content in Bioactive Compounds of Different Brewers' Spent Grain Aqueous Extracts
Authors: FARCAS Anca , SOCACI Sonia , TOFANA Maria , MUDURA Elena , SALANTA Liana
Published: December 2016

In the last decade by-products of food and beverage processing have attracted much attention due to their functionality and potential as food ingredients. Brewers’ spent grain is the major by-product of the brewing industry representing a valuable source of bioactive ingredients. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of extraction time and temperature on the efficiency of water as solvent for the extraction of bioactive compounds from brewers’ spent grain (BSG). In terms of extraction efficiency, the results from polyphenols, flavonoids and antioxidant activity, showed that the best extraction parameters for aqueous extracts are 90⁰C and 60 minutes. In comparison with the control, the best extraction method generated 87% of the phenolics and 43.46% of the flavonoids obtained by a methanol extraction. The preliminary results for the aqueous extracts showed that water can be used as extraction solvent, but a higher extraction time and temperature are needed in order to have a content in bioactive compounds similar to that of methanolic extracts. The obtained values for polyphenols, flavonoids and antioxidant activity, emphasize the importance and the opportunities of the reuse of this agro-industrial waste.
Fingerprinting Food Supplements and Their Botanical Ingredients by Coupled UV/Vis/FTIR Spectrometry
Authors: Baciu Anca , Ranga Floricuta , Fetea Florinela , Zavoi Simona , Socaciu Carmen
Published: December 2016

Medicinal plants are used as ingredients for a large variety of herbal supplements. Their quality and safety versus efficacy, according to present legal requirements, need to meet the minimum quality criteria to support their use. Specific biomarkers to evaluate and screen their authenticity are phenolic derivatives, phtosterols, lipids or alkaloids. We report here the data obtained  for  two herbal food supplements (A and B) obtained from  different mixtures of plants: Taraxacum officinalis, Cynara scolimus Silybum marianum as ingredients for product A)  and Hypericum perforatum, Chelidonium majus and Lycopodium clavatum as ingredients for product B). The combination of UV-Vis and FTIR spectrometry allowed a specific fingerprint of biomarkers in individual plants and derived supplements ( A and B), by discriminating the specific areas and peaks of individual plants and  mixtures, the significant differences between the methanolic and water extracts. The data were compared using chemometry ( PCA and Cluster analysis). Using Vis spectrometry combined with FTIR  peak intensities at 1732 cm-1 and calibration with gallic acid,  the total phenolics concentrations ranged from 5.31 to 9.58 mg gallic acid eq/ml methanol, with a positive and significant correlation between the two methods (R2= 0.979). The phenolics’ concentration were 2.5 to 4 times lower in water extracts comparing with methanol extracts of  products A and B.  Finally, we assume that herbal supplements can be adequately characterized for their quality and safety by combined UV-Vis spectrometry/FTIR spectrometry, with good, fast and cheap informations about the main biomarkers of authenticity.
Chemical Bonds of Cations in Grapevine Berries and Stems of Some Important Cultivars of Vitis vinifera (L.) and Their Relevance for Viticulture and Enology
Authors: Schaller Klaus , Lehnhart Ruth
Published: December 2016

Cations are essential for plant growth, tissue build-up and its stabilization. Divalent cations are necessary for cell wall stability and other interstitial tissues. They may be cross-linked with pectins or form looser ionic bindings. This is of importance for grape processing during the technical operations of juice extraction. Monovalent ions are more involved in vacuolar homeostasis and pH stabilization.With a specific extraction procedure H2O-soluble, 1N NaCl-soluble, 2% CH3COOH-soluble, and 5% HCl-soluble fractions as well as the total content of K, Ca, and Mg were analyzed in grapevine berries and stems. The monovalent K is only found in the water and the NaCl fraction; both in berries and stems. But only 50-60% of the total K can be extracted with both solutes. The divalent cation Ca is found in all four fractions with differing amounts, but water soluble Ca is in most cases highest. Ca may also have an indicator value for BSN, because the water soluble fraction is lowest in the most susceptible variety. Mg is not found in HCl fraction.An analysis of variance shows that the varieties have a significant influence on nutrient distribution in different tissues. It seems that the relation Ca/Mg (NaCl fraction) in stems is a good indicator for BSN because susceptible varieties show lower ratios than resistant ones. Some more research is necessary to clear up this possible relationship.
New Varieties of Topinambour (Helianthus tuberosus) Obtained at V.R.D.S. Buzau
Authors: Vinatoru Costel , Zamfir Bianca , Bratu Camelia
Published: December 2016

Introduction: It is not known precisely the introduction of this species in our country, most research indicates XVI century but there are opinions that consider that this species is present in our country since the Dacian times.Until now has not been cultivated on a large area and it has not been obtained a distinct biological Romanian variety. It can be said that this species has been neglected until now as vegetable crop. This crop gives a high yield in tubers, it grows better in poor soils than most crops, and it is resistant to pests and common plant diseases as well as to cold temperatures (Kosaric, N.,1994). Selection for high yield, inulin content and other economically important traits are useful for improving this crop (Mullin, W. J.,1994). Unlike most crops that store carbon as starch, a polymer of glucose, in the Jerusalem artichoke carbon is stored as inulin, a fructose polymer (Kays, 2007).Aims: The research started in 1996, aimed to obtain  biological stabilized and genetically distinct varieties with reduced variability of the main characters, developing specific technology culture in accordance with DUS and rehabilitation of species through the promotion and expansion as vegetable crops in order to revaluate its many uses.Materials and Methods: It was evaluated the local genetic heritage in this species, representing valuable germplasm base composed of 24 genotypes. After purchasing the basic biological material, the evaluated genotypes were collected and 3 of them were detained as progeny. The breeding method used was the clonal selection.Results: The researches were completed with a valuable germplasm collection in this species, were obtained three varieties with distinct characteristics: L1, which shows pink-brown tubers with a tubers yield of over 3.8 kg / plant and a vegetative mass with a height of 2,5 m, L2, white tuber variety with an yield potential of 3.4 kg / plant and a rich vegetative mass with a height of over 2.8 m and L3 that shows pink tubers with an average yield of 2.4 kg / plant and an average plant height of 0.8 m.Conclusion: The research ended with the evaluation of a valuable germplasm collection. Three stabilized genetically varieties with distinct phenotypic characteristics were obtained. Among them, L1 was patented and the other two will be submitted in 2017. It was developed a specific technology for each variety and has been promotional offered improved material to growers with the aim of extending these varieties as vegetable crops.References Kays, Stanley J., and Stephen F. Nottingham. Biology and chemistry of Jerusalem artichoke: Helianthus tuberosus L. CRC press, 2007.2. Kosaric, N., et al. "The Jerusalem artichoke as an agricultural crop." Biomass5.1 (1984): 1-36.3. Mullin, W. J., et al. "The macronutrient content of fractions from Jerusalem artichoke tubers (Helianthus tuberosus)." Food chemistry 51.3 (1994): 263-269.
The Spread of Nezara viridula (Hemiptera:Pentatomidae) Species from its First Occurrence in Romania
Authors: Grozea Ioana , Virteiu Ana Maria , Stef Ramona , Cabaret Alin , Molnar Levente , Marcu Viorela , Draga Diana
Published: December 2016

Lately in horticultural agroecosystems from Romania joined several insect species autochthonous. Among these is a species of bugs known as southern green stink bugs or Nezara viridula L. (Insecta: Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). Unlike other new entrants this bug species has a diversified polifagism being present in many plants but obvious damage produce only tomato fruit. The causes are unknown. Can be found in gardens, green spaces and parks. Often is observed in vegetable gardens where populations comprise all stages (egg, larva/nymph, adult). Although it has African origins of a warm area is interesting installation and survival in temperate zones like those in Europe. Presence in Europe appears to be more random which excludes primarily spread through the neighborhood. By observations made in west of Romania, during 2010-2015 we wanted to watch the evolution of the insect from the first point of occurrence (Timișoara, 2010). Also, were monitored tomato crops and ornamentals in gardens and green spaces from 5 counties. Only in four monitored counties it was observed this species. Most adults and larvae were registered in Timis county (5-6 adults or 7-8 larvae/tomato plant and 10 -11 adults or 15-20 larvae/ornamental shrub). In our country the insect has proven to be capable of a rapid spread in a relatively short time interval including surrounding counties.
The elaboration of a practical protocol for the micropropagation of several apple rootstock varieties
Authors: Clapa Doina , Fira Alexandru , Simu Manuela , Harta Monica , Sisea Cristian
Published: December 2016

The apple rootstock varieties ‘MM 106/4’, ‘MM 106/6’, ‘D 18’, ‘D 20’, ‘JTE-H’ and ‘MR 09/4’ were multiplied in vitro on modified Murashige and Skoog media gelled with wheat starch (MSs) and supplemented with 0.7 mg/l BA, which provided intense axillary shoot proliferation. Among the genotypes we studied, MR 09/4 had the highest multiplication rate  (19.56), followed by D18 (15.36). The lowest multiplication rates were recorded in MM 106/6 (5.36) and in MM 106/4 (3.32). The use of the technique of direct ex vitro rooting and acclimatization in floating perlite provided rooting percentages of more than 90 %.
Optimization of Micropropagation Protocol for Goji Berry (Lycium barbarum L.)
Authors: Fira Alexandru , Joshee Nirmal , Cristea Victoria , Simu Manuela , Harta Monica , Pamfil Doru , Clapa Doina
Published: December 2016

Micropropagation of Lycium barbarum cv. 'Ningxia N1' was achieved. The cultures were by initiated by axenical seed germination. The highest shoot proliferation was obtained on the MS media with 1.33 or 2.22 µM benzyl adenine, gelled with wheat starch as an agar alternative. The treatments with 2.22 µM benzyl adenine ensured proliferation rates superior to the ones with 1.33 μM benzyl adenine, but the latter provided longer and more robust shoots. Use of large microcuttings as an explant onto the multiplication media ensured higher in vitro explant survival, higher number of shoots regeneration and more vigorous plantlets. The microcuttings inserted vertically into the media yielded superior growth and multiplication as compared to the microcuttings placed horizontally. The non-rooted, elongated shoots from the treatment 1.33 μM benzyl adenine were either rooted in vitro on a hormone-free MS medium with starch or used for direct ex vitro rooting and acclimatization. The optimal number of microcuttings/vessel for in vitro rooting was 40 and the rooted plantlets were efficiently acclimatized ex vitro by three methods: float hydroculture in floating cell trays, floating perlite, and in Jiffy7 pellets.
Research on Trends in Extreme Weather Events and their Effects on Grapevine in Romanian Viticulture
Authors: Bucur Georgeta Mihaela , Babes Anca Cristina
Published: December 2016

The aim of this work was to investigate the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events in various centers from Romania’s viticultural regions: winter frost, extreme temperatures during the growing season and summer droughts. Winter frost damaging the vine is a significant risk to grape production, mainly in the plains and lowlands to the foothills. The frequency of winter frost damaging the vine has increased during the last decades, in the context of climate change. Also, there has been found a significant increase in the number of hot days (Tmax > 30°C) and very hot days (Tmax > 35°C). The evolution of these extreme events was followed in Craiova, Constanta, Bucharest, Timisoara, Cluj-Napoca, Oradea and Iasi, between 1977 and 2015. The long term study (18 years) conducted in the experimental plantation of the University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Bucharest revealed their influence on vine. During the last two decades, there has been registered a trend of increasing the frequency and intensity of winter frost, damaging vine (Tmin < -20°C), heat waves (number of days with Tmax > 30°C and > 35°C) and droughts that adversely affect viticulture, production and quality of grapes and wine. The highest warming trends were observed for northern viticultural regions (Transylvania and Moldavia) and for the seaside. Although the intensification of heat waves increases sugar accumulation in the berries, they trigger a significant reduction in grape production and in titrable acidity, requiring corrections and resulting in unbalanced wines. Meanwhile, droughts trigger production decrease. To avoid negative effects on vine, it is necessary to take measures, both on a short, medium and long term.
Identification of Fruit Tree Compositions in Public Parks Structure. Warsaw Case Study
Authors: Lisandru Tabita Teodora , Kimic Kinga , Mitre Viorel
Published: December 2016

Fruit trees are essential components of different types of greenery, including not only private gardens but also historical and modern public parks and gardens of many other cities. The research was carried out in spring 2016 by visiting different parks. Fruit trees were identified in 22 public parks of Warsaw situated in different districts of the city and picked up randomly for preliminary study. Observations were made by photographic documentation and mapping of the fruit trees on park plans using GPS coordinates which were taken during the site visit and Google Earth maps. According to the observations, selected fruit trees compositions have been recognized in public parks of Warsaw. The compositional structures that have been observed consist of solitaire fruit trees, groups of trees (containing fruit trees, but mostly composed of fruit trees and ornamental shrubs) and linear structures of fruit trees (rows and alleys). The results of the preliminary study show that the most frequent fruit tree compositions used in the structure of selected public parks of Warsaw represent groups of trees - groups that consist of fruit trees and different species of ornamental shrubs. The undertaken study confirmed that fruit trees planted in the public parks of Warsaw have a high compositional value. They play an important role in the spatial arrangement of the parks selected, but also define the scope and borders of the selected garden interiors and create attractive sites.
New Vine Varieties for High Quality White Wine Production at RDSVV Bujoru
Authors: Donici Alina , Bora Florin Dumitru , Ciubuca Aurel , Enache Viorica , Tabaranu Gabriel
Published: December 2016

The  degree of fertility coefficient absoltul (CFA) and coefficient ratio (CFR) we can see that the highest values were obtained from the variety 'Fetească regală' (54.5 ± 1.00% fertility; 1.60 ± 1.00 coefficient absolute (CFA ) and 0.86 ± 1.00 coefficinet relative (CFR). The  analysis of physical-mechanical based on the results it can be seen that the variety 'Bujoru' showed the best values for all parameters analyzed (303.5 ± 1.0 (g) the average weight of the grape bunch, 278.07 ± 1.0 (g) weight of 100 berries; 213.66 ± 0.67 (g / L) sucrose sugar concent and 4.331 ± 1.0 (kg / comes) average coming production).
Studies on agro-biological attributes of table varieties grown in the Tarnave vineyard
Authors: Iliescu Maria , Babes Anca Cristina , Seid Dan Marcel
Published: December 2016

The vine characteristics serve for a standardization and description of grapevine varieties. The presentation comprises characteristics distinguishing for the table grape varieties, but also indicates the agronomic aptitudes of table grape varieties, in Tarnave vineyard.Table grape varieties studied (Codreanca, Istriţa, Somesan, Transilvania, Cetăţuia, Splendid, Victoria, Timpuriu de Pietroasa) are grown in viticultural center Blaj.
Relationship between daily rumination time, physical activity, estrus and metabolic changes in dairy cows
Authors: Malancus Razvan Nicolae , Malancus Cristina Maria
Published: December 2016

The present study attempted to ascertain whether there is any connection between reduced daily rumination time and increased physical activity of the animals, on the one hand, and the presence of estrus or metabolic disorders in dairy cows, on the other hand. It has been observed that of the total of 168 cows, 55 (32.73%) showed decreased daily rumination time, 57 cows (33.92%) had specific manifestations for estrous period, while 25 cows (14.88%) showed both decreased daily rumination time and the presence of estrus. Statistical assessment of the data demonstrated a highly significant correlation between these two factors, with a p-value <0.05 (p = 0.0369). Regarding the correlation between increased physical activity, found in 40 cows (23.80%) and the presence of estrus, observed in 57 cows (33.92%) this one is extremely statistically significant with a p-value <0.001 (p = 0.0005), the combination of increased physical activity and estrus being detected in a total of 23 cows (13.69%). Thus, of 168 dairy cows taken into the study, 37 (22.02%) showed an association between decreased daily rumination time and increased physical activity, resulting in a extremely statistically significant correlation between the combination of the two events and the presence of estrus in cows, with a p-value <0.001 (p = 0.0003). Metabolic disorders were found in a total of 12 dairy cows (7.14 %), the association between decreased daily rumination time and increased physical activity being not statistically correlated with the development of metabolic disorders, p = 0.4676 . It remains to be observed if a correlation between the association of decreased daily rumination time and increased physical activity with the presence of metabolic disorders exists.
Prevalence of Subclinical Mastitis in the Local Goats in the Province of Laghouat (ALGERIA)
Authors: Yahia Achour , Mrezgui Djelloul , Hamrat Khadidja , Kaidi Rachid
Published: December 2016

Subclinical mastitis is a disease of the udder that passes mostly unnoticed. Or several germs associated with it and their presence in milk constitutes a major risk to consumer health. Our study aims to determine the prevalence of subclinical mastitis in local goats in Laghouat region (Algeria). We undertook a study based on the detection of sub-clinical mastitis by Califirnian Mastitis Test (CMT) in 60 goats aged 1 to 9 years and weighing 18 to 45 kg of live weight and whose lactation number varies from 2 to 8. We found a prevalence of subclinical mastitis reaching 46.6%. A clearly significant difference (P <0.05) is reported on this prevalence compared to age. The highest rate is recorded especially in goats aged between 3 to 7 years with 62% of detected subclinical mastitis, followed by the older goats (over 7 years) with a prevalence of 27%, and at the end the youngest goats (1-3 years) with a prevalence of 11%. A significant difference was also recorded between the different lactation ranks (P <0.05). The goats having the highest rank of lactation were most affected by subclinical mastitis. Prevalence of 46%, 31%, 11% and 8% respectively are found for the 6th rank of lactation and more, 4 lactations, 5 lactations and 1 lactation. We noticed that the majority of diagnosed mastitis were caused by poor hygiene conditions. This study allows us to conclude that there is a high prevalence of subclinical mastitis in the local goats in the province of Laghouat (Algeria).
A Survey of Canine Anaesthesia in Veterinary Practice in Cluj-Napoca
Authors: Pestean Cosmin , Oana Liviu , Bel Lucia , Scurtu Iuliu , Clinciu George , Ober Ciprian
Published: December 2016

A survey with 32 questions was performed in Cluj-Napoca veterinary private practices about the routine anaesthetic management of dogs. Of those veterinarians who answered this questionnaire, 18.2% are equipped with a machine for inhalation anesthesia, 27.3% do not use any monitoring during anesthesia and no one use methods of monitoring blood pressure. All the veterinarians graduated the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca.  Ketamine and alpha 2 agonists remain the most used anesthetic substances in private practices. Postoperative analgesia is used constantly by 81.8% of veterinarians. The mortality rate in veterinary practices in Cluj - Napoca for two years was 0.25% (1:403).
Prevalence and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profiles of Pathogen Isolated from Bovine Mastitis Milk in Transylvania, Romania
Authors: Bouari Cosmina , Nadas George , Chirila Flore , Rapuntean Sorin , Catoi Cornel , Tabaran Flaviu , Gal Adrian , Taulescu Marian , Fit Nicodim
Published: December 2016

Mastitis in cows, one of the most common and economically important infectious diseases of dairy cattle, all over the world, with significant impact due to economic losses, occurs when the udder becomes inflamed because the leukocytes are released into the mammary gland usually in response to bacteria invasion of the teat canal.The main objective of this study was to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility of bacteria isolated from milk in order to design specific control programs for bovine mastitis in this area.A total of 204 milk samples aseptically collected both from farms and private owners were processed during May 2014 and March 2016 within the Microbiology Laboratory of the Faculty of Veterinary Cluj-Napoca, Romania. The microbiological examination was carried out by inoculation on blood agar and MacConkey medium. After the overnight incubation in aerobic conditions, the identification of the isolates was performed using microscopic, cultural and biochemical methods. Biochemical identification was based on API 20 Biomerieux system. Susceptibility to antibiotics was evaluated using Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method on Mueller-Hinton agar; the antibiotics were represented by Amoxicillin and Clavulanic Acid, Ceftiofur, Florfenicol, Mastidiscs, Enrofloxacin, Penicillin and Tetracycline.Staphylococcus spp. was the most common isolated pathogen, in 54.9% of the specimens, followed by Streptococcus spp. in 20.1%, Escherichia coli in 10.78%, Klebsiella spp. in 8.34%, Bacillus spp. in 5.88%. The most frequent associations were represented by staphylococci-streptococci in 62.7% of the samples, followed by streptococci-bacillus in 19.8% of the samples. The most important etiological agents identified were Staphylococcus aureus, S uberis, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Escherichia coli. Antimicrobial susceptibility test for the total isolates revealed good sensitivity to Enrofloxacin, Mastidiscs and Amoxicillin and Clavulanic Acid. Resistance was observed for Penicillin and Tetracycline.The major mastitis pathogens identified was Staphylococcus aureus, while recurrent mastitis treatment was based on systemic and local administration of Enrofloxacin and Mastidiscs respectively.
Non-Invasive Assessment of Sentinel Lymph Nodes That Drain the Tumoral Mammary Glands in Female Dog
Authors: Stan Florin Gheorghe
Published: December 2016

Introduction: Mammary gland tumours occupy a significant place in the pathology of this species. Female dogs that are not spayed after their first heat cycle have a higher predisposition of developing mammary tumours. Most tumours metastasize at distance via the lymphatic system. In these conditions, the sentinel lymph nodes of the mammary glands must be assessed prior to surgical treatment. Aims: Considering the insufficient usage of non-invasive investigative methods of the sentinel lymph nodes, the aim of this study is to describe the sonographic anatomy of the lymph nodes that drain the mammary gland tumours in female dog. Materials and Methods: Twelve dog females presenting tumours of the cranial and caudal abdominal mammary glands (A1 and A2), inguinal mammary gland (I) and cranial thoracic mammary gland (T1) were examined (group I). In addition, a control group composed of eight dog females was used (group II). The axillary and superficial inguinal lymph nodes were evaluated using an algorithm composed of gray-scale ultrasound, Doppler technique, contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and real time elastography. Surgical excision of the sentinel lymph nodes was performed and samples for histopathological examination were taken. Results: The following ultrasonographic findings revealed on gray-scale examination were suspected for the metastatic infiltration: hypoechoic pattern, round shape, hillus absence and heterogenicity. Doppler technique showed an aberrant and mixed vascularisation of the lymph nodes, while the CEUS revealed incomplete enhancement of lymph nodes parenchyma. On real time elastography, the presence of blue areas in more than 50% from the lymph nodes parenchyma led us to conclude that the lymph node stiffness was caused by metastatic infiltration. Histopathological examination confirmed the presence of the metastatic infiltration in 97% of the examined lymph nodes. Conclusion: The algorithm composed of gray-scale ultrasound, Doppler technique, CEUS and real time elastography proved to be efficient in diagnosing the metastatic infiltration of sentinel lymph nodes of mammary gland. Further studies are needed to validate the proposed algorithm.
Study of the Protective Effects of Quince (Cydonia Oblonga) Leaf Extract on the Histologic Structure and Microscopic Indices of Spermatogenesis Following Induction of Diabetes in Adult Rats
Authors: Kianifard Davoud , Vafaei Saiah Gholamreza , Khalilzadeh Emad
Published: December 2016

Various types of infertility are associated with uncontrolled hyperglycemia. Development of oxidative stress is one the most important factors in the alteration of spermatogenesis in diabetic conditions. Testicular tissue is one of the sensitive organs to environmental damages. Natural antioxidants are considered as preventive and therapeutic strategies in cases of diabetic side effects. Cydonia oblonga leaf extract contains natural antioxidant compounds. The flavonoid compounds of the quince have strong antioxidant and immune-regulatory effects. According to little data about the protective effects of cydonia oblonga leaf extract on the structural alterations of testicular tissue following induction of diabetes, in this study protective aspects of this extract on the diabetic reproductive alteration were evaluated. Cydonia oblonga leaf extract was gavaged in two doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg. The number of 56 adult rats were divided into seven groups consisted of control, extract treated control groups, diabetic, extract treated diabetic groups and metformin treated diabetic group. Eight weeks after induction of diabetes, the body and testicular weight were measured and microscopic and histomorphometric studies were done on tissue samples. In control groups, the administration of extract was not any effect on histomorphometric parameters. In extract treated diabetic groups, the mean of body weight, histologic parameters and spermatogenesis indices were improved in comparison to non-treated diabetic group. The results of this study showed that, natural antioxidant such as cydonia oblonga leaf extract in some degrees could be effective in reduction of hyperglycemic side effects on target organs.
Genetic Interactions in Nonsyndromic Orofacial Clefts in Europe—EUROCRAN Study
Authors: Mossey Peter A. , Little Julian , Steegers-Theunissen Regine , Molloy Anne , Peterlin Borut , Shaw William C. , Johnson Candice , FitzPatrick David R. , Franceschelli Paola , Rubini Michele
Published: December 2016

Background

Nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (nsCL±P) and nonsyndromic cleft palate (nsCP) are caused by a combination of genetic and environmental risk factors. We investigated gene-environment and gene-gene joint effects in a large multicenter study of case-parent triads.

Methods

The nsCL±P or nsCP triads were recruited in 11 European countries between 2001 and 2005. We collected DNA samples from infants and from their mothers and fathers, and mothers completed a questionnaire on exposures, including smoking and folic acid supplement use during pregnancy. We used log-linear regression to estimate relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for associations between nsCL±P or nsCP and variants in MTHFR, MTHFD1, TGFA, SATB2, and MSX1, stratifying by environmental or genetic factors.

Results

We obtained genotype and exposure data for 728 nsCL±P triads and 292 nsCP triads. In male infants, there was no association between the mother's homozygous MSX1 p(CA) ∗4/∗4 genotype and nsCL±P (RR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.63–1.54), but this maternal genotype resulted in a doubling of risk for female infants (RR, 2.21; 95% CI, 1.13–4.34). There was evidence suggestive of gene-gene joint-effects between MTHFR-TGFA for nsCP but not for nsCL±P.

Conclusion

Although we chose the genes and their variants and putative joint effects based on associations previously reported in the literature, we replicated few associations. These results do not provide evidence supporting associations between these genes and oral clefts in European populations, although gene-environment and gene-gene interactions could play a role in oral cleft etiology.
The Cleft Aesthetic Rating Scale for 18-Year-Old Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate Patients
Authors: Mulder F.J. , Mosmuller D.G.M. , de Vet H.C.W. , Mouës C.M. , Breugem C.C. , van der Molen A.B. Mink , Don Griot J.P.W.
Published: December 2016

Objective:

To develop a reliable and easy-to-use method to assess the nasolabial appearance of 18-year-old patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate (CLP).

Design:

Retrospective analysis of nasolabial aesthetics using a 5-point ordinal scale and newly developed photographic reference scale: the Cleft Aesthetic Rating Scale (CARS). Three cleft surgeons and 20 medical students scored the nasolabial appearance on standardized frontal photographs.

Setting:

VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam.

Patients:

Inclusion criteria: 18-year-old patients, unilateral cleft lip and palate, available photograph of the frontal view. Exclusion criteria: history of facial trauma, congenital syndromes affecting facial appearance. Eighty photographs were available for scoring.

Main Outcome Measures:

The interobserver and intraobserver reliability of the CARS for 18-year-old patients when used by cleft surgeons and medical students.

Results:

The interobserver reliability for the nose and lip together was 0.64 for the cleft surgeons and 0.61 for the medical students. There was an intraobserver reliability of 0.75 and 0.78 from the surgeons and students, respectively, on the nose and lip together. No significant difference was found between the cleft surgeons and medical students in the way they scored the nose ( P = 0.22) and lip ( P = 0.72).

Conclusions:

The Cleft Aesthetic Rating Scale for 18-year-old patients has a substantial overall estimated reliability when the average score is taken from three or more cleft surgeons or medical students assessing the nasolabial aesthetics of CLP patients.
Perfil dos Adolescentes em Conflito com a Lei Que Entraram no Instituto Socioeducativo do Estado do Espírito Santo (IASES) em 2014
Authors: Thiara Ferreira Potratz  , Ariadne de Andrade Costa
Published: December 2016

No que se refere ao cometimento de atos infracionais para adolescentes, o Estatuto da Criança e do Adolescente (ECA) define diretrizes para a responsabilização por meio de medidas socioeducativas que podem ir desde prestação de serviços à comunidade até a privação de liberdade. Esta pesquisa buscou compreender o perfil socioeconômico e demográfico dos adolescentes em conflito com a lei que deram entrada no Instituto de Atendimento Socioeducativo do Espírito Santo (IASES) em 2014, bem como, os que cumpriram medida socioeducativa com privação de liberdade. Para isso, foi realizada uma análise descritiva dessas variáveis, disponibilizados pelo IASES, com os dados retirados do Sistema de Informação do Atendimento Socioeducativo do Espírito Santo (SIASES). Os resultados apresentados poderão contribuir para diversas áreas de conhecimento e para a melhoria das aplicações das medidas socioeducativas.
Automatically unfair and operational requirement dismissals: Making sense of the 2014 amendments
Authors: Newaj Kamalesh , Van Eck Stefan
Published: December 2016

This article explores the concept of the automatic unfair dismissal that is regulated in s 187(1)(c) of the Labour Relations Act, where the reason for the dismissal is to "compel the employee to accept a demand in respect of any matter of mutual interest". This provision raised important questions of law, as it brought to the fore the conflict that existed between this provision and sections 188(1)(a)(ii) and 189 of the LRA, which permits dismissals for operational requirements. This dichotomy was dealt with by the court in Fry's Metals, but the decision was controversial and faced criticism. The decision of the court was consequently rendered incorrect, resulting in the amendment to s 187(1)(c), which now reads that a dismissal is automatically unfair if the reason for the dismissal is a refusal by employees to accept a demand in respect of any matter of mutual interest between them and their employer. However, it is doubtful whether the amended provision provides a solution to the contradiction that exists. Resultantly, this article seeks to critique the amendment and to make recommendations regarding the regulation of this part of labour law.
Debating CRISPR/cas9 and Mitochondrial Donation: Continuity and Transition Performances at Scientific Conferences
Authors: Stephens Neil , Dimond Rebecca
Published: December 2016

Conferences are important performative sites. Here we detail a UK science policy conference debating the novel biomedical techniques CRISPR/cas9 and mitochondrial donation. Both techniques have received significant attention from scientists and bioethicists about their clinical potential, social implications, and the prospects of genetic and germline modification. In many countries the policy debates on regulating both technologies is ongoing and operating in tandem. The UK, however, is operating in a distinct policy context in that mitochondrial donation was formally legalized under license in 2015, meaning the British CRISPR/cas9 debates occur in the light of a confirmed policy position on mitochondrial donation. Our analysis of the Progress Educational Trust 2015 annual conference ‘From Three-Person IVF to Genome Editing’ argues that this event conducted important staging work in articulating the relationship between these two technologies in the UK. These efforts constitute what we call a ‘transition performance’ that (i) enacted the successful resolution of the mitochondrial donation policy debate, (ii) performed the success of British biomedical politics, and (iii) opened the space for a public debate on CRISPR/cas9 in line with a specifically configured set of legitimacy practices. Subsequently the conference contrasts to many other conferences that fit what we term a ‘continuity performance’ that seek to assert consistency and progress through iteration. We close by articulating further applications and developments of these notions in Science and Technology Studies.
Triparental mating of Synechocystis v1
Authors: Behle Anna
Published: December 2016

Protocol for genetic manipulation of Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 using the triparental mating method described in Thiel et al., 1988.
Recipe for standard BG-11 media v1
Authors: Behle Anna
Published: December 2016

Stanier RY, Deruelles J, Rippka R, Herdman M, Waterbury JB: Generic Assignments, Strain Histories and Properties of Pure Cultures of Cyanobacteria. Microbiology 1979, 111:1–61. Recipes for standard and alternative BG11 for culturing freshwater cyanobacteria, such asSynechocystis sp. PCC 6803, as described. Media is usually not suitable for marine cyanobacteria.
Preference for Democracy in the Arab World
Authors: Al-Ississ Mohamad , Diwan Ishac
Published: December 2016

We take a new look at the question of the Arab democratic exception by looking at the preference for democracy among individuals in the Arab world in a comparative context. We use the new sixth wave of the World Value Survey, which was collected between 2012 and 2013, and which included for the first time 12 Arab countries (up from only four in wave 5) and 68 non-Arab countries. We innovate empirically by measuring the preference for democracy over strong rule in a way that, we argue, is more adapted to an understanding of the Arab world than other measures used in past studies. Our statistical analysis reveals a democratic gap in the Arab region compared to global experience, which is especially marked among the more educated individuals, and to a lesser extent among the youth and the middle class. We conclude by discussing the reasons that may explain the Arab exceptionalism, and argue that it is unlikely to be related to culture alone.
Using Systematic Observations to Understand Conditions that Promote Interracial Experiences in Neighbourhood Parks
Authors: Hillier Amy , Han Bing , Eisenman Theodore S. , Evenson Kelly R. , McKenzie Thomas L. , Cohen Deborah A.
Published: December 2016

We analysed observations from 31 neighbourhood parks, with each park mapped into smaller target areas for study, across five US cities generated using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in the Community (SOPARC). In areas where at least two people were observed, less than one-third (31.6%) were populated with at least one white and one non-white person. Park areas that were supervised, had one or more people engaged in vigorous activity, had at least one male and one female present, and had one or more teens present were significantly more likely to involve interracial groups (p < 0.01 for each association). Observations in parks located in interracial neighbourhoods were also more likely to involve interracial groups (p < 0.05). Neighbourhood poverty rate had a significant and negative relationship with the presence of interracial groups, particularly in neighbourhoods that are predominantly non-white. Additional research is needed to confirm the impact of these interactions. Urban planning and public health practitioners should consider the health benefits of interracial contact in the design and programming of neighbourhood parks.
Infrastructure: the essence of the concept, its types and application in the recreation sphere
Authors: Novykova V.
Published: December 2016

The concept of “infrastructure”, the history of its emergence and establishing in scientific field are considered. Two directions of “infrastructure” concept interpretation are defined and understanding of its second definition is formulated. In addition to social and production infrastructures it is proposed to distinguish universal one, which is able to satisfy both the needs of population and production sector, that is, society as a whole. According to sectoral criteria it is distinguished specialized infrastructure, that is inherent only to a particular sector and is used only for realization of a particular activity (in the paper it is shown by the example of recreational activities), although its parts may belong to social infrastructure, or industrial infrastructure, or to their joint group – universal infrastructure. By means of modelling it is shown the place of infrastructure in the recreation sphere and its types. It is considered the definition of “recreation sphere” concept, its relationships with the concepts of “recreation sector”, “recreational economy” and “recreation activities”, as well as its belonging to the social sphere in the structure of social production, which is presented in the form of the model. It is given the author’s definition of “recreation activities infrastructure” concept. The structural-logical models showing the place and types of recreation activities infrastructure and structure of public production are developed. It is given the detailed characteristics of each of the recreational infrastructure components: institutions of recreation activities production and realization; health resort institutions; collective accommodation facilities of tourist destinations; equipment of recreational areas; tourist information centres.