bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation coefficients, path analysis and disease reaction between yield and yield components in Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) genotypes in Bale, South Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Workalemahu Getachew , Mohammed Wassu
Published: August 2016

Study on the relationships between yield and its components will improve the efficiency of breeding programmes by determining appropriate selection criteria. An investigation was carried out on 24 potato genotypes to find out the association among yield, yield components and their direct and indirect effects on tuber yield of potato. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications at Sinana Agricultural Research Center. The association was analyzed by correlation coefficient, and further subjected to path analysis to estimate direct and indirect effects of each character on tuber yield. Positive and significant genotypic and phenotypic correlation were found between total tuber yield and marketable tuber yield (rg=0.99), leaf area index (rg=0.82), plant height(rg=0.56), stem number per plant(rg=0.56), average tuber weight (rg=0.74)  and biomass yield (rg=0.69). Path analysis of tuber yield and its components shows that marketable tuber yield and average tuber weight had maximum positive direct genotypic and phenotypic effect on total tuber yield indicating their importance in selection for tuber yield improvement.
Biosorption of Mn (II) by Spirogyra verrucosa collected from Manganese Mine Water
Authors: Bansod Shailesh Rambhau , Nandkar P B
Published: August 2016

Mining industries frequently generates acid mine drainage (AMD) either by its operating or abandoned mines which are often characterized by an elevated levels of certain heavy metals, sulphate, low pH and some other toxic impurities in mine water creates environmental and ecological problems. Present study planned to suggest role of alga Spirogyra verrucosa in Manganese (Mn) removal by biosorption process from the mine water of Manganese mines of Nagpur District, Vidarbha Region, Maharashtra. The biosorption of Mn(II) ions from aqueous solution by using dead green algal (S.verrucosa) biomass was investigated by studying effect of pH, temperature, quantity of biosorbent, contact time as well as initial metal ion concentration. The optimized values obtained with respect to these parameters clearly indicates that pH 5, temperature 30°C, biosorbent quantity 1.0 gm/l, contact time 120 min. and initial metal ion concentration 50mg/l were the basic requirement for the biosorption of Mn(II) ions by dead algal biomass. Also, the biosorption kinetic and isotherm modeling applied to the equilibrium data for biosorption of Mn(II) ions onto alga reveals the fitness of the pseudo-second-order rate expression (R2=0.994) as well as the suitability of Langmuir (R2=0.859) and Freundlich (R2=0.761) isotherm models with an indication of the applicability of this metal ion-dried algal system for removal of Mn(II) ions in a monolayer biosorption as well as heterogenous surface conditions. However, comparatively biosorption equilibrium was better described by Langmuir isotherm model with monolayer biosorption capacity of S.verrucosa biomass 21.80 mg/g. Also, the maximum removal 40.66 mg/g (80.20%) of Mn(II) ion by alga under optimized conditions promises the potential use in mine water treatment technology.
Uszkodzenia cieplne lotniczych silników turbinowych
Authors: Szczepankowski Andrzej , Szymczak Janusz
Published: August 2016

Najczęściej spotykane w procesie eksploatacji lotniczych silników turbinowych (LST) przyczyny inicjacji uszkodzeń cieplnych zespołów turbin zostały opisane i zilustrowane przykładami stwierdzanej, podczas wykonywania kontroli endoskopowych, postępującej degradacji stanu powierzchni części i podzespołów różnego typu jednostek napędowych. Omówiono najczęściej wprowadzane w nich zmiany konstrukcyjno-technologiczne. Zwrócono też uwagę na wady wynikające z błędów, jakie popełnia się w procesie eksploatacji, remontu czy też wytwarzania, a rzutujących na bezpieczeństwo użytkowania LST.
Boundary value problems for the inhomogeneous polyanalytic equation I
Authors: Begehr Heinrich , Kumar Ajay
Published: August 2016

The three basic boundary value problems in complex analysis are of Schwarz, of Dirichlet and of Neumann type. When higher order equations are investigated all kind of combinations of these boundary conditions are proper to determine solutions. However, not all of these conditions are leading to well-posed problems. Some are overdetermined so that solvability conditions have to be found. Some of these boundary value problems are treated here for the inhomogeneous polyanalytic equation.
Validation of a new assay for α-synuclein detection in cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Førland Marthe Gurine , Öhrfelt Annika , Oftedal Linn Silje , Tysnes Ole-Bjørn , Larsen Jan Petter , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Alves Guido , Lange Johannes
Published: August 2016

Background:

Abnormal α-synuclein aggregation and deposition is the pathological hallmark of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), but is also found in Alzheimer disease (AD). Therefore, there is a gaining interest in α-synuclein in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as potential biomarker for these neurodegenerative diseases. To broaden the available choices of α-synuclein measurement in CSF, we developed and validated a new assay for detecting total α-synuclein.

Methods:

This novel ELISA uses commercially available antibodies and is based on electrochemiluminescence technology. The assay protocol is straightforward, with short and simple incubation steps, and requires only small amounts of CSF. We validated this assay for precision, parallelism, dilution linearity, specificity, and spike recovery. We further compared it to the newly validated α-synuclein assay from BioLegend by analyzing a set of 50 CSF samples with both assays.

Results:

The new assay quantifies α-synuclein in CSF with a lower limit of detection of 36.3 pg/mL and shows no cross-reactivity with human β- and γ-synuclein. Results of dilution linearity, parallelism, spike recovery, and precision classify this assay as well suited for α-synuclein detection in human CSF samples.

Conclusions:

We present a novel assay based on freely available components to quantify total α-synuclein in CSF as an additional method for α-synuclein as a biomarker in neurodegenerative diseases. The assay convinces with its simple and convenient protocol paired with high sensitivity.
For the Game, for the Loyal Partisans: Distribution of Sport Grants in Slovakia
Authors: Spáč Peter
Published: August 2016

Distribution of resources is at the core of politics. Although this activity is primarily economic in nature, the existing research shows that political representatives often use the allocation of public money to reward their allies at the expense of their rivals. This paper analyses a 2015 governmental programme of local sport grants in Slovakia that aimed to build sport facilities for children and young people. In order to avoid any political bias, the programme was established as a neutral mechanism with an anonymous evaluation of grant requests. The results of analysis, however, provide substantial evidence that the subsidies were given primarily to towns with closer political ties to the government while municipalities led by mayors from the opposition were nearly fully ignored. In addition, the presented social and economic aims of the funding programme were not effectively pursued. The paper thus represents a valuable contribution to the discussion of distributive politics, in general, as it shows that, despite the respective legal framework, the allocation of resources may still end up as a process fuelled by partisan interests.
Simulation of heat transfer in combustion chamber waterwall tubes of supercritical steam boilers
Authors: Grądziel Sławomir , Majewski Karol
Published: August 2016

The paper presents the results of numerical computations performed for the furnace chamber waterwalls of a supercritical boiler with a steam output of 2400 × 103 kg/h. A model of distributed parameters is proposed for the waterwall operation simulation. It is based on the solution of equations describing the mass, momentum and energy conservation laws. The aim of the calculations was to determine the distribution of enthalpy, mass flow and fluid pressure in tubes. The balance equations can be brought to a form where on the left-hand side space derivatives, and on the right-hand side – time derivatives are obtained. The time derivatives on the right-hand side were replaced with backward difference quotients. This system of ordinary differential equations was solved using the Runge-Kutta method. The calculation also takes account of the variable thermal load of the chamber along its height. This thermal load distribution is known from the calculations of the heat exchange in the combustion chamber. The calculations were carried out with the zone method.
Experimental verification of the scaling laws for CFB boilers of different designs
Authors: Mirek Paweł , Klajny Marcin
Published: August 2016

In the paper flow dynamic similarity criteria have been presented to reflect the macroscopic flow pattern in the combustion chamber of large-scale circulating fluidised bed boilers. The proposed scaling rules have been verified on two cold models of CFB boilers operating in Tauron Wytwarzanie S.A. - El. Lagisza division (scale factor 1/20) and Fortum Power and Heat Poland Sp. z o. o. Czestochowa division (scale factor 1/10) – working with the power of 966 MWth and 120 MWth, respectively. As follows from the results of measurements, regardless of CFB boiler’s geometry the use of a defined set of criterial numbers allows to obtain satisfactory agreement between the suspension density distributions registered in the CFB boilers and scaling models.
Investigation of a combined gas-steam system with flue gas recirculation
Authors: Chmielniak Tadeusz , Mońka Paweł , Pilarz Paweł
Published: August 2016

This article presents changes in the operating parameters of a combined gas-steam cycle with a CO2 capture installation and flue gas recirculation. Parametric equations are solved in a purpose-built mathematical model of the system using the Ebsilon Professional code. Recirculated flue gases from the heat recovery boiler outlet, after being cooled and dried, are fed together with primary air into the mixer and then into the gas turbine compressor. This leads to an increase in carbon dioxide concentration in the flue gases fed into the CO2 capture installation from 7.12 to 15.7%. As a consequence, there is a reduction in the demand for heat in the form of steam extracted from the turbine for the amine solution regeneration in the CO2 capture reactor. In addition, the flue gas recirculation involves a rise in the flue gas temperature (by 18 K) at the heat recovery boiler inlet and makes it possible to produce more steam. These changes contribute to an increase in net electricity generation efficiency by 1%. The proposed model and the obtained results of numerical simulations are useful in the analysis of combined gas-steam cycles integrated with carbon dioxide separation from flue gases.
Fuzzy Multivariable Control Strategy Applied to a Refrigeration System
Authors: dos Santos Vidal Saulo Fernando , Schmitz Jones Erni , Franco Ivan Carlos , Frattini Fileti Ana Maria , Da Silva Flavio Vasconcelos
Published: August 2016

The refrigeration process involves complex systems exhibiting nonlinearities and coupled behavior, so this paper aims to evaluate the comparative performance of a multivariable fuzzy logic-based control system and a classic multi loop PID. The process variables were the temperature of the secondary fluid (propylene glycol) outlet and the evaporating temperature. The manipulated variables were the compressor frequency speed and the pump frequency speed. Aspen Plus and Aspen Dynamics simulators were used to simulate the experimental prototype. The model was previously validated and linked with MATLAB software, where the controllers were implemented. Tuning of the fuzzy controller was performed through the membership functions and gains adjustments. The tuning of the multi loop PID controller was performed using the Ziegler-Nichols method and then a fine tuning was carried out. In order to fairly compare energy consumption and control effort, the tune of PID-based strategy was finished when similar values of Integral of Squared Error were achieved. Thus, very similar behavior for the process variables in both controllers. On the other hand, a great improvement in the control effort and energy saving was observed when the multivariable fuzzy controller was used in comparison to classic PID. The energy consumption was reduced by 25 % and the control effort by 96 % when the proposed strategy was used.
Clinical relevance of kallikrein-related peptidase 6 (KLK6) and 8 (KLK8) mRNA expression in advanced serous ovarian cancer
Authors: Ahmed Nancy , Dorn Julia , Napieralski Rudolf , Drecoll Enken , Kotzsch Matthias , Goettig Peter , Zein Eman , Avril Stefanie , Kiechle Marion , Diamandis Eleftherios P. , Schmitt Manfred , Magdolen Viktor
Published: August 2016

Most members of the kallikrein-related peptidase family have been demonstrated to be dysregulated in ovarian cancer and modulate tumor growth, migration, invasion, and resistance to chemotherapy. In the present study, we assessed the mRNA expression levels of KLK6 and KLK8 by quantitative PCR in 100 patients with advanced serous ovarian cancer FIGO stage III/IV. A pronounced correlation between KLK6 and KLK8 mRNA expression (rs = 0.636, p < 0.001) was observed, indicating coordinate expression of both peptidases. No significant associations of clinical parameters with KLK6, KLK8, and a combined score KLK6+KLK8 were found. In univariate Cox regression analysis, elevated mRNA levels of KLK6 were significantly linked with shortened overall survival (OS) (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.07, p = 0.007). While KLK8 values were not associated with patients’ outcome, high KLK6+KLK8 values were significantly associated with shorter progression-free survival (HR = 1.82, p = 0.047) and showed a trend towards significance in the case of OS (HR = 1.82, p = 0.053). Strikingly, in multivariable analysis, elevated KLK6 mRNA values, apart from residual tumor mass, remained an independent predictive marker for poor OS (HR = 2.33, p = 0.005). As KLK6 mRNA and protein levels correlate, KLK6 may represent an attractive therapeutic target for potent and specific inhibitors of its enzymatic activity.
Effect of Temperature on the Drying Behavior and Quality of Citrus Peels
Authors: Marey Samy , Shoughy Mohamed
Published: August 2016

The effects of the drying temperature and the residual moisture content on the drying behavior, energy consumption and quality of dried citrus peels (CPs), which are value-added food ingredients, were studied. The CP samples were dried in a laboratory-scale hot-air dryer at air temperatures from 40 to 70 °C under a constant air velocity of 1 m/s until the desired moisture content for safe storage was reached or until the final moisture level was achieved for the specific drying conditions. Cakes prepared from blends containing different proportions (0 %, 10 %, 15 % and 20 %) of dried CPs were also evaluated for chemical composition and sensory attributes. The optimal drying temperatures were 50–60 °C, and the optimal moisture content was 10±0.2 % w.b.; these conditions reduced the drying time and energy consumption and maximized the product quality. In contrast, over-drying CPs with the higher temperatures and to a final moisture level of 5.4±0.2 % sharply increased the loss of vitamin C, carotenoids as antioxidants and essential oils. Incorporation of 15 % dried orange and mandarin peels in cake formulas increased the dietary fiber by 33.5 % and 29.6 %, the crude fat by 2.9 % and 4.6 % and the ash by 30.6 % and 29.0 %, respectively, whereas the protein and total carbohydrate content decreased slightly. Highly acceptable nutritious cakes could be obtained by incorporating 15 % orange or mandarin peel dried to 10 % w.b. moisture content into the formulation.
Incorporation of β-Glucans into Pasta Extracted from Two Tunisian Barley Cultivars
Authors: Hajji Teber , Sfayhi-Terras Dorra , EL Felah Mouldi , Rezgui Salah , Ferchichi Ali
Published: August 2016

The main objective of this study is to extract water-soluble barley (1→3) and (1→4)-β-d-glucans (β-glucans) from milled seeds of two common Tunisian barley cultivars (Manel and Rihane). A mixture of these barley β-glucans was added to spaghetti made with semolina of durum wheat. Cooking quality related traits of functional spaghetti made with durum wheat semolina was investigated. Four spaghetti samples prepared from semolina added with β-glucan ratios: 1, 3, 5 and 7 g/100 g; were developed and compared to the check. Samples were assessed for water absorption, optimal cooking time, cooking loss, swelling index, colour, carotenoids pigments, hardness, moisture, proteins and ash content. Results indicated that spaghetti added with Tunisian barley β-glucans have a good brightness and acceptable general aspect compared to the check. Spaghetti samples showed lower moisture and proteins contents and higher mineral contents and cooking loss. Lower swelling index and hardness properties were noted in incorporated pasta.
Effect of temperature on oxidative stress induced by lead in the leaves of Plantago major L.
Authors: Balakhnina Tamara I. , Borkowska Aneta , Nosalewicz Magdalena , Nosalewicz Artur , Włodarczyk Teresa M. , Kosobryukhov Anatoly A. , Fomina Irina R.
Published: August 2016

Fluctuation of the summer day-time temperatures in the mid-latitudes in a range from 16 to 30°C should not have irreversible negative effects on plants, but may influence metabolic processes including the oxidative stress. To test the effect of moderately high temperature on oxidative stress induced by lead in the leaves of Plantago major L.; the plants were incubated in a water solution of 0, 150, 450, and 900 μM Pb (NO3)2 at 20 and 28°C. Plant reactions were evaluated by the content of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and ascorbate peroxidase and glutathione reductase activities in leaves after 2, 24, 48, and 72 h. The Pb concentration in the leaves rose with the increase in the Pb content and was higher at 20°C. The increase in stomatal resistance caused by Pb was higher at 28°C. The contents of TBARS increased after 2 h of plant exposure to Pb and the increase was the highest at 900 μM Pb, 28°C. The AsP activity increased up to 50% after 24 h of Pb-treatment at 28°C; the highest increase in glutathione reductase activity was observed after 72 h at 20°C. Thus, the moderately high temperature 28°C compared with optimal 20°C caused a decrease in Pb accumulation in Plantago leaves but amplified the negative effects of lead, especially in the beginning of stress development.
Dimensional specific physical properties of fan palm fruits, seeds and seed coats (Washingtonia robusta)
Authors: Coşkuner Yalçın , Gökbudak Ayşe
Published: August 2016

In this study some physical properties of fan palm (Washingtonia robusta) fruits, seeds and seed coats were determined using dimensional, bulk and single kernel physical analysis. The moisture content of whole fruits, seeds and seed coats was 12.0, 9.86 and 13.87% (d.b.), respectively. The sphericity values showed that seed shape (0.86) is close to a sphere, similar as the fruit shape (0.83), both of which were close to a scalene ellipsoid shape. The surface area values of fruits and seeds were obtained as 163.27 and 80.25 mm2, and volume values were obtained as 190.96 and 66.32 mm3, respectively. Bulk densities of fruits, seeds and seed coats were 559, 783 and 272 kg m−3, and the corresponding true densities were 1143, 1147 and 864 kg m−3, whereas the corresponding porosities were 48.87, 54.12, and 31.52%, respectively. The values of the static coefficient of friction and the angle of repose of fruits, seeds and seed coats of palm fruits were studied on aluminium, canvas, galvanised iron, plywood, PP knitted bag, PVC and stainless steel surfaces. As expected, seed coat has higher values of coefficient of static friction on the all surfaces than fruit and seed.
On the Validity of Edgeworth Expansions and Moment Approximations for Three Indirect Inference Estimators
Authors: Arvanitis Stelios , Demos Antonis
Published: August 2016

This paper deals with higher order asymptotic properties for three indirect inference estimators. We provide conditions that ensure the validity of locally uniform, with respect to the parameter, Edgeworth approximations. When these are of sufficiently high order they also form integrability conditions that validate locally uniform moment approximations. We derive the relevant second order bias and MSE approximations for the three estimators as functions of the respective approximations for the auxiliary estimator. We confirm that in the special case of deterministic weighting and affinity of the binding function, one of them is second order unbiased. The other two estimators do not have this property under the same conditions. Moreover, in this case, the second order approximate MSEs imply the superiority of the first estimator. We generalize to multistep procedures that provide recursive indirect inference estimators which are locally uniformly unbiased at any given order. Furthermore, in a particular case, we manage to validate locally uniform Edgeworth expansions for one of the estimators without any differentiability requirements for the estimating equations. We examine the bias-MSE results in a small Monte Carlo exercise.
Impact of Procedures and Technical Objects on Operation of Security Control at the Airport
Authors: Kierzkowski Artur , Kisiel Tomasz
Published: August 2016

The article presents an analysis of the functioning of the system of security control at the airport. Analysis was made to examine the possibility of disruption occurring in the system after the introduction of controls using additional devices to detect trace amounts of explosives ETD. The analysis has been subjected to the possibility of using different configuration of the technical system to perform ETD control. The analysis allows the assessment of the proposed system configuration based on functional availability indicator.
Selected Aspects of the Security of the Process Data Transmission in the Distributed Control System
Authors: Bednarek Marcin , Dąbrowski Tadeusz , Wawer Tomasz
Published: August 2016

Communication between the process stations of the distributed control system is carried out. By the supervision and therapeutic systems of the stations communication process diagnosis is performed. Supervision and therapeutic systems are responsible for the security of transmitted data. The security is considered in this article mainly in the aspect of resistance to external destructive factors on the data transmission process. It is assumed that the transmission security can be provided by mechanisms protecting the integrity of the transmitted data. Correctness of the data is controlled by using one-way hash function calculated on the basis of the transmitted value variable and also is attached to the transmitted data. This allows to maintain the integrity of the transmitted process data. A solutions using one-way hash function to protection of the transmission before changing message contents (caused by eg. intruder interference) are proposed in the article.
High Interleukin 27 Production is Associated with Early Clinical Stage and Localized Disease in Patients with Melanoma
Authors: Pantic Bisevac Jelena , Stanojevic Ivan , Mijuskovic Zeljko , Banovic Tatjana , Djukic Mirjana , Vojvodic Danilo
Published: August 2016

Background:The immune response in patients with melanoma is an important focus of research due to the tumor’s resistance and immunotherapy possibilities. IL-27 is one of the cytokines with antitumor properties. The role of IL-27 in the pathogenesis of melanoma is still unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the association between serum IL-27 levels and the clinical parameters of melanoma patients.

Methods:The IL-27 concentration was determined by commercial ELISA in serum samples from melanoma patients (n=72) and healthy control subjects (n=44). Patients were classified according to AJCC clinical stage, TNM stage, the length of progression-free interval (PFI) and the extent of the disease (localized or widespread).

Results:Average IL-27 values were increased in patients with early stages of melanoma compared to patients with terminal stages and control values. The highest IL-27 concentration was found in stage IIa. Patients in stages III and IV had significantly lower values of IL-27 compared to control. Patients with localized melanoma and shorter PFI had insignificantly increased IL-27 levels compared to patients with widespread disease and longer PFI. Patients with metastatic disease and stage TNM4 had significantly lower average IL-27 values compared to control. Patients with high production of IL-27 (>1000 pg/mL) were most numerous in IIa AJCC stage, with initial tumor size TNM2 and in the group of patients with localized disease.

Conclusions:High levels of IL-27 in patients with melanoma are associated with the initial stages and localized disease.
The Importance of Haematological and Biochemical Findings in Patients with West Nile Virus Neuroinvasive Disease
Authors: Urošević Aleksandar , Dulović Olga , Milošević Branko , Maksić Nebojša , Popović Nataša , Milošević Ivana , Delić Dragan , Jevtović Djordje , Poluga Jasmina , Jordović Jelena , Peruničić Sanja , Stevanović Goran
Published: August 2016

Background:West Nile virus neuroinvasive disease (WNND) occurs in less than 1% of infected people. Leukocytosis with lymphocytopenia, mild anaemia, thrombocytopenia, elevated liver and muscle enzymes and hyponatremia are occasionally present in patients with WNND. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) findings resemble other viral neuroinfections. The purpose of this study is to present some of the most important laboratory findings of our patients with WNND and to evaluate their correlation with fatal outcome.

Methods:The study included 161 patients with WNND. Their blood and CSF samples were cytobiochemically analysed and the obtained variables were then tested for predictive significance of the disease outcome, or used for differentiation between two clinical syndromes (encephalitis vs meningitis).

Results:West Nile encephalitis was present in 127 (78.9%) patients and West Nile meningitis was diagnosed in 34 (21.1%) cases. Leukocytosis was found in 45.9% patients. CRP level higher than 100 mg/L was registered only in those with encephalitis (p=0.020). CSF leukocyte count was 146±171 per microlitre, with slight lymphocytic predominance (mean 52%). Hypoglycorrhachia was registered in 9.3% of our patients with WNND. Twenty-eight (17.4%) patients died and all of them had encephalitis. Independent predictors of fatal outcome in WNND were serum CRP > 100 mg/L (p=0.011) and CSF proteins > 1 g/L (p=0.002).

Conclusions:WNND usually affects older males. Prolonged neutrophilic predominance in CSF can occasionally be present, as well as hypoglycorrhachia. Patients with encephalitis, high serum CRP and high CSF protein level have a higher risk of fatal outcome.
Longitudinal changes of cardiotocographic parameters throughout pregnancy: a prospective cohort study comparing small-for-gestational-age and normal fetuses from 24 to 40 weeks
Authors: Amorim-Costa Célia , Gaio A. Rita , Ayres-de-Campos Diogo , Bernardes João
Published: August 2016

Objective:

To compare longitudinal trends of cardiotocographic (CTG) parameters between small-for-gestational-age (SGA) and normal fetuses, from 24 to 41 weeks of pregnancy.

Methods:

A prospective cohort study was carried out in singleton pregnancies without fetal malformations. At least one CTG was performed in each of the following intervals: 24–26 weeks+6 days, 27–29 weeks+6 days, 30–32 weeks+6 days, 33–35 weeks+6 days, 36–38 weeks+6 days and ≥39 weeks. Tracings were analyzed using the Omniview-SisPorto® 3.6 system. Cases with a normal pregnancy outcome, including a birthweight ≥10th percentile for gestational age, were compared with two groups of SGA fetuses: with birthweight <10th percentile (SGA<p10) and <3rd percentile (SGA<p3; a subgroup of the latter). Generalized linear mixed-effects models were used for analysis.

Results:

A total of 176 fetuses (31 SGA) and 1256 tracings (207 from SGA fetuses) were evaluated. All CTG parameters changed significantly throughout pregnancy in the three groups, with a decreasing baseline and probability of decelerations, and an increasing average long-term variability (LTV), average short-term variability (STV) and accelerations. Baseline showed a more pronounced decrease (steeper slope) in SGA fetuses, being higher in these cases at earlier gestational ages and lower later in pregnancy. Average LTV was significantly lower in SGA<p3 fetuses, but a parallel increase occurred in all groups. There was a considerable inter-fetal variability within each group.

Conclusion:

A unique characterization of CTG trends throughout gestation in SGA fetuses was provided. A steeper descent of the baseline was reported for the first time. The findings raise the possibility of clinical application of computerized CTG analysis in screening and management of fetal growth restriction.
Actions and measures for mitigation drought and water scarcity in agriculture
Authors: Łabędzki Leszek
Published: August 2016

The paper characterizes the phenomena of droughts and water scarcity in Polish agriculture and their impacts on crop yield. Various preventive measures should be undertaken to mitigate the harmful effects of droughts and water scarcity. The most important is the development of water resources. To accomplish this aim, small scale water retention projects and irrigation development programs should be further implemented in many provinces of Poland. Effective use of irrigation water, optimization of water distribution, crop rotation, rehabilitation and modernization of the existing irrigation systems, soil reclamation are the examples of other measures. The pressure for increased water supplies is intensifying in Poland. That is why there is an urgent need to improve the uniform national plans of drought and water scarcity mitigation including guidelines on how to prevent and counteract the effects of water scarcity in agriculture and to release recommendations stating the most adequate measures to be undertaken.
The Implications of Cultural Awareness in Military Environment
Authors: Ispas Lucian
Published: August 2016

Cultural awareness helps people to understand the impact of culture on people’s believes and behaviours offer the ability to discover and be aware of the effects of culture, and requires an understanding of the necessity to consider cultural terrain in military operations, an important source of intelligence that is consist of cultural factors for planning and accomplishing such operations that take into considerations not only civilians but military.
Unficyp Mission and Armed Forces of Slovak Republic
Authors: Majchút Ivan
Published: August 2016

UN for years enters into Cyprus conflict and use military power as one of the means for peace solutions of conflict. Slovak Republic participates in this process by military contingent which is, at this time, the biggest one from Slovakia in international crisis management military forces. Despite the large efforts and numerous attempts, peace-making process on the island is failing and UNFICYP is still necessary as well as participation of Slovak Armed Forces.
Failures of Intell Services
Authors: Pal Adrian
Published: August 2016

The main purpose of this article is to bring more light - further information and a better understanding – on the reasons for the failure of the intelligence services to combat terrorist attacks. Starting with September 11th 2001 in the USA, continuing with the attack on 11th March 2004 in Madrid, and the London one on 7th July 2005, and the latest events – the bombing of the Paris and Istanbul, all this made me pay particular attention to the reasons for the intelligence services not to fall within the limits of early warning, which often lead to real catastrophes. The article focuses on drawing, as close to reality as possible, the parallel between failures of intelligence and terrorist attacks. Therefore, I have focused on the connection between actionable intelligence and terrorist attack on September 11th, 2001 in the USA. The concept ‘actionable intelligence’ involves the transformation of information into real action, one meant to launch a protective barrier, and go on the offensive. Starting from this premise, and in parallel with the attack on September 11th, 2001, we can say that intell services failed to prevent and stop this event. ‘Balance bombing’ meant the first piece of the terrorist attacks puzzle, which has tended towards a broadening of horizon given the increasing number of attacks occurred so far. Thus, the article briefly reflects an assessment of the grounds for which the intelligence services continue to fail in fighting terrorism.
Volunteers and Active Reserve for the Armed Forces of the Slovak Republic
Authors: Sopóci Milan , Walancik Marek
Published: August 2016

The article deals with settlement of Armed Forces in connection with voluntary and compulsory military service in history and present days too. It shows on new tasks of Armed Forces and possibilities their solution with utilization of volunteers and active reserve. The contribution designs a certain way for their preparation, training and service. On the other hand shows on financial costs for creation and service. In conclusion states that solution is new qualitatively change in optimalization of safety system Slovak republic.
Interoperability Considerations in the Light of Endowment of the Romanian Engineer Armed Forces
Authors: Vladu Mircea , Popa Ioan-Dan
Published: August 2016

During the time he held the chair of United States Secretary of Defense, Donald Rumsfeld argued that it had become fashionable for military strategists to develop and launch increasingly sophisticated concepts, without technical and financial support to implement them. Based on this statement, it was noticed that the same approach was applied by some Romanian military strategists, who have rushed to adopt certain concepts from our counterparts that belong to western countries and implement them in our national legislation without taking into account all the necessary resources (human, financial, technical etc.) for their application. In this respect, one example could be the interoperability and its derivatives, the main focus of the present paper.
Noun phrase constituency in Australian languages: A typological study
Authors: Louagie Dana , Verstraete Jean-Christophe
Published: August 2016

This article examines whether Australian languages generally lack clear noun phrase structures, as has sometimes been argued in the literature. We break up the notion of NP constituency into a set of concrete typological parameters, and analyse these across a sample of 100 languages, representing a significant portion of diversity on the Australian continent. We show that there is little evidence to support general ideas about the absence of NP structures, and we argue that it makes more sense to typologize languages on the basis of where and how they allow “classic” NP construal, and how this fits into the broader range of construals in the nominal domain.
Bats (Chiroptera) recorded in the lowland of Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia with notes on taxonomic status and significant range extensions
Authors: Wiantoro Sigit , Hitch Alan T. , Engilis Irene E. , Gunawan Hendra , Engilis Andrew
Published: August 2016

This paper reports on a bat survey conducted in November 2011 in Mangolo Nature Park and Rawa Aopa Watumohai National Park, both lowland forests located in Southeast Sulawesi. We recorded 22 species of bats that represents nearly 1/3 of the total bat species known to occur on Sulawesi. Three of these are endemic to Sulawesi and adjacent islands, whereas one species, Myotis cf. ridleyi was identified as a new distributional record for this island and with further investigation could prove to be an undescribed species. Our record of Chironax melanocephalus tumulus provided a range extension to the southeastern arm of Sulawesi. Two specimens of Hipposideros boeadii were topotypes and represent the first collections after the description of the type specimen. Collections of Rhinolophus arcuatus from this survey were only the second record of this species from island and represent a range extension. Specimens of Megaderma spasma celebensis were the first records of this species from Southeast Sulawesi. Species are discussed individually with external, cranial and dental measurements summarized. Based on this survey, the number of bat species now documented from the lowlands of Southeast Sulawesi represents the highest diversity yet recorded from a site on Sulawesi. This region is therefore a high priority for conservation and a hotspot for bat research in Indonesia, especially Sulawesi.
Medicolegal implications of surgical errors and complications in neck surgery: A review based on the Italian current legislation
Authors: Polistena Andrea , Di Lorenzo Pierpaolo , Sanguinetti Alessandro , Buccelli Claudio , Conzo Giovanni , Conti Adelaide , Niola Massimo , Avenia Nicola
Published: August 2016

Aim of the present paper is the review of the principal complications associated to endocrine neck surgery considering how expertise, full adoption of guidelines, appropriate technology and proper informed consent may limit the medicolegal claims at the light of the incoming new regulation of the medical professional legal responsibility. A literature search, using the Medline/PubMed database for full-length papers, was used. Postoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy and hypoparathy-roidism remain the principal causes of surgical malpractice claims . In the procedure of neck lymphadenctomy intra-operative haemorrhage, thoracic duct injury, injuries to loco-regional nerves can be observed and can be source of claims. After many years of increased medicolegal litigations, the Italian government is proposing a drastic change in the regulations of supposed medical malpractice in order to guarantee the patient’s right to a safe treatment and in the meantime to defend clinicians from often unmotivated and prejudicial legal cases. Surgical errors and complications in neck surgery are a relevant clinical issue. Only the combination of surgical and clinical expertise, application of guidelines, appropriate technology and a routinely use of specific informed consent can contain potential medicolegal implications.
Donation of the body for scientific purposes in Italy: ethical and medico-legal considerations
Authors: Bin Paola , Delbon Paola , Piras Mauro , Paternoster Mariano , Di Lorenzo Pierpaolo , Conti Adelaide
Published: August 2016

In recent years in Italy (and in the other European Countries) a new debated topic involves anatomists and the scientific world: donation of the body after death for scientific purposes. The aim of our analysis is to analyze the issue of voluntary body donation in Italy focusing first of all, on key principles of the disciplines of donation. Considering the rise of exhibitions and events in which death is spectacularized, the debate is focus on will, on respect and overall on the purpose for which the body is donated. Anatomical dissection is considered necessary in the direct learning of the human body, of surgical practices and new scientific techniques but the scarcity of programmes and regulations regarding the donation of bodies for study and research make it an uncommon practice. After discussing what are the constitutional principles underlying the issue we want to emphasize the need of a more effective and updated regulation to set limits and methods of a practice still essential for scientific progress.
Levinas and the Ambivalence of Recognition
Authors: Pöykkö Panu-Matti
Published: August 2016

This paper argues that Emmanuel Levinas’ critique of the “ontological imperialism” does
not amount to a perfunctory and rejective attitude towards ontology. Against the commonly held
interpretation of Levinas, I argue that if we keep in mind that the understanding of the other is grounded
on and determined by ethical recognition of the person, ontological recognition of the other person does
not necessarily entail violent relation towards of the other person. Moreover, ethical recognition provides
a standard of evaluation for ontological recognition and traditional theological discourse. The distinction
between the two forms of recognition is essential to Levinas’ account of “religious life”. The two forms of
recognition are nevertheless interconnected, if not reducible to one another. It is only when we lose sight
of the fundamental ethical perspective that the ontological recognition is in danger of becoming violent
and repressive.
Identification of point mutations in exon 2 of GDF9 gene in Kermani sheep
Authors: Khodabakhshzadeh R. , Mohammadabadi M.R. , Esmailizadeh A.K. , Moradi Shahrebabak H. , Bordbar F. , Ansari Namin S.
Published: August 2016

Screening the fertile ewes from national herds to detect the major genes for prolificacy is an effective way to create the fertile flocks. Growth differentiation factor (GDF) 9 is a member of the transforming growth factor β superfamily that is essential for folliculogenesis and female fertility. The aim of this study was to detect single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in exon 2 of GDF9 gene in Kermani sheep breed using PCR-SSCP. Genomic DNA was extracted from whole blood of collected samples using salting-out method. Whole exon 2 of GDF9 gene was amplified (634 bp and 647 bp fragments) using designed specific primers. The single stranded conformation polymorphism (SSCP) patterns of PCR products were studied using electrophoresis on acrylamide gel and silver-nitrate staining method. Finally, 4 banding patterns for the first primer pair and 4 banding patterns for the second primer pair were obtained. Also, indices of population genetic per SNP were calculated using Gen Alex 6.41 software. The sequencing results showed the presence of 3 mutations (SNP) (443, 477 and 721 positions) in the studied population.
Occurence of Bordetella bronchiseptica in domestic cats with upper respiratory tract infections
Authors: Garbal M. , Adaszek Ł. , Łyp P. , Frymus J. , Winiarczyk M. , Winiarczyk S.
Published: August 2016

Bordetella bronchiseptica is a widespread Gram-negative pathogen occurring in different mammal species. It is known to play a role in the etiology of infectious atrophic rhinitis of swine, canine kennel cough, respiratory syndromes of cats, rabbits and guinea pigs, and sporadic human cases have also been reported. The aim of this article is to present the occurrence of infections caused by these bacteria in domestic cats with respiratory symptoms, as well as to conduct a molecular analysis of the flaA gene B. bronchiseptica for the purpose of ascertaining whether cats become infected with one or more bacteria strains. B. bronchiseptica was isolated from the respiratory system of 16 out of 35 domestic cats with symptoms of respiratory tract infections. Polymorphism analysis of polymerase chain reaction products of B. bronchiseptica flaA was performed to reveal the possible differences in nucleotide sequences of the flagellin gene.

The phylogenetic analysis of nucleotide sequences obtained during PCR indicated that the isolates of bacteria from our own studies are characterised by 100% homology of the analysed fragment of the flaA gene, which suggests maintenance of a single genotype of these microorganisms in the cat population. Moreover, the bacteria revealed full homology with reference strain B. bronchiseptica ATCC 4617, and 99.4% homology with strain B. parapertussis ATCC 15311. This indicates that the PCR optimised for the Bordetella spp. flaA gene, combined with sequencing of amplicons obtained in PCR, is an effective diagnostic method allowing differentiation of Bordetella spp. type microorganisms.
Practical aspects of estimation of optimal time for vaccination of chicken against IBD with use of „Deventer formula”
Authors: Śmiałek M. , Śmiałek A. , Koncicki A.
Published: August 2016

One of the most commonly applied vaccination strategies against chicken infectious bursal disease (IBD) is the use of live vaccines at the optimal time estimated with the use of Deventer formula. The present study investigated the impact of different factors on maternally derived antibodies decline and therefore on the vaccination schedule against IBD. Our results suggest that blood collection from birds older than 3 days is more reliable in order to estimate the optimal date for IBD vaccination, due to disturbances in yolk sac resorption early after hatch.
Serum malondialdehyde level and activity of total antioxidant status of dogs with age-related cataract
Authors: Madany J.
Published: August 2016

Study objective: determination of malondialdehyde (MDA) level and total antioxidant status (TAS) in the serum of dogs with age-related cataract.

Material and methods: Forty dogs, 10-16 years of age, which were diagnosed with age-related cataract were examined. The control group consisted of 12 dogs, 8-13 years of age, without cataract. MDA was determined using a Perkin-Elmer LS 30 luminescence spectrometer using the method with thiobarbituric acid (TBA). TAS was determined using the colorimetric method with a set of Randox Total Antioxidant Status reagents.

Results: The results show a higher level of MDA with statistically significant difference and lower activity of TAS in the serum of dogs with age-related cataract.

Conclusions: The results obtained indicate higher systemic lipid peroxidation and weakening of the general defense system in dogs with age-related cataract. These results suggest that such conditions may have an effect on the development of age-related cataract and are consistent with the theory of free radical age-related cataract development.
Pointer Years in Tree-Ring Width of European Ash with Different Crown Condition and Their Relationships with Climatic Factors in Latvia
Authors: Matisons Roberts , Inohosa Linda Gerra , Laiviņš Māris
Published: August 2016

The effect of climatic factors on tree-ring width (TRW) of European ash (Fraxinus excelsior L.) with healthy and damaged crowns growing in the central and eastern part of Latvia was assessed by dendrochronological techniques. Pointer year indices were calculated to assess the variability of TRW. Positive pointer years were more frequent than negative, similarly for damaged and healthy trees, suggesting similar limiting factors. The relationships between TRW and climatic factors differed regionally and locally. In the eastern part of Latvia, TRW was affected by temperature in spring of current and preceding years. In the central part of Latvia, weather conditions in current and preceding summer mainly affected TRW; temperature and precipitation had positive effect suggesting occurrence of water deficit, but the daily range of temperature had a negative effect. Hence, regional diversification of radial growth patterns might be expected. Some differences in sensitivity to climate were observed between the damaged and healthy trees. In the central part of Latvia, the damaged trees appeared additionally sensitive to temperature in summer. In the eastern part of Latvia, damaged trees were additionally sensitive to temperature in May. Nevertheless, some additional factors were significant for the healthy trees.