bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of N and P Fertilization on Weed Flora of Maize (Zea Mays L.) Crop
Authors: CHEIMONA Nikolina , KONTOPOULOU Charis Konstantina , PAPANDREOU Anastasia , TABAXI Ioanna , TRAVLOS Ilias , KAKABOUKI Ioanna , BILALIS Dimitrios
Published: May 2017

From May to September 2016, a corn hybrid was sown in a field in central Greece. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with six replications and five fertilization treatments, namely NutriSphere-N Nitrogen Fertilizer (75%), NutriSphere-N Nitrogen Fertilizer (100%), AVAIL Phosphorus Fertilizer (75%), AVAIL Phosphorus Fertilizer (100%) and unfertilized (control). Data analysis confirmed that the different type of fertilization has a significant effect on the composition of weed flora. In particular, the results of the present study indicated significant differences between the fertilization treatments concerning density and diversity of weeds. Furthermore, weed diversity in the control treatment was highest, while it was lower in plots receiving application of N and P. However, total weed dry mass was lower in plots receiving no fertilizer and P fertilization, and highest in plots receiving N. Differences in terms of weed growth between the two types of fertilization could be attributed to differences revealed in the composition of the weed flora.
Medium Term Analysis of Technical and Allocative Efficiency in Romanian Farms Using FADN Dataset
Authors: GALLUZZO Nicola
Published: May 2017

The Farm Accountancy Data Network is an annual survey proposed by the European Union in order to estimate the impact of the Common Agricultural Policy on farmers. Lots of scholars have investigated the technical, economical and allocative efficiency using a non parametric approach such as the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) in Romanian farms throughout the Farm Accountancy Data Network dataset pointing out poor levels of technical efficiency, which were lower than the average European value. The purpose of this study was to assess using DEA approach technical, economic and allocative efficiency in Romanian farms part of the FADN dataset over six year time from 2007 to 2012. Findings pointed out an increase of technical efficiency compared to previous studies, as a consequence of a significant turn over of a younger high skill and qualified farmers generation. Poor land capital, in terms of utilized agricultural areas, connected to an increase of new technologies, was the downside of Romanian farms and this implied that the National Rural Development Plan should  have taken into account financial subsides in order to implement agricultural areas scattered in Romanian rural space.
Surgical Removal of Necrosed Venom Gland in Indian Spectacled Cobra (Naja naja)- A Case Report
Authors: RAJ Rohit , MUKHERJEE Prasenjit , CHAUDHURI Shubhamitra , BASU Siddhartha , DATTA Uttam
Published: May 2017

An Indian spectacled cobra (Naja naja) with necrosed venom gland along with soft tissue mass was successfully removed surgically under general anesthesia by ketamine hydrochloride (50 mg/kg). Post operative care and management were performed by keeping the animal in captivity. Inj. EnrofloxacinÂ® (10mg/kg) and Inj. MeloxicamÂ® (0.2mg/kg) were administered post operatively. The snake was set free in the wild after complete recovery.
Applications of Rat Grimace Scale Method in Postoperative Pain Management in Rats
Authors: DREANCA Alexandra Iulia , BEL Lucia , SEVASTRE Bogdan , MARCUS Ioan
Published: May 2017

Introduction: Nowadays, 3R (replacement, reduction, refinement) concept lies in the core of laboratory animals science, one of the most important refinement strategies being the pain control. Rat Grimace Scale (RGS) is an actual and effective method used to assess pain in laboratory animals.Aims: The purpose of this study was to find the most effective post surgery analgesic protocol, by grading the changes in the animalâ€™s facial expression.Materials and methods: In the present study we used 5 Wistar rats, as a pain model, ovariectomy was performed on 4 of the rats. Tramadol was administrated subcutaneously as it follows: 1 rat in pre-surgery dose of 25 mg/kg, 2 rats in post-surgery a dose of 25 mg/kg and respectively 50 mg/kg. The evaluation of pain was done across at the time 0, 2, 4 and 6 hours post-surgery using the scores of 0, 1 and 2, 0 representing the absence of pain, 1 a moderate level of pain and 2 a high level of pain.Results: The results of the study revealed that the spayed rat without Tramadol presented the highest level of pain (1.25 - 1.75). The pre-surgery analgesia enhanced the narcosis effect, but analgesia had a short term effect, with a moderate to high level of pain (1 - 1.5). To the animal treated with a dose of 25 mg/kg post-surgery, a moderate pain level was observed (0.5 - 1.25) and to the animal with the highest dose an optimal analgesia was determined (0.25).Conclusion: The expected analgesic effect was put forward by the 50 mg/kg dose of Tramadol and the RGS method was found to be suitable for the assessment of animal suffering in surgical experimental procedures.
The Prevalence of Esbl-Producing Strains of E.coli, Isolated from Calves with Colibacilosis - Preliminary Remarks
Authors: COZMA Andreea Paula , CRIVEI Ioana , CIOCAN Oana Alexandra , CARP-CARARE Catalin , RIMBU Cristina , GUGUIANU Eleonora , HORHOGEA Cristina , CARP-CARARE Mihai
Published: May 2017

The animals producing food have become an increasing reservoir of extended spectrum beta-lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae. The calves and cows are exposed to a greater quantity of antibiotics, but the data concerning the prevalence of ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae are not enough, in comparison with other species of animals used for human consumption, such as birds (Hordijk et al., 2013).The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli involved in some episodes of colibacilosis in calves. Faeces samples were collected from 33 calves with the age ranging between 1-2 weeks and that presented clinical signs of colibacilosis. The samples were collected in a sterile medium for the taxonomic isolation and identification of the etiological agent involved, the ESBL screening being conducted subsequently using the ESBL Agar Oxoid Brilliance chromogenic medium. The phenotypic confirmation of the ESBL-producing strains was conducted in accordance with the CLSI (2014) standard through the combined disc method. Following the tests conducted, out of the 33 strains of isolated E. coli, 9 (27, 27%) were phenotypically confirmed as being ESBL strains.The studies that were previously conducted on the dairy farms have pointed out that the young calves rapidly acquire bacterial strains resistant to antibiotics that are often ESBL strains (Hordijk et al., 2013). The prevalence obtained by us, as well as an insufficient quantity of information concerning the antimicrobial resistance on this segment of species of animals used for the human consumption, support conducting a more thorough study, as well as the identification of ESBL resistance genes, but also of the plasmids that encode the transmission of these genes.
Comparative Analysis of Electrophoretic Profile of Major Proteins of Milk from Alpine and Carpathian Goats
Authors: NASALEAN Alina , OGNEAN Laurentiu , MUNTEAN Sergiu , BALICI Stefana , MATEI Horea
Published: May 2017

The milkâ€™s proteins provide nutritional and biologically active values, essential in human and animal nutrition. In the case of goat milk, the proteinsâ€™ concentration and quality represent basic indices for the evaluation of the nutritional and biologically active values. The proposal is to comparatively analyse the protein profile of milk. The milk was collected from two different breeds: French Alpine and Romanian Carpathian. During March and April 2016 there were collected samples of raw milk in hygienic and sanitation conditions. There were two lots: first lot has 10 Carpathian goats and the second lot has 10 Alpine goats. The protein composition of goat milk was established with SDS-PAGE, after the evaluation of the total proteinsâ€™ concentration with the Bradford method. The quantitative and percentage data obtained with electrophoresis revealed few differences between those 8 identified protein fractions. Between those two lots, regarding the levels of Î²-CN, k-CN and Î²-lactoglobulines there were significant differences. The other protein fractions have values almost identical. Statistical analysis of obtained data shaped the differences in the protein profile at those two breeds. Based on those differences it is to note the superior potential of the Alpine breed regarding the content in biologically active milk proteins. Regarding the obtained data, this study brings new contributions for the evaluation and analysis of protein profile as a nutritive and biologically active component of goat milk, confirming its character as a functional aliment.
In Vitro Preparation And Testing Of Anti-Salmonella Vaccine Against Abortion In Sheep
Authors: CHIRILA Flore , NADAS George Cosmin , RAPUNTEAN Sorin , BOUARI Cosmina Maria , TOADER Septimiu , BERCE Petru , SZEKELY Andreea , FIT Nicodim Iosif
Published: May 2017

Abstract: In March 2016, the microbiology laboratory of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Cluj-Napoca, 3 type of antisalmonella vaccine for sheep were prepared. For type 1, 24 hours salmonella on brain heart infusion (BHI) broth culture, heat inactivated for 1 hour at 60Â°C, then with formaldehyde in a concentration of 3 â€°. Variant 2 - the culture supernatant obtained on solid BHI medium, washed with PBS, frozen-thawed 6 times, centrifuged at 4000 rpm for 15 minutes, filtered through 0.2 Î¼m Millipore filter Orange Scientific. Variant 3 - suspension of cell walls remaining after centrifugation suspended in PBS and inactivated with formaldehyde.After the bacterial and fungal sterility control, the three types of vaccine were administered in rabbits by the subcutaneous route at a dose of 1 ml/individual along with 1 ml of plant extract adjuvant (decoction of Ewernia prunastri) sterilized by filtration.There have been two booster inoculations of the initial administration, 7 and 14 days after. Before each dose of vaccine, blood was sampled from the marginal auricular vein in order to control the immunogenicity by anti-somatic Ë®OË® serum antibody (Ab) titration using slow microplate agglutination test (Widal reaction). After three inoculations with the vaccine variant 1, Ab serum titer reached 1/128, and in types 2 and 3, 1/512 after 2 inoculations, decreasing to 1/256 after the second booster administered with no immunomodulator.
Implication of Utilizing Phytoestrogens Infested Fodder on Fertility and Histological Structure of Ovaries and Oviduct in Sow
Authors: BOGDAN Liviu Marian , BOGDAN Sidonia , RUXANDA Flavia , RUS Vasile , MATOSZ Bianca , MICLAUS Viorel
Published: May 2017

Reproductive efficiency is an essential requirement for the profitability of swine farms and the quality of fodder can have a negative impact on this aspect. We carried out investigations regarding the influence of fodder quality on reproductive efficiency and the histological structure of the ovary and oviduct in 45 sows from a farm in Bihor county. We observed that corn utilized in feeding the sows was stored in inadequate conditions which allowed the development of moulds. The combined fodder, resulted after grinding the cereals, was stored directly on the concrete floor in inappropriate areas, concerning the hygiene. The animals were given green fodder directly on the stallâ€™s floor, which favours mould expansion. Upon histological examination, the ovary presented an exaggerated activity and there was a marked congestion in the oviduct, with a tendency of the epithelium toward pseudostratification. The precarious conditions of cereal and combined fodder storing and administration of green fodder, brought optimum conditions for mould development. Under the action of the latter factors, the reproductive performance drastically decreased along with compromising the sows used for reproduction.
Hygienic Quality Assessment Of Pork Carcasses Obtained In Industrial And Traditional Slaughtering Units
Authors: REGET Oana Lucia , TABARAN Alexandra , DAN Sorin Daniel , CORDIS Ionut , PUSTA Dana Liana , MARIAN Mihaiu
Published: May 2017

Despite the fact that many types of foods can be sources of food borne illnesses, meat and meat products are very important sources of infection in people with a wide variety of pathogens that cause food poisoning.The aim of this study was to conduct an assessment of meat hygienic quality and configuration by assessing the microbial load and the presence of pathogens.The material under investigation was represented by 40 samples of pork meat collected in stages, between 2015-2016, from slaughtering units both from the traditional system and theÂ  industrial system. Samples were analyzed at the Department of Food Safety and Control of Animal Origin Products.Total viable count in samples taken from the carcasses, in 2016 presented values similar to those in 2015, ranging from a minimum of 2.74 Â± 0.36 log cfu/cm2 in January and December and a maximum 3.73 Â± 1.13 log cfu / cm2 recorded in February, without showing significant differences between the samples processed in the studied period (p>0.05). TheÂ  resultsÂ  regarding contamination of swine carcasses (surface) with germs from Enterobacteriaceae family were non-compliant, exceeding the maximum permissible limit of 3.0 log cfu/cm2 in all 12 samples examined (33.33%).In the case of the samples taken from pork carcasses the results regarding germs from Enterobacteriaceae family were non-compliant, 29.16% of the samples examined during the period under study were found to exceed the maximum limit, which showed deficiencies regarding the hygiene requirements.
Molecular Identification and Prevalence of Sarcocystis Suihominis in Pork Meat Intended for Public Consumption
Authors: FAT Alina Ioana , TABARAN Alexandra , DAN Sorin Daniel , REGET Oana , CORDIS Ionut , CORDEA Darius , MIHAIU Marian
Published: May 2017

Protozoa of the genus Sarcocystis are among the most prevalent parasitic forms found in pork. In order to rapidly assess the risk that this protozoa produceÂ  in human population, a molecular method to detect and identify Sarcocystis suihominis needs to be implemented. The study aimed at characterizing the prevalence of Sarcocystis suihominis in pork obtained in the traditional households through PCR - RFLP method. The material was represented by seventy nine samples of diaphragmatic pillars collected between the periodÂ  October 2014 - December 2014 from two local sanitary veterinary units from Alba and Cluj. The samples were processed first by trichinelloscopic compression method. All the positive fragments for Sarcocystis spp. were examined through PCR-RFLP method. The method used in the present study utilized the AluI restriction enzyme and had successfully differentiate the Sarcocystis suihominis from other Sarcocystis spp. prevalent in pork meat.Â  The inspection of compressed muscle tissue has detected the presence of Sarcocystis suihominis in a high percentage of investigated samples. The prevalence of Sarcocystis suihominis in the examined samples was 26.58%. According to this result we can affirm that the risk of contamination in humans with Sarcocystis suihominis is high through consumption of contaminated pork meat, raised in the traditional system. In the present scientific research, we demonstrated that this method used for molecular identification of Sarcocystis suihominis has high accuracy and can be successfully applied for obtaining a certain diagnostic.
The Rate of Success of the Accelerated Solvent Extraction (Ase) of Fat and Organochlorine Pesticides from Dried Fish Meat Samples
Authors: CIOCA Ana Andreea , HEEMKEN Olaf , MIHAIU Marian
Published: May 2017

The replacement of conventional sample preparation techniques with newer techniques which are automated, faster and more eco-friendly, is nowadays desired in every analytical laboratory. One of the techniques with the attributes mentioned above is the Accelerated Solvent Extraction. In order to evaluate how successful this method is for the extraction of fat and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) from dried fish meat samples, we have tested two series of diverse fish using Dionexâ„¢ 350 ASE provided by Thermo Scientificâ„¢ (Germany). For a more interesting approach, we added to our investigation 7 polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs), 3 thricholorobenzenes, 2 tetrachlorobenzenes, 1 pentachlorobenzenes and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). The study focused on comparing the recoveries of these analytes from different fish samples, after replacing the conventional reference method of the laboratory with ASE. The ASE parameters tested were previously used for the extraction of fat and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) from fish samples: temperature: 120 Â° C; static time: 5 min; number of cycles: 3; flushing volume: 25%; rinse with nitrogen: 90 s; solvent: cyclohexane/ethyl acetate (ratio 1:1). The ASE method provided similar and in some cases better results when compared to the standard reference method, more rapidly, eco-friendly and safer. Any high or low recoveries of the analytes taken into study are attributed to random or systematic errors during the Clean-up step of the extracts and the quantification with Gas Chromatography coupled with Tandem Mass-Spectrometry (GC MS/MS).
Study of the Long-Term and Dose Dependent Effects of Methylphenidate and Monosodium Glutamate on the Hormonal Alterations of the Pituitary-Testicular Axis and Sperm Analysis in Adolescence Rats
Authors: ABDOLLAHZADEH Azad , KIANIFARD Davoud , VAFAEI SAIAH Gholamreza
Published: May 2017

Methylphenidate is one of the most common medications that used for maintaining alertness and improving of attention which, may lead to increase of the risk of substance abuse in some cases. Monosodium glutamate is a food additive which has toxic effects on human and animalâ€™s tissues. Â Due to the various side effects of methylphenidate and monosodium glutamate on the reproductive system, the aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term and dose dependent effects of these compounds on the reproductive system during adolescence through hormonal and sperm analysis. Low and high dose of methylphenidate and monosodium glutamate was administrated to adolescent rats for 60 days. Body and testicular weight measurement, pituitary gonadotropins and testosterone levels assays and sperm analysis was performed on euthanized animals. The results showed that, high dose of methylphenidate and low dose of monosodium glutamate and/or combination form of these two compounds have more effects on body and testicular weight alterations. Low dose of methylphenidate with high dose of monosodium glutamate influenced some alterations in follicle stimulating hormone. The distinct use of methylphenidate and monosodium glutamate led to slight elevation in sperm count but simultaneous use of these compounds led to significant elevation of sperm count. The administration of these compounds had negative effect on sperm motility and viability. It has been concluded that, coadministration of methylphenidate and monosodium glutamate through the influence of brain-pituitary-testicular axis and induction of some hormonal alterations may lead to changes in normal function of reproductive system
Research on the Phenotypic Characterization of Mrsa Strains Isolated from Animals
Authors: BUCUR Iulia Maria , HERMAN Viorel , PASCU Corina , IANCU Ionita , DEGI Janos , CATANA Nicolae
Published: May 2017

Keywords: chromogen, methicillin, MRSA, resistanceIntroduction: Currently, both in staphylococci isolated from animals with different diseases, as well as in humans, the MRSA strains (Methicillin Resistant S. aureus) are monitored, as the methicillin resistance is associated with the resistance to other antibiotic groups.Methicillin resistance is encoded by mec staphylococcal chromosomal cassettes (SCCmec), which are islands of resistance. These strains can be identified by molecular biology tests and tests that reveal several phenotypic characteristics.The research was made in order to characterize and identify phenotypically the MRSA staphylococci strains isolated from animals.Materials and Methods: Researches were made on 240 coagulase positive and coagulase negative strains of staphylococci. Mannitol fermentation was tested on Champan medium, free coagulase was revealed on Baird-Parker medium and to identify S. aureus subsp. aureus was used the chromogenic medium Chromatic Staph.Methicillin-resistant strains were detected by disc diffusion method, using biodiscs with methicillin, oxacillin and cefoxitin. Also, to identify the MRSA strains, was used the chromogenic medium Chromatic MRSA.Results: The isolates were positive to mannitol and produced complete haemolysis or were unhaemolytic. A total of 44 strains produced free coagulase on Baird-Parker medium, considered coagulase positive strains, while 196 were coagulase negative strains.The isolates conducted differently to methicillin: 22,08% of strains were resistant, 51,25% of strains were susceptible and 26,66% had intermediate resistance, while the resistant strains to oxacillin were 42,91%.The increased frequency of methicillin-resistant strains of staphylococci and, particularly, MRSA strains, determined using the cefoxitin disk diffusion test, which is more reliable than methicillin and oxacillin.On the MRSA chromogenic medium, the methicillin-resistant strains of staphylococci formed colonies with pigment from mauve to orange mauve.Conclusion: The obtained results by disk diffusion test on resistance patterns to 3 beta-lactams, resistant to penicillinase, indicated a different frequency of the resistant strains to these antibiotics.Cefoxitin disk diffusion test revealed a frequency of 2,51% of resistant strains, that can be considered MRSA strains.
Measurement of Mean Arterial Pressure by Carotid Artery Cannulation in Isoflurane Anesthetized Wistar Rats
Authors: BOGDAN Sidonia Alina , LUCA Vlad , PESTEAN Cosmin , OBER Ciprian , BEL Lucia , CODEA Andrei Razvan , BOGDAN Ileana , MANDEAL Radu , OANA Liviu
Published: May 2017

Experimental studies on small lab animals, particularly rats are a widely-used model (Ordodi et. all 2004). Blood pressure measurement is one of the fastest and most informative means of assessing cardiovascular function and provides an accurate indication of drug effects, surgical events and hemodynamic trends (Tranquilli et. all, 2007). A close monitoring of the animals during the experiment is important to detect early imbalances and prevent any changes that could compromise the results.Blood pressure measurement is one of the basic procedures in biomedical research and it can be done by non-invasive or invasive technics. The gold standard procedures with the most accuracy are the invasive technics. This includes radial, femoral, brachial or carotid cannulation (Parasuraman et. all 2012). Carotid artery catheterization is a common procedure that allows precise monitoring of the blood pressure but surgery is required to perform them (Plehm et. all 2006).Experimental surgery on small lab animals, especially rats, itâ€™s a widely used model. In order to perform surgery, anaesthesia must be used and it usually causes a slowdown of the respiration that induces metabolic imbalances. It could cause cardiovascular collapse and death if left unbalanced. A close monitoring of the respiration, ECG, blood pressure is necessary during the experiment (Ordodi et. all 2004).Because it may not be always available or the prohibitive cost of the special equipment used to perform these tasks, we adapted a simple device and method to record the mean arterial pressure (MAP) in rats by carotid catheterisation and the results obtained were sustainable.
Structural Features in Tunica Media of the Aorta in Lamb
Authors: CSIBI Dalma , GAL Adrian Florin , RATIU Cristian , MICLAUS Viorel
Published: May 2017

In blood vessels situated just after the heart, an irregular blood flow occurs due to some specific structural elements of the tunica media. The current paper describes the histological aspects of some post-cardiac arterial sections in lamb. The tissue samples were collected from five 30 days old male lambs (ÈšurcanÄƒ breed). Histological specimens from different regions of the aorta were harvested (i.e., the ascending aorta, aortic arch, thoracic and abdominal regions of the descending aorta). From the specified regions, small pieces (cca. 0.5 cm) were fixed in neutral 10% buffered formalin. The tissues were subsequently embedded in paraffin wax, sectioned at 5 Î¼m, and stained with Goldnerâ€™s trichrome and Verhoeff methods. Tissue analysis was performed using an Olympus system for image acquisition and analysis. Histological appearance of the assessed segments of the aorta in lamb is unusual. Major changes occur in tunica media of the aorta. In the ascending aorta, aortic arch and thoracic regions of the aorta, the histological outline is somewhat the same. The internal region of the media possesses the typical lamellar arrangement. Concerning the outer part of tunica media, the smooth muscle has a tendency to form bundles of various sizes. The muscle islands are not present in the media of abdominal region of the aorta, which exhibits the classic pattern of elastic arteries.
A Study on the Health of the Tourism Industry based on a Business Ecosystem
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Joun Hyo-Jae , Kim Sung-Yun
Published: May 2017

Investigation of the dynamic landscape of the tourism industry is a basic step needed to design policies and enhance national competitiveness. This study examines the tourism industry from the perspective of a business ecosystem and discusses the subsequent measures necessary for development. First, the study classifies the tourism industry into several types of business entities categorized under the National Tourism Promotion Act and analyzes their health using the industrial analysis method. This study uses 7 basic types of business defined by the Tourism Promotion Act and categorizes tour business throughout Korea. This tour business takes up over 50% of the tourism industry and involves 4 independent sectors. It excludes Casino business as this operates according to government authorization and is greatly different from the rest of the tourism industry. Therefore, it sets 9 types of tourism business as analysis units and uses raw statistical data compiled by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. To examine the health of the tourism industry, it compiles the number of businesses and employees and total sales revenues to establish a measurement index for productivity and robustness. As a result of the analysis, this study suggests stable growth trends for the industry, and provides policy assistance to stabilize a business cycle fraught with ups and downs. It also provides detailed direction to sustain stable growth throughout the tourism industry. The results of this study will contribute to framing the tourism industry within a business policy perspective and will provide the foundation for further in depth research.
The Influence of Deluxe Hotel Culinary Staff Job Characteristics on Job Satisfaction and Organizational Commitment: Focus on the Moderating Effects of the Staff's Gender and Career
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Hong Yun-Ju , Kim Young-Wook , Kim Young Joong
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this study was to understand the influence of culinary staff job characteristics in deluxe hotels on job satisfaction and organizational commitment. To this end, the study empirically analyzed the moderating effects of career and gender as they affect the relations of job characteristics, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment. Based on a total of 319 samples obtained for empirical research, this study reviewed the reliability and fitness of the research model and verified a total of 8 hypotheses using the AMOS program. The hypothesized relationships in the model were simultaneously tested using a structural equation model (SEM). The proposed model provided an adequate data fit, χ2=421.770(df 234), p<.001, CMIN/df=1.802, GFI=.906, AGFI=.880, NFI=.881, CFI=.937, TLI=.933, RMSEA=.045. The model's fit, as indicated by these indexes, was deemed satisfactory, thus providing a good basis for testing the hypothesized paths. The SEM showed that skill variety (β=.149 ), task significance(β=.299) and autonomy(β=.455) had a significant positive influence on job satisfaction. In addition, job satisfaction (β= .508) had a significant positive influence on organizational Limitations and future research directions are also discussed.
A Study of the Tourist Satisfaction in Resorts using the Probit Model: Focus on Indonesian Resorts
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Han Eun Jin
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this study is to identify the actual usage and satisfaction of domestic and international tourists in tourism resorts throughout Indonesia. The research method used was the ordered probit model in order to analyze visitor motivation, satisfaction, personal tendencies and the impact on the satisfaction of tourism resorts in Indonesia. The tourists who had domestic and international experience visiting resorts in Indonesia were selected as the sample for this study. The survey was then conducted from July 1st, 2016 to August 31st, 2016 with a total of 232 questionnaires being distributed to the tourists. The collected sample data were analyzed using a factor analysis and ordered probit model that utilized SPSS and LIMDEP 8.0 statistical programs. The results of this analysis indicate that personal consumption behavior throughout Indonesian tourist resorts is affected by, Visitor motivation, visitor satisfaction, revisit intention, Personal orientation, and the general environment of Tourist resort utilization etc. Furthermore, these are all important variables in explaining the potential of consumers. The results of this study can be used to create effective marketing strategies for the tourism resort industry by comparing the characteristics of potential consumers.
STUDENTS WITH BEHAVIOUR DIFFICULTIES AND LATVIAN TEACHER BELIEFS ABOUT THEM: GLOBALISATION OR GLOCALISATION IN ACTION?
Authors: Bruveris Ilona
Published: May 2017

This paper analyses Latvian teacher beliefs about students with behaviour difficulties to ascertain whether the same issues are of concern for Latvian teachers as teachers from another system, such as Australia. Do they identify similar behaviours as of concern, do they have similar expectations and views about educating these students or are they so dissimilar that they, by borrowing from elsewhere, end up importing surrogate values and impossible solutions? This rests within a context of globalisation in education which encourages teachers to look to and borrow from foreign systems as an astute way of providing pre-tested solutions for local needs.
CHARACTERISTICS OF FEMALE MURDERERS IN POLAND
Authors: Karpuszenko Elena
Published: May 2017

The problems analysed in the study were inspired by the increasing number of reports on violent criminal acts committed by women as perpetrators. Therefore, it is worth analysing the motivations for committing the most serious crimes by women. Furthermore, the study took into consideration the determinants of committing the crimes that were connected with family and non-family environments of the criminals. The analysed factors included personality, experiences from the childhood, school and professional situation. The analyses discussed in the study attempted to determine a female murderer profile.
ANIMALS IN RESOCIALIZATION
Authors: Czerw Monika
Published: May 2017

The benefits of relations between humans and animals have encouraged both scientists and members of other communities to popularize the knowledge in the field of animal-assisted therapy. Currently, animal-assisted therapy has been used not only in therapy, but also in resocialization. The increasing popularity of this form of supporting maladjusted people who are isolated from society or people with disabilities encouraged both practitioners and researchers to organize knowledge, thus reducing the scepticism about the usefulness of animal-assisted therapy.

In Poland, the particular focus of the animal-assisted therapy is on the use of dogs to enhance the resocialization process. However, various experimental resocialization programs have also used horses and even lamas. This paper is intended to familiarize the reader with the aspects of the assistance of animals in resocialization. Furthermore, it emphasizes the difficulties and advantages that can be expected from integration of this type of therapy into resocialization programs.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNING IN OPTIONAL STUDY COURSES AT LASE
Authors: Malahova Ludmila , Boge Iveta
Published: May 2017

Nowadays to be competitive in labor market foreign language knowledge and skills are essential. After graduation from LASE students start to work as coaches, sports managers or recreation specialists, and, speaking about their employability, in their jobs foreign language competence is very significant. The aim of the research is to determine the demand among students for optional foreign language study courses, which foreign languages are chosen and studied by the LASE students. In the research, optional foreign language study course examination protocols were analyzed for the last four years, which provide the best indicator of how many students not only chose but also actually completed optional foreign language study courses. The research shows that at LASE the optional study courses of foreign language learning are in great demand in sport science direction. LASE students are aware of advantages of foreign language knowledge and skills in labor market also in sport sector and show their wish to continue developing their foreign language competence while studying at LASE.
PECULIARITIES OF TRAINING FOR CAREER OF LEARNERS WITH MILD INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES
Authors: Virbalienė Rita , Baranauskienė Ingrida
Published: May 2017

This article describes the peculiarities of training of learners with mild intellectual disabilities. The aim of the article is to highlight problems and different theoretical approaches and theoretically validate the optimal ways of training for career of learners with mild intellectual disabilities. On the basis of scholarly literature, to analyses which areas of training for career are accessible to learners with mild intellectual disabilities. To discuss training for career as a person’s readiness to enter adult life from the point of view of education. Young people with mild intellectual disabilities should be supported in understanding own wishes and possibilities. It is important that they start preparing for professional activity in early childhood, since it continues until a person becomes an adult. In the childhood, children should be introduced with different professions and encouraged to take interest in them. They should be encouraged to think about their future work, what they are successful at, as well as about the advantages of different activities.
LITHUANIAN AND LATVIAN SOCIAL EDUCATORS’ OCCUPATIONAL STRESS AND THE ANALYSIS OF ITS COPING POSSIBILITIES: SOCIAL EDUCATORS’ EXPERIENCES
Authors: Orska Rita , Alifanoviene Daiva , Šapelytė Odeta
Published: May 2017

Stress is a condition related to complaints or disturbances of physical, psychological or social nature, which occur, if an individual does not feel able to fulfil all the requirements and expectations. In order to cope with stress situations, a person makes a particular effort for the regulation of it, in other words, for coping (overcoming, self-control). The coping is a multidimensional construct. The studies on this construct are rather recent in science, are carried out in the last twenty years. Due to that, the focus in stress research has shifted. Currently, more studies are conducted on prevention problems, how to develop and find resources in personality to cope with stress effectively. The first results of the study on the stress management peculiarities of social educators are reviewed in this paper as well. The research aim: to disclose the context of manifestation of occupational stress experienced by Lithuanian and Latvian social educators and its coping possibilities.
THE EFFECT OF LOCAL VIBROSTIMULATION ON ELECTROMYOGRAPHY PARAMETERS IN ROWERS
Authors: Ciekurs Kalvis , Krauksts Viesturs , Krauksta Daina , Smila Baiba , Kaupuzs Aivars
Published: May 2017

Local vibrostimulation (further in text - LV) is innovation as a part of training method that helps athletes to regain the power and get ready for next training faster. There are many discussions about how to increase moving speed in rowers. Many scientists research the possibilities of increasing moving speed in this sport. The following methods were used in the study: tests – Concept-2, LV manipulations, electromyography and mathematical statistics. The electromyography was made with Biometric LTD. LV manipulations were done to the muscles erector spinae, latisimus dorsi, teres major, teres minor, trapezius, infraspinatus, deltoideus, slenius capitis, triceps brachii, gluteus maximus, semitendinosus, biceps femoris, semimembranosus, castrocnemius, tendo calcaneus, rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, tensor fascia latae, vastus medialis, sarterius, ligamentum patellae, tibialis anterior, rectus abdominis, pectoralis major and biceps brachii. We using 100 Hz frequency, 2 – 4 mm amplitude and different pressure on the muscles. The total LV application time was 5 to 20  min. The obtained data were processed using mathematical statistics. The results: having stated the result difference before LV and after it. The results testify significant improvement of Concept-2 tests results and electromyography results, what is showed by the difference of the mean results. Comparing the results of the rowers of EG and CG they have differences in the left side muscle latissimus dorsi after the t-test where p>0.05, but stating the percentage of the mean result difference of this muscle it was found out that p>0.05 what also shows significant changes in the muscle biopotential (mV).
THE NEED OF INTERDISCIPLINARY PARTNERSHIP IN RECREATION AREA TO WORK WITH STREET YOUTH
Authors: Lisauskienė Dovilė , Aleksienė Vilmantė
Published: May 2017

Both Europe and Lithuania aim at involving youth into the activities, encouraging their activeness and participation in social life. The article analyzes the social work with street youth. The initiatives of social work in informal environments of a city streets by applying interactive methods, interfering with creative-artistic or sports leisure activities are discussed. The results of the research carried out highlighted the need of interdisciplinary partnership in recreation area to work with street youth.
THE INCLUSION OF SPECIAL EDUCATION INTO PRESCHOOL AND ELEMENTARY GENERAL EDUCATION INSTITUCIONS IN LATVIA
Authors: Kūle Ligita , Rajevska Feliciana
Published: May 2017

The statistics of the Ministry of Education and Science show a positive dynamics in the availability of special education. However, for inclusion of children with special needs into the mainstream education, the provision of support staff (psychologist, speech therapist, special educator) is essential. The aim of this research is to investigate the national legislation on the inclusion of children with special needs in the pre-school and elementary school education system, exploring the funding aspect. The study analyses the legislative basis for the provision of special education in mainstream schools. The research investigated the provision of special education in general education institutions in Alūksne Municipality in September - December 2016 (case study) and carried out several interviews with field experts. The study is conducted in the context of theory of inclusive special education. The study shows that in providing education support staff in an educational institution in the framework of the existing public education and special education funding model and in the context of a rural region with a low population density, there is a need for a rational approach, careful planning and process management: gathering information about all pupils with special needs in a municipality, cooperation with parents, management and mobilization of all resources.
SELF-ASSESSMENT OF LANGUAGE SKILLS AND EVALUATION OF PERFORMANCE IN ENGLISH FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSES CLASSROOMS
Authors: Darginaviciene Irena
Published: May 2017

Although evaluation has been increasingly used in education for a long time, attention to evaluation and its uses in English language teaching is relatively recent. Essentially, evaluation may be carried out to determine if the students achieved a certain level of language proficiency. Recently self-evaluation of language skills has been used to find out how students assess their accomplishments in language learning. On the other hand, formal testing is the most common way to measure achievement and proficiency in language learning that teachers conduct during an academic year. Formal testing is considered to be an effective tool that can help teachers identify students’ strengths and weaknesses and evaluate the effectiveness of teaching. This article focuses on student’s perceptions of success in learning English for Specific Purposes (ESP) and formal evaluation of their performance in class activities. The methods of the research include the administration of the designed questionnaire, analysis of students’ responses and their statistical treatment by a means of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 19). The self-evaluation data are compared with the results of formal testing. The conclusions are drawn on the merits of self-evaluation in learning ESP.
EDUCATIONAL INTERACTION OF THE STUDENTS WITH BEHAVIORAL DISORDERS IN THE CONTEXT OF TRANSFORMATION OF EDUCATIONAL PARADIGMS: THE CASE OF AN EDUCATIONAL CENTRE
Authors: Galkiene Alvyra , Kulakauskienė Ieva
Published: May 2017

The article analyses the manifestation of educational interaction among fourteen – eighteen – year – old students with behavioral disorders that are being educated in the socialization centre. The method of a structured interview has been applied in order to determine the peculiarities of such interaction in the contexts of the traditional and the progressive education, prioritizing the culture of cooperative learning culture as a prerequisite for fostering social relations and learning a proper social behaviour. The discourse of the students, teachers and providers of special educational assistance has been analyzed in the context of the lesson organization, cooperation activities and surmounting impediments. The study results revealed that feelings of dignity and belonging to the community are of particular importance for the students of the social centre. However, the education here is based more on the teaching than on the learning strategy, as well as on a vertical interaction between teachers and students. Progressive education episodes, flexible organization of education and joyous atmosphere during the lessons establish a horizontal relationship and reduce tension in the educational environment.
YOUTH IDENTITY FROM ECOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE BETWEEN EDUCATION AND PREVENTION
Authors: Nikitorowicz Jerzy , Sawicki Krzysztof , Zylkiewicz-Plonska Emilia
Published: May 2017

Socialisation is one of the key processes that shapes the identity of youth. This construct, which over the last century has undergone significant transformation, became a pattern for determining the purposes of upbringing (Nature vs. Nurture), or interpretative model that is used to explain character of this process from a socio-cultural perspective. On the basis of ecological framework, the concept of resilience and positive psychology, in recent years it has been developed a new approach towards socialisation - Positive Youth Development (PYD). Because of its relevance, pragmatic assumptions, this model is worth examining in terms of teleology, epistemology and methodical context.According to the Ecological Systems Theory of Urie Bronfenbrenner the youth socialisation process is included in the micro, meso, exo and macro systems. While the socialisation process, youth experiences the interactions between these systems, which in consequence shapes its identity. An element that fits into a methodical context is the characteristic of chosen supportive, educational and preventive actions undertaken towards youth in the northeastern Poland.
PARTICIPATION AND PERFORMANCES IN COMPETITIONS: LATVIAN ORIENTEERING DEVELOPMENT EVIDENCE
Authors: Smila Baiba , Fernāte Andra
Published: May 2017

Previous efforts to depict sport development opportunities resulted in a sport development metaphor, the participation pyramid (Sotiriadou, Shilbury & Quick, 2008).  The base of the sport development metaphor represents the relationship between mass and elite participation (Shilbury, Sotiriadou & Green, 2008) and medals won during the Olympic Games (Sotiriadou, De Bosscher, 2013). The most important international competitions may, therefore, best represent overall sport systems (Sparvero, Chalip, & Green, 2008), but competition opportunities for athletes are the factor contributing to elite success. The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between mass and elite orienteers’ participation and elite orienteers’ performances at the most important national and international orienteering competitions. Methods: the official most important orienteering national and international competition results from 2001 to 2016 were obtained from the websites of each annual organizing committee, linked to the International Orienteering Federation website and mathematical statistics was conducted. The results confirmed a strong, medium and weak relationship between mass and elite orienteers’ participation and elite orienteers’ performances in the most important national and international orienteering competitions. Orienteers’ movement up the participation pyramid is not automatic.
THE CONTRIBUTION OF TECHNOLOGY TO AN UNDERGRADUATE INTERNATIONAL LEARNING PARTNERSHIP: THE RITUAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Ločmele Liene , Burke Barbara Ruth
Published: May 2017

This study is part of a research project on a learning partnership between undergraduates of ViA, Latvia and UMM, USA. During the joint media course in Spring 2016, students participated in Skype discussions, completed shared assignments and reflected upon their learning experience. The transcripts of these activities form the body of qualitative data. We employ the perspective of Ethnography of Communication (Hymes 1962, Philipsen 1997) and Cultural Discourse Analysis (Carbaugh, 2007) in order to answer the following research questions: (1) what is the nature of the studied technology-mediated learning discourse, and (2) how do the constructed meanings around the use of technology contribute to the variety of cultural norms in play? We propose to understand the studied discussion sessions as a ritual practice (Turner 1980, Philipsen 1992, 1997)--the correct performance of which the participants instantly co-construct and negotiate when employing locally-adopted norms associated with democratic education practice--and assess the use and function of technology in the experienced learning interactions.