bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Percutaneous Toxicity and Decontamination of Soman, Vx, and Paraoxon in Rats Using Detergents
Authors: Misík Jan , Pavliková Růžena , Kuča Kamil
Published: July 2013

Highly toxic organophosphorus compounds (OPs) were originally developed for warfare or as agricultural pesticides. Today, OPs represent a serious threat to military personnel and civilians. This study investigates the in vivo decontamination of male Wistar rats percutaneously exposed to paraoxon and two potent nerve agents - soman (GD) and VX. Four commercial detergents were tested as decontaminants - NeodekontTM, ArgosTM, DermogelTM, and FloraFreeTM. Decontamination performed 2 min after exposure resulted in a higher survival rate in comparison with non-decontaminated controls. The decontamination effectiveness was expressed as protective ratio (PR, median lethal dose of agent in decontaminated animals divided by the median lethal dose of agent in untreated animals). The highest decontamination effectiveness was consistently achieved with ArgosTM (PR=2.3 to 64.8), followed by DermogelTM (PR=2.4 to 46.1). NeodekontTM and FloraFreeTM provided the lowest decontamination effectiveness, equivalent to distilled water (PR=1.0 to 43.2).
Earthquakes – A Historical Review, Environmental and Health Effects, and Health Care Measures
Authors: Nola Iskra Alexandra , Doko Jelinić Jagoda , Žuškin Eugenija , Kratohvil Mladen
Published: July 2013

Potresi su prirodne katastrofe koje možemo očekivati u bilo kojem dijelu Zemlje u bilo kojem trenutku. Učestalost im je veća u cirkumpacifičkom i mediteransko-transazijskom seizmičkom pojasu. Prate se nizom sofisticiranih metoda, magnituda im se određuje Richterovom ljestvicom, a intenzitet Mercani- Cancani-Sibergovom ljestvicom. Kroz povijest je zabilježen niz potresa koji su svojom razornom snagom odnijeli brojne ljudske živote te dramatično izmijenili okoliš. Hrvatska se nalazi u seizmički aktivnom području, što dokazuje niz katastrofalnih potresa, od kojih velik broj i na zagrebačkom području. Posljedice potresa najviše će ovisiti o gustoći naseljenosti i seizmičkoj otpornosti zgrada. Okolišne posljedice najčešće uključuju zagađenje zraka, vode i tla. Učinci takvog zagađenja mogu imati dugoročne posljedice na zdravlje populacije. Najdramatičniji, akutni, zdravstveni učinci potresa posljedica su rušenja zgrada. Pri tome brzo i djelotvorno medicinsko djelovanje ovisi ne samo o dobroj organizaciji i pripremljenosti zdravstvenih djelatnika nego i o spremnosti i opremljenosti civilne zaštite, vatrogasne službe i pripadnika Gorske službe spašavanja (HGSS). Tada će upravo dobra koordinacija između navedenih službi biti najvažnija, čime će se spasiti mnogi životi i spriječiti teže ozljede. Javnozdravstveno djelovanje mora se zasnivati na učinkovitim kontrolnim mjerama u okolišu kao prevenciji sekundarnih zdravstvenih problema izazvanih nepovoljnim okolišnim čimbenicima. Identifikacijom i kontrolom dugoročnih štetnosti nastalih kao posljedica potresa smanjit će se kronični zdravstveni učinci u populaciji. Najvažnije je istaknuti da smanjenje potresom izazvanih razaranja, budući da je rušenje zgrada najveći rizični čimbenik potresa, uključuje postavljanje prioriteta u izgradnji seizmički sigurnih zgrada.
Antifungal and Antipatulin Activity of Gluconobacter Oxydans Isolated from Apple Surface
Authors: Bevardi Martina , Frece Jadranka , Mesarek Dragana , Bošnir Jasna , Mrvčić Jasna , Delaš Frane , Markov Ksenija
Published: July 2013

Fungicides are the most common agents used in postharvest treatment of fruit and are the most effective against blue mould, primarily caused by Penicillium expansum. Alternatively, blue mould can be treated with antagonistic microorganisms naturally occurring on fruit, such as the bacterium Gluconobacter oxydans. The aim of this study was to establish the antifungal potential of the G. oxydans 1J strain isolated from apple surface against Penicillium expansum in culture and apple juice and to compare it with the efficiency of a reference strain G. oxydans ATCC 621H. The highest antifungal activity of G. oxydans 1J was observed between days 3 and 9 with no colony growth, while on day 12, P. expansum colony diameter was reduced to 42.3 % of the control diameter. Although G. oxydans 1J did not fully inhibit mould growth, it showed a high level of efficiency and completely prevented patulin accumulation in apple juice.
CYP2E1 Testis Expression and Alcoholmediated Changes of Rat Spermatogenesis Indices and Type I Collagen
Authors: Shayakhmetova Ganna M. , Bondarenko Larysa B. , Kovalenko Valentina M. , Ruschak Volodymyr V.
Published: July 2013

This study is a complex investigation of alcohol-mediated changes in CYP2E1 mRNA and protein expression in the testes, as well as spermatogenesis indices and type I collagen amino acid contents, in male rats. Wistar albino male rats were divided into two groups: I - control (intact animals), II - experimental (chronic alcoholism, exposure to a 15 % ethanol aqueous solution during 150 days). The destructive changes in the spermatogenic epithelium were accompanied by a decrease in sperm number and motility time. CYP2E1 mRNA and protein expression were elevated in the testes 3 and 1.4 times, respectively. Also, significantly lower contents of lysine, glutamic acid, serine, proline, alanine, valine, and phenylalanine residues accompanied by an increase of hydroxyproline, glycine, and threonine residue contents were detected in the skin type I collagen of the experimental group. Chronic ethanol consumption caused testicular failure along with an overexpression of CYP2E1 mRNA and protein in the testes as well as quantitative changes in type I collagen amino acid contents. The profound alcohol-mediated changes in collagen type I amino acid contents may have affected the spermatogenic epithelium state. The modulation of testicular cytochrome P450 2E1 mRNA and protein expression could change the functioning of this isozyme in target organs and take part in the mechanism of ethanol gonadotoxicity.
Mutagenicity and DNA Damage of Bisphenol a and its Structural Analogues in Hepg2 Cells
Authors: Fic Anja , Žegura Bojana , Sollner Dolenc Marija , Filipič Metka , Peterlin Mašič Lucija
Published: July 2013

Environmental oestrogen bisphenol A (BPA) and its analogues are widespread in our living environment. Because their production and use are increasing, exposure of humans to bisphenols is becoming a significant issue. We evaluated the mutagenic and genotoxic potential of eight BPA structural analogues (BPF, BPAF, BPZ, BPS, DMBPA, DMBPS, BP-1, and BP-2) using the Ames and comet assay, respectively. None of the tested bisphenols showed a mutagenic effect in Salmonella typhimurium strains TA98 and TA100 in either the presence or absence of external S9-mediated metabolic activation (Aroclor 1254-induced male rat liver). Potential genotoxicity of bisphenols was determined in the human hepatoma cell line (HepG2) at non-cytotoxic concentrations (0.1 μmol L-1 to 10 μmol L-1) after 4-hour and 24-hour exposure. In the comet assay, BPA and its analogue BPS induced significant DNA damage only after the 24-hour exposure, while analogues DMBPS, BP-1, and BP-2 induced a transient increase in DNA strand breaks
Human Exposure to Cyanotoxins and their Effects on Health
Authors: Drobac Damjana , Tokodi Nada , Simeunović Jelica , Baltić Vladimir , Stanić Dina , Svirčev Zorica
Published: July 2013

Cyanotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by cyanobacteria. They pose a threat to human health and the environment. This review summarises the existing data on human exposure to cyanotoxins through drinking water, recreational activities (e.g., swimming, canoeing or bathing), the aquatic food web, terrestrial plants, food supplements, and haemodialysis. Furthermore, it discusses the tolerable daily intake and guideline values for cyanotoxins (especially microcystins) as well as the need to implement risk management measures via national and international legislation.
The Evaluation of Efficacy of Pycnogenol® Fractions on Endothelial Dysfunction
Authors: Jankyova S. , Hlavackova L. , Kralova E. , Slazneva J. , Drobna V. , Zuzik P. , Drafi F. , Mucaji P. , Racanska Eva
Published: July 2013

The present study evaluates antihyperglycemic activity of fractionated Pycnogenol® and its ability to improve endothelial dysfunction
in diabetic animals. The aim of this study was to isolate from Pycnogenol® mixture its active compounds and compare
their efficacy on observed parameters. Pycnogenol® mixture was fractioned by re-extracting with petroleum ether, chloroform,
ethyl acetate and butanol, subsequently. Pycnogenol® mixture and fractions (butanolic, water, ethyl acetate) were administered
during 6 weeks to diabetic rats. Blood glucose levels were assessed from the arterio-venous blood at the beginning of experiment
and at the end of experiment. Endothelial dysfunction was evaluated as the contractile responses to phenylephrine and
acetylcholine. The amount of collagen I and III was assessed from thoracic aorta after picrosirius red staining. For the confirmation
of the changes on molecular level, we determinated endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) and heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90)
expression from left ventricle.
Overall, the result suggest, that fractions are not so effective on observed parameters as Pycnogenol® mixture itself, indicating
synergistic effect of the plant constituents.
New Types of Assessments of Community Pharmacy Technology Business and Their Contribution Towards Prosperity of the Community Pharmacy
Authors: Malovecká L. , Mináriková D. , Lehocká Ľ. , Foltán V.
Published: July 2013

The new approach how to assess community pharmacy business by monitoring indicators of financial analysis, contributes to a
positive economic development in the community pharmacy business. The better is understanding and analysis of the financial
statements in the community pharmacy business, the better will be improvement in managing and controlling finances. Financial
analysis enable the community pharmacy to make more informed decisions, comparisons of actual financial performance
with forecast targets, performances in past years and comparisons to industry averages. The most important analysed financial
statements are balance sheet and profit and loss statement. The outcomes of the financial analysis are debt, efficiency, profitability,
liquidity ratios and working capital ratio. They are compared to recommended values and the suggestions are made to
improve community pharmacy´s efficiency and prosperity. The result of the new approach to assessment community pharmacy
technology business will contribute to positive financial development of the community pharmacy and it´s maintenance or
survival at the upcoming time.
Morphological peculiarities of the trigeminal nerve roots and ganglia in human fetus
Authors: Dimitropoulou Th. , Dănălache C. , Bordei P. , Iliescu D.M
Published: July 2013

The study of the intracranial traject of the trigeminal nerve was performed through a dissection of 40 human fetuses whose ages ranged between 4 and 9 months. We examined: the apparent origin of the nerve, the traject, stating the length and width of the roots and of the triangular plexus, the antero-posterior width of the trigeminal ganglion and its transverse diameter, measured between the two extremities (horns). The anatomical landmarks were considered left versus right for each fetus and the trigeminal ganglia were studied only in terms of macroscopy: form and relations. We found that the sensory root length increases greatly between the fourth and the fifth month (more than 1 mm), from six to seven months the root length present a stagnation and in the eighth month its increase in length is very significant, about 4 mm, while in the ninth month we also recorded an increase of about 2 mm. The motor root may have two separate fiber bundles, both as cylinders, which can be present from the apparent origin and up to the mandibular nerve; near their origin of the two bundles are separated by nervous tissue. The trigeminal ganglia has, most often, a semilunar aspect, thus justifying its name. Other times it may be irregular, triangular or quadrilateral (rectangular). There are situations when the trigeminal ganglion shows three lobes, each corresponding to one of its three terminal branches.
Indirect effects of noise exposure on liver activity - experimental case -
Authors: Chirică R. , Comșa G.I.
Published: July 2013

We live in a noisy world. We constantly undergoing in various types of noise that affect our quality of life. It is well known that noise is not only a problem but also a serious threat to health. The effects, that noise exposure has on health is a public serious problem, and is becoming more acute, which can occur at both, mentally and physically levels.
Modern treatment of upper permanent canine absence - Case report
Authors: Gheorghiu Irina-Maria , Mitran Loredana , Mitran M. , Mironiuc-Cureu Magdalena , Stoian Irina Maria
Published: July 2013

The absence of upper definitive canine is relatively common in clinic. The edentulous area is problematic regarding the prosthetic treatment. In this study case it has been used a modern treatment by inserting a dental implant. This method has major advantages because is very conservative thinking the old prosthetic methods.
Cross-Border Cooperation in Slovak-Czech Border Region under EU Programmes
Authors: Rajčáková Eva , Švecová Angelika
Published: July 2013

Cross-border cooperation is one of the development opportunities of border regions. Cross-border cooperation (CBC) along the Slovakia-Czech border is specific. It is due to several factors like common history under one state formation, historical ties and similarity of language and culture. Cooperation was realised also in the past. CBC got new forms and intensity after the peaceful dissolution of Czechoslovakia in two independent states - Czech Republic and Slovak Republic and the possibility to draw support from EU instruments for cross-border cooperation in the pre-accession (after 2003) and the programming periods 2004-2006 and 2007-2013. The aim of this contribution is to highlight the implementation status and opportunities of Operational Programme Cross-Border Cooperation Slovak Republic - Czech Republic 2007-2013 (OP CBC SK-CZ 2007-2013) and at a lower administrative level to evaluate the potential of local governments of the Trenčín Self-Governing Region (TSR) and three border self-governing regions (Trnava, Trenčín, Žilina) for involvement in cross-border cooperation. In the current programming period of 2007- 2013, cross-border cooperation is implemented also in the Slovakia-Czech border region under the OP CBC SK-CZ 2007-2013. Research pointed to a lower intensity of drawing funds on OP CBC SK-CZ 2007-2013. The main reasons are the lack of experience of local governments with grant applications, project implementation and difficult project administration. The problem is also long term of verification of the financial costs of the project activities what gets municipalities into trouble with co-financing of projects. It caused that municipalities have low interest to apply for new projects.
A New Slovakian-Hungarian Cross-Border Geopark in Central Europe – Possibility for Promoting Better Connections Between the Two Countries
Authors: Horváth Gergely , Csüllög Gábor
Published: July 2013

In the past years, many geoparks have been established all over the world, based mainly on the geoheritage, and partly on the cultural heritage, of the regions. Their main aim is to promote the spatial development of certain regions, especially by the development of tourism, including geo- and ecotourism. One of the newest geoparks is the Novohrad-Nógrád Geopark along the border of Slovakia and Hungary, which, having a high status, belongs to the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. What is remarkable about it is that it was the very first cross-border geopark. Because of historical elements and due to political intentions, borders often play a more disjunctive than connective role, and the changes of the borders in the 20th century often distorted the spatial structure and turned former peripheries into flourishing regions. This was characteristic also of the regions where the Novohrad-Nógrád Geopark was established. Beyond the perspective for the spatial development of these regions, this cross-border geopark forces directly the local authorities and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) on both sides of the border to maintain tighter contacts for co-operation, promoting by this means also better connections between the two countries.
New gravity control in Poland – needs, the concept and the design
Authors: Krynski Jan , Olszak Tomasz , Barlik Marcin , Dykowski Przemyslaw
Published: July 2013

The existing Polish gravity control (POGK) established in the last few years of 20th century according to the international standards is spanned on 12 absolute gravity stations surveyed with four different types of absolute gravimeters. Relative measurements performed by various groups on nearly 350 points of POGK with the use of LaCoste&Romberg (LCR) gravimeters were linked to those 12 stations. The construction of the network, in particular the limited number of non homogeneously distributed absolute gravity stations with gravity determined with different instruments in different epochs is responsible for systematic errors in g on POGK stations. The estimate of those errors with the use of gravity measurements performed in 2007-2008 is given and their possible sources are discussed.

The development of absolute gravity measurement technologies, in particular instruments for precise field absolute gravity measurements, provides an opportunity to establish new type of gravity control consisting of stations surveyed with absolute gravimeters. New gravity control planned to be established in 2012-2014 will consist of 28 fundamental points (surveyed with the FG5 - gravimeter), and 169 base points (surveyed with the A10 gravimeter). It will fulfill recent requirements of geodesy and geodynamics and it will provide good link to the existing POGK. A number of stations of the new gravity control with precisely determined position and height will form the national combined geodetic network.

Methodology and measurement schemes for both absolute gravimeters as well as the technology for vertical gravity gradient determinations in the new gravity control were developed and tested. The way to assure proper gravity reference level with relation to ICAG and ECAG campaigns as well as local absolute gravimeter comparisons are described highlighting the role of metrology in the project. Integral part of the project are proposals of re-computation of old gravity data and their transformation to a new system (as 2nd order network) as well as a definition of gravity system as “zero-tide” system. Seasonal variability of gravity has been discussed indicating that the effects of environmental changes when establishing modern gravity control with absolute gravity survey cannot be totally neglected.
Organisational aspects of spatial information infrastructure in Poland
Authors: Bielecka Elzbieta , Zwirowicz-Rutkowska Agnieszka
Published: July 2013

One of the more important elements of spatial information infrastructure is the organisational structure defining the obligations and dependencies between stakeholders that are responsible for the infrastructure. Many SDI practitioners and theoreticians emphasise that its influence on the success or failure of activities undertaken is significantly greater than that of technical aspects. Being aware of the role of the organisational structure in the creating, operating and maintenance of spatial information infrastructure (SII), Polish legislators placed appropriate regulations in the Spatial Information Infrastructure Act, being the transposition of the INSPIRE Directive into Polish Law.

The principal spatial information infrastructure stakeholders are discussed in the article and also the scope of cooperation between them. The tasks and relationships between stakeholders are illustrated in UML, in both the use case and the class diagram. Mentioned also are the main problems and obstructions resulting from imprecise legal regulations.
Study of the anatase to rutile transformation kinetics of the modified TiO2
Authors: Grzmil Barbara , Gleń Marta , Kic Bogumił , Lubkowski K.
Published: July 2013

TiO2 attracts much interest because of its many potential applications. The use of titanium dioxide strongly depends on its polymorphic form: brookite, anatase, or rutile. Only rutile and anatase play an important role in industry. Anatase as a metastable form undergoes a non-reversible transformation into rutile. Understanding the kinetics of phase transformation and the processes of crystal growth of a material is essential for controlling its structure and, thus, its specific properties. The main purpose of this paper is to explain the anatase to rutile recrystallization kinetics in the modified TiO2 calcined from industrial hydrated titanium dioxide. The apparent activation energy of anatase to rutile transformation and the average size of titanium dioxide crystallites were determined for the unmodified TiO2 and TiO2 modified with P, K, Al, B, Zn, Zr, Ce, Sn, or Sb introduced in the amount of 0.5 mol% and 1.0 mol% when recalculated for their oxides. The growth of TiO2 crystallites during calcination was strongly inhibited by P, Ce and Zr, and inhibited to a lesser degree by Al, Sn and Sb. B and Zn did not affect the investigated process and K accelerated crystallites growth. The values of apparent activation energy depending on a modifier formed a relationship: Al<Sb<Sn<P<B<Ce<0=Zn=K<Zr. The observed dependencies can be explained by reactions occurring between the modifiers and titanium dioxide.
Composition of Volatile Compounds of Horseradish Roots (Armoracia rusticana L.) Depending on the Genotype
Authors: Tomsone Lolita , Kruma Zanda , Galoburda Ruta , Talou Thierry
Published: July 2013

Horseradish is a perennial plant with significant antioxidant properties, and it contains about 0.2% to 1.0% of essential oil, mainly sinigrin, sinigrin-derived allylisothiocyanate and diallylsulphide. The aim of the study was to determine composition of volatile compounds of horseradish (A. rusticana L.) roots depending on the genotype. Volatiles from fresh horseradish roots of nine genotypes were extracted using solid phase microextraction with DVB/Car/PDMS fibre and were further analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The volatile compounds were identified by comparing their mass spectra with mass spectral libraries (Nist98) and by calculating linear retention indexes and comparing them with the literature data. The studied horseradish genotypes differed both in the quantitative and qualitative content of aroma compounds. Totally 15 volatile compounds were detected, and their highest amount was found in genotype G12B. The main aroma compound of all horseradish samples was allylisothiocyanate, which formed 64-82% of the total identified volatile compounds. The obtained results were compared with those found in the literature. All horseradish samples contained significant amounts of phenylethylisothiocyanate (4-18%) that is formed from glucosinolate - gluconasturtin. The study revealed that genotype has great influence on the content of volatiles in horseradish roots.
The effectiveness of computer-assisted cognitive rehabilitation in brain-damaged patients
Authors: Łojek Emilia , Bolewska Anna
Published: July 2013

This study examined the effects of computer-assisted cognitive rehabilitation in a group of 16 brain-damaged patients. Therapeutic effectiveness was assessed by improvement on computer tasks, the results of neuropsychological tests and quality of life ratings. Participants suffered from mild to moderate attention and memory problems or aphasia. The procedure involved baseline assessment (pretest), a 15-week course of therapy conducted twice a week (30 hours in total) and posttest. Neuropsychological tests assessing attention, memory and language problems and quality of life ratings were administered twice: in pre- and posttests. Twelve healthy controls were also examined twice (with a 15-week interval) using the same battery of neuropsychological tests. The RehaCom program and the Polish computer therapy program for aphasics called Afa-System were used for rehabilitation. The computer-assisted rehabilitation tasks were selected individually for each patient. The results showed significant improvement on computer-assisted tasks in all braindamaged subjects. However, none or very little improvement was observed on neuropsychological tests and quality of life ratings. The results of the study confirm the importance of using different types of measures to estimate the effectiveness of computer-assisted neuropsychological rehabilitation as well as the necessity of applying various kinds of therapy to improve cognitive, emotional and social functioning in brain-damaged patients.
Investigating cognitive style differences in the perception of biological motion associated with visuospatial processing
Authors: Thomson Kaivo , Watt Anthony
Published: July 2013

The purpose of the study was to compare the visuospatial decision-making error scores related to the perception of biological motion of individuals categorized as field dependent or field independent. A sample of 69 participants aged 18-27 years (M = 21.91, SD = 2.39) that included 33 males and 36 females completed the experiment. Cognitive style was assessed using the Group Embedded Figure Test. Perception of biological motion was evaluated using two different point-light stimuli developed from video images of a ballet dancer’s performance of a correct and incorrect turn in the fifth position. The results showed that individuals classified as field independent made significantly fewer visuospatial processing errors. The findings are considered and discussed in relation to theoretical perspectives associated with both cognitive processing and cognitive style.
Development of Fruit Science in Latvia
Authors: Kaufmane Edīte , Skrīvele Māra , Rubauskis Edgars , Strautiņa Sarmīte , Ikase Laila , Lācis Gunārs , Segliņa Dalija , Moročko-Bičevska Inga , Ruisa Silvija , Priekule Ilze
Published: July 2013

Development of fruit growing and fruit science in Latvia has always been closely linked to the development of the whole country. After the founding of the independent Latvia state in 1918, fruit growing developed rapidly. Although in the Soviet times the situation was not favourable for quality fruit growing, research and breeding continued with good results. After Latvia regained independence, private land property rights were restored, and interest in intensive orchard establishment and growing technologies increased rapidly, which demanded change in the research focus. At present, the Latvia State Institute of Fruit-Growing is the leading institution in this field, working in cooperation with Pūre Horticultural Research Centre, Latvian Plant Protection Research Centre, Institute of Agrobiotechology, and Faculty of Food Technology, Latvia University of Agriculture, Laboratory of Plant Mineral Nutrition, Institute of Biology, University of Latvia. Research is carried out in the following directions: breeding and cultivar evaluation; genetics and molecular biology; plant pathology and entomology; orchard management; experimental processing and storage.
Sea Buckthorn Vegetative Parts – A Good Source of Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Šnē Elga , Galoburda Ruta , Segliņa Dalija
Published: July 2013

In recent years, due to the health problems and better life expectancy, natural sources of bioactive substances have gained wide interest. Sea buckthorn is well known as a valuable plant and is widely used in traditional medicine for the treatment of diseases and disorders. A considerable amount of literature has been published on sea buckthorn berries, although all parts of sea buckthorn plant are considered as a source of a large amount of biological active substances, and believed to have beneficial health effects. Therefore, vegetative parts would be a good raw material not only for medicinal, cosmetic and pharmaceutical properties, but also for the food industry. This has increased the research on different sea buckthorn vegetative parts and their extract activity and toxicity. Sea buckthorn leaves have attracted interest during the past few years as the most promising source of active compounds after berries. They contain a wide range of hydrophilic and lipophilic bioactive compounds, which exhibit remarkable anti-oxidant potential together with anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-tumour and anti-inflammatory activity. Therefore, extracts of the plant leaves could be used as natural replacements for synthetic additives and for food products with functional properties. This creates the need to investigate the biochemical content of sea buckthorn vegetative parts grown in Latvia.
Evaluation of Self-Incompatibility Locus Diversity of Domestic Plum (Prunus Domestica L.) using DNA-Based S-Genotyping
Authors: Kota-Dombrovska Irita , Lācis Gunārs
Published: July 2013

There is limited information on genetics of self-incompatibility in domestic plum (P. domestica L.). In comparison with other Prunus species, there are no S-allele specific markers for the identification of compatibility groups, and thus, genetic diversity of self-compatibility genes is not clear. Six S-locus-specific markers previously used for other Prunus species were used to study genetics of self-compatibility of plums, and 33 domestic plum cultivars were genotyped. The applied primer pairs showed good transferability among Prunus species and showed high diversity in the tested plant material (14-37 alleles per marker, average observed heterozygocity - 0.953). Applification of the tested primer pairs allowed discrimination of all plum cultivars by unique S-genotypes. Based on the obtained results, primer pairs EM-PC2consFD/ EM-PC3cons RD, PasPcons-F1/ PaC1cons-R1 and F-Box50A/ F-Box intronR are suggested as supplementary markers for characterisation and identification of plum germplasm with potential functional relevance. Although the markers used did not strictly distinguish plum cultivars according to compatibility groups (selfcompatible, partly self-compatible and self-incompatible), group-unique amplification fragments were identified, which can serve as a baseline in further development of specific markers.
Occurrence of Stone Fruit Viruses in Plum Orchards in Latvia
Authors: Gospodaryk Alina , Moročko-Bičevska Inga , Pūpola Neda , Kāle Anna
Published: July 2013

To evaluate the occurrence of nine viruses infecting Prunus a large-scale survey and sampling in Latvian plum orchards was carried out. Occurrence of Apple mosaic virus (ApMV), Prune dwarf virus (PDV), Prunus necrotic ringspot virus (PNRSV), Apple chlorotic leaf spot virus (ACLSV), and Plum pox virus (PPV) was investigated by RT-PCR and DAS ELISA detection methods. The detection rates of both methods were compared. Screening of occurrence of Strawberry latent ringspot virus (SLRSV), Arabis mosaic virus (ArMV), Tomato ringspot virus (ToRSV) and Petunia asteroid mosaic virus (PeAMV) was performed by DAS-ELISA. In total, 38% of the tested trees by RT-PCR were infected at least with one of the analysed viruses. Among those 30.7% were infected with PNRSV and 16.4% with PDV, while ApMV, ACLSV and PPV were detected in few samples. The most widespread mixed infection was the combination of PDV+PNRSV. Observed symptoms characteristic for PPV were confirmed with RT-PCR and D strain was detected. Comparative analyses showed that detection rates by RT-PCR and DAS ELISA in plums depended on the particular virus tested. The results obtained in this study revealed that commonly grown plum cultivars in Latvia are infected with economically important stone fruit viruses and highlight the need to implement a programme to produce and propagate virus-free planting material.
Species of Phytophagous Insects Associated with Strawberries in Latvia
Authors: Petrova Valentīna , Jankevica Līga , Samsone Ineta
Published: July 2013

The aim of the present study was to describe the phytophagous insect fauna of strawberries in Latvia. This study was carried out in 2000-2004 on strawberry plantations in Tukums, Rîga, Dobele, and Limbaþi districts. Insects were collected from strawberry fields by pitfall trapping, sweep netting and leaf sampling methods. A total of 137 insect species belonging to seven orders and 41 families were identified to species. Of the phytophagous insects, the order Orthoptera was represented by one species, other orders by a larger number of species: Hymenoptera (3), Diptera (16), Lepidoptera (20), Thysanoptera (21), Hemiptera (39), and Coleoptera (37). Of the recorded insects, 48 species have a status of general strawberry pests.
Effects of Voen Cover on the Growth and Yield of two Sweet Cherry Cultivars
Authors: Rubauskis Edgars , Skrīvele Māra , Ruisa Silvija , Feldmane Daina
Published: July 2013

In 1998, a trial was established with cultivars ‘Iputj’ and ‘Krupnoplodnaya’ at the Latvia State Institute of Fruit-Growing. A VOEN covering system was installed on part of the orchard in summer 2008. Considerable lowering of the canopy and renewed pruning were carried out throughout the trial. During 2009-2012, sweet cherry growth, yield and fruit quality were monitored. The cover was installed before flowering in each spring and uncovered after harvest. The cultivar ‘Krupnoplodnaya’ had a tendency for faster canopy growth under VOEN. Influence of VOEN cover on total yield was not significant, but had a positive tendency on marketable yield. In 2012, the marketable yield was 85% under VOEN, but only 53% without cover due to high precipitation. The cover decreased fruit decay significantly. Fruits damaged by birds (bird pecks) varied year by year. In the first part of the observation period, many damaged fruits were observed also under VOEN, but later the damage was decreased due to installed bird control devices. The fruits of sweet cherries were larger under cover. A positive effect of cover on amount of soluble solids and phenols in fruits was observed for cultivar ‘Krupnoplodnaya’ in 2011.
Distribution and Invasion of Clearwing Moth Synanthedon Tipuliformis Cl.,a Pest Of Currant, in Latvia
Authors: Ozoliņa-Pole Laura , Apenlte Ilze , Ciematnieks Rinalds
Published: July 2013

The aim of the present study was to determine the distribution and prevalence of S. tipuliformis in Latvia. In 2008-2009, trials were carried out in blackcurrant plantations aimed at establishing the distribution of S. tipuliformis across the territory of Latvia. To achieve this goal, 13 blackcurrant plantations were surveyed in 2008. The research was continued in three plantations in 2009. To assess of prevalence and level of damage caused by the S. tipuliformis, two methods were used: cutting of branches (five branches were cut from each bush) and pheromone traps with dispensers (distributed in each trial farm with density one trap per ha). The presence of S. tipuliformis was recorded in all 13 horticultural farms surveyed in 2008. Analyses of the branch samples demonstrated that the pest invaded from 3% to 70% of the branches. A total of 2.5 to 35 adults were caught per pheromone trap. The highest proportion of the branches invaded by the S. tipuliformis was in 2008 (70%) and the highest number of males in traps in 2009 was recorded in Jelgava municipality. S. tipuliformis is widely found in blackcurrant growing plantations across the whole territory of Latvia.
Preliminary Studies on Development of a New Environmentally Friendly Plant Protection Product Against Grey Mould
Authors: Laugale Valda , Jankevica Līga , Samsone Ineta , Haļimona Jūlija , Sešķēna Rita , Metla Zane , Lepsis Jānis , Rancane Regina , Daugavietis Māris
Published: July 2013

The development of new environmentally friendly plant protection products against grey mould disease (caused by Botrytis cinerea Pers.) was started in 2010. In the Latvian State Forest Research Institute “Silava”, production of coniferous biomass extracts using different solvents for extraction was performed. During 2010-2011, several laboratory investigations were carried out in the Institute of Biology, University of Latvia. Effectiveness of pine (Pinus sylvestris) and spruce (Picea abies) biomass extracts against Botrytis cinerea was tested. On the basis of coniferous extracts, 11 formulations were created and characterised. The effect of the formulations on mycelial growth of B. cinerea test cultures was tested using the fungal radial growth test. All formulations had inhibitory effect on mycelium growth (inhibition rate over 50%) at concentration 20 g L-1 in medium. The impact of formulations on plants after spraying was evaluated using in vitro propagated strawberry plants. Chlorophyll content and chlorophyll fluorescence were estimated. Extracts did not show negative effect on the chlorophyll content and fluorescence of strawberry leaves. Field investigations on strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) ‘Senga Sengana’ and primocane raspberry (Rubus idaeus) ‘Gerakl’ were conducted in the Pûre Horticultural Research Centre in 2011. None of tested the coniferous biomass extract formulations showed higher effectiveness than fungicide Signum® (pyraclostrobin 6.7%+ boscalid 26.7%, BASF).
Prevalence of Urinary Tract Infections in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Chiţă Teodora , Licker Monica , Sima Alexandra , Vlad Adrian , Timar Bogdan , Sabo Patricia , Timar Romulus
Published: July 2013

Background and aims: There is evidence that patients with diabetes have an increased risk of asymptomatic bacteriuria and urinary tract infections (UTIs). UTI is the most common bacterial infection in diabetic patients. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of UTIs among hospitalized diabetic patients and to identify the most frequent bacteria responsible for UTI. Material and methods: The study population included 1470 diabetic patients (847 women and 623 men), admitted to the Diabetes Clinic of the Emergency Clinical County Hospital Timişoara, between January and December 2012. We collected patients’ personal history data and performed urine cultures. For statistical analysis we used Graph Pad Prism 5; the significance of the difference between the percentage values was assessed using Fisher’s exact test. Results: From the total number of patients, 158 had positive urine cultures, meaning 10.7%. Out of the total number of 158 UTIs, 124 (78.4%) were asymptomatic bacteriuria. The most frequent bacteria involved in UTI was Escherichia coli (68.9%). Conclusion: UTIs are frequent in diabetic patients. Because of the great proportion of asymptomatic forms among diabetic patients, the urine culture should be performed in all hospitalized patients with diabetes.
The Analysis of Prevalence and Incidence of Diabetes Mellitus in Romania
Authors: Mota Maria , Dinu Ilie-Robert
Published: July 2013

Background and Aims Diabetes mellitus (DM) represents a worldwide health problem and a major epidemic during the past decades. The exact number of people with diabetes in Romania is unknown. The aim of this paper was to determine the number of subjects registered with diabetes in Romania. Material and Method: The Romanian Society of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases (RSDNMD) asked the representatives in charge with DM in each county about the total number of subjects registered with DM, the number of subjects with newly diagnosed DM in 2011 and their treatment (insulin or oral drugs). Results: There are 803,489 persons registered with DM, with a national prevalence of 4.21%. The lowest prevalence was observed in Ilfov (0.9%) and the highest prevalence (7.83%) in Bucharest. A total of 125,574 diabetics (15.62%) are treated only with insulin while 81,910 (10.19%) with combined insulin and oral medication. In 2011 have been registered 68.294 new cases of diabetes, with an incidence of 358.63/100,000 persons. The lowest incidence was 91.15 in Giurgiu county and the highest incidence was 718.94 in Arad county. Conclusions: There are large and unexplained differences between counties for both diabetes prevalence and incidence. Consequently, RSDNMD decided to start a national epidemiological study (PREDATORR) that will be carried out in 2013.
Vildagliptin in the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Florenţiu Ariel , Lichiardopol Radu
Published: July 2013

Novel therapeutic approaches are continuously being researched in type 2 diabetes. The incretin class of anti-diabetic agents, consisting of glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, has already found an important place in the current guidelines. Vildagliptin is a potent dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, with numerous trials in type 2 diabetes treatment, both in monotherapy and in combination therapy. This review focuses on vildagliptin pharmacological properties, clinical efficacy and safety, and pharmacoeconomic data.
The concept of movable heritage cartographic presentation on the interactive map
Authors: Mościcka Albina
Published: July 2013

This paper presents the proposition of cartographic presentation of the movable cultural heritage on interactive map. The original solution on how to link movable monuments with geographical space as well as the different types of spatial reference were described. The text shows both: the way of presentation of single movable monuments and collections of historical objects. The proposed solutions were based on the assumption that the number of heritage resources shown on the map is huge and, what is more, they can keep growing. So, the proposed solution must be able to apply for a resource of indeterminate size. For the presentation of the movable heritage the traditional methods of cartographic presentation, as well as interactive technologies were applied.
Culture Consciousness Among Hmong Immigrant Leaders
Authors: Ngo Bic
Published: July 2013

This article illustrates the culture consciousness of Hmong immigrant community leaders as they made sense of the educational experiences of Hmong American children and families. It draws on the work of scholars who have theorized “critical” essentialism to suggest that Hmong leaders are critically aware of the role and import of dominant culture in shaping the contours of Hmong children’s education. The analysis brings attention to “culture consciousness”—a lens for analyzing immigrant education that highlights the deployment of culture as social critique and political strategy. This research complicates the essentialist versus anti-essentialist binary for analyzing culture and disrupts the tendency to portray immigrant parents and adults as entrenched in a reified culture.
Location-Based Illustration Mapping Applications and Editing Tools
Authors: Lu Min , Arikawa Masatoshi
Published: July 2013

Although commercial Web mapping is popular now, illustrated maps are widely used in print media and have advantages. The immeasurable distortions of illustrated maps create difficulties when applying them in location-based services. Based on previous research, the authors propose an improved framework for supporting illustrated maps to be integrated with GPS functions in smartphones, and positioning methods are discussed. Mobile tools and applications have been developed with the purpose of making it easy to create and use digital content based on illustrated maps for walking tours. The usability and effectiveness were tested in experiments and practical use.
Where Do Tourists Go? Visualizing and Analysing the Spatial Distribution of Geotagged Photography
Authors: Kádár Bálint , Gede Mátyás
Published: July 2013

Visualizing the geographical positions of photographs taken by tourists is a promising method to measure tourist activity in urban spaces. Most photo-sharing sites on the Internet offer the possibility of “geotagging” photos, resulting in geographical information retrievable by databases using the application programming interface (API) of such sites. These data sets can be visualized on maps or digital globes, which make the correlations of the photo density and the geographical objects of a given area expressive. It is possible to differentiate pictures taken by locals from those of visitors by examining the temporal distribution of a specific user's photos. Resulting maps revealed interesting correlations between the tourist attractions of the area and the number of photos taken there. In the case study of Budapest tourists took photos only in the areas around main tourist attractions. In contrast, locals also photographed recreational spaces or interesting sights not advertised for tourists. The development of recreational infrastructure is also visible in the case of the most recent projects.
Climatic Ageing of Components of Polymer Based Electrochromic Devices
Authors: Heim H. P. , Desjean A.
Published: July 2013

Combining a shading function and a polycarbonate window displays an attractive alternative to the currently employed glass roof in vehicles. However, the ageing of such a device must be investigated before any application. Therefore, our investigations focus on the ageing of the components of a polycarbonate based electrochromic device. The optical, electrical, mechanical and electrochemical properties of the ion storage layer as well as the substrate will be assessed after storage in a climate with a high humidity and high temperature level.
Distortion of Interfaces in a Multilayer Polymer Co-extrusion Feedblock
Authors: Huntington B. A. , Chabert E. , Rahal S. , Patz J. , Silva J. , Harris P. , Maia J. , Bonnecaze R. T.
Published: July 2013

Numerical simulations of co-extruded multilayered viscoelastic polymers flowing through a feed block were performed to analyze the effects of polymer rheology and process conditions on the distortion of interfaces between layers. Finite element simulations assuming Phan-Thien Tanner viscoelastic fluids were used to test the effects of increasing the number of layers introduced to the feed block and decreasing wall friction on interface distortion. It was found that increasing the number of layers introduced to the feed block decreased the overall distortion in the layers by reducing the overall magnitude of second normal stress differences and thus decreasing the normal in-plane velocities that cause distortion, which was validated by experiments. Decreasing wall friction was also found to decrease the amount of distortion in layer interfaces by decreasing the strength of these second normal stress differences.
Irradiation Strategy for Laser Transmission Welding of Thermoplastics Using High Brilliance Laser Source
Authors: Aden M. , Otto G. , Duwe C.
Published: July 2013

This article describes the correlation between crystallinity degree and spatial seam homogeneity for laser transmission welding of polymers applying TWIST method, which is based on a superposition of slow regular feed and fast periodic circular or elliptical beam motion. Laser welding experiments and measurements of optical polymer properties (transmittance, reflectance and collimated transmittance) are reported for thermoplastic polypropylene PP and Polyamide PA66 as well as for thermoplastic elastomer PEBAX. The shape of the seam is visualized by measuring the heat affected zone (HAZ). Compared to the circular the elliptical motion leads to a homogeneous HAZ, which is advantageous for the welding process in many cases. Besides TWIST parameters, scattering of the laser radiation influences the welding result considerably. This is shown for high-crystallinity PA66, which needs more laser power to achieve similar weld seams than PP or PEBAX. The correspondence between homogeneous HAZ and good welding results is investigated by measuring the strength of welded T-shape samples with respect to the laser power. The elliptic TWIST motion leads to a broader processing window, if the ratio of the beam diameter and the major TWIST radius is smaller than a certain value (<1/2). For PEBAX, a local maximum of strength-vs.-power curve is obtained for all TWIST® radii. For welding PP, the maximum is observed only for big radii.