bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Light Microscopic Study of Renal Morphological Alterations in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Stanchev Stancho S. , Iliev Alexandar A. , Malinova Lina G. , Landzhov Boycho V. , Kotov Georgi N. , Hinova-Palova Dimka V.
Published: December 2017

The impact of hypertension on the kidney is associated with a number of morphological changes, which gradually lead to development of end-stage kidney disease. The aim of the present study was to trace the postnatal histological changes in the morphology of nephrons and renal interstitium in spontaneously hypertensive rats. In this study, we described and compare alterations in renal histology as a consequence of hypertension in two age groups of spontaneously hypertensive rats, aged 2 and 6 months (n=3; per age group). The description of the alterations in renal morphology was made by light microscopic analysis using routine haematoxylin and eosin staining, periodic acid Schiff (PAS) reaction and Mallory’s trichrome staining. We did not observe significant changes in renal histology in 2-month-old rats: renal corpuscles were relatively well preserved, proximal and distal tubules were clearly demarcated, and no pathological changes in the larger intrarenal blood vessels were found. There was evidence of glomerular and tubular basement membranes thickening and focal interstitial fibrosis. In 6-month-old rats, we noted pronounced glomerulosclerosis, periglomerular and periarteriolar fibrosis and expansion of interstitial fibrosis. The vascular alterations depended on the size of the blood vessels and included hyaline arteriosclerosis, fibrinoid necrosis and myointimal thickening of interlobular arteries. Untreated hypertensive nephrosclerosis is associated with progressive renal alterations, which cause impaired renal function – a lifelong limiting factor.
Transient Ischemic Attack: Clinical Features and Outcome
Authors: Drenska Desislava D. , Maslarov Dimitar B.
Published: December 2017

A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) is a state of emergency and an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke. The social significance of the disease is determined, based on the probability of occurrence of subsequent cerebrovascular incidents and their frequency among groups. The purpose of the present study was to perform a comparative analysis of clinical features and outcome in patients with TIA for at least 24 months after onset had been registered, according to the pathogenesis and to ABCD (2) score. Two hundred and fifty-seven patients were monitored at the Neurology Clinic, First MHAT – Sofia after suffering an initial TIA. All subjects were studied using a clinical evaluation of pathogenetic mechanisms and an ABCD (2) algorithm. A diagnosis of TIA was confirmed by neuroimaging. The comparison between specific pathogenetic mechanisms demonstrated a statistically significant difference. Two TIA subgroups were involved – thromboembolic and cryptogenic (p<0.05). Also, according to the ABCD (2) score results, significant differences were found between groups at low (1-3) and high (6-7) risk, and those at intermediate (4-5) and high risk (p<0.01). Detailed investigation and assessment of patients with TIA are important concerning the prognostic outcome.
Quality of Sexual Life after Microsurgical Penile Denervation in Men with Primary Premature Ejaculation
Authors: Genov Pencho P. , Kolev Nikolay H. , Kotsev Rumen P. , Dunev Vladislav R. , Stoykov Boyan A. , Vanov Aleksander A. , Atanasov Jitian A. , Tonchev Pencho T.
Published: December 2017

Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most common sexual dysfunction in men, yet it is not well studied. Its frequency reaches 30% for men from 18 to 59 years of age in different countries. The aim of this article was to investigate the quality of sexual life in men with primary PE operated on with microsurgical penile denervation, using the Brief Male Sexual Functional Inventory (BMSFI). From September 2011 to March 2014, 22 patients were operated on with microsurgical penile denervation in the urology clinic of the University Hospital - Pleven and the Department of Urology at UMHAT Ruse AD. The mean result from the BMSFI in patients was 22 points preoperatively, indicating significant worsening of sexual function and quality of life in all five questionnaire domains. After surgery, the results increased to 28, 33 and 39 respectively, at 3, 6 and 12 months, respectively. Premature ejaculation not only leads to problems in controlling ejaculation but also worsens the overall sexual function and quality of life of patients.
Assessment of Cardiovascular Risk in Hospitalized Patients with Hypertension Aged 40 and Over
Authors: Simeonova Joana I. , Tisheva-Gospodinova Snejanka T. , Todorova Yoana M. , Hristova Petkana A. , Yanakieva Asia N. , Hristov Martin I.
Published: December 2017

The aim of the cross-sectional study was to estimate the absolute 10-year risk for fatal cardiovascular disease (CVD) in patients with hypertension by Systematic Coronary Risk Estimation (SCORE). The study was carried out in 2016 as part of Project No 4/2016. Ninety-one patients aged 40-89 years were included. The mean age of the sample was 66.0±11.0, and 44.0% were males. Information of the patients’ risk profile included about age, gender, blood pressure, smoking and total cholesterol. The patients with hypertension were stratified according to a 10-year absolute risk of CVD. Data were processed by Statistical Package for Social Science versions 19.0 (SPSS.v.19.0). Over two-thirds of the patients had 1 stage hypertension (31.9%) and 2 stage hypertension (37.4%). Median systolic blood pressure on admission to the clinics was 160 mg Hg, and median diastolic blood pressure was 90 mm Hg. Total serum cholesterol values exceeded 4.9 mmol/L in 64.0% of the patients. Smokers accounted for about one-fourth of the patients, most of them having smoked for 40 years. The mean number of risk factors for CVD was 3.0. Over 65% of the patients were found to be at a very high 10-year absolute risk of fatal CVD by SCORE. Cardiovascular risk assessment has important role in prevention of morbidity, premature death and disability of CVD.
Desmoid-type Fibromatosis of the Mesentery: A Case Report
Authors: Betova Tatyana M. , Popovska Savelina L. , Trifonov Radoslav G. , Karakadieva Konstantina S. , Valcheva Genoveva B. , Tanchev Lachezar S.
Published: December 2017

Desmoid-type fibromatosis is a rare mesenchymal neoplasm with locally aggressive, infiltrating and destructive growth that is not characterized by a metastatic potential. According to their anatomical position, desmoid-type fibromatoses can be divided into three groups: extra-abdominal, intra-abdominal, and fibromatoses of the abdominal wall. Mesenteric fibromatoses account for 8% of the intra-abdominal ones. The latter are characterized by myofibroblastic proliferation and infiltration of both the pelvic and abdominal organs. We report a 26-year-old woman who complained of abdominal enlargement, feeling of heaviness, discomfort and reflux, which symptoms dated back 1-2 months prior to hospitalization. The patient underwent laparotomy due to subocclusive symptoms. Intraoperatively, a tumor sized 30 cm in diameter was found. The tumor originated from the mesentery and infiltrated in the jejunum, the entire ileum, and part of the caecum with perforation towards the abdominal cavity. The histological and immunohistochemical examinations are important for clarification of the diagnosis. The treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach, in which the surgical method has the key role.
Suspended sediment and phosphorus budget and trophic status of Bukit Merah Reservoir, Perak, Malaysia
Authors: Najib Sumayyah Aimi Mohd , Ismail Wan Ruslan , Omar Mohamad Adam
Published: December 2017

Bukit Merah Reservoir (BMR) is one of the 51 impoundments in Malaysia. BMR is the oldest reservoir built in the early 1900s originally to store water for irrigation, but nowadays its functions include also flood control and water supply. Nowadays, it is threatened by land use change in the upper catchments and surrounding activities, which feeding eroded material and chemicals into the reservoir. Suspended sediment, as well as, nutrient fluxes into BMR are becoming an increasing threat to the reservoir, as its sedimentation and eutrophication accelerate. This paper discusses our study on the BMR carried out between March 2008 and April 2009 to assess the water quality status, and to determine the sediment and Total Phosphorus (TP) influx into the south pool lake. An estimated amount of suspended sediment fluxes of about 2,900 t year−1 came from the north pool lake (18%) and 12,900 t year−1 from the main Kurau River inlet (82% of the total input to the BMR). Of these total sediment input (nearly 15,800 t) about 5,600 t (36%) of the total sediment influx was trapped in the BMR. TP influx was about 18.8 t year−1 and about 7 t (37%) was trapped in the reservoir. The amount sediment and TP stored in the BMR affect the water quality of the lake, therefore the mean trophic state of the lake is eutrophic (TSI of 54.4) related to high productivity. Increasing sediment input into the reservoir has affected the reservoir volume and frequent flooding down-stream of the reservoir during rainy seasons, while eutrophication has caused the lake water quality deterioration.
Landscape function analysis as a base of rural development strategies
Authors: Filepné Kovács Krisztina , Fóris Edina Dancsokné , Valánszki István
Published: December 2017

Research on ecosystem services and landscape functions are highly important in landscape ecology, landscape planning and open space design. The terms of ecosystem service and landscape function have been evolved parallel to each other in the scientific literature but have different focus. The term of landscape functions evolved from the scientific field of landscape ecology; it reflects the goods and services provided by regions, landscapes where the cultural, economic factors are important as well. As a framework assessment method with additional economic assessment, a landscape function analysis could be an additional tool of rural development, as it gives a complex analysis of multiple aspects, thus it is highly appropriate to explore, analyze the potentials, resources and limits of landscapes and land use systems. In the current research a landscape function analysis was compared with the rural development strategies in Hungarian micro-regions. We focused on the level of landscape functions and the objectives of the rural development strategies of the study areas. The local development strategies do not focus on territorial differences nor potentials evolving from natural, cultural resources or local constrains. The only exception is tourism development, where in some cases there is a holistic spatial approach which intends to develop the region as a whole.
Assessment of ecological values of greening landscape elements in the Great Hungarian Plain
Authors: Máté Klaudia
Published: December 2017

The research examines the effects of agricultural subsidies on the landscape structure. According to the hypothesis, greening – which has been introduced as part of the European Union’s Common Agriculture Policy (EU CAP) reform –, if it is properly controlled and applied, can be a suitable tool for habitat network development. Landscape elements eligible for greening can function as significant landscape structural elements, and can promote the achievement of goals e.g. in the preservation of biodiversity. As part of this research, field surveys were performed in 2016 and 2017 in the Great Hungarian Plain, where significant landscape elements were assessed and documented in the sample area. During the research, Shape Index and Fractal Dimension Index values for polygonal elements were calculated based on their current extensions in 2016 and in 2017. In line with my basic hypothesis, eligible landscape elements (such as hedgerows, stonewalls, shadoofs and infield trees) do not possess extraordinary ecological values, nor can their persistence be guaranteed solely with greening subsidies. Therefore, they may also not be able to fill their role in the protection of landscape structure and biodiversity in the long term.
Droughts and low water levels in late medieval Hungary II: 1361, 1439, 1443-4, 1455, 1473, 1480, 1482(?), 1502-3, 1506: Documentary versus tree-ring (OWDA) evidence
Authors: Kiss Andrea
Published: December 2017

As a continuation of the first paper from the late medieval drought series related to medieval Hungary, we present, analyse and compare further late medieval drought data, based on contemporary direct and indirect written sources. The evidence derived from documentary sources referring to the droughts and dry spells in 1361, 1439, 1473, 1480, 1482(?), 1502-1503 and 1506 are further compared to the recent tree-ring based hydroclimate reconstruction of the OWDA (Old World Drought Atlas), and similarities, differences and complementary information are discussed in more detail. Additionally, documentary evidence related to Danube low water-levels of 1443, 1444, 1455 and 1502 are as well presented in a broader context: these cases provide evidence on the hydrological conditions of the Upper-Danube catchment, and not on the Carpathian Basin. The OWDA evidence in most cases shows good agreement with the discussed documentary-based drought reports, some differences in the spatial extension and intensity of the drought were only exceptionally detected (e.g. 1455, 1507). Most of the written documentation refer to droughts that covered more than one calendar years.
A review of earnings management in private firms in response to tax rate changes
Authors: Sundvik Dennis
Published: December 2017

In this paper, I present a review of tax accounting research with a specific focus on earnings management in response to changes in the corporate tax rate. While prior surveys of the tax accounting literature have a broad scope and focus primarily on publicly listed firms, I concentrate on studies examining private firms. These firms have stronger incentives to engage in tax-induced earnings management and recent evidence shows that firms in general defer earnings from high to low tax periods around tax reforms. I summarize contemporary studies, questions examined, and learnings. In addition, I discuss practical implications and outline future research possibilities.
Heavy metal content in compost and earthworms from home composters
Authors: Bożym Marta
Published: December 2017

The paper presents the results of compost tests from home composters and earthworms living there, that treating waste into compost. The samples were taken from home composters and allotment gardens from Opole Region. The composting material was green waste. The total content of heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Cu, Zn, Ni Cr) in compost and compost earthworms’ samples were determined. It was found that the compost samples were not contaminated with heavy metals. According to the Polish classification of composts from municipal wastes, the composts met the requirements for first class of quality. The composts did not exceed the limits of heavy metals specified in the Polish law for solid organic fertilizers. The degree of metal accumulation by compost earthworms depended on the type of metal. The high value of the bioaccumulation factor (BAF) was obtained for Cd, Pb and Zn. No accumulation of other metals (Ni, Cr, Cu) in earthworm bodies was found. It has been found that earthworm species, naturally occurring in Poland, can also be used as potential bioindicators of metals in the environment, such as the species Eisenia fetida. The aim of the study was to evaluate the heavy metal content in composts from home composters and ability to accumulate metals by compost earthworms.
The impact of anthropogenic factors on the occurrence of molybdenum in stream and river sediments of central Upper Silesia (Southern Poland)
Authors: Pasieczna Anna , Bojakowska Izabela , Nadłonek Weronika
Published: December 2017

In our study, a detailed survey was conducted with the aim to determine the distribution and possible anthropogenic sources of molybdenum in river and stream sediments in the central Upper Silesian Industrial Region (Southern Poland), where for many years, iron and zinc smelters as well as coking and thermal power plants were operating. At the same time, this has also been a residential area with the highest population density in the country. Sediments (1397 samples in total) were collected from rivers and streams, and analysed for the content of molybdenum and 22 other elements. ICP-AES and CV-AAS methods were applied for the determination of the content of elements. The studies revealed molybdenum content in the range of < 0.5–204.8 mg·kg−1with the average content 1.9 mg·kg−1. About half of the samples contained < 0.5 mg·kg−1of molybdenum, and only 4.6% of the samples showed values > 5 mg·kg−1. The spatial distribution of molybdenum demonstrated by the geochemical map has indicated that the principal factor determining its content in sediments is the discharge of wastewater from steelworks and their slag heaps. Another source of this element in sediments has been the waste of the historical mining of zinc ore and metallurgy of this metal. Additionally, molybdenum migration from landfills of power plants, coal combustion and Mo emission to the atmosphere and dust fall-out have been significant inputs of Mo pollution to the sediments.
Nitrosamines and nitramines in Carbon Capture plants
Authors: Spietz Tomasz , Dobras Szymon , Więcław-Solny Lucyna , Krótki Aleksander
Published: December 2017

The use of amine absorption in carbon capture technologies is related with the formation toxic and potentially carcinogenic amine degradation products such as nitrosamines and nitramines. These substances can be created within both the solvent and the atmosphere when air components (mainly NOx) and amines react with each other. These substances may pose environmental and health risks depending on the level and duration of the exposure. In this paper, formation and occurrence of nitrosamines and nitramines in carbon capture plants were described. Emission reducing technologies have been also mentioned. Furthermore, an overview of experimental data of emission of nitrosamines and other major degradation products has been pointed out.
Organic coal reserves in field and forest systems vs. Avifauna biodiversity
Authors: Szyszko-Podgórska Katarzyna , Stankiewicz Leszek
Published: December 2017

The objective of this work was to determine the occurrence of birds depending on the use of the area and the content of organic coal in field-and-forest systems. The research demonstrated a great diversity of bird species and great differences in the content of organic coal in individual areas. According to the conducted analyses, human economic activity can influence the content of organic coal and, therefore, it also influences the occurrence of specific bird species. In connection with the fact that the entire area covered with the research has been modelled by humans, the content of organic coal, the composition of bird species and their functioning in spatial systems are derivatives of such an activity.
Application of Sentinel-2 and EnMAP new satellite data to the mapping of alpine vegetation of the Karkonosze Mountains
Authors: Jędrych Marcjanna , Zagajewski Bogdan , Marcinkowska-Ochtyra Adriana
Published: December 2017

Effective assessment of environmental changes requires an update of vegetation maps as it is an indicator of both local and global development. It is therefore important to formulate methods which would ensure constant monitoring. It can be achieved with the use of satellite data which makes the analysis of hard-to-reach areas such as alpine ecosystems easier.

Every year, more new satellite data is available. Its spatial, spectral, time, and radiometric resolution is improving as well. Despite significant achievements in terms of the methodology of image classification, there is still the need to improve it. It results from the changing needs of spatial data users, availability of new kinds of satellite sensors, and development of classification algorithms. The article focuses on the application of Sentinel-2 and hyperspectral EnMAP images to the classification of alpine plants of the Karkonosze (Giant) Mountains according to the: Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF), and Maximum Likelihood (ML) algorithms. The effects of their work is a set of maps of alpine and subalpine vegetation as well as classification error matrices. The achieved results are satisfactory as the overall accuracy of classification with the SVM method has reached 82% for Sentinel-2 data and 83% for EnMAP data, which confirms the applicability of image data to the monitoring of alpine plants.
Medical-Nutritional Intervention in a Jordanian Child with Glycogen Storage Disease Type IIIA: Case Report
Authors: Al-Zeidaneen Safaa A.
Published: December 2017

Background: Glycogen storage disease (GSD) type IIIa is a rare inborn error of metabolism characterized by a deficiency in glycogen disbranching enzymes. Nutritional intervention is a cornerstone in the medical care plane.

Case presentation: A 2-year-old Jordanian male, who is known to have GSD IIIa since he was 4 months was admitted because of infection. The child was on a special diet (small, frequent meals of complex carbohydrates and protein, avoiding simple sugars and fasting is prohibited). The child showed good activity level and a good appetite.

Method: The medical-nutritional intervention of GSD IIIa was evaluated by retrograde reviewing the child BMI, blood and biochemical tests on presentation and a month later visit.

Results: The biochemical tests included: blood glucose, urea, creatinine, cholesterol, triglycerides, albumin, total bilirubin, aspartate amino transferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and WBCs were decreased after nutritional intervention, however, the RBCs blood test was increased. On presentation, the child’s weight and height were documented as above the 15th and at 97th percentile respectively for his age, no change after the one month later visit was observed.

Conclusion: The biochemical and blood tests improved at the one-month follow-up visit vs. baseline. The individualized medical-nutritional intervention is a cornerstone in the management of GSD IIIa as part of a comprehensive medical care process.
Exercise in Pregnancy: Effect on Obesity Parameters in Indian Women – A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Pawalia Alka , Kulandaivelan Sivachidambaram , Savant Satya , Yadav Vikram Singh
Published: December 2017

Background and aims:The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of physical activity and diet during prenatal period and its effect on gestational weight gain (GWG), BMI, waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC) and post-partum weight retention (PPWR).

Materials and Methods:This was an experimental study (pre-post comparison) with 45 pregnant women having singleton pregnancy of >16 weeks of gestation, BMI>18.5 Kg/m2and having a mobile phone. They were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=12 each; compliance rate 80%) (i.e.) exercise (n=12), exercise with diet advise (n=12) and control (n=12) group. Exercise groups attended weekly antenatal exercise sessions at the hospital during pregnancy; diet group received regular diet counseling followed by mobile text-messages (reminder, motivational, guidelines and benefits) to maintain adequate diet. The data was analyzed using IBM-SPSS software.

Results:Exercise groups gained less weight then control. Similarly, had mean GWG less as compared to control group though not statistically significant. The mean WC changes were significant amongst the groups with the exercise groups having least gain in WC (p<0.05).

Conclusion:Adopting an active lifestyle along with proper diet care can prevent development of abdominal obesity and metabolic syndrome in Indian pregnant women which could prevent them from other associated lifestyle diseases in future.
Optimization of Aerobic Exercise Protocols in Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Kaur Jaspreet , Singh Shailendra Kumar , Vij Jaspreet Singh
Published: December 2017

Background and Aims: diabetes mellitus one of the non-communicable disorders which is spreading globally irrespective of nation being developed or developing. The aim of this study was to optimize the exercise protocols and to find the efficacy of these protocols on glucose control, balance, gait and proprioception in patients suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Material and Methods: 40 individuals with type 2 DM with age 35 to 60 were randomly allotted to four groups with 10 subjects in each. Cycle ergometer based aerobic exercises were given with duration of 20 or 30 minutes twice or thrice weekly for 6 weeks. Pre and post intervention was collected using Fullerton Advanced Balance scale for balance, spatiotemporal gait parameters for gait, Continuous passive motion for Proprioception and High Performance Liquid Chromatography in the laboratory.

Results: data was analysed using Design Expert software. Full factorial design was used to compare role of duration and frequency of exercise on each patient. The results showed significant effect of exercises on balance, gait, proprioception and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c).

Conclusion: Aerobic exercises if given for 30 minutes and thrice weekly can show a significant improvement in complications in Diabetics.
Oncostatin M, Interleukin-6, Glucometabolic Parameters and Lipid Profile in Hypertensive Patients with Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Ashcheulova Tetiana , Kochubiei Oksana , Demydenko Ganna , Gerasimchuk Nina , Maliy Alla
Published: December 2017

Background and aims: Essential hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus possess some common pathogenetic components, in particular, activation of immune inflammatory response, the intercellular mediators of which are cytokines. In our study, hypertensive patients were examined, depending on presence of concomitant prediabetes or type 2 diabetes mellitus, for the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines oncostatin M, interleukin-6 in conjunction with glucometabolic parameters and lipid metabolism parameters.

Material and methods: A total of 94 hypertensive patients were examined. Oncostatin M and Interleukin-6 plasma level detected using ELISA (BSM).

Results and conclusions: The 1st group consisted of hypertensive patients. The 2nd group included hypertensive patients with prediabetes. The 3rd group were hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. We have revealed the increased circulating level of oncostatin M and interleukin-6 in patients 1st group, which confirms the pathogenetic value of hypertension as a stimulus for hyperproduction of these cytokines. In 2nd group the level of oncostatin M and interleukin-6 decreased, which could probably be explained, on the one hand, by dual effects of the family of interleukin-6 the representatives of which either contribute to the development of insulin resistance or, vice versa, enhance the insulin sensitivity of tissues.
Relations Between Diabetes, Kidney Disease and Metabolic Syndrome: Dangerous Liaisons
Authors: Albai Alin , Frandeș Mirela , Sandu Ramona Luminița , Spoială Gabriel , Hristodorescu Flavia , Timar Bogdan , Timar Romulus
Published: December 2017

Background and aims: Diabetes mellitus is the disease-challenge of our century, characterized by an increase in serum glycemia, which may lead to the occurrence of micro- and macro-vascular complications with serious consequences on both patient and public health. The Framingham risk score was obtained from a complex study and it estimates the individual risk of each patient to develop a cardiovascular event over the next 10 years depending on certain parameters (age, smoking, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, systolic blood pressure). Our study main aim was to evaluate the cross-associations between the components of the metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular risk, diabetes-related biological parameters and chronic kidney disease in patients hospitalized due to poor metabolic control.

Material and methods: In this cross-sectional study, we enrolled 218 patients with type 2 diabetes, admitted in the Diabetes Clinic of the “Pius Brinzeu” Emergency Hospital Timisoara according to a consecutive-case population-based principle.

Results: We observed that the quality of the glycemic control is impaired in patients with higher age; the body mass index was positively correlated with HbA1c and hypertension accompanies diabetes in more than half of the cases. Moreover, we observed that high levels of LDL cholesterol are significantly correlated with high levels of HbA1c.

Conclusions: There was poor metabolic control in patients with associated complications such as hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular disease or chronic kidney diseases. Also, in most of the cases hypertension was associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Particularities of the Diet Used in Milk Allergy
Authors: Mogos Viorel T. , Dondoi Carmen I. , Bajko Daiana E.
Published: December 2017

Allergies become more common nowadays because of numerous risk factors and better medical resources for diagnostics. So, it is imperative to have at least an idea how to control them rather than treating them. A proper diet for an allergy may prevent it to be clinically significant and improve the patient’s life quality and symptoms. Milk allergy is one of the most common ones together with gluten and soy allergies. Older children and adults are easy to manage because they can communicate, and they eat almost everything. But the problem occurs especially in young infants, the most challenging ones because milk is vital for their survival and development. In the following article, we will try to highlight its particularities and explain what a patient with this condition should eat, taking into consideration processed food, found nowadays in every supermarket. We will detail what is allowed what is not allowed to consume, so this kind of a diet should be easy to prescribe by any nutritionist and easy to follow by every patient.
Insulin and the Brain
Authors: Grosu Cristina , Oprescu Andrei Cătălin , Niţă Otilia , Bild Walther
Published: December 2017

The brain represents an important site for the action of insulin. Besides the traditionally known importance in glucoregulation, insulin has significant neurotrophic properties and influences the brain activity: insulin influences eating behavior, regulates the storage of energy and several aspects concerning memory and knowledge. Insulin resistance and hyperinsulinism could be associated with brain aging, vascular and metabolic pathologies. Elucidating the pathways and metabolism of brain insulin could have a major impact on future targeted therapies.
New Insight into the Role of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Cardiometabolic Diseases
Authors: Protasiewicz Diana Cristina , Popa Adina , Roşu Maria-Magdalena , Firănescu Adela-Gabriela , Popa Simona Georgiana , Moța Maria
Published: December 2017

Humans spend almost one third of their life sleeping, thus sleep deprivation or poor sleep quality will have consequences upon the quality of life. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common sleep disorder that represents a respiratory cessation for at least ten seconds, which appears repeatable during sleep and it is accompanied by decreased oxygen saturation. The diagnosis of OSA is possible by filling in the STOP, STOP BANG, BERLIN questionnaires and performing the polysomnography, an accessible and more accurate method but yet very expensive. The prevalence of OSA is continuously increasing, but because of the nonspecific symptoms, the percentage of un-diagnosed cases is further increased. Data from 11 epidemiological studies published between 1993 and 2014 indicated an OSA prevalence of 22% in men and 17% in women. It has been suggested that there is a bidirectional causal relationship between OSA and obesity, and numerous studies have shown association of OSA with insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, diabetic micro- and macrovascular complications and atrial fibrillation.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite markers from the RAD sequence of two temperate liana species: Euonymus fortunei (Celastraceae) and Schizophragma hydrangeoides (Hydrangeaceae)
Authors: Mori Hideki , Ueno Saneyoshi , Matsumoto Asako , Uchiyama Kentaro , Kamijo Takashi , Masaki Takashi , Tsumura Yoshihiko
Published: December 2017

Clonal reproduction of lianas is a common but important life history strategy. It is necessary to evaluate the clonal structure of liana species because clonal ability is potentially a major determinants distribution pattern of lianas. Therefore, we developed 10 microsatellite markers for Euonymus fortunei and Schizophragma hydrangeoides respectively from genomic sequences obtained from double-digest restriction site associated DNA (ddRAD). The sequence data of the developed markers were deposited on the public database. The expected heterozygosity (HE) of E. fortunei and S. hydrangeoides ranged from 0.727 to 0.847 with an average of 0.766, and from 0.734 to 0.924 with an average of 0.812, respectively. All loci were under HWE except for a locus of S. hydrangeoides (sh07). These markers should contribute to the understanding of the life history of temperate liana species.
Transforming the Requirements for the Modern Architectonic Design in Terms of the Placement of Human Remains
Authors: Juračka Ondřej , Frolíková Palánová Klára
Published: December 2017

Behind every human death there is a story, unique to the human being, one that comes to a close after the official funeral ceremony. Generally, ‘close’ is the word essential for the bereaved and should govern the entire funeral process until the eventual placement of the remains. Today, a traditional funeral ceremony is losing its importance; it has either transformed itself or ceased to exist. The consequence of these changes involves new construction types of structures or transformation of existing crematoria and ceremony halls that are part of the funeral traditions in the Czech Republic. All this began with the influence of secularisation of society in the first half of the 20th century intensified through the dictate of the political regimen in the then Czechoslovakia after 1948. The period saw a suppression of all church activities, this including the funeral industry, when the state’s objective was to take a full control of everything. It resulted in large-scale construction of funeral halls and crematoria. This pushed cremation to the current 80% or so out of the total number of funerals. Following 1989, however, the society found itself in a vacuum through another change in the system. Due to this, funeral halls lost their initial ideological substantiation. The consequences include a search for new forms and the transformation of the ceremony which moves to the area in front of the cremation chamber or even to the very site of placement. This however requires a construction of new structures and sites for storing the ash. The aim is to find the best possible way of handling human remains while creating a cemetery setting that is observed (bereaved) friendly and enables to continue burials in the current necropolis sites.
Permeability of the Mixture of Fine Grained Soil and Fly Ash from Fluidized Bed Combustion
Authors: Knapik Karolina , Bzówka Joanna
Published: December 2017

Based on known correlations permeability was calculated for the mixtures containing various proportions of selected FBC fly ash, Speswhite kaolin and lime. The influence of initial water content of the mixtures was also considered. The study was limited to the first four weeks of curing time. Results of calculations were discussed on the background of previously obtained observations for mixtures of tested materials.
Numerical Static Analysis of the Curtain Wall with Light Steel Structure
Authors: Major Maciej , Kosiń Mariusz , Major Izabela
Published: December 2017

This paper presents a numerical analysis of the effect of wind on the curtain wall in a high building. Two types of curtain wall were adopted: made of thin-wall C sections with nominal dimensions and the section that takes into consideration lower limits specified by the manufacturer.
Comparative Numerical Analysis of Obtained Stress and Displacement Results from FEM Programs - Robot Structural Analysis and Adina in Example of a Steel Footbridge Subjected to the Dead Load
Authors: Major Maciej , Minda Izabela , Kuliński Krzysztof , Major Izabela
Published: December 2017

In this paper the comparative analysis of obtained stress and displacements results from two different FEM programs – Robot Structural Analysis and ADINA was performed. As a subject of the analysis, the numerical model of the arch footbridge in steel construction was adopted.
Interaction between Edge-Crack and Aggregate in Silicate-Based Composite
Authors: Malíková Lucie , Klusák Jan
Published: December 2017

The paper deals with investigation of the interaction between an edge-crack and an aggregate in a silicate-based composite, because adding of aggregates into basic matrix material can improve the fracture mechanical properties of the material significantly. In this work, the three-point-bending test is modelled by means of the finite element method and the dependences of fracture parameters on various material and geometrical parameters of the aggregate and the interfacial transition zone are studied. The results are discussed thoroughly.
Failure Probability Estimation Using Asymptotic Sampling and Its Dependence upon the Selected Sampling Scheme
Authors: Martinásková Magdalena , Vořechovský Miroslav
Published: December 2017

The article examines the use of Asymptotic Sampling (AS) for the estimation of failure probability. The AS algorithm requires samples of multidimensional Gaussian random vectors, which may be obtained by many alternative means that influence the performance of the AS method. Several reliability problems (test functions) have been selected in order to test AS with various sampling schemes: (i) Monte Carlo designs; (ii) LHS designs optimized using the Periodic Audze-Eglājs (PAE) criterion; (iii) designs prepared using Sobol’ sequences. All results are compared with the exact failure probability value.
Maintenance Optimization of Industrial Chimneys Exposed to Carbonation
Authors: Mlčoch Jan , Marková Jana , Sýkora Miroslav
Published: December 2017

The paper is focused on the deterioration of industrial reinforced concrete chimneys caused by carbonation. It is considered that a chimney has to be repaired when more than 30% of its surface is affected by visible corrosion-induced cracks. An optimal maintenance strategy aims at the postponement of this state beyond the intended service life of the chimney with minimum maintenance costs.
Dynamic Response of Railway Bridges Subjected to Passing Vehicles
Authors: Moravčík Milan , Moravčík Martin
Published: December 2017

This paper discusses some issues related to dynamic effects in railway bridges focussed on the dynamic behaviour of the small and medium span simply supported railway bridges subjected to a series of moving vehicle. Presented parametric study is focused on the dynamic deflection of the simply supported railway bridge of the span Lb = 38 m, due to the series moving loads representing a conventional train with the IC-coaches, with the impact to the speed up to 160 km/h applied in Slovakia.
Static and Dynamic Stresses in Pipeline Built on Damaged Foundation
Authors: Shatskyi Ivan , Struk Andrii , Vaskovskyi Maksym
Published: December 2017

A deformation model of the buried pipeline under complicated geotechnical conditions of local ground failure is proposed. The effect of displacement of discontinuities in failed ground on the stressed condition and limited equilibrium of pressurized pipe has been studied.
Determination of Stress Intensity Factor Value for Chevron-Notched Specimens – Pilot Study
Authors: Sobek Jakub , Seitl Stanislav
Published: December 2017

The description of material behavior is one of important information for its application in civil engineering. One area is covering fracture mechanical properties. For evaluation of the fracture toughness values, the knowledge of calibration curve is important. The paper is aimed on the numerical modelling of the test specimens with a chevron notch serving as an initiator of the stress distribution at the crack tip. The three-point bending test configuration with a chevron notch is used for the simulation given by plane model with different layer width of cross section part and output is given by the value of the stress intensity factorKIfor tension loading mode.
Non–Linear Analysis of Slender Masonry Beam
Authors: Vokál Marek , Drahorád Michal
Published: December 2017

This paper deals with numerical analysis and design of slander prismatic masonry beams loaded predominantly by axial force and bending moment in plane of the principal moment of inertia. Because of the material non-linearity, classical mathematical theory of slender columns cannot be applied for masonry elements, therefore the proposed method uses iterative non–linear calculation considering both material and geometrical non–linearity.
„Die Herrschaft des Rechts und nicht das Recht des Stärkeren“
Authors: Eikel Markus
Published: January 2018

Vorspann

Nürnberg - unter den Juristen der Bundesrepublik löste der Name dieser Stadt lange Zeit mehr als zwiespältige Empfindungen aus. Viele assoziierten damit die Prozesse gegen Kriegs- oder NS-Verbrecher und dachten an Siegerjustiz, nachträgliche Straftatbestände und Kollektivschuld. Um so überraschender ist es, dass deutsche Rechtsexperten ebenso wie Vertreter des Auswärtigen Amts Pate standen, als in den 1990er Jahren der Internationale Strafgerichtshof gegen den Widerstand der USA aus der Taufe gehoben wurde. Markus Eikel ordnet diesen Paradigmenwechsel in die politische Geschichte des wiedervereinigten Deutschland ein und zeichnet die komplizierten Verhandlungen auf der Basis neuer Quellen nach, die schließlich zu einer Modernisierung des Völkerstrafrechts und zu einer nachhaltigen Umwertung der Erinnerung an die Nürnberger Kriegsverbrecherprozesse führten.
Screening of Acetic Acid Bacteria from Pineapple Waste for Bacterial Cellulose Production using Sago Liquid Waste
Authors: Yanti Nur Arfa , Ahmad Sitti Wirdhana , Ambardini Sri , Muhiddin Nurhayani Haji , Sulaiman La Ode Iman
Published: December 2017

Bacterial cellulose is a biopolymer produced by fermentation process with the help of bacteria. It has numerous applications in industrial sector with its characteristic as a biodegradable and nontoxic compound in nature. The potential application of BC is limited by its production costs, because BC is produced from expensive culture media. The use of cheap carbon and nutrient sources such as sago liquid waste is an interesting strategy to overcome this limitation. The objective of this study was to obtain the AAB strain that capable to produce bacterial cellulose from sago liquid waste. Isolation of AAB strains was conducted using CARR media and the screening of BC production was performed on Hestrin-Schramm (HS) media with glucose as a carbon source. The strains of AAB then were evaluated for their cellulose-producing capability using sago liquid waste as a substrate. Thirteen strains of AAB producing BC were isolated from pineapple waste (pineapple core and peel) and seven of them were capable to produce BC using sago liquid waste substrate. One of the AAB strains produced a relatively high BC, i.e. isolate LKN6. The result of morphological and biochemical test was proven that the bacteria was Acetobacter xylinum. The result of this study showed that A. xylinum LKN6 can produce a high yield of BC, therefore this strain is potentially useful for its utilization as a starter in bacterial cellulose production. 
Blood Lipid Profile of Coturnix coturnix japonica Fed whith Organic Feed and Supplement Curcuma longa
Authors: Aetin Entin Nur , Saraswati Tyas Rini , Isdadiyanto Sri
Published: December 2017

People’s concern about quail egg consumption has triggered the efforts to produce quail eggs with low cholesterol content by using organic feed. Organic feed is one type of feed rations made of mixing organic material. In this study, standard organic feed (rice bran, yellow corn, soybean, and fishmeal) and organic feed containing mackerel, cassava leaves, and turmeric powder was administere to female japanese quail. Organic feed containing mackerel, cassava leaves, and turmeric powder can affect the Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica L.) lipid profile. This research used experimental methods. Twenty-seven female Japanese quails were divided into 3 treatment groups (PO: commercial feed, P1: standard organic feed, P2: feed containing organic turmeric powder, cassava leaves, and mackerel) for 145 days with 9 repeat. Data obtained were in the form of average daily feed intake and blood lipid profiles of each treatment group. Further data analysis was performed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Duncan test. The results showed that administration of organic feed containing mackerel, cassava leaves, and turmeric powder can reduce the levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL but increase the HDL levels in Japanese quail. Supplementation of turmeric powder improve the chemical quality of Japanese quail eggs, so it is good for the development of quail embryos as well as for consumption. It can be concluded that organic feed and turmeric powder supplementation stabilize blood lipid profile and improve the reproduction of Japanese quail egg low cholesterol, so good for the development of embryo quail and for consumption.
Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge of Biology Prospective Teachers
Authors: Suryawati Evi , Linggasari Mariani Natalina , Arnentis Arnentis
Published: December 2017

This research was conducted for analyzing Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (TPACK) of biology prospective teachers in Riau Province. The study was carried out to fulfill Indonesian Government’s policy on Indonesian Qualification Framework (IQF) 6-Level. This development research aimed to analyze, design and develop a model to enhance the competency and competitiveness of Education College graduates to meet their professional, social and industrial needs. This paper discussed a preliminary study of the developed models for strenghtening the prospective teachers from Biology Education Departement, conducted through a survey of 243 students from four different colleges of education in Riau Province. The data were collected through a test and interview. The instruments used contained seven variables of knowledge, namely Technology, Paedagogy, Content, Technological Paedagogy, Technological Content, Technological knowledge and TPACK. The instruments was improved through their validity and reliability test. The TPACK performance of Prospective Biology teachers seemed low. Based on the need analysis two products will be generated. First, a lesson design and the second was a work books. This study had an implications for increasing the competence of biology education graduates. The lesson design and competency test instruments could be used for College of Biology Education and teacher professional education in developing competency test for selection system. The TPACK workbook could be used as teacher enrichment in sustainable profession development such as classroom action research, learning innovation contest, and science teacher olympiad.