bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors influencing a bank?s competitive ability: the case of Lithuania and Latvia
Authors: Skvarciany Viktorija , Jurevičienė Daiva , Iljins Juris , Gaile-Sarkane Elīna
Published: April 2018

Research background: A commercial bank?s competitive ability is of great importance as it plays a vital role in ensuring a bank?s success; hence, it is necessary to identify the factors that contribute to the development of competitive advantage of commercial banks and to shift competitive ability to a higher level. The competiveness of banks is assessed from customers? perspective, highlighting the main factors that influence them in choosing a particular bank.

Purpose of the article: The paper aims to assess the determinants influencing bank?s competitive ability from customers? perspective by indicating the level of their influence. The following objectives are set: to distinguish the determinants influencing commercial bank?s competitive ability, to prepare a methodology for the assessment of factors, to evaluate the importance of the factors using expert evaluation method based on fuzzy analytic hierarchy process.

Methods: A questionnaire was prepared for the experts in order to collect the data; fuzzy analytic hierarchy process was implemented for processing the data.

Findings & Value added: The research was conducted in Latvia and Lithuania at the be-ginning of 2017. The results showed that the most important factor for bank?s competitive ability in both ? Lithuania and Latvia ? is customers? trust. Reliability of the bank (both in Latvia and Lithuania) and the privileges of loyal customers (only in Latvia) have gained experts? attention as well. The proposed model of bank?s competitive ability allows to evaluate the level of bank?s competitiveness effectively, which would help the bank to plan its activities successfully and attract new customers in order to take the leading position in the market.
A model for assessing the commercial potential of high technologies
Authors: Zemlickienė Vaida , Bublienė Raimonda , Jakubavičius Artūras
Published: April 2018

Research background: technology development and its application for human activities ? R&D ? have been recognized as the basis of economic performance, a source of technological solutions and of high value-added supply both in scientific literature as well as in the strategic documents of the Government and international organizations. In order to ensure the harmonious activity of the institutions engaged in R&D and to reduce the uncertainty of the commercialization of technologies, an advanced tool for verifying decisions on technology development at early stages of commercialization, i.e. an instrument for assessing the commercial potential of technology, is needed. Over the last decade, the analysis of the tools on a global scale led to the unequivocal conclusion ? so far developed methodical basis has suffered from lack of maturity for its practical use in business, a need for assessing commercial potential at an early stage of technology commercialization has been ignored, and the assessment of commercial potential has not considered the specificity of high technology.

Purpose of the article: This article discusses in detail the preparation and application pro-cesses of the model for assessment the commercial potential of high technologies.

Methods: in the model the multiple criteria method is applied the selection of which was determined by the motive related to the goal of assessment ? assess the commercial potential of high technologies.

Findings & Value added: The essence of scientific novelty embraces the creation of a qualitatively new, original, science-based model for assessing the commercial potential of technologies thus flexibly applying it to assessing different levels of technologies. The original model is based on: the focus on the specificity of high technologies in assessment the commercial potential of technologies; the focus on the early stage of technology commercialization by assessing the commercial potential of technologies; flexibility in the application of the model taking into account the technological level, legal status, opportunity to assess the commercial potential of technologies in different countries and institutions; mathematical calculations based on assessing commercial potential.
Influence of group purchasing organizations on financial situation of Polish SMEs
Authors: Zimon Grzegorz
Published: April 2018

Research background: SMEs often operate in markets where they compete with large companies. A fight for a customer, payment backlogs, problems with debt collection and new branches cause that managers are looking for solutions that will influence positively on the situation of financial companies. Maintaining liquidity and generating income are the primary steps to build a competitive position and a progressive development of enterprises. One of the most popular methods that allows companies to do profitable business and increase their chances for safety is operation within group purchasing organizations. Currently in the Polish market there are many different types of GPOs (Group Purchasing Organizations). The choice of the right one is a chance to improve their financial situation.

Purpose of the article: The aim of the article is to present an impact of  group purchasing organizations on the financial situation of enterprises. In the article the classification of groups is done and there are shown the benefits that commercial enterprises operating in them gain. The article presents some obstacles to join specific group purchasing organizations and difficulties faced by companies operating in them.

Methods: The studies were carried out on the basis of 60 SMEs. These companies operated in five Polish GPOs. The groups were divided into branch and multi-branch ones. The study period covered the years 2013?2015. In order to analyze the impact of purchasing groups on the financial situation of enterprises, some selected groups of financial ratios were used. A preliminary analysis of financial balance sheets and profit and loss account was conducted.

Findings & Value added: The analysis showed that the choice of an appropriate group purchasing organization had a large impact on financial situation of companies. Different opportunities can be offered by a branch purchasing group than by the multi-branch one. Research has shown that better results relate to dynamics of revenues, costs, liquidity and profitability that are effects of operation within the branch purchasing groups. The analysis conducted has also showed that functioning within purchasing groups allows to maintain safe financial liquidity, apart from obtaining a low price of purchased goods and materials, and has a positive impact on the effectiveness of managing receivables and short-term liabilities.
Supporting NEETs ? challenges facing labor market institutions in Poland
Authors: Saczyńska-Sokół Sylwia
Published: April 2018

Research background: Various and complicated reasons for belonging to the NEET category (not in education, employment or training), resulting largely from young people?s personal and family circumstances, cause that the activation programmes undertaken by public employment services, both in the professional and educational sphere, prove inadequate. Despite the fact that labour market instruments dedicated to young people represent a wide range of possibilities for supporting them in combating professional and educational inactivity, the background of their problems requires new actions that should be undertaken by labour market institutions and their partners.

Purpose of the article: Taking the above into consideration, the aim of this study is to identify the challenges faced by the public employment services and other labour market institutions in the area of activating youth experiencing the most difficult situation in the labour market.

Methods: The article is based partly on the results of quantitative and qualitative research, conducted in the framework of the project implemented by the Provincial Labour Office in Bialystok Podlasie open to young people, financed by Operational Programme Knowledge Education Development (PO WER).

Findings & Value added: The results of the study have led to the identification of necessary actions which should be undertaken by labour market institutions to support young people representing the NEET generation. These actions can be classified into different categories. They include preventing inclusion into the NEET group, developing the most effective solutions in the area of getting in touch with this group of young people and supporting them as well as creating a culture of cooperation for their benefit. The study has also revealed the need to carry out in-depth research of the NEET population.
KUALITAS SILASE DAUN GAMAL DENGAN PENAMBAHAN MOLASES SEBAGAI ZAT ADITIF
Authors: Herawati Ervi , Royani Mega
Published: April 2018

AbstrakGamal adalah tanaman leguminosa pohon yang dapat tumbuh dengan cepat namun pemanfaatannya sebagai bahan pakan ternak memiliki palatabilitas yang rendah akibat bau dan rasanya yang menyengat dan pahit, berasal dari senyawa kumarin, sehingga kurang disukai oleh ternak. Salah satu alternatif yang dapat digunakan untuk menghilangkan zat antinutrisi tersebut yaitu dengan cara dibuat silase. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh penambahan molasses terhadap kualitas silase pada daun gamal terfermentasi yang memberikan hasil silase terbaik. Uji kualitas yang diukur adalah pH, persentase asam laktat, dan kadar amonia. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode eksperimental dengan metode Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) dengan 5 perlakuan dan 4 ulangan. Perlakuannya terdiri dari penambahan molasses pada daun gamal yaitu P1=1%, P2=2%, P3=3%, P4=4%, dan P5=5%. Hasil pengujian menunjukkan bahwa kualitas silase daun gamal yang optimal didapat pada perlakuan 4 (P4=4% molasses) yang menghasilkan rata-rata nilai pH sebesar 4,18, persentase asam laktat 1,143%, dan kadar NH3 sebesar 6,06 mM. Kata kunci: asam laktat, gamal, molases, NH3, pH. AbstractGliricidia sepium is a leguminous tree that grows rapidly but its use as animal feed material has low palatability due to its stinky smell and bitter taste, caused by coumarin compound, hence it is less favored by livestock. One alternative way to remove this compound is by making silage. This study was aimed to determine the effect of adding molasses to the quality of silage on fermented Gliricidia sepium leaves to obtain the best silage result. Quality tests measured include pH, lactic acid percentage, and ammonia levels. Method used was experimental Completely Randomized Design with 5 treatments and 4 replications. The treatment consisted of the addition of molasses on the Gliricidia sepium leaf, P1 = 1%, P2 = 2%, P3 = 3%, P4 = 4%, and P5 = 5%. Results showed that the optimal quality of Gliricidia sepium leaf silage was obtained from P4 (4% molasses) which resulted in average pH value of 4.18, lactic acid percentage 1.143%, and NH3 level of 6.06 mM.Keywords: lactic acid, Gliricidia sepium, molasses, NH3, pH.
Increased cardiac microvascular permeability and activation of cardiac endothelial nitric oxide synthase in high tidal volume ventilation-induced lung injury
Authors: Hung Ming-Jui , Hung Ming-Yow , Cherng Wen-Jin , Li Li-Fu
Published: April 2018

Background: Positive pressure ventilation with large tidal volumes has been shown to cause lung injury via the serine/threonine kinase-protein kinase B (Akt) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS)-pathways. However, the effects of high tidal volume (VT) ventilation on the heart are unclear. Objectives: Evaluate the effect of VT ventilation on the cardiac vascular permeability and intracellular Akt and eNOS signaling pathway. Methods: C57BL/6 and Akt knock-out (heterozygotes, +/−) mice were exposed to high VT (30 mL/kg) mechanical ventilation with room air for one and/or five hours. Results: High VT ventilation increased cardiac microvascular permeability and eNOS phosphorylation in a timedependent manner. Serum cardiac troponin I was increased after one hour of high VT ventilation. Cardiac Akt phosphorylation was accentuated after one hour and attenuated after five hours of high VT ventilation. Pharmacological inhibition of Akt with LY294002 and high VT ventilation of Akt+/− mice attenuated cardiac Akt phosphorylation, but not eNOS phosphorylation. Conclusion: High VT ventilation increased cardiac myocardial injury, microvascular permeability, and eNOS phosphorylation. Involvement of cardiac Akt in high VT ventilation was transient.
Bilateral hip disarticulation in paraplegics
Authors: Juszczyk Karolina , Gollogly James G , Ngiep Ou Cheng
Published: April 2018

Background: Decubitus ulcers are severe challenges to paraplegic patients, as well as to the medical providers caring for such disabled persons. Severe, chronic infection often can lead to death, especially in developing countries. Sometimes, hip disarticulation is the most appropriate surgical response to chronic ulceration. Objective: Report the results of bilateral disarticulations in 3 patients, one in Cambodia, and two in Australia. Methods: Chart reviews, examinations, and interviews with the patients were conducted to identify appropriate details of the indications and results. Results: Severe decubitus ulcers were successfully treated using the technique, without undue surgical complications. The general health of the patients was much improved. Conclusion: Bilateral hip disarticulations were performed as last stage salvage operations in three patients, who expressed satisfaction with the results, even though some problems with balance and recurrent ulceration persisted.
Magnetic resonance imaging in the evaluation of meniscal tear
Authors: Numkarunarunrote Numphung , Sanpatchayapong Anoma , Yuktanandana Pongsak , Kuptniratsaikul Somsak
Published: April 2018

Background: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been recognized as the imaging method for non-invasive evaluation of knee pathology, particular meniscus and ligaments. Objective: Compare the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of MRI in the detection of meniscal tears with arthroscopy. Material and methods: Twenty-seven patients who were diagnosed as meniscal tear on arthroscopy with preoperative MRI were included in this study between January 2003 and June 2008. MRI was performed with a 1.5 Tesla Signa Horizon Echospeed MRI for eight patients between January 2003 and June 2005 and a 1.5 Tesla Signa Excited HD MRI for nineteen patients between July 2005 and June 2008. The location of meniscal tear was evaluated by studying three areas: anterior horn, body and posterior horn. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of the anterior horn, body, posterior horn and overall meniscus were calculated. Results: The sensitivity of MRI for detecting meniscal tears at the anterior horn, body, posterior horn, and overall medial meniscus was 42.9%, 87.5%, 94.1%, and 81.3%, respectively. The specificity was 95.0%, 84.2%, 81.8%, and 88.0%, respectively. The accuracy was 81.5%, 85.2%, 89.3%, and 85.4%, respectively. The PPV was 75.0%, 70.0%, 88.9%, and 81.2%, respectively. The NPV was 82.6%, 94.1%, 90.0%, and 88.0%, respectively. The sensitivity of MRI for detecting meniscal tears at the anterior horn, body, posterior horn and overall lateral meniscus was 0%, 100%, 85.7%, and 80.0%, respectively. The specificity was 100%, 100%, 90.5% and 97.2%, respectively. The accuracy was 96.0%, 100%, 90.5%, and 97.2%, respectively. The PPV was 100%, 75% and 80%, respectively. The NPV was 96.3%, 100%, 95.0%, and 97.2%, respectively. Conclusion: MRI is a helpful technique to detect meniscal tear with different sensitivity and accuracy on the meniscal location.
Correlation of microvascular density and proliferation index in undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Taweevisit Mana , Keelawat Somboon , Thorner Paul Scott
Published: April 2018

Background: Undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a highly malignant tumor with an endemic distribution. Several histologic parameters have been studied to provide prognostic information for patient management. Both proliferation index and microvascular density are commonly determined on such tumors, but the relationship between these two parameters has not been studied fully. Objectives: Determine the association between microvascular density and cellular proliferation in undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Methods: A series of 60 cases were studied in patients of Southeast Asian origin. Cellular proliferation was determined using Ki67 immunostaining, and vessel proliferation using CD31 immunostaining in terms of areas of increased staining (‘hot spots’). Ki67 results were scored on a scale of 0-4+ and CD31 results as a microvascular density/mm2. Results: The mean of the microvascular density was 22/mm2 in the Ki67-negative group (25 cases). In the Ki67- positive group (35 cases), the mean was 35/mm2. The difference between the positive and negative group was statistically significant (p <0.001). Microvascular density significantly increased as the Ki67 score increased (p<0.001). However, the ‘hot spots’ for microvascular density in tissue sections did not correspond to areas of increased cellular proliferation. Conclusion: Pathologists usually determine only one of these two prognostic factors when dealing with undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The proliferation index is suggested because it is easier to perform and can be done on small biopsies not to contain enough surface area for microvascular density determination.
Detection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in Palestinian women using polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Farraj Mohammad A. , Abusada Gabi M. , Saleem Abed Alraoof M. , Joaidi Ayyub Y. , Radad Raba M. , Atrash Hiba N. , Sabri Israr N. , Essawi Tamer A.
Published: April 2018

Background: Neisseria gonorrohoeae is an exclusive human pathogen that primarily infects the urogenital epithelia. Infections caused by N. gonorrhoeae are considered the second major cause of sexually transmitted disease after Chlamydiae worldwide. Although the urethra and the uterine cervix serve as the initial sites for gonococcal infections in men and women, infection of the conjunctiva, pharynx, tendons, joints, as well as rectal mucosa are also reported. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to introduce molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect N. gonorrhoeae directly from endocervical swabs. In addition, it provides a picture of Neisseria gonorrohea infection among a sample of Palestinian women in West Bank. Methods: Two hundred and thirteen endocervical swabs were collected from sexually active married women with endocervical abnormalities attending healthcare clinics. DNA was extracted directly from the swabs and PCR was performed using specific primers targeting the orf1 region of the genome. Results: The results obtained indicated that the percentage of positive cases of N. gonorrhoeae among the women tested was 1.40%. Conclusion: Implementing guidelines for comprehensive screening of men and women with more sensitive tests may improve detection and management of sexually transmitted infections.
Anti-apoptotic function of T-KTS+, T-KTS-, WT1+/+ and WT1+/- isoforms in breast cancer
Authors: Graidist Potchanapond , Nawakhanitworakul Raphatphon , Saekoo Jiraporn , Dechsukhum Chavaboon , Fujise Ken
Published: April 2018

Background: WT1 was originally identified in Wilms tumor, a childhood kidney cancer. This gene was expressed in wide variety of solid cancers. Alternative splicing of WT1 transcript generates four major protein isoforms and thirty-six minor protein isoforms, each having different functional properties. WT1 gene has been considered as a tumor suppressor gene and anti-apoptotic protein. However, the mechanism of WT1 in breast cancer remains unclear. Objective: Evaluate the role of truncated WT1 isoforms (T-KTS+ and T-KTS-) and two major WT1 isoforms (+/+ and +/-) in apoptosis in breast cancer cell line, MCF-7. Materials and methods: RNA interference (RNAi) was employed in an attempt to define the role of WT1 in a breast cancer cell line (MCF-7). Furthermore, MCF-7 overe-xpressing cells that stably expressed two truncated WT1 isoforms (T-KTS+ and T-KTS-) or two major WT1 isoforms (+/+ and +/-) were generated and exposed to Doxorubicin. The mortality of cells was determined as a percentage of trypan blue-stained cells in total cells. The apoptotic molecules in apoptosis pathway were detected using RT-PCR, caspase-7 activity assay and Western blot analysis techniques. Results: Transfection of siRNAWT1 into MCF-7 cells resulted in decreasing of WT1 protein and related to the increasing in number of cell death and caspase-7 activity. Over-expression of T-KTS+, T-KTS-, WT1+/+ and WT1+/- isoforms protected cells from cell death induced by apoptosis-inducing agent, doxorubicin. Moreover, the expression of apoptotic p53, Bak and caspase-7 were decreased by the expression of all four WT1 isoforms, especially T-KTS- and T-KTS+ isoforms. Conclusion: T-KTS+ and T-KTS- isoforms as well as WT1+/+ and WT1+/- isoforms could function as an antiapoptotic protein in breast cancer cell line, MCF-7.
Preliminary serological and molecular investigation of selected viral pathogens in Croatian cervid species
Authors: Besi Roić , Svjetlana Terzić , Tihomir Florijančić , Jelena Prpić , Siniša Ozimec , Lorena Jemeršić , Ivica Bošković , Andreja Jungić , Tomislav Keros
Published: April 2018

A total of 131 blood samples and 175 spleen samples were collected from three cervid species: roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), red deer (Cervus elaphus) and fallow deer (Dama dama) inhabiting the continental part of Croatia. Serum samples were tested for antibodies against bovine herpesvirus 1, parainfluenza-3 virus, bluetongue virus, bovine respiratory syncytial virus, hepatitis E virus, bovine viral diarrhoea virus and enzootic bovine leukosis virus. The tested sera were negative for bovine viral diarrhoea virus, enzootic bovine leukosis virus, bluetongue virus, bovine respiratory syncytial virus and hepatitis E virus antybodies. The antibody prevalence in roe deer and red deer samples was 21.11% for bovine herpesvirus 1 and 75.55% for parainfluenza-3 virus. Sera from bovine herpesvirus 1 positive animals were subsequenty tested with comparative virus neutralization test and bovine herpesvirus 1 neutralising antibodies were found in 18 (out of 19) sera. In fallow deer, no antibodies against any of the viral pathogens were detected. All spleen samples tested for bovine viral diarrhoea virus and enzootic bovine leukosis virus came back negative, except for one red deer spleen sample found to be weakly diarrhoea virus-positive. Our findings provide the first information on the exposure of Croatia-inhabiting cervid species to viral pathogens, and could serve as valuable baseline data for future investigations regarding deer exposure to various pathogens and the distribution of diseases shared between wildlife and livestock. As of now, the epidemiology of these viruses in the Croatian cervid population has been only poorly understood, so that further research is recommended.
Investigation on Canine parvovirus circulation in dogs from Sicily (Italy) by biomolecular assay
Authors: Giuseppa Purpari , Francesco Mira , Santina Di Bella , Simona Di Pietro , Elisabetta Giudice , Annalisa Guercio
Published: April 2018

Canine parvovirus type-2 (CPV-2) is a DNA virus that causes a very common worldwide diffused infectious disease in dogs. Since its appearance, the CPV-2 evolved generating novel genetic and antigenic variants (CPV-2a/2b/2c) which are distributed throughout the world. In the present study, the frequency of CPV-2 in a canine population in Sicily (Italy) was investigated, using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for a fragment of the VP2 gene. Out of a total of 673 samples from 370 dogs, submitted to the laboratory from July 2009 to August 2015, 265 samples (39.38%) were positive and these were further analyzed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and DNA sequence analysis. A high prevalence of the CPV-2c variant (79.56% of CPV-2 positive dogs) was observed in this survey, underlining that this type of CPV field isolate is prevalent circulating in Sicily. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis showed a close relationship with CPV-2a and CPV-2c strains from Europe and non-European countries. Considering that CPV-2c is reaching a worldwide distribution and that this variant is also affecting vaccinated dogs, efforts should be made towards the development of new CPV vaccines.
Involvement of serotonergic, noradrenergic and gabaergic systems in the antinociceptive effect of a ketamine-magnesium sulfate combination in acute pain
Authors: Katarina Savić Vujović , Sonja Vučković , Radan Stojanović , Nevena Divac , Branislava Medić , Dragana Srebro , Marko Kadija , Milica Prostran
Published: April 2018

Ketamine and magnesium can interact in additive, supra-additive and antagonistic manners in analgesia or anesthesia. Ketamine is a non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist. Magnesium is an endogenous non-competitive NMDA antagonist that causes anion channel blockade in a dose-dependent manner. It has been established that ketamine and magnesium interact synergistically in the tail-immersion test in rats.

To determine the role of serotonergic, GABAergic and noradrenergic systems in analgesia induced by the ketamine-magnesium sulfate combination.

Experiments were performed on male Wistar albino rats (200-250 g). Antinociception was evaluated by the tail-immersion test.

Methysergide (0.5 and 1 mg/kg, sc) administered alone did not affect nociception in rats. Methysergide (0.5 and 1 mg/kg, sc) antagonized the antinociceptive effect of the ketamine (5 mg/kg)-magnesium sulfate (5mg/kg) combination. Bicuculline (0.5 and 1 mg/kg, sc) given alone did not change the threshold to thermal stimuli in rats. Bicuculline (0.5 and 1 mg/kg, sc) antagonized the antinociceptive effect of the ketamine (5 mg/kg)-magnesium sulfate (5 mg/kg) combination. Yohimbine (0.5, 1 and 3 mg/kg, sc) applied alone did not change nociception. Yohimbine at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg did not influence the effect of ketamine (5 mg/kg)-magnesium sulfate (5 mg/kg), while yohimbine at doses of 1 and 3 mg/kg antagonized the antinociceptive effect of this combination.

Serotonergic, noradrenergic and GABAergic systems participate, at least in part, in the antinociceptive effect of the ketamine-magnesium sulfate combination in acute pain in rats.
Civil service, 2017
Authors: Shannon Laura
Published: April 2018

With the election of a new Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, TD, in June 2017, a number of changes were made to government departments. A new Department of Rural and Community Development was established, taking functions from the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (renamed the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht), and from the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (renamed the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government). The employment brief was moved to the Department of Social Protection to create the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. Finally, the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation was renamed the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation.
European Union, 2017
Authors: Malone Margaret Mary
Published: April 2018

The year 2017 was eventful for the EU and its member states. Given the widespread Euroscepticism and populism which appeared to be on the rise last year, election results in the Netherlands, France and Germany were greeted with relief and hope for the future. The EU was in an optimistic mood. European Commission President Jean- Claude Juncker used his State of the European Union speech in September to note that the EU had the ‘wind in its sails’ (Juncker, 2017). At the same time, he cautioned that the fair weather conditions would not last long - there was no room for complacency. The EU had to act to protect, empower and defend its citizens. The EU moved forward on a number of policy fronts in the wake of the Brexit vote and also concluded high-profile international trade deals in an effort to fill the vacuum left by the protectionist policies of the Trump administration.
HPV Vaccination: Prevention of Cervical Cancer in Serbia and in Europe
Authors: Stark Holger , Živković Aleksandra
Published: April 2018

The identification of the high-risk human papilloma viruses (HPVs) as a cause of cervical cancer offered the possibility for the development of a HPV vaccine. Twenty years after this identification of the HPV types, the first HPV vaccine came to the market. There are three HPV vaccines today on the market, all containing the virus-like particles (VLPs) of the HPV types 16 and 18, which are considered to cause 77 % of all cancers caused by HPVs. In addition, two of the vaccines contain two low-risk HPV types (6 and 11)-quadrivalent or the same as low-risk types and additional high-risk HPV types (31, 32, 45, 52, 58)-nonavalent vaccines. The cervical cancer protection efficacy of the vaccines is very high, around 100%. The VLPs of the 6- and 11-type offer efficient protection against genital warts. Unfortunately, the implementation of the vaccination is actually not so high despite all scientific and medical facts, but their rates in Europe are steadily increasing reaching about 90% in one country after another. In Serbia, all of the three vaccines are on the market but are highly underused. Actually, there is no national program and the Serbian vaccination rates are very low. High vaccination rates in Serbia need to be achieved as a goal of prevention of cervical cancer.
Clinical Conditions and Predictive Markers of Non-Dipper Profile in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Tilea Ioan , Petra Dorina , Ardeleanu Elena , Hutanu Adina , Varga Andreea
Published: April 2018

Hypertension remains one of the primary causes of premature cardiovascular mortality representing a major independent risk factor.

The importance of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in clinical evaluation of hypertensive patients, beyond diagnosis, is the identification of circadian dipping/non-dipping profile. The non-dipper pattern in hypertensive and normotensive patients is associated with significant target organ damage and worse outcomes, as an increased cardiovascular risk condition. Non-dipping pattern has been found to be associated with specific clinical conditions. Obesity, diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, chronic kidney disease, autonomic and baroreflex dysfunctions, salt sensitivity, hormonal changes, gender and age were extensively studied. Research efforts are focused on recognizing and exploring predictive markers of abnormal blood pressure circadian pattern. Previous studies acknowledge that red cell distribution width, mean platelet volume, fibrinogen level, C-reactive protein, serum uric acid and gamma-glutamyltransferase, are independently significant and positive associated to non-dipping pattern. Moreover, research on new biomarkers are conducted: Chitinase 3-Like-Protein 1, atrial and B-type natriuretic peptide, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, chemerin, sphingomyelin and the G972R polymorphism of the insulin receptor substrate-1 gene. This review summarizes the current knowledge of different clinical conditions and biomarkers associated with the non-dipper profile in hypertensive patients.
Kinematic-PPP using Single/Dual Frequency Observations from (GPS, GLONASS and GPS/GLONASS) Constellations for Hydrography
Authors: Farah Ashraf
Published: April 2018

Global Positioning System (GPS) technology is ideally suited for inshore and offshore positioning because of its high accuracy and the short observation time required for a position fix. Precise point positioning (PPP) is a technique used for position computation with a high accuracy using a single GNSS receiver. It relies on highly accurate satellite position and clock data that can be acquired from different sources such as the International GNSS Service (IGS). PPP precision varies based on positioning technique (static or kinematic), observations type (single or dual frequency) and the duration of observations among other factors. PPP offers comparable accuracy to differential GPS with safe in cost and time. For many years, PPP users depended on GPS (American system) which considered the solely reliable system. GLONASS's contribution in PPP techniques was limited due to fail in maintaining full constellation. Yet, GLONASS limited observations could be integrated into GPS-based PPP to improve availability and precision. As GLONASS reached its full constellation early 2013, there is a wide interest in PPP systems based on GLONASS only and independent of GPS. This paper investigates the performance of kinematic PPP solution for the hydrographic applications in the Nile river (Aswan, Egypt) based on GPS, GLONASS and GPS/GLONASS constellations. The study investigates also the effect of using two different observation types; single-frequency and dual frequency observations from the tested constellations.
A New Method for Measuring Angular Increments Based on a Tri-Axial Accelerometer and a Tri-Axial Magnetometer
Authors: Zhu X.N. , Ma M. , Cheng D.F. , Zhou Zh.J.
Published: April 2018

Tri-axial gyroscopes used to be the only instrument used to measure the angular increments of airplanes. However, because there were no reference devices, drift and accumulation errors affected the accuracy of the estimated attitude. In this paper, we propose a novel method for measuring angular increments based on a tri-axial accelerometer and a triaxial magnetometer. Then, we mathematically proved the feasibility of the proposed method. The results of our simulation and experimental tests indicated that the proposed method accurately indicates the attitude of an airplane.
Regime Shifts in Arctic Oscillation (AO) Variability 1951–2009
Authors: Marosz Michał
Published: April 2018

Arctic Oscillation (AO) reflects the dominating mode of SLP (or 1000hPa) variability in hemispheric scale and seems to bear an effect on the weather and, in longer time scales, on climate. The aim of the research was to identify the possible regime shifts in the multiannual course of AO index which in turn might be utilised in the identification and quantification of the regional/local meteorological field response. The data (AO monthly and daily index values) were acquired from the NOAA Climate Prediction Centre. The AO index is constructed by projecting monthly/daily anomalies of 1000hPa heights poleward of 20°N onto the loading pattern of the AO - 1st (leading) EOF of the 1000hPa height field for the same spatial domain. The temporal scope of analysis was 1951-2009. The analysis comprised the regime shift identification techniques that track the shifts in the mean values and in the magnitude of fluctuations as well as the usage of the classical linear trend identification in the annual and seasonal scale. The regime shift recognition was followed by the compositing method that allowed the analysis of spatial anomalies in SLP field in Euro-Atlantic region that reflect the response of the regional airflow to identified circulation regimes.
Microsatellite analysis of golden grey mullet Chelon auratus (Risso, 1810) in the Fereydoon-Kenar and Ramsar coasts (south Caspian Sea, Iran)
Authors: Behrouz Mohammad , Norouzi Mehrnoush , Samiei Mohammad Hadi , Heshmatzad Pouria
Published: April 2018

Genetic structure of golden grey mullet Chelon auratus investigated in the Fereydoon-Kenar and Ramsar coasts (south Caspian Sea, Iran), using 6 microsatellite markers designed for gray mullet (Mugil cephalus) and hand mullet (Liza haematocheila). A total of 60 samples of adult C. auratus were collected from these regions. All primer sets as polymorphic loci were used to analyze genetic variation. Analyses revealed that average of alleles (Na) per locus was 6.2 (range 3 to 9 alleles). All sampled regions contained private alleles. The average estimates of inbreeding coefficient (Fis) values of 6 microsatellites were positive. The average observed and expected heterozygosity was 0.394 and 0.743, respectively. Deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium were in all cases (P<0.001). F-statistics (Fst) and gene flow (Nm) estimates in allele frequencies were 0.078 and 2.9, respectively. Fst estimates in AMOVA indicated significant genetic differentiation among regions (P<0.01). Genetic distance was 0.679 indicating that the genetic difference among the studied populations is pronounced. The data generated in this study provides genetic variation and differentiation in populations of C. auratus in the southern Caspian Sea.
Agrobiodiversity Genetic Variability Utilization in Organic Food Production
Authors: Dimitrijević Miodrag , Petrović Sofija , Banjac Borislav , Barać Goran , Mladenov Velimir
Published: April 2018

The food production at the global level is about to meet its border. Industrialization of agriculture correlates with an explosive enlargement of human population, during XX and at the beginning of XXI centuries. An ongoing process of environmental erosion has been speeding up during that period, not only in our physical surrounding, but also in biodiversity. A new direction in agricultural food production is in demand. Organic food production has been recognized as the way of providing safety and quality food, preserving the environment in the same time. In the other hand new land areas have to be explored for agricultural use, in order to enhance food quantity to meeting the increasing demand for food. These targets set new requirements in plant breeding. To fulfill these requirements the genetic variability harbored in genetic resources has to be preserved, examined and put to good use.
Effect of Indigenous Pseudomonas sp. and Bacillus sp. Strains on Yield and Main Chemical Growth Parameters of Radicchio
Authors: Stanojković-Sebić Aleksandra , Pivić Radmila , Dinić Zoran , Iličić Renata , Latković Dragana , Jošić Dragana
Published: April 2018

Pseudomonas sp. and Bacillus sp. belong to plant growth promoting rhizobacteria which are able to colonize the plants roots and stimulate growth. In this study, the effect of two indigenous plant growth promoting rhizobacterial strains Pseudomonas sp. Q4 and Bacillus sp. Q10 and their mixture (mix Q4+Q10) on content of the main chemical growth parameters (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium) and the yield of dry biomass of radicchio (Cichorium spp. var. rossa di treviso) aerial parts and root, was investigated. The study was carried out with stagnosol type of soil in pot experiments under semi-controlled conditions in the Institute of Soil Science (Belgrade), in the period from July to October in 2013. Phosphorus was determined by spectrophotometer, potassium - by flame emission photometry and total nitrogen and carbon - using elemental CNS analyzer, while calcium and magnesium were determined by AAS. The data on yield of both aerial parts and root dry biomass of radicchio showed that its treatment with Q4 and Q10 strains, as well as with their mixture, caused noticeably increase in this parameter in relation to the control, whereby the strain Q4 was more effective for aerial parts, while mix Q4+Q10 - for roots. The obtained data on the studied chemical parameters of radicchio root and aerial parts were in total accordance with their yield. Concluding, studied strains have a potential in promoting the biomass yield and main chemical growth parameters of both aerial parts and root of radicchio.
Effect of trans-chalcone on hepatic IL-8 through the regulation of miR-451 in male rats
Authors: Karimi-Sales Elham , Jeddi Sajad , Ghaffari-Nasab Arshad , Salimi Mina , Alipour Mohammad Reza
Published: April 2018

Objective. Trans-chalcone is a chalcone with hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the mechanism of these positive effects, especially on miR-451 as an inflammatory regulator, is poorly understood. In this regard, this microRNA (miRNA) acts by inhibition of hepatic interleukin-8 (IL-8) production in the liver which is one of the main proinflammatory cytokines. Th is study for the first time examined the effect of trans-chalcone on miR-451/IL-8 pathway. Methods. In present study, 21 male rats were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=7 per each group): control which received solvent (NS), groups 2 (N2T) and 3 (N6T), which received transchalcone for 2 and 6 weeks, respectively. Hepatic level of miR-451 was measured by qRT-PCR. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) as well as hepatic level of IL-8 protein were measured. Results. Trans-chalcone decreased hepatic level of IL-8 protein and serum level of ALT aft er 2 weeks of treatment without significant change in hepatic miR-451. Moreover, it increased hepatic level of miR-451 and reduced hepatic IL-8 as well as AST and ALT aft er 6 weeks. Conclusion. Based on the results of present study, miR-451/IL-8 pathway is a possible mechanism for hepatoprotective action of trans-chalcone in long-term.
Genetic and epigenetic differences of benign and malignant pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs)
Authors: Khatami Fatemeh , Mohammadamoli Mahsa , Tavangar Seyed Mohammad
Published: April 2018

Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs) are tumors arising from the adrenal medulla and sympathetic/parasympathetic paraganglia, respectively. According to Th e Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), approximately 40% of PPGLs are due to germ line mutations in one of 16 susceptibility genes, and a further 30% are due to somatic alterations in at least seven main genes (VHL, EPAS1, CSDE1, MAX, HRAS, NF1, RET, and possibly KIF1B). Th e diagnosis of malignant PPGL was straight forward in most cases as it was defined as presence of PPGL in non-chromaffin tissues. Accordingly, there is an extreme need for new diagnostic marker(s) to identify tumors with malignant prospective. Th e aim of this study was to review all suggested genetic and epigenetic alterations that are remarkably different between benign and malignant PPGLs. It seems that more than two genetic mutation clusters in PPGLs and other genetic and methylation biomarkers could be targeted for malignancy discrimination in different studies.
Between Smallholder Traditions and “Ecological Modernisation” – Agricultural Transformation, Landscape Change and the Cap in Austria 1995–2015
Authors: Kurz Peter
Published: April 2018

The paper explores transformations in agriculture during the period 1995–2015 and shows their impact on rural landscapes in the case of Austria. When Austria joined the European Union in 1995, this meant a minor gash in agricultural politics, from broad support of smallholder agriculture to a programme of modernisation and rationalisation. Austrian politicians defined this shift as a process of “ecological modernisation” (Fischler et al. 1994), incorporating agri-environmental schemes as instruments and modifying existing programmes of direct payments. The survey forms the groundwork for a discussion on landscape effects of the CAP as an “ecological” modernisation programme and possible impact of the CAP-reform 2020.
Helminth fauna of Valentin’s Lizard Darevskia valentini (Boettger, 1892) (Squamata: Lacertidae) collected from central and eastern Anatolia, Turkey
Authors: Birlik S. , Yildirimhan H. S. , Ilgaz Ç. , Kumlutaş Y.
Published: April 2018

In this study, we assessed the helminth fauna of seventy two Valentin’s Lizard, Darevskia valentini (32♂♂, 35♀♀, 5 subadult). Specimens collected from Kayseri, Ardahan and Van Provinces in Turkey. As a result of the present study, it was detected that forty one hosts are infected with one or more species of helminth. Two species of Cestoda, Oochoristica tuberculata and Mesocestoides spp., and 5 species of Nematoda, Spauligodon aloisei, Skrjabinodon alcaraziensis, Skrjabinodon medinae, Skrjabinelazia hoffmanni and Strongyloides darevsky were found in the hosts. D. valentini represents a new host record for all helminths recorded. Skrjabinodon alcaraziensis is recorded for the first time from Turkey. Van, Kayseri and Ardahan are new locality records for all helminths from D. valentini.
Amiodarone-Other Pulmonary Manifestations
Authors: Calota Carmen , Tiuca Nicoleta , Diaconu Sorina , Palan Ana Maria , Predescu Alexandru , Purcareanu Adina , Pop Corina Silvia
Published: April 2018

Introduction. Cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (COP), first described in 1985 as BOOP bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia, is an acute inflammatory disease characterized histopathologically by intracellular granulomas formed by connective tissue and miofibroblasts (Masson bodies).

Case presentation. 62-year-old female patient, known with type 2 DZ, ICC, CIND (paroxysmal FiA) and HTAE, under treatment with Amiodarone, is hospitalized with acute respiratory symptomatology. Laboratory tests show bilateral basaltic crepitation risers, biological inflammatory syndrome, and radiologically multiple opacities with ½ inferior condensation appearance for which empiric antibiotic treatment was initiated. Evolution of the patient was unfavourable, despite antibiotic treatment. Therefore, it is decided to do a fibrobronchoscopic examination (bronchial aspiration for cytology and BK), thoracic CT followed by thoracoscopy and pulmonary biopsy.

The diagnosis of COP was based on the typical radiological appearance of bronchopneumonia but that is not responding to antibiotic treatment. The bronchoalveolar lavage revealed nonspecific inflammatory infiltration with lymphocytes and polymorphonuclear cells, the histopathological examination revealed the presence of Masson bodies, alveolar fibroblast polyps and bronchiolar polyps. As amiodarone is known to have pulmonary adverse effects, among which COP was very rarely quoted, treatment with amiodarone was discontinued and cortisone treatment with prednisone 70 mg/day was initiated, with rapid progressive improvement of symptomatology and slow improvement of imaging. In treatment month 3, after the decrease in prednisone to 30 mg/day, the general condition of the patient worsens in parallel with the biological and imaging parameters secondary to the reintroduction of the amiodarone treatment, an event treated as a recurrence of drug-induced obliterans pneumonia. The evolution of the patient was favourable, with the remission of clinical symptoms and radiological appearance, in the absence of relapses one and a half years after the end of the treatment.

Conclusions. This paper presents a complete case of cryptogenic organizing pneumonia in a patient undergoing amiodarone treatment, which has a complete response to cortisone treatment only after the trigger factor has been removed.