bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecological and biological studies on five-lined skink, Trachylepis (= Mabuya) quinquetaeniata inhabiting two different habitats in Egypt
Authors: Kadry Mohamed A. M. , Mohamed Hanan R. H. , Hosney Mohamed
Published: December 2017

This study was carried out to study the diet type, genetic, morphometric and histological variations between two natural populations of Trachylepis quinquetaeniata inhabiting Abu-Rawash, Embaba, North Giza and Garfas-Senoures, El-Faiyum habitats. In this study, morphometric examination showed that Trachylepis quinquetaeniata is a typically ground-dwelling Skink and seems to be frequently associated with grass and below shrubs. Geographic variation in sexual size dimorphism (SSD) and head size dimorphism (HSD) with greater dimensions in Garfas-Senoures, El-Faiyum compared with Abu-Rawash, Embaba, North Giza might be correlated with spatial food availability and abundance or micro-evolutionary change or phenotypic plasticity. Also, the increase of body size and mass in individuals from Garfas-Senoures, El-Faiyum might be an adaptation to lower ambient temperature and hypoxia. Diet analysis showed that the bulk of gut contents were beetles, plant bugs, hymenopterans and dipterans. The remainder of the plant material was probably ingested secondarily. Moreover, the increase in the activity of Ldh in liver tissues of T. quinquetaeniata inhabiting Abu-Rawash, Embaba, North Giza could be confirmed by the significant increase in the accumulation of the total lipids in liver and muscle tissues than that in the other population. As well as, a marked degeneration, necrosis and desquamation of spermatogoneal cells lining seminiferous tubules in testes of T. quinquetaeniata inhabiting Garfas-Senoures, El-Faiyum than that in the other population inhabiting Abu-Rawash, Embaba, North Giza that could be attributed to the bioaccumulation of soil heavy metals in testes. Higher carbohydrate accumulation in the former lizards' population was confirmed by the high availability and diversity of diet in El-Faiyum habitat. Thus we concluded that T. quinquetaeniata inhabiting Abu-Rawash, Embaba, North Giza is more active, energetic and adaptable in its habitat than T. quinquetaeniata inhabiting Garfas-Senoures, El-Faiyum.
The Effect of Moderate Heat on Rat Pituitary ACTH Cells: Histomorphometric, Immunofluorescent and Hormonal Study
Authors: Popovska-Perčinić Florina , Jarić Ivana , Pendovski Lazo , Nataša Ristić , Trifunović Svetlana , Milošević Verica , Ajdžanović Vladimir
Published: December 2017

In areas with moderate continental climate, increased average ambient temperature during the summer represents a stressogenic factor that affects the hypothalamo-pituitaryadrenocortical axis in mammals. Therefore, we wanted to examine the effects of 4 days of constant exposure to moderately elevated ambient temperature (35 ± 1oC) on the histomorphometric and immunofl uorescent characteristics, as well as on the hormonal secretion of pituitary corticotropes (ACTH) cells in adult male rats. In comparison with the controls kept at 20 ± 2oC, a signifi cant increase (p<0.05) of the absolute and relative pituitary weight (23.1% and 36.1%, respectively) was registered after exposure to heat. The localization, as well as the shape of the ACTH cells in the heat exposed group was not signifi cantly altered, but their immunopositivity was weaker. After 4 days of heat exposure, a weaker signal confi rmed the relative fl uorescence intensity of the ACTH cells (15.3%, p<0.05). In heat exposed rats, an increase of the cellular and nuclear volumes of immunolabelled ACTH cells and decrease of their volume density (6.9%, 14.3% and 20.0%, respectively; p<0.05) was registered. Observed histomorphometric and immunofl uorescent features of the pituitary ACTH cells were in accordance with the increased (p<0.05) value of plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by 23.7% compared to the control rats. It can be concluded that the 4-day exposure to moderately elevated ambient temperature intensifi es pituitary ACTH secretion in adult male rats.
Brix Refractometry of Colostrum from Primiparous Dairy Cows and New-Born Calf Blood Serum in the Evaluation of Failure of Passive Transfer
Authors: Stojić Milica , Fratrić Natalija , Kovačić Marijana , Ilić Vesna , Gvozdić Dragan , Savić Olivera , Đoković Radojica
Published: December 2017

Failure of passive transfer (FPT) of immunoglobulins (IgG) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality of calves. In this study we evaluated the digital Brix refractometer usefulness for the assessment of FPT. A number of 16 colostrum samples from the first milking (2-3h post-partum) of Holstein-Friesian dairy heifers and 29 blood sera of 3-6 days old calves were analyzed with a digital Brix refractometer. Total proteins were determined by the biuret reaction. Colostral IgG were determined by radial immunodiffusion (RID), and colostral whey and blood serum γ globulin (composed almost entirely of IgG) were determined by agarose protein gel electrophoresis (APE) and densitometry. Colostral % Brix score was 25.5±3.4%. Concentrations of colostrum IgG and colostral whey γ globulin were 130±33 g/L and 100±24 g/L respectively. The concentration of total proteins in colostral whey was 134±30 g/L. The correlations between Brix values and the concentrations of IgG determined with RID and the concentrations of γ globulin determined with APE were positive and highly significant (P<0.001 and P<0.01). The concentration of serum proteins of new-born calves was 57.75±11.8 g/L, the concentration of γ globulin was 14.4±7.8 g/L, and the Brix score was 8.6±1.0%. FPT (serum γ globulin<10 g/L) was detected in 34.5% (10/29) calves. Brix score correlated with the concentration of blood serum γ globulins in all examined calves. The results have confirmed that digital Brix refractometry allows the producers to use this technique in order to estimate colostral and calf serum IgG, thereby monitoring both colostrum quality and success of passive transfer.
Emerging Chytrid Fungal Pathogen, Batrachochytrium Dendrobatidis, in Zoo Amphibians in Thailand
Authors: Techangamsuwan Somporn , Sommanustweechai Angkana , Kamolnorranart Sumate , Siriaroonrat Boripat , Khonsue Wichase , Pirarat Nopadon
Published: December 2017

Chytridiomycosis, a disease in amphibians caused by Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), has led to a population decline and extinction of frog species since 1996. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of and the need for establishing a surveillance system for monitoring chytridiomycosis in five national zoos and five free ranging protected areas across Thailand. A total of 492 skin swab samples were collected from live and dead animals and tested by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the presence of Bd. The positive specimens were confi rmed by amplicon sequencing and examined by histopathology and immunohistochemistry. From July 2009 to August 2012, the prevalence of Bd from frog skin samples was low (4.27%), monitored by PCR. All samples from live amphibians were negative. The positive cases were only from dead specimens (21/168, 12.5% dead samples) of two non-native captive species, poison dart frog (Dendrobates tinctorius) and tomato frog (Dyscophus antongilii) in one zoo. Immunohistochemistry and histopathology revealed the typical feature of fl ask-shaped zoosporangia and septate thalli, supporting the PCR-based evidence of chytridiomycosis in captive amphibians in Thailand, but detected Bd in only 7/21 of the PCR-positive samples. Although the introduction of a pathogenic strain of Bd from imported carriers might have a serious impact on the native amphibian populations in Thailand, chytridiomycosis has not currently been detected in native Thai amphibians. An active surveillance system is needed for close monitoring of the fungus crossing into Thai amphibian populations
Increased Activity of Hippocampal Antioxidant Enzymes as an Important Adaptive Phenomenon of the Antioxidant Defense System in Chronically Stressed Rats
Authors: Popović Nataša , Pajović B. Snežana , Stojiljković Vesna , Todorović Ana , Pejić Snežana , Pavlović Ivan , Gavrilović Ljubica
Published: December 2017

This study examined the effects of chronic restraint stress (CRS: 2 hours × 14 days) on gene expression of three antioxidant enzymes, copper, zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD 1), manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD 2) and catalase (CAT) in the rat hippocampus. Also, we examined changes in the activities of SOD 1, SOD 2 and CAT in the hippocampus of chronically stressed rats. Investigated parameters were quantifi ed by using real-time RT-PCR, Western blot analysis and assay of enzymatic activity. We found that CRS did not change mRNA and protein levels of SOD 1 and CAT, but increased mRNA and protein levels of SOD 2. However, CRS treatment increased the enzyme activities of SOD 1, SOD 2 and CAT. Our fi ndings indicate that the increased activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD 1, SOD 2 and CAT) in the hippocampus may be an important adaptive phenomenon of the antioxidant defense system in chronically stressed rats.
Mitigation of Distributed Denial of Service Attacks in the Cloud
Authors: Alosaimi Wael , Zak Michal , Al-Begain Khalid , Alroobaea Roobaea , Masud Mehedi
Published: December 2017

Cybersecurity attacks resulting in loss of availability of cloud services can have significantly higher impact than those in the traditional stand-alone enterprise setups. Therefore, availability attacks, such as Denial of Service attacks (DoS); Distributed DoS attacks (DDoS) and Economical Denial of Sustainability (EDoS) attacks receive increasingly more attention. This paper surveys existing DDoS attacks analyzing the principles, ways of launching and their variants. Then, current mitigation systems are critically discussed. Based on the identification of the weak points, the paper proposes a new mitigation system named as DDoS-Mitigation System (DDoS-MS) that attempts to overcome the identified gap. The proposed framework is evaluated, and an enhanced version of the proposed system called Enhanced DDoS-MS is presented. In the end, the paper presents some future directions of the proposed framework.
Security Solution for ARP Cache Poisoning Attacks in Large Data Centre Networks
Authors: Prabadevi B. , Jeyanthi N.
Published: December 2017

The bridge protocol (Address Resolution Protocol) ARP, integrating Ethernet (Layer 2) and IP protocol (Layer 3) plays a vital role in TCP/IP communication since ARP packet is the first packet generated during any TCP/IP communications and they are the first traffic from the host. In the large data center, as the size of the broadcast domain (i.e., number of hosts on the network) increases consequently the broadcast traffic from the communication protocols like ARP also increases. This paper addresses the problem faced by Layer 2 protocols like insecured communication, scalability issues and VM migration issues. The proposed system addresses these issues by introducing two new types of messaging with traditional ARP and also combat the ARP Cache poisoning attacks like host impersonation, MITM, Distributed DoS by making ARP stateful. The components of the proposed methodology first start the process by decoding the packets, updates the invalid entry made by the user with Timestamp feature and messages being introduced. The system has been implemented and compared with various existing solutions.
Robust Active Contour Model Guided by Local Binary Pattern Stopping Function
Authors: Azizi Abdallah , Elkourd Kaouther , Azizi Zineb
Published: December 2017

Edge based active contour models are adequate to some extent in segmenting images with intensity inhomogeneity but often fail when applied to images with poorly defined or noisy boundaries. Instead of the classical and widely used gradient or edge stopping function which fails to stop contour evolution at such boundaries, we use local binary pattern stopping function to construct a robust and effective active contour model for image segmentation. In fact, comparing to edge stopping function, local binary pattern stopping function accurately distinguishes object’s boundaries and determines the local intensity variation dint to the local binary pattern textons used to classify the image regions. Moreover, the local binary pattern stopping function is applied using a variational level set formulation that forces the level set function to be close to a signed distance function to eliminate costly re-initialization and speed up the motion of the curve. Experiments on several gray level images confirm the advantages and the effectiveness the proposed model.
ISAR Image Recognition Algorithm and Neural Network Implementation
Authors: Lazarov A. , Minchev C.
Published: December 2017

The image recognition and identification procedures are comparatively new in the scope of ISAR (Inverse Synthetic Aperture Radar) applications and based on specific defects in ISAR images, e.g., missing pixels and parts of the image induced by target’s aspect angles require preliminary image processing before identification. The present paper deals with ISAR image enhancement algorithms and neural network architecture for image recognition and target identification. First, stages of the image processing algorithms intended for image improving and contour line extraction are discussed. Second, an algorithm for target recognition is developed based on neural network architecture. Two Learning Vector Quantization (LVQ) neural networks are constructed in Matlab program environment. A training algorithm by teacher is applied. Final identification decision strategy is developed. Results of numerical experiments are presented.
Some aspects of the biology of Abu mullet Liza abu (Heckel, 1843) in the Orontes River, Turkey
Authors: Ay Sezen , Özcan Gülnaz
Published: December 2017

The age, growth and reproduction are described for 411 individuals of abu mullet from the Orontes River in Turkey between May 2011 and April 2012. The overall male to female ratio was 1:1.29. Fork length of all individuals ranged from 2.2 to 18.5 cm and total weight from 1.85 to 66.40 g. Isometric growth was observed for males (b=2.938) and all individuals (b=2.907); positive allometric growth was observed for females (b=3.246). The von Bertalanffy growth parameters based on data from otoliths were L∞ = 19.48 cm, k=0.258 year−1 and t0=−1.738 years for males, L∞ = 20.31 cm, k=0.313 year−1 and t0=−1.432 years for females. The growth performance index (Φ) was found to be 1.99 for males, 2.11 for females and 2.18 for all individuals. The mean condition factor (K) was calculated as 0.792±0.027 for males and 0.835±0.030 for females. Length at maturity was 11.49 cm for males and 11.82 cm for females. The fecundity was 14413±1569 with an egg diameter of 0.44±0.07 mm. Spawning period was between April and August. Abu mullet has acclimated well in the Orontes River and is capable of successful reproduction. Its calculated age and size at maturity was smaller and younger than for other populations.
The Review of Ecological and Genetic Research of Ponto-Caspian Gobies (Pisces, Gobiidae) in Europe
Authors: Jakšić Goran , Jadan Margita , Piria Marina
Published: December 2017

Invasive Ponto-Caspian gobies (monkey gobyNeogobius fluviatilis,round gobyNeogobius melanostomusand bighead gobyPonticola kessleri)have recently caused dramatic changes in fish assemblage structure throughout European river systems. This review provides summary of recent research on their dietary habits, age and growth, phylogenetic lineages and gene diversity. The principal food of all three species is invertebrates, and more rarely fish, which depends on the type of habitat, part of the year, as well as the morphological characteristics of species. According to the von Bertalanffy growth model, size at age is specific for the region, but due to its disadvantages it is necessary to test other growth models. Phylogenetic analysis of monkey goby and round goby indicates separation between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea haplotypes. The greatest genetic diversity is found among populations of the Black Sea, and the lowest among European invaders. The lack of molecular research on bighead goby requires further studies.
A review of introduction of common carp Cyprinus carpio in Pakistan: origin, purpose, impact and management
Authors: Khan Muhammd Naeem , Shahzad Khurram , Chatta Ansar , Sohail Muhammad , Piria Marina , Treer Tomislav
Published: December 2017

Common carp Cyprinus carpio was introduced from Thailand to Pakistan in 1964 for the purpose of aquaculture. Due to its high tolerance to temperature and turbidity, and prolific pond breeding habit, it was established promptly in most of natural inland waters, including rivers, lakes, streams, canals, wetlands and even village ponds of the country. Although common carp became one of the most abundant cyprinid species in inland waters and important food fish in Pakistan, its impact is not well documented. Fish farming of common carp has been carried out in Pakistan since 1970; initially it grew slowly but now it is playing an important role in the economy of the country by employing more than 400,000 people. Nowadays, farming of freshwater carps is present throughout Pakistan, especially in the provinces of Punjab and Sindh. There is a huge potential in common carp farming and it could help increase the livelihood of people and gross domestic product (GDP) of the country as well. Still, there is a need to improve the fish farming practice to meet the world-class demands that could only be possible by the keen interest of policy makers and stake holders with better management.
Genetic Diversity by Rapd in Four Populations of Rohu Labeo Rohita
Authors: Kabir Alamgir , Rahman Mohammad Shamsur , Begum Mahmuda , Faruque Hasan
Published: December 2017

Genetic diversity in four geographically distinct rohu (Labeo rohita) populations such as rohu Khulna, rohu India, rohu Faridpur and rohu Barisal was determined by RAPD. The banding pattern showed that rohu India was genetically different from the rest three. A total of 87 bands were found in four rohu populations where 35 bands were polymorphic, indicating 48.38% polymorphisms with an average of 12 bands per primer. The molecular size of amplified DNA fragments ranged from 400 to 1250 bp. Eight unique bands were observed in the four populations of which six were found in rohu Indian population. The genetic distance was highest (0.7221) and genetic identity was lowest (0.4857) between rohu India and rohu Barisal populations. Among three local varieties, the lowest genetic distance and highest genetic identity were found between rohu Khulna and rohu Faridpur populations. The UPGMA dendrogram segregated four populations of rohu into three major clusters - C1, C2 and C3. Rohu India was positioned at a fully different cluster - C3, rohu Khulna was placed in C2 and the rest two populations in C1.
Threatened Fishes of the World: Orsinogobius Croaticus (Mrakovčić, Kerovec, Mišetić and Schneider, 1996) (Teleostei: Gobiidae)
Authors: Horvatić Sven , Marčić Zoran , Mrakovčić Milorad , Mustafić Perica , Buj Ivana , Ćaleta Marko , Zanella Davor
Published: December 2017

Orsinogobius croaticus is a freshwater fish with a small and limited distribution range in the Adriatic basin in Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina, where it inhabits cold karstic rivers and springs. The main threats to its populations include habitat fragmentation, declining habitat quality and the introduction of alien species. Conservation recommendations are proposed to improve effective habitat preservation and to expand the knowledge about this species.
The French Contract Law Reform and the Political Process
Authors: Fauvarque-Cosson Bénédicte
Published: December 2017

This paper provides an overview of the political process which led to the adoption of one of the most important reforms of the Code civil since 1804. This major revision of the French Code civil took place by way of an ‘ordonnance’ (delegated legislation). That, in itself, was highly controversial. As regards substance, the most controversial points related to the need to strike a new balance between contractual justice and legal certainty in French contract law to make it better suited to economic and social life in the twenty-first century. The French contract law reform began at the instigation of President Chirac, was continued under Sarkozy’s presidency and was finally completed while François Hollande was the President of France. This background might suggest that, from a political standpoint, the new provisions of the Code civil successfully struck the right balance between legal certainty and contractual justice; if only political life were so simple. As will be shown in the second part of this paper, many questions remain open. The first part recounts the story behind the reform, from its origins to its completion. The second part gives some further insight into some emblematic new provisions of the Code civil.
What is a Modern Law of Contracts?
Authors: Fabre-Magnan Muriel
Published: December 2017

The recent reform of French law of contract consecrates and indeed reinforces those mechanisms designed to protect weaker parties that had been recognized progressively by the courts. This is not to say that the brief for contractual justice is now exhausted. Many questions have arisen that are not dealt with by the new legislation, but nor are they by the law of other Member States of the European Union, or indeed by the Common Frame of Reference. Three examples of contemporary problems that contract lawyers should address, are discussed here: access to vital goods and services to persons; the quality of goods and services provided under the contract; and the production process of these goods and services. On these three points, proposals are made which might serve as a basis for a new manifesto for social justice in European contract law.
La Cause a-t-elle réellement disparu du Droit français des Contrats?
Authors: Deshayes Olivier , Genicon Thomas , Laithier Yves-Marie
Published: December 2017

Has French law abandoned the concept of « cause » ? That is the impression one might have on reading the new provisions of the Civil Code, introduced by the Ordonnance of 10 February 2016, and certain commentaries. Accused of being a source of deviance and misunderstanding, the « cause » had to be eradicated, it was said, so that clarity, security and attractiveness of the Code be restored. A closer look, however, shows how far from reality this much-told fable actually is. Two sets of factors bear witness to the perennity of the « cause » in the new law. Firstly, the vast majority of previous « cause »-based solutions are taken up by new provisions. The « cause » remains but its presence is masked by a new designation (« motive » or « purpose », for example). Secondly, there are situations where, in a quest for coherence or in order to fill a gap, a « cause »-based reasoning will prevail exactly as it did before the reform.

When all is said and done, it is a strange reform that removes the name while allowing the substance to remain.
The French and the German Reforms of Contract Law
Authors: Grundmann Stefan , Schäfer Marie-Sophie
Published: December 2017

France and Germany do not only have very prominent private law codifications, but are also countries which have taken the EC Sales Directive 1999 (among other EU developments) as an invitation to engage in an overall reform of their old Codes at the wake of the 21
Application of modern classification methods in the study of bilingualism
Authors: Vargha András , Borbély Anna
Published: December 2017

The main goal of the present paper is to demonstrate the usefulness of some modern cluster analytic techniques in linguistics by means of data from a longitudinal study of language shift of a Romanian community living in Hungary (Borbély 2016). Based on this sample we attempted to explore statistically valid and linguistically meaningful homogeneous types, which characterize bilingual adult persons of a Romanian community in Hungary.
Predicting Short-Term HR Response to Varying Training Loads Using Exponential Equations
Authors: Hoffmann K. , Wiemeyer J.
Published: December 2017

Aim of this study was to test whether a monoexponential formula is appropriate to analyze and predict individual responses to the change of load bouts online during training. Therefore, 234 heart rate (HR) data sets obtained from extensive interval protocols of four participants during a twelve-week training intervention on a bike ergometer were analyzed. First, HR for each interval was approximated using a monoexponential formula. HR at onset of exercise (HRstart), HR induced by load (HRsteady) and the slope of HR (c) were analyzed. Furthermore, a calculation routine incrementally predicted HRsteady using measured HR data after onset of exercise. Validity of original and approximated data sets were very high (r² =0.962, SD =0.025; Max =0.991, Min =0.702). HRstart was significantly different between all participants (one exception). HRsteady was similar in all participants. Parameter c was independent of the duration of intervention and intervals regarding one training session but was significantly different in all participants (one exception). Final HR was correctly predicted on average after 58.8 s (SD = 34.77, Max =150 s, Min =30 s) based on a difference criteria of less than 5 bpm. In 3 participants, HRsteady was predicted correctly in 142 out of 175 courses (81.1%).
Förderung von Visual Literacy im DaF-Unterricht anhand von Werbeanzeigen
Authors: Kienberger Martina
Published: December 2017

Medienkompetenz und Visual Literacy („visuelle Kompetenz“ im Sinne eines reflektierten, bewussten Sehens) sind Anliegen, die in der bildungspolitischen Debatte und der pädagogischen Forschung zunehmend an Bedeutung gewinnen. Besonders für den muttersprachlichen Deutschunterricht wurden interessante Konzepte entwickelt, die als Anregung für den Fremdsprachenunterricht dienen können. Als Textsorte zur Förderung visueller Kompetenz sind Werbeanzeigen aufgrund ihrer Gestaltungsmerkmale und ihrer gesellschaftlich-kulturellen Bedeutung besonders geeignet. Ausgehend von den Ansätzen Christian Doelkers und Klaus Maiwalds zur Analyse bilddominierter Medienangebote, zur Beschreibung und Förderung visueller Kompetenz sowie unter Berücksichtigung der Spezifika der Textsorte und bereits vorhandener Vorschläge zu deren Behandlung im Fremdsprachenunterricht wurde ein Modell zur Förderung von Visual Literacy entwickelt, welches verschiedene Lernziele des DaF-Unterrichts integriert. Der Beitrag skizziert die didaktisch-methodischen Überlegungen und veranschaulicht die Ideen anhand eines praktischen Beispiels.
Figurative language in intercultural communication – a case study of German-Southern African international academic discourse
Authors: Senkbeil Karsten
Published: December 2017

This article analyzes intercultural academic discourse in an international research project involving German and Southern African scholars, with an eye on the use of figurative language in authentic communication. It combines intercultural pragmatics with a cognitive approach to figurative language as an expression of conceptual, cognitive patterns. This paper intends to show how international academics involved in intercultural communication actively and creatively apply metaphoric and other forms of figurative language to co-construct and conceptualize academic subject matter in transculturally understandable forms, and to forge a group identity in what has been called a “discursive interculture.” The quality and communicative success of figurative language for such purposes depends on various factors, for which both pragmatic and cognitive linguistic perspectives provide explanations, which is why an interdisciplinary integration of methods is advisable.
Shifting Food Consciousness: Homesteading Blogs and The Inner Work of Food
Authors: Lundahl Audrey
Published: December 2017

This article explores the often overlooked work of growing food at home as food justice activism. It explores several questions, including: is home food production food activism/social justice work? How accessible is at-home food production? What are the assumptions and claims made by people who produce food at home, and what challenges do they face? Using an ecowomanist theoretical framework, the article analyzes blog posts written by four homesteading bloggers. It argues two points: that growing food at home shifts and develops a food consciousness, which leads to a more just relationship with food, and that the bloggers engage in intentional food production practices in order to bring more awareness to their individual interactions with all parts of the food system.
The changing paradigm of resection margins in sarcoma resection
Authors: Harati Kamran , Lehnhardt Marcus
Published: December 2017

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are a heterogeneous group of rare mesenchymal tumors that account for approximately 1% of all adult malignancies. They can arise throughout the body due to their mesenchymal origin, although 60% of all STS occur in the extremities. Locally advanced STS can lead to significant functional morbidity and tend to local recurrences despite surgical resection. About 30% of all STS patients develop distant metastases with a median overall survival of less than 15 months. The treatment of choice in patients with localized disease is still surgical resection with negative margins. However, there has been a paradigm shift in the last few decades. Large retrospective analyses could not establish a strong association between radical resections and improved local control or survival. Previous radical concepts in STS surgery have been gradually replaced by more moderate approaches with function- and limb-sparing resections combined with radiotherapy. Here, the margin status appears to be of prognostic significance. However, several large retrospective analyses have presented inconsistent results, questioning the independent prognostic impact of surgical margins. This article reviews the literature critically, focusing on the changing role of surgical margins in STS surgery.
Agonistic intertextuality: Herodotus’ engagement with Hecataeus on genealogies
Authors: Condilo Camila
Published: December 2017

In this article, I look at Herodotus’ engagement with other prose writers regarding genealogy, namely Hecataeus, Hellanicus and Pherecydes. Through a comparative discussion, I expect to shed light on the main differences in their approach to genealogy-making on the one hand, and individuate Herodotus’ own contribution to the debate on the other. Based on this comparative analysis, I suggest that Herodotus deliberately takes issue with Hecataeus by name at Hdt. 2.143 in order to acknowledge the authority of Hecataeus’ genealogical model as the best one available in his time, and at the same time to ensure the authority of his own model as superior to the excellence of Hecataeus on this matter.
Human Sacrifice: Religious Act or Vicious Desire? Testing the Limits of Tolerance with Vitoria and Las Casas
Authors: Colón-Emeric Edgardo
Published: December 2017

Tolerance is often considered a modern social development. However, a robust, if distinctly unmodern, concept of tolerance can be found in the work of Thomas Aquinas. The object of tolerance is a perceived evil which is endured for the sake of averting a greater evil. The paper explores how the concept of tolerance which Bartolomé de las Casas and Francisco de Vitoria inherited from Thomas Aquinas was deployed and stretched in response to the Amerindian cult of human sacrifice. Both Spanish Dominicans concur in regarding human sacrifice as an evil act, but they base their judgment on different principles. Las Casas interprets human sacrifice as a question of religion. Vitoria considers it a question of temperance. The result is that Las Casas counsels toleration of the practice, whereas Vitoria justifies military intervention on behalf of the innocent.
Gregorio López (1617–1691): The first Chinese Bishop
Authors: Robert Moreno Pablo
Published: December 2017

Gregorio López was a Chinese Christian who, after becoming a Dominican friar and priest, was appointed bishop and apostolic vicar of Nanjing. Previous biographies did not touch on the difficulties of admitting a Chinese Christian as a friar, and explanations of his late and problematic consecration remain insufficient. The documentary sources presented in this article contribute to a better understanding of these issues. Obstacles in his consecration are explained in the context of institutional and national conflicts. It is shown how Gregorio was proposed as bishop by French vicars seeking more effective control of the mission in China. A Dominican friar was supposed to become his theological adviser to settle the Chinese Rites Controversy. However, this plan failed. New documents reveal in detail how the Chinese bishop was engaged by Jesuits and Augustinians to support their position against the French vicars and to defend their opinions on Chinese rites.
Distributed Multi-agent Bidding-Based Approach for the Collaborative Mapping of Unknown Indoor Environments by a Homogeneous Mobile Robot Team
Authors: Hentout Abdelfetah , Maoudj Abderraouf , Kaid-youcef Nesrine , Hebib Djamila , Bouzouia Brahim
Published: December 2017

This paper deals with the problem of the collaborative mapping of unknown indoor environments by a homogeneous mobile robot team. For this aim, a distributed multi-agent coordination approach is proposed for the mapping process to offer a global view of the entire environment. First, the scheme starts by assigning the most suitable robots to the different zones of the environment to be mapped based on a bidding strategy. Then, while a Robot agent of the group explores its local surroundings and collects information about its neighborhood, it sends mapping data to the Human/Machine Interface agent to integrate them into a single global map. Furthermore, a geometric map representation and an algorithm based on obstacles and environment limits detection are used to provide an explicitly geometric representation of the workspace. For validation purposes, Player/Stage simulator is used to show the effectiveness of the proposed distributed approach and algorithms without needing a real multi-robot system and environment. Finally, various scenarios have been carried out and results are compared in terms of (i) required mapping time, (ii) accuracy of the global generated map, and (iii) number of exchanged messages between the agents.
Diagnostik lymphatischer Neoplasien
Authors: Stübig Thomas , Brüggemann Monika , Oschlies Ilske
Published: December 2017

Die Diagnostik lymphatischer Neoplasien ist durch die Identifikation neuer molekularer Marker komplexer geworden, was sich auch in der 2016 publizierten Revision der WHO-Klassifikation lymphatischer Neoplasien widerspiegelt. Diese Marker haben differentialdiagnostische, prognostische und zum Teil auch therapeutische Relevanz, so dass sie mittlerweile zur Routinediagnostik hämatopathologischer und hämatologischer Labore gehören und zunehmend eine integrierte Beurteilung der Morphologie, Durchflusszytometrie, Zytogenetik und Molekulargenetik erfordern. Dieser Übersichtartikel soll vornehmlich diejenigen lymphatischen Neoplasien behandeln, bei denen die Diagnostik von Blut und Knochenmarkaspiraten eine wesentliche Rolle spielt und die deshalb nicht nur im Alltag des Pathologen, sondern auch des Labormediziners relevant sind. Dabei werden reifzellige B- und T-Zell Neoplasien und die Akute Lymphatische Leukämie (ALL) behandelt und die relevanten diagnostischen Methoden im Kontext ihrer klinischen Bedeutung für die jeweilige Entität diskutiert.
Effect of Gum Arabic on Stallion Sperm Survival During Cold Storage and Post Freezing
Authors: Ali Mohamed , Musa Musa M. , Alfadul Sulaiman , Al-Sobayel K.
Published: December 2017

This study is aimed at investigating effects of supplementation of stallion’ semen extender with various concentrations of Gum Arabic (GA) versus egg yolk (EY) on viscosity, sperm motility and survival during cooling and freezing. Physical sperm characteristics; i.e. curvilinear velocity (VCL), straight line velocity (VSL), average path velocity (VAP), linearity (LIN) and straightness index (STR) were evaluated. Based on the sperm velocity (velocity of the average path), individual spermatozoons were classified into two major groups; i.e., progressively motile (>45 μm/sec) and immotile (0-45 μm/sec) spermatozoa. Addition of 3, 9 or 15% of GA to HF-20 extender resulted in linear decreases in VCL, VSL and VAP and a decrease in the percentage of progressively motile spermatozoa. Dilution of horse semen samples with high viscosityextenders (i.e., high percentage of GA) decreased the VCL, VSL and VAP in fresh and chilled semen. Freezing semen in high viscosity-extenders reduced percentage of progressively motile spermatozoa compared with those of low viscosity-extenders. In refrigerated and frozen semen samples, the extender containing 15% GA had detrimental effects on the percentage of progressively motile sperm cells and velocity of progressive motile sperm. Moreover, cooling sperm in extenders containing 9 or 15% of GA for 72 hours resulted in complete motility cessation. In conclusion, GA could replace EY in stallion semen extenders at a level of 3% to maintain the physical and biological characteristics of cold and frozen semen.
Microbiological Quality and Safety of Skipjack Tuna Loins (Katsuwonus pelamis) Intented for Canning
Authors: Casalinuovo Francesco , Brindisi Donatella , Rippa Paola , Ceniti Carlotta , Ciambrone Lucia , Musarella Rosanna , Costanzo Nicola
Published: December 2017

Tuna is a food widely consumed fresh and canned as well. After catching and filleting, a pre-cooking step is normally followed by freezing and shipping to canning industry as loins. The aim of this paper was to assess the microbiological quality and safety of tuna loins (50 samples) imported by an Italian canned tuna producer from two different FAO fishing areas. Total bacterial count (TBC), Coliforms, Enterobacteriaceae, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Vibrio cholera, pH measurement, S. aureus enterotoxin and histamine levels were evaluated. Significant differences were evidenced for TBC, Enterobacteriaceae, E. coli, Coliforms and pH between fishing areas. Staphylococcus aureus was detected in all the samples tested at 1 to 3 Log cfu/g; Staphylococcus warneri, S. saprophyticus, S. epidermidis, S. hominis, S. intermedius, S. vitulinus and S. sciuri were also identified. Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Vibrio cholera and Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin were not detected. Histamine ranged between 0 to 5 mg/kg. The tuna loins analysed in this paper have to be considered safe; staphylococci presence represents a possible concern and has to been taken in account when risk analysis is carried out.
A study on soft rough semigroups and corresponding decision making applications
Authors: Wang Qiumei , Zhan Jianming , Borzooei R.A.
Published: December 2017

In this paper, we study a kind of soft rough semigroups according to Shabir’s idea. We define the upper and lower approximations of a subset of a semigroup. According to Zhan’s idea over hemirings, we also define a kind of new C-soft sets and CC-soft sets over semigroups. In view of this theory, we investigate the soft rough ideals (prime ideals, bi-ideals, interior ideals, quasi-ideals, regular semigroups). Finally, we give two decision making methods: one is for looking a best a parameter which is to the nearest semigroup, the other is to choose a parameter which keeps the maximum regularity of regular semigroups.
Musikalische Diagramme zwischen Spätantike und Karolingerzeit
Authors: Nanni Matteo
Published: December 2017

During the Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages, different strategies of visualizing music were adopted. In this article the history and the development of music-related diagrams is put into the larger context of a cultural history of visualization. The philosophical discussion on notational iconicity and diagrammatology, known as ‘Schriftbildlichkeit’, supplies a theoretical background for the description of the music diagrams offered here. The basic question is how visuality and musical graphic (diagrams and notation) interact focusing on a specific visual logic related to musical issues. After a short introduction to Sybille Krämer‘s concept of diagram and after working out some main characteristic of medieval diagrams, a selection of music related diagrams is depicted. The sources presented range from ancient Greek and Latin descriptions of musical diagrams (Aristoxenus of Tarentum, Phaenias of Eresus, Bakchios and Vitruvius) to the wing diagrams of Aristides Quintilianus and Martianus Capella, the structural graphics by Boethius and concludes with the notational diagrams in the Carolingian music treatises (Musica and Scolica Enchiriadis).
hic in figura et textu habetur. Bezugsfelder diagrammatischer Formen in einer Mailänder Stadtchronik des 14. Jahrhunderts
Authors: Haug Henrike
Published: December 2017

The Bibliothèque nationale de France in Paris (BnF, MS Latin 5184) holds a fragment of the ‘Manipulus florum’ of Galvanus Flamma. This copy of a milanese urban chronical dates back to 1340. In addition to a modified version of the text, it contains 118 geometrical schemata covered in text. The article focuses mainly on the circular representations of the city and – while exploring their variety – discusses the semantic field of these diagrams.
Übergänge – Ornamente und Diagramme zwischen Text, Buchstabe und Bild in Handschriften des Frühmittelalters
Authors: Carmassi Patrizia
Published: December 2017

Starting from the concept and definition of littera in the Grammar treatises of the Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages, the contribution analyzes common graphic elements which were used by the scribes to create initials, ornamental patterns and the layout of the manuscript page. These elements and their functions were partly described in encyclopaedic works, e. g. of Isidor of Sevilla and Martianus Capella in the chapters about Geometry. Not only were these features well known through the study of the Artes, they also represented useful tools for the invention and production of medieval diagrams.
Malignant Diseases in Pregnancy - Ethical, Diagnostic and Treatment Challenge
Authors: Kesic Vesna , Dimitrov Goran
Published: December 2017

The biological uniqueness of malignant tumors in pregnancy lies in the combination of uncontrolled growth of malignant tumors and controlled growth of fetoplacental complex in the same host. The risk of pregnancy associated with a malignant disease is approximately 0.1% (1 case per 1, 000 deliveries). According to results from one of the largest studies of malignant tumors in pregnancy, which involved almost thousand cases, the most frequent types were breast and cervical cancer, then melanoma, lymphoma and leukemia, gastric and rectal cancer, bone sarcoma and other sarcomas of the soft tissue. According to a Swedish retrospective study on cancer during pregnancy, the incidence rate is 37.4 cases per 100 000 deliveries. Pregnancy-associated malignant disease brings a range of specific problems, such as: difficulties related to diagnosis and staging of the disease; the risk of performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures during pregnancy; counseling and treatment plan of pregnant women having malignant disease. The treatment plan of a pregnant patient with cancer has three possibilities: termination of pregnancy; postponement of treatment to reach fetal viability; treatment during pregnancy. The management of malignant disease during pregnancy may be highly dangerous or even fatal for the fetus. The treatment includes surgery, radio and chemotherapy. In malignant diseases during pregnancy, the prognosis is the same as in general population cancers of the same stage, localization and type. Termination of pregnancy is indicated in cases of, either high absorbed fetal radiation dose, or high grade, aggressive or metastatic cancer.
Seasonal Influenza- Factors Associated with a Severe Clinical Form of the Illness
Authors: Cvetanovska Marija , Milenkovik Zvonko , Topuzovska Irena Kondova , Grozdanovski Krsto , Uroshevik Valerija Kirova , Demiri Ilir , Spasovska Katerina , Cvetanovski Vlatko
Published: December 2017

Introduction. The risk factors associated with the progression of a severe clinical form of seasonal influenza are of a particular importance in developing a current and accurate decision in terms of treatment options. Aim. The aim of the study was to identify the specific factors associated with a severe form of seasonal influenza. Method. The study was conducted as a prospective, group comparison at the University Clinic for Infectious Diseases in Skopje, Macedonia, during the period of January 01, 2012, until January 01, 2015. This study analyzed 122 adult patients, who were clinically-confirmed to be infected with seasonal influenza by laboratory analyses and other necessary tests. These patients were grouped into two categories: patients with a mild form of seasonal influenza, and patients with a severe form of seasonal influenza. Furthermore, the demographic, clinical, and biochemical results obtained were analyzed. The variables in the univariable analysis which were significantly associated with a severe form of seasonal influenza were included in the multivariable logistic regression analysis in order to extract and determine the independent predicttors of a severe form of seasonal influenza. Results. The multivariable analysis yielded cardiovascular diseases (p=0.01), dyspnea (p=0.001), tachypneа >20 respiration/ minute (p=0.005), values of LDH greater than 618 U/L (p=0.048) and SAPS 2score (p=0.031) as independent variables which predict the severity of the illness. The area under the ROC curve [0.826 (95% CI)] suggests that the probability of a severe form of influenza was82.6%. The global accuracy for this model to predict a severe form of influenza was 81.1%, with the sensitivity being 88.5%, and the specificity 72.9%. Conclusion. Cardiovascular diseases, dyspnea, tachypnea, elevated levels of LDH and SAPS 2 score are independent predictive indicators for severe influenza. Early identification of these indicators will allow implementation of adequate medical intervention which will in turn reduce mortality rates.
Evaluation of Panfungal Marker (1,3)-⃞-D-Glucanin Diagnosis of Invasive Infections with Candida Species
Authors: Mirchevska Gordana , Cekovska Zaklina , Trajkovska-Dokic Elena , Petrovska Milena , Panovski Nikola
Published: December 2017

Introduction. Although blood culture is considered a gold standard in diagnosis of invasive infections, it is still not reliable and fast enough for diagnosis of candidemia. Determination of serum (1,3)-⃞-D-glucan is a highly sensitive and specific test for invasive mycosis, and could probably be of benefit to patients with high risk for invasive infections with Candida species. Aim. The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the diagnostic performance of serum (1.3)-⃞-Dglucan BDG (Fungitell) assay, in comparison with blood culture, for diagnosis of invasive infections with Candida species. Methods. Blood and sera from 120 patients divided in 4 groups, hospitalized at the University clinics in Skopje, during a 2-year period, were investigated for invasive Candida infections. Blood was examined with conventional methods (automated BacT/Alert system, Gram stain and culture on fungal media). Identification of Candida species was performed with VITEK-2 system. Serum (1,3)-⃞-D-glucan was determined by means of Fungitell assay. Results. Positive blood culture was registered in 23.33%, 43.33%, 23.8% and in 3.33% of samples only in groups I, II, III and IV, respectively. Positive findings with (1,3)-⃞-D-glucan Fungitell assay at the same time with blood culture were detected in 83.33%, 76.67%, 30% and 26.67% in groups I, II, III and IV, respectively. The average concentration of BDG was highest in group I, followed by group II, group IV and group III. Conclusion. Our results suggest that a positive (1,3)-⃞-D-glucan assay could be a superior test in addition to the blood culture for diagnosis of candidemia and highlights the value of this test as a diagnostic adjunct in the serodiagnosis of an invasive candidiasis.