bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overexpression of microRNA-133b reduces myocardial injuries in children with viral myocarditis by targeting Rab27B gene
Authors: Zhang Y. , Sun L. , Sun H. , Liu X. , Luo X. , Li C. , Sun D. , Li T.
Published: November 2017

The present study is to measure the expression of microRNA (miRNA or miR)-133b in circulating blood of children with viral myocarditis before and after drug treatment, and to investigate its relationship with the severity of myocardial lesions. A total of 36 children patients with viral myocarditis who received treatments at our hospital between June 2014 and June 2016 were enrolled in the present study, including 21 boys and 15 girls (age range, 9 months – 16 years).Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the expression of miR-133b in peripheral blood of patients and cardiomyocytes infected with CVB3. CCK-8 assay was used to test the proliferation of cardiomyocytes. ELISA was used to determine the levels of creatine kinase (CK-MB) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in peripheral blood and cardiomyocyte culture supernatants. Western blotting and ELISA were performed to measure the levels of tumor necrosis factor-Î± and interleukin-6 in cardiomyocytes infected by CVB3 and cell culture supernatants. Bioinformatics was used to predict the target gene of miR-133b. Silencing of Rab27B gene was achieved by transfection with its small-interfering RNA. Dual luciferase reporter assay was carried out to test whether miR-133b directly targets Rab27B. Reduced expression of miR-133b in peripheral blood was possibly correlated with myocardial injuries in viral myocarditis miR-133b. Expression of miR-133b was significantly reduced in cardiomyocytes infected with CVB3 virus. Overexpression of miR-133b inhibited cardiomyocyte injuries caused by CVB3 virus infection, and the enhanced production and release of cytokines TNF-Î± and IL-6 by cardiomyocytes infected with CVB3 virus. Rab27B promoted injuries of cardiomyocytes induced by CVB3 infection and facilitated the synthesis and release of cytokines TNF-Î± and IL-6 by cardiomyocytes. miR-133b was able to bind to the 3'-untranslated region seeding region of Rab27B mRNA. The present study demonstrates that expression of miR-133b in peripheral blood from children with viral myocarditis is reduced, and negatively correlated with myocardial injuries. miR-133b inhibits the proliferation of cardiomyocytes and the release of cytokines TNF-Î± and IL-6, and alleviates CVB3 infection-induced myocardial injuries by targeting Rab27B.
Metabolic and molecular responses to calcium soap of fish oil fed to ewes during peripartal period
Authors: Sheibani S. , Mohammadi-Sangcheshmeh A. , Alamouti A. A. , Khadem A. A. , Norouzian M. A.
Published: November 2017

It has been shown that n-3 long chain fatty acids (n-3 LCFA) are involved in energy/lipid metabolisms, reproductive parameters, and molecular regulations leading to maintained homeostasis. We hypothesized that supplementation of peripartal diets with fish oil (FO), as a source of n-3 LCFA, could improve energy balance and modulate metabolic pressure in a sheep model. Prepartum ewes (n = 24) were fed control (CON) or  calcium soap of fish oil (FO) supplemented-diet from four weeks before until three weeks after parturation. Feed intake, body weight (BW) change, plasma metabolites, colostrums/milk composition, and fatty acids profile of milk along with the expression of core microRNAs in glucose and lipid metabolism were evaluated. Prepartal feed intake decreased in FO group (1674 ± 33.26 vs. 1812 ± 35.56) though post-partal intake was similar. Differences in BW were not also significant (55.47 ± 2.07 in CON vs. 53.69 ± 1.94 in FO). No differences were observed in plasma metabolites except for cholesterol that was lower in FO group (56.25 ± 0.71 vs. 53.09 ± 0.61). Milk fat percentage was reduced (8.82 ± 0.49 vs. 7.03 ± 0.45) while the percentage of milk total n-3 LCFA increased in FO group. In accordance, the relative transcript abundance of miR-101 (0.215 ± 0.08) and miR-103 (0.37 ± 0.15) decreased by FO supplementation. Results showed that FO supplementation during peripartal period decreased milk fat, feed intake, plasma cholesterol, milk n-6:n-3 ratio and the expression of miR-101. Although the trend indicated that FO could alter lipid metabolism during transition period, further studies are needed to fully address its effect on energy balance and homeorhetic processes.
The association between murine double minute 2 (MDM2) rs2279744 and endometrial cancer risk in a Chinese Han population
Authors: Wu J-P. , Luo X.
Published: November 2017

Some studies investigated the association between the murine double minute 2 (MDM2) rs2279744 polymorphism and endometrial cancer susceptibility, but provided controversial or inconclusive results. Thus, we decided to perform this case-control study to determine the association between MDM2 rs2279744 polymorphism and endometrial cancer in a Chinese Han population. A total of 215 endometrial cancer patients and 212 cancer-free controls were included in this case-control study. We genotyped the MDM2 rs2279744 polymorphism by the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). GG genotype showed a statistically significantly increased risk of developing endometrial cancer (OR=1.72, 95%CI 1.08-2.76, P=0.02). Statistically significant difference was observed when the patients and controls were compared according to G versus I (OR=1.40, 95%CI 1.07-1.84, P=0.01). A significantly higher frequency of G allele was observed in patients with stage III+IV, compared to stage I+II (OR=2.24, 95%CI 1.49-3.38, P=0.001). In conclusion, the study found that MDM2 rs2279744 polymorphism was significantly associated with endometrial cancer risk in a Chinese Han population.
ALOX5AP rs10507391 polymorphism and the risk of ischemic stroke in Caucasians: an update meta-analysis
Authors: Li K-L. , Chen C-Y. , Xu M. , Zhu X-Q. , Yang X-J.
Published: November 2017

Some reports evaluated the association between ALOX5AP rs10507391 polymorphism and the risk of ischemic stroke in Caucasians. The results remained unknown. Thus, we did a meta-analysis to evaluate this association. Nine case-control studies with 4198 patients and 3699 controls were included in this meta-analysis. A significant association was found between ALOX5AP rs10507391 polymorphism and ischemic stroke risk in Caucasians (OR=1.18; 95%CI, 1.08–1.28; P=0.0002). ALOX5AP rs10507391 polymorphism was associated with ischemic stroke risk in Caucasians from Europe (OR=1.20; 95%CI, 1.09–1.32; P=0.0002) but not from other countries (OR=1.13; 95%CI, 0.95–1.36; P=0.17). No significant association was found between ALOX5AP rs10507391 polymorphism and ischemic stroke risk in males (OR=1.12; 95%CI, 0.91–1.39; P=0.28). Moreover, ALOX5AP rs10507391 polymorphism was not associated with cardioembolic ischemic stroke risk (OR=1.04; 95%CI, 0.73–1.48; P=0.84). In conclusion, this study found that ALOX5AP rs10507391 polymorphism was associated with ischemic stroke risk in Caucasians.
HMGCR and ApoE mutations may cause different responses to lipid lowering statin therapy
Authors: Kirac D. , Bayam E. , Dagdelen M. , Gezmis H. , Sarikaya S. , Pala S. , Altunok E. C. , Genc E.
Published: November 2017

Coronary artery disease (CAD) and its complications are the major causes of death in the world. Although statins have been used to lower lipid levels in CAD patients, this goal can not be attained in 1/3 of the patients. The objective of this study was to investigate whether common variations in HMG-CoA Reductase(HMGCR) and Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) genes involved in lipid and statin metabolism modify the effect of statins on serum lipid and lipoprotein concentrations in CAD patients.A hundred  CAD patients were enrolled into the study. At the beginning of the study biochemical measurements were performed to determine the baseline levels performed. Patients were treated with 40 mg atorvastatin for 2 months and biochemical measurements were repeated. According to the post-treatment, LDL-c levels,  patients were divided into 2 groups as non-responders and responders, respectively. The information regarding the risk factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption etc. were also obtained. DNA was isolated from peripheral blood. The presence of rs17244841 ve rs17238540 mutations in HMGCR and Îµ2, Îµ3 and Îµ4 variants of ApoE were determined by using RT-PCR. Results were evaluated statistically. HMGCR mutatations were mostly found in responders and Îµ4 variant of ApoE was mostly found in non-responders. It was also found that presence of HMGCR mutations causes a significant reduction in total cholesterol and LDL-c levels. Also presence of Îµ2 variant of ApoE causes a statistically significant increase in trigliseride levels. Our findings should be investigated with other researchers to clarify the mechanism.
Analysis of chemical stability of tap water in terms of required level of technological safety
Authors: Pietrucha-Urbanik Katarzyna , Tchórzewska-Cieślak Barbara , Papciak Dorota , Skrzypczak Izabela
Published: November 2017

The main goal of this work is to show the new approach to determining safety technological levels (SLs) in terms of water quality and its chemical stability, as well as issues of water corrosion properties in water distribution systems (WDSs), due to the fact that water supply pipes are prone to corrosion. In the paper the methodology of determining the risk associated with threat to technical infrastructure was considered. The concept was studied on the basis of real operational data from the water treatment plant. The probability of exceeding the individual parameters for WTPI is slightly larger than for WTPII, which means that this water treatment process may cause lack of chemical stability in the water supply network. Operators should anticipate in the process of designing water distribution system, using proper materials, as to ensure an adequate level of safety from the water source to the water recipient. It should be noted that it is necessary to adjust the material of internal installation of water supply networks to the parameters of the water. At present, there are no correlations between the designing step and water parameters. It was concluded that to protect the water supply infrastructure, which belongs to critical infrastructure, water company should put more emphasis on distribution of stable water that has not potentially corrosion properties. Some suggestions were made for the protection of WDS and to ensure safety of system functioning and long-term usability of water pipes.
Efficacy of vortioxetine monotherapy compared with combined therapy vortioxetine and olanzapine in the treatment of major depression – first results
Authors: Oppa M. , Ondrejka I. , Cesnekova D. , Tonhajzerova I. , Nosalova G.
Published: November 2017

Vortioxetine is a novel antidepressant with two mechanisms of action – direct effect on several serotonin receptors and serotonin reuptake inhibition. Atypical antipsychotics, such as olanzapine, used in the augmentation of antidepressants causes not only a better response to treatment, but also increased number of remissions. The aim of our work was to evaluate the efficacy of vortioxetine monotherapy compared to the combined treatment vortioxetine and olanzapine in adult patients with depression during the acute phase of treatment lasting 6 weeks. Depressive symptomatology was assessed by the MADRS scale, anxiety symptoms were assessed by the HAM-A scale and global clinical impression were evaluated by the CGI-S scale. The number of patients in full-analysis set was 28. The results showed statistically significant improvement in CGI-S for both groups. Patients with vortioxetine monotherapy showed significant improvement in MADRS total score from the third week of treatment (p = 0.009) compared to patients with combined therapy that showed significant improvement since the end of first week of treatment (p = 0.036). Both groups showed significant improvement in HAM-A total score from the second week of treatment. Our results show the possibility of olanzapine in the augmentation strategy in treatment of major depressive disorder in adult patients.
Pharmacotherapy of adolescent depression - fluoxetine monotherapy or combined treatment?
Authors: Cesneková D. , Ondrejka I. , Oppa M. , Tonhajzerová I. , Nosáľová G.
Published: November 2017

Depressive disorder is one of the most common and serious psychiatric diagnosis in paediatric population, often connected with suicidal risk. In recent years, fluoxetine monotherapy is the gold standard in acute phase of depression treatment in children and adolescents, but is not effective enough after an acute phase of treatment. More helpful researches concerning more effective therapeutic strategies of depression in this age are insufficient. The aim of our study is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of fluoxetine monotherapy in comparison with combined olanzapine/fluoxetine therapy in acute 6-week treatment of depression in adolescence. We found that combined therapeutic strategy, using olanzapine augmentation is predicted to be more useful in the treatment of adolescent depression.
Researches on the Influence of Low Temperatures on the Germination Capacity and Vigor of the Seeds of Wheat Varieties
Authors: Ivona David
Published: November 2017

Due to the fact that wheat varieties are different, they also have different temperature requirements. The present paper aims to find the most suitable seedlings that can germinate in an area with climatic conditions well below the optimum for germination of seeds. The observed temperatures were between 0 °C and 5 °C for the studied wheat varieties. The varieties analyzed were Miranda, Boema 1, Litera, autumn wheat varieties, created in our country.

The research was carried out by the controlled exposure method at low temperatures under laboratory conditions. During the study, the most important characteristics that can confirm the quality of seed material, namely germinative energy and faculty, were followed. Besides, we have also analyzed the elements of seed vigor, namely the length of the coleoptile, the root length and the weight of the germ, because I consider that these are key factors in determining the quality of the seeds.

The results obtained showed that low temperatures influenced moderately to strongly seeds germination capacity as well as the elements of vigor.
The Linguistics of Health and Agriculture
Authors: Popescu Nicoleta Aurora
Published: November 2017

The present article focuses on the importance of natural products on the human body. Based on various researches, our aim is to highlight the consequences that a proper and balanced diet impacts on the quality of life. Based on Schopenhauer’s saying that 10% of our happiness is based on health, our intention is to identify the products that impact human chemistry. Studies prove that the way we eat can have an influence of between 30% to 50% with regard to the onset of various types of cancer. What we eat can influence the illnesses our bodies would create within 10, 20, 30 years. More recent studies show that our mind is responsible for our psychological and physical well being. Also, we focus on how rural agricultural development could lead to economic growth for the country.
Responses of Chinese Laws to Ambush Marketing
Authors: Zhou Wei
Published: November 2017

The restrictions on ambush marketing frequently contradict the basic legal principles of intellectual property right. Special legislation is not applicable to the majority of cultural and sports events for the protection of their rights and interests. This paper attempts to scientifically understanding the meaning of ambush marketing, define the relationship of legal interests behind the ambush marketing and find the solutions for the predicament of ambush marketing with respect to the existing trademark regulations, with a view to offering some intellectual support for the Chinese government in fulfilling its bidding commitments for the 2022 Olympic Winter Games.
Pinpointing the role of the native language in L2 learning: Acquisition of spatial prepositions in English by Russian and Turkish native speakers
Authors: Antonova Unlu Elena
Published: November 2017

This study aimed to examine the role of L1 in the acquisition of L2 by comparing the acquisition of the three spatial prepositions (in, on, at) in English by native speakers of Russian and Turkish. The study, adopting a comparative approach suggested by Jarvis (2000, Methodological rigor in the study of transfer: Identifying L1 influence in the interlanguage lexicon. Language Learning 50. 245–309), compared interlanguages of L2 learners with Russian and Turkish L1 backgrounds, and examined the interlanguages of the L2 learners in relation to their native languages. The data for the analysis were collected via utilizing two diagnostic tests and analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The findings demonstrated that that the acquisition of the prepositions differed not only quantitatively but also qualitatively between the groups. The study adds to the comparative research examining the role of L1s in the acquisition of L2 and the effect of cross-linguistic influence taking place from background languages.
Rethinking perceptions of fluency
Authors: Dressler Anja Marie , O’Brien Mary Grantham
Published: November 2017

The term “fluency” is used in two different ways in relation to second language speech. Whereas laypeople often equate fluency with proficiency in a given language, researchers define fluency as a speaker’s ease or fluidity in producing spoken language at a specific time point. This discrepancy in definitions has been problematic, especially when relying on ratings provided by naïve raters. This study seeks to determine whether “fluency” ratings differ from “fluidity” ratings assigned to 48 speech stimuli produced by native and non-native speakers of German. Samples were rated by participants from three distinct listener groups: native German listeners, second language (L2) German listeners, and non-speakers of German. On the surface, results reveal no significant differences along the two continua (“fluency” or “fluidity”). All groups rated native speakers as more fluent, and second language listeners were harshest in their ratings. Nonetheless, L2 listeners who rated speech samples along the “fluency” scale relied upon speech measures not associated with ease of speaking when compared with L2 listeners who rated the same samples for “fluidity.” Although listeners in all groups were most sensitive to speakers’ speech rate and use of filled pauses, native listeners and non-speakers relied more on temporal measures when they rated speech along the “fluidity” scale. These combined results thus indicate that “fluidity” may be the better term to use in future research relying on naïve listeners’ ratings of perceived fluency.
A dutch multiethnolect? Metalinguistic commentary from Gouda
Authors: Mourigh Khalid
Published: November 2017

It is assumed that there exists a multiethnolect in the Netherlands that is used by Dutch youth with different heritage backgrounds. It is lexically mainly influenced by Sranan Tongo while phonetically it is mainly influenced by a Moroccan Dutch accent. In this article, I will argue, based on metalinguistic comments given in interviews, that Moroccan Dutch youth speech in the city of Gouda departs from this conception of multiethnolect. Interviews with Moroccan Dutch teenagers there reveal that, in their youth variety, Sranan Tongo lexical items are not readily accepted and used. In addition, their perception of Straattaal differs from the perception of their Indigenous Dutch peers in Gouda. In this way, a different light can be shed on multiethnolect in the Netherlands.
‘Property-Owning Democracy’? ‘Liberal Socialism’? Or Just Plain Capitalism?
Authors: Narveson Jan
Published: November 2017

Justin Holt argues that the Rawlsian requirements for justice are, contrary to Rawls’ own pronouncements, better met by socialism than ‘property owning democracy’, both of them preferring both to just plain capitalism, even with a welfare state tacked on. I suggest that Rawls’s ‘requirements’ are far less clear than most think, and that the only clarified version prefers the capitalist welfare state.
The city, its inhabitants and the urban living environment in the conditions of advancing motorisation (an example of Poznań)
Authors: Parysek Jerzy J.
Published: November 2017

When observing the development and operation of modern cities, one can quickly come to the conclusion that in the recent years the chief factor of the spatial-structural transformation of cities in Poland (though not only there) and the spatial behaviour of their residents has been motorisation, and more precisely, the car. This is so because the car, while facilitating and intensifying mobility, makes it possible to draw places of residence apart from those of goal implementation. The ever-growing number of cars moving around a city leads to disturbances in street traffic, makes the service of residents worse, causes many road accidents, and brings about unfavourable qualitative changes in the environment. That is why in many recent conceptions of urban development there appear measures intended to restrict the use of cars, which is one of the ways leading to the construction of ‘a city for people’. This paper presents the effect of motorisation on modern cities as documented by statistical data concerning Poznań, one of the largest and oldest Polish cities.
Model predictive control of multilevel cascaded converter with boosting capability – experimental results
Authors: Wiatr P. , Kryński A.
Published: November 2017

The main goal of this paper is to present a five-level converter with the feature of output voltage boosting capability. Thanks to its modular construction and single DC source usage, 5LCHB converter becomes an important alternative for two-level converters operating with DC-DC converters that use bulky inductors. Furthermore, model predictive control (MPC) method is presented, which allows for boosting output voltage of presented converter while providing three-phase load current control and flying capacitor voltage stabilization. The last section describes a 5kVA laboratory model of five-level hybrid converter interfacing RL load and shows experimental results confirming theoretical analysis derived in previous sections.
The effect of space vector modulation algorithm on characteristics of three-phase voltage inverter for drives of optical telescopes
Authors: Tomasov V. , Usoltsev A. , Zolov P. , Gribanov P.
Published: November 2017

The effect of space vector modulation algorithm on magnitude of current vector ripples was considered on the mathematical model of a three-level three-phase voltage inverter with symmetric active inductive load. Limitations on the use of such inverters as a power supply for precision drive of optical telescopes were specified.
Boswell’s ἄρρενας ἀρρενοκοῖται (Anthologia Palatina 9.686)
Authors: Hollenback George M.
Published: November 2017

John Boswell has attempted to make a case based on AP 9.686 that the ἀρρενο- in ἀρρενοκοῖται describes the subject of the word: ἀρρενοκοῖται are males (ἀρρενο‐) who bed with (κοῖτ‐) others, be they male or female. This note debunks Boswell’s claim, demonstrating that ἀρρενο- is the object of the word, ἀρρενοκοῖται being males (the word being taken as masculine plural) who bed with other males (ἀρρενο‐).
Living images and authors of virtue: Theodore of Stoudios on Plato of Sakkoudion and Gregory of Nazianzus on Basil
Authors: MacDougall Byron
Published: November 2017

Theodore’s encomium for his uncle, Plato of Sakkoudion, is the most important source for the latter’s life. This article identifies Theodore’s extensive use of Gregory of Nazianzus’s Funeral Oration for Basil of Caesarea to characterize both Plato’s activities as well as Theodore’s own role as his uncle’s closest associate. From his upbringing and ascetic virtues, to his work as a scribe and calligrapher, to his role in founding monastic institutions, Plato is made to recall the example of Basil the Great, with Theodore playing the part of Gregory. The authority of the Cappadocians had been invoked by both Iconoclasts and Iconophiles, and Theodore’s encomium constitutes a claim to the contested legacy of the Fathers.
„Die mordlustige Gesinnung der üblen Nachbarn“ – zu Symeon Magistros, Ep. 79
Authors: Pratsch Thomas
Published: November 2017

This letter was written by Symeon Magistros on behalf of the unnamed bishop of Eumeneia in Phrygia in Asia Minor, presumably in the 980s. It is essentially a petition addressed to the patriarch of Constantinople, probably Nikolaos II Chrysoberges, complaining about the infringements of certain “neighbours”. These “neighbours” are probably neighbouring land-owners in the bishopric of Eumeneia maintaining military units who comitted these infringements or even crimes. These troops were obviously not units of the imperial field army but thematic troops levied and put in stand-by by the land-owners who also were their commanders. Probably in search of provisions these troops did not behave properly, so the author on behalf of the bishop of Eumeneia complains about this and asks the patriarch of Constantinople to turn to the emperor Basil II in order to reprimand the commanders and their troops and to end the infringements. This shows that not only incursions by the Arabs posed a problem to the inhabitants of Asia Minor at that time, but the frequent presence and maintenance of thematic troops was sometimes also a burden and an annoyance for the local population.
Harmonization in laboratory medicine: more than clinical chemistry?
Authors: Plebani Mario
Published: November 2017

The goal of harmonizing laboratory information is to contribute to quality in patient care, ultimately improving upon patient outcomes and safety. The main focus of harmonization and standardization initiatives has been on analytical processes within the laboratory walls, clinical chemistry tests in particular. However, two major evidences obtained in recent years show that harmonization should be promoted not only in the analytical phase but also in all steps of the testing process, encompassing the entire field of laboratory medicine, including innovative areas (e.g. “omics”) rather than just conventional clinical chemistry tests. A large body of evidence demonstrates the vulnerability of the extra-analytical phases of the testing cycle. Because only “good biological samples” can assure good analytical quality, a closer interconnection between the different phases of the cycle is needed. In order to provide reliable and accurate laboratory information, harmonization activities should cover all steps of the cycle from the “pre-pre-analytical” phase (right choice of test at right time for right patient) through the analytical steps (right results with right report) to the “post-post-analytical” steps (right and timely acknowledgment of laboratory information, right interpretation and utilization with any necessary advice as to what to do next with the information provided). In addition, modern clinical laboratories are performing a broad menu of hundreds of tests, covering both traditional and innovative subspecialties of the discipline. In addition, according to a centered viewpoint, harmonization initiatives should not be addressed exclusively to clinical chemistry tests but should also include all areas of laboratory medicine.
The Effect of Priming on Germination and Growth Indices in Chamran Wheat Variety in North of Khuzestan Province, Iran
Authors: Lorzadeh Sh. , Sharafizadeh M. , Enayat Gholizadeh M.R.
Published: November 2017

In order to study the plant growth regulator, using salicylic acid (SA) on germination and growth indices for laboratory research in crop year 2014-2015, which was conducted at the research center Safiabad-Dezful, Khuzestan province. The treatments included four levels of priming with salicylic acid {control (distilled water), 0.7, 1.2, 1.7 mM} in a completely randomized design in three replications. The results showed that the control treatment reduced the decrease in germination time. The highest percentage of germination and related characteristics of the control (distilled water) was obtained. Seed vigor and seedling vigor index were reduced in high concentrations of salicylic acid. The germination percentage of an average daily germination, seed vigor and seedling vigor index had a positive and significant correlation with the daily germination rate showed a significant negative correlation. The results of comparison of treatments showed that the treatment concentration of 0.7 mM salicylic acid highest (22.3 days) and control (distilled water) lowest (0.3 day) had mean germination time. Effects of priming showed the highest mean daily germination (15.44) related to the control and the lowest (2.97) related to the concentration of 7.1 mM salicylic acid. Also, the results showed that the 1.7 mM salicylic acid treatment had the highest number of germinated seeds per day (0.3880) and control treatment had the least number of germinated seeds per day (0.6467). The highest vigor index was observed in control treatment with seedling length of (8.15 cm) and the lowest vigor index was observed in 1.7 mM salicylic acid treatment with seedling length of (1.54 cm). The highest seedling vigor index was observed in control treatment (33.58) and the lowest seedling vigor index was observed in 1.7 mM salicylic acid treatment (17.20). The coefficient velocity germination rate in control treatment was highest (3) and in the 1.7 mM salicylic acid treatment was lowest (0.15). The correlation coefficient between vigor index and seedling vigor index has the highest value (98%). There was a positive correlation between germination percentage and mean daily germination and there was a negative correlation between germination percentage and daily germination speed.
Evaluation of Different Fungicides Against Aspergilus flavus and their Comparative Efficacy Upon Germination of Infected Rice Seeds
Authors: Islam W. , Ahmed M.
Published: November 2017

Aspergilus flavus is the most common seed born fungus that deteriorates the seed quality and minimizes the export value of the rice all over the world. Fungicides are the most successful and commonly used way to manage any fungi but more use of fungicides have resulted evolution in the seed born fungi so efforts are required off and on to stay ahead of the fungal races. Keeping in view, the present research work was conducted to evaluate different fungicides against A. flavus and their comparative efficacy upon the infected rice seeds. Experiment was laid out in completely randomize design with varying concentrations of fungicides (20, 40, 60 and 80 ppm) under laboratory conditions. Statistical results shown significant reduction in mycelial growth and improved the seed germination as well. The results were significantly better when the fungicides were used at 80 ppm, as compared to low concentrations. Regarding mycelial growth, Kumulus-DF and Cabrio-Top were comparative to each other, followed by Trimiltox-Forte, Cordate and Copper oxychloride, while for the other attribute of infected grain germination Kumulus-DF proven better in comparison with Trimiltox-forte and Cabrio-Top, followed by Cordate and Copper oxychloride.
Effectiveness of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Peperomia pellucida and Terminalia catappa in the Management of Cyst Nematode (Heterodera sacchari) on Selected Rice Varieties
Authors: Izuogu N.B. , Saliu A.R. , Baba H.S. , Olajide C.M.
Published: November 2017

Experiments were conducted at the teaching and research farm of Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ilorin, Nigeria to determine the effect of aqueous extract of Peperomia pelliucida and Terminalia catappa on the management of cyst nematode, Heterodera sacchari on some selected rice varieties. A screenhouse preliminary study was first carried out in December, 2014 to assess the pathogenicity of H. sacchari on ten varieties of rice from which five varieties were selected for field trials. The five selected rice varieties were grown on soil inoculated with cysts of H. sacchari. The field experiment was a 5×3 factorial type fitted into a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Soil nematode population, physiochemical soil analysis and phytochemical screening of the tests plants were carried out. Treatment application of aqueous leaf extract were conducted at the 2nd and 7th weeks after transplanting. Data were collected on the plant height, shoot, root weights, yield and soil nematode population. All numerical data were subjected to analysis of variance (Anova) using GENSTAT statistical package 12th edition and where significant differences were observed, means were separated using fisher’s protected LSD. Results from the study revealed that treatment combination of P. pellucida and T. catappa singly with FARO 60, FARO 61, and NERICA 8 performed significantly higher (p>0.05) than the other rice varieties for most of the growth and yield parameter measured. Significant differences occurred between shoot, root, and yield weight of treated plants and their control counterparts. There was no significant difference between the two plant extracts used with respect to parameters measured. Treated plants performed significantly higher than the control. Based on the results of the study, paddy farmers experiencing H. sacchari infestation are encouraged to treat the field with P. pellucida and or T. catappa, especially when planting FARO 60, FARO 61, and NERICA 8 as these combinations promise to give higher yield.
Influence of Seed Invigoration Techniques on Germination and Seedling Vigor of Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Khan A.Z. , Shah T. , Khan S. , Rehman A. , Akbar H. , Muhammad A. , Khalil S.K.
Published: November 2017

The objective of this study was to assess the comparative efficiency of different priming techniques on germination and early seedling growth of maize cultivars. Laboratory experiments were conducted to examine the efficacy of different seed invigoration treatments on seed germination and vigor traits of three maize hybrids, Pioneer 3025, Pioneer 70 and Baber at Agronomy research laboratory, University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan. The experiment was laid in completely randomized design (CRD) and was replicated thrice. The treatments included control treatment (T1) unsoaked/dry seed, (T2) hydropriming with distilled water for 24 hrs, (T3) halo priming treatments with NaCl (3% solution) for 24 hrs, (T4) osmopriming with PEG-6000 for 24 hrs and (T5), hormonal priming with GA3 for 24 hrs. The results showed that seed invigoration treatment with gibberellic acid (GA3) PEG-6000 and hydropriming with distilled water for 24 hrs gave higher germination, decreased days to 50% germination, increased shoot length, root length, seedling fresh and dry weight, as compared to halo priming with NaCl and control treatment. It is concluded that seed invigoration with GA3, osmopriming with PEG-6000 and hydropriming with distilled water for 24 hrs serve as an appropriate treatment for accelerating the emergence and growth parameters of maize hybrid. Pioneer 3025 showed its superiority over other cultivars in all the studied parameters.
Impact of Glycine Betaine on Salinity Tolerance of Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni) under In Vitro Condition
Authors: Rameeh V. , Gerami M. , Ghasemi Omran V. , Ghavampour S.
Published: November 2017

Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni), with great potential as a natural sweeteners source, has a high content of sweeteners, which are up to 150 times sweeter than sugar, but virtually with no calories. Stevia also suitable to be cultivated in semiarid climates and coastal areas, which are characterized by the low quality of the irrigation water. Soil salinity occupies a prominent place among the soil problems that threaten the sustainability of agriculture over a vast area in the world. Glycine betaine is an osmoprotectant, that plays an important role and accumulates rapidly in many plants during salinity or drought stress. In order to evaluation of glycine betaine amending effects on salinity stress in stevia under in vitro condition, a factorial experiment was conducted in 2015. Four NaCl levels, including 0, 50, 75 and 100 mM, along with 0, 1, 12.5, 25 and 50 mM of glycine betaine concentrations were used in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium. The results showed that salinity levels had significant reduction effects on plant height, root length, shoot fresh weight, number of leaf, total chlorophyll, rebaudioside A and stevioside of the stevia genotype. Due to increasing of glycine betaine, levels all the traits were increased. Owing to amending effect of glycine betaine, its high concentrations made less hazarding effects of salinity on the researched traits. The highest mean value of rebaudioside A (10.62rt) and stevioside (23.38rt) determined at 50 mM of glycine betaine with 0 mM of NaCl concentration.
Risk factors of gestational hypertension development
Authors: Bulavenko Olga , Vaskiv Oksana
Published: November 2017

The problem of gestational hypertension (GH) remains to be of current concern in obstetric practice. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to determine the risk factors for GH development. We examined 53 pregnant women and allocated them to 2 groups: the main group - pregnant women with gestational hypertension (n = 30) and the control group - pregnant women without the pathology (n = 23). The selection of persons for the study was carried out on the basis of detailed history taking, examination and complaints, using standard clinical, laboratory and instrumental methods of investigation. The data was processed on a PC (standard statistical package Statistica 6.0). Our results show that the gestational hypertension development is closely linked with such risk factors as: age ≤ 18 years old and over 35 years old, unmarried status, living in a city/town, post-secondary education, unemployment, obesity, first labor in consecutively pregnant women, the threat of pregnancy termination, cardiovascular system diseases, urinary tract pathology, varicose veins, as well as ABO-sensibilization.
Prospective of ischemic stroke biomarkers
Authors: Szewczak Krzysztof , Niespialowska Magdalena , Jakubowska-Solarska Beata , Chalabis Magdalena , Gawlowicz Jacek
Published: November 2017

Methods currently used in brain vascular disorder diagnostics are neither fast enough nor clear-out; thus, there exists a necessity of finding new types of testing which could enlarge and complete the actual panel of diagnostics or be an alternative to current methods. The discovery of sensitive and specific biomarkers of ischemic brain stroke will improve the effects of treatment and will help to assess the progress or complications of the disease. The relevant diagnosis of ischemic stroke (IS) within the first 4.5 hours after the initial symptoms allows for the initiation of treatment with recombinant tissue plasminogen activators which limits the magnitude of negative changes in the brain and which enhance the final effectiveness of therapy. The potential biomarkers which are under investigation are substances involved in the processes of coagulation and fibrinolysis, and are of molecules released from damaged vascular endothelial cells and from nerves and cardiac tissue. The analyzed substances are typical of oxidative stress, apoptosis, excitotoxicity and damage of the blood brain barrier.
Features of sonographic parameters of liver in practically healthy men of different somatotypes, in the Podilski region of Ukraine
Authors: Gunas Igor , Melnik Marina , Majewskyi Olexandr , Shevchuk Yuriy
Published: November 2017

The analysis of liver sonographic parameters of healthy men of the Podilski region of Ukraine who are of different somatotypes has revealed significant differences only in the thickness of the right lobe of the liver on inhalation, as well as in the width of the caudate lobe of the liver and the densitometry of the left lobe of the liver parenchyma on exhalation and during inhalation. No significant differences or trends between healthy men of different somatotypes were seen in the rest of the sonographic parameters of liver (oblique vertical size of the right lobe of the liver on exhalation and on inhalation, the thickness of the right lobe of the liver on exhalation, the cranio-caudal size of the left lobe of the liver on exhalation and inhalation, the thickness of the left lobe of the liver on exhalation and in inhalation, as well as the length of the caudate particle of the liver and densitometry of right lobe of liver parenchyma on exhalation and inhalation).
Towards a Balanced Synergy of Visions and Interests: Latvia’s Perspectives in 16+1 and Belt and Road Initiatives
Authors: Spruds Andris
Published: November 2017

The article analyses China’s 16+1 and Belt and Road initiatives from Latvia’s perspective. Although the initiatives provide engagement on a large scale, it is challenging to achieve the task of achieving a synergy between a variety of stakeholders and interests in the context of a diversity of visions and agendas. The strategic dimension of transcontinental initiatives complicates further the building of synergy. Connectivity is an important and promising principle of both initiatives and transcontinental infrastructural linkages are especially high on the agenda. Mutually beneficial progress, however, must yet be achieved. In times of uncertainty, Central and Eastern European countries, including Latvia, are engaged in a balancing process of potential economic benefits and strategic implications of the 16+1 and Belt and Road initiatives.
Using Patent Development, Education Policy and Research and Development Expenditure Policy to Increase Technological Competitiveness of Small European Union Member States
Authors: Ferraro Simona , Dutt Pawan Kumar , Kerikmäe Tanel
Published: November 2017

The Chinese Belt and Road Initiative will open new trade routes between China and the European Union (EU) and increase competition pressures on smaller EU member states. This article ranks where states like Estonia stand internationally in terms of innovativeness (and consequent competitiveness) by conducting an econometric study of patent development, education policy and research and development (R&D) expenditure policy. The authors claim that small member states such as Estonia should follow the example of countries such as Germany and adopt policies which focus more on increased public spending on R&D and innovation in public universities of science and technology, and raise support for high tech startups with a strong focus on international patenting. Member States must go further and subsidise R&D activities by focusing, inter alia, on filing of foreign patents such as triadic patents.
The Security Challenges of the “One Belt, One Road” Initiative and China’s Choices
Authors: Haiquan Liu
Published: November 2017

The Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road initiatives (“One Belt, One Road”) are of significance in enhancing China’s open economy. This article explores the dual security challenges faced by the “One Belt, One Road” initiative. These challenges include both traditional security challenges, such as great power competition, territorial and island disputes, and political turmoil in the region, as well as non-traditional threats such as terrorism, piracy, and transnational organized crime. This article analyzes the present situation of security cooperation in the region covered by “One Belt, One Road” and also suggests that China needs to pay special attention to three issues, namely the supply of public security goods, the interests of the United States and Russia, and the pivot of Pakistan, besides developing its own strength.
The Challenge of Different Perceptions on the Belt and Road Initiative
Authors: Junchi Ma
Published: November 2017

This article1 focuses on the perceptions of the Chinese and its partners on the Belt and Road Initiative. The author summarizes the existing foreign opinions about the initiative, one “inequality” of the market, three goals that China wants to achieve and two ways in which China wants to create domestic stability. In fact, the difference between foreign and Chinese perceptions is based on the relative national condition of the two sides, the perception of great powers, and the combination of domestic needs and foreign policy. Finally, the author points out that there are three paradoxes which exist in the differences between China and its partners, which is the biggest challenge of the Belt and Road Initiative.
SWOT Analysis and Related Countermeasures for Croatia to Explore the Chinese Tourist Source Market
Authors: Qian Wang
Published: November 2017

Croatia is a land endowed with rich and diversified natural and cultural tourist resources. Traveling around Croatia, I was stunned by its beauty. However, I noticed that there were few Chinese tourists in Croatia. How can we bring more Chinese tourists to Croatia? How can we make them happy and comfortable in Croatia? And, at the same time, how can we avoid polluting this tract of pure land? Based on first-hand research work, I make a SWOT analysis of the Chinese tourist source market of Croatia and put forward related countermeasures from the perspective of a native Chinese. The positioning of tourism in Croatia should be ingeniously packaged. I recommend developing diversified and specialized tourist products, various marketing and promotional activities, simple and flexible visa policies and regulations, and other related measures to further explore the Chinese tourist source market of Croatia.
Prenatal diagnosis of rapidly involuting congenital hemangioma: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Smet Maria-Elisabeth , Pincham Vanessa , McLennan Andrew
Published: November 2017

Congenital hemangiomata are rare benign vascular tumors, presenting as fully mature lesions at birth. Three types have been described; the “rapidly involuting congenital hemangioma” (RICH), the “non-involuting congenital hemangioma” (NICH)and the “partially involuting congenital hemangioma” (PICH). We herein report on a RICH type congenital hemangioma, identified during a fetal morphology ultrasound performed at 19 weeks’ gestation. Early diagnosis allowed close surveillance of the fetus and neonate and observation of the natural course of this lesion. Although being a potentially life-threatening condition, no intervention was required. It presented as a 4 cm vascular tumor on the forehead at time of the cesarean section and diminished rapidly over the first 4 neonatal months, resulting in some skin excess and discoloration which is expected to entirely resolve by 14 months of age.
Cross-Border Health Care in the European Union: Evaluation of Different Financing Arrangements
Authors: Ried Walter , Rau Frauke Henriette
Published: November 2017

This paper analyses the impact of the financing arrangements for planned cross-border health care within the European Union. A financial arrangement is taken to provide a financial incentive but may also involve payment risks and administrative burden. For the pathways given by the Social Security Regulations (883/2004 and 987/2009) and the EU Directive 2011/24/EU, we investigate how the associated financial arrangements act on providers, patients and on publicly funded health insurance. First, the Regulations can induce cross-border health care that will increase domestic health care expenditure and may threaten national health policy by setting an incentive for patients to go abroad for health care not covered by domestic health insurance. Second, the financial arrangement of the Directive may induce cross-border health care which will lower domestic health care expenditure. However, due to considerable payment risks and administrative burden on both patients and providers, these benefits will not be reaped in full. Moreover, in the presence of national cost containment policies, the Directive may provide an incentive for cross-border health care that is too strong. Finally, due to the requirement to pay upfront, the financial arrangement also suffers from a lack of equity of access to health care provision abroad.