bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Immunohistomorphometric Changes of The Pituitary Gonadotropic Cells After Testosterone Application in a Rat Model of the Andropause
Authors: Ristić Nataša , Ajdžanović Vladimir , Petrović-Kosanović Dragana , Miler Marko , Ušćebrka Gordana , Milošević Verica 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Andropause, the culminating phase of male ageing, is characterized by deregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitarygonadal axis and low circulating free testosterone. The aim of this study was to investigate the immunohistomorphometric characteristics of the pituitary gonadotropic i.e. follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and the luteinizing hormone (LH) producing cells after testosterone application in a rat model of the andropause. Middle-aged Wistar rats were divided into orchidectomized (ORX; n=8) and testosterone treated orchidectomized (ORX+T; n=8) groups. Testosterone propionate (5 mg/kg b.m./day) was administered for three weeks, while the ORX group received the vehicle alone. Immunohistochemically stained FSH and LH cells underwent morphometric and optical density-related analysis, while circulating concentrations of the sex steroids were measured by immunoassays. Serum concentrations of testosterone and estradiol were significantly (p<0.05) increased by 24 and 2.7 fold respectively, compared to the ORX group. The volume of FSH and LH cells was significantly (p<0.05) decreased by 51.3% and 56.6% respectively, in comparison with ORX rats. Relative volume density of FSH and LH cells was also significantly (p<0.05) decreased by 54.0% and 72.8% respectively, compared to the ORX group. Results related to the optical density of gonadotropic cells (reflecting their hormonal content) were in line with the morphometric findings i.e. this parameter of FSH and LH cells was significantly (p<0.05) decreased by 25.7% and 16.2% respectively, in comparison with ORX rats. Conclusion: In conclusion, applied testosterone increased the serum concentrations of sex steroids, as well as it decreased morphometric parameters and optical density of gonadotropic cells in ORX rats.
A Risk-based Assessment of Road Networks: Country Case-study and a Wide Range of Applications Covering from Logistics Operations and Security Controls to Regional Geo-economic Development
Authors: Karkazis John , Baltos Georgios C. 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
In this paper a series of strategic logistics concepts, like transportation axes “attractivity”, substitution costs, geo-economic and emergency traffic paths, nodes and gates, are introduced and evaluated in a country case study assessing regional road networks. Based on the above mentioned, risk analyses are performed with regard to the logistics emergencies. Turkey’s main road network is being accordingly examined along with the policy implications of the results provided by current political changes in this country. This study exhibits that the R.T. Erdogan’s, AKP party-ruled, governments, caused not only high-level geopolitics and geo-economics repercussions but also have severe economic and logistics effects, activating incentives and infrastructure investments, especially in the so called Anatolian areas. The analysis of Turkey’s internal geo-economic trends offers notable insight into the mechanism controlling in general the regional socio-economic attractiveness and efficiency. In this context the socioeconomic indicator: "Roads Network Development" on regional basis and for each year of the period 1995-2012, has then been chosen and analyzed statistically as dependent variable in relation to the election results and the consequent political changes between the so called Kemalist and political Islam regimes; the results surprisingly confirm the relevant hypotheses tested.
Political Parties and National Integration in Emerging Democracies: A Focus on the Nigerian State
Authors: Omodia S. M. 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Political Parties are Political institutions which are basically designed for power acquisition for the purpose of utilizing power for public good. In other words, political parties as agents of political development are expected not only to articulate and aggregate political interest but as a secondary group, political parties are expected to bring to their fold members from various ethnic background, class and religion for the purpose of galvanising them for national development. Thus, the concepts of people and integration are so central to the conception of leadership and organisation that defines political parties. This paper through the use of historical political analysis and the use of the structural-functional theory unfolds the activities of political parties in emerging democracies as regard the process cum pattern of mobilization for power acquisition and the utilization of such power for national development and integration. Based on the analysis, the deduction is that even though the leading political parties in Nigeria are national in outlook - both in party structure and membership, the parties are defective based on institutional weakness and the inability to provide functional check on party representative in government after utilizing the party to gain political offices. This is coupled with restrictive access to political offices through the zoning of such offices based on ethnic consideration, thereby fuelling ethnic identity in the Nigerian body - politic. The paper therefore views political parties as integrative mechanisms not only for deepening and widening democratic culture in emerging democracies but also as agents of national integration and development.
Millennial Work Ethic: A Preliminary Examination of the Work Ethic Profile of Filipino University Students
Authors: Velasco Joseph Ching , de Chavez Jeremy 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
At present, most students in the universities are considered millennials. As explained by Delcampo, Haggerty, Haney, and Knippel (2010), millennials are individuals born from 1981-2000. In general, millennials are perceived to be the “me” generation or “hero” generation. In addition, they are criticized as individuals who are self-centered, unmotivated, disrespectful, and disloyal (Myers & Sadaghiani, 2010). Given the conflicting and, to some extent, uncritical generalizations about the millennial cohort, this paper explores the work ethic profile of Filipino millennial university students. The respondents of this study are 248 university students from a private university in Metro Manila, Philippines. Through the Multidimensional Work Ethic Profile - Short Form (MWEP-SF), the seven dimension of work ethic were described. Results reveal that Filipino millennial university students scored high on self-reliance. Likewise, they have high mean scores in the dimensions of centrality of work, wasted time, morality/ethics, delay of gratification, and hard work. The dimension of leisure is ranked the lowest. The findings further reveal that there are significant differences in work ethic between male and female respondents. However, in terms of academic specialization, no significant differences were observed. Considering academic achievement, workload, and study hours, these factors interact with the different facets of work ethic.
Participation in Environmental Decision Making as an Imperative for Democracy and Environmental Justice in Colombia
Authors: Rodríguez Gloria Amparo , Vargas-Chaves Iván 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Restrictions on the scope of government action by forcing authorities to act exclusively to the extent permitted by law are a guarantee against abuses of power when authorities’ decisions have environmental implications. Such control ensures that this becomes a reality because it provides a way by which to overcome administrative inefficiency and avoid departure from the essential aims of public institutions. Environmental commitment is necessary for denationalization of the state; it appears as a subsidiary to the initiative and participation of citizens, which, by shifting functions to the private sphere, is also linked to destatization strategies. In light of these assumptions, and the consideration that decisions should not be taken without the input of communities, this article advocates the inclusion of citizens’ voices in environmental policies and management. These issues are addressed from the perspective of Hans Jonas’ ethic of responsibility, with the aim to develop socially responsible and participatory projects.
Public Debt and Economic Growth in Albania
Authors: Çifligu Eneida Përmeti 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
A high public debt and its consequences in the economy remain a very important issue to be discussed, especially during the periods of crisis and recessions. During the crisis, although Albania managed to maintain a positive economic growth, its public debt remains high and worrying for the economists. The purpose of this paper is to determine if there exist a correlation between the public debt and the economic growth in Albania, where the economic growth will be considered as the increase of GDP. Many authors have provided their contributions with various empirical analyzes to study the mutual link between economic growth and public debt and the results and the methodologies are different in different countries and periods. What is the situation in Albania at about the last 25 years? Analyzing the macroeconomic situation (the structure of Albanian public debt, the data on economic growth and public debt, the reasons of a high deb etc.) and the main causes of a positive growth and a macroeconomic stability, but a high public debt, we can conclude over the expectations and the trend of the future.
Development of a Curriculum to Enhance the Characteristics of the Future Teaching Professions of Undergraduate Students in Thailand
Authors: Buaklay Nannum , Pimdee Paitoon , Pupat Phadungchai , Klinhorm Lertlak 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Producing teachers with characteristics according to the profession’s traits is essential in progressing the country into being a learning community. This research was undertaken in order to assess and develop the present curriculum and to enhance the characteristics of the future teaching professions of undergraduate students in Thailand. The sample group comprised 24 senior undergraduate students of the English and Educational Technology program of the Faculty of Education. Percentage, mean, standard deviation (S.D.), and t-test were used to analyze the data. The findings showed that: 1. The most essential characteristics of the future teaching professions of undergraduate students were the fostering of individualized instruction, the sharing of responsibilities, the sensitive acceptance of diversity, the encouragement of creativity, and the demonstration of caring and kindness, respectively. The experts also agreed that there were 5 guidelines for the enhancement of characteristics of the teaching profession. 2. The experts agreed that the congruity of the curriculum was at a high level. 3. The students better demonstrated the characteristics of the teaching profession after trialing the curriculum. 4. The students’satisfaction with the implementation of the curriculum was at the highest level.
Current Land Use in the Lower Bîc Plane, Republic of Moldova
Authors: Angela Canţîr , Ghennadi Sîrodoev 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
In terms of identification and utilization, land categories, were adapted to the specific classification of the Moldavian cadastre as well as some classification items from the Romanian General Cadastre. Here are represented by maps for every utilization category and are given statistical data about every category. Also is made an analysis of all the land use categories and is given a general presentation of the conditions and state in which these land are kept.
Transformation Through CLC with the Continuous Research Techniques - GIS (Open Code) and RS (Geo-Web Services)
Authors: Isufi Florim , Bulliqi Shpejtim , Hajredini Ardita 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Land cover has always been and still it is one of the main challenges in the field of geography. This study will be focused on “experimentation” of one of the most modern techniques of our time, becoming irreplaceable standard for decision-making in matters of land cover and the square method. Here we are talking about the standard named: CORINE Land Cover, a technique for describing the land cover, initiated by the European Union in 1985. More precisely part of this paper will be the principles of this technique and their practical application, by doing a research through these techniques for specific areas. CORINE Land Cover will be used to explain the coverage area while the square method will be used for the division of the research area. The research area has been designed through random method. In this study are given three study areas along the coastline with an area of 100 km2, by making the entire research area of 300 km2. Each “main” area is divided in sub-areas of 100 ha, while each of these sub-areas is divided into smaller squares with equal area of 1 ha.
There are two “main experiments” in this paper:
1. Land cover technique – to design the minimum research area we used the method of square, while for explaining the coverage we used CORINE Land Cover nomenclature.
2. Technology to implement the technique – we used the so called open source GIS software and for satellite images we used Google geo-web service.
Trajectories of Hail Cells with Potential of Generating Hailstorms in Moldova in 2016-2017
Authors: Elvis Țapu , Liviu Apostol 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Hail is one of the most damaging weather phenomena. Inflicted damage affects mostly agriculture, but also human settlements. The effects produced are mainly due to the size of the hailstones and the amount of fallen ice and, of course, to the vulnerability of the territory in which it occurs. The average number of hail days in Moldova increases from less than 1 day / year in the Barlad Plateau to over 6 days a year on the high mountain peaks. Studies at national or regional level in Romania have not addressed the problem of trajectories of hail cells with potential of generating hailstorms. In addition to literature references, weather data from the ground, synoptic maps and satellite images for the warm seasons of the two years have been used. In the two observation seasons (15 April-15 October) of the years 2016 and 2018 for the analyzed territory, a number of days with similar convective cells were observed, 51, respectively 53. The direction of southwest movement (33%) dominated, followed by the northwest direction.
Biodiversity Conservation and Strategies of Public Awareness. Case Study: The Natural Landscapes of Central Tunisia
Authors: Saadaoui Islem , Bryant Christopher Robin , Rejeb Hichem , Petrişor Alexandru-Ionuţ 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
This research examines global issues concerning the development of mountain areas considered as territories difficult to manage. The case study area is part of the sub-region of High Alpine Steppes belonging to the Tunisian Ridge and reaching Tebessa Mountains in Algeria. The central question of this article is based on the analysis of the links between the representations produced by mountain landscapes and the construction of a border line that must meet the requirements of sustainable development. Eco-landscape determinants and the role of public authorities and population must be better defined so that the products of this space provide a better quality of life endowed with the alternatives of local and sustainable development. Our hypothesis is that the mountain areas of West Central Tunisia still have a real ecological potential little disturbed by a chimerical development, and can constitute assets for the territorial development of the area. The approach adopted by this work is a scoping audit based on the floristic richness and the monitoring of its spatiotemporal dynamics. The results of this research allowed us to draw rich conclusions; the phyto-ecology approach has shown a relative floristic richness that remains highly dependent on the climatic cycles and intervention of human action; this area must be considered as a priority of the public planning policies aimed at improving the quality of lives in these fragile zones in the context of sustainable development.
Seroprevalence of Porcine Circovirus-2 in Domestic Pigs (Sus Scrofa Domestica) in Latvia
Authors: Pigiņka-Vjačeslavova Inga , Birģele Edīte , Šteingolde Žanete 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Porcine circovirus-2 (PCV2) is the primary agent of Postweaning Multisystemic Wasting Syndrome (PMWS), and is associated with Porcine Circovirus Associated Disease, which causes great economic losses in pig breeding. PCV2 infection is distributed worldwide throughout the domestic pig population. There have not been any investigations on the distribution of PCV2 sero-prevalence in the population of pigs in Latvia. However PCV2 is one of main differential infections for many diseases, and therefore it is very variable in clinical presentation of PMWS and other diseases associated with PCV2. The objective of this study was to investigate the seroprevalence of PCV2 in pigs of different-scale farms located in different regions of Latvia. Blood samples of 963 pigs from 58 different-scale farms were examined for the PCV2 antibody from 2006 to 2016. It can be suggested that PCV2 is widespread within the territory of Latvia. Farms with pig number of up to 10 and farms with more than 5000 animals have different levels of biosafety, housing conditions and herd management. Nevertheless, the study showed that the number of PCV2-seropositive animals is similar in all farms (from 70.0% to 79.7%).
Liver stiffness in chronic hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Mihăilă Romeo-Gabriel 
Published: November 2018

Abstract

Introduction
. The severity of liver fibrosis can be assessed noninvasively today by liver stiffness measurements. Vibration-controlled transient elastography, shear wave elastography or magnetic resonance elastography are techniques increasingly used for this purpose.

Methods
. This article presents the recent advances in the use of new techniques for liver fibrosis assessment in chronic hepatitis C: the correlation between liver stiffness values and liver fibrosis estimated by liver biopsies, the prognosis role of liver stiffness values, their usefulness in monitoring the treatment response, in assessing the severity of portal hypertension and in estimating the presence of esophageal varices. Scientific articles from January 2017 to January 2018 were searched in PubMed and PubMed Central databases, using the terms “liver stiffness” and “hepatitis C”.

Results
. The median liver stiffness values measured with different techniques are not identical, so that FibroScan thresholds cannot be used on any other elastographic machine. The higher the liver’s stiffness measurement, the higher the liver-related events in patients with chronic hepatitis C. A liver stiffness measurement over 17 kPa could be an independent predictor for the presence of esophageal varices as well as a spleen with a longitudinal span ≥ 15 cm for patients with a value of liver stiffness < 17 kPa. A progressive and persistent decrease in liver stiffness is dependent on sustained virological response achievement. The lack of liver stiffness decrease has been associated with relapsers and a low value of liver stiffness at baseline.

Conclusion
. Liver stiffness provides clues about the severity and evolution of liver disease.
Effect of statins on hearing function and subjective tinnitus in hyperlipidemic patients
Authors: Yücel Hilal , Yücel Abitter , Arbağ Hamdi , Cure Erkan , Eryilmaz Mehmet Akif , Özer Ahmet Bedri 
Published: November 2018

Abstract

Introduction
. It is known that hyperlipidemia reduces hearing functions. In this study, we aimed to study the effect of antihyperlipidemic drugs on hearing functions and tinnitus.

Methods
. Eighty-four patients aged 18 to 84, who were diagnosed with hyperlipidemia and started treatment with the statin group (atorvastatin 20 mg and 40 mg, rosuvastatin 10 mg and 20 mg, and simvastatin 20 mg) of antihyperlipidemic drugs, were included in this study. All patients underwent pure-tone audiometry before starting treatment with antihyperlipidemic drugs. Patients with tinnitus were evaluated by Tinnitus Severity Index and Visual Analogue Scale. In the 6th month of therapy, otologic examination, pure-tone audiometry and tinnitus evaluation of the patients were repeated.

Results
. No significant difference was found in the pure-tone averages of the patients before and after statin use (p > 0.05). However, it was found in the audiometry that, after statin use, all drugs caused to statistically significant decrease in the hearing thresholds at 6000 Hertz (p < 0.05). Also, a strong increase was found in the Speech Discrimination percentages after treatment in patients using rosuvastatin 10 mg (p = 0.022). A significant decrease was found in the tinnitus frequency, duration, severity and degree of annoyance in patients using rosuvastatin 10 mg and 20 mg (p < 0.05).

Conclusion
. Statin group of drugs can have a positive effect on the hearing functions and subjective tinnitus. In particular, it is seen that rosuvastatin group of statins has a more notable effect on tinnitus. It was considered that further studies with larger patient groups are needed.
Chest pain with increased troponin level; not always a cardiology issue
Authors: Papadatos Stamatis S. , Karakatsanis Stamatis J. , Deligiannis George , Gatsa Eleni 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) is a thrombotic microangiopathy syndrome resulting from decrease or absence of “a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with a thrombospondin type 1 motif member 13” (ADAMTS13). TTP has been characterized by the classical pentad of thrombocytopenia, hemolysis, fever, renal injury and neurological deficits, yet the patient may present with any atypical symptom related to microthrombi formation in the microcirculation. Here we present a rare case of a young patient with retrosternal chest pain and myocardial injury as the first manifestation of TTP.
Screening for Anxiety Disorders Among Schoolchildren with Asthma
Authors: Milovanovic Jasmina R. , Dajic Katerina , Stojkovic Anđelka , Lucic Aleksandra Tomic , Jankovic Slobodan M. , Matovic Sandra 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
The aim of this study was to perform screening for anxiety disorders among children with asthma and to reveal factors associated with general anxiety disorder and its specific forms.
This was a cross-sectional study conducted among out-patients with asthma during routine visits to pediatricians. They were screened for anxiety disorders using SCARED self-reported questionnaire. Additional data were collected using specially designed questionnaire as well as the patient files. Statistical analysis was performed by the SPPS software using descriptive statistics and logistic regression.
Study population consisted mostly of schoolchildren (n=58), 8-12 years old, and adolescents (13-17 years) (n=13). Approximately 33.8% respondents were positive for general anxiety disorder. The most common were separation anxiety and social anxiety, recorded among 49.3% and 32.4% of patients, respectively. Generalized anxiety and panic/somatic disorder were recorded in the same percentage of patients (21.3%), while avoiding school was the least frequent (14.08%). Influence of numerous factors was tested, but only the following showed significant effects: peak expiratory flow test was associated with general anxiety disorder, patient’s age and gender with PD, and living place, asthma control according to GINA and age on GAD. Parent’s smoking was associated with SAD, age and patient’s weight status with SPH, and GINA asthma control with SA.
These findings suggest that anxiety disorders are common among children and adolescents with asthma. Various factors can be associated with general anxiety disorder and its specific forms, but some of them being preventable as avoiding smoking in the family.