bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
TNF-α and IL-6 as biomarkers of impaired lung functions in dimethylacetamide exposure
Authors: Tutkun Lütfiye , İritaş Servet Birgin , Deniz Serdar , Öztan Özgür , Abuşoğlu Sedat , Ünlü Ali , Türksoy Vugar Ali , Çetintepe Sultan Pınar 
Published: November 2018

Summary

Background
Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are well-known biomarkers of systemic inflammation that have been associated with many diseases in the past. In this study, we aimed to determine the relationship between impaired lung functions and the levels of these biomarkers in DMAc exposed people.

Methods
101 non-exposed control subjects (Group 1) and 109 DMAc-exposed workers from the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) industry were included in the study. In the next step, the exposed group was divided into two groups according to the level of exposure (Group 2 and 3). DMAc, TNF-α, IL-6, creatinine, ALT, AST, GFR and standard spirometry measurements were carried out in all subjects.

Results
When compared to the control group, TNF-α and IL-6 levels were significantly high compatible with the increase of DMAc levels, in the exposed groups. Urinary DMAc Levels were 0.06 mg/L in the control group. This level is significantly low when compared to exposed and severely exposed group (2.43 mg/L and 3.17 mg/L). TNF-α levels were 56.86 pg/mL, 145.52 pg/mL and 230.52 pg/mL in control, exposed and severely exposed groups. IL-6 levels were found to be 38.08 pg/mL, 89.19 pg/mL and 116 pg/mL for control, exposed and severely exposed groups, respectively. Similarly, the FEV1/FVC ratio decreased especially in the severely exposed group (p 0.001).

Conclusions
In our study, results have revealed that TNF-and IL-6 levels are promising biomarkers in the early diagnosis of lung function impairment in inhalational DMAc exposure.
Genetic analysis of the M gene of equine influenza virus strains isolated in Poland, in the context of the Asian-like group formation
Authors: Kwaśnik Małgorzata , Góra Ilona M. , Żmudziński Jan F. , Rola Jerzy , Polak Mirosław P. , Rożek Wojciech 
Published: November 2018

Abstract

Introduction: Traditionally, evolutionary analysis of equine influenza virus (EIV) is based on the HA gene. However, the specificity of the influenza virus enables the classification of viral strains into different phylogenetic groups, depending on the gene being analysed. The aim of the study was to analyse phylogenetic paths of EIV based on M gene with reference to the HA gene.

Material and Methods: M gene of Polish isolates has been sequenced and analysed along with all M sequences of EIV available in GenBank database. Phylogenetic analysis was performed using BioEdit, ClustalW, and MEGA7 softwares.

Results: The clustering of the strains isolated not only from Asia but also from Europe into one common Asian-like group of EIV was observed. Twelve nucleotide substitutions in the M gene of strains from the Asian-like group were crucial for the evolutionary analysis. We also observed homology in the M gene of the Asian-like and H7N7 strains.

Conclusions: M gene specific for the Asian-like group is present in strains recently isolated in Europe and Asia, which were classified previously in the Florida 2 clade based on HA. Therefore, Asian-like group does not seem to be assigned to a specific geographical region. Traces of H7N7 strains in more conservative genes like M of some contemporary EIV strains may indicate the link between the old phylogenetic group and recent H3N8 strains. Analysis of conservative genes may be more useful in tracking the direction of virus evolution than in the genes where the high variability rate may blur the original relationships.
Treatment of selected canine dermatological conditions in Portugal – a research survey
Authors: Oliveira Ana , Devesa Joana S.P. , Hill Peter B. , Silva Vanessa , Poeta Patrícia 
Published: November 2018

Abstract

Introduction:
Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and Malassezia pachydermatis often cause skin diseases in dogs.

Material and Methods: An online survey was e-mailed to veterinary practices nationwide covering demographics, diagnosis methods, and oral and topical treatment options. Of the 740 surveys sent, 100 complete replies were obtained.

Results: The majority of clinicians were unaware of the existence of the International Society for Companion Animal Infectious Diseases guidelines or did not follow them (53%). Oral antibiotics were used universally for superficial bacterial folliculitis treatment, particularly amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (100%), cephalexin (94%), enrofloxacin (67%), or marbofloxacin (60%). For fold dermatitis (FD) and otitis externa (OE), oral antibiotics were also given as treatment in 88% and 82% of cases, respectively. Oral antifungals were often prescribed for generalised Malassezia dermatitis (85%), FD (70%), and OE (59%). S. pseudintermedius and M. pachydermatis were frequently treated topically, particularly with antibacterials or antifungals only, or a combination of antibacterials, antifungals, and glucocorticoids. Alternative options such as honey-based products were not frequently used.

Conclusion: Our survey suggests that oral antibiotics are overused by Portuguese clinicians despite the spread of antibiotic resistant S. pseudintermedius. Oral antibiotics and antifungals are commonly prescribed for skin conditions manageable with topical treatments.
Results of a 16-week safety assurance study with rats fed genetically modified Bt maize: effect on growth and health parameters
Authors: Szymczyk Beata , Szczurek Witold , Świątkiewicz Sylwester , Kwiatek Krzysztof , Sieradzki Zbigniew , Mazur Małgorzata , Bednarek Dariusz , Reichert Michał 
Published: November 2018

Abstract

Introduction: The influence of feeding genetically modified MON 810 hybrid maize on the growth and haematological and biochemical indices of rats was tested.

Material and Methods: Two conventional (non-GM) and two test (MON 810) lines of maize were used in semi-purified diets at the level of 40% w/w. The non-GM I, MON 810 I, non-GM II, and MON 810 II maize lines were near-isogenic. A total of 40 male 6-week-old Wistar-derived rats were assigned to four equal feeding groups corresponding to the four maize lines for 16 weeks. Overall, health, body weight gain, clinical pathology parameters, gross changes, and appearance of tissues were compared between groups.

Results: There were no statistically significant differences in the weight gain or relative organ weights of rats, but there were some non diet-related histopathological changes in the liver, kidneys, and spleen. Except for creatinine level, no diet-related effects were observed in haematology or most of the biochemical indices. Transgenic DNA of MON 810 maize was not detected in the tissues or faeces nor in the DNA of E. coli isolated from the rectum digesta of rats given transgenic feeds. In our experiment, various metabolic indices of rats fed non-GM diets or genetically modified (MON 810) maize for 16 weeks were similar. No adverse nutrition-related health effects were detected.

Conclusion: MON 810 maize seems to be as safe as the conventional maize lines.
“Netlect” in Albanian: The Social Network Variety
Authors: Paçarizi Rrahman 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Instant messaging, texting, or even Computer Mediated Communication are the terms used to refer to communication in social networks. These terms are not the most appropriate ones because the technology and platforms of this way of communication have evolved rapidly. Since this communication is widespread, there is a need to have a much more standardized communication in terms of the language variety used for it. Having in mind various principles of socio cognitive approach in terminology, the study aimed to build a new appropriate term in this regard. Having in mind all the circumstances and the scale of standardization of this way of communication, I think that the best term that fits it is “Netlect”. This is done in order to include, using the same word, the name of the platform where this communication is being developed (net) and the paradigm for linguistic variety (lect), as in socio+lect, dia+lect etc. The case of Albanian and other languages goes in favour of this term because we are talking about “a language variety that never existed before”, as Ferrara, Brunner, and Whittemore stated earlier in 1991.
Entrepreneurial Ecosystem: An Exploration of the Entrepreneurship Model for SMEs in Sultanate of Oman
Authors: Al-Abri M. Yahya. , Rahim A. Abdul , Hussain N. H. 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
SME has a significant impact on the growth and development of any nation economy. The entrepreneurship in Oman expected to be a leading factor in the economic due to the opportunities afforded by increasing economic diversification and corresponding rise in job opportunities and other benefits. However, entrepreneurship has faced many challenges and obstacles to its progress and growth in Oman, despite the fact that the government has supported this sector to stimulate the market. However, studies show that many challenges are still plague both startups and governments. This study therefore aims to develop an ecosystem for entrepreneurship in the Omani context as a new solution to overcome such challenges. Entrepreneurship ecosystem has a positive influence on business growth and on the creation of new businesses, with the result that this concept has received attention from both academics and policy makers. By using a qualitative research method, a total of 10 interviewees were selected to answer the major research questions and thus provide more explanation about the issues that SME faces and find the exact factors that can influence these types of enterprises. Based on the findings from qualitative research through discussions with entrepreneurs, we can conclude that there are five factors: human capital; government; support; finance and technology, all of which have a significant impact on Omani entrepreneurship success and start-ups. These results contribute to the current literature regarding entrepreneurship ecosystems. They also give greater attention to the policy makers in Oman who facilitate the implementation of this framework as well as motivating the different business owners or start-ups to develop their business strategies based on the requirements shown in the framework. In addition, a number of suggestions have been presented as focus points when developing a strategic plan to support the entrepreneurship sector.
The Impact of Corporate Governance on Company Performance: A Study among Medium and Large Enterprises in Kosovo
Authors: Mustafa Saxhide , Berisha Hajdin , Llaci Shyqyri 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
An effective corporate governance system is established to ensure proper balance of long-term interests of different stakeholders (primarily: owners, employees and management) and improve company's performance and its competitive position in the market. This paper provides a theoretical discussion and empirical evidence on the interdependence between corporate governance and company performance among medium and large enterprises in Kosovo. A questionnaire survey was employed for data collection purposes. The study included a sample of 87 managers from 87 medium and large enterprises. Results indicate that effects of corporate governance on the performance tend to be greater in larger companies. Regarding the determinants, the theoretical expectations are confirmed. Results confirm that the size of the company, the level of investment, export activities and company life expectancy are statistically significant determinants of the adoption of corporate governance practices. As a result, larger companies with large scales of investment and longer market experience tend to adopt more corporate governance practices. The study suggests that corporate governance will inevitably affect companies’ performance and further research is needed in this context.
Maximum Values of Frozen Soil’s Depth and Hoar Frost’s Thickness Estimated on the Basis of Extreme Values Theory
Authors: Nedealcov Maria , Răileanu Valentin , Croitoru Gheorghe , Rodica Cojocari , Olga Crivova 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Extreme climatic phenomena present risk factors for agriculture, health, constructions, etc. and are studied profoundly these past years using extreme value theory. Several relation that describe positive extreme values’ probability Generalized Extreme Value and Gumbel distribution are presented in the article. As a example, we show the maps of characteristic and reference values of the maximum depth of the frozen soil and thickness of hoar-frost with a probability of exceeding per year equal to 0,02, which is equivalent to the mean return interval of 50 years. The obtained results could serve as a base for elaboration of national annexes in constructions.
Snow Cover and Frosts of April 2017 on the Territory of the Republic of Moldova
Authors: Puțuntică Anatolie 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
This study investigates the event of a great snowfall on the territory of the Republic of Moldova in the third decade of April, 2017. The mechanical action of weight led harmed the agricultural crops, woody vegetation, electric networks and comunications, deteriorate glass and pellicle greenhouses. The most affected regions of snow and frost were the southern and central ones.
The Evaluation of the Tropospheric Ozone Variability in the Municipality of Suceava from the Meteorological Perspective
Authors: Mihăilă Dumitru , Briciu Andrei-Emil , Ursul Gina 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
The daily, monthly and annual variations of the tropospheric ozone in the area of Suceava municipality are described and explained by using the correlations between the ozone concentration and the local meteorological parameters. The meteorological parameters are as follows: the air temperature, the air humidity, the sunshine duration, the wind speed and direction. All parameters represent hourly datasets recorded in the interval 2004-2007. The Pearson correlation coefficients and the linear regressions were obtained for daily, monthly and yearly scales. Significant positive correlations between the O3 and the temperature and strong negative correlations between the O3 and the air humidity were found, especially between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m., during the warm season. The sunshine duration and the wind speed and direction were found to have weaker, but good positive correlation with the O3 during the same hourly interval. The weekend effect of the ozone exists in the City of Suceava too, as the reduced road traffic during the weekend causes higher concentrations of ozone. The wavelet analyses were conducted in order to further explain the variability of the ozone.
The Importance of Environmental Attitudes Towards Products for Sustainability and Business Strategies
Authors: Kalburan Cetin , Hasiloglu Selcuk Burak 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
In green marketing, it is crucial for businesses to decide first to whether the environmental benefits of the product or its individual benefits should be emphasized. Knowing the environmental behaviors of those who prefer these products in their daily lives will also help to classify the consumers. In this research, the relationship between ecocentric and anthropocentric attitudes towards products, environmental behavior, eco-brand awareness, and eco-brand loyalty have been investigated in order to highlight the aforementioned issues. These relationships have been tested with a structural equation model. Within the scope of the research, the questionnaire method was used as the data collection method. The sample of the research consists of teacher candidates. The results show that there is a positive relationship between ecocentric attitude towards products and environmental behavior and no statistically significant relationship between anthropocentric attitude and environmental behavior. In addition, there was a positive relationship between environmental behavior and brand awareness; and brand awareness and brand loyalty.
Distribution and habitat preferences of Polygonum arenarium subsp. arenarium (Polygonaceae) in Slovakia
Authors: Eliáš Pavol , Dítě Daniel , Dítě Zuzana , Bakay Ladislav 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThe paper presents data on the distribution and habitat preferences ofPolygonum arenariumsubsp.arenariumin Slovakia. The study showed a rapid decrease in the number of localities in Slovakia in recent decades, due to destruction of sandy habitats. At present the taxon is considered to be very rare. We recorded it in stands of pioneer vegetation of theFestucetea vaginataeclass developed on open sandy dunes, in the associationsFestucetum vaginataeandBassio laniflorae-Brometum tectorum.
Determination of Emissivity of Brass Alloy using Infrared Thermographic Technique
Authors: Lanc Zorana , Zeljković Milan , Živković Aleksandar , Štrbac Branko , Hadžistević Miodrag 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
This paper presents the experimental determination of the dependence of emissivity of brass on surface roughness and temperature. The investigation was conducted using the infrared thermographic technique on brass alloy C27200 workpieces with different degrees of surface roughness, during the continuous cooling process. The results obtained showed that the emissivity of the chosen brass alloy increases with greater surface roughness and decreases during the cooling process, its value ranging from 0.07 to 0.19. It was concluded that surface roughness has a greater influence on the increase of the emissivity at higher temperatures, which can be seen in the three-dimensional infrared images. Multiple regression analysis confirmed a strong correlation between the examined parameters and the emissivity, and an original multiple regression model was determined.
Correlation Between Burnout Syndrome and Anxiety in Military Personnel
Authors: Vojvodic Aleksandra R. , Dedic Gordana 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Professional military personnel are exposed to a large number of stressors every day at a higher rate than the civilian population, which can lead to psychological disturbances, primarily anxiety, as well as burnout syndrome. The aim of our investigation was to determine the correlation between burnout syndrome and anxiety in military personnel of the Serbian Armed Forces.
The cross-sectional study included a total of 311 professional military personnel (officers, non-commissioned officers and professional soldiers), between 23 to 53 years of age (35.3±7 years, on the average) without previous diagnosis of mental disorder. For purpose of this study we used Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). MBI contains three subscales, which measure three components of burnout: Emotional exhaustion (EE), Depersonalization (DP) and Personal accomplishment (PA). The statistical analysis included parametric and non-parametric descriptive statistics.
The highest level of burnout was measured on the sub-scales Emotional exhaustion (EE) in military personnel from 23 to 30 years old (p<0.05), while anxiety increased with age of military personnel (p<0.001). Total scores on the subscales Emotional exhaustion (EE) and Depersonalization (DP) increased, while on the subscale Personal accomplishment (PA) decreased with the increase of the total BAI score (p<0.001).
There was a correlation between burnout syndrome and anxiety in professional military personnel of Serbian Armed Forces. Improving the financial situation, paid recreational breaks and reduction of professional obligations could decrease anxiety and affect the prevention of the occurrence of burnout syndrome in the military environment.
Costs of Treatment of Severe COPD Exacerbation in Serbia
Authors: Pavlovic Radisa , Stojkov Svetlana , Binakaj Zahida 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
The main objective of this investigation was to determine and summarize the economic burden of severe COPD exacerbations that required hospitalization and the difference in the costs of treatment between patients with frequent (at least two exacerbations in one year) and infrequent exacerbation.
Our results suggested that significantly more resources had to be spent to treat patients with at least two hospitalizations during the study related to the use of medications primarily affecting the respiratory system (corticosteroids, p = 0.013, theophylline, p = 0.007) and total hospital stay (31336.68 ± 19140 RSD/517.53 ± 316.1 EUR versus 23650.15 ± 14956.0 RSD/390.59 ± 247 EUR, p=0.002) compared to patients who stayed in a semi-intensive care unit (12875.35 ± 20742.54 RSD versus 4310.62 ± 9779.78 RSD/ 212.64 ± 342.57 EUR versus 71.19 ± 161.51 EUR, p=0.006). Based on the total number of days in the hospital, the costs of the drugs, the materials used and services provided, patients from the frequent exacerbation group had significantly higher costs (80034.1 ± 36823.7 RSD/1321.78 ± 608.15 EUR versus 69425.5 ± 34083.1 RSD/1146.58 ± 562.89 EUR) comparedthan patients in the infrequent exacerbation group (p=0.039).
Our results indicate that significantly more funds will be spent treating the deterioration of patients who stay longer in the hospital or in the semi-intensive care unit. Their condition will require a significantly greater use of drugs that are primarily used to treat the respiratory system and, therefore, will utiliseutilize significantly more resources.
Phytochemical and Pharmacological Properties of Allium Ursinum
Authors: Krivokapic Milos , Bradic Jovana , Petkovic Anica , Popovic Marina 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
Allium ursinum L. is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Alliaceae family. Several classes of bioactive compounds have been isolated from A. ursinum so far, among them sulfur and phenolic compounds as quantitatively the most distributed constituents, responsible for pharmaceutical effects of the plant. Small amounts of steroidal glucosides, lecitins, fatty acids and several amino acids, as well as the essential oil are also present in A. ursinum. Th is plant species is characterized by a long history of use in traditional medicine in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, as digestive stimulant, antimicrobial agent, as a remedy in respiratory problems, insomnia and fainting. Despite its widespread use for medicinal purposes since the ancient time, studies referring to its pharmacological activity are still lacking. In this review, we summarized the current knowledge related to the phytochemical and pharmacological properties of Allium ursinum. Th is study may be a starting point for future researches in this field, which would fully clarify therapeutic potential of A. ursinum and make it a possible candidate for medicinal product.