bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Beef tenderness improvement by dietary vitamin D3 supplementation in the last stage of fattening of cattle
Authors: Półtorak Andrzej , Moczkowska Małgorzata , Wyrwisz Jarosław , Wierzbicka Agnieszka 
Published: April 2017

Abstract
Tenderness is the most important characteristic of meat, determining consumer approval. There are numerous methods of its improvement, although of diverse effectiveness. addition of vitamin D3 to the feed for a short period before slaughter (7–10 days) is one of the natural ways to enhance the tenderness. Vitamin D3 is responsible for Ca2+ mobilisation in serum and increase in activity of proteolytic enzymes belonging to calpains, which results in significant improvement of beef tenderness and reduction of ageing time. The use of vitamin D3 is an application tool determining tenderness improvement of beef with substantial reduction in processing costs. Moreover, shorter post mortem ageing process will exceed the retail display time, which will consequently reduce losses due to unsold meat being returned from shops to the manufacturers. Based on the results of studies conducted over the last 15 years, this paper presents the possibility and the effects of the use of vitamin D3 to improve beef tenderness.
Control of anabolic hormone residues in tissues of slaughter animals in Poland during the period of 2011–2015
Authors: Matraszek-Żuchowska Iwona , Woźniak Barbara , Kłopot Alicja , Witek Sebastian , Sielska Katarzyna , Posyniak Andrzej 
Published: April 2017

Abstract

Introduction: Studies of anabolic hormone residues in the tissues of slaughter animals have been carried out in Poland for more than 25 years. During the period of 2011 to 2015, a total of 35 387 samples from different animal species were tested in the National Residue Control Programme for the presence of residues of compounds that cause hormonal effects, as listed in Annex 1 of Directive 96/23/EC.

Material and Methods: The research was conducted in the National Reference Laboratory and eight regional laboratories in departments of veterinary hygiene located throughout the country. Urine, muscle tissue, serum, kidney fat, and drinking water were the targeted matrices. Test methods based on instrumental techniques such as gas and liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry were applied, as well as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA).

Results: The concentration of detected hormones exceeded the decision limits in 30 samples, the consequence of which was 41 non-compliances with current applicable criteria. The hormones found present pseudo-endogenous (nortestosterone and boldenone) only, while synthetic hormones were not identified.

Conclusion: The non-compliant findings constitute a small percentage (0.085%) of the five-year analysis compilation. On this basis the related food produced in Poland can be accepted as safe for human consumption with regard to the hormone residues tested.
Development of LC-MS/MS confirmatory method for the determination of testosterone in bovine serum
Authors: Woźniak Barbara , Matraszek-Żuchowska Iwona , Witek Sebastian , Posyniak Andrzej 
Published: April 2017

Abstract

Introduction: In the European Union the use of steroid growth promoters is prohibited under Council Directive 96/22/EC. For effective control of illegal use of natural steroids, highly sensitive analytical methods are required, because sex hormones can be present in very low concentrations in biological samples. The aim of the study was to develop a confirmatory method for the detection of testosterone in bovine serum at ppt level.

Material and Methods: 17β-testosterone and internal standards of 17β-testosterone-d2 were extracted from serum samples with a mixture of tert-butyl methyl ether/petroleum ether and were directly analysed by an LC/MS/MS on QTRAP 5500 instrument with a TurboIon-Spray source operating in a positive ionisation mode. Chromatographic separation was achieved on the analytical column Inertsil® ODS-3 with an isocratic elution using mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile, methanol, and water. Method validation has been carried out in accordance with the Commission Decision 2002/657/EC.

Results: The method was characterised by good recovery (82%) and precision (R.S.D 17 %). Decision limit (CCα) and detection capability (CCβ) was 0.05 μg L−1 and 0.09 μg L−1 respectively. The method met the criteria set out in Commission Decision 2002/657/EC for the purpose of confirmation in terms of retention time and ion ratio in the whole range of its application.

Conclusions: The developed method is specific and sensitive, suitable for measuring the natural level of testosterone in blood of cattle and for use in routine control programme for the detection of this hormone in bovine serum.
Metabolic activity of boar semen stored in different extenders supplemented with ostrich egg yolk lipoproteins
Authors: Dziekońska Anna , Kinder Marek , Fraser Leyland , Strzeżek Jerzy , Kordan Władysław 
Published: April 2017

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of lipoprotein fraction isolated from ostrich egg yolk (LPFo) on the metabolic activity of boar spermatozoa following liquid semen storage in different extenders and temperatures.

Material and Methods: Boar ejaculates were extended in Androhep, Beltsville thawing solution (BTS), and Martín-Rillo and Alias (MR-A) without (control) or with the addition of LPFo and stored for three days at either 5°C or 16°C. The analysed sperm parameters included total motility (TMOT), plasma membrane integrity (PMI), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), oxygen consumption, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production.

Results: The sperm metabolic activity seemed to be higher in the LPFo-based extenders following storage for three days, irrespective of the storage temperature. Compared with the LPFo-free extenders, significantly higher (P < 0.05) sperm PMI and MMP were observed in BTS and MR-A extenders supplemented with LPFo during storage for three days at 5°C. Spermatozoa stored in the BTS-LPFo extender exhibited higher (P < 0.05) TMOT and oxygen consumption, whereas higher (P < 0.05) PMI was observed in spermatozoa stored in Androhep-LPFo and MR-A-LPFo for three days at 16°C. No significant differences (P > 0.05) in ATP content were observed between the LPFo-free and LPFo-based extenders during storage.

Conclusions: Supplementation of LPFo to semen extenders had varying effects on the metabolic activity of boar spermatozoa stored at different temperatures. It can be suggested that the interactions of various components of the extenders and seminal plasma with LPFo exert beneficial effects on the sperm metabolic activity during liquid storage of boar semen.
Influence of Organisational Culture on Total Quality Management Implementation and Firm Performance: Evidence from the Vietnamese Construction Industry
Authors: Panuwatwanich Kriengsak , Nguyen Thanh Tung 
Published: April 2017

Abstract
The main purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between organisational culture (OC) and Total Quality Management (TQM), and the influence of TQM implementation on organisational performance improvement within the context of the Vietnamese construction industry. A survey was conducted with 104 respondents from Vietnamese construction firms, using validated survey instruments developed in past research. Analysis techniques include cluster analysis and Structural Equation Modelling. Findings showed that Vietnamese construction firms are dominated by clan and hierarchy cultures rather than adhocracy and market cultures according to Competing Value Framework (CVF) of OC classification. Furthermore, it was found that organisations dominated by either clan or adhocracy cultures could provide a favourable environment for successful TQM implementation, whereas this is not the case for those dominated by both market and hierarchy cultures. This study also confirmed the significant and positive relationship between TQM implementation and organisational performance improvement.
Effects of Risk Management Practices on IT Project Success
Authors: Pimchangthong Daranee , Boonjing Veera 
Published: April 2017

AbstractSuccessful management of an information technology (IT) project is the most desirable for all organisations and stakeholders. Many researchers elaborated that risk management is a key part of project management for any project size. Risk management is so critical because it provides project managers with a forward-looking view of both threats and opportunities to improve the project success. The objectives of this research are to explore organisational factors affecting IT project success and risk management practices influencing IT project success. Risk management practices include risk identification, risk analysis, risk response planning, and risk monitoring and control. The IT project success is measured by process performance and product performance. Data are collected from 200 project managers, IT managers, and IT analysts in IT firms through questionnaires and analysed using Independent Sample t-test, One-way ANOVA, and Multiple Linear Regression at the statistical significance level of 0.05. The results show that the differences in organisational types affect IT project success in all aspects, while the differences on organisational sizes affect IT project success in the aspect of product performance and total aspects. Risk identification and risk response planning influence the process performance and the total aspects of IT project success. Risk identification has the highest positive influence on product performance, followed closely by risk response, while risk analysis negatively influences product performance.
Synthesis, structure and thermal expansion of the phosphates M0.5+x
M′
x
Zr2−x
(PO4)3 (M, M′–metals in oxidation state +2)
Authors: Asabina Elena , Pet’kov Vladimir , Mayorov Pavel , Lavrenov Dmitriy , Schelokov Igor , Kovalsky Andrey 
Published: April 2017

Abstract
The phosphates M0.5+x
M′
x
Zr2−x
(PO4)3 (M–Ca, Mn, Co, Sr, Cd, Ba, Pb; M′–Mg, Mn, Co) were synthesized by sol-gel method with the following thermal treatment of reaction mixtures. X-ray diffraction, IR spectroscopy and electron microprobe analysis showed that the obtained phosphates crystallized in Sc2(WO4)3 (SW) and NaZr2(PO4)3 (NZP) structural types. Both types of crystal structures are based on a framework comprised of octahedra and tetrahedra, the difference between them is fragments orientation. Thermal expansion of the phosphates was studied in the temperature range 20–800°C. Some compounds were found to belong to low-expanding materials (αav ~2·10−6°C−1).
Review Paper. Transplacental Digoxin Treatment In Prenatal Cardiac Problems In Singleton Pregnancies - Meta Analysis (Based On Literature: 1992–2015)
Authors: Strzelecka Iwona , Respondek-Liberska Maria , Słodki Maciej , Zych-Krekora Katarzyna , Cuneo Bettina 
Published: April 2017

Abstract
Based on fourteen case reports from various centres from 1992-2015 and three original studies in 2006-2011, 122 fetuses were subjected to analysis. In these reports, transplacental digoxin treatment was administered to different cardiac anomalies such as SVT , Ebstein’s anomaly, critical AS , absent pulmonary valve syndrome, complete heart block, in foetuses with aneurysm/diverticulum of LV, in tricuspid atresia or dysplasia, rhabdomyoma, pulmonary atresia, HLHS with fibroelastosis, in TTTS and in extracardiac anomalies such as atriovenous malformation or sacrococcygeal teratoma. There was no statistical difference to suggest (Chi-square test) that digoxin was more efficient to control fetal arrhythmias than fetal congestive heart failure in nonarrhythmic patients.
Conclusions: Foetal cardiac insufficiency may appear due to different reasons (in normal heart anatomy or in heart defects, in normal sinus rhythm or due to foetal arrhythmias: tachycardias or severe bradycardia) and may be a cause of intrauterine demise. So far, we do not have strong evidence that digoxin treatment may prevent foetal death or prematurity. More research is needed to ascertain if the prolonging of pregnancy resulted from digoxin treatment or if improvement in foetal circulatory insufficiency was influenced by spontaneous regression of foetal cardiac symptoms.
Case report. Retroesophageal Left Brachiocephalic Vein in an Infant Without Cardiac Anomalies
Authors: Goel Alexander N. , Reyes Camila , Mclaughlin Shauna , Wittry Mark , Fiore Andrew C. 
Published: April 2017

Abstract
Retroesophageal course of the left brachiocephalic vein is a rare variant seen in patients with congenital heart disease. However, this anomaly without associated cardiac or aortic abnormalities is nearly unheard of, with only one prior case described in the literature. We present an infant with anomalous retroesophageal left brachiocephalic vein that was an incidental finding on computed tomography (CT). We also briefly discuss its embryologic and clinical significance.
Autobiographical reports in research on people with disabilities
Authors: Doliński Wojciech 
Published: April 2017

AbstractThe articles looks at assumptions of research where the central role is played by a source of data (autobiographical report), means of application of descriptive categories (flexibility, sensitization, bridging) and the method of arrangement of particular dimensions of autobiographical reports (mapping). The reflections are divided into several parts, where the most important reflections are related to a sensitising nature of the category of everyday experience and scientific description and the relationship between the lifeworld (Lebenswelt) of people with disabilities and the method of mapping actions of their socialised bodies. On one hand, research procedures embedded in ethics are to free researchers from closed formal categories. On the other hand, scientific descriptions based on non-stiffening “transfers” of specialist discourses, but dynamic mapping of milieu of people with disabilities, enable a better understanding of the lifeworld of those people.
Role of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography in the Diagnosis of Choledocholithiasis
Authors: Borgosz Jolanta , Kupczak-Wiśniowska Bogusława , Podsiadło Beata , Serzysko Bogusława 
Published: April 2017

Abstract
Introduction. Retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a validated reference method for detection and treatment of choledocholithiasis. It can be performed at any stage of treatment. It allows for differentiation of bile retention causes, assessment of the level of bile ducts dilation, location of the obstruction level and establishment of recommendations for invasive bile ducts tests. Despite varied course of choledocholithiasis, swift detection and removal of stones from bile ducts should be striven for due to a potential risk of life-threatening complications.
Aim. The aim of the study was to evaluate the diagnostic effectiveness of the retrograde cholangiopancreatography in patients with suspected bile ducts choledocholithiasis.
Material and methods. Based on the literature review, the retrograde cholangiopancreatography in the diagnostics of bile ducts choledocholithiasis has been evaluated. Identification of choledocholithiasis, regardless of clinical symptoms, is associated with the decision to remove deposits from bile ducts. ERCP is the method of choice.
Conclusions. As studies by numerous authors show, cholelithiasis can be the leading cause of cholangitis and pancreatitis. Diagnostic ERCP with evacuation deposits remains the most recommended diagnostic method in such cases.
Social Engineering Attacks on Government Opponents: Target Perspectives
Authors: Marczak William R. , Paxson Vern 
Published: April 2017

Abstract
New methods of dissident surveillance employed by repressive nation-states increasingly involve socially engineering targets into unwitting cooperation (e.g., by convincing them to open a malicious attachment or link). While a fair amount is understood about the nature of these threat actors and the types of tools they use, there is comparatively little understood about targets’ perceptions of the risks associated with their online activity, and their security posture. We conducted in-depth interviews of 30 potential targets of Middle Eastern and Horn of Africa-based governments, also examining settings and software on their computers and phones. Our engagement illuminates the ways that likely targets are vulnerable to the types of social engineering employed by nation-states.
Radiation balance diversity on NW Spitsbergen in 2010–2014
Authors: Kejna Marek , Maturilli Marion , Araźny Andrzej , Sobota Ireneusz 
Published: April 2017

AbstractThis article presents the results of observations of selected fluxes of the radiation balance in north-western Spitsbergen in the years from 2010 to 2014. Measurements were taken in Ny-Ålesund and in the area of Kaffiøyra, on different surface types occurring in the Polar zone: moraine, tundra, snow and ice. Substantial differences in the radiation balance among the various types of surface were observed. The observations carried out in the summer seasons of 2010–2014 in the area of Kaffiøyra demonstrated that the considerable reflection of solar radiation on the Waldemar Glacier (albedo 55%) resulted in a smaller solar energy net income. During the polar day, a diurnal course of the components of the radiation balance was apparently related to the solar elevation angle. When the sun was low over the horizon, the radiation balance became negative, especially on the glacier. Diurnal, annual and multi-annual variations in the radiation balance have a significant influence on the functioning of the environment in polar conditions.
High Prevalence of Zinc Deficiency in Rural Nigerian Preschool Children: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ibeawuchi Amarabia N.E. , Onyiriuka Alphonsus N. , Abiodun Philip O. 
Published: April 2017

Abstract

Background and Aims: In Nigeria, community-based epidemiological data related to the prevalence of zinc deficiency in preschool children are scarce. We assessed the prevalence of zinc deficiency and the associated socio-demographic variables in children aged between 6 and 60 months, living in a Nigerian rural community.

Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the serum zinc concentrations of 252 children aged between 6 and 60 months in a rural community in Nigeria were assessed, using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The study population was selected by multistage random sampling and at least two children were selected from every household which had children in the study age group. The socio-demographic characteristics of the subjects were obtained, using an interviewer-administered questionnaire.

Results: A total of 252 children were studied, 134 (53.2%) males and 118 (46.8%) females. The mean age was 32.7±17.0 months, similar for both sexes. Overall, 220 (87.3%) had low serum zinc concentrations (less than 7.65µmol/L). According to age, the highest mean serum zinc concentration was 5.43±3.52µmol/L in children aged between 6 and 12 months. Correlation between serum zinc concentration and family size or socio-economic status (SES) showed that the smaller the family size and the higher the SES, the higher the serum zinc concentration.

Conclusions: The high prevalence of low serum zinc concentration indicates that zinc deficiency is a public health problem in our rural communities, requiring public health intervention.
Raw Camel Milk Properties on Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Wistar Rats
Authors: Kebir Nasr-Eddine , Aichouni Ahmed , Zahzeh Touria 
Published: April 2017

AbstractBackground and aims: Diabetes is one of the most frequent and serious chronic diseases in humans all over the world. The aim of our study was to evaluate the antidiabetic activity of camel milk on serum glucose and lipid profile of alloxan-induced diabetic rats.Materials and methods:Diabetes was induced in Wistar albino rats by intraperitoneal injection of alloxan (120 mg/kg BW once). Albino rats each weighing 180-230g were divided into 3 equal groups (n=10) as following: G1 - normal rats fed on normal diet, G2 - diabetic rats fed on normal diet, and G3 - diabetic rats were fed with raw camel milk. Fasting blood glucose was measured on days 0, 1, 7, 14, 21 and 30 while lipid profile was assessed at day 30.Results:After four weeks of feeding, data indicated a significant decrease (p<0.05) of mean blood glucose in G3 group (133.80±3.22 mg/dL) as compared with G2 diabetic rats (199.6± 7.33 mg/dL). Data also revealed significant lower levels (p<0.05) of triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL and VLDL and higher level of HDL cholesterol in diabetic rats treated with camel milk as compared with diabetic rats fed a normal diet.Conclusion:Raw camel milk improved the glycemic and lipid profile in diabetic rats. These findings indicate that raw camel milk may have potential benefits in the treatment of diabetes. Future studies will be needed to establish its safety and mechanism of action.
Addressing the Movement of a Freescale Robotic Car Using Neural Network
Authors: Horváth Dušan , Cuninka Peter 
Published: April 2017

Abstract
This article deals with the management of a Freescale small robotic car along the predefined guide line. Controlling of the direction of movement of the robot is performed by neural networks, and scales (memory) of neurons are calculated by Hebbian learning from the truth tables as learning with a teacher. Reflexive infrared sensors serves as inputs. The results are experiments, which are used to compare two methods of mobile robot control - tracking lines.
Line Width Recovery after Vectorization of Engineering Drawings
Authors: Gramblička Matúš , Vaský Jozef 
Published: April 2017

Abstract
Vectorization is the conversion process of a raster image representation into a vector representation. The contemporary commercial vectorization software applications do not provide sufficiently high quality outputs for such images as do mechanical engineering drawings. Line width preservation is one of the problems. There are applications which need to know the line width after vectorization because this line attribute carries the important semantic information for the next 3D model generation. This article describes the algorithm that is able to recover line width of individual lines in the vectorized engineering drawings. Two approaches are proposed, one examines the line width at three points, whereas the second uses a variable number of points depending on the line length. The algorithm is tested on real mechanical engineering drawings.
Utilization of Advanced Methods in the Control of a Mechatronic System with Flexible Elements
Authors: Juhás Martin , Halenár Igor , Juhásová Bohuslava 
Published: April 2017

Abstract
Analysis of the negative impact of a mechatronic system with the flexible elements parameter error and the possibilities of impact reduction are presented in this contribution. Two advanced methods – the Model Predictive Control method and the inclusion of an LMS filter into the control process are proposed for the reduction of the insufficient effect of a double notch filter, which was initially integrated into the system for elimination of two-mass flexible joint parasitic frequencies. Simulation experiments results – response of system angular velocity and control process quality analysis confirmed the correctness of the proposition for the usage of these progressive control elements.
Dynamic Stability of Generalized Beck-Reut’s Beam
Authors: Nánási Tibor 
Published: April 2017

Abstract
The classical non-conservative Beck’s beam, loaded by follower compressive force, is generalized by allowing an arbitrary angle of action of the follower force as well as allowing for excentric positioning of the applied force. For the corresponding boundary eigenvalue problem, the frequency equation is derived. Results of parametric studies are presented with an emphasis laid on the lowest eigenfrequencies. The characteristic shape of the computed curves indicates whether stability loss by divergence or by flutter occurs. A map of stability is presented in terms of parameters describing the excentricity and the angle under which the follower force acts on the beam.