bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Magnesium supplements affect selected cadmium toxic actions and uptake of repeated doses of cadmium
Authors: Grosicki Andrzej , Małagocki Paweł , Kycko Anna , Monkiewicz Jerzy , Korol Waldemar 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
The importance of magnesium supplements on organ retention of cadmium and allometric parameters after repeated exposure to cadmium chloride were studied in male Wistar rats. Magnesium chloride was given via drinking water (500 mg Mg/L) to rats exposed intragastrically to cadmium chloride (labelled with cadmium 109) at a daily dose corresponding to 25 mg/kg diet for 7, 14, 21, and 28 d. Supplements of magnesium temporarily decreased cadmium retention in the duodenum and liver. No significant differences in cadmium retention were evidenced in the kidneys and testicles. The supplements of magnesium also retain more of the body weight gains and restore the relative liver and testicle weight in rats intoxicated with cadmium. Comparison of the present results with earlier reports suggests a relationship between doses of magnesium and cadmium; higher doses of cadmium need more magnesium to overcome toxic action of the heavy metal.
Innervation of the chinchilla testis, epididymis, and vas deferens
Authors: Sienkiewicz Waldemar , Szczurkowski Aleksander , Dudek Agnieszka , Kaleczyc Jerzy 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
The study was performed on six male chinchillas. The animals were anaesthetised with ether and the anaesthesia was deepened with nembuthal injected intraperitoneally. The chinchillas were then transcardially perfused with 0.4 L of 4% buffered paraformaldehyde, and testes, epididymides, and vasa deferentia were collected. The tunica albuginea from one testis from each chinchilla was stained as whole-mount preparation. The tissues were cut into 12 μm-thick cryostat sections, and processed for double-immunofluorescence method. In all organs studied, the most abundant nerve fibres were dopamine β hydroxylase positive (DβH+). Some of them contained neuropeptide Y (NPY). Sporadically NPY-positive-only nerve fibres were found. Single DβH+ nerve terminals contained also galanine. Small numbers of the nerve fibres supplying studied organs were stained for substance P (SP) and calitonin gene related peptide (CGRP). Almost all SP+ fibres were also CGRP+, whereas single CGRP+ nerves were SPimmunonegative. Some nerve terminals were immunoreactive to vesicular acetylcholine transporter and vasoactive intestinal peptide. The organs studied were innervated unevenly. The highest density of the nerves was found in the areas of the tunica albuginea adjacent to the mesorchial border of the testis and their number gradually decreased towards the free border of the gonad. None of the vascular tissue of the testicular parenchyma was free of the nerve fibres, except sporadically encountered DβH+ nerves which supply seminiferous tubules. Within the head of the epididymis a moderate number of nerve terminals were found, but in the body and tail of the organ the number of nerves gradually increased. The vas deferens was supplied with very numerous nerve fibres. There were no differences in the density of the innervation between the funicular and abdominal part of the vas deferens.
Effect of HMB and 2-Ox administered during pregnancy on bone properties in primiparous and multiparous minks (Neivison vison)
Authors: Tomaszewska Ewa , Dobrowolski Piotr , Kostro Krzysztof , Jakubczak Andrzej , Taszkun Iwona , Jaworska-Adamu Jadwiga , Żmuda Andrzej , Rycerz Karol , Muszyński Siemowit 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
The aim of the study was to determine the mechanical and geometric properties as well as bone tissue density of long bones in primiparous and multiparous dams of minks supplemented with β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate (HMB) and/or 2-oxoketoglutarate (2-Ox) during gestation. Powdered 2-Ox was given at the daily dosage of 0.4 g/kg b.w. separately or simultaneously with HMB, which was administered at the daily dosage of 0.02 g/kg b.w. The study demonstrates for the first time that administration of 2-Ox and/or HMB to dams markedly influences bone tissue density and the mechanical and geometrical properties of mother`s bones in minks. Moreover, it was demonstrated that the supplementation was more effective in the thoracic limb, which was comprehensively used in contrast to the pelvic limb. The mechanical parameters and bone tissue density significantly increased in the humerus in multiparous minks. Only such diet may provide satisfactory production results in the animals. Nutritional deficiencies occurring during pregnancies may trigger body`s own reserves to cover the bone mass increase in developing foetuses and support milk production. This can prevent regeneration of dams’ organisms, which negatively affects their reproductive performance. 2-Ox or HMB may be regarded as a protective metabolite when administered orally to minks, counteracting the negative influences of pregnancy and lactation periods on bones condition. Both simultaneous treatment with 2-Ox and HMB and their separate administration were equally effective.
Do Auctions Improve Public Procurement? Evidence from the Czech Republic
Authors: Kvasnička Michal , Staněk Rostislav , Krčál Ondřej 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
This paper explores the effect of various contract-awarding procedures in public procurement on the price of the contract. We provide a theoretical model that compares prices in different procedures and tests whether there is a significant price difference between the procedures using data from Czech public procurement. The model predicts that auctions are more efficient than negotiations given the same number of suppliers, and open procedures are more efficient than closed procedures if high-cost firms are selected for the closed procedure. In accordance with the first prediction, we find that open auctions are more efficient than open negotiations. Concerning the second prediction, we find that closed procedures are less efficient than open procedures, which suggests that procurers tend to select relatively more costly firms to participate in closed procedures. Comparing all four awarding procedures, we find that open auctions are the most efficient procedure used in the Czech Republic. We estimate that the inefficiencies due to the use of other contract-awarding procedures are substantial.
Contractual Penalty and the Right to Payment for Delays Caused by Force Majeure in Czech Civil Law under the New Civil Code
Authors: Janku Martin 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
In the context of the conclusion of contracts between entrepreneurs under the Czech Civil Code, it is a relatively common arrangement that the parties disclaim any and all liability for damage arising from non-compliance with contractual obligations, if they can prove that this failure was due to an obstacle independent of their will. This circumstance excluding liability for the damage is called force majeure by the theory. In many countries this circumstance is ruled upon directly by the legislation (höhere Gewalt, vis major). The Czech regulations represented by the new Civil Code of 2012 (CivC), however, contains only a framework provision that mentions discharging reasons. The paper deals with the – rather disputable – issue that the force majeure does not affect the obligation to pay a contractual penalty under the new rules of the CivC. It should be therefore reflected in the arrangements for contractual penalties inter partes. To this effect the paper analyses the concepts of contractual penalties and force majeure in civil law legislation. Afterwards it compares their mutual relationship and impact on the obligations of the Contracting Parties. Finally, it draws recommendations for practice from the perspective of the contracting process.
Morphology control of silica/poly(methyl methacrylate-co-styrene) hybrid nanoparticles via multiple-miniemulsion approach
Authors: Nazarabady Maryam Mohammadpour , Farzi Gholam Ali 
Published: January 2016

AbstractAn appropriate approach has been used for the preparation of silica/P(MMA-co-St) hybrid nanoparticles through converting previously prepared inverse miniemulsions into a direct miniemulsion and consequently, using the droplet nucleation polymerization technique. In the early stage of the procedure, silica particles were synthesized from TEOS in the presence of NH4OH or HCl as a catalyst through a base or acid-catalyzed sol-gel process. TEOS, ethanol and tirmethoxyvinylsilan were mixed in MMA:St (50:50) to create the inverse miniemulsion I, similarly CTAB, NH4OH/HCl and distilled water were dispersed into MMA:St (50:50) and called inverse miniemulsion II. Then, the two mentioned inverse miniemulsions were emulsified in water to achieve direct miniemulsion. The nature of the catalyst and TEOS concentration varied, for the aims of investigation, their effect on the morphology and size of hybrid nanoparticles. This route provided a unique process for silica/polymer hybrid nanoparticles production, avoiding organic solvents. Transmission electron microscopy micrographs revealed that, the morphology of the hybrid nanoparticles can be controlled by the nature of the catalyst.
Historic Urbanscapes for Tomorrow, Two Italian Cases: Genoa and Bologna
Authors: Bonfantini G. Bertrando 
Published: January 2016

After a rather long silence, in the last fifteen years, heritage has progressively returned to urban agendas, and not just in Europe.
The following pages reflect on the possible updated “structural” function of the historic parts of contemporary cities through the examples provided by two medium-sized Italian cities – Genoa and Bologna – characterized by the presence of an important urban heritage and specific urban policies and plans focused on renewing their possible role.
Staircase To Sustainable Development
Authors: Doorasamy Mishelle 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
The aim of this article to provide a theoretical framework on the concepts of Sustainable Development and the process that companies need to follow in order to ensure the future sustainability of business operations. Various secondary sources and previous literature was reviewed to clearly identify why companies are finding it difficult to conduct their business operations in a sustainable manner. Stricter legislation and regulations, increased competition, depletion of natural resources and market pressures have placed organisations under increased pressure to improve environmental performance and achieve eco-efficiency. This paper provides comprehensive overview of how companies can achieve the ‘Triple bottom line’ by committing to continuous improvement and adhering to the regulations stipulated according to the International Standards of Organisations (ISO14001).
The Effect Of The Use Of Mobile Technologies By Management In Polish Manufacturing Enterprises On The Efficiency Of Knowledge Transfer Within A Company
Authors: Patalas-Maliszewska Justyna 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
This article elaborates an existence of a positive effect of the use of mobile technologies by managers, according to their competences, on the efficiency of explicit knowledge transfer in a manufacturing company. It focuses on the set of the competences of managers, who use the mobile technologies in manufacturing companies and is based on a survey and data obtained from 119 Polish manufacturing enterprises. This article develops a framework of how managers can determinate the knowledge transfer in a manufacturing company and further discusses the research results.
The Importance That Customers Place On Service Attributes Of Sale Personnel In The Retail Sector
Authors: van Scheers Louise 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
When examining retail patronage, customer satisfaction must also be considered. Secondary resources (American Marketing Association, 2007; Berman, 2011; Berry, 2008; Chang, 2006:209; Helgesen & Nesset, 2007: 129 and Kong and Jogaratnam, 2007:279) observed that customer satisfaction is the degree to which a customer’s expectations agree with the actual performance of the product and or service. South African consumers situated in Gauteng consider a sales person’s product knowledge as the most important attribute when making purchasing decisions. American consumers in contrast consider sales person respect as the most important attribute when making purchasing decisions. The implications for marketers and sales managers are that marketers and sales managers must provide adequate training for their sales personnel in order for them to treat customers in such a way to obtain their loyalty. The quality of the products sold at the retailer does not form part of the trade-off options that customers are presented with.
Combining Ability Studies for Development of New Sunflower Hybrids Based on Diverse Cytoplasmic Sources
Authors: Dhillon S. K. , Tyagi Vikrant 
Published: January 2016

AbstractThe experiment involved 7 different cms analogues as a female parent and 6 restores lines as male parent to synthesis of a set of these 42 hybrids. The experiment was conducted during spring season 2012 in Line×Tester breeding design and evaluated for combining ability of 7 morphological, physiological and important sunflower yield components traits. The results based on GCA effects of parents for different characters revealed that among the lines DV-10A and among testers P93R, P143R and RHA83R6 were found to be the good general combiners for seed yield and oil content with early maturing except P143R, which is good combiner for flowering and late maturity. The crosses CMS-XA×RHA83R6 and PRUN-29A×RHA83R6 were found to be superior and exhibited highest SCA effects with highest mean values for oil content but for seed yield having negative SCA effects with average for seed yield. The hybrids PKU-2A×RHA83R6 and E002-91A×P93R having high mean seed yield with high SCA effects.
Incubation methods for the detection of fungi associated with caraway (Carum carvi L.) seeds
Authors: Tylkowska Krystyna , Serbiak Paweł , Szopińska Dorota 
Published: January 2016

Summary

Introduction: Infestation with fungi may significantly affect the quality of seeds. However, there is no standard method for caraway (Carum carvi L.) seed health testing.

Objective: The aim of the present study was to determine the most efficient method of the detection of fungi associatyed with caraway seeds.

Methods: Seven incubation methods for evaluation of health of these seeds were compared: deep freeze blotter test, blotter test with mannitol, blotter test with polyethylene glycol, agar tests on potato-dextrose-agar (PDA) and on reduced PDA (RPDA) without seed disinfection, and agar tests on PDA and RPDA after seed disinfection. The evaluation was performed after 10 and 14 days of incubation.

Results: Thirty two fungal genera were associated with the seeds. Alternaria alternata, Cladosporium spp. and Rhizopus nigricans were identified most frequently. Prolongation of incubation time favoured growth of Fusarium spp. and R. nigricans to the highest extent.

Conclusions: The greatest seed infestation with fungi, especially Alternaria spp., was observed in the deep freeze blotter test followed by the blotter test with mannitol. Both of them could be recommended for further study on caraway seed health testing.
Antibacterial activity of rosemary, caraway and fennel essential oils
Authors: Kwiatkowski Paweł , Giedrys-Kalemba Stefania , Mizielińska Małgorzata , Bartkowiak Artur 
Published: January 2016

Summary

Introduction: Recently, interest in essential oils used in natural medicine, has been increasing. Essential oils are still being tested for their potential uses as an alternative remedies for the treatment of many infectious diseases.

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate antibacterial properties of commercial essential oils (rosemary, caraway and fennel) to reduce the number of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.

Methods: The antibacterial activity of essential oils was investigated by agar dilution method.

Results: The result of experiments showed that essential oils contained in microbiological media significantly reduced the number of S. aureus and E. coli cells. The best antibacterial properties possessed caraway oil: 1 mg/g for S. aureus and 10 mg/g for E. coli, weaker rosemary (5 mg/g) and fennel (20 mg/g) oils.

Conclusion: Results confirmed the inhibiting effect of commercial essential oils on S. aureus and E. coli and provide a scientific ground for future research.
Antioxidant activity of Trachystemon orientalis (L.) G. Don (Borage) grown and eaten as food in Ordu, Turkey
Authors: Ayvaz Melek Col 
Published: January 2016

Summary

Introductıon: Instead of synthetic antioxidants, using of natural products with antioxidant activity is demanded.

Objectıve: The aim of this study is to evaluate the antioxidant activity and total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the Trachystemon orientalis (borage) obtained from Ordu.

Methods: The water and ethanol extracts of the borage plant were investigated by using several in vitro antioxidant activity tests such as total antioxidant capacity, O2
•−, •OH, DPPH and ABTS radicals scavenging activities, hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity, FRAP, Fe2+ chelating and reducing power assays in order to make effective comparisons.

Results: Water extract of the T. orientalis had the more phenolic (90 mg GA/g extract) and flavonoid (56.88 mg CT/g extract) contents than ethanol extract. Furthermore, both of the extracts showed strong antioxidant and radical scavenging activities determined by different in vitro models. The highest total antioxidant capacity as ascorbic acid equivalents of 244.50 mg/g extract was also calculated for water extract. Generally, a relationship between total phenolic content and antioxidant activity was established. It is also an important finding for an edible food source that the phenolic and flavonoid content and antioxidative activities for water extract was higher than the ethanol extract.

Conclusıon: T. orientalis could be used as a food ingredient instead of synthetic antioxidants and all results will contribute to the recent increase in investigations on using natural products in many areas such as food, pharmacy, alternative medicine and natural therapy.
Why helping the victims of disasters makes me a better person: Towards an anthropological theory of humanitarian action
Authors: Kalokairinou Eleni M 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
In this paper I examine which is the most appropriate moral theory for dealing with disaster bioethics contexts. It is pointed out that, contrary to what is usually believed, moral theories of right action cannot actually guide us in such difficult situations. Instead, it is claimed that a virtue ethics theory of an Aristotelian version, which gives emphasis not only on the virtuous person but also on the relevant developmental process of becoming virtuous, can provide us with the right theoretical framework for coping with the problems which the victims of such disastrous situations face.
Disaster issues in non-utilitarian consequentialism (ethics of social consequences)1
Authors: Gluchman Vasil 
Published: January 2016

Abstract

The ethics of social consequences is a means of satisficing non-utilitarian consequentialism that can be used to approach disaster issues. The primary values in the ethics of social consequences are humanity, human dignity and moral rights, and these are developed and realized to achieve positive social consequences. The secondary values found in the ethics of social consequences include justice, responsibility, moral duty and tolerance. Their role and purpose is given by their ability to help achieve and realize moral good. Fair treatment within moral issues stems from applying primary as well as secondary values. The nature of these values cannot be determined exclusively in ordinary circumstances. However, in extraordinary circumstances (disasters), not all the requirements relating to the value structure of the ethics of social consequences need be considered in its entirety. In extraordinary circumstances, values are prioritised and realized. Primary values are realized prior to secondary ones. When prioritizing primary values, the realization of positive social consequences, or at least minimizing the negative social consequences, takes priority over other primary values. In disaster bioethics especially, it is often necessary to find a way to minimize the negative social consequences; thus, actions where positive social consequences are prevalent are preferred.
Healing of the Carbuncle Phenomenon for AUSMDV Scheme on Triangular Grids
Authors: Phongthanapanich Sutthisak 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
The carbuncle phenomenon, commonly occurring in solutions of compressible Euler equations, is a numerical instability associated with shock-induced anomalies. It is associated with several shock-capturing finite-volume methods designed to preserve the contact discontinuities. Due to the lack of theoretical knowledge of the carbuncle phenomenon, it is not known which numerical scheme is affected or under what circumstances that the phenomenon occur. The objective of this article is to study the numerical instability of advection upstream splitting method (AUSM) family schemes so called the AUSMD, AUSMV and AUSMDV schemes in two-dimensional structured triangular grids by examining the shock-induced anomalies produced by these original schemes in different test cases. A multidimensional dissipation technique is proposed for these schemes. The evolution of perturbations is also studied by means of a linearized discrete analysis to the odd–even decoupling problem. The recursive equations show that the AUSMDV-family schemes with the dissipation technique are less sensitive to these anomalies than the original schemes. Finally, the dissipation technique is extended to the second-order schemes and tested by several test cases.
A GIS based approach for the prediction of the dam break flood hazard – A case study of Zardezas reservoir “Skikda, Algeria”
Authors: Derdous Oussama , Djemili Lakhdar , Bouchehed Hamza , Tachi Salah Eddine 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
The construction of dams in rivers can offer many advantages, however the consequences resulting from their failure could result in major damage, including loss of life and property destruction. To mitigate the threats of dam break it is essential to appreciate the characteristics of the potential flood in realistic manner. In this study an approach based on the integration of hydraulic modelling and GIS has been used to assess the risks resulting from a potential failure of Zardezas dam, a concrete dam located in Skikda, in the North East of Algeria. HEC-GeoRAS within GIS was used to extract geometric information from a digital elevation model and then imported into HEC-RAS. Flow simulation of the dam break was performed using HEC-RAS and results were mapped using the GIS. Finally, a flood hazard map based on water depth and flow velocity maps was created in GIS environment. According to this map the potential failure of Zardezas dam will place a large number in people in danger. The present study has shown that Application of Geographical Information System (GIS) techniques in integration with hydraulic modelling can significantly reduce the time and the resources required to forecast potential dam break flood hazard which can play a crucial role in improving both flood disaster management and land use planning downstream of dams.