bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metais pesados em girassol adubado com lodo de esgoto submetido a diferentes processos de estabilização
Authors: Nascimento Altina L. , Sampaio Regynaldo A. , Cruz Suely F.da , Zuba Junio Geraldo R. , Barbosa Cristiane F. , Fernandes Luiz A.
Published: June 2014

O lodo de esgoto apresenta grande potencial para utilização agrícola; entretanto, esta forma de disposição final causa preocupação uma vez que existe a possibilidade de inserção de metais pesados na cadeia alimentar. Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, avaliar os teores de metais pesados no solo e na planta de girassol em resposta à adubação com lodo de esgoto submetido a diferentes processos de estabilização. O experimento foi desenvolvido em Cambissolo Háplico com os tratamentos: testemunha (sem adubação), adubação com lodo de esgoto solarizado, adubação com lodo de esgoto compostado, adubação com lodo de esgoto vermicompostado, adubação com lodo de esgoto caleado e adubação química recomendada para a cultura. Utilizou-se o delineamento experimental em blocos casualizados com 4 repetições. Independente da forma de estabilização, a aplicação de lodo de esgoto não influenciou os teores de Cu, Cr, Cd e Ni no solo porém aumentou os teores de Zn. A aplicação de lodo de esgoto solarizado e de lodo de esgoto caleado aumentou os teores de Pb no solo; de modo geral, os teores de metais pesados na folha e no pecíolo do girassol não foram influenciados pela aplicação de lodo de esgoto.
Desenvolvimento de equações Intensidade-Duração-Frequência sem dados pluviográficos em regiões semiáridas
Authors: Fechine Sobrinho Vicente , Rodrigues Joseilson O. , Mendonça Luiz A. R. , Andrade Eunice M. de , Tavares Paulo R. L.
Published: June 2014

Neste estudo foram feitas a validação da metodologia de desagregação de chuvas das isozonas e sua utilização no desenvolvimento de equações IDF (Intensidade-Duração-Frequência) para três municípios da Região Metropolitana do Cariri, Ceará, desprovidos de pluviógrafos. Na validação utilizaram-se dados de estações localizadas em zonas climatológicas distintas da Região Metropolitana do Cariri e de uma estação localizada na mesma zona. As precipitações máximas diárias anuais foram ajustadas e testadas pelas distribuições de probabilidade de Gumbel, Log-Normal II-P, Log-Normal III-P, Gama II-P e Gama III-P. As intensidades de chuvas estimadas pelo método das isozonas apresentaram altos índices de concordância e desempenho de Willmott, quando comparadas com as estimadas pelas respectivas equações IDF. As precipitações máximas diárias anuais utilizadas na aplicação do método das isozonas se ajustaram, respectivamente, às distribuições Gama III, Log-Normal II e Gama II; entretanto, verificou-se que outras funções podem ser utilizadas sem perda significativa na precisão das estimativas; esses resultados indicam a viabilidade da utilização do método das isozonas como alternativa na elaboração das equações IDF em regiões não monitoradas.
Evaluation of CPT-based P–y models for laterally loaded piles in siliceous sand
Authors: Li W. , Igoe D. , Gavin K.
Published: June 2014

Lateral force–displacement (P–y)-based Winkler spring models are commonly applied for the design of piles, P being the soil lateral reaction and y the lateral displacement. Despite their relative simplicity, P–y models can capture important aspects of pile behaviour including non-linear soil stiffness. Several P–y models based on cone penetration tests (CPTs) have been proposed over the last two decades, developed largely using empirical curve fitting to results of field tests, centrifuge modelling and finite-element analyses on relatively flexible piles installed in calcareous sand. However, major uncertainties exist when attempting to extrapolate empirical models for use with soil types and pile geometries outside the database on which they were formulated. There is an urgent need for a reliable P–y method for application to the design of rigid monopiles used extensively for offshore wind projects. A series of field lateral load tests performed on open-ended steel pipe piles driven in dense siliceous sand is reported here. The pile embedment length and load eccentricity were varied to investigate the behaviour of rigid and flexible monopiles. The measured pile response was used to evaluate the performance of a number of recent CPT-based P–y models and an update to an existing power-law model is suggested for rigid monopiles in siliceous sand.
Catecholamine Metabolites in Urine, as Chronic Stress Biomarkers, Are Associated With Higher Risk of Chronic Periodontitis in Adults
Authors: Mesa Francisco , Magán‐Fernández Antonio , Muñoz Ricardo , Papay‐Ramírez Lara , Poyatos Rafael , Sánchez‐Fernández Elena , Galindo‐Moreno Pablo , Rodríguez‐Barranco Miguel
Published: June 2014

Background: The purpose of this case–control study is to investigate the association between stress and periodontitis by determining stress biomarkers in saliva and urine and to determine whether oral hygiene, gingival inflammation, and tooth loss are correlated with stress biomarkers in patients with periodontitis.

Methods: A total of 77 patients (41 cases [with periodontitis] and 36 controls) participated in this study. Periodontal examination findings included probing depth, clinical attachment loss, bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque index (PI), and tooth loss. Secretory immunoglobulin (sIg)A and cortisol were determined in saliva. Cortisol, creatinine‐adjusted cortisol, metanephrine, normetanephrine, and total metanephrines were measured in urine.

Results: Urinary metanephrine (P = 0.013) and total metanephrine (P = 0.023) levels were higher in the case group. In cases, salivary cortisol was correlated with PI (r = 0.464, P <0.01), BOP (r = 0.401, P <0.05), and tooth loss (r = 0.245, P <0.05). Urinary metanephrine levels above the median were associated with a 3.4‐fold higher risk of periodontitis (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.1 to 10.2; P = 0.029), with an 82% increase in risk for each increment of 0.05 µg/24 hours. Urinary total metanephrine levels above the median were associated with a five‐fold higher risk of periodontitis (95% CI = 1.6 to 15.7; P = 0.006).

Conclusions: The present results offer new evidence of the association between urinary concentrations of catecholamine metabolites (metanephrine and total metanephrines) and chronic periodontitis. Salivary IgA level showed no statistical difference between the cases and controls. Salivary cortisol levels in the patients with periodontitis were correlated with worse PI, higher gingival inflammation, and greater tooth loss.
Sea wave propagation from offshore to Maputo's coast. Application to longshore sediment transport assessment
Authors: Viola Cristina N. A. , Grifoll Manel , Palalane Jaime , Oliveira Tiago C. A.
Published: June 2014

This study aims to characterize the wave climate near the coastal region of Maputo (Mozambique), and to provide a first assessment of the sediment transport load in this area. A time-series of 13 years' worth of offshore wave data, obtained from reanalysis products, was propagated to the coast. Wave propagation was performed using Linear Wave theory and the numerical model, Simulating WAves Nearshore (SWAN). Propagations with SWAN were carried out considering different scenarios in order to evaluate the influence of parameters such as wind, tidal level, frequency spectrum and numerical mesh resolution on wave characteristics along the coast. The prevalent waves propagated came from between east and southwest directions. Results from linear propagation were used to estimate the potential longshore sediment transport. The Coastal Engineering Research Center formula was applied for a stretch of beach in the Machangulo Peninsula. A net potential rate of longitudinal sediment transport (of the order of 105 m3/year, along an extension of the coast of 21 km) was directed northwards, and was consistent with the frequent wave directions.
Nitrate removal from groundwater by hydrogen-fed autotrophic denitrification in a bio-ceramsite reactor
Authors: Chen Dan , Yang Kai , Wang Hongyu , Lv Bin
Published: June 2014

In this work, the denitrification performance of a bio-ceramsite reactor based on autohydrogenotrophic denitrification was investigated. The effects of various experimental parameters such as nitrate loading, carbon to nitrogen ratio (C/N), water temperature and pH were evaluated during the operation. The unique aspect of this research is that the bio-reactor uses ceramsite as a carrier, which can provide a habitat for autohydrogenotrophic biocoenoses to accrete and grow. The results indicated that the denitrification rate increased as nitrate loading (below 130 mg NO3−-N/L) increased. However, the activity of autohydrogenotrophic denitrifying bacteria was inhibited when nitrate loading was further increased to higher than 130 mg NO3−-N/L. Denitrification efficiency changed slightly with C/N, this system performed well if C/N was more than 0.9. The optimum temperature for the reactor was 25–35 °C. This denitrification system was positively related to pH, as a neutral or alkaline environment was more preferable for the reactor. During the operation, effluent nitrite levels were always maintained below 1.75 mg NO2−-N/L.
Removal of nitrogen from secondary effluent of a petrochemical industrial park by a hybrid biofilm-carrier reactor with one-stage ANAMMOX
Authors: Lin Han-Lin , Tsao Hsiang-Wei , Huang Yu-Wen , Wang Yi-Chuan , Yang Keng-Hao , Yang Ya-Fei , Wang Wei-Chiang , Wen Chun-Kuei , Chen Sheng-Kun , Cheng Sheng-Shung
Published: June 2014

A laboratory study was undertaken to explore the capability of one-stage ANAMMOX in a hybrid biofilm-carrier reactor (HBCR) fed with petrochemical wastewater. Under favorable operating conditions in continuous-flow operations (at the dissolved oxygen level of 0.5–1.0 mg L−1), the average total nitrogen (TN) removal efficiency reached 62–67% and approximately 90% of TN can be removed by ANAMMOX. In batch operations of the hybrid biofilm-carrier reactor (without adding carbon substrate), the specific TN removal rate of the reactor in which both Kaldnes and nonwoven carriers were kept was two-fold higher than that of the reactor in which only nonwoven carriers were kept. This indicated that the microbial activity of thinner biofilms (Kaldnes carriers) was remarkably higher than that of thicker biofilms (nonwoven carriers). Finally, based on the 16S rRNA clone library, a cluster of ANAMMOX Candidatus Kuenenia stuttgartiensis was identified.
Operation of an integrated algae pond system for the treatment of municipal sewage: a South African case study
Authors: Mambo Prudence M. , Westensee Dirk K. , Render David S. , Cowan A. Keith
Published: June 2014

Integrated algae pond systems (IAPS) combine the use of anaerobic and aerobic bioprocesses to effect sewage treatment. In the present work, the performance of IAPS was evaluated to determine the efficiency of this technology for treatment of municipal sewage under South African conditions. Composite samples were analysed over an 8 month period before and after tertiary treatment. Spectrophotometric assays indicated that the treated water from this IAPS was compliant with the discharge limits for phosphate-P, ammonium-N and nitrate/nitrite-N, and mean values were: 5.3, 2.9 and 12.4 mg L−1, respectively. Chemical oxygen demand (COD), however, fluctuated significantly and was dependent on full function of the IAPS. Mean COD of the final treated water was 72.2 mg L−1. Although these results suggest that the treated water discharged from this IAPS operating under South African conditions meets the standard for discharge, mean total suspended solids (TSS) was routinely above the limit at 34.5 ± 13 mg L−1 and faecal coliforms were higher than expected. Tertiary treatment using a maturation pond series (MPS), slow sand filtration (SSF), or a controlled rock filter (CRF) ensured that the final treated water from the IAPS was of a quality suitable for discharge to the environment with CRF > SSF > MPS.
Application of genetic algorithm - multiple linear regressions to predict the activity of RSK inhibitors
Authors: Avval Zhila , Pourbashir Eslam , Ganjali Mohammad , Norouzi Parviz
Published: June 2014

This paper deals with developing a linear quantitative structure-activity
relationship (QSAR) model for predicting the RSK inhibition activity of some
new compounds. A dataset consisting of 62 pyrazino [1,2-?] indole, diazepino
[1,2-?] indole, and imidazole derivatives with known inhibitory activities
was used. Multiple linear regressions (MLR) technique combined with the
stepwise (SW) and the genetic algorithm (GA) methods as variable selection
tools was employed. For more checking stability, robustness and
predictability of the proposed models, internal and external validation
techniques were used. Comparison of the results obtained, indicate that the
GA-MLR model is superior to the SW-MLR model and that it isapplicable for
designing novel RSK inhibitors.
Pay Convexity, Earnings Manipulation, and Project Continuation
Authors: Laux Volker
Published: June 2014

This paper studies the optimal design of long-term executive pay plans when boards of directors use accounting information for investment decision-making and executives can take costly actions to manipulate this information. The model predicts that a shift to more convex executive pay plans, such as equity plans that rely more on options and less on stock, is associated with higher levels of manipulation, lower reporting quality, and less efficient investment. When designing the optimal contract, the board trades off these effects with the cost of inducing executive effort. The paper also analyzes how the optimal pay convexity and the equilibrium level of manipulation change when the CEO's opportunistic reporting discretion changes. The model predicts that an increase in the CEO's marginal cost of manipulation increases the optimal level of pay convexity and first increases and then decreases the magnitude of manipulation.

JEL Classifications: M12; M41; G31.
Design and Evaluation of a Continuous Data Level Auditing System
Authors: Kogan Alexander , Alles Michael G. , Vasarhelyi Miklos A. , Wu Jia
Published: June 2014

This study develops a framework for a continuous data level auditing system and uses a large sample of procurement data from a major health care provider to simulate an implementation of this framework. In this framework, the first layer monitors compliance with deterministic business process rules and the second layer consists of analytical monitoring of business processes. A distinction is made between exceptions identified by the first layer and anomalies identified by the second one. The unique capability of continuous auditing to investigate (and possibly remediate) the identified anomalies in “pseudo-real time” (e.g., on a daily basis) is simulated and evaluated. Overall, evidence is provided that continuous auditing of complete population data can lead to superior results, but only when audit practices change to reflect the new reality of data availability.

Data Availability: The data are proprietary. Please contact the authors for details.
Voluntary Disclosure, Legal Institutions, and Firm Valuation: Evidence from U.S. Cross-Listed Foreign Firms
Authors: Shi Yaqi , Kim Jeong-Bon , Magnan Michel L.
Published: June 2014

Building on the bonding hypothesis, this paper examines the economic consequences of voluntary management earnings forecasts (MFs) made by foreign firms cross-listed in the U.S. market. Our work reveals the following. First, cross-listed firms that voluntarily issue MFs exhibit higher firm valuation (Tobin's Q) than those that do not issue MFs, with forecast precision and frequency further enhancing valuation premiums. Additionally, the valuation premium of MFs is more pronounced for cross-listed firms than for a matched sample of U.S. domestic firms. Second, cross-listed firms from countries with weaker legal regimes are valued more for their voluntary forecasts relative to those from stronger legal regimes. Third, further sensitivity analyses suggest that valuation implications from MFs are more consistent with reputational bonding than with a signaling perspective. Finally, our mediation analysis suggests that voluntary disclosures of MFs are an important channel through which the information environment positively influences firm valuation. Overall, our study contributes to both the voluntary disclosure and cross-listing literatures.

JEL Classifications: G14; G15; G32; G34; M41.
Proactive Transfer Pricing Risk Management in PATA Countries
Authors: Borkowski Susan C. , Gaffney Mary Anne
Published: June 2014

Transnational corporations (TNCs) have long considered transfer pricing as a key tax concern. If stability in transfer pricing is a necessary condition for dynamic cross-border trading, then recent financial reporting changes, updated transfer pricing guidelines, and new reporting requirements for uncertain tax positions are destabilizing influences that must be addressed by companies in order to mitigate their transfer pricing-related exposures and risk. This study reports the results of a survey of tax executives from the four countries comprising the Pacific Association of Tax Administrators (PATA), three of which have transfer pricing regulations based on Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guidelines. The study seeks to explain how TNCs are managing their transfer pricing risks proactively in today's volatile environment, and if their actions are successful. Findings include contradictory evidence regarding audit risk reduction strategies recommended by tax authorities and the utility of those strategies in actually reducing corporate audit risk. These were surprising results, given that tax authorities and transfer pricing consulting firms tout certain transfer pricing agreements as the best way to mitigate transfer pricing audit risk. At best, are these agreements neutral relative to audit risk? At worst, are tax authorities using these agreements as a source of confidential data for possible future use in both transfer pricing and non-transfer pricing audits?
Color Stability of Resin Used for Caries Infiltration After Exposure to Different Staining Solutions
Authors: Borges AB , Caneppele TMF , Luz M , Pucci CR , Torres CRG
Published: June 2014

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the staining behavior of demineralized enamel infiltrated by low-viscosity resin.

Methods and Materials

Bovine enamel/dentin cylindrical samples (3 × 2 mm) were assigned into four groups (n=45) according to the enamel treatment: sound enamel (control), demineralization + artificial saliva, demineralization + daily application of 0.05% NaF, demineralization + resin infiltration (Icon, DMG). Artificial white spot lesions were produced in groups with demineralization. After the treatments, color was assessed by spectrophotometry, using the CIE L*a*b* system. The specimens (n=15) were then immersed in deionized water, red wine, or coffee for 10 minutes daily for eight days. Color was measured again, and the specimens were repolished with sandpaper discs. The final color was assessed. Data were analyzed by two-way analysis of variance and Tukey tests (α=0.05). A paired t-test was used for comparison between staining and repolishing conditions.

Results

There were significant differences for surface treatment and dye after staining and repolishing. Immersion in wine and coffee resulted in significantly increased color alteration (ΔE) compared with water (p=0.001). The resin-infiltrated group exhibited the highest staining values (p=0.001). The repolishing procedures resulted in significantly decreased color change.

Conclusion

The exposure of specimens to colored solutions resulted in significant color alteration. The demineralized enamel treated with resin infiltration showed significantly higher staining than all other tested groups; however, the repolishing of the specimens minimized the staining effect.
Thermal, magnetic and electric properties of RMn2O5 (R=Tb, Dy and Ho) based multiferroics
Authors: Kumar N. Pavan , Bharadwaj Suresh , Reddy P. Venugopal
Published: June 2014

A series of multiferroic materials with the compositional formula RMn
Seroprevalence of Fasciola hepatica infection in cattle and sheep in the province of Kars, Turkey, as determined by ELISA
Authors: Akca A. , Gokce H. , Mor N.
Published: June 2014

This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of Fasciola hepatica infection in cattle and sheep in the province of Kars, Turkey. Serum samples from 500 cattle and 540 sheep, collected from 15 randomly selected localities (villages) in the region, were tested for the presence of anti-F. hepatica antibodies using an in-house ELISA test with 98 % sensitivity and 96 % specificity. The seroprevalence of F. hepatica in the district was determined to be 66.6 % (333/500) in cattle and 93 % (502/540) in sheep. There was also a statistically significant difference in the rates of seropositivity between villages (each of which could be considered to be a large herd or flock), ranging from 0 % to 100 % in cattle and from 68 % to 100 % in sheep, P < 0.01). These findings show that F. hepatica infection is very common in the region; that, in contrast to results from abattoir which indicate a level of only 10 % prevalence, the exposure of farm animals to the infection in the region is in fact very high; and that the risk of acquiring the infection varies between the localities and the host species tested within the region.
The impact of grazing management on seasonal activity of gastrointestinal parasites in goats
Authors: Stadalienė I. , Petkevičius S. , Šarkūnas M.
Published: June 2014

The aim of this study was to examine the impact of grazing management and other risk factors (age, treatment practices) on seasonal activity of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in goats. Goat flocks naturally infected with GI parasites reared on four Lithuanian farms representing different management regimes were examined during the grazing season in 2011/2012. On three farms the adult goats were grazed in different ways on open pastures (with or without supplementary feeding) or tethered. On one farm all animals were kept indoor (zero-grazing). On each farm, samples were collected at monthly intervals from 13–15 adult and 10 kids. The results showed that grazing of adult goats with feed supplementation or kept indoor, shed the lowest number of strongyle eggs when compared to those kept on pasture (P < 0.05). Delayed turnout and zero-grazing significantly reduced excretion of strongyle eggs but increased the output of oocysts when compared to those grazed on set-stocked pasture together with adult goats. The most prevalent genus on all farms and in both age groups of goats were Teladorsagia spp. This study demonstrates that goats are infected with mixed species of parasites, but proportions of these parasites differed in different grazing management systems. The grazing management, age and season were all major factors that had an impact on GI parasite infection.
Mercury content in the parasite-host system of Ligula intestinalis and Abramis brama and the effect of the parasite on fish muscle composition
Authors: Palíková Miroslava , Navrátil Stanislav , Dvořáková Andrea , Bedáňová Iveta , Mareš Jan , Čelechovská Olga
Published: June 2014

The bioaccumulation potential of parasites resulting from the competition for chemical elements including heavy metals represents a valuable instrument of evaluating the functions of the parasite-host system. In the present study, the effect of the parasite-host system of Ligula intestinalis and Abramis brama on the mercury concentrations and fish muscle composition of infected and non-infected fish was evaluated. Nine parasitized and seven non-parasitized fish were studied. The total mercury content in the samples was determined by the atomic-absorption spectrophotometry method. Standard indicators of the chemical composition of muscles (dry matter, crude protein, fats, and ash) and a spectrum of fatty acids were evaluated. The mean mercury concentration in the biomass of plerocercoids was 0.045 ± 0.025 mg·kg-1; about × 7 lower compared to fish muscles. The mean mercury concentration in the muscles of infected and non-infected fish was 0.36 ± 0.11 and 0.24 ± 0.1, respectively. There was no difference in the composition of fish muscles and the spectrum of fatty acids. Ligula intestinalis takes nutrients from the fish body but according to the results of our study, the withdrawal of the monitored nutrients was uniform without any selection. Mercury is not efficiently accumulated by plerocercoids of Ligula intestinalis. This study brings novel data for this heavy metal and for this parasite host system.
Induction of accessory corpus luteum in cows by gonadotropin-releasing hormone administrated after insemination
Authors: Musilová Darja , Bartoněk Jan , Čech Svatopluk , Páleník Tomáš , Doležel Radovan
Published: June 2014

Sufficiency of progesterone limits conception rate in dairy cows. This study evaluates the effect of gonadotropin-releasing hormone on induction of accessory corpus luteum, progesterone concentrations and pregnancy in dairy cows. The hormone (0.05 mg) was administrated intramuscularly to cows with one corpus luteum on day 5–7 (Group E1, n = 57) or 11–13 (Group E2, n = 40) after insemination; control groups C1 (n = 54) and C2 (n = 41) were not treated. Detection of pregnancy by ultrasound examination and measurement of serum progesterone concentration was performed on day 25–39 and around day 90 after insemination. The occurrences of two corpora lutea in groups E1 and E2 versus C1 and C2 were 43.9% and 33.5% vs. 3.7% and 9.8% (P < 0.001). Progesterone concentrations were 5.9 ± 2.92 ng/ml and 7.8 ± 2.35 ng/ml in untreated and treated cows (P = 0.016), respectively. Conception rates in groups E1 and E2 were 100% and 86.7% in cows bearing two corpora lutea, and only 16.7% and 38.9% in cows bearing one corpus luteum (P < 0.01); similarly as in groups E1 and E2 compared to groups C1 and C2 (49.1% and 50% vs. 50% and 31.7%). Pregnancy rates around day 90 in groups E1 and E2 compared to groups C1 and C2 were 45.6% and 45% vs. 42.6% and 26.8%, respectively. Administration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone on day 5–7 or 11–13 after insemination was efficient to induce accessory corpus luteum and increase the concentration of serum progesterone but had no effect on the conception rate.
Relationship between serum iron and insulin-like growth factor-I concentrations in 10-day-old calves
Authors: Prodanović Radiša , Kirovski Danijela , Vujanac Ivan , Dodovski Petar , Jovanović Ljubomir , Šamanc Horea
Published: June 2014

Newborn calves are often deficient in iron and progressive reduction in blood iron concentration occurs over the first weeks of life. Some reports indicate the importance of interactions among iron and components of the insulin-like growth factor system. The aim of the study was to determine if there is a relationship between serum iron and insulin-like growth factor-I concentrations in neonatal calves. Blood samples were collected from 16 female Holstein-Friesian calves on day 10 of age. Erythrogram determination and measurements of serum iron, total protein, albumin, total iron binding capacity and serum insulin-like growth factor-I concentrations were performed. Haematological values were measured using an automatic analyzer, biochemical properties were determined spectrophotometrically, insulin-like growth factor-I concentration was measured by radioimmunoassay. Calves were divided into 2 groups according to iron concentrations; the first group of iron-deficient calves (n = 8, Fe < 10 μmol/l) and the second group of calves with optimal iron concentration (n = 8, Fe > 18 μmol/l). Blood indicators in all calves from the first group followed a pattern typically observed in anaemic calves. Insulin-like growth factor-I concentrations were significantly (P < 0.01) lower in the first group compared to the second group. However, insulin-like growth factor-I very strongly correlated with iron in calves from the second group compared to iron-deficient calves (r = 0.624; P < 0.01 and r = 0.478; P > 0.05, respectively). Based on our results, iron seems to have an important relationship to secretion of insulin-like growth factor-I in 10-day-old calves. This is the first report about such relationship in this age group of animals.
Effects of the tiletamine/zolazepam-xylazine-tramadol combination on plasma oxidative status and haematological indicators in miniature pigs
Authors: Jiang Sheng , Fan Hong-Gang , Lu De-Zhang , Hou Jin-Long , Song Xu-Dong , Wang Yue , Wang Hong-Bin
Published: June 2014

Oxidative stress in the body occurs when the production of free radicals overwhelms the antioxidant defence systems. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a tiletamine/zolazepam-xylazine-tramadol combination on the antioxidant status, lipoperoxidase and blood cell indicators in eight miniature pigs. Baseline measures were recorded prior to anaesthesia, then the animals were anaesthetized with the combination of tiletamine/zolazepam (3.5 mg/kg), xylazine (1.32 mg/kg), and tramadol (1.8 mg/kg). Blood samples were collected from the anterior vena cava at 15, 30, 60, 90, 120 min, 24 h, and 72 h after anaesthesia. Plasma malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase concentrations were measured by colorimetry, and red blood cell counts, white blood cell counts, haemoglobin and packed cell volume were determined using an automated cell counter. The results showed that the concentration of malondialdehyde increased significantly at 30 and 60 min after the injection (P< 0.05), whereas glutathione peroxidase and catalase activity increased slightly (P> 0.05) then returned to baseline values after 90 min (P> 0.05). Superoxide dismutase activity increased significantly (P< 0.05) at 30 and 60 min, and then gradually decreased to baseline values after 90 min. Changes in red blood cell counts, haemoglobin and packed cell volume were not significant, while white blood cell count decreased significantly (P< 0.05) at 30 and 60 min. Our study is the first to demonstrate that tiletamine/zolazepam-xylazine-tramadol provide antioxidant effects, which may be proposed for alleviating the stress of examination and research at veterinary clinics or long-distance transportation.
Comparison of chemical, microbiological and histological changes in fresh, frozen and double frozen rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Popelka Peter , Nagy Jozef , Pipová Monika , Marcinčák Slavomír , Lenhardt Ľudovít
Published: June 2014

The final quality of fish meat depends on the chemical and microbiological quality of fish at the time of freezing as well as on other factors including storage temperature and freezing rate. Analysis of chemical composition (water, protein and fat content), expressible drip, total volatile nitrogen levels, microbiological analyses (total viable counts, Enterobacteriaceae, psychrotrophic bacteria) and histological examinations on dorsal skeletal muscles were carried out to distinguish fresh, frozen and double frozen rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Significantly higher expressible drip and total volatile base nitrogen concentrations (P < 0.05) were observed in frozen and double frozen trout, whereas chemical composition of fresh fish muscles was not significantly affected by freezing. The highest total viable counts, counts of Enterobacteriaceae and psychrotrophic bacteria were determined in double frozen trout. The light microscopy of fresh trout muscles did not show any microstructural changes, whereas deformations of muscle fibres and optically empty areas were found in frozen trout. Remarkable defects of the muscle structure in double frozen trout were demonstrated and total disruption of muscle fibres was found. The freezing of trout resulted in various structural changes in the dorsal skeletal musculature. This is a first study comparing changes in fresh, frozen and repeatedly frozen trout. Chemical, microbiological and subsequent histological examinations can be used for revealing the foul practices confusing the consumer with offering thawed fish instead of fresh cooled fish.
Reconciliation with the River: Analysis of a Concept Emerging from Practice
Authors: Ziegler Rafael
Published: June 2014

The European Rivers Network (ERN) calls for the ‘reconciliation of citizens with their rivers and lakes’, as a necessary step for freshwater protection and restoration of rivers. It co-ordinates annual river-bathing days with collective river jumps; upstream and downstream, across Europe, citizens simultaneously jump into rivers and lakes. But what is ‘reconciliation with the river'? This paper analyses that concept as the acknowledging and restoring of distorted, marginalised or blocked capabilities, and, based on this analysis, critically discusses the practical contribution which the ERN makes to ‘reconciliation with the river’.
The Story of the French Touch on "Immatériels": A Retrospective
Authors: Gumb Bernard , Fustec Alan
Published: June 2014

The present paper aims to trace the recent tendencies, in France, around the concept of "actifs immatériels", including both intangible assets and intellectual capital. In its first part we develop semantic and contextual specificities which might explain the late engagement on such topics by French scholars. The second part is about observed trends and initiatives, some in which the authors were involved. The section has two parts, one on academic and institutional initiatives and the other on corporations and individuals who have entered the field, especially after 2006. The third part comes to critical perspectives on intangibles, leading to a discussion where the broad concept of actifs immatériels provides a framework for understanding economics not only on the company level, but also on the state level. The resulting "dialectic immaterialism" thus provides a relevant rereading of new capitalism.
Regulating through the "Logic of Appropriateness" and the "Rhetoric of the Expert": The Role of Consultants in the Case of Intangibles Reporting in Germany
Authors: Girella Laura
Published: June 2014

The paper provides some insights into the rationales, processes and actors according to which Intangibles Reporting (IR) has reached a (soft) regulatory stage in the German business context since the mid 2000's. It draws on the "logic of appropriateness" (March and Olsen, 1992; 1997) combined with the "rhetoric of the expert" (Czarniawska, 1997) in order to examine the documents published in relation to IR. The analysis demonstrates how in Germany this (soft) regulation of reporting of these resources has been mainly realized by a group of management consultants. It is of a particular interest that in the Guidelines they have devised and promoted, the ad hoc organizational figure, the moderator, that has been identified as central for the proposed intangibles reporting does not belong to the accounting domain. This way, the work contributes and expands on previous debates in relation to the "professional jurisdiction" that has made claim throughout the arena of Intangibles by accountants (Napier and Power, 1992; Power, 2006), illustrating an example of an alternative site in which its professionalization and regulation can occur (Cooper and Robson, 2006). Specifically, it is suggested that the actors and the ways in which regulation is created and perpetuated have sometimes to be disentangled from the ones created within the accounting field.
Habenaria nicobarica (Orchidaceae), A new species from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India
Authors: Murugan C. , Alappatt Joju P. , Prabhu S. , Arisdason W.
Published: June 2014

A new species of terrestrial orchid Habenaria nicobarica Murugan, Alappatt, Prabhu & Arisdason sp. nov. is described from South Nicobar Islands. Key to species of Habenaria in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, illustration and photograph of the new species are also provided.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpt.v21i1.19271Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 21(1): 77-81, 2014 (June)
Oberonia acaulis Griff. var. latipetala (Orchidaceae) - A new variety from Manipur, India
Authors: Chowlu K. , Nanda Y. , Rao A. Nageswara
Published: June 2014

Not availableDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpt.v21i1.19273Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 21(1): 93-95, 2014 (June)
The Marsili Volcanic Seamount (Southern Tyrrhenian Sea): A Potential Offshore Geothermal Resource
Authors: Italiano Francesco , De Santis Angelo , Favali Paolo , Rainone Mario , Rusi Sergio , Signanini Patrizio
Published: June 2014

Italy has a strong geothermal potential for power generation, although, at present, the only two geothermal fields being exploited are Larderello-Travale/Radicondoli and Mt. Amiata in the Tyrrhenian pre-Apennine volcanic district of Southern Tuscany. A new target for geothermal exploration and exploitation in Italy is represented by the Southern Tyrrhenian submarine volcanic district, a geologically young basin (Upper Pliocene-Pleistocene) characterised by tectonic extension where many seamounts have developed. Heat-flow data from that area show significant anomalies comparable to those of onshore geothermal fields. Fractured basaltic rocks facilitate seawater infiltration and circulation of hot water chemically altered by rock/water interactions, as shown by the widespread presence of hydrothermal deposits. The persistence of active hydrothermal activity is consistently shown by many different sources of evidence, including: heat-flow data, gravity and magnetic anomalies, widespread presence of hydrothermal-derived gases (CO2, CO, CH4), 3He/4He isotopic ratios, as well as broadband OBS/H seismological information, which demonstrates persistence of volcano-tectonic events and High Frequency Tremor (HFT). The Marsili and Tyrrhenian seamounts are thus an important—and likely long-lasting-renewable energy resource. This raises the possibility of future development of the world’s first offshore geothermal power plant.
New Approach to Fuelization of Herbaceous Lignocelluloses through Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation Followed by Photocatalytic Reforming
Authors: Yasuda Masahide , Kurogi Ryo , Tsumagari Hikaru , Shiragami Tsutomu , Matsumoto Tomoko
Published: June 2014

Bio-fuelization of herbaceous lignocelluloses through a simultaneous saccharification and fermentation process (SSF) and photocatalytic reforming (photo-Reform) was examined. The SSF of the alkali-pretreated bamboo, rice straw, and silvergrass was performed in an acetate buffer (pH 5.0) using cellulase, xylanase, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae at 34 °C. Ethanol was produced in 63%–85% yields, while xylose was produced in 74%–97% yields without being fermented because xylose cannot be fermented by S. cerevisiae. After the removal of ethanol from the aqueous SSF solution, the SSF solution was subjected to a photo-Reform step where xylose was transformed into hydrogen by a photocatalytic reaction using Pt-loaded TiO2 (2 wt % of Pt content) under irradiation by a high pressure mercury lamp. The photo-Reform process produced hydrogen in nearly a yield of ten theoretical equivalents to xylose. Total energy was recovered as ethanol and hydrogen whose combustion energy was 73.4%–91.1% of that of the alkali-pretreated lignocelluloses (holocellulose).
The Contribution of Multiple Use Forest Management to Small Farmers’ Annual Incomes in the Eastern Amazon
Authors: Sist Plinio , Sablayrolles Philippe , Barthelon Sophie , Sousa-Ota Liz , Kibler Jean-François , Ruschel Ademir , Santos-Melo Marcelo , Ezzine-de-Blas Driss
Published: June 2014

Small-scale farmers in the Brazilian Amazon collectively hold tenure over more than 12 million ha of permanent forest reserves, as required by the Forest Code. The trade-off between forest conservation and other land uses entails opportunity costs for them and for the country, which have not been sufficiently studied. We assessed the potential income generated by multiple use forest management for farmers and compared it to the income potentially derived from six other agricultural land uses. Income from the forest was from (i) logging, carried out by a logging company in partnership with farmers’ associations; and (ii) harvesting the seeds of Carapa guianensis (local name andiroba) for the production of oil. We then compared the income generated by multiple-use forest management with the income from different types of agrarian systems. According to our calculations in this study, the mean annual economic benefits from multiple forest use are the same as the least productive agrarian system, but only 25% of the annual income generated by the most productive system. Although the income generated by logging may be considered low when calculated on an annual basis and compared to incomes generated by agriculture, the one-time payment after logging is significant (US$5,800 to US$33,508) and could be used to implement more intensive and productive cropping systems such as planting black pepper. The income from forest management could also be used to establish permanent fields in deforested areas for highly productive annual crops using conservation agriculture techniques. These techniques are alternatives to the traditional land use based on periodic clearing of the forest. Nevertheless, the shift in current practices towards adoption of more sustainable conservation agriculture techniques will also require the technical and legal support of the State to help small farmers apply these alternatives, which aim to integrate forest management in sustainable agricultural production systems.
Using Rasch Modeling to Re-Evaluate Rapid Malaria Diagnosis Test Analyses
Authors: Ayele Dawit , Zewotir Temesgen , Mwambi Henry
Published: June 2014

The objective of this study was to demonstrate the use of the Rasch model by assessing the appropriateness of the demographic, social-economic and geographic factors in providing a total score in malaria RDT in accordance with the model’s expectations. The baseline malaria indicator survey was conducted in Amhara, Oromiya and Southern Nation Nationalities and People (SNNP) regions of Ethiopia by The Carter Center in 2007. The result shows high reliability and little disordering of thresholds with no evidence of differential item functioning.
Effects of Socio-Demographic, Personality and Medical Factors on Quality of Life of Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Wieder-Huszla Sylwia , Szkup Małgorzata , Jurczak Anna , Samochowiec Agnieszka , Samochowiec Jerzy , Stanisławska Marzanna , Rotter Iwona , Karakiewicz Beata , Grochans Elżbieta
Published: June 2014

Numerous studies show that changes occurring in a woman’s organism during menopause may lower her quality of life. This study involved 630 healthy postmenopausal women from Poland. Its purpose was to assess their quality of life in relation to socio-demographic variables, medical data and personality profiles. The authors used the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) to assess quality of life, the NEO-Five Factor Inventory to measure personality traits, and the Blatt-Kupperman Menopausal Index to estimate severity of climacteric symptoms. The study demonstrated significant relationships between quality of life and variables such as: age, education, employment status, and the use of menopausal hormone therapy. An analysis of personality traits revealed correlations between the openness to experience scores and the quality of life within physical functioning, vitality, and mental health. Neuroticism, agreeableness and extroversion significantly correlated with all quality of life domains. Conclusions: (1) Age, education and employment status have significant effects on the selected quality of life domains after menopause. (2) Quality of life within the general health domain was assessed lower by MHT-users (Menopausal hormone theraphy (MHT)). (3) Health-related quality of life is also influenced by personality traits, which are relatively stable throughout life.
PSNO: Predicting Cysteine S-Nitrosylation Sites by Incorporating Various Sequence-Derived Features into the General Form of Chou’s PseAAC
Authors: Zhang Jian , Zhao Xiaowei , Sun Pingping , Ma Zhiqiang
Published: June 2014

S-nitrosylation (SNO) is one of the most universal reversible post-translational modifications involved in many biological processes. Malfunction or dysregulation of SNO leads to a series of severe diseases, such as developmental abnormalities and various diseases. Therefore, the identification of SNO sites (SNOs) provides insights into disease progression and drug development. In this paper, a new bioinformatics tool, named PSNO, is proposed to identify SNOs from protein sequences. Firstly, we explore various promising sequence-derived discriminative features, including the evolutionary profile, the predicted secondary structure and the physicochemical properties. Secondly, rather than simply combining the features, which may bring about information redundancy and unwanted noise, we use the relative entropy selection and incremental feature selection approach to select the optimal feature subsets. Thirdly, we train our model by the technique of the k-nearest neighbor algorithm. Using both informative features and an elaborate feature selection scheme, our method, PSNO, achieves good prediction performance with a mean Mathews correlation coefficient (MCC) value of about 0.5119 on the training dataset using 10-fold cross-validation. These results indicate that PSNO can be used as a competitive predictor among the state-of-the-art SNOs prediction tools. A web-server, named PSNO, which implements the proposed method, is freely available at http://59.73.198.144:8088/PSNO/.
Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Modulate Inflammatory Cytokines after Spinal Cord Injury in Rat
Authors: Urdzíková Lucia , Růžička Jiří , LaBagnara Michael , Kárová Kristýna , Kubinová Šárka , Jiráková Klára , Murali Raj , Syková Eva , Jhanwar-Uniyal Meena , Jendelová Pavla
Published: June 2014

Transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) improves functional recovery in experimental models of spinal cord injury (SCI); however, the mechanisms underlying this effect are not completely understood. We investigated the effect of intrathecal implantation of human MSC on functional recovery, astrogliosis and levels of inflammatory cytokines in rats using balloon-induced spinal cord compression lesions. Transplanted cells did not survive at the lesion site of the spinal cord; however, functional recovery was enhanced in the MSC-treated group as was confirmed by the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) and the flat beam test. Morphometric analysis showed a significantly higher amount of remaining white matter in the cranial part of the lesioned spinal cords. Immunohistochemical analysis of the lesions indicated the rearrangement of the glial scar in MSC-treated animals. Real-time PCR analysis revealed an increased expression of Irf5, Mrc1, Fgf2, Gap43 and Gfap. Transplantation of MSCs into a lesioned spinal cord reduced TNFα, IL-4, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6 and IL-12 and increased the levels of MIP-1α and RANTES when compared to saline-treated controls. Intrathecal implantation of MSCs reduces the inflammatory reaction and apoptosis, improves functional recovery and modulates glial scar formation after SCI, regardless of cell survival. Therefore, repeated applications may prolong the beneficial effects induced by MSC application.