bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic nature and contradictions of venture capital development in Russian economy.
Authors: Угнич  , Ugnich Ekaterina
Published: August 2013

The guarantee of steady social and economic development of the country is possible within the frameworks of dynamically developing innovative progressive economy. Venture capital is the important factor of increase in efficiency of economic transformation, achieved in many countries by means of conversion of national economy into innovative way of development. In Russia importance of the development of venture financing is connected with the fact that before the domestic economy it stands the sharpest problem of the sources of capital for the development of innovation enterprises in start-up. The impulse of development of venture capital is considered to be the resolution of contradictions which become obvious in interaction of its subjects. The resolution of contradictions of venture capital development and intensification of innovative activity depend in many respects on formed institutional conditions in the country.
Applications of Feed-Forward Neural Network to Study Irregular-Shape Particle Effects on Hydrodynamics Behavior in a Liquid–Solid Circulating Fluidized Bed Riser
Authors: Razzak Shaikh Abdur
Published: August 2013

Feed-forward neural network (FFNN) modeling techniques are applied to study the flow behavior of different-size irregular-shape particles in a pilot scale liquid–solid circulating fluidized bed (LSCFB) riser. The adequacy of the developed model is examined by comparing the model predictions with experimental data obtained from the LSCFB using lava rocks (dmean 500 and 920 µm) and water as solids and liquid phases, respectively. Axial and radial solid holdup profiles are measured in the riser at four axial locations (H 1, 2, 3 and 3.8 m above the distributor) above the liquid distributor for different operating liquids. In the model training, the effects of various auxiliary and primary liquid velocities, superficial liquid velocities and superficial solid velocities on radial phase distribution at different axial positions are considered. For model validation along with other experimental parameters, dimensionless normalized superficial liquid velocities and net superficial liquid velocities are also introduced. The correlation coefficient values of the predicted output and the experimental data are found to be 0.95 and 0.94 for LR-500 and LR-920 particles, respectively which reflects the competency of the developed FFNN model.
Lagunas léxicas en latín
Authors: Rodríguez Antonio M. Martín
Published: August 2013

Within the field of structural semantics, there has been a series of excellent contributions to the subject of lexical gaps (places in the lexical structure of a language where we would expect to find unity-but do not find it). The theoretical work of H. Geckeler and others, however, has not been applied systematically to the study of Latin. In this article we present a first approximation to this subject.
Die Etymologie von caballus
Authors: Simon Zsolt
Published: August 2013

This study presents a new proposal for the so far uncertain etymology of Lat.
Mortality in Cushing's syndrome: data from 386 patients from a single tertiary referral center
Authors: Yaneva Maria , Kalinov Krassimir , Zacharieva Sabina
Published: August 2013

Objective

Data on the incidence, mortality, and causes of death in patients with Cushing's syndrome (CS) are scarce, due to the rarity of CS. The aim of the study was to analyze mortality in a large cohort of patients of all etiologies and to determine the cause of death.

Design

This was a retrospective study of patients with CS, treated over a period of 45 years in the main tertiary referral center in Bulgaria.

Methods

Three hundred and eighty-six patients with CS of all etiologies were included. The main outcome measures were the standardized mortality ratio (SMR) and the cause of death.

Results

Mean (±s.d.) age at diagnosis was 38±13 years; 84% of patients were women; mean follow-up was 85 months (range: 0–494 months). The SMR in the CS cohort was 4.05 (95% CI 2.50–5.80) (P<0.0001). The following subgroups did not have a significantly increased SMR: patients with Cushing's disease SMR – 1.88 (95% CI 0.69–4.08), adrenal adenomas 1.67 (95% CI 0.20–6.02), and ACTH-independent bilateral adrenal hyperplasia 1.14 (95% CI 0.21–6.34). Patients with adrenal carcinomas, ectopic CS, and those with CS of undetermined etiology had significantly increased SMR: 48.00 (95% CI 30.75–71.42), 13.33 (95% CI 0.00–24.59), and 4.00 (95% CI 0.48–14.45) respectively (P<0.0001). The significant predictors for mortality were active disease at death, age, male sex, etiology of the disease, and the overall duration of active disease. The major causes of death were vascular events (40%) – cardiovascular 29%, and cerebrovascular 11% – followed by infections (12%).

Conclusions

Patients with CS have increased mortality due to vascular events and infections.
A 10-year analysis of thyrotoxic periodic paralysis in 135 patients: focus on symptomatology and precipitants
Authors: Chang Chin-Chun , Cheng Chih-Jen , Sung Chih-Chien , Chiueh Tzong-Shi , Lee Chien-Hsing , Chau Tom , Lin Shih-Hua
Published: August 2013

Background

A comprehensive analysis has not been performed on patients with thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) characterized by acute hypokalemia and paralysis in the setting of thyrotoxicosis.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to analyze the detailed symptomatology of thyrotoxicosis and precipitating factors for the attack in a large cohort of TPP patients.

Patients and methods

A prospective observational study enrolled patients with TPP consecutively over 10 years at an academic medical center. Clinical features, including signs/symptoms of thyrotoxicosis and precipitating factors, were analyzed. The Wayne's index was used to assess the severity of thyrotoxicosis at presentation. Patients who agreed to receive an oral glucose-loading test after recovery were evaluated.

Results

Among the 135 TPP patients (male:female, 130:5), 70% of paralytic attacks occurred in the morning, especially during the seasons of summer and fall. Two-thirds of patients did not have a known family or personal history of hyperthyroidism. Only 17% of TPP patients manifested overt signs/symptoms of thyrotoxicosis (Wayne's index >19). A clear precipitating factor, such as high carbohydrate load, acute upper respiratory tract infection, strenuous exercise, high-salt diet, or the use of steroids or bronchodilators, was identified in only 34% of TPP patients. A glucose load to stimulate insulin secretion induced acute hypokalemia (K+2.47±0.6 mmol/l) with reparalysis in only 18% (10/55) of TPP patients.

Conclusions

Most TPP patients have only subtle clinical signs/symptoms of thyrotoxicosis and only a small fraction has clear precipitating factors. In addition to the effects of hyperinsulinemia, other insulin-independent mechanisms may participate in the pathogenesis of TPP.
Characterization of the novel duplicated PRLR gene at the late-feathering K locus in Lohmann chickens
Authors: Bu Guixian , Huang Guian , Fu Hao , Li Juan , Huang Simiao , Wang Yajun
Published: August 2013

A partial duplication of the prolactin (PRL) receptor gene (designated asdPRLR) has been identified at the late-feathering (LF)Klocus on chromosome Z of some chicken strains recently, implying thatdPRLRis probably a candidate gene associated with LF development in chickens. However, little is known about the structure, functionality, and spatiotemporal expression of thedPRLRgene in chickens. In this study, using 3′-RACE and RT-PCR, the full-length cDNA of thedPRLRobtained from the kidneys of male Lohmann layer chickens carrying aKallele was cloned. The cloneddPRLRis predicted to encode a membrane-spanning receptor of 683 amino acids, which is nearly identical to the original PRLR, except for its lack of a 149-amino acid C-terminal tail. Using a 5× STAT5–Luciferase reporter system and western blot analysis, we demonstrated that dPRLR expressed in HepG2 cells could be potently activated by chicken PRL and functionally coupled to the intracellular STAT5 signaling pathway, suggesting that dPRLR may function as a novel receptor for PRL. RT-PCR assays revealed that similar to the originalPRLRgene,dPRLRmRNA is widely expressed in all embryonic and adult tissues examined including the skin of male Lohmann chickens with aKallele. These findings, together with the expression ofPRLmRNA detected in the skin of embryos at embryonic day 20 and 1-week-old chicks, suggest that skin-expressed dPRLR and PRLR, together with plasma and skin-derived PRL, may be involved in the control of the LF development of chicks at hatching. Moreover, the wide tissue expression ofdPRLRimplies that dPRLR may regulate other physiological processes of chickens carrying theKallele.
Gender Differences in Physiologic Markers and Health Behaviors Associated With Childhood Obesity
Authors: Govindan Morgen , Gurm Roopa , Mohan Sathish , Kline-Rogers Eva , Corriveau Nicole , Goldberg Caren , DuRussel-Weston Jean , Eagle Kim A. , Jackson Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2013

BACKGROUND:

Previous studies have demonstrated gender-related differences in body composition, physical activity, and diet. This observational study assesses gender variance in independent predictors for obesity to determine targeted areas for intervention.

METHODS:

Data from 1714 sixth-grade students enrolled in Project Healthy Schools were compared by using health behaviors and physiologic markers (lipids, random glucose, blood pressure, and resting and recovery heart rates). Students were stratified by gender and obesity (BMI ≥95th percentile by age and gender). Physiologic markers and behaviors were compared by using χ2 analysis. Univariate associations with P < .10 were included in a stepwise logistic regression model to determine independent predictors for obesity by gender.

RESULTS:

Nonobese students (both boys and girls) showed significantly healthier physiologic parameters compared with their obese counterparts. Two behaviors independently correlated with obesity in both boys and girls: regularly eating school lunches (odds ratio [OR] 1.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–1.64; OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.00–1.62, respectively) and watching ≥2 hours of television per day (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.07–1.32; OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.06–1.34, respectively). Vigorous physical activity and involvement in school sports teams appeared to be protective against obesity in boys (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.82–0.98; OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.64–0.94, respectively), whereas milk consumption appeared protective in girls (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.67–0.98).

CONCLUSIONS:

Among middle-school children, we observed gender-related differences in factors associated with obesity. Additional research is warranted to determine the beneficial impact of improving school lunches and decreasing screen time, while improving our understanding of gender-related differences in milk consumption and physical activities in relation to BMI.
Adolescent and Young Adult Male Health: A Review
Authors: Bell David L. , Breland David J. , Ott Mary A.
Published: August 2013

Adolescent and young adult male health receives little attention, despite the potential for positive effects on adult quality and length of life and reduction of health disparities and social inequalities. Pediatric providers, as the medical home for adolescents, are well positioned to address young men’s health needs. This review has 2 primary objectives. The first is to review the literature on young men’s health, focusing on morbidity and mortality in key areas of health and well-being. The second is to provide a clinically relevant review of the best practices in young men’s health. This review covers male health issues related to health care access and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Healthy 2020 objectives for adolescents and young adults, focusing on the objectives for chronic illness, mortality, unintentional injury and violence, mental health and substance use, and reproductive and sexual health. We focus, in particular, on gender-specific issues, particularly in reproductive and sexual health. The review provides recommendations for the overall care of adolescent and young adult males.
First Successful Use of Eltrombopag Before Surgery in a Child With MYH9-Related Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Favier Remi , Feriel Joffrey , Favier Marie , Denoyelle Françoise , Martignetti John A.
Published: August 2013

MYH9-related disease (MYH9-RD) is one of the most frequent autosomal-dominant forms of inherited macrothrombocytopenias and is caused by mutations in MYH9 (nonmuscle myosin IIA), the gene coding for the heavy chain of the nonmuscle myosin IIA. Affected individuals can present with isolated thrombocytopenia, and whereas only some will have bleeding events requiring intervention, nearly all will require the use of prophylactic platelet transfusions before surgery. Here we report the first prophylactic use of eltrombopag before surgery in a child with MYH9-RD. Our patient was a 13-year-old girl with an MYH9 S96L missense mutation who required a tympanoplasty due to chronic otitis media. Pretreatment microscopic platelet count was 10 × 109/L. The child was treated with eltrombopag starting 4 weeks before her planned surgery. On the day of surgery her platelet count was 70 × 109/L. She required no platelet transfusions and no abnormal bleeding was reported either during surgery or postoperatively. Given these results, the first reported in a child, we suggest that the use of this thrombopoietic agent should be further evaluated as a useful presurgical prophylactic option in this hereditary thrombocytopenia, thus avoiding the use of platelet transfusions and their associated risks, which include alloimmunization and the transmission of infectious agents.
Two-Year Outcomes of a Randomized Controlled Trial of Inhaled Nitric Oxide in Premature Infants
Authors: Durrmeyer Xavier , Hummler Helmut , Sanchez-Luna Manuel , Carnielli Virgilio P. , Field David , Greenough Anne , Van Overmeire Bart , Jonsson Baldvin , Hallman Mikko , Mercier Jean-Christophe , Marlow Neil , Johnson Samantha , Baldassarre James
Published: August 2013

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The European Union Nitric Oxide trial was designed to assess the potential benefits of inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) compared with placebo in infants with respiratory failure. This follow-up study evaluated respiratory, neurodevelopmental, and other outcomes for infants entered into the European Union Nitric Oxide trial to age 2 years.

METHODS:

In a multicenter, randomized, double-blind study, preterm infants born at <29 weeks’ gestation with moderate respiratory failure were allocated to receive iNO (5 ppm) or placebo for 7 to 21 days. Subjects underwent assessments at 1 and 2 years corrected for prematurity.

RESULTS:

At 36 weeks’ postmenstrual age, 696 of 792 infants were alive; 4 in the iNO arm subsequently died before age 2 years compared with 7 in the control arm. We evaluated 95% of the survivors at 12 months and 90% at 2 years. In the iNO arm, 244 of 363 (67.2%) infants had survived without disability at age 2 years compared with 270 of 374 (72.2%) who received placebo (P = .094). Mean (SD) cognitive composite scores (Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, third edition) were 94 (13) in the iNO group and 95 (14) in the placebo group; in the iNO group, 19% scored <85 and 9.5% developed cerebral palsy compared with 13.3% and 9%, respectively. There were no significant differences in hospitalizations overall or due to respiratory illness in use of home oxygen therapy or respiratory medications, in growth, or in other health outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS:

At 2 years of age, low-dose (5 ppm) iNO started early (<24 hours after birth) for a median of 20 days did not affect neurodevelopmental or other health outcomes.
Rotavirus Vaccination of Very Low Birth Weight Infants at Discharge From the NICU
Authors: Stumpf Katherine A. , Thompson Tami , Sánchez Pablo J.
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE:

Preterm infants are at increased risk of severe rotavirus gastroenteritis. Although immunization with rotavirus vaccine is safe and effective, age restrictions limit the number of infants eligible for vaccination at discharge from the NICU. The objectives of this study were to assess the implementation of the rotavirus vaccine program in our NICU, recognize missed opportunities for vaccination, and document how often very low birth weight (VLBW; birth weight ≤1500 g) and extremely low birth weight (ELBW; birth weight <1000 g) infants were eligible to receive rotavirus vaccine at the time of NICU discharge.

METHODS:

This study reports on a prospective, observational cohort of all VLBW infants who were discharged from the NICU at Parkland Memorial Hospital from May 2008 to April 2010. Medical records were reviewed and data collected regarding the number of infants who were eligible for and received rotavirus vaccination at discharge.

RESULTS:

A total of 63% (135 of 213) of VLBW infants did not receive rotavirus vaccine. The reasons for not providing vaccine included the following: <42 days of age at discharge (56 of 213; 26%), >84 or 104 days of age at discharge (48 of 213; 23%), or missed (35 of 213; 16%). The majority (75%) who were too old for vaccination at the time of discharge were ELBW.

CONCLUSIONS:

The current age restrictions for rotavirus immunization resulted in more than half of ELBW infants being ineligible for vaccination at the time of discharge from the NICU. Alternative strategies for rotavirus immunization in this population are needed.
Factors Associated With Late Detection of Critical Congenital Heart Disease in Newborns
Authors: Dawson April L. , Cassell Cynthia H. , Riehle-Colarusso Tiffany , Grosse Scott D. , Tanner Jean Paul , Kirby Russell S. , Watkins Sharon M. , Correia Jane A. , Olney Richard S.
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVES:

Critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) was recently added to the US Recommended Uniform Screening Panel for newborns. This study assessed whether maternal/household and infant characteristics were associated with late CCHD detection.

METHODS:

This was a statewide, population-based, retrospective, observational study of infants with CCHD born between 1998 and 2007 identified by using the Florida Birth Defects Registry. We examined 12 CCHD conditions that are primary and secondary targets of newborn CCHD screening using pulse oximetry. We used Poisson regression models to analyze associations between selected characteristics (eg, CCHD type, birth hospital nursery level [highest level available in the hospital]) and late CCHD detection (defined as diagnosis after the birth hospitalization).

RESULTS:

Of 3603 infants with CCHD and linked hospitalizations, CCHD was not detected during the birth hospitalization for 22.9% (n = 825) of infants. The likelihood of late detection varied by CCHD condition. Infants born in a birth hospital with a level I nursery only (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.9 [95% confidence interval: 1.6–2.2]) or level II nursery (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.5 [95% confidence interval: 1.3–1.7]) were significantly more likely to have late-detected CCHD compared with infants born in a birth hospital with a level III (highest) nursery.

CONCLUSIONS:

After controlling for the selected characteristics, hospital nursery level seems to have an independent association with late CCHD detection. Thus, perhaps universal newborn screening for CCHD could be particularly beneficial in level I and II nurseries and may reduce differences in the frequency of late diagnosis between birth hospital facilities.
Ficção científica e o Admirável mundo novo: previsões concretizadas no atual século e considerações bioéticas
Authors: Santos Ana Carolina Clemente dos , Amorim Neto Thomaz Pereira de , Góes Andréa Carla de Souza
Published: August 2013

A celeridade com que a ciência gera resultados na sociedade moderna torna necessária uma reflexão sobre os limites da aplicação do progresso científico. Essa é a discussão de base de Admirável mundo novo, livro de Aldous Huxley publicado em 1932, que retrata uma futura sociedade tecnológica nos moldes do fordismo. Este artigo estabelece uma relação entre a sociedade tecnocrata atual e a sociedade descrita por Huxley, discutindo a viabilidade dos aspectos técnicos e biológicos das manipulações narradas à luz dos conhecimentos atuais. São também elaboradas algumas considerações bioéticas sobre os procedimentos 'inventados' pelo autor e que já são, ou poderiam ser, desenvolvidos na sociedade moderna.
Peer Victimization and Sexual Risk Differences Between Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, or Questioning and Nontransgender Heterosexual Youths in Grades 7–12
Authors: Robinson Joseph P. , Espelage Dorothy L.
Published: August 2013

Objectives. Before and after accounting for peer victimization, we estimated sexual risk disparities between students who self-identified as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning (LGBTQ) and students who self-identified as nontransgender heterosexual.

Methods. Students in grades 7 through 12 in Dane County, Wisconsin, were given the Web-administered Dane County Youth Assessment. One set of analyses was based on a sample that included 11 337 students. Subsequent analyses were based on a sample from which we screened out students who may not have been responding to survey items truthfully. Various multilevel-modeling and propensity-score-matching strategies ensured robustness of the results, examined disparities at lower and higher victimization rates, and explored heterogeneity among LGBTQ-identified youths. Finally, propensity-score-matching strategies estimated LGBTQ–heterosexual disparities in 2 matched samples: a sample that reported higher victimization and one that reported lower victimization.

Results. Across 7 sexual risk outcomes, and in middle and high school, LGBTQ-identified youths reported engaging in riskier behavior than did heterosexual-identified youths after we accounted for peer victimization. Risk differentials were present in middle and high school. The LGBTQ group was heterogeneous, with lesbian/gay- and bisexual-identified youths generally appearing most risky, and questioning-identified youths least risky. In the matched sample with lower average victimization rates, LGBTQ-identified youths perceived a greater risk of sexually transmitted infections despite not engaging in sexually risky behavior at significantly higher rates; in the matched sample with higher average victimization rates, all outcomes were significantly different.

Conclusions. Demonstrated LGBTQ–heterosexual risk differentials in grades 7 through 8 suggest that interventions need to be implemented during middle school. These interventions should also be differentiated to address the unique risk patterns among LGBTQ subgroups. Finally, models of sexual risk disparities must expand beyond peer victimization.
Attachment and Severity of Grief: The Mediating Role of Negative Appraisal and Inflexible Coping
Authors: Delespaux Emily , Ryckebosch-Dayez Anne-Sophie , Heeren Alexandre , Zech Emmanuelle
Published: August 2013

According to the Dual Process Model of coping with bereavement (DPM; Stroebe & Schut, 1999), adjustment to bereavement involves a flexible oscillation between two types of coping strategies: loss-oriented (LO) and restoration-oriented (RO). This model postulates that extremely anxious or avoidant attachment disturbs the oscillation process by focusing more on one type of strategy, either LO or RO. The present study examined this assumption. We recruited 321 bereaved individuals who had lost a romantic partner. Our results showed that less negative appraisal of bereavement-related stressors, as well as higher use of RO strategies, mediated the link between attachment avoidance and low severity of grief reactions. However, the DPM variables were not found to mediate the link between attachment anxiety and elevated grief reactions. We discuss how these results provide an empirical basis of the DPM.
Brief implicit association test: Validity and utility in prediction of voting behavior
Authors: Pavlovic Masa , Zezelj Iris
Published: August 2013

We employed the Brief Implicit Association Test (a recently developed short
version of IAT) to measure implicit political attitudes toward four political
parties running for Serbian parliament. To test its criterion validity, we
measured voting intention and actual voting behavior. In addition, we
introduced political involvement as a potential moderator of the BIAT?s
predictive and incremental validity. The BIAT demonstrated good internal and
predictive validity, but lacked incremental validity over self-report
measures. Predictive power of the BIAT was moderated by political involvement
- the BIAT scores were stronger predictors of voting intention and behavior
among voters highly involved in politics.
Vital Signs, QT Prolongation, and Newly Diagnosed Cardiovascular Disease During Severe Hypoglycemia in Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Tsujimoto Tetsuro , Yamamoto-Honda Ritsuko , Kajio Hiroshi , Kishimoto Miyako , Noto Hiroshi , Hachiya Remi , Kimura Akio , Kakei Masafumi , Noda Mitsuhiko
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE

To assess vital signs, QT intervals, and newly diagnosed cardiovascular disease during severe hypoglycemia in diabetic patients.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

From January 2006 to March 2012, we conducted a retrospective cohort study to assess type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients with severe hypoglycemia at a national center in Japan. Severe hypoglycemia was defined as the presence of any hypoglycemic symptoms that could not be resolved by the patients themselves in prehospital settings.

RESULTS

A total of 59,602 cases that visited the emergency room by ambulance were screened, and 414 cases of severe hypoglycemia were analyzed. The median (interquartile range) blood glucose levels were not significantly different between the type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) (n = 88) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (n = 326) groups (32 [24–42] vs. 31 [24–39] mg/dL, P = 0.59). During severe hypoglycemia, the incidences of severe hypertension (≥180/120 mmHg), hypokalemia (<3.5 mEq/L), and QT prolongation were 19.8 and 38.8% (P = 0.001), 42.4 and 36.3% (P = 0.30), and 50.0 and 59.9% (P = 0.29) in the T1DM and T2DM groups, respectively. Newly diagnosed cardiovascular disease during severe hypoglycemia and death were only observed in the T2DM group (1.5 and 1.8%, respectively). Blood glucose levels between the deceased and surviving patients in the T2DM group were significantly different (18 [14–33] vs. 31 [24–39] mg/dL, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

T1DM and T2DM patients with severe hypoglycemia experienced many critical problems that could lead to cardiovascular disease, fatal arrhythmia, and death.
Quality indicators of roe deer (Capreolus capreolus L.) venison from two different Czech regions
Authors: Dominik Petr , Saláková Alena , Buchtová Hana , Steinhauser Ladislav
Published: August 2013

This study focused on differences in the monitored quality indicators of roe deer venison depending on the region of the Czech Republic where roe deer are hunted. Quality of roe deer venison was evaluated based on pH values, colour (CIEL*a*b* system) and chemical composition (content of haem pigments, dry matter, pure protein, collagen and fat). Samples of muscle from the leg (m. gluteus medius) were taken from 22 female roe deer (Capreolus capreolus L.) from two hunting regions (Liberec and South Moravia) in the Czech Republic. In roe deer from Liberec, higher pH value (5.65, P < 0.001) was found; muscles were darker (L* = 36.03), contained higher redness (a* = 14.41, P < 0.001) and yellowness values (b* = 12.10) and higher chroma (C* = 18.86). In roe deer from South Moravia, higher (P < 0.05) hue (h°) values, and higher level of haem pigments (2.45 mg·g-1) were found. Muscles from roe deer from South Moravia contained higher amounts of dry matter (29.52%, P < 0.001), pure protein (23.84%, P < 0.001) and total collagen (0.86%), and lower amounts of intramuscular fat (0.48%). These results may provide an important source of information for consumers of roe deer meat because several differences in the quality (chemical composition) of muscles from South Moravian region and Liberec region were found. Presumably, the differences between muscles from animals living in two different Czech regions were due to the diet, form of land use (more agricultural land in Southern Moravia, and forests and mountains in Liberec) and climatic conditions (Liberec lies in the northern part of the Czech Republic). It is the first study of this topic in the Czech Republic.
Heterofermentative process in dry fermented sausages - a case report
Authors: Kameník Josef , Dušková Marta , Saláková Alena , Šedo Ondrej
Published: August 2013

In certain circumstances the fermentation process in dry fermented sausages converts to heterofermentation pathway leading to acetic acid and carbon dioxide beside lactic acid. The study describes two cases of undesirable heterofermentation in dry sausages from two different producers. In the sausage samples (n = 7) the pH value and the content of lactic and acetic acids were measured. Microbial analysis focused on quantitative and qualitative detection of lactic acid bacteria. The acetic acid content varied from 24.28 to 67.41 µmol·g-1 dry matter, in the case of samples from the second producer the content of acetic acid (48.45 to 67.41 µmol·g-1 dry matter) was higher than the lactic acid content (20.98 to 29.02 µmol·g-1 dry matter). The lactobacilli strains from the sausages were assigned to the corresponding species by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption-Ionization – Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and classified to three groups according to the sugar fermentation pattern (obligately homofermentative, facultatively heterofermentative and obligately heterofermentative) and they caused the heterofermentation process in the samples of dry fermented sausages. The description of the case of heterofermentation process in dry sausages is unique and there is little information about this topic.
Vehicle Emission and Near-Road Air Quality Modeling for Shanghai, China
Authors: Liu Haobing , Chen Xiaohong , Wang Yuqin , Han Shu
Published: August 2013

In China, motor vehicle emissions have been identified as the major source of urban air pollution. Thus, estimation of emissions and their impact on air quality is necessary. Vehicle emissions vary strongly with region and depend on local vehicle operation and emission performance. This paper uses the MOVES (Motor Vehicle Emission Simulator) model, released by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, for the estimation of vehicle emission factors in Shanghai, China. To achieve a convincing emission result, vehicle operation is extracted from massive taxi Global Positioning System (GPS) data, and the emission inventory from MOVES is revised according to China's vehicle emission standards. In addition, deterioration factors are calculated on the basis of vehicle condition. Comprehensive emission factors are generated for Shanghai light-duty vehicles at various average speed levels. The results indicate that emission factors for hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and oxides of nitrogen of in-use light vehicles in China are 0.1 to 0.25 g/km, 4 to 7 g/km, and 0.4 to 0.8 g/km, respectively. These amounts are 15, 1.9, and 5.9 times higher than those in the United States, respectively. By 2012, the Environmental Protection Bureau had established 10 monitoring sites in Shanghai and released data for real-time concentrations of particulate matter less than 2.5 μm in diameter, particulate matter less than 10 μm in diameter, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide to the public. On the basis of the new release of data, a field study estimating near-road air quality was conducted with MOVES and the air dispersion model AERMOD. The concentration result shows that the accuracy of near-road NO2 estimation is improved with taxi GPS data and the revised MOVES emission inventory. The study explores the extended application of MOVES by offering a procedure for applying MOVES in non-U.S. regions.
Idle Monitoring, Real-Time Intervention, and Emission Reductions from Cobb County, Georgia, School Buses
Authors: Xu Yanzhi , Elango Vetri , Guensler Randall , Khoeini Sara
Published: August 2013

Georgia Institute of Technology researchers developed an idle detection and warning notification system that features Global Positioning System–based real-time tracking and a web-based user interface. Four hundred and eighty buses in the Cobb County (Georgia) School District were equipped with the idle detection system, and the research team provided bus dispatchers with a web-based system to track vehicle activity and provide notification of idle events exceeding 5 min. The idle detection and warning notification system can differentiate idling with engine on from key-on events with engine off, an important capability that sets it apart from previous systems that only detected key-on events. Idle reductions were monitored, and emissions and fuel savings were evaluated with the Environmental Protection Agency's MOVES (Motor Vehicle Emission Simulator) model. The idle reduction that resulted from implementing the system was statistically significant—more than 6 min of idle reduction per bus per day. Greater idle reduction could be achieved with more stringent implementation of the system. The anti-idle program reduced total annual emissions of criteria pollutants (oxides of nitrogen, particulate matter, and carbon monoxide) by 1.82 tons and annual emissions of carbon dioxide by 53.3 tons. Implementation throughout the school district would conserve 6,400 gal of diesel fuel. Approximately 41,100 children riding the buses or attending schools served by the buses were positively affected by the idle reduction system.
Quantifying the Greenhouse Gas Emissions of Local Collection-and-Delivery Points for Last-Mile Deliveries
Authors: Song Liying , Guan Wei , Cherrett Tom , Li Baowen
Published: August 2013

Concerns about the impacts of failed first-time home deliveries on road transport and the environment are growing because of the potential for additional vehicle trips for carriers and consumers. Local collection-and-delivery points (CDPs), at which consumers can collect their failed home deliveries, have emerged as a viable solution. On the basis of two databases of households from across Winchester and West Sussex in the United Kingdom and responses from nine major carriers, this paper quantifies greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from carrier and consumer trips related to the conventional delivery method, in which the carrier makes redelivery attempts when a delivery fails, and appraises the environmental benefits of CDP networks for handling delivery failures. The results suggest that most GHG emissions associated with handling failed home deliveries are generated by the carrier. The share of GHG emissions generated from consumers increases as the proportion of failed first-time home deliveries increases. A range of CDPs (supermarkets, railway stations, and post offices) was found to reduce the environmental impacts of failed home deliveries. A CDP network would reduce GHG emissions most effectively when (a) 30% or more of householders who experienced a failed first-time home delivery travel to the carrier's depot to retrieve goods, (b) the proportion of failed first-time home deliveries is significant, and (c) “local collect” post offices are used as CDPs. The study has practical and managerial implications for retailers and carriers about ways to improve home delivery services by identifying consumer home shopping behaviors and promoting more convenient and environmentally friendly delivery strategies.
Role of Heavy-Duty Freight Vehicles in Reducing Emissions on Congested Freeways with Elastic Travel Demand Functions
Authors: Bigazzi Alexander Y. , Figliozzi Miguel A.
Published: August 2013

This paper investigates the effect of heavy-duty (HD) vehicles (primarily road freight) on the traffic congestion–emissions relationship. Unlike previous studies, this research explicitly considers the effects of travel demand elasticity by vehicle class on total emissions. Modeling results show that, even as a small share of the traffic volume, HD vehicles can contribute a large share of total pollution emissions, especially for particulate matter and nitrogen oxides. HD vehicle emission rates are more sensitive to congestion than are light-duty (LD) vehicle emission rates, and thus greater emissions benefits may result from mitigating congestion for these vehicles. Potentially lower travel demand elasticity with respect to speed for HD vehicles further indicates vehicle class–specific benefits from congestion mitigation. Differences between LD and HD vehicles suggest greater air quality benefits from vehicle class–targeted congestion mitigation or lane and capacity management strategies. HD vehicle travel demand elasticity is a key parameter for predicting the net emissions effects of congestion. It is strongly recommended that analysis of emissions effects from congestion mitigation strategies include class-specific volume forecasts. However, the estimation of HD vehicle travel demand elasticity values has received scant attention in the literature.
The pathophysiology of venous hypertensive myelopathy—study of an animal model
Authors: Zhang Hong-Qi , Chen Tong , Wu Shao-Shuai , Teng Liang-Hong , Li Yong-Zhong , Sun Li-Yong , Zhang Zhi-Ping , Guo De-Yu , Lu De-Hong , Ling Feng
Published: August 2013

Object

The authors undertook this study to establish an animal model to investigate the pathophysiological changes of venous hypertensive myelopathy (VHM).

Methods

This study was a randomized control animal study with blinded evaluation. The VHM model was developed in 24 adult New Zealand white rabbits by means of renal artery and vein anastomosis and trapping of the posterior vena cava; 12 rabbits were subjected to sham surgery. The rabbits were investigated by spinal function evaluation, abdominal aortic angiography, spinal MRI, and pathological examination of the spinal cord at different follow-up stages.

Results

Twenty-two (91.67%) of 24 model rabbits survived the surgery and postoperative period. The patency rate of the arteriovenous fistula was 95.45% in these 22 animals. The model rabbits had significantly decreased motor and sensory hindlimb function as well as abnormalities at the corresponding segments of the spinal cord. Pathological examination showed dilation and hyalinization of the small blood vessels, perivascular and intraparenchymal lymphocyte infiltration, proliferation of glial cells, and neuronal degeneration. Electron microscopic examination showed loose lamellar structure of the myelin sheath, increased numbers of mitochondria in the thin myelinated fibers, and pyknotic neurons.

Conclusions

This model of VHM is stable and repeatable. Exploration of the sequential changes in spinal cord and blood vessels has provided improved understanding of this pathology, and the model may have potential for improving therapeutic results.
Uncertainty in Population Estimates for Endangered Animals and Improving the Recovery Process
Authors: Haines Aaron , Zak Matthew , Hammond Katie , Scott J. , Goble Dale , Rachlow Janet
Published: August 2013

United States recovery plans contain biological information for a species listed under the Endangered Species Act and specify recovery criteria to provide basis for species recovery. The objective of our study was to evaluate whether recovery plans provide uncertainty (e.g., variance) with estimates of population size. We reviewed all finalized recovery plans for listed terrestrial vertebrate species to record the following data: (1) if a current population size was given, (2) if a measure of uncertainty or variance was associated with current estimates of population size and (3) if population size was stipulated for recovery. We found that 59% of completed recovery plans specified a current population size, 14.5% specified a variance for the current population size estimate and 43% specified population size as a recovery criterion. More recent recovery plans reported more estimates of current population size, uncertainty and population size as a recovery criterion. Also, bird and mammal recovery plans reported more estimates of population size and uncertainty compared to reptiles and amphibians. We suggest the use of calculating minimum detectable differences to improve confidence when delisting endangered animals and we identified incentives for individuals to get involved in recovery planning to improve access to quantitative data.
Lipases Immobilization for Effective Synthesis of Biodiesel Starting from Coffee Waste Oils
Authors: Ferrario Valerio , Veny Harumi , De Angelis Elisabetta , Navarini Luciano , Ebert Cynthia , Gardossi Lucia
Published: August 2013

Immobilized lipases were applied to the enzymatic conversion of oils from spent coffee ground into biodiesel. Two lipases were selected for the study because of their conformational behavior analysed by Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations taking into account that immobilization conditions affect conformational behavior of the lipases and ultimately, their efficiency upon immobilization. The enzymatic synthesis of biodiesel was initially carried out on a model substrate (triolein) in order to select the most promising immobilized biocatalysts. The results indicate that oils can be converted quantitatively within hours. The role of the nature of the immobilization support emerged as a key factor affecting reaction rate, most probably because of partition and mass transfer barriers occurring with hydrophilic solid supports. Finally, oil from spent coffee ground was transformed into biodiesel with yields ranging from 55% to 72%. The synthesis is of particular interest in the perspective of developing sustainable processes for the production of bio-fuels from food wastes and renewable materials. The enzymatic synthesis of biodiesel is carried out under mild conditions, with stoichiometric amounts of substrates (oil and methanol) and the removal of free fatty acids is not required.
Performance Evaluation of Public Non-Profit Hospitals Using a BP Artificial Neural Network: The Case of Hubei Province in China
Authors: Li Chunhui , Yu Chuanhua
Published: August 2013

To provide a reference for evaluating public non-profit hospitals in the new environment of medical reform, we established a performance evaluation system for public non-profit hospitals. The new “input-output” performance model for public non-profit hospitals is based on four primary indexes (input, process, output and effect) that include 11 sub-indexes and 41 items. The indicator weights were determined using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and entropy weight method. The BP neural network was applied to evaluate the performance of 14 level-3 public non-profit hospitals located in Hubei Province. The most stable BP neural network was produced by comparing different numbers of neurons in the hidden layer and using the “Leave-one-out” Cross Validation method. The performance evaluation system we established for public non-profit hospitals could reflect the basic goal of the new medical health system reform in China. Compared with PLSR, the result indicated that the BP neural network could be used effectively for evaluating the performance public non-profit hospitals.
Androgen Receptor Phosphorylation at Serine 308 and Serine 791 Predicts Enhanced Survival in Castrate Resistant Prostate Cancer Patients
Authors: McCall Pamela , Adams Claire , Willder Jennifer , Bennett Lindsay , Qayyum Tahir , Orange Clare , Underwood Mark , Edwards Joanne
Published: August 2013

We previously reported that AR phosphorylation at serine 213 was associated with poor outcome and may contribute to prostate cancer development and progression. This study investigates if specific AR phosphorylation sites have differing roles in the progression of hormone naïve prostate cancer (HNPC) to castrate resistant disease (CRPC). A panel of phosphospecific antibodies were employed to study AR phosphorylation in 84 matched HNPC and CRPC tumours. Immunohistochemistry measured Androgen receptor expression phosphorylated at serine residues 94 (pAR94), 308 (pAR308), 650(pAR650) and 791 (pAR791). No correlations with clinical parameters were observed for pAR94 or pAR650 in HNPC or CRPC tumours. In contrast to our previous observation with serine 213, high pAR308 is significantly associated with a longer time to disease specific death (p = 0.011) and high pAR791 expression significantly associated with a longer time to disease recurrence (p = 0.018) in HNPC tumours and longer time to death from disease recurrence (p = 0.040) in CRPC tumours. This observation in CRPC tumours was attenuated in high apoptotic tumours (p = 0.022) and low proliferating tumours (p = 0.004). These results demonstrate that understanding the differing roles of AR phosphorylation is necessary before this can be exploited as a target for castrate resistant prostate cancer.
Molecular and Functional Analyses of the Fast Skeletal Myosin Light Chain2 Gene of the Korean Oily Bitterling, Acheilognathus koreensis
Authors: Kong Hee , Lee Ye-Ji , Kim Woo-Jin , Kim Hyung , Kim Bong-Seok , An Cheul , Yeo Sang-Yeob , Cho Hyun
Published: August 2013

We identified and characterized the primary structure of the Korean oily bitterling Acheilognathus koreensis fast skeletal myosin light chain 2 (Akmlc2f), gene. Encoded by seven exons spanning 3955 bp, the deduced 168-amino acid AkMLC2f polypeptide contained an EF-hand calcium-binding motif and showed strong homology (80%–98%) with the MLC2 proteins of Ictalurus punctatus and other species, including mammals. Akmlc2f mRNA was highly enriched in skeletal muscles, and was detectable in other tissues. The upstream regions of Akmlc2f included a TATA box, one copy of a putative MEF-2 binding site and several putative C/EBPβ binding sites. The functional activity of the promoter region of Akmlc2f was examined using luciferase and red fluorescent protein reporters. The Akmlc2f promoter-driven reporter expressions were detected and increased by the C/EBPβ transcription factor in HEK293T cells. The activity of the promoter of Akmlc2f was also confirmed in the developing zebrafish embryo. Although the detailed mechanism underlying the expression of Akmlc2f remains unknown, these results suggest the muscle-specific expression of Akmlc2f transcript and the functional activation of Akmlc2f promoter by C/EBPβ.
Bioinformatic Prediction of Gene Functions Regulated by Quorum Sensing in the Bioleaching Bacterium Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans
Authors: Banderas Alvaro , Guiliani Nicolas
Published: August 2013

The biomining bacterium Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans oxidizes sulfide ores and promotes metal solubilization. The efficiency of this process depends on the attachment of cells to surfaces, a process regulated by quorum sensing (QS) cell-to-cell signalling in many Gram-negative bacteria. At. ferrooxidans has a functional QS system and the presence of AHLs enhances its attachment to pyrite. However, direct targets of the QS transcription factor AfeR remain unknown. In this study, a bioinformatic approach was used to infer possible AfeR direct targets based on the particular palindromic features of the AfeR binding site. A set of Hidden Markov Models designed to maintain palindromic regions and vary non-palindromic regions was used to screen for putative binding sites. By annotating the context of each predicted binding site (PBS), we classified them according to their positional coherence relative to other putative genomic structures such as start codons, RNA polymerase promoter elements and intergenic regions. We further used the Multiple EM for Motif Elicitation algorithm (MEME) to further filter out low homology PBSs. In summary, 75 target-genes were identified, 34 of which have a higher confidence level. Among the identified genes, we found afeR itself, zwf, genes encoding glycosyltransferase activities, metallo-beta lactamases, and active transport-related proteins. Glycosyltransferases and Zwf (Glucose 6-phosphate-1-dehydrogenase) might be directly involved in polysaccharide biosynthesis and attachment to minerals by At. ferrooxidans cells during the bioleaching process.