bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide miRNA profiling of villus and decidua of recurrent spontaneous abortion patients
Authors: Dong Fulu , Zhang Yuan , Xia Fei , Yang Yi , Xiong Sidong , Jin Liping , Zhang Jinping
Published: April 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNA molecules of about 22 nucleotides that involved in post-transcriptional gene regulation. Evidence indicates that miRNAs play essential roles in endometriosis, pre-eclampsia, infertility and other reproductive system diseases. However, whether miRNAs are involved in recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is unclear. In this work, we analysed the miRNA expression profiles in six pairs of villus or decidua from RSA patients and normal pregnancy (NP) women using a human miRNA microarray. Some of the chip results were confirmed by RT-qPCR. In the villi of RSA patients, expression of hsa-miR-184, hsa-miR-187 and hsa-miR-125b-2 was significantly higher, while expression of hsa-miR-520f, hsa-miR-3175 and hsa-miR-4672 was significantly lower, comparing with those of NP control. As well, a total of five miRNAs (hsa-miR-517c, hsa-miR-519a-1, hsa-miR-522, hsa-miR-520h and hsa-miR-184) were upregulated in the decidua of RSA patients. The target genes of these differentially expressed miRNAs were predicted by miRWalk, and we speculate a network of miRNA regulating RSA by target genes function on adhesion, apoptosis and angiogenesis. Our study may help clarify the molecular mechanisms which are involved in the progression of RSA, and provide a reference for future research.
Impact of the FITKids Physical Activity Intervention on Adiposity in Prepubertal Children
Authors: Khan Naiman A. , Raine Lauren B. , Drollette Eric S. , Scudder Mark R. , Pontifex Matthew B. , Castelli Darla M. , Donovan Sharon M. , Evans Ellen M. , Hillman Charles H.
Published: April 2014

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate the effect of a 9-month physical activity intervention on cardiorespiratory fitness and adiposity among prepubertal children.

METHODS:

Prepubertal children (8- to 9-year-olds, N = 220, 103 girls) were randomly assigned to a 9-month physical activity intervention or a control group. The intervention provided 70 minutes (5 days/week) of moderate to vigorous physical activity. Maximum oxygen consumption (Vo2max percentile) and dual-energy radiograph absorptiometry measured cardiorespiratory fitness and adiposity, respectively. Intention-to-treat analysis was performed to assess baseline and follow-up cardiorespiratory fitness, percentage fat mass (%FM), percentage central fat mass (%CFM), and estimated visceral adipose tissue (VAT) area.

RESULTS:

The intervention group increased in cardiorespiratory fitness (5.4th percentile; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.8 to 8.9) and decreased in %FM (−0.7%; 95% CI, −1.1 to −0.4) and %CFM (−1.3%; 95% CI, −1.9 to −0.7). Reductions in %FM were evident for both nonoverweight (−0.62%; 95% CI, −1.07 to −0.17) and overweight or obese (−0.86%; 95% CI,−1.46 to −0.25) intervention participants. Conversely, the control group displayed no change in cardiorespiratory fitness while exhibiting increases in %FM (0.4%; 95% CI, 0.1 to 0.7), %CFM (0.6; 95% CI, 0.1 to 1.1), and VAT area (3.0 cm2; 95% CI, 1.6 to 4.4). Nonoverweight control participants increased in %FM (0.52%; 95% CI, 0.13 to 0.91), and their overweight and obese counterparts increased in VAT (4.76 cm2; 95% CI, 1.90 to 7.63).

CONCLUSIONS:

The physical activity intervention improved cardiorespiratory fitness, reduced %FM, and prevented accumulation of %CFM among prepubertal children with varying adiposity levels. These findings provide support for daily physical activity recommendations to prevent excess fat mass accumulation in childhood.
Office-Based Preventive Dental Program and Statewide Trends in Dental Caries
Authors: Achembong Leo N. , Kranz Ashley M. , Rozier R. Gary
Published: April 2014

OBJECTIVES:

To evaluate the impact of a North Carolina Medicaid preventive dentistry program in primary care medical offices (Into the Mouths of Babes Program [IMBP]) on decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft) of kindergarten students statewide and in schools with a large proportion of students from low-income families.

METHODS:

An ecologic study using panel data of 920 505 kindergarten students with 11 694 school-year observations examined the effect of the IMBP on dmft scores from 1998 to 2009. Ordinary least squares regression with fixed effects determined the association between IMBP visits per child 0 to 4 years of age per county and mean dmft scores per kindergarten student per school, controlling for school-level poverty and ethnicity, county-level Medicaid enrollment, and supply of dentists and physicians.

RESULTS:

Mean dmft per kindergarten student per school increased from 1.53 in 1998 to 1.84 in 2004, then decreased to 1.59 in 2009. The mean number of IMBP visits per child 0 to 4 years of age per county increased from 0.01 in 2000 to 0.22 in 2009. A 1-unit increase in IMBP visits per county was associated with a 0.248 (95% confidence interval, −0.40 to −0.10) decrease in dmft per kindergarten student per school. For schools with more students at high risk for dental disease, a 1-unit increase in IMBP visits was associated with a 0.320 (95% confidence interval, −0.55 to −0.09) decrease in dmft.

CONCLUSIONS:

IMBP reduced dental caries among targeted vulnerable children, which helped reduce oral health disparities among preschool-aged children in North Carolina.
Trends in the Prevalence of Ketoacidosis at Diabetes Diagnosis: The SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study
Authors: Dabelea Dana , Rewers Arleta , Stafford Jeanette M. , Standiford Debra A. , Lawrence Jean M. , Saydah Sharon , Imperatore Giuseppina , D’Agostino Ralph B. , Mayer-Davis Elizabeth J. , Pihoker Catherine
Published: April 2014

OBJECTIVE:

To estimate temporal changes in the prevalence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at diagnosis of type 1 or type 2 diabetes in youth and to explore factors associated with its occurrence.

METHODS:

Five centers identified incident cases of diabetes among youth aged 0 to 19 years starting in 2002. DKA presence was defined as a bicarbonate level <15 mmol/L and/or a pH <7.25 (venous) or <7.30 (arterial or capillary) or mention of DKA in the medical records. We assessed trends in the prevalence of DKA over 3 time periods (2002–2003, 2004–2005, and 2008–2010). Logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with DKA.

RESULTS:

In youth with type 1 diabetes (n = 5615), the prevalence of DKA was high and stable over time (30.2% in 2002–2003, 29.1% in 2004–2005, and 31.1% in 2008–2010; P for trend = .42). Higher prevalence was associated with younger age at diagnosis (P < .0001), minority race/ethnicity (P = .019), income (P = .019), and lack of private health insurance (P = 008). Among youth with type 2 diabetes (n = 1425), DKA prevalence decreased from 11.7% in 2002–2003 to 5.7% in 2008–2010 (P for trend = .005). Higher prevalence was associated with younger age at diagnosis (P = .001), minority race/ethnicity (P = .013), and male gender (P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

The frequency of DKA in youth with type 1 diabetes, although stable, remains high, indicating a persistent need for increased awareness of signs and symptoms of diabetes and better access to health care. In youth with type 2 diabetes, DKA at onset is less common and is decreasing over time.
Clinical Phenotype of Scabies by Age
Authors: Boralevi Franck , Diallo Abou , Miquel Juliette , Guerin-Moreau Morgane , Bessis Didier , Chiavérini Christine , Plantin Patrice , Hubiche Thomas , Maruani Annabel , Lassalle Martin , Boursault Lucile , Ezzedine Khaled
Published: April 2014

OBJECTIVE:

Scabies has a clinical presentation that seems to vary according to age. We conducted a prospective study with the goal of delineating the clinical presentation of the disease into 3 groups of age: infants, <2 years; children, 2 to 15 years; and adults, >15 years.

METHODS:

This trial was a prospective, multicenter observational study in consecutive patients with a confirmed diagnosis of scabies who were seen in 13 French Departments of Dermatology and Pediatric Dermatology between April 2010 and April 2011. A standardized questionnaire was completed for each patient. To identify factors associated with patient age, comparisons between the 3 age groups were conducted by using univariate and multivariate multinomial logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS:

A total of 323 individuals were included; the gender ratio (female:male) was 1.2:1. In univariate analysis, infants were more likely to have facial involvement. In multivariate logistic regression, relapse was more frequent in children (odds ratio [OR]: 2.45 [95% confidence interval (CI):1.23–4.88]) and infants (OR: 3.26 [95% CI: 1.38–7.71]). In addition, family members with itch (OR: 2.47 [95% CI: 1.04–5.89]), plantar (OR: 20.57 [95% CI: 7.22–58.60]), and scalp (OR: 16.94 [95% CI: 3.70–77.51]) involvement were also found to be independently associated with the age group <2 years.

CONCLUSIONS:

There is a specific clinical presentation of scabies in infants and children. Taking into account these specificities may be helpful for the early diagnosis and the identification of cases to prevent the propagation of the disease.
Withholding or Termination of Resuscitation in Pediatric Out-of-Hospital Traumatic Cardiopulmonary Arrest
Authors:   AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SURGEONS Committee on Trauma,   AMERICAN COLLEGE OF EMERGENCY PHYSICIANS Pediatric Emergency Medicine Committee,   NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF EMS PHYSICIANS,   AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS Committee on Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Fallat Mary E. , Cooper Arthur , Salomone Jeffrey , Mooney David , Scherer Tres , Wesson David , Bulgar Eileen , Adelson P. David , Benjamin Lee , Gerardi Michael , Barata Isabel A. , Arms Joseph , Alade Kiyetta , Avarello Jahn T. , Baldwin Steven , Brown Kathleen , Cantor Richard M. , Cohen Ariel , Dietrich Ann Marie , Eakin Paul J. , Gausche-Hill Marianne , Graham Charles J. , Holtzman Douglas K. , Hom Jeffrey , Ishimine Paul , Jinivizian Hasmig , Joseph Madeline , Mehta Sanjay , Ojo Aderonke , Paul Audrey Z. , Pauze Denis R. , Pearson Nadia M. , Rosen Brett , Russell William S. , Saijinejad Mohsen , Schwartz Gerald R. , Sloas Andrew , Swenson Orel , Valente Jonathan H. , Waseem Muhammad , Whiteman Paula J. , Woolridge Dale , Brown Kathleen , Sahni Ritu , Shook Joan E. , Ackerman Alice D. , Chun Thomas H. , Conners Gregory P. , Dudley Nanette C. , Fuchs Susan M. , Gorelick Marc H. , Lane Natalie E. , Moore Brian R. , Wright Joseph L.
Published: April 2014

This Policy Statement was reaffirmed June 2020.

This multiorganizational literature review was undertaken to provide an evidence base for determining whether recommendations for out-of-hospital termination of resuscitation could be made for children who are victims of traumatic cardiopulmonary arrest. Although there is increasing acceptance of out-of-hospital termination of resuscitation for adult traumatic cardiopulmonary arrest when there is no expectation of a good outcome, children are routinely excluded from state termination-of-resuscitation protocols. The decision to withhold resuscitative efforts in a child under specific circumstances (decapitation or dependent lividity, rigor mortis, etc) is reasonable. If there is any doubt as to the circumstances or timing of the traumatic cardiopulmonary arrest, under the current status of limiting termination of resuscitation in the field to persons older than 18 years in most states, resuscitation should be initiated and continued until arrival to the appropriate facility. If the patient has arrested, resuscitation has already exceeded 30 minutes, and the nearest facility is more than 30 minutes away, involvement of parents and family of these children in the decision-making process with assistance and guidance from medical professionals should be considered as part of an emphasis on family-centered care because the evidence suggests that either death or a poor outcome is inevitable.
Origin of Hysteresis in Carbon Nanotube Field-Effect Transistors
Authors: Pascal-Levi Yael , Shifman Evgeny , Pal-Chowdhury Manish , Kalifa Itshak , Sivan Ida , Rabkin Tsvika , Yaish Yuval E.
Published: April 2014

Carbon nanotube ﬁeld effect transistors (CNT FETs) have many possible applications in future nano-electronics due to their excellent electrical properties. However, one of the major challenges regarding their performance is the noticeable gate hysteresis which is often displayed in their transfer characteristics. The hysteresis phenomenon is often attributed to water-mediated charge transfer between the CNT and the dielectric layer or the CNT and the water layer itself. In this study, we implement three different experimental techniques and provide evidence that the hysteresis phenomenon of suspended CNT FETs, as well as of on-surface CNT FETs which operate at low gate voltage regimes (| Vg | < 3V), is based on gate-induced, water-assisted redistribution of mobile charge on the SiO2 surface, and it is not related to charge injection from the CNT itself. Two techniques are based on the current measurements through the CNT and the third utilizes electrostatic force microscopy (EFM) setup. In addition, the applied external gate voltage affect the relaxation time of the current. This change arises from the modification of the amount of water layers which adsorb onto the dielectric surface, which caused by dielectrophoresis attraction between the water molecules and the substrate. It is found that the relaxation time, and hence the surface conductivity, are very sensitive for the first few layers, and saturates above three monolayers of water molecules.
Creating meaning through the coordination of gaze direction and arm/hand movement
Authors: Pilesjö Maja
Published: April 2014

This study is an investigation of the practice of achieving shared understanding in Augmented and Alternative Communication (AAC) using natural modes. The interaction between a girl with severe speech and physical impairment (SSPI) and moderate intellectual disability and her everyday communication partners is explored. The aims are to investigate how the participants create meaning through the girl's coordination of gaze direction and arm/hand movements and vocalizations, as they occur in natural interaction with everyday communication partners. e principles of conversation analysis (CA) were used to record, transcribe and analyse the interaction. The analysis demonstrates that the participants collaboratively create local meaning in and through the coordination of gaze and arm/hand movement. us, the speaking co-participants ascribe meaning to the girl's actions of directing gaze and arm/hand movement at the same target. e analysis shows that the ascription of a specific meaning is context-specific. These findings highlight the importance of taking into account all interaction-relevant modalities and the relevance of systematic details in the micro-context of interaction when looking for processes of sensemaking. In addition, the role of the communication partner is emphasized. These findings may have implications for clinical intervention.
Taphonomy of the Ediacaran Fossil Pteridinium Simplex Preserved Three-Dimensionally in Mass Flow Deposits, Nama Group, Namibia
Authors: Meyer Mike , Elliott David , Schiffbauer James D. , Hall Michael , Hoffman Karl H. , Schneider Gabi , Vickers-Rich Patricia , Xiao Shuhai
Published: April 2014

Ediacara-type fossils are found in a diverse array of preservational styles, implying that multiple taphonomic mechanisms might have been responsible for their preservational expression. For many Ediacara fossils, the “death mask” model has been invoked as the primary taphonomic pathway. The key to this preservational regime is the replication or sealing of sediments around the degrading organisms by microbially induced precipitation of authigenic pyrite, leading toward fossil preservation along bedding planes. Nama-style preservation, on the other hand, captures Ediacaran organisms as molds and three-dimensional casts within coarse-grained mass flow beds, and has been previously regarded as showing little or no evidence of a microbial preservational influence. To further understand these two seemingly distinct taphonomic pathways, we investigated the three-dimensionally preserved Ediacaran fossil Pteridinium simplex from mass flow deposits of the upper Kliphoek Member, Dabis Formation, Kuibis Subgroup, southern Namibia. Our analysis, using a combination of petrographic and micro-analytical methods, shows that Pteridinium simplex vanes are replicated with minor pyrite, but are most often represented by open voids that can be filled with secondary carbonate material; clay minerals are also found in association with the vanes, but their origin remains unresolved. The scarcity of pyrite and the development of voids are likely related to oxidative weathering and it is possible that microbial activities and authigenic pyrite may have contributed to the preservation of Pteridinium simplex; however, any microbes growing on P. simplex vanes within mass flow deposits were unlikely to have formed thick mats as envisioned in the death mask model. Differential weathering of replicating minerals and precipitation of secondary minerals greatly facilitate fossil collection and morphological characterization by allowing Pteridinium simplex vanes to be parted from the massive hosting sandstone.
Deep-Water Ediacaran Fossils from Northwestern Canada: Taphonomy, Ecology, and Evolution
Authors: Narbonne Guy M. , Laflamme Marc , Trusler Peter W. , Dalrymple Robert W. , Greentree Carolyn
Published: April 2014

Impressions of soft-bodied Ediacaran megafossils are common in deep-water slope deposits of the June beds at Sekwi Brook in the Mackenzie Mountains of NW Canada. Two taphonomic assemblages can be recognized. Soles of turbidite beds contain numerous impressions of simple (Aspidella) and tentaculate (Hiemalora, Eoporpita) discs. A specimen of the frond Primocandelabrum is attached to an Aspidella-like holdfast, but most holdfast discs lack any impressions of the leafy fronds to which they were attached, reflecting Fermeuse-style preservation of the basal level of the community. Epifaunal fronds (Beothukis, Charnia, Charniodiscus) and benthic recliners (Fractofusus) were most commonly preserved intrastratally on horizontal parting surfaces within turbidite and contourite beds, reflecting a deep-water example of Nama-style preservation of higher levels in the community. A well-preserved specimen of Namalia significantly extends the known age and environmental range of erniettomorphs into deep-water aphotic settings. Infaunal bilaterian burrows are absent from the June beds despite favorable beds for their preservation. The June beds assemblage is broadly similar in age and environment to deep-water Avalonian assemblages in Newfoundland and England, and like them contains mainly rangeomorph and arboreomorph fossils and apparently lacks dickinsoniomorphs and other clades typical of younger and shallower Ediacaran assemblages. Fossil data presently available imply that the classically deep- and shallow-water taxa of the Ediacara biota had different evolutionary origins and histories, with sessile rangeomorphs and arboreomorphs appearing in deep-water settings approximately 580 million years ago and spreading into shallow-water settings by 555 Ma but dickinsoniomorphs and other iconic clades restricted to shallow-water settings from their first known appearance at 555 Ma until their disappearance prior to the end of the Ediacaran.
Diachronous Increase in Early Cambrian Ichnofossil Size and Benthic Faunal Activity in Different Climatic Regions
Authors: Mochizuki Takafumi , Oji Tatsuo , Zhao Yuanlong , Peng Jin , Yang Xinglian , Gonchigdorj Sersmaa
Published: April 2014

In order to clarify the pattern of diversification and processes of biological activity during the Cambrian radiation, ichnofossils were comparatively studied in the early Cambrian sections of Newfoundland, South China and western Mongolia. Special attention was paid to size distributions of the most common ichnogenus, Planolites, and the densities of all the observed ichnofossils that preserve animal activity as expressed by bedding plane bioturbation indices (BPBI).

From the Fortune Head section in Newfoundland, a clear size increase in the ichnogenus Planolites is confirmed from the Treptichnus pedum Zone to the overlying Rusophycus avalonensis Zone. The BPBI also shows much stronger biological activity in the R. avalonensis Zone than in the T. pedum Zone. In Meishucun, South China and Gobi-Altai, Mongolia, however, a variety of Planolites sizes had already appeared in the T. pedum Zone, and the BPBI's on some bedding surfaces of the T. pedum Zone are already comparable to those in the R. avalonensis Zone in Newfoundland. In the earliest Cambrian, diversification and increase in the biological activity of the benthic fauna were diachronous in the wide geographic scale, starting earlier at lower latitudes (South China and western Mongolia) than at higher latitudes (Newfoundland), reflecting differences in the onset of Cambrian benthic animal activity under different climatic conditions.
A New Enigmatic, Tubular Organism from the Ediacara Member, Rawnsley Quartzite, South Australia
Authors: Joel Lucas V. , Droser Mary L. , Gehling James G.
Published: April 2014

Here we reconstruct a new tubular, serially divided organism with a bilateral morphology from the Ediacaran of South Australia. The organism, Plexus ricei new genus new species, was a broadly curving tube that resided on the Ediacaran seafloor. Plexus ricei individuals range in size from 5 to 80 cm long and 5 to 20 mm wide, and are comprised of two main components: a rigid median tubular structure and a fragile outer tubular wall. Plexus ricei is preserved as an external mold on bed soles, and as a counterpart cast on bed tops in sandstones interpreted to represent deposition between storm and fairweather wave-base. The phylogenetic affinities of P. ricei are uncertain; P. ricei symmetry implies a bilaterian origin, but a lack of defined anterior and posterior ends precludes definitive assignment.
A New Exceptionally Preserved Cambrian Priapulid from the Chengjiang Lagerstätte
Authors: Ma Xiaoya , Aldridge Richard J. , Siveter David J. , Siveter Derek J. , Hou Xianguang , Edgecombe Gregory D.
Published: April 2014

A fossil priapulid,Eximipriapulus globocaudatusnew genus new species, is described from the Cambrian Chengjiang Lagerstätte of Yunnan, China. The exceptional preservation of the animal reveals morphological details that allow direct comparison with extant priapulids. The body is divisible into a partially eversible pharynx, a smooth collar, a scalid-bearing introvert, a neck with triangular scalids, an unsegmented trunk with annulations, and a distinctly expanded terminal region. Several specialized regions of the alimentary canal are recognized: a pharynx (lined by cuticle and bearing teeth), esophagus, midgut, hindgut, and a terminal anus. The sample includes a putative juvenile. The animal is inferred to have been an active burrower using a double-anchor strategy, practicing both deposit feeding and carnivory. Inclusion ofEximipriapulusin the most recent character matrix for cladistic analysis of fossil and Recent priapulids resolves the new genus within the priapulid crown group.
A New Helmetiid Arthropod from the Early Cambrian Chengjiang Lagerstätte, Southwest China
Authors: Zhao Fangchen , Hu Shixue , Zeng Han , Zhu Maoyan
Published: April 2014

A new arthropod,Haifengella coronanew genus new species is described from the early Cambrian Chengjiang Lagerstätte (Series 2, Stage 3), Yunnan Province, southwest China. It is readily assignable to helmetiida based on gross morphology of the tergum. The new helmetiid is unique in having the marginal spines extending over one-third of the total body width. The weakly sclerotized tergum consists of six thoracic tergites with edge-to-edge tergite articulations. The sub-trapezoidal cephalic shield has a pair of long spines projecting from each posterolateral corner. A prehypostomal sclerite (anterior sclerite) recesses in the anterior margin of the cephalic shield, and a pair of bulges that are close to the prehypostomal sclerite in the cephalic shield are presumed to be the position of ventral eyes. Each of the thoracic tergites exhibits a pair of long spines projecting from the posterolateral corners. The semicircular pygidium carries one terminal spine and two pairs of lateral spines.
Are non‐native species more likely to become pests? Influence of biogeographic origin on the impacts of freshwater organisms3
Authors: Hassan Ahdia , Ricciardi Anthony
Published: April 2014

Some ecologists have claimed that non‐native species are no more likely to cause ecological or economic harm than native species. We evaluated this claim by testing whether the pest status of a species is independent of its origin, using data on freshwater plants and animals established in North America and Europe. Pests were defined as those whose presence resulted in socioeconomic damage. All species were classified on the basis of whether they were native to the continent, transplanted beyond their native range within the continent (transplant invaders), or non‐native to the continent (foreign invaders). Non‐native species comprised the majority (60%) of aquatic pests in North America and Europe and were six times as likely to be pests as compared with native species. The incidence of pest species was greatest among foreign invaders. These results counter the assertion that the potential for a species to cause socioeconomic damage is independent of its biogeographic origin.
French airport runoff pollution management (water and sludge): toward a new approach based on constructed wetlands? Case of Aéroports de Paris – Orly (France)
Authors: Branchu Philippe , Gres Laetitia , Mougin Frederic , Le Blanc Martin , Lucas Emmanuelle , Mars Benoit
Published: April 2014

One of the environmental concerns for airport managers is stormwater management. Three kinds of contamination occur at airports: (1) chronic contamination, (2) seasonal contamination associated with de-icing procedures and (3) accidental pollution. At Orly Airport, a stormwater treatment plant (STEP) is devoted to removing chronic pollution. About 4 million m3 of water are processed yearly by the STEP, producing about 50–100 t of sludge. Mainly contaminated by petroleum hydrocarbons (Hc), it is removed as final wastes. During the winter, the STEP is unable to treat organic load associated with de-icers (formate and glycol). In order to improve onsite stormwater management, two experiments were carried out in real conditions between 2008 and 2010. The first one dealt with the ability of two vertical flow planted beds (VFPB) associated with two kinds of plant to treat waters contaminated by de-icers. Organic loads of up to 2,094 mg/L chemical oxygen demand (COD) were passed through sand filters in a closed-loop system. Organic degradation was characterized by a first-order kinetic constant driven by nutrient availability. Nutrient (N, P) addition was then necessary to reach treatment objectives (40 mg/L COD). The second system evaluated sludge Hc removal by four VFPB associated with several plant species. This experiment showed that the measured Hc removal rates of 70% for sludge and 95% for water did not depend on the choice of plant and that a rest time was necessary to allow Hc removal. Finally, a treatment system, based on VFPB, should be a good alternative which could optimize both sludge and contaminated water management.
Twenty-two percent less water on maize with a new subscriber decision support tool
Authors: Pinel Bertrand , Moalic Marianne
Published: April 2014

As a case study, this paper shows how a French cooperative seized on a new technology (capacitance sensors), tested it in real conditions (irrigation of maize in several Agronomic Department trial fields) and is now able to offer to its farmer members a subscriber decision support tool (DST) to increase water use efficiency.

Thus, technical and scientific trials have been conducted with fourteen farmers over the last four years. Managing irrigation with capacitance probes has resulted in an increase in water efficiency: most of the time, there is a reduction in water supply (the average is 22% (range 4–44%) less water use than without the probes). Sometimes, only a yield increase is observed with the same water quantity (see 2010 trial – farmer 2).

In 2012 Terrena conducted market research on 28 farmer members and 20 crop advisors. This showed that most farmers who irrigate do not use irrigation management tools. However with a tightening of regulations and an increase in irrigation costs, attitudes are changing. Thus, 12 farmers questioned, said they were ready to pay for an irrigation management service based on capacitance probes (continuous real time monitoring of soil moisture). It also showed that irrigation advice needs to take into account global irrigation system constraints (number of rollers, pump speed and the like). Farmers are ready to pay for an efficient irrigation management DST.

So as to be ready for a 2013 launch, a DST soft-launch was set-up in 2012 on ten experimental farms. The usual working practices of irrigators cannot be expected to change overnight. However, this study shows how important is the farmers' involvement in the building of this service, coupled with that of their crop advisors. Because farmers were involved at the beginning of the DST creation process, it made it possible to convince all of them to use this tool in a more sustainable manner.
Effect of aqueous solution of stevioside on pharmacological properties of some cardioactive drugs
Authors: Vasovic Velibor , Raskovic Aleksandar , Mikov Momir , Mikov Ivan , Milijasevic Boris , Vukmirovic Sasa , Budakov Zorana
Published: April 2014

Background/Aim. Stevioside is a glycoside that supposedly possesses a number
of pharmacodynamic effects such as anti-infective, hypoglycemic, along with
the beneficial influence on the cardiovascular system. The aim of this study
was to determine the effect of rats pretreatment with aqueous solution of
stevioside on pharmacological actions of adrenaline, metoprolol and
verapamil. Methods. Rats were administered (intraperitoneally 200 mg/kg/day)
stevioside as aqueous solution or physiological saline in the course of 5
days, then anaesthetized with urethane and the first ECG recording was made.
The prepared jugular vein was connected to an infusion pump with adrenaline
(0.1 mg/mL), verapamil (2.5 mg/mL) or metoprolol (1 mg/mL). Control animals,
pretreated with saline, in addition to the mentioned drugs, were also infused
with the solution of stevioside (200 mg/mL) in the course of recording ECG.
Results. The infusion of stevioside produced no significant changes in ECG,
even at a dose exceeding 1,600 mg/kg. In the control group, a dose of
adrenaline of 0.07 ? 0.02 mg/kg decreased the heart rate, whereas in the
steviosidepretreated rats this occurred at a significantly higher dose (0.13
? 0.03 mg/kg). In stevioside-pretreated rats, the amount of verapamil needed
to produce the decrease in heart rate was significantly lower compared to the
control. The pretreatment with stevioside caused no significant changes in
the parameters registered on ECG during infusion of metoprolol. Conclusion.
The results suggest that pretreatment with stevioside may change the effect
of adrenaline and verapamile on the heart rate.
Lipodystrophy induced by combination antiretroviral therapy in HIV/AIDS patients: A Belgrade cohort study
Authors: Dragovic Gordana , Danilovic Dragana , Dimic Aleksandra , Jevtovic Djordje
Published: April 2014

Background/Aim. Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has led to
dramatic reductions in mortality and morbidity of HIV/AIDS-patients.
Lipodystrophy, a syndrome including peripheral fat wasting and central
obesity, is well-documented side effect of HAART. The aim of this study was
to evaluate the incidence of lipodystrophy, and to determine its risk ratios
in a HIV/AIDS cohort. Methods. This cross-sectional study included all
antiretroviral-naive HIV/AIDS patients commencing HAART from October 1, 2001
to October 1, 2010, in the HIV/AIDS Center, Institute of Infectious and
Tropical Diseases, Belgrade, Serbia. Univariate and stepwise multivariate
logistic regression analyses were used to determine the odds ratios (OR) with
the confidence interval (CI) of 95%, in order to establish the relative risk
for lipodystrophy. The Kaplan-Meier-method was used to determine the
probability of development lipodystrophy over time. All statistical analyses
were performed using SPSS software version using 0.05 as a p-treshold for the
significance. Results. This study included 840 HIV/AIDS patients, 608 women
and 232 men, followed for 5.6 ? 2.8 years. The prevalence of lipodystrophy
was 69.2%. Univariate and stepwise multivariate regression analysis
identified that the female gender, hepatitis C coinfection, AIDS diagnosis
prior to HAART initiation, nucleoside-reverse-transcriptase-inhibitors and
proteaseinhibitors based regimens had a high risk for developing
lipodystrophy in HIV/AIDS-patients (OR = 1.6, 95% CI = 1.1-3.49, p = 0.04; OR
= 3.31, 95% CI = 1.4 - 3.8, p < 0.01; OR = 3.7, 95% CI = 1.7 - 6.1, p < 0.01;
OR = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.7 - 3.3, p < 0.01; OR = 6.1, 95% CI = 4.1 - 9.7, p <
0.01, respectively). Conclusion. Despite much greater life expectancy of
HIV/AIDSpatients, treatment-related toxicities still remain a major concern.
Monitoring of lipodystrophy, as side effect of HAART, is particularly
important.
The prevalence of pseudoexfoliation syndrome and possible systemic associations in patients scheduled for cataract surgery at the Military Medical Academy in Belgrade
Authors: Kovac Bojan , Vukosavljevic Miroslav , Petrovic-Janicijevic Mirjana , Resan Mirko , Jankovic Janko
Published: April 2014

Background/Aim. Pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX) is an age-related systemic
degenerative disorder characterized by the production and progressive
accumulation of extracellular fibrillar eosinophilic material in the anterior
segment of the eye. The aim of the study was to evaluate several clinical
aspects of PEX, such as frequency of PEX and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma
(PEXG), intraocular pressure (IOP), the type of lens opacity, and the
possible relationship of PEX and systemic diseases. Methods. All 674 cataract
patients had a comprehensive eye examination, including slitlamp
biomicroscopy before and after mydriasis, IOP measurement, and fundus
examination. The patients were classified into two groups: the PEX and the
non-PEX group. Results. The overall prevalence of PEX syndrome was found to
be 17.5% (118 patients). The mean age of PEX patients (79.7 ? 6.1 years) was
significantly higher when compared with those without PEX (73.5 ? 9.1 years)
(p = 0.000). The prevalence of PEX syndrome was found to increase with age,
from 7.3% in the 7th decade of life to 27% in patients older than 80 years (p
< 0.001). The most common cataract type in the PEX patients was mature
cataract observed in 40.7% of patients. The rest of the patients had mixed
(30.5%), nuclear (25.4%), cortical (1.7%) and hypermature cataract (1.7%).
Among the PEX patients 44 (37.2%) had glaucoma. Intraocular pressure was
significantly higher in eyes with pseudoexfoliations than in eyes without it
(17.8 ? 3.2 mmHg and 15.8 ? 2.8 mmHg, respectively; p = 0.001). Moreover, the
prevalence of coronary heart disease was found to be higher in PEX patients.
Conclusion. PEX syndrome is a common problem among Serbian patients scheduled
for cataract surgery. It represents one of the major glaucoma risk factors
and probably associated with ischemic heart disease, intraoperative and
postoperative problems in cataract surgery.
Can External Monitoring Affect Corporate Financial Reporting and Disclosure? Evidence from Earnings and Expectations Management
Authors: Liu Alfred Zhu
Published: April 2014

SYNOPSIS

This study examines whether financial analysts and institutional investors play a disciplinary role in monitoring corporate financial reporting and disclosure. Using a sample of firms that meet or marginally beat analysts' forecasts, likely through upward earnings management and downward expectations management, this study shows that managers' use of the two tactics is associated with monitoring measures, including analyst following, analyst experience and independence, institutional ownership, and institutional investors' experience and investment style. Managers under more effective monitoring by analysts and institutional investors are more likely to manage expectations downward than to manage earnings upward. Overall, the findings are consistent with financial analysts and institutional investors playing a monitoring role in constraining distortions in reported earnings and inducing timely disclosure of bad news.

Data Availability: All data are from public sources.
Effect of caffeine on functions of cooling-stored ram sperm in vitro
Authors: Špaleková Eliška , Makarevich Alexander V. , Kubovičová Elena , Ostró Alexander , Chrenek Peter
Published: April 2014

Caffeine is a well-known sperm motility stimulator, however, its effects on cooling-stored ram semen are unknown. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of caffeine on selected motility and viability indices of cooling-stored ram spermatozoa. Sperm ejaculates from 4 rams were diluted (1:3) in a Triladyl extender. Samples were stored for 96 h at 4-5 °C in two sets. In the first set used for motility analysis, caffeine at concentrations of 1, 2 or 4 mmol·l-1 was added to sperm aliquots on the day of analysis. In the second set used for viability assay, caffeine at the same concentrations (1, 2 or 4 mmol·l-1) was added at the beginning of storage. Control was left without caffeine addition. Sperm motility was analyzed at 0, 24, 48 and 72 h of cooling-storage. Viability assays were done after 72–96 h of cooling-storage. Caffeine significantly (P < 0.05) increased sperm motility and progressive movement and maintained this value for 72 h. Caffeine at the dose of 2 mmol·l-1 and 4 mmol·l-1 significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the proportion of dead/necrotic sperm detected by propidium iodide and proportion of apoptotic sperm detected by Yo-Pro-1, respectively. No effect of caffeine on plasma membrane integrity was noted. Proportion of sperm with membrane destabilization (annexin V-Fluos) was reduced by caffeine given at 1 and 4 mmol·l-1 compared to control. Our study for the first time demonstrates that caffeine maintains motility and viability of cooling-stored ram sperm for longer time compared to control.
Colour and viscosity of egg yolk after addition of beetroot to feed for laying hens
Authors: Kopřiva Vladimír , Suchý Pavel , Straková Eva , Žďárský Michal , Dvořák Petr
Published: April 2014

The colour and viscosity of egg yolk are among major indicators assessed by consumers and food technology. This study attempts to evaluate the colour and viscosity of yolk in laying hens’ eggs after the addition of dried beetroot (Beta vulgaris L. ssp. esculenta var. rubra) at the amount of 1% and 2% per feeding dose (in July and August 2012). The experiment was performed on 24 hens that were divided into three groups of 8 laying hens. The preparatory phase lasted one week (standard diet), followed by four weeks during which experimental layers received a diet enriched with beetroot. Then, all layers were fed a mixture without beetroot for the following four weeks. Eggs were collected during the whole period of 8 weeks. In total, 30 eggs from each group were subjected to analysis. The colour of eggs was determined using spectrophotometry, by the Colour-guide sphere spex portable colorimeter. The results showed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in value L* of yolk colour in experimental groups whereas values a* and b* (indicators of the international colorimetric scale CIELAB) did not vary significantly. Similarly, specific purity C*ab did not show a significant difference (P < 0.05) between the control and experimental groups. The egg yolk viscosity was lower in experimental groups compared to the control group but the difference was not significant. The addition of dried beetroot at the amount of 1 and 2% per feeding dose had no effect on colour and viscosity. This paper supported the null hypothesis that the addition of dried beetroot to the feeding dose at the amount of 1% and 2% has no effect on the colour and viscosity of egg yolk.
Bone mineral density and computer tomographic measurements in correlation with failure strength of equine metacarpal bones
Authors: Tóth Péter , Hinton Grace , Horváth Csaba , Ferencz Viktória , Tóth Balázs , Szenci Ottó , Bodó Gábor
Published: April 2014

Information regarding bone mineral density and fracture characteristics of the equine metacarpus are lacking. The aim of this study was to characterize the relationship between mechanical properties of the equine metacarpal bone and its biomechanical and morphometric properties. Third metacarpal bones were extracted from horses euthanized unrelated to musculoskeletal conditions. In total, bone specimens from 26 front limbs of 13 horses (7.8 ± 5.8 years old) including Lipizzaner (n = 5), Hungarian Warmblood (n = 2), Holsteiner (n = 2), Thoroughbred (n = 1), Hungarian Sporthorse (n = 1), Friesian (n = 1), and Shagya Arabian (n = 1) were collected. The horses included 7 mares, 4 stallions and 2 geldings. Assessment of the bone mineral density of the whole bone across four specific regions of interest was performed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The bones were scanned using a computer tomographic scanner to measure cross-sectional morphometric properties such as bone mineral density and cross-sectional dimensions including cortical area and cortical width. Mechanical properties (breaking force, bending strength, elastic modulus) were determined by a 3-point bending test. Significant positive linear correlations were found between the breaking force and bone mineral density of the entire third metacarpal bones (P < 0.001, r = 0.72), the medial cortex region of interest (P < 0.001, r = 0.68) and the transverse region of interest (P < 0.001, r = 0.61). The correlation between the breaking force and bone mineral density of the equine third metacarpal bone found in this study warrants in vivo investigations.
Congenital sternal ectopia cordis in a Limousin calf – a case report
Authors: Frąckowiak Hieronim , Jaśkowski Jędrzej Maria , Nabzdyk Maria , Kociucka Beata , Szczerbal Izabela , Switonski Marek , Bukowska Dorota , Antosik Paweł
Published: April 2014

Recognition and detailed description of malformations and aberrations in domestic animals may be very useful in cognition of the problem and in creating breeding programs. The aim of this study was to describe a rare case of sternal (pectoral) ectopia cordis in a calf. A female calf of the Limousin breed born in Poland in 2011 was subjected to euthanasia because the heart was situated outside the chest. The carcass of the calf was subjected to anatomical examination in which alterations in cardiovascular system and in the structure of the sternum were observed. Cytogenetic studies were performed to find out if the karyotype of the calf was normal. Elongation of the ascending aorta was observed and the pattern of aortic branching was aberrant similarly to that found in dogs, not cattle. The systemic circulation was found to be linked to pulmonary circulation due to persisting large calibre arterial duct. Each of the ventricles had its own cardiac apex and walls of the ventricles manifested a similar width. The atria were slightly altered. A single, short and dilated blood vessel (pulmonary vein) evacuated its content to the left atrium. Pericardium formed no pericardial sac. Radiogram of the sternum demonstrated a ring-resembling shape and 12 (6 pairs) cartilaginous bars of the sternum (sternebrae). A normal female karytotype (60, XX) indicated that this malformation was not caused by an abnormal number of chromosomes (aneuploidy).
Determination of whey proteins in different types of milk
Authors: Ruprichová Lenka , Králová Michaela , Borkovcová Ivana , Vorlová Lenka , Bedáňová Iveta
Published: April 2014

Protein analysis is very important both in terms of milk protein allergy, and of milk and dairy product adulteration (β-lactoglobulin may be an important marker in the detection of milk adulteration). The aim of this study was to detect major whey proteins α-lactalbumin and β-lactoglobulin and their genetic variants by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Milk samples from cows (n = 40), goats (n = 40) and sheep (n = 40) were collected at two farms and milk bars in the Czech Republic from April to June 2010. The concentration of α-lactalbumin was higher in goat’s milk (1.27 ± 0.05 g·l-1, P < 0.001) and cow’s milk (1.16 ± 0.02 g·l-1, P = 0.0037) compared to sheep’s milk (0.95 ± 0.06 g·l-1); however, concentration of α-lactalbumin in goat’s milk and cow’s milk did not differ significantly (P < 0.05). Goat’s milk contained less β-lactoglobulin (3.07 ± 0.08 g·l-1) compared to cow’s milk (4.10 ± 0.04 g·l-1, P < 0.001) or sheep’s milk (5.97 ± 0.24 g·l-1, P < 0.001). A highly significant positive correlation (r = 0.8686; P < 0.001) was found between fraction A and B of β-lactoglobulin in sheep’s milk, whereas in cow’s milk there was a negative correlation (r = -0.3010; P = 0.0296). This study summarizes actual information of the whey protein content in different types of milk which may be relevant in assessing their allergenic potential.
A Case Study of the Transformative Effect of Peer Injection Drug Users in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver, Canada
Authors: Jozaghi Ehsan , Reid Andrew A.
Published: April 2014

This study was conducted not only to explore how peers intervene to shape social networks but to capture the transformative role of peer-led intervention by local needle exchange programs and a supervised injection facility in Vancouver, Canada. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with peer volunteers as they were involved in their routine work activities. Interviews were analysed thematically using two methods of coding analysis. Findings suggest that peers were taking on important education and safety roles and were able to alter the behaviour, attitude, and intention of injection drug users within the Downtown Eastside area of the city. Further, peer injection drug users were able to reach individuals who were reluctant to seek medical help, housing, or prevention services. Peers serve as an agent of change in the Downtown Eastside to disseminate information and risk-reduction skills to the most marginalized people.
Initiatives to Improve Feedback Culture in the Final Year of a Veterinary Program
Authors: Warman Sheena M. , Laws Emma J. , Crowther Emma , Baillie Sarah
Published: April 2014

Despite the recognized importance of feedback in education, student satisfaction with the feedback process in medical and veterinary programs is often disappointing. We undertook various initiatives to try to improve the feedback culture in the final clinical year of the veterinary program at the University of Bristol, focusing on formative verbal feedback. The initiatives included E-mailed guidelines to staff and students, a faculty development workshop, and a reflective portfolio task for students. Following these initiatives, staff and students were surveyed regarding their perceptions of formative feedback in clinical rotations, and focus groups were held to further explore issues. The amount of feedback appeared to have increased, along with improved recognition of feedback by students and increased staff confidence and competence in the process. Other themes that emerged included inconsistencies in feedback among staff and between rotations; difficulties with giving verbal feedback to students, particularly when it relates to professionalism; the consequences of feedback for both staff and students; changes and challenges in students' feedback-seeking behavior; and the difficulties in providing accurate, personal end-of-rotation assessments. This project has helped improve the feedback culture within our clinics; the importance of sustaining and further developing the feedback culture is discussed in this article.