bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comment: Wood et al.’s (2014) Speculations of Inappropriate Research Practices in Ovulatory Cycle Studies
Authors: Gangestad Steven W.
Published: May 2015

Wood, Kressel, Joshi, and Louie (2014) meta-analyzed studies examining changes in women’s mate preferences as a function of cycle phase, and claimed to find little evidence for shifts, contrary to Gildersleeve, Haselton, and Fales’s (2014a) meta-analysis. This commentary concerns specific speculations Wood et al. made about particular researchers analyzing data multiple ways, capitalizing on chance and thereby inflating the Type I error rate. In so doing, Wood et al. misconstrued a key article explaining the high fertility period, misrepresented studies, and presented no supportive evidence. The corrosive effects of inappropriate research practices on scientific literatures are concerning. So too are unsubstantiated speculations of them.
Adherence to therapy for Barrett’s esophagus‐associated neoplasia
Authors: Cassani Lisa , Slaughter James C , Yachimski Patrick
Published: May 2015

Objectives

Multiple endoscopic sessions may be necessary for treatment and surveillance of Barrett’s esophagus (BE)‐associated neoplasia. Adherence to an endoscopic therapeutic regimen is important for longitudinal management of BE. The objective of this study was to identify the factors associated with adherence to therapy for BE‐associated neoplasia.

Methods

We retrospectively identified patients with BE whom were referred to a tertiary center for endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) between 2009 and 2012. Demographic and clinical data were extracted from the medical record.

Results

We had 69 subjects meet our inclusion criteria. Referral diagnosis was low‐grade dysplasia in 9 (13%) subjects, high‐grade dysplasia in 33 (48%) subjects and adenocarcinoma in 26 (38%) subjects. The majority (55%) lived more than 100 miles from the treatment center. The primary third‐party payer was US Medicare for 54% of the subjects and private insurance for 36% of them; 45% of the subjects were seen in the clinic by the treating endoscopist, prior to endoscopic therapy and 71% underwent EMR as the initial treatment, while 29% underwent RFA without prior EMR. We found that 72% of subjects were adherent to therapy, including: 23 (33%) completing endoscopic therapy with documented post‐treatment surveillance, 18 (26%) with ongoing endoscopic therapy, and 9 (13%) whom underwent esophagectomy. Subjects seen in gastroenterology clinical consultation were significantly more likely to demonstrate adherence than those referred for open access endoscopy (Lasso OR 2.31).

Conclusions

Patients seen in a clinical consultation prior to endoscopic therapy for BE‐associated neoplasia were more likely to demonstrate treatment adherence, compared to patients referred for open‐access endoscopy. A clinic visit prior to therapy may define expectations regarding treatment course and increase the likelihood of patient adherence.
No Room for Racism
Authors: Lavelle Katherine L.
Published: May 2015

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has a conflicted history navigating issues of race and Black identity. When audiotapes were released with Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling making racist comments, fans and players threatened to boycott playoff games. Within 4 days, the new NBA Commissioner Adam Silver banned Sterling for life. While Silver was lauded for his decision, coverage ignored the underlying structural issues that uphold inequality in the NBA. This article reviews recent communication and sport scholarship examining race and the NBA. By examining Silver’s decision using Kenneth Burke’s Terms of Order (1961), this article argues that the NBA continues to ignore how racism operates in the league.
Knee Extension Range of Motion at 4 Weeks Is Related to Knee Extension Loss at 12 Weeks After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Noll Sarah , Garrison J. Craig , Bothwell James , Conway John E.
Published: May 2015

Background:

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is commonly torn, and surgical reconstruction is often required to allow a patient to return to their prior level of activity. Avoiding range of motion (ROM) loss is a common goal, but little research has been done to identify when ROM loss becomes detrimental to a patient’s future function.

Purpose:

To determine whether there is a relationship between early knee side-to-side extension difference after ACL reconstruction and knee side-to-side extension difference at 12 weeks. The hypothesis was that early (within the first 8 weeks) knee side-to-side extension difference will be predictive of knee side-to-side extension difference seen at 12 weeks.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Knee side-to-side extension difference measures were taken on 74 patients undergoing ACL reconstruction rehabilitation at the initial visit and 4, 8, and 12 weeks postoperatively. Visual analog scores (VAS) and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores were also recorded at these time frames.

Results:

There was a strong relationship between knee extension ROM at 4 and 12 weeks ( r = 0.639, P < .001) and 8 and 12 weeks ( r = 0.742, P < .001). When the variables of knee extension ROM at initial visit and 4 and 8 weeks were entered into a regression analysis, the predictor variable explained 61% ( R2 = 0.611) of variance for knee extension ROM at 12 weeks, with 4 weeks ( R2 = 0.259) explaining the majority of this variance.

Conclusion:

This study found that a patient’s knee extension at 4 weeks was strongly correlated with knee extension at 12 weeks.

Clinical Relevance:

This information may be useful for clinicians treating athletic patients who are anxious for return to sport by providing them an initial goal to work toward in hopes of ensuring successful rehabilitation of their knee.
Clinical Phenotype of De Novo GNAO1 Mutation
Authors: Talvik Inga , Møller Rikke S. , Vaher Merilin , Vaher Ulvi , Larsen Line HG , Dahl Hans A. , Ilves Pilvi , Talvik Tiina
Published: May 2015

Mutations in the guanine nucleotide-binding protein (G protein), α activating activity polypeptide O ( GNAO1) gene have recently been described in 6 patients with early infantile epileptic encephalopathies. In the present study, we report the phenotype and the clinical course of a 4-year-old female with an epileptic encephalopathy (Ohtahara syndrome) and profound intellectual disability due to a de novo GNAO1 mutation (c.692A>G; p.Tyr231Cys). Ohtahara syndrome is a devastating early infantile epileptic encephalopathy that can be caused by mutations in different genes, now also including GNAO1. The mutation was found using a targeted next generation sequencing gene panel and demonstrates targeted sequencing as a powerful tool for identifying mutations in genes where only a few de novo mutations have been identified.
Dengue virus binding and replication by platelets
Authors: Simon Ayo Y. , Sutherland Michael R. , Pryzdial Edward L. G.
Published: May 2015

Key Points

Platelets replicate and produce infectious DENV. DENV binds directly to platelets using DC-SIGN and heparan sulfate proteoglycan as primary receptors.
Concepts of pathogenesis in psoriatic arthritis: genotype determines clinical phenotype
Authors: FitzGerald Oliver , Haroon Muhammad , Giles Jon T , Winchester Robert
Published: May 2015

This review focuses on the genetic features of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and their relationship to phenotypic heterogeneity in the disease, and addresses three questions: what do the recent studies on human leukocyte antigen (HLA) tell us about the genetic relationship between cutaneous psoriasis (PsO) and PsA – that is, is PsO a unitary phenotype; is PsA a genetically heterogeneous or homogeneous entity; and do the genetic factors implicated in determining susceptibility to PsA predict clinical phenotype? We first discuss the results from comparing the HLA typing of two PsO cohorts: one cohort providing the dermatologic perspective, consisting of patients with PsO without evidence of arthritic disease; and the second cohort providing the rheumatologic perspective, consisting of patients with PsA. We show that these two cohorts differ considerably in their predominant HLA alleles, indicating the heterogeneity of the overall PsO phenotype. Moreover, the genotype of patients in the PsA cohort was shown to be heterogeneous with significant elevations in the frequency of haplotypes containing HLA-B*08, HLA-C*06:02, HLA-B*27, HLA-B*38 and HLA-B*39. Because different genetic susceptibility genes imply different disease mechanisms, and possibly different clinical courses and therapeutic responses, we then review the evidence for a phenotypic difference among patients with PsA who have inherited different HLA alleles. We provide evidence that different alleles and, more importantly, different haplotypes implicated in determining PsA susceptibility are associated with different phenotypic characteristics that appear to be subphenotypes. The implication of these findings for the overall pathophysiologic mechanisms involved in PsA is discussed with specific reference to their bearing on the discussion of whether PsA is conceptualised as an autoimmune process or one that is based on entheseal responses.
Viscosity iterative algorithm for variational inequality problems and fixed point problems in a real q-uniformly smooth Banach space
Authors: Cai Gang
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this paper is to study a viscosity iterative algorithm for finding a common element of the set of solutions of a general variational inequality problem for two inverse strongly accretive operators and the set of fixed points of a δ-strict pseudocontraction in a real q-uniformly smooth Banach space. Some strong convergence theorems are obtained under appropriate conditions. As an application, we prove some strong convergence theorems for fixed point problems and variational inequality problems or equilibrium problems in Hilbert spaces. These results improve and extend the corresponding results announced by many others.
The scientific information provided through patents and its limited use in scientific research at universities
Authors: Pereira Cristiano Gonçalves , da Silva Rodrigo Ribeiro , Porto Geciane Silveira
Published: May 2015

This study aimed to evaluate the importance of protecting the knowledge generated by the university through patents, and assess the use of information available in patent database as a source of scientific and technological information. To this end, the doctoral theses defended in 2010 to 2012 year at the Basic and Applied Immunology FMRP/USP Post Graduation Program, were evaluated considering patent applications by the authors involved, as well as by other national/international unrelated research groups. The data showed that only 8% of the thesis (two) had its results added to a patent filing. Moreover, no other student was found to held a patent resulting in other researches, and also, a few supervisors are researchers who held authored/co-authored of patent filling. When we assessed if theses’ results and applications had been patented by other groups not related to the thesis group, it was noted that there was no record of patent filling in 46% of theses, and in this group, it was included researches with strong potential for patentability, but the authors didn’t applied for a patent deposit. The remaining 54%, representing 14 theses, had part or the whole knowledge disclosed in patents documents, five of these were specific about the topic and the results of the thesis, presuming that there was a likely duplicity in the development of the research. We can conclude that the study was once repeated since no searching for information in patents databases were properly performed as reference source in the development phase of their research projects. The results of this research indicates that the use of patents database, as a source of technological information by the universities is an urgent requirement, since represent a rich scientific information bank that should be aggregated with the information available in papers to conduct innovative research.
Definitive and Adjuvant Radiotherapy in Locally Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer: American Society of Clinical Oncology Clinical Practice Guideline Endorsement of the American Society for Radiation Oncology Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline
Authors: Bezjak Andrea , Temin Sarah , Franklin Gregg , Giaccone Giuseppe , Govindan Ramaswamy , Johnson Melissa L. , Rimner Andreas , Schneider Bryan J. , Strawn John , Azzoli Christopher G.
Published: May 2015

Purpose

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) produced an evidence-based guideline on external-beam radiotherapy for patients with locally advanced non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Because of its relevance to the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) membership, ASCO endorsed the guideline after applying a set of procedures and a policy that are used to critically examine and endorse guidelines developed by other guideline development organizations.

Methods

The ASTRO guideline was reviewed by ASCO content experts for clinical accuracy and by ASCO methodologists for developmental rigor. On favorable review, an ASCO expert panel was convened and endorsed the guideline. The ASCO guideline approval body, the Clinical Practice Guideline Committee, approved the final endorsement.

Results

The recommendations from the ASTRO guideline, published in Practical Radiation Oncology, are clear, thorough, and based on the most relevant scientific evidence. The ASCO Endorsement Panel endorsed the guideline and added qualifying statements.

Recommendations

For curative-intent treatment of locally advanced NSCLC, concurrent chemoradiotherapy improves local control and overall survival compared with sequential chemotherapy followed by radiation. The standard dose-fractionation of radiation is 60 Gy given in 2-Gy once-daily fractions over 6 weeks. There is no role for the routine use of induction therapy before chemoradiotherapy. Current data fail to support a clear role for consolidation therapy after chemoradiotherapy; however, consolidation therapy remains an option for patients who did not receive full systemic chemotherapy doses during radiotherapy. Important questions remain about the ideal concurrent chemotherapy regimen and optimal management of patients with resectable stage III disease.
Structural Insights Into Thyroid Hormone Transport Mechanisms of the L-Type Amino Acid Transporter 2
Authors: Hinz Katrin M. , Meyer Katja , Kinne Anita , Schülein Ralf , Köhrle Josef , Krause Gerd
Published: May 2015

Thyroid hormones (THs) are transported across cell membranes by different transmembrane transporter proteins. In previous studies, we showed marked 3,3′-diiodothyronine (3,3′-T2) but moderate T3 uptake by the L-type amino acid transporter 2 (Lat2). We have now studied the structure-function relationships of this transporter and TH-like molecules. Our Lat2 homology model is based on 2 crystal structures of the homologous 12-transmembrane helix transporters arginine/agmatine antiporter and amino acid/polyamine/organocation transporter. Model-driven mutagenesis of residues lining an extracellular recognition site and a TH-traversing channel identified 9 sensitive residues. Using Xenopus laevis oocytes as expression system, we found that side chain shortening (N51S, N133S, N248S, and Y130A) expanded the channel and increased 3,3′-T2 transport. Side chain enlargements (T140F, Y130R, and I137M) decreased 3,3′-T2 uptake, indicating channel obstructions. The opposite results with mutations maintaining (F242W) or impairing (F242V) uptake suggest that F242 may have a gating function. Competitive inhibition studies of 14 TH-like compounds revealed that recognition by Lat2 requires amino and carboxylic acid groups. The size of the adjacent hydrophobic group is restricted. Bulky substituents in positions 3 and 5 of the tyrosine ring are allowed. The phenolic ring may be enlarged, provided that the whole molecule is flexible enough to fit into the distinctly shaped TH-traversing channel of Lat2. Taken together, the next Lat2 features were identified 1) TH recognition site; 2) TH-traversing channel in the center of Lat2; and 3) switch site that potentially facilitates intracellular substrate release. Together with identified substrate features, these data help to elucidate the molecular mechanisms and role of Lat2 in T2 transport.
Projective geometry in characteristic one and the epicyclic category
Authors: Connes Alain , Consani Caterina
Published: May 2015

We show that the cyclic and epicyclic categories which play a key role in the encoding of cyclic homology and the lambda operations, are obtained from projective geometry in characteristic one over the infinite semifield of max-plus integers ℤmax. Finite-dimensional vector spaces are replaced by modules defined by restriction of scalars from the one-dimensional free module, using the Frobenius endomorphisms of ℤmax. The associated projective spaces are finite and provide a mathematically consistent interpretation of Tits's original idea of a geometry over the absolute point. The self-duality of the cyclic category and the cyclic descent number of permutations both acquire a geometric meaning.
The M-set of λ exp(z)/z has infinite area
Authors: Zhan Guoping , Liao Liangwen
Published: May 2015

It is known that the Fatou set of the map exp(z)/z defined on the punctured plane ℂ* is empty. We consider the M-set of λ exp(z)/z consisting of all parameters λ for which the Fatou set of λexp(z)/z is empty. We prove that the M-set of λexp(z)/z has infinite area. In particular, the Hausdorff dimension of the M-set is 2. We also discuss the area of complement of the M-set.
Hearing ability decreases in aging locusts
Authors: Gordon Shira D. , Windmill James F. C.
Published: May 2015

Insects display signs of aging, despite their short lifespan. However, the limited studies on senescence emphasize longevity or reproduction. We focus on the hearing ability of aging adult locusts, Schistocerca gregaria. Our results indicate that the youngest adults (two weeks post-maturity) have a greater overall neurophysiological response to sound, especially for low frequencies (<10 kHz), as well as shorter latency to this neural response. Interestingly, when measuring displacement of the tympanal membrane that the receptor neurons directly attached to, we found movement is not directly correlated with neural response. Therefore we suggest the enhanced response in younger animals is due to the condition of their tissues (e.g., elasticity). Secondly, we found the sexes do not have the same responses, particularly at four weeks post adult moult. We propose female reproductive condition reduces their ability to receive sounds. Overall our results indicate older animals, especially females, are less sensitive to sounds.
Early vascular unclamping reduces warm ischaemia time in robot-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy
Authors: Lah Kevin , Desai Devang , Chabert Charles , Gericke Christian , Gianduzzo Troy
Published: May 2015

Introduction: The aim of this study was to assess the outcomes of early vascular release in robot-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (RAPN) to reduce warm ischaemia time (WIT) and minimise renal dysfunction. RAPN is increasingly utilised in the management of small renal masses. To this end it is imperative that WIT is kept to a minimum to maintain renal function.

Methods: RAPN was performed via a four-arm robotic transperitoneal approach. The renal artery and vein were individually clamped with robotic vascular bulldog clamps to allow cold scissor excision of the tumour. The cut surface was then sutured with one or two running 3-0 V-LocTM sutures, following which the vascular clamps were released. Specific bleeding vessels were then selectively oversewn and the collecting system repaired. Renorrhaphy was then completed using a running horizontal mattress 0-0 V-LocTM suture.

Results: A total of 16 patients underwent RAPN with a median WIT of 15 minutes (range: 8-25), operative time 230 minutes (range: 180-280) and blood loss of 100 mL (range: 50-1000). There were no transfusions, secondary haemorrhages or urine leaks. There was one focal positive margin in a central 5.5 cm pT3a renal cell carcinomas (RCC). Long-term estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was not significantly different to pre-operative values.

Conclusion: In this patient series, early vascular release effectively minimised WIT and maintained renal function without compromising perioperative safety.
Genomic resources of two landsnail, Aegista diversifamilia and Dolicheulota formosensis, generated by Illumina paired-end sequencing
Authors: Huang Chih-Wei , Wu Wen-Lung
Published: May 2015

Despite the land snail harboring high biodiversity and dominance on land, just a few genetic markers are available for phylogeographic and phylogenetic research. We sequenced the partial genome of two land snail species that belong to the speciose family Bradybaenidae in East Asia: Aegista diversifamilia and Dolicheulota formosensis. The raw sequences were generated by Illumina paired-end sequencing and can be accessed in the Sequence Read Archive under the accession numbers SRR1918809 (A. diversifamilia) and SRR1920140 (D. formosensis).
Engaging staff with their CPD
Authors: Brosnan Jessica
Published: May 2015

How can schools support their staff to engage effectively with their CPD? Jessica Brosnan offers some advice
One book, any book…
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2015

All the evidence shows that reading for pleasure brings multiple benefits for secondary students – now and in the future. Karen Sullivan offers some ideas
Biocompatibility of single-walled carbon nanotube composites for bone regeneration
Authors: Gupta A. , Liberati T. A. , Verhulst S. J. , Main B. J. , Roberts M. H. , Potty A. G. R. , Pylawka T. K. , El-Amin III S. F.
Published: May 2015

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate in vivo biocompatibility of novel single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT)/poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLAGA) composites for applications in bone and tissue regeneration.

Methods

A total of 60 Sprague-Dawley rats (125 g to 149 g) were implanted subcutaneously with SWCNT/PLAGA composites (10 mg SWCNT and 1gm PLAGA 12 mm diameter two-dimensional disks), and at two, four, eight and 12 weeks post-implantation were compared with control (Sham) and PLAGA (five rats per group/point in time). Rats were observed for signs of morbidity, overt toxicity, weight gain and food consumption, while haematology, urinalysis and histopathology were completed when the animals were killed.

Results

No mortality and clinical signs were observed. All groups showed consistent weight gain, and the rate of gain for each group was similar. All groups exhibited a similar pattern for food consumption. No difference in urinalysis, haematology, and absolute and relative organ weight was observed. A mild to moderate increase in the summary toxicity (sumtox) score was observed for PLAGA and SWCNT/PLAGA implanted animals, whereas the control animals did not show any response. Both PLAGA and SWCNT/PLAGA showed a significantly higher sumtox score compared with the control group at all time intervals. However, there was no significant difference between PLAGA and SWCNT/PLAGA groups.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that SWCNT/PLAGA composites exhibited in vivo biocompatibility similar to the Food and Drug Administration approved biocompatible polymer, PLAGA, over a period of 12 weeks. These results showed potential of SWCNT/PLAGA composites for bone regeneration as the low percentage of SWCNT did not elicit a localised or general overt toxicity. Following the 12-week exposure, the material was considered to have an acceptable biocompatibility to warrant further long-term and more invasive in vivo studies. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2015;4:70–7
Transverse vibration analysis of Euler-Bernoulli beam carrying point masse submerged in fluid media
Authors: El baroudi Adil , Razafimahery Fulgence
Published: May 2015

In the present paper, an analytical method is developed to investigate the effects of added mass on natural frequencies and mode shapes of Euler-Bernoulli beams carrying concentrated masse at arbitrary position submerged in a fluid media. A fixed-fixed beams carrying concentrated masse vibrating in a fluid is modeled using the Bernoulli-Euler equation for the beams and the acoustic equation for the fluid. The symbolic software Mathematica is used in order to find the coupled vibration frequencies of a beams with two portions. The frequency equation is deduced and analytically solved. The finite element method using Comsol Multiphysics software results are compared with present method for validation and an acceptable match between them were obtained. In the eigenanalysis, the frequency equation is generated by satisfying all boundary conditions. It is shown that the present formulation is an appropriate and new approach to tackle the problem with good accuracy.
Assessment Of Renal Function Using Canine Cystatin-C Levels In Canine Babesiosis And Ehrlichiosis
Authors: Didem PEKMEZCI , Kerem URAL , Nuran AYSUL , Murat GUZEL , Gulay CIFTCI
Published: May 2015

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate serum canine Cystatin-C (Cys-C) concentration for the prediction of renal function (RF) in dogs naturally infected with Babesia canis vogeli and Ehrlichia canis. A total of 46 dogs were enrolled into three groups. Group B included 16 dogs naturally infected with B. c. vogeli, group E 10 dogs naturally infected with E. canis [dogs diagnosed as canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME)], and group H involved 20 healthy controls (negative for B. c. vogeli and E. canis). Solely dogs presenting uncomplicated babesiosis caused by B. c. vogeli were enrolled. Serum urea and serum creatinine (Cre) levels with serum Urea:Cre ratios were analyzed. Canine serum Cys-C was determined with a species-specific commercially available and validated ELISA assay as a reference. Mean serum Cys-C levels were 5.28 mg/L, 3.02 mg/L, and 2.30 mg/L for groups B, E and H, respectively. RF in uncomplicated CB caused by B. c. vogeli seems to be affected based on serum Cys-C concentrations. To the author's knowledge, this is the first study reporting that mean serum canine Cys-C levels in dogs with CME demonstrated no elevation. Serum canine Cys-C as a novel RF marker could be used for early detection of renal injury in both babesiosis and CME.
Survey Of Infectious Agents Associated With Porcine Respiratory Disease Complex (PRDC) In Serbian Swine Herds Using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Detection
Authors: Božidar SAVIĆ , Oliver RADANOVIĆ , Dubravka JOVIČIĆ , Ksenija NEŠIĆ , Snežana IVANOVIĆ , Ognjen STEVANČEVIĆ , Đorđe CVETOJEVIĆ , Dragan KASAGIĆ
Published: May 2015

A retrospective study on 235 natural cases of Porcine Respiratory Disease Complex in order to determine the etiological agents, their prevalence and interrelationships was performed in Serbia. Lung tissue samples were analyzed by Polymerase Chain Reaction for the presence of Porcine circovirus type 2, Porcine reproductive and respiratory virus, Swine influenza virus, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, Pasteurella multocida, Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, Haemophilus parasuis, Streptococcus suis and Arcanobacterium pyogenes. A total of 49 different combinations of viral and bacterial pathogens were found. Five different viral and viral/Mhp co-infections were detected. Monobacterial infections were found in 150 cases and polybacterial infection was detected in 85 samples. PCV2 was the main virus detected, and Pm was the most aggressive secondary pathogen detected in PRDC. The reason for PRDC being so prevalent among Serbian pigs is most likely due to the large number of risk factors in the conventional farrow-to-finish system, compared to multi-site production systems. Therefore, measures aimed at a better control of respiratory viruses, particularly Porcine circovirus type 2 and Porcine reproductive and respiratory virus, as well as Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae infections, and adoption of rational decisions on respiratory bacterial pathogens specific therapeutic and preventive strategies at herd level, simultaneously with significant improvements on farm management should reduce the occurrence of PRDC.
Morphological, Biochemical And Hematological Characterization Of Endangered Balkan Donkey Breed
Authors: Ljubodrag STANIŠIĆ , Vladimir DIMITRIJEVIĆ , Predrag SIMEUNOVIĆ , Nada LAKIĆ , Ivica RADOVIĆ , Ante IVANKOVIĆ , Jevrosima STEVANOVIĆ , Zoran STANIMIROVIĆ
Published: May 2015

The aim of the study was to establish morphometric, biochemical and hematological values for the endangered Balkan donkey breed (Serbia) and to explore the possible age dependence of the parameters tested. Inter-breed similarity of morphometric parameters was assessed by comparing the data obtained for the Balkan donkey with morphometric measurements of several previously characterized domestic donkey breeds. The study population included 74 donkeys, divided in two age groups (group A ≤ 3 years; group B > 3 years). In total, 18 morphometric, 13 hematological and 14 biochemical parameters were assessed. Significant morphometric differences (p<0.05) in body length, head length, chest circumference and body weight were found between the two age groups. Significant differences in morphological parameters were revealed among the Balkan donkey and other donkey breeds (Catalonian, Croatian and Albanian), but results of cluster analysis demonstrated the smallest distance between the Balkan donkey and Albanian donkeys. The results of morphometric analyses showed consistency of the obtained values within the breed, and diversity as compared to other donkey breeds, and, thus, could be taken as referent for the Balkan donkey. Hematological and biochemical profiles obtained for the Balkan donkey were consistent with previous reports and within the recommended reference ranges. White blood cell, mid cell and granulocyte counts, showed significantly higher (p<0.05) values in donkeys under 3 years of age, while the only biochemical parameter affected by age was alkaline phosphatase. The information gained through characterization of the Balkan donkey breed provides a basis for conservation and development of the breed standard.
Brain Metastasis In A Case Of Canine Transmissible Venereal Tumor After A Supposed Successful Treatment With Vincristine Sulfate
Authors: Pedro PINCZOWSKI , Marina GIMENO , Carmen ACEÑA , Ainara VILLEGAS , Alba de MARTINO , Lluís LUJÁN
Published: May 2015

A ten year old mongrel bitch was diagnosed with a primary vulvar transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) causing subcutaneous, mammary and splenic metastasis and it was successfully treated with vincristine. Four months later the animal presented neurological disturbances, brain metastases were suspected and the animal was euthanized. A TVT metastatic mass was found in the brain and confirmed with immunohistochemical results, being positive for vimentin and lysozyme and negative for S-100, CD3 and cytokeratin. TVT metastases in the brain are a rare event and cannot be treated with usual chemotherapy as vincristine does not cross the blood-brain barrier, thus allowing the re-emergence of the tumor after a period of time.
Nasal Transmissible Venereal Tumor In A Jack Russel Terrier Bitch
Authors: Adrian FEGHIU , Dan CRÎNGANU , Florin DUMITRESCU , Manuela PASCAL , Florina VASILESCU , Manuella MILITARU
Published: May 2015

A two-year old Jack Russell Terrier female with left-sided epistaxis was brought to the Clinic of the Bucharest Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. Endoscopy of the left nasal cavity revealed a cauliflower-like mass. Cytological and histopathological features were specific to canine transmissible venereal tumour (CTVT). Tumor tissue showed positive immunoreactivity to anti-vimentin monoclonal antibody (90%) and Ki67 (35%) and samples were negative for anti-cytokeratin monoclonal antibody. Chemotherapy with vincristine sulphate at a dose of 0.025 mg/kg i.v./week for 6 administrations was successful. This paper presents a primary form of nasal CTVT in a Jack Russell Terrier female.
Influence of Friction Stir Welding on Corrosion Properties of Aw-7020M Alloy in Sea Water
Authors: Dudzik K. , Jurczak W.
Published: May 2015

Friction Stir Welding (FSW), provides an alternative to MIG and TIG welding methods for joining aluminium alloys. The article presents the results of electrochemical corrosion resistance test of alloy AW- 7020M and its joints welded by FSW. The study was performed using the method of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Impedance spectroscopy studies showed that both, the FSW welded joint and base material AW-7020M has a good resistance to electrochemical corrosion in sea water environment, wherein the welded joint has a higher susceptibility to this type of corrosion. Research has indicated the desirability of applying the FSW method for joining AW-7020M alloy in shipbuilding industry.
Clay Minerals – Mineralogy and Phenomenon of Clay Swelling in Oil & Gas Industry
Authors: Karpiński B. , Szkodo M.
Published: May 2015

Among the minerals found in the earth's crust, clay minerals are of the widest interest. Due to the specific properties such as plasticity, absorbing and catalytic properties clay minerals are used in many industries (oil & gas, chemistry, pharmacy, refractory technology, ceramics etc.). In drilling, a phenomenon of swelling clays is frequently observed. It has an important impact on the cementing quality. During the last few decades clays have been the subject of research on a scale unprecedented in the history of mineralogy. This paper presents review literature on mineralogy of clay minerals and phenomenon of swelling in oil and gas industry. Unique ion exchange properties and clay swelling mechanisms are also considered.
Air pollution in landfill of wastes other than hazardous or inert / Zanieczyszczenia powietrza na składowiskach odpadów innych niż niebezpieczne i obojętne
Authors: Miaśkiewicz-Pęska Ewa , Szyłak-Szydłowski Mirosław
Published: May 2015

Microbiological and chemical analysis of air was carried out on the area of landfill of wastes other than inert or hazardous. The landfill covers 20 ha and 40 000 Mg of wastes is deposited annually. Municipal waste is not segregated at the landfill. The research was conducted in April, May and November 2012. Number of the psychrophilic and mesophilic bacteria and fungi was estimated by a culture-based method. Quantitative determination of sulfur compounds and meteorological and olfactrometric examinations were also carried out. Chemical analysis was conducted with a Photovac Voyager portable gas chromatograph. Air samples were collected at 5 points. The largest group of microbes were psychrophilic bacteria, especially in summer. The highest concentration of hydrogen sulfide and other odorants was found at leachate tank and landfill body. According to the Polish Standard for the assessment of atmospheric air pollution the air in the area of the landfill is classified as not contaminated and sporadically moderately contaminated. In spring and summer the number of microscopic fungi was increased also in control samples.
The effect of soil risk element contamination level on the element contents in Ocimum basilicum L.
Authors: Růžičková Petra , Száková Jiřina , Havlík Jaroslav , Tlustoš Pavel
Published: May 2015

Red basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) cv. Red Rubin was cultivated in model pot experiment in the soil amended by arsenic, cadmium and lead solutions in stepwise concentrations representing the soil concentration levels of former mining area in the vicinity of Příbram, Czech Republic. The element levels added to the soil reached up to 40 mg Cd, 100 mg As, and 2000 mg Pb per kg of soil. Moreover, essential macro-and microelements as well as cyanidine contents were investigated to assess their potential interactions with the risk elements. The extractable element portions in soils determined at the end of vegetation period differed according to the individual elements. Whereas the plant-available (extractable with 0.11M CH3COOH) content of Cd represented 70-100% of the added Cd, the mobile portion of Pb did not exceed 1%. The risk element content in plants reflected the increasing element contents in soil. The dominant element portions remained in plant roots indicating the limited translocation ability of risk elements to the aboveground biomass of this plant species. Although the risk element contents in amended plants significantly increased, no visible symptoms of phytotoxicity occurred. However, the effect of enhanced risk element contents on the essential element uptake was assessed. Considering inter-element relationships, elevated sulphur levels were seen in amended plants, indicating its possible role of phytochelatin synthesis in the plants. Moreover, the molybdenum contents in plant biomass dropped down with increasing risk element uptake by plants confirming As-Mo and Cd-Mo antagonism. The increasing content of cyanidine in the plant biomass confirmed possible role of anthocyanins in detoxification mechanism of risk element contaminated plants and suggested the importance of anthocyanin pigments for risk element tolerance of plants growing in contaminated areas.
Application of geochemical and ecotoxicity indices for assessment of heavy metals content in soils / Zastosowanie wskaźników geochemicznych i ekotokysycznych w ocenie zawartości metali ciężkich w glebach
Authors: Baran Agnieszka , Wieczorek Jerzy
Published: May 2015

The research aimed to use chemical, geochemical, and ecotoxicity indices to assess the heavy metals content in soils with different degrees of exposure to human pressure. The research was conducted in southern Poland, in the Malopolska (Little Poland) province. All metal contents exceeded geochemical background levels. The highest values of the Igeo index were found for cadmium and were 10.05 (grasslands), 9.31 (forest), and 5.54 (arable lands), indicating extreme soil pollution (class 6) with this metal. Mean integrated pollution index (IPI) values, depending on the kind of use, amounted to 3.4 for arable lands, 4.9 for forests, and 6.6 for grasslands. These values are indicative of a high level of soil pollution in arable lands and an extremely high level of soil pollution in grasslands and forests. Depending on the type of soil use, Vibrio fischeri luminescence inhibition was from -33 to 59% (arable lands), from -48 to 78% (grasslands), and from 0 to 88% (forest). Significantly the highest toxicity was found in soils collected from forest grounds.
The evaluation and determination of heavy metals pollution in edible vegetables, water and soil in the south of Tehran province by GIS
Authors: Shirkhanloo Hamid , Mirzahosseini Seyed Alireza Hajiseyed , Shirkhanloo Nasrin , Moussavi-Najarkola Seyyed Ali , Farahani Hadi
Published: May 2015

In this study, heavy metals pollutions in waters, soils and vegetables were investigated from farms, near oil refinery in south of Tehran city, Iran (Shahre Ray). The most important heavy metals in Iranian oil are vanadium, cobalt, nickel, arsenic and mercury (V, Co, Ni, As, Hg). In this region, the concentration of heavy metals in soils, well waters and leafy edible vegetables were evaluated in ten different points of farms. Geographic information systems (GIS) were used to estimate the levels of heavy metals concentration at unmeasured locations. After sample preparation, concentrations of heavy metals in vegetables, soils and waters were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). Five different leafy edible vegetables from farms, i.e., Persian leek, dill, parsley, spinach and radish were sampled in spring, summer and autumn 2012. In vegetables and well water samples, the concentrations of V, Ni and Co were above the permissible limit of heavy metals as compared to WHO guidelines and the concentrations of these metals in agricultural soils were found to be lower in accordance to soil references. The industrial waste waters had high concentration of heavy metals in this area. In consequence, the results of this study indicate that industrial waste water can cause pollution in well waters and edible vegetables. So, this region is not suitable for cultivation and growing vegetables.
Front instability in a condensed phase combustion model
Authors: Bonnet Alexis , Dkhil Fathi , Logak Elisabeth
Published: May 2015

We consider a condensed phase (or solid) combustion model and its linearization around the travelling front solution. We construct an Evans function
to characterize the eigenvalues of the linearized problem. We estimate this functional in the high activation energy limit. We deduce
the existence of zeros with nonnegative real part for high activation energy, which proves the linear
instability of the travelling front solution.
Nonhomogeneous linear differential equations with entire coefficients having the same order and type
Authors: Nacera Berrighi , Saada Hamouda
Published: May 2015

In this paper we will investigate the growth of solutions of certain class of nonhomogeneous linear differential equations with entire coefficients having the same order and type. This work improves and extends some previous results in [1], [7] and [9].
Applications of double lacunary sequences to n-norm
Authors: Raj Kuldip , Sharma Sunil Kumar
Published: May 2015

In the present paper we define some classes of double lacunary sequence spaces over n-normed spaces by means of a Musielak- Orlicz function. We study some relevant algebraic and topological properties. Further some inclusion relation among the classes are also examined.
Convergence of three-step iterations for Ciric-quasi contractive operator in CAT(0) spaces
Authors: Saluja Gurucharan S.
Published: May 2015

In this paper, we study three-step iteration process for Ciric-quasi contractive operator and establish strong convergence theorems for above mentioned operator and schemes in the setting of CAT(0) spaces. Our result extends and generalizes some previous work from the existing literature (see, e.g., [4, 30] and some others).
Assessment of drug delivery devices
Authors: Batista Elsa , Almeida Nelson , Furtado Andreia , Filipe Eduarda , Sousa Luis , Martins Rui , Lucas Peter , Petter Harm Tido , Snijder Roland , Timmerman Annemoon
Published: May 2015

For critical drug delivery, it is important to have a constant and well-known infusion rate delivered by the complete infusion set-up (pump, tubing, and accessories). Therefore, various drug delivery devices and accessories were tested in this article in terms of their infusion accuracy, start-up delay, response time, and dependency on the viscosity. These measurements were performed as part of the European funded research project MeDD. The obtained results show that the infusion accuracy of the devices is flow rate and accessory depended, especially for low flow rates. Viscosity does not have a significant impact on the flow rate accuracy.
Application of Triethyl Citrate to Filters in Virginia Type Cigarettes*
Authors: Jin Yong , Yu Saibo , Liu Qi , Wang Shitai , Tan Haifeng , Li Ke , Fan Hongmei
Published: May 2015

Triethyl citrate (TEC) was applied in the preparation of cigarette filter rods by two approaches. One was to utilize TEC as a plasticizer sprayed onto the surface of cellulose acetate (CA) fibers. The other was to apply TEC as an additive coated onto the cellulosic paper of acetate-paper dual filters. Three types of cigarette filter rods, namely, triethyl citrate-cellulose acetate (TEC-CA) filter rods, triethyl citrate-cellulose acetate-paper (TEC-CA-paper) dual filter rods and cellulose acetate-paper-triethyl citrate (CA-paper-TEC) dual filter rods, were manufactured. In order to promote the curing of CA rods, high-frequency radiation was introduced into the procedure of filter manufacture. Then Virginia type cigarettes, combined with the three kinds of prepared filter rods were manufactured and the removal efficiency of phenols from the cigarette mainstream smoke was investigated. The results revealed that no matter where the triethyl citrate was applied as plasticizer or coating additive, the content of phenol, o-, m-and p-cresol in cigarette mainstream smoke could be greatly reduced. The optimal removal efficiency for phenol was 50% compared with the control. [Beitr. Tabakforsch. Int. 26 (2014) 176-182]
Development and Characterisation of a Smoking Behaviour Measurement System
Authors: Vas Carl A. , Yurteri Caner Ü. , Dickens Colin J. , Prasad Krishna
Published: May 2015

Respiratory deposition from smoking articles is influenced by particle or droplet properties (such as diameter), puffing parameters (such as draw effort or pressure drop, flow rate, duration), mouth losses, and post-puff inhalation dynamics (determined by inhalation depth, volume and breath hold duration). The Smoking Behaviour System (SBS) described herein is a novel system with regard to its capability to measure flow and duration characteristics of typical smoking cycles, which may consist of puffing, mouth hold, post-puff inhalation, breath hold and exhalation. It combines two analysers: the first measures the puffing topography and optical obscuration from puffed aerosol, while the second measures the respiratory topography and optical obscuration from exhaled aerosol. The puffing and respiratory analysers were calibrated and operated between flow rates of 0-7 L.min-1 and 0-50 L.min-1, respectively, as typically encountered during the human smoking cycle. The volumes measured by the puffing and respiratory analysers met the design specification and tolerance limits of ± 2% and ± 5%, respectively. The optical obscuration measurements showed no statistical difference among the three units tested or in day-to-day variation, verifying the robustness of the SBS for use in optical measurements of smoke when combined with topography measurements. In conclusion, the SBS is a validated technology that provides a means to measure the real-time flow and duration profile of puffing, mouth hold, post-puff inhalation, breath hold
Corruption and System Change in the Czech Republic: Firm-Level Evidence
Authors: Koudelková Petra , Strielkowski Wadim , Hejlová Denisa
Published: May 2015

Corruption is a widespread phenomenon in all countries undergoing market transition. However, the Czech Republic stands apart, with its incredible entanglement of corruption, politics and business. Although corruption on the firm level in the Czech Republic is heavily criticized, the results of our in-depth interviews conducted with Czech SMEs showed that almost every firm has encountered some form of corruption and even used corruption to either increase sales, help negotiations, or increase production. Most of our respondents admitted that corruption was useful for day-to-day business. This article aims to obtain information about the state of corruption in enterprises in the Czech Republic and map the behaviour of entrepreneurs in companies. Our results offer ways to fight corruption: apart from highlighting the negative traits of corruption, emphasis should be made on determining to what extent corruption would be acceptable for firms and their clients. This could be useful for designing various state policies that might influence system change and market development in CEECs and both directly and indirectly influence the volume of corruption.