bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of meloxicam and phenylbutazone on renal responses to furosemide, dobutamine, and exercise in horses
Authors: Raidal Sharanne L. , Hughes Kris J. , Charman Amanda-Lee , Nielsen Sharon G. , Phillips Jacqueline K. , Noble Glenys K.
Published: June 2014

Objective—To compare the effects of 2 NSAIDs (phenylbutazone and meloxicam) on renal function in horses.

Animals—9 Thoroughbred or Standardbred mares (mean ± SD age, 5.22 ± 1.09 years [range, 2 to 12 years]; mean body weight, 470 ± 25 kg [range, 442 to 510 kg]).

Procedures—A randomized blinded placebo-controlled crossover study was conducted to examine the effects of treatment with phenylbutazone, meloxicam, or a placebo (control solution) on renal responses to the administration of furosemide, dobutamine, and exercise (15 minutes at 60% of maximum heart rate). Renal function was assessed by use of bilateral ureteral catheterization for simultaneous determination of creatinine clearance, sodium excretion, and urine flow rate.

Results—Both phenylbutazone and meloxicam attenuated diuresis and natriuresis and reduced glomerular filtration rate, compared with results for the control solution, when horses were treated with furosemide. Mean arterial blood pressure, urine flow rate, and glomerular filtration rate were increased during or after (or both) dobutamine infusion. Both NSAIDs reduced urine flow rate and sodium excretion associated with dobutamine infusion and exercise but had no effect on glomerular filtration rate.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Responses to meloxicam, a cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 preferential agent, appeared comparable to those detected after phenylbutazone treatment, which suggested that COX-2 was the mediator of prostanoid-induced changes to renal function in horses and indicated that COX-2–preferential agents would be likely to have adverse renal effects similar to those for nonselective COX inhibitors in volume-depleted horses.
Effects of staple size, tissue thickness, and precompression time on staple shape in side-to-side jejunocecal anastomosis in specimens obtained from healthy horses at an abattoir
Authors: Giusto Gessica , Gandini Marco , Amedeo Stefano
Published: June 2014

Objective—To determine effects of staple size, precompression time, and tissue thickness on staple shape and tissue approximation in side-to-side jejunocecal anastomosis in equine specimens.

Sample—Cecum, ileum, and jejunum specimens obtained from 18 healthy horses at an abattoir.

Procedures—Specimens were allotted into 2 groups. Anastomoses were stapled with 4.8-or 3.8-mm staples. Precompression time was 15 seconds for both groups. Staple lines were cut into proximal, middle, and distal sections. Thickness of intestinal walls was measured with a calibrated tissue micrometer, photographs were obtained, and intestinal tissues were digested. An investigator measured staples and assessed the shape of staples on high-definition digital images. Number of optimally shaped staples and staple height were compared among sections and between groups.

Results—Use of 4.8-mm staples resulted in poor approximation of tissues in the distal sections of anastomoses. The percentage of optimally shaped staples was 538 of 551 (97.6%) and 616 of 634 (97.2%) for 4.8- and 3.8-mm staples, respectively. The percentage of optimally shaped staples did not differ significantly between groups for the same sections. There was a lower percentage of optimally shaped staples in the distal sections than in the proximal and middle sections of each group. Mean staple height did not differ significantly among sections of each group.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Use of 3.8-mm staples with an adequate precompression time for jejunocecal anastomosis in horses resulted in proper staple shape. These findings could be used to improve the technique and outcome for stapled jejunocecal anastomoses in horses.
Differentiation of canine adipose tissue–derived mesenchymal stem cells towards endothelial progenitor cells
Authors: Kang Byung-Jae , Lee Seung Hoon , Kweon Oh-Kyeong , Cho Je-Yoel
Published: June 2014

Objective—To determine the differentiation of canine adipose tissue–derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) into endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs).

Animals—3 healthy adult Beagles.

Procedures—Canine ASCs were isolated and cultured from adipose tissue, and endothelial differentiation was induced by culturing ASCs in differentiation medium. Morphological and immunophenotypic changes were monitored. Expression of endothelial-specific markers was analyzed by conventional and real-time RT-PCR assay. The in vitro and in vivo functional characteristics of the endothelial-like cells induced from canine ASCs were evaluated by use of an in vitro solubilized basement membrane tube assay, low-density lipoprotein uptake assay, and in vivo solubilized basement membrane plug assay.

Results—After differentiation culture, the cells developed morphological changes, expressed EPC markers such as CD34 and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2, and revealed functional characteristics in vitro. Furthermore, the induced cells allowed vessel formation in solubilized basement membrane plugs in vivo.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that canine ASCs developed EPC characteristics when stimulated by differentiation medium with growth factors. Thus, differentiated canine ASC-EPCs may have the potential to provide vascularization for constructs used in regenerative medicine strategies.
Training Spatial Skills in Men and Women
Authors: Cherney Isabelle D. , Bersted Kyle , Smetter Joseph
Published: June 2014

Recent studies suggest that even short-term video game training may transfer to other cognitive tasks. With the popularity of the Nintendo Wii with women, more of them might be exposed to the games that will increase their mental rotation skills. Because performance on mental rotation tests (MRT) has been linked to math performance in women, and thus may ultimately contribute to the under-representation of women in STEM fields, it is important to continue to explore ways to decrease or eliminate the robust sex difference in mental rotation. The present study of 30 men and 30 women provides additional evidence that women may benefit from short-term (1 hour) training on either a Nintendo Wii™ or GameCube console to increase their mental rotation skills. One hour of video game training not only increased women's MRT scores to a level similar to men's scores, but also produced greater average improvement for women, even when controlling for experiential factors such as spatial and masculine childhood activities that could contribute to the sex difference in spatial ability.
Aerobic Capacity is Correlated with the Ranking of Boxers
Authors: Bruzas Vidas , Stasiulis Arvydas , Cepulenas Algirdas , Mockus Pranas , Statkeviciene Birute , Subacius Vitalijus
Published: June 2014

The goal was to assess the aerobic capacity of boxers and its relation with sport mastery. Participants were 12 boxers from the Lithuanian national team (VO2max −58.03±3.00ml/kg/min) of different weight classes. Their sport mastery ranking was established according to their achieved results during the last years of participation in amateur boxing contests. In a graduated treadmill running test, the boxers' aerobic capacity indices were established. Running speed at first and second ventilatory thresholds, VO2max, and maximal oxygen pulse had moderate to strong correlations with the boxers' sport mastery ranking. Aerobic capacity is an important fitness component of boxers in all weight categories. Special attention should be paid to development of cardiac capacity in the boxers' training processes, as with aerobic power and anaerobic threshold training.
Optimal Reorientation Of Spacecraft Orbit
Authors: Chelnokov Yuriy Nikolaevich , Pankratov Ilya Alekseevich , Sapunkov Yakov Grigorievich
Published: June 2014

The problem of optimal reorientation of the spacecraft orbit is considered. For solving the problem we used quaternion equations of motion written in rotating coordinate system. The use of quaternion variables makes this consideration more efficient. The problem of optimal control is solved on the basis of the maximum principle. An example of numerical solution of the problem is given.
Could k-NN Classifier be Useful in Tree Leaves Recognition?
Authors: Horaisová Kateřina , Kukal Jaromir
Published: June 2014

This paper presents a method for affine invariant recognition of two-dimensional binary objects based on 2D Fourier power spectrum. Such function is translation invariant and their moments of second order enable construction of affine invariant spectrum except of the rotation effect. Harmonic analysis of samples on circular paths generates Fourier coefficients whose absolute values are affine invariant descriptors. Affine invariancy is approximately saved also for large digital binary images as demonstrated in the experimental part. The proposed method is tested on artificial data set first and consequently on a large set of 2D binary digital images of tree leaves. High dimensionality of feature vectors is reduced via the kernel PCA technique with Gaussian kernel and the k-NN classifier is used for image classification. The results are summarized as k-NN classifier sensitivity after dimensionality reduction. The resulting descriptors after dimensionality reduction are able to distinguish real contours of tree leaves with acceptable classification error. The general methodology is directly applicable to any set of large binary images. All calculations were performed in the MATLAB environment
Query-condition-aware V-optimal histogram in range query selectivity estimation
Authors: Augustyn D.R.
Published: June 2014

Obtaining the optimal query execution plan requires a selectivity estimation. The selectivity value allows to predict the size of a query result. This lets choose the best method of query execution. There are many selectivity obtaining methods that are based on different types of estimators of attribute values distribution (commonly they are based on histograms). The adaptive method, proposed in this paper, uses either attribute values distribution or range query condition boundaries one. The new type of histogram - the Query-Conditional-Aware V-optimal one (QCA-V-optimal) - is proposed as a non-parametric estimator of a probability density function of attribute values distribution. This histogram also takes into account information about already processed queries. This information is represented by the 1-dimensional Query Condition Distribution histogram (HQCD) which is an estimator of the include function PI which is also introduced in this paper. PI describes so-called regions of user interest, i.e. it shows how often regions of attribute values domain were used by processed queries. Advantages of the proposed method based on QCA-V-optimal are presented. Conducted experiments reveal small values of a mean relative selectivity estimation error comparing to the error values obtained by methods based on the relevant classical V-optimal histogram and Equi-height one.
Embedded control system development for the solution of self-adjusted regulator design problem and its robustness properties estimation
Authors: Zamyatin S.V. , Kurgankin V.V. , Rudnicki V.A.
Published: June 2014

The possibility of the embedded automatic-control system construction for a self-adjusted regulator design on the basis of dynamic compensation principle is observed. The description of mathematical and algorithmic apparatus of Control Object identification in a digital form resulted in a design of the regulator. Results of natural experiments are given. An analysis of the regulator robustness properties is carried out.
Selected aspects of Modular Multilevel Converter operation
Authors: Zygmanowski M. , Grzesik B. , Fulczyk M. , Nalepa R.
Published: June 2014

The operation of the Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC) is the main subject of this paper. Selected operation aspects are discussed on the basis of the averaged model, with a special focus on power section parameters and control. The direct modulation method has been chosen for the control of the MMC.
Evaluation of the usefulness of laboratory diagnostic methods in RHD outbreak
Authors: Fitzner Andrzej
Published: June 2014

The field outbreak of RHD that occurred late summer 2012 on a small-scale rabbit-rearing operation in Poland and the usefulness of techniques for RHD virus diagnosis are described. During the epizootic, the overall mortality rate of rabbits older than two months was 77%. Eight liver specimens collected from dead unvaccinated rabbits (aged 3-5 months) underwent virological examinations. RHDV specific antigen was detected in two out of eight liver homogenates by haemagglutination (HA) test and ELISA, one of the two being negative in HA assay. However the presence of genetic material of RHD virus was confirmed by RT-PCR and real-time RT-PCR in all liver samples tested. Based on antigen reactivity in ELISA and sequencing of PCR amplicons of the VP60 gene, the RHDVa subtype strain was identified as the cause of infection. The partial genome sequence of a field isolate (STR 2012), comprising the C-terminus of the polymerase gene and the full capsid protein gene, revealed 91% nucleotide homology to reference FRG89 RHDV isolate and 97% to strain Triptis representing the RHDVa variant. Serological evidence of an RHD outbreak in the STR rabbit-rearing operation was confirmed in a serum sample collected from an unvaccinated surviving rabbit. A cross-reactivity examination of RHDV positive serum revealed a decrease in HI titre against the STR 2012 field antigen, and a decrease in the RHDVa control antigen as compared to classic RHDV.
Phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of antibiotic resistance of commensal Escherichia coli isolates from healthy pigs
Authors: Mazurek Justyna , Bok Ewa , Pusz Paweł , Stosik Michał , Baldy-Chudzik Katarzyna
Published: June 2014

The objective of the study was to examine the characteristics of the resistance profiles of Escherichia coli isolated from healthy pigs from three farms in Western Poland. The sensitivity to 13 antimicrobial agents was tested by a disk diffusion method, and the presence of 13 resistance genes was determined by PCR. The majority of the isolates were multi-resistant. The most common multi-resistance patterns were streptomycin, trimethoprim, sulfisoxazole, ampicillin, tetracycline. Although some resistance genes, such as strA/strB, blaTEM, sul1, sul2, and tetA, were equally represented in isolates from each farm, differences in the distribution of tetB and tetC, hfrV, dhfrXII, and sul1 resistance genes were observed among the isolates from different farms. Approximately one-third (35.9%) of the isolates possessed a class 1 integron. The four major different variable regions of the class 1 integron contained streptomycin (aadA1, aadA2, and aadA5) and/or trimethoprim (dhfrI, dhfrV and dhfrXVII), and/or sulphonamides (sul1) resistance genes. The results of this study emphasise that uncontrolled use of antibiotics causes the development of resistance and provides the evidence of frequent occurrence of more than one gene encoding the resistance to the same antimicrobial agent in the multi-resistant strains.
Cytological evaluation of inflammation of the uterus and influence of endometritis on selected reproductive parameters in dairy cows
Authors: Brodzki Piotr , Niemczuk Krzysztof , Kostro Krzysztof , Brodzki Adam , Kurek Łukasz , Marczuk Jan
Published: June 2014

There were two aims of this study. One was to evaluate the postpartum state of the reproductive system in cows based on ultrasonography, bacterial culture, and cytological examination of the uterus. The other was to determine whether postpartum endometritis affects the subsequent state of the endometrium, and, in consequence, selected reproductive parameters in cows. The study was conducted on 60 cows: the experimental group of 30 cows with endometritis, and 30 cows free of uterine inflammation (control). The percentage of leukocytes in both groups was similar only on day 5 of postpartum. In all subsequent tests (26, 40, 61 d postpartum), the percentage of leukocytes in the experimental group was statistically significantly higher than in the control (P < 0.001), both in samples collected with a brush and in lavage samples. Involution of the uterus in the experimental group was also slower (P < 0.001). The analysed reproductive parameters were markedly less favourable in the experimental group than in the control. The study showed that postpartum inflammation of the uterus can persist for a long time in the form of endometritis, causing substantial deterioration of reproductive parameters in cows. The authors suggest that cytological evaluation of the uterus, preferably using a brush, should be performed as soon as possible after parturition, even before day 21, up to which time puerperal metritis may still persist. Evaluation of the inflammatory process based on the number of leukocytes and the quality of endometrial cells is important.
Vascular endothelial growth factor in prognosis of splenic malignant tumours in dogs
Authors: Sobczyńska-Rak Aleksandra , Polkowska Izabela , Brodzki Adam
Published: June 2014

The aim of the study was to determine the levels of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the serum of dogs suffering from splenic malignant tumours, prior to splenectomy, as well as three and six months after the surgery. Tumours and blood samples were collected from 10 dogs of various breeds, aged between 7 and 13 years, and from 10 control animals. Tumour sections were fixed in 10% buffered formalin for 24 h. The type of tumour was determined according to the WHO classification. Blood samples were centrifuged and the obtained sera were subjected to immunoenzymatic assays to determine the VEGF levels. The median of VEGF levels in the serum of dogs suffering from splenic malignant tumours was 37.85 pg/mL (15.40-107.18 pg/mL). The highest values were observed in dogs with confirmed metastases (107.18 pg/mL and 65.43 pg/mL). The VEGF values in control group were between 0.1 pg/mL and 13.04 pg/mL. A comparative analysis of the VEGF levels against the animals' survival time indicated that VEGF overexpression may serve as a prognostic factor in cases of malignant tumours of the spleen.
Usefulness of measuring the concentration of thyroglobulin antibodies in serum of dogs for the assessment of thyroid functioning
Authors: Popiel Jarosław , Cekiera Agnieszka
Published: June 2014

The aim of the study was to estimate the usefulness of measuring the thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAbs) concentration in dogs’ serum in order to assess thyroid functioning. The study was performed on 383 dogs. The animals were divided into two groups: group A (n = 308) consisted of dogs with hypothyroidism and group B (n = 75) consisted of dogs with euthyreosis. TgAbs was determined in both groups. The reaction to the TgAbs in group A was strongly positive in 32% of dogs, weakly positive in 33% of dogs, and negative in 35% of dogs. The TgAbs were observed in 32% of the dogs from group B, in which 8% of the animals had strongly positive reaction (++) and 24% - slightly positive (+). The correlation between the concentration of total and free fraction of the thyroxin and the level of the TgAbs were observed in group A. The tendency to positive reaction to the antibodies (++) in dogs with lower concentrations of total thyroxine and free thyroxine was observed. It was noted that the presence of the TgAbs was common in dogs with hypothyroidism. However, it could be also found in the animals with euthyreosis.
Predictive Control of a Laboratory Time Delay Process Experiment
Authors: Enev S.
Published: June 2014

The paper presents the design and implementation of a Model Predictive Control (MPC) scheme of a laboratory heatexchange process with a significant time delay in the input-output path. The optimization problem formulation is given and an MPC control algorithm is designed, achieving integral properties. Details, related to the practical implementation of the control law are discussed and the first experimental results are presented.
Temperamental Determinants of Social Competencies
Authors: Martowska Katarzyna
Published: June 2014

The research concerned the determinants of social competencies, which are significant indicators of the quality of interpersonal relations. The aim of the study was to verify the connection between social competencies and temperamental traits. The respondent group included 220 university students of different faculties aged 19-24. Social competencies were measured with the use of a Social Competencies Questionnaire (SCQ) by Anna Matczak, while temperamental traits were measured with The Formal Characteristics of Behaviour-Temperament Inventory (FCB-TI), by Bogdan Zawadzki and Jan Strelau. The research proved that activity, emotional reactivity and sensory sensitivity are significant predictors of social competencies. The predictive value of these traits differs depending on the kind of measured competency.
Does self-improvement explain well-being in life and at workplace? Analysis based on selected measures of well-being
Authors: Zawadzka Anna Maria , Szabowska-Walaszczyk Anna
Published: June 2014

Two studies were performed to test the relationship between readiness for self-improvement (consisting of two components: readiness to improve oneself and readiness to take care of one’s health) and selected measures of well-being. The first study investigated whether readiness for self-improvement is related to the selected measures of overall subjective well-being (or life satisfaction). The second one investigated in what way readiness for self-improvement is related to subjective well-being at workplace (or work engagement). The results obtained in both cases showed that readiness for self-improvement is indeed related to and does account for well-being. In the first study, readiness for self-improvement (i.e. readiness to improve oneself) accounted for overall life satisfaction within important human life domains and satisfaction with the present and future life. In the second study, work engagement, was significantly linked to readiness to improve oneself but was not with readiness to take care of one’s health.
Secular score gains on Raven’s Progressive Matrices in a population of Polish adolescents
Authors: Witkowska Ewa
Published: June 2014

The paper presents findings on secular score gains in Raven’s Progressive Matrices during six decades (1948- 2009) in Polish adolescents. Seven groups are being compared, comprising of 20, 490 subjects in total. The representative groups examined in 2000 (N=1,331) and 2009 (N=3,650) are those of special interest as they are the most numerous and allowing formal means comparison using standard test for comparison of means and Welch’s test. Possible causes for the noted effect are being discussed, with special emphasis on the economic growth and its implications - such as improved nutrition, education changes, growth of adolescent’s well-being and child upbringing practices.
Subjective well-being as a mediator for curiosity and depression
Authors: Kaczmarek Łukasz D. , Bączkowski Błażej , Enko Jolanta , Baran Barbara , Theuns Peter
Published: June 2014

Curiosity is a personality trait that is inversely related to depression and positively related to subjective wellbeing. However, the relationship between curiosity and these two outcomes is still unclear which hampers our general understanding of well-being. Based on research within positive psychology that showed character strengths such as curiosity can indirectly decrease depression, we hypothesized that the inverse relationship between curiosity and depression would be mediated by subjective well-being. Two hundred and fifty seven participants, between 18 and 64 years old (M = 24.50, SD = 8.33) completed a web-based survey comprising: The Curiosity and Exploration Inventory - II, Center for Epidemiological Studies - Depression and the Steen Happiness Index. We found that well-being mediated the relationship between curiosity and depression. The results indicate that curious individuals tend to report higher levels of subjective well-being which, in turn, is associated with lower levels of depression. Our findings contribute to the understanding of positive results obtained from clinical samples that underwent positive psychotherapy of depression.
The Structure of Workaholism and Types of Workaholic
Authors: Malinowska Diana , Tokarz Aleksandra
Published: June 2014

The aim of the study presented was to verify empirically a conception of workaholism as a multidimensional syndrome. The study also investigated the notion of ‘functional’ and ‘dysfunctional’ types of workaholic, on the basis of the participants’ cognitive evaluations of their quality of life. The research group comprised Polish managers who had graduated with, or were studying to attain, a Master’s degree in Business Administration. The 137 participants completed a set of questionnaires that were based on five different research tools. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the theory that workaholism has a three-dimensional structure that includes behavioural, cognitive, and affective dimensions. Using cluster analysis, three types of worker were identified, two of which represented types of workaholic with different scores for the dimensions of workaholism and for aspects of quality of life. The research demonstrated that workaholism is a three-dimensional construct. It enabled the integration of different perspectives and also confirmed that dysfunctional and functional types of workaholic exist. Furthermore, this paper provides practical insights about workaholism for practitioners of human resources that can be used in the selection and evaluation of employees.
Emotion understanding, interpersonal competencies and loneliness among students
Authors: Moroń Marcin
Published: June 2014

The study examines the associations of emotion understanding, interpersonal competencies, loneliness and correlated variables (perceived social support, quality of social networks). Two conceptual models of relations were tested. In the first model it was hypothesized that interpersonal competencies mediate relations between emotion understanding and loneliness, perceived social support and quality of social networks. In the second model emotion understanding was tested as a moderator of relationships between interpersonal competencies and loneliness, perceived social support and quality of social networks. Study 1 (n = 221) provided only a weak confirmation of the mediatory model, restricted to men. Study 2 (n = 206), employing different measures of emotion understanding and loneliness, confirmed weakly both the mediatory and moderatory models. In both studies a direct negative correlation between emotion understanding and loneliness was not confirmed.
Improvement of passive shielding to reduce background components to determinate radioactivity at low energy gamma rays
Authors: Thanh T. T. , Loan T. T. H. , Nhon M. V. , Tao C. V.
Published: June 2014

This paper describes a new system that has the ability to reduce background components to apply for environmental studies. This system uses gamma spectrometry with semi-empirical self–absorption correction and practical method for routine measurements of the mass activity radionuclides at low energy such as 210Pb (46.5 keV), 234Th (63.3 keV) and 226Ra (186.2 keV). The reliability and precision of proficiency test must pass for final scores all the analytical determinations of received “acceptable” for all radionuclides. Our work shows an experiment developed for the calculation of self-absorption correction in that case that the sample's chemical composition is unknown.
The Cultural Institutionalization of Photography in France: A Brief History
Authors: Yacavone Kathrin
Published: June 2014

This article provides a historical overview of the cultural institutionalization of photography in France, with a particular focus on the pioneering initiatives of individual photography enthusiasts throughout the 1970s to promote photographic culture. These efforts were roughly simultaneous with changes in acquisition and exhibition practices on the part of fine art museums and collections with respect to photography, in response to an increasing world-wide recognition of its status as an art form. The article explains how, despite the promotion of photography as a French invention and a contribution to culture (as early as its inception in 1839), an active cultural politics of photography did not emerge until the early to mid-1980s and was an opportune reaction to, and institutionalized framing of, ground-level cultural developments already underway.
A Faster Quick Search Algorithm
Authors: Lin Jie , Adjeroh Donald , Jiang Yue
Published: June 2014

We present the FQS (faster quick search) algorithm, an improved variation of the quick search algorithm. The quick search (QS) exact pattern matching algorithm and its variants are among the fastest practical matching algorithms today. The FQS algorithm computes a statistically expected shift value, which allows maximal shifts and a smaller number of comparisons between the pattern and the text. Compared to the state-of-the-art QS variants of exact pattern matching algorithms, the proposed FQS algorithm is the fastest when lΣl ≤ 128, where lΣl is the alphabet size. FQS also has a competitive running time when lΣl > 128. Running on three practical text files, E. coli (lΣl = 4), Bible (lΣl = 63) and World192 (lΣl = 94), FQS resulted in the best performance in practice. Our FQS algorithm will have important applications in the domain of genomic database searching, involving DNA or RNA sequence databases with four symbols Σ = {A, C, G, T(/U)} or protein databases with lΣl = 20.
Spectral Line Shapes of He I Line 3889 Å
Authors: Omar Banaz , González Manuel , Gigosos Marco , Ramazanov Tlekkabul , Jelbuldina Madina , Dzhumagulova Karlygash , Zammit Mark , Fursa Dmitry , Bray Igor
Published: June 2014

Spectral line shapes of neutral helium 3889 Å(23S–33P) transition line are calculated by using several theoretical methods. The electronic contribution to the line broadening is calculated from quantum statistical many-particle theory by using thermodynamic Green's function, including dynamic screening of the electron-atom interaction. The ionic contribution is taken into account in a quasistatic approximation, where a static microfield distribution function is presented. Strong electron collisions are consistently considered with an effective two-particle T-matrix approach, where Convergent Close Coupling method gives scattering amplitudes including Debye screening for neutral helium. Then the static profiles converted to dynamic profiles by using the Frequency Fluctuation Model. Furthermore, Molecular Dynamics simulations for interacting and independent particles are used where the dynamic sequence of microfield is taken into account. Plasma parameters are diagnosed and good agreements are shown by comparing our theoretical results with the recent experimental result of Jovićević et al. (J. Phys. B: At. Mol. Opt. Phys. 2005, 38, 1249). Additionally, comparison with various experimental data in a wide range of electron density ne ≈ (1022− 1024)m−3 and temperature T ≈ (2−6) × 104 K are presented.
Communication Network Architectures for Smart-Wind Power Farms
Authors: Ahmed Mohamed , Kim Young-Chon
Published: June 2014

Developments in the wind power industry have enabled a new generation of wind turbines with longer blades, taller towers, higher efficiency, and lower maintenance costs due to the maturity of related technologies. Nevertheless, wind turbines are still blind machines because the control center is responsible for managing and controlling individual wind turbines that are turned on or off according to demand for electricity. In this paper, we propose a communication network architecture for smart-wind power farms (Smart-WPFs). The proposed architecture is designed for wind turbines to communicate directly and share sensing data in order to maximize power generation, WPF availability, and turbine efficiency. We also designed a sensor data frame structure to carry sensing data from different wind turbine parts such as the rotor, transformer, nacelle, etc. The data frame includes a logical node ID (LNID), sensor node ID (SNID), sensor type (ST), and sensor data based on the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 61400-25 standard. We present an analytical model that describes upstream traffic between the wind turbines and the control center. Using a queueing theory approach, the upstream traffic is evaluated in view of bandwidth utilization and average queuing delay. The performance of the proposed network architectures are evaluated by using analytical and simulation models.
Effects of Pretreatment Methods on Electrodes and SOFC Performance
Authors: Jung Guo-Bin , Fang Li-Hsing , Chiou Min-Jay , Nguyen Xuan-Vien , Su Ay , Lee Win-Tai , Chang Shu-Wei , Kao I-Cheng , Yu Jyun-Wei
Published: June 2014

Commercially available tapes (anode, electrolyte) and paste (cathode) were choosen to prepare anode-supported cells for solid oxide fuel cell applications. For both anode-supported cells or electrolyte-supported cells, the anode needs pretreatment to reduce NiO/YSZ to Ni/YSZ to increase its conductivity as well as its catalytic characteristics. In this study, the effects of different pretreatments (open-circuit, closed-circuit) on cathode and anodes as well as SOFC performance are investigated. To investigate the influence of closed-circuit pretreatment on the NiO/YSZ anode alone, a Pt cathode is utilized as reference for comparison with the LSM cathode. The characterization of the electrical resistance, AC impedance, and SOFC performance of the resulting electrodes and/or anode-supported cell were carried out. It’s found that the influence of open-circuit pretreatment on the LSM cathode is limited. However, the influence of closed-circuit pretreatment on both the LSM cathode and NiO/YSZ anode and the resulting SOFC performance is profound. The effect of closed-circuit pretreatment on the NiO/YSZ anode is attributed to its change of electronic/pore structure as well as catalytic characteristics. With closed-circuit pretreatment, the SOFC performance improved greatly from the change of LSM cathode (and Pt reference) compared to the Ni/YSZ anode.
Impact of the 2008 Economic and Financial Crisis on Child Health: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rajmil Luis , De Sanmamed María-José , Choonara Imti , Faresjö Tomas , Hjern Anders , Kozyrskyj Anita , Lucas Patricia , Raat Hein , Séguin Louise , Spencer Nick , Taylor-Robinson David ,   On Behalf of the International Network for Research in Inequalities in Child Health (INRICH)
Published: June 2014

The aim of this study was to provide an overview of studies in which the impact of the 2008 economic crisis on child health was reported. Structured searches of PubMed, and ISI Web of Knowledge, were conducted. Quantitative and qualitative studies reporting health outcomes on children, published since 2007 and related to the 2008 economic crisis were included. Two reviewers independently assessed studies for inclusion. Data were synthesised as a narrative review. Five hundred and six titles and abstracts were reviewed, from which 22 studies were included. The risk of bias for quantitative studies was mixed while qualitative studies showed low risk of bias. An excess of 28,000–50,000 infant deaths in 2009 was estimated in sub-Saharan African countries, and increased infant mortality in Greece was reported. Increased price of foods was related to worsening nutrition habits in disadvantaged families worldwide. An increase in violence against children was reported in the U.S., and inequalities in health-related quality of life appeared in some countries. Most studies suggest that the economic crisis has harmed children’s health, and disproportionately affected the most vulnerable groups. There is an urgent need for further studies to monitor the child health effects of the global recession and to inform appropriate public policy responses.
Nature-Based Stress Management Course for Individuals at Risk of Adverse Health Effects from Work-Related Stress—Effects on Stress Related Symptoms, Workability and Sick Leave
Authors: Sahlin Eva , Ahlborg Gunnar , Matuszczyk Josefa , Grahn Patrik
Published: June 2014

Sick leave due to stress-related disorders is increasing in Sweden after a period of decrease. To avoid that individuals living under heavy stress develop more severe stress-related disorders, different stress management interventions are offered. Self-assessed health, burnout-scores and well-being are commonly used as outcome measures. Few studies have used sick-leave to compare effects of stress interventions. A new approach is to use nature and garden in a multimodal stress management context. This study aimed to explore effects on burnout, work ability, stress-related health symptoms, and sick leave for 33 women participating in a 12-weeks nature based stress management course and to investigate how the nature/garden activities were experienced. A mixed method approach was used. Measures were taken at course start and three follow-ups. Results showed decreased burnout-scores and long-term sick leaves, and increased work ability; furthermore less stress-related symptoms were reported. Tools and strategies to better handle stress were achieved and were widely at use at all follow-ups. The garden and nature content played an important role for stress relief and for tools and strategies to develop. The results from this study points to beneficial effects of using garden activities and natural environments in a stress management intervention.
Matrilin-2 Is Proteolytically Cleaved by ADAMTS-4 and ADAMTS-5
Authors: Wang Zhengke , Luo Junming , Iwamoto Satori , Chen Qian
Published: June 2014

Matrilin-2 is a widely distributed, oligomeric extracellular matrix protein that forms a filamentous network by binding to a variety of different extracellular matrix proteins. We found matrilin-2 proteolytic products in transfected cell lines in vitro and in mouse tissues in vivo. Two putative cleavage sites were identified in the unique domain of matrilin-2; the first site was located between D851 and L852 in the middle of the domain and the second, at the boundary with the coiled-coil domain at the C-terminus. Deletion of the entire unique domain eliminated the proteolysis of matrilin-2. While the first cleavage site was present in all matrilin-2 oligomers, the second cleavage site became apparent only in the matrilin-2 hetero-oligomers with matrilin-1 or matrilin-3. Analysis using a variety of extracellular protease inhibitors suggested that this proteolytic activity was derived from a member or several members of the ADAMTS family. Recombinant human ADAMTS-4 (aggrecanase-1) and ADAMTS-5 (aggrecanase-2), but not ADAMTS-1, cleaved recombinant matrilin-2, thereby yielding matrilin-2 proteolytic peptides at the predicted sizes. These results suggest that ADAMTS-4 and ADAMTS-5 may destabilize the filamentous network in the extracellular matrix by cleaving matrilin-2 in both homo-oligomers and hetero-oligomers.
The Effect of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Soybean on DNA, Cytogenicity and Some Antioxidant Enzymes in Rats
Authors: El-Kholy Thanaa , Hilal Mohammad , Al-Abbadi Hatim , Serafi Abdulhalim , Al-Ghamdi Ahmad , Sobhy Hanan , Richardson John
Published: June 2014

We investigated the effect of extra virgin (EV) olive oil and genetically modified (GM) soybean on DNA, cytogenicity and some antioxidant enzymes in rodents. Forty adult male albino rats were used in this study and divided into four groups. The control group of rodents was fed basal ration only. The second group was given basal ration mixed with EV olive oil (30%). The third group was fed basal ration mixed with GM (15%), and the fourth group survived on a combination of EV olive oil, GM and the basal ration for 65 consecutive days. On day 65, blood samples were collected from each rat for antioxidant enzyme analysis. In the group fed on basal ration mixed with GM soyabean (15%), there was a significant increase in serum level of lipid peroxidation, while glutathione transferase decreased significantly. Interestingly, GM soyabean increased not only the percentage of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MPCE), but also the ratio of polychromatic erythrocytes to normochromatic erythrocytes (PEC/NEC); however, the amount of DNA and NCE were significantly decreased. Importantly, the combination of EV olive oil and GM soyabean significantly altered the tested parameters towards normal levels. This may suggest an important role for EV olive oil on rodents’ organs and warrants further investigation in humans.
Introduction to the Special Issue on “State-of-the-Art Sensor Technology in Japan 2012”
Authors: Harada Kouji , Ishida Yoshiteru
Published: June 2014

Since the previous special issue: State-of-the-Art Sensor Technology in Japan in 2008, which collected papers on sensing technology for monitoring of humans and the environment, we have experienced the Great East Japan Earthquake, Tsunami on 11 March 2011. This special issue, while aiming in the same direction, focuses on technologies for: (1) accuracy and sensitivity, (2) wireless functions, (3) real-time response, (4) portability (miniaturization), and (5) privacy preservation to promote sensor and sensing technologies for disaster prevention and resilient systems. [...]
A Novel Strain of Porcine Adenovirus Detected in Urinary Bladder Urothelial Cell Culture
Authors: Jerman Urška , Kolenc Marko , Steyer Andrej , Veranič Peter , Prijatelj Mateja , Kreft Mateja
Published: June 2014

Contamination of cell cultures is the most common problem encountered in cell culture laboratories. Besides the secondary cell contaminations often occurring in the cell laboratories, the contaminations originating from donor animal or human tissue are equally as common, but usually harder to recognize and as such require special attention. The present study describes the detection of porcine adenovirus (PAdV), strain PAdV-SVN1 in cultures of normal porcine urothelial (NPU) cells isolated from urinary bladders of domestic pigs. NPU cell cultures were evaluated by light microscopy (LM), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and additionally assessed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Characteristic ultrastructure of virions revealed the infection with adenovirus. The adenoviral contamination was further identified by the sequence analysis, which showed the highest similarity to recently described PAdV strain PAdV-WI. Additionally, the cell ultrastructural analysis confirmed the life-cycle characteristic for adenoviruses. To closely mimic the in vivo situation, the majority of research on in vitro models uses cell cultures isolated from human or animal tissue and their subsequent passages. Since the donor tissue could be a potential source of contamination, the microbiological screening of the excised tissue and harvested cell cultures is highly recommended.
AN EXAMINATION OF PHILOSOPHICAL PARADIGMS AND A RATIONALE FOR ADOPTING A MIXED METHODS APPROACH
Authors: Azzopardi Ernest , Nash Robert
Published: June 2014

This article examines the ontological, epistemological, and methodological assumptions of some alternative philosophical paradigms that can inform the study on tourism. It presents logical and gradually developing arguments for the choice of the methodological stance, and the selection of analytical methods of inquiry.
Factors Influencing Taiwanese Backpackers' Learning Travel: The Role of Personality Traits and Wellness Lifestyles
Authors: Chen Kaung-Hwa , Yu Ping , Chang Feng-Hsiang , Hsieh Chin-Ling
Published: June 2014

Modern leisure and tourism forms that focus on learning activities have become mainstream. This study investigates the influence that Taiwanese backpackers' personality traits and wellness lifestyles have on learning travels. For this study, we established a wellness lifestyle scale
and learning travel themes and patterns. A total of 361 valid questionnaires were obtained. We performed factor analysis and structural equation modeling using SPSS statistical software and LISREL8.2 software for empirical analysis and study. The results of this study indicate that personality
traits significantly influence wellness lifestyles and learning travels. Wellness lifestyles also significantly influence learning travels. In addition, we found that personality traits influence learning travels through wellness lifestyles. Additionally, the lifestyle scale and learning travel
themes and patterns developed in this study can provide future researchers with a reference for their study targets and topics.
Synthesis of the first examples of iminosugar clusters based on cyclopeptoid cores
Authors: Lepage Mathieu L , Meli Alessandra , Bodlenner Anne , Tarnus Céline , De Riccardis Francesco , Izzo Irene , Compain Philippe
Published: June 2014

Cyclic N-propargyl α-peptoids of various sizes were prepared by way of macrocyclizations of linear N-substituted oligoglycines. These compounds were used as molecular platforms to synthesize a series of iminosugar clusters with different valency and alkyl spacer lengths by means of Cu(I)-catalysed azide–alkyne cycloadditions. Evaluation of these compounds as α-mannosidase inhibitors led to significant multivalent effects and further demonstrated the decisive influence of scaffold rigidity on binding affinity enhancements.
Microwave-assisted Cu(I)-catalyzed, three-component synthesis of 2-(4-((1-phenyl-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazoles
Authors: Kumar Yogesh , Bahadur Vijay , Singh Anil Kumar , Parmar Virinder Singh , Van der Eycken Erik V , Singh Brajendra Kumar
Published: June 2014

A microwave-assisted synthesis of 2-(4-((1-phenyl-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazoles from a phenylazide, propargyloxybenzaldehyde and a 1,2-diaminobenzene is proposed.
The high alpine bee fauna (Hymenoptera: Apoidea) of the Zillertal Alps, Austria
Authors: Bossert Silas
Published: June 2014

Bees from the Zemmgrund area in the Zillertal Alps (Austria, Tyrol) were collected and determined to investigate the species composition of the area. A total of 61 specimens were collected over a two year period; they represent 24 species from 8 genera. Building on these records, the first commented checklist for the area is presented, with notes on habitats and visited flowers.
Multiple Lower-extremity and Pelvic Fractures Increase Pulmonary Embolus Risk
Authors: Godzik Jakub , Mcandrew Christopher M. , Morshed Saam , kandemir Utku , Kelly Michael P.
Published: June 2014

The incidence of venous thromboembolism after major trauma has been estimated to be as high as 60%, despite appropriate prophylaxis. Pulmonary embolism is associated with deep venous thrombosis and also with significant rates of morbidity and mortality. This study examined risk factors for pulmonary embolism among patients with pelvic and lower-extremity fractures in the National Trauma Data Bank. Univariate analysis and multiple logistic regression were used to assess potential risk factors for pulmonary embolism during the index hospitalization period. A total of 199,952 patients with pelvic and lower-extremity fracture were identified. Of these patients, 918 (0.46%) had a pulmonary embolism and 117 (12%) of them died during hospitalization. The risk of pulmonary embolism was significantly increased in patients with multiple fractures (odds ratio, 1.89;
P
<.001) only. No significant relationship was found with fracture location (pelvis, femur, tibia). Other factors that were associated with increased rates of pulmonary embolism were obesity (body mass index >40 odds ratio, 3.38;
P
<.001), history of warfarin use (
P
=.009), hospital disposition (surgery odds ratio, 1.68;
P
<.001; intensive care unit odds ratio, 2.4;
P
<.001), and hospital setting (university odds ratio, 1.36;
P
<.001). Multiple pelvic or lower-extremity fractures, but not their anatomic locations, were associated with pulmonary embolism in the National Trauma Data Bank. As expected, obese patients and those with a history of warfarin therapy have higher rates of pulmonary embolism. This study offers guidance in identifying patients with musculoskeletal trauma who are at elevated risk for pulmonary embolism.