bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relation Between αS1-Casein Content and Coagulation Properties of Milk from Swedish Dairy Goats
Authors: Johansson Monika , Högberg Madeleine , Andrén Anders
Published: July 2015

High frequency of Swedish Landrace goats are the carriers of a mutation, where the affected goats are not able
to produce α-casein (α-CN) in the milk. As a consequence the lack of this protein is connected to lower cheese yield.
The aim of this study was thus to determine the relationship between the α-CN content and coagulation properties of
milk from Swedish Landrace goats. Milk samples from 62 dairy goats from two herds were analysed. As many as 44%
goats showed low or no production of αS1-CN. Only 24% of the investigated goats showed high production of this protein.
The coagulation properties of milk from the dairy goats were clearly influenced by the concentration of αS1-CN. The milk
from low level αS1-CN animals resulted in 15% longer coagulation time and 60% weaker gels compared to the gel
firmness of the high expressing group. The coagulation time was strongly associated with the pH of the milk (p<0.001),
where the milk with low αS1-CN content had higher pH. Further, goat milk with low levels of αS1-CN was shown to have
significantly lower total protein (p<0.05) compared to milk from high expressing αS1-CN goats.
Influence of Differing Microenvironments on Personal Carbon Monoxide Exposure in Auckland, New Zealand
Authors: Lim Shanon , Salmond Jennifer A. , Dirks Kim N.
Published: July 2015

Epidemiological studies typically estimate pollutant exposures using data from outdoor fixed monitoring stations (FMS). However, due to individual mobility through space, time spent in indoor environments and the heterogeneity of the urban atmosphere, data from FMS provides a poor representation of the actual personal exposure to air pollutants. The aim of this study is to investigate the relative importance of time spent in common microenvironments
(such as commuter, home, work and recreational) to determine personal exposure to air pollution. The study also investigates the extent to which fixed monitoring stations (FMS) are representative of personal exposures. For this purpose, 17 participants monitored their personal exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) for a full working week and completed a time activity diary identifying the particular microenvironments in which they spent their time.

Overall, the participants exposure to CO were lower than those observed in other northern hemisphere cities reported upon in the literature. FMS located in central Auckland were found to provide reasonable estimates of mean daily personal exposure but were poorly correlated with diurnal variations in personal exposure. The results found that, while the highest mean exposures were recorded in the commuter microenvironment, the home microenvironment accounted for 55% of the total CO dose during the week. Increased levels of personal CO exposure were observed in indoor areas where gas heating, gas stoves and tobacco smoke were present. Participants recorded highly variable exposure to CO in
recreational microenvironments, in part explained by the wide range of recreational activities.
Partially Replacing Fly Ash with Limestone Powder in the Paste - Influence and Characterization
Authors: Wenyu Lv , Zhihui Zhang
Published: July 2015

Paste filling is an important research direction of coalmine “green mining” which can dispose coalmines solid
waste and achieve environmental protection. The mechanical properties such as compressive strength, workability, ultimate
tension value, shear strength and splitting strength of paste, in which the fly ash was partially replaced by limestone
powder, was studied. Adiabatic temperature rise, setting time, shear strength, permeability, frost resistance and dry
shrinkage of different substitution rate were investigated and the results were compared with traditional paste. The test results
showed that the influence of limestone powder on workability, permeability and frost resistance performance of
paste was slight, the setting time of paste were shortened, adiabatic temperature rise and mechanics performance of paste
were decreased, dry shrinkage value was increased with limestone powder content increasing.
Retraction: Jelic-Mrcelic G, Sliskovic M. The evaluation of fish farming impact by nutrient content and chlorophyll a in Mala Lamljana bay. Arch biol sci. 2013;65(2):567-70. DOI: 10.2298/ABS1302567J
Authors: Editorial E
Published: July 2015

This is a notice of retraction of the article: The evaluation of fish farming
impact by nutrient content and chlorophyll A in Mala Lamljana bay, published
in the Archives of Biological Sciences in 2013, Vol. 65, Issue 3. The
Editor-in-Chief has been informed that the data in this article has already
been published in the following article: Jelic Mrcelic G, Sliskovic M. The
impact of fish cages on water quality in one fish farm in Croatia. Int Sci
Index. 2010;4(8):775-8. Inspection of these articles has revealed the
following: a significant part of the data in the article published in the
Archives of Biological Sciences was published without proper
cross-referencing to the data already published in the earlier paper. This
issue was discussed with one of the two authors and it was mutually agreed
to retract the article.

 Link to the retracted article 10.2298/ABS1302567J
Preparation of aluminum-ferric-magnesium polysilicate and its application on oily sludge
Authors: Li Si , Yang Shuang , Yi Pan , Zhang Jin-Hui
Published: July 2015

Aluminum-ferric-magnesium polysilicate (PAFMS) was prepared by introducing
aluminum, ferric and magnesium metal ions into Polymer silica acid solution.
PAFMS was applied in the treatment of oily wastewater from treatment of oily
sludge in this paper, and the coagulation performance was valued by the
removal efficiency of turbidity and colority. The structure and morphology
of PAFMS were characterized by the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
(FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM).
The results indicated that mole ratios 6:4:15 of Al:Fe:Mg is beneficial to
forming of Al-O-Si, Fe-O-Si and Mg-Si-O. Fe played main inhibition role
among the three metals. XRD analysis showed that the addition of Al, Fe and
Mg into Polysilicon acid did not produce a simple mixture, but resulted in
the formation of new chemical structures. The intensity of peaks was
influenced by the mole ratios of metals. SEM spectra presented that PAFMS
appeared to be a spatial structure consisting of many irregular protuberant
parts. The removal efficiency of turbidity and colority in oily water from
the treatment of oily sludge was better when the mole ratio of (Al+Fe+Mg):Si
was 0.5 and if the mole ratios of Al:Fe:Mg are kept at 6:4:15. Moreover,
when the dosage of PAFMS was 1.4-1.8 % and the pH value in range of 8-9, the
efficiency of turbidity and colority removal are up to 97.3 and 96.8%,
respectively.
Versatility of radial forearm free flap for intraoral reconstruction
Authors: Jeremic Jelena , Nikolic Zivorad
Published: July 2015

Introduction. The radial forearm free flap has an important role in
reconstruction of the oncologic defects in the region of head and neck.
Objective. The aim was to present and evaluate clinical experience and
results in the radial forearm free transfer for intraoral reconstructions
after resections due to malignancies. Methods. This article illustrates the
versatility and reliability of forearm single donor site in 21 patients with
a variety of intraoral oncologic defects who underwent immediate (19
patients, 90.5%) or delayed (2 patients, 9.5%) reconstruction using free
flaps from the radial forearm. Fascio-cutaneous flaps were used in patients
with floor of the mouth (6 cases), buccal mucosa (5 cases), lip (1 case) and
a retromolar triangle (2 cases) defects, or after hemiglossectomy (7 cases).
In addition, the palmaris longus tendon was included with the flap in 2
patients that required oral sphincter reconstruction. Results. An overall
success rate was 90.5%. Flap failures were detected in two (9.5%) patients,
in one patient due to late ischemic necrosis, which appeared one week after
the surgery, and in another patient due to venous congestion, which could not
be salvaged after immediate re-exploration. Two patients required
re-exploration due to vein thrombosis. The donor site healed uneventfully in
all patients, except one, who had partial loss of skin graft. Conclusion. The
radial forearm free flap is, due to multiple advantages, an acceptable method
for reconstructions after resection of intraoral malignancies.
Pharyngeal airway changes after bimaxillary orthognathic surgery - preliminary results
Authors: Stefanovic Neda , Glisic Branislav , Nikolic Predrag , Juloski Jovana , Palomo Juan
Published: July 2015

Introduction. Dentofacial deformity, a deviation from normal facial
proportions and dental relationships, is corrected by jaw repositioning in
all three spatial planes, which changes the position and tension of the
surrounding tissues, bones and muscles. These changes may also affect the
dimensions of the pharyngeal airways (PA). Objective. The aim of this study
was to evaluate and compare three-dimensional PA changes in patients treated
by a combination mandibular set-back/maxillary advancement versus patients
that had bimaxillary advancement with genioplasty. Methods. The sample
consisted of 7 patients treated by combined mandibular set-back/maxillary
advancement and 7 patients treated with bimaxillary advancement surgery.
Nasopharyngeal (NP) volume, oropharyngeal (OP) volume and the area of maximum
constriction (AMC) in the OP were measured on CBCT scans (2 mA/120 kV/12??
FOV) taken before (T1) and 3 months after surgery (T2). Paired samples t-test
was used for analyzing statistical significance of changes (p?0.05). Results.
OP volume and AMC increase after bimaxillary advancement was statistically
significant, while for the mandibular set-back group the increase was
non-significant. NP volume was not reduced in any of the two groups. No
significant differences in PA dimensions were found between groups at neither
T1 nor T2 time points. Conclusion. Results suggest that the combination of
mandibular set-back/maxillary advancement did not reduce airway dimensions,
while bimaxillary advancement surgery led to a statistically significant
increase in the OP dimensions.
Legionella pneumophila in bronchoalveolar lavage samples of patients suffering from severe respiratory infections: Role of age, sex and history of smoking in the prevalence of bacterium
Authors: Faradonbeh Fatemeh , Khedri Forouzan , Doosti Abbas
Published: July 2015

Introduction. Legionella pneumophila is the most commonly detected cause of
legionellosis, which is an acute respiratory tract infection with high
morbidity and mortality rates. Objective. The aim of this study was to
investigate the prevalence rate of L. pneumophila in bronchoalveolar lavages
and study the role of sex, age and history of smoking as risk factors for
susceptibility to the bacterium. Methods. One hundred bronchoalveolar lavage
samples were collected from the Iranian health centers and immediately
transferred to laboratory. The samples were cultured and those that were L.
pneumophila positive were subjected to PCR method with respect to the 16S
rRNA gene. Results. Twelve out of 100 samples were positive for L.
pneumophila (12%). Patients older than 70 years had the highest incidence of
L. pneumophila (17.77%). Prevalence of L. pneumophila in male and female
patients was 14.81% and 8.69%, respectively. Total incidence of L.
pneumophila in patients with and without history of smoking was 18% and 6%,
respectively. There were significant differences in the incidence of
bacterium between groups of our study. Conclusion. Sex, age and history of
smoking are predominant risk factors for the occurrence of L. pneumophila.
However, more studies should be undertaken to confirm these results.
Nonmelanoma skin cancer in the population of the city of Belgrade in the period 1999-2011
Authors: Videnovic Goran , Miljus Dragan , Ilic Danijela , Krasic Dragan , Zivkovic Snezana
Published: July 2015

Introduction. Nonmelanoma skin cancers in the literature are mainly related
to basal cell and squamous cell skin carcinoma. Objective. The aim of the
study was to determine the trend in the incidence of histological types of
nonmelanoma skin cancers in the population of the city of Belgrade from 1999
to 2011. Methods. From the Serbian National Cancer Registry we extracted all
recorded cases of skin cancer in Belgrade from January 1st 1999 to December
31st 2011. Incidence rates were standardized by the method of direct
standardization with the world population as the standard population. Trends
and annual percentage change (APC) of incidence rate were calculated by
performing joinpoint regression analyses. Results. Incidence rate of
nonmelanoma skin cancer showed significantly increasing trend between 1999
and 2006 with APC of 8.6% (95% CI: 5.6-11.7), basal cell carcinoma increased
with APC of 8.4% (95% CI: 5.2-11.6) and squamous cell skin carcinoma with APC
of 9.33% (95% CI: 5.7-13.1). The incidence increased with age for both men
and women, especially after the age of 60. Conclusion. Our results showed a
continuously increasing incidence trend of both basal cell and squamous cell
skin carcinomas in the population of the city of Belgrade between 1999 and
2011. Adequate primary and secondary prevention would certainly be successful
in reducing this type of cancer in the future.
Congenital cervical bronchogenic cyst: A case report
Authors: Kiralj Aleksandar , Vuckovic Nada , Mijatov Ivana
Published: July 2015

Introduction. Bronchogenic cysts are rare congenital anomalies of the
embryonic foregut. They are caused by abnormal budding of diverticulum of the
embryonic foregut between the 26th and 40th day of gestation. Bronchogenic
cysts can appear in the mediastinum and pulmonary parenchyma, or at ectopic
sites (neck, subcutaneous tissue or abdomen). So far, 70 cases of cervical
localization of bronchogenic cysts have been reported. Majority of
bronchogenic cysts have been diagnosed in the pediatric population.
Bronchogenic cysts of the cervical area are generally asymptomatic and
symptoms may occur if cysts become large or in case of infection of the cyst.
The diagnosis is made based on clinical findings, radiological examination,
but histopathologic findings are essential for establishing the final
diagnosis. Treatment of cervical bronchogenic cyst involves surgical
excision. Case Outline. Authors present a case of a 6-year-old female patient
sent by a pediatrician to a maxillofacial surgeon due to asymptomatic lump on
the left side of the neck. The patient had frequent respiratory infections
and respiratory obstructions. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the neck
was performed and a well-circumscribed cystic formation on the left side of
the neck was observed, with paratracheal location. The complete excision of
the cyst was made transcervically. Histopathological findings pointed to
bronchogenic cyst. Conclusion. Cervical bronchogenic cysts are rare
congenital malformations. Considering the location, clinical findings and the
radiological features, these cysts resemble other cervical lesions. Surgical
treatment is important because it is both therapeutic and diagnostic.
Reliable diagnosis of bronchogenic cysts is based on histopathological
examination.
Hand-held echo is not so handy in everyone’s hands: Misdiagnosing congenital septal defects in patients with heart murmurs
Authors: Putnikovic Biljana , Stankovic Ivan , Milicevic Predrag , Marjanovic Miloje , Neskovic Aleksandar
Published: July 2015

Introduction. Echocardiography is a highly operator-dependant technique which
requires adequate training and skills that are frequently not present,
considering the widespread use of cardiovascular ultrasound. This could
particularly be true for hand-held echo devices which made echocardiography
more accessible but are frequently used by non-cardiologists and non-experts.
Outline of Cases. We present a 45-year-old female and a 37-year-old male with
heart murmurs due to atrial and ventricular septal defect, respectively.
Congenital septal defects were undiagnosed in both patients during several
outpatient examinations due to challenging image acquisition. Careful
re-evaluation revealed that, depending on the scanning technique, it was
possible to detect or overlook the real cause of the murmur using either
hand-held or high-end echo device. Conclusion. Our report underlines the need
of adequate knowledge and training of medical professionals performing
pocket-size hand-held echocardiography, since potential misdiagnoses may not
be related to limited imaging capabilities of pocket-sized echo devices only,
but also to inability of insufficiently trained users to obtain good quality
images and interpret them adequately.
The laparoscopic enucleation for branch duct type intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms located at the body of pancreas: A case report
Authors: Stevanovic Dejan , Stojanovic Dragos , Mitrovic Nebojsa , Jasarovic Damir , Milenkovic Sanja , Bokun-Vukasinovic Zorana , Radovanovic Dragan
Published: July 2015

Introduction. Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) are among the
most common cystic neoplasms of the pancreas, but they represent only 1-3% of
all exocrine pancreas tumors. With the development of diagnostic
possibilities the number of patients with IPMN is constantly increasing and
represents approximately 20% of all surgically treated pancreatic tumors. The
development of laparoscopic surgery has led to advances in the treatment of
cystic tumors of the pancreas with the emergence of new surgical dilemma in
the choice of surgical techniques in patients with IPMN. Case Outline. A
23-year-old patient was admitted to the hospital with non-specific symptoms
of upper abdomen. Performed diagnostics indicated the existence of a tumor
formation at the periphery of the pancreas, in the region of the proximal
corpus, 8?5 cm in diameter. The cystic formation, wall thickness 3 mm, was
filled with dense contents and injected into the tissue of the pancreas, but
did not lead to an extension of the pancreatic duct. After adequate
preoperative preparation the patient was operated on, when a laparoscopic
enucleation of cystic tumor with coagulation and cutting off communication
between the peripheral pancreatic duct and pancreatic tumors was performed by
using ultrasound scissors. Histopathological analysis of the specimen
indicated an IPMN of the branch duct type (BD-IPMN) with a low grade
dysplasia. The line of resection was without cellular atypia.
Immunohistochemical analysis showed positivity on tumor mucins (MUC-5 and
MUC-2), which is typical for gastric type of BD-IPMN. Six months
postoperatively the patient showed no signs of recurrence of the disease.
Conclusion. Surgical treatment is the dominant choice for the treatment for
IPMN. Although minimally invasive, laparoscopic enucleation of BD-IPMN is
able to achieve an adequate level of radicality without the accompanying
complications and with short postoperative recovery period.
Favorable outcome of hepatosplenic candidiasis in a patient with acute leukemia
Authors: Colovic Natasa , Arsic-Arsenijevic Valentina , Suvajdzic Nada , Djunic Irena , Tomin Dragica
Published: July 2015

Introduction. Acute leukemias treatment requires strong chemotherapy.
Patients that develop bone marrow aplasia become immunocompromised, thus
becoming liable to bacterial and fungal infections. Fungal infections caused
by Candida are frequent. Hepatosplenic candidiasis (HSC) is a frequent
consequence of invasive candidiasis which is clinically presented with
prolonged febrility unresponsive to antibiotics. Case Outline. A 53-year-old
patient with acute myeloid leukemia was submitted to standard chemotherapy
?3+7? regimen (daunoblastine 80 mg i.v. on days 1 to 3, cytarabine 2?170 mg
i.v. during 7 days) and achieved complete remission. However, during
remission he developed febrility unresponsive to antibiotics. Computerised
tomography (CT) of the abdomen showed multiple hypodense lesions within the
liver and spleen. Haemocultures on fungi were negative. However,
seroconversion of biomarkers for invasive fungal infection (IFI) (Candida and
Aspergillus antigen/Ag and antibody/Ab) indicated possible HSC. Only high
positivity of anti-Candida IgG antibodies, positivity of mannan and CT
finding we regarded sufficient for the diagnosis and antimycotic therapy.
Three months of treatment with different antimycotics were necessary for
complete disappearance of both clinical symptoms and CT findings. Conclusion.
In patients with prolonged febrile neutropenia IFI has to be strongly
suspected. If imaging techniques show multiple hypodense lesions within liver
and spleen, HSC has to be taken seriously into consideration. We believe
that, along with CT finding, positive laboratory Candida biomarkers (mannan
and IgG antibodies) should be considered sufficient for ?probable HSC? and
commencement of antifungal therapy, which must be long enough, i.e. until
complete disappearance of clinical symptoms and CT findings are achieved.
Poor ovarian response to stimulation for in vitro fertilization
Authors: Spremovic-Radjenovic Svetlana , Bila Jovan , Gudovic Aleksandra , Vidakovic Snezana , Dokic Milan , Radunovic Nebojsa
Published: July 2015

The term ?poor respond (POR) patients? is used for the group of women who
respond badly to usual doses of gonadotropins in in vitro fertilization (IVF)
treatments; the consequence is low pregnancy rate. A consensus was reached on
the minimal criteria needed to define POR. At least two of the following
three features must be present: 1. advanced maternal age (40 years or more)
2. previous POR (3 or less oocytes with a conventional stimulation protocol)
3. abnormal ovarian reserve (AMH 0.5-1.1 ng/ml or AFC 5-7). The aim is to
find better therapeutic options for these patients. Increased levels of day 3
follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol (E2), as well as decreased
levels of anti-M?llerian hormone (AMH) and antral follicle count (AFC), can
be used to assess ovarian reserve, as indirect predictive tests. A larger
number of well designed, large scale, randomized, controlled trials are
needed to assess the efficacy of different management strategies for poor
responders: flare up gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist protocols,
modified long GnRH agonist mini-dose protocols, luteal initiation GnRH
agonist stop protocol, pretreatment with estradiol - GnRH antagonist in
luteal phase, natural cycle aspiration or natural cycle aspiration GnRH
antagonist controlled, adjuvant therapy with growth hormone or
dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). The results of up to now used protocols are
unsatisfactory and stimulation of the ovulation in poor responders remains a
challenge, especially when bearing in mind that in the majority of cases the
patients will be menopausal in relatively short period of time.
Centroacinar Cells Are Progenitors That Contribute to Endocrine Pancreas Regeneration
Authors: Delaspre Fabien , Beer Rebecca L. , Rovira Meritxell , Huang Wei , Wang Guangliang , Gee Stephen , Vitery Maria del Carmen , Wheelan Sarah J. , Parsons Michael J.
Published: July 2015

Diabetes is associated with a paucity of insulin-producing β-cells. With the goal of finding therapeutic routes to treat diabetes, we aim to find molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in β-cell neogenesis and regeneration. To facilitate discovery of such mechanisms, we use a vertebrate organism where pancreatic cells readily regenerate. The larval zebrafish pancreas contains Notch-responsive progenitors that during development give rise to adult ductal, endocrine, and centroacinar cells (CACs). Adult CACs are also Notch responsive and are morphologically similar to their larval predecessors. To test our hypothesis that adult CACs are also progenitors, we took two complementary approaches: 1) We established the transcriptome for adult CACs. Using gene ontology, transgenic lines, and in situ hybridization, we found that the CAC transcriptome is enriched for progenitor markers. 2) Using lineage tracing, we demonstrated that CACs do form new endocrine cells after β-cell ablation or partial pancreatectomy. We concluded that CACs and their larval predecessors are the same cell type and represent an opportune model to study both β-cell neogenesis and β-cell regeneration. Furthermore, we show that in cftr loss-of-function mutants, there is a deficiency of larval CACs, providing a possible explanation for pancreatic complications associated with cystic fibrosis.
Resisted Side Stepping: The Effect of Posture on Hip Abductor Muscle Activation
Authors: Berry Justin W. , Lee Theresa S. , Foley Hanna D. , Lewis Cara L.
Published: July 2015

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study, repeated-measures design.

Objectives

To compare hip abductor muscle activity and hip and knee joint kinematics in the moving limb to the stance limb during resisted side stepping, and to determine whether muscle activity was affected by the posture (upright standing versus squat) used to perform the exercise.

Background

Hip abductor weakness has been associated with a variety of lower extremity injuries. Resisted side stepping is often used as an exercise to increase strength and endurance of the hip abductors. Exercise prescription would benefit from knowing the relative muscle activity level generated in each limb and for different postures during the side-stepping exercise.

Methods

Twenty-four healthy adults participated in this study. Kinematics and surface electromyographic data from the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and tensor fascia lata were collected as participants performed side stepping with a resistive band around the ankle, while maintaining each of 2 postures: (1) upright standing and (2) squat.

Results

Mean normalized electromyographic signal amplitude of the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and tensor fascia lata was higher in the stance limb than in the moving limb (P≤.001). Gluteal muscle activity was higher, whereas tensor fascia lata muscle activity was lower, in the squat posture compared to the upright standing posture (P<.001). Hip abduction excursion was greater in the stance limb than in the moving limb (P<.001).

Conclusion

The 3 hip abductor muscles respond differently to the posture variations of the side-stepping exercise in healthy individuals. When prescribing resisted side-stepping exercises, therapists should consider the differences in hip abductor activation across limbs and variations in trunk posture. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2015;45(9):675–682. Epub 10 Jul 2015. doi:10.2519/jospt.2015.5888
Influence of selected factors on bovine spermatozoa cold shock resistance
Authors: Stádník Luděk , Rajmon Radko , Beran Jan , Šimoník Ondřej , Doležalová Martina , Šichtař Jiří , Stupka Roman , Folková Petra
Published: July 2015

The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of sire, extender, and addition of Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) to extenders used on the percentage rate of spermatozoa survival after cold shock. Two groups of extenders were compared: without LDL addition (control variants) and LDL enriched (experimental variants). Three extenders were used: AndroMed®, Bioxcell®, and Triladyl®. Experimental variants included 4–8% LDL addition into the AndroMed® and Bioxcell® extenders, and 6–10% LDL addition into the Triladyl® extender. In total, 12 samples of fresh semen were collected from 4 bulls during a period of 8 weeks. Bovine spermatozoa cold shock resistance (1 ± 1 °C, 10 min) was evaluated by the percentage rate of live sperm using eosin-nigrosine staining immediately and after heat incubation (37 ± 1 °C, 120 min). The results showed the effect of sire as important and individual differences between selected sires in their sperm resistance against cold shock were confirmed. AndroMed® and Bioxcell® were found to be providing better protection of bull semen to cold shock compared to Triladyl® due to lower decline of live sperm proportion. Our results detected a positive effect of LDL addition on sperm resistance against cold shock, especially on lower decrease of live sperm percentage rate after 120 min of the heat test (P < 0.05). Further studies are needed to assess the optimal concentration of LDL in various kinds of extenders as well to state ideal time and temperature conditions for ensuring LDL reaction with sperm.
Residents' attitudes toward reintroduced sika deer in Kenting National Park, Taiwan
Authors: Yen Shih‐Ching , Chen Kuang‐Hsun , Wang Ying , Wang Cheng‐Ping
Published: July 2015

Hunting and habitat loss led to the extinction of the Formosan sika deer Cervus nippon taiouanus population in the wild in 1969. A sika deer restoration program has been in place in Kenting National Park (KTNP), Taiwan since 1984. Human—deer conflicts have increased following wild deer population growth. Understanding residents' attitudes toward reintroduced sika deer is vital to management policies. To investigate the local residents' attitudes, we collected 228 questionnaires through personal interviews in 2010. A majority of the respondents agreed that they would be happy to encounter a wild sika deer (78.1%), and a majority supported the restoration program in the KTNP (75.4%). However, 59.1% of the respondents knew little concerning the restoration program. Approximately half of the respondents (47.8%) thought that sika deer caused damages to crops, and 18.4% of the respondents actually suffered crop damages from deer. The farmers and people living within the deer's range were more vulnerable to deer damage; therefore, they were more aware of deer damage to their crops and livelihoods than non‐farmers and people living outside of the deer's range. In addition, most respondents (87.2%) considered sika deer as an attractive tourism resource and were supportive of the development of ecotourism (87.3%). We recommend that the KTNP should improve public participation, environmental education, and communication with the local people. The development of community‐based ecotourism would increase the benefits of the reintroduction of sika deer and would help to mitigate human—deer conflicts.
Une étude psychométrique des items du Level of Service / Case Management Inventory (LS/CMI) avec la contribution de la théorie classique des tests chez les personnes contrevenantes du Québec
Authors: Giguère Guy , Savard Denis , Cortoni Franca
Published: July 2015

Les instruments actuariels génèrent un score numérique qui prédit la probabilité d’un événement. La criminologie s’intéresse à ce type d’instrument afin de prédire le risque de récidive et de déterminer les besoins criminogènes. Le Level of Service / Case Management Inventory (LS/CMI) qui permet de jauger le niveau de service et de gestion des cas fait partie de la dernière génération des outils actuariels d’évaluation du risque. Les études de validité prédictive menées sur des outils comme le LS/CMI et le Level of Service Inventory-Revised (LSI-R) n’ont pu établir de manière satisfaisante les qualités psychométriques des items qui les composent. L’analyse présentée dans cet article comble un vide dans les écrits spécialisés en exploitant les avancées scientifiques des théories de la mesure au profit de la criminologie. L’échantillon est composé d’évaluations réalisées de février 2007 à mars 2008 sur deux groupes : 2 670 détenus et 1 837 personnes purgeant une peine dans la collectivité. Les analyses ont porté sur les 43 items formant les huit dimensions de risque qui composent la structure de la partie 1 du LS/CMI. Les résultats ont permis de cibler certains items problématiques sur le plan de la discrimination comme sur celui de la redondance.
Fabrication of β-Si3N4 whiskers by microwave sintering using ZrO2–Y2O3–Al2O3 as liquid phase
Authors: Sun Mengyong , Li Qinggang , Huang Shifeng , Cheng Xin
Published: July 2015

β-Si3N4 whiskers with a diameter of 0.2 – 1.7 μm and length of over 100 μm were synthesized by means of microwave sintering at 1550 °C for 30 min in a flowing nitrogen atmosphere. The β-Si3N4 whiskers grew on Si3N4 substrate without catalyst by the vapor–liquid–solid mechanism. Microwave energy and Y2O3–Al2O3–ZrO2 additives played a significant role in the growth of β-Si3N4 whiskers. The microwave energy provided an orientation temperature gradient and the additives formed the low viscosity glass phase at a low eutectic temperature.
Preparation of Carbide-Free Bainitic Steels for EBSD Investigations
Authors: Hofer C. , Clemens H. , Primig S.
Published: July 2015

Carbide-free bainitic steels are composed of bainitic ferrite laths, which are separated by films and larger islands of austenite, which is stabilized by carbon enrichment. Due to their multi-phase microstructure, the preparation of such steels for a characterization by means of electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) represents a challenge. Attention must particularly be paid to prevent the transformation of the retained austenite to martensite during the preparation. This study compares the sample preparation by vibratory polishing using different suspensions to the electrolytic preparation. During vibratory polishing, it must be ensured that very little force is applied in order to prevent the metastable austenite from transforming. No influence of the different suspensions could be found. Electropolishing with a voltage of 40 V for 10 s at 23 °C is well suited for microstructural investigations. However, the surface relief is too pronounced for EBSD analyses. OP-U polishing for 15 min subsequent to electropolishing accomplishes the best results.
Evaluation of the Use of Magnesium Chloride for Surface Stabilization and Dust Control on Unpaved Roads
Authors: Bustos Marcelo , Cordo Oscar , Girardi Pablo , Pereyra Miguel
Published: July 2015

Gravel roads are an important portion of the road network in western Argentina, and their maintenance requires a huge amount of economic and human resources. Recently, the use of alternative treatments based on the application of mineral salts such as hydrous magnesium chloride, also known as bischofite, has been introduced in this region. Such treatments are being applied for dust control and surface stabilization on unpaved roads. This paper presents the main results obtained during a research project carried out by the National University of San Juan, Argentina, along with local road agencies and companies. Test sections of gravel roads were treated with bischofite applied in two ways. Over 18 months, measurements of surface roughness and dust emission were made on those sections. The main results show that the use of bischofite contributed to a notable reduction in the evolution of roughness and dust emission as compared with untreated gravel sections. Bischofite appears to be appropriate not only for the environment but also for road agencies and road users; important cost savings were verified through economic assessments that compared treated and untreated gravel road sections.
Use of Ash in Hot Dense Mixtures
Authors: Serrano-Guzmán Maria Fernanda , Pérez-Ruiz Diego Dario , Vanegas Norma Cristina Solarte
Published: July 2015

Bituminous ash produced by the oil industry is used in landfill in large quantities. Recycling ashes coming from the oil industry can have signifi-cant benefits for the environment and is an attractive option for highway construction because it saves material acquisition and disposal costs. An experimental study was undertaken to investigate the use of these ashes as a replacement for mineral filler in hot-mix asphalt concrete. Physical tests were performed on the bituminous ash to determine its gradation, specific gravity, and chemical composition. Two cases were considered for determining the ash proportion. To evaluate the effect of a reduction in asphalt binder, ash with a maximum particle size of 0.074 mm [i.e., passing the Number (No.) 200 sieve] was used as a replacement for the asphalt cement content at percentages of 0 (i.e., control mix), 5, 10, and 15 by total asphalt weight. Also, ash was used as a replacement of the fine aggregate at percentages of 0, 30, 50, and 70 by total aggregate weight. In both cases, the ash came from thermal desorption in the hydrocarbon processes. Mix design was accomplished according to the Marshall mix design method (ASTM D1559). The results of these studies showed that use of ash passing the No. 4 sieve improved asphalt concrete characteristics while it reduced the use of aggregates when the asphalt proportion was 4.5%. Likewise, use of 0.8% fine ash (i.e., finer than the No. 200 sieve) to reduce the asphalt content in the hot dense mixture also improved the performance of asphalt concrete.
Soil–Water Characteristic Curves for Soils Stabilized with Class C Fly Ash
Authors: Wen Haifang , Wang Jingan , Wen Vincent-Fu Wing , Muhunthan Balasingam
Published: July 2015

Low-volume roads are often constructed with untreated or lightly treated gravels as the surface or base, and these materials are sensitive to moisture variation. The proper design of low-volume roads requires determining the effects of moisture variation on soil behaviors. A soil–water characteristic curve (SWCC) that characterizes the relationship between the degree of saturation and suction is an important tool for quantifying the mechanical properties of unsaturated soils. The increased use of additives to improve the engineering properties of marginal soils in pavement design has necessitated the need for rapid methods to quantify the SWCC of stabilized soils. This study used the dewpoint method for quick measurement of suction values at various water contents for silt and clay soils stabilized with Class C fly ash. The results indicate that significant suction could exist in soils stabilized with fly ash and that the suction values are greatly affected by the degree of saturation. The suction and degree of saturation in stabilized soils play a significant role in the strength of the stabilized material. The material stabilized with fly ash exhibited hysteresis on the SWCC. The data were also used to compare the suitability and efficiency of five predictive models. It was found that the Fredlund and Xing and van Genuchten models fit the curves for stabilized soils very well as compared with the simplified van Genuchten, Campbell, and Brutsaert models. It is recommended that the Fredlund and Xing and van Genuchten models be included in the Guide for Mechanistic–Empirical Design of New and Rehabilitated Pavement Structures.
Skid Resistance of Magnesium Chloride Roads
Authors: González Álvaro , Paniagua Fernando , Chamorro Alondra
Published: July 2015

Hygroscopy is the main stabilization mechanism that explains the good performance of magnesium chloride hexahydrate (6H2O•MgCl2 or simply MgCl) roads, as it absorbs and retains relative humidity (RH), reducing erosion and increasing durability. However, road users have observed that the skid resistance of MgCl roads decreases with increased RH. To study the skid resistance of MgCl roads, the study calculated the drag factor or friction coefficient of the road surface with a braking test, in which an accelerometer was installed in a vehicle and deceleration was recorded during braking. The braking test was used to calculate the effect of RH and surface condition on skid resistance in 30 road sections located in the northern region of Chile. The testing was designed with a factorial experiment that took the following into consideration: surface condition (well-graded, sealed, and loose aggregate), whether water was artificially added to the surface (normal or wet), and a wide range of RH (between 10% and 70%). The results showed that when RH was greater than 35% to 40%, the friction of MgCl roads decreased as RH increased. In environments in which the air humidity was lower than 60%, the friction coefficient was higher than 0.55, a value that provides suitable friction conditions for most geometric designs for low-volume roads. The study showed that a braking test is a simple and consistent tool for assessing braking performance on MgCl roads. In addition, the study concluded that special attention should be given to surface characteristics and geometric design where MgCl road sections are exposed to RH greater than 60%.
Development of Provisional Specification Language for Chemical Treatments for Unpaved Roads
Authors: Jones David
Published: July 2015

There is increasing interest in the use of chemical treatments to reduce maintenance and gravel replacement on gravel roads. However, selecting the most appropriate chemical treatment is difficult because of the proprietary nature of many of the chemical treatments available and limitations by many agencies in procuring such proprietary products. Of the approximately 200 chemical treatment products available in the United States, only calcium chloride and asphalt emulsion carry formal ASTM and AASHTO specifications. Some federal and county road agencies have additional, very basic product specifications for some other categories of products; however, these are generally not linked to ASTM and AASHTO testing criteria. This situation has led to limited use of many chemical treatments. This paper provides sample provisional specification language that road agencies and road owners can use to procure and apply chemical treatments on unpaved roads. This provisional specification language was developed in conjunction with federal road agencies and chemical treatment suppliers as part of a new selection procedure for chemical treatments for unpaved roads.
Rolling Surface Evaluation Model considering Topographic, Geotechnical, and Climatic Aspects in Low-Volume Roads
Authors: Moreira Flávio Eduardo Batista , da Silva Soares Maria Edjane , de Athayde Prata Bruno , Nobre Ernesto Ferreira
Published: July 2015

This paper presents an innovative model for assessing surface conditions in low-volume roads. The proposed approach focuses on intemperate weather influences (e.g., rain, wind), traffic, soil type, and relief in the reduction of the level of service of the unpaved road. It is concerned with the evolution of distress present in unpaved roads. The intention is to improve the performance evaluation method for surface conditions proposed by Correia et al., the ALYNO method. A case study is presented for the municipality of Aquiraz, Ceará, Brazil. A mathematical model is developed to forecast a performance evaluation model by using a topographical survey of unpaved roads; the result is the modified method called ALYNOMO. The main performance evaluation methods of surface conditions for unpaved roads are also studied. Several considerations about the geometric evolution of distress according to the usefulness of the studied branch are drawn from the case study. This research contributes toward improving the unpaved performance evaluation process and the ALYNO method, proposing a model to forecast the performance for regular and appropriate unpaved roads. The need for rational maintenance of this type of road is emphasized.
Study of Mechanisms that Generate Traffic Noise in the Tire–Pavement Interface for Low-Volume Roads in Brazil
Authors: Cabral Manoel F. F. , Albuquerque Fernando S. , de Freitas Neto Osvaldo , Albuquerque Tatiana M. A.
Published: July 2015

Traffic noise has a negative influence on society, and minimum acoustic comfort standards must be maintained for individuals to be able to perform their daily activities. When traffic speeds exceed 40 km/h, the predominant noise source is tire–pavement interaction. This study assessed noise generated in the tire–pavement interface at different traffic speeds (40, 60, and 80 km/h), for different types of asphalt coatings applied in low-volume roads in the state of Sergipe, Brazil. Coatings included conventional asphalt mix and polymer-modified hot-mix asphalt concrete, cold-mix asphalt, and double bituminous surface treatment. An increase in noise was directly proportional to increased traffic speed and also varied with changing parameters such as voids, surface texture, and roughness. Because of the upper microtexture, a double bituminous surface treatment can be used as a good solution for quiet pavements in low-volume roads.
Quantitative tumor volumetric responses after Gamma Knife radiosurgery for meningiomas
Authors: Harrison Gillian , Kano Hideyuki , Lunsford L. Dade , Flickinger John C. , Kondziolka Douglas
Published: July 2015

OBJECT

The reported tumor control rates for meningiomas after stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) are high; however, early imaging assessment of tumor volumes may not accurately predict the eventual tumor response. The objective in this study was to quantitatively evaluate the volumetric responses of meningiomas after SRS and to determine whether early volume responses are predictive of longer-term tumor control.

METHODS

The authors performed a retrospective review of 252 patients (median age 56 years, range 14–87 years) who underwent Gamma Knife radiosurgery between 2002 and 2010. All patients had evaluable pre- and postoperative T1-weighted contrast-enhanced MRIs. The median baseline tumor volume was 3.5 cm3 (range 0.2–33.8 cm3) and the median follow-up was 19.5 months (range 0.1–104.6 months). Follow-up tumor volumes were compared with baseline volumes. Tumor volume percent change and the tumor volume rate of change were compared at 3-month intervals. Eventual tumor responses were classified as progressed for > 15% volume change, regressed for ≤ 15% change, and stable for ± 15% of baseline volume at time of last follow-up. Volumetric data were compared with the final tumor status by using univariable and multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Tumor volume regression (median decrease of −40.2%) was demonstrated in 168 (67%) patients, tumor stabilization (median change of −2.7%) in 67 (26%) patients, and delayed tumor progression (median increase of 104%) in 17 (7%) patients (p < 0.001). Tumors that eventually regressed had an average volume reduction of −18.2% at 3 months. Tumors that eventually progressed all demonstrated volume increase by 6 months. Transient progression was observed in 15 tumors before eventual decrease, and transient regression was noted in 6 tumors before eventual volume increase.

CONCLUSIONS

The volume response of meningiomas after SRS is dynamic, and early imaging estimations of the tumor volume may not correlate with the final tumor response. However, tumors that ultimately regressed tended to respond in the first 3 months, whereas tumors that ultimately progressed showed progression within 6 months.
A Case Report of an Unusual Presentation: Could the Early Use of Interventional Radiology have Saved this Patient of Scrub Typhus
Authors: Karim Habib Md Reazaul , Bhattacharyya Prithwis , Yunus Md
Published: July 2015

A 19-year-old soldier was referred to our Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with a diagnosis of pyrexia of unknown origin in a state of deep coma (GCS 6/15) and shock with severe anaemia at presentation without any evidence of external or internal bleeding. He was subsequently diagnosed as a case of Scrub Typhus with Multi Organ Dysfunction (MODS). Clinical evidence of massive Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding (melaena and clotted blood per rectum) was found next day. Despite aggressive supportive treatment we lost the patient next morning. We are presenting the case to share our experience for better management of such cases in future along with a point to ponder which probably would give an opportunity to critical care physicians to save such patients.Bangladesh Crit Care J September 2014; 2 (2): 79-80