bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variability of albumin in blood serum as a possible reflection of evolutional influence of diluvial horses on population of native mountain horse in Serbia
Authors: Trailovic Ruzica , Savic Mila , Dimitrijevic Vladimir , Jovanovic Slobodan
Published: January 2014

Native mountain horse is an autochthonous ungulata with a domicile extending
to the whole mountaneous region of Serbia, south of the Sava and Danube
rivers. Along with native horses of other Balkan countries it is classified
as Mediterranean pony, but unlike Balkan horses such as Skiros, Pinea,
Pindos, Karakachan, Bosnian mountineous horse etc., mountineous horses in
Serbia neither have been morphologically described nor were of concern to the
scientific community till the end of the twentieth century. Investigations of
albumin polymorphism in blood serum of native mountain horse were taken
within a comprehensive reserch on morphologic, physiologic and genetic
structure of this autochtonous ungulata breed. On the basis of the results
obtained by electrophoretic separation of albumine types in native
mountaneous horse blood serum, there were determined four albumine
phenotypes: AA, AB, BB and BI which are inherited by three autosomal alleles
AlA, Alb, All . The appearance of All allele in native mountaneous horse
population points out to diluvial forest horse impact on process of
microevolution of autochtonous native mountaneous horse. Occidental- specific
albumin isoforms presence indicate the necessity of thorough study of
evolution position and historic influence of different ancestors, and
especially occidental horses on native mountain horse population in Serbia.
Rabies - epizootiological situation at the territory of Serbia and countries in the region from 2006. to 2012.
Authors: Maksimovic-Zoric Jelena , Milicevic Vesna , Veljovic Lj. , Petrovic Tamas , Valcic Miroslav , Plavsic Branislav , Vranjes N.
Published: January 2014

Rabies is a disease that occurs both in animals and people, with relatively
long period of incubation, intense clinical course and fatal ending. Majority
of cases of illnes and death in people are caused by the standard rabies
virus. According to books of regulations on suppression and eradiction of
rabies from 1988. and 2009., each suspected rabies has to be laboratory
confirmed. From 2006. to 2012. within the passive surveilance, 3549 samples
of brain tissue were examined for the presence of rabies virus. The virus was
confirmed in 923 samples by using the method of direct imunofluorescence.
From 2006. to 2012. there were diagnosed 192, 160, 233, 181, 104, 43 and 10
positive cases, respectively. For the purpose of rabies eradiction at the
territory of the Republic of Serbia, a regional project of oral vaccination
of foxes against rabies has been implemented since 2010.Within monitoring of
the effectiveness of oral vaccination against rabies which was carried out at
the end of 2011. and at the beginning of 2012., there were examined 1385
samples, out of which 11 reacted positively. The virus was dominantly present
in the fox population. During 2008. and 2009., a relatively large number of
rabid cats was registered, what indicates a transmission of rabies from the
fox to the cat population. The incidence of rabies at the territory of Serbia
significantly differs from one epizootic area to another. Northern parts of
the country (Sombor and Subotica epizootic regions) have more favorable
situation with only two cases of rabies for the last 7 years. In the period
until 2010., in Pozarevac, Novi Sad, Jagodina, Pancevo, Belgrade and Nis
epizootic region, a gradual decline in number of positive cases was noticed.
International project for oral vaccination of foxes against rabies which has
been implemented at the territory of the Republic of Serbia and neighboring
countries, influenced a significant reduction of registered rabies cases.
Parasitic infections in cattle in North-Backa District
Authors: Kocis J. , Ilic Tamara , Samanc Horea , Dimitrijevic Sanda
Published: January 2014

Because of indirect and direct damages, parasitic infections of cattle pose a
threat to animals, so it is necessary to suppress them continuously. In order
to carry out the action successfully, it is of crucial importance to deal
with current data on their presence. The investigation was carried out in the
region of North Backa District during 2009. and 2010., in 224 heads of cattle
grown at farms of various hygienic status and housing conditions. In this
study, there are presented the results relating to helminthosis and mange
prevalence in different age categories of cattle. Positive parasitological
findings were determined in 43.30% of tested animals. There were diagnosed
cestodes of Moniezia and Dicrocoelium dendriticum strain, gastro intestinal
strongilides as well as mites of Psoroptes strain. During two years?
investigation, there was found out the greatest prevalence of infections
caused by gastro intestinal strongilides (19.78% and 29.32%). On the basis of
the obtained results, it will be possible to use modern antihelmintics more
effectively, as well as to implement measures in order to prevent both growth
and survival of preparasitic stadiums in the environment and animal
infection. The ultimate goal is to help providing more economical cattle
production in the investigated region.
Tendency in fishing development and fish consumption in Serbia
Authors: Tesic Milan , Baltic Milan , Teodorovic Vlado , Mirilovic Milorad , Nedic Drago , Markovic Todor , Markovic Radmila , Aleksic-Agelidis Aleksandra
Published: January 2014

Production and catch of fish in Serbia increases from year to year, while in
the world it reached its peak at the beginning of this century. Serbia has
all the favorable natural and economic conditions for further development of
fishing. Out of total production, that is, annual fish catch in Serbia, the
greatest part is sold by organized purchase, lower part is exported, and the
reminder goes to the market through retail. It is well known that food
consumption, therefore fish consumption, depends on several factors such as
the production level, retail price, consumers purchasing power and their
eating habits. Therefore, when analyzing the tendency of production and
consumption of fish in Serbia, it is important to investigate the influence
of production, price and purchasing power of consumers on it. In order to
investigate the set objective, there were used corresponding quantitative
data obtained by Statistical Office of the Republic of Serbia. On the basis
of the original data, there were determined certain parameters, which were
used as variables for calculation of correlational-regressive and maginal
analysis for determining the elasticity of demand and consummation of fish
per capita in Serbia. Production and catch of fish in Serbia tended to
increase during the observed period, with annual growth rate of 17.4%. Beside
the fact that annual growth rate is 4.8%, fish consumption per capita in
Serbia is still quite small (X=4.89kg), what is a consequence of population
habit to consume predominantly meat. In our study we have found out that fish
consumption in Serbia mostly depend on fish production per capita
(rxy=0.6364), as well as on groos (rxy=0.6045) and net (rxy=0.5969) earnings.
Also, it is determined that consumption elasticity has the highest growth in
regard to fish production per capita.
Probiotics in carp fish nutrition
Authors: Ljubojevic Dragana , Cirkovic M. , Miscevic Mirjana
Published: January 2014

Uncontrolled use of antibiotics in aquaculture caused the appearance and
spreading of pathogens resistance to antibiotics, what consequently drove up
to the necesity of finding new technologies for protecting aquatic organisms
from pathogens. Probiotics are aimed to reduce antibiotics application, and
furthermore they have an important role not only in disease prevention but
also in efficiency of food utilization and improvement of production
parameters. Carp fish species are economically most significant in Republic
of Serbia, therefore this work summarizes the results of previous studies of
antibiotics application in this kind in particular. There is also pointed out
to numerous harmful side effects of antibiotics use in aquaculture, and
described the previous results of investigations on mechanism of probiotics
effects and specificity of their use in this field as well. Beside this,
there are summarized the results that show positive influence of probiotics
in cyprinides nutrition on production performance, haematological parameters,
course of experimental infection, activity of digestive enzymes. Special
attention is paid to criteria for proper selection of probiotics in
cyprinides production.
Does Female Representation on Boards of Directors Associate with Increased Transparency and Ethical Behavior?
Authors: Larkin Meredith B. , Bernardi Richard A. , Bosco Susan M.
Published: January 2014

This study examined the association between corporate transparency and ethical orientation of Fortune 500 companies and the number of females represented on the board of directors from the Fortune (2010) annual report data. Our basis for this judgment was whether the firm was listed on either (both) Ethisphere Magazine's “2010 World's Most Ethical Companies” (Ethisphere Magazine 2011) or (and) Corporate Responsibility Magazine's “100 Best Corporate Citizens 2010” (Corporate Responsibility Magazine 2011) list(s). Our results indicated that, as the number of women directors increased, the probability of a corporation appearing on these lists increased. We also found that a “critical mass” of women directors was indicated by the data for Ethisphere Magazine's but not Corporate Responsibility Magazine's list.
Fe- and Cu-oxides supported on γ-Al2O3 as catalysts for the selective catalytic reduction of NO with ethanol. Part I: catalyst preparation, characterization, and activity
Authors: Worch Denis , Suprun Wladimir , Gläser Roger
Published: January 2014

Fe- and Cu-oxides supported on γ-alumina (γ-Al2O3; metal loading of 3 mass %) were investigated as alternative catalysts to the conventional Ag-based system in the selective catalytic reduction of NO with ethanol (EtOH-SCR). The catalysts were characterized by elemental analysis, N2 sorption, X-ray diffraction, temperature-prgrammed desorption of NH3, temperature-programmed reduction with H2, diffuse reflectance UV-VIS (DR-UV-VIS) spectroscopy, and compared with 3 mass % Ag/γ-Al2O3 as a reference catalyst. Catalytic experiments were carried out between 423 K and 773 K in the steady state and by temperature-programmed surface reaction (TPSR) experiments. For all catalysts, the highest NO conversion (900 ppm (ppm = parts of the mixture component per million parts of all mixture components) NO, 900 ppm EtOH, 0.5 vol. % H2O, 4 vol. % O2 in He) was found at 573 K. While 84 % of NO were converted over the Ag-based catalysts, only 20–60 % NO conversion was observed for the Fe- and Cu-containing catalysts. Total oxidation of ethanol as an unwanted side reaction occurs over 3 mass % Cu on γ-Al2O3 already at 573 K, whereas the highest activity of 3 mass % Fe on γ-Al2O3 for this conversion was reached at 743 K. For lower temperatures, partial oxidation of ethanol leads to organic by-products which can act as active intermediates in EtOH-SCR. TPSR experiments show that ethanol reacts over both the Fe- and the Cu-based catalysts to organic by-products, such as ethene or acetaldehyde, which affect the EtOH-SCR reaction.
Prevalence of pancreaticobiliary reflux in symptomatic cholelithiasis and its significance
Authors: Bohara TP , Parajuli A , Bajracharya GR , Joshi MR
Published: January 2014

Aims: Pancreaticobiliary reflux (PBR) is reflux of pancreatic enzymes into the biliary tree which occurs as a result of an anamoly of pancreaticobiliary junction (PBJ) or functionally impaired sphincter. PBR is associated with changes in biliary epithelium and is known to cause benign and malignant biliary pathology. Various authors have reported prevalence of PBR in patients with normal PBJ ranging from 20 % to 83.5 %. With aim to detect the prevalence of PBR in patients with symptomatic cholelithiasis in Nepalese population we conducted this study. Materials and methods: Thirty patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) for symptomatic cholelithiasis were included in the study. History, physical findings and relevant investigations including liver function test, serum amylase and abdominal ultrasound were recorded. Bile sample for amylase was taken from gall bladder during LC percuatneously before manipulation of calot’s triangle and common bile duct. Bile amylase level above serum amylase level was considered positive for PBR. Results: Mean age of the patient was 37.27 (± 14.41) years. Out of 30, 6 (20 %) patients were male and 24 (80 %) were female. Mean BMI was 21.58 (± 3.2). PBR reflux was present in 66.7 % of patients out of which 2 were male and 18 were female that was not statistically significant (p = 1.41) when compared with patients without PBR. Conclusion: PBR occurs in patient with cholelithiasis and has role in pathogenesis of gallstones disease and gall bladder carcinoma. Long term surveillance would be required to ascertain the significance of detection of PBR after LC. Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2013, Vol-9, No-1, 1-6 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v9i1.9666
Knowledge of nurses towards dengue fever in a tertiary care teaching hospital in Nepal
Authors: Valarmathi S , Parajulee S
Published: January 2014

Background: Nurses are important health care professionals and should have wide knowledge about common diseases especially infectious diseases like dengue. Dengue is associated with shock and can lead to death. Aim: To assess the knowledge of nurses regarding dengue fever and to study the association between the demographic variables. Setting and design: A cross sectional study was conducted at the College of Medical Sciences-Teaching Hospital, Nepal among the nurses during December, 2010. Study tool: Semi structured question was prepared to assess the knowledge of nurses in which there was objective question and Yes or No type questionnaire. Statistical analysis: The filled questionnaires were collected and data were entered in Microsoft excel sheet and analyzed as per study objectives. Descriptive statistic was used to calculate the median (IQR) and non parametric tests (Kruskal Wallis test and Mann Whitney test) to compare the total scores with demographic profile of the subjects. Results: Of the study members 89% were from Proficiency Certificate level (PCL) background and the mean (IQR) age of the respondents was 21 years (20-22.75). Overall score of the nurses was 11 (9-13) with a maximum possible score of 17. There were no association between the respondents knowledge scores with age (p=0.14); educational qualifications (p=0.86); duration of experience (p=0.59); ward (p=0.28). Conclusion: The study findings report a low knowledge among the nursing practitioners on dengue fever and its complications and their knowledge did not have any association with their demographic variables. Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2013, Vol-9, No-1, 7-13 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v9i1.9667
Transurethral use of nephroscope in the management of bladder stone
Authors: Sigdel Ghanshyam S , Agarwal A , Laminchhane N , Belokar WK
Published: January 2014

Objective: Endoscopic management of bladder stone is a well established procedure. The objective of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of transurethral use of nephroscope in the management of bladder stones. Materials and methods: We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients who had undergone treatment of bladder stones through transurethral use of nephroscope in our hospital. Various demographic, stone related, intraoperative and postoperative parameters were studied. Results: The mean stone size was 18.1± 6.8 millimetres. Mean operative time and duration of hospital stay were 42.2 minutes and 2.4 days respectively. Intraoperative and postoperative complications occurred in 8 and 16 percent respectively, which were minor and managed without further interventions. Stone free rate was 100 percent. Conclusion: Bladder stones in adults can be effectively managed with the transurethral use of nephroscope without significant complications. Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2013, Vol-9, No-1, 14-18 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v9i1.9668
A comparison of serum potassium level between high dose and low dose of Succinylcholine
Authors: Yadav RK , Majhi PC , Tiwari D
Published: January 2014

Aims: Succinylcholine is a depolarizing type of neuromuscular blocking drug. Aim of this study is to evaluate and compare serum potassium level with upper dose limit of succinylcholine (1.5mg/kg), which is used normally in anesthetic practice with low dose of succinylcholine (0.5mg/kg). Materials and methods: A total of 100 patients attending for elective surgery in College of Medical Sciences -Teaching Hospital( CMSTH)), Bharatpur, Chitwan, Nepal were studied. Two blood samples were collected, one before surgery and another at 4 min after injection of succinylcholine and send to central lab for estimation of serum potassium level. Result: The serum potassium levels recorded during the study showed that there were neither significant differences observed within the groups nor was there any difference between the groups. Conclusion: In absence of pathological conditions related to raised serum potassium level, both high and low doses of succinylcholine can be used safely as there is no statistically significant differences in serum potassium level between high and low dose of succinylcholine. Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2013, Vol-9, No-1, 19-22 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v9i1.9669
Profile of thoracic injury at College of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital
Authors: Chapagain D , Reddy D Jayapal , Shah S , Shrestha KG
Published: January 2014

Objectives: Thoracic injury is a challenge to the thoracic surgeon practicing in developing countries. This prospective study was conducted to see the mode of injury, injury types and overall outcome of thoracic injury in our settings. Materials and methods: This prospective study was conducted in 100 thoracic injury patients between December 2011 to June 2012. The demographic features, type of the trauma, radiological assessment, associated organ injuries, management of the injury, surgical interventions, morbidity, mortality, length of hospital stay were analysed. Results: In this study the ages ranged from 7 to 84 years. There were 73 (73%) males and 27 (27%) females. The majority of patients (83%) were injured during the evening and night time. The majority of patients 92(92%) sustained blunt chest injuries. The mechanism of injury was not significantly associated with length of hospital stay (P > 0.05) and mortality (P > 0.05).Road traffic accident was the most common cause of injuries affecting 68(68%) of patients followed by fall injury of 19(19%). Rib fractures, haemothorax, pneumothorax and lung contusion were the most common type of injuries accounting for 83.0%, 57%,34% and 33% respectively. Associated extra-thoracic injuries were noted in 64.0% of patients. 45(45%) of the cases of haemothorax, pneumotharax and haemopneumothorax were treated by tube thoracotomy. Four patients (04%) had undergone thoracotomy. There were 09(09%) patients of flail chest and treated conservatively. Fourty six patients (46%) were admitted in the ICU. Eleven (11%) patients were treated with ventilator support. Seventeen (17%) patients had complication. The overall length of hospital stay ranged from 0 to 25 days. Conclusion: Road traffic accidents and fall from height are the major public health problems. Preventive measures at reducing road traffic accidents and timely management with closed tube thoracotomy are the main factors to be considered in the thoracic injury. Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2013, Vol-9, No-1, 30-39 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v9i1.9671
Seizure and unilateral facial nerve paralysis in a newborn with Dandy-Walker malformation – A case report
Authors: Bhakta Subhajit , Pal S , Chatterjee A , Pan A
Published: January 2014

The Dandy-Walker syndrome (DWS) is a rare posterior fossa malformation. It can have a varied presentation depending on the age. A newborn presenting with neonatal seizure along with unilateral facial nerve palsy is rather a rare presentation of DWS and very few such cases were reported in the past. We are reporting a case of a newborn male baby presenting with neonatal seizure within 48 hrs of birth along with right sided LMN type facial nerve palsy which on due course of investigation revealed as a case of Dandy–Walker malformation. Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2013, Vol-9, No-1, 48-51 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v9i1.9673
Deep vein thrombosis in a child with osteoarticular infection: A case report
Authors: Shrestha Devendra , Limbu H , Thapa NB , Dhakal AK
Published: January 2014

Acute osteoarticular infections are common in children and rarely complicated with deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This complication can cause significant morbidity and may even be fatal. Herein we report a ten year girl with deep vein thrombosis of left femoral vein who presented initially with septic arthritis of left knee and osteomyelitis of left femur. She required prolonged hospital admission and was managed with surgical debridement, antibiotics and anticoagulation. Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2013, Vol-9, No-1, 52-55 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v9i1.9675
Generalised osteitis fibrosa cystica due to secondary hyperparathyroidism in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Shrestha Sundar K , Tayal A
Published: January 2014

Secondary hyperparathyroidism is a frequent complication of patients with chronic kidney disease and is characterized by excessive serum parathyroid hormone levels and an imbalance in calcium and phosphorus metabolism. Secondary hyperparathyroidism is the leading cause of renal osteodystrophy and bone disease. Osteitis fibrosa cystica, the classic and former most common osteodystrophy, is mainly caused by high bone turnover secondary to high levels of circulating PTH. Its pathophysiology is mainly due to hyperphosphatemia and vitamin D deficiency and resistance. This condition has a high impact on the mortality and morbidity of dialysis patients Hyperparathyroidism develops early in the course of CKD and becomes more prominent as kidney function declines. However recently, with the technical development of imaging and laboratory screening methods, hypercalcemia due to primary or secondary hyperparathyroidism can often be detected early; as a result the frequency of osteitis fibrosa cystica has declined. Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2013, Vol-9, No-1, 60-66 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v9i1.9676
New Rail Hubs along High-Speed Rail Corridor in California
Authors: Loukaitou-Sideris Anastasia
Published: January 2014

High-speed rail (HSR) will link California's first-tier cities to one another and to second-tier cities; this innovation may increase both mobility and accessibility in an unprecedented way. The system is also expected to have important physical impacts on station-adjacent neighborhoods and station cities, but to date, limited research exists to guide public policy efforts directing development around HSR stations. The urban design variables that may influence urban change in the context of HSR remain largely understudied. A state agency, the California High-Speed Rail Authority (CaHSRA), is charged with designing and managing the implementation of the HSR network, while local station cities will be responsible for development around their stations. Although CaHSRA has issued general urban design guidelines for cities, more urban design guidance is necessary to address the specificities of local contexts. Most Southern California cities have not yet started station-area planning, and the few that have are focusing attention on their stations as isolated entities in the system and city. In this limited focus, the cities often ignore the possible complement that adjacent stations on the HSR corridor may provide and how the station may integrate into the city and region. A review and a content analysis of documents and guidelines issued by the CaHSRA and its consultants to guide design in station areas were conducted and 16 planners, urban designers, and public officials in Southern California's Phase One station cities were interviewed extensively. The challenges of urban design in HSR station areas are discussed, and policy recommendations are offered.
Transfer Synchronization of Public Transport Networks
Authors: Ceder Avishai (Avi) , Hadas Yuval , McIvor Michael , Ang Albert
Published: January 2014

Transfers in public transport, especially in bus operations, are used to create a more efficient network by the reduction of operational costs and the allowance of more flexible route planning. However, because of the stochastic nature of traffic, scheduled transfers do not always occur; this situation increases the total passenger travel time and reduces the attractiveness of the public transport service. The use of selected operational tactics in public transport networks for increasing the actual occurrence of scheduled transfers was analyzed. A model was developed to determine the impact that instructing vehicles to either hold at or skip certain stops had on total passenger travel time and the number of simultaneous transfers. The model consisted of two components. First, a simulation of a public transport network examined the two tactics for maximizing the number of transfers. Second, an ILOG optimization model was used for optimal determination of the combination of the two tactics to achieve the maximum number of simultaneous transfers. A bus network was created as a case study, in Auckland, New Zealand, to verify the impact of the model's application. Results showed that applying online operational tactics dramatically improved the frequency of simultaneous transfers by more than 100%. The concept has great potential for increasing the efficiency and attractiveness of public transport networks that involve scheduled transfers.
Integrated Intervening Opportunities Model for Public Transit Trip Generation–Distribution
Authors: Nazem Mohsen , Trépanier Martin , Morency Catherine
Published: January 2014

An integrated intervening opportunities model (IIOM) was developed for public transit (PT) trips. This model is generation–distribution and supply-dependent, with single constraints only on trip production values for work and study PT trips made during morning peak hours (6:00 to 9:00 a.m.) within the Island of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Several data sets, including the 2008 origin–destination survey of the Greater Montreal Area, 2006 census of Canada, General Transit Feed Specification network data, and school enrollment data, along with the geographical data of the Greater Montreal Area, were used. The IIOM is a nonlinear model with sociodemographic, socioeconomic, and PT supply characteristics, as well as work and study spatial location attributes. Analysis of the modeling performance by means of several goodness-of-fit measures showed that the IIOM was well behaved (i.e., globally it had good prediction capabilities) and more accurate than the classical gravity model. On the basis of explanatory variables used in the IIOM, the study presents a new tool for PT analysts, planners, and policy makers for studying potential changes in PT trip patterns, as a result of changes in sociodemographic and socioeconomic characteristics, PT supply, and so on. Also, this study opens new opportunities for development of more accurate PT demand models with new emergent data such as smartcard entries.
User Satisfaction of Intermodal Transfer Facilities in Lisbon, Portugal
Authors: de Abreu e Silva João , Bazrafshan Hossein
Published: January 2014

The satisfaction of intermodal transfer facilities and the characteristics of these infrastructures that could influence passenger satisfaction were evaluated. The Lisbon, Portugal, metropolitan area was used as a case study. For this research, a survey was conducted in eight major transit interchanges. Also, an inventory was made of attributes (e.g., platform identification, litter or graffiti, restrooms, seating, lighting, presence of security guards) available in these transit interchanges. With the use of both data sources, a structural equations model was built to assess the relationships between specific aspects of reported satisfaction levels. This model also included variables that described the socioeconomic and behavioral characteristics of the respondents and attributes of the intermodal transfer facilities. Results suggest that there is a hierarchical structure among specific aspects of satisfaction and that both transit interchanges attributes and respondent characteristics significantly affect user satisfaction levels. Also, the presence of litter and graffiti, as well as the presence of guidance signs, significantly influences the levels of satisfaction.
Comparative Analysis of Personal Rapid Transit as an Urban Transportation Mode
Authors: Juster Reuben , Schonfeld Paul
Published: January 2014

Personal rapid transit (PRT) is a modern form of transportation that moves people directly from origin to destination. PRT commonly consists of four-person driverless pods that travel on grade-separate right-of-way at speeds of around 25 mph. Planned PRT systems, with the exception of a system under construction in Amritsar, India, are relatively simple systems that consist of only a few stations on a short route. The potential of PRT as a substitute for traditional medium or large-scale urban transit such as bus rapid transit, light rail transit, and modern streetcars was examined. The proposed Purple Line light rail project in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, D.C., was modeled as a PRT system with the BeamEd 1.3.2 simulation tool, although the Purple Line route and station locations were not optimized for PRT. PRT, bus rapid transit, and light rail transit versions of the Purple Line were compared with respect to costs, environmental effects, and system performance. Multiple sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the effect of certain simulation inputs on PRT system performance. Comparisons between the three alternative modes of the Purple Line favor PRT in total travel times and capital costs, an indication that PRT could be a viable option as a transportation mode in other urban environments. The risk of failure in the implementation of a new technology on a grand scale is the largest obstacle that hinders wider PRT implementation.
Modeling Resilience Enhancement Strategies for International Express Logistics
Authors: Chen Cheng-Chieh (Frank) , Feng Cheng-Min , Tsai Ya-Hsuan , Wu Pei-Ju
Published: January 2014

International express is a most time-sensitive industry, and members of this industry must be able to respond to disruptions quickly to ensure service quality and to avoid a loss of their competitiveness with other logistics service providers. Instead of a method that arbitrarily makes rushed decisions during the postdisruption phase, this paper describes a method for quantifying and optimizing resilience strategies based on concepts of integrated resource assignment, regardless of where the available resources are located in the logistics network studied or how much capacity can be rented from others. The study started with the use of a typical transportation network modeling approach and then incorporated nonlinear time-dependent cargo value functions into a multiobjective mixed-integer nonlinear programming problem. A set of optimal actions from resilience strategies, such as the selection of alternative routes, switching of shipping modes, rental of other carriers' capacities, reallocation of local trucks, and prioritization of the order of shipments because of limited capacities, was considered. Decisions should be based on overall trade-off considerations and, at the same time, joint maximization of the product of the total time-dependent cargo value and the corresponding throughput and minimization of the costs incurred with resilience enhancement strategies.
Methodology for Assessing Regional Economic Impacts of Charges for Heavy-Goods Vehicles in Spain
Authors: Guzman Andres Felipe , Vassallo Jose Manuel
Published: January 2014

An integrated approach composed of a random utility-based multi-regional input–output model and a road transport network model was developed for evaluating the application of a fee to heavy-goods vehicles (HGVs) in Spain. For this purpose, a distance-based charge scenario (in euros per vehicle kilometer) for HGVs was evaluated for a selected motorway network in Spain. Although the aim of this charging policy was to increase the efficiency of transport, the approach strongly identified direct and indirect impacts on the regional economy. Estimates of the magnitude and extent of indirect effects on aggregated macroeconomic indicators (employment and gross domestic product) are provided. The macroeconomic effects of the charging policy were found to be positive for some regions and negative for other regions.
Analysis of T-DNA/Host-Plant DNA Junction Sequences in Single-Copy Transgenic Barley Lines
Authors: Bartlett Joanne , Smedley Mark , Harwood Wendy
Published: January 2014

Sequencing across the junction between an integrated transfer DNA (T-DNA) and a host plant genome provides two important pieces of information. The junctions themselves provide information regarding the proportion of T-DNA which has integrated into the host plant genome, whilst the transgene flanking sequences can be used to study the local genetic environment of the integrated transgene. In addition, this information is important in the safety assessment of GM crops and essential for GM traceability. In this study, a detailed analysis was carried out on the right-border T-DNA junction sequences of single-copy independent transgenic barley lines. T-DNA truncations at the right-border were found to be relatively common and affected 33.3% of the lines. In addition, 14.3% of lines had rearranged construct sequence after the right border break-point. An in depth analysis of the host-plant flanking sequences revealed that a significant proportion of the T-DNAs integrated into or close to known repetitive elements. However, this integration into repetitive DNA did not have a negative effect on transgene expression.
Spray-on Thin Film PV Solar Cells: Advances, Potentials and Challenges
Authors: Eslamian Morteza
Published: January 2014

The capability to fabricate photovoltaic (PV) solar cells on a large scale and at a competitive price is a milestone waiting to be achieved. Currently, such a fabrication method is lacking because the effective methods are either difficult to scale up or expensive due to the necessity for fabrication in a vacuum environment. Nevertheless, for a class of thin film solar cells, in which the solar cell materials can be processed in a solution, up scalable and vacuum-free fabrication techniques can be envisioned. In this context, all or some layers of polymer, dye-sensitized, quantum dot, and copper indium gallium selenide thin film solar cells illustrate some examples that may be processed in solution. The solution-processed materials may be transferred to the substrate by atomizing the solution and carrying the spray droplets to the substrate, a process that will form a thin film after evaporation of the solvent. Spray coating is performed at atmospheric pressure using low cost equipment with a roll-to-roll process capability, making it an attractive fabrication technique, provided that fairly uniform layers with high charge carrier separation and transport capability can be made. In this paper, the feasibility, the recent advances and challenges of fabricating spray-on thin film solar cells, the dynamics of spray and droplet impaction on the substrate, the photo-induced electron transfer in spray-on solar cells, the challenges on characterization and simulation, and the commercialization status of spray-on solar cells are discussed.
Modeling and Design Optimization of Variable-Speed Wind Turbine Systems
Authors: Eminoglu Ulas , Ayasun Saffet
Published: January 2014

As a result of the increase in energy demand and government subsidies, the usage of wind turbine system (WTS) has increased dramatically. Due to the higher energy production of a variable-speed WTS as compared to a fixed-speed WTS, the demand for this type of WTS has increased. In this study, a new method for the calculation of the power output of variable-speed WTSs is proposed. The proposed model is developed from the S-type curve used for population growth, and is only a function of the rated power and rated (nominal) wind speed. It has the advantage of enabling the user to calculate power output without using the rotor power coefficient. Additionally, by using the developed model, a mathematical method to calculate the value of rated wind speed in terms of turbine capacity factor and the scale parameter of the Weibull distribution for a given wind site is also proposed. Design optimization studies are performed by using the particle swarm optimization (PSO) and artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithms, which are applied into this type of problem for the first time. Different sites such as Northern and Mediterranean sites of Europe have been studied. Analyses for various parameters are also presented in order to evaluate the effect of rated wind speed on the design parameters and produced energy cost. Results show that proposed models are reliable and very useful for modeling and optimization of WTSs design by taking into account the wind potential of the region. Results also show that the PSO algorithm has better performance than the ABC algorithm for this type of problem.
Resiliency of an Interior Ponderosa Pine Forest to Bark Beetle Infestations Following Fuel-Reduction and Forest-Restoration Treatments
Authors: Fettig Christopher , McKelvey Stephen
Published: January 2014

Mechanical thinning and the application of prescribed fire are commonly used to restore fire-adapted forest ecosystems in the Western United States. During a 10-year period, we monitored the effects of fuel-reduction and forest-restoration treatments on levels of tree mortality in an interior ponderosa pine, Pinus ponderosa Dougl. ex Laws., forest in California. Twelve experimental plots, ranging in size from 77–144 ha, were established to create two distinct forest structural types: mid-seral stage (low structural diversity; LoD) and late-seral stage (high structural diversity; HiD). Following harvesting, half of each plot was treated with prescribed fire (B). A total of 16,473 trees (8.7% of all trees) died during the 10-year period. Mortality was primarily attributed to bark beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae) (10,655 trees), specifically fir engraver, Scolytus ventralis LeConte, mountain pine beetle, Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins, western pine beetle, D. brevicomis LeConte, pine engraver, Ips pini (Say), and, to a much lesser extent, Jeffrey pine beetle, D. jeffreyi Hopkins. Trees of all ages and size classes were killed, but mortality was concentrated in the smaller-diameter classes (19–29.2 and 29.3–39.3 cm at 1.37 m in height). Most mortality occurred three to five years following prescribed burns. Higher levels of bark beetle-caused tree mortality were observed on LoD + B (8.7%) than LoD (4.2%). The application of these and other results to the management of interior P. ponderosa forests are discussed, with an emphasis on the maintenance of large trees.
Psychosocial Work Environment, Stress Factors and Individual Characteristics among Nursing Staff in Psychiatric In-Patient Care
Authors: Hanna Tuvesson , Mona Eklund
Published: January 2014

The psychosocial work environment is an important factor in psychiatric in-patient care, and knowing more of its correlates might open up new paths for future workplace interventions. Thus, the aims of the present study were to investigate perceptions of the psychosocial work environment among nursing staff in psychiatric in-patient care and how individual characteristics—Mastery, Moral Sensitivity, Perceived Stress, and Stress of Conscience—are related to different aspects of the psychosocial work environment. A total of 93 nursing staff members filled out five questionnaires: the QPSNordic 34+, Perceived Stress Scale, Stress of Conscience Questionnaire, Moral Sensitivity Questionnaire, and Mastery scale. Multivariate analysis showed that Perceived Stress was important for Organisational Climate perceptions. The Stress of Conscience subscale Internal Demands and Experience in current units were indicators of Role Clarity. The other Stress of Conscience subscale, External Demands and Restrictions, was related to Control at Work. Two types of stress, Perceived Stress and Stress of Conscience, were particularly important for the nursing staff’s perception of the psychosocial work environment. Efforts to prevent stress may also contribute to improvements in the psychosocial work environment.
Connectedness to Nature and Public (Skin) Health Perspectives: Results of a Representative, Population-Based Survey among Austrian Residents
Authors: Haluza Daniela , Simic Stana , Höltge Jan , Cervinka Renate , Moshammer Hanns
Published: January 2014

Connectedness to nature (CN) influences motivation to have contact with outdoor natural environments. Spending leisure time in natural environments is beneficial for human health and well-being. Besides these positive effects, health risks of open-air activities are mainly related to unprotected sun light exposure-associated acute and chronic skin hazards. Thus, we conducted a cross-sectional, representative telephone survey among Austrian residents to study the association of perceived CN level with sun-exposure knowledge, tanning habits, and sun protective behaviour. In total, 1,500 study subjects (50.5% females) participated in this questionnaire survey. Although knowledge about tanning and motives to tan were similar among genders, females performed more photoprotective measures and were more connected to nature (all p < 0.001) compared to males. Older age and outdoor sport were significant gender-independent predictor variables influencing perceived CN level. Additionally, level of education was relevant in male CN, whereas non-smoking and higher knowledge were predictive of female CN. This survey provides so far unreported empirical data on the relationship between nature connectedness and skin health-relevant recreational habits of Austrian residents. The findings suggest to integrate hitherto neglected gender-specific Public (Skin) Health promotion when counselling on the manifold health advantages of outdoor activities.
Purification of an Inducible DNase from a Thermophilic Fungus
Authors: Landry Kyle , Vu Andrea , Levin Robert
Published: January 2014

The ability to induce an extracellular DNase from a novel thermophilic fungus was studied and the DNAse purified using both traditional and innovative purification techniques. The isolate produced sterile hyphae under all attempted growing conditions, with an average diameter of 2 µm and was found to have an optimal temperature of 45 °C and a maximum of 65 °C. Sequencing of the internal transcribed region resulted in a 91% match with Chaetomium sp., suggesting a new species, but further clarification on this point is needed. The optimal temperature for DNase production was found to be 55 °C and was induced by the presence of DNA and/or deoxyribose. Static growth of the organism resulted in significantly higher DNase production than agitated growth. The DNase was purified 145-fold using a novel affinity membrane purification system with 25% of the initial enzyme activity remaining. Electrophoresis of the purified enzyme resulted in a single protein band, indicating DNase homogeneity.
Development of Molecularly Imprinted Polymer in Porous Film Format for Binding of Phenol and Alkylphenols from Water
Authors: Gryshchenko Andriy , Bottaro Christina
Published: January 2014

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) were fabricated on glass slides with a “sandwich” technique giving ~20 µm thick films. Methanol/water as a solvent, and polyethyleneglycol and polyvinylacetate as solvent modifiers, were used to give a porous morphology, which was studied with scanning electron microscopy and gravimetric analysis. Various MIPs were synthesized through non-covalent imprinting with phenol as the template; itaconic acid, 4-vinylpyridine, and styrene as monomers; ethylene glycol dimethacrylate, triethylene glycol dimethacrylate, and pentaerythritol triacrylate (PETA) as cross-linkers. Binding and imprinting properties of the MIPs were evaluated based on phenol adsorption isotherms. Since phenol has only one weakly acidic hydroxyl group and lacks unique structural characteristics necessary for binding specificity, the preparation of selective MIPs was challenging. The recognition of phenol via hydrogen bonding is suppressed in water, while hydrophobic interactions, though promoted, are not specific enough for highly-selective phenol recognition. Nevertheless, the styrene-PETA MIP gave modest imprinting effects, which were higher at lower concentrations (Imprinting Factor (IF) = 1.16 at 0.5 mg·L−1). The isotherm was of a Freundlich type over 0.1–40 mg·L−1 and there was broad cross-reactivity towards other structurally similar phenols. This shows that phenol MIPs or simple adsorbents can be developed based on styrene for hydrophobic binding, and PETA to form a tighter, hydrophilic network.
Temperature-Responsive Poly(ε-caprolactone) Cell Culture Platform with Dynamically Tunable Nano-Roughness and Elasticity for Control of Myoblast Morphology
Authors: Uto Koichiro , Ebara Mitsuhiro , Aoyagi Takao
Published: January 2014

We developed a dynamic cell culture platform with dynamically tunable nano-roughness and elasticity. Temperature-responsive poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) films were successfully prepared by crosslinking linear and tetra-branched PCL macromonomers. By optimizing the mixing ratios, the crystal-amorphous transition temperature (Tm) of the crosslinked film was adjusted to the biological relevant temperature (~33 °C). While the crosslinked films are relatively stiff (50 MPa) below the Tm, they suddenly become soft (1 MPa) above the Tm. Correspondingly, roughness of the surface was decreased from 63.4–12.4 nm. It is noted that the surface wettability was independent of temperature. To investigate the role of dynamic surface roughness and elasticity on cell adhesion, cells were seeded on PCL films at 32 °C. Interestingly, spread myoblasts on the film became rounded when temperature was suddenly increased to 37 °C, while significant changes in cell morphology were not observed for fibroblasts. These results indicate that cells can sense dynamic changes in the surrounding environment but the sensitivity depends on cell types.