bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of competitive adsorption between polycarboxylate superplasticiser and sodium tripolyphosphate on cement paste fluidity
Authors: Tan Hongbo , Li Xin , Huang Jian , Ma Baoguo , Qi Changya , Chaoliang Lin
Published: July 2015

Sodium tripolyphosphate is a common retarder used to delay the hydration and prolong the setting time of cement paste. It is also sometimes employed to enhance superplasticiser dispersity to improve the fluidity and workability of cement and concrete, but the reason for this effect is unclear. The work discussed in this paper investigated the early hydration process of cement paste and the adsorption of sodium tripolyphosphate and polycarboxylate superplasticiser (PCS). The results show that there is competitive adsorption between PCS and sodium tripolyphosphate, sodium tripolyphosphate inhibits PCS from adsorbing onto the surface of cement particles, and PCS also reduces the adsorption of sodium tripolyphosphate. When both of these are reduced, there is a significant increase in the thickness of the adsorption layer and the zeta potential, which is shown to be the main reason for the improvement in fluidity. This indicates that some salts can be used to adjust the adsorption process of PCS in order to improve the fluidity and workability of cement paste and fresh concrete.
Developments in modelling of backward erosion piping
Authors: VAN BEEK V. M. , VAN ESSEN H. M. , VANDENBOER K. , BEZUIJEN A.
Published: July 2015

One of the failure mechanisms that can affect the safety of a dyke or another water-retaining structure is backward erosion piping, a phenomenon that results in the formation of shallow pipes at the interface of a sandy or silty foundation and a cohesive cover layer. The models available for predicting the critical head at which the pipe progresses to the upstream side have been validated and adapted on the basis of experiments with two-dimensional (2D) configurations. However, the experimental base for backward erosion in three-dimensional (3D) configurations in which the flow concentrates towards one point, a situation that is commonly encountered in the field, is limited. This paper presents additional 3D configuration experiments at two scales with a range of sand types. The critical gradients, the formed pipes and the erosion mechanism were analysed for the available experiments, indicating that the erosion mechanism is more complex than previously assumed, as both erosion at the tip of the pipe (primary erosion) and in the pipe (secondary erosion) are relevant. In addition, a 3D configuration was found to result in significantly lower critical gradients than those predicted by an accepted calculation model calibrated on the basis of 2D experiments, a finding that is essential for the application of the model in the field.
Effect of polyacrylate/GO nanocomposites on properties of cement paste
Authors: Lv Shenghua , Yang Wenqiang , Zhao Haoran , Zhou Qingfang , Cui Yaya
Published: July 2015

Polyacrylate/graphene oxide (GO) nanocomposites were prepared by the copolymerisation of GO with acrylic acid and acrylamide. The effects of polyacrylate/GO nanocomposites on cement paste fluidity and the microstructure and mechanical strength of hardened cement paste were investigated. The results indicate that the GO nanocomposites have no effect on cement paste fluidity and can efficiently control cement hydration products and its microstructure compared with using GO sheets directly. The corresponding hardened cement paste has a high compressive strength and particularly high flexural strength. This research provides a basis for the use of GO in cement-based composites for reinforcing and toughening.
Mean and design fatigue lives of SFRC containing cement-based materials
Authors: Kaur Gurbir , Singh Surinder Pal , Kaushik Surendra Kumar
Published: July 2015

This paper examines the flexural fatigue performance of steel-fibre-reinforced concrete (SFRC) containing different cement-based materials in terms of mean and design fatigue lives. An experimental programme was designed to determine the fatigue lives of beam specimens of seven SFRC composites containing fly ash, silica fume, limestone powder and metakaolin as partial cement replacements in varying amounts. The fatigue life distributions of all mix combinations at different stress levels were statistically analysed using a two-parameter Weibull distribution. The Weibull modelling used to describe the distribution of cycles to failure is summarised. The Weibull distribution parameters as determined from fatigue/S–N equations were employed to determine the mean fatigue lives. The design fatigue lives were calculated corresponding to selected acceptable probabilities of failure (i.e. 0·01, 0·05, 0·10, 0·15 and 0·25). SFRC containing fly ash and silica fume in proportions of 20% and 10% by weight of binder respectively showed the best fatigue performance in terms of mean and design fatigue lives as compared with the other mix combinations.
Auditoria como Ferramenta no Controle da Qualidade
Authors: Maria de Fátima Moraes Whitaker Saporito  , Rodrigo Dias Villela
Published: July 2015

Este artigo tem por objetivo demonstrar a importância das Auditorias Odontológicas para as operadoras, complementando e otimizando os Sistemas de Gestão da Qualidade. Os dados apresentados demonstram, por um lado, que a Gestão da Qualidade ainda é recente para as operadoras odontológicas. Por outro , normas e diretrizes permitem que estas progridam rapidamente na busca do desempenho, produtividade, atendimento aos requisitos do cliente e na sua sustentabilidade.
UN MODELO DE GESTION DE RIESGOS BASADO EN EL USUARIO PARA LA SEGURIDAD DE SISTEMAS DE INFORMACION EN EL AREA ACADEMICA DE LA UNIVERSIDAD NACIONAL DEL ALTIPLANO PUNO
Authors: CONDORI ALEJO HENRY IVAN
Published: July 2015

La seguridad de información normalmente ha sido considerada como un problema tecnológico y a su vez con una solución tecnológica. Lo que es totalmente falso pues la Seguridad está basada en las personas, es más, para reducir los riesgos y asegurar protección de la información, las organizaciones a menudo confían en soluciones basadas en tecnologías dejando de lado la percepción del usuario, quien es el actor principal, y poco se ha hecho para determinar cuáles son los factores que inciden en su intención para Implementar Seguridad en sistemas de Información. En tal sentido, el modelo de gestión de riesgos, en la seguridad de información del área académica de la Universidad Nacional del Altiplano, plantea un conjunto de constructores claves como son: Compromiso de la Gerencia, Cultura Organizacional, Misión de la Organización, Recursos y Presupuesto, Formación y Capacitación, Conciencia de la Necesidad de Seguridad por el Personal, Infraestructura Tecnológica, Soporte hacia el Usuario, Experiencia del Usuario combinados con la Teoría del Comportamiento Planificado, para que permitan determinar y evaluar los factores de riesgo (críticos de éxito) para implementar seguridad desde la perspectiva del usuario en diversos escenarios donde se requiera implementar Seguridad en Sistemas de Información, con la finalidad de permitir a las organizaciones invertir mejor en la implementación futura de Seguridad de Sistemas de Información o efectuar los ajustes necesarios para su éxito. Además que dicho modelo ha determinado en base al análisis path multivariado que, para el caso de la Universidad Nacional del Altiplano los factores de riesgo son: los recursos y presupuesto con -0.558, la cultura organizacional con 0.439, la conciencia de la necesidad de seguridad información con 0.431 y la formación y capacitación 0.357.

 

Palabras clave: Seguridad de Información, Riesgo, Factores Críticos de Éxito, Intención del Usuario, Sistemas de Información.
DIAGNOSTICO DE DISPLASIA DE CADERA POR EL METODO DE ANGULO DE NORBERG, ANGULO DE INCLINACION Y CARACTERISTICAS FENOTIPICAS DE CADERA EN PERROS MESTIZOS DE LA CIUDAD DE PUNO
Authors: DE LA CRUZ PEREZ ABIGAIL , ESPEZUA FLORES OSCAR HENRY
Published: July 2015

Se determino la frecuencia de presentación de displasia de cadera en caninos de la ciudad de Puno en 64 ejemplares de ambos sexos entre uno y tres años de edad y un peso promedio de 18.5 kg. Se siguieron los lineamientos de la Federación Cinologica Internacional, usando el examen radiológico y empleando el método de diagnostico cuantitativo del Angulo de Norberg, ángulo de inclinación y características fenotípicas de la cadera según la Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. Los resultados muestran un 15.63% de frecuencia de presentación de displasia de cadera, respecto al sexo un 18.75% y 12.50% en machos y hembras respectivamente. La frecuencia de presentación unilateral fue 30% y bilateral 70%, los grados de displasia de cadera de acuerdo a la clasificación de la Federacion Cinologica Internacional fueron 51.56%, 35.16% y 13.28% para presentación normal, transición y displasia leve respectivamente, de acuerdo a los parámetros de la Orthopedic Foundation for Animals fueron del 28.22%, 28.13%, 32.81% y 14.84% en conformación optima, buena, regular y displasia leve respectivamente.

Palabras clave: Displasia, cadera, perros, Norberg
LA POBLACIÓN DEL PERÚ EN LA ETAPA DE GLOBALIZACIÓN
Authors: ESCOBEDO RIVERA JOSE OCTAVIO
Published: July 2015

Los modelos económicos implementados en el país desde su independencia no fueron ajenos a las formas de acumulación de capital internacional y en la práctica ellos han representado severos límites a la posibilidad del ansiado desarrollo. Los vínculos establecidos con el mercado mundial han llevado a diferenciar internamente modelos de desarrollo con características propias que han ido sucediéndose a lo largo de su evolución económica. Estos modelos de desarrollo han sido clasificados en tres: primario exportador, industrialización por sustitución de importaciones, y globalización de la economía. Estos modelos de desarrollo han afectado el crecimiento demográfico de diferentes maneras, del que daremos cuenta a continuación sólo del último modelo que aun se mantiene hasta nuestros días. Los efectos demográficos percibidos en lo que va de la globalización, ponen de manifiesto modificaciones en el tamaño, composición y distribución de la población. La situación de dependencia en la aplicación del modelo de globalización continúa beneficiando prioritariamente a ciertos sectores sociales y contextos espacio-regionales con diversas consecuencias sobre las variables demográficas. La estructura de la población por edad si bien tendrá la forma de pirámide de base amplia y cúspide temprana, los primeros eslabones de edad se presentan semejantes a los eslabones de las siguientes dos cohortes de edad, haciéndose notorios los efectos de la reducción de la fecundidad.

 

Palabras clave: globalización, estructura poblacional, variables demográficas.
CONTAMINACIÓN BACTERIOLÓGICA EN FACTORES EN EL PROCESO DE ORDEÑO DE LECHE CIP CHUQUIBAMBILLA
Authors: MÁLAGA APAZA JULIO , Condemayta Condemayta Zacarias
Published: July 2015

El objetivo fue evaluar los utensilios, equipos, animales, y ordeñador; en la contaminación bacteriológica e identificar microorganismos según especie y género  antes y después del proceso de ordeño de leche en vacas del CIP Chuquibambilla - FMVZ, de la Universidad Nacional del Altiplano, que se encuentra en Umachiri - Melgar; las muestras fueron tomadas mediante hisopados esterilizados, antes y después del proceso de ordeño, depositadas en caldo peptonado debidamente rotulado, y traslado al Laboratorio de Microbiología para su cultivo. Las bacterias gram negativas fueron cultivadas en medio Mac conkey, los estreptococos sp. y Staphylococcus epidermidis en agar sangre; y shigella en agar manitol salado; y la lectura fue reconociendo las colonias según forma, color y cantidad de desarrollo bacteriano. Los datos fueron analizados mediante prueba de Ji-cuadrado. Los resultados encontrados en las manos, pezón, pezonera, franela y agua antes del ordeño fueron 83.33%, 100.00%, 66.67%, 0.0% y 0.0% de contaminación con Escherichia Coli; mientras después del ordeño reflejan 16.67%, 0.0%, 83.33%, 100.00% y 100.00% de contaminación con Escherichia Coli en los factores manos, pezón, pezonera, franela y agua, respectivamente (P≤0.01). Los microorganismos contaminantes antes del ordeño fueron: Escherichia Coli 83.33%,  St. epidermidis 50%, Enterobacter sp 33.3% y Bacillus sp 33.3%. Después del ordeño se evidenció Escherichia Coli 100.00%, St. Aureus 66.7%, St. epidermidis 66.7%, Streptococcus sp 33.3%, Enterobacter sp 33.3%., Levaduras 50% y Klebsiella 50% (P≥0.05). Los utensilios, equipos, animales, y ordeñador influyen en la contaminación de la leche en el proceso de ordeño cuando no tiene limpieza e higiene.
CONTAMINACIÓN NATURAL DE AGUAS SUBTERRANEAS POR ARSÉNICO EN LA ZONA DE CARANCAS Y HUATA, PUNO.
Authors: APAZA PANCA ROLANDO
Published: July 2015

El artículo presenta la interpretación del problema de contaminación natural por arsénico en aguas subterráneas de las localidades de Carancas y Huata en el departamento de Puno. La ingesta prolongada de arsénico en aguas de consumo, pone en riesgo la salud de las poblaciones rurales que habitan en las referidas localidades. Las únicas fuentes disponibles de abastecimiento son las aguas subterráneas, estas son de mala calidad por el alto contenido de sales disueltas en Carancas, y aguas de alta dureza en la zona de Huata. Las concentraciones de arsénico en las zonas evaluadas alcanzan hasta 500 ìg/L por encima de los límites aceptables considerados por la USEPA y normas nacionales de 10ìg/L. En la zona de Carancas, las aguas subterráneas de acuíferos confinados presentan concentraciones de arsénico por encima de 10ìg/L, cuya ocurrencia y mecanismo de transporte se atribuye a condiciones reductoras. Mientras que en la localidad de Huata el arsénico se presenta en aguas subterráneas poco profundas de acuífero libre, cuya ocurrencia y mecanismo de transporte se atribuye a condiciones oxidantes. Respecto a la procedencia de arsénico, no se ha determinado la fuente de donde proviene, sin embargo puede estar vinculado a los terrenos volcánicos de la Cordillera Occidental de losAndes, donde el arsénico está presente en diferentes especies de minerales, éstas al ser meteorizadas y lixiviadas son transportadas por flujos de agua superficial y subterráneas sean en condiciones anóxicas u oxidantes. Se descarta posibilidades de una contaminación inducida por fuentes industriales u otro entorno de las áreas evaluadas en razón de la ausencia de actividad minera local o próxima en las zonas de estudio.

PALABRAS CLAVE: * Contaminación * subterráneos * arsénico * Agua * Huata * Carancas * Puno
DRENAJE DE AGUAS Y PASIVOS AMBIENTALES EN LA INACTIVA MINA POMPERIA, PUNO PERÚ
Authors: MARIN PAUCARA ESTEBAN , ESCOBAR MAMANI FORTUNATO
Published: July 2015

El debate sobre las actividades mineras activas o inactivas ha traído consigo muchas vicisitudes sobre su efecto contaminante al medio ambiente, una de ellas, es la calidad de aguas del entorno minero. Esta investigación, pretendió explorar las incidencias de explotación minera del pasado de la Mina Pompearía ubicada a ocho kilómetros de la ciudad de Puno Perú, explotada en la colonia española entre los años 1600 a 1668 y por Minero Puno Empresa de Propiedad Social 1975-1977. Respecto a la variación de las aguas por drenaje ácido proveniente del antiguo socavón, en contacto con los escombros compuestos de materiales y rocas mineralizadas en volúmenes; si bien, no considerables expuestos libremente en la superficie, constituyen elementos de pasivo ambiental. Investigación realizada en el año 2013, describe desde el punto de vista minero ambiental. Previa caracterizaron de elementos ambientales del entorno minero, en particular el agua que fluye del antiguo socavón hacia las pasturas abajo. Las muestras fueron sometidas a pruebas fisicoquímicas para aseverar la percepción de la contaminación. Los resultados nos indican que las aguas que discurren desde el socavón hacia las pastura del riachuelo abajo contiene grado de acidez derivado de la meteorización y oxidación de los sulfuros metálicos, si bien leve, los niveles de toxicidad que drenan hacia las pasturas debajo, es de consumo directo de ganado existente en el lugar (ovinos, vacunos y alpacas) que posteriormente llega al mercado para el consumo humano. Por tato, son elementos tóxicos que pueden contaminar las pasturas y los cuerpos de agua subterráneas, por los urgen implementar medidas mitigatorias.
PROPIEDADES PSICOMÉTRICAS DE LA ESCALA DE DESGASTE OCUPACIONAL EN DOCENTES DE SECUNDARIA DE TRUJILLO
Authors: ZAVALA CASTILLO JHONATAN ALEXIS
Published: July 2015

El objetivo del presente estudio fue conocer las propiedades psicométricas de la Escala de Desgaste Ocupacional (EDO) en docentes de secundaria de las Instituciones Educativas Públicas del Distrito de Trujillo. La muestra estuvo conformada por 328 docentes seleccionados a través de un muestro estratificado, siendo el 41% varones y el 59% mujeres, con un tiempo de servicio entre los tres hasta los 38 años. A la luz de los resultados, la EDO es un instrumento válido y confiable en docentes varones y mujeres, pues se encontró, por medio de la correlación ítem-test, que posee validez de constructo, dado que presenta coeficientes que oscilan entre .212 a .657 en varones y .213 a .596 en mujeres; además, utilizando el coeficiente de alfa de Cronbach, se determinó que tanto en varones (.924) y mujeres (.927), posee una confiabilidad de consistencia interna elevada. Finalmente, se elaboraron baremos con puntuaciones T por género en la escala general de la EDO y en algunos de sus factores, debido a que en estos se encontraron diferencias significativas en docentes varones y mujeres.
Estudo sobre a sustentabilidade: aspectos socioeconômicos e ambientais em cinco associações de apicultores no Sertão da Paraíba
Authors: Borges M. G. B. , Silva R. A. , Araújo A. S. , Andrade A. B. A. , Cajá D. F. , Maracajá P. B.
Published: July 2015

A criação de abelhas é uma atividade desenvolvida nos mais diversos estados brasileiros e, particularmente, no estado da Paraíba assim como outros estados dos nordeste encontra condições climáticas e ambientais bastante propícias. Um aspecto social relevante na produção do mel e seus derivados, na realidade deste estado, é o fato desta ser desenvolvida normalmente por pequenos agricultores, em diversos municípios deste estado, cujos apicultores que alcançaram maior nível de organização já produzem mel com qualidade para exportação, que ainda é realizada indiretamente, através de empresas de outros estados. Tivemos como objetivo realizar um estudo socioeconômico e ambiental, como também, verificar a sustentabilidade na atividade apícola em cinco associações de apicultores no alto sertão da Paraíba. A coleta de dados sobre os agentes envolvidos nessa atividade, deu-se mediante a aplicação de questionários e realização de entrevistas semi-estruturadas, aplicadas diretamente com os associados das associações de Apicultores em cinco municípios do Sertão da Paraíba. A associação que apresentou maior Índice de Qualidade de Vida (IQV) foi Santa Helena, com 0,9858. Seguidas por Triunfo com 0,9333, São João do Rio do Peixe com 0,8167, Catolé do Rocha com 0,7778 e Poço José de Moura com 0,6889, respectivamente, mostrou que 100% dos apicultores pesquisados possuem pelo menos um dos bens dos grupos 1, 2 e 3, Na composição do Índice de Capital Social (ICS), o maior valor foi constatado em Catolé do rocha: 0,8999, seguidos por São João do Rio do Peixe com 0,8570 atingiram alto nível do indicador de desenvolvimento em capital. Para o Índice Ambiental podemos verificar que a associação de São João do Rio do Peixe, obteve o maior índice de indicador ambiental, ou seja 0,9143, seguidos por Catolé do Rocha com 0,8857. Para as cinco associações encontramos os valores médios para o Índice de Sustentabilidade (IS) de 0,8110.
Determination of Individual Diffusion Coefficients of Solvent/CO2 Mixture in Heavy Oil With Pressure-Decay Method
Authors: Li Huazhou , Yang Daoyong
Published: July 2015

A novel methodology was developed to determine the molecular-diffusion coefficient for each component of the solvent/CO2 mixture in heavy oil under reservoir conditions on the basis of the pressure-decay theory. Experimentally, molecular-diffusion tests for the solvent/CO2/heavy-oil systems (i.e., pure-CO2/heavy-oil system, C3H8/CO2/heavy-oil system, and n-C4H10/CO2/heavy-oil system) are performed with a DBR pressure/volume/temperature system at constant temperature and decayed pressure. Theoretically, the Peng-Robinson equation of state combined with a 1D diffusion model is developed to describe the diffusion process of solvent/CO2 mixture in heavy oil. The composition analysis in the beginning and the end of pressure-decay experiments for the solvent/CO2/heavy-oil system indicate that the gas-phase solvent fraction decreases as diffusion proceeds, whereas the gas-phase CO2 fraction increases during the tests. One can determine the individual molecular-diffusion coefficient for each component in the mixture by minimizing the discrepancy between the measured composition change and the calculated composition change with the diffusion model. The newly developed methodology is successfully validated with the diffusion tests on the two solvent/CO2 mixtures: C3H8/CO2/heavy-oil system and n-C4H10/CO2/heavy-oil system. As for the solvent/CO2 mixtures tested, the molecular-diffusion coefficient of solvent in heavy oil is found to be significantly larger than that of CO2 in heavy oil. At similar test conditions, the C3H8/CO2/heavy-oil system ends up with a swelling factor of 1.058 after 168 hours of diffusion test, in comparison to 1.031 for the CO2/heavy-oil system.
Approximate Estimation of Landfill Emissions Considering Methane Oxidation
Authors: Losada Moreira João Manoel , Rocha da Silva Elissando , Candiani Giovano
Published: July 2015

An approximate analytical scheme is presented to estimate landfill methane emissions taking into account the
oxidation that occurs in the soil cover. To facilitate the solution of the methane transport equation we introduce a region
dependent coefficient to account for the methane oxidation. Expressions for the distribution of methane concentration and
methane flux inside the landfill and cover regions are obtained. The approach was applied to the CTVA-Caieiras landfill
which was modeled as a vertical one-dimensional landfill with homogenous solid waste and soil cover regions. The
methane emission obtained for the landfill was 2x10-5 mol m-2s-1 for a 4 year old deposited waste with a 0.5 m soil cover.
The calculation compared well with the median of 11 field measurements conducted at the CTVA-Caieiras. The emission
rates were strongly dependent on the oxidation coefficient utilized, which varies with the cover material and microclimate
conditions of the site. The oxidation coefficient can be interpreted as the probability per unit of time of methane oxidation
in the medium. The scheme provides a qualitative description of the methane transport and oxidation phenomena in
landfills.
Efficacy and safety of nadroparin and unfractionated heparin for the treatment of venous thromboembolism during pregnancy and puerperium
Authors: Mitic Gorana , Kovac Mirjana , Povazan Ljubica , Djordjevic Valentina , Ilic Vesna , Salatic Iva , Lazic Radmila , Antonijevic Nebojsa , Novakov-Mikic Aleksandra
Published: July 2015

Introduction. The optimal treatment of pregnancy associated VTE (venous
thromboembolism) has not been established yet. Objective. The assessment of
the efficacy and safety of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) nadroparin and
unfractionated heparin (UFH) used for the treatment of pregnancy and
puerperium related VTE. Primary study goals were to analyze the incidence of
recurrent VTE (proximal extension or pulmonary thromboembolism),
thrombocytopenia, major and minor hemorrhages and skin allergic reactions.
The study also included the incidence of miscarriages, stillbirth and
neonatal abnormalities. We also studied the relationship between the presence
of thrombophilia and the occurrence of complications during VTE treatment.
Methods. Seventy-two women with antepartal VTE treated with s.c. LMWH during
entire pregnancy and 88 women with postpartal VTE initially treated with
either s.c. LMWH or i.v.UFH were under follow-up during the entire treatment.
Thrombophilia testing included antithrombin, protein C and protein S activity
levels, Activated protein C (APC) resistance, LA, ACL, FV Leiden, FII G20210A
and MTHFR C677T mutations. Results. Twice a day weight based therapeutic
regimen was applied for LMWH and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)
adjusted UFH dosages. After 2-6 weeks of antepartal deep vein thrombosis
(DVT) treatment the dose of nadroparin was reduced to intermediate level. The
duration of LMWH therapy during pregnancy was 1-35 weeks, on average 16
weeks. One case (0.62%) of DVT propagation into the vena cava occurred in a
woman with antithrombin deficiency treated with LMWH. Two women (1.25%) had
minor bleeding and 5 (3.125%) had minimal bleeding, while 3 (1.9%) had skin
allergic reactions. The rate of successful pregnancy outcome was 97.2%. There
were no cases of stillbirth or neonatal congenital abnormalities.
Thrombophilia was found in 86 women (53.7%). No statistically significant
correlation between the presence of thrombophilia and treatment complications
were found. Conclusion. Nadroparin is both safe and effective for the
treatment of DVT during pregnancy and puerperium.
Acquired haemophilia syndrome: Pathophysiology and therapy
Authors: Elezovic Ivo
Published: July 2015

Acquired inhibitors against coagulation factor VIII (FVIII), also termed
acquired haemophilia A, neutralize its procoagulant function and result in
severe or often life-threatening bleeding. The antibodies arise in
individuals with no prior history of clinical bleeding. Acquired haemophilia
occurs rarely with the incidence of approximately 1 to 4 per million/ year,
with severe bleeds in up to 90% of affected patients, and high mortality
between 8-22%. About 50% of diagnosed patients were previously healthy, while
the remaining cases may be associated with postpartum period, autoimmune
diseases, malignancy, infections, or medications. Most patients have
spontaneous haemorrhages into the skin, muscles or soft tissues, and mucous
membranes, or after trauma and surgery, whereas haemarthroses are uncommon.
The diagnosis of acquired haemophilia A based on the prolongation of
activated partial thromboplastin time which does not normalize after the
addition of normal plasma, reduced FVIII, with evidence of FVIII inhibitor
measured by the Bethesda assay (Nijmegen modification). The treatment of
acute bleeding episodes and the long-term eradication of the autoantibodies
in acquired haemophilia are the main therapeutic strategy. Two options are
currently available for acute bleeding control: the use rFVIIa or FEIBA in
patients with higher inhibitor titer (>5 BU), or to raise the level of FVIII
by administration of DDAVP or concentrates of FVIII in patients with low
level of inhibitors (<5 BU). Treatment with FEIBA (50-100 IU/ kg every 8-12
hours) has shown good haemostatic response in 76-89% of the bleeding
episodes. Patients treated with rFVIIa (90 ?g/kg every 2-6 hours) have
achieved good response in 95-100% as a first-line, and 75-80% as a salvage
therapy. Patients with low inhibitor titer and lower response can be treated
with concentrate of FVIII in the recommended dose of 40 IU/kg plus 20 IU/kg
for each BU of inhibitor. The treatment of non-life-threatening haemorrhages
with desmopressin (DDAVP 0.3 ?g/kg) may increase both FVIII and vWF.
Sometimes inhibitors disappear spontaneously, but longterm management is
necessary for eradication of inhibitors by immunosuppression (prednisone 1
mg/kg 3 weeks alone or in combination cyclophosphamide 2 mg/kg),
immunomodulation, intravenous immunoglobulin (HD IgG 2g/kg 2 or 5 d),
physical removal of antibodies (plasmapheresis or immunoadsorption), or
various combinations. Recently, a therapy with rituximab, an anti-CD20
monoclonal antibody, has shown to be effective in acquired haemophilia.
An overview of genetic risk factors in thrombophilia
Authors: Djordjevic Valentina , Rakicevic Ljiljana , Radojkovic Dragica
Published: July 2015

Thrombophilia is a multifactorial disorder, involving both genetic and
acquired risk factors that affect the balance between procoagulant and
anticoagulant factors and lead to increased tendency to thrombosis. The
concept that thrombophilia could be associated with genetic defects was first
proposed in 1965 after the discovery of familiar antihrombin III deficiency.
Further family studies showed that deficiency of protein C or protein S also
increased thrombotic risk. In the coming years the advent in DNA technology,
especially the invention of PCR reaction, played an important role in the
identification of the exact nature of these deficiencies and opened new
possibilities in the genetic research of thrombophilia. The breakthrough came
with the discovery of activated protein C resistance and Factor V Leiden
mutation. Shortly afterwards a mutation in the 3? untranslated region of
Factor II gene (FII G20210A) associated with increased concentration of
factor II in plasma, was described. Large epidemiologic studies have
conformed that these two common mutations represent significant risk factors
for thrombophilia. In the last decade several prothrombotic genetic risk
factors have been described, including genes variants associated with
increased levels of coagulation factors, defects of natural coagulation
inhibitors, defects of the fibrinolytic system and hyperhomocysteinemia.
These genetic defects or their combination have been extensively studied in
an attempt to elucidate the possible association with increased thrombotic
tendency. The large-scale DNA analysis systems are now becoming available,
opening a new era in the genetic studies of thrombophilia. New technology
will enable many genes to be studied in a single patient bringing us closer
to the ?personalized? medicine.
Inroads into Equestrian Safety: Rider-Reported Factors Contributing to Horse-Related Accidents and Near Misses on Australian Roads
Authors: Thompson Kirrilly , Matthews Chelsea
Published: July 2015

Horse riding and horse-related interactions are inherently dangerous. When they occur on public roads, the risk profile of equestrian activities is complicated by interactions with other road users. Research has identified speed, proximity, visibility, conspicuity and mutual misunderstanding as factors contributing to accidents and near misses. However, little is known about their significance or incidence in Australia. To explore road safety issues amongst Australian equestrians, we conducted an online survey. More than half of all riders (52%) reported having experienced at least one accident or near miss in the 12 months prior to the survey. Whilst our findings confirm the factors identified overseas, we also identified issues around rider misunderstanding of road rules and driver misunderstanding of rider hand signals. Of particular concern, we also found reports of potentially dangerous rider-directed road rage. We identify several areas for potential safety intervention including (1) identifying equestrians as vulnerable road users and horses as sentient decision-making vehicles (2) harmonising laws regarding passing horses, (3) mandating personal protective equipment, (4) improving road signage, (5) comprehensive data collection, (6) developing mutual understanding amongst road-users, (7) safer road design and alternative riding spaces; and (8) increasing investment in horse-related safety initiatives.
An Insufferable Business: Ethics, Nonhuman Animals and Biomedical Experiments
Authors: Peggs Kay
Published: July 2015

Each year millions of nonhuman animals suffer in biomedical experiments for human health benefits. Clinical ethics demand that nonhuman animals are used in the development of pharmaceuticals and vaccines. Nonhuman animals are also used for fundamental biomedical research. Biomedical research that uses nonhuman animals is big business but the financial gains are generally occluded. This paper explores how such research generates profits and gains for those associated with the industry. Research establishments, scientists, laboratories, companies that sell nonhuman animal subjects, that supply equipment for the research, and corporations that market the resulting products are among those that benefit financially. Given the complex articulation of ethical codes, enormous corporate profits that are secured and personal returns that are made, the accepted moral legitimacy of such experiments is compromised. In order to address this, within the confines of the moral orthodoxy, more could to be done to ensure transparency and to extricate the vested financial interests from the human health benefits. But such a determination would not address the fundamental issues that should be at the heart of human actions in respect of the nonhuman animals who are used in experiments. The paper concludes with such an address by calling for an end to the denigration of nonhuman animals as experimental subjects who can be used as commodities for profit-maximisation and as tools in experiments for human health benefits, and the implementation of a more inclusive ethic that is informed by universal concern about the suffering of and compassion for all oppressed beings.
In Vivo GFP Knockdown by Cationic Nanogel-siRNA Polyplexes
Authors: Shrivats Arun , Mishina Yuji , Averick Saadyah , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof , Hollinger Jeffrey
Published: July 2015

RNA interference (RNAi) is a powerful tool to treat diseases and elucidate target gene function. Prior to clinical implementation, however, challenges including the safe, efficient and targeted delivery of siRNA must be addressed. Here, we report cationic nanogel nanostructured polymers (NSPs) prepared by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) for in vitro and in vivo siRNA delivery in mammalian models. Outcomes from siRNA protection studies suggested that nanogel NSPs reduce enzymatic degradation of siRNA within polyplexes. Further, the methylation of siRNA may enhance nuclease resistance without compromising gene knockdown potency. NSP-mediated RNAi treatments against Gapdh significantly reduced GAPDH enzyme activity in mammalian cell culture models supplemented with 10% serum. Moreover, nanogel NSP-mediated siRNA delivery significantly inhibited in vivo GFP expression in a mouse model. GFP knockdown was siRNA sequence-dependent and facilitated by nanogel NSP carriers. Continued testing of NSP/siRNA compositions in disease models may produce important new therapeutic options for patient care.
Toxic Oligomeric Alpha-Synuclein Variants Present in Human Parkinson’s Disease Brains Are Differentially Generated in Mammalian Cell Models
Authors: Xin Wei , Emadi Sharareh , Williams Stephanie , Liu Qiang , Schulz Philip , He Ping , Alam Now , Wu Jie , Sierks Michael
Published: July 2015

Misfolding and aggregation of α-synuclein into toxic soluble oligomeric α-synuclein aggregates has been strongly correlated with the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Here, we show that two different morphologically distinct oligomeric α-synuclein aggregates are present in human post-mortem PD brain tissue and are responsible for the bulk of α-synuclein induced toxicity in brain homogenates from PD samples. Two antibody fragments that selectively bind the different oligomeric α-synuclein variants block this α-synuclein induced toxicity and are useful tools to probe how various cell models replicate the α-synuclein aggregation pattern of human PD brain. Using these reagents, we show that mammalian cell type strongly influences α-synuclein aggregation, where neuronal cells best replicate the PD brain α-synuclein aggregation profile. Overexpression of α-synuclein in the different cell lines increased protein aggregation but did not alter the morphology of the oligomeric aggregates generated. Differentiation of the neuronal cells into a cholinergic-like or dopaminergic-like phenotype increased the levels of oligomeric α-synuclein where the aggregates were localized in cell neurites and cell bodies.
Pt Monolayer Shell on Nitrided Alloy Core—A Path to Highly Stable Oxygen Reduction Catalyst
Authors: Hu Jue , Kuttiyiel Kurian , Sasaki Kotaro , Su Dong , Yang Tae-Hyun , Park Gu-Gon , Zhang Chengxu , Chen Guangyu , Adzic Radoslav
Published: July 2015

The inadequate activity and stability of Pt as a cathode catalyst under the severe operation conditions are the critical problems facing the application of the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). Here we report on a novel route to synthesize highly active and stable oxygen reduction catalysts by depositing Pt monolayer on a nitrided alloy core. The prepared PtMLPdNiN/C catalyst retains 89% of the initial electrochemical surface area after 50,000 cycles between potentials 0.6 and 1.0 V. By correlating electron energy-loss spectroscopy and X-ray absorption spectroscopy analyses with electrochemical measurements, we found that the significant improvement of stability of the PtMLPdNiN/C catalyst is caused by nitrogen doping while reducing the total precious metal loading.
Data Mining Techniques for Detecting Household Characteristics Based on Smart Meter Data
Authors: Gajowniczek Krzysztof , Ząbkowski Tomasz
Published: July 2015

The main goal of this research is to discover the structure of home appliances usage patterns, hence providing more intelligence in smart metering systems by taking into account the usage of selected home appliances and the time of their usage. In particular, we present and apply a set of unsupervised machine learning techniques to reveal specific usage patterns observed at an individual household. The work delivers the solutions applicable in smart metering systems that might: (1) contribute to higher energy awareness; (2) support accurate usage forecasting; and (3) provide the input for demand response systems in homes with timely energy saving recommendations for users. The results provided in this paper show that determining household characteristics from smart meter data is feasible and allows for quickly grasping general trends in data.
Flow Regime Changes: From Impounding a Temperate Lowland River to Small Hydropower Operations
Authors: Punys Petras , Dumbrauskas Antanas , Kasiulis Egidijus , Vyčienė Gitana , Šilinis Linas
Published: July 2015

This article discusses the environmental issues facing small hydropower plants (SHPs) operating in temperate lowland rivers of Lithuania. The research subjects are two medium head reservoir type hydro schemes considered within a context of the global fleet of SHPs in the country. This research considers general abiotic indicators (flow, level, water retention time in the reservoirs) of the stream that may affect the aquatic systems. The main idea was to test whether the hydrologic regime has been altered by small hydropower dams. The analysis of changes in abiotic indicators is a complex process, including both pre- and post-reservoir construction and post commissioning of the SHPs under operation. Downstream hydrograph (flow and stage) ramping is also an issue for operating SHPs that can result in temporary rapid changes in flow and consequently negatively impact aquatic resources. This ramping has been quantitatively evaluated. To avoid the risk of excessive flow ramping, the types of turbines available were evaluated and the most suitable types for the natural river flow regime were identified. The results of this study are to allow for new hydro schemes or upgrades to use water resources in a more sustainable way.
Assessment of Tetracyclines Residues and Tetracycline Resistant Bacteria in Conventional and Organic Baby Foods
Authors: Guarddon Mónica , Miranda José , Vázquez Beatriz , Cepeda Alberto , Franco Carlos
Published: July 2015

Children are very vulnerable to bacterial infections and they are sometimes subject to antimicrobials for healing. The presence of resistance genes may counteract effects of antimicrobials. This work has thereby compared the amount of tetracycline resistance genes, tet(A) and tet(B), between conventional and organic meat-based or vegetable-based baby foods and used the quantification of these genes to assess the presence of tetracycline residues in these samples. Counts of bacteria harboring the tet(A) gene were higher than those containing tet(B), and there was no difference between the organic and the conventional samples. Samples with detectable amounts of tetracycline residues were also positive for the presence of tet genes, and when the presence of the genes was not detected, the samples were also negative for the presence of residues. The percentages of tetracycline residues were higher in organic samples than in conventional ones. It cannot be concluded that organic formulas are safer than conventional ones for the studied parameters.
Bond Indenture Consent Solicitations as a Debt Management Tool
Authors: Anderson-Parson Jamie , Keasler Terrill , Byerly Robin
Published: July 2015

Many companies in recent years are seeking new ways to manage their debt liabilities. Companies with outstanding debt securities can engage in a variety of transactions with bond holders. Choices will depend to some extent on whether or not the company has access to cash and is able to purchase in the open market or through cash tender offer, or if without cash, by making an exchange offer of new securities for existing securities. Often in either case, there is a bond indenture consent solicitation needed to waive or amend existing bond terms, the announcement of which signals management’s intent to the market. Given the increasing prevalence of this practice as a debt management tool, this study seeks to determine whether it is truly perceived to be value enhancing by stockholders. Using an event study of 50 companies announcing bond indenture consent solicitations, we find that shareholders do benefit, and companies appear well served by this practice.
14-3-3γ Regulates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Responses and Lactation in Dairy Cow Mammary Epithelial Cells by Inhibiting NF-κB and MAPKs and Up-Regulating mTOR Signaling
Authors: Liu Lixin , Lin Ye , Liu Lili , Bian Yanjie , Zhang Li , Gao Xuejun , Li Qingzhang
Published: July 2015

As a protective factor for lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced injury, 14-3-3γ has been the subject of recent research. Nevertheless, whether 14-3-3γ can regulate lactation in dairy cow mammary epithelial cells (DCMECs) induced by LPS remains unknown. Here, the anti-inflammatory effect and lactation regulating ability of 14-3-3γ in LPS-induced DCMECs are investigated for the first time, and the molecular mechanisms responsible for their effects are explored. The results of qRT-PCR showed that 14-3-3γ overexpression significantly inhibited the mRNA expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis revealed that 14-3-3γ overexpression also suppressed the production of TNF-α and IL-6 in cell culture supernatants. Meanwhile, CASY-TT Analyser System showed that 14-3-3γ overexpression clearly increased the viability and proliferation of cells. The results of kit methods and western blot analysis showed that 14-3-3γ overexpression promoted the secretion of triglycerides and lactose and the synthesis of β-casein. Furthermore, the expression of genes relevant to nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPKs) and lactation-associated proteins were assessed by western blot, and the results suggested that 14-3-3γ overexpression inactivated the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways by down-regulating extracellular signal regulated protein kinase (ERK), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) and inhibitor of NF-κB (IκB) phosphorylation levels, as well as by inhibiting NF-κB translocation. Meanwhile, 14-3-3γ overexpression enhanced the expression levels of β-casein, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1 (S6K1), serine/threonine protein kinase Akt 1 (AKT1), sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). These results suggest that 14-3-3γ was able to attenuate the LPS-induced inflammatory responses and promote proliferation and lactation in LPS-induced DCMECs by inhibiting the activation of the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways and up-regulating mTOR signaling pathways to protect against LPS-induced injury.
Genetically Encoded FRET-Sensor Based on Terbium Chelate and Red Fluorescent Protein for Detection of Caspase-3 Activity
Authors: Goryashchenko Alexander , Khrenova Maria , Bochkova Anna , Ivashina Tatiana , Vinokurov Leonid , Savitsky Alexander
Published: July 2015

This article describes the genetically encoded caspase-3 FRET-sensor based on the terbium-binding peptide, cleavable linker with caspase-3 recognition site, and red fluorescent protein TagRFP. The engineered construction performs two induction-resonance energy transfer processes: from tryptophan of the terbium-binding peptide to Tb3+ and from sensitized Tb3+ to acceptor—the chromophore of TagRFP. Long-lived terbium-sensitized emission (microseconds), pulse excitation source, and time-resolved detection were utilized to eliminate directly excited TagRFP fluorescence and background cellular autofluorescence, which lasts a fraction of nanosecond, and thus to improve sensitivity of analyses. Furthermore the technique facilitates selective detection of fluorescence, induced by uncleaved acceptor emission. For the first time it was shown that fluorescence resonance energy transfer between sensitized terbium and TagRFP in the engineered construction can be studied via detection of microsecond TagRFP fluorescence intensities. The lifetime and distance distribution between donor and acceptor were calculated using molecular dynamics simulation. Using this data, quantum yield of terbium ions with binding peptide was estimated.