bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the debate about teleology in biology: the notion of "teleological obstacle"
Authors: Ribeiro Manuel Gustavo Leitão , Larentis Ariane Leites , Caldas Lúcio Ayres , Garcia Tomás Coelho , Terra Letícia Labati , Herbst Marcelo Hawrylak , Almeida Rodrigo Volcan
Published: January 2015

Among the epistemological obstacles described by Gaston Bachelard, we contend that unitary and pragmatic knowledge is correlated to the teleological categories of Ernst Mayr and is the basis for prevailing debate on the notion of "function" in biology. Given the proximity of the aspects highlighted by these authors, we propose to associate the role of teleological thinking in biology and the notion of unitary and pragmatic knowledge as an obstacle to scientific knowledge. Thus, teleological thinking persists acting as an epistemological obstacle in biology, according to Bachelardian terminology. Our investigation led us to formulate the "teleological obstacle," which we consider important for the future of biology and possibly other sciences.
Gut Bacteria Products Prevent AKI Induced by Ischemia-Reperfusion
Authors: Andrade-Oliveira Vinicius , Amano Mariane T. , Correa-Costa Matheus , Castoldi Angela , Felizardo Raphael J.F. , de Almeida Danilo C. , Bassi Enio J. , Moraes-Vieira Pedro M. , Hiyane Meire I. , Rodas Andrea C.D. , Peron Jean P.S. , Aguiar Cristhiane F. , Reis Marlene A. , Ribeiro Willian R. , Valduga Claudete J. , Curi Rui , Vinolo Marco Aurelio Ramirez , Ferreira Caroline M. , Câmara Niels Olsen Saraiva
Published: January 2015

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are fermentation end products produced by the intestinal microbiota and have anti-inflammatory and histone deacetylase–inhibiting properties. Recently, a dual relationship between the intestine and kidneys has been unraveled. Therefore, we evaluated the role of SCFA in an AKI model in which the inflammatory process has a detrimental role. We observed that therapy with the three main SCFAs (acetate, propionate, and butyrate) improved renal dysfunction caused by injury. This protection was associated with low levels of local and systemic inflammation, oxidative cellular stress, cell infiltration/activation, and apoptosis. However, it was also associated with an increase in autophagy. Moreover, SCFAs inhibited histone deacetylase activity and modulated the expression levels of enzymes involved in chromatin modification. In vitro analyses showed that SCFAs modulated the inflammatory process, decreasing the maturation of dendritic cells and inhibiting the capacity of these cells to induce CD4+ and CD8+ T cell proliferation. Furthermore, SCFAs ameliorated the effects of hypoxia in kidney epithelial cells by improving mitochondrial biogenesis. Notably, mice treated with acetate-producing bacteria also had better outcomes after AKI. Thus, we demonstrate that SCFAs improve organ function and viability after an injury through modulation of the inflammatory process, most likely via epigenetic modification.
Students Teaching Astronomy Related Science (STARS)
Authors: Kachur Reynee , Seidling Sara , DeVries Lindsey
Published: January 2015

The Students Teaching Astronomy Related Science (STARS) program was designed to promote the interest in space-related science to the Oshkosh Area School District Lighted School House (LSH) K-5th grade students. Through a partnership with UW Oshkosh Science Outreach and the LSH, the STARS program provided 60 K-5th graders of the LSH program 12 weeks of hands-on learning experiences dealing with space and aerospace content outside of the regular school day and the normal science curriculum. The astronomy related science curriculum developed for this program utilized activities from UW Oshkosh Science Outreach and NASA, and included two visits to the Buckstaff Planetarium for an age appropriate planetarium show. Results of this project indicate that this program was successful in increasing the knowledge of space-related science, brought science to â€œlifeâ€ for elementary students, and made space and aerospace education exciting and engaging.Â
Using Science to Bridge Achievement Gaps
Authors: Kramer James
Published: January 2015

Across the country, communities search for innovative and effective ways to promote academic achievement and engage young people in civic life. We use writing and core subject curriculum to accomplish these goals. Coverage of space science in Simpson Street Free Press (SSFP) is an important and popular element in what we do, and central to our mission. The strategy works. SSFP students enjoy producing and publishing this content. Our young audience enjoys reading it. Comments from young readers, parents, and from classroom teachers often reference our Space Science section.Â
A C-Band Study of the Historical Supernovae in M83 with the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array
Authors: Stockdale Christopher , Long Knox S. , Soria Roberto , Cowan John J. , Maddox Larry A. , Winkler P. Frank , Kunz Kip D. , Blair William P. , Miller-Jones James
Published: January 2015

We present new low frequency observations of the grand design spiral galaxy, M83, using the C and L bands of the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array (VLA). Utilizing the newly expanded bandwidth of the VLA, we are exploring the radio spectral properties of the more than 150 radio point sources in M83. We present the initial analyses, focusing on the radio evolution of the six historical supernovae discovered in the last century. With four epochs of VLA observations and optical and X-ray observations, we will probe the transition of supernovae into supernova remnants.Â
Modal evaluation of fluid volume in spacecraft propellant tanks
Authors: Mathe Steven , Anderson KelliAnn , Bakkum Amber , Lubick Kevin , Robinson John , Weiland Danielle , Werlink Rudy , Crosby Kevin M.
Published: January 2015

Propellant mass-gauging in unsettled (sloshing) fluids is an important and unsolved problem in spacecraft operations and mission design. In the present work, we demonstrate the efficacy of the experimental modal analysis technique in determining the volume of fluid present in model spacecraft propellant tanks undergoing significant sloshing. Using data acquired over approximately 37 minutes of time in zero-gravity conditions provided over two years of parabolic flights, we estimate the resolution of the technique at low tank fill-fractions where other mass-gauging techniques are known to fail.Â
Operating Temperature Dependence of QDOGFET Single-Photon Detectors
Authors: Gansen Eric J. , Harrington Sean D. , Nehls John M.
Published: January 2015

We report on the temperature dependence of the photosensitivity of a quantum dot, optically gated, field-effect transistor (QDOGFET) that uses self-assembled semiconductor quantum dots embedded in a high-electron-mobility transistor to detect individual photons of light. Paramount to the operation of the device is differentiating weak, photo-induced signals from random fluctuations associated with electrical noise. To date, QDOGFETs have only been shown to be single-photon sensitive when cooled to 4 K. Here, we study noise spectra of a QDOGFET for sample temperatures ranging from 7-60 K and discuss how the noise affects the sensitivity of the device when operated at elevated temperatures. We show that the QDOGFET maintains single-photon sensitivity for temperatures up to 35-40 K where increases in operating temperature can be traded for decreases in signal-to-noise ratio.Â
Design of a Lunar Solar Wind Volatiles Extraction System
Authors: Olson Aaron D.S. , Santarius John F. , Kulcinski Gerald L.
Published: January 2015

Two devices are being developed as part of a project to demonstrate the extraction of helium-3 and other volatiles from lunar regolith. The first is an implantation system to embed helium ions into JSC-1A lunar regolith simulant and the second is a counter flow heat pipe heat exchanger for the subsequent diffusion of the helium out of the regolith. This will simulate the previously proposed acquisition of helium-3 from the Moon for use in nuclear fusion reactors on Earth. Preliminary designs of both of these systems are discussed.1
Experiments with Granular Material Motion for Extraterrestrial Applications
Authors: Helminiak Nathanial S.
Published: January 2015

In this study, a horizontal drum tumbler, filled at variable depths with spherical media, was rotated at constant speeds. An exposed monoplane layer of aggregate was photographed with a high-speed camera, in order to perform a particle tracking velocimetry (PTV) algorithm followed by image registering. The algorithms extracted both the translational and rotational velocities. To our knowledge, this is the first reported experimental measurement of rotational velocities in a rotary drum tumbler with granular media. The objective of this study, companioned with David Helminiakâ€™s â€œSimulations with Granular Material Motion for Extraterrestrial Applicationsâ€, sought to measure the induced rotational velocity of individual grains and characterize the distribution of energy, both translational and rotational. The study not only proposes an addition to the existing idea of force chains, namely rotational â€œBro-chainsâ€, but also suggests that within industry, mass finishing can benefit from complete energy characterization.
Science Outreach at the BTC Institute - Aerospace Outreach Program & Special Initiatives Program
Authors: Bielec Barbara
Published: January 2015

The BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute (BTC Institute) is a non-profit educational organization founded in 1993; located in Fitchburg, WI. During the summers of 2013 and 2014, the BTC Institute offered teacher training in biotechnology through two graduate education courses, Biotechnology: The Basics (2013 & 2014) and Biotechnology: Beyond the Basics (2013). Teachers of a wide variety of subjects with varied levels of teaching experience were active participants in this lab-based learning that provided teachers with training, background and curriculum materials including information about NASA and biotechnology. In addition to the teacher courses, the BTC Institute in partnership with the African American Ethnic Academy, Inc. (AAEA), a Madison non- profit organization, also offered "A Celebration of Life!, a science program for upper elementary and middle school students. The focus of the 2013 program was Energy and the focus of the 2014 program was Flight.
Expanding Our Knowledge of Interstellar Neutral Hydrogen Shells
Authors: Laszczkowski Tyler , Sallmen Shauna
Published: January 2015

The purpose of this research is to increase the number of Galactic neutral hydrogen (HI) shells available for study. By identifying and studying more HI shells at various stages of their evolution, we can start to fill the gap in our understanding of the interactions of structures in the interstellar medium. This project consisted of visually identifying new HI Shells using 21-cm data downloaded from the GALFA-HI online database. This survey has higher angular resolution than the data used in previous searches, allowing us to discover smaller features. The results include a new list of previously undiscovered shell-like HI features along with measurements of their basic properties: location, mean angular diameter, shape, signs of expansion. Upon completing the search of 1/7th of the data cubes containing complete GALFA data, 141 potential shells were discovered. Additionally, one pattern appeared several times while identifying potential shells. This pattern can be described as a â€œfigure-eightâ€ feature composed of two features that are likely related. The completion of this project has expanded the current database of potential HI Shells in our galaxy, which can be used to provide important data in regards to the study of shell evolution and the role of shells within the ISM.
Size differences of the post-anoxia, biotic recovery brachiopod, Dyoros sp., in Hughes Creek Shale (Carboniferous), Richardson County, Nebraska.
Authors: Johnson Daryl , Hanger Rex
Published: January 2015

Two localities of the Carboniferous Hughes Creek Shale in southeastern Nebraska contain both fossiliferous limestones and shales, as well as black shales interpreted as being deposited under anoxic conditions in ancient oceans. Fossils within strata above the anoxic layers represent life that had recovered from a local killing event. Examining the killing/recovery patterns on expanded, regional scales is made difficult due to the relative lack of good exposures between outcrops. Previous miscorrelations have occurred for the Hughes Creek Shale in two established collecting localities separated by only a few kilometers. Specimens of the brachiopod fossil, Dyoros sp., abundant at both localities were compared using the size frequency distributions of their length measurements. Null hypotheses of the equality of the medians and equality of the overall distributions were not able to be rejected, adding support to the current accepted interpretation of correlation for the two localities, allowing for future use of both for examining killing/recovery of life on expanded geographic scale.
A study on Select Solar Cellâ€™s Voltage Output at High Altitudes Using a Weather Balloon
Authors: Nawash Jalal M. , Holzer Rebecca , Taylor Rebekah , Bogeuschuetz Jacob
Published: January 2015

The Voltage output of select solar cells was monitored as a function of altitude up to approximately 93,000 feet. A weather balloon was used to carry the solar cells to the required altitude. Two launches were accomplished to acquire data for analysis. Data collected also included the altitude, temperature and pressure. The voltage signal of the used solar cells depended largely on temperature. It was discovered that the voltage signal of the solar cells has a complex relationship with altitude. Temperature had a significant influence on the magnitude of the voltage signal at lower altitudes, but this influence may have declined at higher altitudes.
Why do we map threats? Linking threat mapping with actions to make better conservation decisions
Authors: Tulloch Vivitskaia JD , Tulloch Ayesha IT , Visconti Piero , Halpern Benjamin S , Watson James EM , Evans Megan C , Auerbach Nancy A , Barnes Megan , Beger Maria , Chadès Iadine , Giakoumi Sylvaine , McDonald-Madden Eve , Murray Nicholas J , Ringma Jeremy , Possingham Hugh P
Published: January 2015

Spatial representations of threatening processes – “threat maps” – can identify where biodiversity is at risk, and are often used to identify priority locations for conservation. In doing so, decision makers are prone to making errors, either by assuming that the level of threat dictates spatial priorities for action or by relying primarily on the location of mapped threats to choose possible actions. We show that threat mapping can be a useful tool when incorporated within a transparent and repeatable structured decision‐making (SDM) process. SDM ensures transparent and defendable conservation decisions by linking objectives to biodiversity outcomes, and by considering constraints, consequences of actions, and uncertainty. If used to make conservation decisions, threat maps are best developed with an understanding of how species respond to actions that mitigate threats. This approach will ensure that conservation actions are prioritized where they are most cost‐effective or have the greatest impact, rather than where threat levels are highest.
Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty for Recurrent Shoulder Dislocation in an Elderly Patient
Authors: Shubert Daniel J. , Shubert Sarah B.
Published: January 2015

Case:

We present a case of a seventy-one-year-old woman with recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder in the setting of an irreparable rotator cuff tear and degenerative joint disease.

Conclusion:

In an elderly patient with recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation and an irreparable rotator cuff tear, reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) is a viable surgical intervention. In the case presented here, RTSA resulted in the patient exhibiting increased range of motion, reporting an improved quality of life, and having no additional dislocation events as of the two-year follow-up.
Positional Occlusion of an Interposition Vein Graft for Brachial Artery Reconstruction Following Open Elbow Dislocation in a Pediatric Patient
Authors: Zhu Andy F. , Seeley Mark A. , Ozer Kagan
Published: January 2015

Case:

We present a case of positional occlusion of the brachial artery after open elbow dislocation and vein graft reconstruction in a pediatric patient. Two years after reconstruction, arterial Doppler studies demonstrated occlusion of the artery; however, an angiogram revealed a widely patent artery. Given the clinical findings of pain and cold intolerance, the patient underwent surgical exploration. Arterial occlusion was found to coincide with elbow flexion. The redundant segment of the basilic vein graft was resected and repaired end-to-end.

Conclusions:

Vein graft reconstruction of the brachial artery should be checked for patency in flexion prior to closing the incision. Vein grafts with lengths in excess of a defect may kink in flexion due to redundant graft and the relatively thin walls of veins compared to arteries. This case report emphasizes that an understanding of routine tests is invaluable when eliciting the etiology of contradictory test results.
Probabilistic Assessment of World Recoverable Shale-Gas Resources
Authors: Dong Zhenzhen , Holditch Stephen A. , McVay Duane A. , Ayers Walter B. , John Lee W.. , Morales Enrique
Published: January 2015

Many shales previously thought of as only source rocks are now recognized as self-sourcing reservoirs that contain large volumes of natural gas and liquid hydrocarbons that can be produced by use of horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing. However, shale-gas resources and development economics are uncertain, and these uncertainties beg for a probabilistic solution.

Our objective was to probabilistically determine the distribution of technically recoverable resources in highly uncertain and risky shale-gas reservoirs for seven world regions. To assess technically recoverable resources, we used the Unconventional Gas Resource Assessment System, which integrates Monte Carlo simulation with an analytical reservoir simulator, to derive a representative probability distribution of 25-year recovery factors (RFs) from five shale-gas plays in the US: the Barnett, Eagle Ford, Marcellus, Fayetteville, and Haynesville shales. The RFs for the five shale-gas plays follow a general beta-distribution with a mean value of 25%. Finally, we extended the distribution of RFs gained from the five shale-gas plays in the US to estimate technically recoverable shale-gas resources for the seven world regions. World technically recoverable shale-gas resources were estimated to range from 4,400 (P90) to 24,000 (P10) Tcf.1

This work provides important statistics for the five shale-gas plays in the US. Results of this work verify the existence of significant technically recoverable shale-gas resources and can help the industry better target its exploitation efforts in shale-gas plays worldwide.
Effect of Dissolved Iron and Oxygen on Stability of Hydrolyzed Polyacrylamide Polymers
Authors: Seright R.S.. S. , Skjevrak Ingun
Published: January 2015

This paper describes an experimental study of the stability of a hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) polymer and an HPAM-2-acrylamido-tertbutylsulfonic acid (ATBS) terpolymer in the presence of varying initial levels of dissolved oxygen (0 to 8,000 ppb), Fe2+ (0 to 220 ppm), and Fe3+ (0 to 172 ppm). A special method was developed to attain and confirm dissolved-oxygen levels. Stability studies were performed at 23 and 90°C. For Fe2+ concentrations between 0 and 30 ppm, viscosity losses were insignificant after 1 week when the initial dissolved oxygen concentration was 200 ppb or less. Above this level, significant viscosity losses were seen, especially if iron was present.

If the temperature is high, a greater need arises to strive for very low dissolved-oxygen content. For samples stored for 1 week at 90°C with only 10-ppb initial dissolved oxygen, contact with steel caused HPAM-ATBS solution viscosity losses greater than 30%. In contrast at 23°C, contact with steel caused no significant degradation when the dissolved O2 concentration was 1,000 ppb or less. Several different methods are discussed to control oxidative degradation of polymers during field applications. We advocate physical means of excluding oxygen (e.g., stopping leaks, better design of fluid transfer, gas-blanketing, gas-stripping) rather than chemical means.

Addition of Fe3+ to polymer solutions caused immediate crosslinking. Because crosslinked polymers were never observed during our studies with Fe2+, we conclude that free Fe3+ was not generated in sufficient quantities to form a visible gel.
The most common health disorders and welfare of dairy cows and calves
Authors: Stankovic B. , Hristov S. , Ostojic-Andric D. , Zlatanovic Z. , Samolovac Lj. , Maksimovic N.
Published: January 2015

Three farms of dairy cows (A, B and C) were observed for health disorders of
dairy cows and suckling calves. Farm A is farm with tied system of rearing,
with 1100 cows, while farms B and C have 400 and 600 cows kept loose with
outdoor pens, respectively. Data regarding welfare criteria of dairy cows
(health, feeding, housing and behaviour) were collected and analysed through
Protocol of Welfare Quality (2009). Health disorders of dairy cows and
suckling calves were collected and statistically analysed by chi-square test
(?2 test). Welfare of all of three dairy farms were assessed as acceptable,
meaning that provided welfare conditions meet the minimum requirements of
animals. Principle of provision of good health was rated as acceptable (?20
points) on farm A, while on farms with loose system (B and C) overall health
rated as excellent (?80 points). Occurrence rate of reproductive, locomotor,
skin and claws disorders and digestive and systemic disorders of dairy cows
and calves up to 4 months old were very different between three farms (A, B,
C) with ?2-values of 2901.71, 252.02, 204.08, 1152.31 and 184.23
respectively; ?<0.01). According presented data, it is obvious that the
majority health problems were observed in tied system of rearing, on farm A,
such as reproductive disorders and mastitis, as well as injuries and bad body
score and lame cows. The most serious health problems of the calves were
diarrhea and bronchopneumonia of different etiology.
Influence of starter culture, temperature and processing technology on the quality of Macedonian white brined cheese
Authors: Sulejmani E. , Musliu Z.H. , Srbinovska S.
Published: January 2015

The effect of the starter culture, temperature of curdling and processing
technology on the composition, cheese yield and process optimization of
Macedonian White cheese (MWC) was studied during 60 days of ripening in
brine. Three treatments of cheese were made using current technological
process and yogurt as starter-culture gained along processing of previous day
(MWCK), freeze dried culture of L?ctobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus
and Streptococcus thermophilus 3:1; F-DVS YF-3331 Yo-Flex version: 2 PI-EU-EN
(MWC?1), and (MWC?2) with same starter culture as previous but whith 5 minute
earlier processing of curd and temperature of curdling at 39?C. As ripening
progressed, titratable acidity (?SH), salt and protein contents of the
(MWC?2) treatment continuously increased, whereas their fat-in-dry-matter and
lactose contents decreased. In same production conditions depending on the
used temperature. Way of processing and starter cultures the cheese from
(MWC?2) treatment was with highest acidity of 66.63 + 2.73oSH until the end
of ripening of the cheese. Moisture of cheeses remained stable during
ripening. The pH of cheese at the 1 day of ripening, which decreased by
increasing the temperature of curdling (5.03, 5.11 and 5.00 for MWCK, MWC?1
and MWC?2, respectively), significantly (P < 0.05) affected most of the
chemical characteristics of cheese. The content of salt at the end of storage
at (?1) and (?2) variant is 5.23 + 0.31 and 5.52 + 0.31 respectively. Higher
temperature of curdling decreased moisture and pH, whereas cheese protein
content increased. The consumption of milk for production of a 1 kilogram of
cheese ranged from 7.8 to 8.3 liters of milk. It was concluded that starter
cultures have possstively influenced and improved the quality of white
cheese.
Effects of adding different forms of selenium in diets for fattening lambs
Authors: Ruzic-Muslic D. , Petrovic M.P. , Caro-Petrovic V. , Petrovic Milan , Bijelic Z. , Ilic Z. , Stojkovic J.
Published: January 2015

The study included lambs of Mis population, divided into two groups
(experimental and control) .All the animals fed with identical portions of
meals consisted of alfalfa hay and fully concentrate mixtures. Meals are only
different in the fact that the experimental group received organic selenium
and contained 2000 mg of selenium / kg preparations, while the control group
received inorganic selenium in the form of sodium selenite (Na2SeO3). Each
animal consumed the same amount of selenium than 0.3 mg / kg of dry matter in
the organic or inorganic form, which added in the mineral-vitamin premix.
Diet of lambs has been ad libitum. The body weight of lambs in both (control
and experimental groups), were balanced at 60 days (19.60 kg : 19.65 kg) and
100 days (31.06 kg : 32.88 kg). The result on average daily gain of the
control and experimental groups were almost similar and there were no
statistically significant differences (P> 0.05) in the measured values from
28 to 60 days (259.0 : 255.0 g), from the 60-100 days (286.0 : 330.0g), and
on average from 28 to 100 days (274.0 : 297.0. g). Both treatment have no
significant effect on lambs? performance (body weight and growth). The study
results showed that the diet of lambs experimental group, based meal
supplement organic selenium resulted in significantly higher concentration of
Se in MLD, kidneys, liver and spleen, compared with the control group, which
are consumed inorganic form of selenium. The differences between the Se
content in MLD the experimental and control groups were on significance level
P <0.05, while the differences in the content of Se in kidney, liver and
spleen, the aforementioned treatments were statistically highly significant
(P <0.01). So fattening lambs are better utilizing organic source of
selenium, which is associated with better absorption of this element.
Milk yield, composition, nutritive and technological values from ewes fed dried distillers’ wheat grains with solubles (DDGSw)
Authors: Yossifov M.R.
Published: January 2015

The aims of this study were to evaluate the effects of lactating dairy ewes
diets supplementing with different vegetable protein sources (sunflower meal
(SFM) vs. dried distillers? wheat grains with solubles (DDGSw)) at the pick
of lactation (27 - 72 lactating day). The experiment was carried out with
sixteen lactating dairy ewes, Bulgarian Dairy Synthetic Population (BDSP) in
60-d feeding trial (7-d preparatory + 45-d experimental + 8-d closing
periods). Animals were allotted randomly (by age, lactation, milk yield, %
milk fat, % milk protein) into two dietary treatments: 1./ a SFM- based
control diet (CD), and 2./DDGSw-based experimental diet (ED). Diets were iso-
nitrogenous, iso- fibrogenous, iso- caloric and equal in protein truly
digestible in the small intestines (PDI), calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P).
Compared with the CD, supplementation with DDGSw decreased (p<0.001) the
average daily milk yield (5.8 %) and 6.5 % fat-corrected milk (6.8 %).
There?re no significant differences in milk composition between treatments
(CD and ED): solids non-fat (SNF) + 0.8; dry matter (DM) + 0.1 %; fat content
of milk (MF) - 1.1 and milk protein (MP) content + 0.4 % per sheep for ED,
compared with CD. DDGSw- based diet did not affect nutritive and
technological parameters of raw milk: MP/MF (+ 1.3 %), MP/DM (- 0.1 %) and
MF/DM (- 1.0 %) ratios. In conclusion, observed data indicates that DDGSw at
level of 17 % DM basis affected ewe milk yielding negatively, without
affecting milk composition, nutritive and technological parameters.
Available control measures for Q fever in sheep
Authors: Vidic B. , Savic S. , Bobos S. , Radinovic R. , Prica N.
Published: January 2015

Q fever is a worldwide zoonosis caused by Gram-negative bacteria, Coxiella
burnetii. This antropozoonosis is characterized by a wide spectrum of hosts
and vectors. Primary role of domestic animals as reservoirs of human
infections emphasizes the accurate prompt detection of Q fever in domestic
animals. This microbe can survive for months and even years in dust or soil.
Sanitation of endemic foci of Q fever is practically pretty close to
impossible because of the high resistance of the causative agent, small
infectious dose and various epidemiologies. Within the group of
zooantroponoses, Q fever takes a leading position in the region of Vojvodina.
This is why Q-fever is considered a specific problem of this province.
Control programs against Q fever in sheep and cattle, most frequently
recommend serological examination and vaccination of animals. In animals, the
most effective vaccines are those composed of inactivated whole phase I
bacteria. Bacterial shedding in placental tissue and milk was reduced in
experimental infection or in natural C.burnetii infection of sheep and cows
vaccinated by phase I vaccines. One of the recommended measures is excluding
positive reactors from the flock followed by continuous monitoring and
separation of seropositive animals. Milk from seropositive cows must be
pasteurized. The aim of the vaccination after lambing season, is to prevent
new infections until next lambing of young animals, which were not pregnant.
Well-timed sequential vaccination before pregnancy reduces the risk of C.
burnetii infection, highly prevents the abortions decreases the shedding rate
of C. burnetii after the abortion.
Comparitive study on the efficacy of ELISA and IS900 PCR for the diagnosis of Paratuberculosis in goats
Authors: Abraham A. , Thomas N. , Joseph S. , Raghavan K.C.
Published: January 2015

Paratuberculosis, one of the chronic granulomatous enteritis that
predominantly affects ruminants worldwide, is caused by Mycobacterium avium
subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP). It is most efficiently diagnosed by MAP from
faeces by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Serological tests like Enzyme
Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (ELISA) also provides a rapid and cost-effective
alternative diagnostic tool. Present study was carried out to directly
evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of ELISA (ID vet innovative
diagnostics; France) using IS900 PCR as a gold standard. Serum and faecal
samples were collected from 180 adult goats of either sex, from Malappuram
and Thrissur districts of Kerala with unknown paratuberculosis status. Faecal
samples were processed for direct IS900 PCR and serum samples were tested for
MAP antibodies using Indirect ELISA kit. IS900 PCR detected 38 out of 180
confirmed to be shedding MAP. ELISA detected 22 out of 180 animals as
positive. Overall, ELISA was 50 % sensitive and 97.9 % specific in comparison
to IS900 PCR. The IS900 PCR outperformed ELISA in detecting animals
potentially infected with MAP and is more sensitive than ELISA at detecting
animals suspected of paratuberculosis. But, for early diagnosis of
paratuberculosis in goats, ELISA can be done as easy and rapid farm level
identification and IS900 PCR as individual confirmatory test.
Effects of dietary soybean, flaxseed and rapeseed oil addition on broilers meat quality
Authors: Stanacev V.Z. , Milosevic N. , Pavlovski Z. , Milic D. , Vukic-Vranjes M. , Puvaca N. , Stanacev V.S.
Published: January 2015

The aim of this paper is was to investigate the effects of soybean oil, flax
and rapeseed oil on the body weight, fatty acid composition of lipids and
sensory characteristics of chicken breast meat. At the beginning, six groups
with 40 one day old chicks Cobb 500 hybrid line, with five replications was
formed. Chickens were fed with three mixtures of 21, 20 and 18% protein,
respectively. The experiment lasted 42 days. The use of different types of
oils in the diet did not exhibited statistically significant (P>0.05)
differences in body weight of chickens. The control group achieved final body
weight of 2704g and 2695g, and the experimental groups in a row 2735, 2645,
2735 and 2670g. The use of flax oil and rapeseed oil changes the fatty acid
composition of lipids. Replacing rapeseed with soybean oil reduces the
percentage of palmitic, stearic and linoleic acids, and increases the share
of oleic and linolenic acids in the abdominal fat pad. The inclusion of flax
oil in the diet of chickens in an amounts of 4% and 8% increase the amount of
linoleic acid to 63% and 203%, which was statistically highly significant
(P<0.01) difference compare to the control groups I and II, whereas the
amount of linoleic acid is reduced by 14% and 33%. Dietary addition of
vegetable oils in this experiment did not show any improvement of chicken
breast meat sensory quality, but lipids of meat was improved with the higher
levels of PUFAs which contributes to a higher quality of gained chicken meat.
Genotype, gestation length, season, parity and sex effects on growth traits of two rabbit breeds and their crosses
Authors: Egena S.S.A. , Akpa G.N. , Alemede I.C. , Aremu A.
Published: January 2015

One hundred and thirty rabbits were used to evaluate the effect of genotype,
gestation length, season, parity and sex on growth traits of two breeds of
rabbit and their crosses. The rabbit used for the experiment were breeds of
the New Zealand White (NZW) and Chinchilla (CH) breed. Six breeding bucks
(three/breed) and eighteen breeding does (nine/breed) served as the
foundation stock. Traits measured include: body weight (BW), nose to shoulder
length (NTS), shoulder to tail length (STL), heart girth (HG), trunk length
(TL) and length of ear (LE). Results revealed that, BW of the rabbits were
influenced (p<0.05) by genotype, gestation length and season. CH x (CH x NZW)
progenies had better BW at 35-d and 49-d of age while NZW x CH progenies had
better BW at 21-d of age. Kittens born late (32-34 days) had better BW at
21-d, 35-d and 49-d while kittens kindled during early dry season had better
BW at 21-d, 35-d and 49-d. Genotype affected (p<0.05) all the body
measurements at 21-d, 35-d and 49-d. Gestation length affected (p<0.05) all
the body measurements except for NTS at 21-d and HG at 49-d respectively.
Season of birth also influenced (p<0.05) all the body measurements except for
LE 21-d. Parity and sex had no effect (p>0.05) on BW, NTS, STL, HG, TL and
LE. It was concluded that genotype, gestation length and season influenced BW
and body dimensions of the two breeds of rabbit and their crosses while
parity and sex had no effect.
CFD and laboratory analysis of axial cross-flow velocity in porous tube packed with differently structured static turbulence promoters
Authors: Gaspar Igor , Tekic Predrag , Koris Andras , Krisztina Albert , Popovic Svetlana , Vatai Gyula
Published: January 2015

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used for modelling flow regime in a
porous tube. This tube is an ultrafiltration membrane filter made from
zirconium-oxide which is very effective in the separation of stable
oil-in-water microemulsions, especially when the tube is filled with static
mixer. The results of the CFD analysis were used in the preliminary
optimisation of the static mixer?s geometry since it has significant effect
the energy requirement of this advanced membrane technology. The
self-developed static mixers were tested ?in vitro? from the aspect of
separation quality and process productivity as well to validate CFD results
and to develop a cost effective, green method to recover unmanageable oily
wastewaters for sustainable development. In this work the results of
computational simulation of the fluid velocity and membrane separation
experiments are discussed.
Cloning of the gene for a carbohydrate oxidase from Lactuca sativa in the yeasts Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Pichia pastoris
Authors: Tadic Vojin , Balaz Ana , Petric Marija , Milosevic Snezana , Zelenovic Nevena , Raspor Martin , Tadic Jovan , Prodanovic Radivoje
Published: January 2015

We have cloned the gene for carbohydrate oxidase (CHO) from Lactuca sativa in
two species of yeasts (Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Pichia pastoris). The
synthetic gene for the carbohydrate oxidase (1821 bp) from L. sativa cloned
into the vector pUC57 and inserted into plasmids pYES2 and pGAP using
Escherichia coli DH5? strain. The P. pastoris strain X-33 and the S.
cerevisiae strain InvSC1 were used for extracellular expression of CHO. After
transformation of P. pastoris X-33 with CHO-pGAP construct none of the
colonies showed CHO activity. Two samples displayed a band which did not
exist in the sample with the empty vector similar to the molecular weight of
CHO. The S. cerevisiae strain InvSC1 has been also transformed with CHO-pYES
constructs. Three colonies grew on the plate with cells transformed with the
construct. One of the samples showed a band corresponding to about 110 kDa,
but no CHO activity was recorded in this case either. Cloning of the foreign
genes and heterologous expression in yeasts is widely used in biotechnology,
but sometimes can be very dependent on the gene sequence and strain used. In
order to obtain active CHO enzyme further studies on purification and
refolding of expressed protein are necessary.
Theological politics of Stanley Hauerwas
Authors: Kostic Slavisa
Published: January 2015

The aim of this article is to expose theological thought of Stanley Hauerwas
concerning role of Church in formation of character likewise his vision of
democratic society. First part of this article deals with Hauerwas theology
of moral grown and sanctification likewise with importance of religious
stories and metaphors for moral grown of faithful. The main stress is on
importance of church community and its mentor?s duty for proper formation of
character and virtues its faithful with special emphasis on narrative,
liturgy and community. Second part of this article examines Hauerwas? vision
of democratic society, his critique of liberalism, to the end that focus on
reception of Hauerwas thought from orthodox theologians who attempt to found
orthodox virtue ethics and to perceive his attitude towards democratic
society.
Socrates - unity of demonian and rational
Authors: Draskic-Vicanovic Iva
Published: January 2015

The paper is conceived as an explanation of the thesis that Socrates both as
a philosopher and as a person represents perfect harmony between demonian
and rational, that is to say the essence of Socrates? being has been
recognized as specific amalgam of Dionysian and Apollonian principle. In
this text author criticizes, or more precisely - corrects Nietzsche?s thesis
that Socrates was guilty for violation of equilibrium in favor of Apollonian
principle, in aesthetic and perfectly balanced Ancient Greece? s culture.
Strategic Informed Trades, Diversification, and Expected Returns
Authors: Caskey Judson , Hughes John S. , Liu Jun
Published: January 2015

We examine how strategic trade affects expected returns in a large economy. In our model, both a monopolist (strategic) informed trader and uninformed traders consider the impact of their demands on prices. In contrast to settings with price-taking traders, private information never eliminates a priced risk, and can lead to higher risk premiums. Also unlike settings with price-taking informed traders, risk premiums decrease in response to an increase in liquidity-motivated trades in diversified portfolios. These differing effects arise because a privately informed strategic trader conceals her trades by taking small positions relative to the magnitude of noise trades. Although prices partially reveal her information and reduce uncertainty, a concomitant decrease in her risk absorption dominates and leads to higher risk premiums. Similar to settings with price-taking traders, private information affects expected returns only via factor loadings and risk premiums on existing payoff risks—it introduces no new priced risks, and factor loadings (betas) explain all cross-sectional differences in expected returns.
CEO Contractual Protection and Managerial Short-Termism
Authors: Chen Xia , Cheng Qiang , Lo Alvis K. , Wang Xin
Published: January 2015

How to address managerial short-termism is an important issue for companies, regulators, and researchers. We examine the effect of CEO contractual protection, in the form of employment agreements and severance pay agreements, on managerial short-termism. We find that firms with CEO contractual protection are less likely to cut R&D expenditures to avoid earnings decreases and are less likely to engage in real earnings management. The effect of CEO contractual protection is both statistically and economically significant. We further find that this effect increases with the duration and monetary strength of CEO contractual protection. The cross-sectional analyses indicate that the effect is stronger for firms in more homogeneous industries and for firms with higher transient institutional ownership, as protection is particularly important for CEOs in these firms, and is stronger when there are weaker alternative monitoring mechanisms.

JEL Classifications: G32; M40
On Experimental Thermal Analysis of Solid Materials
Authors: Koštial Pavel , Špička Ivo , Jančikova Zora , Valiček Jan , Harničarova Marta , Hlinka Josef
Published: January 2015

The paper is devoted to the presentation of a method for measurement of thermal conductivity k, specific heat capacity cp, and thermal diffusivity applying the lumped capacitance model (LCM) as a special case of Newton’s model of cooling. At the specific experimental conditions resulting from the theoretical analysis of the used model, we present a method for experimental determination of all three above mentioned thermal parameters for materials with different thermal transport properties. The input experimental data provide a cooling curve of the tested material. The evaluation of experimental data is realized by software, the fundamental features of which are presented here. The statistical analysis of experimental data was performed.
A New Compensation Method for Measurement of Thread Pitch Diameter by Profile Scanning
Authors: Sheng Chen , Dongbiao Zhao , Yonghua Lu
Published: January 2015

For measurement of existing thread parameters using profile scanning, system error increases as pitch diameter, difference between the calibrating thread and measuring thread increases with the single gauge calibration method. There are several alignment deviations affecting the measurement of pitch diameter. To reduce the system error, a compensation method using two standard thread gauges to calculate the alignment deviations is proposed here. Finally, the theoretical and experimental comparisons between the single gauge calibration method and the proposed method are presented. The results demonstrate that the two gauges calibration method can effectively reduce the system error.
Frequency Synchronization Analysis in Digital lock-in Methods for Bio-impedance Determination
Authors: Brajkovič Robert , Žagar Tomaž , Križaj Dejan
Published: January 2015

The lock-in method is one of the most frequently used methods for reconstruction of measured signals and as such frequently applied in the (bio)impedance method to determine the modulus and phase of the (bio)impedance. In implementation of the method in a (bio)impedance measurement device one has to consider possible non synchronized frequencies of the reference and the analyzed signals as well as potential sources of noise. In this work we analyzed these errors theoretically and experimentally. We show that both amplitude and phase errors depend on the relative difference of the frequencies of the reference and investigated signal as well as the number of integration periods. Theoretically, these errors vanish during the determination of the (bio)impedance modulus and phase. In practical implementation the inaccuracies appear at points of very low determined signal amplitudes due to the limited accuracy of analog to digital converters and are distributed around these points due to other sources of noise inherent in implementation of the measurement device.
Two New Sliding DTFT Algorithms for Phase Difference Measurement Based on a New Kind of Windows
Authors: Tu Yaqing , Shen Ting’ao , Zhang Haitao , Li Ming
Published: January 2015

For the ultra-low frequency signals or adjacent Nyquist frequency signals, which exist in the vibration engineering domain, the traditional DTFT-based algorithm shows serious bias for phase difference measurement. It is indicated that the spectrum leakage and negative frequency contribution are the essential causes of the bias. In order to improve the phase difference measurement accuracy of the DTFT-based algorithm, two new sliding DTFT algorithms for phase difference measurement based on a new kind of windows are proposed, respectively. Firstly, the new kind of windows developed by convolving conventional rectangular windows is introduced, which obtains a stronger inhibition of spectrum leakage. Then, with negative frequency contribution considered, two new formulas for phase difference calculation under the new kind of windows are derived in detail. Finally, the idea of sliding recursive is proposed to decrease the computational load. The proposed algorithms are easy to be realized and have a higher accuracy than the traditional DTFT-based algorithm. Simulations and engineering applications verified the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.
Intranasal Steroids and the Myth of Mucosal Atrophy: A Systematic Review of Original Histological Assessments
Authors: Verkerk Misha M. , Bhatia Daman , Rimmer Janet , Earls Peter , Sacks Raymond , Harvey Richard J.
Published: January 2015

Background

Intranasal corticosteroids (INCSs) are well established in the treatment of allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, and nasal polyposis. Although reversible atrophy of keratinized skin is seen with corticosteroids, the respiratory mucosa is histologically very different and but concerns remain among patients and some health-care professionals over local side effects on nasal respiratory mucosa. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed of the available evidence for nasal mucosal atrophy as an adverse effect of INCSs in patients with sinonasal disease.

Methods

A systematic search of Embase (1974-) and Medline (1946-) databases to September 27, 2013 was performed. Inclusion criteria selected any study where the histopathology of nasal mucosa was assessed in patients with sinonasal disease using intranasally administered corticosteroids with or without a control group.

Results

Twenty-three hundred sixty-four publications were retrieved with a subsequent full text review of 149 publications for 34 articles that met the selection criteria. These articles included 11 randomized controlled trials, 5 cohorts, and 20 case series. Duration of treatment varied from 5 days to 5.5 years. “Mucosal atrophy” as an outcome was reported in 17 studies. The definition of “mucosal atrophy” was highly variable with a definition given in only 10 studies. One hundred thirty-six patients were represented in controlled studies of atrophy with only one study reporting the event in both groups with an odds ratio of “mucosal atrophy” at 0.51 (95% CI, 0.09-3.11; p = 0.47).

Conclusion

The concept of nasal mucosal atrophy is poorly defined and there is no histological evidence for deleterious effects from INCS use on human nasal mucosa.