bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exhibitions in Italy: an expression of Italian engineering
Authors: Greco Laura
Published: July 2012

Exhibitions stimulate innovation in building engineering and construction. But what happens to this general thesis in the presence of a specific construction framework? In this perspective, the Italian experience after World War II is interesting. During that time, when Italian construction was characterised by technological backwardness, a school of engineering developed in Italy, the results of which gained international prominence, partly due to a number of spectacular exhibition buildings. This paper analyses these circumstances and offers an overview of Italian engineering works related to the theme of exhibitions. Exhibitions provided Italian engineers with the opportunity to work on reinforced concrete structures in particular, establishing original harmony between architecture and structure. These works only partially influenced the evolution of the Italian construction framework. This was due not only to a lack of industrialisation but also to the exceptionality of architectural forms and the experimental value of the design structure and construction systems.
Field observations of as-laid pipeline embedment in carbonate sediments
Authors: WESTGATE Z.J. , WHITE D.J. , RANDOLPH M.F.
Published: July 2012

Reliable prediction of the embedment of untrenched subsea pipelines is of increasing importance as hydrocarbon developments progress into deeper waters, located further from shore. Pipeline design issues such as hydrodynamic stability, lateral buckling and axial walking require accurate assessment of the pipe embedment, in order to assess correctly the pipe–soil resistance forces and the thermal insulation provided by the soil. This study presents a detailed back-analysis of the laying process and the as-laid condition of a pipeline on carbonate sediments. The pipe embedment is linked to the relevant soil properties, metocean conditions, vessel motions, and lay geometry along the route. A cycle-by-cycle framework is proposed for the development of embedment as the pipe is subjected to oscillations during laying. The calculations use parameters obtained from standard in situ tests, and are applied across a range of soil and lay conditions along this particular pipeline route. The proposed calculation framework incorporates the effect of the lay rate and the pipeline catenary on the embedment process. It offers a significant improvement on the current practice of applying empirical multiplicative factors to the calculated static embedment in order to account for dynamic lay effects.
Mechanical behaviour of gas-charged marine plastic sediments
Authors: SULTAN N. , DE GENNARO V. , PUECH A.
Published: July 2012

Understanding how free gas modifies the mechanical behaviour of marine plastic sediments remains a challenging issue. Special triaxial tests were carried out on natural sediments recovered from the Gulf of Guinea. Special attention was devoted to the laboratory preparation procedure, involving saturation of natural marine sediment samples with carbonated water and generation of free gas following undrained unloading. Experimental data show that soil destructuration and damage generated by gas expansion and exsolution are at the origin of (a) the increase in the isotropic compressibility and decrease in the preconsolidation pressure, and (b) the decrease in the peak undrained strength and abrupt increase of the pore pressure during undrained shearing. The experimental data also show that flooding of gas bubbles and dissolution of free gas do not imply a complete strength recovery of natural sediments.
A plasticity model to assess the keying of plate anchors
Authors: CASSIDY M.J. , GAUDIN C. , RANDOLPH M.F. , WONG P.C. , WANG D. , TIAN Y.
Published: July 2012

Suction-embedded plate anchors (SEPLAs) have been developed to answer the growing need for anchors to withstand significant vertical loading. The concept combines the advantage of suction caissons (known penetration depth and location) and ‘drag-embedded' plate anchors (efficiency and low cost). The main issue associated with SEPLAs relates to the keying process, as the anchor is first loaded, and the associated loss of embedment and reduction in capacity. The paper presents a plasticity model developed to predict the trajectory and load development during anchor keying, and up to peak load. Rigid plasticity is assumed, allowing the kinematics of the anchor to be determined from a yield surface and associated plastic potential. The trajectory and performance of a typical SEPLA are predicted using the model, and are compared with results from centrifuge tests and large-deformation finite-element analysis. The anchor loss of embedment ranged from ∼0·2 to 1·5 times the anchor height for loading inclinations between 40° and 90° from the horizontal. The model was used further to calculate the anchor loss of embedment and capacity for varying padeye offsets. Results indicated that the loss of embedment could be reduced significantly by increasing the offset, but at the detriment of the ultimate anchor capacity.
Capacity of grillage foundations under horizontal loading
Authors: KNAPPETT J.A. , BROWN M.J. , BRANSBY M.F. , HUDACSEK P. , MORGAN N. , CATHIE D. , MACONOCHIE A. , YUN G. , RIPLEY A.G. , BROWN N. , EGBORGE R.
Published: July 2012

Grillage foundations are an alternative to solid surface mudmats for supporting seabed infrastructure, offering improved hydrodynamic performance and savings in foundation material. Recent research has demonstrated that grillages can be designed to have similar vertical bearing capacity to a mudmat with the same footprint. This is extended herein by: (a) determining grillage performance under horizontal loading at constant vertical load (V-H); (b) the application and development of existing plasticity-based models for predicting performance; (c) comparing the V-H behaviour with surface mudmats; and (d) discussing the implications for design. Experimental tests were conducted in sands over a range of densities and in two different modes, representing different installation procedures. In over-penetrated tests, the foundations were installed to achieve a vertical bearing capacity V0, followed by horizontal loading at a constant vertical load with V < V0. In normally penetrated tests, foundations were installed to V0 before horizontal loading at constant vertical load with V = V0. Both normalised V-H yield surfaces and a plasticity-based simulation model are presented for use in design. Laboratory-scale grillages offer improved horizontal capacity in loose and medium-dense sands and similar horizontal capacity in very dense sand, compared with surface mudmats.
Limit analysis of the undrained bearing capacity of offshore pipelines
Authors: MARTIN C.M. , WHITE D.J.
Published: July 2012

The ultimate bearing capacity of a rigid, plane-strain pipe segment embedded in undrained clay is studied using numerical limit analysis. The pipe is considered to be ‘wished in place' at invert penetrations ranging from zero to five pipe diameters, thus providing coverage of both on-bottom (partially embedded) and trenched (fully embedded) offshore pipelines. The soil is modelled as a rigid-plastic Tresca material with either uniform strength or strength proportional to depth. The effects of soil weight, interface roughness and interface tensile capacity are investigated in a systematic manner. All calculations are performed using the finite-element limit analysis code OxLim, which uses adaptive mesh refinement to compute tightly bracketed lower- and upper-bound plasticity solutions. The velocity fields from the upper-bound analyses provide the corresponding failure mechanisms. The paper initially focuses on purely vertical loading (penetration and uplift), and then addresses combined vertical and horizontal loading. A comprehensive set of design curves and failure envelopes is presented, with the results explained in terms of the changing failure mechanisms. These results are immediately applicable in practice. In particular, current industry-standard procedures for design against pipeline upheaval are critically reviewed, and are shown to have potentially unconservative shortcomings.
Assessment of Lifetime Occupational Exposure in an Epidemiologic Study
of COPD
Authors: Graziani Monica , Doney Brent , Hnizdo Eva , Villnave Jacqueline , Breen Victor , Weinmann Sheila , Vollmer William M. , McBurnie Mary Ann , Buist A. Sonia , Heumann Michael
Published: July 2012

Ascertainment of lifetime occupational exposures in an epidemiological study of chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD) is important in order to investigate its effect on the disease and develop prevention strategies.
The aim of our paper is to describe and evaluate a methodology used to assign lifetime occupational exposure to
participants in a case-control study of COPD where lifetime occupational history was ascertained through telephone
questionnaire interviews.

The methodology involved assigning to each individual a qualitative index of potential exposure to eight occupational
hazards, summarized individually overall the job categories reported by the individual, and an overall qualitative index of
lifetime exposure to all eight hazards. The eight occupational hazards scored were mineral dusts, metal dusts/fumes,
organic dusts, irritant gases/vapors, sensitizers, organic solvents, diesel exhaust, and environmental tobacco smoke (ETS).
Two industrial hygienists independently assigned the above indices based on: their expert opinion, a priori knowledge
based on literature review, and study participants’ responses to interviewer questions regarding types and duration of
exposure. To evaluate agreement of the assigned scores, we used the Kappa statistic to test the agreement between the two
scorers on each of the indices. The Kappa statistic generally indicated good agreement between the industrial hygienists’
scores but varied by exposure from 0.42 to 0.86. Although the exposure scoring is somewhat subjective, it is based on
experience of experts and review of the literature. This method, with subject interviews providing qualitative lifetime
exposure data when air monitoring has not been conducted, is useful for reconstructing lifetime exposures.
Income from Student Inventions and the Kiddie Tax
Authors: Muehlmann Brigitte W. , Baez Wanny , Burnaby Priscilla A.
Published: July 2012

Scientific revolutions, frequently led by the youngest scientists, are essential for the competitiveness of the U.S. economy. In 2008, the kiddie tax age limit was increased from 18 to 24 years, which expanded its coverage to full-time undergraduate and graduate students. Although Congress generally seeks to promote innovation, royalty income from student-created inventions is penalized because it is characterized as unearned income that is subject to the kiddie tax, a form of alternative minimum tax. The objective of the drafter of the kiddie tax was to cover income transferred from a parent's to a child's lower tax rate. Student inventors can employ tax planning strategies to avoid the kiddie tax on earnings from their patents provided they are aware of the kiddie tax provisions. The tax treatment of student inventor royalty income could not be discerned from primary sources of tax law or the JCT Bluebooks. It would be desirable for Congress to act and either eliminate the kiddie tax on the royalty income from student inventions or, at a minimum, disclose the legislative design of the provision and what it intends to accomplish so that those affected by it could plan accordingly.
High Glucose Inhibits the Aspirin-Induced Activation of the Nitric Oxide/cGMP/cGMP-Dependent Protein Kinase Pathway and Does Not Affect the Aspirin-Induced Inhibition of Thromboxane Synthesis in Human Platelets
Authors: Russo Isabella , Viretto Michela , Barale Cristina , Mattiello Luigi , Doronzo Gabriella , Pagliarino Andrea , Cavalot Franco , Trovati Mariella , Anfossi Giovanni
Published: July 2012

Since hyperglycemia is involved in the “aspirin resistance” occurring in diabetes, we aimed at evaluating whether high glucose interferes with the aspirin-induced inhibition of thromboxane synthesis and/or activation of the nitric oxide (NO)/cGMP/cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) pathway in platelets. For this purpose, in platelets from 60 healthy volunteers incubated for 60 min with 5–25 mmol/L d-glucose or iso-osmolar mannitol, we evaluated the influence of a 30-min incubation with lysine acetylsalicylate (L-ASA; 1–300 μmol/L) on 1) platelet function under shear stress; 2) aggregation induced by sodium arachidonate or ADP; 3) agonist-induced thromboxane production; and 4) NO production, cGMP synthesis, and PKG-induced vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein phosphorylation. Experiments were repeated in the presence of the antioxidant agent amifostine. We observed that platelet exposure to 25 mmol/L d-glucose, but not to iso-osmolar mannitol, 1) reduced the ability of L-ASA to inhibit platelet responses to agonists; 2) did not modify the L-ASA–induced inhibition of thromboxane synthesis; and 3) prevented the L-ASA–induced activation of the NO/cGMP/PKG pathway. Preincubation with amifostine reversed the high-glucose effects. Thus, high glucose acutely reduces the antiaggregating effect of aspirin, does not modify the aspirin-induced inhibition of thromboxane synthesis, and inhibits the aspirin-induced activation of the NO/cGMP/PKG pathway. These results identify a mechanism by which high glucose interferes with the aspirin action.
C1q/TNF-Related Protein-3 (CTRP-3) and Pigment Epithelium-Derived Factor (PEDF) Concentrations in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Choi Kyung Mook , Hwang Soon Young , Hong Ho Cheol , Yang Sae Jeong , Choi Hae Yoon , Yoo Hye Jin , Lee Kwan Woo , Nam Moon Suk , Park Yong Soo , Woo Jeong Taek , Kim Young Seol , Choi Dong Seop , Youn Byung-Soo , Baik Sei Hyun
Published: July 2012

Recent studies have suggested that a novel adipokine, C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein-3 (CTRP-3), a paralog of adiponectin, may play an important role in the regulation of glucose metabolism and innate immunity. Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), a multifunctional protein with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, is associated with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. We examined circulating CTRP-3 and PEDF concentrations in 345 subjects with diverse glucose tolerance statuses. Furthermore, we evaluated the involvement of CTRP-3 and PEDF with cardiometabolic risk factors including insulin resistance, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV). CTRP-3 concentrations were significantly higher in patients with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes than the normal glucose tolerance group, whereas PEDF levels were not different. Subjects with metabolic syndrome showed significantly higher levels of both CTRP-3 and PEDF compared with subjects without metabolic syndrome. Both CTRP-3 and PEDF were significantly associated with cardiometabolic parameters, including waist-to-hip ratio, triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol, alanine aminotransferase, eGFR, hsCRP, and baPWV. In conclusion, circulating CTRP-3 concentrations were elevated in patients with glucose metabolism dysregulation. Both CTRP-3 and PEDF concentrations were increased in subjects with metabolic syndrome and associated with various cardiometabolic risk factors.
Monitoring of Individual Needs in Diabetes (MIND)-2
Authors: Snoek Frank J. , Kersch Nancy Y.A. , Eldrup Ebbe , Harman-Boehm Ilana , Hermanns Norbert , Kokoszka Andrzej , Matthews David R. , McGuire Brian E. , Pibernik-Okanović Mirjana , Singer Joelle , de Wit Maartje , Skovlund Søren E.
Published: July 2012

OBJECTIVE

To test the effects of implementing computer-assisted Monitoring of Individual Needs in Diabetes (MIND) in routine diabetes care on psychological status and glycemic control, identify predictors of poor psychological outcomes, and evaluate care providers’ experiences.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The MIND procedure was implemented as part of the annual review in diabetes clinics across eight countries in a prospective observational study with a 1-year follow-up. MIND encompasses well-being (World Health Organization Five Well-Being Index [WHO-5]), diabetes-related distress (Problem Areas in Diabetes [PAID]), a Life Event Inventory, and the patient’s agenda for their consultation. Medical data and agreed case-management actions were retrieved from the charts.

RESULTS

Of the total 1,567 patients, 891 patients (57%) were monitored at a 1-year follow-up. Twenty-eight percent of the patients screened positive for depression and/or diabetes distress at baseline and considered cases, 17% of whom were receiving psychological care. Cases were significantly more often female and had type 2 diabetes and worse glycemic control compared with noncases. Clinically relevant improvements in WHO-5 and PAID were observed over time in cases, irrespective of referral (effects sizes 0.59 and 0.48, respectively; P < 0.0001). Glycemic control did not change. Female sex, life events, and concomitant chronic diseases were predictors of poor psychological outcomes. MIND was well received by patients and staff.

CONCLUSIONS

MIND appears suitable for screening and discussion of emotional distress as part of the annual review. Broader dissemination in diabetes care is recommendable, but sustainability will depend on reimbursement and availability of support services.
Superficial Wound Swabbing
Authors: Schmohl Michael , Beckert Stefan , Joos Thomas O. , Königsrainer Alfred , Schneiderhan-Marra Nicole , Löffler Markus W.
Published: July 2012

OBJECTIVE

In diabetic foot ulcers, wound fluid inflammatory mediators have previously been proposed as surrogate markers for nonhealing. However, currently available wound fluid sampling techniques are not suitable for clinical practice due to low levels of exudate and a high logistical effort. The aim of this investigation was to assess 1) the technique of superficial wound swabbing for harvesting wound fluid; and 2) the quality of the collected fluid for immunoassay analysis of inflammatory mediators.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Both nylon-flocked swabs and film dressings were used to collect wound fluid from foot ulcers of diabetic patients. In randomly selected patients, levels of wound fluid inflammatory mediators and matrix metalloproteases were determined using multiplexed bead-based sandwich immunoassays with respect to both sampling methods. Wound fluid spike-in experiments were performed to evaluate the impact of different sample processing protocols on subsequent immunoassay analysis.

RESULTS

Using the swabbing technique, a median amount of 40 µL (2–120 µL) wound exudate was collected, which allowed the measurement of several multiplex panels. Comparing both sampling methods, a similar qualitative protein recovery was observed with a trend to analyte enrichment by swabbing. Sample processing using swabs did not affect analyte recovery, with the exception of interleukin (IL)-8, thymus and activation-regulated chemokine, IL-17A, interferon-γ–induced protein 10, and IL-4.

CONCLUSIONS

The quality of wound fluid collected by superficial swabbing is not inferior to the current standard technique. Combined with subsequent bead-based sandwich immunoassay analysis, this new method offers a noninvasive technique, suitable for daily clinical routines, for assessment of inflammatory activity in diabetic foot ulcers.
Skin Intrinsic Fluorescence Is Associated With Coronary Artery Disease in Individuals With Long Duration of Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Conway Baqiyyah N. , Aroda Vanita R. , Maynard John D. , Matter Nathaniel , Fernandez Stephen , Ratner Robert E. , Orchard Trevor J.
Published: July 2012

OBJECTIVE

Skin intrinsic fluorescence (SIF) reflects many factors, including the presence of certain advanced glycation end products. We investigated whether SIF was associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) in type 1 diabetes and whether this relationship was independent of renal disease.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

SIF was measured in 112 subjects from the Pittsburgh Epidemiology of Diabetes Complications (EDC) study and 60 from MedStar Health Research Institute when mean age and diabetes duration were 48 and 36 years, respectively. Cumulative glycemic exposure (updated mean A1C) represented a mean of 18 years’ follow-up in EDC and 10.3 in MedStar.

RESULTS

Of the 172 participants, 30 had CAD (15 male and 15 female). SIF levels were higher in those with CAD (P < 0.0001). SIF was strongly associated with CAD (odds ratio [OR] 3.5 [95% CI 2.1–6.1]). After age, duration, and updated mean A1C were controlled for, SIF remained associated with CAD (2.4 [1.3–4.4]), more strongly in men (5.6 [2.1–14.6]) than in women (1.4 [0.61–3.3]). As there was no significant sex interaction, further analyses were conducted combining the sexes. Further accounting for sex and nephropathy status did not improve the model fit, though with nephropathy in the model, the OR for SIF was reduced to 1.7 (95% CI 0.89–3.4).

CONCLUSIONS

SIF has a significant cross-sectional association with CAD. This association is strongly linked to age and duration and, to a lesser degree, to mean A1C and renal disease. SIF therefore may be a useful overall marker of CAD risk in type 1 diabetes.
Subjective Sleep Complaints Are Associated With Insulin Resistance in Individuals Without Diabetes
Authors: Pyykkönen Antti-Jussi , Isomaa Bo , Pesonen Anu-Katriina , Eriksson Johan G. , Groop Leif , Tuomi Tiinamaija , Räikkönen Katri
Published: July 2012

OBJECTIVE

Sleep disorders and subjective sleep complaints have been associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The evidence with respect to insulin resistance (IR) and insulin secretion in individuals without type 2 diabetes has been scarce and elusive. We examined if subjective sleep complaints and their co-occurrence were associated with IR and insulin secretion in adult women and men without diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Women (n = 442) and men (n = 354) 18–75 years of age without type 2 diabetes underwent an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), with insulin and glucose measured at fasting and at 30 and 120 min. Complaints related to sleep apnea, insomnia, and daytime sleepiness were self-rated with the Basic Nordic Sleep Questionnaire.

RESULTS

In comparison with individuals with no or minor sleep complaints, those with more frequent complaints of sleep apnea, insomnia, and daytime sleepiness were more insulin resistant, as evidenced by higher fasting insulin concentrations and insulin and glucose responses to OGTT, and more frequently had high homeostasis model assessment of IR and low insulin sensitivity index values. The likelihood of being insulin resistant increased significantly and linearly according to the accumulation of co-occurring sleep complaints. These associations changed only a little when adjusted for mediating and confounding factors and for depressive symptoms. Sleep complaints were not associated with indices of deficiency in insulin secretion.

CONCLUSIONS

Subjective sleep complaints were associated with IR. The likelihood of being insulin resistant increased according to accumulation of co-occurring sleep complaints. Sleep complaints were not associated with deficiency in insulin secretion.
Breast-Feeding and Childhood-Onset Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Cardwell Chris R. , Stene Lars C. , Ludvigsson Johnny , Rosenbauer Joachim , Cinek Ondrej , Svensson Jannet , Perez-Bravo Francisco , Memon Anjum , Gimeno Suely G. , Wadsworth Emma J.K. , Strotmeyer Elsa S. , Goldacre Michael J. , Radon Katja , Chuang Lee-Ming , Parslow Roger C. , Chetwynd Amanda , Karavanaki Kyriaki , Brigis Girts , Pozzilli Paolo , UrbonaitĖ Brone , Schober Edith , Devoti Gabriele , Sipetic Sandra , Joner Geir , Ionescu-Tirgoviste Constantin , de Beaufort Carine E. , Harrild Kirsten , Benson Victoria , Savilahti Erkki , Ponsonby Anne-Louise , Salem Mona , Rabiei Samira , Patterson Chris C.
Published: July 2012

OBJECTIVE

To investigate if there is a reduced risk of type 1 diabetes in children breastfed or exclusively breastfed by performing a pooled analysis with adjustment for recognized confounders.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Relevant studies were identified from literature searches using MEDLINE, Web of Science, and EMBASE. Authors of relevant studies were asked to provide individual participant data or conduct prespecified analyses. Meta-analysis techniques were used to combine odds ratios (ORs) and investigate heterogeneity between studies.

RESULTS

Data were available from 43 studies including 9,874 patients with type 1 diabetes. Overall, there was a reduction in the risk of diabetes after exclusive breast-feeding for >2 weeks (20 studies; OR = 0.75, 95% CI 0.64–0.88), the association after exclusive breast-feeding for >3 months was weaker (30 studies; OR = 0.87, 95% CI 0.75–1.00), and no association was observed after (nonexclusive) breast-feeding for >2 weeks (28 studies; OR = 0.93, 95% CI 0.81–1.07) or >3 months (29 studies; OR = 0.88, 95% CI 0.78–1.00). These associations were all subject to marked heterogeneity (I2 = 58, 76, 54, and 68%, respectively). In studies with lower risk of bias, the reduced risk after exclusive breast-feeding for >2 weeks remained (12 studies; OR = 0.86, 95% CI 0.75–0.99), and heterogeneity was reduced (I2 = 0%). Adjustments for potential confounders altered these estimates very little.

CONCLUSIONS

The pooled analysis suggests weak protective associations between exclusive breast-feeding and type 1 diabetes risk. However, these findings are difficult to interpret because of the marked variation in effect and possible biases (particularly recall bias) inherent in the included studies.
Serum cobalamin, urine methylmalonic acid, and plasma total homocysteine concentrations in Border Collies and dogs of other breeds
Authors: Lutz Sabina , Sewell Adrian C. , Bigler Beat , Riond Barbara , Reusch Claudia E. , Kook Peter H.
Published: July 2012

Objective—To determine reference ranges for serum cobalamin (Cbl), urine methylmalonic acid (uMMA), and plasma total homocysteine (tHcys) concentrations and to compare values for healthy control dogs with values for Border Collies (BCs), a breed in which hereditary cobalamin deficiency has been identified.

Animals—113 BCs, 35 healthy control dogs fed a typical diet, and 12 healthy dogs fed a bone and raw food diet exclusively.

Procedures—Urine and blood samples were obtained from each dog and Cbl, uMMA, and tHcys concentrations were determined.

Results—Reference ranges for Cbl (261 to 1,001 ng/L), uMMA (0 to 4.2 mmol/mol of creatinine), and tHcys (4.3 to 18.4 μmol/L) concentrations were determined. Four BCs had a Cbl concentration lower than the assay detection limit (150 ng/L); median uMMA and tHcys concentrations in these dogs were 4,064 mmol/mol of creatinine and 51.5 μmol/L, respectively. Clinical abnormalities included stunted growth, lethargy, anemia, and proteinuria. Abnormalities improved after administration of cobalamin. Of the 109 healthy BCs with Cbl and tHcys concentrations within reference ranges, 41 (37.6%) had a high uMMA concentration (range, 5 to 360 mmol/mol). Results for dogs fed raw food were similar to those for control dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Hereditary cobalamin deficiency is a rare disease with various clinical signs. The finding of methylmalonic aciduria in healthy eucobalaminemic BCs and BCs with clinical signs of Cbl deficiency was surprising and indicated these dogs may have defects in intracellular processing of Cbl or intestinal Cbl malabsorption, respectively. Studies investigating Cbl absorption and metabolic pathways are warranted.
Evaluation of high–molecular weight adiponectin in horses
Authors: Wooldridge Anne A. , Edwards Heather Gray , Plaisance Eric P. , Applegate Rory , Taylor Debra R. , Taintor Jennifer , Zhong Qiao , Judd Robert L.
Published: July 2012

Objective—To characterize adiponectin protein complexes in lean and obese horses.

Animals—26 lean horses and 18 obese horses.

Procedures—Body condition score (BCS) and serum insulin activity were measured for each horse. Denaturing and native western blot analyses were used to evaluate adiponectin complexes in serum. A human ELISA kit was validated and used to quantify high–molecular weight (HMW) complexes. Correlations between variables were made, and HMW values were compared between groups.

Results—Adiponectin was present as a multimer consisting of HMW (> 720-kDa), low-molecular weight (180-kDa), and trimeric (90-kDa) complexes in serum. All complexes were qualitatively reduced in obese horses versus lean horses, but the percentage of complexes < 250 kDa was higher in obese versus lean horses. High–molecular weight adiponectin concentration measured via ELISA was negatively correlated with serum insulin activity and BCS and was lower in obese horses (mean ± SD, 3.6 ± 3.9 μg/mL), compared with lean horses (8.0 ± 4.6 μg/mL).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—HMW adiponectin is measurable via ELISA, and concentration is negatively correlated with BCS and serum insulin activity in horses. A greater understanding of the role of adiponectin in equine metabolism will provide insight into the pathophysiology of metabolic disease conditions.
Effects of intramuscular administration of tiletamine-zolazepam with and without sedative pretreatment on plasma and serum biochemical values and glucose tolerance test results in Japanese black bears (Ursus thibetanus japonicus)
Authors: Kamine Akari , Shimozuru Michito , Shibata Haruki , Tsubota Toshio
Published: July 2012

Objective—To establish a safe anesthetic protocol with little effect on blood biochemical values and IV glucose tolerance test (IVGTT) results in Japanese black bears (Ursus thibetanus japonicus).

Animals—16 captive female Japanese black bears (5 to 17 years of age).

Procedures—Bears were randomly assigned to 4 treatment groups (4 bears/group) in which various treatment combinations were administered via blow dart: tiletamine HCl and zolazepam HCl (9 mg/kg) alone (TZ), TZ (6 mg/kg) and acepromazine maleate (0.1 mg/kg), TZ (6 mg/kg) and butorphanol tartrate (0.3 mg/kg), or TZ (3 mg/kg) and medetomidine HCl (40 μg/kg). Glucose injection for the IVGTT was started 130 minutes after TZ administration. Blood samples were obtained before, at, and intermittently after glucose injection for measurement of biochemical variables as well as plasma glucose and serum insulin concentrations during the IVGTT. Rectal temperature, pulse rate, and respiratory rate were assessed every 15 minutes during the experiment.

Results—Induction and maintenance of anesthesia were safely achieved with little adverse effect on cardiopulmonary function when each of the 4 anesthetic regimens was used, although mild hypothermia was induced. No difference was evident between treatment groups in blood biochemical values. Blood glucose and insulin concentration profiles during the IVGTT were similar among the bears given TZ, with or without acepromazine or butorphanol, but hyperglycemia and hypoinsulinemia developed in bears given TZ with medetomidine.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—All 4 anesthetic regimens yielded chemical restraint without affecting clinical and biochemical values in bears, but medetomidine appeared to affect IVGTT results. For this reason, medetomidine should not be used when anesthetizing bears for IVGTTs.
Toxicokinetics of norditerpenoid alkaloids from low larkspur (Delphinium andersonii) orally administered to cattle
Authors: Green Benedict T. , Welch Kevin D. , Gardner Dale R. , Stegelmeier Bryan L. , Pfister James A. , Cook Daniel , Panter Kip E.
Published: July 2012

Objective—To determine the toxicokinetics of N-(methylsuccinimido)anthranoyllycoctonine–type low larkspur alkaloids in beef cattle.

Animals—5 Black Angus steers and 35 Swiss Webster mice.

Procedures—Low larkspur (Delphinium andersonii) was collected, dried, ground, and administered to 5 steers via oral gavage to provide a dose of 12 mg of N-(methylsuccinimido)-anthranoyllycoctonine alkaloids/kg. Steers were housed in metabolism crates for 96 hours following larkspur administration; heart rate was monitored continuously, and blood samples were collected periodically for analysis of serum concentrations of 16-deacetylgeyerline, methyllycaconitine, geyerline, and nudicauline and assessment of kinetic parameters. The LD50 of a total alkaloid extract from D andersonii was determined in Swiss Webster mice.

Results—The alkaloids were quickly absorbed, with a maximum serum concentration achieved within 18 hours after administration. Geyerline and nudicauline coeluted as 1 peak and were considered together for toxicokinetic analysis. Mean ± SD elimination half-life was 18.4 ± 4.4 hours, 15.6 ± 1.5 hours, and 16.5 ± 5.1 hours for 16-deacetylgeyerline, methyllycaconitine, and geyerline and nudicauline, respectively. There were significant differences in maximum serum concentration, amount absorbed, and distribution half-life among the 4 alkaloids. The mouse LD50 was 9.8 mg/kg.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that clinical poisoning was likely to be most severe approximately 18 hours after exposure. Cattle should be closely monitored for at least 36 hours after initial exposure. Additionally, a withdrawal time of approximately 7 days would be required to clear > 99% of the toxic alkaloids from the serum of cattle that have ingested low larkspur.
Selection and Implementation of ERP Systems: A Comparison of SAP implementation between BIH and Turkey
Authors: Findik Seyda , Kusakci Ali , Findik Fehim , Kusakci Sumeyye
Published: July 2012

Selection and Implementation of ERP Systems: A Comparison of SAP implementation between BIH and Turkey

In this research, the selection and implementation of ERP Systems will be discussed. The ERP concept, the selection process, and the importance of selecting a certain ERP solution for the companies will also be dealt with. However, implementation of ERP software brings not only benefits, but also incurs costs. After the literature review of ERP implementation strategies, a survey is reviewed that was conducted among several large and mid-size companies that adopted SAP, one of the major ERP solutions, in their businesses in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Turkey. The focus of the survey will be on different aspects of SAP implementation, such as struggles that have been faced during its implementation and its benefits following implementation. In the final section, a comparison is made between Turkish and Bosnian companies. While the study indicates some differences in implementation strategies and major benefits, similarities between the two countries are more pronounced.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of an Institutional Training Program in Slovenia: A Comparison of Methods
Authors: Rotar Laura
Published: July 2012

Evaluating the Effectiveness of an Institutional Training Program in Slovenia: A Comparison of Methods

This paper aims to estimate the effect of an institutional training program on participants' chances of finding a job, using a rich dataset which comes from the official records of the Employment Service of Slovenia and taking into account the potential bias due to the existence of unobserved confounding factors. To deal with these selection biases, three methods are implemented in a comparative perspective: (1) instrumental variable (IV) regression; (2) Heckman's two-stage approach and (3) propensity score matching. This paper underlines important divergences between the results of parametric and non-parametric estimators. Some of the results, however, show the impact of the institutional training program on participants' chances of finding a job, especially in the short run. In the long run, however, the results are not so obvious.
Cross-National Variations in the Under-Reporting of Wages in South-East Europe: A Result of Over-Regulation or Under-Regulation?
Authors: Williams Colin
Published: July 2012

Cross-National Variations in the Under-Reporting of Wages in South-East Europe: A Result of Over-Regulation or Under-Regulation?

This paper seeks to explain the cross-national variations in the tendency of employers in South East Europe to under-report the wages of their employees by paying them two wages, an official declared salary and an additional undeclared envelope wage. Reporting the results of a 2007 Eurobarometer survey of this practice undertaken in five South East European countries, the finding is that the commonality of this illicit wage practice markedly varies cross-nationally, with 23 percent of formal employees in Romania but just 3 percent in Cyprus receiving an under-reported salary. Finding that the under-reporting of wages is more prevalent in neo-liberal economies with lower levels of state intervention and less common in more ‘welfare capitalist’ economies in which there is greater state intervention in work and welfare, the resultant conclusion is that the under-reporting of employees wages by employers is correlated with the under- rather than over-regulation of work and welfare.
A Feasibility Study for Six Sigma Implementation in Turkish Textile SMEs
Authors: Taner Mehmet
Published: July 2012

A Feasibility Study for Six Sigma Implementation in Turkish Textile SMEs

This paper aims to investigate the Critical Success Factors (CSFs) for the successful introduction of Six Sigma in Small and Medium Sized Turkish Textile Enterprises. A survey-based approach is used in order to identify and understand the current quality practices of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs). CSFs and impeding factors are identified and analyzed. The involvement and commitment of top management, linking quality initiatives to employee and information technology and innovation are found to be important CSFs for textile SMEs. The leadership and commitment of top management, strategic vision, and data collection and measurement, are found to be the most CSFs for the successful introduction of Six Sigma, whereas the lack of knowledge of the system to start the initiative and the presence of ISO-certification in the company are found to hinder its implementation. The lack of qualified personnel and incompetence with new technologies are found to lower the performance of Turkish textile SMEs.
Movers or Stayers? Heterogeneity of Older Adults' Residential Profiles Across Continental Europe
Authors: Fernández-Carro Celia
Published: July 2012

Traditionally, the emotional attachment older adults have to their homes and the economic and health burden caused by residential moves have had a deterrent effect on mobility during old age. In spite of this static general trend, 20% of older Europeans change their residential location after the age of 65. Some studies point out that this percentage will increase in the coming decades along with the onset of baby-boom cohorts reaching older ages. The main objective of this article is to describe the residential mobility trends during old age in some European countries and identify the main features of those elderly that move after 65, using data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE).
‘We Make Ourselves at Home Wherever We are’ – Older People's Placemaking in Newton Hall
Authors: Van Hoven Bettina , Douma Linden
Published: July 2012

The aim of this paper is to explore older in-migrants' experiences and perceptions of their spatial context at the neighbourhood level, the key aspects in their attachment to the neighbourhood, and the role of place in their experience of ageing. Our qualitative research was carried out in Newton Hall (United Kingdom). The findings show that older people can have a proactive role in terms of placemaking and their own wellbeing. However, the study also reveals that the condition of the spatial context can either support or hinder older people's sense of wellbeing.
Soil Quality and Crop Yields, After Utilization of Sewage Sludge on Agricultural Land, in the Moldavian Plain, Romania
Authors: Ailincăi C. , Jităreanu G. , Bucur D. , Ailincăi Despina
Published: July 2012

Soil Quality and Crop Yields, After Utilization of Sewage Sludge on Agricultural Land, in the Moldavian Plain, Romania

Investigations conducted at the Podu-Iloaiei Agricultural Research Station, Iaşi County, have studied the influence of different sewage sludge rates on yield quality and quantity and soil agrochemical characteristics. Trials were set up in a five year-crop rotation, winter rape-wheat-maize-sunflower-wheat. Sewage sludge was applied every 2 years at rates of 20, 30, 40 and 60 t/ha, with different mineral fertilizer rates, differentiated according to the growing plant. The Cambic Chernozem used for experiments had a clayey-loam texture (410 g clay, 310 g loam and 280 g sand), a weakly acid reaction and a mean supply with mobile phosphorus and a very good one with mobile potassium. Applying rates of 30 t/ha sewage sludge has resulted in the accumulation of mobile phosphate stock in soil of 57 mg/kg and the microelement content, mobile forms from soil, was of 7.9 mg/kg at Cu, 1.4 mg/kg at B, 6.8 mg/kg at Zn and 186 mg/kg at manganese. The combined use of mean rates of mineral fertilizers (N100P80), together with 40 t/ha sewage sludge has resulted in improving soil chemical characteristics and getting yield increases in winter rape of 1854 kg/ha (108 %). After 8 years since the application of a rate of 30 t/ha sewage sludge, soil pH has increased 0.4 units, while phosphorus and potassium content from soil has increased by 30 and 52 mg/ kg soil, respectively. Sewage sludge from the Iaşi Water Treatment Station, which was applied every two years at rates of 20 and 30 t/ha, has determined the increase in the organic carbon content from soil by 2.9 g/kg (18%) and 4.4 g/kg (28%), respectively, compared to the unfertilized variant. The copper and zinc content from grains in wheat and maize crops, fertilized with 30 t/ha sewage sludge, was by two-four times higher, compared to the unfertilized control.
In Vitro Susceptibility of Erwinia Amylovora (Burrill) Winslow et al. Strain Isolated from Pear to Several Plant Extracts and Different Pesticides
Authors: Chiriac Irina-Paraschiva , Ulea E.
Published: July 2012

In VitroSusceptibility ofErwinia Amylovora(Burrill) Winslowet al.Strain Isolated from Pear to Several Plant Extracts and Different Pesticides

In less than six months after infection,Erwinia amylovoramay completely destroy a pome tree. This paper aims to increase awareness of the potential for developing plant protection strategies based on natural products. Since the damage caused by this bacterium are unrecoverable, we tested in vitro the effectiveness of a several plant extracts such asSalvia officinalis,Thymus serpyllum,Pelargonium odoratissimum,Hedera helix,Ocimum basilicum,Levisticum officinale,Tagetes patula,Galium verumand some pesticide products, on a strain ofErwinia amylovoraisolated from the pomological collection of "Vasile Adamachi" farm, the University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Iaşi. The strain was isolated from damaged pear shoots, after performing patogenicity test on immature pear fruits. Following the experiment conducted, copper oxychloride (Alcupral 50 PU) andPelargonium odoratissimumshowed a very good antibacterial activity against EA - A.P. strain.
The Dynamics of Total Polyphenols, Flavonoids and Antioxidant Activity of Beepollen Collected from Moldavia Area, Romania
Authors: Prelipcean A.
Published: July 2012

The Dynamics of Total Polyphenols, Flavonoids and Antioxidant Activity of Beepollen Collected from Moldavia Area, Romania

The analysis sought to study the determination in timp and different conditions (temperature and light) of total polyphenols, flavones, total flavonoids and antioxidant activity from beepollen obtained with pollen colectors from Moldavia, Romania. Two methods vave been used, consisting in different concentrations of the methanolic solvent used. Analyses were performed on fresh pollen, stored for one and two weeks; at 4°C and 22°C; presence or absence of natural light. For every determination, five repetitions were made. There were fluctuations in the amounts of compounds, depending on the storage conditions and on the solvent used. The total polyphenols quantity ranged from 24.73 mg GAE/g to 28.8 mg GAE/g, when the methanolic solvent concentration was 96 % and from 21.67 mg GAE/g to 26.50 mg GAE/g, when the methanolic solvent concentration was 70 %. The flavones detected ranged from 7.23 mg QE/g to 8.93 mg QE/g (methanolic solvent 96%), and from 5.45 mg QE/g to 6.35 mg QE/g (methanolic solvent 70%). Total flavonoids have recorded values between 12.6 mg QE/g and 20.44 mg QE/g for the m.s. of 96%, and between 14.6 mg QE/g and 17.47 mg QE/g for the m.s. of 70%. The detected antiradical activity ranged from 22.68% to 29.78% inhibition (m.s. 96%), respectively from 21.31% to 25.55 % inhibition (m.s. 70%).
Seed Reserve Utilization and Seedling Growth of Treated Seeds of Mountain Rye (Secale Montanum) as Affected by Drought Stress
Authors: Ansari O. , Chogazardi H. , Sharifzadeh F. , Nazarli H.
Published: July 2012

Seed Reserve Utilization and Seedling Growth of Treated Seeds of Mountain Rye (Secale Montanum) as Affected by Drought Stress

The environmental stress such as, drought are serious obstacles for field crops in further areas of the world, especially in arid and semiarid regions. In order to investigate drought stress on seed reserve utilization and seedling growth of treated seeds of mountain rye (Secale montanum), an experiment was carried out. Factorial experiment was carried out in completely randomized design with three replications. The first factor was the seed treatments (unpriming, hydropriming and osmopriming) and the second factor was drought stress. To create drought stress, polyetylenglycol 6000 (PEG 6000) in osmotic levels at 0 (as control), -0.4, -0.8, - 1.2 and -1.6 MPa were used. The results indicated that for these traits: germination percentage (GP), timson index (TI), energy of germination (EG), weight of utilized (mobilized) seed (WMSR), seed reserve utilization efficiency (SRUE), seedling dry weight (SLDW), and seed reserve depletion percentage (SRDP), was a significant treatment x drought interaction. Thus hydropriming and osmopriming improvement study traits inSecale montanumunder drought stress. While in higher osmotic pressure the highest seed reserve utilization were obtained from osmopriming.
Pollinators Visiting Sesame (Sesamum Indicum L.) Seed Crop with Reference to Foraging Activity of Some Bee Species
Authors: Mahfouz H. , Kamel S. , Belal A. , Said M.
Published: July 2012

Pollinators Visiting Sesame (Sesamum Indicum L.) Seed Crop with Reference to Foraging Activity of Some Bee Species

A study was conducted to determine the insect pollinator orders visiting sesame, fluctuation percent of Hymenopterous fauna during flowering period, foraging activity of the pollinating insects belonging to Hymenoptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera and Diptera orders and foraging activity of Apis mellifera, Anthidium sp. and Xylocopa sp. from July 15 to September 4, 2011 at four time periods i.e., 9-11 am, 11-1 pm, 1-3 pm and 3-5 pm. Results revealed that insect percentage of Hymenoptera order was high followed by Lepidoptera, Diptera and Coleoptera. The highest activity of Hymenopterous fauna was in fourth week of flowering period and decreased gradually in the last weeks. Total number of pollinators was highest at 9-11 am followed by that at 11-1 pm, 1-3 pm and 3-5 pm. Among the bees, the number of Apis mellifera was the maximum followed by Xylocopa sp. and lastly Anthidium sp. at all time periods. It was also evident that temperature, wind and relative humidity also affect the percentage of insects visiting sesame flowers.