bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of IGF(CA)19 and IGFBP3-202A/C gene polymorphisms in patients with acromegaly: association with clinical presentation and response to treatments
Authors: Ramos-Leví Ana M , Marazuela Mónica , Paniagua Amalia , Quinteiro Celsa , Riveiro Javier , Álvarez-Escolá Cristina , Lúcas Tomás , Blanco Concepción , de Miguel Paz , Martínez de Icaya Purificación , Pavón Isabel , Bernabeu Ignacio
Published: November 2014

Objective

IGF1 and IGFBP3 gene polymorphisms have been recently described. However, their potential role in the setting of acromegaly and its outcome is unknown. In this study, we analyze these polymorphisms in patients with acromegaly and investigate their association with clinical presentation and response to treatments.

Design

A retrospective observational study was conducted in patients with acromegaly to analyze IGF1 and IGFBP3 gene polymorphisms.

Methods

A total of 124 patients with acromegaly (57.3% women, mean age 44.9±13.1 years old) were followed up for a period of 11.4±8.0 years in eight tertiary referral hospitals in Spain. Clinical and analytical data were evaluated at baseline and after treatment. IGF1 and IGFBP3 gene polymorphisms were analyzed using PCR and specific primers.

Results

Baseline laboratory test results were GH 19.3 (8.0–39.6) ng/ml, nadir GH 11.8 (4.1–21.5) ng/ml, and index IGF1 2.65±1.25 upper limit of normal. Regarding the IGF1 gene polymorphism, we did not find any association between the number of cyto-adenosine (CA) repeats and patients’ baseline characteristics. Nevertheless, a trend for higher nadir GH values was observed in patients with <19 CA repeats. Regarding the IGFBP3 polymorphism, the absence of an A allele at the −202 position was associated with a higher baseline IGF1 and a higher prevalence of cancer and polyps. There were no differences in response to therapies according to the specific genotypes.

Conclusions

Polymorphisms in the IGF1 and IGFBP3 genes may not be invariably determinant of treatment outcome in acromegalic patients, but they may be associated with higher nadir GH levels or baseline IGF1, and determine a higher rate of colorectal polyps and cancer.
RGC32 deficiency protects against high-fat diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance in mice
Authors: Cui Xiao-Bing , Luan Jun-Na , Ye Jianping , Chen Shi-You
Published: November 2014

Obesity is an important independent risk factor for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and many other chronic diseases. Adipose tissue inflammation is a critical link between obesity and insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes and a contributor to disease susceptibility and progression. The objective of this study was to determine the role of response gene to complement 32 (RGC32) in the development of obesity and insulin resistance. WT and RGC32 knockout (Rgc32−/− (Rgcc)) mice were fed normal chow or high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks. Metabolic, biochemical, and histologic analyses were performed. 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were used to study the role of RGC32 in adipocytes in vitro. Rgc32−/− mice fed with HFD exhibited a lean phenotype with reduced epididymal fat weight compared with WT controls. Blood biochemical analysis and insulin tolerance test showed that RGC32 deficiency improved HFD-induced dyslipidemia and insulin resistance. Although it had no effect on adipocyte differentiation, RGC32 deficiency ameliorated adipose tissue and systemic inflammation. Moreover, Rgc32−/− induced browning of adipose tissues and increased energy expenditure. Our data indicated that RGC32 plays an important role in diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance, and thus it may serve as a potential novel drug target for developing therapeutics to treat obesity and metabolic disorders.
A Team-Based Approach to Reducing Cardiac Monitor Alarms
Authors: Dandoy Christopher E. , Davies Stella M. , Flesch Laura , Hayward Melissa , Koons Connie , Coleman Kristen , Jacobs Jodi , McKenna Lori Ann , Olomajeye Alero , Olson Chad , Powers Jessica , Shoemaker Kimberly , Jodele Sonata , Alessandrini Evaline , Weiss Brian
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Excessive cardiac monitor alarms lead to desensitization and alarm fatigue. We created and implemented a standardized cardiac monitor care process (CMCP) on a 24-bed pediatric bone marrow transplant unit. The aim of this project was to decrease monitor alarms through the use of team-based standardized care and processes.

METHODS:

Using small tests of change, we developed and implemented a standardized CMCP that included: (1) a process for initial ordering of monitor parameters based on age-appropriate standards; (2) pain-free daily replacement of electrodes; (3) daily individualized assessment of cardiac monitor parameters; and (4) a reliable method for appropriate discontinuation of monitor. The Model for Improvement was used to design, test, and implement changes. The changes that were implemented after testing and adaptation were: family/patient engagement in the CMCP; creation of a monitor care log to address parameters, lead changes, and discontinuation; development of a pain-free process for electrode removal; and customized monitor delay and customized threshold parameters.

RESULTS:

From January to November 2013, percent compliance with each of the 4 components of the CMCP increased. Overall compliance with the CMCP increased from a median of 38% to 95%. During this time, the median number of alarms per patient-day decreased from 180 to 40.

CONCLUSIONS:

Implementation of the standardized CMCP resulted in a significant decrease in cardiac monitor alarms per patient day. We recommend a team-based approach to monitor care, including individualized assessment of monitor parameters, daily lead change, and proper discontinuation of the monitors.
Changes in Child Mortality Over Time Across the Wealth Gradient in Less-Developed Countries
Authors: Bendavid Eran
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND:

It is unknown whether inequalities in under-5 mortality by wealth in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are growing or declining.

METHODS:

All Demographic and Health Surveys conducted between 2002 and 2012 were used to measure under-5 mortality trends in 3 wealth tertiles. Two approaches were used to estimate changes in under-5 mortality: within-survey changes from all 54 countries, and between-survey changes for 29 countries with repeated survey waves. The principal outcome measures include annual decline in mortality, and the ratio of mortality between the poorest and least-poor wealth tertiles.

RESULTS:

Mortality information in 85 surveys from 929 224 households and 1 267 167 women living in 54 countries was used. In the subset of 29 countries with repeat surveys, mortality declined annually by 4.36, 3.36, and 2.06 deaths per 1000 live births among the poorest, middle, and least-poor tertiles, respectively (P = .031 for difference). The mortality ratio declined from 1.68 to 1.48 during the study period (P = .006 for trend). In the complete set of 85 surveys, the mortality ratio declined in 64 surveys (from 2.11 to 1.55), and increased in 21 surveys (from 1.58 to 1.88). Multivariate analyses suggest that convergence was associated with good governance (P ≤ .03 for 4 governance indicators: government effectiveness, rule of law, regulatory quality, and control of corruption).

CONCLUSIONS:

Overall, under-5 mortality in low- and middle-income countries has decreased faster among the poorest compared with the least poor between 1995 and 2012, but progress in some countries has lagged, especially with poor governance.
Miofibromatose infantil: relato de uma rara doença
Authors: Mata Bruna Emmanuelle Linhares Fonseca , Oliveira Juliana Santos Bayerl de , Soares Damião Ranulfo Fernandes
Published: November 2014

A miofibromatose infantil é uma rara doença que tem várias formas de apresentação. Habitualmente, manifesta-se com nódulos subcutâneos, que podem ou não estar associados à presença de nódulos viscerais. Deve-se estar apto a fazer o diagnóstico por meio do exame físico e de imagem, que evidenciarão o padrão das lesões para estadiar/classificar a doença. O tratamento ainda é controverso.
Metástase na mama originada de carcinoma ovariano: relato de caso e revisão da literatura
Authors: Moreira Bruno Lima , Lima Eduardo Nóbrega Pereira , Bitencourt Almir Galvão Vieira , Dantas Emanuel Rafael , Souza Juliana Alves de , Marques Elvira Ferreira
Published: November 2014

Carcinoma primário de ovário raramente origina metástase para mama, com poucos casos descritos na literatura. Os autores relatam um caso de uma paciente com carcinoma ovariano que evoluiu com metástase para mama após cerca de oito anos do diagnóstico inicial da neoplasia e realizam revisão bibliográfica do assunto, dando ênfase aos aspectos de imagem.
Enxertia e sua influencia na produção de pepino e reprodução de Meloidogyne javanica e M. incognita
Authors: Salata Ariane C , Bertolini Erick Vinicius , Magro Felipe O , Cardoso Antonio II , Wilcken Silvia Renata S
Published: November 2014

A enxertia em porta-enxertos resistentes é uma técnica frequentemente recomendada para a cultura do pepino em áreas infestadas com nematoides-das-galhas. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a produção de pepino enxertado em dois porta-enxertos comparado com pé-franco em solo infestado com Meloidogyne incognita raça 2 ou com M. javanica. Foram avaliados nove tratamentos (fatorial 3x3: pepino híbrido Tsuyataro pé-franco, enxertado na abóbora híbrida 'Shelper' e enxertado na abóbora híbrida 'Excitte Ikki' x sem inoculação, inoculação com M. incognita e inoculação com M. javanica), no delineamento em blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições e seis plantas por parcela. Para as características de produção de frutos (número de frutos totais e comerciais por planta, massa de frutos totais e comerciais por planta) não foi obtida interação entre os fatores. Obteve-se maior produção de frutos em plantas enxertadas sobre a abóbora 'Shelper', independente da espécie de nematoide, enquanto que a enxertia sobre 'Excitte Ikki' não diferiu do pé-franco para produção total. Ambas as espécies de nematoide reduziram a produção de frutos, porém este efeito foi mais pronunciado com M. javanica. Tanto o pepino pé-franco como as plantas enxertadas foram suscetíveis, pois permitiram a multiplicação dos nematoides, com fator de reprodução, em avaliação realizada aos 72 dias após a inoculação, variando de 3,57 a 15,04, sendo que para M. javanica este valor foi maior no pepino pé-franco.
Divergência genética entre acessos de batata-doce utilizando caracteres fenotípicos de raiz
Authors: da Silva Giovani O , Ponijaleki Rubens , Suinaga Fabio A
Published: November 2014

Estudos de quantificação da divergência genética entre acessos e caracterização dos recursos genéticos têm sido de grande importância em programas de melhoramento, auxiliando na identificação de genitores e no conhecimento do material genético disponível. Os objetivos do presente trabalho foram: (1) avaliar os acessos de batata-doce pertencentes ao banco de germoplasma da Embrapa com base em caracteres de raiz; (2) calcular a importância relativa dos caracteres morfo-agronômicos quantitativos na discriminação dos acessos e, (3) obter indicações das combinações híbridas mais promissoras para cruzamentos. Foi avaliada uma coleção de 11 clones pertencentes ao Banco Ativo de Germoplasma da Embrapa por meio de um experimento conduzido na Embrapa SPM/EN, em Canoinhas-SC. Os acessos foram cultivados em condições de campo no delineamento em blocos ao acaso com quatro repetições, onde a parcela experimental foi composta por 10 plantas. As plantas de cada parcela foram colhidas e avaliadas para 12 caracteres fenotípicos de raiz. O estudo indicou que os caracteres número e massa total de raízes e peso específico foram os que mais contribuíram para a divergência genética. A maioria dos acessos é bastante similar quanto aos caracteres quantitativos avaliados. Porém, há a possibilidade de ganhos com a heterose, geração de variabilidade genética e de progênies superiores cruzando-se os acessos dos diferentes grupamentos formados; pois os genótipos mais contrastantes '1228', '051-1' e '1270' foram agrupados entre os melhores para várias características como massa e número total de raízes, massa comercial de raízes; os dois primeiros apresentaram elevado peso específico e o '1270' apresentou coloração alaranjada intensa, indicativo de alto teor de β-caroteno.
Óleos essenciais e extratos vegetais no controle da podridão mole em alface crespa
Authors: Silva Cristiane L , Souza Elineide B , Felix Kátia CS , Santos Alice MG , Silva Márcia V , Mariano Rosa LR
Published: November 2014

Avaliou-se o efeito de óleos essenciais e extratos vegetais no controle da podridão mole em alface, bem como, a influência desses produtos nas características físico-químicas desta hortaliça. Nos testes in vitro, discos de papel de filtro foram embebidos em 11 óleos essenciais e 20 extratos vegetais nas concentrações 0,0; 0,25; 0,50; 0,75 e 1% e 0,0; 10, 40, 70 e 100%, respectivamente, e depositados sobre meio de cultura contendo Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum (Pcc A1). Os halos de inibição foram mensurados após 24 e 48 h de incubação. Em casa de vegetação, plantas de alface cv. Veneranda foram tratadas com 11 óleos nas concentrações de 0,5 e 1%, 20 extratos na concentração de 10% e Mycoshield® (3 g L-1), sendo inoculadas com o isolado Pcc A1 após 72 h. A severidade da doença foi avaliada a intervalos de seis até 48 h, calculando-se a área abaixo da curva de progresso da doença (AACPD). Em experimento similar, plantas tratadas com óleo de Corymbia citriodora, sete extratos e Mycoshield® foram analisadas quanto aos teores de sólidos solúveis, vitamina C, acidez titulável e pH. Pcc A1 não foi inibido in vitro. Dois óleos (C. citriodora e Citrus sinensis) e sete extratos (Parkinsonia aculeata, Chamaecrista cytisoides, Sida galherensis, Polygala violaceae, Chamaecrista desvauxii e Pityrocarpa moniliformis) reduziram significativamente a severidade da doença em relação à testemunha, não diferindo do controle Mycoshield®. Já a AACPD foi reduzida por oito óleos e dez extratos. Destacaram-se com eficiência similar ao Mycoshield® e diferindo da testemunha (7,5 e 132,3) nas duas variáveis analisadas, o óleo de C. citriodora a 0,5% e o extrato de S. galherensis a 10% com severidades de 3,6 e 3,5 e AACPD de 83,35 e 88,25, respectivamente. Os teores de vitamina C, acidez titulável e pH não foram alterados em folhas de alface tratadas com óleo de C. citriodora e extratos de P. aculeata e C. cytisoides.
Tamanhos de amostra e de parcela para variáveis de crescimento e produtivas de tomateiro
Authors: Lúcio Alessandro D , Haesbaert Fernando M , Santos Daniel , Schwertner Diogo V , Brunes Rélia R
Published: November 2014

O objetivo desse trabalho foi estimar o tamanho de amostra e de parcela para caracteres de crescimento e produtivos em diferentes períodos de desenvolvimento da cultura do tomateiro, conduzida em túnel alto e em campo na primavera-verão e no outono-inverno. As variáveis de crescimento analisadas foram altura de planta, número de folhas, diâmetro do caule no colo e diâmetro do caule na altura da primeira inflorescência; as variáveis produtivas foram número de inflorescências/infrutescências e número de frutos por planta, avaliadas em períodos distintos de desenvolvimento da cultura. Quando as variâncias entre linhas de cultivo foram heterogêneas, o tamanho de amostra foi calculado com o maior coeficiente de variação (CV) obtido entre as linhas de cultivo e, quando foram homogêneas, o tamanho de amostra foi calculado com o CV médio. Os tamanhos de parcela foram calculados pelos métodos da máxima curvatura modificada e curvatura máxima do coeficiente de variação e as diferenças em porcentagem da média pelo método de Hatheway. Para uma única recomendação de tamanho de amostra, considerando a semiamplitude do intervalo de confiança de 10%, o tamanho de amostra na linha de cultivo é de 9 e 22 plantas respectivamente para as características de crescimento e produtivas em túnel alto, e de 7 e 16 plantas na linha de cultivo, respectivamente para caracteristicas de crescimento e produtivas, em campo. O tamanho de parcela para caracteristicas de crescimento é de 3 plantas na linha de cultivo e para caracteristicas produtivas, parcelas de 7 plantas na linha de cultivo.
Anatomical alterations in taro corms with "metsubure" symptoms
Authors: Pereira Francisco HF , Puiatti Mário , Meira Renata MSA , Fontes Paulo CR
Published: November 2014

Taro plants present high Ca absorption. There is evidence that the disorder "metsubure" is of nutritional origin being attributed to calcium deficiency. The metsubure is characterized by the corm apical bud suppression and a smooth lesion in the apex. This disorder reduces the taro corms value as food and hinders their utilization as a propagative material in commercial fields. In subterranean structures, Ca deficiency is believed to be more harmful to the vascular tissue cells since they have thicker walls than other tissue cells. Thus, this work aimed to characterize the anatomical changes in taro corms (Colocasia esculenta), cv. Chinese (BGH 5928) with "metsubure" symptoms. For this, corms with and without this symptom were obtained from plants grown in a greenhouse, in pots, containing soil. Corms presenting "metsubure" showed anatomical changes with damage in the vascular system which led to the suppression of apical bud formation, with detection of a wound periderm. In these corms, the periderm was thicker with compact and suberized cell layers; moreover parenchyma cells were larger with less starch accumulation as compared to corms without "metsubure" symptoms.
Correlação entre caracteres e estimação de parâmetros populacionais para batata-doce
Authors: Gonçalves Neto Álvaro C , Maluf Wilson Roberto , Gomes Luiz Antonio A , Maciel Gabriel M , Ferreira Raphael de Paula D , Carvalho Regis de C
Published: November 2014

Cultivares de batata-doce, plantadas atualmente, foram selecionadas primariamente para o consumo humano, sem levar em consideração o enorme potencial dessa cultura na produção de etanol e alimentação animal. Os objetivos deste trabalho foram estimar parâmetros populacionais e as correlações genotípicas, fenotípicas e de ambiente entre caracteres de interesse para as principais utilizações da batata-doce. Foram avaliados em blocos casualizados com duas repetições 39 genótipos de batata-doce pertencentes à coleção de germoplasma da Universidade Federal de Lavras. Os coeficientes de variação genética (CVg) e ambiental (CVe), herdabilidades no sentido amplo (h a²) e a razão b= CVg/CVe indicam uma situação favorável para a seleção da maioria das características analisadas, sendo os valores no geral superiores a 9,52%, 1,44 e 79,31% para CVg, CVg/CVe e h a², respectivamente. Em todos os pares de caracteres estudados os coeficientes de correlação genotípica e fenotípica, além de ser de mesmo sinal, foram semelhantes na magnitude e no nível de significância. Nas estimativas que apresentaram correlações significativas, as correlações genotípicas foram ligeiramente superiores às fenotípicas, e ambas foram superiores às correlações de ambiente, como em produção total de raízes frescas x porcentagem de massa seca das raízes; porcentagem de massa seca na parte aérea x produção total de raízes frescas; nota para formato médio de raízes x nota para formato geral de raízes. Não se verificou correlação genética ou fenotípica entre porcentagem de massa seca das raízes e densidade de raízes. A seleção e recomendação de genótipos de batata-doce baseada no conjunto dessas características estudadas (dependendo do segmento de mercado a ser explorado) possibilitará a plena utilização deste valioso recurso genético vegetal, e a sua adoção mais intensa na agricultura nacional.
Vertical growth of mini watermelon according to the training height and plant density
Authors: Campagnol Rafael , Mello Simone da C , Barbosa José Carlos
Published: November 2014

The watermelon is traditionally cultivated horizontally on the ground. The cultivars of small fruits (1 to 3 kg), which reach better market prices, are also being grown in a greenhouse, where the plants are trained upward on vertical supports, with branches pruning and fruits thinning. These practices make possible an increase of the plant density, fruit quality and yield compared to the traditional growth system. The aim of this experiment was to evaluate the influence of three training heights (1.7, 2.2 and 2.7 m) and two planting densities (3.17 and 4.76 plants m-2) over the productive and qualitative characteristics of mini watermelon "Smile" cultivated in greenhouse. The pruning was done at 43, 55 and 66 days after transplanting (DAT), when the plant height reached 1.7, 2.2 and 2.7 m, respectively. The dry mass of branches, petioles, leaves and total were affected by the training height, where the highest values were obtained by the plants pruned at 2.2 and 2.7 m. Leaf area, specific leaf area and leaf area index were not affected by the height of the plants. The training height of 2.7 m raised the total yield, however, marketable yield, average fruit mass and all the quality characteristics did not differ significantly from those obtained by the training height of 2.2 m. Regarding to plant density, the best option was 4.76 plants m-2, due to the increasing of marketable yield in 37.4% without reducing the average weight of fruits.
Espaçamento de plantio e intervalos de colheita na biomassa e no óleo essencial de gerânio
Authors: Blank Arie F , Silva Anderson de C , Arrigoni-Blank Maria de Fátima , Santos Wallace M dos , Santana Aléa Dayane D de
Published: November 2014

O gerânio (Pelargonium graveolens) é uma erva aromática e seu óleo essencial é comumente utilizado na constituição de fármacos e cosméticos no mundo. A planta adapta-se bem às condições climáticas do nordeste brasileiro, mas são escassos os dados sobre seu rendimento quantitativo e qualitativo. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar a influência de espaçamento de plantas e intervalos de colheita em gerânio na produção de biomassa e de óleo essencial. Foram testados três espaçamentos de plantio (50x50, 50x60 e 50x80 cm) e três intervalos de colheita (8, 12 e 16 semanas). Os maiores valores totais de massa fresca e seca de folhas e caules (2679,04 g m-2; 424,62 g m-2; 1035,08 g m-2; 136,85 g m-2, respectivamente) e rendimento de óleo essencial (7,56 mL m-2), que são características de interesse direto para o mercado, foram obtidos em intervalo de colheita de oito semanas e no espaçamento de 50x50 cm. Nas demais variáveis analisadas, houve pouca diferenciação entre os tratamentos, contudo, períodos longos de colheita são menos produtivos, pois houve queda nos valores de todas as variáveis nas ultimas colheitas de cada intervalo. Assim, melhores resultados de quantidade e qualidade para o gerânio foram obtidos com intervalo de 8 semanas e no espaçamento 50x50 cm.
Produção de cenoura em função das doses de potássio em cobertura
Authors: Zanfirov Carine A , Correa Carla Verônica , Carpanetti Maristella G , Correa Fernanda F , Cardoso Antonio Ismael Inácio
Published: November 2014

Para a produção de cenoura há a recomendação de adubação com potássio em cobertura, porém não existem trabalhos que confirmem esta necessidade. Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de doses de potássio em cobertura na produção da cenoura híbrido Bangor. O experimento foi desenvolvido em São Manuel-SP, de 26 de maio a 30 de agosto de 2010. Foram avaliados cinco tratamentos (0; 23; 45; 68 e 90 kg ha-1 de K2O em cobertura, utilizando-se o cloreto de potássio), no delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados, com cinco repetições e 40 plantas úteis por parcela. Após a colheita foram avaliadas a massa da matéria fresca da raiz e das folhas; diâmetro e comprimento da raiz. A máxima produtividade (103,8 t ha-1) foi estimada com a dose de 41,6 kg ha-1 de K2O. Aplicando a maior dose de K2O obteve-se menor produtividade (86,1 t ha-1) que no tratamento testemunha (90,7 t ha-1), mostrando que a adubação em excesso, além de ser desperdício de recursos, pode prejudicar a produção.
Evidence for improved urban flood resilience by sustainable drainage retrofit
Authors: Lamond Jessica E. , Rose Carly B. , Booth Colin A.
Published: November 2014

The rapid growth of cities under modern development pressure has resulted in surface water flooding becoming an increasing hazard and future climate change uncertainties may exacerbate this threat still further: retrofitting sustainable drainage systems to attenuate stormwater runoff has been advocated as part of an integrated solution required to address this problem. Many of these adaptations not only enhance a community's resilience to flooding, but may also offer additional benefits in terms of improved environmental amenity and quality of life. The evidence base for sustainable drainage is critically evaluated in respect of the implications for urban planning, as applied to existing housing stocks and business properties in urban areas worldwide. It is concluded that this approach can make a substantial contribution towards urban resilience as part of an integrated approach to managing extreme storms. This will be of interest to urban planners and designers considering the implementation of integrated flood risk management.
Business-to-business end-of-life IT industrial networks
Authors: Peagram Richard , Williams Ian D. , Curran Tony , Mueller Sandra R. , den Boer Emilia , Kopacek Bernd , Schadlbauer Sabine , Musterle Jörg
Published: November 2014

Business-to-business waste electrical and electronic equipment systems are not reported under current European Union regulations. This paper examines the independent, unreported, industrial networks for the collection and treatment of such waste in the UK, Austria, Germany, Romania and Spain. Methods used are semistructured interviews and surveys of relevant literature. The results show that treatment options are highly driven by the end market for the resulting product. Reuse rarely occurs in Austria and Spain, but is common in the UK and prevalent in Germany. The flow of equipment through different recovery/disposal routes cannot be estimated. It is concluded that a solution needs to be developed to avoid negative sustainability impacts, but which does not place such a burden on the industry that it makes the practice unattractive.
Environment and fish fauna of the Atrai River: global and local conservation perspective
Authors: Chaki Nipa , Jahan Sayka , Fahad Md. Foyzul Hassan , Galib Shams Muhammad , Mohsin ABM
Published: November 2014

The fish fauna of the Atrai River were studied for a period of two years from January 2011 to December 2012. Sampling was carried out by several fishing nets and traps on fortnight basis. A total of 74 fish species belonging to 27 families and 52 genera were recorded. Cyprinidae was the most dominant family contributing 18 species in 9 genera. Two alien species were found- Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and Hypostomus plecostomus. Thirty locally threatened species (Vulnerable 13.51%, Endangered 18.92% and Critically Endangered 8.11%) were recorded. But, no globally threatened species was found. Relative abundance of majority 36.49% species was rare. Global population trend of 24.32% recorded fish species was Declining. The highest number of species (42) was recorded in the November 2011. Whereas, the lowest the number of fish species (12) recorded in June and August 2011. Very high correlation was found between fish species and physical environmental parameters (air temperature, water temperature, and water transparency). This study concluded that Atrai River could be an excellent place for natural conservation of fish species. Nevertheless, efforts to maintain a sustainable fishing pressure, removal of existing alien species and avoiding further introduction of such species are recommended.
Editorial
Authors: Editor The
Published: November 2014

This issue of Res Medica is largely concerned with the subject of epilepsy, a chronic and often crippling condition, against which even the forces of modern medicine and surgery can only offer a feeble opposition.One man in Edinburgh who was concerned about the plight of the epileptic was Professor Norman Dott. A great pioneer in the field of surgical neurology, his interests extended outside the operating theatre to the problems of his patients and their fellow sufferers in the community. He campaigned actively for them as leader of the Epilepsy Society in Edinburgh.We were greatly saddened to hear of his death during the preparation of this issue, he will be sadly missed.
Editorial
Authors: Editor The
Published: November 2014

“The Society dates from the year 1737, when ten medical students agreed to meet weekly in a tavern to hear one of their number read a dissertation on some medical subject. It is the oldest medical students’ society in Great Britain, and the only one to hold a Royal Charter (which was granted by King George III in 1779) The Society has a long and distinguished tradition, and its history is the history of the Edinburgh Medical School. Amongst its past members it boasts the names of Lister, Simpson the chloroform pioneer, Joseph Bell of Palsy fame, Charles Darwin, and Andrew Duncan. Today as in the past the Society’s business comprises the reading of dissertations by members, the arranging of talks given by men eminent in the contemporary medical world and the organising of symposia on subjects of current interest."Since the founding of the Royal Medical Society in 1737 it has always sought to broaden the educational horizons of its members. Res Medica was first published in 1957 to augment learning and provide a platform on which members ideas and work could be aired out with the walls of the Society’s hall. This edition of Res Medica represents its resurrection after a dormancy period of eight years and it is hoped that this tradition will be supported and maintained in future years. Over this eight year period we have witnessed numerous changes in the practice and teaching of medicine and the Royal Medical Society has remained in touch with these new ideas especially with its recent investment in a variety of computer aidedlearning facilities.
Editorial
Authors: Editor The
Published: November 2014

In the Royal Medical Society’s long and illustrious history there have been many eras. Last year the RMS saw the curtain fall on one such era. Patricia Strong was a stalwart and a guardian of the RMS for some thirty years in her role as permanent secretary.
Editorial
Authors: Editor The
Published: November 2014

The possibility of a major bioterrorist attack on the British Isles is thankfully remote. Nevertheless, it casts a disproportionately large shadow. The policy and practice of many major institutions has changed dramatically in the wake of anthrax attacks in the USA last year, and public awareness of such action has soared. In this issue, Professor Crawford discusses the use of viruses as agents of mass destruction (p3).
The Effects of Human Resource Attributions On Employee Outcomes During Organizational Change
Authors: Chen Dusheng , Wang Zhongming
Published: November 2014

We applied the emerging process-based approach of strategic human resource (HR) management research by investigating the relationship between 2 types of HR attributions (i.e., commitment-focused and control-focused HR attributions) and 2 key employee outcomes (i.e., turnover intention
and task performance) in an organizational change context. Based on a social exchange framework, perceived organizational support (POS) was introduced as a key mediator. Based on a sample of 350 professional workers, we found that commitment-focused HR attributions were positively related
to POS and that control-focused HR attributions were negatively related to POS. In addition, POS mediated the relationships among commitment-focused HR attributions and the 2 employee outcome variables of turnover intention and task performance as well as the relationships among control-focused
HR attributions and the 2 employee outcome variables. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Different Interactional Injustice, Different Organizational Remedy? Evidence from China
Authors: Zhu Yanhan , Kou Yan
Published: November 2014

We conducted two studies in which we examined the contingent relationships among interactional injustice, workplace aggression, and organizational remedy. In the field study (Study 1) involving 192 full-time employees in Mainland China we found that different types of interactional
injustice had very different effects in terms of the form of workplace aggression triggered. In the experimental study (Study 2) with 189 graduate and undergraduate students at 2 Chinese universities, the results revealed that the effectiveness of the organizational remedy in mitigating workplace
aggression depended on the matching of the type of remedy offered by the organization or its agents with the type of interactional injustice the aggrieved employee perceived that he or she had suffered. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Does Doctors' Perception of Hospital Leadership Style and Organizational Culture Influence Their Organizational Commitment?
Authors: Gokce Beste , Guney Salih , Katrinli Alev
Published: November 2014

Our aim in this study was to determine the effect of organizational culture on the relationship between perception of leadership style and commitment to the organization by identifying firstly how Turkish doctors perceived the leadership behavior at private hospitals and then assessing
the level of their organizational commitment. We developed and then tested a research model that incorporated leadership style, organizational commitment, and organizational culture. We distributed a survey to doctors working at four private hospitals in Turkey (N = 98). We found that
doctors' perceptions of leadership behavior had a statistically significant, positive effect on their level of organizational commitment. We also found that organizational culture did not act as a moderator in this relationship.
Mechanical and Microstructural Properties of Friction Welded AISI 304 Stainless Steel to AISI 1060 Steel AISI 1060
Authors: Ates H. , Kaya N.
Published: November 2014

Rotary Friction welding is one of the most popular methods of joining similar and dissimilar materials. It is widely used with metals and thermoplastics in a wide variety of aviation, transport and aerospace industrial component designs. This study investigates the influence of friction and upsetting pressures on the hardness, tensile properties and microstructure of the welds. The experimental results showed that as the friction and upsetting pressures increased, the hardness and tensile strength values increased, as well. The tensile fracture of welded joint occurred in the AISI 1060 side. The friction processed joints were evaluated for their integrity and quality aspects by optical and scanning electron microscopy. For the perfect interfacial bonding, sufficient upsetting and friction pressures are necessary to reach the optimal temperature and severe plastic deformation to bring these materials within the attraction range.
Application of Taguchi Method for Investigating the Mechanical Properties of a Microalloyed Steel
Authors: Ayaz M. , Arab N. Banimostafa , Khaki D. Mirahmadi
Published: November 2014

In the present investigation, the effects of processing parameters, such as roughing, finishing and coiling temperatures, on the strain hardening exponent and yield strength of a Nb-microalloyed steel has been studied by Taguchi method. In order to achieve maximum n-value and yield strength, tests were done in a laboratorial pilot considering a L16 orthogonal array of Taguchi method under following condition: roughing temperature of 1000, 1050, 1100, 1150 °C, finishing temperature of 800, 850, 900, 950 °C, coiling temperature of 550, 600, 650, 700 °C. Then, analysis of variance and signal to noise ratios are performed on the measured data. The results indicated that the finishing and coiling temperatures were the major factor affecting the mechanical properties. The confirmation tests at optimal conditions approve the effectiveness of this robust design methodology in investigating the hot rolling process of the microalloyed steels.
Web System Dedicated to Parallel Computation for Modeling of Mushy Steel Deformation
Authors: Dębiński T. , Głowacki M. , Hojny M. , Gumuła A. , Woźniak D.
Published: November 2014

The paper presents web base system for an application of parallel object-oriented programming technique in modelling of rolling process of steel plates with semi-solid zone. It also throws light on the problem of semi-solid steels yield stress relationship, one of the main input data of the simulation, and on application of inverse solution, the only possible method of development of the stress-strain curves at extremely high temperatures. Due to limitations of available computer resources a very accurate computation can sometimes be impossible or the time performance can be a barrier for practical application of complex sequential models. Taking advantage of parallel computing the authors have developed an algorithm allowing for fast computation using multiple processors, which is the main subject of the presented paper.
Effect of Gas Pressure and Temperature on Stereometric Properties of Al+Al2O3 Composite Coatings Deposited by LPCS Method
Authors: Winnicki M. , Piwowarczyk T. , Małachowska A. , Ambroziak A.
Published: November 2014

The paper deals with effect of working gas pressure and temperature on surface stereometry of coatings deposited by low-pressure cold spray method. Examinations were focused on aluminium coatings which are commonly used to protect substrate against corrosion. A commercial Al spherical feedstock powder with admixture of Al2O3 (Al + 60vol.-% Al2O3), granulation -50+10 µm, was used to coat steel, grade S235JR. Thedeposited coatings were studied to determine their stereometry, i.e. roughness, transverse and longitudinal waviness, topography of surface and thickness as the functions of gas pressure and temperature. A profilometer and focal microscope were used to evaluate the stereometric properties. In order to reduce the number of variables, the remaining process parameters, i.e. shape and size of de Laval nozzle, nozzle-to-substrate distance, powder mass flow rate, linear velocity of spraying gun, were kept unchanged. The investigation confirmed influence of temperature and pressure on coating thickness as well as on the surface seterometry.
Plastic Properties of Fine-Grained WMD After Micro-Jet Cooling
Authors: Hadryś D. , Węgrzyn T. , Piwnik J.
Published: November 2014

Micro-jet welding is an innovative method of weld forced cooling immediately after welding. It allows to obtain weld with superior properties in comparison to conventional welding. The reason for this is to obtain a more favorable structure of the weld metal deposit (WMD) with much higher amount of acicular ferrite (AF). Different structures and mechanical properties of weld metal deposit were obtained by using various gases for cooling. The paper shows the relationship between the type of gas for micro-jet cooling and plastic properties of the weld joint. Coefficient of restitution and plastic strain were selected to describe changes of weld plastic properties for different micro-jet cooling gases. The tests were performed in dynamic conditions (impact).
Influence of a High-Pressure Comminution Technology on Concentrate Yields in Copper Ore Flotation Processes
Authors: Saramak D. , Młynarczykowska A. , Krawczykowska A.
Published: November 2014

The article concerns the issues of flotation process effectiveness in relationship to the operating conditions of a high-pressure comminution process course. Experimental programme covering a flotation laboratory batch tests was a verification technique of a high-pressure crushing operations course. The most favorable values of flotation concentrate weight recoveries were obtained for the pressing force 6 kN and 4% of the feed moisture. It was also determined the model of the concentrate weight recovery as a function of pressing force in the press and feed moisture content. This model was the basis for the optimization of effects of copper ore flotation processes preceded in high-pressure crushing operation in roller presses.
The Dilatometric Analysis of the High Carbon Alloys from Ni-Ta-Al-M System
Authors: Bała P.
Published: November 2014

In the following work presents results of high carbon alloys from the Ni-Ta-Al-M system are presented. The alloys have been designed to have a good tribological properties at elevated temperatures. Despite availability of numerous hot work tool materials there is still a growing need for new alloys showing unique properties, which could be used under heavy duty conditions, i.e. at high temperatures, in a chemically aggressive environment and under heavy wear conditions. A characteristic, coarse-grained dendritic microstructure occurs in the investigated alloys in the as-cast condition. Primary dendrites with secondary branches can be observed. Tantalum carbides of MC type and graphite precipitations are distributed in interdendritic spaces in the Ni-Ta-Al-C and Ni-Ta-Al-C-Co alloys, while Tantalum carbides of MC type and Chromium carbides of M7C3 type appeared in the Ni-Ta-Al-C-Co-Cr and Ni-Ta-Al-C-Cr alloys. In all alloys g’ phase is present, however, its volume fraction in the Ni-Ta-Al-C and Ni-Ta-Al-C-Co alloys is small.

During heating from as-cast state in Ni-Ta-Al-C and Ni-Ta-Al-C-Co alloys, the beginning of the tantalum carbides precipitation process (MC type) followed (or simultaneous) by the intermetallic phase precipitation (g’ – Ni3(AlTa)) was stated, while in Ni-Ta-Al-C-Co-Cr and Ni-Ta-Al-C-Cr alloys, besides Tantalum carbides also the Chromium carbides precipitation occurred. It means that the investigated alloys were partially supersaturated in as-cast state. Above 1050°C in all investigated alloys the g’ phase is dissolving. In addition, the precipitation of secondary carbides during slow cooling was occured.
Influence of Rare Earth Metals on Microstructure and Inclusions Morphology G17CrMo5-5 Cast Steel
Authors: Kasińska J.
Published: November 2014

This paper presents influence of rare earth metals (REM) on the microstructure and morphology of non-metallic inclusions of G17CrMo5-5 cast carbon steel The research has been performed on successive industrial melts. Each time about 2000 kg of liquid metal was modified. The REM was in the form of mishmetal of the composition 49, 8% Ce, 21, 8% La, 17, 1% Nd, 5, 5% Pr and 5, 35% the rest of REM. Therareearth metals were put into the ladle during tapping of heat melt from the furnace.
Gold Nanoparticles As A Modifying Agent of Ceramic-Polymer Composites
Authors: Sobczak-Kupiec A. , Tyliszczak B. , Krupa-Żuczek K. , Malina D. , Piątkowski M. , Wzorek Z.
Published: November 2014

Much effort has been invested in the development of biomaterials for the repair or replacement of hard tissue. The synthesis of composites based on mineral and organic constituents is nowadays extremely important for the development of materials for biomedical applications. In this paper we report the preparation and characterization of ceramic-polymer composites doped with gold nanoparticles. Properties and applications in medicine and dentistry of colloidal gold nanoparticles depends upon their size and shape. The influence of the presence of the metallic nanoparticles on the degradation process was investigated by pH and conductivity analyses of water filtrates. The nanocomposites were characterized with the use of X-ray Diffaction (XRD) and Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) methods.

The results of in vitro tests confirmed that it is possible to produce hydroxyapatite/polymer (HA/polymer) composites doped with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) for medical applications. Tests proved that content of gold nanoparticles in composites had influence on degradation behaviour of HA/Polymer/AuNPs in water environment.
The Magnetoelectric Effect of a Ni0.3Zn0.62Cu0.08Fe2O4 - PbFe0.5Nb0.5O3 Multilayer Composite
Authors: Guzdek P. , Sikora M. , Góra Ł. , Kapusta Cz.
Published: November 2014

The magnetoelectric effect in multiferroic materials has been widely studied for its fundamental interest and practical applications. The magnetoelectric effect observed for single phase materials like Cr2O3, BiFeO3, and Pb(Fe0.5Nb0.5)O3 is usually small. A much larger effect can be obtained in composites consisting of magnetostrictive and piezoelectric phases. This paper investigates the magnetoelectric effect of a multilayer (laminated) structure consisting of 6 nickel ferrite and 7 PFN relaxor layers. It describes the synthesis and tape casting process for Ni0.3Zn0.62Cu0.08Fe2O4 ferrite and relaxor PbFe0.5Nb0.5O3 (PFN). Magnetic hysteresis, ZFC - FC curves and dependencies of magnetization versus temperature for PFN relaxor and magnetoelectric composite were measured with a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) in an applied magnetic field up to 85 kOe at a temperature range of 10 – 400 K. Magnetoelectric effect at room temperature was investigated as a function of a static magnetic field (0.3 - 6.5 kOe) and the frequency of sinusoidal magnetic field (0.01 - 6.5 kHz). At lower magnetic field, the magnetoelectric coefficient increases slightly before reaching a maximum and then decreases. The magnetoelectric coefficient aME increases continuously as the frequency is raised, although this increase is less pronounced in the 1-6.5 kHz range. Maximum values of the magnetoelectric coefficient attained for the layered composites exceed about 50 mV/(Oe cm).
Determination of Parameters of the Moulding Sand Reclamation Process, on the Thermal Analysis Bases
Authors: Łucarz M. , Grabowska B. , Grabowski G.
Published: November 2014

For the practical and functional reasons the investigation of the thermal decomposition process is of an essential meaning in relation to the thermal stabilisation of materials and obtaining for them the desired thermal properties. On the other side, thermal tests are carried out in order to identify degradation mechanisms, which is important in the environment protection context, including materials reuse. The cycle of investigations in which thermal TG-DTA methods were applied as supplementary ones for the works on the optimisation of the thermal reclamation process is presented in the hereby paper. The thermal reclamation process as a utilisation method of spent moulding and core sands is more costly than other reclamation methods, but in the majority of cases it simultaneously provides the best cleaning of mineral matrices from organic binders. Thus, the application of the thermal analysis methods (TG-DTA), by determining the temperature range within which a degradation followed by a destruction of bounded organic binders in moulding sands, can contribute to the optimisation of the thermal reclamation process and to the limiting its realisation costs.
Technological Properties of SiC-Based Ceramic Slurries for Manufacturing Investment Casting Shell Moulds
Authors: Małek M. , Wiśniewski P. , Matysiak H. , Zagórska M. , Kurzydłowski K. J.
Published: November 2014

In this work technological properties of ceramic slurries based on silicon carbide were characterized. Silicon carbide and poly(vinyl alcohol) in an amount 6%, 10% and 15 wt. % as a solution were added to prepare the ceramic slurries. Solid phase content in ceramic slurries was 62, 5 wt.%. Plate weight test, pH, density, viscosity (measured by the Zhan 4# cup) and dynamic viscosity were investigated. Dipping test on wax model was done to measure adhesive properties. Characterization of SiC fillers powder was made by determination of grain size, density, chemical composition, Zeta potential and by use of scanning electron microscopy. Obtained results of ceramic slurries based on SiC meet standard specification in industrial investment casting and its properties are very promising for future application in investment casting of superalloys.