bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The use of lighter-weight blastfurnace slag as dense coarse aggregate in concrete
Authors: Gutt W. , Teychenné D. C. , Harrison W. H.
Published: July 2012

Synopsis

The use of imported iron ores has led, in recent years, to a lowering in the bulk density of some blastfurnace slags produced in the United Kingdom. To take account of this change, it was decided to examine the properties of this lighter-weight slag and its suitability as dense coarse aggregatefor concrete. Accordingly, studies have been made of three slag aggregates having bulk densities below the minimum of 1250 kg/m3 specified in British Standard 1047:1925, which governs the use of dense coarse slag aggregates for concrete. This investigation, which included chemical and mineralogical examination of the aggregates and concrete durability studies up to five years from casting, has now been completed. It has been established that the strength and durability of concretes made with the lighter-weight slags did not differ significantly from those of control concretes made with flint gravel, crushed limestone and normal density slag, provided that adequate cement content and workability levels were ensured by appropriate mix design techniques. The investigations carried out included examination of reinforcing steel takenfrom the concrete. These findings could lead to a lowering of the bulk density minimum in BS 1047, andfurther encourage the utilization of blastfurnace slag as dense coarse aggregate for concrete.
Plastic analysis of shear in reinforced concrete
Authors: Bræstrup Mikael W.
Published: July 2012

Synopsis

The square yield condition and associated flow rule for concrete are postulated. The state of stress in a kinematical discontinuity (crack) in plain concrete is derived and it is shown that interface shear transfer occurs when the relative displacement rate is not normal to the crack. This is used to analyse the shear of an orthogonally reinforced concrete disc element, including the case when the reinforcement in one direction does not yield. This is also the case for reinforced concrete beams subjected to shear, and the shear strength of a beam with compression flange is derived. The solution is compared with test results, and with the British and the Danish Codes of Practice.
Apparatus for testing concrete under multiaxial states of stress
Authors: Newman J. B.
Published: July 2012

Synopsis

The paper describes the equipment and techniques for applying multiaxial stress states to specimens of concrete, and accurately measuring the deformation at small and large strains. Particular attention is given to inducing uniform and definable states of stress, together with ease and accuracy of control during the various loading regimes. Details of the construction of the apparatus and principles of operation are given.
Estimating long-term creep and shrinkage from short-term tests
Authors: Brooks J. J. , Neville A. M.
Published: July 2012

Synopsis

From experimental results on a range of mixes made with two lightweight and two normal-weight aggregates and from an analysis of numerous data of other investigators, it is proposed that creep and shrinkage at one year can be predicted from measured values at between 7 and 28 days by means of linear and power equations. Equations for the prediction of longer-term values are also given.
Time-dependent and steady-state stresses in concrete structures with steel reinforcement, at normal and raised temperatures
Authors: England G. L. , Jordaan I. J.
Published: July 2012

Synopsis

Stresses and displacements in concrete structures are influenced by the creep of concrete. When loads and temperatures are sustained, stresses tend to limiting or steady-state values which are influenced by the presence of steel reinforcement and concrete shrinkage. The paper describes the influence of these two factors in symmetrically reinforced concrete columns. It is shown that two steady-state solutions are possible: an elastic steady state in which all the column load is carried by the reinforcement and the steel remains in the elastic range, and a yield steady state for which there is a shared load between the steel and concrete, but the reinforcement is in a yield condition. The inclusion of shrinkage leads to more rapid stress changes towards the steady state and to an earlier state of yield in some cases.
Fibre bond strengths in cement and concrete
Authors: Hughes B. P. , Dougill J. W.
Published: July 2012

Synopsis

The bond strength between fibre and matrix in cement-based fibre-reinforced composites is usually low and the more successful fibres tend to have some form of mechanical anchorage. However, since the bond strength between fibre and matrix also depends upon the degree of damage sustained by the matrix, the satisfactory prediction of fibre efficiencies is very difficult, and bond test results for single fibres have shown poor correlation with the corresponding tensile properties of the composites. The paper describes an improved form of bond test for single or grouped fibres of various shapes, diameters, lengths and distributions.
Increase in creep of hardened cement paste due to carbonation under load
Authors: Parrott L. J.
Published: July 2012

Synopsis

Carbonation usually affects only a small portion, the surface layer, of structural concrete but in laboratory specimens a large portion of the total volume may become carbonated. It is shown experimentally that carbonation under load can increase the creep of small laboratory specimens by more than 50% and thus limit the practical application of laboratory creep results. The experimental work was performed on prisms of hardened cement paste with a water/cement ratio of 0·47. Various techniques were used to indicate the changes in hardened cement paste structure that resulted from carbonation; these led to a description of the paste that could account both for the experimental results and for other data indicating that carbonation prior to loading reduces creep.
Inelastic behaviour of ferrocement slabs in bending
Authors: Austriaco N. C. , Lee S. L. , Pama R. P.
Published: July 2012

Synopsis

The inelastic behaviour of ferrocement slabs in bending is studied analytically and experimentally with particular reference to rectangular slabs under cylindrical bending and circular slabs under central load applied through a boss. Analytically, the ferrocement slab is treated as an elastic-strain-hardening material with a limit surface. Its moment-curvature relationships are derived on the assumption that the wire mesh yields as soon as it is impinged by a crack. These relationships lead to an idealized trilinear moment-curvature curve which is used in the analytical study. The load-deformation up to the ultimate loads of the rectangular slabs under cylindrical bending is predicted by means of this trilinear analysis. For the circular slabs under central load applied through a boss, the trilinear analysis is used to predict the deflections up to the load level beyond which non-regular progression of stress points occurs. The laborious and time-consuming calculations associated with the solution involving non-regular progression of stress points is avoided by the observation that, at higher loads, the deflections of the ferrocement slabs can be approximated by an elastic-perfectly-plastic bilinear analysis. Experimental results are shown to be in good agreement with theoretically predicted values.
Effects of plant identity and diversity on the dietary choice of a soil‐living insect herbivore
Authors: Schallhart Nikolaus , Tusch Manuel Josef , Wallinger Corinna , Staudacher Karin , Traugott Michael
Published: July 2012

Plant identity and diversity influence herbivore communities in many different ways. While it is well known how they affect the feeding preferences of aboveground herbivores, this information is lacking for soil ecosystems, where examining plant–herbivore trophic interactions is difficult. We performed a mesocosm experiment assessing how plant identity and diversity affect the food choice ofAgrioteslarvae, which are soil‐living generalist herbivores. We offered four plant species, (maize, a grass, a legume, and a forb) at varying combinations and diversity levels to these larvae, and analyzed their feeding behavior using stable isotopes. We hypothesized that (1) their food choice is driven by preference for certain plant species rather than by root abundance and that (2) the preference for specific plants changes with increasing plant diversity. We found that larvae preferred the grass and legume but avoided maize and the forb. Whether a plant was preferred or avoided was independent of diversity, but the extent of avoidance or preference changed with increasing plant diversity. Our findings reveal that the dietary choice of soil‐living generalist herbivores is determined by plant‐specific traits rather than root abundance. Our data also suggest that soil herbivore feeding preferences are modulated by plant diversity.
Individual‐based movement models reveals sex‐biased effects of landscape fragmentation on animal movement
Authors: Anadón J. D. , Wiegand T. , Giménez A.
Published: July 2012

Animal movement and behavior may respond to habitat modification or fragmentation in non trivial ways, thereby strongly conditioning the fate of populations. This study aims to understand movement patterns of non‐dispersal animals in both natural and altered landscapes, using the endangered terrestrial tortoise Testudo graeca as example. We used individual‐based simulation models representing competing hypotheses on tortoise movement. Model parameterization and selection was based on radiotracking data and an inverse approach that is able to deal with observation uncertainty, individual variability, and process stochasticity. We find that land use intensification had a strong impact on the movement and behavior of non‐dispersing individuals of T. graeca. In natural landscapes, males and females showed a similar movement and behavior profile with a strong home behavior component, and little individual variability. However, in altered landscapes, movement and behavior greatly varied among individuals, particularly in females, and males and females showed different movement patterns. Females showed a wide range of movement patterns, from strong home behavior to an unbounded movement. Our study shows that population or movement models that assume single behavioral states for animals inhabiting different landscape structures can be strongly misleading and, furthermore, that the impact of landscape modification on movement and behavioral patterns can be strongly sex‐biased. Flexible, individual‐based movement models coupled with inverse parameterization and model selection approaches proved useful in understanding the mechanisms controlling animal movement patterns.
Personal Growth and the Transition to Grandfatherhood
Authors: Taubman—Ben-Ari Orit , Findler Liora , Shlomo Shirley Ben
Published: July 2012

The study examined personal growth among new grandfathers ( n = 101, age 45–67), 2 to 24 months after the birth of their first grandchild. Specifically, it investigated the contribution of internal resources (self-esteem), perceived characteristics of the situation (grandparenthood distress and cognitive appraisals of threat, challenge, and self-efficacy), and external resources (perceived marital relationship) to the experience of growth. Associations with several background variables, including age, education, health and economic status, grandchild's age, and frequency of grandfather-grandchild meetings, were also examined. The results showed that lower internal resources, a positive assessment of the situation, and lower education were most closely associated with a higher experience of growth in first-time grandfathers. The discussion relates to the uniqueness of focusing on grandfathers and the potential for personal growth in this new family role.
Principles of livestock development in the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Petrovic M.P. , Petrovic M.M. , Petrovic Caro , Muslic Ruzic , Ilic Z. , Petrovic M. , Pavlovski Z.
Published: July 2012

Livestock production is an important branch of agriculture in the Republic of
Serbia because it provides necessary products (milk, meat, eggs). In
addition, livestock production provides raw materials for food industry and
leather industry. Livestock production is expected to provide quality
products for export, primarily beef and lamb. There is an opportunity for
export of cheese (especially sheep and goat milk cheese) with defined origin
and standard of quality. However, based on available data, the situation in
livestock production is assessed as negative. In the last years, number of
heads of all species of domestic animals has decreased continuously. In
several years, Serbia will become member of European Union (EU). This means
that livestock production should prepare for competition in the single
developed market, without any state trade barriers. Serbia's membership in
international organizations, liberalization of trade in livestock products, a
small possibility of protection from imports, the implementation of quality
standards (HACCP, ISO, Global GAP), reduced levels of domestic support,
elimination of export subsidies, increase profitability and ability to be
competitive on the international market. Based on these circumstances, it is
necessary to build efficient livestock production that can compete in the
European market contributing to the growth of farmers and national income.
Analysis of environmental and genetic factors in growth characteristics of Balkan goat
Authors: Caro-Petrovic V. , Ilic Z. , Ruzic-Muslic D. , Petrovic M.P. , Petrovic M.M. , Tomic Z. , Marinkov G.
Published: July 2012

Research was conducted on animals of Balkan goat breed. The impact of
environmental factors on the weight of kids was analyzed, and also the value
of genetic parameters of growth traits of kids to weaning had been examined.
The body weight of kids varied depending on the year from 2.27?0.09 kg to
2.43?0.08 kg at birth and 10.81?0.58 kg to 11.13?0.51 kg at weaning.
Variations depending on the season, ranged from 2.24?0.09 kg to 2.51?0.05 kg.
Sex also had an impact because the male kids had higher weight of 0.12 kg at
birth and 0.20 kg at weaning. All differences caused by environmental factors
were statistically significant (P<0.01). Single born kids in comparison with
twin born kids had higher birth weight by 0.22 kg at birth and 0.37 kg in
weaning. The differences were statistically significant (P<0.01). It is a
known fact that the increase in litter size influences decrease in body
weight of kids. We also found that the weight at birth is associated with
body weight at weaning. Heritability for growth traits observed moving in the
range of low values from 0.102 ? 0.039 to 0.153 ? 0.041. Repeatability of the
observed traits varied from low to medium values in the interval from 0.118 ?
0.030 to 0.528 ? 0025.
Feed restriction in broiler chickens production
Authors: Sahraei M.
Published: July 2012

The feed restriction program is on of the main techniques in growth curve
manipulation for increasing production efficiency in broiler chicken.
Quantities and qualitative feed restriction are procedures that can be used
to manipulate the feeding strategies of poultry in order to decrease growth
and metabolic rate to some extent and so alleviate the incidence of some
metabolic diseases such as ascites, lameness, mortality, and sudden death
syndrome and so improving feed conversion and reducing feed cost. Also to
produce a leaner bird and reduce the unfavourable effects of fat on human
health, and to reduce fat deposition in broiler carcasses using of feed
restriction programs can be profitable in broiler chickens production. This
article surveys new findings in feed restriction of broilers and evaluates
the application of feed restriction methods to broiler chicken production.
Comparative evaluation of quality and composition of ostrich, turkey and broiler meat
Authors: Jukna V. , Klementaviciūtė J. , Meskinytė-Kausilienė E. , Peciulaitienė N. , Samborskytė M. , Ambrasūnas L.
Published: July 2012

In this article are presented research data on comparative evaluation of meat
quality of various poultry species. The study was made on 5 samples of
ostrich, turkey and broiler meat. Samples were weighed 500 to 550 grams.
Qualitative and nutritional properties of meat from different species of
poultry were estimated. The chemical composition, pH, color, firmness, water
holding capacity, cooking loss, drip loss of ostrich, turkey and broiler meat
were analyzed. Meat quality studies were carried out according to generally
accepted methodologies. Analyses have shown that the highest fat content was
in the broiler meat (p <0.001). Ostrich, turkey and broiler meat acidity
values were very similar, slightly more distinct in turkey meat (p <0.01).
The lowest water holding capacity was established in ostrich, the highest in
turkey meat (p <0.01). Comparison in regard to meat firmness, it was observed
on the ostrich meat had the highest firmness (p <0.01). Also, the highest
cholesterol content was established in the ostrich meat.
Artificial neural network model of pork meat cubes osmotic dehydratation
Authors: Pezo Lato , Curcic Biljana , Filipovic Vladimir , Nicetin Milica , Koprivica Gordana , Misljenovic Nevena , Levic Ljubinko
Published: July 2012

Mass transfer of pork meat cubes (M. triceps brachii), shaped as 1x1x1
cm, during osmotic dehydration (OD) and under atmospheric pressure was
investigated in this paper. The effects of different parameters, such as
concentration of sugar beet molasses (60-80%, w/w), temperature (20-50?C),
and immersion time (1-5 h) in terms of water loss (WL), solid gain (SG),
final dry matter content (DM), and water activity (aw), were investigated
using experimental results. Five artificial neural network (ANN) models were
developed for the prediction of WL, SG, DM, and aw in OD of pork meat cubes.
These models were able to predict process outputs with coefficient of
determination, r2, of 0.990 for SG, 0.985 for WL, 0.986 for aw, and 0.992 for
DM compared to experimental measurements. The wide range of processing
variables considered for the formulation of these models, and their easy
implementation in a spreadsheet calculus make it very useful and practical
for process design and control.
Accrual Quality, Realized Returns, and Expected Returns: The Importance of Controlling for Cash Flow Shocks
Authors: Ogneva Maria
Published: July 2012

This paper develops a simple methodology based on the earnings response coefficient framework that allows decomposing realized returns into cash flow shocks and returns excluding cash flow shocks. I find that stocks with poor (good) accrual quality were on average subject to relatively lower (higher) cash flow shocks over the past 37 years. These lower (higher) cash flow shocks offset the higher (lower) expected returns of poor (good) accrual quality firms. After excluding cash flow shocks, future realized returns are negatively associated with accrual quality. The premiums pertaining to accrual quality are both statistically and economically significant in standard asset-pricing tests when cash flow shocks are excluded by firm-specific return decomposition. Overall, this paper provides evidence on the existence of a priced accrual quality risk factor, and underscores the importance of controlling for cash flow shocks in asset-pricing tests that use realized returns.
Valuation Consequences of Clawback Provisions
Authors: Iskandar-Datta Mai , Jia Yonghong
Published: July 2012

We investigate the degree to which including a clawback provision in executive compensation contracts is an effective governance mechanism by documenting the impact of clawback adoption on stock prices. We expect this ex post settling-up mechanism to be beneficial because it diminishes financial reporting risks. In support of our hypotheses, we find that the shareholders of adopting firms experience statistically significant positive stock-valuation consequences relative to propensity-score-matched control samples. Further, firms with previous financial restatements had the largest economic gains, suggesting that a clawback policy can be effective at curtailing incentives for earnings manipulation. Analysis of the bid-ask spread provides evidence that these provisions contribute to reducing financial reporting risk for restating firms, while non-restating firms experience no change in the spread. We find no evidence that clawback provisions entail costs in the form of higher CEO compensation following adoption nor do they influence the design of compensation contracts.

JEL Classifications: G30; G34; G38; K12; K22.

Data Availability: Data are available from sources identified in the paper.
Accounting Students' Sensitivity to Attributes of Information Integrity
Authors: Berger Leslie , Boritz J. Efrim
Published: July 2012

This study investigates how students incorporate information integrity impairments into judgments and judgment confidence. The effects of four information integrity attributes (completeness, currency, accuracy, and authorization) were examined. Our results show that accounting students incorporate some information integrity attributes into their judgments and judgment confidence. As the severity of the integrity impairments increased, accounting students assigned more weight to information integrity impairments in judging the performance of division managers. We find that accounting students' judgments are incorrectly influenced by information integrity. Performance judgments were positively correlated with the level of information integrity as if the accounting students were rewarding or penalizing managers for the integrity of the information. Our results indicate that as information integrity impairments increase, students are more interested in postponing their judgments to seek additional information. Given the importance of information integrity in the accounting profession, it is critical that accounting students develop the ability to appropriately consider information integrity impairments when making judgments. The results of this study are important to accounting instructors that teach information integrity issues in their courses.
The Current State of Accounting Ph.D. Programs in the United States
Authors: Brink Alisa G. , Glasscock Robson , Wier Benson
Published: July 2012

The primary purpose of this study is to provide evidence about current practices in accounting Ph.D. programs in the United States. Plumlee et al. (2006) investigated the shortage of Ph.D. qualified accounting faculty and made recommendations toward addressing this shortage. We assess the extent to which these recommendations have been followed and areas where additional progress might be needed. We gather data from Ph.D. program websites, a survey of doctoral students in accounting Ph.D. programs in the United States, and interviews with Ph.D. program coordinators. Key findings, following Plumlee et al. (2006) indicate: (1) on average, university Ph.D. program websites do not provide all of the specific information about admission and program requirements that would be useful for potential students; (2) increases in the level of financial support for Ph.D. students; (3) considerable variability with respect to reduction in costs to Ph.D. students; (4) Ph.D. programs may reduce the number of students accepted in response to constrained resources; and (5) increases in students pursuing audit and tax specialties that are attributable, at least in part, to the Accounting Doctoral Scholars program. Based on our data, we also identify a number of additional findings, and then discuss the larger context within which this complex problem (the supply of Ph.D. students) is situated. Our findings and discussion should be of interest to potential Ph.D. candidates, Ph.D. program directors/advisors, business school deans, and accounting department chairs, as well as the larger accounting-professional community.
Apical root resorption due to orthodontic treatment detected by cone beam computed tomography
Authors: Castro Iury O. , Alencar Ana H. G. , Valladares-Neto José , Estrela Carlos
Published: July 2012

Objective:

To determine the frequency of apical root resorption (ARR) due to orthodontic treatment using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in a sample of 1256 roots from 30 patients.

Materials and Methods:

All patients had Class I malocclusion with crowding. Of the 30 patients evaluated, 11 were boys and 19 were girls; their mean age was 13 years (11 to 16 years). Orthodontic treatment followed the nonextraction treatment. CBCT images were obtained before and after orthodontic treatment, and ARR was determined using Axial Guided Navigation of CBCT images.

Results:

All patients had ARR. No statistically significant association was found between resorption frequency, gender, and age. ARR was detected using CBCT in 46% of all roots that underwent orthodontic treatment.

Conclusions:

CBCT was effective for detecting in vivo even minimal degrees of ARR due to orthodontic treatment and allowed three-dimensional evaluation of dental roots and visualization of palatine roots of maxillary molars. The highest frequencies and the most significant ARR occurred in incisors and distal roots of first maxillary and mandibular molars.
Historic Lime-Mortar 14C Dating of Santa María La Real (Zarautz, Northern Spain): Extraction of Suitable Grain Size for Reliable 14C Dating
Authors: Ortega Luis Angel , Zuluaga Maria Cruz , Alonso-Olazabal Ainhoa , Murelaga Xabier , Insausti Maite , Ibañez-Etxeberria Alex
Published: July 2012

This paper describes a method for effective separation of the pure binder fraction of lime mortars for reliable radiocarbon dating. The methodology allows removal of the detrital carbonate fraction and the unburnt limestone particles, obtaining particles of under 1 μm. The extracted fraction ensured that all carbonate has been generated by slaked lime carbonation. Consequently, the measured carbon corresponds to atmospheric carbon. The proposed method allows to obtain pure datable binder, simplifying considerably the performance of radiometric measurements because dating other grain-size fraction is unnecessary. In order to prove the effectiveness of binder refining, the extraction method has been applied to 5 lime mortars of different archaeological periods from the perimeter walls of Santa María la Real parish church (Zarautz, northern Spain).
Radiocarbon Dating of Pleistocene Fauna and Flora from Starunia, SW Ukraine
Authors: Kuc T , Różański K , Kotarba M J , Goslar T , Kubiak H
Published: July 2012

New attempts arc presented to determine the age of large Pleistocene mammals excavated at Starunia, ∼130 km southeast of Lviv, Ukraine. This remarkable discovery made at the beginning of the 20th century included a complete carcass of woolly rhinoceros (No. 2), fragments of 3 woolly rhinoceroses (Nos. 1, 3, and 4) and remnants of numerous specimens of other fossil fauna and flora. Although attempts to date paleontological findings from Starunia site go back to the early 1970s, the results obtained before 2006 arc somewhat misleading, mostly due to unresolved contamination problems. Comprehensive cleaning of the samples adopted in the framework of this study was aimed at removal of 2 potential sources of contamination: (i) radiocarbon-free hydrocarbons abundant at the burial site; and (ii) allochthonous organic materials containing contemporary carbon that were used in the past during preservation of the dated specimens. Two types of samples have been analyzed for their 14C content in the framework of the present study: (i) fragments of bones and teeth collected from specimens stored or exposed in the Natural History museums in Lviv and Kraków; and (ii) samples of terrestrial macrofossils retrieved from sediment cores obtained during the 2007–2008 field campaigns in the Starunia area. 14C analyses of collagen were supplemented by measurements of its elemental C/N ratio and 13C/12C and 15N/14N isotope ratios. Three 14C dates obtained for rhinoceros No. 2 span the age range from 35.3 to 40.0 ka BP, in agreement with the minimum age estimated from macrofossils. The mean value of 37.7 ± 1.7 ka BP falls in the range of ages reported for big Pleistocene mammals from other locations in Europe. The bones of rhinoceros No. 3, which were found in close vicinity to those of rhinoceros No. 2, reveal a 14C age of 36.7 ± 0.6 ka BP. The δ15N and δ13C values obtained for collagen extracted from bones and teeth belonging to rhinoceroses Nos. 1, 2, and 3 are in a broad agreement with analogous literature data for large Pleistocene mammals found in other sites in Europe, North America, and Siberia.
Rudjer Bošković Institute Radiocarbon Measurements XVII
Authors: Horvatinčić Nada , Bronić Ines Krajcar , Obelić Bogomil , Barešić Jadranka
Published: July 2012

This paper presents dating results of geological (speleothems, tufa, soil, and sediment), biological (mollusks and botanical), as well as hydrogeological samples from Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Turkey, and China. Included arc results of samples measured by gas proportional counting (GPC) in the Zagreb lab until abandonment of this technique in 2007, as well as results of several series measured by both GPC and liquid scintillation counting (LSC) methods.
Use of locking-loop pigtail nephrostomy catheters in dogs and cats: 20 cases (2004–2009)
Authors: Berent Allyson C. , Weisse Chick W. , Todd Kimberly L. , Bagley Demetrius H.
Published: July 2012

Objective—To describe the procedure and clinical usefulness of locking-loop pigtail nephrostomy catheter (PNC) placement in dogs and cats.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—16 cats (18 kidneys) and 4 dogs (4 kidneys) that underwent PNC placement.

Procedures—Medical records of patients that underwent PNC placement were reviewed. The PNCs were placed percutaneously with ultrasonographic and fluoroscopic guidance or via a ventral midline laparotomy with fluoroscopic guidance. Either a modified Seldinger technique or a 1-stab trocar introduction technique was used for PNC placement. Preoperative renal pelvic size, postoperative renal pelvic decompression, catheter patency, serum biochemical changes, and results of microbial culture of urine samples were reviewed. Length of time the catheter was in place, reason and method for catheter removal, complications, and clinical outcomes were noted.

Results—Reasons for PNC placement were ureterolithiasis (15 kidneys), ureteral stricture (3), malignant obstruction (2), and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (2). Seven of 22 catheters were placed percutaneously, and 15 were placed via a ventral midline laparotomy. Catheters were either size 5F (n = 17) or 6F (5). The PNCs remained indwelling for a median of 7 days (range, 1 to 28 days). Catheter-associated complications included urine leakage (n = 1) and accidental dislodgement by the patient at home (1). All catheters performed successfully by providing temporary urine diversion and drainage for successful renal pelvis decompression.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Placement of locking-loop PNCs was safe, effective, and well tolerated in dogs and cats for temporary urine diversion to achieve renal pelvis decompression.
Treatment of intestinal pythiosis in a dog with a combination of marginal excision, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy
Authors: Schmiedt Chad W. , Stratton-Phelps Meri , Torres Bryan T. , Bell Dennis , Uhl Elizabeth W. , Zimmerman Shawn , Epstein Jason , Cornell Karen K.
Published: July 2012

Case Description—A 1.5-year-old mixed-breed dog was examined because of a 1-month history of anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.

Clinical Findings—The dog was very thin on physical examination (body condition score, 3/9). Results of all diagnostic tests were within reference limits except intestinal thickening and lymphadenopathy were identified on abdominal ultrasound examination. During exploratory laparotomy, thickening at the ileocecal-colic junction and within the transverse colon and mesenteric lymphadenopathy were identified, and the ileocecal-colic junction was resected. Histopathologic evaluation of the ileocecal-colic junction and full-thickness biopsy specimens from other sites as well as results of a serum ELISA were diagnostic for gastrointestinal Pythium insidiosum infection.

Treatment and Outcome—Pythiosis was initially treated medically with administration of itraconazole and terbinafine by mouth, but the colonic lesion was progressive with this regimen. Two months after diagnosis, a subtotal colectomy was performed; marginal excision (0.6 cm) was obtained at the aboral margin. The dog was treated with 3 doses of a pythiosis vaccine beginning approximately 2 weeks after surgery and was continued on itraconazole and terbinafine for 5 months. Parenteral and enteral nutrition as well as considerable general supportive care were required postoperatively. Six months after treatment, the dog had a normal serum ELISA titer. Two years after treatment, the dog had returned to preoperative weight and was clinically normal.

Clinical Relevance—This patient had an unusually positive therapeutic response to chronic, extensive, marginally excised gastrointestinal pythiosis.
Can Online Conference Systems Improve Veterinary Education? A Study about the Capability of Online Conferencing and its Acceptance
Authors: Koch Michael , Fischer Martin R. , Tipold Andrea , Ehlers Jan P.
Published: July 2012

In veterinary medicine, there is an ongoing need for students, educators, and veterinarians to exchange the latest knowledge in their respective fields and to learn about unusual cases, emerging diseases, and treatment. Networking among veterinary faculties is developing rapidly, but conferences and meetings can be difficult to attend because of time limitations and travel costs. The current study examines acceptance of synchronous online conferences, seminars, meetings, and lectures by veterinarians and students. First, an online survey on the use of communication technology in veterinary medicine was made available for 15 weeks to every German-speaking veterinary university and via professional journals and an online veterinary forum. A total of 1,776 persons (620 veterinarians and 1,156 students) participated. Most reported using the Internet at least once per day; more than half reported using instant messengers. Most participants used the Internet for communication, but less than half used Skype. Second, to test the spectrum of tools for online conferences, a variety of “virtual classroom” systems (netucate systems iLinc, Adobe Acrobat Connect Pro, Cisco WebEx, Skype) were used to deliver student lectures, veterinary continuing-education courses, and academic conferences at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover (TiHo). Of 591 participants in 63 online events, 99.4% rated the virtual events as enjoyable, 96.1% found them useful, and 92.4% said that they learned a lot. Participants noted that the courses were not tied to a certain place, and thus saved time and travel costs. Online conference systems thus offer new opportunities to provide information in veterinary medicine.
The effect of discrete recharge by moulins and heterogeneity in flow-path efficiency at glacier beds on subglacial hydrology
Authors: Gulley J.D. , Grabiec M. , Martin J.B. , Jania J. , Catania G. , Glowacki P.
Published: July 2012

Subglacial conduit systems are thought to consist of dendritic networks that exist at lower pressure than distributed systems and have locations that are determined by theoretical hydraulic potential. On glaciers with moulins, however, meltwater is delivered to glacier beds at discrete points, violating assumptions of uniform recharge needed to calculate potential. To understand how moulins affect subglacial conduit hydrology, we used speleological techniques to map 0.4 km of subglacial conduit at the base of a moulin in Hansbreen, Svalbard, and compared our observations with theoretical predictions. The conduit began in an area predicted to lack drainage, crossed equipotential contours at oblique rather than right angles and was locally anastomotic rather than dendritic. We propose moulin locations, which are determined by the locations of supraglacial streams and crevasses, control locations of subglacial recharge. Because conduits have no direct causal relationship with gradients in effective pressure, this recharge can form conduits in areas of glacier beds that may not be predicted by hydraulic potential theory to have conduits. Recharge by moulins allows hydraulic head to increase in conduits faster and to higher values than in adjacent distributed systems, resulting in an increase rather than a decrease in glacier sliding speeds above subglacial conduits.
Antioxidant Activity of Brazilian Vegetables and Its Relation with Phenolic Composition
Authors: Tiveron Ana P. , Melo Priscilla S. , Bergamaschi Keityane B. , Vieira Thais M. F. S. , Regitano-d’Arce Marisa A. B. , Alencar Severino M.
Published: July 2012

Vegetables are widely consumed in Brazil and exported to several countries. This study was performed to evaluate the phenolic content and antioxidant activity of vegetables commonly consumed in Brazil using five different methods, namely DPPH and ABTS free radical, β-carotene bleaching, reduction of Fe3+ (FRAP), oxidative stability in Rancimat, and the chemical composition using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The content of phenolic compounds ranged from 1.2 mg GA/g (carrot) to 16.9 mg GA/g (lettuce). Vegetables presenting the highest antioxidant activity were lettuce (77.2 µmol Trolox/g DPPH•; 447.1 µmol F2+/g FRAP), turmeric (118.6 µmol Trolox/g ABTS•+; 92.8% β-carotene), watercress and broccoli (protective factor 1.29—Rancimat method). Artichoke, spinach, broccoli, and asparagus also showed considerable antioxidant activity. The most frequent phenolic compounds identified by GC-MS were ferulic, caffeic, p-coumaric, 2-dihydroxybenzoic, 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acids, and quercetin. We observed antioxidant activity in several vegetables and our results point out their importance in the diet.
Enrichment and Purification of Syringin, Eleutheroside E and Isofraxidin from Acanthopanax senticosus by Macroporous Resin
Authors: Yang Fengjian , Yang Lei , Wang Wenjie , Liu Yang , Zhao Chunjian , Zu Yuangang
Published: July 2012

In order to screen a suitable resin for the preparative simultaneous separation and purification of syringin, eleutheroside E and isofraxidin from Acanthopanax senticosus, the adsorption and desorption properties of 17 widely used commercial macroporous resins were evaluated. According to our results, HPD100C, which adsorbs by the molecular tiers model, was the best macroporous resin, offering higher adsorption and desorption capacities and higher adsorption speed for syringin, eleutheroside E and isofraxidin than other resins. Dynamic adsorption and desorption tests were carried out to optimize the process parameters. The optimal conditions were as follows: for adsorption, processing volume: 24 BV, flow rate: 2 BV/h; for desorption, ethanol–water solution: 60:40 (v/v), eluent volume: 4 BV, flow rate: 3 BV/h. Under the above conditions, the contents of syringin, eleutheroside E and isofraxidin increased 174-fold, 20-fold and 5-fold and their recoveries were 80.93%, 93.97% and 93.79%, respectively.
Atypical Reactive Center Kunitz-Type Inhibitor from the Sea Anemone Heteractis crispa
Authors: Gladkikh Irina , Monastyrnaya Margarita , Leychenko Elena , Zelepuga Elena , Chausova Victoria , Isaeva Marina , Anastyuk Stanislav , Andreev Yaroslav , Peigneur Steve , Tytgat Jan , Kozlovkaya Emma
Published: July 2012

The primary structure of a new Kunitz-type protease inhibitor InhVJ from the sea anemone Heteractis crispa (Radianthus macrodactylus) was determined by protein sequencing and cDNA cloning. InhVJ amino acid sequence was shown to share high sequence identity (up to 98%) with the other known Kunitz-type sea anemones sequences. It was determined that the P1 Thr at the reactive site resulted in a decrease of the Ki of InhVJ to trypsin and α-chymotrypsin (7.38 × 10−8 M and 9.93 × 10−7 M, respectively). By structure modeling the functional importance of amino acids at the reactive site as well as at the weak contact site were determined. The significant role of Glu45 for the orientation and stabilization of the InhVJ-trypsin complex was elucidated. We can suggest that there has been an adaptive evolution of the P1 residue at the inhibitor reactive site providing specialization or functional diversification of the paralogs. The appearance of a key so-called P1 Thr residue instead of Lys might lead to refinement of inhibitor specificity in the direction of subfamilies of serine proteases. The absence of Kv channel and TRPV1-receptor modulation activity was confirmed by electrophysiological screening tests.
Effect of β-Carotene on Immunity Function and Tumour Growth in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Rats
Authors: Cui Bokang , Liu Su , Wang Qibo , Lin Xiaojun
Published: July 2012

The aim of the present study was to investigate the anticancer and immunity activity of β-carotene in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) rats. Three days after transplantation, forty Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups, each group consisting of 10 animals. These groups were control group (untreated), low-dose β-carotene-treated group (20 mg/kg), middle-dose group (40 mg/kg) and high-dose (60 mg/kg) group. β-Carotene-treated groups were fed with β-carotene (20, 40, 60 mg/kg b.w.) orally for 30 days. Control group was treated with the same volume of physiological saline. Another ten rats were served as the normal group. Results showed that 30 days of β-carotene treatment could significantly inhibit tumour growth, enhance blood NK, IL-2, TNF-α, WBC, TP, ALB and A/G levels, and decrease blood ALT, AST and ALP activities in HCC rats. Pathological analysis of liver tissue showed that β-carotene treatment may decrease damage of liver tissue in HCC rats. It can be concluded that β-carotene may improve the immunity function and inhibit tumour growth in HCC rats.
IBS-Catalyzed Regioselective Oxidation of Phenols to 1,2-Quinones with Oxone®
Authors: Uyanik Muhammet , Mutsuga Tatsuya , Ishihara Kazuaki
Published: July 2012

We have developed the first example of hypervalent iodine(V)-catalyzed regioselective oxidation of phenols to o-quinones. Various phenols could be oxidized to the corresponding o-quinones in good to excellent yields using catalytic amounts of sodium salts of 2-iodobenzenesulfonic acids (pre-IBSes) and stoichiometric amounts of Oxone® as a co-oxidant under mild conditions. The reaction rate of IBS-catalyzed oxidation under nonaqueous conditions was further accelerated in the presence of an inorganic base such as potassium carbonate (K2CO3), a phase transfer catalyst such as tetrabutylammonium hydrogen sulfate (nBu4NHSO4), and a dehydrating agent such as anhydrous sodium sulfate (Na2SO4).
Anti-Hepatitis B Virus Activity of Chickweed [Stellaria media (L.) Vill.] Extracts in HepG2.2.15 Cells
Authors: Ma Lihua , Song Jie , Shi Yaqin , Wang Changmei , Chen Bin , Xie Donghao , Jia Xiaobin
Published: July 2012

Stellaria media (Linn.) Villars is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for over 200 years, mainly for the treatment of dermatitis and other skin diseases. It has also been used as an anti-viral agent. All the fresh chickweed juice samples used in this study were prepared using macroporous resin and ultrafiltration technology. The anti-hepatitis B virus (HBV) activity of S. media was evaluated in vitro using the human HBV-transfected liver cell line HepG2.2.15. The concentrations of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) in HepG2.2.15 cell culture medium were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) after S. media-n (SM-n) treatment for 6 or 9 days. HBV DNA was quantified using transcription-mediated amplification and real-time polymerase chain reaction. In HepG2.2.15 cells, 30 μg/mL SM-3 effectively suppressed the secretion of HBsAg and HBeAg with inhibition rates of 27.92% and 25.35% after 6 days of treatment, respectively. Consistent with the reduction in HBV antigens, SM-3 also reduced the level of HBV DNA in a dose-dependent manner. The characterization and quantitation of the chemical composition of SM-3 showed the presence of flavonoid C-glycosides, polysaccharides, and protein, which exhibited diverse antiviral activities. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that SM-3 possesses potential anti-HBV activity in vitro. This is the first report demonstrating the anti-HBV effects of S. media, which is currently under early development as a potential anti-HBV drug candidate.
Deployment of Mobile Learning Course Materials to Android Powered Mobile Devices
Authors: Chao Lee
Published: July 2012

The objective of this article is to facilitate mobile teaching and learning by providing an alternative course material deployment method. This article suggests a course material deployment platform for small universities or individual instructors. Different from traditional course material deployment methods, the method discussed deploys course materials by using services provided by Android Market. After comparing the traditional course material deployment and the alternative deployment, the author presents strategies to take advantage of Android Market in delivering course materials to mobile devices. Through a case study, this article illustrates the application of these strategies in deploying a class menu for an object-oriented programming course in the computer science curriculum.
‘One Health’ infectious diseases surveillance in Tanzania: Are we all on board the same flight?
Authors: Mbugi Erasto V. , Kayunze Kim A. , Katale Bugwesa Z. , Kendall Sharon , Good Liam , Kibik Gibson S. , Keyyu Julius D. , Godfrey-Faussett Peter , Van Helden Paul , Matee Mecky I.
Published: July 2012

Infectious diseases account for nearly 40% of the burden of human mortality and morbidity in low-income countries, of which 7% is attributable to zoonoses and 13% to recently emerging diseases from animals. One of the strategic approaches for effective surveillance, monitoring and control of infectious diseases compromising health in both humans and animals could be through a combination of multiple disciplines. The approach can be achieved through a joint effort from stakeholders comprising health professionals (medical and veterinary), social, economic, agricultural, environmental and other interested parties. With resource scarcity in terms of number of staff, skills and facility in low-income countries, participatory multi- sectoral and multidisciplinary approaches in limiting the burden of zoonotic diseases could be worthwhile. We review challenging issues that may limit the ‘One Health’ approach for infectious diseases surveillance in Tanzania with a focus on Health Policy and how best the human and animal health systems could be complemented or linked to suit the community in need for disease control under the theme’s context.