bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hematometra e Hiperplasia Endometrial Quística en una Perra: Descripción de un Caso
Authors: Sánchez R. Alfonso
Published: May 2015

Se describe el caso de una perra Bullmastiff de 4.5 años que fue presentada a consulta por secreción vaginal hemorrágica prolongada. No se observó compromiso sistémico en el examen ginecológico, se estableció el estado de anestro por citología vaginal y medición de progesterona plasmática (<1 ng/ml), y se confirmó la presencia de contenido y aumento de tamaño uterino mediante ecografía. Además, se determinó una leve anemia regenerativa. Dado el historial de ciclos estrales irregulares de la hembra, se optó por la ovariohisterectomía como tratamiento. En la evaluación del útero se observó la presencia de sangre en el lumen uterino y de quistes en la mucosa, dándose como diagnóstico una hematometra concomitante con hiperplasia endometrial quística.
Identificación Hematológica y Molecular de Anaplasma platys en Caninos Domésticos de Lima Metropolitana con Signos Clínicos Compatibles con Anaplasmosis
Authors: Tateishi T. Viviana , Lí E. Olga , Hoyos S. Luis , Rivera G. Hermelinda , Manchego S. Alberto , Barrios A. Luis , More B. Juan
Published: May 2015

El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar la presencia de Anaplasma platys en caninos domésticos de Lima Metropolitana con signos clínicos compatibles con anaplasmosis, mediante la identificación de corpúsculos de inclusión en plaquetas y a través de la técnica Hemi-Nested PCR en muestras de sangre periférica. Se recolectaron 144 muestras de sangre entre enero y diciembre de 2012. De estas, el 29.2% (42/144) fue positiva (individuos trombocitopénicos con presencia de corpúsculos de inclusión en plaquetas) y el 12.5% (18/144) resultó sospechoso (individuos no trombocitopénicos y presencia de corpúsculos de inclusión en plaquetas) a la identificación hematológica. Asimismo, 1.4% (2/144) resultó positivo a la prueba de Hemi-Nested PCR. Estos hallazgos confirman la presencia de A. platys en caninos domésticos en el país.
Presencia de Piscirickettsia salmonis en Truchas de Cultivo (Oncorhynchus mykiss) en Junín, Perú
Authors: Yunis A. Jefferson , Anicama D. Jahir , Manchego S. Alberto , Sandoval C. Nieves
Published: May 2015

El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la posible presencia de Piscirickettsia salmonis en truchas de cultivo (Oncorhynchus mykiss) en la cuenca del río Mantaro, Junín, Perú, mediante la prueba de inmunofluorescencia indirecta (IFI). Se obtuvieron 180 truchas en forma aleatoria de tres piscigranjas, se beneficiaron, se les realizó la necropsia y se recolectaron muestras de riñón y bazo. Los tejidos fueron sometidos a la prueba de inmunofluorescencia indirecta (IFI). Todas las muestras resultaron negativas a P. salmonis; sin embargo, se encontraron peces con signos clínicos de enfermedad como úlceras en la piel, melanosis, abultamiento del abdomen y exoftalmia; asimismo, en órganos internos se encontraron hemorragias petequiales en hígado, ciegos pilóricos y grasa abdominal, esplenomegalia y palidez hepática.
The association between rotating shift work and increased occupational stress in nurses
Authors: Lin Pei‐Chen , Chen Chung‐Hey , Pan Shung‐Mei , Chen Yao‐Mei , Pan Chih‐Hong , Hung Hsin‐Chia , Wu Ming‐Tsang
Published: May 2015

The association between rotating shift work and increased occupational stress in nurses: Pei‐Chen Lin, et al. Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Kaohsiung Medical University, Taiwan

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate whether rotating shift work increases occupational stress in nurses.

Methods

This study measured shift work scheduling and occupational stress by using the Effort‐Reward Imbalance model with self‐reported questionnaires in a sample of 654 female nurses.

Results

Overcommitment risk was higher in nurses who worked rotating shifts than in those who worked day/non‐night shifts (OR, 2.16; 95% CI, 1.03−4.66). However, an effort/reward imbalance was not directly associated with work schedules (OR, 1.88; 95% CI, 0.87−4.35). Among nurses working rotation rotating shifts, those who had 2 days off after their most recent night shifts showed an alleviated risk of overcommitment (OR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.32−0.82), but those who had worked for at least one series of 7 consecutive work days per month had an increased risk of effort/reward imbalance (OR, 2.75; 95% CI, 1.69−4.48). Additionally, those who had little or no participation in planning working hours and shift scheduling and worked overtime at least three times per week during the preceding 2 months tended to have high stress.

Conclusions

The nurses who worked rotating shifts tended to experience work‐related stress, but their stress levels improved if they had at least 2 days off after their most recent night shift and if they were not scheduled to work 7 consecutive days. These empirical data can be used to optimize work schedules for nurses to alleviate work stress.
Biochemical composition of the fluid of ovarian cysts and pre-ovulatory follicles compared to the serum in sows
Authors: Stankiewicz T.
Published: May 2015

Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the biochemical composition of follicular cysts, pre-ovulatory follicles and serum in sows. Material and methods: The research involved multiparous sows (cysts-bearing sows, n = 21; non-cysts-bearing sows, n = 22). Concentration of glucose, protein, cholesterol (CHOL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and triacylglycerol (TAG) in the samples was determined. Results: Glucose concentration in serum was higher than in cysts and follicles (p < 0.01) and glucose concentration in cysts was higher than in follicles (p < 0.01). Differences were also observed between the concentration of glucose in serum of cysts-bearing and non-cysts-bearing sows (p < 0.01). Protein concentration in cysts and follicles was lower than in serum (p < 0.01). Concentration of cholesterol in the serum of cysts-bearing sows and non-cysts-bearing sows was higher than the one in cysts and follicles (p < 0.01). Cholesterol concentration in the serum of cysts-bearing sows was higher than the one in non-cysts-bearing sows (p < 0.01). Concentration of HDL in serum of both cysts-bearing and non-cysts-bearing sows was also higher than the one in cysts and follicles (p < 0.01). Cysts-bearing sows had a higher concentration of HDL in the serum than non-cysts-bearing sows. Differences were also observed between the concentration of HDL in cysts and the one in follicles (p < 0.05). LDL was determined not to be present in either cysts or pre-ovulatory follicles. TAG concentration in the serum of cysts-bearing sows was higher than the one in the serum of non-cysts-bearing sows (p < 0.05). Differences were also detected between the TAG concentrations in cysts and in follicles (p < 0.01). Conclusion: The differences in the biochemical composition of the fluid in follicular cysts and pre-ovulatory follicles point to the variable intensification of the course of metabolic processes in pathological and physiological ovarian structures.
Tomographic Assessment of Bone Formation after the Collares Technique of Gingivoperiosteoplasty in Patients with Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Tovo Aline H.S. , Prietsch José R. , Collares Marcus V.M.
Published: May 2015

Objectives

This cross-sectional study sought to assess bone formation and spontaneous tooth eruption in a cohort of 25 consecutive patients aged 6 to 11 years who underwent primary gingivoperiosteoplasty by the Collares technique.

Design

Cross-sectional study assessing bone formation in the cleft area using a within-group time series design.

Setting

Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), a tertiary hospital in Brazil.

Patients

Twenty-five patients with nonsyndromic, complete unilateral cleft lip and palate, no comorbidities, and unerupted permanent canines.

Intervention

Cheiloplasty was performed by means of the Millard II technique, with the addition of a triangle at the mucocutaneous junction, vomer flap nasal floor closure, and wide subperiosteal elevation, followed by gingivoperiosteoplasty by the Collares technique.

Main Outcome Measures

Cone-beam computed tomography was used to assess treatment effect. In a novel method, software was used to obtain two three-dimensional reconstructions, one each of the cleft and noncleft sides, enabling quantitative comparison of bone presence in the alveolar defect area.

Results

Of the 25 patients, 24 achieved bone bridge formation. The cleft side had 75.1% (67.9%-82.3%) of the bone volume, 70.5% (53.1%-87.9%) of the height, and 63.3% (44.1%-82.5%) of the width of the noncleft side. Bone formation was 17.28% lower in patients with lateral incisor agenesis.

Conclusion

Collares gingivoperiosteoplasty performed well as a technique for alveolar repair in patients with cleft lip and palate, allowing spontaneous eruption of deciduous and permanent lateral incisors through the bone bridge created.
Session report: ground improvements, reinforcements and geohazards
Authors: Kitazume Masaki
Published: May 2015

This session report highlights the significant contributions of the papers of the session of the 8th International Conference on Physical Modelling in Geotechnics 2014 dedicated to ‘Ground improvements, reinforcements and geohazards’. The session report refers to all of the reviewed papers in order to provide a balanced overview of the entire technical session. It discusses the latest developments and current researches in the field of ground improvements, reinforcements and geohazard works; other references on the topics are also included.
Vesuvianita violeta gemológica do skarn de Umbuzeiro Doce, Província Sheelitífera da Borborema, NE do Brasil
Authors: Ferreira Ana Cláudia Mousinho , Soares Dwight Rodrigues , Lima Rodrigo José da Silva , Suassuna Filho José , Ferreira José Aderaldo de Medeiros
Published: May 2015

O skarn de Umbuzeiro Doce está localizado na localidade de São Gonçalo, município de Santa Luzia, Estado da Paraíba, na Província Scheelitífera da Borborema, região do Seridó. Trata-se de uma pequena lente scheelitífera orientada segundo a direção NE-SW, com mergulho médio de 60° para NW e encaixada na parte intermediária de uma camada de mármore branco, contendo em ordem decrescente de percentual modal calcita, granada, vesuvianita, epídoto, diopsídio, actinolita, scheelita, flogopita e magnetita. A vesuvianita violeta ocorreu em uma dessas lentes, em uma pequena mancha anômala com área total de aproximadamente 5 m2, com contorno irregular e recortada por fraturas verticais. Esta mancha é considerada como tendo se formado como o resultado do aporte de soluções hidrotermais tardias motivando a aceleração de processos metassomáticos de substituição, que, entre outros fatores, transformaram a vesuvianita de cor mais típica na região, verde lodo, para cristais violetas, muitos deles com cobertura superficial amarela. Os resultados de difração de raios-x e refinamento Rietveld indicam a presença da fase única da vesuvianita (Ca19MgFe2Al10Si18O70(OH)8), com simetria tetragonal e grupo espacial P4/nnc. Os resultados obtidos por refinamento Rietveld exibem os seguintes parâmetros de célula unitária: a=b=15,484 Å, c=11,768 Å, α=β=γ=90°, volume=2.821,513 (Å)3 e densidade calculada 3,439 g/cm3. Apresentam índice de refração ε=1,620, e w=1,640 e sua cor é proveniente do Cr3+, com alguma contribuição do Fe2+. As vesuvianitas violetas de Umbuzeiro Doce são atrativas quando apresentadas em cristais isolados ou em amostras minerais. As gemas quando lapidadas, adquirem tons lilás suaves, além disso, pelo pouco que produziu e por não existir mais a fonte portadora, não pode ser incluída no grupo das gemas de uso corrente em joalheria, sendo restritas ao grupo de gemas raras, de interesse para pesquisadores e colecionadores.
Matérias-primas argilosas da cerâmica tipo Vitalino: caracterização e origem das reservas
Authors: Xavier Maria do Carmo Silveira de , Menor Eldemar de Albuquerque
Published: May 2015

A cidade de Caruaru – PE tornou-se mundialmente conhecida através da arte cerâmica “tipo Vitalino”, cujos seguidores sustentam seu legado artístico há várias décadas. Atualmente, a matéria-prima utilizada provém de depósitos aluvionares do rio Ipojuca que passa na localidade Alto do Moura, na vizinhança de Caruaru. Inspeções geológicas nos sítios de explotação e análises granulométricas indicam que os depósitos são aluvionares, síltico-argilosos, sedimentados durante enchentes circunstanciais, por transbordamento da calha fluvial sobre estreitas áreas de floodplain marginais. A matéria-prima, originalmente pedogênica, provém de influxos pluviais na bacia hidrográfica, implantada em domínios proterozóicos. Análises químicas sobre produtos beneficiados e análises mineralógicas (DRX de frações ≤ 2 μm) demonstraram que, apesar da blendagem com matérias-primas de melhor qualidade, o aproveitamento médio das reservas mineiras para fins cerâmicos é de 70%, e que a presença de argilominerais (essencialmente caulinita/ilita) nos produtos beneficiados variou entre 44,6 - 57,3 %. A concentração de argilominerais durante o beneficiamento para comercialização dos produtos é determinante para assegurar a necessária resposta cerâmica na calcinação final. Entretanto, não se observou perfeita correlação entre produtos com maior participação de argilominerais e as qualificações localmente conhecidas na comercialização, sendo possível que os melhores produtos estejam relacionados a uma maior presença de particulados coloidais neles contidos. Um primeiro cenário envolvendo usuários ceramistas locais, em relação às suas expectativas de consumo médio, e em relação às reservas legalmente comprometidas por concessão provisória do DNPM, indica que estas atividades poderão entrar em séria crise de provimento de matérias-primas argilosas em uma década.
Ocorrência de palinomorfos de idade devoniana, retrabalhados na Formação Crato Aptiano-Albiano da Bacia do Jatobá – Nordeste do Brasil
Authors: Nascimento Luiz Ricardo da Silva Lôbo do , Barreto Alcina Magnólia Franca , Oliveira David Holanda de
Published: May 2015

A ocorrência de palinomorfos retrabalhados de idade devoniana, presentes em associações palinológicas correspondente ao intervalo Aptiano-Albiano Inferior no Nordeste brasileiro, é reconhecida nas bacias do Parnaíba, Araripe e, a partir deste trabalho, na Bacia do Jatobá, através da análise palinológica de um testemunho de sondagem, denominado 2-JSN-01-PE, com 90,50 m de profundidade localizado em Serra Negra, Ibimirim – PE. Em função da sua constituição biológica, resistência química e por possuir pequenas dimensões, estes palinomorfos comportam-se como partículas sedimentares facilmente transportadas, depositadas, erodidas e passíveis de resistirem a um novo ciclo erosivo e deposicional. A ocorrência de acritarcas dos gêneros Veryachium sp., e Maranhites sp., retrabalhados, reportados ao Devoniano, presentes na base e na porção mediana da sequencia de idade Aptiana, na Bacia do Jatobá, indica que os sedimentos da Formação Inajá estavam expostos e que foi área-fonte de parte da sequencia terrígena da Formação Crato. Possivelmente os processos erosivos regionais, identificados nas bacias do Parnaíba, Araripe e agora na Bacia do Jatobá, estiveram associados a pulsos marinhos transgressivos durante o Aptiano.
Heterogeneous oxidation of diclofenac in the presence of α-MnO2 nanorods: influence of operating factors and mechanism
Authors: Li Jian , Zhang Tuqiao , Ye Miaomiao
Published: May 2015

Diclofenac (DCF), one of the pharmaceutical and personal care products that has been widely detected in water, was selected as a model pollutant to evaluate the oxidation activity of α-MnO2 nanorods. The results showed that the heterogeneous oxidation process is highly pH dependent, with higher degradation efficiency at lower pH values. The complete removal of DCF was obtained within 80 min at the solution pH value of 2.5. The oxidation kinetics of DCF can be modeled by Langmuir–Hinshelwood equation (R2 > 0.999). The effects of various operating parameters, including initial solution pH, α-MnO2 dosage, anions, and cations, on the oxidation efficiency were investigated in detail. A possible reaction pathway for DCF was proposed. In addition, it was demonstrated that the α-MnO2 nanorods can be recycled without decreasing their oxidation activity after 10 cycles.
Treatment performances of French constructed wetlands: results from a database collected over the last 30 years
Authors: Morvannou A. , Forquet N. , Michel S. , Troesch S. , Molle P.
Published: May 2015

Approximately 3,500 constructed wetlands (CWs) provide raw wastewater treatment in France for small communities (<5,000 people equivalent). Built during the past 30 years, most consist of two vertical flow constructed wetlands (VFCWs) in series (stages). Many configurations exist, with systems associated with horizontal flow filters or waste stabilization ponds, vertical flow with recirculation, partially saturated systems, etc. A database analyzed 10 years earlier on the classical French system summarized the global performances data. This paper provides a similar analysis of performance data from 415 full-scale two-stage VFCWs from an improved database expanded by monitoring data available from Irstea and the French technical department. Trends presented in the first study are confirmed, exhibiting high chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS) and total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) removal rates (87%, 93% and 84%, respectively). Typical concentrations at the second-stage outlet are 74 mgCOD L−1, 17 mgTSS L−1 and 11 mgTKN L−1. Pollutant removal performances are summarized in relation to the loads applied at the first treatment stage. While COD and TSS removal rates remain stable over the range of applied loads, the spreading of TKN removal rates increases as applied loads increase.
Experimental study on non-woven filamentous fibre micro-filter with high filtration speed
Authors: Niu Siping , Park Kisoo , Guerra Heidi B. , Kim Youngchul
Published: May 2015

A laboratory study was undertaken to pursue the filter performance of a micro-filter module employing highly porous fibre media under a high filtration rate (≥1,500 m/day), faster than that of any conventional filter process. The effects of filtration rate, head loss, raw water turbidity, and filter aid chemicals on filter performance were analysed. In spite of the extremely high filtration rate, the filter achieved an attractive efficiency, reducing the raw water turbidity by over 80%. As with other filter systems, the filter aid used ((polyaluminium chloride (PAC)) greatly affected the performance of this particular fibre filter. Long-term repetitive runs were additionally carried out to confirm the reproducibility of the filter performance. Also, a comparison was carried out with other high-rate filter systems which are either being tested for use in experimental studies, or are already commercially available. This study reveals that the filter performance under a high filtration speed is still attractive especially as PAC is used. Due to the high porosity of the fibre, the filter had small head loss even though the filtration rate was high. These results ascertain that it is possible to operate the filters with high filtration rate achieving reliable treatment performance.
Clinical evidence inputs to comparative effectiveness research could impact the development of novel treatments
Authors: Eber Michael R , Goldman Dana P , Lakdawalla Darius N , Philipson Tomas J , Pritchard Daryl , Huesch Marco , Summers Nicholas , Linthicum Mark T , Sullivan Jeff , Dubois Robert W
Published: May 2015

Aim:
This study aims to analyze the impacts of a range of clinical evidence generation scenarios associated with comparative effectiveness research (CER) on pharmaceutical innovation.
Materials & methods:
We used the Global Pharmaceutical Policy Model to project the effect of changes in pharmaceutical producer costs, revenues and timings on drug innovation and health for the age 55+ populations in the USA and Europe through year 2060 using three clinical scenarios.
Results:
Changes in producer incentives from widespread CER evidence generation and use had varied but often large predicted impacts on simulated outcomes in 2060. Effect on the number of new drug introductions ranged from a 81.1% reduction to a 45.5% increase, and the effect on population-level life expectancy ranged from a 15.6% reduction to a 11.4% increase compared to baseline estimates.
Conclusion:
The uncertainty surrounding the consequences of increased clinical evidence generation and use on innovation calls for a carefully measured approach to CER implementation, balancing near-term benefits to spending and health with long-term implications for innovation.
Ethical Leadership and Followers' Attitudes Toward Corporate Social Responsibility: The Role of Perceived Ethical Work Climate
Authors: Choi Suk Bong , Ullah S. M. Ebrahim , Kwak Won Jun
Published: May 2015

Increasing attention is being paid to how leaders influence followers' perceptions of the importance of ethics and corporate social responsibility (CSR) for organizational effectiveness. However, few researchers have conducted empirical investigations into the impact of leadership style
on followers' attitudes toward CSR. In this study, participants comprised 313 employees of 5 large financial and banking service firms in Korea. Results indicated that ethical leadership was strongly associated with followers' rating of CSR. In addition, we examined how employees' perception
of ethical work climate mediates and moderates the relationship between ethical leadership and followers' attitudes toward CSR. Our findings supported a positive link between ethical leadership and followers' attitudes toward CSR, with perception of an ethical work climate acting as a significant
mediator and moderator in this relationship. Implications for leadership practice and CSR, and recommendations for future research directions are discussed.
Structure and Mechanism of Organizational Interpersonal Harmony in Chinese Business
Authors: Chen Chih-Chung
Published: May 2015

Harmony is not only an important value in traditional Chinese culture, but also a key to social development in modern Chinese society. In this study, I explored the theoretical structure and influence of organizational interpersonal harmony on organizational commitment and turnover
intention. Interviews with 52 Chinese managers revealed 3 dimensions of interpersonal harmony. An organizational interpersonal harmony scale was then developed and pretested on 117 employees. Further, I conducted a field study of 480 employees from 8 Chinese organizations to test a 2-hierarchy
structure of organizational interpersonal harmony. Using hierarchical regression, I found that organizational interpersonal harmony had a positive impact on organizational commitment and a negative impact on turnover intention.
Coming Out As Gay: A Phenomenological Study About Adolescents Disclosing Their Homosexuality to Their Parents
Authors: Perrin-Wallqvist Renée , Lindblom Josephine
Published: May 2015

Our aim was to gain an understanding of adolescents' experiences of disclosing their sexual orientation as lesbian or gay to their parents. In order to capture these experiences, we conducted interviews with 6 people who had told at least 1 parent of their sexual orientation as lesbian
or gay. Using interpretative phenomenological analysis we identified 4 themes from the emotions described by the respondents when they disclosed their sexual orientation to their parents. These 4 themes were feelings of alienation, uneasiness and fear, self-acceptance and being comfortable
with one's sexuality, and feeling whole. The conclusion we drew from the accounts of the people we interviewed is that disclosing one's sexual orientation to one's parents is liberating.
Centralization and Communication Opportunities as Predictors of Acquiescent or Prosocial Silence
Authors: Dedahanov Alisher Tohirovich , Kim Choonghyun , Rhee Jaehoon
Published: May 2015

We conducted a survey with 744 highly skilled full-time employees of South Korean conducted a survey with 744 highly skilled full-time employees of South Korean organizations to examine the associations among 2 organizational factors, namely to examine the associations among 2 organizational
factors, namely centralization and communication opportunities, and 2 distinct forms of employee silence, and communication opportunities, and 2 distinct forms of employee silence, namely acquiescent and prosocial silence. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural acquiescent and prosocial
silence. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were performed to test our hypothesized model. The findings revealed that modeling were performed to test our hypothesized model. findings revealed that centralization positively influenced employees' acquiescent silence
and that communication positively influenced employees' acquiescent silence and that communication opportunities positively impacted their prosocial silence. Theoretical and practical positively impacted their prosocial silence. and practical implications, limitations, and future research
directions are discussed. limitations, and future research directions are discussed.
Analysts, Macroeconomic News, and the Benefit of Active In-House Economists
Authors: Hugon Artur , Kumar Alok , Lin An-Ping
Published: May 2015

Although macroeconomic news has a major impact on corporate earnings, anecdotal evidence suggests that financial analyst research is inefficient with respect to such news. Examining analysts' earnings research, we find that they underreact to negative macroeconomic news. Analysts are not all equal, though, as analysts employed at the same firm as an active macroeconomist underreact much less. We find that the benefit of analyst access to an economist is concentrated in firms that are high in cyclicality relative to their industry, high in cyclicality in general, and that are smaller in size. In addition, analysts who are exposed to more accurate or award-winning in-house macroeconomists benefit more. Investors appear to recognize the advantage of access to macroeconomists, reacting more strongly to these analysts' forecast revisions. Overall, our results suggest that the presence of an active in-house macroeconomist improves the efficiency and credibility of analyst research.

JEL Classifications: G12; G14; G24
Concession, Contention, and Accountability in Auditor-Client Negotiations
Authors: Bergner Jason M. , Peffer Sean A. , Ramsay Robert J.
Published: May 2015

This study investigates how tactics employed by a client during negotiations impact experienced auditors' propensity to waive material adjustments and whether the salience of a strict concurring partner review affects the decision to waive. Different psychological theories predict that auditors may either become more contentious or more concessionary when facing a contentious client. Our results suggest that auditors are more likely to waive material adjustments when clients use contending tactics, but not concessionary tactics. However, we also find that making a strict concurring partner review salient reduces this propensity. Further, we find that a theory not previously applied to this line of research, the level-of-aspiration theory, may predict how auditors react. These results offer additional insights into auditor-client negotiations and reveal that existing quality controls can influence these negotiations.
Maternal High-Fat Feeding Increases Placental Lipoprotein Lipase Activity by Reducing SIRT1 Expression in Mice
Authors: Qiao Liping , Guo Zhuyu , Bosco Chris , Guidotti Stefano , Wang Yunfeng , Wang Mingyong , Parast Mana , Schaack Jerome , Hay William W. , Moore Thomas R. , Shao Jianhua
Published: May 2015

This study investigated how maternal overnutrition and obesity regulate expression and activation of proteins that facilitate lipid transport in the placenta. To create a maternal overnutrition and obesity model, primiparous C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat (HF) diet throughout gestation. Fetuses from HF-fed dams had significantly increased serum levels of free fatty acid and body fat. Despite no significant difference in placental weight, lipoprotein lipase (LPL) protein levels and activity were remarkably elevated in placentas from HF-fed dams. Increased triglyceride content and mRNA levels of CD36, VLDLr, FABP3, FABPpm, and GPAT2 and -3 were also found in placentas from HF-fed dams. Although both peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-α protein levels were significantly increased in placentas of the HF group, only PPARγ exhibited a stimulative effect on LPL expression in cultured JEG-3 human trophoblasts. Maternal HF feeding remarkably decreased SIRT1 expression in placentas. Through use of an SIRT1 activator and inhibitor and cultured trophoblasts, an inhibitory effect of SIRT1 on LPL expression was demonstrated. We also found that SIRT1 suppresses PPARγ expression in trophoblasts. Most importantly, inhibition of PPARγ abolished the SIRT1-mediated regulatory effect on LPL expression. Together, these results indicate that maternal overnutrition induces LPL expression in trophoblasts by reducing the inhibitory effect of SIRT1 on PPARγ.
SIRT3 Is Crucial for Maintaining Skeletal Muscle Insulin Action and Protects Against Severe Insulin Resistance in High-Fat–Fed Mice
Authors: Lantier Louise , Williams Ashley S. , Williams Ian M. , Yang Karen K. , Bracy Deanna P. , Goelzer Mickael , James Freyja D. , Gius David , Wasserman David H.
Published: May 2015

Protein hyperacetylation is associated with glucose intolerance and insulin resistance, suggesting that the enzymes regulating the acetylome play a role in this pathological process. Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3), the primary mitochondrial deacetylase, has been linked to energy homeostasis. Thus, it is hypothesized that the dysregulation of the mitochondrial acetylation state, via genetic deletion of SIRT3, will amplify the deleterious effects of a high-fat diet (HFD). Hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp experiments show, for the first time, that mice lacking SIRT3 exhibit increased insulin resistance due to defects in skeletal muscle glucose uptake. Permeabilized muscle fibers from HFD-fed SIRT3 knockout (KO) mice showed that tricarboxylic acid cycle substrate–based respiration is decreased while fatty acid–based respiration is increased, reflecting a fuel switch from glucose to fatty acids. Consistent with reduced muscle glucose uptake, hexokinase II (HKII) binding to the mitochondria is decreased in muscle from HFD-fed SIRT3 KO mice, suggesting decreased HKII activity. These results show that the absence of SIRT3 in HFD-fed mice causes profound impairments in insulin-stimulated muscle glucose uptake, creating an increased reliance on fatty acids. Insulin action was not impaired in the lean SIRT3 KO mice. This suggests that SIRT3 protects against dietary insulin resistance by facilitating glucose disposal and mitochondrial function.
Genetic Diversity and Spatial Genetic Structure of Stellaria Holostea Populations from Urban Forest Islands
Authors: Wodkiewicz Maciej , Gruszczyńska Bożenna
Published: May 2015

Stellaria holostea is a clonal herb highly confined to well-established deciduous forests. This study examined whether its genetic diversity and spatial genetic organization in urban forest islands is similar to the values from well-established populations outside urban landscape. We studied four populations in Warsaw and two populations from well preserved forests outside the city. Genetic diversity was greater in populations from well-preserved forests than from forests heavily exploited in the past. High clonal diversity indices indicate that the studied populations did not lose the ability to reproduce sexually. The small populations in urban forests differed from the remaining sites in spatial organization. High overall FST (0.24) and the lack of correlation between genetic and geographic distance between the studied populations indicate limited gene flow. Urban forests may be of great value for conservation of S. holostea and other ancient forest species as they may still harbor substantial genetic variability despite their isolation.
The Role of Jasmonates in the Formation of a Compound of Chalcones and Flavans with Phytoalexin-Like Properties in Mechanically Wounded Scales of Hippeastrum × Hybr. Bulbs
Authors: Wilmowicz Emilia , Frankowski Kamil , Grzegorzewska Weronika , Kęsy Jacek , Kućko Agata , Banach Mariusz , Szmidt-Jaworska Adriana , Saniewski Marian
Published: May 2015

Mechanical damage to scales of Hippeastrum × hybr. bulbs leads to the formation of phytoalexin-like compounds which redden the wounded tissue. The reaction is accompanied by an increase in methyl jasmonate (JA-Me). Applying 2-(4-isobutylphenyl) propionic acid, a jasmonate biosynthesis inhibitor, decreases the level of endogenous jasmonates and decreases the plant's ability to produce the red pigment. Experimental results indicate that jasmonates are involved in the defense response to wounding in Hippeastrum, which is manifested in the formation of red pigment, a compound of chalcones and flavans with phytoalexin-like properties.
Morphology of the Invasive Amphiphyte Alternanthera Philoxeroides Under Different Water Levels and Nitrogen Concentrations
Authors: Ding Wenjuan , Zhang Huayong , Zhang Fangjuan , Wang Lijun , Cui Songbo
Published: May 2015

Water level fluctuation and inorganic nitrogen enrichment are two serious problems caused by anthropogenic disturbances in aquatic ecosystems. They cause resource fluctuation and thus might influence the invasive-ness of alien plants. Alternanthera philoxeroides is an amphibious and widespread clonal plant which exhibits significant invasiveness. This experimental study examined the plant's morphological traits under different nitrogen concentrations and water levels. The responses of A. philoxeroides to water levels and nitrogen concentrations were similar for both land-like and riverbank-like initial conditions. A. philoxeroides showed an escape strategy of shoot elongation when its growth was suppressed by shallow submergence. No toxic symptoms but increased clonal spread was observed at high nitrogen concentrations, suggesting that A. philoxeroides not only tolerated but benefitted from nitrogen-polluted water. High nitrogen level mitigated the negative effects of submergence on its leaf survival, thereby enhancing its adaptation to water level fluctuation. Such strong adaptability and clonal spread helps A. philoxeroides to grow and invade successfully in shallow eutrophic water.
Relations Between Mn Concentration and Yield, Nutrient, Water Status, and Gas Exchange Parameters of Tomato
Authors: Kleiber Tomasz , Borowiak Klaudia , Budka Anna , Kayzer Dariusz
Published: May 2015

Nutrition is one of the most important factors influencing quantitative and qualitative plant yield. This study examined the effect of manganese (Mn) in nutrient solution on photosynthetic activity parameters, and the relations between photosynthetic activity parameters, yield and plant nutrient status in tomato (Solanum lycoper-sicum L.). Mn supplementation significantly modified the nutrient content of leaves. Macronutrient content var-ied less than micronutrient content. The optimal Mn concentration differed between the studied cultivars. Both Mn deficit and Mn excess caused a decrease of tomato yield. Gas exchange parameters, relative water content (RWC) and specific leaf area (SLA) were measured in fully expanded tomato leaves. Certain levels of Mn were found to be needed for proper plant function and future yield, and toxic effects of excess Mn were noted. Changes in PN (net photosynthetic rate) were found to be the first signal of plant response to higher Mn supply, while yield was as for optimal Mn concentrations. Under Mn treatment, uptake of some nutrients increased. A higher level of absorbed Mg led to a higher photosynthesis rate and increased stomatal opening. PN and gs (stomatal con-ductance) also increased, while Ci (intercellular CO2 concentration) decreased, indicating proper CO2 consumption during the assimilation process.
One-pot synthesis of (R)-convolutamydine A involving in situ chiral organocatalyst formation
Authors: Wei Shengwei , Schmid Bernhard , Macaev Fliur Z. , Curlat Serghei N. , Malkov Andrei V. , Tsogoeva Svetlana B.
Published: May 2015

The application of a convenient one-pot synthetic strategy, utilizing an in situ formed organocatalyst, to the enantioselective synthesis of anti-leukaemia agent (R)-convolutamydine A has been demonstrated.
How to Use Linear Programming for Information System Performances Optimization
Authors: Hell Marko , Dragičević Tea
Published: May 2015

Background: Organisations nowadays operate in a very dynamic environment, and therefore, their ability of continuously adjusting the strategic plan to the new conditions is a must for achieving their strategic objectives. BSC is a well-known methodology for measuring performances enabling organizations to learn how well they are doing. In this paper, “BSC for IS” will be proposed in order to measure the IS impact on the achievement of organizations’ business goals. Objectives: The objective of this paper is to present the original procedure which is used to enhance the BSC methodology in planning the optimal targets of IS performances value in order to maximize the organization's effectiveness. Methods/Approach: The method used in this paper is the quantitative methodology - linear programming. In the case study, linear programming is used for optimizing organization’s strategic performance. Results: Results are shown on the example of a case study national park. An optimal performance value for the strategic objective has been calculated, as well as an optimal performance value for each DO (derived objective). Results are calculated in Excel, using Solver Add-in. Conclusions: The presentation of methodology through the case study of a national park shows that this methodology, though it requires a high level of formalisation, provides a very transparent performance calculation.
Scoping Adaptation Needs for Smallholders in the Brazilian Amazon: A Municipal Level Case Study
Authors: Osuna Vanesa Rodríguez , Börner Jan , Cunha Marcelo
Published: May 2015

Over the past decade, several climate extreme events have caused considerable economic damage and hardship in the Brazilian Amazon region, especially for small-scale producers. Based on household surveys and focus group interviews in the Municipality of Alenquer as well as secondary data analyses and a literature review at the regional level, this study seeks to assess rural small-scale producers’ vulnerability to climate and non-climate related shocks and identify entry points for government action to support adaptation at the local level. In our case study area, small-scale producers with similar wealth, self-sufficiency, and resource use specialisation levels exhibited stark variation in levels of sensitivity and adaptive capacity to climate and nonclimate related shocks. Our findings indicate that this variation is partly driven by cultural, historical, and environmental resource use specialisation strategies and partly by differences in local governance capacity and the level of social organisation. Emerging governmentled initiatives to promote climate change adaptation in the region would benefit from taking these factors into account when designing local implementation strategies and priorities.
Water appropriation and ecosystem stewardship in the Baja desert
Authors: de las Heras Alejandro , Rodriguez Mario A. , Islas-Espinoza Marina
Published: May 2015

The UNESCO San Francisco Rock Paintings polygon within El Vizcaino Biosphere Reserve in the Baja California Peninsula derives its moisture from the North American monsoon. There, ranchers have depended on the desert since the 18
Heat Alert and Response Systems in Urban and Rural Communities in Canada
Authors: Berry Peter , Yusa Anna , Morris-Oswald Toni , Rogaeva Anastasia
Published: May 2015

Health Canada reviewed national and international literature to develop a framework that identifies best practices for developing and implementing Heat Alert and Response Systems (HARS) to protect citizens from extreme heat events. A comparative case study was conducted based upon the framework and the experiences of two Canadian jurisdictions that piloted many of the best practices in the development of new HARS. Table-top exercises, heat-health vulnerability assessments, and community consultations were used to inform the development and implementation of HARS plans. Implementation of the framework by local authorities revealed different and unique challenges facing rural and urban communities in protecting people from extreme heat events. Opportunities within each pilot for taking effective public health adaptive actions that draw upon existing strengths and resources were also identified. Key aspects of HARS development including those related to education and engagement, development of an alert protocol, creation of a heat response plan, and identification of communication activities should be tailored to the needs of individual communities or regions and be informed by specific characteristics related to existing and future vulnerability.
Cigarette-Smoke- and Age-Dependent Oxidative Stress Effects in Rats
Authors: Meisgen Thomas , Roemer Ewald , Conroy Lynda L. , Hostens Jeroen , Vasquez Marie , Humeny Andreas , Moehring Michaela , Schlage Walter K. , Kasper Michael
Published: May 2015

Oxidative stress is a basic mechanism involved in both ageand smoking-related diseases. To test whether smoking affects young, old, and calorie-restricted organisms to the same extent, we assessed oxidative stress parameters in the lung, heart, and liver of male Fischer 344 rats (4 months old and 19-22 months old) exposed to air or cigarette mainstream smoke. Smoke-related effects were seen for parameters of DNA damage, lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and glycoxidation. No smoke-related effects were observed for DNA damage in the lung and heart (Comet assay) and for malondialdehyde in the lung. The old rats showed higher smoke-related responses than the young rats for 8-hydroxy-desoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in the heart and liver, DNA damage in the liver, and protein carbonyls in the lung; however, there was little evidence for an overadditive effect of smoking on aging. Caloric restriction, which is known to retard aging effects, also had little impact on smoke-related oxidative changes. [Beitr. Tabakforsch. Int. 26 (2014) 109-120]
Filtration and Retention Characteristics of Smoke Components in Filters
Authors: Jianhui Wen , Wen Du , Bin Peng , Xiaobing Zhang , Fuwei Xie , Huimin Liu , Kejun Zhong
Published: May 2015

The filtration and retention characteristics of nicotine, phenol, benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1- (3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK), crotonaldehyde, hydrogen cyanide (HCN) and ammonia in conventional cellulose acetate fiber filters were investigated. By quantitatively analyzing their contents released in mainstream smoke and retained in filters, their filtration efficiencies, taken as the ratio of filter retention content to total yield, were determined under both International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and Health Canadian Intense (HCI) smoking regimes. Using a precision laser cutter, the filters were either cut transversely into 5-7 segments for longitudinal distribution pattern study, or cut transversely into 3 segments firstly and then each segment was cut concentrically into 3 concentric segments for spatial distribution pattern study. Contents of the named smoke components retained in these filter segments were quantitatively analyzed. The data were calibrated and then processed with interpolation analysis and polynomial fitting. The longitudinal distribution patterns for all components mentioned above, as well as spatial distribution patterns for nicotine, phenol, HCN, ammonia and crotonaldehyde, were obtained. The filtration efficiencies of different smoke components varied between 24% and 15% for HCN, 87% and 92% for phenol under ISO and HCI smoking regimes respectively. The filtration efficiencies of all the studied components under HCI smoking were lower than under ISO smoking to different extents except phenol which showed the opposite trend. Different mainstream smoke components have their own retention behavior and distribution characteristics which are determined by the physical and chemical properties of the component and its interaction with cellulose acetate fiber and the glycerol triacetate within the filter. The diversity of retention distribution patterns of different components shows the high complexity of cigarette smoke filtration in filters. [Beitr. Tabakforsch Int. 26 (2014) 121-131]
Cohesion, Fracture and Bond – Understanding the Data from the Vialit Cohesion Pendulum Test and Other Fracture Tests from an Analysis of Rheological Properties
Authors: Rowe Geoffrey M.
Published: May 2015

The Vialit Cohesion Pendulum has been used for many years in Europe as a tool for assessing modified asphalt binders with a particular emphasis on chip seal/surfacing dressing applications. The cohesion measured in this device has been considered as an indicator of quality of the base asphalt binder and subsequent polymer formulation. This test demonstrates a transition between brittle and ductile failure of binder systems. When a test of this kind is compared to other binder tests, it is possible to deduce the impact that the high rate of loading in the Vialit Cohesion Pendulum test has on the test results. Data have been developed on a series of SHRP core asphalt binders and these are compared to master curves developed with the same binders. A discussion will follow on how the fracture of asphalt binder and mixture is both rate and temperature dependent and that this parameter always needs that consideration to truly evaluate the meaning of test data. A test of this nature, while founded partly on an empirical data base of use, can be better explained and understood with consideration of the speed of loading and temperature effects that allows the translation of fracture temperatures at one condition to those at another. The results from this type of evaluation offer better understanding of criteria such as fatigue, fracture and bond of asphalt binders and mixtures.
Performance Characteristics of Fiber Modified Asphalt Concrete Mixes
Authors: Shukla Manoj , Tiwari Devesh , Sitaramanjaneyulu K.
Published: May 2015

Asphalt binder modification is one of the approaches taken to improve pavement performance. In addition it may also be improved through the addition of fibers to Asphalt mix that enhances material strength and fatigue characteristics while adding ductility. Due to their inherent compatibility with Asphalt concrete and excellent mechanical properties, fibers offer an excellent potential for modification of Asphalt concrete mix. To investigate the behavior of Fiber Modified Asphalt Concrete Mixes (FMACM), a preliminary study has been done to determine the feasibility of modifying the behavior of a Asphalt Concrete (AC) mixture through the use of Glass fiber and Polyester fiber. The purpose of this study was to identify and understand the factor that is responsible for improving the behavior of FMACM. Asphalt concrete samples were prepared and tested in the laboratory to evaluate the various mixture characteristics. The conclusions drawn from the study on testing of fiber-modified mixes are that fiber modified Asphalt mixtures have shown increased stiffness and resistance to permanent deformation. Fatigue characteristics of the mixtures were also improved. Fibers used in the study were of high tensile strength therefore test results of FMACM have shown higher indirect tensile strength and improved skid resistance for paving applications.