bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Association of Leisure Activities in Middle Adulthood with Cognitive Performance in Old Age: The Moderating Role of Educational Level
Authors: Ihle Andreas , Oris Michel , Fagot Delphine , Baeriswyl Marie , Guichard Eduardo , Kliegel Matthias
Published: April 2015

Background: One of the fundamental challenges for gerontological research is how to maintain and promote intact cognitive functioning in old age. Previous research revealed that high educational level, good health status, and an active lifestyle during adulthood seem to be protective against cognitive impairment in old age. However, up to now, a detailed examination of the interaction of these relations based on a broader variety of activities and considering past and current activities is missing. Objective: The present study set out to extend the literature by investigating in more detail the interactions of educational level and health status with a broad variety of past and current leisure activities in their association with cognitive functioning in a large sample of older adults with a wide age range. Methods: A total of 2,812 older adults (aged 65-101 years) served as the sample for the present study. A test on verbal abilities and one on processing speed were applied. In addition, individuals were retrospectively interviewed regarding their educational level, current general health status, and 18 leisure activities (in terms of currently performed activities and those that had been carried out at the age of 45 years). Results: Regressions indicated that engaging in more current activities and in more activities at the age of 45 years (both analyzed as an overall activity measure) was related to better cognitive performance in old age (r values up to 0.39, p values <0.001). These associations were more pronounced in individuals with a low (compared to a high) educational level. Conclusion: Present results suggest that an active lifestyle during middle adulthood may be related to better cognitive functioning in old age, particularly in individuals with a low educational level. These findings are discussed with respect to models of cognitive aging.
Genetic Polymorphisms and Function of the Organic Anion-Transporting Polypeptide 1A2 and Its Clinical Relevance in Drug Disposition
Authors: Zhou Yinhui , Yuan Jingjing , Li Zhisong , Wang Zhongyu , Cheng Dan , Du Yingying , Li Wenlu , Kan Quancheng , Zhang Wei
Published: April 2015

The solute carrier organic anion-transporting polypeptides (OATPs) are a family of transporter proteins that have been extensively recognized as key determinants of absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of various drugs because of their broad substrate specificity and wide tissue distribution as well as the involvement of drug-drug interaction. Human OATP1A2 is a drug uptake transporter known for its broad substrate specificity, including many drugs in clinical use. OATP1A2 expression has been detected in the intestine, liver, brain and kidney. A considerable number of single nucleotide polymorphisms have been found for the OATP1A2 gene. A number of studies have shown that the cellular uptake and pharmacokinetic behavior of some drugs may be impaired in the case of certain OATP1A2 variants. Interestingly, some studies show that the mRNA expression of OATP1A2 is nearly 10-fold higher in breast cancer compared with adjacent healthy breast tissues. This review is, therefore, focused on the genetic polymorphisms, function and clinical relevance of OATP1A2 as well as on the substrates transported by it.
Mitophagy: Basic Mechanism and Potential Role in Kidney Diseases
Authors: Tang Chengyuan , He Liyu , Liu Jing , Dong Zheng
Published: April 2015

Background: Mitochondria play fundamental roles in cellular metabolism, signaling, and viability. Disruption of mitochondria not only leads to dysfunction of the organelles but also activates mechanisms of cell injury and death, contributing to the pathogenesis of various diseases. Summary: Removal of damaged mitochondria is therefore crucial for cellular homeostasis and survival. Mitophagy, the selective elimination of mitochondria via autophagy, is an important mechanism of mitochondrial quality control in physiological and pathological conditions. Defects in mitophagy have been implicated in a variety of human disorders, including both acute and chronic kidney diseases. However, the role and regulatory mechanisms of mitophagy in kidney cells and tissues remain largely unknown. Key Message: This review provides updated information on mitophagy and suggests a potential role of mitophagy in renal pathophysiology.
ArtMaps: A Technology for Looking at Tate’s Collection
Authors: Giannachi Gabriella , Sinker Rebecca , Stack John , Locatelli Cristina , Carletti Laura , Price Dominic , McAuley Derek , Coughlan Tim , Benford Steve
Published: April 2015

This article presents ArtMaps, a crowdsourcing web-based app for desktop and mobile use that allows users to locate, move and annotate artworks in the Tate collection in relation to one or more sets of locations. Here the authors show that ArtMaps extends the “space” of the museum and facilitates a new pluriperspectival way of looking at art.
Mere Exposure and Aesthetic Realism: A Response to Bence Nanay
Authors: Cutting James E.
Published: April 2015

Where does the quality of an artwork reside? Is it in the work or in the perceiver and her culture? Belief in the former can be called aesthetic realism, the latter aesthetic antirealism. Nanay suggests that Cutting is an antirealist because he has found that multiple brief exposures to an artwork enhance viewers’ judgments of it. In fact, Cutting is agnostic on the distinction, but as a scientist is unable to discern how quality might be objectively measured in art.
Metagovernance, Network Structure, and Legitimacy: Developing a Heuristic for Comparative Governance Analysis
Authors: Daugbjerg Carsten , Fawcett Paul
Published: April 2015

This article develops a heuristic for comparative governance analysis. The heuristic depicts four network types by combining network structure with the state’s capacity to metagovern. It suggests that each network type produces a particular combination of input and output legitimacy. We illustrate the heuristic and its utility using a comparative study of agri-food networks (organic farming and land use) in four countries, which each exhibit different combinations of input and output legitimacy respectively. The article concludes by using a fifth case study to illustrate what a network type that produces high levels of input and output legitimacy might look like.
What’s in a name: The place of recognition in a hospitable classroom
Authors: Stratman Jacob
Published: April 2015

In this brief article, I argue that recognition is the key virtue of a hospitable classroom. Whether we are discussing the relationship between the teacher and the student, the student and other students, the student and the subject of study, or the teacher and the subject of study, recognition is the building block to a classroom that welcomes diverse people and ideas—that welcomes “the stranger into the foreign land,” and eventually blurs the line between host and guest. Essentially, what does it mean to recognize students? How is recognition central to a pedagogy of hospitality? And, how does recognition inform pedagogical decisions?
Curriculum visions: The Australian Curriculum, Assessment, and Reporting Authority (ACARA) and Dwayne Huebner discuss civics and citizenship
Authors: Benson David
Published: April 2015

This article considers the Australian Curriculum, Assessment, and Reporting Authority's (ACARA) plan for Civics and Citizenship, assessing the role of religions therein. Through a dialectical hermeneutic, ACARA is brought into a mutually critical conversation with the work of curriculum theorist Dwayne Huebner. Both of their distinct visions are found to make space for diverse religious identities, and to affirm students taking responsibility for what they make of this world. They clash, however, over the path to societal harmony and the place given to discussing our deepest differences in belief and practice. In this article it is argued that a constructive use of Sacred Texts in Civics and Citizenship may facilitate a synergy between ACARA and Huebner that is educationally viable and democratically profitable. This would require that curriculum content is decentred to serve a dialogical pedagogy built on the sharing of our foundational narratives as together we pursue the common good.
Exploring organized and visionary approaches to designing an Advent Fun Day in an educational setting
Authors: Francis Leslie J , Smith Greg
Published: April 2015

This study draws on one of the four components of psychological type theory (the distinction between judging and perceiving attitudes toward the outside world) to examine the implications of these two contrasting psychological perspectives for shaping approaches to Christian ministry within an educational setting. Qualitative data were generated by two samples of clergy, and who completed the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator ( N = 15, 22). On each occasion three education groups were structured, distinguishing between high-scoring perceiving types, high-scoring judging types, and low-scoring perceiving and low-scoring judging types working together. The three groups were all asked to address the same task: to imagine, design and plan an Advent Fun Day for the parish and benefice. The data illustrated the distinction between the approaches modelled by the judging types and by the perceiving types. The implications of these findings are discussed for designing educational programmes to help clergy appreciate the connection between psychological type preferences and ministry styles.
Long-term survival following autologous and allogeneic stem cell transplantation for blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm
Authors: Aoki Tomohiro , Suzuki Ritsuro , Kuwatsuka Yachiyo , Kako Shinichi , Fujimoto Katsuya , Taguchi Jun , Kondo Tadakazu , Ohata Kinya , Ito Toshiro , Kamoda Yoshimasa , Fukuda Takahiro , Ichinohe Tatsuo , Takeuchi Kengo , Izutsu Koji , Suzumiya Junji
Published: April 2015

Key Points

Auto-HSCT in CR1 provides long-term remission in BPDCN patients. RIC allo-HSCT and MAC allo-HSCT results are comparable.
Omega-3 fatty acids for breast cancer prevention and survivorship
Authors: Fabian Carol J , Kimler Bruce F , Hursting Stephen D
Published: April 2015

Women with evidence of high intake ratios of the marine omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) relative to the omega-6 arachidonic acid have been found to have a reduced risk of breast cancer compared with those with low ratios in some but not all case–control and cohort studies. If increasing EPA and DHA relative to arachidonic acid is effective in reducing breast cancer risk, likely mechanisms include reduction in proinflammatory lipid derivatives, inhibition of nuclear factor-κB-induced cytokine production, and decreased growth factor receptor signaling as a result of alteration in membrane lipid rafts. Primary prevention trials with either risk biomarkers or cancer incidence as endpoints are underway but final results of these trials are currently unavailable. EPA and DHA supplementation is also being explored in an effort to help prevent or alleviate common problems after a breast cancer diagnosis, including cardiac and cognitive dysfunction and chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. The insulin-sensitizing and anabolic properties of EPA and DHA also suggest supplementation studies to determine whether these omega-3 fatty acids might reduce chemotherapy-associated loss of muscle mass and weight gain. We will briefly review relevant omega-3 fatty acid metabolism, and early investigations in breast cancer prevention and survivorship.
Imaging blended vertical seismic profiling data using full-wavefield migration in the common-receiver domain
Authors: Soni A. K. , Verschuur D. J.
Published: April 2015

For vertical-seismic-profiling (VSP) measurements, the use of blended acquisition, with time-overlapping shot records, can greatly reduce the downtime and, thereby, provide large cost savings. For directly imaging blended VSP measurements, we have used full-wavefield migration (FWM). FWM is an inversion-based imaging scheme that enables us to use any kind of complex source wavefield to estimate the subsurface reflectivity, using all the multiples (surface and internal) in the recorded data. The multiple scattering helps in improving the illumination as well as the vertical resolution of the image. In this scheme, active deblending is not required because the imaging process itself acts as a deblending procedure. We tested the potential of FWM to image blended VSP data, using simple and complex synthetic models. We clearly determined that using the primaries, surface multiples, and internal multiples enhanced the illumination away from the well trajectory, in which blending noise was suppressed due to the inversion scheme. We observed that some blending crosstalk noise leaked into the images with large blending factors. Such noise could be further reduced with additional constraints in the involved least-squares inversion process.
High-salinity polarization of sandstones
Authors: Weller Andreas , Zhang Zeyu , Slater Lee
Published: April 2015

Induced polarization measurements on numerous samples from multiple databases indicate a polarization maximum at a pore fluid conductivity between 320 and [Formula: see text]. Hitherto, limited measurements above this salinity suggest a decrease in the imaginary part of the complex conductivity ([Formula: see text]), a behavior that has up to now not been adequately considered in the mathematical formulations of recently proposed double-layer polarization models. We measured variations in the complex conductivity spectra over a wide range of pore fluid conductivity ([Formula: see text] between 25 and [Formula: see text]) for four Eocene sandstone samples. All samples exhibited a strong decrease of the imaginary conductivity for fluid conductivity exceeding [Formula: see text]. A Stern-layer polarization model, previously presented to fit the dependence of [Formula: see text] on [Formula: see text] assuming a high-salinity asymptote, is extended with the addition of an exponential term to describe the polarization decrease at high fluid salinity. This mathematical model with four free parameters was applied to measurements on additional sandstone samples of available databases, and the dependence of the four model parameters on petrophysical properties was determined. The parameter of the high salinity exponential term varied over a small range, and it was not significantly related to the available petrophysical quantities. This observation suggested that the polarization decrease resulted from a reduction in the mobility of the counterions in the electric double-layer at high ionic concentrations. Our results have implications for the application of induced polarization in well logging of briny reservoirs.
Interaction of growth hormone receptor/binding protein gene disruption and caloric restriction for insulin sensitivity and attenuated aging
Authors: Arum Oge , Saleh Jamal , Boparai Ravneet , Turner Jeremy , Kopchick John , Khardori Romesh , Bartke Andrzej
Published: April 2015

The correlation of physiological sensitivity to insulin (vis-à-vis glycemic regulation) and longevity is extensively established, creating a justifiable gerontological interest on whether insulin sensitivity is causative, or even predictive, of some or all phenotypes of slowed senescence (including longevity). The growth hormone receptor/ binding protein gene-disrupted (GHR-KO) mouse is the most extensively investigated insulin-sensitive, attenuated aging model. It was reported that, in a manner divergent from similar mutants, GHR-KO mice fail to respond to caloric restriction (CR) by altering their insulin sensitivity. We hypothesized that maximized insulin responsiveness is what causes GHR-KO mice to exhibit a suppressed survivorship response to dietary (including caloric) restriction; and attempted to refute this hypothesis by assessing the effects of CR on GHR-KO mice for varied slow-aging-associated phenotypes. In contrast to previous reports, we found GHR-KO mice on CR to be less responsive than their ad libitum (A.L.) counterparts to the hypoglycemia-inducing effects of insulin. Further, CR had negligible effects on the metabolism or cognition of GHR-KO mice. Therefore, our data suggest that the effects of CR on the insulin sensitivity of GHR-KO mice do not concur with the effects of CR on the aging of GHR-KO mice.
Investor Sentiment, Beta, and the Cost of Equity Capital
Authors: Antoniou Constantinos , Doukas John A. , Subrahmanyam Avanidhar
Published: April 2015

The security market line accords with the capital asset pricing model by taking on an upward slope in pessimistic sentiment periods, but is downward sloping during optimistic periods. We hypothesize that this finding obtains because periods of optimism attract equity investment by unsophisticated, overconfident, traders in risky opportunities (high beta stocks), whereas such traders stay along the sidelines during pessimistic periods. Thus, high beta stocks become overpriced in optimistic periods, but during pessimistic periods, noise trading is reduced, so that traditional beta pricing prevails. Unconditional on sentiment, these effects offset each other. Although rational explanations cannot completely be ruled out, analyses using earnings expectations, fund flows, the probability of informed trading, and order imbalances do provide evidence that noise traders are more bullish about high beta stocks when sentiment is optimistic, whereas investor behavior appears to accord more closely with rationality during pessimistic periods, supporting our hypothesis.

This paper was accepted by Wei Jiang, Finance.
Neutropenic sepsis: assessment, pathophysiology and nursing care
Authors: Dunkley Steven , McLeod Anne
Published: April 2015

Sepsis can be a life-threatening development, especially to the neutropenic patient. Early assessment and diagnosis is crucial for supportive interventions to be initiated in an effort to stop the septic process. The underlying pathophysiology of the exaggerated pro and anti-inflammatory response is key to the signs and symptoms of sepsis; therefore, patient management should be aimed at addressing the consequences of this response. This article uses a case study to illustrate how sepsis may present, and outlines assessment strategies, considers the underlying pathophysiology and identifies possible care interventions on the basis of current guidelines and literature.
Update on management options for dysphagia after acute stroke
Authors: Beavan Jessica
Published: April 2015

Stroke is the most common cause of acute dysphagia, leading to under-nutrition and pneumonia. It has a major impact on quality of life, institutionalisation, feeding-tube dependency and death. This article will review recent research in dysphagia management in acute stroke, updating a previous article in 2013 ( Beavan, 2013 ).
Innovations in aphasia treatment after stroke: technology to the rescue
Authors: Palmer Rebecca
Published: April 2015

Aphasia is a common consequence of stroke which affects the ability to understand spoken language, talk, read and write. Speech and language therapy is usually offered in the first weeks and months after a person has had a stroke to try to limit the effects of this communication disability. However, treatment opportunities are often time limited due to resource issues and a traditionally held view that aphasia is unlikely to improve in its chronic phase. This article challenges these views, by briefly discussing the potential for neuro-recovery for language in the long term following stroke and presenting evidence of treatment success in chronic aphasia. Key factors in long-term treatment success are highlighted, including intensive repetitive practice, tailored practice exercises, and salient practice material. Advances in technology are also important, demonstrating how this can offer new opportunities for intensive, tailored and personalised language treatment at whatever time point a patient wishes to engage with therapy after stroke.
Improving children's oral health: developing a partnership approach
Authors: Godson Jenny , Csikar Julia
Published: April 2015

This article discusess how to improve the oral health of children and young people. Dental teams have a key part to play along with other organisations to adopt a partnership approach across the health and social care system
Basic Erosive Wear Examination: assessment and prevention
Authors: Alhilou Ahmed , Beddis Hannah P , Mizban Laith , Seymour David W
Published: April 2015

This article aims to highlight the preventative role of dental nurses and describes the use of the Basic Erosive Wear Examination in screening for non-carious tooth surface loss
The root to endodontic happiness
Authors: Rhodes John
Published: April 2015

For many dental nurses in general practice, root canal treatment can seem dull and unrewarding. However, painless, efficient endodontics is a huge practice builder and a team approach is essential to achieve quality results
Oral cancer: what do we need to know and do?
Authors: Ogden Graham
Published: April 2015

This article discusses how to look out for any possible signs of oral cancer. All dental care professionals must remain vigilant in its prevention and early detection
How to manage shared parental leave
Authors: Russell Kate
Published: April 2015

The shared parental leave initiative, which came into effect on 5 April 2015, will give parents more flexibility in their leave arrangements during the year following their baby's birth or adoption
Restorative practice in schools
Authors: Williams Andy
Published: April 2015

School leader Andy Williams explains what restorative practice entails and what benefits it has brought to his school
Readers’ letters
Authors: Craggs Megan , Stokes Laura , Wright Ian
Published: April 2015

The March issue of The Veterinary Nurse included an article titled ‘The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) and parasite protection for the travelling pet’ (Stokes and Wright (2015) The Veterinary Nurse 6(2): 60–70). The Veterinary Nurse received the following correspondence in response.
Canine leishmaniosis: an update
Authors: Holdsworth Peter A , Kramer Laura H , Fisher Maggie A
Published: April 2015

Canine leishmaniosis caused by the protozoan parasite Leishmania infantum has entered the UK. Entry appears linked to pet dogs accompanying their owners (on vacation) to the Mediterranean basin where this vector-borne canine disease is prevalent. The parasite resides in the superficial dermis of infected dogs, either within macrophages or free in host tissue. L. infantum is transmitted naturally through sandfly bites. Sandflies are not currently present in the UK. Vertical transmission from infected bitches to puppies and transmission through blood transfusion have been confirmed, while sharing of hypodermics have only been proven experimentally. Some infected dogs remain asymptomatic with this resistance to disease development being associated with a strong cell-mediated immune response. Diseased dogs present with varied symptoms including generalised enlargement of lymph nodes, scaly dermatitis, anaemia, anterior uveitis and renal dysfunction. Clinically suspect dogs should be tested by fine needle aspiration of lymph nodes and/or bone marrow to perform cytology and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Blood PCR lacks a certain degree of sensitivity. Indirect diagnosis through serology while routine is problematic in interpreting results and antibody titres. The recommended treatment protocol is a combination of the antimoniate N-metilglucamine subcutaneously, and allopurinol orally. Direct parasite transmission from dogs to humans has not been demonstrated. A commercial vaccine has emerged that offers options for prevention, which is useful for pets travelling to areas where the infection is endemic, particularly if they are staying for an extended period during the season when sandflies are active. Practitioners need to evaluate each individual case, based on client compliance, response to treatment and follow-up evaluation before deciding whether or not to consider euthanasia.
Critical care of the guinea pig: a veterinary nurse's guide part 2
Authors: Bament Wendy
Published: April 2015

The popularity of guinea pigs as pets potentially results in veterinary nurses encountering these stoic species relatively frequently, and it is advisable to acknowledge the species’ anatomical and behaviour traits prior to handling and treatments. Veterinary nurses should be encouraged to be involved in patient assessment and nursing care planning to facilitate efficient and appropriate treatment administration and, in particular, confident responses to patients requiring critical and emergency action. This article aims to address some successful nursing initiatives and skills that can facilitate the critical care, emergency response and recovery of pet guinea pigs.
How to conduct a nurse-led senior clinic part 1 — preparation and planning
Authors: Kerrigan Lynne
Published: April 2015

The current economic climate means the modern veterinary practice has to work hard to attract new clients, retain satisfied, committed clients and promote its services, as well as using the staff and facilities as cost effectively as possible. Increasing veterinary knowledge and changes in professional attitudes towards preventative care and client bonding mean that veterinary nurses have an ideal opportunity to expand their roles within the practice, becoming more involved in the preventative care and management of patients and owner education. The first of this two-part article will focus on the level of planning required in order to implement a nurse-led senior clinic in a veterinary practice.
Just 5 minutes will give horses a healthier future
Authors: Taylor Gemma
Published: April 2015

Remember to participate in the National Equine Health Survey during 18–25 May 2015, and encourage your horse-owning clients and colleagues to do so too, says Gemma Taylor, Education Officer at Blue Cross.
Preventive Counseling Services during Primary Care Visits: A Comparison of Health Centers versus Other Physician Offices
Authors: Shi Leiyu , Lebrun-Harris Lydie A. , Chen Li-Ru , Parasuraman Sarika Rane , Zhu Jinsheng , Ngo-Metzger Quyen , Sripipatana Alek
Published: April 2015

We compared preventive counseling services provided by health centers versus other physician offices. Cross-sectional data came from the 2008 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, including 25,177 patient visits in physician offices and 3,345 patient visits in health centers. Despite serving disproportionately more vulnerable patients, health centers provided comparable rates of preventive counseling services, compared with other physician offices: health education (39% vs . 36%), disease management (34% vs . 41%), asthma education (21% vs . 13%), tobacco education (19% for both), and weight reduction education (6% vs . 9%) (p>.05 for all). Adjusted analyses showed no association between health care setting and preventive counseling.
The Perils of Proactive Churn Prevention Using Plan Recommendations: Evidence from a Field Experiment
Authors: Ascarza Eva , Iyengar Raghuram , Schleicher Martin
Published: April 2015

Facing the issue of increasing customer churn, many service firms have begun recommending pricing plans to their customers. One reason behind this type of retention campaign is that customers who subscribe to a plan suitable for them should be less likely to churn because they derive greater benefits from the service. In this article, the authors examine the effectiveness of such retention campaigns using a large-scale field experiment in which some customers are offered plan recommendations and some are not. They find that being proactive and encouraging customers to switch to cost-minimizing plans can, surprisingly, increase rather than decrease customer churn: whereas only 6% of customers in the control condition churned during the three months following the intervention, 10% did so in the treatment group. The authors propose two explanations for how the campaign increased churn, namely, (1) by lowering customers’ inertia to switch plans and (2) by increasing the salience of past-usage patterns among potential churners. The data provide support for both explanations. By leveraging the richness of their field experiment, the authors assess the impact of targeted encouragement campaigns on customer behavior and firm revenues and derive recommendations for service firms.
Soil and plants contamination with selected heavy metals in the area of a railway junction / Zanieczyszczenie gleby i roślin wybranymi metalami ciężkimi na terenie węzła kolejowego
Authors: Staszewski Tomasz , Malawska Małgorzata , Studnik-Wójcikowska Barbara , Galera Halina , Wiłkomirski Bogusław
Published: April 2015

Heavy metal (As, Mn, Ni, Sn, Ti) concentrations were determined in soil and plant samples collected in different areas of the railway junction Iława Główna, Poland. Soil and plant samples were collected in four functional parts of the junction, i.e. the loading ramp, main track within the platform area, rolling stock cleaning bay and the railway siding. Four plant species occurring in relatively higher abundance were selected for heavy metals analysis, although in the loading ramp and platform areas only one species could be collected in the amount which makes chemical analysis possible. The selected species included three perennials (Daucus carota, Pastinaca sativa and Taraxacum officinale) and one annual plant (Sonchus oleraceus).

The entire area of the railway junction showed elevated concentrations of heavy metals when compared to the control level. It was most pronounced for the platform area and railway siding. The concentration of arsenic, manganese and nickel in plants growing in these parts of the junction exceeded the toxic level. The highest contamination of soil and plants found in the platform area suggested advanced emission process of the analyzed metals from wheel and track abrasion. Literature review showed that the concentration of the investigated metals in soil was generally higher than that found in centers of cities and along traffic roads proving that the railway is an important linear source of soil contamination
Coal fly ash supported nZnO for the sorption of triphenyltin chloride/
Authors: Ayanda Olushola S. , Fatoki Olalekan S. , Adekola Folahan A. , Ximba Bhekumusa J. , Akinsoji Olatunbosun S. , Petrik Leslie F.
Published: April 2015

A laboratory study was performed to study the effects of various operating factors, viz. adsorbent dose, contact time, solution pH, stirring speed, initial concentration and temperature on the adsorption of triphenyltin chloride (TPT) onto coal fly ash supported nZnO (CFAZ). The adsorption capacity increases with increase in the adsorbent amount, contact time, pH, stirring speed and initial TPT concentration, and decrease with increase in the solution temperature. The adsorption data have been analyzed by Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin and Dubinin-Radushkevich (D-R) adsorption models to determine the mechanistic parameters associated with the adsorption process while the kinetic data were analyzed by pseudo first-order, pseudo second-order, Elovich, fractional power and intraparticle diffusivity kinetic models. The thermodynamic parameters of the process were also determined. The results of this study show that 0.5 g of CFAZ was able to remove up to 99.60% of TPT from contaminated natural seawater at 60 min contact time, stirring speed of 200 rpm and at a pH of 8. It was also found that the equilibrium and kinetic data fitted better to Freundlich and pseudo second-order models, respectively. It can therefore be concluded that CFAZ can be effectively used for shipyard process wastewater treatment
Kinetics of catalytic combustion processes of air admixtures / Aspekty kinetyczne procesow katalitycznego spalania domieszek powietrza
Authors: Straszko Jerzy , Parus Wiesław , Paterkowski Wojciech
Published: April 2015

A catalytic combustion of organic admixtures of air belongs to the basic technologies of gas purification. A macrokinetics of admixtures combustion over the porous catalysts was described. The theoretical approach is in agreement with standard description of macrokinetics of the catalytic processes. The relationship between the fundamental magnitudes: observed process rate r*, reaction rate r in the kinetic zone, and a coefficient of the surface utilization η in the form r*= r · η have been described. These magnitudes combines the Thiele module φ. A kinetics equation for the isothermal and non-isothermal conditions was provided. The influence of mass and heat transfer in the catalyst grain on the course of the process was described by means of the surface utilization coefficient η. An equation describing this coefficient for both isothermal and non-isothermal conditions was given. The second part of this work concerns the application of theory. When the composition of purified gas is continuously varied, a quantitative approach is rather impossible. The theory was used for the qualitative analysis of process on the basis of the experimental results. A fulfillment of the first-order kinetics means that the degree of admixtures conversion does not depend on their initial concentrations. A non-isothermicity of the catalyst grain is expressed in such a way that the process rate observed over the large porous grains of the catalyst can be higher than the reaction rate in the kinetic zone. A temperature deference between the catalyst grains and flowing gas causes that the reactor can be stably operated at varied concentrations of admixtures and temperature over a relatively wide range. It was also demonstrated that the flammable admixtures may advantageously influence the conversion of hardly combustible admixtures
Alkaline solubilisation of waste activated sludge (WAS) for soluble organic substrate – (SCOD) production / Tworzenie się rozpuszczalnego substratu organicznego podczas zasadowego rozpuszczania osadów ściekowych
Authors: Suschka Jan , Kowalski Eligiusz , Mazierski Jerzy , Grübel Klaudiusz
Published: April 2015

Improving the effects of hydrolysis on waste activated sludge (WAS) prior to anaerobic digestion is of primary importance. Several technologies have been developed and partially implemented in practice. In this paper, perhaps the simplest of these methods, alkaline solubilization, has been investigated and the results of hydrolysis are presented. An increase to only pH 8 can distinctively increase the soluble chemical oxygen demand (SCOD), and produce an anaerobic condition effect favorable to volatile fatty acids (VFA) production. Further increases of pH, up to pH 10, leads to further improvements in hydrolysis effects. It is suggested that an increase to pH 9 is sufficient and feasible for technical operations, given the use of moderate anti-corrosive construction material. This recommendation is also made having taken in consideration the option of using hydrodynamic disintegration after the initial WAS hydrolysis process. This paper presents the effects of following alkaline solubilization with hydrodynamic disintegration on SCOD
Expression and Regulation of Haptoglobin in Tissues and in Differentiated Bovine Adipocytes
Authors: Soliman Mohamed Mohamed , Ismail Tamer Ahmed , Mansour Ahmed Abdel-Khalik
Published: April 2015

Haptoglobin (Hp) is a protein secreted mainly from the liver to bind hemoglobin and thus prevents iron loss and oxidative stress. Bovine Hp in blood increases during diseases such as mastitis and fatty liver syndrome. This study was conducted to examine the expression and regulation of Hp in differentiated mature bovine adipocytes. Hp expression was confirmed in various tissues and in mature adipocytes but not in the stromal vascular cell fraction using qualitative RT -PCR and quantitative northern blot analysis, respectively. Intravenous injection of Holstein cows with recombinant bovine tumor necrosis factor-α (rbTNF-α) and interferon gamma (rbIFN-γ) significantly increased the serum concentrations of Hp. When mature differentiated bovine adipocytes were incubated with short chain fatty acids, cytokines and hormones, Hp expression was altered. Acetate, butyrate and propionate at a dose of 1 mM significantly up-regulated Hp mRNA abundance. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and TNF-α also significantly up-regulated Hp mRNA abundance, while troglitazone and norepinephrine down-regulated it. Our study confirmed expression of Hp in differentiated mature adipocytes and identified LPS, TNF-α, short chain fatty acids, as regulators of Hp mRNA expression in these cells.
Reproductive System Condition in Dairy Cows with Left-Sided Displacement of the Abomasums
Authors: Brodzki Piotr , Brodzki Adam , Kurek Łukasz , Marczuk Jan , Tatara Marcin R.
Published: April 2015

The aim of the study was to evaluate selected parameters representing reproductive system conditions in cows suffering from left-sided displacement of the abomasum (LDA). Eighty Holstein- Friesian cows were divided into control (n=40) and LDA (n=40) groups. Haematological and biochemical evaluations were performed in the control group and in cows with LDA before and after surgical treatment. Cytological and ultrasound examinations of the uterus were performed at 21 (baseline), 35 and 63 days after parturition. In the LDA group, significantly decreased concentrations of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, potassium, glucose and total cholesterol were stated, while aspartate aminotransferase activity, white blood cell count, erythrocyte count, haematocrit, haemoglobin content and concentration of β-hydroxybutyrate, free fatty acids and bilirubin were increased (all P<0.05). Percentage of neutrophils in the uterus and the uterus diameter were increased in the LDA group at the baseline and at 35 days after parturition (P<0.001). The neutrophil percentage was also increased at 63 days after parturition in the LDA group (P<0.001). Number of days to first oestrus, number of services per conception and calving-to-conception interval were higher in the LDA group (P<0.001). This study has shown reproductive system changes and impaired fertility in dairy cows as the consequence of LDA occurrence. Thus, LDA treatment in cows should be combined with diagnostic evaluation of the uterus and reproductive system to improve reproductive performance. As indicated in the cytological examination, a subclinical inflammatory process may last even 60 days after parturition, leading to substantial impairment of reproductive function in dairy cows.
Correlation Between Serum Acute Phase Proteins, Lung Pathology, and Disease Severity in Pigs Experimentally Co-Infected with H3N2 Swine Influenza Virus and Bordetella Bronchiseptica
Authors: Pomorska-Mól Małgorzata , Markowska-Daniel Iwona , Kwit Krzysztof , Urbaniak Kinga , Pejsak Zygmunt
Published: April 2015

The kinetics of C-reactive protein (CRP), haptoglobin (Hp), serum amyloid A (SAA), and pig major acute protein (Pig-MAP) response in pigs co-infected with H3N2 swine influenza virus (SwH3N2) and Bordetella bronchiseptica (Bbr) was studied, with assessment of potential correlations between the concentration of acute phase proteins (APPs) in serum samples, lung lesions, and the clinical course of the disease in co-infected pigs. The standard bacteriological methods for detection of Bbr and PCR technique for identification of Bbr and SwH3N2 were used. The serum concentrations of APPs were measured using ELISA. The concentration of CRP, SAA, and Pig-MAP was significantly higher from 2 to 4 or 5 dpi. The concentration of Hp was elevated until the end of the study. Significant correlations were found between the serum concentration of SAA and Pig-MAP and clinical score, and between the concentration of SAA and lung score. Apart from their potential as biological markers for co-infections, SAA and Pig-MAP levels have additive value since they are related to the severity of infection. The results indicate that measurement of APP (i.e SAA) may prove valuable in assessing the severity of respiratory infection in pigs, and may be of supportive value in the clinical evaluation of animals and in the selection of more appropriate treatment.
Results of Serological and Molecular Analysis of African and Classical Swine Fever in the Population of Wild Boars in Ukraine
Authors: Nevolko Oleg Mychailovich , Sytiuk Mykola Petrovich , Nychyk Serhiy Anatolievich , Hudz Nataliia Viktorivna
Published: April 2015

The results of the study of lymphoid organs and sera of wild boars for the presence of DNA of African swine fever (ASF) virus and RNA of classical swine fever (CSF) virus are presented, as well as the results of a serological examination for the presence of ASF and CSF virus antibodies. The study was conducted in Ukraine between 2008 and 2013. Biological samples were obtained from wild boars shot during the hunting season, and were examined by real-time PCR and ELISA. In total, 5759 sera were tested for CSF virus antibodies and 4856 for ASF virus antibodies by ELISA. Samples of lymphoid organs totalling 1129 were examined by PCR for the detection of CSF virus RNA and 8102 such samples were examined for the detection of ASF virus DNA. CSF virus antibodies were detected in 6.56% of wild boar sera. RNA of CSF virus was also identified in 1 out of 1129 samples tested. ASF virus antibodies or DNA in lymphoid organ samples were not detected.
Effectiveness of Dry Cow Therapy Comprising Antibiotic Treatment, Internal Teat Sealant, and α-Tocopherol Against New Intramammary Infections in Cows
Authors: Cengiz Mehmet , Bastan Ayhan
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study was to evaluate the preventive effectiveness of dry cow therapy based on antibiotic, internal teat sealant, and α-tocopherol administered separately or in various combinations at drying-off The study was performed on 322 uninfected quarters of 95 cows originating from three dairy herds. The new intramammary infection rates after calving were measured to evaluate the effectiveness. The quarters were divided into six groups differing in treatment, namely: control group (group C, n = 40) and five treatment groups. Treatment groups were arranged as follows: group A (antibiotic alone, n = 81), group AS (antibiotic + sealant, n = 40), group AST (antibiotic + sealant + α-tocopherol, n = 40), group T (α-tocopherol alone, n = 40), group S (sealant alone, n = 81). New infection rate amounted to 47.5% in group C. The treatment in group AST significantly prevented from the occurrence of new intramammary infections (12.5%, P < 0.05), especially those caused by major pathogens. Antibiotic treatment alone (group A) did not prevent from new infections (34.6%, P > 0.05), although the use of the sealant alone (group S) decreased the risk of new infection (24.7%, P < 0.05). A decrease in new infection rate (25%, P < 0.05) was also observed in AS group treated with the combination of the sealant and antibiotic. α -tocopherol supplementation alone (group T) had no overall effect on new infections (35%, P > 0.05). Increased α-tocopherol level (P < 0.05) was detected after calving in the quarters from cows that received α-tocopherol injections. In conclusion, the combination of antibiotic, internal teat sealant, and α-tocopherol used in dry cow therapy showed a significantly better preventive effect against new intramammary infections, than the therapeutics administered separately.
Oxidative Stability of Ostrich Meat Related to Duration of Linseed and Lucerne Supplementation to the Bird's Diet
Authors: Jóźwik Artur , Poławska Ewa , Zdanowska-Sąsiadek Żaneta , Lipińska Paulina , Kawka Magdalena , Guzek Dominika , Strzałkowska Nina
Published: April 2015

The effect of dietary linseed and lucerne supplementation on the oxidative stability of ostrich meat expressed by changes in concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH), and in activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), was studied. The feeding regimens were as follows: C – control group, L – 4% supplement of linseed, L-L45, L-L55, L-L65, and L-L75 – 4% supplement of linseed and supplement of lucerne added to the birds’ diet at 45, 55, 65, and 75 kg b.w. The highest level of GSH was recorded in L-L65 group, whereas the highest activity of SOD was observed in C, L-L65 and L-L75 groups. Among all groups, the long-term linseed and lucerne supplementation reduced the antioxidant potential of ostrich meat, especially in L-L45 and L-L55 groups, which was reflected in the highest level of MDA and the lowest activity of SOD. Thus, the optimal results after linseed and lucerne supplementation with regard to ostrich meat oxidative stability were reported in groups L-L65 and L-L75, approximately three to four months prior to slaughter.
Expression of Selected Markers in Immunohistochemical Diagnosis of Canine and Human Testicular Tumours
Authors: Ciaputa Rafał , Nowak Marcin , Madej Janusz A. , Janus Izabela , Górzyńska Elżbieta , Kandefer-Gola Małgorzata
Published: April 2015

Immunohistochemical profiles of the most common canine testicular tumours, including the Leydig cell tumours, seminomas, and Sertoli cell tumours were analysed, and the results were compared with those obtained in the corresponding types of human testicular neoplasms. The expressions of vimentin, von Willebrand factor (FVIII), chromogranin A, synaptophysin, and MCM3 were quantified. In the case of Sertoli cell tumours, only canine ones were analysed, since this type of tumour is very rarely diagnosed in men. The expression of the analysed proteins in the testicular tumours was similar. The von Willebrand factor exhibited the strongest expression in Leydig cell tumours in dogs and men, while vimentin was expressed more strongly in dogs (96.7% had an intensity at +++) than in men (62.5% had +++) in the Leydigioma. The immunoexpression of MCM3 in seminomas was high in both men and dogs – 90% +++ and 100% +++ respectively. The lack of chromogranin A and synaptophysin was observed in almost 100% of seminomas in men and dogs. This differed from the results obtained for Leydigioma, where chromogranin A was expressed in 70% of dogs at +++ and in 100% of men at ++++. The results may indicate that the antibodies were selected correctly. Their analysis and interpretation provides valuable information concerning the nature of the studied tumours.
Pathomorphological Changes of the Myocardium in Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Authors: Janus Izabela , Nowak Marcin , Madej Janusz A.
Published: April 2015

The study was conducted on ventricular and atrial wall preparations from 11 dogs with clinically diagnosed dilated cardiomyopathy. After fixation, the specimens were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and Masson-Goldner trichrome technique. Parenchymal changes (fibrosis and fatty infiltration), vascular changes (congestion and coronary vessel wall hypertrophy), degenerative changes (loss of striation, changes in cardiomycyte and nuclei structure), and presence of inflammatory infiltrates (mononuclear and polynuclear) were estimated. Complex histological changes in both ventricular and atrial muscles were shown. It was not determined whether the processes occurring in the myocardium have a primary character, or are a consequence of developing heart failure. Such issues will be put under further and more detailed examination.
Determination of acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase activity without dilution of biological samples
Authors: Pohanka Miroslav
Published: April 2015

Two cholinesterases: acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), are known. The enzymes are important in the body and alteration of their activity has significant use in the diagnosis of poisoning, liver function, etc. Currently available methods for the determination of cholinesterases have some major drawbacks including various interferences and the inability to be used for decreasing the enzyme activity in the presence of reversible inhibitors due to sample dilution; hence, a method for dilution free assay of cholinesterases is desired. Here, microplates were modified with indoxylacetate (100 μL of 10 mmol L