bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Liver Aspartate Transaminase Isoenzymes as Biomarkers of Chronic Exposure to Chromium(VI)
Authors: Najafi Mohammad , Roustazadeh Abazar , Moshtaghie Ali Asghar , Ani Mohsen 
Published: January 2014

Abstract Exposure to hexavalent chromium compounds is associated with the risk of lung cancer, dermatitis, gastrointestinal ulcers, and other tissue damages. The aim of this study was to compare liver isoenzyme and total serum activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) as cytotoxic biomarkers of acute and chronic cytotoxicity of CrVI. We investigated the extent of cell damage caused by chromium(VI) in acute (2.5 mg kg-1) daily doses administered over five days and chronic (0.25 mg kg-1 and 0.5 mg kg-1) daily doses administered over 15 to 60 days by measuring total AST in serum and low molecular weight AST (LMW-AST) and high molecular weight AST (HMW-AST) activities in thirty liver fractions. We also evaluated the kinetic properties and electrophoretic mobility of the LMW- and HMW-AST isoenzymes in liver subcellular fractions. Liver LMW-AST and total serum AST activities significantly decreased after 15 days of exposure (P<0.05). With continued treatment, AST activity increased by 15.67 % (P<0.05). Interestingly, changes in serum AST activity were similar to changes in the liver LMW-AST isoenzyme. Our results confirmed that total serum AST activity may serve as a reliable tissue biomarker for long-term exposures to CrVI, but they also suggest that the LMW-AST isoenzyme could be even more sensitive.
Prevalence and Correlates of Hypertension in A Transitional Southeastern European Population: Results from the Albanian Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Petrela Elizana , Burazeri Genc , Pupuleku Fatjona , Zaimi Edmond , Rahman Mizanur 
Published: January 2014

Abstract We assessed the prevalence and socioeconomic and behavioural correlates of hypertension in the young to middle-aged population of Albania, a transitional post-communist country in the Western Balkans. We analysed a sample of 2,837 men and 3,580 women aged 15 to 49 from the 2008/2009 Albanian Demographic and Health Survey. Hypertension was defined as SBP≥140 mm Hg, or DBP≥90 mm Hg, or if the subjects were under treatment for hypertension. Data on demographic and socioeconomic characteristics and behavioural factors were also collected. Logistic regression was used to assess the association of hypertension with covariates. Hypertension was significantly higher among men (27.3 %) than women (20.0 %), and significantly increased with age. The harmful effect of excessive weight and obesity on hypertension was stronger among women than among men and this effect increased with age, especially in women. Smoking and alcohol were risk factors for hypertension in men, but not women. Education had a protective effect on hypertension in women but not in men.
Oxalate: From the Environment to Kidney Stones
Authors: Brzica Hrvoje , Breljak Davorka , Burckhardt Birgitta C , Burckhardt Gerhard , Sabolić Ivan 
Published: January 2014

Abstract Oxalate urolithiasis (nephrolithiasis) is the most frequent type of kidney stone disease. Epidemiological research has shown that urolithiasis is approximately twice as common in men as in women, but the underlying mechanism of this sex-related prevalence is unclear. Oxalate in the organism partially originate from food (exogenous oxalate) and largely as a metabolic end-product from numerous precursors generated mainly in the liver (endogenous oxalate). Oxalate concentrations in plasma and urine can be modified by various foodstuffs, which can interact in positively or negatively by affecting oxalate absorption, excretion, and/or its metabolic pathways. Oxalate is mostly removed from blood by kidneys and partially via bile and intestinal excretion. In the kidneys, after reaching certain conditions, such as high tubular concentration and damaged integrity of the tubule epithelium, oxalate can precipitate and initiate the formation of stones. Recent studies have indicated the importance of the SoLute Carrier 26 (SLC26) family of membrane transporters for handling oxalate. Two members of this family [Sulfate Anion Transporter 1 (SAT-1; SLC26A1) and Chloride/Formate EXchanger (CFEX; SLC26A6)] may contribute to oxalate transport in the intestine, liver, and kidneys. Malfunction or absence of SAT-1 or CFEX has been associated with hyperoxaluria and urolithiasis. However, numerous questions regarding their roles in oxalate transport in the respective organs and male-prevalent urolithiasis, as well as the role of sex hormones in the expression of these transporters at the level of mRNA and protein, still remain to be answered.
Total sulphur content in deposits of the Zofiówka monocline (sw part of upper silesian coal basin)
Authors: Marcisz Marek 
Published: January 2014

Streszczenie
Dokonano charakterystyki zmian zawartości siarki całkowitej w 29 pokładach węgla kamiennego złóż Pniówek i Zofiówka, występujących w monoklinie Zofiówki - obszarze o podstawowym znaczeniu dla pol- skiej bazy węgli koksowych. Wytypowane do badań pokłady reprezentują warstwy siodłowe, rudzkie, załęskie i orzeskie, tj. pokłady gnip 500,400 i 300 (namur B - westfal B). Charakterystyki zmian S,d dokonano na podstawie utworzonej cyfrowej bazy danych obejmującej 2730 próbek, spośród których w 2661 oznaczono zawartość tego pierwiastka. Przeprowadzono podstawowe analizy statystyczne, za pomocąktórych określono m.in. liczbę próbek, w których oznaczono zawartość siarki całkowitej w poszczególnych pokładach, a także min., maks. oraz średnią zawartość tego pierwiastka w danym pokładzie. Prześledzono zmiany zawartości siarki całkowitej w układzie wertykalnym (wraz z głębokością) i horyzontalnym (w dwóch kierunkach: E-W oraz N-S). Wykreślono także mapy izoliniowe zawartości siarki całkowitej we wszystkich badanych pokładach węgla. Wyniki badań wykazały, że zawartość siarki całkowitej w badanych pokładach złóż monokliny Zofiówki zmienia się w zakresie od 0,21% S,d w pokładzie 406/1 do 2,18% S,d w pokładzie 361. Zawartość średnia siarki całkowitej w złożach monokliny Zofiówki wynosi 0,65% S,d. Nie wykazano żadnej ogólnej tendencji zmian zawartości siarki cał- kowitej. W każdym z pokładów obserwuje się odmienny charakter tych zmian. Przedstawione w artykule rezultaty stanowią część wyników uzyskanych w ramach projektu badawczego pt.: „Inteligentna koksownia spełniająca wymagania najlepszej dostępnej techniki”, opartego na współpracy nauki z przemysłem, realizowanego w ramach Programu Operacyjnego „Innowacyjna Gospodarka” i finansowanego w większości ze środków Europejskiego Funduszu Rozwoju Regionalnego.
Land cover as a factor affecting the structure
and modifying the dynamics of a landscape system
Authors: Solon Jerzy , Lechnio Jerzy 
Published: January 2014

Abstract
of the landscape from the viewpoint of the structure’s durability, characteristics and speed of change. The research focused on the area surrounding Płock.

In the analysed period (1987-2010) slight changes were detected with regard to the land cover, though they were significant in terms of the natural environment. No single dominant process determining land cover change was identified. Fluctuations prevailed (producing a slightly different picture in each microregion), with a fixed pattern maintained. Distribution, shape and spatial location of land cover types are only partly determined by land lie and habitat quality. Fragmentation of the terrain is relatively high, which reflects intense land use, at the same time indicating opportunities to preserve the wildlife and vegetation typical for agrocenoses.
DEVELOPMENT OF A NOVEL TECHNOLOGY FOR RAPIDLY ROTATING SYSTEMS FOR MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Klaeger Uwe , Schmucker Ulrich , Galazky Veikko 
Published: January 2014

Abstract
Rapidly rotating systems such as centrifuges are widely used in medicine and laboratories to efficiently separate different constituents of liquids. Rotors, which hold sample containers, are an essential part of centrifuges. Since they are subjected to extreme mechanical loads, rotors are one of a centrifuge’s core safety components. Their deficits served as the point of departure for the development of a novel manufacturing technology, which is based on carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP). Its supporting structure is entirely in the loading plane, thus enabling the rotor to absorb higher centrifugal forces while requiring the same amount of material. The new design concept for the load-bearing structure includes a geodesically molded annular support member. It transmits forces better than present products and increases rigidity. In order to eliminate the known problems with obtaining the necessary manufacturing quality of hollow fiber composite bodies, the authors developed the process of centrifugal infusion. Their proposed solution is based on generating higher gravitation forces, thus effectively eliminating detrimental gas pockets and simultaneously optimizing surface quality and impregnation.
ALGORITHM FOR ISO 14649 (STEP-NC) FEATURE RECOGNITION
Authors: Pobożniak Janusz 
Published: January 2014

Abstract
The paper focuses on the algorithm for the recognition of manufacturing features defined in ISO 14649 (STEP-NC). First, the features defined in STEP-NC standard are discussed and then commonly used feature recognition methods are presented. Then the developed algorithm for recognition is presented in details starting with the discussion of STEP-NC features from the point of view of their recognition. The steps of the algorithm responsible for the recognition of profile based, transition and group features are presented. The software developed to verify the algorithm is also described. The final part includes the directions for the future research works. This paper adds to the works aimed to strengthen the position and use the full benefits of this new ISO 14649 standard.
STUDYING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE NiCrN ALLOY FORGING PROCESS
Authors: Schmidt Jerzy , Kazakov Alexander , Zagórski Andrzej , Świątoniowski Andrzej 
Published: January 2014

Abstract
Chromium- and nickel based alloys offer good mechanical properties, while keeping them also in highly corrosive environment. In addition, the introduction of the nitrogen at the level of 0.3 to 0.5% to the alloy structure, increases the plastic deformation ability of the cast alloy. This observation is fully confirmed by the results of the plastic deformation tests (performed on Gleeble), which are presented in this paper. The laboratory samples made of NiCrN wrought alloy and processed by die forging, demonstrated the significant increase of the yield stress and plastic deformation ability for the applied deformation degrees. The experiments showed about twofold increase of the resistance to cyclic loading for the forged products, when comparing it to the initial alloy state after casting. The developed technology (validated by numerical simulations) has been used to manufacture the workpiece for the propeller shaft. The results of the deformation performance for the element subjected to plastic processing have been compared with the material in its cast state.
DYNAMIC BUSINESS MODEL BASED ON RESEARCH IN POWER ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY
Authors: Koskinen Jari , Takala Josu , Awali Joseph Sebuwufu 
Published: January 2014

Abstract
The recent global economic crisis has caused an uncertain and challenging business environment and has battered managements that are running businesses all over the world. This paper focuses on new capabilities that can be used successfully in a fast changing business environment for improving firms’ efficiency.
This research utilizes constructive approach including interviews and case studies. The relevant findings of the study are the elements of the key success factors: entrepreneurial strategy, R&D to market performance, dynamic operational excellence and innovativeness with links to the key actions which have led to new business model called dynamic business model (DBC). This research focuses on power electronics business industry which at the same time is a limitation. This research helps directors and managers to think more widely and make better decisions for the success of the company. This research results bring additional value of the previous studies regarding a firm’s key success factors and dynamic capabilities.
Hunting in the dark by a peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus)
Authors: Hirata Kazuhiko , Nakahama Shota , Yoshioka Toshiro 
Published: January 2014

Abstract
A peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) was observed preying on a mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) in Hokkaido, northern Japan, before dawn. The observation was made on 13 January 2013 about 40 minutes before sunrise, in the dark. Although there were sparse street lamps and car traffic nearby the observation point, it is not as evenly and continuously well-lit as urban areas. This suggests the potential of peregrine falcon to forage successfully in non-urban habitat under low light conditions.
Diet of the ural owl (Strix uralensis) in Slovakia
Authors: Obuch Ján , Danko Štefan , Mihók Jozef , Karaska Dušan , Šimák Ladislav 
Published: January 2014

Abstract
A Central European subspecies of the Ural owl Strix uralensis macroura (Wolf, 1810) is widespread in the territory of Slovakia. The work presents unpublished data on the diet of this subspecies from several territorial units of eastern and northern Slovakia, obtained from pellets and the nest linings in boxes (1 ,564 pieces). There is less data about prey brought to young in the nest but still not yet consumed (137 pieces). Published data from analysis of the stomachs of dead and shot owls come from the first six decades of the 20th century. Together with existing published data, 2,134 pieces of the diet of S. uralensis from Slovakia are evaluated. They indicate the dominance of non-forest species Microtus arvalis and a more plentiful representation of larger species of prey: Lepus europaeus, Sciurus vulgaris and Corvus sp. In upper Orava the diet of young S. uralensis also consists of frogs Rana temporaria, moles Talpa europaea and mountain species of rodents: Microtus agrestis, M. subterraneus, Sicista betulina and Arvicola amphibius. In data from the mountains of central Slovakia the Clethrionomys glareolus has high abundance, and in eastern Slovakia the Apodemus flavicollis and A. agrarius are more represented, and in the lowlands also the Cricetus cricetus. Upon evaluation ofmaterial from the entire breeding grounds of S. uralensis it can be deduced that the basic diet consist of mammals (88.6%) from the orders Soricomorpha and Rodentia. In the countries of Central Europe the species M. arvalis, M. subterraneus, A. flavicollis and Muscardinus avellanarius are more abundantly represented, and in the Baltic states the species Sorex araneus, M. agrestis, M. oeconomus and M. rossiaemeridionalis. The species S. betulina and A. agrarius occur in the diet of S. uralensis from Central Europe up through the Far East.
Application of landscape metrics
in the evaluation of geodiversity
Authors: Malinowska Ewa , Szumacher Iwona 
Published: January 2014

Abstract
The purpose of this study is to present opportunities for using landscape metrics to evaluate geodiversity on individual landscape levels. The research area is located to the west of the Płock Urban and Industrial Agglomeration in Poland. Within this area, hierarchically organized regional units were delimited (Richling, Malinowska, Szumacher 2013). The area is divided into 87 first-level regions, 36 second-level regions and 9 third-level regions. The units have been treated as basic fields for geodiversity analysis purposes using selected landscape measures and metrics, to include area, density, size, edges and diversity (among others, Shannon’s Diversity Index (SDI), Shannon’s Evenness Index (SEI), domination (D) and redundancy (R)) generated in Patch Analyst v. 5, Fragstats v. 4.0, ArcGIS v.10 and Statistica v. 10 software.
Application of the catena concept
in studies of landscape system dynamics
Authors: Malinowska Ewa , Szumacher Iwona 
Published: January 2014

Abstract
The concept of catena in landscape surveys is used to demonstrate the surroundings of landscape units, their vertical structure and inter-unit processes, as well as the mosaic nature of the landscape. Furthermore, it reflects the structural and functional heterogeneity of the surveyed area, at the same time indicating types of links between landscape units, depending on a variety of geological, habitat-related and biotic conditions, including land use and its transformation arising from anthropopressure.

The catena survey performed included four key morphological and lithological units with varied landscape structure and functioning: glacial upland, vast outwash plains, the Wisła River valley and deepened channel valleys, as well as dune hills and hillocks. The results prove that the functioning of landscape systems depends on the forms of land use and their durability. Characteristics of leading components in catenas are diverse despite a similar genesis of landforms and relief shaping processes.
How to Build a Time‐Gated Luminescence Microscope
Authors: Jin Dayong , Lu Yiqing , Leif Robert C. , Yang Sean , Rajendran Megha , Miller Lawrence W. 
Published: January 2014

AbstractThe sensitivity of filter‐based fluorescence microscopy techniques is limited by autofluorescence background. Time‐gated detection is a practical way to suppress autofluorescence, enabling higher contrast and improved sensitivity. In the past few years, three groups of authors have demonstrated independent approaches to build robust versions of time‐gated luminescence microscopes. Three detailed, step‐by‐step protocols are provided here for modifying standard fluorescent microscopes to permit imaging time‐gated luminescence. Curr. Protoc. Cytom. 67:2.22.1‐2.22.36. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Gravity wave characteristics in the mesopause region revealed from OH airglow imager observations over Northern Colorado
Authors: Tang Yihuan , Dou Xiankang , Li Tao , Nakamura Takuji , Xue Xianghui , Huang Can , Manson Alan , Meek Chris , Thorsen Denise , Avery Susan 
Published: January 2014

AbstractUsing 5 years of all‐sky OH airglow imager data over Yucca Ridge Field Station, CO (40.7°N, 104.9°W), from September 2003 to September 2008, we extract and deduce quasi‐monochromatic gravity wave (GW) characteristics in the mesopause region. The intrinsic periods are clustered between approximately 4 and 10 min, and many of them are unstable and evanescent. GW occurrence frequency exhibits a clear semiannual variation with equinoctial minima, which is likely related to the seasonal variation of background wind. The anomalous propagation direction in January 2006, with strong southward before major warming starting in 21 January and weak southward propagation afterward, was most likely affected by stratospheric sudden warming. The momentum fluxes show strongly anticorrelated with the tides, with ~180° out of phase in the zonal component. While in the meridional component, the easterly maximum occurred approximately 2–6 h after maximum easterly tidal wind. However, the anticorrelations are both weakest during the summer. The dissipating and breaking of small‐scale and high‐frequency GW's components could have a potential impact on the general circulation in the mesopause region.
Malodorous consequences: What comprises negligence in anosmia litigation?
Authors: Svider Peter F. , Mauro Andrew C. , Eloy Jean Anderson , Setzen Michael , Carron Michael A. , Folbe Adam J. 
Published: January 2014

BackgroundOur objectives were to evaluate factors raised in malpractice litigation in which plaintiffs alleged that physician negligence led to olfactory dysfunction.MethodsWe analyzed publically available federal and court records using Westlaw, a widely used computerized legal database. Pertinent jury verdicts and settlements were comprehensively examined for alleged causes of malpractice (including procedures for iatrogenic causes), defendant specialty, patient demographics, and other factors raised in legal proceedings.ResultsOf 25 malpractice proceedings meeting inclusion criteria, 60.0% were resolved for the defendant, 12.0% were settled, and 28.0% had jury‐awarded damages. Median payments were significant ($300,000 and $412,500 for settlements and awards, respectively). Otolaryngologists were the most frequently named defendants (68.0%), with the majority of iatrogenic cases (55.0%) related to rhinologic procedures. Associated medical events accompanying anosmia included dysgeusia, cerebrospinal fluid leaks, and meningitis. Other alleged factors included requiring additional surgery (80.0%), unnecessary procedures (47.4% of iatrogenic procedural cases), untimely diagnosis leading to anosmia (44.0%), inadequate informed consent (35.0%), dysgeusia (56.0%), and psychological sequelae (24.0%).ConclusionOlfactory dysfunction can adversely affect quality of life and thus is a potential area for malpractice litigation. This is particularly true for iatrogenic causes of anosmia, especially following rhinologic procedures. Settlements and damages awarded were considerable, making an understanding of factors detailed in this analysis of paramount importance for the practicing otolaryngologist. This analysis reinforces the importance of explicitly including anosmia in a comprehensive informed consent process for any rhinologic procedure.
The association between allergy and chronic rhinosinusitis with and without nasal polyps: an evidence‐based review with recommendations
Authors: Wilson Kevin F. , McMains K. Christopher , Orlandi Richard R. 
Published: January 2014

BackgroundThe relationship between allergy and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) remains ill‐defined and controversial. The association between the 2 is unclear, making an evidence‐based decision of whether to evaluate and treat allergies in CRS patients difficult. The purposes of this systematic review are to (1) examine the relationship between allergy and CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP), (2) examine the same for allergy and CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), and (3) recommend evaluation and treatment based on the evidence.MethodsA structured literature search was performed to identify articles examining the link between allergy and CRSsNP and CRSwNP. Pertinent articles were examined for evidence for an association between allergy and CRSsNP and/or CRSwNP.ResultsA total of 24 articles were found that met the inclusion criteria; 18 articles examined the relationship between allergy and CRSwNP, with 10 articles showing an association, 7 articles showing no association, and 1 article showing a possible association. Nine articles examined the relationship between allergy and CRSsNP, with 4 articles showing an association and 5 articles showing no association. Four studies directly compared the role of allergy in CRSwNP and CRSsNP, and, again, the results were mixed. No articles examined the outcomes of CRSsNP or CRSwNP following allergy treatment.ConclusionThe role of allergy in CRSwNP and CRSsNP continues to be controversial, with the level of evidence poor. Based on the available data, the recommendation is that allergy testing and treatment are an option in CRSwNP and CRSsNP.