bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Framework for Statistical Inference in Astrophysics
Authors: Schafer Chad M.
Published: December 2014

The rapid growth of astronomical data sets, coupled with the complexity of the questions scientists seek to answer with these data, creates an increasing need for the utilization of advanced statistical inference methods in astrophysics. Here, focus is placed on situations in which the underlying objective is the estimation of cosmological parameters, the key physical constants that characterize the Universe. Owing to the complex relationship between these parameters and the observable data, this broad inference goal is best divided into three stages. The primary objective of this article is to describe these stages and thus place into a coherent framework the class of inference problems commonly encountered by those working in this field. Examples of such inference challenges are presented.
Human Atrial Cell Models to Analyse Haemodialysis-Related Effects on Cardiac Electrophysiology: Work in Progress
Authors: Passini Elisa , Genovesi Simonetta , Severi Stefano
Published: December 2014

During haemodialysis (HD) sessions, patients undergo alterations in the extracellular environment, mostly concerning plasma electrolyte concentrations, pH, and volume, together with a modification of sympathovagal balance. All these changes affect cardiac electrophysiology, possibly leading to an increased arrhythmic risk. Computational modeling may help to investigate the impact of HD-related changes on atrial electrophysiology. However, many different human atrial action potential (AP) models are currently available, all validated only with the standard electrolyte concentrations used in experiments. Therefore, they may respond in different ways to the same environmental changes. After an overview on how the computational approach has been used in the past to investigate the effect of HD therapy on cardiac electrophysiology, the aim of this work has been to assess the current state of the art in human atrial AP models, with respect to the HD context. All the published human atrial AP models have been considered and tested for electrolytes, volume changes, and different acetylcholine concentrations. Most of them proved to be reliable for single modifications, but all of them showed some drawbacks. Therefore, there is room for a new human atrial AP model, hopefully able to physiologically reproduce all the HD-related effects. At the moment, work is still in progress in this specific field.
Differences in the Malariometric Indices of Asymptomatic Carriers in Three Communities in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Amodu Olukemi K. , Olumide Adesola O. , Uchendu Obioma C. , Amodu Folakemi A. , Omotade Olayemi O.
Published: December 2014

This study was conducted to determine the malariometric indices of children in three different settings in Ibadan, Nigeria. Children were recruited from an urban slum (Oloomi) and a periurban (Sasa) and a rural community (Igbanda) in Ibadan. Children aged between 2 and 10 years were randomly selected from primary schools in the urban and periurban areas. In the rural community, children were recruited from the centre of the village. A total of 670 (55.0%) out of 1218 children recruited were positive for malaria parasitaemia. The urban population had the highest proportion of children with malaria parasitaemia. Splenomegaly was present in 31.5%, hepatomegaly in 41.5%, hepatosplenomegaly in 27.5%, and anaemia in 25.2% of the children. The parasite density was not significantly different among children in the three communities. Children in the rural community had the highest mean PCV of 34.2% and the lowest rates of splenomegaly (6.1%), hepatomegaly (7.6%), and hepatosplenomegaly (4.6%). The spleen rates, liver rates, and presence of hepatosplenomegaly and anaemia were similar in the urban and periurban communities. The malariometric indices among the asymptomatic carriers were high, especially in the urban slum. This stresses the need for intensified efforts at controlling the disease in the study area.
Treatment for Osteoporosis among Women in Japan: Associations with Patient Characteristics and Patient-Reported Outcomes in the 2008–2011 Japan National Health and Wellness Surveys
Authors: Sato Masayo , Vietri Jeffrey , Flynn Jennifer A. , Fujiwara Saeko
Published: December 2014

This study was conducted to identify characteristics associated with treatment for osteoporosis among women aged 50 years and older in Japan and to explore differences among patients according to treatment regimen. Data were provided by a large annual survey representative of Japanese aged 18 and older; all measures were by self-report. Women aged 50 and older who reported diagnosed osteoporosis (N=900) were compared based on current treatment status using bivariate statistics and logistic regression. Approximately 1 in 3 women in this study reporting diagnosed osteoporosis were currently untreated. Factors associated with current treatment for osteoporosis included having ≥1 physician visit in the prior 6 months (OR = 5.4,P<0.001), self-rated moderate or severe osteoporosis (OR = 2.8,P<0.001), completion of menopause (OR = 1.6,P<0.05), and family history of osteoporosis (OR = 1.5,P<0.05), while longer duration of osteoporosis diagnosis (OR = 0.9,P<0.05) and arthritis (OR = 0.7,P<0.05) were associated with lower odds of treatment. These findings suggest that diagnosed patients are not being actively managed in the longer term, and efforts need to be made to ensure that patients stay engaged with their healthcare providers.
Integromic Analysis of Genetic Variation and Gene Expression Identifies Networks for Cardiovascular Disease Phenotypes
Authors: Yao Chen , Chen Brian H. , Joehanes Roby , Otlu Burcak , Zhang Xiaoling , Liu Chunyu , Huan Tianxiao , Tastan Oznur , Cupples L. Adrienne , Meigs James B. , Fox Caroline S. , Freedman Jane E. , Courchesne Paul , O’Donnell Christopher J. , Munson Peter J. , Keles Sunduz , Levy Daniel
Published: December 2014

Background—

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) reflects a highly coordinated complex of traits. Although genome-wide association studies have reported numerous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to be associated with CVD, the role of most of these variants in disease processes remains unknown.

Methods and Results—

We built a CVD network using 1512 SNPs associated with 21 CVD traits in genome-wide association studies (at
P
≤5×10
−8
) and cross-linked different traits by virtue of their shared SNP associations. We then explored whole blood gene expression in relation to these SNPs in 5257 participants in the Framingham Heart Study. At a false discovery rate <0.05, we identified 370
cis
–expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs; SNPs associated with altered expression of nearby genes) and 44
trans
-eQTLs (SNPs associated with altered expression of remote genes). The eQTL network revealed 13 CVD-related modules. Searching for association of eQTL genes with CVD risk factors (lipids, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, and body mass index) in the same individuals, we found examples in which the expression of eQTL genes was significantly associated with these CVD phenotypes. In addition, mediation tests suggested that a subset of SNPs previously associated with CVD phenotypes in genome-wide association studies may exert their function by altering expression of eQTL genes (eg,
LDLR
and
PCSK7
), which in turn may promote interindividual variation in phenotypes.

Conclusions—

Using a network approach to analyze CVD traits, we identified complex networks of SNP-phenotype and SNP-transcript connections. Integrating the CVD network with phenotypic data, we identified biological pathways that may provide insights into potential drug targets for treatment or prevention of CVD.
Ladies in stripes: taxonomic confusion in a potential mimicry complex among Wallacean Coccinellidae (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)
Authors: LI JIAHUI , TOMASZEWSKA WIOLETTA , PANG HONG , ŚLIPIŃSKI ADAM
Published: December 2014

Two species of ladybird beetles, one belonging to Phrynocaria Timberlake (Coccinellni) and the second to Chilocorus Leach (Chilocorini) collected by R.A. Wallace in the Maluku Islands (Indonesia) have identical body size and colour pattern with longitudinal stripes on elytra. Their external features were so similar that G.R. Crotch included both of them in the type series of Chilocorus wallacii Crotch, 1874. The specimen designated as the lectotype of Chilocorus wallacii belongs to Phrynocaria. Coelophora wallacii Crotch, 1874 is also transferred to Phrynocaria (new comb.) and becomes senior homonym and Phrynocaria crotchi new name is proposed for the secondary junior homonym. Chilocorus crotchi sp. nov. is described for the taxon misidentified as Chilocorus wallacii Crotch.
A Systematic Relationship between the Representations of Convectively Coupled Equatorial Wave Activity and the Madden–Julian Oscillation in Climate Model Simulations
Authors: Guo Yanjuan , Waliser Duane E. , Jiang Xianan
Published: December 2014

The relationship between a model’s performance in simulating the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) and convectively coupled equatorial wave (CCEW) activity during wintertime is examined by analyzing precipitation from 26 general circulation models (GCMs) participating in the MJO Task Force/Global Energy and Water Cycle Experiment (GEWEX) Atmospheric System Study (GASS) MJO model intercomparison project as well as observations based on the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM). A model’s performance in simulating the MJO is determined by how faithfully it reproduces the eastward propagation of the large-scale intraseasonal variability (ISV) compared to TRMM observations. Results suggest that models that simulate a better MJO tend to 1) have higher fractional variances for various high-frequency wave modes (Kelvin, mixed Rossby–gravity, and westward and eastward inertio-gravity waves), which are defined by the ratios of wave variances of specific wave modes to the “total” variance, and 2) exhibit stronger CCEW variances in association with the eastward-propagating ISV precipitation anomalies for these high-frequency wave modes. The former result is illustrative of an alleviation in the good MJO models of the widely reported GCM deficiency in simulating the correct distribution of variance in tropical convection [i.e., typically too weak (strong) variance in the high- (low-) frequency spectrum of the precipitation]. The latter suggests better coherence and stronger interactions between these aforementioned high-frequency CCEWs and the ISV envelope in good MJO models. Both factors likely contribute to the improved simulation of the MJO in a GCM.
Invisible migrant enclaves in Chinese cities: Underground living in Beijing, China
Authors: Huang Youqin , Yi Chengdong
Published: December 2014

China is experiencing an urban revolution, powered in part by hundreds of millions of migrant workers. Faced with institutionalised discrimination in the housing system and the lack of housing affordability, migrants have turned to virtually uninhabitable spaces such as basements and civil air defence shelters for housing. With hundreds of thousands of people living in crowded and dark basements, an invisible migrant enclave exists underneath the modern city of Beijing. We argue that in Chinese cities, housing has been adopted as an institution to exclude and marginalise migrants, through: (a) defining migrants as an inferior social class through the Hukou system and denying their rights to entitlements including housing; (b) abnormalising migrants through various derogatory naming and categorisations to legitimise exclusion; and (c) purifying and controlling migrant spaces to achieve exclusion and marginalisation. The forced popularity of basement renting reflects the reality that housing has become an institution of exclusion and marginalisation. It embodies vertical spatial marginalisation, with exacerbated contrasts between basement tenants and urban residents, heightened fear of the ‘other’, even more derogatory naming, and the government’s more aggressive clean-up of their spaces. We call for reforms and policy changes to ensure decent and affordable housing for basement tenants and migrants in general.
Markers of endothelial function in migraine patients: Results from a bi-center prospective study
Authors: Fischer Marlene , Gaul Charly , Shanib Hind , Holle Dagny , Loacker Lorin , Griesmacher Andrea , Lackner Peter , Broessner Gregor
Published: December 2014

Background

Numerous studies suggest an increased vascular risk in patients with migraine, in particular in those with aura. A possible link between both conditions might be a dysfunction of the vascular endothelium. This observational study analyzed the endothelial markers angiopoietin-1, angiopoietin-2, Tie-2, sFlt-1 and NT-proBNP for the first time in migraineurs, patients with other primary headache disorders and healthy controls.

Methods

Patients with episodic migraine with and without aura, episodic cluster headache, tension-type headache and healthy controls were included. Blood samples were obtained during migraine attacks and headache-free periods in migraineurs, in and out of bout in cluster headache and during headache-free periods in tension-type headache and healthy individuals to analyze markers of endothelial function.

Results

No significant difference in endothelial markers between migraine, other headache disorders and healthy controls was detected. There was no significant difference between migraine attacks and headache-free intervals. Additionally, no distinction could be found between migraine with and without aura.

Discussion

The endothelial markers analyzed do not display a characteristic pattern in different headache disorders especially migraine compared to healthy controls. The novel findings of our study indicate that factors other than endothelial dysfunction seem to be responsible for the at least statistical association of migraine with vascular disease.
A systematic review of the incidence and prevalence of cardiac, cerebrovascular, and peripheral vascular disease in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Marrie Ruth Ann , Reider Nadia , Cohen Jeffrey , Stuve Olaf , Trojano Maria , Cutter Gary , Reingold Stephen , Sorensen Per Soelberg
Published: December 2014

Background:

Findings regarding the prevalence of vascular comorbidities in multiple sclerosis (MS) are conflicting.

Objective:

The objective of this review is to estimate the incidence and prevalence of vascular comorbidities and predisposing comorbidities in persons with MS and to assess the quality of the included studies.

Methods:

The PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS and Web of Knowledge databases, conference proceedings, and reference lists of retrieved articles were searched. One reviewer abstracted data using a standardized data collection form, while the second reviewer verified the abstraction. Included studies were assessed qualitatively. Quantitatively, we assessed studies using the I2 statistic, and conducted meta-analyses for population-based studies only.

Results:

The prevalence of hypertension and hyperlipidemia exceeded 10% in the MS population and increased with age. While the prevalence of ischemic heart disease, congestive heart failure, and stroke were less than 5% overall, the prevalence of these conditions exceeded expectations when compared to the general population. Cardiac valvular disease, however, affected the MS population less often than expected. Problems with study quality were common.

Conclusion:

Despite the relatively high prevalence of some vascular comorbidities in the MS population, important gaps exist in our understanding of their epidemiology. Most of our knowledge is based on studies conducted in a small number of regions.
A systematic review of the incidence and prevalence of autoimmune disease in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Marrie Ruth Ann , Reider Nadia , Cohen Jeffrey , Stuve Olaf , Sorensen Per S , Cutter Gary , Reingold Stephen C , Trojano Maria
Published: December 2014

Background:

As new therapies emerge which increase the risk of autoimmune disease it is increasingly important to understand the incidence of autoimmune disease in multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objective:

The purpose of this review is to estimate the incidence and prevalence of comorbid autoimmune disease in MS.

Methods:

The PUBMED, EMBASE, SCOPUS and Web of Knowledge databases, conference proceedings, and reference lists of retrieved articles were searched, and abstracts were independently screened by two reviewers. The data were abstracted by one reviewer using a standardized data collection form, and the findings were verified by a second reviewer. We assessed quality of the included studies using a standardized approach and conducted meta-analyses of population-based studies.

Results:

Sixty-one articles met the inclusion criteria. We observed substantial heterogeneity with respect to the populations studied, methods of ascertaining comorbidity, and reporting of findings. Based solely on population-based studies, the most prevalent autoimmune comorbidities were psoriasis (7.74%) and thyroid disease (6.44%). Our findings also suggest an increased risk of inflammatory bowel disease, likely uveitis and possibly pemphigoid.

Conclusion:

Fewer than half of the studies identified were of high quality. Population-based studies that report age, sex and ethnicity-specific estimates of incidence and prevalence are needed in jurisdictions worldwide.
Understanding Critical-Pedagogical-Performative-Autoethnography
Authors: Johnson-Mardones Daniel F.
Published: December 2014

This work is an attempt to understand critical-pedagogical-performative-autoethnography. This effort took place in an independent study that we understood as a pedagogical encounter. As a way to communicate my learning, this experimental text was written. I present it here with the hope that the following words will perform the meaning for the readers.
Sp1/Sp3 transcription factors regulate hallmarks of megakaryocyte maturation and platelet formation and function
Authors: Meinders Marjolein , Kulu Divine I. , van de Werken Harmen J. G. , Hoogenboezem Mark , Janssen Hans , Brouwer Rutger W. W. , van Ijcken Wilfred F. J. , Rijkers Erik-Jan , Demmers Jeroen A. A. , Krüger Imme , van den Berg Timo K. , Suske Guntram , Gutiérrez Laura , Philipsen Sjaak
Published: December 2014

Key Points

Megakaryocyte-specific Sp1/Sp3 double-knockout mice display thrombocytopenia, platelet dysfunction, and defects in megakaryocyte maturation. Selective Mylk inhibition by ML7 affects proplatelet formation and stabilization and ITAM receptor–mediated platelet aggregation.
Risk of Marrow Neoplasms After Adjuvant Breast Cancer Therapy: The National Comprehensive Cancer Network Experience
Authors: Wolff Antonio C. , Blackford Amanda L. , Visvanathan Kala , Rugo Hope S. , Moy Beverly , Goldstein Lori J. , Stockerl-Goldstein Keith , Neumayer Leigh , Langbaum Terry S. , Theriault Richard L. , Hughes Melissa E. , Weeks Jane C. , Karp Judith E.
Published: December 2014

Purpose

Outcomes for early-stage breast cancer have improved. First-generation adjuvant chemotherapy trials reported a 0.27% 8-year cumulative incidence of myelodysplastic syndrome/acute myelogenous leukemia. Incomplete ascertainment and follow-up may have underestimated subsequent risk of treatment-associated marrow neoplasm (MN).

Patients and Methods

We examined the MN frequency in 20,063 patients with stage I to III breast cancer treated at US academic centers between 1998 and 2007. Time-to-event analyses were censored at first date of new cancer event, last contact date, or death and considered competing risks. Cumulative incidence, hazard ratios (HRs), and comparisons with Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results estimates were obtained. Marrow cytogenetics data were reviewed.

Results

Fifty patients developed MN (myeloid, n = 42; lymphoid, n = 8) after breast cancer (median follow-up, 5.1 years). Patients who developed MN had similar breast cancer stage distribution, race, and chemotherapy exposure but were older compared with patients who did not develop MN (median age, 59.1 v 53.9 years, respectively; P = .03). Two thirds of patients had complex MN cytogenetics. Risk of MN was significantly increased after surgery plus chemotherapy (HR, 6.8; 95% CI, 1.3 to 36.1) or after all modalities (surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation; HR, 7.6; 95% CI, 1.6 to 35.8), compared with no treatment with chemotherapy. MN rates per 1,000 person-years were 0.16 (surgery), 0.43 (plus radiation), 0.46 (plus chemotherapy), and 0.54 (all three modalities). Cumulative incidence of MN doubled between years 5 and 10 (0.24% to 0.48%); 9% of patients were alive at 10 years.

Conclusion

In this large early-stage breast cancer cohort, MN risk after radiation and/or adjuvant chemotherapy was low but higher than previously described. Risk continued to increase beyond 5 years. Individual risk of MN must be balanced against the absolute survival benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy.
Place of Death and the Differences in Patient Quality of Death and Dying and Caregiver Burden
Authors: Kinoshita Hiroya , Maeda Isseki , Morita Tatsuya , Miyashita Mitsunori , Yamagishi Akemi , Shirahige Yutaka , Takebayashi Toru , Yamaguchi Takuhiro , Igarashi Ayumi , Eguchi Kenji
Published: December 2014

Purpose

To explore the associations between place of death and quality of death and dying and caregiver burden in terminally ill patients with cancer and their families.

Methods

Two bereavement surveys were conducted in October 2008 and October 2011. A total of 2,247 family caregivers of patients with cancer who were deceased responded to the mail surveys (response rate, 67%). Family members reported patient quality of death and dying and caregiver burden by using the Good Death Inventory and Caregiving Consequences Inventory.

Results

Patient quality of death and dying was significantly higher at home relative to other places of dying after adjustment for patient and/or family characteristics (adjusted means): 5.0 (95% CI, 4.9 to 5.2) for home, 4.6 (95% CI, 4.5 to 4.7) for palliative care units, and 4.3 (95% CI, 4.2 to 4.4) for hospitals. For all combinations, pairwise P < .001; the size of the difference between home and hospital was moderate (Hedges' g, 0.45). Home was superior to palliative care units or hospitals with respect to “dying in a favorite place,” “good relationships with medical staff,” “good relationships with family,” and “maintaining hope and pleasure” (P < .001 for all combinations of home v palliative care units and home v hospitals). Home death was significantly associated with a lower overall (P = .03) and financial caregiver burden (P = .004) relative to hospital death.

Conclusion

Dying at home may contribute to achieving good death in terminally ill patients with cancer without causing remarkably increased caregiver burden. Place of death should be regarded as an essential goal in end-of-life care.
The Cultural Politics of Fish and Humans
Authors: Probyn Elspeth
Published: December 2014

This article reframes fisheries sustainability as a matter of production and consumption. It argues that only a more-than-human approach that takes seriously the entanglement of all oceanic entities—fish, fishers, water—can tackle the sustainability of fish. In order to bring this to fruition, an affective oceanic habitus needs to be mobilized. Drawing on cultural references to the entanglement of humans and oceans, this article attempts to model what such affective habitus might entail.
The Impact of Manager Influence Tactics on Innovation Implementation of a Knowledge Management System
Authors: Chiu Holly , Fogel Joshua
Published: December 2014

Innovations can bring desired benefits to organizations if implemented successfully. Managers are a critical factor for influencing employee attitudes and behavior for adoption of innovations. We study employee (n=237) attitudes and behaviors for 13 different manager influence tactics in the innovation implementation phase of an e-learning system, which is regarded as the knowledge management system, in a manufacturing company in Taiwan. With regard to attitudes toward using the e-learning system, the influence tactics of apprising and collaboration were significantly associated with increased attitudes, while exchange and pressure were significantly associated with decreased attitudes. With regard to two separate behavior outcomes of the number of e-learning courses taken and the number of times online, the influence tactics of coalition, collaboration, and pressure all had significant increased associations; while ingratiation, inspirational appeals, legitimating, and rational persuasion all had significant decreased associations. Also, the influence tactics of apprising and persistence had significant increased associations only for the number of e-learning courses taken. Managers attempting to adopt innovative practices should consider the importance of influence tactics when adopting innovative practices in the corporate workplace.
How can Industry use the Innovation Potential of Universities and Research Institutes? Systematization, Evaluation, and New Development of Transfer Strategies Based on the Theory of Knowledge at the Interface between Companies and Science
Authors: Karnani Fritjof
Published: December 2014

A significant potential of information, knowledge, and experience is present at universities and research institutes. In view of growing competitive and innovation pressures, companies aim to increasingly use these resources. However, the transfer of knowledge between business and science is problematic. A multitude of research strands has recognized the tacit knowledge of research institutes as a decisive element that is crucial for the successful commercialization of research findings. In light of this context, various transfer strategies practiced by industry are systematized and evaluated based on the theory of knowledge. The rigorous reflection based on the theory of knowledge also opens the perspective on a new transfer strategy: the use of university spin-offs as knowledge transformers to exploit the tacit knowledge of parent institutes. Summaries for various transfer strategies are provided, and these strategies' effect on costs, flexibility, and access to the tacit realm of knowledge is shown.
The Evolution of Interactivity - New Insights into Innovation System Change and the Role of the State
Authors: Miethling Benjamin
Published: December 2014

The theoretical framework of innovation systems has been intensively studied over the last decades. The analysis of the network of interactions between institutions, actors, and processes appeared promising to derive valid hypotheses about the necessary preconditions and accelerating factors for and throughout the emergence of innovation. Few studies, however, succeeded to transform the theoretical framework into a model and even fewer took into account the evolutionary (time-related) character of such a complex system. This article follows two main questions: The first question is of a theoretical or methodological nature and is focused on how innovation systems can be designed in a way that makes them a workable model for future research. The main challenge lies in the generation of precise hypotheses that enable the researcher to trace technological evolution and the surrounding environment over time. This implies that the underlying theoretical assumptions of innovation systems have to be operationalized. This paper follows on the existing approaches and compares their merit to extract a promising concept. This concept is being coupled with existing theoretical assumptions on innovation policy to tackle the second question in this article about how to measure the political actors' influence on the innovation process. In essence, it becomes evident that innovation systems demand different political support in different development phases. These differences mainly refer to the level of intervention (from local to international) and types of interventions (e.g., direct investment, regulatory or systemic interventions). The article shows where in the system's development process certain types of political interventions are likely to be necessary and when private entrepreneurs and market mechanisms do not need this (or any) type of support. Finally, it sheds light on the influence of system-external events on the innovation system's development. It is shown that a consequential impact on the development can be spotted mainly under the influence of external macro events. Interestingly, these influences are on the one hand translated into the system via political action and on the other hand impact quite differently on the respective innovation systems, based on the system's state of evolution.
Globalization and international law: theoretical and legal analysis
Authors: Прието Муньоз Х.Г. , Prieto Munoz J.G.
Published: December 2014

The article reveals the role and impact of globalization on

international relations and international law, analyzing the most

influential contemporary legal theories that explain this process.
Qualitative and financial evaluation of public and private forest nurseries; Case study of southern Zagros forests, Iran
Authors: MOHMMADI MARYAM FAZLOLLAHI , VAEZIN SEYED MAHDI HESHMATOL , ETEMAD VAHID , SEPAHVAND ASHGAR , SHIRVANI ANOSHIRVAN , AZAM SOLEIMANI
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Mohammadi MF, Vaezin SMH, Etemad V, Sepahvand A, Shirvani A, Azam S. 2014. Qualitative and financial evaluation of public and private forest nurseries; Case study of southern Zagros forests, Iran. Nusantara Bioscience 6: 152-158. This study has examined the efficiency of two nurseries, private and public divisions, based on qualitative and financial evaluation in the Southern Zagros forests of Iran. To achieve this purpose, we selected two species including pistachio (Pistacia atlantica) and poplar (Populus nigra) in one year period. Results of qualitative evaluation showed that all produced seedlings by private nursery significantly had better features than the public one at a significant level of 0.05. Also, the results of financial evaluation showed that cost price of each poplar seedling at private nursery (0.734 $) was 19.6 times less than public one (14.4 $). The interest rate for pistachio seedling in private sector ranges from 1.9 to 2.2 $, while it ranges from 1.5 to 1.9 $ for poplar seedling. Such researches may help to improve management as well as financial and qualitative efficiency, especially in public nurseries. Future researches will be required to document other aspects of private management on nurseries in seedling products.
Effect of mycorrhizal inoculations on the growth of Shorea robusta seedlings
Authors: TAPWAL ASHWANI , KUMAR RAJESH , BORAH DEVOPOD
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Tapwal A, Kumar R, Borah D. 2015. Effect of mycorrhizal inoculations on the growth of Shorea robusta seedlings. Nusantara Bioscience 7: 1-5. Shorea robusta is one of important timber yielding tree species of northeast India and known to have both ectomycorrhizal (EcM) and endomycorrhizal (AM) associations. It is hypothesized that under favorable conditions different mycorrhizal fungi present in soil develop symbiotic association with fine roots of trees. In present investigations, mycorrhizal inoculum of EcM and AM fungi applied to S. robusta seedlings raised in polyethylene bags in nursery. Observations on growth characters and mycorrhizal colonization were recorded at the interval of three months. The results revealed that irrespective of type of mycorrhizal inoculation, growth of the seedlings increased significantly in comparison to control. Maximum growth was observed for the seedlings inoculated with EcM alone, followed by dual inoculations (EcM+AM), seedlings inoculated with AM fungi and minimum in control.
A AVALIAÇÃO NA EDUCAÇÃO INFANTIL: FUNDAMENTOS, INSTRUMENTOS E PRÁTICAS PEDAGÓGICAS
Authors: Faria Ana Paula , Besseler Lais Helena
Published: December 2014

O presente artigo apresenta fundamentos, instrumentos e práticas acerca da avaliação pedagógica no âmbito da Educação Infantil, bem como o relato de experiências avaliativas vivenciadas pelas autoras, em seus estágios supervisionados, durante a graduação em Pedagogia, em duas escolas da rede municipal de Campinas. A pesquisa tem como referência metodológica a abordagem qualitativa de pesquisa e teve como principais referências teóricas Hoffmann (2000), Bondioli (2004) e Micarello (2010). Estes estudos nos permitem considerar que o processo avaliativo realizado em sala de aula deve ser entendido como elemento essencial do planejamento docente, por revelar as principais necessidades e avanços dos alunos, nas suas relações com o ensino e a aprendizagem. Esperamos, com este estudo, reafirmar a importância da avaliação na primeira infância na busca pelo sucesso da educação escolar na sociedade contemporânea.http://dx.doi.org/10.14572/nuances.v25i3.3048
ORDEM, PROGRESSO E ALFABETIZAÇÃO! LOURENÇO FILHO E O ENSINO DA LEITURA E ESCRITA
Authors: Bruneri Bruno Marini , Espíndola Ana Lucia
Published: December 2014

O presente ensaio pretende resgatar na trajetória histórica da alfabetização brasileira o pensamento e as contribuições do professor escolanovista Lourenço Filho, buscando compreender de que forma o pensamento desse autor ainda marca de forma bastante contundente algumas concepções de alfabetização vigentes. O motivo da escolha por estudar e discutir Lourenço Filho se deu por suas imensas contribuições nas pesquisas acerca da psicologia escolar, dos estudos sobre o ensino da leitura e da escrita e por ter sido um grande promotor da educação popular brasileira. Contudo, para organização deste texto, nos limitamos as suas obras de maior destaque e influência na educação de base no Brasil; sendo elas um ensaio e duas cartilhas, que emblemáticas e representativas do pensamento do autor acerca do ensino da leitura e escrita, predominaram por mais de meio século no cenário educacional do país.http://dx.doi.org/10.14572/nuances.v25i3.3084
Comparative assessment of onion and garlic extracts on endogenous hepatic and renal antioxidant status in rat
Authors: Suru Stephen M. , Ugwu Chidiebere E.
Published: December 2014

Background: Despite growing claims of functional health benefits in folkloric medicine, the safety of chronic/elevated intakes of onion and garlic cannot be assumed. Therefore, this study assesses oral administration of varied doses of onion and garlic on some biomarkers of hepatic and renal functions in rats.

Methods: Animals were divided into five groups: control group received vehicle and extract-treated groups received varied doses of onion or garlic extract (0.5 mL and 1.0 mL/100 g bwt/day) for 6 weeks.

Results: Both doses of onion caused marked (p<0.05) increase in hepatic and renal levels of glutathione (GSH), glutathione S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and marked (p<0.05) decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA). Treatment with low dose of garlic elicited similar trend except in hepatic CAT, renal SOD and GST levels. A high dose of garlic only caused marked (p<0.05) increase in hepatic GST, renal GST, and SOD. Both doses of onion and low dose of garlic significantly (p<0.05) enhanced renal Na+/K+-ATPase activity. Only a high dose of onion caused significant (p<0.05) increase in hepatic aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and decrease in plasma AST activities.

Conclusions: These findings suggest antioxidant enhancing capability for both doses of onion and low dose of garlic, while high dose of garlic elicited pro-oxidant conditions.
Stereophotography and spatial surface reconstruction using scanning electron microscopy images
Authors: Kareiva Simonas , Selskis Algirdas , Ivanauskas Feliksas , Sakirzanovas Simas
Published: December 2014

Three-dimensional reconstruction technique to fully characterize structural performance of solid materials is suggested. The three-dimensional sample data out of the SEM images taken from different angles were extrapolated, measured and interpreted. In stereometry, the technique of three dimensional SEM imaging is fairly straightforward. Selected specimen area is photographed using SEM imaging tools from two different angles. Tilting is performed using standard SEM manipulation tools. In some cases, the specimen must be rotated to such a position, in which the tilting is done on visual ordinate axis. The resulting images are combined in pairs using any three-dimensional anaglyph software available to produce an anaglyph image, which, in turn, can be analyzed using standard 3D glasses. To achieve finer results, extrapolation of spatial data was done from three or more sample images using visual reconstruction software applications. This technique for recovering spatial data from the SEM pictures (structure-from-motion) is the VisualSFM software, which is an application for spatial reconstruction using structure from sample motion. Using VisualSFM, the images are analyzed for matching points and the camera angle is guessed for each image. Any number of additional viewports can be added to VisualSFM software. Based on this input, a surface is reconstructed where the matching points intersect and a colour value is assigned. The software produces a cloud of points, which has to be processed externally. Freely available software, such as MeshLab can be used to join the point cloud to a mesh and, as a second step of reconstruction, apply surface properties to the mesh polygons. The gold particles were selected as model material for the spatial 3D surface reconstruction.
Resistance Is Fertile!
Authors: Meneley Anne
Published: December 2014

This article deals with two nonviolent resistance movements in the contemporary West Bank, where the “local” itself is under constant threat of encroachment by Israeli infrastructures of control, co-option, and containment. Resistance is fertile in two ways: one, people have proposed that nonviolent resistance is the productive (fertile) way to oppose the Israeli occupation, and two, nonviolent resistance is fertile in the sense of using local resources (land, water, plants) to produce local food and drink. The first example is Taybeh beer, the first Palestinian microbrewed beer, and the second is Sharaka, a community supported agriculture group in the West Bank, which supports “reinvention” in the sense of rediscovering local Palestinian foods and making them available to consumers. Both movements assert their opposition to the occupation: Taybeh invites consumers to “taste the revolution” in their beer, while Sharaka invites consumers to seek out the local “baladi” taste of Palestinian products instead of Israeli-produced food products. The article investigates the important differences between the two in terms of their orientation toward international (Taybeh) or local markets and audiences (Sharaka). The two also differ crucially in their attitude toward effective resistance: through developing Palestinian firms within a neoliberal economy or in striving for an independent Palestinian agriculture in opposition to dependence on Israeli food products. Further, the two differ on practices of boycott: Sharaka supports the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement whereas Taybeh actively seeks Israeli markets for its beer.
New TB treatments hiding in plain sight
Authors: Olive Andrew J , Sassetti Christopher M
Published: December 2014

As tuberculosis (TB) toll is revised upward according to the WHO's last estimates, the lack of vaccine strategy and the lengthy antibiotic treatments that unfortunately promote the emergence of drug resistance are a major set back in the fight against this pathogen. In this issue of EMBO Molecular Medicine, Schiebler et al () propose a novel and compelling new approach to target Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) by pharmacologically stimulating intracellular mycobacteria clearance through autophagy.
Validity of Self-Assessment of Pubertal Maturation
Authors: Rasmussen Anna R. , Wohlfahrt-Veje Christine , Tefre de Renzy-Martin Katrine , Hagen Casper P. , Tinggaard Jeanette , Mouritsen Annette , Mieritz Mikkel G. , Main Katharina M.
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Studies of adolescents often use self-assessment of pubertal maturation, the reliability of which has shown conflicting results. We aimed to examine the reliability of child and parent assessments of healthy boys and girls.

METHODS:

A total of 898 children (418 girls, 480 boys, age 7.4–14.9 years) and 1173 parents (550 daughters, 623 sons, age 5.6–14.7 years) assessed onset of puberty or development of breasts, genitals, and pubic hair according to Tanner stages by use of a questionnaire and drawings. Physicians’ assessments were blinded and set as the gold standard. Percentage agreement, κ, and Kendall’s correlation were used to analyze the agreement rates.

RESULTS:

Breast stage was assessed correctly by 44.9% of the girls (κ = 0.28, r = 0.74, P < .001) and genital stage by 54.7% of the boys (κ = 0.33, r = 0.61, P < .001). For pubic hair stage 66.8% of girls (κ = 0.55, r = 0.80, P < .001) and 66.1% of boys (κ = 0.46, r = 0.70, P < .001) made correct assessments. Of the parents, 86.2% correctly assessed onset of puberty in girls (κ = 0.70, r = 0.71, P < .001) and 68.4% in boys (κ = 0.30, r = 0.37, P < .001). Children who underestimated were younger and children who overestimated older than their peers who made correct assessments. Girls and their parents tended to underestimate, whereas boys overestimated their pubertal stage.

CONCLUSIONS:

Pubertal assessment by the child or the parents is not a reliable measure of exact pubertal staging and should be augmented by a physical examination. However, for large epidemiologic studies self-assessment can be sufficiently accurate for a simple distinction between prepuberty and puberty.
Precollege and In-College Bullying Experiences and Health-Related Quality of Life Among College Students
Authors: Chen Yu-Ying , Huang Jiun-Hau
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Bullying is a commonly occurring problem behavior in youths that could lead to long-term health effects. However, the impact of school bullying experiences on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among college students has been relatively underexplored. This study aimed to describe school bullying experiences and to empirically examine their associations with HRQOL among college students in Taiwan.

METHODS:

Self-administered survey data (response rate 84.2%) were collected from 1452 college students in 2013 by using proportional stratified cluster sampling. Different types of bullying experiences (ie, physical, verbal, relational, and cyber) before and in college, for bullies and victims, were measured. HRQOL was assessed by the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) Taiwan version.

RESULTS:

College students with cyber bullying-victimization experiences before college (β 0.060) reported significantly higher HRQOL in physical health. Regarding social relationships, those with verbal (β –0.086) and relational (β –0.056) bullying-victimization experiences, both before and in college, reported significantly lower HRQOL, whereas those with verbal (β 0.130) and relational (β 0.072) bullying-perpetration experiences in both periods reported significantly higher HRQOL. Students with cyber bullying–victimization experiences in college (β 0.068) reported significantly higher HRQOL in the environment domain. Last, the effects of verbal and relational bullying-victimization experiences on psychological HRQOL could be mediated and manifested through depression.

CONCLUSIONS:

Various types of bullying experiences occurring before and in college were differentially associated with HRQOL in different domains. These findings underscore the importance of developing school policies and health education initiatives to prevent school bullying and ameliorate its short-term and long-term effects on HRQOL.
Blood pressure responses to resistive exercise in trained female athletes: Influence of velocity of movement
Authors: Arazi Hamid , Asadi Abbas , Alipour Vahide
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this study was to examine post-exercise hypotension (PEH) responses to three different resistance exercise velocities in female athletes. The 13 female subjects with experience of resistance training performed a series of resistance exercises with 80% of one repetition maximum for 3 sets with differing in velocity of movements: fast movement (FM; 1-second eccentric and 1-second concentric actions), moderate movement (MM; 1-second eccentric and 2-second concentric actions) and slow movement (SM; 2-second eccentric and 4-second concentric actions). After completing each training session, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were taken every 10 min for a period of 60 min of recovery. The results indicated significant increases in SBP at 10th min post-exercise in comparison to baseline. After 60-min recovery, all conditions showed statistically significant decreases in SBP when compared with pre-exercise. In all measured moments, there were no significant differences among experimental sessions in post-exercise levels of SBP and DBP. Therefore, resistance training with FM, MM, and SM can induce increases in SBP after exercise, whereas after 60-min recovery, can induce decreases in SBP or post-exercise hypotension.
SPECIFIC IMMUNOLOGICAL TESTS IN DIAGNOSTICS OF TUBERCULOSIS OF GENITALS
Authors: Yakovleva A. A. , Mordyk A. V.
Published: December 2014

The analysis of Russian and foreign publications contained results of application of specific immunological methods for diagnostics of genital tuberculosis in patients with infertility has been carried out. It was established that methods of assessment of the system cellular (stimulated of gamma interferon by M. tuberculosis) and humoral (levels of specific immunoglobulins A, M, G classes) and also evaluation of the local specific immunity in patients with infertility were the perspective direction of identification and diagnostics of tuberculosis of genitals in women with infertility in time.
FLU IN CHILDREN AFTER A PANDEMIC IN ST. PETERSBURG GENERAL HOSPITAL
Authors: Dondurey E. A. , Sukhovetskaya V. F. , Osidak L. V. , Konovalova N. I. , Lobova T. G. , Pisareva M. M. , Gladchenko L. N. , Obraztsova E. V. , Gonchar V. V. , Minchenko S. I. , Korcheniuk L. V.
Published: December 2014

Flu monitoring was carried out in children’s general hospital in St. Petersburg within three epidemic seasons (2010–2011, 2011–2012 and 2012–2013). 1916 patients under the age of 18 years were examined with the complex of virologic tests . The natural decreasing of flu incidence and predominant diagnosing in etiologic structure one of the virus serotypes [in the first A(H1N1)pdm09, in the second — A(H3N2)] have been observed during the first two years after a pandemic. In the third season restoration of the main characteristics of epidemic flu situation were detected: polietiology with annual change of serotypes proportions, late start (winter and spring), majority of younger children among hospitalaized patients and a mild course of disease. The most probable candidates [viruses of a subtype A(H3N2)] are revealed as a causal factor of significant increasing of disease incidence with the severe forms in the near future. Laboratory data were confirmed by increase in frequency of the complicated by pneumonia ARI at hospitalized patients during the periods of their maximum registration. All isolates received during the study were corresponded to the referens-strains included in vaccines. Thus, timely and appropriate vaccination during the studied period had to become an effective protection against a flu.
Emmanuela Bakola: Cratinus and the Art of Comedy.
Authors: Imperio Olimpia
Published: December 2014

Emmanuela Bakola: Cratinus and the Art of Comedy. Oxford: Oxford UP 2010. XV, 380 S. 3 Abb. 4 Taf. 65 £.
Amador Ángel García Santos: Diccionario del Griego Bíblico. Setenta Y Nuevo Testamento.
Authors: Toit David S. du
Published: December 2014

Amador Ángel García Santos: Diccionario del Griego Bíblico. Setenta Y Nuevo Testamento. Estella: Verbo Divino, 2011. 936 S. (Instrumentos para el estudio de la Biblia. 21.).