bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Editorial v. 8, n. 2 2015
Authors: Castro Vitorio Delogo de
Published: November 2015

Editorial v. 8, n. 2 2015
Expediente
Authors: Castro Vitorio Delogo de
Published: November 2015

Expediente
Post Abortion Contraception
Authors: Gemzell-Danielsson Kristina , Kallner Helena Kopp
Published: November 2015

A safe induced abortion has no impact on future fertility. Ovulation may resume as early as 8 days after the abortion. There is no difference in return to fertility after medical or surgical abortion. Most women resume sexual activity soon after an abortion. Contraceptive counseling and provision should therefore be an integrated part of the abortion services to help women avoid another unintended pregnancy and risk, in many cases an unsafe, abortion. Long-acting reversible contraceptive methods that includes implants and intrauterine contraception have been shown to be the most effective contraceptive methods to help women prevent unintended pregnancy following an abortion. However, starting any method is better than starting no method at all. This Special Report will give a short guide to available methods and when they can be started after an induced abortion.
Predictive factors of sagittal stability after treatment of Class II malocclusions
Authors: Wins Sabrina Maniewicz , Antonarakis Gregory S. , Kiliaridis Stavros
Published: November 2015

Objective: 

To determine the existence of factors permitting the prediction of sagittal stability after orthodontic treatment in patients with Angle Class II malocclusion.

Materials and Methods: 

PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched up to March 2015. Inclusion criteria were longitudinal studies with at least 10 subjects investigating associations between at least one factor and stability, with an average minimum follow-up period of 2 years; stability measured using posttreatment sagittal dental changes; and orthodontic treatment including removable and/or fixed appliances with or without extractions. Two reviewers independently selected and assessed the quality of the articles.

Results: 

The search strategy resulted in 1372 articles, of which 17 met the inclusion criteria. Large changes during treatment in molar and canine relationships were the only two factors found to be positively associated with relapse, but with limited evidence. Fourteen factors were found not to be predictive of relapse, also with limited evidence. These factors included treatment characteristics, patient pretreatment characteristics, and final posttreatment characteristics.

Conclusions: 

There is currently limited evidence to support the influence of factors predictive of sagittal stability following Class II malocclusion treatment. More high-quality prospective studies are needed, and functional factors possibly affecting relapse also need to be further assessed.
Effect of ketamine on the minimum infusion rate of propofol needed to prevent motor movement in dogs
Authors: Reed Rachel A. , Seddighi M. Reza , Odoi Agricola , Cox Sherry K. , Egger Christine M. , Doherty Thomas J.
Published: November 2015

OBJECTIVE To determine the minimum infusion rate (MIR) of propofol required to prevent movement in response to a noxious stimulus in dogs anesthetized with propofol alone or propofol in combination with a constant rate infusion (CRI) of ketamine.

ANIMALS 6 male Beagles.

PROCEDURES Dogs were anesthetized on 3 occasions, at weekly intervals, with propofol alone (loading dose, 6 mg/kg; initial CRI, 0.45 mg/kg/min), propofol (loading dose, 5 mg/kg; initial CRI, 0.35 mg/kg/min) and a low dose of ketamine (loading dose, 2 mg/kg; CRI, 0.025 mg/kg/min), or propofol (loading dose, 4 mg/kg; initial CRI, 0.3 mg/kg/min) and a high dose of ketamine (loading dose, 3 mg/kg; CRI, 0.05 mg/kg/min). After 60 minutes, the propofol MIR required to prevent movement in response to a noxious electrical stimulus was determined in duplicate.

RESULTS Least squares mean ± SEM propofol MIRs required to prevent movement in response to the noxious stimulus were 0.76 ± 0.1 mg/kg/min, 0.60 ± 0.1 mg/kg/min, and 0.41 ± 0.1 mg/kg/min when dogs were anesthetized with propofol alone, propofol and low-dose ketamine, and propofol and high-dose ketamine, respectively. There were significant decreases in the propofol MIR required to prevent movement in response to the noxious stimulus when dogs were anesthetized with propofol and low-dose ketamine (27 ± 10%) or with propofol and high-dose ketamine (30 ± 10%).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Ketamine, at the doses studied, significantly decreased the propofol MIR required to prevent movement in response to a noxious stimulus in dogs.
Effects of training at a walk on conventional and underwater treadmills on fiber properties and metabolic responses of superficial digital flexor and gluteal muscles to high-speed exercise in horses
Authors: Firshman Anna M. , Borgia Lisa A. , Valberg Stephanie J.
Published: November 2015

OBJECTIVE To compare effects of training on conventional and underwater treadmills on fiber properties and metabolic responses of the superficial digital flexor (SDF) and gluteal muscles to high-speed exercise in horses.

SAMPLE 6 unconditioned Quarter Horse–type horses.

PROCEDURES 6 horses were walked on underwater and conventional treadmills for 5 d/wk (maximum, 40 min/d) for 8 weeks in a randomized crossover design (60-day detraining period). Horses underwent a standardized exercise test (SET) at high speed before and after training. Analyte concentrations and fiber characteristics were measured in muscle biopsy specimens obtained from horses before and after each SET.

RESULTS Lactate concentration increased 2- to 3-fold in SDF and gluteal muscle after SETs. No training effect was identified on muscle fiber type composition, type II fiber diameter, muscle analyte concentrations, blood lactate concentration, or heart rate responses. Maximum diameters of type I fibers decreased significantly in gluteal muscle with conventional treadmill training and decreased in SDF muscle with both types of training, with maximum diameters greater for horses after underwater versus conventional treadmill training. No change was identified in minimum fiber diameters.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE SETs involving near-maximal exertion resulted in an anaerobic response in SDF and gluteal muscles of horses. Eight weeks of conventional or underwater treadmill training resulted in minor changes in type I muscle fiber sizes, with no effect on muscle metabolic or heart rate responses to SETs. After rehabilitation involving underwater treadmills, training at progressing speeds is recommended for horses to develop the required fitness for speed work.
Pharmacokinetics of butorphanol delivered with an osmotic pump during a seven-day period in common peafowl (Pavo cristatus)
Authors: Clancy Meredith M. , KuKanich Butch , Sykes IV John M.
Published: November 2015

OBJECTIVE To determine pharmacokinetics of butorphanol delivered via osmotic pumps in common peafowl (Pavo cristatus) as a method for analgesic administration to avian species.

ANIMALS 14 healthy adult male common peafowl.

PROCEDURES A preliminary experiment was conducted with 2 birds to establish time point and concentration requirements. Then, the remaining 12 birds were anesthetized, and 2 osmotic pumps containing butorphanol (volume, 2 mL; mean dosage, 247 μg/kg/h) were implanted subcutaneously in each bird for 7 days prior to removal. Blood samples were collected before pump implantation (time 0); 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144, and 168 hours after pump implantation; and 3 and 6 hours after pump removal. Plasma butorphanol concentrations were measured via liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry.

RESULTS Plasma concentrations peaked (mean, 106.4 μg/L; range, 61.8 to 133.0 μg/L) at a mean of 39.0 hours, with no evidence of sedation in any bird. After pump removal, butorphanol was rapidly eliminated (half-life, 1.45 hours; range, 1.31 to 1.64 hours; n = 5). Mean clearance per fraction of dose absorbed was 2.89 L/kg/h (range, 2.00 to 5.55 L/kg/h). Mean amount of time the plasma butorphanol concentration was ≥ 60 μg/L was 85.6 hours (range, 3.5 to 155.3 hours).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Plasma concentrations of butorphanol in common peafowl were maintained at or above reported efficacious analgesic concentrations. This study established a method for administering analgesics to avian patients without the need for frequent handling or injections. Use of these osmotic pumps may provide options for avian analgesia.
Pharmacokinetics of a single intramuscular injection of ceftiofur crystalline-free acid in red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis)
Authors: Sadar Miranda J. , Hawkins Michelle G. , Byrne Barbara A. , Cartoceti Andrew N. , Keel Kevin , Drazenovich Tracy L. , Tell Lisa A.
Published: November 2015

OBJECTIVE To determine the pharmacokinetics and adverse effects at the injection site of ceftiofur crystalline-free acid (CCFA) following IM administration of 1 dose to red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis).

ANIMALS 7 adult nonreleasable healthy red-tailed hawks.

PROCEDURES In a randomized crossover study, CCFA (10 or 20 mg/kg) was administered IM to each hawk and blood samples were obtained. After a 2-month washout period, administration was repeated with the opposite dose. Muscle biopsy specimens were collected from the injection site 10 days after each sample collection period. Pharmacokinetic data were calculated. Minimum inhibitory concentrations of ceftiofur for various bacterial isolates were assessed.

RESULTS Mean peak plasma concentrations of ceftiofur-free acid equivalent were 6.8 and 15.1 μg/mL for the 10 and 20 mg/kg doses, respectively. Mean times to maximum plasma concentration were 6.4 and 6.7 hours, and mean terminal half-lives were 29 and 50 hours, respectively. Little to no muscle inflammation was identified. On the basis of a target MIC of 1 μg/mL and target plasma ceftiofur concentration of 4 μg/mL, dose administration frequencies for infections with gram-negative and gram-positive organisms were estimated as every 36 and 45 hours for the 10 mg/kg dose and every 96 and 120 hours for the 20 mg/kg dose, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Study results suggested that CCFA could be administered IM to red-tailed hawks at 10 or 20 mg/kg to treat infections with ceftiofur-susceptible bacteria. Administration resulted in little to no inflammation at the injection site. Additional studies are needed to evaluate effects of repeated CCFA administration.
The tourism function of rural areas in Pomerania province: diversity and change
Authors: Durydiwka Małgorzata
Published: November 2015

The aim of this paper is to present the spatial diversity of the tourism function in the rural areas of Pomerania province and the changes which occurred in 1995-2013. The tourism function has been determined by means of two characteristics: the number of tourists using accommodation and the number of businesses registered in the REGON system in sections H or I. To quantify the tourism function a synthetic measure has been used according to a procedure by ZIOŁO (1973). Based on this, five levels of the development of the tourism function have been determined. The quantitative and spatial changes occurring in the development of the tourism function in rural areas have then been analyzed. Particular emphasis has been placed on the so-called tourism communes, i.e. those where the tourism function is at least at a ‘moderate’ level of development. For these communes, nine functional types have been determined, based on two characteristics (average duration of stay and share of year-round accommodation), changes which occurred in this respect in 1995-2013 have also been determined.
Molecular Confirmation on the Presence of Anadara Kagoshimensis (Tokunaga, 1906) (Mollusca: Bivalvia: Arcidae) in the Black Sea / Confirmarea moleculară a prezenţei speciei Anadara Kagoshimensis (Tokunaga, 1906) (Mollusca: Bivalvia: Arcidae) în Marea Neagră
Authors: Krapal Ana Maria , Popa Oana Paula , Levarda Alexandra , Iorgu Elena Iulia , Popa Luis Ovidiu , Costache Marieta , Crocetta Fabio
Published: November 2015

The use of DNA barcoding in alien invasions has recently proved to be a powerful tool in delineating dispersal pathways and clarifying doubtful identifications. Morphological similarities between Anadara kagoshimensis (Tokunaga, 1906) and Anadara inaequivalvis (Bruguière, 1789) require the use of genetic markers in identifying the ark shell species that has recently invaded the Black Sea. The high genetic similarity (99.8-100%) hereby found between COI sequences obtained from the Black Sea samples and Japanese A. kagoshimensis confirms at a molecular level that the ark clam species invading the Romanian Black Sea belong to this taxon.
The Bird Fauna From Lotrioara River Basin (Lotru Mountains, Romania)/ Avifauna din Bazinul Râului Lotrioara (Munții Lotrului, România)
Authors: Benedek Ana Maria , Sîrbu Ioan
Published: November 2015

The results of a one year study of bird communities from the Lotrioara River Basin (Lotru Mountains, Romania), using the transect method along the main valley, are presented. The study aimed to reveal the characteristics of the community’s dynamics, both from spatial and temporal point of view. During the research period 70 species belonging to 9 orders were identified in the investigated area. The number of species decreases with the altitude, but it is also related to the heterogeneity of habitats. During the year the species’ number varies from a minimum in winter to a maximum in spring. Insectivores are the prevailing feeding guild in the bird communities from Lotrioara basin, but during the cold season the dominance is taken over by omnivorous and granivorous species.
Don DeLillo’s Anagogic Postcards: Thematic Inscriptions Writ Small
Authors: Clissold Bradley D.
Published: November 2015

This article critically explores Don DeLillo’s strategic use of postcards to highlight and reinforce the central thematic preoccupations in his fiction. As early-twentieth-century communication technologies, postcards precariously navigated the uneasy boundaries between public and private concerns, establishing cultural protocols about the proper use of these modern epistolary forms. Commonly associated as they are with tourism and American kitsch culture, postcards have become productive sites for exploring contemporary anxieties about interpersonal relationships and subjectivity. They are mass-produced objects containing standardized formats that are then inscribed with individualized (and therefore highly subjective) messages. Although the postcard has been superseded as a communication technology by a number of more cost- and time-efficient modes of communication (e-mailing, texting, tweeting, and using other social media devices), postcard use has not been abandoned (think cheap postal advertising and anthrax scares), and DeLillo’s fiction—from Great Jones Street and Amazons to White Noise, Libra, The Day Room, and The Names—confirms the postcard’s literary longevity.
The Effect of Supplementing Air-Dried Moringa stenopetala Leaf to Natural Grass Hay on Feed Intake and Growth Performances of Arsi-Bale Goats
Authors: Melesse Aberra , H/Meskel Degnet , Banerjee Sandip , Abebe Aster , Sisay Amsalu
Published: November 2015

The most constraining factor in goat production in the tropics is underfeeding mainly attributed to limitations of feed both in quantity and quality. This study was conducted to assess the effect of supplementing different levels of air-dried Moringa stenopetala leaf (MSL) as a protein source on nutrient intake and growth performances of Arsi-Bale male goats. A total of 24 yearling goats with average initial body weight of 13.6 ± 0.25 kg were used in the study. The goats were blocked by live weight into four groups (n = 6 per group) and the groups were then randomly allocated into four supplemented treatments. All goats received a basal diet of natural grass hay ad libitum and 340 g/head/day concentrate. The treatments were the control diet with no supplementation (Treatment 1, T1) and diets supplemented with MSL at a rate of 120 g/head/day (Treatment 2, T2), 170 g/head/day (Treatment 3, T3) and 220 g/head/day (Treatment 4, T4). The duration of the experiment was 75 days. The results indicated that the average daily feed intake was (p < 0.001) higher in goats supplemented with T3 and T4 diets. The total dry matter, organic matter, and crude protein intakes of goats fed with T3 and T4 supplementations were (p < 0.001) also higher than those reared in T1 and T2 diets. Goats reared in T3 and T4 diets had lower (p < 0.05) feed conversion ratio than those fed with T1 and T2 diets. The final body weight in goats reared in T3 and T4 diets was 18.2 kg and 18.5 kg, respectively, being (p < 0.05) higher than those of T1 (15.8 kg) and T2 (16.3 kg). The average daily weight gain in goats fed with T3 and T4 diets was 111 and 114 g/goat/day, respectively, which was (p < 0.05) higher than those reared in the control (T1) (54.0 g/goat/day) and T2 (58.1 g/goat/day) diets. It can thus be concluded that goats reared at high level of MSL supplementation (T3 and T4) had better nutrient intake, feed conversion efficiency and growth performances, suggesting its potential as a good protein supplement to natural grass hay at the farmer’s management level.
Trichromatic π-Pulse for Ultrafast Total Inversion of a Four-Level Ladder System
Authors: Serrat Carles , Corbera Montserrat , Afa John
Published: November 2015

We present a numerical solution for complete population inversion in a four-level ladder system obtained by using a full π-pulse illumination scheme with resonant ultrashort phase-locked Gaussian laser pulses. We find that a set of pulse areas such as √3π , √2π , and √3π completely inverts the four-level system considering identical effective dipole coupling coefficients. The solution is consistent provided the involved electric fields are not too strong and it is amply accurate also in the case of diverse transition dipole moments. We study the effect of detuning and chirp of the laser pulses on the complete population inversion using the level structure of atomic sodium interacting with ps and fs pulses as an example. Our result opens the door for multiple applications such as efficient ultrashort pulse lasing in the UV or the engineering of quantum states for quantum computing.
Applying Acylated Fucose Analogues to Metabolic Glycoengineering
Authors: Rosenlöcher Julia , Böhrsch Verena , Sacharjat Michael , Blanchard Véronique , Giese Christoph , Sandig Volker , Hackenberger Christian , Hinderlich Stephan
Published: November 2015

Manipulations of cell surface glycosylation or glycan decoration of selected proteins hold immense potential for exploring structure-activity relations or increasing glycoprotein quality. Metabolic glycoengineering describes the strategy where exogenously supplied sugar analogues intercept biosynthetic pathways and are incorporated into glycoconjugates. Low membrane permeability, which so far limited the large-scale adaption of this technology, can be addressed by the introduction of acylated monosaccharides. In this work, we investigated tetra-O-acetylated, -propanoylated and -polyethylene glycol (PEG)ylated fucoses. Concentrations of up to 500 µM had no substantial effects on viability and recombinant glycoprotein production of human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293T cells. Analogues applied to an engineered Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell line with blocked fucose de novo synthesis revealed an increase in cell surface and recombinant antibody fucosylation as proved by lectin blotting, mass spectrometry and monosaccharide analysis. Significant fucose incorporation was achieved for tetra-O-acetylated and -propanoylated fucoses already at 20 µM. Sequential fucosylation of the recombinant glycoprotein, achieved by the application of increasing concentrations of PEGylated fucose up to 70 µM, correlated with a reduced antibody’s binding activity in a Fcγ receptor IIIa (FcγRIIIa) binding assay. Our results provide further insights to modulate fucosylation by exploiting the salvage pathway via metabolic glycoengineering.
Adaptation of Powerline Communications-Based Smart Metering Deployments to the Requirements of Smart Grids
Authors: Sendin Alberto , Arzuaga Txetxu , Urrutia Iker , Berganza Iñigo , Fernandez Ainara , Marron Laura , Llano Asier , Arzuaga Aitor
Published: November 2015

Powerline communications (PLC)-based smart meter deployments are now a reality in many regions of the world. Although PLC elements are generally incorporated in smart meters and data concentrators, the underlying PLC network allows the integration of other smart grid services directly over it. The remote control capabilities that automation programs need and are today deployed over their medium voltage (MV) grid, can be extended to the low voltage (LV) grid through these existing PLC networks. This paper demonstrates the capabilities of narrowband high data rate (NB HDR) PLC technologies deployed over LV grids for smart metering purposes to support internet protocol internet protocol (IP) communications in the LV grid. The paper demonstrates these possibilities with the presentation of the simulation and laboratory results of IP communications over international telecommunication union: ITU-T G.9904 PLC technology, and the definition of a PLC Network Management System based on a simple network management protocol (SNMP) management information base (MIB) definition and applicable use cases.
Response Based Emergency Control System for Power System Transient Stability
Authors: Wang Huaiyuan , Zhang Baohui , Hao Zhiguo
Published: November 2015

A transient stability control system for the electric power system composed of a prediction method and a control method is proposed based on trajectory information. This system, which is independent of system parameters and models, can detect the transient stability of the electric power system quickly and provide the control law when the system is unstable. Firstly, system instability is detected by the characteristic concave or convex shape of the trajectory. Secondly, the control method is proposed based on the analysis of the slope of the state plane trajectory when the power system is unstable. Two control objectives are provided according to the methods of acquiring the far end point: one is the minimal cost to restore the system to a stable state; the other one is the minimal cost to limit the maximum swing angle. The simulation indicates that the mentioned transient stability control system is efficient.
Decolonizing Trauma Studies Round-Table Discussion
Authors: Craps Stef , Cheyette Bryan , Gibbs Alan , Andermahr Sonya , Allwork Larissa
Published: November 2015

This round-table, which featured literary critics Professor Stef Craps, Professor Bryan Cheyette and Dr. Alan Gibbs, was recorded as part of the “Decolonizing Trauma Studies” symposium organized by Dr. Sonya Andermahr and Dr. Larissa Allwork at The School of The Arts, The University of Northampton (15 May 2015). Convened a week after the University of Zaragoza’s “Memory Frictions” conference, where Cheyette, Gibbs, Andermahr and Allwork gave papers, the Northampton symposium and round-table was sponsored by The School of The Arts to coincide with Andermahr’s guest editorship of this special issue of Humanities. Craps, Cheyette and Gibbs addressed five questions during the round-table. Namely, does trauma studies suffer from a form of psychological universalism? Do you see any signs that trauma studies is becoming more decolonized? What are the challenges of a decolonized trauma studies for disciplinary thinking? How does a decolonized trauma studies relate to pedagogical ethics? Finally, where do you see the future of the field? While this edited transcript retains a certain informality of style, it offers a significant contribution to knowledge by capturing a unique exchange between three key thinkers in contemporary trauma studies, providing a timely analysis of the impact of postcolonial theory on trauma studies, the state of the field and its future possibilities. Issues addressed include the problematic scholarly tendency to universalize a western model of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD); the question of the centrality of the Holocaust in trauma studies and the implications of this for the study of atrocities globally; the vexed issues posed by the representation of perpetrators; as well as how the basic tenets of western cultural trauma theory, until recently so often characterized by a Caruth-inspired focus on belatedness and afterwardness, are being rethought, both in response to developments in the US and in answer to the challenge to ‘decolonize’ trauma studies.
Occurrence and Profiles of the Artificial Endocrine Disruptor Bisphenol A and Natural Endocrine Disruptor Phytoestrogens in Urine from Children in China
Authors: Zhang Mingyue , Duan Zhenghua , Wu Yinghong , Liu Zhen , Li Ke , Wang Lei
Published: November 2015

Background: Exposure to artificial or natural endocrine disruptors, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phytoestrogens has been demonstrated to have health effects, especially in children. Biomonitoring of BPA and phytoestrogens in human urine can be used to assess the intake levels of these compounds. Methods: In this study, BPA and phytoestrogens in urine specimens (n = 256) collected from children in China were measured by liquid chromatography (LC)-tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). Results: BPA was detected in most specimens, with a geometric mean concentration of 1.58 ng/mL. For the first time, levels of urinary phytoestrogens in Chinese children were reported. Daidzein and enterolactone are the typical isoflavones and lignans compounds in urine, respectively. Conclusions: Relatively high levels of urinary BPA indicate an increasing risk of BPA exposure to Chinese children. Urinary concentrations of daidzein in Chinese children are higher when compared with those reported in the U.S. children, while concentrations of urinary enterolactone and enterodiols are significantly lower. This suggests a significant difference in phytoestrogen intake between the children from China and from the U.S.
A Comparative Study on the Uptake and Toxicity of Nickel Added in the Form of Different Salts to Maize Seedlings
Authors: Nie Jing , Pan Yuqiang , Shi Jing , Guo Yan , Yan Zengguang , Duan Xiaoli , Xu Meng
Published: November 2015

In soil ecotoxicological studies, a toxic metal is usually added in the form of either an inorganic or organic salt with relatively high solubility. Nitrate, chloride, acetate, or sulfate are commonly considered as valid options for that aim. However, recent studies have shown that different salts of the same metal at the same cationic concentration may exhibit different toxicities to plants and soil organisms. This information should be considered when selecting data to use for developing toxicological criteria for soil environment. A comparative study was carried out to evaluate the toxicity of five nickel (Ni) salts: NiCl2, NiSO4, Ni(II)-citrate, Ni(CH3COO)2, and Ni(II)-EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetate), on maize seedlings. The plant metrics used were plant height, shoot and root biomass, leaf soluble sugars and starch, and the Ni contents of the shoots and roots. The results indicated that when Ni was added to the soil, toxicity varied with the selected anionic partner with the following toxicity ranking NiSO4 < Ni(CH3COO)2 < Ni(II)-citrate < NiCl2 < Ni(II)-EDTA. Taking the plant-height metric as an example, the effective concentrations for 50% inhibition (EC50) were 3148 mg·kg−1 for NiSO4, 1315 mg·kg−1 for NiCl2, and 89 mg·kg−1 for Ni(II)-EDTA. Compared with the Ni in the other salts, that in Ni(II)-EDTA was taken up the most efficiently by the maize roots and, thus, resulted in the greatest toxic effects on the plants. Nickel generally reduced leaf soluble sugars, which indicated an effect on plant carbohydrate metabolism. The outcome of the study demonstrates that different salts of the same metal have quite different ecotoxicities. Therefore, the anionic counterpart of a potentially toxic metal cation must be taken into account in the development of ecotoxicological criteria for evaluating the soil environment, and a preferred approach of leaching soil to reduce the anionic partner should also be considered.
The Associations of Job Stress and Organizational Identification with Job Satisfaction among Chinese Police Officers: The Mediating Role of Psychological Capital
Authors: Lu Lu , Liu Li , Sui Guoyuan , Wang Lie
Published: November 2015

Police officers’ job satisfaction is an important issue for police force management, but insufficient research exists on the topic, especially in China. This study aimed to examine the associations of job stress and organizational identification with job satisfaction among Chinese police officers, and particularly the mediating role of psychological capital (PsyCap). A cross-sectional study was conducted in Liaoning Province of China during the period of September–October 2014. A set of self-administered questionnaires was distributed to 2514 police officers, and complete responses were obtained from 2226 participants. The associations among variables in relation to job satisfaction were validated by structural equation modeling. Job stress was negatively associated with job satisfaction, while organizational identification and PsyCap were positively associated with job satisfaction among Chinese police officers. PsyCap mediated the associations of job stress and organizational identification with job satisfaction. Interventions to improve Chinese police officers’ job satisfaction should be developed in the future, especially the enhancement of PsyCap.
Maize-Pathogen Interactions: An Ongoing Combat from a Proteomics Perspective
Authors: Pechanova Olga , Pechan Tibor
Published: November 2015

Maize (Zea mays L.) is a host to numerous pathogenic species that impose serious diseases to its ear and foliage, negatively affecting the yield and the quality of the maize crop. A considerable amount of research has been carried out to elucidate mechanisms of maize-pathogen interactions with a major goal to identify defense-associated proteins. In this review, we summarize interactions of maize with its agriculturally important pathogens that were assessed at the proteome level. Employing differential analyses, such as the comparison of pathogen-resistant and susceptible maize varieties, as well as changes in maize proteomes after pathogen challenge, numerous proteins were identified as possible candidates in maize resistance. We describe findings of various research groups that used mainly mass spectrometry-based, high through-put proteomic tools to investigate maize interactions with fungal pathogens Aspergillus flavus, Fusarium spp., and Curvularia lunata, and viral agents Rice Black-streaked Dwarf Virus and Sugarcane Mosaic Virus.
Durability of Pultruded GFRP through Ten-Year Outdoor Exposure Test
Authors: Nishizaki Itaru , Sakuraba Hiroki , Tomiyama Tomonori
Published: November 2015

Pultrusion is an easy molding method of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) to obtain a long composite material with a uniform cross-section at relatively low cost. In some cases, pultruded FRPs are now used in bridges and deck projects. Since the application of pultruded FRP as a structural material is increasing, a study on the durability of pultruded FRP under outdoor conditions is necessary in terms of safety. Some studies have shown that pultruded glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) exhibits a slight reduction in mechanical properties during outdoor exposure. Since pultruded GFRP consists of multi-layers, the change of mechanical properties in each layer is important to understand. In this study, an outdoor exposure test on pultruded GFRP for 10 years was conducted with three types of pultruded GFRP, which have different laminate systems, including surface-coated specimens of each type. Changes of strength and elastic modulus due to outdoor exposure were discussed with a focus on the contribution of each layer based on the rule of mixtures.
The Effect of Gender on Stress Factors: An Exploratory Study among University Students
Authors: Calvarese Michelle
Published: November 2015

This study examined the relationship between gender and reactions to stress among university students. University students were surveyed on how they typically responded when under perceived stress. There were significant differences between males and females concerning their reactions to stress. Overall, more females experienced higher levels of depression, frustration, and anxiety than their male counterparts when reacting to stress. Males also tended to have other psychological reactions different from those listed on the survey. In addition, while the stress reaction of anger was barely statistically insignificant, more females expressed anger than males as a reaction to stress.
The Concept of Sustainable Strategy Implementation
Authors: Radomska Joanna
Published: November 2015

The idea of sustainable development has been present in the field of management for many years, yet the challenges and rules of contemporary business mean that it remains topical. At the same time, the results of much research indicates an unsatisfactory level of execution of development concepts. Due to this, the subject of the study encompasses the implementation of the idea of sustainability in the strategy execution process, lending it a holistic and balanced nature. The purpose of the paper is an examination of the relationship between strategy implementation and the effectiveness of the strategy execution process. The relationships between the perspectives defined and results obtained by organizations were investigated. The research demonstrated the existence of a positive correlation of varied intensity. It is thus possible to identify a positive influence of the integration of the idea of sustainability with strategy execution, which is reflected in the effectiveness of activities undertaken.
Temporal Variation and Association of Aflatoxin B1 Albumin-Adduct Levels with Socio-Economic and Food Consumption Factors in HIV Positive Adults
Authors: Jolly Pauline , Akinyemiju Tomi , Jha Megha , Aban Inmaculada , Gonzalez-Falero Andrea , Joseph Dnika
Published: November 2015

The association between aflatoxin exposure and alteration in immune responses observed in humans suggest that aflatoxin could suppress the immune system and work synergistically with HIV to increase disease severity and progression to AIDS. No longitudinal study has been conducted to assess exposure to aflatoxin (AF) among HIV positive individuals. We examined temporal variation in AFB1 albumin adducts (AF-ALB) in HIV positive Ghanaians, and assessed the association with socioeconomic and food consumption factors. We collected socioeconomic and food consumption data for 307 HIV positive antiretroviral naive adults and examined AF-ALB levels at recruitment (baseline) and at six (follow-up 1) and 12 (follow-up 2) months post-recruitment, by age, gender, socioeconomic status (SES) and food consumption patterns. Generalized linear models were used to examine the influence of socioeconomic and food consumption factors on changes in AF-ALB levels over the study period, adjusting for other covariates. AF-ALB levels (pg/mg albumin) were lower at baseline (mean AF-ALB: 14.9, SD: 15.9), higher at six months (mean AF-ALB: 23.3, SD: 26.6), and lower at 12 months (mean AF-ALB: 15.3, SD: 15.4). Participants with the lowest SES had the highest AF-ALB levels at baseline and follow up-2 compared with those with higher SES. Participants who bought less than 20% of their food and who stored maize for less than two months had lower AF-ALB levels. In the adjusted models, there was a statistically significant association between follow up time and season (dry or rainy season) on AF-ALB levels over time (p = 0.04). Asymptomatic HIV-positive Ghanaians had high plasma AF-ALB levels that varied according to season, socioeconomic status, and food consumption patterns. Steps need to be taken to ensure the safety and security of the food supply for the population, but in particular for the most vulnerable groups such as HIV positive people.
Prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes in raw bovine milk and milk products from central highlands of Ethiopia
Authors: Seyoum Eyasu Tigabu , Woldetsadik Daniel Asrat , Mekonen Tesfu Kassa , Gezahegn Haile Alemayehu , Gebreyes Wondwossen Abebe
Published: November 2015

Introduction: Listeria monocytogenes is of major significance in human and veterinary medicine. Most human Listeria infections are foodborne and the association of contaminated milk and dairy produce consumption with human listeriosis is noteworthy. In Ethiopia, there is limited data regarding the prevalence of L. monocytogenes in raw bovine milk and dairy products. The aim of this study was, therefore, to determine the prevalence of L. monocytogenes in raw bovine milk and dairy produce. Methodology: A total of 443 milk and milk product samples were microbiologically analyzed following methods recommended by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bacteriological Analytical Manual to isolate Listeria spp. Results: The overall prevalence of Listeria spp. was 28.4% and specifically that of L. monocytogenes was 5.6%. Taking the prevalence of Listeria spp. into consideration, cheese was found to be highly contaminated at 60%, followed by pasteurized milk samples (40%), raw milk (18.9%) and yoghurt (5%). Considering the prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes only, raw milk had the lowest contamination while cheese had the highest, followed by pasteurized milk and yoghurt. Conclusions: Raw milk and milk products produced in urban and peri-urban areas of central Ethiopia were contaminated with pathogenic bacteria, L. monocytogenes. The detection of this pathogen in raw milk and milk products warrants an urgent regulatory mechanism to be put in place and also the potential role of milk processing plants in the contamination of dairy products should be investigated.
Vancomycin susceptibility trends of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from burn wounds: a time for action
Authors: Zorgani Abdulaziz Abdulhafid , Elahmer Omar , Abaid Ahmed , Elaref Ahlam , Elamri Samira , Aghila Eziddin , Tubbal Abdullatif
Published: November 2015

Introduction: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with reduced susceptibility to vancomycin poses a threat for patients in burn units throughout the world. This study aimed to investigate the reduced susceptibility to vancomycin of MRSA isolated from wounds of patients admitted to the Burns and Plastic Surgery Centre in Tripoli, Libya. Methodology: All isolates were initially identified by chromagen medium then confirmed by PCR. The minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) was determined by E-test glycopeptide resistance detection (GRD). Results: During the study, 210 isolates were obtained from 560 patients representing 132 (62.9%) and 78 (37.1%) of total samples received during years 2009 and 2010, respectively. MIC levels for vancomycin ranged from 0.5 to 2 µg/ml during the study, 13% of isolates displayed MIC of 1.5 µg/ml and 9% of the isolates displayed 2 µg/ml. Although MRSA isolates decreased dramatically during 2010 (37.1%) compared to 2009 (62.9%), overall, there was a significant increase in the proportion of MRSA isolates exhibiting higher vancomycin MICs during 2010 compared to 2009 (P= 0.0155). There was a significant increase of MICs at 1 µg/ml during 2010 compared with 2009 (P = 0.36). No vancomycin intermediate or resistant strains were found. Conclusion: There was a significant increase in the proportion of MRSA isolates exhibiting higher vancomycin MICs. We recommend that MRSA isolates should be monitored. Furthermore, implementation of infection control measures is urgently needed to prevent the spread of MRSA.
In vitro fermentation of prebiotic carbohydrates by intestinal microbiota in the presence of Lactobacillus amylovorus DSM 16998
Authors: Cardarelli H.R. , Martinez R.C.R. , Albrecht S. , Schols H. , Franco B.D.G.M. , Saad S.M.I. , Smidt H.
Published: November 2015

The aim of this study was to evaluate the assimilation of the prebiotics fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and Konjac glucomannan oligosaccharides (KGMO) by three human (H1, H2 and H3) and pig (P1, P2 and P3) faecal microbiotas in the presence of the potentially probiotic strain Lactobacillus amylovorus DSM 16698, using an in vitro batch fermentation model. Total bacteria and L. amylovorus populations were quantified using qPCR and biochemical features (pH, production of short chain fatty acids (SCFA), lactate, ammonia, and carbohydrate assimilation) were determined. L. amylovorus did not have a competitive advantage under in vitro conditions, reflected by its reduced relative abundance during fermentation despite the carbohydrate sources added. Pig microbiota sustained more stable probiotic counts. Intermittently produced lactate was possibly assimilated by the microbiota and converted to other SCFA as the carbohydrates were assimilated, with H3 probably having a methanogenic metabolism with high lactate and acetate consumption except in the presence of FOS, which assimilation resulted in the highest total SCFA for this volunteer. Addition of FOS also resulted in lower pH and ammonia, which might have been used as nitrogen source by pig microbiota. KGMO needed longer fermentation periods to be completely assimilated by both human and porcine faecal microbiotas. Overall, our results reinforce the notion that care must be taken when generalising the effects claimed for a given probiotic or potentially probiotic strain, including the combination with different prebiotic substrates, since they may vary considerably among individuals, which is important when studying potentially pro- and prebiotic combinations for application as functional foods and feed ingredients.
Image Data Mining Based on Wavelet Transform for Visualization of the Unique Characteristics of Image Data
Authors: Gebremeskel Gebeyehu Belay , Chai Yi , Shangbo Zhou , Xu Su
Published: November 2015

Mining techniques can play an important role in image decomposition, segmentation, classification and retrieval systems. As image data become more complex and growing at a fast pace, searching valuable information and knowledge implicit become more challenging than ever before. In this chapter, authors proposed a WT based DM techniques to optimize and characterize the unique feature of image retrieval, which is fundamental to optimize informative mathematical representation of image objects. Many software, including data exploratory tools such as DM packages contain fast and efficient programs that perform WT. Wavelets have quickly gained popularity among scientists and engineers, both in theoretical research and in applications. The authors discussed in details and introduced a novel method for image database analysis in different scenarios that foster the wide access of image data.
3D Image Acquisition and Analysis of Range Face Images for Registration and Recognition
Authors: Ganguly Suranjan , Bhattacharjee Debotosh , Nasipuri Mita
Published: November 2015

Although, automatic face recognition has been studied for more than four decades; there are still some challenging issues due to different variations in face images. There are mainly two categories of face recognition based on acquisition procedure. One technology that deals with video based face recognition and another approach where different sensors are used for acquisition purpose of different stationary face images, for instance: optical image, infra-red image and 3D image. In this context, researchers have focused only on 3D face images. 3D face images convey a series of advantages over 2D i.e. video frame, optical as well as infra-red face images. In this chapter, a detailed study of acquisition, visualization, detail about 3D images, analyzing it with some fundamental image processing techniques and application in the field of biometric through face registration and recognition are discussed. This chapter also gives a brief idea of the state of the art about the research methodologies of 3D face recognition and its applications.
Paradigm Shifts in the Pedagogical Approaches
Authors: Tiwari Deepika
Published: November 2015

The last century took us from covered wagons on the pampas to rockets on the moon. Similarly, education has observed a meritorious shift in the new millennium from the conventional methods to the emergence of contemporary approaches. The conventional education systems were based on certain philosophies, theoretical frameworks, and practices which maintained a sluggish environment wherein educating meant to transmit knowledge from expert to amateurs. However, these values and systems do not harmonize with the needs of the current dynamic environments where there is an unbelievable pool of advanced information. In light of this rapidly changing knowledge-based society, the role of teaching and learning is changing dramatically. Now is the era, where countries are looking for the emergence of ‘edupreneurs'.
Sustainable Improvement for United Arab Emirates' SMEs
Authors: Ahmed Abdel Moneim Mohammed Baheeg , Ramadan Muhieddine Z. , Al Saghbini Hisham
Published: November 2015

The effective implementation of the six sigma strategy within UAE manufacturing/service industries, in particular small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) is poor. SMEs cite high costs and complexity of implementation as being the major limiting factors as to its widespread use. This paper aims to propose an approach to implement Six Sigma for SMEs and describe how these companies could apply this cost-effective approach to eradicate critical total quality (CTQ) issues, improving efficiency, and contribute to the bottom line. The approach is also valuable for quality professionals, service and manufacturing specialists in a wide range of industries.
Building a Culturally-Competent Web Site
Authors: Cui Tingru , Wang Xinwei , Teo Hock-Hai
Published: November 2015

The internationalization of Web sites requires Web designers to provide effective navigation experience for users from diverse cultural backgrounds. This research investigates the effect of cultural cognitive style on user perception of Web site structure characteristics and performance on the Web site, and the subsequent user satisfaction towards the Web site. More specifically, the authors focus on the breadth versus depth of a Web site's structure. A laboratory experiment involving participants from China and the United States was conducted to test the hypotheses. The results showed that cultural cognitive style and Web site structure indeed interact to affect user perception and performance. People with holistic and analytic cultural cognitive styles displayed different perceived navigability and user performance on “broad” and “deep” Web sites. This study adds a cultural dimension to our knowledge on how Web site structure can affect users' experience. It also suggests pragmatic strategies for Web site design practitioners to improve website design in order to produce compelling navigation experience for users from diverse cultures.