bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring the quality of life in hypertension according to Item Response Theory
Authors: Borges José Wicto Pereira , Moreira Thereza Maria Magalhães , Schmitt Jeovani , Andrade Dalton Francisco de , Barbetta Pedro Alberto , Souza Ana Célia Caetano de , Lima Daniele Braz da Silva , Carvalho Irialda Saboia
Published: May 2017

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To analyze the Miniquestionário de Qualidade de Vida em Hipertensão Arterial (MINICHAL – Mini-questionnaire of Quality of Life in Hypertension) using the Item Response Theory. METHODS This is an analytical study conducted with 712 persons with hypertension treated in thirteen primary health care units of Fortaleza, State of Ceará, Brazil, in 2015. The steps of the analysis by the Item Response Theory were: evaluation of dimensionality, estimation of parameters of items, and construction of scale. The study of dimensionality was carried out on the polychoric correlation matrix and confirmatory factor analysis. To estimate the item parameters, we used the Gradual Response Model of Samejima. The analyses were conducted using the free software R with the aid of psych and mirt. RESULTS The analysis has allowed the visualization of item parameters and their individual contributions in the measurement of the latent trait, generating more information and allowing the construction of a scale with an interpretative model that demonstrates the evolution of the worsening of the quality of life in five levels. Regarding the item parameters, the items related to the somatic state have had a good performance, as they have presented better power to discriminate individuals with worse quality of life. The items related to mental state have been those which contributed with less psychometric data in the MINICHAL. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the instrument is suitable for the identification of the worsening of the quality of life in hypertension. The analysis of the MINICHAL using the Item Response Theory has allowed us to identify new sides of this instrument that have not yet been addressed in previous studies.
Acute Declines in Renal Function during Intensive BP Lowering: Implications for Future ESRD Risk
Authors: Ku Elaine , Bakris George , Johansen Kirsten L. , Lin Feng , Sarnak Mark J. , Campese Vito M. , Jamerson Kenneth , Gassman Jennifer J. , Smogorzewski Miroslaw , Hsu Chi-yuan
Published: May 2017

The magnitude of decline in renal function that should be tolerated during intensive BP lowering and its association with risk of ESRD are unclear. To determine whether the acute declines in kidney function in the intensive BP lowering arm of two trials in CKD associated with higher risk of ESRD, we performed a retrospective study of 899 African American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension (AASK) and 761 Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Trial participants previously randomized to strict versus usual BP control. The predictor was the percentage decline in eGFR (<5%, 5% to <20%, or ≥20%) between randomization and months 3 and 4 of the trial (time to achieve BP goals). ESRD was the outcome of interest. Compared with a <5% eGFR decline in the usual BP arm, a 5% to <20% eGFR decline during intensive BP lowering did not associate with a higher risk of ESRD in the AASK (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.19; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.84 to 1.68) or the MDRD Trial (aHR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.84 to 1.40). However, a 5% to <20% eGFR decline in the usual BP arm associated with higher risk of ESRD in AASK (aHR, 1.83; 95% CI, 1.30 to 2.57) and MDRD Trial (aHR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.25 to 2.11). A ≥20% eGFR decline associated with higher risk of ESRD in both strict and usual BP arms. Thus, acute eGFR declines ≥20% during intensive BP lowering identified a subset of patients at higher risk for adverse outcomes.
Subjective Evaluation of Media Content as a Moderator of Media Effects on European Identity: Mere Exposure and the Hostile Media Phenomenon
Authors: Ejaz Waqas , Bräuer Marco , Wolling Jens
Published: May 2017

This paper posits that the concept of European identity is an important indicator of the legitimacy of the European Union (EU). It further assumes that the exposure to EU related media content can influence the feeling of European identity. In order to verify this assumption, we combined the mere-exposure-theory and the hostile media phenomenon. We assume that these theoretical concepts could help to understand the influence of media on people’s levels of attachment to the EU. Regression analyses are performed on secondary data that were collected in a Eurobarometer survey in 2013. Our findings revealed that media exposure affected the respondents’ identification with Europe, as well as the modifications of this effect based on their assessments of EU media coverage. The results of the current study not only validate assumptions about the mere-exposure effects on identity but also confirm the theoretical assumption that perceived hostility reduces such effects, whereas exposure to information that is perceived as neutral promotes the effects of media exposure on the feeling of European identity.
Pas de deux for Dancer and Camera in Maya Deren’s Films
Authors: Keller Sarah
Published: May 2017

No abstract availableThis article was originally published by Parallel Press, an imprint of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Libraries, as part of The International Journal of Screendance, Volume 3 (2013), Parallel Press. It is made available here with the kind permission of Parallel Press.
Film as Poetry
Authors: Kappenberg Claudia
Published: May 2017

No abstract availableThis article was originally published by Parallel Press, an imprint of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Libraries, as part of The International Journal of Screendance, Volume 3 (2013), Parallel Press. It is made available here with the kind permission of Parallel Press.
Epilogue: After Deren
Authors: Cleghorn Elinor
Published: May 2017

No abstract availableThis epilogue was originally published by Parallel Press, an imprint of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Libraries, as part of The International Journal of Screendance, Volume 3 (2013), Parallel Press. It is made available here with the kind permission of Parallel Press.
Knowledge, attitude and practice of generic medicines among doctors in a tertiary care teaching hospital of Tripura, India
Authors: Bhattacharjee Prithul , Das Lakshman , Ghosh Ranjib , Das Uttam K. , Chakraborty Maitrayee
Published: May 2017

Background: The assessment of doctors’ perceptions and understanding about generic medicines may help in recognizing possible barriers to greater generic medicine usage. The primary objective of this study was to explore the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of doctors toward generic medicines.Methods: A questionnaire based cross-sectional study was carried out in a tertiary-care teaching hospital of Tripura. The questionnaire was designed to assess the KAP about generic medicines. The doctors working in this institute during the study period were included. All data were analysed using statistical software for epidemiology (EPI6). P <0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: 67.5% doctors agreed to the fact that generic medicines were intended to be interchangeable with a branded drug (p=0.0003). Among the doctors, 95% were aware that generic drug manufacturers need to conduct studies to show bioequivalence between the generic medicine and their branded counterparts (p <0.0001). Majority of the doctors (82.5%) were of the view that generic medicines were as safe as that of branded drugs (p <0.0001). 97.5% of the doctors agreed that importance of generic medicines should be taught in early part of internship. 75% doctors did not think that switching a patient from a brand-name to generic drug may change the outcome of the therapy (p <0.0001). 92.5% doctors said that they prescribe generic medicines (p <0.0001).Conclusion: The study showed that the doctors were well aware of generic medicines and Jan Aushadhi scheme of Govt. of India. It was also observed that efficacy, safety and quality profile of the medicine were the most important factors considered by doctors when they prescribe drugs.
A comparative study of low dose magnesium sulphate (Dhaka regime) and Pritchard regime for the management of impending eclampsia and eclampsia
Authors: Ranjana . , Sinha Abha Rani , Prakash Chandra
Published: May 2017

Background: Eclampsia is a common obstetrical emergency though preventable, yet remains a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in the developing world. Pritchard regime is most widely used magnesium sulphate regime for control of eclamptic fits but its dose related toxicity is a major concern among Indian women with low BMI and at peripheral institutions where the patients monitoring is limited. The objective was to study the efficacy of low dose MgSO4 regime (Dhaka regime) for control of convulsions in eclampsia and prevention of convulsions in impending eclampsia, to assess the magnesium related toxicity and to analyze the maternal and perinatal outcomes as compared to standard Pritchard regime.Methods: This prospective study was carried out in the Department of obstetrics and Gynaecology at Patna Medical College and Hospital, Patna. Study was done on 80 patients of eclampsia and impending eclampsia. Patients were divided into two groups A and B. Group A (n=40) received low dose MgSO4 regime (Dhaka regime) and Group B (n=40) received standard Pritchard regime. Results were analysed using statistical package of social sciences (SPSS) 21.0. Statistical significance was set at p ≤0.05.Results: In the present study, convulsions were controlled in 95% of eclampsia cases with low dose magnesium sulphate (Dhaka) regime. Recurrence of convulsion was seen in both groups. None of the patients with impending eclampsia in both the groups developed the seizure during entire treatment period. Signs of impending MgSO4 toxicity and the mean amount of magnesium sulphate received was found more in Pritchard regime group (22.5gms in Group A and 39gms in Group B) and was statistically significant with p value <0.001. There were 3 maternal deaths in present study.Conclusions: Low dose magnesium sulphate is as effective as standard Pritchard regime in controlling the eclamptic fits and preventing its recurrence with comparable maternal and perinatal outcome and less chances of magnesium toxicity. This regimen may be more suitable for use in Indian women with low BMI and in resource poor settings where clinical monitoring is limited.
Comparison study for internal and external modes of fixation for fractures of distal end radius
Authors: Shah Ripple , Shah Suril , Shah Aalok , Gajjar Sharvil , Chaudhari Vijay , Siddhapuria Pratik
Published: May 2017

Background: Fractures of the distal radius continue to be one of the most common skeletal injuries. The methods which are commonly practiced are closed manipulation and plaster cast, pins and plaster, percutaneous pinning, external fixation and open reduction and internal fixation with or without bone graft. Surgeons are increasingly faced with the dilemma of when to consider operative management and when cast immobilization is the optimal treatment.

Methods: 47 cases of distal end radius fractures were operated in the orthopedic department of a tertiary care centre. The purpose of the present study was to compare the results of external and internal fixation methods for the treatment of fractures of distal end of radius. Patients operated by external fixation were classified as Group A and those operated by internal fixation were classified as group B. Patients were classified according to AO Classification. Patients were followed at regular intervals depending on the case and time of operation and evaluated by Gartland and Werley score.

Results: In our study, 29 patients were of extraarticular type, of which 86.20% had an excellent score and 18 patients were of intraarticular type, of which 83.33% had an excellent score. But when compared to groups A and B, the percentage of excellent score obtained in group B was more than that in group A in both extraarticular and intraarticular fractures. Yuan-kun et al did a study on intraarticular distal end radius fractures and evaluated the patients by Gartland and Werley point system, concluding that plating gives better results than external fixation supplemented by K wiring.

Conclusions: We concluded that no method of fixation can be said superior to the other. Each method has fracture-specific indication. The results of open reduction and internal fixation can be better than external fixation in initial months, but in the long run, both the methods can have excellent score, provided the fixation is good and properly indicated.
Caracterización del Viroide exocortis de los cítricos en diferentes condiciones de indexado
Authors: Alcántara-Mendoza Susana , Vergara-Pineda Santiago , García-Rubio Oscar , Cambrón-Sandoval Víctor H. , Colmenares-Aragón Domingo , Nava-Díaz Cristian
Published: May 2017

Citrus exocortis viroid (CEVd) es un fitopatógeno regulado en la citricultura de México. El diagnóstico por indexado para detectar la presencia y transmisión de CEVd en material propagativo de bancos de germoplasma es de aplicación oficial. El objetivo de este estudio fue caracterizar al CEVd en condiciones de indexado in vitro e in vivo comparando la eficiencia de transmisión y la rapidez con que se generan los síntomas para establecer su aplicación en el diagnóstico biológico. Se evaluó altura, incidencia, área bajo la curva del progreso de la enfermedad (ABCP) y eficiencia de transmisión en plantas indicadoras de citron etrog cultivadas in vivo inoculadas por injerto y en brotes cultivados in vitro inoculados con callos. La altura media de brotes y plantas infectadas fue menor 7.5 mm y 56.3 mm respecto al testigo, la incidencia, ABCP y modelo de regresión fueron 81.2%, 10.7, y= 0.0009x2+ 0.0693x- 0.0057, R2= 0.99 in vitro y 70.8%, 9.84, y= 0.0004x2- 0.0048x- 0.0061, R2= 0.94 in vivo, respectivamente. La eficiencia fue 99% en ambos métodos con síntomas a partir del décimo día posterior a la inoculación in vitro y 40 in vivo. Las condiciones in vitro generan una rápida expresión de síntomas en el diagnóstico por indexado contribuyendo a la detección oportuna de CEVd para evitar su dispersión.
Salivary Colony Stimulating Factor‐1 and Interleukin‐34 in Periodontal Disease
Authors: Martinez G.L. , Majster M. , Bjurshammar N. , Johannsen A. , Figueredo C.M. , Boström E.A.
Published: May 2017

Background: Colony‐stimulating factor (CSF)‐1 and interleukin (IL)‐34 are macrophage growth factors and regulators of osteoclastogenesis. Their potential involvement in periodontal disease is yet unknown. The aim of this study is to explore the presence of CSF‐1 and IL‐34 in whole saliva in relation to periodontal disease.

Methods: Protocol validation was assessed in saliva of healthy donors (n = 21) by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Salivary CSF‐1, IL‐34, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐8, a biomarker candidate of periodontitis, were determined in 48 patients (29 patients with periodontitis, 12 with gingivitis, and seven healthy patients) and related to the following clinical periodontal parameters: bleeding on probing, probing depth, clinical attachment loss, and plaque index. An additional separate group of patients with gingivitis (n = 21) and some of the patients with periodontitis (n = 11) were subjected to non‐surgical periodontal treatment, whereupon changes in salivary CSF‐1, IL‐34, and MMP‐8 levels were determined and related to periodontal outcome.

Results: Patients with periodontitis displayed higher CSF‐1 and MMP‐8 levels in saliva compared with healthy patients, and IL‐34 levels were lower. A higher CSF‐1/IL‐34 ratio was observed in patients with periodontitis compared with healthy patients. There was a positive correlation between CSF‐1 and MMP‐8, which both correlated negatively to IL‐34, in patients with gingivitis and periodontitis. Clinical periodontal parameters correlated positively with CSF‐1, MMP‐8, and with the CSF‐1/IL‐34 ratio, and negatively with IL‐34 in patients with periodontitis. After treatment CSF‐1 and MMP‐8 levels decreased together with observed clinical improvement in patients with gingivitis.

Conclusion: CSF‐1 and IL‐34 are present in saliva and seem to have complementary roles in periodontal disease: IL‐34 in steady‐state and CSF‐1 in inflammation.
Innovation Implementation by SMEs in Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Bahaw Priscilla
Published: May 2017

Innovation has become an important contributing factor to firms’ competitive advantage. However, little research has been carried out in understanding innovation in small and medium-sized enterprises in the English-speaking Caribbean countries, particularly in Trinidad and Tobago. This study evaluates the degree to which small and medium-sized enterprises in Trinidad and Tobago engage in innovative activities within their businesses’ operations and identifies the major barriers to innovation that are experienced by these firms. This exploratory study utilized primary data collected through delivery and collection survey questionnaires from 350 randomly selected small and medium-sized enterprises with a minimum active operation period of five years in Trinidad and Tobago. The questionnaire, administered to the longest serving employees of the small and medium-sized enterprises, was designed to collect information on each small and medium-sized enterprise about their innovation experiences, the innovative environment, and innovation barriers. Some of the variables measured were adapted from the Community Innovation Survey found in previous research done by Sileshi Talegeta (2014). The key findings from the research revealed that there are limited efforts of small and medium-sized enterprises in Trinidad and Tobago to implement strategies for encouraging innovation within their organizations. More specifically, it was found that there are low levels of product innovation, process innovation, marketing innovation, and organizational innovation in small and medium-sized enterprises in Trinidad and Tobago. The data suggested that the main barriers to innovation present in small and mediumsized enterprises in descending order of intensity are as follows: organizational culture, lack of reward and recognition, lack of finance, lack of skilled personnel, and lack of knowledge, lack of co-operation, market barriers, and legal barriers. The conclusion from the research findings showed that internal and external factors hindered the small and mediumsized enterprises in Trinidad and Tobago innovation capabilities
Educational Activities Concerning Folk/Popular Culture in Greek Primary School Websites
Authors: Kakampoura Rea , Katsadoros George , Nounanaki Αphrodite , Kolokythas Dimitris
Published: May 2017

Folk/Popular culture comprises a many-sided and complex term, existing in both its traditional (Folk) and contemporary dimension (Popular). Many of its aspects can be traced in Primary Education school books, but in many cultural school displays as well. Student participation in cultural oriented activities encourages enculturation, the awareness of belonging in one or many cultural groups, and, successively, an understanding of one’s cultural identity. This article presents the results of research conducted all over Greece concerning educational programs and activities about folk/popular culture as shown in the websites of Greek public and private Primary Schools and Kindergartens, utilizing online data collection.
Measuring Tourism Efficiency of European Countries by Using Data Envelopment Analysis
Authors: Soysal-Kurt Halenur
Published: May 2017

This study aims to measure relative efficiency of 29 European countries with the data of the year 2013 using input-oriented and constant returns to scale Data Envelopment Analysis and to offer improvement suggestions for the countries found inefficient based on their measured relative efficiency scores. Three input and three output variables are used to assess relative performances of the countries. In this study, tourism expenses, number of employees and number of beds are used as input variables; tourism receipts, tourist arrivals and number of nights spent are used as output variables. As the result of the analysis, 16 countries are found relatively efficient and 13 countries are found relatively inefficient. This study is one of the few publications within the scope of European countries based on data envelopment analysis. Unlike most researches evaluating the efficiency of tourism establishments at the micro level, this paper is thought to contribute to the related literature as it evaluates relative efficiency of the countries at the macro level for tourism industry. Considering the variables used in the analysis, it is expected to give ideas to relatively inefficient European countries on efficiency improvement.
The Functional Analysis of the Presidential Institution in Albania
Authors: Jeha Ilda
Published: May 2017

The Constitution of the Republic of Albania lays down the functional duties of the President of the Republic. Although the functions may have changed along the years, the President of the Republic has many important duties for the smooth operation of things in the country. Obviously, the President’s Office is entrusted an unusual burdern that often puts it in a tight spot:on one side, quality of any decision issued is expected, but, on the other, the staff is quite limitted. These circumstances give particular importance to enhancing the efficiency of staff in this institution by optimising its organisational set-up; but, the approach imposed by the constitutional functions make it impossible for the President’s advisors to deliver the proper quality. On the contrary, all main and auxiliary functions need to be fulfilled by separate institutional units under the Secretary-General. Besides, the Assembly must immediately adopt an organic Law for the President, clearly stipulating how the President’s Office must act in line with each constitutional function. Such law would consolidate the President’s Office position against any spontanous reaction and would avert any controversies on how it acts, as it would legaly align procedures to actions.
Settlers-Indigenes Question in Nigeria: Much Rhetoric, No Answers
Authors: Akintola Olusola E. , Yabayanze Akumka Joseph
Published: May 2017

Nigeria operates a federal system of government whereby Nigerians can reside in any part of the country and enjoy the rights and privileges of being the citizens of the country. However, the experiences of the citizens across the states of the federation have proved that this ideal is not true in all instances. The authors, therefore, examined settlers-indigenes question in Nigeria placing the theoretical citizenship as contained in the 1999 Constitution (as amended) side-by-side with the reality of the country. Secondary source of data collection was adopted as our methodology. Through this method, explanatory and deductive analysis was made. The findings of the paper revealed that settlers-indigenes question is negatively affecting Nigerian federalism and the peaceful co-existence of citizens. It was, therefore, recommended that Section 147 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) which encourages indigeneship should be expunged or amended as it reinforces division and heightens settlers-indigenes question in the country.
Le Traitement Médiatique du Transfèrement de Laurent Gbagbo à la Haye Par Trois Quotidiens Ivoiriens Entre 2011 et 2012
Authors: Gnonzion Celestin
Published: May 2017

This article aims to highlight the problems that are associated with a number of Ivoirian press. In the newsrooms, journalists basically handle information on the subject of politics with partiality. For instance, in the news coverage of the transfer of former President Laurent Gbagbo to The Hague, this paper shows how this fact was dealt with in three newspapers: 'Notre Voie', 'Le Nouveau Reveil', and 'Le Patriote'. Each of these newspapers treated the information according to the perception of leaders and politicians they want to satisfy. The article demonstrates that when the owner of the journal is influenced by politic power, it is difficult to have professionals in journalism who respect the journalist’s code of ethic and deontology.
Contraintes Organisationnelles Et Resilience Chez Le Fonctionnaire Du Ministere Ivoirien De La Fonction Publique
Authors: Franck-Gautier Gacha , Estelle Assouman Ahou Mélissa
Published: May 2017

Ivorian public Service is subject to criticism. To overcome this, reforms are undertaken to enhance its level of service. However, they apply at the expense of the human factor, which is essential to motivate. This communication builds on previous work, supplemented by semi-structured interviews with Ivorian officials. A content analysis of the discourse of actors was performed. It appears that the delay, corruption and absenteeism resulting from low wages as a source of motivation, as well as the lack of transparency on the decisions of the administrative organization and the small delegation of responsibilities. In a word, the administrative staff is always underway in the Public Service Ivorian. However, the human factor needs to trade, listening, evaluation of performance, information, motivation, mobilization.
Problem-solving and coordination-governance: advances in a competence-based perspective on the theory of the firm
Authors: Coriat Benjamin , Dosi Giovanni
Published: May 2017

O artigo baseia-se nas conclusões de um projeto (Dynacom), apoiado pela União Européia, sobre a natureza e a dinâmica das competências e capacitações organizacionais. Tal análise busca identificar as relações entre estas competências e capacitações e as várias formas de conhecimento incorporado nas organizações. Em segundo lugar, o artigo compara a visão da firma centrada sobre as capacitações (visão baseada em recursos) com outras abordagens – que incluem a abordagem tradicional da teoria do agente principal e a economia dos custos de transação. Finalmente, são apresentadas algumas implicações de política.
Shelley traductor: Magia, prodigio y conocimiento
Authors: LÓPEZ FOLGADO Vicente
Published: May 2017

Este trabajo se propone evaluar el trabajo de Shelley en traducción. En especial se centra sobre zonas de luz y sombra en las traducción que Shelley hace del auto de Calderón, obra que parece haberle obsesionado y servido de acicate para su imaginación romántica. En mi opinión, existe un hilo mítico y sutil que recorre la obra traductora de Shelley, desde la obra clásica de Eurípides, Los Cíclopes, hasta el Fausto de Goethe y el auto de Calderón, El mágico prodigioso. Parece que las tres obras reflejan algunas de sus preocupaciones literarias y psíquicas más importantes. Coincido con algunos críticos en que Shelley sentía la necesidad de traducir como terapia necesaria para estimular su inspiración poética.
How the System of Rice Intensification Can Contribute to Climate‐Smart Agriculture
Authors: Thakur Amod K. , Uphoff Norman T.
Published: May 2017

Core Ideas

System of rice intensification increases crop productivity with lesser inputs.

System of rice intensification yields more productive and robust rice phenotypes from given plant genotypes.

System of rice intensification crops are tolerant to biotic/abiotic stresses and it reduces GHGs from rice fields.

System of rice intensification enables farmers to adapt to and mitigate climate change.

This paper reviews how and why SRI can be considered as climate‐smart agriculture.

Although there has been controversy over some of the high yields reported with the System of Rice (Oryza sativaL.) Intensification (SRI), an agroecological crop management system developed in Madagascar, substantial increases in average rice yields have been reported from more than 50 countries when these methods are used, not even necessarily fully. Most attention thus far has focused on yield and little on whether or how SRI methods can help farmers adapt to and buffer the adverse stresses of climate change as well as reduce their rice paddies’ contribution to global warming. According to FAO criteria, achieving all three impacts would qualify SRI as “climate‐smart agriculture” (CSA).This paper reviews how making SRI modifications in agronomic practices can elicit plant phenotypes from given rice genotypes that are more robust and adaptive as well as more productive. This effect appears to result from SRI's inducing larger, healthier root systems and enhancing beneficial soil biota. These effects are associated with improvements in a variety of morphological and physiological characteristics in rice plants. Cross‐national meta‐analysis has documented reductions in crop water requirements and increased water productivity under SRI management. These methods are also seen to contribute to greater drought‐tolerance, resistance to storm damage, cold‐temperature hardiness, shortened crop cycles that reduce crops’ exposure to biotic and abiotic stresses, less susceptibility to insect pest and disease damage, and diminished net emissions of greenhouse gases from paddy fields. The efficacy of SRI management methods is increasingly accepted by governments, donor agencies and farmers, but more remains to be researched and evaluated.
Consumer Preferences for Information Sources of Turfgrass Products and Lawn Care
Authors: Yue Chengyan , Wang Jingjing , Watkins Eric , Bonos Stacy , Nelson Kristen , Murphy James A. , Meyer William , Horgan Brian
Published: May 2017

Core Ideas

Turfgrass consumers trusted information from families, university extension, and garden centers the most.

Homeowners ranked garden center/hardware stores, followed by families and then lawn care companies as the most useful information sources.

Information from university extension and regional water management authorities were considered as trustworthy but less useful.

Consumers need adequate information about turfgrasses attributes and lawn maintenance practices when they choose what types of turfgrasses to grow in their home lawns. We conducted online surveys with 2167 homeowners from the United States to explore what information sources they consider as trustworthy and useful regarding lawn care. We found turfgrass consumers trusted information from families, University extensions, and garden centers/hardware stores the most; these information sources were equally trusted. Whereas, they ranked garden centers/hardware stores, followed by families and then lawn care companies as the most useful information sources. Information from University extensions and regional water management authorities were considered as trustworthy but less useful. Other information sources (such as the Internet, books, manufacturer websites, and third party reviews) were considered as the least trustworthy and least useful sources. Homeowners’ socio‐demographic backgrounds affected their attitude toward lawn care information sources. The results of the study have important marketing implications for turfgrass suppliers and can help guide outreach efforts by University extension educators.
In‐Season Estimation of Corn Yield Potential Using Proximal Sensing
Authors: Tagarakis Aristotelis C. , Ketterings Quirine M.
Published: May 2017

Core Ideas

Accurate yield prediction is needed for effective sensor‐based N management.

Field testing is needed to develop reliable algorithms for silage and grain corn.

For the most accurate yield prediction, crop sensing should be done at V6 or later.

Predictions for corn silage were more accurate than for corn grain.

The use of in‐season‐estimated yield is preferred across variable sites.

Crop sensing is a promising approach for predicting corn (Zea mays L.) yield. Yield prediction is the first step in development of algorithms for sensor‐based N management. Here, we evaluated the impact of (i) timing of sensing (growth stage), and (ii) method of reporting sensor data on estimations of corn grain and silage yield in New York. Sensor data were reported as the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), in‐season estimated yield (INSEY) expressed as NDVI divided by days after planting (DAP; INSEYDAP), growing degree days (GGD; INSEYGGD), and the inverse simple ratio (ISR; [1–NDVI]/[1+NDVI]) divided by DAP (INSEYISR). To evaluate timing of sensing, corn of six fertility trials was scanned at every growth stage between V4 and V11. The replicated trials had up to six N rates (0, 56, 112, 168, 224, and 336 kg ha−1). The V7 sensor and yield data from zero‐N plots of nine additional on‐farm trials (varying histories) were added to derive yield algorithms for New York. Drought at three sites in 2016 negatively impacted the accuracy of sensor‐based grain yield estimates (R2 < 0.27). Excluding these sites, most accurate yield predictions were obtained from V6 onward. Across different locations and independent of reporting method, INSEY data at V7 predicted yield with an R2 > 0.70 (grain) and >0.77 (silage). We conclude that INSEY data obtained at V7 can be used to accurately predict corn grain and silage yields in non‐drought conditions in New York.
Three‐Way Crosses vs. Single Crosses in Tobacco: First Agronomic Assessment
Authors: Berbeć Apoloniusz
Published: May 2017

In view of the increasing costs and reduced profit margins of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) production, three‐way‐cross hybrids (TWCHs) of flue‐cured tobacco were developed and examined for their potential to improve the agronomic performance and economic efficiency of the crop. Three TWCHs, each with a pair of related single‐cross hybrids (SCHs), were compared in a replicated field trial performed at two farm locations for two years for the degree of within‐population morphological variation, cured leaf yield, crop quality index, and gross revenue from unit crop area. Some significant differences in quartile coefficient of dispersion (QCD) were recorded for plant height (TWCH‐B vs. unrelated SCHs, among SCHs) and for leaf area (among TWCHs and among SCHs). No significant differences in QCD were detected between TWCHs and any of their related SCHs. Two of the TWCHs showed no significant differences in leaf yield when compared with their single‐cross counterparts. In the third TWCH (i.e., TWCH‐A), there was an overall significant increase in leaf yield (0.76 t ha‐1 and 0.39 t ha‐1) over SCH‐A1 and SCH‐A2, respectively. Only two significant differences in leaf quality index among the nine hybrids and none between TWCHs vs. related SCHs were found. There was a correlation coefficient of 0.98 between leaf yield and monetary value of the crop. Thus, the economic gains recorded for TWCH‐A vis‐à‐vis its SCH counterparts were attributable to increased yield.
Seedling and Adult Plant Stripe Rust Resistance in Diverse Wheat–Alien Introgression Lines
Authors: Rahmatov Mahbubjon , Hovmøller Mogens S. , Nazari Kumarse , Andersson Staffan C. , Steffenson Brian J. , Johansson Eva
Published: May 2017

Stripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis Westend. f. sp. tritici Eriks., is an important foliar disease of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) worldwide. The use of genetic diversity, particularly from wild relatives, has made a significant contribution to improving wheat productivity. To identify new sources of seedling and adult plant resistance, we evaluated 263 wheat–alien introgression derivatives from Secale cereale L., Leymus mollis (Trin.) Plig., Leymus racemosus (Lam.) Tzevlev, and Thinopyrum junceiforme (Á.Löve & D.Löve) Á. Löve. Three resistance genes, Yr1+, Yr2+, and Yr9+ were postulated to be present in 7, 19, and 12% of wheat–alien introgression lines, respectively. In addition, the results suggested the gene combinations of Yr1–Yr2 (1%), Yr1–Yr32 (2%), Yr2–Yr9 (5.4%), Yr1–Yr2–Yr32 (11%), and the additional unknown resistance gene(s) being present in these materials in the respective percentages. The molecular markers Xwmc364 for Yr2 (36%), Xscm9 and Xiag95 for Yr9 (17%), and Xwmc198 for Yr32 (13%) were used to validate the presence of these Yr genes. Ninety‐eight (37%) of the lines possess unknown resistance genes that could not be determined with the isolates used in this study and six (2.3%) of the lines showed seedling resistance to all isolates. The lines with the putative new resistance gene(s) will be crossed to the adapted genotypes to develop a mapping population for determining the underlying genetic basis of resistance. If these resistance genes are validated as being new, they will enhance the genetic diversity for stripe rust resistance in wheat.
Evaluation of an Amino‐Acid‐Based Fertilizer for Grow‐In of Creeping Bentgrass Putting Greens
Authors: Aamlid Trygve S. , Kvalbein Agnar , Pettersen Trond
Published: May 2017

Turfgrass grow‐in on sand‐based putting greens usually incurs a high risk for nitrogen (N) leakage. Our objective was to evaluate how substitution of a standard mineral fertilizer with an amino‐acid‐based fertilizer affects creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.) establishment rate and the concentration of nitrate and total N in drainage water. The experiment was conducted from 19 May to 26 July 2016 in the United States Golf Association green field lysimeter facility at Landvik, Norway. The liquid fertilizers arGrow Turf (70% of N as arginine and 30% as lysine) and Wallco (60% of N as nitrate and 40% as ammonium) were applied at ∼2‐wk intervals at the two rates of 1.5 or 3.0 g N m−2 application−1. Results showed significantly faster grow‐in on plots receiving amino‐acid‐based fertilizer than on plots receiving mineral fertilizers; the average turfgrass coverage 26 d after the first fertilization was 75 and 36%, respectively. In parallel with this, the average concentration of nitrate and total N in drainage water, as well as the total N loss, were all reduced by 40 to 45%. Arginine and lysine at 1.5 g N m−2 gave faster grow‐in than Wallco at 3.0 g N m−2 and was the only treatment in which the drainage water complied with EU's requirements for maximum concentration of nitrate in drinking water.
Gametophytic Self‐Incompatibility Is Operative in Miscanthus sinensis (Poaceae) and Is Affected by Pistil Age
Authors: Jiang Jianxiong , Guan Yuefeng , McCormick Sheila , Juvik Jack , Lubberstedt Thomas , Fei Shui‐zhang
Published: May 2017

Miscanthus sinensis Anderss. (Poaceae) has desirable traits for a dedicated biomass crop. An important breeding goal for M. sinensis is to develop F1 hybrid cultivars. A clear understanding of its reproductive mode will help to identify effective breeding strategies toward that goal. We performed >1000 semi‐in‐vivo reciprocal crosses and self‐pollinations to determine pollen–pistil compatibility responses. Self‐pollination showed a self‐incompatibility (SI) response typical for grasses, indicating that SI is operative in M. sinensis. The majority of self‐pollen produced short tubes that terminated at the stigmatic surface of mature pistils, but some self‐pollen tubes entered into the transmitting tract. The developmental stage of pistils affects pollen–pistil interactions, as younger pistils allowed significantly more self‐pollen to enter the transmitting tract, with some even reaching the ovule. Cross pollinations among progeny of reciprocal crosses between the cultivar Gross Fontaine and the cultivar Undine showed four classes of compatibility responses with 0, 50, 75, and 100% compatible pollen and exhibited differences in reciprocal compatibility for certain crosses. Taken together, our results showed that SI in M. sinensis is gametophytic and is likely controlled by a multiallelic, two‐locus S and Z system, similar to those reported for other grasses. The findings from this study will facilitate the identification and isolation of genes related to SI and ultimately F1 hybrid production in M. sinensis.
STRATEGI PENGELOLAAN ZAKAT DALAM PENGENTASAN KEMISKINAN
Authors: Andriyanto Irsyad
Published: May 2017

In Islam institutionalized poverty eradication with the charity. Therefore, charity should be managed in a productive and professional so that zakat has participation in realizing the ideals of Islam to the life of a prosperous people. One of the management institutions in Indonesia to manage zakat with trustworthy, transparent, and professional is the Rumah Zakat Indonesia (RZI). This study uses socio-economic approach. The analysis serves to simplify data into a form that is easier to read and interpret. The analysis used in this research is descriptive analysis.

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Dalam Islam upara pengatasan kemiskinan adalah dengan zakat. Oleh karena itu, zakat seharusnya dikelola secara produktif dan profesional sehingga zakat dapat mengambil bagian dalam merealisasikan ide-ide Islam untuk mensejahterakan masyarakat Saah satu lembaga yang terbukti telah mampu mengelola zakat secara terpercaya, transparan, dan profesional adalah Rumah Zakat Indonesia (RZI). Kajian ini menggunakan pendekatan sosial-ekonomi, Analisis yang yang digunakan bertujuan untuk mempermudah data ke dalam bentuk yang lebih mudah untuk dibaca dan diinterpretasikan. Analisis yang digunakan dalam kajian ini adalah analisis deskriptif.
PENGELOLAAN WAKAF TUNAI
Authors: Fanani Muhyar
Published: May 2017

Basic issue on waqaf is the management, especially on the management of cash money. The institutions having in charge for managing the waqaf of cash money, have some management specific characteristics and patterns. This study focused on the management of waqaf on cash money in three institution, TWI, PKPU, and BMM. Applying qualitative method, it is found that waqaf of cash money still has some problems to solve: the lack of dissemination about waqaf of cash money among society mem­bers, the lack of professional nāẓir, no effective fundraising system, the weak managerial system, the low commitment on risk management, the unprotected purchasing power of money, and the variability on the distribution priority.

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Permasalahan dasar waqf adalah menajemen, khususnya manajemen uang tunai. Lembaga yang berperan untuk mengelola waqf uang tunai memiliki beberapa karakteristik dan pola manajemen yang spesifik. Kajian ini memfokuskan pada manajemen waqf uang tunai di tiga lembaga: TWI, PKPU, dan BMM. Dengan meng­gunakan pendekatan kualitatif ditemukan bahwa waqf uang tunai masih meninggalkan beberapa persoalan yaitu: kurangnya diseminasi tentang waqf uang tunai di kalangan masyarakat, kurangnya jumlah nadzir yang profesional; tidak adanya sistem pencarian dana yang efektif, lemahnya sistem manajemen, kekuatan pembelian uang yang tidak terlindungi, dan variabilitas prioritas distribusi.
ISLAM DAN OTORITAS KEAGAMAAN
Authors: Rumadi Rumadi
Published: May 2017

Is religion possible to grow without any authority? Generally people responded the question with two speculative answers: “religion can be and grow without any authority” and “religion can not be and grow without any authority”. The first opinion is based on the argumentation that religion constitutes a divine total comprehension. It does not need any other than the submission of human being to God. Meanwhile, the second opinion is based on the argumentation that religion constitutes individual rights to communicate and submit to God, but in social sphere the development of religion needs “distributors” having credibility to speak and transmit religious messages. However, in fact, religious authority is not a static one, but dynamic. Levels of religious authority and inter relation between the authority levels is a part of the dynamics.

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Mungkinkah agama tumbuh tanpa otoritas?Pada umumnya jawaban atas per­tanyaan ini ada dua:”agama dapat tumbuh tanpa otoritas” dan “agama tidak dapat tumbuh tanpa otoritas”, Pandangan pertama didasarkan pada argu­mentasi bahwa agama merupakan pemahaman total terhadap ketuhanan. Yang dibutuhkan dalam konteks ini adalah ketundukan terhadap Tuhan semata. Sementara pandangan kedua didasarkan pada argumentasi bahwa agama merupakan hak individual untuk berkomunikasi dan menyerahkan diri kepada Tuhan,namun di dalam lingkup sosial perkembangan agama mem­butuh­kan “penyebar” yang memiliki kredibilitas untuk berbicara dan me­nyampai­kan pesan-pesan agama. Namun demikian,  dalam kenyataannya otori­tas agama bukan merupakan hal yang statis, namun dinamis. Tingkat otoritas keagamaan dan inter relasi antar tingkat-tingkat otoritas merupakan bagian dari dinamika tersebut.
Adsorption of Hg(II) and Pb(II) ions by nanoscale zero valent iron supported on ostrich bone ash in a fixed-bed column system
Authors: Amiri Mohammad Javad , Abedi-koupai Jahangir , Eslamian Saeid
Published: May 2017

In this research, ostrich bone ash (OBA) was modified with nanoscale zerovalent iron (nZVI) particles and applied as a novel composite adsorbent (OBA/nZVI) for dynamic adsorption/reduction of Hg(II) and Pb(II) ions in a fixed-bed column system. Entrapment of nZVI in OBA beads barricades the particles from oxidation and aggregation. The dynamic behavior of metal ions removal by OBA/nZVI was assessed as a function of inlet flow rates, bed height, initial pollutants concentration and pH. The synthesized OBA/nZVI composite was characterized by several physicochemical techniques. Increase in pH and bed height and decrease in flow rates and initial metal concentration resulted in delay of breakthrough time. OBA breakthrough profile is sharper than the OBA/nZVI breakthrough curve for both metal ions and the breakthrough times increase in the order OBA/nZVI-Hg(II) > OBA/nZVI-Pb(II) > OBA-Pb(II) > OBA-Hg(II). Based on the experiment results, redox reaction is expected to occur to a certain extent, as the standard reduction potentials of Hg(II) and Pb(II) are more than that of Fe(II). From a practical point of view, the OBA/nZVI could be applied as a material to remove Hg(II) and Pb(II) ions from natural surface and ground water with a pH value of 5–9.
Flocculating and dewatering performance of hydrophobic and hydrophilic solids using a thermal-sensitive copolymer
Authors: Li Shulei , Liao Yinfei , Li Guosheng , Li Zhen , Cao Yijun
Published: May 2017

Thermal-sensitive polymers have been tested on settling, compacting or dewatering of clays or oil sand tailings. However, not much attention has been paid to explore the effect of temperature on flocculating performance using thermal-sensitive polymers. In this study, poly(NIPAM-co-DMAPMA) was synthesized and employed to investigate the flocculating and re-flocculating performance of hydrophilic and hydrophobic particles at two specific temperatures; meanwhile settling and dewatering behaviors were also investigated. The results demonstrated that good flocculating performances were achieved at both room temperature (∼23 °C) and lower critical solution temperature (45 °C). Furthermore, larger flocs were formed at 45 °C as the copolymer was added. Floc strength and re-flocculating ability of the flocs were also intensified prominently at 45 °C. Additionally, settling and dewatering rates of suspensions were improved, and the moisture of filtered cakes was reduced when suspensions were at 45 °C. The phenomena could be justified by the phase transition of the copolymer from hydrophilicity to hydrophobicity as the temperature increased. There were much stronger adhesion forces between particles and higher adsorption amount of the copolymer onto solid surfaces at 45 °C. Therefore, the copolymer may be promising in solid–liquid separation to improve the floc size, floc strength, and settling and dewatering rate to achieve much lower moisture filtered cake.