bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A conceptual model of oceanic heat transport in the Snowball Earth scenario
Authors: Comeau Darin , Kurtze Douglas A. , Restrepo Juan M.
Published: December 2016

Abstract. Geologic evidence suggests that the Earth may have been completely covered in ice in the distant past, a state known as Snowball Earth. This is still the subject of controversy, and has been the focus of modeling work from low-dimensional models up to state-of-the-art general circulation models. In our present global climate, the ocean plays a large role in redistributing heat from the equatorial regions to high latitudes, and as an important part of the global heat budget, its role in the initiation a Snowball Earth, and the subsequent climate, is of great interest. To better understand the role of oceanic heat transport in the initiation of Snowball Earth, and the resulting global ice covered climate state, the goal of this inquiry is twofold: we wish to propose the least complex model that can capture the Snowball Earth scenario as well as the present-day climate with partial ice cover, and we want to determine the relative importance of oceanic heat transport. To do this, we develop a simple model, incorporating thermohaline dynamics from traditional box ocean models, a radiative balance from energy balance models, and the more contemporary "sea glacier" model to account for viscous flow effects of extremely thick sea ice. The resulting model, consisting of dynamic ocean and ice components, is able to reproduce both Snowball Earth and present-day conditions through reasonable changes in forcing parameters. We find that including or neglecting oceanic heat transport may lead to vastly different global climate states, and also that the parameterization of under-ice heat transfer in the ice–ocean coupling plays a key role in the resulting global climate state, demonstrating the regulatory effect of dynamic ocean heat transport.
Complex coastlines responding to climate change: do shoreline shapes reflect present forcing or “remember” the distant past?
Authors: Thomas Christopher W. , Murray A. Brad , Ashton Andrew D. , Hurst Martin D. , Barkwith Andrew K. A. P. , Ellis Michael A.
Published: December 2016

Abstract. A range of planform morphologies emerge along sandy coastlines as a function of offshore wave climate. It has been implicitly assumed that the morphological response time is rapid compared to the timescales of wave climate change, meaning that coastal morphologies simply reflect the extant wave climate. This assumption has been explored by focussing on the response of two distinctive morphological coastlines – flying spits and cuspate capes – to changing wave climates, using a coastline evolution model. Results indicate that antecedent conditions are important in determining the evolution of morphologies, and that sandy coastlines can demonstrate hysteresis behaviour. In particular, antecedent morphology is particularly important in the evolution of flying spits, with characteristic timescales of morphological adjustment on the order of centuries for large spits. Characteristic timescales vary with the square of aspect ratios of capes and spits; for spits, these timescales are an order of magnitude longer than for capes (centuries vs. decades). When wave climates change more slowly than the relevant characteristic timescales, coastlines are able to adjust in a quasi-equilibrium manner. Our results have important implications for the management of sandy coastlines where decisions may be implicitly and incorrectly based on the assumption that present-day coastlines are in equilibrium with current conditions.
INSYDE: a synthetic, probabilistic flood damage model based on explicit cost analysis
Authors: Dottori Francesco , Figueiredo Rui , Martina Mario L. V. , Molinari Daniela , Scorzini Anna Rita
Published: December 2016

Abstract. Methodologies to estimate economic flood damages are increasingly important for flood risk assessment and management. In this work, we present a new synthetic flood damage model based on a component-by-component analysis of physical damage to buildings. The damage functions are designed using an expert-based approach with the support of existing scientific and technical literature, loss adjustment studies, and damage surveys carried out for past flood events in Italy. The model structure is designed to be transparent and flexible, and therefore it can be applied in different geographical contexts and adapted to the actual knowledge of hazard and vulnerability variables. The model has been tested in a recent flood event in northern Italy. Validation results provided good estimates of post-event damages, with similar or superior performances when compared with other damage models available in the literature. In addition, a local sensitivity analysis was performed in order to identify the hazard variables that have more influence on damage assessment results.
GEM: a dynamic tracking model for mesoscale eddies in the ocean
Authors: Li Qiu-Yang , Sun Liang , Lin Sheng-Fu
Published: December 2016

Abstract. The Genealogical Evolution Model (GEM) presented here is an efficient logical model used to track dynamic evolution of mesoscale eddies in the ocean. It can distinguish between different dynamic processes (e.g., merging and splitting) within a dynamic evolution pattern, which is difficult to accomplish using other tracking methods. To this end, the GEM first uses a two-dimensional (2-D) similarity vector (i.e., a pair of ratios of overlap area between two eddies to the area of each eddy) rather than a scalar to measure the similarity between eddies, which effectively solves the “missing eddy” problem (temporarily lost eddy in tracking). Second, for tracking when an eddy splits, the GEM uses both “parent” (the original eddy) and “child” (eddy split from parent) and the dynamic processes are described as the birth and death of different generations. Additionally, a new look-ahead approach with selection rules effectively simplifies computation and recording. All of the computational steps are linear and do not include iteration. Given the pixel number of the target region L, the maximum number of eddies M, the number N of look-ahead time steps, and the total number of time steps T, the total computer time is O(LM(N + 1)T). The tracking of each eddy is very smooth because we require that the snapshots of each eddy on adjacent days overlap one another. Although eddy splitting or merging is ubiquitous in the ocean, they have different geographic distributions in the North Pacific Ocean. Both the merging and splitting rates of the eddies are high, especially at the western boundary, in currents and in “eddy deserts”. The GEM is useful not only for satellite-based observational data, but also for numerical simulation outputs. It is potentially useful for studying dynamic processes in other related fields, e.g., the dynamics of cyclones in meteorology.
Multifocal Corneal Ablation (Supracor) in Hyperopic Presbyopia: 1-Year Results in a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Schlote Torsten , Heuberger Alexander
Published: December 2016

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the multifocal excimer laser corneal ablation profile (the Supracor procedure) in hyperopic presbyopia 1 year after laser treatment.

Methods

This prospective, consecutive, one-center, cross-sectional study included 20 patients with hyperopic presbyopia 1 year after treatment with the Supracor procedure. The main outcome measures were monocular uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) and uncorrected near visual acuity (UNVA), photopic contrast sensitivity (Pelli-Robson charts), patient satisfaction, and functioning at 12 months.

Results

Thirty-nine eyes of 20 patients (mean age 59 ± 7.2 years) were treated. Mean UDVA improved from 0.56 ± 0.31 (mean 0.34 logMAR) preoperatively to 0.9 ± 0.15 (mean 0.06 logMAR) 12 months after surgery. Mean UNVA increased from 0.15 ± 0.07 (mean 0.84 logMAR) before surgery to 0.62 ± 0.24 (mean 0.23 logMAR) 12 months after treatment. Four eyes lost 2 lines of corrected distance visual acuity (10.3%). Monocular photopic contrast sensitivity was within age-correlated normal range (Pelli-Robson chart, mean contrast sensitivity 1.83 ± 0.18). A total of 75% of the patients would undergo Supracor again (1 not, 4 perhaps). The most frequently reported side effects were increased glare, reduced distance vision, and fluctuations in vision. Most patients used artificial tears.

Conclusions

One year after Supracor, UDVA and UNVA improved markedly, photopic contrast sensitivity was in normal age-correlated range, and the majority of patients (75%) was satisfied with the results. Side effects like loss of distance vision, fluctuations of vision, and increased glare have a greater influence on patient satisfaction than the improvement of spectacle-free near vision.
The construction of arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis in patients with chronic obstructive arterial disease in the upper limb
Authors: Linardi Fábio , Costa Jose A. , Angelieri Fernanda R. , Marabezzi Maria G. , Bevilacqua Jose L.
Published: December 2016

Objective

Describe the construction of arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis in chronic renal patient on hemodialysis who presented chronic arterial obstruction in the upper limb.

Methods

A surgical procedure was performed on a patient with obstruction of the brachial artery in its proximal third. The procedure was carried out by the construction of a bypass with autologous vein between the proximal brachial and distal brachial arteries and the performing of an arteriovenous fistula with superficialized and anteriorized basilic vein, with anastomosis in the bypass at the same surgical procedure.

Results

There was good immediate result and arteriovenous fistula presented function for 43 months.

Conclusions

Even when faced with chronic obstructive arterial disease in the arm, there is the possibility of creating a new arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis.
Timing should no Longer be an Obstacle to Oocyte Cryopreservation in Patients with Cancer
Authors: Mangili Giorgia , Papaleo Enrico , Sigismondi Cristina , Masciangelo Rossella , Sarais Veronica , Giorgione Veronica , Nale Roberta , Privitera Laura , Carnelli Letizia , Di Mattei Valentina , Candiani Massimo
Published: December 2016

Purpose

Anticancer treatment-related infertility is preventable with oocyte cryopreservation, but this is often not considered a relevant issue, due to lack of knowledge and time. The aim of this study is to prove that adequate organization of an Oncofertility Unit and the use of new protocols for controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) can reduce the time required by the procedure, encouraging consultants and patients to preserve fertility before gonadotoxic treatments.

Methods

A total of 125 patients diagnosed with malignant tumors were referred to the Oncofertility Unit of San Raffaele Hospital: 52 patients between April 2011 and October 2013 and 73 patients between October 2013 and November 2015. The 2 periods differ in office organization and type of COS protocol used.

Results

Between the 2 periods, a reduction in the mean number of days required from first counseling to the initiation (6.45 ± 1.058 vs 1.61 ± 0.228) and the end of the COS (17.83 ± 1.227 vs 13.70 ± 0.393) was observed (p<0.0001). No differences exist in the groups between the mean time required to complete COS (11.38 ± 0.360 vs 12.17 ± 0.309; p = 0.11) and mean number of frozen oocytes (8.458 ± 1.060 vs 10.30 ± 0.919; p = 0.22). Furthermore, in the second period, the number of patients who accepted fertility preservation increased (46.15% vs 64.38%; p<0.05).

Conclusions

Renewed organization of the Oncofertility Unit and the newest random-start COS protocol allowed us to shorten the time for oocyte cryopreservation and start anticancer treatment on time.
Spondylodiscitis: A Rare Complication following Percutaneous Nephrostomy
Authors: Chiancone Francesco , Fedelini Maurizio , Meccariello Clemente , Pucci Luigi , Fabiano Marco , Fedelini Paolo
Published: December 2016

Spondylodiscitis is an inflammation of the intervertebral disc and the adjacent vertebral bodies. The spondylodiscitis can not only be a complication of medical interventions such as an operation near spinal column but also urogenital and vascular interventions and intravenous catheter use. A 71-year-old man was admitted to our emergency department with fever and severe abdominal pain. Antibiotic therapy had been performed with intravenous administration of 2 g of ceftriaxone and the patient underwent the placement of a percutaneous nephrostomy according to Seldinger technique. After 1 week, the patient experienced a severe pain at the lumbar tract of the vertebral column associated with a moderate abdominal pain and septic fever. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spine showed widespread impregnation of the upper portion of L3 and the lower portion of L2 compressing the spinal roots as well as the ileopsoas muscle such as a spondylodiscitis. Liquor culture showed an increase of liquor immunoglobulin G, total liquor protein and was positive for Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) - producing Escherichia coli. After the antibiotic therapy, the spondylodiscitis resolves without important sequelae. In the present case report, we describe a very rare complication of percutaneous nephrostomy tube placement, despite of the prophylactic antibiotic therapy according to the most recent guidelines. Predisposing factors to spondylodiscitis include the very young and elderly, the immunosuppressed, diabetic individuals and a general debilitating disease such as renal failure. This case suggests the importance of remembering spondylodiscitis when septic fever and back pain occurs following the placement of a percutaneous nephrostomy in a septic patient.
Micro-environmental changes induced by shape and size of forest openings: effects on Austrocedrus chilensis and Nothofagus dombeyi seedlings performance in a Pinus contorta plantation of Patagonia, Argentina
Authors: Pafundi Leticia , Urretavizcaya Maria Florencia , Defosse Guillermo Emilio
Published: December 2016

Aim of the study: to analyze, within a Pinus contorta plantation, the effects of artificially created small rectangular and small medium circular canopy gaps on: i) photosynthetic active radiation (PAR), and soil temperature and moisture, and ii) survival and growth of planted Austrocedrus chilensis and Nothofagus dombeyi seedlings, species which formerly composed the natural forest of the area.Study area: A 2 ha stand of a Pinus contorta stand in Los Alerces National Park, Argentina (42°43’S, 71°43’W, 490 m.a.s.l.). Material and methods: The Pinus contorta stand was 25 yr old, 22 m height and 26 cm DBH, presenting 1000 trees ha-1 of density and 53 m2 ha-1 of basal area. In 2009, rectangular and circular gaps were created within the stand and then seedlings were planted. During two growing seasons (2010-2011 and 2011-2012), PAR, soil temperature and moisture were measured in gaps and understory (control), and seedling survival and growth in gaps.Main results: During both seasons, soil temperature did not differ among gaps and control, whereas PAR and soil moisture were lower in control than in gaps. Seedling survival was high in all gaps regardless of species and season. Seedlings showed higher diameter growth in rectangular than in circular gaps.Research highlights: Austrocedrus chilensis and N. dombeyi seedlings survival is high and their growth slightly affected, when planted in differently-sized canopy gaps within a Pinus contorta plantation in Patagonia. However, other gap sizes and stand densities should be tested before recommending which one shows better results for reconverting monocultures into former native forests.Keywords: planted seedlings; gap structure; photosynthetic active radiation; soil temperature; soil moisture.Abbreviations used: PAR (Photosynthetic Active Radiation); DBH (Diameter at Breast Height); INTA (Argentinean Institute of Agricultural Technology); IFONA (Argentinean Forest Institute).
NaCl protects against Cd and Cu-induced toxicity in the halophyte Atriplex halimus
Authors: Bankaji Insaf , Sleimi Noomene , Gómez-Cadenas Aurelio , Pérez-Clemente Rosa M.
Published: December 2016

The objective of the present work was to evaluate the extent of Cd- and Cu-induced oxidative stress and the antioxidant response triggered in the halophyte species Atriplex halimus after metallic trace elements exposure. Plants were treated for one month with Cd2+ or Cu2+ (400 µM) in the absence or presence of 200 mM NaCl in the irrigation solution. The interaction between salinity and heavy metal stress was analyzed in relation to plant growth, tissue ion contents (Na+, K+ and Mg2+), oxidative damage and antioxidative metabolism. Data indicate that shoot and root weight significantly decreased as a consequence of Cd2+- or Cu2+-induced stress. Metallic stress leads to unbalanced nutrient uptake by reducing the translocation of K+ and Mg2+ from the root to the shoot. The levels of malondialdehyde increased in root tissue when Cd, and especially Cu, were added to the irrigation solution, indicating that oxidative damage occurred. Results showed that NaCl gave a partial protection against Cd and Cu induced toxicity, although these contaminants had distinct influence on plant physiology. It can be concluded that salinity drastically modified heavy metal absorption and improved plant growth. Salinity also decreased oxidative damage, but differently in plants exposed to Cd or Cu stress.
Modification of antioxidant systems in cell walls of maize roots by different nitrogen sources
Authors: Hadži-Tašković Šukalović Vesna , Vuletić Mirjana , Marković Ksenija , Vučinić Željko , Kravić Natalija
Published: December 2016

Antioxidant systems of maize root cell walls grown on different nitrogen sources were evaluated. Plants were grown on a medium containing only NO3- or the mixture of NO3-+NH4+, in a 2:1 ratio. Eleven-day old plants, two days after the initiation of lateral roots, were used for the experiments. Cell walls were isolated from lateral roots and primary root segments, 2-7 cm from tip to base, representing zones of intense or decreased growth rates, respectively. Protein content and the activity of enzymes peroxidase, malate dehydrogenase and ascorbate oxidase ionically or covalently bound to the walls, as well as cell wall phenolic content and antioxidant capacity, were determined. Cell walls of plants grown on mixed N possess more developed enzymatic antioxidant systems and lower non-enzymatic antioxidant defenses than cell walls grown on NO3-. Irrespective of N treatment, the activities of all studied enzymes and protein content were higher in cell walls of lateral compared to primary roots. Phenolic content of cell walls isolated from lateral roots was higher in NO3--grown than in mixed N grown plants. No significant differences could be observed in the isozyme patterns of cell wall peroxidases isolated from plants grown on different nutrient solution. Our results indicate that different N treatments modify the antioxidant systems of root cell walls. Treatment with NO3- resulted in an increase of constitutive phenolic content, while the combination of NO3-+NH4+ elevated the redox enzyme activities in root cell walls.
Innovation behaviour and the use of research and extension services in small-scale agricultural holdings
Authors: Ramos-Sandoval Rosmery , García-Álvarez-Coque Jose M. , Mas-Verdú Francisco
Published: December 2016

Farmers’ views on research and extension services (RES) included in the Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System are rarely investigated. This study analyses the relationship between key factors of innovation behaviour (market orientation, learning orientation, and innovation attitude) and the use of RES through structural equation modelling, focusing on small-scale agricultural holdings. Market orientation and learning orientation appear to be positively correlated, confirming that synergies between both factors provide a background for innovativeness. Learning orientation and farm-holders’ education level, improve knowledge exchange and make the agriculture innovation process more inclusive. However, farmers’ innovation attitude is not clearly correlated with the use of RES. Motivations about “the will to do innovations” are represented by a construct that does not appear to have a determinant effect as a mediator in farmer’s decisions about using RES.
Evaluating two irrigation controllers under subsurface drip irrigated tomato crop
Authors: Al-Ghobari Hussein M. , Mohammad Fawzi S. , El Marazky Mohamed S. A.
Published: December 2016

Smart systems could be used to improve irrigation scheduling and save water under Saudi Arabia’s present water crisis scenario. This study investigated two types of evapotranspiration-based smart irrigation controllers, SmartLine and Hunter Pro-C2, as promising tools for scheduling irrigation and quantifying plants’ water requirements to achieve water savings. The effectiveness of these technologies in reducing the amount of irrigation water was compared with the conventional irrigation scheduling method as a control treatment. The two smart irrigation sensors were used for subsurface irrigation of a tomato crop (cv. Nema) in an arid region. The results showed that the smart controllers significantly reduced the amount of applied water and increased the crop yield. In general, the Hunter Pro-C2 system saved the highest amount of water and produced the highest crop yield, resulting in the highest water irrigation efficiency compared with the SmartLine controller and the traditional irrigation schedule. It can be concluded that the application of advanced scheduling irrigation techniques such as the Hunter controller under arid conditions can realise economic benefits by saving large amounts of irrigation water.
Assessing diversity among traditional Greek and foreign eggplant cultivars using molecular markers and morphometrical descriptors
Authors: Augustinos Antonios A. , Petropoulos Constantinos , Karasoulou Vassiliki , Bletsos Fotios , Papasotiropoulos Vasilis
Published: December 2016

Eggplant is a widely cultivated vegetable crop of great economic importance. Its long lasting history of domestication, selection and breeding has led to the development of numerous cultivars with variable traits. In the present study, we assessed the diversity levels within and among eleven Greek and foreign cultivars, using 22 morphological descriptors and two different classes of molecular markers (retrotransposon microsatellite amplified polymorphism-REMAP markers and nuclear microsatellites). Our results, in accordance with other studies in the field showed: a) the limited levels of genetic polymorphism within the cultivars; b) the high morphological and genetic divergence existing among them as indicated by the genetic distance values calculated, which could be attributed to selection, inbreeding and bottleneck effects; and c) the lack of concordance among morphological descriptors and molecular markers. Despite these, our analysis showed that the utilization of combinations of markers is an effective method for the characterization of plant material providing also useful diagnostic tools for the identification and authentication of the selected Greek cultivars.
Nitrogen availability effects on gas exchange measurements in field-grown maize (Zea mays L.) under irrigated Mediterranean conditions
Authors: Isla Ramón , Guillén Mónica , Salmerón Montserrat
Published: December 2016

There are limited studies about the effect of nitrogen (N) deficiency on leaf growth, N status, and photosynthetic capacity of maize grown under field conditions in a Mediterranean climate. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of different levels of mineral N availability on leaf gas exchange parameters of sprinkler irrigated maize. The experiment was conducted in a conventional maize field located in the central part of the Ebro valley (Spain) during two seasons. Using a portable LICOR-6400 equipment, instantaneous measurements and light response curves to gas exchange were conducted in plots with different levels of N supply ranging from deficient (no fertilized) to over-fertilized (300 kg N/ha). In addition to gas exchange measurements, mineral soil N content, chlorophyll meter readings (CMR), leaf N content, and grain yield were measured in the different plots. Results showed that grain yield reached a plateau (14.5 Mg/ha) when the mineral N available was about 179 kg/ha. CMR were linearly and highly related to total N in ear leaves. The relationship between light-saturated leaf photosynthesis measurements and CMR was significant but very weak (R2=0.13) at V8 and V14 stages but increased later in the growing season (R2=0.52). Plants with intermediate levels of N supply (48<CMR<54) tended to have slightly higher assimilation rates than plants with higher CMR readings. As the available N increased, the saturation point, the light compensation point and significant increases of dark respiration rate were observed. Under the conditions of the study, leaf N contents of 1.9% in the ear leaf were enough to maximize leaf assimilation rates with no need to over-fertilize the maize crop.
Antioxidant and carbohydrate changes of two pomegranate cultivars under deficit irrigation stress
Authors: Ebtedaie Morteza , Shekafandeh Akhtar
Published: December 2016

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the biochemical responses to water stress tolerance of two pomegranate cultivars, ‘Rabbab’ and ‘Shishehgap’. After the establishment of rooted stem cuttings of both cultivars under greenhouse conditions, they were treated with four levels of deficit irrigations (100%, 75%, 50% and 25% of field capacity) in a completely randomized design with four replications. The results showed a significant difference between the two cultivars regarding antioxidant enzymes activities. In both cultivars, the water stress increased the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase and ascorbate peroxidase. However, at high water deficit (25% field capacity, FC), ‘Rabbab’ showed significantly higher enzyme activity than ‘Shishehgap’. In each level of irrigation, there were not considerable differences in peroxidase activity between the two cultivars. An increment of 162% and 65.5% in soluble sugar was gained at 50% FC in ‘Rabbab’ and ‘Shishehgap’, respectively. ‘Rabbab’ showed better growth performance in each level of irrigation than ‘Shishehgap’. Therefore, it can be concluded that 'Rabbab', with lesser decline in leaf relative water content (RWC), a strong antioxidant system and accumulation of more soluble carbohydrates, can resist higher water stress than 'Shishehgap'.
Improving yield and water use efficiency of apple trees through intercrop-mulch of crown vetch (Coronilla varia L.) combined with different fertilizer treatments in the Loess Plateau
Authors: Zheng Wei , Li Yonggang , Gong Qingli , Zhang Haoqing , Zhao Zhiyuan , Zheng Zhaoxia , Zhai Bingnian , Wang Zhaohui
Published: December 2016

Improving water use efficiency (WUE) and soil fertility is relevant for apple production in drylands. The effects of intercrop-mulch (IM) of crown vetch (Coronilla varia L.) combined with different fertilizer treatments on WUE of apple trees and soil fertility of apple orchards were assessed over three years (2011, 2013 and 2014). A split-plot design was adopted, in which the main treatments were IM and no intercrop-mulch (NIM). Five sub-treatments were established: no fertilization (CK); nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer (NP); manure (M); N, P and potassium fertilizer (NPK); and NPK fertilizer combined with manure (NPKM). Due to mowing and mulching each month during July–September, the evapotranspiration for IM was 17.3% lower than that of NIM in the dry year of 2013. Additionally, the soil water storage of NPKM treatment was higher than that of CK during the experimental period. Thus, single fruit weight and fruit number per tree increased with IM and NPKM application. Moreover, applying NPKM with IM resulted in the highest yield (on average of three years), which was 73.25% and 130.51% greater than that of CK in IM and NIM, respectively. The WUE of NPKM combined with IM was also the highest in 2013 and 2014 (47.69 and 56.95% greater than applying IM alone). In addition, due to application of IM combined with NPKM, soil organic matter was increased by 25.8% compared with that of CK (in NIM). Additionally, application of IM combined with NPKM obtained more economic net return, compared to other combinations. Therefore, applying NPKM with IM is recommended for improving apple production in this rain-fed agricultural area.
Vibration analysis on driver’s seat of agricultural tractors during tillage tests
Authors: Gialamas Theodoros , Gravalos Ioannis , Kateris Dimitrios , Xyradakis Panagiotis , Dimitriadis Christos
Published: December 2016

The vibration of the driver’s seat of agricultural tractors was investigated during three alternative tillage operations. Three tractors including a range of specifications were considered, at a range of forward speeds. The interactions between the tractors, implements and speeds were examined using the SPSS program and the GLM-ANOVA method. The results analysis indicated that the tractors played the first major role in vibration development in the lateral axis and was followed by the implements. In contrast, the implements played the first major role in the development of vibration in the horizontal axis and are followed by factor tractors. The statistically significant effect in vertical and horizontal axes shows the factor implements. In addition, the statistically significant effect in the vertical and lateral axes shows again the implements to be the most significant factor. Of the implements, the plough shows the highest vibration and displays statistically significant difference in comparison with the other implements.
Short communication: Dieback of rose caused by Acremonium sclerotigenum as a new causal agent of rose dieback in Iran
Authors: Mirtalebi Maryam , Banihashemi Zia , Sabahi Fatemeh , Mafakheri Hamze
Published: December 2016

Severe dieback of rose has been recently observed in several rose greenhouses in Fars province of Iran. During 2014 and 2015, stems of rose plants showing yellow to brown discoloration and dieback were collected from rose greenhouses. Coniothyrium fuckelii, Botrytis cinerea and Acremonium were subsequently isolated from the margin between healthy and symptomatic tissue. B. cinerea and C. fuckelii isolates were similar to those previously reported for dieback of rose worldwide. Morphological and cultural characters along with molecular analysis based on partial sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the ribosomal RNA genome allowed confirming the affiliation of the Acremonium isolates, corresponding to A. sclerotigenum as a new causal agent of rose dieback. To determine its pathogenicity on rose, Koch's postulates were fulfilled by stem inoculation of nine rose cultivars under greenhouse conditions. While A. sclerotigenum is considered as a soil-born pathogen, and produces sclerotia that are resistant to adverse conditions enables the fungus to survive extended period in soil, propagule trapping in our study revealed that conidia can become airborn, imply that an aerial phase, forms an important component of the disease cycle.
Short communication: Bovine milk sampling efficiency for pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAG) detection test
Authors: Da Silva Helen K. , Cassoli Laerte D. , Pantoja José C. F. , Cerqueira Pedro H. R. , Coitinho Tatiane B. , Machado Paulo F.
Published: December 2016

Two experiments were conducted to verify whether the time of day at which a milk sample is collected and the possible carryover in the milking system may affect pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAG) levels and, consequently, the pregnancy test results in dairy cows. In experiment one, we evaluated the effect of time of day at which the milk sample is collected from 51 cows. In experiment two, which evaluated the possible occurrence of carryover in the milk meter milking system, milk samples from 94 cows belonging to two different farms were used. The samples were subjected to pregnancy test using ELISA methodology to measure PAG concentrations and to classify the samples as positive (pregnant), negative (nonpregnant), or suspicious (recheck). We found that the time of milking did not affect the PAG levels. As to the occurrence of carryover in the milk meter, the PAG levels of the samples collected from Farm-2 were heavily influenced by a carryover effect compared with the samples from Farm-1. Thus, milk samples submitted to a pregnancy test can be collected during the morning or the evening milking. When the sample is collected from the milk meters, periodic equipment maintenance should be noted, including whether the milk meter is totally drained between different animals’ milking and equipment cleaning between milking is performed correctly to minimize the occurrence of carryover, thereby avoiding the effect on PAG levels and, consequently, the pregnancy test results. Therefore, a single milk sample can be used for both milk quality tests and pregnancy test.
A Cross Cultural Study of Mental Health among Internet Addicted and Non-Internet Addicted: Iranian and Indian Students
Authors: Esmaeilivand Masoumeh , Jalalvandi Fereshteh , Mohammadi Mohammad Mehdi , Parandin Shima , Taghizadeh Parvin , Arasteh Peyman
Published: December 2016

INTRODUCTION: In the background of increasing use of internet in Asian countries, the study of psychological health in internet addicted users seems to be vital and necessary. Therefore the present study aimed to determine mental health among internet addicted and non-internet addicted Iranian and Indian students.

METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 400 students in various colleges from Pune and Mumbai cities of Maharashtra. Internet Addiction Test and Symptom Check List (SCL) 90-R were used. Data were analyzed using SPSS 16.

RESULTS: Internet addicted students were higher on Somatization, Obsessive-compulsive, Interpersonal sensitivity, Depression, Anxiety, Hostility, Phobic anxiety, Paranoid ideation, Psychoticism than Non-internet addicted students (P<0.05). Indian students had higher score on mental health domains compared to Iranian students (P<0.05). Female students had higher scores on Somatization, Obsessive-compulsive, Anxiety, Hostility, Phobic anxiety and Psychoticism than male students (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION: Psychiatrists and psychologists who are active in the field of mental hygiene must be aware of mental problems associated with Internet addiction such as depression, anxiety, obsession, hypochondria, paranoia, interpersonal sensitivity, and job and educational dissatisfaction among Internet addicts.
“Empathy Equals Match”: The Meaning of Empathy as It Is Perceived by Greek Nurse Students-A Qualitative Study
Authors: Deligianni Aikaterini , Kyriakidou Maria , Kaba Evridiki , Kelesi Martha , Rovithis Michael , Fasoi Georgia , Rikos Nikolaos , Stavropoulou Areti
Published: December 2016

Empathy is an integral component of the nurse–patient relationship and is critical to the development of the therapeutic relationship. The focus of this qualitative descriptive study is to explore student nurses’ views on empathy. Student nurses related the concept of empathy, with emotion, conscientiousness, care, communication and support. Empathy for these students was the combination of cognitive, emotional and functional characteristics and skills. Each category, which emerged from the data analysis, contained the concepts of emotion, knowledge and skill. These concepts found to be interrelated and interdependent. This led to the formation of a core category called “Empathy equals Match”.
Introducing the Questionnaire of Commitment to Exercise
Authors: Derakhshanpoor Ahmad , Vaez Mousavi Mohammad , Taheri Hmaid Reza
Published: December 2016

The present study aimed to make and establish psychometric features of an exercise commitment questionnaire. The primary 35 questions were administered to 210 staffs working in Isfahan Steel Company, 120 males and 90 females. Subjects had 10 years of work experience in the company and were randomly selected using stratified sampling method. Principle component analysis and Varimax rotation were used to measure its construct validity. Finally, 25 questions were extracted with more than 0.5 loading factor indicating the validity of the instrument. Accordingly, a four-factor construct was made, being capable of explaining 58.4 percent of total variance by the use of principle component method. Results of the confirmatory factor analysis yielded features indicating positive fitness of the confirmatory analytic model of the commitment to exercise questionnaire. Also by using internal consistency reliability was calculated with Cronbach’s alpha and the coefficient was 0.873 showing strong reliability. Overall, based on the satisfactory reliability and validity, this study shows that commitment to exercise questionnaire serves as a suitable measuring tool for the future research.
Using topographic map interpretation methods to determine Tookany (Tacony) Creek erosion history upstream from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Authors: Clausen Eric
Published: December 2016

Topographic map interpretation methods are used to determine erosional landform origins in and adjacent to the Tookany (Tacony) Creek drainage basin, located upstream from and adjacent to Philadelphia, PA. Five wind gaps notched into the Tookany-Wissahickon Creek drainage divide (which is also the Delaware-Schuylkill River drainage divide), a deep through valley crossing the Tookany-Pennypack Creek drainage divide, a Tookany Creek elbow of capture, orientations of Tookany Creek tributary valleys, a narrow valley carved in erosion resistant metamorphic bedrock, and the relationship of a major Tookany Creek direction change with a Pennypack Creek elbow of capture and a Pennypack Creek barbed tributary are used along with other evidence to reconstruct how a deep south oriented Tookany Creek valley eroded headward across massive southwest oriented flood flow. The flood flow origin cannot be determined from Tookany Creek drainage basin evidence, but may have been derived from a melting continental ice sheet, and originally flowed across the Tookany Creek drainage basin region on a low gradient topographic surface equivalent in elevation to or higher than the highest present day Tookany Creek drainage divide elevations with the water flowing in a complex of shallow diverging and converging channels that had formed by scouring of less resistant bedrock units and zones. William Morris Davis, sometimes referred to as the father of North American geomorphology, spent much of his boyhood and several years as a young man living in the Tookany Creek drainage basin and all landforms discussed here were within walking distance of his home and can be identified on a topographic map published while he was developing and promoting his erosion cycle ideas. Davis never published about Tookany Creek drainage basin erosion history, but he developed and promoted uniformitarian and erosion cycle models that failed to recognize the significance of Tookany Creek drainage basin erosional landform features providing evidence of the immense floods that once crossed present day drainage divides and eroded the Tookany Creek drainage basin.
Crónicas de una perspectiva sobre los otomíes de la Sierra Norte de Puebla
Authors: Reinoso Niche Jorgelina
Published: December 2016

La presente investigación se realiza en Acalmancillo, Ixtololoya, Tenexco y El Pozo, comunidades otomíes del municipio de Pantepec, Sierra Norte de Puebla, en donde la expresión jäi se traduce como “cuerpo”, “gente”, “útero” y, en general, “lo humano”, quedando así delimitada una propia perspectiva otomí del cuerpo y de la persona. Para comprender el concepto otomí de jäi es necesario interpretar-explicar su sentido. Para ello se parte de un concepto sintético o mejor dicho, polisémico. Se parte de la comprensión del concepto de cuerpo humano de los otomíes, las partes que lo componen y su relación con el curandero y los recortes de papel brujo. El gran conocedor del cuerpo, dentro de la cultura otomí es el “bädi” curandero. El bädi es “el que sabe”. Su actividad por excelencia es poder recortar el mundo, en cuerpos de papel. Cuando un curandero adquiere esta característica, se encuentra en el período de mayor poder, en el periodo de mayor sabiduría de su trabajo. Acto trascendental dentro de las prácticas terapéuticas, ya que al adquirir este don, el curandero también adquiere la capacidad de recortar al cuerpo jäi en una figura de papel, de dar cuerpo a todo lo que existe en el cosmos: las personas, los animales, las plantas, el sol, la luna, todas las Antiguas, en fin todo lo que puebla el cosmos otomí.
Green city? A Grounded Theory Approach
Authors: Fussi Verena
Published: December 2016

The purpose of this paper is to give a short overview of the planned Master thesis. Since the research for the Master thesis is still in its beginning stages it is not possible to deliver a secluded paper on the chosen topic, this is also not the intention of this paper. The chosen topic is Ljubljana and it’s winning the award of the European Green Capital 2016, and the changes that encompass said winning. Also the city of Barcelona will be shortly discussed, as there are changes similar to the ones in Ljubljana. There have been a number of changes that will be listed in this paper, such as cycling and pedestrian networks, waste management, protection of green areas. It is the intention to use Grounded Theory for this research, and the methodology of Grounded Theory will be explained. Therefore the research question at this point is: What do inhabitants of Ljubljana understand by “European Green Capital” and has it an impact on their everyday lives, and if so which and what are the consequences? In this paper however one focus will be on the matter of ‘urban sustainability’ and after an attempt of a definition of said term, it will be made clear why the Master thesis research focus will not be on this discussion. To conclude an outlook will be given on what the next steps should be.
Fragilaria rinoi sp. nov. (Fragilariales, Fragilariophyceae) from periphytic river samples in Central Portugal
Authors: Delgado Cristina , Novais M. Helena , Blanco Saúl , Almeida Salomé F.P.
Published: December 2016

A new benthic freshwater diatom, Fragilaria rinoi Almeida & C.Delgado sp. nov., is described from river periphyton samples in Portugal. Fragilaria rinoi sp. nov. is illustrated and discussed based on populations collected from the Vouga, Mondego and Lis river basins in central Portugal and compared with the type material of Fragilaria vaucheriae (Kütz.) J.B.Petersen. The morphological features of the new diatom species are documented through light and scanning electron micrographs, including a comparative analysis with related species of the genus (F. candidagilae Almeida, C.Delgado, Novais & S.Blanco, F. intermedia Grunow in Van Heurck, F. neointermedia Tuji & D.M.Williams, F. recapitellata Lange-Bert. & Metzeltin, F. perminuta (Grunow) Lange-Bert., F. vaucheriae and F. microvaucheriae C.E.Wetzel & Ector). Fragilaria rinoi sp. nov. is characterized by solitary cells without spines, lanceolate valves with slightly rostrate apices, a narrow, linear axial area, and a large, unilateral central area. Fragilaria rinoi sp. nov. may be confused with F. microvaucheriae in terms of length, striae density and outline, although a morphometric analysis revealed that F. rinoi sp. nov. is significantly wider. Fragilaria rinoi sp. nov. is present in rivers with high dissolved oxygen concentrations, medium to high conductivity, neutral to slightly alkaline pH and high mean values of nitrates and ammonium.
Resisting Criminal Organizations: Reconceptualizing the “Political” in International Refugee Law
Authors: Khoday Amar
Published: December 2016

This article examines and reconstructs the term “political” in the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees. Individuals may be eligible for refugee status if they can prove that they have a well-founded fear of persecution for, amongst other reasons, their political opinion. At the same time, individuals are excluded from obtaining refugee status where there are serious reasons for considering that they have committed a serious non-political crime. For those resisting persons or entities wielding oppressive power, the meaning of the term “political” in these provisions has particular importance. Where the targets of resistance are criminal organizations, however, courts and tribunals have been, for the most part, reluctant to recognize such resistance as manifesting a political opinion.

Given the demonstrated power of criminal organizations, this article contends that opposition to these entities should be viewed as being “political”. Through an examination of the text, context, and purpose of the Refugee Convention, it argues that a broader understanding of the term “political” is reasonable if not compelling. The article examines the conflicting jurisprudence and discourse surrounding “political opinion” and “political crimes”. Despite some strong voices in support of a more traditional state-centric interpretation, others have advanced more robust articulations that account for the dynamic nature and diversity of power transactions between citizens and powerful non-state actors. Finally, the article examines the substantial power of drug cartels and youth gangs in particular Central American states to illustrate that they exercise de facto control in substantial geographic spaces. As such, resistance to such entities should properly be viewed as “political” within the meaning of the Refugee Convention.
Princípios constitucionais do ordenamento do território
Authors: Carmo Fernanda
Published: December 2016

This article aims to analyse the position of spatial planning in the Constitution of the Portuguese Republic (CRP), while considering the various constitutional principles and bases and the developments introduced by the periodic revisions since the original text in 1976. The authors look at how the CRP makes spatial planning one of the state’s fundamental tasks, and at how it is linked to the rights to housing and urbanism, the environment and quality of life, the promotion of economic and social development, territorial cohesion and the implementation of the principles of subsidiarity, autonomy, decentralisation and participation, presenting a contextual reading of the changes over the years. They conclude that the constitutional status of spatial planning is broad, demonstrating a theoretical / conceptual social importance that is not fully reflected in its practical application.
The evolutionary origin of bilaterian smooth and striated myocytes
Authors: Brunet Thibaut , Fischer Antje HL , Steinmetz Patrick RH , Lauri Antonella , Bertucci Paola , Arendt Detlev
Published: December 2016

The dichotomy between smooth and striated myocytes is fundamental for bilaterian musculature, but its evolutionary origin is unsolved. In particular, interrelationships of visceral smooth muscles remain unclear. Absent in fly and nematode, they have not yet been characterized molecularly outside vertebrates. Here, we characterize expression profile, ultrastructure, contractility and innervation of the musculature in the marine annelid Platynereis dumerilii and identify smooth muscles around the midgut, hindgut and heart that resemble their vertebrate counterparts in molecular fingerprint, contraction speed and nervous control. Our data suggest that both visceral smooth and somatic striated myocytes were present in the protostome-deuterostome ancestor and that smooth myocytes later co-opted the striated contractile module repeatedly – for example, in vertebrate heart evolution. During these smooth-to-striated myocyte conversions, the core regulatory complex of transcription factors conveying myocyte identity remained unchanged, reflecting a general principle in cell type evolution.
The Goldilocks zone in neural circuits
Authors: Humphries Mark D
Published: December 2016

How do networks of neurons remain both stable and sensitive to new inputs?