bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple clinical forms of dehydrated hereditary stomatocytosis arise from mutations in PIEZO1
Authors: Andolfo Immacolata , Alper Seth L. , De Franceschi Lucia , Auriemma Carla , Russo Roberta , De Falco Luigia , Vallefuoco Fara , Esposito Maria Rosaria , Vandorpe David H. , Shmukler Boris E. , Narayan Rupa , Montanaro Donatella , D’Armiento Maria , Vetro Annalisa , Limongelli Ivan , Zuffardi Orsetta , Glader Bertil E. , Schrier Stanley L. , Brugnara Carlo , Stewart Gordon W. , Delaunay Jean , Iolascon Achille
Published: March 2013

Key Points

Dehydrated hereditary stomatocytosis is characterized by abnormal RBC morphology but may involve pseudohyperkalemia and perinatal edema. This syndrome is associated with germline mutations in PIEZO1, encoding a transmembrane protein that induces mechanosensitive currents.
Gene and protein patterns of potential prion-related markers in the central nervous system of clinical and preclinical infected sheep
Authors: Filali Hicham , Vidal Enric , Bolea Rosa , Márquez Mercedes , Marco Paola , Vargas Antonia , Pumarola Martí , Martin-Burriel Inmaculada , Badiola Juan J
Published: March 2013

The molecular pathogenic mechanisms of prion diseases are far from clear. Genomic analyses have revealed genetic biomarkers potentially involved in prion neuropathology in naturally scrapie-infected sheep, a good animal model of infectious prionopathies. However, these biomarkers must be validated in independent studies at different stages of the disease. The gene and protein expression profiles and protein distribution of six potential genetic biomarkers (i.e.,CAPN6,COL1A2,COL3A1, GALA1, MT2AandMTNR1B) are presented here for both the early and terminal stages of scrapie in five different brain regions. Gene transcription changes were confirmed in the medulla oblongata, and the expression profiles were generally similar in other central nervous system regions. The changes were more substantial in clinical animals compared to preclinical animals. The expression of the CAPN6 protein increased in the spinal cord and cerebellum of the clinical and preclinical brains. The distribution of the GALA1 was identified in glial cells from the cerebellum of scrapie-infected animals, GALA1 protein expression was increased in clinical animals in the majority of regions, and the increase of MT2A was in agreement with previous reports. The downregulation of MTNR1B was especially marked in the Purkinje cells. Finally, although collagen genes were downregulated the protein immunostaining did not reveal significant changes between the scrapie-infected and control animals. In conclusion, this study of gene transcription and protein expression and distribution confirm CAPN6, GALA1, MTNR1B and MT2A as potential targets for further prion disease research.
Specific humoral and cellular immunity induced by Trypanosoma cruzi DNA immunization in a canine model
Authors: Arce-Fonseca Minerva , Ballinas-Verdugo Martha A , Zenteno Emma R Abreu , Suárez-Flores Davinia , Carrillo-Sánchez Silvia C , Alejandre-Aguilar Ricardo , Rosales-Encina José Luis , Reyes Pedro A , Rodríguez-Morales Olivia
Published: March 2013

Chagas disease has a high incidence in Mexico and other Latin American countries. Because one of the most important known methods of prevention is vector control, which has been effective only in certain areas of South America, the development of a vaccine to protect people at risk has been proposed. In this study, we assessed the cellular and humoral immune response generated following immunization with pBCSP and pBCSSP4 plasmids containing the genes encoding a trans-sialidase protein (present in all three forms of T. cruzi) and an amastigote specific glycoprotein, respectively, in a canine model. Thirty-five beagle dogs were divided randomly into 5 groups (n = 7) and were immunized twice intramuscularly with 500 μg of pBCSSP4, pBCSP, pBk-CMV (empty plasmid) or saline solution. Fifteen days after the last immunization the 4 groups were infected intraperitoneally with 500 000 metacyclic trypomastigotes. The fifth group was unimmunized/infected. The parasitaemia in the immunized/infected dogs was for a shorter period (14 vs. 29 days) and the parasite load was lower. The concentration of IgG1 (0.612 ± 0.019 O.D.) and IgG2 (1.167 ± 0.097 O.D.) subclasses was measured (absorbance) 15 days after the last immunization with both recombinant plasmids, the majority of which were IgG2. The treatment of parasites using the serum from dogs immunized with pBCSP and pBCSSP4 plasmids produced 54% (± 11.8) and 68% (± 21.4) complement-mediated lysis, respectively. At 12 h post immunization, an increase in cytokines was not observed; however, vaccination with pBCSSP4 significantly increased the levels of IFN-γ and IL-10 at 9 months post-infection. The recombinant plasmid immunization stimulated the spleen cell proliferation showing a positive stimulatory index above 2.0. In conclusion, immunization using both genes effectively induces a humoral and cellular immune response.
Equine herpesvirus type 1 infection induces procoagulant activity in equine monocytes
Authors: Yeo Wee Ming , Osterrieder Nikolaus , Stokol Tracy
Published: March 2013

The alphaherpesvirus, equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1), is a highly prevalent cause of equine infectious abortion and encephalomyelopathy. These syndromes have been attributed to ischemic necrosis from thrombosis in placental and neural vessels, although the mechanisms underlying thrombosis are unknown. After inhalation, EHV-1 establishes a peripheral blood mononuclear cell-associated viremia, with monocytes being a target of infection. Monocytes are also the main source of tissue factor (TF) in diseased states. Since TF is the primary activator of coagulation, increased monocyte TF expression could be involved in EHV-1-associated thrombosis. We hypothesized that EHV-1 infection would induce TF-dependent procoagulant activity in equine monocytes. Monocyte-enriched fractions of blood were infected with abortigenic (RacL11, NY03) and neuropathogenic (Ab4) EHV-1 strains. All strains induced procoagulant activity, to variable degrees, within 1 to 4 h, with maximal activity at 24 h, after infection. Virus-induced procoagulant activity was similar to that seen with lipopolysaccharide, a known stimulant of TF-mediated procoagulant responses. Virus-induced procoagulant activity was factor VIIa-dependent and temporally associated with TF gene transcription, implicating TF as the main driver of the activity. Procoagulant activity was mildly decreased (30-40%) when virus was inactivated by ultraviolet light or when infected cells were treated with aphidicolin, a virus DNA polymerase inhibitor, suggesting early events of virus infection (attachment, entry or intracellular trafficking) are the primary stimulus of procoagulant activity. Our results indicate that EHV-1 rapidly stimulates procoagulant activity in equine monocytes in vitro. The EHV-1-induced procoagulant activity in monocytes may contribute to clinical thrombosis in horses with EHV-1 infection.
Impact of prenatal care provider on the use of ancillary health services during pregnancy
Authors: Metcalfe Amy , Grabowska Kristen , Weller Carol , Tough Suzanne C
Published: March 2013

Background

Recent declines in the provision of prenatal care by family physicians and the integration of midwives into the Canadian health care system have led to a shift in the pattern of prenatal care provision; however it is unknown if this also impacts use of other health services during pregnancy. This study aimed to assess the impact of the type of prenatal care provider on the self-reported use of ancillary services during pregnancy.

Methods

Data for this study was obtained from the All Our Babies study, a community-based prospective cohort study of women’s experiences during pregnancy and the post-partum period. Chi-square tests and logistic regression were used to assess the association between type of prenatal care provider and use of ancillary health services in pregnancy.

Results

During pregnancy, 85.8% of women reported accessing ancillary health services. Compared to women who received prenatal care from a family physician, women who saw a midwife were less likely to call a nurse telephone advice line (OR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.18-0.50) and visit the emergency department (OR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.24-0.89), but were more likely receive chiropractic care (OR = 4.07, 95% CI: 2.49-6.67). Women who received their prenatal care from an obstetrician were more likely to visit a walk-in clinic (OR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.11-2.05) than those who were cared for by a family physician.

Conclusions

Prenatal care is a complex entity and referral pathways between care providers and services are not always clear. This can lead to the provision of fragmented care and create opportunities for errors and loss of information. All types of care providers have a role in addressing the full range of health needs that pregnant women experience.
Evaluation of a community intervention program in Japan using Framingham risk score and estimated 10-year coronary heart disease risk as outcome variables: a non-randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhu Bing , Haruyama Yasuo , Muto Takashi , Yamasaki Akiko , Tarumi Fumiko
Published: March 2013

Background

Community-based programs are being widely adopted in the struggle to prevent cardiovascular diseases. No study has been conducted in Japan to evaluate the effects of a community-based health promotion program by using the Framingham risk score and 10-year CHD risk as outcome variables. The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of a program involving 6-month intervention and 18-month follow-up using such outcomes.

Methods

Participants (n = 1,983, 39.5% women, mean age 63.4 years) were selected for the study in 2008. Of these 1,983, 347 (42.4% women) subjects received the 6-month intervention. The intervention included individual counseling and group sessions, among others. After 18 months, 1,278 participants (intervention group: 238, control group: 1,040) were followed up. Changes in the Framingham risk score and 10-year coronary heart disease (CHD) risk were evaluated. ANCOVA and multiple logistic models adjusted for baseline value, age, sex and intervention times were used.

Results

The results showed that the differences in the Framingham risk score and mean 10-year CHD risk were significant in the intervention group compared with the control group after 6-month follow-up (-0.46 and -1.12, respectively) and were also significant after 18-month follow-up (-0.39 and -0.85, respectively). The proportion of those with intermediate 10-year CHD risk (> = 10%) was significantly lower at 6 months (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.12-0.74) and at 18 months (OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.19-0.92).

Conclusions

The six-month intervention program effectively decreased estimated 10-year CHD risk and the effects were still present at 18-month follow-up.

Trial registration

UMIN-CTR: UMIN000008163
Effects of behavioural exercise therapy on the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary rehabilitation for chronic non-specific low back pain: Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Hofmann Jana , Peters Stefan , Geidl Wolfgang , Hentschke Christian , Pfeifer Klaus
Published: March 2013

Background

In Germany, a multidisciplinary rehabilitation named “behavioural medical rehabilitation” (BMR) is available for treatment of chronic low back pain (clbp). A central component of BMR is standard exercise therapy (SET), which is directed mainly to improve physical fitness. There is a need to address psychosocial factors within SET and therefore to improve behavior change with a focus on the development of self-management skills in dealing with clbp. Furthermore, short-term effectiveness of BMR with a SET has been proven, but the impact of a behavioural exercise therapy (BET) for improvement of the long-term effectiveness of BMR is unclear.

Methods/design

To compare the effectiveness of two exercise programs with different approaches within BMR on the effects of BMR a prospective randomized controlled trial (RCT) in two rehabilitation centres will be performed. 214 patients aged 18–65 with clbp will be, based on an "urn randomisation"-algorithm, randomly assigned to a BMR with SET (function-oriented, n=107) and BMR with BET (behaviour-oriented, n=107). Both exercise programs have a mean duration of 26 hours in three weeks and are delivered by a limited number of not-blinded study therapists in closed groups with six to twelve patients who will be masked regarding study group. The main differences of BET lie in its detailed manualised program with a theory-based, goal-orientated combination of exercise, education and behavioural elements, active participation of patients and consideration of their individual preferences and previous experiences with exercise. The primary outcome is functional ability assessed with the Hannover Functional Ability Questionnaire directly before and after the rehabilitation program, as well as a six and twelve-month follow-up.

Discussion

This RCT is designed to explore the effects of BET on the effectiveness of a BMR compared to a BMR with SET in the management of patients with clbp. Methodological challenges arise from conducting a RCT within routine health care as well as from ensuring high treatment integrity. Findings of this study might contribute to a better understanding of the mechanism of action of BMR and the special effects of BET and may be used to improve the quality of these interventions in routine care, therefore reducing the burden to patients with disabling clbp.

Trial registration

Current controlled trials NCT01666639
Molecular typing of PPRV strains detected during an outbreak in sheep and goats in south-eastern Gabon in 2011
Authors: Maganga Gael D , Verrier Delphine , Zerbinati Rodrigo M , Drosten Christian , Drexler Jan F , Leroy Eric M
Published: March 2013

Background

Peste des petits ruminanats (PPR) is an economically important viral disease affecting goats and sheep. Four genetically distinct lineages of peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) have been identified. In Gabon, the virus has not so far been detected.

Findings

Epidemiological investigations of Aboumi PPR outbreak revealed a high case fatality rate in sheep (98.9%). We detected and characterized peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV), in October 2011, during the suspected outbreak in sheep and goats in Aboumi village located in the south-eastern. PPRV RNA was detected in 10 of 14 samples from three sick animals. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the PPRV strain belonged to lineage IV and was closely related to strain circulating in neighboring Cameroon.

Conclusions

This is the first molecular detection and typing of the PPRV strain associated with fatal PPR infection in these small ruminants and concrete evidence that PPRV is present and circulating in Gabon.
Applications of engineering seismology in urban areas
Authors: Yilmaz Oz
Published: March 2013

I present two case studies which describe applications of engineering seismology in urban areas: High-resolution shallow offshore 3D seismic survey for the Bosphorus Subsea Road Tunnel Project, and seismic, geotechnical, and earthquake engineering site characterization for a residential project in Istanbul. In Case study 1, I conducted a 3D high-resolution shallow seismic survey in 2011 to confirm the geometry of the future Bosphorus Subsea Road Tunnel traverse. I processed the data to obtain 3D PSTM and PSDM volumes, and interpreted these image volumes and correlated the interpretation results with the offshore borehole data. With the recoverable signal band of 30–960 Hz, I attained a vertical resolution of less than 1 m.
Intrafunctional Competitive Intelligence and Sales Performance: A Social Network Perspective
Authors: Ahearne Michael , Lam Son K. , Hayati Babak , Kraus Florian
Published: March 2013

Salespeople represent a primary source of competitive intelligence (CI), but the contextual factors that influence the performance impact of salesperson CI quality remain underresearched. The authors develop a framework to examine the performance impact of CI quality at the individual salesperson and sales district levels, with sales district CI quality diversity and sales managers' network centrality as contingencies thereof. The empirical results from multilevel data sets of two U.S.-based corporations reveal that district CI quality diversity weakens the positive performance effect of CI quality at both levels. Sales managers' centrality in within-district and peer advice networks buffers the performance losses created by district CI quality diversity, but salespeople's centrality does not have this buffering effect. The study uncovers conditions under which the positive performance impact of salesperson and district CI quality can disappear and even become negative, thus highlighting the role of managers as CI hubs.
Putting Brands in Their Place: How a Lack of Control Keeps Brands Contained
Authors: Cutright Keisha M. , Bettman James R. , Fitzsimons Gavan J.
Published: March 2013

New brand extensions can push a brand outside its typical boundaries. In this article, the authors argue that people's acceptance of such extensions depends on their feelings of control. Across several studies, the authors demonstrate that when feelings of personal control are low, consumers and managers seek greater structure in brands and thus reject brand extensions that do not seem to fit well with the parent brand. The authors also identify important boundary conditions that illustrate when consumers are most likely to punish a brand for poor-fitting brand extensions and how the effect can be mitigated.
Childhood cancer and pediatric oncologic care in Brazil: access and equity
Authors: Grabois Marilia Fornaciari , Oliveira Evangelina X. G. de , Carvalho Marilia Sá
Published: March 2013

Cancer in children and adolescents is rare and highly curable if treatment is started early, yet it is still the main cause of death from disease in this age group. The aim of this study is to discuss access to health services for cancer patients under 19 years of age in Brazil, mapping deaths and treatment modalities in the Brazilian Unified National Health System (SUS). Data from 2000 to 2007 were analyzed according to health regions. Maps of cancer mortality rates and cancer care indicators - hospitalizations, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy financed by the national health system - revealed inequality in access, based on the small number of procedures for children in poorer regions of the country. Even with the usual concentration of specialized services in more heavily populated areas, access begins with clinical suspicion in primary care, followed by referral to more complex levels, where the diagnosis is made and treatment begins. Training pediatricians in clinical suspicion of childhood cancer and definition of more streamlined patient flows could improve the situation, thereby increasing the odds of cure.
A aproximação sociocultural à mente, de James V. Wertsch, e implicações para a educação em ciências
Authors: Pereira Alexsandro Pereira de , Ostermann Fernanda
Published: March 2013

Este artigo apresenta uma introdução à aproximação sociocultural à mente, de James V. Wertsch. Um primeiro pressuposto da aproximação sociocultural é a noção de que a "ação mediada" é a unidade de análise. A partir dessa perspectiva, a ação humana tipicamente emprega ferramentas culturais, ou meios mediacionais, que são fornecidos por um cenário sociocultural particular. O uso concreto dessas ferramentas culturais envolve uma "tensão irredutível" entre agentes ativos e itens como computadores, livros, linguagem, entre outros. O objetivo do presente trabalho é apresentar a aproximação sociocultural de Wertsch como possível referencial teórico para o ensino de ciências e para as pesquisas nessa área.
Práticas de educação ambiental: breve diagnóstico em organizações militares do exército brasileiro
Authors: Neves Eduardo Borba , Piconcelli Maressa Cristina de Almeida , Oliveira Sophia Hideko Kohata , Rozemberg Brani
Published: March 2013

Este trabalho teve por objetivo diagnosticar como a Educação Ambiental (EA) vem sendo desenvolvida no Exército Brasileiro. A abordagem utilizada foi a qualitativa. Foram selecionadas 52 unidades, de forma não probabilística e por conveniência. O instrumento de coleta de dados foi um questionário com perguntas abertas, enviado às organizações militares no segundo semestre de 2009. A análise dos dados deu-se por meio da análise de conteúdo. Pode-se constatar que as atividades de EA mais mencionadas foram: palestras, instruções ou reuniões; a preocupação com o lixo, rejeitos, reciclagem e uso dos recursos naturais; o plantio de mudas, proteção de áreas verdes e instrução de combate a incêndios. Entretanto, a maioria destas de caráter pontual e descontínuo, o que caracterizou uma EA de enfoque conservacionista. Apenas nos Colégios Militares, observaram-se ações que privilegiavam as ações contínuas e contextualizadas, no sentido de uma EA crítica, transformadora e emancipatória.
Imagens: documentos de visões de mundo
Authors: Weller Wivian , Bassalo Lucélia de Moraes Braga
Published: March 2013

Vivemos em um mundo hipervisual, onde a imagem exerce um papel fundamental de identificação, divulgação ideológica e socialização de significados. Mas por muito tempo a imagem foi negligenciada no contexto dos métodos de pesquisa qualitativa. Nesse sentido, é fundamental que as ciências humanas e sociais reconheçam o potencial das imagens com fins de investigação social, mesmo que a criação delas possa ser caracterizada como uma atividade que exige especialização. A análise de imagens não é uma tarefa simples, de fácil acesso a qualquer pesquisador, pois para ultrapassar o nível imanente de interpretação ou o nível de sentido comum, é necessário o aprofundamento de referenciais teóricos que auxiliem a leitura para além do que ela informa em um primeiro olhar. O presente artigo apresenta um exercício prático de análise de uma fotografia com base no método documentário, cuja origem remonta à Sociologia do Conhecimento de Karl Mannheim. A adaptação do método documentário para a análise de imagens foi desenvolvida por Ralf Bohnsack, que, para tanto, também retomou a teoria da Iconologia de Ervin Panofsky e as contribuições de autores como Max Imdahl e Roland Barthes. Espera-se por meio deste artigo oferecer um contraponto à recorrente crítica em relação à falta de fundamentação teórica, de reflexão, assim como de rigor metodológico no tratamento e na análise dos dados. Ao mesmo tempo pretende-se incentivar a inclusão de outros tipos de fontes para além do texto/entrevista e da observação, tais como fotografias, imagens e filmes no âmbito das pesquisas qualitativas.
Stubble Height Management Changes the Productivity of Perennial Ryegrass and Tall Fescue Pastures
Authors: Hamilton S. A. , Kallenbach R. L. , Bishop‐Hurley G. J. , Roberts C. A.
Published: March 2013

Pasture‐based dairy operators usually aim to optimize defoliation intensity to maximize forage production and nutritive value. The objective was to determine forage accumulation, nutritive value, and tiller density of tall fescue [Lolium arundinaceum (Schreb.) Darbysh.] and perennial ryegrass (L. perenne L.) when repeatedly mowed to a stubble height of 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, or 15 cm. In a 2‐yr study conducted near Columbia, MO, plots were mown to their respective stubble height whenever they grew to a “trigger” height of 20 to 22 plate meter units (approximately 4000 kg ha−1 dry matter [DM] to soil surface). In Year 1, tall fescue mowed to 2.5 cm accumulated 14,440 kg ha−1 which was the most of any treatment. In Year 2, forage accumulation for tall fescue mowed to 2.5, 5, or 7.5 cm did not differ, but was approximately 15% more than perennial ryegrass mowed to the same heights. For both species, forage harvested at stubble heights ≥10 cm had greater nutritive value than at heights of ≤7.5 cm. Perennial ryegrass had 60% fewer tillers for stubble heights ≤7.5 cm compared to heights ≥10 cm. Tall fescue showed no difference in tiller density for any stubble height. Milk production ha−1, predicted via MILK2006, was greater for stubble heights ≤7.5 cm, primarily due to greater forage accumulation. This study showed that tall fescue is better suited than perennial ryegrass for pasture‐based dairies in the Midwest because of its greater forage yield, estimated milk production, and stand (tiller) density.
The Effects of Seeding Time on the Seed Yield of Annual Ryegrass
Authors: Coulman Bruce , Loeppky Heather , Entz Martin
Published: March 2013

Annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) is an annual grass that has shown promise as a fall grazing crop in the northern Great Plains of western Canada. Seed crops of this species are also grown in the region. Late fall (dormant) seedings of annual grain crops have often been found to produce higher seed yields than spring seedings. This study compared the stand establishment and seed yields of late fall and spring seedings of annual ryegrass cultivar Barspectra at three locations in western Canada; Melfort, SK; Outlook, SK; and Carman, MB. Stand establishment was assessed by measuring tiller density in the month of June and these densities were always greater for spring than late fall seedings. For 4 of the 7 site‐years in the study, fall seedings produced higher seed yields than spring seedings; for 1 site‐year, spring seedings produced higher seed yields than fall seedings; and for 2 site‐years, there were no differences between the two seeding times. Thus, lower spring tiller densities for fall seedings did not result in lower seed yields. It was concluded that the late fall seeding time was a viable alternative to a spring seeding for producers of annual ryegrass seed in western Canada. Future research should investigate earlier fall seeding dates.
Effect of Intercropping on Yields of Corn with Different Relative Maturities and Palisadegrass
Authors: Crusciol C. A. C. , Nascente A. S. , Mateus G. P. , Borghi E. , Leles E. P. , Santos N. C. B.
Published: March 2013

Intercropping corn (Zea mays L.) with palisadegrass [Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich) Stapf] can result in high amounts of residue and improve nutrient cycling. Long‐season corn hybrids will live longer, competing with palisadegrass, which may reduce both corn and forage biomass yields. This study, conducted in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, had the objective of evaluating nutrient concentration and yield of corn hybrids with different maturity ratings as affected by intercropped palisadegrass as well as forage dry matter production. The experimental design was randomized blocks with a factorial arrangement of eight treatments consisting of two cropping systems (corn alone and intercropped with palisadegrass) and four corn hybrids (105‐, 121‐, 132, and 144‐d relative maturity). Compared with corn grown alone, intercropping treatments resulted in corn grain yields of 107% (105‐d hybrid) to 71.7% (144‐d hybrid). In the corn‐alone system, the 132‐ and 144‐d corn hybrids provided the highest corn yields (9581 and 9606 kg ha−1, respectively). Corn yield was similar between the single‐crop and intercrop systems when using 105‐, 121‐, and 132‐d hybrids. Intercropping with the 144‐d hybrid reduced forage production (6619 kg ha−1) and quality of palisadegrass (86 g kg−1 of crude protein) compared with the other hybrids. The intercropping system with the 132‐d hybrid allowed both the highest corn grain (8860 kg ha−1) and palisadegrass (8256 kg ha−1) yields. Therefore, intercropping palisadegrass with the earlier (105‐, 121‐, and 132‐d) corn hybrids is a viable option for crop–livestock integration because it did not affect either corn or palisadegrass yield.
Source–Sink Capacity Responsible for Higher Maize Yield with Removal of Plastic Film
Authors: Bu Ling‐duo , Zhu Lin , Liu Jian‐liang , Luo Sha‐sha , Chen Xin‐ping , Li Shi‐qing
Published: March 2013

Techniques based on the use of double ridges and furrows mulched with plastic film is very effective for improving water use efficiency and maize (Zea mays L.) yields in semiarid areas. Little is known, however, about the impact of removing the plastic film mulch during the reproductive stage (RS), i.e., during the July to September rainy season. We therefore performed a field experiment to investigate the effects of removing the film mulch during the RS. Two treatments were evaluated: (i) plastic film mulch in place during all growing stages (FM), and (ii) plastic film removed at the silking stage (RM). Relative to the FM treatment, the RM treatment decreased the cumulative soil temperature by 33°C in 2010 and 45°C in 2011 during the RS, thereby delaying leaf senescence and increasing the rate of photosynthesis. Grain growth measurements showed that the RM treatment extended the grain filling period by 3 to 4 d, resulting in greater ear biomass production, kernel numbers, and kernel volume. The greater grain production under the RM treatment was attributed to increases in source capacity or sink strength. Overall, the grain yields achieved under the RM treatment were greater than those for the FM treatment by 0.9 Mg ha−1 in 2010 and 1.3 Mg ha−1 in 2011, with concomitant increases in biomass production and harvest index. It may therefore be desirable to replace conventional film mulching with the RM treatment in regions with semiarid monsoon climates that have sufficient rainfall during the RS of maize growth to permit good yields.
Dealing with future challenges: a social learning alliance in the Dutch water sector
Authors: Frijns Jos , Büscher Chris , Segrave Andrew , van der Zouwen Mariëlle
Published: March 2013

This paper presents 10 prominent trends, from economic instability to social networking, that have been signalled as likely to challenge the water sector. These trends can be characterised as complex, uncertain, diverse and interconnected. To arrive at meaningful responses to these challenges, actors increasingly employ integrated, adaptive or participatory approaches, or a mixture of these. This paper highlights an example of such an approach in the Netherlands, in which participatory backcasting and social learning have been used as methods to develop response strategies. It appears that, through a process of co-learning, conceptual building-blocks are created for response strategies to deal with the future challenges of the water sector.
The question of inclusion and representation in rural South Africa: challenging the concept of water user associations as a vehicle for transformation
Authors: Kemerink J. S. , Méndez L. E. , Ahlers R. , Wester P. , van der Zaag P.
Published: March 2013

The promotion of local governance and the transfer of water management responsibilities to water user associations (WUAs) have been central in water reform processes throughout the world, including in the reforms that took place in post-apartheid South Africa. This paper reflects on the notions of inclusion and representation as put forward by the various actors involved in the establishment of a WUA in a tertiary catchment in the Thukela River Basin. The paper describes how the WUA in the study catchment came to be dominated by commercial farmers, despite the South African government's aim to redress the inequities of the past by the inclusion and representation of historically disadvantaged individuals. The authors argue that the notions of inclusion and representation as embedded in the concept of the WUA are highly contested and more aligned with the institutional settings familiar to the commercial farmers. The paper concludes that, unless the inherently political nature of the participatory process is recognized and the different institutional settings become part of the negotiation process of the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ of progressive collaboration at catchment level, the establishment of the WUA in the study catchment will not contribute to achieving the envisioned transformation.
A new iterative method for computing the Drazin inverse
Authors: Zhong Jin , Liu Xiaoji , Zhou Guangping , Yu Yaoming
Published: March 2013

In this paper, we construct a new iterative method for computing the Drazin
inverse and deduce the necessary and sufficient condition for its convergence
to Ad. Moreover, we present the error bounds of the iterative methods for
approximating Ad.
Correlates of Co-Sourcing/Outsourcing of Internal Audit Activities
Authors: Abdolmohammadi Mohammad
Published: March 2013

I use responses from 1,059 chief audit executives (CAEs) of organizations located in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, the U.K./Ireland, and the U.S. to investigate several correlates of co-sourcing and/or outsourcing (hereafter, simply “outsourcing”) of internal audit activities. An important finding of the study is that audit committee involvement is positively and significantly associated with outsourcing of internal audit activities. Interactions of audit committee involvement with organization size and location generally indicate that medium and large international/multinational organizations with audit committee involvement outsource more than medium and large local/national organizations with no audit committee involvement. Analysis of control variables produces significance for an inverse relationship between outsourcing and value-added activities of the internal audit function, and for positive relationships between outsourcing and missing skill set and audit staff vacancies. Other control variables, such as CAE age, college degree (graduate/undergraduate), major (accounting versus others), internal audit certification, and regular meetings with the audit committee do not show significant associations with outsourcing. Also, country of residence (U.S. versus other Anglo-culture countries) is not significant, but for-profit organizations outsource significantly more of their internal audit activities than not-for-profit/governmental organizations.

Data Availability: Please contact the Institute of Internal Auditors Research Foundation, which owns the CBOK (2010) database used in this study.
The Marketability of Options for Meeting the 150-Hour Requirement: An Empirical Analysis of Public Accounting Firm Recruiting Intentions
Authors: Mauldin D. Shawn , Braun Robert L. , Viosca R. Charles , Chiasson Michael A.
Published: March 2013

Students are often concerned with, and advisors are often confronted with, questions about the best way to obtain the 150 hours required for CPA licensure in most states and jurisdictions. This research provides insight through an experiment in which CPAs in public accounting provide assessments about how actively their organization would recruit job candidates whose profile descriptions differ only as to how they met the 150-hour requirement. By manipulating, at seven levels, the independent variable describing the method by which a hypothetical student obtained 150 hours, the study indicates that, in general, CPAs tend to value more accounting-specific coursework leading toward a degree, preferably an advanced degree. The study also provides suggested courses of action for students who do not have the option of pursuing a graduate degree.
The role of the golden proportion in the evaluation of facial esthetics
Authors: Rossetti Alberto , De Menezes Marcio , Rosati Riccardo , Ferrario Virgilio F. , Sforza Chiarella
Published: March 2013

Objective:

To demonstrate if one or more golden relationships between different measurements of the human face exist.

Materials and Methods:

To make our measurements, we used three-dimensional (3D) stereophotogrammetry, which has proved to be the “gold standard” in the field of facial anthropometry. We obtained 3D stereophotogrammetric facial acquisitions of 400 healthy young adult subjects, then had them scored by an Evaluation Jury. Each subject received an esthetic evaluation ranging from 0 to 40. Individuals with a score larger than 28 were considered very attractive (VA), and individuals with a score lower than 12 were considered not attractive (NA). Fifteen subjects per group were chosen by chance, with a final total group of 60 subjects: 15 VA males, 15 NA males, 15 VA females, and 15 NA females. For each subject, a set of facial distances was obtained from the stereophotogrammetric facial reconstruction, and 10 ratios were computed. The effects of sex and attractiveness were tested by analysis of variance. Additionally, Student's t-tests verified if the ratios were statistically different from the golden ratio.

Results:

For nine ratios, no significant effects of sex or attractiveness were found. Only the eye-mouth distance/height of the mandible ratio was significantly influenced by sex (P  =  .035) and attractiveness (P  =  .032). Seven out of 10 ratios were statistically different from the hypothetical value of 1.618, and only three of them were similar to the golden ratio.

Conclusions:

Ratios between 3D facial distances were not related to attractiveness. Most of the facial ratios were different from the golden ratio.
Competitive Location Assessment – the MCI Approach
Authors: Oruc Nermin , Tihi Boris
Published: March 2013

In this paper, we have investigated the list of determinants that influence customers to create a short-term preference to a particular store. A survey among 240 households in Sarajevo was conducted in order to reveal their preferences. The results of the MCI model have identified several main stores’ characteristics which have a key influence on customers’ patronage decisions. The findings also suggest that customers, in making their patronage decisions, and hence making their preferences to a particular store, choose among a limited list of alternatives, which implies that competition among outlets is more space limited than had been expected.
Two Decades of Croatian Transition: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Stojcic Nebojsa
Published: March 2013

Over the past two decades many Central and South East European countries underwent the process of transition from a centrally-planned towards a market economy. Among them, the case of Croatia stands out as particularly interesting. Owing to a number of reasons Croatia had the potential to be among the forerunners of transition. However, in realising this potential the country was constrained by numerous political and social turbulences which made its transition path somewhat unique. The objective of this paper is to explore to what extent the favourable initial conditions of Croatian transition have been exploited over the past two decades. The focus of the analysis is on four dimensions of transition: institutional reforms, macroeconomic performance, changes in economic structure and international trade. The general message yielded by the analysis is that much of Croatia’s initial advantage was lost over the past two decades because of war, the unfavourable political climate in the 1990s, late integration into regional, European and global economic institutions and the slow restructuring of enterprises.
Distribution of opiate alkaloids in brain tissue of experimental animals
Authors: Djurendic-Brenesel Maja , Pilija Vladimir , Mimica-Dukic Neda , Budakov Branislav , Cvjeticanin Stanko
Published: March 2013

The present study examined regional distribution of opiate alkaloids from seized heroin in brain regions of experimental animals in order to select parts with the highest content of opiates. Their analysis should contribute to resolve causes of death due to heroin intake. The tests were performed at different time periods (5, 15, 45 and 120 min) after male and female Wistar rats were treated with seized heroin. Opiate alkaloids (codeine, morphine, acetylcodeine, 6-acetylmorphine and 3,6-diacetylmorphine) were quantitatively determined in brain regions known for their high concentration of μ-opiate receptors: cortex, brainstem, amygdala and basal ganglia, by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The highest content of opiate alkaloids in the brain tissue of female animals was found 15 min and in male animals 45 min after treatment. The highest content of opiates was determined in the basal ganglia of the animals of both genders, indicating that this part of brain tissue presents a reliable sample for identifying and assessing contents of opiates after heroin intake.
Effects of hydrogen peroxide on diazepam and xylazine sedation in chicks
Authors: Mousa Yaareb J. , Mohammad Fouad K.
Published: March 2013

Oxidative stress may cause various neuronal dysfunctions and modulate responses to many centrally acting drugs. This study examines the effects of oxidative stress produced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) on sedation induced by diazepam or xylazine as assessed in 7-14 day-old chicks. Day-old chicks were provided with either plane tap water (control group) or H2O2 in tap water as 0.5% v/v drinking solution for two weeks in order to produce oxidative stress. Spectrophotometric methods were used to determine glutathione and malondialdehyde concentrations in plasma and whole brain. Drug-induced sedation in the chicks was assessed by monitoring the occurrence of signs of sedation manifested as drooping of the head, closed eyelids, reduced motility or immotility, decreased distress calls, and recumbency. The latency to onset of sedation and its duration were also recorded. H2O2 treatment for two weeks significantly decreased glutathione and increased malondialdehyde concentrations in plasma and whole brain of the chicks on days 7, 10 and 14 as compared with respective age-matched control groups. H2O2 decreased the median effective doses of diazepam and xylazine for the induction of sedation in chicks by 46% and 63%, respectively. Injection of diazepam at 2.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg, i.m. or xylazine at 2, 4 and 8 mg/kg, i.m. induced sedation in both control and H2O2-treated chicks in a dose dependent manner, manifested by the above given signs of sedation. H2O2 significantly decreased the latency to onset of sedation in chicks treated with diazepam at 5 and 10 mg/kg, increased the duration of sedation and prolonged the total recovery time in comparison with respective non-stressed control chicks. A similar trend occurred with xylazine in the H2O2-treated chicks, though the differences from control counterparts did not attain the statistical significance, except for the recovery time of the lowest dose of the drug. The data suggest that H2O2-induced oxidative stress sensitizes the chicks to the depressant action of the sedatives diazepam and xylazine. Further studies are needed to examine the potential role of oxidative stress in modulating the actions of therapeutic agents on the brain.
The Influence of Farm Size on Gendered Involvement in Crop Cultivation and Decision-making Responsibility of Moldovan Farmers
Authors: Grigsby Mary , Español Eloi , O’Brien David J.
Published: March 2013

This research describes the influence that farm size has on gendered involvement in crop cultivation and decision making about what crops to grow where, irrigation and marketing among small and medium-sized farmers in Moldova. Findings reveal that overall crop cultivation is characterized by gendered patterns that vary according to farm size. Overall men have much more input into decision making than do women but women on small farms have more input in decisions than do the women on medium-sized farms. However, women on medium-sized farms are more involved in the diverse range of cultivation activities in terms of labour.
The Non-profit Sector and Employment Expansion in the Rural Areas of Hungary
Authors: Tésits Róbert
Published: March 2013

The non-profit sector in Hungary has been studied in connection with its number, spread and regional distribution in the last two decades, but now it is necessary to explore the organizational, functional, employment, financial, co-operation possibilities and limitations of employment-related non-profit organizations. Another new contribution of this paper is that it gives so-called regional need-maps, which can explore unsatisfied demands in services for which employment can be organized. The selection process of the organizations in the study was supported by the list of winners of labour market tenders. These selected organizations are exclusively employment-related ones, and are able to implement labour market programmes. From the point of view of the regional spread of the social economy it is of paramount importance to disclose - even at sub-regional level - the most important unsatisfied needs that would be provided by non-profit organizations. With the non-profit supply of these services in certain small regions up to hundreds of continuous employment problems could be resolved.
Comparison of PCR methods for detection of classical swine fever virus and other pestiviruses
Authors: Podgórska K. , Kamieniecka K. , Stadejek T. , Pejsak Z.
Published: March 2013

Classical swine fever (CSF) is a notifiable, highly contagious disease of swine controlled mainly with costly administrative methods. Swine may be infected not only with classical swine fever virus (CSFV), but also with other, non porcine, genetically and antigenically related pestiviruses. Differentiation of infections with CSFV and other pestiviruses is a crucial element of diagnostics.

In the present study two real-time PCR methods and conventional one-tube nested PCR for specific detection of CSFV were compared. Additionally, two methods designed for detection of all pestivirus species real-time SYBR Green I and one-tube nested PCR were included into the study. Analyzed methods varied considerably regarding their sensitivity and specificity, what suggests that careful selection of diagnostic methods and their evaluation on a regular basis is necessary.
Participation of analogues of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA): oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphate (L-α-LPA) and 1-oleoyl-2-O-methyl-rac-glycerophosphothionate (OMPT) in uterine smooth muscle contractility of the pregnant pigs
Authors: Markiewicz W. , Kamińska K. , Bogacki M. , Maślanka T. , Jaroszewski J.
Published: March 2013

Recent studies show that a representative of phospholipids, namely lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and its receptors (LPA1-3) play a significant role in the reproductive processes, i. a, in the modulation of the uterine contractility. The participation of LPA3 in the reproductive processes has been revealed in mice and has not been studied in gilts. Therefore, in the present study we investigated the role/action of LPA and its receptors LPA1, LPA2 and LPA3 on the contraction activity in the porcine uterus. The study was conducted on an experimental model in which the pig uterus consisted of the one whole uterine horn and a part of the second horn, both connected with the uterine corpus. Uterine strips consisting of the endometrium with the myometrium (ENDO/MYO) and myometrium (MYO) alone were collected on days 12-14 of the estrous cycle (control group; n = 5) or pregnancy (experimental group; n = 5). Two analogues of LPA at increasing doses were used: oleoyl-sn-glycero- 3-phosphate (L-α-LPA, a selective agonist of LPA1 and LPA2 receptors; 10-7 M; 10-6 M and 10-5 M) and 1-oleoyl-2-O-methyl-rac-glycerophosphothionate (OMPT, a selective agonist of LPA3 receptor; 68 nM; 136 nM and 680 nM). L-α-LPA caused an increase in the contraction tension, amplitude and frequency of ENDO/MYO from the uterine horn with the developing embryos. This effect was not observed in MYO in both groups examined. In the ENDO/MYO strips of the uterine horn with developing embryos, OMPT significantly increased the contraction tension at the highest dose (680 nM) and amplitude at all doses examined, while frequency of contractions was decreased at doses of 136 nM and 680 nM. In the MYO strips of the uterine horn with embryos a significant increase in the contraction tension and amplitude after the highest dose of OMPT was observed. The results obtained imply the important role of receptors LPA1 , LPA2 and LPA3 in the contraction activity of the porcine uterus during early pregnancy.