bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weighted species richness outperforms species richness as predictor of biotic resistance
Authors: Henriksson Anna , Yu Jun , Wardle David A. , Trygg Johan , Englund Göran
Published: August 2015

The species richness hypothesis, which predicts that species‐rich communities should be better at resisting invasions than species‐poor communities, has been empirically tested many times and is often poorly supported. In this study, we contrast the species richness hypothesis with four alternative hypotheses with the aim of finding better descriptors of invasion resistance. These alternative hypotheses state that resistance to invasions is determined by abiotic conditions, community saturation (i.e., the number of resident species relative to the maximum number of species that can be supported), presence/absence of key species, or weighted species richness. Weighted species richness is a weighted sum of the number of species, where each species’ weight describes its contribution to resistance. We tested these hypotheses using data on the success of 571 introductions of four freshwater fish species into lakes throughout Sweden, i.e., Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus), tench (Tinca tinca), zander (Sander lucioperca), and whitefish (Coregonus lavaretus). We found that weighted species richness best predicted invasion success. The weights describing the contribution of each resident species to community resistance varied considerably in both strength and sign. Positive resistance weights, which indicate that species repel invaders, were as common as negative resistance weights, which indicate facilitative interactions. This result can be contrasted with the implicit assumption of the original species richness hypothesis, that all resident species have negative effects on invader success. We argue that this assumption is unlikely to be true in natural communities, and thus that we expect that weighted species richness is a better predictor of invader success than the actual number of resident species.
Rapid Estimation of Phenolic Content in Colored Maize by Near‐Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy and Its Use in Breeding
Authors: Meng Qingchang , Murray Seth C. , Mahan Adam , Collison Amy , Yang Liyi , Awika Joseph
Published: August 2015

Colored maize (Zea mays L.; blue, red, purple‐morado) is of interest for perceived health benefits of anthocyanins and other antioxidant polyphenols as well as aesthetics but suffers from low yield with few available hybrids. Grain color in maize is simply inherited, but the range of phenolic antioxidants within color classes can be large. Phenolic antioxidants can be estimated using extractable phenol content (EPC) analysis, and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) can identify individual compounds. However, both methods are expensive and slow and require destruction of the sample through grinding, which hinders screening in a breeding program. Fourier‐transformed near‐infrared reflectance spectroscopy (FT‐NIRS) is an inexpensive, rapid, and nondestructive technique useful for quantifying various compounds in grain but has not been used for selecting improved EPC profiles in maize breeding. Using two different sample sets we found that whole kernel (performance index [PI] = 83.8) samples were nearly as predictive as ground kernel samples (PI = 85.7) for EPC. Importantly, FT‐NIRS predicted two related breeding lines with 1.4‐ to 1.7‐fold greater EPC than the next highest sample (all morado), which were confirmed by EPC and HPLC. This study demonstrated that FT‐NIRS can be easily integrated into a breeding program to select improved EPC profiles beyond visual color selection. This will allow the breeding of a core improved set of lines and hybrids to be validated in food processing and feeding trials.
Mapping Fusarium solani and Aphanomyces euteiches Root Rot Resistance and Root Architecture Quantitative Trait Loci in Common Bean
Authors: Hagerty C. H. , Cuesta‐Marcos A. , Cregan P. B. , Song Q. , McClean P. , Noffsinger S. , Myers J. R.
Published: August 2015

Root rot diseases of bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are a constraint to dry and snap bean production. We developed the RR138 RI mapping population from the cross of OSU5446, a susceptible line that meets current snap bean processing industry standards, and RR6950, a root rot resistant dry bean with small brown seeds. We evaluated the RR138 RI population beginning in the F6 generation for resistance to Fusarium solani f. sp. phaseoli (Burk.) root rot in Oregon and Aphanomyces euteiches (Drechsler) root rot in Wisconsin. The population was evaluated for a set of root architecture traits at the Oregon location. Fusarium solani root rot resistance was evaluated in three seasons, whereas A. euteiches resistance was evaluated in two seasons. For each disease, RR6950 was resistant and OSU 5446 was susceptible. The recombinant inbred (RI) population was normally distributed for reaction to both diseases. We assembled a high‐density linkage map using 1689 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from an Illumina 6000‐SNP BARCbean6K_3 Beadchip. The map spanned 1196 cM over 11 linkage groups at a density of one SNP per 1.4 cM. Three quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with A. euteiches were identified, each accounting for 5 to 15% of the total genetic variation, and two QTL associated with F. solani resistance accounted for 9 and 22% of the total genetic variation. A QTL for taproot diameter (TD) and one QTL for basal root angle were identified. The QTL for resistance to the two diseases mapped to different genome locations indicating a different genetic control.
Insights into the Biology ofSphaerobolus stellatusas a Causal Agent of Thatch Collapse in Golf Turfs
Authors: Baetsen‐Young Amy M. , Kaminski John E. , Kasson Matthew T. , Davis Donald D.
Published: August 2015

Symptoms consistent with thatch collapse have been observed on golf courses in New Zealand and the United States. Symptoms include circular patches ranging from 8 to 46 cm in diameter, which result in a depression in golf turf stands of creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera), annual bluegrass (Poa annua), and browntop bentgrass (Agrostis capillaris). Commonly associated with the thatch degradation wasSphaerobolus stellatus, an agaricomycete not previously reported within turfgrass stands. The primary objectives of this study were to confirmS.stellatusas a causal agent of thatch collapse; to morphologically compare isolates; and to determine cardinal temperatures for isolate growth and glebae production. Isolates were obtained from symptomatic turf from five golf courses in the United States and two golf courses in New Zealand. Colonies were creamy white, and mycelia were either appressed, stringy, or aerial. Mycelia growth increased with increasing temperature from 5 to 25°C, and more glebae were produced at 10, 15, and 20°C than at 25°C. Amplification of the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) with primer set ITS4/ITS5 resulted in 695 to 724 bp sequences from all isolates that had 98 to 99% similarity to known isolates ofS. stellatus. Thatch degrading ability ofS. stellatuswas determined using the loss on ignition method and by direct measurements of thatch depth. When compared with the noninfested control, plugs infested withS. stellatusexhibited a 20 and 25% decrease of organic matter and thatch depth, respectively. Koch's postulates were fulfilled, confirming thatS. stellatusis a causal agent for organic matter degradation resulting in thatch collapse on golf turfgrass.
Assessing Genetic Variability for Root Traits and Identification of Trait‐Specific Germplasm in Chickpea Reference Set
Authors: Lalitha N. , Upadhyaya Hari D. , Krishnamurthy L. , Kashiwagi J. , Kavikishor P.B. , Singh S.
Published: August 2015

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a major grain legume cultivated largely on residual soil moisture in the arid and semiarid regions of the world. Terminal drought stress is one of the major causes of yield loss, and a deep root system has been recognized as one of the most important traits for enhancing drought adaptability. To diversify the current genetic base of root traits, the present study explored the variation for root traits in the reference set of chickpea (n = 300) germplasm. Genetic variability for root traits at 35 d after sowing was assessed using a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) cylinder culture system in two postrainy seasons. Largest genetic variability was observed for dry weights of shoot (broad‐sense heritability [h2] = 0.69–0.74) and root (h2 = 0.52–0.70). For root‐length density (h2 = 0.42–0.43) and root/total‐plant dry‐weight ratio (h2 = 0.32–0.54), h2 values were moderate but the variation was large, indicating scope for selection. The performance of the reference set accessions was identified for each of key traits. Accessions with the best root‐length densities along with root and shoot dry weights were found to originate from the Mediterranean region and western Asia emphasizing the importance of whole collection from these regions for superior root traits. This study identified 23 new accessions for widening the parental base in further drought tolerance breeding efforts and identified superior traits in already adapted genetic backgrounds.
Grazing Systems Research and Impact of Stocking Strategies on Pasture–Animal Production Efficiencies
Authors: Rouquette F. M.
Published: August 2015

Grazing systems research includes a wide array of component experimentation to assess plant–animal responses on pastures during short‐term, seasonal, and long‐term periods. Pasture‐animal experiments seek to assess forage growth responses to grazing and to quantify relationships between forage growth and nutritive value to gains per animal and per hectare. These experiments have used fixed and variable stocking rate management, continuous or rotational methods of stocking, and other stocking strategies to evaluate levels of production efficiencies. Stocking strategies require the integration of periodic and total forage mass, associated nutritive attributes, specific defoliation regimen responses, and incorporation of weather conditions to meet end‐point objectives. The flexible integration processes includes forage–animal databases, availability of land resources, and intuitive experience to accommodate erratic weather conditions. Scientists have the opportunity to develop and validate stocking strategies through long‐term, site‐specific grazing systems research as well as collaborative, ecoregion research efforts. Documenting the influence of stocking density on nutrient cycling, stand maintenance, ecotype diversity, and watersheds will further define soil–forage–animal responses and impacts. Management prerequisites for application of stocking strategies includes foundational forage–animal interface relationships, land resource limitations, animal husbandry behavior awareness, initiation and termination of stocking sequences, projections and expectations for climatic changes, and biological and economic risk–reward expectations. Scientists involved in grazing system research are challenged to integrate soil, forage, and animal databases to discover and document production efficiencies and stocking strategies for implementation by scientists, students, and stakeholders.
The Biological and Agronomic (Non) Sense of Ex‐Ante Coexistence Measures
Authors: Beckie Hugh J. , Hall Linda M.
Published: August 2015

The biological and agronomic sensibility of ex‐ante coexistence measures used in different parts of the world is reviewed. These measures need to be commensurate with the biology of the crop and the genetically modified (GM) adventitious presence (AP) labeling thresholds imposed by government or industry. Excessive and inflexible measures or establishment of artificially low thresholds are not consistent with the intent of recommendations, namely to provide growers and consumers with practical choices. In the case study of Portugal, few ex‐post liability claims have been made and GM thresholds have rarely exceeded 0.9%. Giving farmers more flexibility or decision‐making ability in the ‘who, what, where, and how’ of implementing coexistence measures has been successful. Knowledge and experience gained in coexistence worldwide should inform and strengthen future measures or policies. As such, regular monitoring, analysis, and reporting of the efficiency and effectiveness of coexistence measures worldwide would be a useful mechanism for iterative learning and adaptation. Excessive and scientifically unjustifiable measures need to be weeded out.
Conservation Breeding of Elite Cultivars
Authors: Tokatlidis Ioannis S.
Published: August 2015

It is now well known that the genome is more flexible and plastic than previously assumed and undergoes constant remodeling and restructuring. Residual heterozygosity and molecular mechanisms that generate de novo variation may result in considerable intracultivar variation. In the long term, cultivars adopted and widely grown by farmers may lose their identity and healthiness. Nevertheless, longevity of elite cultivars is of paramount importance due to time‐consuming and costly endeavors to breed them. Therefore, an appropriate continuous intracultivar selection might be necessary to treat the breeder seed in a sustainable manner. An ultra‐spaced nursery to exclude plant‐to‐plant interference for resources (nil competition) constitutes ideal conditions for two reasons. Nil competition boosts the phenotypic expression of genetic differences so as to make selection applicable within a narrow gene pool. It also erases the masking effects in recognition of the desirable genotypes induced by the negative relationship between yielding and competitive ability. Relevant investigations into several crops have encouraged intense selection at nil competition as a useful technique either to upgrade or to avoid gradual degradation of the genetic background to maintain uniformity and secure optimal quality of breeder seed over longer periods of time. A conservation breeding strategy is presented, comprising a periodical selection round to secure breeder seed devoid of harmful alterations and consecutive selection rounds to produce prebasic seed of high quality. Beyond uniformity and sanitary status, conservation breeding will help to enhance cultivar longevity through adaptation to a continuously changing environment.
The AgroEcoSystem (AgES) Response‐Function Model Simulates Layered Soil‐Water Dynamics in Semiarid Colorado: Sensitivity and Calibration
Authors: Green Timothy R. , Erskine Robert H. , Coleman Michael L. , David Olaf , Ascough James C. , Kipka Holm
Published: August 2015

Simulation of vertical soil hydrology is a critical component of predicting more complex multidimensional soil water dynamics in space and time. The AgroEcoSystem (AgES) model is identified here as a single land‐unit application of the three‐dimensional AgES‐W (Watershed) model. AgES simulates vertical soil water dynamics using global and layered soil response functions with conceptual storages as state variables. A detailed description of the response functions that control infiltration, evaporation, and soil‐water processes facilitates sensitivity analysis, model calibration, and evaluation against volumetric soil‐water content (SWC) at measured layers. The Object Modeling System links AgES to a Shuffled Complex Evolution calibration tool called Luca. We used Luca and fractional factorial experimental designs to analyze parameter sensitivities, then applied different strategies of implementing Luca to layered SWC data. The profile dynamics of the simulated SWC resulted in depth‐averaged Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) values of 0.60 to 0.95 for calibration in 2003 and 2005, and up to 0.80 for 4 yr used for (cross‐)evaluation. Using the 2005 calibration parameters, NSE became negative in 2009 and 2011 due to large negative values at some depths with low variance in SWC. Optimal parameter sets for each calibration year were not unique, and model results did not fully capture the measured dynamics. Even so, AgES simulations compared favorably with previous simulations of SWC at this site using a Richards' equation model. These results provide new understanding of the model responses and interactions between functions controlling the vertical flow and storage of water to aid watershed modeling.
Prediction of Fracture Risk in Patients with Osteoporosis: A Brief Review
Authors: Arceo-Mendoza Rod Marianne , Camacho Pauline
Published: August 2015

Osteoporosis, a well-defined and growing public health problem, is a disease characterized by increased bone turnover and decreased bone mass with associated skeletal fragility, resulting in an increased risk of fracture. It is often unrecognized until the late stages when fragility fractures have occurred. In adults, early recognition of the disease prior to the occurrence of fractures followed by timely and efficient initiation of appropriate treatment can reduce fracture risk. In this article, we review clinical modalities available to effectively predict fracture risk in patients with osteoporosis. Bone mineral density and presence of clinical risk factors may be combined to provide a more comprehensive osteoporotic fracture risk assessment. Use of FRAX may serve as a general guideline for clinical management and deciding a threshold for cost-effective pharmacological intervention. Elevated bone turnover markers are predictive of high fracture risk and can provide additional clinical information as well.
Evaluation of the Radiopacities of Bulk-fill RestorativesUsing Two Digital Radiography Systems
Authors: Yasa E , Yasa B , Aglarci OS , Ertas ET
Published: August 2015

This study investigated the radiopacity values of bulk-fill restoratives by using two digital radiography systems. Nine bulk-fill restoratives and a conventional composite were used in the study. Six disc-shaped specimens were prepared from each of these materials, three each at thicknesses of 1 mm and 2 mm, and tooth slices with these same thicknesses were obtained. As a control, an aluminum step wedge varying in thickness from 0.5 to 10 mm in was used. Three specimens of each of the materials, together with the tooth slice and the aluminum step wedge, were placed over a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor and a storage photostimulable phosphor (PPS) plate system and exposed using a dental x-ray unit. The images were analyzed using a software program to measure the mean gray values (MGVs). Five measurements were obtained from each of the restorative materials, the enamel, the dentin, and the stepwedge. The MGVs were converted to the equivalent aluminum thicknesses. Three-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine the significance of the differences among the groups. A Tukey test was applied for pairwise comparisons (p<0.05). All composite-based restoratives were found to have greater radiopacities than enamel or dentin. Equia Fil had the lowest radiopacity value. Radiopacity increased as the thicknesses of the restorative material increased. The CMOS system showed significantly higher radiopacity values than the PSP system. In conclusion, all investigated bulk-fill restoratives passed the International Organization for Standardization and American National Standard Institute/American Dental Association requirements for radiopacity values when evaluated with the two digital radiography systems.
Effect of Photoactivation Timing on the Mechanical Properties of Resin Cements and Bond Strength of Fiberglass Post to Root Dentin
Authors: Pereira RD , Valdívia ADCM , Bicalho AA , Franco SD , Tantbirojn D , Versluis A , Soares CJ
Published: August 2015

Objectives

This study tested the hypothesis that photoactivation timing and resin cement affect mechanical properties and bond strength of fiberglass posts to root dentin at different depths.

Methods

Fiberglass posts (Exacto, Angelus) were luted with RelyX Unicem (3M ESPE), Panavia F 2.0 (Kuraray), or RelyX ARC (3M ESPE) using three photoactivation timings: light curing immediately, after three minutes, or after five minutes. Push-out bonding strength, PBS (n=10) was measured on each root region (coronal, middle, apical). The elastic modulus (E) and Vickers hardness (VHN) of the cement layer along the root canal were determined using dynamic indentation (n=5). A strain-gauge test was used to measure post-gel shrinkage of each cement (n=10). Residual shrinkage stress was assessed with finite element analysis. Data were analyzed with two-way analysis of variance in a split-plot arrangement and a Tukey test (α=0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine the influence of study factors.

Results

The five-minute delay photoactivation timing significantly increased the PBS for all resin cements evaluated. The PBS decreased significantly from coronal to apical root canal regions. The mean values for E and VHN increased significantly with the delayed photoactivation for RelyX Unicem and decreased from coronal to apical root regions for all resin cements with the immediate-curing timing.

Conclusions

The PBS of fiber posts to root dentin, E, and VHN values were affected by the root canal region, photoactivation timing, and resin cement type. Shrinkage stress values decreased gradually with delayed photoactivation for all the cements.
Effect of High Irradiance on Depth of Cure of a Conventional and a Bulk Fill Resin-based Composite
Authors: AlQahtani MQ , Michaud PL , Sullivan B , Labrie D , AlShaafi MM , Price RB
Published: August 2015

Objectives

This study evaluated the effect of using three commercial light curing units (LCUs) delivering a range of irradiance values, but delivering similar radiant exposures on the depth of cure of two different resin-based composites (RBCs).

Methods

A conventional hybrid RBC (Z100 shade A2, 3M ESPE) or a bulk fill RBC (Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill shade IVA, Ivoclar Vivadent) was packed into a 10-mm deep semicircular metal mold with a 2-mm internal radius. The RBC was exposed to light from a plasma-arc-curing (PAC) light (Sapphire Plus, DenMat) for five seconds, a quartz-tungsten-halogen (QTH) light (Optilux 501, Kerr) for 40 seconds, or a light-emitting-diode (LED) light (S10, 3M ESPE) for 20 seconds and 40 seconds (control). The Knoop microhardness was then measured as soon as possible at the top surface and at three points every 0.5 mm down from the surface. For each RBC, a repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) model was used to predict the Knoop hardness in a manner analogous to a standard regression model. This predicted value was used to determine at what depth the RBC reached 80% of the mean hardness achieved at the top surface with any light.

Results

The PAC light delivered an irradiance and radiant exposure of 7328 mW/cm2 and 36.6 J/cm2, respectively, to the RBCs; the QTH light delivered 936 mW/cm2 and 37.4 J/cm2 and in 20 seconds the LED light delivered 1825 mW/cm2 and 36.5 J/cm2. In 40 seconds, the control LED light delivered a radiant exposure of 73.0 J/cm2. For Z100, using 80% of the maximum hardness at the top surface as the criteria for adequate curing, all light exposure conditions achieved the 2.0-mm depth of cure claimed by the manufacturer. The LED light used for 40 seconds achieved the greatest depth of cure (5.0 mm), and the PAC light used for five seconds, the least (2.5 mm). Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill achieved a 3.5-mm depth of cure when the broad-spectrum QTH light was used for 40 seconds delivering 37.4 J/cm2. It required a 40-second exposure time with the narrow-spectrum LED, delivering approximately 73 J/cm2 to reach a depth of cure of 4 mm.

Conclusions

When delivering a similar radiant exposure of 37 J/cm2, the QTH (40 seconds) and LED (20 seconds) units achieved a greater depth of cure than the PAC (five seconds) light. For both resins, the greatest depth of cure was achieved when the LED light was used for 40 seconds delivering 73 J/cm2 (p<0.05).
Microleakage of Class I and II Composite Resin Restorations Using a Sonic-resin Placement System
Authors: Kalmowicz J , Phebus JG , Owens BM , Johnson WW , King GT
Published: August 2015

Objectives

To determine microleakage of posterior Class I and II restorations using the SonicFill composite resin system.

Methods and Materials

Eighty previously extracted third molars were randomly assigned to four preparation/restoration groups (n=20): Group A: Class I preparations restored with SonicFill system/bulk fill; Group B: Class II preparations restored with SonicFill system/bulk fill; Group C: Class I preparations restored with Herculite Ultra composite resin/incremental technique; and Group D: Class II preparations restored with Herculite Ultra composite resin/incremental technique. Class I preparations were approximately 3.0 mm in width buccolingually and 3.0 mm in depth. Class II preparations were approximately 3.0 mm in width buccolingually, 1.5 mm in axial depth, and 4.0 mm in gingival depth. In all groups, the enamel and dentin surfaces were conditioned with Kerr 37.5% phosphoric acid, followed by application of Optibond Solo Plus adhesive system. Following restoration, the specimens were thermocycled, immersed in methylene blue dye, and embedded in acrylic resin. Specimen blocks were sectioned in the mesiodistal direction, with marginal dye penetration (microleakage) examined using a 20× binocular microscope. Class I and II restoration microleakage was scored separately using a 0-3 ordinal ranking system. Statistical analyses were conducted using nonparametric testing at the p < 0.05 level of significance.

Results

Significantly less microleakage was associated with both Class I restorative groups (A and C), SonicFill bulk fill and Herculite Ultra incremental fill, compared to the Class II restorative groups (B and D), SonicFill/bulk fill and Herculite Ultra/incremental fill.

Conclusions

According to the results of this study, the materials (SonicFill vs Herculite Ultra), C-factors, and insertion techniques (bulk vs incremental) did not appear to be significant influences with regard to marginal microleakage; however, the type of preparation cavity (Class I vs Class II) and the subsequent bonding surface (enamel vs dentin [cementum]) proved to be significant factors.
Incidence of Hypertension in the Nepalese Army selected for United Nation's Mission.
Authors: Khatri Devendra , Khatri Ratna , Yadav Binita , Rayamajhi Helina , Rana Kishor Jung , Pandey Rajiv
Published: August 2015

Introduction: Hypertension is an important public health challenge in the developing and the developed world alike. However, hospital-based studies on cardiovascular diseases including hypertension in a developing country like Nepal have been limited. The objective of the present study was to determine the incidence of hypertension in the troops selected for mission.Method: We did medical check-up of 850 soldiers selected for UNIFIL mission from January 2014 to March 2014 at Shree Birendra Hospital Chhauni, Kathmandu. Age ranged from 29 years to 55 years was included in the group. Various parameters like history of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, coronary artery disease, smoking, alcohol, family history, measurement of blood pressure, body mass index, lipid profile and number of people who has to take antihypertensive medicines were studied.Results: Out of 850 military personnel 48 found to have high blood pressure. Maximum candidates belonged to young age group 29-35years of age. 22 were overweight and 6 were obese and having higher blood pressure levels. 66% were habituated to alcohol intake minimum 60 ml up to 160 ml. Most of them were occasional drinker. 31 candidates constituting 64.58% had to be put on antihypertensive that were newly diagnosed. 3 persons had past history of hypertension and were already on antihypertensive.Conclusions:  The study highlights the prevalence of various risk factors for coronary artery disease in the army.Since majority of risk factors are modifiable, timely intervention can help in reducing morbidity and mortality.
Knowledge, Attitude, Behavior and Myth towards Epilepsy among Community People
Authors: Gupta Bimala Shah , Laxmi BK
Published: August 2015

Introduction: Epilepsy represents one of the major brain disorders worldwide. Living in the society is more challenging than epilepsy itself. The main objective of the study was to find out knowledge, attitude, behavior and myth towards epilepsy among community people.Methods: The descriptive cross-sectional study design was adopted with the systematic random sampling. A structured, pretested interview questionnaire was used to collect data and analyzed by using descriptive statistics.Results: Of the 50 respondents. With regards to knowledge, attitude, behavior and myth towards epilepsy, 100% correctly thought that epilepsy is a brain disorder while 70% believed it to be a psychiatric disorder and an inherited disorder (70%).  Most of them thought that epilepsy can be cured (90%). Similarly 94% viewed that a person with epilepsy takes up a job. About 78% of the respondents would throw the water on the person and 50% would make the person smell a shoe during seizure. Similarly 14% would take the person to the Dhami/Jhankri. Myths found to be prevalent were epilepsy is transmitted by eating non vegetarian diet (18%), caused by an evil/supernatural power (26%) and can be treated by spiritual healer (18%).  Conclusions: Although majority of the respondents had heard of epilepsy. False attitude, behavior and myth about the condition still prevail in a community. It may be worthwhile including awareness programs about epilepsy by community education/ local health organization in order to dispel the false attitude, behavior and manage the person with epilepsy in community as well.
Marfan Syndrome with Bilateral Retinal Detachment
Authors: Shrestha Chunu , Shrestha Varun
Published: August 2015

Marfan syndrome is an autosomal dominant systemic disorder of connective tissue. Marfan syndrome affects most organs and tissues, especially the skeleton, lungs, eyes, hearts, and the large blood vessels. It is described by Antoine Marfan in 1896. Aortic root aneurysm and ectopia lentis are the cardinal features. In the absence of family history, the presence of these two manifestations is sufficient for confirmatory diagnosis of Marfan syndrome. Patient with ocular manifestations should be screened for cardiac involvement to support diagnosis. Retinal detachment is a potentially dangerous manifestation for its sight threatening nature. There is no cure for Marfan syndrome, so treatment focuses on managing the symptoms and reducing the risk of complications. Recent advances in diagnosis, improved surgical technique and application of prophylaxis has contributed in preservation of sight in such patients.
An Approach to Tragedy
Authors: Dahlstrom Carl
Published: August 2015

We have not been able to discuss the raw materials of tragedy without implicit consideration of the tragic vein. Now, however, we are in a position formally to take note of matters of first importance. What has been derived from Aristotle's Poetics will be obvious; so too, that which has come from a study of works of literature that have long been called tragedies. But not even the writer himself can tell how much has been gathered from materials not immediately associated with the subject.
The Theme Of Loneliness In The Plays Of Synge
Authors: Leyburn Ellen Douglas
Published: August 2015

In the famous preface to The Playboy of the Western World in which Synge renounces the reality of Ibsen and Zola with its "joyless and pallid words" in favor of a reality clothed in language which is "rich and living," he makes clear the basis of his whole art-conception and language alike-in reality imaginatively conceived. The "rich joy found only in what is superb and wild in reality" is what he wants his plays to communicate. In describing the folk imagination in Ireland, he describes his
Chekhov's Comic Spirit AndThe Cherry Orchard
Authors: Silverstein Norman
Published: August 2015

"All's dark at home”—for young Anton Chekhov. 11,e son of a grocer, he watched the store after school. His father taught him to use his finger in weighing merchandise, and he beat him for trifles. Later, his father lost his store and his money. When Anton was a student of medicine in Moscow, his mother did not let the boy study: she came to his room with questions and comments, the questions being about laundry and dinner and the comments about the necessity for study. When Anton begged to be allowed to prepare for his exam, his mother cried. By his twenties, Anton was the breadwinner of the family. His sister Masha helped in the house, his older brother Alexei took to drink, his younger brother Michael went to school and his father Pavel sat around .... Anton was powerful enough to warn his parents not to tell lies, ineffectually of course. He knew that for ordinary people lying and self-deception come easily. He knew that he must purge his soul of deception.
Synthesis of ultrafine powder of vanadium carbide V8C7 by microwave heating
Authors: Nikolaenko Irina , Krasovskaya Anastasiya , Kedin Nikolay , Shveikin Gennadii
Published: August 2015

In this article a new method of synthesizing ultrafine powder of vanadium carbide V8C7 by a combination of classic liquid-phase precipitation on a carbon support and low-temperature microwave heat treatment is proposed. An entire spectrum of intermediates obtained during thermolysis, reduction, and carbidization of precursors to the final product has been presented. The structure, morphology and distribution according to the particle size, phase structure and specific surface area of samples has been shown.
Electrochemical behaviour of stainless steel in acidic fluoride media
Authors: Martinović Ivana , Pilić Zora , Dragičević Ivan , Višekruna Antonija
Published: August 2015

The growth mechanism and electrochemical properties of an oxide film on AISI 304 grade stainless steel were studied in 0.01 and 0.1 mol L−1fluoride solutions with differentpHvalues (4.5, 5.5, 6.5) by means of electrochemical techniques. The anodic growth and stability of the oxide film on the stainless steel were characterized using cyclic voltammetry. Potentiodynamic analysis suggests that the oxide film growth occurs according to the high-field mechanism. Electric field strength, high-field growth exponential law constants, ionic conductivity through the film and half jump distance were determined. The electrochemical properties of the oxide film, formed spontaneously at the open circuit potential, were studied using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results showed that the fluoride concentration has more considerable influence on the dissolution rate and the resistance of the oxide film than thepH.
Nanocomposite based on polyaniline emeraldine-base and α-Al2O3: A structural characterization
Authors: Sanches Edgar A. , de Souza Sérgio M. , Carvalho Ana Paola L. , Trovati Graziella , Fernandes Edson G. R. , Mascarenhas Yvonne P.
Published: August 2015

A ceramic-matrix nanocomposite based on polyaniline emeraldine base and aluminum oxide (PANI-EB/α-Al2O3) was obtained by in-situ polymerization. X-ray diffraction pattern presented peaks related to both materials. The level of crystallinity was estimated at about 53%. The average crystallite sizes of PANI-EB and α-Al2O3 were found to be ∼40 Å and 570 Å, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy showed polymerization over ceramic particles. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy suggested physical deposition. The electrical conductivity of the PANI-EB/α-Al2O3 nanocomposite was decreased by a factor of 80 when compared with that of pure PANI-EB. Therefore, the polymeric reinforcement and the ceramic matrix maintained their original structural features, but the electrical conductivity in the nanocomposite was reduced.
A model of viscoelastic ice-shelf flexure
Authors: MacAyeal Douglas R. , Sergienko Olga V. , Banwell Alison F.
Published: August 2015

We develop a formal thin-plate treatment of the viscoelastic flexure of floating ice shelves as an initial step in treating various problems relevant to ice-shelf response to sudden changes of surface loads and applied bending moments (e.g. draining supraglacial lakes, iceberg calving, surface and basal crevassing). Our analysis is based on the assumption that total deformation is the sum of elastic and viscous (or power-law creep) deformations (i.e. akin to a Maxwell model of viscoelasticity, having a spring and dashpot in series). The treatment follows the assumptions of well-known thin-plate approximation, but is presented in a manner familiar to glaciologists and with Glen’s flow law. We present an analysis of the viscoelastic evolution of an ice shelf subject to a filling and draining supraglacial lake. This demonstration is motivated by the proposition that flexure in response to the filling/drainage of meltwater features on the Larsen B ice shelf, Antarctica, contributed to the fragmentation process that accompanied its collapse in 2002.
Glacier velocity and water input variability in a maritime environment: Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand
Authors: Kehrl Laura M. , Horgan Huw J. , Anderson Brian M. , Dadic Ruzica , Mackintosh Andrew N.
Published: August 2015

Short-term glacier velocity variations typically occur when a water input is accommodated by an increase in the subglacial water pressure. Although these velocity variations have been well documented on many glaciers, few studies have considered them on glaciers where heavy rain and glacier melt occur year-round. This study investigates the relationship between water inputs and glacier velocity on Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand. We installed six GNSS stations across the lower glacier during austral summer 2010/11 and one station during summer 2012/13. Glacier velocity remained elevated at all stations for ∼7 days following large rain events. During diurnal melt events, we find velocity variations in the early afternoon (12:00–16:00) at 600 m a.s.l. and in the late evening (20:00–01:00) at 400 m a.s.l. We hypothesize that the late-evening velocity variations occurred as an upstream region of high subglacial water pressures and accelerated ice motion propagated downstream. This mechanism may also explain the increased longitudinal compression and transverse extension across the lower glacier during speed-up events. Our results indicate that the subglacial drainage system likely decreases in efficiency upstream and that the water input variability can still cause short-term velocity variations despite the large year-round water inputs.
Synthesis, characterization and in vitro biocompatibility study of Au/TMC/Fe3O4 nanocomposites as a promising, nontoxic system for biomedical applications
Authors: Shirazi Hanieh , Daneshpour Maryam , Kashanian Soheila , Omidfar Kobra
Published: August 2015

The unique properties and applications of iron oxide and Au nanoparticles have motivated researchers to synthesize and optimize a combined nanocomposite containing both. By using various polymers such as chitosan, some of the problems of classic core–shell structures (such as reduced saturation magnetization and thick coating) have been overcome. In the present study, chitosan and one of its well-known derivatives, N-trimethylchitosan (TMC), were applied to construct three-layer nanocomposites in an Au/polymer/Fe3O4 system. It was demonstrated that replacement of chitosan with TMC reasonably improved the properties of the final nanocomposites including their size, magnetic behavior and thermal stability. Moreover, the results of the MTT assay showed no significant cytotoxicity effect when the Au/TMC/Fe3O4 nanocomposites were applied in vitro. These TMC-containing magnetic nanoparticles are well-coated by Au nanoparticles and have good biocompatibility and can thus play the role of a platform or a label in various fields of application, especially the biomedical sciences and biosensors.
Synthesis and evaluation of the biostability and cell compatibility of novel conjugates of nucleobase, peptidic epitope, and saccharide
Authors: Yuan Dan , Du Xuewen , Shi Junfeng , Zhou Ning , Baoum Abdulgader Ahmed , Al Footy Khalid Omar , Badahdah Khadija Omar , Xu Bing
Published: August 2015

This article reports the synthesis of a new class of conjugates containing a nucleobase, a peptidic epitope, and a saccharide and the evalution of their gelation, biostability, and cell compatibility. We demonstrate a facile synthetic process, based on solid-phase peptide synthesis of nucleopeptides, to connect a saccharide with the nucleopeptides for producing the target conjugates. All the conjugates themselves (1–8) display excellent solubility in water without forming hydrogels. However, a mixture of 5 and 8 self-assembles to form nanofibers and results in a supramolecular hydrogel. The proteolytic stabilities of the conjugates depend on the functional peptidic epitopes. We found that TTPV is proteolytic resistant and LGFNI is susceptible to proteolysis. In addition, all the conjugates are compatible to the mammalian cells tested.
Do Your Classes Click?
Authors: Forbringer Linda L.
Published: August 2015

This chapter describes a study that examined the use of interactive remotes (clickers) in teacher education courses. In previous studies, interactive technology has been shown to increase student interest, participation, and learning in a variety of other disciplines. This study replicated those findings with pre-service and practicing teachers, but also investigated the clickers' effects on teachers' developing understanding of three evidence-based pedagogical practices: (1) active participation, (2) providing students with opportunities for frequent review and feedback, and (3) using formative assessment to guide instructional decisions. Results were overwhelmingly positive. Participants reported that using the technology developed their understanding of the targeted pedagogical practices, and this growth was reflected in their discussion of effective pedagogy after having used the interactive remotes. The chapter includes a review of the supporting pedagogical foundations, a discussion of the limitations of the current study and implications for further research.
Technology Tools, Proficiency, and Integration of Physical Education Teacher Educators
Authors: Baert Helena
Published: August 2015

Accredited Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) programs within the U.S. are bound by the implementation of national standards, which include a standard on the use of technology to meet lesson objectives. It is the responsibility of PETE faculty and program management to include technology within the program and insure that physical education pre-service teachers are well prepared to integrate technology into their teaching. This chapter investigates the perceptions of PETE faculty towards their technology proficiency, their use of technology in their courses, and the approaches PETE programs use to integrate technology and address the preparedness of pre-service teachers. Results show that PETE faculty use technologies such as computer technologies, pedometers, heart rate monitors and digital cameras most often, yet in general, perceive their proficiency and integration levels to be low. Their technology proficiency levels significantly predicted their level of integration. The chapter also includes recommendations for technology integration in PETE.
Contextual Influences on Science Teachers' TPACK Levels
Authors: Owusu Kofi Acheaw , Conner Lindsey , Astall Chris
Published: August 2015

The contextual factors influencing teachers' use of technology as well as teachers' Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) levels were investigated through multiple embedded case studies of five science teachers who were regular users of technology in their teaching. The case studies reported in this chapter revealed that teachers used technology to support inquiry learning through a wide range of ways in lower levels of high school but mostly to clarify concepts and theories for senior level students. This chapter identified that teachers demonstrated different TPACK levels of expertise and engagement in the use of technology when transferring different types of knowledge from one teaching and learning context to another and for addressing differences amongst learners. The context of assessment driven teaching influences science teachers' TPACK for integrating technology in instruction. The chapter noted that having teachers actively evaluate the effectiveness of the technology on students' learning may help increase teachers' TPACK levels.
Using Google Drive to Write Dialogically with Teachers
Authors: Rish Ryan M. , Bylen Kim , Vreeland Hannah , Wimberley Caitlin C.
Published: August 2015

In this chapter, a teacher educator and three practicing teachers consider how their experiences in an English education methods course that explicitly used Google Drive to support dialogic writing and learning has informed their teaching practices. The teacher educator frames the use of Google Drive in the methods course within a sociocultural perspective of writing as a distributed, mediated, and dialogic process of invention. Drawing on autoethnography as a method of inquiry, the teacher educator and the three practicing teachers consider the ways they wrote and learned in the methods course with Google Drive and how that experience is shaping the way they are supporting dialogic writing in their own teaching. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the major benefits and drawbacks of teaching writing within a sociocultural framework, including the issue of “heavy borrowing” and other tensions that arise within the institutional constraints of teaching writing within schools.
Evolving Pedagogy and Practice
Authors: Hennessey Susan , Olofson Mark W. , Swallow Meredith J. C. , Downes John M.
Published: August 2015

This chapter presents qualitative research describing the pedagogy of middle grades mathematics teachers who participated in professional development in conjunction with classroom integration of 1:1 technology. Through a multiple-case study design, the expression and development of teacher pedagogy that occurred as teachers created self-designed action research projects grounded in pedagogical goals is illustrated. The use of action research in these four case studies as a vehicle for professional growth and as a reflective evaluation tool is discussed. When viewed through the lens of the TPACK framework (Mishra & Koehler, 2006), data suggest a technology-mediated shift in pedagogy in the area of differentiation in instruction and assessment in mathematics classrooms. Future implications regarding technology integration, professional development programs, and the use of the TPACK as a descriptive tool are considered.
Engaging Google Docs to Support Collaboration and Reflection in Online Teacher Education
Authors: Gillow-Wiles Henry , Niess Margaret L.
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this chapter is to describe the impact engaging collaborative software has on technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK) development through collaboration and reflection. Situating teaching and learning in an online teacher education environment creates challenges for developing learning communities supporting reflection and collaboration. This cross case analysis reveals the impact of Google Docs to facilitate reflection and collaboration in an online integrated mathematics, science, and technology education graduate program has on developing in-service teachers' TPACK. Using a social metacognitive constructivist lens to focus the course design, this study collected student learning products, including essays, Blackboard forum transcripts, and Google Docs editing histories to understand how participants' TPACK thinking matured through their collaboration and reflections. Results suggest Google Docs provided a rich online environment where participants were able to engage in and reflect on a community that developed both individual and shared knowledge.