bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NAS-50 and NAS-40: New scales for the assessment of self-control
Authors: Nęcka Edward , Wujcik Radosław , Orzechowski Jarosław , Gruszka Aleksandra , Janik Beata , Nowak Michał , Wójcik Natalia
Published: October 2016

In this paper, we present a new questionnaire for the assessment of self-control as an individual trait. We describe the process of construction of this assessment tool. We also report the results of relevant validation studies. The questionnaire has two independent versions, one based on self-reports (NAS-50) and another one based on other-reports (NAS-40). The first version consists of five subscales (10 items each), called Initiative and Persistence (IP), Proactive Control (PC), Switching and Flexibility (SF), Inhibition and Adjournment (IA), and Goal Maintenance (GM). Seven samples of participants (N = 934 altogether) took part in the validation study. The second version has not been split into subscales. Both versions obtained satisfactory indices of internal consistency, assessed with Cronbach’s alpha (for NAS- 50 total score a = .861, for the subscales a between .726 and .867; for NAS-40 a = .844). The NAS-50 and NAS-40 scores were highly correlated with other measures of self-control, including Tangney, Baumeister, and Boone’s (2004) self-control scale. They also proved to be entirely independent of general intelligence. In conclusion, both versions can be regarded reliable and valid enough, and therefore suitable for the assessment of trait self-control for research purposes.
Of Earth and Sky: A Pair of Ming Hanging Scrolls, from Past Repairs to Present Conservation
Authors: Stiglitz Marinita , Bearman Julia
Published: October 2016

A pair of Chinese scrolls representing the earth and sky were donated to the Bodleian Library in 1684. They are thought to be ephemeral items printed during the late Ming dynasty. Records indicate that in 1883 the scrolls were trimmed, patched with transparent paper, backed with cloth and mounted in an unsympathetic manner. In this paper, we consider the conservation and preservation measures adopted by the then Bodleian Librarian and reflect on his participation at the St. Gall Conference in 1898. The conservation treatment of the scrolls completed in 2015 was guided by their past repairs, current ethical considerations and scientific analysis. Breaking the strong bond between the transparent paper and the fragile surface of the scrolls required experimentation with the Albertina Compress and Gellan gum. The recreation of functional hanging scrolls involved the use of traditional scroll-mounting techniques and the reinterpretation of the Chinese mounting style from a western conservation perspective. We also discuss the experience gained in treating two artefacts with almost identical problems.
The Economics and Law of Sovereign Debt and Risk Sharing: Some Lessons from the Eurozone Crisis
Authors: Basu Kaushik
Published: October 2016

Analyzing the source of the Eurozone sovereign debt crisis, the paper argues the need for greater risk sharing and joint liability across sovereigns. This will require amending some of the legal provisions that underlie the European Union and the creation of the Euro. Once this is done it will be possible to consider the creation of Eurobonds and other liability arrangements, which can promote investment and job creation. A simple theoretical model is presented to bolster the argument.
Les deux barricades: Complexité sémiotique et objectivation des faits de style dans un extrait desMisérables
Authors: Yocaris Ilias
Published: October 2016

Notre étude porte sur les descriptions parallèles de la barricade Saint-Antoine et de la barricade du faubourg du Temple dansLes Misérables(V, 1, 1). On peut soutenir que ces deux descriptions sont des mises en abyme: en effet, Victor Hugo semble les utiliser pour pointer les excès qui guettent respectivement le romantisme et le classicisme, tout en assumant sa volonté d’en finir avec l’esthétique classique. Il émerge de la sorte tout un dispositif allégorique, dont la description détaillée permet de mettre en évidence trois paramètres: (a) l’impact sémiotique du travail de stylisation, qui complexifie la langue ordinaire et permet d’accroître considérablement son potentiel investigateur; (b) la dimension holistique des textes stylisés, qui donnent à voir des synergies parfois très poussées entre des niveaux organisationnels et des constituants différents; (c) la présence d’interactions texte/lecteur impossibles à éliminer, qui rendent problématique toute tentative d’objectiver intégralement les faits de style et les agencements discursifs observables dans le texte hugolien.
Sweetened beverage intake and risk of latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Löfvenborg Josefin E , Andersson Tomas , Carlsson Per-Ola , Dorkhan Mozhgan , Groop Leif , Martinell Mats , Tuomi Tiinamaija , Wolk Alicja , Carlsson Sofia
Published: October 2016

Objective

Sweetened beverage intake is associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes, but its association with autoimmune diabetes is unclear. We aimed to investigate sweetened beverage intake and risk of latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA); autoimmune diabetes with features of type 2 diabetes.

Design/methods

Data from a Swedish population-based study was used, including incident cases of LADA (n = 357) and type 2 diabetes (n = 1136) and randomly selected controls (n = 1371). Diabetes classification was based on onset age (≥35), glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibodies (GADA) and C-peptide. Sweetened beverage intake information was derived from a validated food frequency questionnaire. ORs adjusted for age, sex, family history of diabetes, education, lifestyle, diet, energy intake and BMI were estimated using logistic regression.

Results

Daily intake of >2 servings of sweetened beverages (consumed by 6% of participants) was associated with increased risk of LADA (OR: 1.99, 95% CI: 1.11–3.56), and for each 200 mL daily serving, OR was 1.15 (95% CI: 1.02–1.29). Findings were similar for sugar-sweetened (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.00–1.39) and artificially sweetened beverages (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 0.95–1.32). Similarly, each daily serving increment in total sweetened beverage conferred 20% higher type 2 diabetes risk (95% CI: 1.07–1.34). In type 2 diabetes patients, high consumers displayed higher HOMA-IR levels (4.5 vs 3.5, P = 0.0002), but lower HOMA-B levels (55 vs 70, P = 0.0378) than non-consumers. Similar tendencies were seen in LADA.

Conclusions

High intake of sweetened beverages was associated with increased risk of LADA. The observed relationship resembled that with type 2 diabetes, suggesting common pathways possibly involving insulin resistance.
Atypical Leydig Cell Tumor in Children: Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Mameli Chiara , Selvaggio Giorgio , Cerini Chiara , Bulfamante Gaetano , Madia Cristina , Riccipetitoni Giovanna , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo
Published: October 2016

Leydig cell tumors (LCTs) are rare cord-stromal tumors that may occur in testis or ovaries and may produce androgens or estrogens. The majority has been found in men between the ages of 20 and 60 years. Adults with androgen-secreting LCTs are usually asymptomatic; feminizing syndromes may result from the production of estradiol or the peripheral aromatization of testosterone. In children, LCTs usually present between 5 and 10 years of age with isosexual precocious pseudopuberty or gynecomastia. We report 2 cases of LCT in prepubertal boys presenting with advanced unilateral pubarche and testicular volume asymmetry. Both subjects had normal penis size for age; no axillary hair or other signs of puberty were present. Height velocity was normal, and bone age was coincident with chronological age. Androgen levels were normal, as well as estrogen, corticotropin, and cortisol concentration. Testicular ultrasound demonstrated a testicular mass. Histology examination revealed a well-differentiated LCT. This is the first report of 2 pediatric patients with LCT presenting with advanced pubarche in absence of systemic hyperandrogenism. We hypothesize that the neoplastic cells may locally produce high levels of androgens or androgen-like bioactivity molecules that are responsible for the clinical manifestation. We suggest that a testicular ultrasound should be obtained in all children presenting with unilateral pubarche, with or without hyperandrogenism.
Perfil antropométrico e a relação da flexibilidade com a dor e desconforto em trabalhadores da indústria de Santa Cruz do Sul – RS
Authors: Nepomuceno Patrik , Braz Cassiane De Mendonça , Dummel Kely Lisandra , Wendt Diéssica , Campos Greis Daniela de , Couto Analie Nunes , Rocha Guilherme Görgen da , Reckziegel Miriam Beatrís , Pohl Hildegard Hedwig
Published: October 2016

Trabalhadores industriários estão expostos a diversas situações que podem agravar a sua saúde. A promoção da saúde no trabalho é de extrema importância e exige intervenção interdisciplinar. Objetivo: identificar o perfil antropométrico e a relação de flexibilidade com a presença de dor e desconforto em trabalhadores da indústria do município de Santa Cruz do Sul, RS. Método: Trata-se de um estudo transversal com trabalhadores industriários. Na avaliação antropométrica foram analisados índice de massa corporal e percentual de gordura, já para a flexibilidade foram realizados os testes do manguito rotador e sentar e alcançar. A dor e desconforto foi identificada através de uma figura do corpo humano onde eles referiam estes sintomas. Resultados: a maioria dos industriários apresentam excesso de peso (56,4%) e bom percentual de gordura (49,2%), porém possuem resultados inadequados de flexibilidade de ombro (71,0%) e parte posterior de tronco e pernas (64,6%) e presença de dor e desconforto em ombros (50%) e costas (26,6%). Ao relacionar a flexibilidade com a presença de dor e desconforto, percebe-se que as variáveis não se relacionam diretamente. Considerações finais: o perfil dos trabalhadores da indústria se caracteriza por excesso de peso, baixa aptidão na flexibilidade e presença de dor e desconforto. Sobre a dor e desconforto observa-se uma tendência de associação entre níveis de flexibilidade inadequada e a presença destes sintomas.
A hermeneutic of vulnerability: Redeeming Cain?
Authors: Snyman Gerrie
Published: October 2016

This article inquires about the appropriation of Cain within a critical South African whiteness. The main argument is that despite Cainâ€™s wrongdoing and punishment, he succeeded in living a fruitful life. The idea of the appropriation of Cain is based upon ideas expressed by Katharina von Kellenbach in her book, The Mark of Cain. The article looks at the story in terms of a hermeneutic of vulnerability. It starts with the notion of the decolonial turn and its delinking programme, followed by the exploring of the issue of vulnerability as illustrated by three recent incidents in South Africa as reported by some newspapers. It then proceeds to an analysis of Cainâ€™s story, starting with early Christian interpretations in terms of fratricide, typology and association with the Jews, followed by two brief references of liberationist readings of Cain before explaining Von Kellenbachâ€™s utilisation of the story. Finally, the article presents a reading of Cain that more or less provide some redemption for the character before drawing consequences for reading the story from the position of critical whiteness.
Inspiration from the Gospel for the fullness of life in the informal settlements in Mangaung,Free State Province, South Africa
Authors: Verster Pieter
Published: October 2016

Informal settlements are mushrooming in Mangaung. The essential questions are what the implications of the Christian Gospel in this situation facing inhabitants of informal settlements in Mangaung are, and how the Gospel can inspire people living in dire circumstances to strive for the fullness of life. The needs of people should be determined first. Listening to people living in informal settlements is essential. Settlements in Mangaung were approached and qualitative research was conducted. The Gospel gives an encompassing and holistic answer to peopleâ€™s needs. All aspects, from the basic need for daily bread to the expectation of a new future, are relevant. Evangelism and humble service should be part of those bringing the Gospel to people living in informal settlements. A relation with Christ is all-important in inspiring a person to experience the fullness of life. The total person should, however, be brought to Christ to experience a full relationship with Him. In order to inspire, the Gospel should be brought by emphasising the glory of Christ so that the person can indeed hear and experience it, and be redeemed of and by Christ.
The Living God and the Fullness of Life
Authors: Huggins Jonathan
Published: October 2016

The Living God and the Fullness of Life by Moltmann, JÃ¼rgen Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2015. Pp. v-229. ISBN 9780664261610
A state church? A consideration of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa in the light of Dietrich Bonhoefferâ€™s â€˜Theological position paper on state and churchâ€™
Authors: Forster Dion
Published: October 2016

This article considers whether South Africaâ€™s largest mainline Christian denomination, the Methodist Church of Southern Africa, is in danger of embodying or propagating a contemporary form of â€˜state theologyâ€™. The notion of state theology in the South African context gained prominence through the publication of the â€˜Kairos Documentâ€™ (1985) â€“ which celebrated its thirtieth anniversary in 2015. State theology is deemed inappropriate and harmful to the identity and work of both the Christian church and the nation state. This article presents its consideration of whether the Methodist Church of Southern Africa is in danger of propagating â€˜state theologyâ€™ in dialogue with Dietrich Bonhoefferâ€™s important document, Theological Position Paper on State and Church. The article offers some insights into the complex relationship between the state and the church in South Africa in the apartheid and democratic eras. It further problematizes the relationship between the Methodist Church of Southern Africa and the governing African National Congress by citing some concerning examples of complicit behaviour from recent history. The MCSAâ€™s polity and doctrine on church and state relationships are also considered before some critique and warning is offered in the light of Bonhoefferâ€™s Theological Position Paper on State and Church.
Preaching between affirmation and anticipation: contours of a paradoxical homiletic
Authors: Cilliers Johan
Published: October 2016

Taking the many paradoxes that the South African society is currently facing as point of departure, this article sets out by defining the notion of paradox, followed by the drawing of a few contours of a homiletic that endeavours to preach the promises of God within, and against, these paradoxes. Four movements are identified in this process, namely preaching as affirmation, provocation, migration, and anticipation. The article ends with a reflection on a well-known artwork by former South African president, Nelson Mandela.
Divine election and migration: The worst possible way to address the predicament of refugees?
Authors: Conradie Ernst M
Published: October 2016

Some nationalists may suggest that divine election is the best possible way to defend their rights against an influx of people from elsewhere. Others would argue that divine election is the worst possible way to address the plight of refugees. In this contribution the question mark in the title is defended by drawing on a) ecumenical discourse on migration, b) Heiko Obermanâ€™s notion of â€œthe reformation of the refugeesâ€ and c) by reflecting critically on teaching practices at UWC. It is argued that divine election can indeed offer consolation, especially to refugees, but only if the retrospective and doxological logic is recognised.
Towards an African ecogender theology: A decolonial theological perspective
Authors: Kaunda Chammah J
Published: October 2016

The struggles for environmental and gender justice have challenged how theology is done in Africa. This article framed within the context of continuous search for life-giving African Christianity, argues that a radical relational solidarity that existed between African humanity and environment in some Zambian traditional societies was grounded on ecogender principle. Thus, it seeks to probe deeper into contemporary challenge of African menâ€™s alienation from environment as a consequence of colonial quest to restructure African social order. Employing decolonial theological perspective, the article tried to reinterpret some life-giving elements from Bemba and Shila cultural heritage in order to re-conceptualize contemporary African Christian ecotheology. It is from this perspective where African ecogender theology is constructed towards transformation of African human and environment relationship.
The power of stories from within: The Dingleton Community relocation
Authors: Mouton Dawid P
Published: October 2016

In a context of change and transition a degree of uncertainty and anxiety can be expected, and perhaps even the need to reflect on the forces affecting change. Such reflection may happen through a narrative evaluation of peopleâ€™s lived realities as it relates to the forces affecting such changes. This process may create an opportunity to recall, review and re-author dominant narratives in order to deal with change. The article, drawing on the stories of some people affected by the relocation of the Dingleton community in the Northern Cape, highlights the fact that the power of narratives of ordinary people has the potential to influence their response to forces of change. This is not an attempt to present detailed stories or a technical discussion on the notion of power, but rather aims to highlight only those aspects of selected narratives that demonstrate the power peopleâ€™s own stories may have.
Polluted water, stinking water, frozen water, no water: A life threatening situation! Perspectives from Exodus 1-11 and 15-17
Authors: Van der Walt Steven
Published: October 2016

The article highlights the life threatening consequences Israel could have faced if they did not stay within the creational rhythm which YHWH planned for them. Natural phenomena, in which water played a significant role, contributed to these life threatening circumstances. Certain pericopes of two external narratives (Ex 1-14; Ex 15-18) form the backbone of this article. Natural phenomena (transformation of water) are being used to highlight the fact that YHWH alone is creator God: live according to His ordinances (rhythm) and be assure to be blessed; do not live accordingly, and be assure that the natural rhythm of nature could turn upside down with devastating consequences such as polluted water, stinking water, frozen water or, no water at all. It turns out that being without life-giving water is just as dangerous as being without YHWH, thus a life threatening situation.
Vreemdelinge en bijwoners: Opstellen rond een urgent theologisch thema
Authors: Meyer Esias E
Published: October 2016

Vreemdelinge en bijwoners: Opstellen rond een urgent theologisch thema by Den Hertog, GC & Peels, HGL (editors)
Apeldoorn: Theologische Universiteit Apeldoorn
ISBN: 9789075847376
Housing First and Social Integration: A Realistic Aim?
Authors: Quilgars Deborah , Pleace Nicholas
Published: October 2016

Housing First is now dominating discussions about how best to respond to homelessness among people with high and complex needs throughout the EU and in several countries within the OECD. Whilst recognised internationally as an effective model in addressing homelessness, little attention has been given as to whether Housing First also assists previously homeless people become more socially integrated into their communities. This paper reviews the available research evidence (utilising a Rapid Evidence Assessment methodology) on the extent to which Housing First services are effective in promoting social integration. Existing evidence suggests Housing First is delivering varying results in respect of social integration, despite some evidence suggesting normalising effects of settled housing on ontological security. The paper argues that a lack of clarity around the mechanisms by which Housing First is designed to deliver ‘social integration’, coupled with poor measurement, helps explain the inconsistent and sometimes limited results for Housing First services in this area. It concludes that there is a need to look critically at the extent to which Housing First can deliver social integration, moving the debate beyond the successes in housing sustainment and identifying what is needed to enhance people’s lives in the longer-term.
The 'Arc of Prosperity' Revisited: Homelessness Policy Change in North Western Europe
Authors: Anderson Isobel , Dyb Evelyn , Finnerty Joe
Published: October 2016

This paper compares continuity and change in homelessness policy in Ireland, Scotland and Norway with a particular focus on the period of post-crisis austerity measures (2008–2016). The analytical approach draws on institutional theory and the notion of path dependency, which has rarely been applied to comparative homelessness research. The paper compares welfare and housing systems in the three countries prior to presenting a detailed analysis of the conceptualisation and measurement of homelessness; the institutions which address homelessness; and the evidence of change in the post-2008 period. The analysis demonstrates that challenges remain in comparing the nature of homelessness and policy responses across nation states, even where they have a number of similar characteristics, and despite some EU influence towards homelessness policy convergence. Similarly, national-level homelessness policy change could not be interpreted as entirely a result of the external shock of the 2008 general financial crisis, as existing national policy goals and programmes were also influential. Overall, embedded national frameworks and institutions were resilient, but sufficiently flexible to deliver longer term policy shifts in response to the changing nature of the homelessness problem and national policy goals. Institutionalism and path dependency were found to be useful in developing the comparative analysis of homelessness policy change and could be fruitfully applied in future longitudinal, empirical research across a wider range of countries.
Das crioulas de Conceição: (inter) ações do Movimento Intercultural IDENTIDADES
Authors: Zaccara Madalena
Published: October 2016

Localizada no município de Salgueiro, Pernambuco, Conceição das Crioulas é uma comunidade quilombola com uma história oral que remete à chegada de seis negras livres à região onde estabeleceram as bases da comunidade. As mulheres direcionam a vida comunitária desde a sua fundação, passando pela resistência à expropriação da terra e à transmissão de sua cultura. Elas investem na educação como instrumento de resistência e conquista. É a partir dessa proposta, que a arte relacional ou contextual praticada pelo Movimento Intercultural IDENTIDADES, onde o artista é participante da história imediata, encontra seu espaço de ação na comunidade. O texto visa analisar esse processo de (inter) ação artística do movimento no universo das crioulas de Conceição.
Polay, dançar
Authors: Beaudet Jean-Michel
Published: October 2016

Como nós dançamos hoje nesta imensa região chamada de “a grande Amazônia”? Quais são as principais características dessas múltiplas tradições coreográficas? O que nós podemos aprender destas posturas e movimentos? Na tentativa de descrever um dos componentes formais destas danças, a ligação, vemos que ela é significativa pelo fato mesmo de sua variabilidade. A maneira de a realizar difere, contrasta de um grupo cultural para outro, mas também segundo os repertórios ou as sequências da performance. A ligação pode, então, significar ou produzir a união, a aliança ou a troca com os outros.
Le developpement de la pensee visuelle chez l’apprenant entendant dans un cours de LSF
Authors: Gebert Alain
Published: October 2016

En France, les dispositifs de la loi de 2005 reconnaissent la Langue des signes française (LSF) comme une langue à part entière et  statuent qu’elle « peut être choisie comme épreuve optionnelle aux examens et concours, y compris ceux de la formation professionnelle. ». Les programmes officiels d’enseignement de la LSF qui en sont issus visent non seulement les lycéens sourds, locuteurs de cette langue mais également les élèves entendants ayant des profils de grands débutants en LSF. De ce fait, la formation des enseignants de la LSF a été amenée à évoluer et à se renforcer, notamment dans le domaine des processus cognitifs. Il faut désormais proposer des séquences d’enseignement selon un plan pédagogique adapté à un public de débutants.Dans cette perspective, notre mémoire tutoré étudie  le développement de la pensée visuelle chez l’apprenant entendant habitué à utiliser des langues vocales.   L’acquisition par ce dernier d’une organisation visuelle de la pensée est un pré requis indispensable pour l’apprentissage de la LSF, langue quadridimensionne.MOTS-CLÉS : Apprentissage - LSF. Pensée visuelle. Débutants. Gestualité.. Structures de transferts.
PROCEDIMENTO GO-NO GO COM ESTÍMULOS COMPOSTOS COM ESQUEMA DE INTERVALO VARIÁVEL
Authors: Boldrin Leandro Da Silva , Esteves Bruno Gusmão , Debert Paula
Published: October 2016

Até o momento, todos os experimentos conduzidos com o procedimento go/no-go com estímulos compostos com humanos utilizaram esquemas de reforçamento conjuntivo FR1 e VT 2,5, sendo desconhecidos os efeitos de outros esquemas de reforçamento neste tipo de procedimento. O objetivo deste estudo consistiu em verificar os efeitos de um esquema de reforçamento de intervalo variável (VI) na produção de relações condicionais por meio do procedimento go/no-go com estímulos compostos com humanos. Quatro participantes foram submetidos a uma tarefa no computador, dividida em três fases. Na Fase 1, foram treinadas as relações AB e BC. Respostas emitidas diante dos estímulos compostos A1B1, A2B2, B1C1 e B2C2 eram seguidas de pontos em um esquema de reforçamento VI de 2,5 s. Respostas emitidas na presença dos estímulos compostos A1B2, A2B1, B1C2 e B2C1 não eram seguidas de consequências (i.e., extinção). Após obtenção de desempenhos acurados no treino, a emergência das relações de simetria (BA e CB) foram testadas na Fase 2 e a emergência das relações de transitividade (AC) e equivalência (CA) foram testadas na Fase 3. Todos os quatro participantes demonstraram as relações de simetria e três demonstraram as relações de transitividade e equivalência. Os resultados indicam que é possível produzir relações condicionais emergentes com o esquema VI no procedimento go/no-go com estímulos compostos em humanos, sendo este esquema de reforçamento uma possível alternativa ao esquema conjuntivo até então adotado como padrão neste tipo de procedimento. Palavras-Chave: equivalência de estímulos, procedimento go/no-go, esquemas de reforçamento, humanos
Leveraging Brand Loyalty in Service Branding: The Role of Satisfaction
Authors: Sotheara Heang , Jing Dr. Zhang , Yat Yen
Published: October 2016

The paper is aimed to explore the impact of perceived quality, customer-brand relationship and derived-positive experience on brand loyalty from consumer banking perspectives. It extends to investigate the mediating effect of customer satisfaction on brand loyalty in service branding. The study provides further insight into the mediating role of customer satisfaction toward brand loyalty giving important theoretical contributions and managerial implications in the marketing domain. The finding confirms significant contributions to perceived quality, customer-brand relationship and derived-positive experience which add extra values to service brand loyalty. The result extends to the mediating role of customer satisfaction confirming partial and full mediation effect that facilitates the value in determining the degree of brand loyalty. The finding suggests practical implication for marketing practitioners to realize every single effort that communicates the values to the customers and only applies the most relevant branding strategies that fit service domains the most.
Effect of dietary intake of acid ensiled fish waste on the growth, feed utilization, hematology and serum biochemistry of rohu Labeo rohita,(Hamilton, 1822) fingerlings
Authors: Tanuja S. , Kumar Anil , Nayak S.K.
Published: October 2016

Acid ensilage was prepared from the gut and gills of freshwater carps. Isonitrogenous diets containing 0%, 2.5%, 5% and 10% acid ensilage was fed to rohu (Labeo rohita) fingerlings to study the effect on the growth performance, feed utilization, blood biochemistry and hematology of the fingerlings. The results of the study for 60 days indicated no significant difference (p>0.05) in the weight gain, specific growth rate (SGR), percentage survival and feed conversion ratio (FCR) in L. rohita fingerlings by the dietary intake of acid ensilage. The apparent digestibility coefficient (ADC) of dry matter and protein was significantly higher (p is less than 0.05) for feed with 10% silage. Dietary intake of acid ensilage resulted in significantly higher (p less thank 0.05) fat and protein in the tissues of the fingerlings. In blood hematology, total leucocyte count in the blood of fishes fed acid fish ensilage was found to be significantly higher (p is less than 0.05). Significant increase (p is less 0.05) in total serum protein was observed in 2.5% silage and 5% silage fed fishes. The serum glucose, triglyceride and total cholesterol was not altered significantly by the intake of acid ensilage. The inclusion of fish silage at 5% level resulted in a 14.31% reduction in feed cost/kg weight gain in rohu fingerlings.
Electrocardiographic interpretation of the nasopharyngealresponse in conscious rabbits
Authors: Ahmed Jafrin  Ara , Kour Juneet , Nashiruddullah Nawab , Chakraborty Dibyendu
Published: October 2016

The present study was conducted to recognize by part, the cardiovascular events of the nasopharyngeal reflex, through electrocardiographic interpretations. ECG patterns were traced in twelve clinically normal and healthy New Zealand White rabbits of both sexes, weighing between 2-3 kg and aged between 1-3 years with inhalant irritants. Immediately after induction of formaldehyde vapour, the heart rate fell by 69% from a mean of 192 ± 7.310 bpm to 60 ± 1.296 bpm, whereas exposure with cigarette smoke caused a fall in heart rate by 74% from a mean of 205 ± 9.605 bpm to 53 ± 3.065 bpm. With both irritants, P wave becomes smaller and totally disappeared, indicating an increased vagal activity inducing a sinoatrial node arrest. The amplitude of QRS complex also significantly decreased; and so did the duration of P wave and PR interval, presumably due to junctional escape. T wave duration decreased with slow ventricular repolarization. Bradycardia was also evident with increased QT interval. However, there was no change in QRS complex or ventricular depolarization, mediated perhaps via compensatory sympathetic influence on the ventricular myocardium. The study demonstrates that both formaldehyde and cigarette smoke provoked a similar protective response of rabbits against noxious fumes.
Phenotypic characterization of native chicken populations reared underfamily-based free-range scavenging system in Odisha, India
Authors: Singh M. K. , Nayak G. D. , Sardar K. K.
Published: October 2016

The genetic architecture of 10 rural poultry populations in two distant tribal districts of Mayurbhanj and Kalahandi of Odisha state in India were studied for 15 quantitative and 11 qualitative characteristics through a field survey. Analysis of dispersion was conducted to test the simultaneous significance of mean differences in above characteristics and was found to be highly significant (p is less than 0.01). Cluster-I (Khairi and Kabri), cluster-II (Hansli, Gujuri, Dumasil, Dhabla, Kalua and Khadia), cluster-III (Jhinjiria), and cluster-IV included Chitri populations. The maximum D2 value was found between Hansli and Kabri (513.825) followed by Gujuri and Kabri (410.312) while minimum D2 value was observed between Khairi and Kabri (1.50). The average inter cluster distance was high between cluster-I and cluster-II (17.218) and also between cluster-II and IV (17.207). The genetic variation can be confirmed using biochemical and DNA markers which will help to obtain phenotypically pure local fowl genetic resources for future selection and breeding.
Growth-related changes of phosphorus metabolites in VX-2 carcinoma implanted into rabbit thigh muscle: in vivo 31P MR spectroscopy
Authors: Kim Hyeong-Kil , Jeong Gwang Woo , Kim Tae-Hoon , Kim Gwang-Won , Kim Jong-Bong
Published: October 2016

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of in vivo 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) for monitoring changes in growth-related phosphate metabolite concentration and intracellular pH value in rabbit thigh muscle implanted with VX-2 carcinoma. The time-course magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and in vivo 31P MRS were examined weekly in the course of 10 weeks following the onset of a VX-2 carcinoma implantation. The spectra were quantitatively analyzed to obtain vital information on the time course variation of the phosphorus metabolites and intracellular pH value according to the tumor growth. Elevation in the concentrations of phosphormonoesters (PME), inorganic phosphate (Pi), and phosphodiesters (PDE) was observed over the time course of 3-4 weeks after the implantation of VX2 carcinoma, while the rest of the metabolites, PCr and ATP tended to be constant. The concentration changes of PME, Pi, and PDE were positively correlated with the volumes of tumor necrosis. The intracellular pH values decreased with the time course of tumor growth and the volumes of tumor necrosis. In vivo 31P MRS is capable of non-invasive monitoring of intracellular pH values as well as the concentration changes of phosphate metabolites during tumor growth.
Effect of feeding water washed neem (Azadirachta indica) seed cake and salt sprinkled neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves on growth performanceand nutrient digestibility in Osmanabadi kids
Authors: Korake R. L. , Shinde A. T. , Thombre B. M.
Published: October 2016

Twenty four Osmanabadi weaned male kids with average live weight of 10.80 kg were divided into four equal groups and fed with WWNSC and salt sprinkled neem leaves for 182 days to study the effect on growth performance and nutrient digestibility. The daily gain in body weight was significantly (Pis less than 0.05) higher in kids fed with salt sprinkled neem leaves individually than kids fed with WWNSC individually and in combination with salt sprinkled neem leaves. The DM, DCP and TDN intake in terms of per cent live body weight was significantly (Pis less than 0.05) higher in kids fed with salt sprinkled neem leaves individually than kids fed with WWNSC individually. Moreover, digestibility (%) of DM, CF and NFE was significantly (P is less than 0.05) higher in kids fed with salt sprinkled neem leaves individually over kids fed with WWNSC individually except CP which was comparable in all treatments groups.
Effect of dicarboxymethyl trisodium alginate on the expression of BMP-7 protein in bone tissues of rats with traumatic femoral neck fracture
Authors: Qin Zhao , Guan LiPing
Published: October 2016

Bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7) is a pivotal skeletal growth factor. Sodium alginate (SA) is a natural polysaccharide polymer extracted from brown alga. Partial uronic acid units of sodium alginate can be transformed into aldehyde groups, namely dicarboxymethyl trisodium alginate (DCMTSA). In this investigation, rats with traumatic femoral neck fractures were selected. The rats treated with dicarboxymethyl trisodium alginate intervention were assigned to the experimental group, those treated with sodium alginate intervention were in the control group, and those receiving no medical intervention were in the placebo group. The expression of BMP-7 at both the protein and mRNA levels in the rat fracture tissues in all three groups was quantitatively detected by immunohistochemicals SP and RT-PCR. Results revealed that both dicarboxymethyl trisodium alginate and sodium alginate induced the up-regulation of BMP-7 expression. However, the effect of dicarboxymethyl trisodium alginate was superior to that of sodium alginate. Therefore, dicarboxymethyl trisodium alginate can be used to promote the release of BMP-7 from bone cells and contribute to the bone union in traumatic femoral neck fracture in rat models.
Determining heat stress effect in Holstein dairy cattle using daily milkyield and meteorological data obtained from public weatherstation in Sanliurfa Province of Turkey
Authors: Yazgan Kemal
Published: October 2016

The objective of this study was to detect the relationship between weather information, obtained from nearest public weather station, and milk productions of Holstein cows breeding in Sanliurfa province of Turkey. Data used in this study comprised 711,968 first-five parity individual daily milk and live weight records of 939 Holstein cows. Results from this study indicated that using combination of minimum ambient temperature and relative humidity values one day earlier from daily milk yield in temperature – humidity index (THI) formula can be good alternative for determining heat stress in Holstein dairy cows under climatological conditions in Sanliurfa province of Turkey. As a result, this study confirmed that for quantifying heat stress in dairy cows valuable information can obtained from public weather stations.
Case studies on dairy-based innovators contributing at grassrootsvis-à-vis ascertainment of their intelligence level
Authors: Datt Ram , Jha Sujeet K. , Tak Ata-Ul-Munim , Jadoun Y.S.
Published: October 2016

The study was conducted to have knowledge about intelligence level vis-à-vis dairy-based innovations development process at grassroots level. For this particular study, the ‘case study’ method was adopted. Further, in order to measure the intelligence level of innovators, the Revised Bhatia’s Short Battery of Performance Tests of Intelligence for Adults” was used. In all, a total of nine innovators, especially those who had developed dairy-based innovations at grassroot, across different parts of India were selected, purposively, for this study. The results of this study revealed that majority of respondents had average level of intelligence. Thereby indicating that development of innovations may be undertaken by people possessing an average level of I.Q.
Activity of different serum enzymes and hormone profilein foot and mouth disease affected cattle
Authors: Barkakati J. , Sarma S. , Kalita D.J. , Goswami J. , Sharma K.
Published: October 2016

Present study was undertaken to elucidate the effect of Foot and Mouth Disease on the activity of different serum enzymes and hormone profile in indigenous cattle of Assam. The serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and alanine transaminase (ALT) activity did not show significant difference among the affected, recovered and control group. However, significant (P is less than 0.01) increase of aspartate transaminase (AST) activity was recorded in the affected group as compared to control. The level of T3 showed a significant (Pis less than 0.05) increase during FMD infection. T4 and cortisol hormones were also found to be increased significantly (Pis less than 0.01) in FMD affected than recovered and control group. From the present study, it can be concluded that during FMD, there is a significant increase of AST , T3, T4 and cortisol. However, no significant change was recorded in the activity of ALT and ALP during FMD infection and recovered group..
Influence of early weaning on the behavioural patterns and growth performance in large white Yorkshire (LWY) piglets
Authors: Sravanthi V. , Babu D. Suresh , Anitha A. , Latha P. Asha
Published: October 2016

The behavioural pattern and growth performance of three groups of LWY piglets weaned at different ages was studied for six months. The first, second and third groups were weaned at 25, 40 and 56 days, respectively. The playing and huddling behavior was more in group 1 piglets. While fighting, standing, locomotion and tail biting behavior was more in group 2 piglets. Whereas the lying behavior was more in group 3 piglets. There was a significant difference (P is less than 0.01) among the three groups of piglets for all behavioral patterns. The post weaning weight (kg) gains reached 56.63 ± 0.41, 65.03 ± 0.36 and 63.09 ± 0.38 Kg for group 1, group 2 and group 3 respectively, at the end of study period. A significant difference (P is less than 0.01) was observed among the three groups for all the fortnightly interval body weights. The mean average daily gain for group 1, 2 and 3 was 0.33, 0.38 and 0.36 respectively. Significant difference (P is less than 0.01) had been observed between the groups for average daily gain. The present study had suggested that early weaning at 40days age was more advantageous than 25 days age and conventional 56days weaning age.
Associations of Neighborhood Safety and Neighborhood Support with Overweight and Obesity in US Children and Adolescents
Authors: Borrell Luisa N. , Graham Lisa , Joseph Sharon P.
Published: October 2016

Objectives: To examine the association of neighborhood safety and support with overweight and obesity and whether these associations vary with age, sex, and race/ ethnicity among children and adolescents.

Design: Cross-sectional.

Setting: United States.

Main Outcome Measure: Childhood over­weight and obesity.

Methods: We used data from the 2011-12 National Survey of Children’s Health, a rep­resentative sample of US children and ado­lescents, for the analyses (N=40,730). Using the age-sex adjusted growth chart, parent self-reported weight and height data were used to classify participants as overweight (those with body mass index [BMI] percen­tile [%] at or above the 85th%) and obese (those with BMI% at or above the 95th%). We used log-binomial regression to quantify the association of neighborhood safety and support with overweight and obesity among children and adolescents before and after adjusting for selected characteristics includ­ing physical activity and amount of time spent in sedentary activities.

Results: Children and adolescents living in non-supportive neighborhoods had a 21% (95%CI: 1.10-1.33) higher probability of being obese than their peers living in supportive neighborhoods after controlling for age, sex, race/ethnicity, parent’s education, poverty, asthma, physical activity and sedentary ac­tivities. Similarly, the probabilities of obesity associated with neighborhood safety and sup­port were 1.30 (95%CI:1.08-156) and 1.18 (95%CI:1.01-1.38), respectively. However, these probabilities vary with race/ethnicity with higher probability being observed among non-Hispanic Whites and Hispanics for over­weight and non-Hispanic Whites for obesity.

Conclusions: Living in unsafe and non-sup­portive neighborhoods may be associated with overweight and obesity among US chil­dren and adolescents. Longitudinal studies, accounting for race/ethnicity, are needed to examine the importance of social context where children and adolescents live.

Ethn Dis.2016;26(4):469-476; doi:10.18865/ ed.26.4.469
Association between Race, Poverty Status and Grip Strength in Middle to Old Age Adults.
Authors: Thorpe, Jr. Roland J. , Simonsick Eleanor , Zonderman Alan , Evans Michelle K.
Published: October 2016

Background: Poor grip strength is an indica­tor of frailty and a precursor to functional limitations. Although poor grip strength is more prevalent in older disabled African American women, little is known about the association between race and poverty-relat­ed disparities and grip strength in middle-aged men and women.

Methods: We examined the cross-sectional relationship between race, socioeconomic status as assessed by household income, and hand grip strength in men and women in the Healthy Aging in Neighborhoods of Diversity across the Life Span study. Gen­eral linear models examined grip strength (maximum of two trials on both sides) by race and household income adjusted for age, weight, height, hand pain, education, insurance status, family income, and two or more chronic conditions.

Results: Of 2,091 adults, 422(45.4%) were male, 509(54.8%) were African American, and 320 (34.5%) were living in households with incomes below 125% of the federal poverty level (low SES). In adjusted models, African American women had greater grip strength than White women independent of SES (low income household: 29.3 vs 26.9 kg and high income household: 30.5 vs. 28.3kg; P<.05 for both); whereas in men, only African Americans in the high income household group had better grip strength than Whites (46.3 vs. 43.2; P<.05).

Conclusions: The relationship between grip strength, race and SES as assessed by house­hold income varied in this cohort. Efforts to develop grip strength norms and cut points that indicate frailty and sarcopenia may need to be race- and income-specific.

Ethn Dis. 2016;26(4):493-500; doi:10.18865/ ed.26.4.493
Epithelial Cells Secrete Interferon‐γ Which Suppresses Expression of Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor Kappa‐B Ligand in Human Mandibular Osteoblast‐Like Cells
Authors: Khonsuphap Pakchisa , Pavasant Prasit , Irwandi Rizky Aditya , Leethanakul Chidchanok , Vacharaksa Anjalee
Published: October 2016

Background: Prostaglandin (PG)E2 accumulates in inflamed periodontal tissue and induces receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa‐B ligand (RANKL)‐RANK‐osteoprotegerin (OPG) signaling associated with bone resorption. Although oral epithelial cells maintain tissue homeostasis, the role of these cells in RANKL regulation remains unknown.

Methods: To mimic an inflamed condition, RANKL upregulation in human mandibular osteoblast‐like cells (HMOBs) were stimulated with PGE2. Effect of recombinant human interferon (IFN)‐γ or epithelial‐derived IFN‐γ in constitutively released or Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (PgLPS)‐stimulated epithelial supernatant was investigated in HMOBs. Some HMOBs were pretreated with an anti‐IFN‐γ antibody before PGE2 stimulation. THP‐1 human monocytes and HMOBs were cocultured in a transwell system to investigate RANKL‐driven THP‐1 osteoclastic activity.

Results: PGE2 significantly increased RANKL messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein in HMOBs in a dose‐dependent manner, while OPG protein remained similar to baseline. Epithelial cells constitutively released IFN‐γ, which was substantially increased by PgLPS. HMOBs treated with epithelial supernatant or recombinant IFN‐γ, concurrently with PGE2 stimulation, reduced RANKL, but not OPG, expression. In contrast, anti‐IFN‐γ antibody reversed the effect of epithelial mediators on RANKL expression. When cocultured with THP‐1, RANKL released by PGE2‐stimulated HMOBs is adequate to drive THP‐1 differentiation as osteoclastogenic gene expression and bone resorption pit are increased. However, recombinant IFN‐γ, or IFN‐γ derived from oral epithelial cells, suppressed RANKL expression at both the mRNA and protein level, resulting in decreased THP‐1‐derived osteoclastic activity.

Conclusion: Oral epithelial cells interact with HMOBs by releasing IFN‐γ to regulate RANKL expression and contribute to osteoclastogenesis.