bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Antecedents of Corporate Social Responsibility for Extractive Industries in the Governance Systems in Africa
Authors: Marfo Emmanuel Opoku , Chen Li Zhen , Hu Xu Hua , Ghansah Benjamin
Published: June 2016

The extractive industry gets huge international consideration because of the way they discharge their ecological and social obligations. Despite the fact that mining sector ventures have numerous points of interest, wrong mining operations have prompted emotional environment and resources exhaustion. To accomplish a parity of such operations, sustainable programs are an absolute necessity and ought to be trailed by the business. Of the different feasible practices, CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) has picked up conspicuousness as of late. The developed nations, CSR is at a propelled level, yet in emerging economies particularly in Africa, CSR is in a preparatory stage, because of both known and obscure reasons. This study researches drivers for CSR usage in the mining business in Ghana, a developing country in Africa. A few studies concentrated on CSR issues however were constrained to industrial points of view without considering multi-partners. This paper endeavors to bridge the gap by dissecting CSR drivers from the viewpoints of numerous stakeholders, including media, government and social organizations. The researchers propose a model system, showed with a contextual investigation from a Ghana Investments Promotion Center (GIPC). In light of these findings, businesses can build their chances of honing quality CSR in modern business behaviors. This research augments the extent of this issue through changing multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) apparatuses and distinctive situations, for example, dim, fluffy, and different methodologies. The extra drivers can likewise be accepted with statistical interpretations.
Shape Optimization of Elliptical and Vaulted Reinforced Concrete Domes
Authors: Touzout Mohamed Amine , Chebili Rachid
Published: June 2016

Optimum design in civil structures like domes and vaults is a very old and ongoing research field. These structures are preferably designed to transport loads via membrane action. In this paper, we have considered a reinforced concrete dome and vault, where the bending moment and strain energy were used as objective function to be minimized using genetic algorithm, and model reduction method by proper orthogonal decomposition based on the results of finite element analysis of gradually changed design parameters. The proposed approach results are of a high accuracy compared to finite element based optimization.
Optimization of Multi-Responses in Hot Turning of Inconel 625 Alloy Using DEA-Taguchi Approach
Authors: Parida A.K. , Maity K.P.
Published: June 2016

In the present work DEA (data envelopment analysis) coupled with Taguchi method has used for optimization in process parameters of hot turning operation. An experimental investigation has been carried out to study the effect of cutting parameters such as speed, feed and depth of cut during. The material removal rate and surface finish, are to be studied with respect to machining at 450 temperature by heating Inconel 625. In order to achieve both quality and productivity, optimization of both is necessary simultaneously. DEA –Taguchi method can employed for solving in multi-response problem. LINGO software was used to find out the relative efficiency and converted to S/N ratio using MINITAB software. The optimization of the machining parameter found at 100 m/min cutting speed, 0.15 mm/rev feed rate and 1 mm depth of cut. Depth of cut is the most influencing parameter which affect both surface finish and material removal rate in the machining process.
Optimal Transmission Switching Problem Utilizing an Enhanced Multi-Phase Seeker Optimization Algorithm
Authors: El-Sehiemy Ragab A. , Shafiq Mohammed Badeaa , Azmy Ahmed M.
Published: June 2016

This paper proposes a procedure based on a multi-phase seeker optimization algorithm (MSOA) for optimizing the commitment of transmission system. The under consideration problem is formulated with the aid of AC-based security constrained optimal power flow (SC-OPF) considering system constraints. The target is to detect transmission lines commitment schedule that reduces system production costs and enables sufficient reserve levels from both generation and transmission. The methodology is illustrated through several computational tests on IEEE 57 and IEEE 118 bus test systems to confirm the previous objectives. It is proven that numerical results based on the use the AC model demonstrate that the calculation time is short enough and the cost savings are reasonably better than DC power flow model. In addition, all transmission lines are preserved within their permissible boundaries and the voltage deviation is maintained at the least levels.
Tissue Oxygenation Monitoring as a Guide for Trauma Resuscitation
Authors: Mitchell Cathy
Published: June 2016

Hypoperfusion is the most common event preceding the onset of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome during trauma resuscitation. Detecting subtle changes in perfusion is crucial to ensure adequate tissue oxygenation and perfusion. Traditional methods of detecting physiological changes include measurements of blood pressure, heart rate, urine output, serum levels of lactate, mixed venous oxygen saturation, and central venous oxygen saturation. Continuous noninvasive monitoring of tissue oxygen saturation in muscle has the potential to indicate severity of shock, detect occult hypoperfusion, guide resuscitation, and be predictive of the need for interventions to prevent multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. Tissue oxygen saturation is being used in emergency departments, trauma rooms, operating rooms, and emergency medical services. Tissue oxygen saturation technology is just as effective as mixed venous oxygen saturation, central venous oxygen saturation, serum lactate, and Stewart approach with strong ion gap, yet tissue oxygen saturation assessment is also a direct, noninvasive microcirculatory measurement of oxygen saturation.
Parent Advocacy Group for Events of Resuscitation
Authors: Pasek Tracy Ann , Licata Jodi
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

The presence of patients’ families during resuscitation has been an important practice issue. An American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) practice alert “Family Presence During Resuscitation and Invasive Procedures” supports family members of patients undergoing resuscitation being given the option of bedside presence. Parent Advocacy Group for Events of Resuscitation (PAGER) is an interdisciplinary collaborative in the pediatric intensive care unit.

OBJECTIVES

To ensure that patients’ families are provided the option of being with their child during cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

METHODS

Resuscitation data were collected for 12 months by using the AACN practice alert audit tool. The Family Nurse Caring Belief Scale was administered to 150 pediatric intensive care unit nurses. PAGER nurses received crisis education.

RESULTS

Pediatric intensive care unit nurses were supportive of providing the option of family presence during resuscitation. Family Nurse Caring Belief Scale data revealed areas for improvement in family caring practices. PAGER was implemented with positive outcomes for 2 families.

CONCLUSIONS

PAGER has improved the care of families whose children experience cardiopulmonary resuscitation and should be implemented in pediatric critical care units. PAGER nurses are prepared to serve as role models in providing family-sensitive care during crisis.
The use of οἰκονομία for missions in Ephesians
Authors: Van Aarde Timothy A.
Published: June 2016

The concern which prompted the letter and the author�s digression in Ephesians 3:2�12 represents a lacuna in Ephesians scholarship. Its function within the wider discourse remains uncertain. The term οἰκονομία is prominent in the discourse and has been interpreted as an administrative office or activity in the Pauline corpus. This article shows that the term has a missional nuance in Ephesians. It is used for the role of Christ in the execution of the plan of God (Eph 1:10) and the role of Paul in the implementation of the plan (Eph 3:2). The author of Ephesians acknowledges the role Paul played in the mission�s movement of the gospel itself, �I Paul the prisoner of Jesus Christ� (Eph 3:1, 7). He is identified as the person to whom �the stewardship of the grace of God has been given� (Eph 3:2). The οἰκονομία of the gospel is committed by Paul to the church, marking a new phase in the development of the mission of the church.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The article suggests that in Ephesians 3:10, which is a crux interpretum, that the missional nuance of the term οἰκονομία indicates in Ephesians 3:10 the role of the Church in the execution of the plan of God and the missio Dei is implied.Keywords: oikonomia; missions; Ephesians
Integrating Neglected Tropical Disease and Immunization Programs: The Experiences of the Tanzanian Ministry of Health
Authors: Mwingira Upendo John , Means Arianna Rubin , Chikawe Maria , Kilembe Bernard , Lyimo Dafrossa , Crowley Kathryn , Rusibamayila Neema , Nshala Andreas , Mphuru Alex
Published: June 2016

Global health practitioners are increasingly advocating for the integration of community-based health-care platforms as a strategy for increasing the coverage of programs, encouraging program efficiency, and promoting universal health-care goals. To leverage the strengths of compatible programs and avoid geographic and temporal duplications in efforts, the Tanzanian Ministry of Health and Social Welfare coordinated immunization and neglected tropical disease programs for the first time in 2014. Specifically, a measles and rubella supplementary vaccine campaign, mass drug administration (MDA) of ivermectin and albendazole, and Vitamin A were provisionally integrated into a shared community-based delivery platform. Over 21 million people were targeted by the integrated campaign, with the immunization program and MDA program reaching 97% and 93% of targeted individuals, respectively. The purpose of this short report is to share the Tanzanian experience of launching and managing this integrated campaign with key stakeholders.
Evaluation: A Qualitative Pilot Study of Novel Information Technology Infrastructure to Communicate Genetic Variant Updates
Authors: Klinkenberg-Ramirez Stephanie , Volk Lynn , Samaha Sara , Newmark Lisa , Pollard Stephanie , Varugheese Matthew , Baxter Samantha , Aronson Samuel , Rehm Heidi , Bates David , Neri Pamela
Published: June 2016

Partners HealthCare Personalized Medicine developed GeneInsight Clinic (GIC), a tool designed to communicate updated variant information from laboratory geneticists to treating clinicians through automated alerts, categorized by level of variant interpretation change.

The study aimed to evaluate feedback from the initial users of the GIC, including the advantages and challenges to receiving this variant information and using this technology at the point of care.

Healthcare professionals from two clinics that ordered genetic testing for cardiomyopathy and related disorders were invited to participate in one-hour semi-structured interviews and/ or a one-hour focus group. Using a Grounded Theory approach, transcript concepts were coded and organized into themes.

Two genetic counselors and two physicians from two treatment clinics participated in individual interviews. Focus group participants included one genetic counselor and four physicians.

Analysis resulted in 8 major themes related to structuring and communicating variant knowledge, GIC’s impact on the clinic, and suggestions for improvements. The interview analysis identified longitudinal patient care, family data, and growth in genetic testing content as potential challenges to optimization of the GIC infrastructure.

Participants agreed that GIC implementation increased efficiency and effectiveness of the clinic through increased access to genetic variant information at the point of care.

Development of information technology (IT) infrastructure to aid in the organization and management of genetic variant knowledge will be critical as the genetic field moves towards whole exome and whole genome sequencing. Findings from this study could be applied to future development of IT support for genetic variant knowledge management that would serve to improve clinicians’ ability to manage and care for patients.

Citation: Klinkenberg-Ramirez S, Neri PM, Volk LA, Samaha SJ, Newmark LP, Pollard S, Varugheese M, Baxter S, Aronson SJ, Rehm HL, Bates DW. Evaluation: A qualitative pilot study of novel information technology infrastructure to communicate genetic variant updates.
Finance and Development March 2016
Authors:   International Monetary Fund. Communications Department
Published: June 2016

This article profiles economist David Card, whose work on minimum wages, immigration, and education challenged conventional wisdom. Card rose to prominence in 1995 when he won the coveted John Bates Clark Medal, then awarded every two years by the American Economic Association to the leading economist under the age of 40 who is working in the United States. It is considered the top award in economics barring the Nobel Prize. Through empirical research into a series of “natural experiments”—real-life situations underpinned by robust data—Card challenged conventional economic thinking in several important areas. He found that, unlike in classical models, raising the minimum wage does not necessarily increase unemployment, and even has the potential to reduce it. More than 15 years of research led to a landmark 1993 paper and subsequent book—coauthored with Princeton professor Alan B. Krueger—that analyzed the impact of the minimum wage on the New Jersey fast-food industry.
Estimation of variance components of milk, fat, and protein yields of Tunisian Holstein dairy cattle using Bayesian and REML methods
Authors: Ben Zaabza Hafedh , Ben Gara Abderrahmen , Hammami Hedi , Amine Ferchichi Mohamed , Rekik Boulbaba
Published: June 2016

Abstract. A multi-trait repeatability animal model under restricted maximum likelihood (REML) and Bayesian methods was used to estimate genetic parameters of milk, fat, and protein yields in Tunisian Holstein cows. The estimates of heritability for milk, fat, and protein yields from the REML procedure were 0.21 ± 0.05, 0.159 ± 0.04, and 0.158 ± 0.04, respectively. The corresponding results from the Bayesian procedure were 0.273 ± 0.02, 0.198 ± 0.01, and 0.187 ± 0.01. Heritability estimates tended to be larger via the Bayesian than those obtained by the REML method. Genetic and permanent environmental variances estimated by REML were smaller than those obtained by the Bayesian analysis. Inversely, REML estimates of the residual variances were larger than Bayesian estimates. Genetic and permanent correlation estimates were on the other hand comparable by both REML and Bayesian methods with permanent environmental being larger than genetic correlations. Results from this study confirm previous reports on genetic parameters for milk traits in Tunisian Holsteins and suggest that a multi-trait approach can be an alternative for implementing a routine genetic evaluation of the Tunisian dairy cattle population.
High spatial resolution imaging of methane and other trace gases with the airborne Hyperspectral Thermal Emission Spectrometer (HyTES)
Authors: Hulley Glynn C. , Duren Riley M. , Hopkins Francesca M. , Hook Simon J. , Vance Nick , Guillevic Pierre , Johnson William R. , Eng Bjorn T. , Mihaly Jonathan M. , Jovanovic Veljko M. , Chazanoff Seth L. , Staniszewski Zak K. , Kuai Le , Worden John , Frankenberg Christian , Rivera Gerardo , Aubrey Andrew D. , Miller Charles E. , Malakar Nabin K. , Sánchez Tomás Juan M. , Holmes Kendall T.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Currently large uncertainties exist associated with the attribution and quantification of fugitive emissions of criteria pollutants and greenhouse gases such as methane across large regions and key economic sectors. In this study, data from the airborne Hyperspectral Thermal Emission Spectrometer (HyTES) have been used to develop robust and reliable techniques for the detection and wide-area mapping of emission plumes of methane and other atmospheric trace gas species over challenging and diverse environmental conditions with high spatial resolution that permits direct attribution to sources. HyTES is a pushbroom imaging spectrometer with high spectral resolution (256 bands from 7.5 to 12 µm), wide swath (1–2 km), and high spatial resolution (∼ 2 m at 1 km altitude) that incorporates new thermal infrared (TIR) remote sensing technologies. In this study we introduce a hybrid clutter matched filter (CMF) and plume dilation algorithm applied to HyTES observations to efficiently detect and characterize the spatial structures of individual plumes of CH4, H2S, NH3, NO2, and SO2 emitters. The sensitivity and field of regard of HyTES allows rapid and frequent airborne surveys of large areas including facilities not readily accessible from the surface. The HyTES CMF algorithm produces plume intensity images of methane and other gases from strong emission sources. The combination of high spatial resolution and multi-species imaging capability provides source attribution in complex environments. The CMF-based detection of strong emission sources over large areas is a fast and powerful tool needed to focus on more computationally intensive retrieval algorithms to quantify emissions with error estimates, and is useful for expediting mitigation efforts and addressing critical science questions.
Under a new light: validation of eddy covariance flux with light response functions of assimilation and estimates of heterotrophic soil respiration
Authors: Koerber Georgia  R. , Meyer Wayne  S. , SUN Qiaoqi , Cale Peter , Ewenz Cacilia M.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Estimation of the basal or heterotrophic soil respiration is crucial for determination of whether an ecosystem is emitting or sequestering carbon. A severe bushfire in January 2014 at the Calperum flux tower, operational since August 2010, provided variation in ecosystem respiration and leaf area index as the ecosystem recovered. We propose ecosystem respiration is a function of leaf area index and the y-intercept is an estimate of heterotrophic soil respiration. We calculated an assimilation rate from eddy covariance data for light response functions to calculate ecosystem respiration incorporating suppression of the daytime autotrophic respiration. Ecosystem respiration from light response functions correlated with data processing calculations of ecosystem respiration by OzFluxQC (y0 = 0.161x + 0.0085; Adj. r2 = 0.698). The relationship between ecosystem respiration and leaf area index (y0 = 1.43x +0.398; Adj. r2 = 0.395) was also apparent. When this approach was compared to field measurements of soil respiration and mass balance calculations from destructive leaf area, leaf area index calculations and litter fall, the year of data corresponding to the year of soil respiration measurements, the y-intercept was 0.432 µmol m−2 s−1 or 163.44 gC m−2 year−1 (y0 = 1.37x + 0.432, Adj. r2 = 0.325). The mass balance approach for the net primary productivity when subtracted from the tower NEE estimated heterotrophic soil respiration of 134.59 gC m−2 year−1. This is only 28.9 gC different, therefore the y-intercept approach indeed provides an estimate of heterotrophic soil respiration.
A high-order staggered finite-element vertical discretization for non-hydrostatic atmospheric models
Authors: Guerra Jorge E. , Ullrich Paul A.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Atmospheric modeling systems require economical methods to solve the non-hydrostatic Euler equations. Two major differences between hydrostatic models and a full non-hydrostatic description lies in the vertical velocity tendency and numerical stiffness associated with sound waves. In this work we introduce a new arbitrary-order vertical discretization entitled the staggered nodal finite-element method (SNFEM). Our method uses a generalized discrete derivative that consistently combines the discontinuous Galerkin and spectral element methods on a staggered grid. Our combined method leverages the accurate wave propagation and conservation properties of spectral elements with staggered methods that eliminate stationary (2Δx) modes. Furthermore, high-order accuracy also eliminates the need for a reference state to maintain hydrostatic balance. In this work we demonstrate the use of high vertical order as a means of improving simulation quality at relatively coarse resolution. We choose a test case suite that spans the range of atmospheric flows from predominantly hydrostatic to nonlinear in the large-eddy regime. Our results show that there is a distinct benefit in using the high-order vertical coordinate at low resolutions with the same robust properties as the low-order alternative.
A new search-and-rescue service in the Mediterranean Sea: a demonstration of the operational capability and an evaluation of its performance using real case scenarios
Authors: Coppini G. , Jansen E. , Turrisi G. , Creti S. , Shchekinova E. Y. , Pinardi N. , Lecci R. , Carluccio I. , Kumkar Y. V. , D'Anca A. , Mannnarini G. , Martinelli S. , Marra P. , Capodiferro T. , Gismondi T.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. A new web-based and mobile Decision Support System (DSS) for Search-And-Rescue (SAR) at sea is presented, and its performance is evaluated using real case scenarios. The system, named OCEAN-SAR, is accessible via the website http://www.OCEAN-SAR.com. In addition to the website, dedicated applications for iOS and Android have been created to optimise the user experience on mobile devices. OCEAN-SAR simulates drifting objects at sea, using as input ocean currents and wind data provided, respectively, by the CMEMS and ECMWF. The modelling of the drifting objects is based on the Leeway model, which parameterises the wind drag of an object using a series of coefficients. These coefficients have been measured in field experiments for different types of objects, ranging from a person in the water to a coastal freighter adrift. OCEANSAR provides the user with an intuitive interface to run simulations and to visualise their results using Google Maps. The performance of the service is evaluated by comparing simulations to data from the Italian Coast Guard pertaining to actual incidents in the Mediterranean Sea.
Can worms be used to produce amendments with reduced CO2 emissions during co-composting with clay and biochar and after their addition to soil?
Authors: Barthod Justine , Rumpel Cornélia , Paradelo Remigio , Dignac Marie-France
Published: June 2016

Abstract. In this study we evaluated CO2 emissions during co-composting and co-vermicomposting of green wastes with clay and/or biochar. The stability of the final products as well as their effect on C mineralization in soil have been evaluated. The aim of the study was to test the following hypothesis: (1) interactions between clay and biochar and organic wastes would lead to reduced CO2 emissions during the composting process, (2) these interactions would be enhanced in the presence of worms, and (3) more carbon would be sequestered in soil after the use of the resulting compost/vermicompost as amendments. We added two different doses of clay, biochar and their mixture to pre-composted green wastes and monitored C mineralisation during 21 days in presence or absence of worms (Eisenia species). The organic materials were then added to a loamy Cambisol and the CO2 emissions were monitored during 30 days in a laboratory incubation. Our results indicated that the addition of clay or clay/biochar mixture reduced carbon mineralization during co-composting without worms by up to 44 %. However, in the presence of worms, CO2 emissions increased for all treatments except for the low clay dose. The production conditions had more influence on C mineralization in soil for composts than for vermicomposts except for the low clay treatment, which showed a more reduced CO2 emissions compared to a regular compost. In summary, the addition of worms during co-composting with clay and biochar may be a promising technology for reducing CO2 emissions and increasing soil carbon storage. We suggest that the production of a low CO2 emission amendment requires optimisation of OM source, co-composting agents and worm species. The effect of the resulting material on soil fertility has to be evaluated.
Assessing Corporate Governance Practices of Mauritian Companies
Authors: K. Padachi , R. Urdhin H. , M. Ramen
Published: June 2016

The aim of this study is to assess the CG practices of companies listed on the Stock Exchange of Mauritius (SEM) and non-listed banks. The Mauritius Code of Corporate Governance (MCCG) is used as a basis to collect both primary and secondary data. Survey questionnaires have been used to detect and analyse the extent to which the different sectors comply to CG as well as the assessment of the CG practices. The factors affecting CG practices as well as the importance of good CG have been identified. The data collected have been analysed using SPSS. Accordingly, the results have showed that there is a sectorial difference in the level of compliance and it has also been noted that varying results have been obtained with respect to variables including board of directors, committees, disclosure, social responsibilities, stakeholders as well as the importance of CG. However, the three main factors that affect CG practices include the governance framework, reporting and conduct and rewards.
Biomarkører ved diabetes
Authors: Birkeland Kåre I. , Skeie Svein , Hanssen Kristian F.
Published: June 2016

Diabetes er en av våre vanligste folkesykdommer. Diagnosen stilles ved måling av glukose i plasma eller fullblod, enten etter 8-12 timers faste eller 2 timer etter en peroral glukosebelastningstest. De våtkjemiske målemetodene har gjennomgående god presisjon, mens tørrkjemiske metoder er for unøyaktige til diagnostiske formål og i de fleste tilfeller også til forskningsformål. Glykert hemoglobin (HbA1c) gjenspeiler gjennomsnittlig blodglukosekonsentrasjon de siste 6-8 uker og er en viktig parameter for å bedømme blodsukkerkontrollen hos pasienter med diabetes. Målemetodene for HbA1c har varierende kvalitet og det er flere feilkilder det er viktig å kjenne til for å bedømme resultatene. Måling av insulin og C-peptid brukes dels til å skille mellom type 1-diabetes og type 2-diabetes, og dels for å kvantitere insulinsekresjon og insulinresistens hos personer med og uten diabetes. Ved type 1-diabetes er oftest autoantistoffer mot betacelleantigener til stede i serum, det vanligste er antistoff mot glutaminsyre decarboxylase (anti-GAD). Nylig er det utviklet målemetoder for flere avanserte glykerte endeprodukter (AGE) som kanskje kan være til hjelp i å predikere diabetiske senkomplikasjoner bedre enn måling av HbA1c alene.
Heterofile antistoffer - en kilde til analyseinterferens
Authors: Bjerner Johan , Nustad Kjell
Published: June 2016

Sirkulerende naturlig forekommende humane antistoffer mot humane antistoffer (rheumatoide faktorer) og mot dyreantistoffer (heterofile antistoffer) har evner til å binde analyseantistoffer som brukes i en immunometrisk analyse. Resultatet er oftest et falsk forhøyet prøvesvar (positiv interferens) og noen ganger et falsk for lavt svar (negativ interferens). Slik interferens kan reduseres betydelig gjennom modifisering av analyseantistoffene og gjennom buffertilsetninger, men forekomsten av interferens kan i dag ikke helt elimineres. Det er derfor viktig at klinikeren kjenner til risikoen for interferens, og gir laboratoriet tilbakemelding dersom prøvesvaret ikke stemmer med klinikkenHeterophilic antibodies – a source of analytical interference. Human antibodies binding human or animal antibodies may cause aberrant results in immunometric assays by binding the assay antibodies involved. The result may be falsely elevated (positive interference) or falsely low (negative interference). Both the frequency and the size of the aberrations may be reduced by either modifying the assay antibodies or by using buffer additives. However, as such interference cannot be completely eradicated, awareness of physicans and scientists is strongly needed.
The Janus serum bank and biomarkers of cancer
Authors: Gislefoss Randi , Jellum Egil
Published: June 2016

The Janus serum bank, established in 1973, contains sera stored at –25 degrees collected from 330,000 originally healthy individuals. The number of cancer cases have increased from zero in 1973 to more than 50,000 in 2005, including invasive and non-invasive cancers. Information on cases have been obtained by coupling the Janus file against the Norwegian Cancer Registry. The sera have been used in over 70 different cancers research projects, usually in case-control studies and in collaboration with national and international research groups. The type of biomarker analysed include antibodies against Chlamydia, CMV, Epstein Barr virus, HPV and Helicobacter pylori. Leptin, long chain fatty acids, androgens and other hormones, vitamins as well as environmental toxins such as organochlorines are other types of cancer biomarkers investigated. Mutation analyses (BRCA-1 etc) have been possible using PCR and the trace amounts of DNA remaining in the sera.Janus serum bank ble etablert i 1973 og inneholder sera lagret ved –25 grader, innsamlet fra 330.000 opprinnelig friske personer. Antall krefttilfeller har steget fra null i 1973 til over 50.000 i år 2005, inkludert både invasiv og ikke-invasiv kreft. Informasjon om kasus er tilgjengelig ved å koble Janus-filene mot Kreftregisterets databaser. Serumprøvene er blitt benyttet i over 70 forskjellige kreftforskningsprosjekter, som oftest i kasus-kontroll studier og i samarbeide med en rekke nasjonale og internasjonale forskningsgrupper. Mange ulike biomarkører på kreft er blitt analysert, bl.a. antistoffer mot Chlamydia, CMV, Epstein Barr virus, HPV og Helicobacter pylori. Leptin, lange fettsyrer, androgener og andre hormoner, vitaminer såvel som miljøgifter av typen organiske klorforbindelser er eksempler på andre kreftbiomarkører som er undersøkt. Det har også vært mulig å gjøre mutasjonsanalyser (BRCA-1 etc) ved å bruke PCR til å amplifisere opp den spormengden DNA som finnes i serum.
Endringer i forskningsaktiviteten ved Universitetssykehuset Nord-Norge
Authors: Eriksen Bjørn Odvar , Evensen Elin
Published: June 2016

Bakgrunn: Norsk medisinsk forskning hevder seg dårlig i nordisk sammenheng. Ved Universitetssykehuset Nord-Norge (UNN) ble forskningsaktivitet og hindringer for klinisk forskning undersøkt med en spørreskjemaundersøkelse i år 2000. Denne undersøkelsen er nå gjentatt etter fem år for å se om forholdene er endret.Materiale og metode: Alle leger og psykologer ved UNN fikk i mai 2005 tilsendt det samme spørreskjemaet som ble brukt i år 2000.Resultater: Etter purring hadde 433 (82%) av 530 spurte svart. 48% deltok i et pågående forskningsprosjekt (38% i et prosjekt som kvalifiserte til medforfatterskap, 5% i et prosjekt initiert av industrien, 5% i begge typer prosjekter). 22% av de spurte oppgav å ha doktorgrad, 28% hadde publisert i fagfellevurdert tidsskrift uten å ha doktorgrad, mens 28% ikke hadde publisert i slike tidsskrifter. Av faktorer som hindret forskning eller økt forskningsaktivitet, angav 84% mangel på tid, 52% faktorer som potensielt kunne avhjelpes av sykehusets apparat for forskningsstøtte og 35% andre faktorer. Uttrykt i prosentandeler var det små endringer i svarene i forhold til år 2000.Fortolkning: Det har ikke skjedd noen endring i andelen ansatte engasjert i forskning ved UNN fra 2000 til 2005. Fortsatt oppleves mangel på tid som den viktigste hindringen for forskning
Sleep in 40-45-year-olds in Hordaland county, Norway / Søvn hos 40-45 åringer i Hordaland
Authors: Ursin Reidun , Holsten Fred , Bjorvatn Bjørn
Published: June 2016

This population-based cross-sectional study with self-administered questionnaires was conducted as part of the Hordaland Health Study ‘97-‘99 in collaboration with the Norwegian National Health Screening Service. The present paper is a revised and abbreviated version of a report on the study published in Sleep (1). A total of 8860 subjects aged 40-45 years answered the sleep questionnaire part of the study. Reports on habitual bedtimes, rise times, subjective sleep need and various sleep characteristics were used in this study. Mean (± standard deviation (SD)) nocturnal sleep duration during weekdays in men was 6h 52min (±55min); in women 7h 11min (±57min). Mean subjective sleep need was 7h 16min (±52min) in men; 7h 45min (±52min) in women. Sleep duration was shorter in shift workers and longer in married subjects and in those living in rural areas. In total the socioeconomic variables accounted for only around three per cent of the variance in sleep duration and sleep need. Ten per cent of the men and 12.2 per cent of the women reported frequent insomnia. The wide distribution of sleep duration and subjective sleep need indicate large inter-individual variations in these parameters. There were pronounced gender differences in these variables and in most of the sleep characteristics studiedDenne studien var en del av Hordalandsundersøkelsen ‘97-’99 som var en populasjonsbasert tverrsnittsstudie og ble utført i samarbeid med Statens Helseundersøkelser. Her presenteres en revidert og forkortet utgave av en rapport som ble publisert i tidsskriftet Sleep i 2005 (1). Totalt 8860 personer mellom 40 og 45 år besvarte spørreskjema med en rekke spørsmål om søvnvaner og søvnkarakteristika. Gjennomsnittlig nattlig søvnlengde (± standard deviation (SD)) var 6 timer 52 min (±55min) for menn, 7 timer 11 min (±57min) for kvinner, variasjonsbredden for begge kjønn var fra 3 til 11 timer. På fridager sov begge kjønn 1 time lenger enn på arbeidsdager. Gjennomsnittlig subjektivt søvnbehov var 7 timer 16 min (±52 min) for menn og 7 timer 45 min (±52 min) for kvinner. Søvnlengden var signifikant kortere hos skiftarbeidere og lengre hos gifte/samboende og hos de som bodde i landlige områder. Totalt sett forklarte de sosioøkonomiske variablene bare ca. tre prosent av variansen i søvnlengde og søvnbehov. Ti prosent av mennene og 12 prosent av kvinnene rapporterte søvnløshet minst en gang per uke. Den brede distribusjonen av søvnlengde og subjektivt søvnbehov viser at det er store interindividuelle variasjoner i disse parametrene. Det var klare kjønnsforskjeller i disse variablene og i de fleste søvnkarakteristika som ble studert
The relation between serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) and blood pressure. The Tromsø study
Authors: Jorde Rolf
Published: June 2016

The objective of the present cross-sectional epidemiological study from Tromsø, North Norway was to evaluate the relation between blood pressure and serum parathyroid hormone (PTH). 10419 subjects were invited to participate in the fifth Tromsø study and 8128 attended. 7954 subjects had serum PTH measured, and among these, information on blood pressure medication was available in 5841 subjects (2554 males) with serum calcium within the reference range 2.20-2.60 mmol/L. In a multiple linearregression model with age, BMI, serum calcium, serum creatinine, and smoking status as covariables, serum PTH was a significant and positive predictor of systolic and diastolic blood pressure in both genders. When dividing the cohort in PTH quartiles, and adjusting for age, BMI, serum calcium, and serum creatinine, the differences between the lowest and highest PTH quartile in systolic and diastolic blood pressure were 5.0 and 3.5 mmHg for males and 4.1 and 2.5 mmHg for females, respectively. In previous studies we have found serum PTH to be a positive predictor for future increase in blood pressure, and also that the association between serum PTH and blood pressure cannot alone be ascribed to a blood pressure induced increase in urinary calcium excretion. To further elucidate the relation between serum PTH and blood pressure, randomized clinical trials with calcium and/or vitamin D supplementation to subjects with increased serum PTH levels are needed
Effects of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer on crop yields in a field pea-spring wheat-potato rotation system with calcareous soil in semi-arid environments
Authors: Liu Chang-An , Zhang Sen , Hua Shuai , Rao Xin
Published: June 2016

The object of the present study was to investigate the yield-affecting mechanisms influenced by N and P applications in rainfed areas with calcareous soil. The experimental treatments were as follows: NF (no fertilizer), N (nitrogen), P (phosphorus), and NP (nitrogen plus phosphorus) in a field pea-spring wheat-potato cropping system. This study was conducted over six years (2003-2008) on China’s semi-arid Loess Plateau. The fertilizer treatments were found to decrease the soil water content more than the NF treatment in each of the growing seasons. The annual average yields of the field pea crops during the entire experimental period were 635, 677, 858, and 1117 kg/ha for the NF, N, P, and NP treatments, respectively. The annual average yields were 673, 547, 966, and 1056 kg/ha for the spring wheat crops for the NF, N, P, and NP treatments, respectively. Also, the annual average yields were 1476, 2120, 1480, and 2424 kg/ha for the potato crops for the NF, N, P, and NP treatments, respectively. In the second cycle of the three-year rotation, the pea and spring wheat yields in the P treatment were 1.2 and 2.8 times higher than that in the N treatment, respectively. Meanwhile, the potato crop yield in the N treatment was 3.1 times higher than that in the P treatment. In conclusion, the P fertilizer was found to increase the yields of the field pea and wheat crops, and the N fertilizer increased the potato crop yield in rainfed areas with calcareous soil.
Soil microbial functionality in response to the inclusion of cover crop mixtures in agricultural systems
Authors: Chavarría Diego N. , Verdenelli Romina A. , Muñoz Emiliano J. , Conforto Cinthia , Restovich Silvina B. , Andriulo Adrián E. , Meriles José M. , Vargas-Gil Silvina
Published: June 2016

Agricultural systems where monoculture prevails are characterized by fertility losses and reduced contribution to ecosystem services. Including cover crops (CC) as part of an agricultural system is a promising choice in sustainable intensification of those demanding systems. We evaluated soil microbial functionality in cash crops in response to the inclusion of CC by analyzing soil microbial functions at two different periods of the agricultural year (cash crop harvest and CC desiccation) during 2013 and 2014. Three plant species were used as CC: oat (Avena sativa L.), vetch (Vicia sativa L.) and radish (Raphanus sativus L.) which were sown in two different mixtures of species: oat and radish mix (CC1) and oat, radish and vetch mix (CC2), with soybean monoculture and soybean/corn being the cash crops. The study of community level physiological profiles showed statistical differences in respiration of specific C sources indicating an improvement of catabolic diversity in CC treatments. Soil enzyme activities were also increased with the inclusion of CC mixtures, with values of dehydrogenase activity and fluorescein diacetate hydrolysis up to 38.1% and 35.3% higher than those of the control treatment, respectively. This research evidenced that CC inclusion promotes soil biological quality through a contribution of soil organic carbon, improving the sustainability of agrosystems. The use of a CC mixture of three plant species including the legume vetch increased soil biological processes and catabolic diversity, with no adverse effects on cash crop grain yield.
Assessing the effects of soil liming with dolomitic limestone and sugar foam on soil acidity, leaf nutrient contents, grape yield and must quality in a Mediterranean vineyard
Authors: Olego Miguel A. , Visconti Fernando , Quiroga Miguel J. , De Paz José M. , Garzón-Jimeno Enrique
Published: June 2016

Aluminium toxicity has been recognized as one of the most common causes of reduced grape yields in vineyard acid soils. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of two liming materials, i.e. dolomitic lime and sugar foam, on a vineyard cultivated in an acid soil. The effects were studied in two soil layers (0-30 and 30-60 cm), as well as on leaf nutrient contents, must quality properties and grape yield, in an agricultural soil dedicated to Vitis vinifera L. cv. ‘Mencía’ cultivation. Data management and analysis were performed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). As liming material, sugar foam was more efficient than dolomitic limestone because sugar foam promoted the highest decrease in soil acidity properties at the same calcium carbonate equivalent dose. However, potassium contents in vines organs, including leaves and berries, seemed to decrease as a consequence of liming, with a concomitant increase in must total acidity. Soil available phosphorus also decreased as a consequence of liming, especially with sugar foam, though no effects were observed in plants. For these reasons fertilization of this soil with K and P is recommended along with liming. Grape yields in limed soils increased, although non-significantly, by 30%. This research has therefore provided an important opportunity to advance in our understanding of the effects of liming on grape quality and production in acid soils.
Short communication: Laboratory approach to the use of sulphur and kaolin as preventive control against Drosophila suzukii
Authors: Pérez-Guerrero Sergio , Molina José M.
Published: June 2016

Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura, 1931) is an invasive pest from South East Asia that was detected for the first time in Southern Europe in 2008. This species can damage a wide range of soft-skinned fruits crops affecting ripening fruits and causing important economic losses. Since the exclusive use of chemical insecticides for controlling D. suzukii may prompt the appearance of resistance and environmental pollution, alternative methods compatible with sustainable management are required. In this study, commercial formulations of powdered sulphur and kaolin were tested as a preventive method applied to blueberry fruits under laboratory conditions. In no-choice assay, powdered sulphur had a significant effect on oviposition and adult emergency with reductions of 76% and 77%, respectively. In addition, sulphur displayed a significant toxicity on males and lethal effect with over 40% adult mortality seven days after exposure. The choice assay confirmed and improved the powdered sulphur effects, with reductions of 98% and 96% in oviposition and adult emergence, respectively. In contrast, kaolin produced no significant reduction in infestation and adult mortality during no-choice and choice assays. These outcomes suggest that preventive use of powdered sulphur could be considered for sustainable control of D. suzukii in some berry crops.
Effects of the amplitude and frequency of salinity fluctuations on antioxidant responses in juvenile tongue sole, Cynoglossus semilaevis
Authors: Khairnar Sachin O. , Tian Xiangli , Dong Shuanglin , Fang Ziheng , Solanki Bhavesh V. , Shanthanagouda Holeyappa A.
Published: June 2016

To understand the tolerance of tongue sole, Cynoglossus semilaevis, to varying salinities, the effects of the amplitude (2, 4, 6 and 8 g/L) and frequency (2, 4 and 8 days) of salinity fluctuations on the activities of antioxidant responses, including acidic phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) from antioxidant system in liver, muscle, gills and kidney, were investigated in this study. The results showed that the antioxidant responses of tongue sole were highly tissue-speciﬁc during the varying salinity fluctuations. In all tissues, ACP and AKP activity was found to be highest at moderate salinity fluctuations compared to the control, low and high salinity treatments (p<0.05). SOD and CAT activities had significant effect due to salinity fluctuations in all tissues (p<0.05), except in hepatic and renal tissues. Variations in branchial SOD activity proved that salinity fluctuations had greater impact on tongue sole at moderate and high fluctuating salinities compared to the control and low fluctuating salinities, whereas the branchial CAT activities showed contrasting trend. Further, cortisol levels were significantly affected in lower and higher salinity fluctuations. However, plasma cortisol levels remained low in moderate salinity fluctuations and control (p<0.05). Taken together, the results indicated that salinity fluctuations could effectively stimulate and enhance the antioxidant enzyme activity in the liver, kidney, gills and muscle of the juvenile tongue sole, thus effectively eliminating the excessive reactive oxygen species and minimizing the body damage in tongue sole or could be for any other euryhaline teleosts.
Effect of complementary irrigation on yield components and alternate bearing of a traditional olive orchard in semi-arid conditions
Authors: Lodolini Enrico M. , Polverigiani Serena , Ali Saed , Mutawea Mohammed , Qutub Mayyada , Pierini Fabio , Neri Davide
Published: June 2016

Traditional olive orchards are usually not irrigated in the Mediterranean basin, but at those latitudes, the yearly rainfall is frequently insufficient to support equilibrated vegetative growth and high fruit and oil production. This three-year field study investigated the effect of complementary irrigation on olive tree vegetative growth, fruit and oil yield during a biennial alternate bearing cycle in a traditional grove under semi-arid conditions. Adult olive trees (Olea europaea L. cv. Nabali Baladi) were subjected to complementary irrigation in 2011 and 2012 ('on' and 'off' years, respectively) with 6, 10, 15 or 20 m3 of water per tree per season, which corresponded to 14.2%, 23.8%, 35.7% and 47.6% of the whole seasonal evapotranspiration (42 m3 of water per year), respectively. Rain-fed trees were used as control. In 2013, no complementary irrigation was supplied, and any residual effects on the yield components were determined. Results showed that none of the irrigation regimes affected vegetative growth, or olive fruit size (mesocarp and endocarp), as fresh and dry weights. The fruit and oil yield per tree increased compared to the rain-fed conditions only when the threshold of 15 m3 was exceeded, thus inducing a higher crop load compared to the rain-fed control during the 'off' and even further during the 'on' year. No residual effects were registered in 2013. The study showed that complementary irrigation of at least 35% of the seasonal water requirement can produce remarkable positive effects on fruit yield especially during 'on' bearing years.
Effects of Multiple Risks on Farm Income and Willingness to Pay for Agricultural Insurance: A Case Study of the Greater Accra Region in Ghana
Authors: Quaye Frederick Murdoch
Published: June 2016

This paper analyzes the determinants of farm income among farmers producing crops and animals in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. It further estimates the willingness to pay for agricultural insurance by farmers. The farm income function was evaluated using a logarithmic function in which farm income is regressed as a function of determinants affecting it. The econometric results suggest that gender, education, farm size, farming experience, fertilizer usage and input cost all have a positive and statistically significant association with farm income. The results indicate that when investing in agriculture in the study region, weather hazards and pest and disease attacks are two important risk factors that need to be considered in the implementation of insurance policies since they have and statistically significant negative associations with farm income. The paper further observes that weather and pest/disease attacks are two significant risk factors that tend to influence farmers’ willingness to adopt and pay for agricultural insurance.