bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of intact and C-terminal fibroblast growth factor 23 in Gambian children
Authors: Braithwaite Vickie , Jones Kerry S , Assar Shima , Schoenmakers Inez , Prentice Ann
Published: November 2013

Elevated C-terminal fibroblast growth factor 23 (C-FGF23) concentrations have been reported in Gambian children with and without putative Ca-deficiency rickets. The aims of this study were to investigate whether i) elevated C-FGF23 concentrations in Gambian children persist long term; ii) they are associated with higher intact FGF23 concentrations (I-FGF23), poor iron status and shorter 25-hydroxyvitamin D half-life (25OHD-t1/2); and iii) the persistence and predictors of elevated FGF23 concentrations differ between children with and without a history of rickets. Children (8–16 years, n=64) with a history of rickets and a C-FGF23 concentration >125 RU/ml (bone deformity (BD), n=20) and local community children with a previously measured elevated C-FGF23 concentration (LC+, n=20) or a previously measured C-FGF23 concentration within the normal range (LC−, n=24) participated. BD children had no remaining signs of bone deformities. C-FGF23 concentration had normalised in BD children, but remained elevated in LC+ children. All the children had I-FGF23 concentration within the normal range, but I-FGF23 concentration was higher and iron status poorer in LC+ children. 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D was the strongest negative predictor of I-FGF23 concentration (R2=18%; P=0.0006) and soluble transferrin receptor was the strongest positive predictor of C-FGF23 concentration (R2=33%; P≤0.0001). C-FGF23 and I-FGF23 concentrations were poorly correlated with each other (R2=5.3%; P=0.07). 25OHD-t1/2 was shorter in BD children than in LC− children (mean (s.d.): 24.5 (6.1) and 31.5 (11.5) days respectively; P=0.05). This study demonstrated that elevated C-FGF23 concentrations normalised over time in Gambian children with a history of rickets but not in local children, suggesting a different aetiology; that children with resolved rickets had a shorter 25OHD-t1/2, suggesting a long-standing increased expenditure of 25OHD, and that iron deficiency is a predictor of elevated C-FGF23 concentrations in both groups of Gambian children.
Role of leptin receptors in granulosa cells during ovulation
Authors: Dupuis Lisa , Schuermann Yasmin , Cohen Tamara , Siddappa Dayananda , Kalaiselvanraja Anitha , Pansera Melissa , Bordignon Vilceu , Duggavathi Raj
Published: November 2013

Leptin is an important hormone influencing reproductive function. However, the mechanisms underpinning the role of leptin in the regulation of reproduction remain to be completely deciphered. In this study, our objective is to understand the mechanisms regulating the expression of leptin receptor (Lepr) and its role in ovarian granulosa cells during ovulation. First, granulosa cells were collected from superovulated mice to profile mRNA expression ofLeprisoforms (LeprAandLeprB) throughout follicular development. Expression ofLeprAandLeprBwas dramatically induced in the granulosa cells of ovulating follicles at 4 h after human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) treatment. Relative abundance of both mRNA and protein of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β (Cebpβ) increased in granulosa cells from 1 to 7 h post-hCG. Furthermore, chromatin immunoprecipitation assay confirmed the recruitment of Cebpβ toLeprpromoter. Thus, hCG-induced transcription ofLeprappears to be regulated by Cebpβ, which led us to hypothesise that Lepr may play a role during ovulation. To test this hypothesis, we used a recently developed pegylated superactive mouse leptin antagonist (PEG-SMLA) to inhibit Lepr signalling during ovulation. I.p. administration of PEG-SMLA (10 μg/g) to superovulated mice reduced ovulation rate by 65% compared with control treatment. Although the maturation stage of the ovulated oocytes remained unaltered, ovulation genesPtgs2andHas2were downregulated in PEG-SMLA-treated mice compared with control mice. These results demonstrate thatLepris dramatically induced in the granulosa cells of ovulating follicles and this induction ofLeprexpression requires the transcription factor Cebpβ. Lepr plays a critical role in the process of ovulation by regulating, at least in part, the expression of the important genes involved in the preovulatory maturation of follicles.
Efficacy of Denture Cleansers in Reducing Microbial Counts from Removable Partial Dentures: A Short-Term Clinical Evaluation
Authors: Lucena-Ferreira Silvia Carneiro de , Cavalcanti Indira Moraes Gomes , Cury Altair Antoninha Del Bel
Published: November 2013

This clinical study investigated if daily immersion in denture cleansers reduces microbial counts on removable partial denture's (RPD) biofilm. Twenty-five RPD wearer volunteers were selected and instructed to complement the hygiene of their dentures by immersing them in an enzymatic peroxide-based denture cleanser (Polident® 3 minute) once a day for 3 min for a period of 15 days. The biofilm was collected from RPD surfaces with a swab immediately before (baseline) and after the experimental period. The samples were placed in sterile saline solution, sonicated at 7 W and then plated on specific culture media to quantify total microorganisms, total streptococci and Candida spp. counts. Data from both collections were compared by paired t-test (α=0.05). It was observed a significant reduction on total microorganisms' counts in RPD biofilm after denture cleanser use (p=0.007). This reduction was also observed for total streptococci (p=0.0428), but no difference was observed on Candida spp. counts. It was concluded that daily use of denture cleanser improved denture hygiene by reducing total microorganisms and total streptococci from RPD surface but had no effect on Candida spp. population.
Effectiveness of Denture Cleanser Associated With Microwave Disinfection and Brushing of Complete Dentures: In Vivo Study
Authors: Sesma Newton , Rocha Alessandra Lima , Lagana Dalva Cruz , Costa Bruno , Morimoto Susana
Published: November 2013

Complete dentures acts as a reservoir for microbial colonization, which may lead to systemic infections. Microwave irradiation has been used as an efficient method of denture disinfection. Even though current methods eliminate denture-base microorganisms, a recurrence rate of denture stomatitis (DS) is still observed among denture-wearing patients. It was hypothesized that microwave disinfection kills microorganisms but do not remove dead bacteria from the denture surface. To test this hypothesis, the biofilm found in the dentures of 10 patients with DS was evaluated. In addition, the effects of microwave irradiation plus brushing (MW+B) on the denture biofilm and the combination of denture cleanser with microwave irradiation and brushing (MW+DC+B) for the removal of denture-accumulating microorganisms were investigated. Microbiological data were analyzed statistically by nonparametric analysis (Friedman/Wilcoxon, α=0.05). MW+B and MW+DC+B were effective in reducing the rate of microorganisms (99.2% and 99.5% respectively), but without significant difference between them (p=0.553). However, it was observed that the complete removal of microorganisms from denture surface was only possible when all regimens were combined (MW+DC+B). Microwave irradiation in combination with soaking in denture cleanser and brushing effectively disinfected the dentures and removed denture biofilm.
Perception of Smile Esthetics Varies Between Patients and Dental Professionals When Recession Defects are Present
Authors: Musskopf Marta Liliana , Rocha Jose Mariano da , Rosing Cassiano Kuchenbecker
Published: November 2013

The aim of this study was to compare the smile esthetic perception of patients, dental students and dentists faced to different situations concerning gingival margin position. A total of 123 individuals (41 patients, 41 dental students and 41 dentists) completed a structured questionnaire and evaluated 6 pictures of the same smile modified in Adobe Photoshop® image-editing software representing: no gingival recession, 2 mm recession in one maxillary lateral incisor, 2 mm recession in both maxillary lateral incisors, 2 mm recession in one maxillary canine, 2 mm recession in both maxillary canines and generalized 2 mm recession. The visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to rate the esthetic perception. Mean VAS values were calculated and compared among gingival situations as well as group of respondents by one-way ANOVA, with an alpha level of 0.05. VAS analysis revealed that mean values ranged from 4.2 (±1.8) to 6.8 (±1.7). Images with no gingival recession received the highest score by all groups, with statistically significant differences among dentists and dental students. However, patients scored images with no recession with significantly lower ranks as compared with dentists and dental students. No significant differences were observed among patients for any of the situations. When dentists and dental students were compared, the worst situation was observed for generalized gingival recession, with scores 4.2 (±1.8) and 4.9 (±1.8), respectively. Patients and dental professionals had different perceptions about esthetics related to gingival margin position.
Fluoride Release/Uptake from Different Orthodontic Adhesives: A 30-Month Longitudinal Study
Authors: Santos Rogerio Lacerda dos , Pithon Matheus Melo , Fernandes Aline Birra Nolasco , Carvalho Fabiola Galbiatti , Cavalcanti Alessandro Leite , Vaitsman Delmo Santiago
Published: November 2013

The aim of this study was to test the null hypothesis that there is no difference in fluoride release between resin-modified glass ionomer cements (RMGICs) and composites in the long term. The materials were divided into 5 groups: a nonfluoride-releasing composite - Group TXT (Transbond XT), a fluoride-releasing composite - Group QC (Quick-Cure), and three RMGICs - Groups FOLC, FOB and MC (Fuji Ortho LC, Fuji Ortho Band, and Multi-Cure). Fluoride release was measured at time intervals of 1 h, 1, 7, 14, 21 and 29 days, followed by further evaluations performed at 6, 12, 18, 24 and 30 months using selective ion electrodes connected to an ionic analyzer. Fluoride releasing and re-releasing experiments were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test and Mann-Whitney test with the Bonferroni correction. The amount of fluoride released by FOB was larger in comparison with the other adhesives (p=0.01). In the long-term, FOLC and MC had a similar performance (p>0.05). The composites presented a low fluoride release, but fluoride ion uptake and re-release capacity of QC was statistically significant (p<0.05) during the experiment. In conclusion, the null hypothesis was rejected, the RMGIC Fuji Ortho Band and the composite Quick-Cure presented greater fluoride release and re-release capacity when recharged.
Effect of Early Membrane Removal on the Treatment of Mandibular Class II Furcation Defects - A Controlled Clinical Trial with Re-entry after 12 Months
Authors: Leite Alexandre C. , Oliveira Rafael R. de , Novaes Jr. Arthur B. , O'Connell Patricia A. , Grisi Marcio F. M. , Taba Jr. Mario , Palioto Daniela B. , Souza Sergio L. S.
Published: November 2013

In a previous study in dogs, the early removal of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) membrane (2 weeks after placement) showed histomorphometric results (of new bone, cementum and periodontal ligament) similar to that obtained with membrane removal at 4 weeks after placement. This study evaluated the influence of early removal of an ePTFE membrane on the treatment of Class II furcation defects. Twelve patients who provided 12 pairs of mandibular furcation defects were recruited for the study. Baseline clinical measurements were recorded: plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD), gingival margin position (GMP) and relative clinical attachment level (RCAL). Full flaps were elevated and hard tissue measurements were performed during the surgery: relative vertical (RVBL) and horizontal (RHBL) bone level. The ePTFE membranes were adapted and sutured to their correspondent tooth and removed at 2 weeks in the test group (TGr) and at 4 weeks in the control group (CGr). After 1 year all sites were re-entered, and soft and hard tissue measurements were recorded. There were no statistically significant differences between TGr and CGr for any baseline measurement. After 12 months, there were no statistically significant differences between TGr and CGr in the PD (p=0.74), GMP (p=0.76) and RCAL (p=0.44) values. However, the RHBL resolution was significant for both groups (CGr p=0.01 and TGr p=0.02), without difference between groups (p=0.39). Early removal of membranes did not affect the outcome on the treatment of Class II furcation defects.
One-Year Water Sorption and Solubility of All-in-One Adhesives
Authors: Walter Ricardo , Feiring Andrew E. , Boushell Lee W. , Braswell Krista , Bartholomew Whitley , Chung Yunro , Phillips Ceib , Pereira Patricia N. R. , Swift Edward J. , Jr.
Published: November 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the water sorption and solubility of different adhesives. Adper Easy Bond, Adper Single Bond Plus, Bond Force, Clearfil SE Bond (bonding resin only), and Xeno IV were the materials evaluated. Ten disks of each adhesive were made in Teflon molds and evaporation of any volatile components was allowed. The disks were weighed daily in an analytical balance until a constant mass was obtained (m1). Disks were then immersed in water for 12 months when their wet weight was recorded (m2). The disks were again weighed daily until a constant mass was obtained and the final weight recorded (m3). Water sorption and solubility (percentages) were calculated using the recorded mass values. Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to compare the average water sorption and solubility among the different adhesives. Mann-Whitney tests with a Bonferroni correction were used to determine the pairwise differences between adhesives in water sorption and solubility. The level of significance was set at 0.05. Water sorption and solubility were significantly different among the groups (p<0.05). Pairwise comparisons showed no significant differences (p>0.05) between Adper Single Bond Plus and Bond Force, or between Clearfil SE Bond and Xeno IV in either water sorption or solubility. Xeno IV did not differ from Adper Easy Bond in water sorption (p>0.05). Water sorption and solubility of all-in-one adhesives increased with time, and the rates of increase were composition-dependent. The results suggest that monomers other than HEMA contribute to water sorption and solubility of adhesive systems from different categories.
Metformin Is Associated With Survival Benefit in Cancer Patients With Concurrent Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yin Ming , Zhou Jie , Gorak Edward J. , Quddus Fahd
Published: November 2013

Learning Objectives

Describe the influences of different types of glucose-lowering medications on therapeutic outcomes of cancer patients who received standard anticancer treatment. Compare the survival associated with metformin treatment with survival in treatment with other glucose-lowering medications.
Finding Meaning in Civility: Creating a “No Bullying Zone”
Authors: Edmonson Cole , Allard Jim
Published: November 2013

Incivility, horizontal violence, and/or bullying in health care is a growing problem and threat to patient safety. This article will provide an overview of bullying, synthesis of the literature, discussion of the effect on patients, nurses and organizations, and description of steps that can be implemented to eradicate bullying.
A note on r-equitable k-colorings of trees
Authors: Hertz Alain , Ries Bernard
Published: November 2013

A graph G = (V;E) is r-equitably k-colorable if there exists a partition of
V into k independent sets V1, V2,... Vk such that ||Vi|- |Vj|| ? r
for all i,j ? {1,2... k}. In this note, we show that if two trees T1
and T2 of order at least two are r-equitably k-colorable for r ? 1 and k ?
3, then all trees obtained by adding an arbitrary edge between T1 and T2 are
also r-equitably k-colorable.
Efficacy of Peanut Seed Treatments for Organic Management in Georgia
Authors: Tubbs R. S. , Cantonwine E. G. , Brenneman T. B.
Published: November 2013

One of the most critical and influential factors determining ultimate crop success is plant stand establishment. Because synthetic seed treatments are not allowed in organic production systems, alternatives are needed to assist in resistance of pathogens during germination and seedling growth. Several biological control materials were evaluated in laboratory assays and field trials to determine their potential for minimizing disease impact and maximizing yield in organic peanut production. These included Bacillus subtilis and several application methods of copper sulfate. Bacillus subtilis demonstrated excellent control of Aspergillus in the laboratory, but this was not confirmed in the field. Copper sulfate had no benefit against Aspergillus, but had some activity against Rhizopus in the laboratory. When applied dry to the seed, copper sulfate improved plant stands and reduced postemergence plant mortality (damping-off) compared to either B. subtilis or untreated seed. When applied in combination with cola as a sticking agent, copper sulfate did an excellent job of minimizing damping-off, but caused delayed emergence or a reduced plant stand compared to all other treatments. Because there was no evidence of direct toxicity against A. niger by the copper sulfate treatments in the lab assay, the field effect may be the result of enhanced host resistance to Aspergillus crown rot, or activity on another pathogen.
Superacid Catalysed the One-Pot Synthesis of Spiro[indole-3,9′-tetrazolo[5,1-b]quinazoline]-2,8′(1H, 5′H)-dione in aqueous medium
Authors: Dai Yong , Qi Gang , Qian Xiao-rong
Published: November 2013

An efficient, one-pot synthesis of spiro[indole-3,9′-tetrazolo[5,1- b]quinazoline]-2,8′(1 H,5′ H)-dione derivatives by the reaction of isatin, 5-amino-1H-tetrazole, and 5,5-dimethylcyclohexane-1,3-dione catalysed by a superacid ([MeC(OH)2]+ClO4-) in aqueous medium is described. This protocol provides a simple one-step procedure with the advantages of easy work-up, high yield, mild reaction conditions and is environmental friendly.
Evidence of rapid subglacial water piracy under Whillans Ice Stream, West Antarctica
Authors: Carter S.P. , Fricker H.A. , Siegfried M.R.
Published: November 2013

The subglacial water system of lower Whillans Ice Stream on the Siple Coast, West Antarctica, contains numerous connected subglacial lakes in three hydrological basins (northern, central and southern). We use Ice, Cloud and land Elevation Satellite (ICESat) data to derive estimates of lake volume change and regional thickness changes. By combining these results with a water budget model, we show that a uniform, localized thickness increase perturbed the hydropotential, resulting in a change in course of a major flow path within the system in 2005. Water originating from upper Whillans and Kamb Ice Streams that previously supplied the southern basin became diverted toward Subglacial Lake Whillans (SLW). This diversion led to a tenfold filling rate increase of SLW. Our observation suggests that water piracy may be common in the Siple Coast region, where the gentle basal relief makes the basal hydropotential particularly sensitive to small changes in ice thickness. Given the previously inferred connections between water piracy and ice-stream slowdown elsewhere in the region, the subtle and complex nature of this system presents new challenges for numerical models.
Changes in RNA Splicing in Developing Soybean (Glycine max) Embryos
Authors: Aghamirzaie Delasa , Nabiyouni Mahdi , Fang Yihui , Klumas Curtis , Heath Lenwood , Grene Ruth , Collakova Eva
Published: November 2013

Developing soybean seeds accumulate oils, proteins, and carbohydrates that are used as oxidizable substrates providing metabolic precursors and energy during seed germination. The accumulation of these storage compounds in developing seeds is highly regulated at multiple levels, including at transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation. RNA sequencing was used to provide comprehensive information about transcriptional and post-transcriptional events that take place in developing soybean embryos. Bioinformatics analyses lead to the identification of different classes of alternatively spliced isoforms and corresponding changes in their levels on a global scale during soybean embryo development. Alternative splicing was associated with transcripts involved in various metabolic and developmental processes, including central carbon and nitrogen metabolism, induction of maturation and dormancy, and splicing itself. Detailed examination of selected RNA isoforms revealed alterations in individual domains that could result in changes in subcellular localization of the resulting proteins, protein-protein and enzyme-substrate interactions, and regulation of protein activities. Different isoforms may play an important role in regulating developmental and metabolic processes occurring at different stages in developing oilseed embryos.
Experimental and Numerical Analysis of Thermal and Hygrometric Characteristics of Building Structures Employing Recycled Plastic Aggregates and Geopolymer Concrete
Authors: Colangelo Francesco , De Luca Giuseppina , Ferone Claudio , Mauro Alessandro
Published: November 2013

The correct estimation of building energy consumptions is assuming an always increasing importance, and a detailed reproduction of building structures, with all the single components involved, is necessary to achieve this aim. In addition, the current ecological development tries to limit the use of natural raw materials as building components, in favor of alternative (waste) materials, which ensure significant advantages from the economic, energetic and environmental point of views. In this work, dynamic heat and vapor transport in a typical three-dimensional (3D) building structure, involving different types of environmental-friendly concrete mixtures, have been simulated by using finite elements. In particular, the authors propose to substitute part of the aggregates with plastic waste and to use a fly ash based geopolymeric binder for the production of low conductivity concrete, to be employed in eco-efficient buildings. Concrete produced with natural limestone aggregates has been considered as the reference benchmark. The whole characterization of the different types of concrete tested in the present work has been obtained through laboratory experiments. The structure taken into account in the simulations is a 3D thermal bridge, typical of building envelopes. The thermal and hygrometric transient behavior of this structure, employing plastic waste in different percentages and geopolymer concrete, has been analyzed by the authors.
Oxidative Stress/Angiotensinogen/Renin-Angiotensin System Axis in Patients with Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Kamiyama Masumi , Urushihara Maki , Morikawa Takashi , Konishi Yoshio , Imanishi Masahito , Nishiyama Akira , Kobori Hiroyuki
Published: November 2013

Although recent studies have proven that renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blockades retard the progression of diabetic nephropathy, the detailed mechanisms of their reno-protective effects on the development of diabetic nephropathy remain uncertain. In rodent models, it has been reported that reactive oxygen species (ROS) are important for intrarenal angiotensinogen (AGT) augmentation in the progression of diabetic nephropathy. However, no direct evidence is available to demonstrate that AGT expression is enhanced in the kidneys of patients with diabetes. To examine whether the expression levels of ROS- and RAS-related factors in kidneys are increased with the progression of diabetic nephropathy, biopsied samples from 8 controls and 27 patients with type 2 diabetes were used. After the biopsy, these patients were diagnosed with minor glomerular abnormality or diabetes mellitus by clinical and pathological findings. The intensities of AGT, angiotensin II (Ang II), 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) were examined by fluorescence in situ hybridization and/or immunohistochemistry. Expression levels were greater in patients with diabetes than in control subjects. Moreover, the augmented intrarenal AGT mRNA expression paralleled renal dysfunction in patients with diabetes. These data suggest the importance of the activated oxidative stress/AGT/RAS axis in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy.
Nutraceuticals: Potential for Chondroprotection and Molecular Targeting of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Leong Daniel , Choudhury Marwa , Hirsh David , Hardin John , Cobelli Neil , Sun Hui
Published: November 2013

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease and a leading cause of adult disability. There is no cure for OA, and no effective treatments which arrest or slow its progression. Current pharmacologic treatments such as analgesics may improve pain relief but do not alter OA disease progression. Prolonged consumption of these drugs can result in severe adverse effects. Given the nature of OA, life-long treatment will likely be required to arrest or slow its progression. Consequently, there is an urgent need for OA disease-modifying therapies which also improve symptoms and are safe for clinical use over long periods of time. Nutraceuticals—food or food products that provide medical or health benefits, including the prevention and/or treatment of a disease—offer not only favorable safety profiles, but may exert disease- and symptom-modification effects in OA. Forty-seven percent of OA patients use alternative medications, including nutraceuticals. This review will overview the efficacy and mechanism of action of commonly used nutraceuticals, discuss recent experimental and clinical data on the effects of select nutraceuticals, such as phytoflavonoids, polyphenols, and bioflavonoids on OA, and highlight their known molecular actions and limitations of their current use. We will conclude with a proposed novel nutraceutical-based molecular targeting strategy for chondroprotection and OA treatment.
GC and GC/MS Analysis of Essential Oil Composition of the Endemic Soqotraen Leucas virgata Balf.f. and Its Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities
Authors: Mothana Ramzi , Al-Said Mansour , Al-Yahya Mohammed , Al-Rehaily Adnan , Khaled Jamal
Published: November 2013

Leucas virgata Balf.f. (Lamiaceae) was collected from the Island Soqotra (Yemen) and its essential oil was obtained by hydrodistillation. The chemical composition of the oil was investigated by GC and GC-MS. Moreover, the essential oil was evaluated for its antimicrobial activity against two Gram-positive bacteria, two Gram-negative bacteria, and one yeast species by using broth micro-dilution assay for minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and antioxidant activity by measuring the scavenging activity of the DPPH radical. The investigation led to the identification of 43 constituents, representing 93.9% of the total oil. The essential oil of L. virgata was characterized by a high content of oxygenated monoterpenes (50.8%). Camphor (20.5%) exo-fenchol (3.4%), fenchon (5.4%), and borneol (3.1%) were identified as the main components. Oxygenated sesquiterpenes were found as the second major group of compounds (21.0%). β-Eudesmol (6.1%) and caryophyllene oxide (5.1%) were the major compounds among oxygenated sesquiterpenes. The results of the antimicrobial assay showed that the oil exhibited a great antibacterial activity against the tested S. aureus, B. subtilis, and E. coli. No activity was found against P. aeruginosa and C. albicans. Moreover, the DPPH-radical scavenging assay exhibited only a moderate antioxidant activity (31%) for the oil at the highest concentration tested (1 mg/mL).
Tetra-Repeat Microsatellite Markers for the Masu Salmon (Oncorhynchus masou masou) and Its Application in Cross-Subspecies Amplification
Authors: Yamamoto Shoichiro , Kurokawa Tadahide , Sekino Masashi , Yasuike Motoshige , Saitoh Kenji
Published: November 2013

We developed tetranucleotide-repeat microsatellite markers for the masu salmon (Oncorhynchus masou) complex. 454 pyrosequencing was used to discover repeat motifs, and seven polymorphic microsatellite-primer sets were identified. The number of alleles detected at each locus ranged from four to 24 and the expected heterozygosity varied from 0.57 to 0.92. Cross-subspecies amplification for O. m. masou, O. m. ishikawae and O. m. subsp. was successful. These microsatellites can be utilized in studies of genetic structure, genetic diversity, and intra- and inter-subspecific hybridization, making a contribution to conservation and management of the Oncorhynchus masou complex.
External Mill Monitoring of Wheat Flour Fortification Programs: An Approach for Program Managers Using Experiences from Jordan
Authors: Wirth James , Nichols Erin , Mas'd Hanan , Barham Rawhieh , Johnson Quentin , Serdula Mary
Published: November 2013

The fortification of wheat flour with micronutrients is a common strategy to increase vitamin and mineral intake. While wheat flour mills are often inspected by agencies affiliated with national ministries to ensure compliance with national fortification standards, few countries use data derived from these inspections to construct an external monitoring system for use in program management and evaluation. The primary objective of this paper is to assess the performance of the external monitoring system utilized in Jordan according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Updated Guidelines for Evaluating Public Health Surveillance Systems. A secondary objective is to present mill monitoring results from 2009 to 2010 in order to demonstrate the data generated by the system. The review concludes that the data required for the system is representative, simple to collect, and can be collected in a flexible manner. The external monitoring system is acceptable to participating agencies and millers and is stable due to mandatory fortification legislation which provides the legal framework for external monitoring. Data on production of fortified flour and utilization of premix can be provided in a timely manner, but on-site mill monitoring and flour sample collection are more challenging due to resource constraints. The frequent collection of a small number of indicators can provide fortification program managers with timely information with which to base decisions. Jordan’s external monitoring system successfully documented the performance of each mill and the entire flour fortification program, and can serve as a model for other national fortification programs considering external monitoring approaches.
Reaction of 2,2,4,4-tetrakis(trifluoromethyl)-1,3-dithiethane with N-vinyl compounds
Authors: Petrov Viacheslav A , Marshall Will
Published: November 2013

The reaction of hexafluorothioacetone dimer (2,2,4,4-tetrakis(trifluoromethyl)-1,3-dithiethane, 1) with vinylamides leads to the rapid formation of [2 + 2] cycloadducts: 4-amino-2,2-bis(trifluoromethyl)thietanes. The reaction proceeds in polar solvents (DMF, DMSO) in the absence of a catalyst at elevated temperature producing the corresponding cycloadducts in 47–86% yield. The reaction of N-vinylimidazole unexpectedly led to the formation of the corresponding 1-(hexafluoroisopropyl)-3-vinyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-imidazole-2-thione (5). The structure of this compound, along with the structures of two new thietanes was confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction.
Cloud-Assisted Services for Mobile Applications
Authors: Verber Domen
Published: November 2013

This chapter discusses those mobile applications that are assisted with services provided by the cloud. This combines the two most pervasive topics within information technology today: cloud computing and mobile computing. This chapter describes the challenges and opportunities offered by these technologies and the issues arising during their implementation. Some representative cloud services for mobile applications are offered as part of an on-going CLASS research project.
Context-Aware Mobile System for Public Bus Transportation
Authors: Krajnc Mitja , Podgorelec Vili , Heričko Marjan
Published: November 2013

The spread of smartphones in recent years announced an era of smarter and advanced mobile applications that not only show information but also adapt themselves to users’ surroundings. In this chapter, the authors present a context-aware mobile system in public bus transportation domain based on Windows Phone platform. The principal objective of this system is using users’ location, identity, and timeframe as context data to tailor shown information according to users’ needs. Together with users’ previous actions, the system predicts intended activity in the form of presenting users with preferred bus lines in the current context. The developed system shows how context-awareness and activity prediction can be combined to create mobile applications that do not require a lot of user interaction but still offer detailed information about specific domains.
Multi-Photo Fusion through Projective Geometry
Authors: Barazzetti Luigi
Published: November 2013

Multiple images of the same object can be registered and fused after identifying a proper mathematical model. This chapter illustrates the contribution of projective geometry and automated matching techniques to several photographic applications: high dynamic range, multi-focus, and panoramic photography. The method relies on the estimation of a set of planar transformations that make the data consistent. This provides pixel correspondence and allows the photographer to obtain new digital products in an almost fully automated way.
Special Educational Needs Workshop Online
Authors: Barrantes Danny , D´Antoni Maurizia
Published: November 2013

This chapter describes an educational setup experience implemented at the Department of University Teaching at University of Costa Rica. Its relevance lies upon the process and implementation of a didactic strategy based on a digital exercise, its mediation, and the resulting learning scenario that enhances and promotes accessibility and inclusion as a crucial discussion in higher education. A game activity involving a board game is one of the activities included, and its purpose aims to encourage changes in teachers’ attitudes through creativity. It is relevant to foster appropriate curriculum arrangements and support measures as required, ensuring effective learning resulting in positive outcomes in higher education and wellbeing of students and staff. It is important to develop sector-wide technology facilities and staff development to enable colleges to provide an education capable of speaking everybody’s language.
Co-Designing Novel Interior Design Services that Utilise Augmented Reality
Authors: Kymäläinen Tiina , Siltanen Sanni
Published: November 2013

In this chapter, the authors describe a co-design process and the implementation requirements of an interactive interior design service system. To gain design information for the system, they study two focus groups composed of designers, bloggers, and serious amateurs in the field of interior design – the estimated critical users of the forthcoming service system. The framework for the co-design study is twofold. The design aim is to study users’ innovation capability in the early phase of a complex process by utilising co-sketching as a means of obtaining a user model of the interactive system. The technological aim is to create interior design concepts that exploit Augmented Reality (AR), 3D models, and user-generated content within the system framework. This chapter reports the design process and results of the co-design sessions; furthermore, it presents requirements for the system, use cases utilising AR technology, plus consideration and evaluation of the AR functionalities.
Differences between Role of Strong Ties and Weak Ties in Information Diffusion on Social Network Sites
Authors: Kavianpour Sanaz , Ismail Zuraini , Shanmugam Bharanidharan
Published: November 2013

The popularity of Social Network Sites (SNSs) has increased recently. Social network sites provide platforms which operate based on exchanging information among users; therefore, information propagation is a significant topic in social networking researches. The goal of this chapter is to study the factors that have a significant role in information diffusion, then compare the role of ties in spreading information and evaluating the strength of ties. The result shows that, although strong ties have an important role, the likelihood of information diffusion by weak ties is higher.
Story Objects
Authors: Kratky Andreas , Ho Daphne
Published: November 2013

Most modern globalized societies are characterized by large immigrant communities. While previously the assimilation of immigrants was often connected to “unlearning” the original cultural background, today’s acculturation processes are marked by digital media, which support identity-forming by empowering communication. On the other hand, digital media often strengthen difficulties in inter-generational communication. The authors explore the use of digital interactive media to foster inter-generational communication and the transfer of cultural and historic knowledge. Story Objects is an installation that presents aspects of immigrant history alongside an individual family history leveraging food traditions and memories as a starting point to stimulate the viewers on multiple levels to engage in communication about the larger topic of immigrant identity.
The State-Based Factors Affecting Inward FDI Employment in the U.S.
Authors: Kornecki Lucyna , Ekanayake E. M.
Published: November 2013

The descriptive part of this research focuses on the latest trends in U.S. inward Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and describes the U.S. inward FDI flows and stock as a percentage of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and includes geographic and sectoral distribution of inward U.S. FDI. The important part of U.S. inward FDI profile relates to inward U.S. FDI employment and inward U.S. FDI financial flows, which include equity, reinvested earnings, and intercompany debt. The corporate players, Mergers and Acquisitions(M&A’s) and green field investment are discussed briefly. The empirical part of this research investigates state-based factors affecting the inward FDI employment among 50 states of the United States and is based on data collected by the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). This study identifies several state-specific determinants of FDI employment. The results indicate that the major factors exerting positive impact on inward U.S. FDI employment are: real wages, infrastructure, unionization level, educational attainment, FDI stock, and manufacturing density. In addition, the results show that gross state product growth rate, real per capita taxes has negative impact on FDI employment.
Public Private Partnership for Infrastructure Development
Authors: Sawhney Upinder
Published: November 2013

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) are an absolute necessity in India as all levels of the government in the country (i.e., federal, state, and local) are facing budgetary deficits. PPPs in various spheres of economic activity can bridge the gap between the capacity of the state to grow and the factors which are pulling it behind. In a successful PPP model, all the stakeholders (i.e., the government, the people, and the private partners) pose a disciplinary mechanism to each other. The present chapter seeks to study the policy for PPPs in the Indian state of Punjab as also the institutional framework for the same. It also seeks to examine the feasibility of using PPP model for the much-needed development of the agriculture sector in the state. The fiscal situation of the state and its indebtedness along with the populist policies of the government do not leave any room for either the maintenance or the creation of any new infrastructure in the state. Both rural and urban infrastructure in Punjab can be strengthened through the PPP route. The chapter focuses on the problems of Punjab economy and the role of PPPs in fixing the same.
Investment and Development Banks and Strategies in Turkey
Authors: Celik Ismail Erkan , Dinçer Hasan , Hacioğlu Ümit
Published: November 2013

The World Bank is the most important financier for international investment. The bank opens credits mostly for investment projects in developing countries. Turkey has received various investment credits since its membership to the World Bank on March 11, 1947. The credits were used for economic and social domains. Turkey has also been granted credits from the European Investment Bank (EIB). The credits received are composed of micro credits that belong to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). A regional development bank, Islamic Development Bank, has also received credits through Eximbank and Industrial Development Bank of Turkey (TSKB) to finance Turkish SMEs. This chapter deals with Turkish investment strategies in the framework of basic principles of investment – development banks.
Globalization and Turkey’s Energy Policies
Authors: Kivilcim Fulya
Published: November 2013

Along with the concept of globalization, the changing paradigm in international politics has been attached to energy policies of states. From an economic perspective to political tendencies, the interdependency of energy and security concerns illustrates the possible outbreak of wars and national conflicts around the globe. Turkey, within the geo-political and geo-strategic position, is under a competitive challenge of security paradigm whilst the hegemonic powers’ energy policies attach to her hinterland in the region. This chapter examines the energy policies of great powers in the international arena and the effects of these policies on developing countries. In this study, alternative security strategies and energy policies have been assessed for long-term economic and politic stability for Turkey.
The Business World as a Battlefield
Authors: Kilinc Izzet , Oncu Mehmet Akif , Tasgit Yunus Emre
Published: November 2013

The aim of this chapter is to evaluate the business world as a battlefield by establishing a contact between the basic characteristics of the competition strategies and Sun Tzu’s principles. In order to fulfill this aim, qualitative research method was used and Sun Tzu’s book The Art of War was investigated in respect of competition, and the studies on this subject were comprehensively evaluated. As a result, a conceptual fragment was formed for the terms used in the book so as to adapt Sun Tzu’s principles to the study. According to this conceptual fragment, the matching is as follows: war – competition; enemies – competitors; environmental conditions – elements affecting the competition environment and the management and decisions of the company; battlefield – business world/market; weapons - means used in the strategy construction of the organization and in the implementation of the strategies.
Mintzberg’s Adhocratic Organization Structure
Authors: Toker Kerem , Cinar Dilaysu
Published: November 2013

The importance of innovation for enterprises increases each passing day. As a result of globalization, enterprises are under intense competitive pressure. They have to make innovation for increasing \ market share or for protecting it. Non-innovative firms lose their customers and their existence faces a threat from other innovative actors in the market. Therefore, firms have to design their organization structure that encourage innovation. Mintzberg’s innovative organization structure is investigated in this chapter. Mintzberg's five-part organizational structure is described briefly in this chapter, and a case study, which is related to innovative (adhocratic) organization structure, is performed. Thus, its aim is to identify the diversity between theory and practice via of the theoretical knowledge. As a result of the study, a high degree of similarity between the application and Mintzberg’s theory, which is related to innovative organization structure, is identified.
Customer Relations Management Applications in the Tourism Industry
Authors: Aydın Burcu Pekduyurucu
Published: November 2013

In recent years, all information about customers can be shared with employees by customer relations management in tourism establishments, and accordingly, all customer expectations can be met. As a result, producing customer loyalty can be possible. Customer relations management applications in tourism establishments is crucial with regards to competing with other establishments. The most important factor for customers to be pleased with the tourism establishments and prefer the same establishment again is the qualities of front office employees who are directly in relation with customers because front office is the first department that customers interact with. Information about front office is provided and application circumstances of the front office are explained in this research. The population consists of managers of 4-star and 5-star hotels operating in Turkey. In this research, contributions of the front office employees in providing customer loyalty, preventing customer complaints, and customer relations applications of the establishment are examined.
Determinants of Controlling in a Non-Public Higher Education Institution in Poland
Authors: Janczyk-Strzała Elżbieta
Published: November 2013

The basis of any business, including non-public Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), is financial security, which is ensured by achieving sufficiently high profits and financial liquidity. Especially in these times, a rapidly changing market, the competition, and the upcoming birth rate forces HEIs to optimize operational and strategic decisions. On one hand, it creates new opportunities for non-public HEIs, but on the other, it is a source of danger for the future of their operations. Therefore, they must not only overcome the difficulties encountered in everyday life but also try to respond to the challenges posed by their environment, demonstrating the special care to ensure the efficiency of their operations. They must not only try to increase the quality of offered services or manage their funds rationally but with equal attention should “invest” in modern management methods and concepts. Through the use of controlling, contemporary non-public HEIs are able to choose an optimum variant of decision facilitating the achievement of their goals. In view of the above, this chapter discusses the special considerations relating to controlling HEIs from the point of view of increasing their effectiveness.
Cyborgs and Cyberpunks
Authors: Loveless Douglas J.
Published: November 2013

This conceptual chapter introduces theoretical issues to consider when reflecting on digital technologies in educational processes. Rather than beginning this book with a practical discussion of how to employ digital technologies as teaching or learning tools, the ideas presented here, and in this section of the book, provide a beginning to philosophically probing the implications of integrating such technologies into schooling. This type of reflection, initiated in this chapter and developed further in others, should continue throughout the book to inform perspectives shaped when reading about more practical matters. Ideally, theory and practice concerning digital technologies form a cyclical relationship. The dialogue presented here on empowerment, identity, and social/corporate globalization will hopefully lead to a Freirian notion of praxis involving reflection and action that transforms the world.
Philosophical Guidelines for the Social Studies
Authors: Stuckart Daniel W.
Published: November 2013

The purpose of this chapter is to place the use of Digital Tools and Artifacts (DTAs) within the context of John Dewey’s philosophy, and along the way, articulate guidelines for integrating technology in the Social Studies. Despite persistent calls for the integration of DTAs, social studies researchers still report low-level cognitive uses and overwhelmingly traditional teaching methods. By constructing a philosophical framework based on Deweyan thought, one can test research and ideas, perhaps leading to the more purposeful and effective use of these tools and artifacts in teaching and learning. Philosophy is an instrument for criticizing and reconstructing human activities, and scholars belatedly credit Dewey as a pioneer in the technology branch.