bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Student performance study: the outcomes of metabolic, molecular and physical-chemical characterization of intestinal tract microbiome on a four mammalian species model
Authors: CIBER Nataša , ZUPANČIČ Tina , ZORAN Tamara , ŠIMUNOVIĆ Katarina , PUGELJ Anja , PAPIĆ Bojan , KLINEC Nika , GAZVODA Andreja , DRAKSLAR Benjamin , DOLENC Mateja , STRES Blaž
Published: December 2014

Many environmental factors influence the structure of microbial communities, their activity and properties of the environment of the digestive tract. Contrary to constant disturbances, the system provides the basis for energy conversion and thus the long-term stable coexistence of different hosts and their specific intestinal microbiota over geological timescales. Since the methodological approaches proved to be the largest source of systematic errors in comparisons of microbial communities among different organisms of the same species or between different species, we tested a number of methods on samples from different species of mammals in order to verify the feasibility of this approach for future routine analysis of microbiomes:(i) analyses of physical-chemical parameters;(ii)the metabolic properties of attached, planktonic fractions in comparison to the total;(iii)structure of microbial communities of bacteria and archaea; (iv)data analysis. We used a model of intestinal samples from four species of mammals, encompassing the differences between the various types of intestinal tracts: ruminants and rodents (such as pre- and post- peptic fermentors), omnivores and carnivores. The second purpose of the study was to(i)assess the extent of spread of data due to the cooperation of the various operators on the data obtained, and(ii) to evaluate the skills of the students to carry out industry-oriented investigations and measurements in 1st year of MSc study Microbiology; and(iii) to promote awareness of the importance of routine laboratory work day and the corresponding duties. The results suggest(i)that the operators independently organized and shared tasks;(ii)successfully completed all methods;(iii)obtain relevant information;(iv)critically evaluated and interpreted within the extent of their knowledge;(v) that relative standard deviation(RSD) typically could be compared to those of the automated analytical procedures(<10 %) and therefore represented the maximum extent of the variability of the biological material itself. It follows that the motivated MSc students were able to uphold the unknown protocols under supervision and perform laboratory and analytical complex experimental task, process and interpret results, and approximate performance of analytical procedures in industrial laboratories to generate data sets of acceptable high-quality.
Ruminococcus flavefaciens 007C cellulosomes and cellulase consortium
Authors: VODOVNIK Maša
Published: December 2014

Ruminococcus flavefaciens is among the most important cellulolytic bacterial species in rumen and gastrointestinal tract of monogastric herbivorous animals. Its efficiency in degradation of (hemi)cellulosic substrates is associated with the production of remarkably intricate extracellular multienzyme complexes, named cellulosomes. In the present work we investigated the cellulolytic system of 007C. The bioinformatic analysis of the draft genome sequence revealed identical organization of sca gene cluster as has previously been found in four other strains of R. flavefaciens. The cluster consists of five genes in the following order: scaC-scaA-scaB-cttA-scaE. The cellulases of R. flavefaciens 007C belong to four families of glycoside hydrolases, namely GH48, GH44, GH9 in GH5. Majority of these enzymes are putative endoglucanases, belonging to families GH5 and GH9, whereas only one gene encoding GH44 and GH48 was found. Apart from catalytic domains, most of these proteins also contain dockerins – signature sequences, which indicate their attachement to cellulosomes. On the other hand, carbohydrate-binding modules were only found coupled to GH9 catalytic domains. Zymogram analysis showed that larger endoglucanases were mostly constitutively expressed, wheras smaller enzymes were only detected in later phases of Avicel-grown cultures.
Kultura muzyczna w klasztorze Klarysek w Starym Sączu
Authors: Garnczarski Stanisław
Published: December 2014

Big impact on the life of Church and on the public and cultural sphere has the formation of the new forms of religious life in Europe of the twelfth and thirteenth-century. So it was in Poland in the case of the monasteries of Poor Clares, especially Poor Clares in Stary Sacz which developed the rich musical life. Helpful in this regard were the structure of monastic life with various functions and ministries. Among them we find many serving liturgical music and not only and assigned to sisters of a special musical abilities. Moreover, sisters have led regular singing practice; learned new songs and even composed themselves. Inside the monastery acted religious band, for which the instruments were purchased; in a different period the monastic band functioned, employing also secular musicians, in addition to constantly employed organists. Sisters maintained also close contacts with the clergy who visiting the monastery brought ordered by Sisters liturgical books, among them a musical. In this way library of the monastery enriched by the book, which today are relics of the highest quality and sources of the specialized research on the culture of the monastery of Stary Sacz.
Etyka na łamach tygodników opiniotwórczych
Authors: Kaczor Monika
Published: December 2014

Aspekty znaczeniowe etyki, dostrzegane we współczesnej prasie opiniotwórczej, pokazują, że jest ona utożsamiana z moralnością i etosem. Mówi się o niej w kontekstach związanych z poszanowaniem godności i praw człowieka oraz zasad życia społecznego, które odnoszą się do polityki, gospodarki, biologii, medycyny, ekologii, kultury i cywilizacji konsumpcji. Użytkownikom języka bliższe jest znaczenie etyki w ujęciu pragmatycznym niż normatywnym, o czym świadczy funkcjonowanie tego pojęcia jako aprobowanego społecznie zbioru zasad i norm postępowania właściwych dla konkretnych grup społecznych i wskazującego na jej konkretny styl życia, hierarchię celów.
Czy zasadne jest stosowanie „antropologicznej” koncepcji „rasy”?
Authors: Twardowski Mirosław
Published: December 2014

Pojęcie „rasy” wprowadził do słownictwa naukowego w połowie XVIII wieku francuski filozofa i matematyk Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon. W antropologii koncepcja ta zadomowiła się głównie dzięki pracom niemieckiego naukowca Johanna Friedricha Blumenbacha. Od początku koncepcja „rasy” wzbudzała kontrowersje wśród badaczy. Nawet sam Karol Darwin wyrażał sceptycyzm wobec używania pojęcia rasy w odniesieniu do ludzi. Wątpliwości co do naukowych podstaw typologii rasowej wyraził na początku XX wieku amerykański antropolog Franz Boas. W 1940 roku podobne wątpliwości przedstawił amerykańsko-brytyjski antropolog Ashley Montagu. W 1960 roku amerykański antropolog i genetyk Frank Livingstone na podstawie badań genetycznych poddał krytyce koncepcję ras ludzkich. Takie samo stanowisko wyrażał wybitny amerykański genetyk Teodozjusz Dobzhansky. Dobzhansky twierdził, że nie ma ras, które byłyby “odrębnymi jednostkami”. W 1970 roku, amerykański genetyk Richard Lewontin na podstawie własnych badań wykazywał, że nie ma możliwości wyizolowania odrębnych ras w oparciu o kryteria genetyczne.Artykuł odnosi się do osiągnięć współczesnej biologii, zwłaszcza genetyki, aby odpowiedzieć na pytanie, czy właściwe jest dzisiaj używanie „antropologicznej” koncepcji rasy. Dla pełniejszej ilustracji problemu artykuł odnosi się do źródeł historycznych, przywołując argumenty przedstawiane przez różnych autorów na przestrzeni wieków przeciwko stosowaniu koncepcji rasy w stosunku do ludzi.
Ikonografia tarnowskich drzwi Bronisława Chromego w kontekście ideologicznych sporów wokół martyrologii wojennej
Authors: Ryba Grażyna
Published: December 2014

W 1984 roku powstały drzwi brązowe do kościoła św. Maksymiliana w Tarnowie wykonane przez krakowskiego rzeźbiarza Bronisława Chromego. Artysta nazwał swoje dzieło „Pomnikiem Męczeństwa Narodów” i połączył w tworzącym je cyklu płaskorzeźb wątek martyrologiczny, który ukazuje mechanizm działania niemieckich obozów śmierci, z przedstawieniem św. Maksymiliana, jego pobytu w Auschwitz, heroicznej śmierci i ostatecznego triumfu, głoszonej przez niego idei miłości. Praca Chromego wpisuje się tym samym w nurt polemiki ideologicznej pomiędzy państwem komunistycznym i Kościołem w kwestii jego roli i postawy chrześcijan w czasie drugiej wojny światowej. Treść i forma przedstawień na Drzwiach Tarnowskich wpisuje się też w krąg dzieł Chromego ukazujących kształtowanie się mistycznej postawy artysty.
Iść za dowodami, dokądkolwiek prowadzą. Nawrócenie słynnego ateisty – profesora Antony’ego Flewa
Authors: Maziarka Tomasz
Published: December 2014

Artykuł relacjonuje intelektualną podróż, od ateizmu do wiary w Boga, jednego z najbardziej znanych filozofów XX wieku – Antony’ego Flewa. Pierwsza część zawiera krytykę teizmu, którą przedstawił Flew w kilku szeroko dyskutowanych pracach. Druga odnosi się do trzech argumentów, które w opinii filozofa przemawiają za istnieniem Boga. Pierwszy z nich dotyczy faktu istnienia praw przyrody i można wyrazić go pytaniem: skąd wzięły się prawa przyrody? Drugi wiąże się z zagadką powstania życia: w jaki sposób życie wyłoniło się z martwej materii? Wreszcie trzecią racją jest sam fakt istnienia świata: dlaczego świat istnieje? Teistyczny punkt widzenia, będący owocem intelektualnych poszukiwań, zwięźle ujmują słowa nawróconego: „Wierzę, że wszechświat został powołany do istnienia przez nieskończoną Inteligencję. Wierzę, że misterne prawa kształtujące strukturę wszechświata są wyrazem tego, co naukowcy określają mianem «Umysł Boga». Wierzę, że fenomen życia i jego zdolność do reprodukcji posiada swe źródło w Bogu”.
Wspólnota życia i miłości. Wybrane zagadnienia z teologii komunii małżeństwa i rodziny
Authors: Smuniewski Cezary
Published: December 2014

Małżeństwo i rodzina widziane jako „wspólnota życia i miłości” zachęcają w świetle współcześnie rozwijanej teologii komunii do wielu refleksji, badań i opracowań. Niniejsze studium podejmuje niektóre zagadnienia spośród wielu, które domagają się wnikliwych przemyśleń i analiz. Przybliżone zatem zostaną kwestie umiejscowienia teologii komunii małżeństwa i rodziny w odniesieniach szczególnie do tajemnicy Trójcy Świętej i Kościoła. Podjęty zostaje także temat „samotności człowieka” w kontekście wydarzenia, jakim jest małżeństwo i rodzina. Całość przedstawionego opracowania zamykają trzy szczegółowe zagadnienia, będące swoistego rodzaju napięciem niesionym przez współczesność, a z którymi w nieunikniony sposób musi zderzyć się praktyka życia człowieka powołanego i uzdolnionego do tworzenia relacji komunijnych. Te zagadnienia to: wychowanie w dziedzinie emocji, cielesność człowieka i „narcyzm partnerów”.
Pilne zadanie uczniów Chrystusa: głosić radość Ewangelii we współczesnym świecie
Authors: Szmulewicz Henryk
Published: December 2014

Słychać często opinie ludzi wierzących, skarżących się na brak umiejętności przekazywania innym daru orędzia Ewangelii (np. poszukującym prawdy o Bogu ludziom niewierzącym czy wątpiącym) w sposób dla nich zrozumiały. Dlatego tak ważne jest, aby wobec pojawiających się trudności, nie tracili cierpliwości oraz zawsze liczyli na Bożą pomoc, która niezawodnie jest udzielona, gdyż kwestia poznania prawd objawionych i radość z tego poznania płynąca nie jest sprawą błahą i nieważną. To kwestia zasadnicza w całym dziele ewangelizacji. W tym duchu papież Franciszek w swej adhortacji apostolskiej Evangelii gaudium wzywa wszystkich wierzących do gorliwego zaangażowania się w głoszenie radości Ewangelii. Należy traktować to zadanie jako pilne, biorąc pod uwagę konkretne uwarunkowania codziennego życia we współczesnym świecie. Niniejsze studium jest analizą kilku przykładów wyzwań, które – zgodnie z nauczaniem papieża Franciszka – mogą przyczynić się do wzrostu apostolskiego zaangażowania i zapału, potwierdzając, że głoszenie Ewangelii jest we współczesnym świecie zadaniem pilnym.
Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment in a Patient with Turner Syndrome: An Unusual Case of Deep Bite
Authors: Aristizábal Juan Fernando , Smit Rosana Martínez
Published: December 2014

Turner syndrome is caused by complete or partial absence of one X chromosome. These patients usually have a delay in growth and altered body proportions, causing sexual infantilism, short stature, delayed bone maturation, and variations in craniofacial morphology, among other systemic complications. The skeletal features associated with this syndrome include maxillary growth reduction with midface hypoplasia; mandibular micrognathia; high, narrow palate; V-shaped maxillary arch; and open bite. This case report shows a two-phase orthodontic treatment in a patient with Turner syndrome with a Class II malocclusion and severe deep bite, which is an unusual feature in patients with this disease. A conventional orthodontic treatment was performed, and after 20 months in retention the patient remains stable.
Maxillary Expansion and Midline Correction by Asymmetric Transverse Distraction Osteogenesis in a Patient with Unilateral Cleft Lip/Palate: A Case Report
Authors: Shintaku Yuko , Tanikawa Chihiro , Iida Seiji , Aikawa Tomonao , Kogo Mikihiko , Yamashiro Takashi
Published: December 2014

This case report presents the management of a female patient with unilateral cleft lip and palate presenting with skeletal Class III malocclusion and a narrow upper dental arch with a midline deviation. The treatment plan involved asymmetric transverse distraction osteogenesis of the maxilla to make the upper dental midline coincident with the facial midline. After the treatment, a good facial profile and a close intercuspation of teeth were achieved. Occlusion remained stable with normal overjet and overbite after 2-year retention.
The Americleft Speech Project: A Training and Reliability Study
Authors: Chapman Kathy L. , Baylis Adriane , Trost-Cardamone Judith , Cordero Kelly Nett , Dixon Angela , Dobbelsteyn Cindy , Thurmes Anna , Wilson Kristina , Harding-Bell Anne , Sweeney Triona , Stoddard Gregory , Sell Debbie
Published: December 2014

Objective

To describe the results of two reliability studies and to assess the effect of training on interrater reliability scores.

Design

The first study (1) examined interrater and intrarater reliability scores (weighted and unweighted kappas) and (2) compared interrater reliability scores before and after training on the use of the Cleft Audit Protocol for Speech–Augmented (CAPS-A) with British English-speaking children. The second study examined interrater and intrarater reliability on a modified version of the CAPS-A (CAPS-A Americleft Modification) with American and Canadian English-speaking children. Finally, comparisons were made between the interrater and intrarater reliability scores obtained for Study 1 and Study 2.

Participants

The participants were speech-language pathologists from the Americleft Speech Project.

Results

In Study 1, interrater reliability scores improved for 6 of the 13 parameters following training on the CAPS-A protocol. Comparison of the reliability results for the two studies indicated lower scores for Study 2 compared with Study 1. However, this appeared to be an artifact of the kappa statistic that occurred due to insufficient variability in the reliability samples for Study 2. When percent agreement scores were also calculated, the ratings appeared similar across Study 1 and Study 2.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggested that improvements in interrater reliability could be obtained following a program of systematic training. However, improvements were not uniform across all parameters. Acceptable levels of reliability were achieved for those parameters most important for evaluation of velopharyngeal function.
Use of the On-Q Pain Pump in Alveolar Bone Grafting: Effect on Hospit Length of Stay
Authors: Muzaffar Arshad R. , Warren Abby , Baker Lynette
Published: December 2014

Objective

Alveolar bone grafting (ABG) with iliac crest bone graft can be associated with significant pain at the donor site. The On-Q pain pump has been shown to be efficacious in treating postsurgical pain. The aim of this study was to compare the length of postoperative hospital stay in patients undergoing ABG who received the On-Q pain pump at the iliac crest donor site (On-Q+) with that of patients who did not receive the On-Q pain pump (On-Q-).

Design

A retrospective, cohort study, approved by institutional review board, was performed. Thirty-one consecutive patients in the On-Q- group were compared with 38 consecutive patients in the On-Q– group. The two cohorts were assessed for length of stay. Statistical analysis was performed using the Fisher exact probability test.

Setting

Tertiary care academic medical center.

Patients

Sixty-nine patients with cleft lip and/or cleft palate (CL/P) undergoing secondary ABG with iliac crest bone graft were operated on between May 1993 and January 2014.

Main Outcome Measure

Length of postoperative hospital stay.

Result

Mean length of stay in the On-Q– patients was 0.52 days versus 0.37 days for the On-Q– patients. This difference between the two cohorts was not statistically significant (P = .234).

Conclusion

Although there is a trend toward a shorter length of stay in our patients who received the On-Q pump, this finding was not statistically significant. Given the expense and additional burden of care associated with the device, we have become more selective in its utilization.
Two Cases of Cleft Lip and Other Congenital Anomalies in Wild Chimpanzees Living in Kibale National Park, Uganda
Authors: Krief Sabrina , Watts David P. , Mitani John C. , Krief Jean-Michel , Cibot Marie , Bortolamiol Sarah , Seguya Andrew G. , Couly Gérard
Published: December 2014

Design

Observations of wild chimpanzees ( Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) were conducted in Kibale National Park, Uganda, at the sites of Sebitoli and Ngogo.

Results

We report the first two cases of cleft lip in wild chimpanzees. Additionally, some other chimpanzees in the Sebitoli community show facial dysplasia and congenital anomalies, such as patches of depigmented hairs and limb defects.

Conclusions

Cleft lip has been documented in several species of nonhuman primates, but much remains unknown about the occurrence of cleft lip and cleft palate in great apes, probably because such malformations are rare, wild apes are difficult to monitor and observe, and severe cases associated with cleft palates render suckling impossible and lead to early death of infants. The genetic basis of such defects in great apes warrants investigation, as does the possibility that environmental toxins contribute to their etiology in Kibale in ways that could affect humans as well.
Climate‐suitable planting as a strategy for maintaining forest productivity and functional diversity
Authors: Duveneck Matthew J. , Scheller Robert M.
Published: December 2014

Within the time frame of the longevity of tree species, climate change will change faster than the ability of natural tree migration. Migration lags may result in reduced productivity and reduced diversity in forests under current management and climate change. We evaluated the efficacy of planting climate‐suitable tree species (CSP), those tree species with current or historic distributions immediately south of a focal landscape, to maintain or increase aboveground biomass, productivity, and species and functional diversity. We modeled forest change with the LANDIS‐II forest simulation model for 100 years (2000–2100) at a 2‐ha cell resolution and five‐year time steps within two landscapes in the Great Lakes region (northeastern Minnesota and northern lower Michigan, USA). We compared current climate to low‐ and high‐emission futures. We simulated a low‐emission climate future with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) 2007 B1 emission scenario and the Parallel Climate Model Global Circulation Model (GCM). We simulated a high‐emission climate future with the IPCC A1FI emission scenario and the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL) GCM. We compared current forest management practices (business‐as‐usual) to CSP management. In the CSP scenario, we simulated a target planting of 5.28% and 4.97% of forested area per five‐year time step in the Minnesota and Michigan landscapes, respectively. We found that simulated CSP species successfully established in both landscapes under all climate scenarios. The presence of CSP species generally increased simulated aboveground biomass. Species diversity increased due to CSP; however, the effect on functional diversity was variable. Because the planted species were functionally similar to many native species, CSP did not result in a consistent increase nor decrease in functional diversity. These results provide an assessment of the potential efficacy and limitations of CSP management. These results have management implications for sites where diversity and productivity are expected to decline. Future efforts to restore a specific species or forest type may not be possible, but CSP may sustain a more general ecosystem service (e.g., aboveground biomass).
Effects of climatic variation and reproductive trade‐offs vary by measure of reproductive effort in greater sage‐grouse
Authors: Caudill Danny , Guttery Michael R. , Bibles Brent , Messmer Terry A. , Caudill Gretchen , Leone Erin , Dahlgren David K. , Chi Renee
Published: December 2014

Research on long‐lived iteroparous species has shown that reproductive success may increase with age, until the onset of senescence, and that prior reproductive success may influence current reproductive success. Such complex reproductive dynamics can complicate conservation strategies, especially for harvested species. Further complicating the matter is the fact that most studies of reproductive costs are only able to evaluate a single measure of reproductive effort. We systematically evaluated the effects of climatic variation and reproductive trade‐offs on multiple reproductive vital rates for greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus; sage‐grouse), a relatively long‐lived galliforme of conservation concern throughout western North America. Based on over a decade of field observations, we hypothesized that reproduction is influenced by previous reproductive success. We monitored hen reproductive activity from 1998 to 2010, and used generalized linear mixed models to assess effects of climate and previous reproductive success on subsequent reproductive success. Reproductive trade‐offs manifested as chronic effects on subsequent reproduction and were not apparent in all measures of subsequent reproduction. Neither nest initiation nor clutch size were found to be affected by climatic variables (either year t − 1 or t) or previous reproductive success. However, both nest and brood success were affected by climatic variation and previous reproductive success. Nest success was highest in years with high spring snowpack, and was negatively related to previous brood success. Brood success was positively influenced by moisture in April, negatively associated with previous nest success, and positively influenced by previous brood success. Both positive and negative effects of previous reproduction on current year reproduction were observed, possibly indicating high levels of individual heterogeneity in female reproductive output. Our results support previous research in indicating that climatic variability may have significant negative impacts on reproductive rates.
Silage Fermentation Characteristics of Napiergrass Harvested at Various Times on a Sunny Day
Authors: Guo Gang , Yuan XianJun , Wen AiYou , Liu Qiang , Zhang ShuanLin , Shao Tao
Published: December 2014

Grasses exhibit variations in chemical composition and epiphytic microorganisms during daytime. These variations may influence the natural fermentation characteristics of silage. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of cutting times on chemical composition and epiphytic microorganisms of fresh napiergrass (Pennisetum purpureum Sch.) and of these effects on fermentation quality of unwilted silage on a sunny day. Primary growth of napiergrass was harvested in its vegetative stage at 0800 (AM), 1300 (M), and 1800 h (PM) on three sunny days. Napiergrass prepared at each cutting time was ensiled in laboratory silos in triplicate and sampled after 30 d to analyze the fermentation attributes and microbial counts. Bacterial community on fresh and post‐ensiled forage samples were determined by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis, which were harvested on cutting Day 1. The results showed that 30‐d fermented napiergrass silages had good fermentation quality. Lactobacillus plantarum was detected in all silages throughout the ensiling. The fermentation characteristics for silage made with PM‐cut napiergrass were better, with higher (P < 0.05) dry matter, water‐soluble carbohydrates, and lactic acid concentrations and lower (P < 0.05) NH3–N concentration, than those made with AM‐ and M‐cut forages. In conclusion, delayed‐cutting napiergrass on a sunny day was associated with good silage fermentation characteristics.
Genetic Variation for Dry Matter Yield, Forage Quality, and Seed Traits Among the Half‐Sib Progeny of Nine Orchardgrass Germplasm Populations
Authors: Robins Joseph G. , Bushman B. Shaun , Jensen Kevin B. , Escribano Sandra , Blaser Greg
Published: December 2014

A potential strategy to address the lack of success of North American orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) breeding programs to increase forage yield and other agronomic traits is the incorporation of novel sources of germplasm. In an attempt to identify novel orchardgrass germplasm sources with agronomic potential, the study described herein characterized 162 half‐sib families (HSFs) from six orchardgrass germplasm populations and three orchardgrass cultivars. Study conditions were Millville, UT, and Rexburg, ID, field sites with data collection from 2008 to 2010. The genotype × location interaction variance differed from zero for dry matter yield, crude protein, in vitro true digestibility (IVTD), neutral detergent fiber, and seed weight. Within location broad‐sense heritability differed for all traits at both locations (0.36 ±0.10 to 0.77 ±0.03) except IVTD at Rexburg. For each trait there were HSFs that possessed values similar to or better than the included check cultivars (CCs). Additionally, in several instances the mean phenotype of the HSFs from a specific family was better than the phenotype of the corresponding parental population and/or the mean phenotype of the CCs. Overall, for each trait there existed sufficient genetic variation to develop an elite orchardgrass breeding program for irrigated conditions.
Heterosis and Combining Ability of F1 Hybrid Sweet Sorghum in Thailand
Authors: Bunphan Darika , Jaisil Prasit , Sanitchon Jirawat , Knoll Joseph E. , Anderson William F.
Published: December 2014

Sweet sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is a sugar‐based biofuel crop that is well‐suited to tropical environments. Most sweet sorghum cultivars are open‐pollinated, but hybrids could offer yield and seed production advantages. Fifteen hybrids were generated among five female and three male parents. The hybrids, parents, and three inbred checks were evaluated for sugar yield and related traits under two environments in Thailand in 2013: Field Crop Research Station at Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, and National Corn and Sorghum Research Center, Nakhon Ratchasima. Theoretical sugar yield was positively correlated with juice dissolved solids (Brix), plant height, stalk diameter, biomass yield, stripped stalk yield, and theoretical juice yield. Grain yield was negatively correlated with juice dissolved solids and theoretical sugar yield. Positive heterosis for juice dissolved solids was not observed, though five hybrids had negative mid‐parent heterosis for this trait. Positive heterosis for biomass yield, theoretical juice yield, and grain yield was observed in some hybrids. General combining ability was observed for most traits, but specific combining ability (SCA) effects were of greater importance. Overall, the hybrids KKA‐11 × BJ248, KKA‐11 × KKU40, KKA‐139 × BJ248, KKA‐14 × KKU40, and KKA‐53 × Theis had the greatest SCA for theoretical sugar yield. In producing ethanol from both sugar and grain fractions, two of the hybrids in this study (KKA‐11 × BJ248 and KKA‐139 × BJ248) could produce approximately 4600 L ha−1 ethanol in Thailand.
‘Here we have a system in which liquid water is moving; let's just get at the physics of it’ (Penman 1965)
Authors: Beven Keith
Published: December 2014

This paper is based on the 2012 Penman Lecture delivered at the 11th National Symposium of the British Hydrological Society. The title is taken from a 1965 interview by Howard Penman when hydrological modelling was just really starting. In the period since then, the idea that we might easily move towards ‘physically based’ representations of hydrological processes has proven problematic. It is argued that this might best be done within a hypotheses testing framework, where the hypotheses are the model representations of processes over some discrete elements of a catchment, integrating the small-scale variability within those elements. This might still require some distribution function to reflect that variability, since the extremes of the variability might be important in controlling the response. Hypotheses will need to be formulated that reflect the interaction of the water flow pathways and the biota. Testing of those hypotheses will require a proper account of the uncertainties inherent in the study of hydrological systems, including a recognition that many sources of uncertainty are epistemic in nature rather than simple random variability. Such uncertainties will only be significantly reduced by the development of new measurement techniques that provide useful information at the element scales of interest.
Predicting infiltration pollutant retention in bioretention sustainable drainage systems: model development and validation
Authors: Quinn Ruth , Dussaillant Alejandro
Published: December 2014

A major problem of increased urbanization is the rise in pollution caused by runoff. A solution to this problem can be found through the use of Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) such as rain gardens. Previous research has focused primarily on hydrologic design including the degree to which groundwater is replenished by these systems and models have been developed to quantify the extent of that recharge. However these models do not simulate the transport or fate of pollutants. In this paper, a preliminary heavy metal retention computer model is proposed that consists of two parts: a water flow module and pollutant retention module. To describe flow behaviour a dual-permeability approach is implemented which facilitates the prediction of both matrix and macropore flow. This subroutine is then combined with the retention module, which utilizes and couples the linear, Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms with the advection-diffusion equation. Both submodels are validated using existing literature data. This validation was assessed using efficiency indexes and showed good results with an R2 > 0.93 for the matrix region, an R2 > 0.89 for the macropore region and an R2 = 0.99 for the pollutant retention module. This results in a valuable tool for the design and implementation of bioretention facilities.
Do catchment characteristics explain differences in coherence and trends in hydroclimatic behaviour in an upland region?
Authors: McGrane Scott J. , Tetzlaff Doerthe , Essery Richard , Soulsby Chris
Published: December 2014

To explore the link between catchment characteristics and sensitivity to environmental change, longer-term data from 21 contrasting mesoscale (67–690 km2) catchments in northern Scotland were analysed to examine the influence of hydroclimatic drivers on hydrological response. Cluster analysis was used to classify the catchments into four distinct groups, with topography and annual precipitation being the two most significant differentiating factors. Using 12 years of data from the 21 sites, inter-catchment coherence of intra- and inter-annual variation of precipitation, air temperatures and stream discharge were assessed both within and between clusters. Whilst catchments in clusters characterised by lower elevations exhibited coherence in hydroclimatic drivers and streamflow response, the higher altitude catchments did not. Annual trends were evident for widespread increases in temperature and also increasing values of precipitation in the higher elevation catchments. Seasonal trends indicate a lack of consistent change during winter, but most other seasons exhibit an increase in temperatures, with isolated increases in measures of precipitation and discharge particularly during the transitional seasons of spring and autumn. These trends ultimately could not be related with catchment typology where increasing upland area results in a breakdown of hydroclimatic coherence between sites.
A constant head well permeameter formula comparison: its significance in the estimation of field-saturated hydraulic conductivity in heterogeneous shallow soils
Authors: Archer N. A. L. , Bonell M. , MacDonald A. M. , Coles N.
Published: December 2014

We evaluate the application and investigate various formulae (and the associated parameter sensitivities) using the constant head well permeameter method to estimate field-saturated hydraulic conductivity (Kfs) in a previously glaciated temperate landscape in the Scottish Borders where shallow soils constrain the depth of augering. In finer-textured soils, the Glover equation provided Kfs estimates nearly twice those of the Richards equation. For this environment, we preferred the Glover equation with a correction factor for the effect of gravity, which does not include soil capillarity effects because: (1) the low depth to diameter ratio of the auger holes (AH) required in the shallow stratified soils of temperate glaciated environment needs a correction for gravity; (2) the persistently moist environment and the use of long pre-wetting times before measurements seem to reduce the effect of soil capillarity; (3) the Richards equation is dependent on accurate α* values, but the measured AH intersected soil horizon boundaries that had different soil structure and texture, causing difficulty in selecting the most appropriate α* value; (4) when comparing the different solutions to estimate Kfs using the constant-head well permeameter method against the AH method and ponded permeameter measurements, the Glover solution with a correction for gravity gave the best comparable result in fine-textured soil.
Specially invited opinions and research report of the International Water Law Project: global perspectives on the entry into force of the UN Watercourses Convention 2014: part one
Authors: Eckstein Gabriel
Published: December 2014

From the Editor-in-Chief, Dr Jerome Delli Priscoli: This is a research report on opinions of prominent international water lawyers from each continent on the potential impacts of the 1997 UN Convention on Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses. It will be published in two successive editions of Water Policy.
Patterns and controlling factors of residential water use in Los Angeles, California
Authors: Mini C. , Hogue T. S. , Pincetl S.
Published: December 2014

The current study evaluates residential water use patterns and driving factors across Los Angeles, California. Ten years of monthly residential water data were obtained from the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. Socio-economic, vegetation characteristics, climate, and water pricing data were utilized to develop a statistical model to determine controlling factors of single-family residential water use. Key drivers were found to be household income, landscape greenness, water pricing, household volume allocation, precipitation and temperature. Results show that low water users are less sensitive to climate variability than high water users, likely because these customers have reduced outdoor water use. In the lower income group, average household size is a predictor for household water consumption, which increases with more residents. Lower water users are also more sensitive to changes in their first level household water allocation (Tier 1). However, low, medium and high water users all respond more to changes in the Tier 1 rate than the Tier 2 rate, and generally reduce consumption if this block rate is increased.
Global diffusion of XL-capacity seawater desalination
Authors: Feitelson Eran , Jones Ariahna
Published: December 2014

In the wake of rapid population growth coupled with climate change and environmental degradation, countries around the world face increasing uncertainty in their ability to provide ample, safe and sustainable potable water. To meet this uncertainty, seawater desalination has been advanced around the world as a reliable new supply that improves water quality, aquifer restoration, water security and is essentially insensitive to climate change. Not only are the number of facilities increasing, but the size of the facilities is also increasing in order to take advantage of economies of scale. This paper analyzes the emerging trend of extra-large-capacity (XL) seawater desalination facilities by examining the rate of their global diffusion and the variables that influence this rate. These variables are explored quantitatively using logistic regression. In addition, selected country case studies provide insight into the factors that drive the adoption of XL desalination. They indicate that the decision to embark on XL desalination is largely determined by internal political factors. Specifically, XL desalination is advanced when the political costs of alternative water management strategies are high.
What role for local government in sanitation promotion? Lessons from Tanzania
Authors: Jiménez Alejandro , Mtango Fimbo F. , Cairncross Sandy
Published: December 2014

Progress in rural access to sanitation is far behind agreed targets, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. As a result, new policies are being defined which shift the role of public investment from infrastructure to sanitation promotion, and give the responsibility of service delivery to local government. This paper analyses the role that local governments can have in sanitation promotion in this new framework. The implementation of the National Sanitation Campaign in Tanzania is analysed using the problem driven governance and political economy analysis methodology. Results show that direct implementation enhances local governments' commitment, but that not all functions carried out are suited to their capacities, motivations and constraints. The challenges identified emerge as a combination of technical weaknesses in the implementation of the adopted methodologies, the political economy of local governments, and the economic and social particularities of rural areas, which are similar to other countries across the region. Recommendations for a more effective service delivery model are made, balancing the role of local government between direct execution, coordination and supportive supervision. The fact of having a government programme with some direct implementation can bring about important differences in the national ownership of, and interest in rural sanitation, which are greatly needed.
Continuous Controls Monitoring: A Case Study
Authors: Lombardi Danielle R. , Vasarhelyi Miklos A. , Verver John
Published: December 2014

This case investigates the benefits and challenges that come with implementing continuous controls monitoring (CCM). CCM has been considered by the audit and information systems professions for years. However, a primary problem entails how to effectively integrate this methodology within large technological infrastructures. Because of increasing interest in controls monitoring, professional publications have generated information regarding the potential benefits of CCM, thereby creating awareness and addressing practical implementation issues along the way. We analyze the CCM program used by Premier Plasma Center, a global biotherapeutic and biotechnology company. This case is applicable to auditing, accounting information systems, and other business curricula that examine company controls and their monitoring activities.

Data Availability: For data availability, please email the corresponding author.
New fossil records of Ceratozamia (Zamiaceae, Cycadales) from the European Oligocene and lower Miocene
Authors: Kvaček Zlatko
Published: December 2014

New compression leaf material of Ceratozamia (Zamiaceae) has been recognised in the European Cenozoic. A leaflet of Ceratozamia floersheimensis (Engelhardt) Kvaček was recovered among unidentified material from the Oligocene of Trbovlje, former Trifail, Slovenia, housed in old collections of the Austrian Geological Survey, Vienna. It is similar in morphology and epidermal anatomy to other specimens previously studied from the lower Oligocene of Flörsheim, Germany and Budapest, Hungary. A fragmentary leaflet assigned to C. hofmannii Ettingsh. was recovered in the uppermost part of the Most Formation (Most Basin in North Bohemia, Czech Republic) and dated by magnetostratigraphy and cyclostratigraphy to CHRON C5Cn.3n, that is, the latest early Miocene. It yielded excellently preserved epidermal structures, permitting confirmation of the generic affinity and a more precise comparison with this lower Miocene species previously known from Austria (Münzenberg, Leoben Basin) and re-investigated earlier. Both the Oligocene and Miocene populations of Ceratozamia are based on isolated disarticulated leaflets matching some living representatives in the size and slender form of the leaflets. Such ceratozamias thrive today in extratropical areas near the present limits of distribution of the genus along the Sierra Madre Orientale in north-eastern Mexico, in particular C. microstrobila Vovides & J.D. Rees and others of the C. latifolia complex, as well as C. hildae G.P. Landry & M.C. Wilson (“bamboo cycad”). The occurrence of Ceratozamia suggests subtropical to warm-temperate, almost frostless climate and a high amount of precipitation. The accompanied fossil vegetation of both species corresponds well with the temperature regime. While the Oligocene species in Hungary probably thrived under sub-humid conditions, the remaining occurrences of fossil Ceratozamia were connected with humid evergreen to mixed-mesophytic forests.
Attitudes of physicians, nurses and pharmacists concerning the development of clinical pharmacy activities in a university hospital
Authors: Čufar Andreja , Locatelli Igor , Mrhar Aleš
Published: December 2014

It is essential to identify the expectations of physicians and nurses regarding clinical pharmacy (CP) services before its introduction in a hospital, because it is known that their expectations can substantially differ from the pharmacists’ point of view. Agreement of leading physicians, nurses and clinical pharmacists about the importance of CP activities in the hospital was evaluated using five point Likert scale questionnaire. Two groups of CP activities were set; the activities related to the hospital system (first group) and the activities connected with an individual patient (second group). Total mean score of agreement of physicians with the first and second group of CP activities is 4.28 and 3.73, respectively, while these scores are lower for nurses (3.87 and 3.38 for the first and second group, respectively). Pharmacists’ total mean scores are highest, 4.57 and 4.23 for the first and second group, respectively.
Novel thiophene derivatives with sulfonamide, isoxazole, benzothiazole, quinoline and anthracene moieties as potential anticancer agents
Authors: Ghorab Mostafa M. , Bashandy Mahmoud S. , Alsaid Mansour S.
Published: December 2014

A novel series of thiophenes having biologically active sulfonamide 2-11, 3-methylisoxazole 12, 4-methoxybenzo[d] thiazole 13, quinoline 14, 15, benzoylphenylamino 16, and anthracene-9,10-dione 17 moieties were prepared. Structures of the newly synthesized compounds were established by elemental analysis and spectral data. All newly synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in vitro anticancer activity against human breast cancer cell line (MCF7). Most of the screened compounds showed cytotoxic activities compared to doxorubicin as a positive control. Compounds 6, 7, 9 and 13 (IC50 values 10.25, 9.70, 9.55 and 9.39 μmol L-1) revealed higher cytotoxic activities than that of doxorubicin (IC50 = 32.00 μmol L-1). Also, compounds 5, 8 and 10 were found nearly as active as doxorubicin (IC50 28.85, 23.48 and 27.51 μmol L-1).
Therapeutic drug monitoring of atypical antipsychotic drugs
Authors: Grundmann Milan , Kacirova Ivana , Urinovska Romana
Published: December 2014

Schizophrenia is a severe psychiatric disorder often associated with cognitive impairment and affective, mainly depressive, symptoms. Antipsychotic medication is the primary intervention for stabilization of acute psychotic episodes and prevention of recurrences and relapses in patients with schizophrenia. Typical antipsychotics, the older class of antipsychotic agents, are currently used much less frequently than newer atypical antipsychotics. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of antipsychotic drugs is the specific method of clinical pharmacology, which involves measurement of drug serum concentrations followed by interpretation and good cooperation with the clinician. TDM is a powerful tool that allows tailor-made treatment for the specific needs of individual patients. It can help in monitoring adherence, dose adjustment, minimizing the risk of toxicity and in cost-effectiveness in the treatment of psychiatric disorders. The review provides complex knowledge indispensable to clinical pharmacologists, pharmacists and clinicians for interpretation of TDM results.
Use of compounded dispersing media for extemporaneous pediatric syrups with candesartan cilexetil and valsartan
Authors: Musko Monika , Sznitowska Malgorzata
Published: December 2014

Available tablets or capsules for adults are often used to prepare extemporaneously formulated medicines appropriate for children. The most acceptable drug forms in pediatric population are oral liquids and pharmacists use commercial dispersing media to compound syrups from an active substance or from tablets available on the market. In many countries ready-to-use dispersing media are not available or refunded, but pharmacists can use other compounded media, providing their compatibility and stability are proven. The aim of this study was to formulate and evaluate the stability of syrups with candesartan cilexetil (1 mg mL-1) and valsartan (4 mg mL-1) extemporaneously prepared using commercial tablets (Diovan® and Atacand®). The following three different suspending media, which could be easily made in a pharmacy, were investigated: V1 - with xanthan gum (0.5 %), V2 - the USP/NF vehicle for oral solution and V3 - the medium based on a simple sucrose syrup. The stability of preparations was studied during 35 days of storage in a dark place at controlled temperature of 25 and 4 °C. During the study, microscopic observation was carried out and pH, viscosity, and concentration of candesartan cilexetil and valsartan were analyzed. Syrups with valsartan prepared with V2 and V3 media were stable for 3 or 4 weeks when stored at 25 °C, while syrups with candesartan were stable for as long as 35 days. For syrups prepared using V1 medium, the 14-day expiry date was not achieved because of microbial deterioration.