bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An updated estimate of radium 228 fluxes toward the ocean: how well does it constrain the submarine groundwater discharge?
Authors: Le Gland Guillaume , Mémery Laurent , Aumont Olivier , Resplandy Laure
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Radium 228 (228Ra), an almost conservative trace isotope of the ocean, supplied from the continental shelves and removed by a known radioactive decay (T1/2 = 5.75 yr), can be used as a proxy to constrain shelf fluxes of other trace elements, such as nutrients, iron, or rare earth elements. In this study, we perform inverse modeling of a global 228Ra dataset (including GEOSECS, TTO and GEOTRACES programs, and, for the first time, data from the Arctic and around the Kerguelen islands) to compute the total 228Ra fluxes toward the ocean, using the ocean circulation obtained from the NEMO 3.6 model with a 2° resolution. We optimized the inverse calculation (source regions, cost function) and find a global estimate of the 228Ra fluxes of 8.01–8.49 × 1023 atoms yr−1, lower and more precise than previous estimates. The largest fluxes are in the western North Atlantic, the western Pacific and the Indian Ocean, with roughly two thirds in the Indo-Pacific basin. A first estimate in the Arctic Ocean is assessed (0.20–0.50 × 1023 atoms yr−1). Local misfits between model and data in the Arctic, the Gulf Stream and the Kuroshio regions could result from flaws of the ocean circulation in these regions (resolution, atmospheric forcing). As radium is enriched in groundwater, a large part of the 228Ra shelf sources comes from submarine groundwater discharge (SGD), a major but poorly known pathway for terrestrial mineral elements, including nutrients, to the ocean. In contrast to the 228Ra budget, the global estimate of SGD is rather unconstrained, between 1.3 and 14.7 × 1013 m3 yr−1, due to high uncertainties on the other sources of 228Ra, especially diffusion from continental shelf sediments. Better precision on SGD cannot be reached by inverse modeling until a proper way to separate the contributions of SGD and diffusion at a global scale is found.
Inversion of residual gravity anomalies using tuned PSO
Authors: Roshan Ravi , Singh Upendra Kumar
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Many kinds of particle swarm optimization (PSO) techniques are now available and various efforts have been made to solve linear and non-linear problems as well as one-dimensional and multi-dimensional problems of geophysical data. Particle swarm optimization is a metaheuristic optimization method that requires intelligent guesswork and a suitable selection of controlling parameters (i.e. inertia weight and acceleration coefficient) for better convergence at global minima. The proposed technique, tuned PSO, is an improved technique of PSO, in which efforts have been made to choose the controlling parameters, and these parameters have been selected after analysing the responses of various possible exercises using synthetic gravity anomalies over various geological sources. The applicability and efficacy of the proposed method is tested and validated using synthetic gravity anomalies over various source geometries. Finally, tuned PSO is applied over field residual gravity anomalies of two different geological terrains to find the model parameters, namely amplitude coefficient factor (A), shape factor (q) and depth (z). The analysed results have been compared with published results obtained by different methods that show a significantly excellent agreement with real model parameters. The results also show that the proposed approach is not only superior to the other methods but also that the strategy has enhanced the exploration capability of the proposed method. Thus tuned PSO is an efficient and more robust technique to achieve an optimal solution with minimal error.
Towards assimilation of crowdsourced observations for different levels of citizen engagement: the flood event of 2013 in the Bacchiglione catchment
Authors: Mazzoleni Maurizio , Cortes Arevalo Vivian Juliette , Wehn Uta , Alfonso Leonardo , Norbiato Daniele , Monego Martina , Ferri Michele , Solomatine Dimitri P.
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Accurate flood predictions are essential to reduce the risk and damages over large urbanized areas. To improve prediction capabilities, hydrological measurements derived by traditional physical sensors are integrated in real-time within mathematic models. Recently, traditional sensors are complemented with low-cost social sensors. However, measurements derived by social sensors (i.e. crowdsourced observations) can be more spatially distributed but less accurate. In this study, we assess the usefulness for model performance of assimilating crowdsourced observations from a heterogeneous network of static physical, static social and dynamic social sensors. We assess potential effects on the model predictions to the extreme flood event occurred in the Bacchiglione catchment on May 2013. Flood predictions are estimated at the target point of Ponte degli Angeli (Vicenza), outlet of the Bacchiglione catchment, by means of a semi-distributed hydrological model. The contribution of the upstream sub-catchment is calculated using a conceptual hydrological model. The flow is propagated along the river reach using a hydraulic model. In both models, a Kalman filter is implemented to assimilate the real-time crowdsourced observations. We synthetically derived crowdsourced observations for either static social or dynamic social sensors because crowdsourced measures were not available. We consider three sets of experiments: (1) only physical sensors are available; (2) probability of receiving crowdsourced observations and (3) realistic scenario of citizen engagement based on population distribution. The results demonstrated the importance of integrating crowdsourced observations. Observations from upstream sub-catchments assimilated into the hydrological model ensures high model performance for high lead time values. Observations next to the outlet of the catchments provide good results for short lead times. Furthermore, citizen engagement level scenarios moved by a feeling of belonging to a community of friends indicated flood prediction improvements when such small communities are located upstream a particular target point. Effective communication and feedback is required between water authorities and citizens to ensure minimum engagement levels and to minimize the intrinsic low-variable accuracy of crowdsourced observations.
Fibre optic sensing system for monitoring of current collectors and overhead contact lines of railways
Authors: Schröder Kerstin , Rothhardt Manfred , Ecke Wolfgang , Richter Uwe , Sonntag André , Bartelt Hartmut
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Fibre optic sensors are excellent tools to use for monitoring high-voltage current collectors. Because of their small cross section and electrical neutrality, they are easily integrated into the current collector strip and are well specialized for detection of high-speed load events. The conventional contact force measurement with four force sensors below the collector strips can also be simplified by using fibre optic force and acceleration sensors.
Small river plumes off the north-eastern coast of the Black Sea
under average climatic and flooding discharge conditions
Authors: Osadchiev Alexander , Korshenko Evgeniya
Published: February 2017

Abstract. This study is focused on the impact of discharge of small rivers on delivery and fate of fluvial water and suspended matter at the north-eastern part of the Black Sea under different local precipitation conditions. Several dozens of mountainous rivers inflow into the sea at the study region and most of them, except the several largest, have small annual runoff and limitedly affect adjacent coastal waters under average climatic conditions. However, discharges of these small rivers are characterized by quick response to precipitation events and can dramatically increase during and shortly after heavy rains which are frequent in the considered area. Delivery and fate of fluvial water and terrigenous sediments at the study region under average climatic and rain-induced flooding conditions were explored and compared using in situ data, satellite imagery and numerical modelling. It was shown that the point-source spread of continental discharge dominated by several large rivers during average climatic conditions can change to the line-source discharge from numerous small rivers situated along the coast in response to heavy rains. Intense line-source runoff of water and suspended sediments forms a geostrophic alongshore current of turbid and freshened water, which induces intense transport of suspended and dissolved constituents discharged with river waters in a north-western direction. This process significantly influences water quality and causes active sediment load at large segments of narrow shelf at the north-eastern part of the Black Sea as compared to average climatic discharge conditions.
Thermal alteration of soil organic matter properties: a systematic study to infer response of Sierra Nevada climosequence soils to forest fires
Authors: Araya Samuel N. , Fogel Marilyn L. , Berhe Asmeret Asefaw
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Fire is a major driver of soil organic matter (SOM) dynamics, and contemporary global climate change is changing global fire regimes. We conducted laboratory heating experiments on soils from five locations across the western Sierra Nevada climosequence to investigate thermal alteration of SOM properties and determine temperature thresholds for major shifts in SOM properties. Topsoils (0 to 5 cm depth) were exposed to a range of temperatures that are expected during prescribed and wild fires (150, 250, 350, 450, 550, and 650 °C). With increase in temperature, we found that the concentrations of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) decreased in a similar pattern among all five soils that varied considerably in their original SOM concentrations and mineralogies. Soils were separated into discrete size classes by dry sieving. The C and N concentrations in the larger aggregate size fractions (2–0.25 mm) decreased with an increase in temperature, so that at 450 °C the remaining C and N were almost entirely associated with the smaller aggregate size fractions ( <  0.25 mm). We observed a general trend of 13C enrichment with temperature increase. There was also 15N enrichment with temperature increase, followed by 15N depletion when temperature increased beyond 350 °C. For all the measured variables, the largest physical, chemical, elemental, and isotopic changes occurred at the mid-intensity fire temperatures, i.e., 350 and 450 °C. The magnitude of the observed changes in SOM composition and distribution in three aggregate size classes, as well as the temperature thresholds for critical changes in physical and chemical properties of soils (such as specific surface area, pH, cation exchange capacity), suggest that transformation and loss of SOM are the principal responses in heated soils. Findings from this systematic investigation of soil and SOM response to heating are critical for predicting how soils are likely to be affected by future climate and fire regimes.
Sustentabilidad de las iniciativas latinoamericanas de publicación de revistas científicas en acceso abierto utilizando el estándar XML JATS: el caso de SciELO
Authors: Guzmán-Useche Eliana , Rodríguez-Contreras Fernando
Published: February 2017

Objetivo: realizar el análisis de sustentabilidad de la iniciativa latinoamericana scielo.org, basado en dos aspectos primordiales, el económico y la necesidad de su existencia. Método: se efectúa la medición de las horas-hombre requeridas para publicar un artículo científico, usando su nueva metodología de publicación, denominada XML SPS. Se procesan 40 artículos publicados en revistas científicas de diferentes áreas del saber, pertenecientes a Brasil, Chile, Colombia, México y Venezuela, usando dicha metodología. Resultados: se obtiene que la preparación del documento tarda en promedio 35.0% del tiempo (σ=9.72%) y la marcación tarda en promedio el 50.0% del tiempo (σ=8.50%), siendo las secciones de referencias, agradecimientos y apéndices las que consumen más tiempo. Conclusiones: Esto indica que el modelo de publicación de SciELO es sustentable desde el punto de vista de la necesidad de su existencia, pero en el aspecto económico parece no ser completamente sustentable para todos los países de la región, porque es un proceso técnicamente complejo que no todos los editores son capaces de realizar, siendo necesaria la tercerización, lo cual exige un mayor presupuesto para las revistas y finalmente puede poner en riesgo la sustentabilidad y control de este modelo de publicación.
Libraries Protecting Privacy on Social Media: Sharing without "Oversharing"
Authors: Cotter Kelley , Sasso Maureen Diana
Published: February 2017

Libraries have increasingly adopted social media as an integral means of connecting with their users. However, social media presents many potential concerns regarding library patron privacy. This article presents the findings from a study of how librarians and library staff perceive and handle issues of patron privacy related to social media marketing in libraries. The study reports the results from a mixed-methods online survey, which used a nonprobability self-selection sampling method to collect responses from individuals employed by libraries, without restrictions on position or library type. Nearly three-quarters of respondents reported working in libraries that have either an official or unofficial social media policy. Approximately 53% of those policies mention patron privacy. The findings suggest that many respondents’ views and practices are influenced by the perception of the library’s physical space and social media presence as public places. The findings also suggest a lack of consensus regarding the extent of the library’s obligation to protect patron privacy on library social media sites and what would constitute a violation of privacy.
Table of Contents
Authors: Reinsfelder Tom
Published: February 2017

Table of Contents Fall 2016
Construcción y reconstrucción de la identidad de los futuros docentes a través de sus autobiografías académicas
Authors: Madrid Vivar Dolores , Mayorga-Fernández Mª José
Published: February 2017

En este artículo presentamos una investigación realizada durante el curso académico 2013/2014 con alumnos/as de 1º de los Grados de Educación Infantil y Educación Primaria de la Universidad de Málaga. Esta propuesta pretende reconstruir la identidad docente desde el alumnado, para que los futuros docentes reflexionen sobre su identidad profesional desde su incorporación como alumno/a al sistema educativo hasta la actualidad. En este estudio, para poder dar respuesta a nuestros objetivos, hemos utilizado métodos de investigación biográfico-narrativos, empleando como herramienta de recogida de información la autobiografía académica. La información fue analizada en base a una serie de categorías analíticas concretadas posteriormente en categorías interpretativas.  Las conclusiones muestran que al mirar al pasado, el profesorado puede analizar cómo se ha ido construyendo su identidad profesional. Al construir y reconstruir su biografía académica someten a análisis sus vivencias, las decisiones tomadas en su vida, que tipo de docentes les gustaría ser en un futuro, etc.
Programación visual por bloques en Educación Primaria: Aprendiendo y creando contenidos en Ciencias Sociales
Authors: Sáez López José Manuel , Cózar Gutiérrez Ramón
Published: February 2017

El presente estudio detalla el análisis de la práctica e integración de programación visual por bloques en el área de Ciencias Sociales en Educación Primaria a través de la aplicación Scratch. A partir de una Investigación Basada en el Diseño (Design Based Reseach), triangulación de datos, la taxonomía clásica de Bloom, el Modelo TPACK y el enfoque de Clase Invertida (Flipped Classroom) se valoran los beneficios y las prácticas llevadas a cabo en la intervención. En este caso trabajan 46 alumnos de 6º de Primaria en el curso académico 2013-14 creando animaciones y entornos interactivos que permiten el desarrollo de contenidos de Historia del Arte a través de las obras pictóricas de El Greco, Velázquez, Picasso y Dalí. Se valoran procesos de aprendizaje y creación de productos multimedia a través de programación visual de un modo estructurado desde los mencionados modelos. Analizando aprendizaje activo, contenidos en Historia del Arte y conceptos computacionales, los resultados destacan la capacidad de los alumnos de comprender, aplicar y sintetizar los elementos trabajados. Se concluye que estas prácticas propician mejoras en los alumnos en relación a motivación, satisfacción, diversión, utilidad y compromiso, posibilitando la comprensión de los contenidos y de la lógica y conceptos computacionales a través de actividades multimedia con programación visual por bloques.
Rol y funciones de los educadores y las educadoras sociales en los centros educativos andaluces. Análisis y reflexiones
Authors: Sierra Nieto José Eduardo , Vila Merino Eduardo S. , Caparrós Martín Ester , Martín Solbes Víctor M.
Published: February 2017

El cruce de caminos entre la educación social y la escolar, constituye un foco recurrente en la literatura pedagógica. Tomando el caso de Andalucía, la incorporación en 2007 de educadoras y educadores sociales en los centros educativos, vino a actualizar la discusión alrededor de dicho foco. En este artículo, que forma parte de un estudio más amplio sobre el impacto de esta figura profesional en el sistema educativo andaluz, se propone una revisión del estado de la cuestión; así como un análisis de los asuntos más relevantes que se desprenden de la literatura, centrada en los ámbitos y funciones de estos profesionales. Entendemos que para las educadoras y los educadores sociales, las funciones que han de llevar a cabo están muy vinculadas a los contextos donde desarrollan su labor y las personas hacia las cuales se dirige su actuación. Por ello, consideramos importante que, a la hora de reflexionar sobre esta figura profesional en los centros educativos, sea preciso hacerlo en relación a sus funciones. Se hace un repaso a los principales antecedentes prácticos y normativos, así como un análisis de la legislación vigente, centrándonos en la comunidad autónoma andaluza. La incorporación de estos profesionales, como venimos reconociendo, está significando un replanteamiento de la cultura profesional de los centros escolares. El artículo finaliza proponiendo algunos aspectos para la discusión y una serie de líneas futuras de indagación.
Percepción del alumnado de Educación Secundaria sobre la mediación escolar en Castellón y Valencia
Authors: García Raga Laura , Bo Bonet Rosa Mª , Boqué Torremorell Maria Carme
Published: February 2017

La realidad social, en constante proceso de cambio, exige al sistema educativo un esfuerzo por actualizar las respuestas educativas frente a la mejora de la convivencia. Es en este contexto en el que la mediación ha dejado ver sus potencialidades educativas, ya que influye sobre la mejora del individuo, de las relaciones interpersonales y del clima escolar. No obstante, son escasas las investigaciones orientadas a conocer el impacto de la misma. En este artículo presentamos un estudio dirigido a conocer la valoración de la mediación atendiendo a las opiniones del alumnado de cinco centros educativos de secundaria de Valencia y cuatro de Castellón. Asimismo, se pretende detectar si existen diferencias significativas entre las valoraciones ofrecidas en ambas provincias. Para el logro de estos objetivos se ha recogido información de 1043 estudiantes a través de un cuestionario elaborado ad hoc. Mediante un estudio descriptivo-inferencial destacamos como resultado el gran acuerdo que existe por parte del alumnado participante en valorar de forma muy positiva la mediación. Como aspectos mejorables, se detecta la necesidad de difundir en los centros la información sobre sus servicios de mediación, formar en mediación a todo el alumnado y ampliar las funciones de la mediación a aquellos conflictos más relacionados con las tareas de enseñanza y  aprendizaje y con las relaciones entre el alumnado y el profesorado. Finamente, se observa que, en general, la satisfacción sobre la mediación es menor en Valencia que en Castellón. En conclusión, el estudio refleja que la mediación escolar es considerada como ventajosa para el alumnado y como una oportunidad que le facilita la gestión de sus propios conflictos, si bien hay aspectos en los que se debe trabajar para la mejora de la convivencia y la configuración de una ciudadanía democrática.
Estudio comparado de los estilos de enseñanza del profesorado universitario de ciencias sociales de España y Brasil
Authors: Carbonero Miguel Angel , Martín-Antón Luis Jorge , Flores Valle , Freitas Resende Alvaci
Published: February 2017

El conocimiento de las características psicoinstruccionales de los estilos de enseñanza del profesorado universitario es fundamental para mejorar la calidad formativa que recibe su alumnado. Dada la globalización y el intercambio de estudiantes entre países, este análisis requiere una visión global que proporcione líneas en las que fundamentar programas de mejora de la eficacia docente en la educación superior. Con el objetivo de conocer las diferencias en las variables que definen los estilos de enseñanza y su incidencia en modelos instruccionales, se seleccionó a una muestra de profesorado universitario español (n = 102) y brasileño (n = 103) de áreas de conocimiento de ciencias sociales, teniendo en cuenta también el género. Para ello, se aplicó el Cuestionario de Evaluación de las Variables de los estilos de enseñanza en la Educación Superior (CEVES), que mide: organización, comunicación, habilidades sociales, resolución de conflictos y la dirección en los procesos de enseñanza; y el Cuestionario de Evaluación de la Metodología Docente y Evaluativa de los Profesores Universitarios (CEMEDEPU), que analiza los modelos instruccionales centrados en la enseñanza, el aprendizaje, y las habilidades docentes. Tras la aplicación de un análisis multivariado de la varianza, considerando como variables independientes el país y el género, los resultados muestran puntuaciones superiores del profesorado brasileño en las habilidades sociales, resolución de conflictos y dirección de los procesos de enseñanza, así como, en ambos colectivos, correlaciones positivas entre las variables instruccionales y un modelo centrado en el aprendizaje, pero negativas en su relación con un modelo centrado en la enseñanza por los docentes españoles. No hay diferencias en función del género. En consecuencia, sería necesario implementar programas institucionales de mejora en variables socioemocionales en el profesorado español, además de insistir en la importancia de la docencia, para garantizar la unificación de las competencias docentes del profesorado universitario.
Nonmuscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: What's Changing and What has Changed
Authors: Manikandan Ramanitharan , Rodriguez Oscar , Parada Rubén , Palou Redorta Joan
Published: February 2017

Purpose

Nonmuscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) is a challenging disease to manage primarily due to its varied clinical course. The management of NMIBC has witnessed a widespread change with respect to its diagnosis and treatment. Although transurethral resection (TUR) and adjuvant bacillus Calmette–Guerin (BCG) stills remain the cornerstone, newer protocols has come into vogue to achieve optimal care. On the basis of a literature review, we aimed to establish ‘what changes has already occurred and what is expected in the future’ in NMIBC.

Methods

A Medline search was performed to identify the published literature with respect to diagnosis, treatment and future perspectives on NMIBC. Particular emphasis was directed to determinants such as the quality of TUR and the newer modifications, Re-TUR, current status of newer macroscopic and microscopic imaging, role of urinary biomarkers, clinical, histologic and molecular predictors of high-risk disease, administration of intravesical agents, salvage therapy in BCG recurrence and the current best practice guidelines were analyzed.

Results and Conclusions

Optimal TUR, restaging in select group, incorporation of newer endoscopic imaging and judicious administration of intravesical chemo-immunotherapeutic agents can contribute to better patient care. Although there is a plethora of urinary markers, there is insufficient evidence for their use in isolation. The future probably lies in identification of genetic markers to determine disease recurrence, nonresponders to standard treatment and early institution of alternative/targeted therapy.
Domestic Cooking Effects of Bambara Groundnuts and Common Beans in the Antioxidant Properties and Polyphenol Profiles
Authors: Nyau V. , Prakash S. , Rodrigues J. , Farrant J.
Published: February 2017

Processing of legumes before consumption has several effects on micronutrients, macronutrients and phytonutrients. This study was undertaken to investigate the effect of domestic processing on antioxidant activities and phenolic phytochemicals of the red bambara groundnuts and red beans. The study employed in vitro antioxidant assays (DPPH and FRAP) to screen for antioxidant properties, HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS and Folin Ciocalteu assay to screen for phenolic phytochemical profiles. Domestic cooking displayed positive effects on the antioxidant activity and phenolic phytochemical profiles of the two legumes. The free radical scavenging speed increased 10-fold in the methanolic extract from cooked red bambara groundnuts compared to uncooked. By contrast, the free radical scavenging speed increased 20-fold in the methanolic extract from cooked red beans compared to uncooked. HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS profiles of the cooked red bambara groundnuts and red beans revealed a number of emergent phenolic compounds, mainly flavonoids. These data indicate that cooking appear to enhance the nutraceutical profiles of the legumes investigated.
Regulatory T-cell: Regulator of Host Defense in Infection
Authors: Mohammadnia-Afrouzi Mousa , Shahbazi Mehdi , Baleghi Damavandi Sedigheh , Faghanzadeh Ganji Ghasem , Ebrahimpour Soheil
Published: February 2017

Based on diverse activities and production of several cytokines, T lymphocytes and T helper cells are divided into Th1, Th2, Th17 and regulatory T-cell (T regs) subsets based on diverse activities and production of several cytokines. Infectious agents can escape from host by modulation of immune responses as effector T-cells and Tregs. Thus, regulatory T-cells play a critical role in suppression of immune responses to infectious agents such as viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungi and as well as preserving immune homeostasis. However, regulatory T-cell responses can advantageous for the body by minimizing the tissue-damaging effects. The following subsets of regulatory T-cells have been recognized: natural regulatory Tcells, Th3, Tr1, CD8+ Treg, natural killer like Treg (NKTreg) cells. Among various markers of Treg cells, Forkhead family transcription factor (FOXP3) as an intracellular protein is used for discrimination between activated T reg cells and activated T-cells. FOXP3 has a central role in production, thymocyte differentiation and function of regulatory Tcells. Several mechanisms have been indicated in regulation of T reg cells. As, the suppression of T-cells via regulatory T-cells is either mediated by Cell-cell contact and Immunosuppressive cytokines (TGF-Beta, IL-10) mediated.
Effects of Different Concentrations of Organic Waste on Selected Traits of Individuals Capsicum Chinense Jacq.
Authors: Costa Filho Francisco Orlando Holanda , Amorim Jefania Sousa Braga , Pereira Magnum De Sousa , Barbosa Francisca Edineide Lima , Barbosa Rifandreo Monteiro , Pontes Filho Roberto Albuquerque , Gondim Franklin Aragão
Published: February 2017

At present, excessive waste production makes it necessary to carry out research aimed to minimize the problems arising from waste generation and inadequate disposal. In this sense, this study aimed to analyze plant growth, fruit production, antioxidative enzyme activities and organic solute contents in fruits of Capsicum chinense Jacq. plants (BRS Moema cultivar) growing in substrates with different concentrations of municipal organic solid waste (MW) or shrimp waste (SW) under greenhouse conditions. A completely randomized design was used with seven treatments (control; MW at 50, 100 and 200% of recommendation; and SW also at 50, 100 and 200%) and five replications. The MW and SW were mixed with the soil. When plants already had fruits, 122 days after sowing (DAS), shoot height, stem diameter and number of leaves were determined, and 134 DAS, the visibly ripe fruits were collected and stored at -20 °C for subsequent biochemical analysis. The MW and SW provided a linear increase in the parameters of shoot height, stem diameter and number of leaves. The numbers of fruits in the treatments were quite variable, but it can be concluded that the MW 200 and SW 100 treatments provided higher fruit production. The best results for the activities of catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and guaiacol peroxidase (GPX) in the fruits occurred in the MW 100 and SW 200 treatments. Both provided an increase in CAT and reductions in APX and GPX, which can contribute to greater postharvest life of C. chinense Jacq. fruits. In relation to soluble protein and carbohydrate contents, the MW 100 and SW 100 treatments did not contribute to their increase; in the other residue concentrations, the results were variable. However, considering all parameters analysed in this study, the most suitable treatments would be MW 100 and SW 100. Therefore, the results demonstrate the susceptibility of using substrates with MW and SW in the cultivation of C. chinense Jacq. plants.
Clinical consequences of untreated early childhood caries in urban population of children with high risk of caries in Poland
Authors: Rożniatowski Piotr , Piróg-Bednarska Anna , Kobylińska Angelika , Gozdowski Dariusz , Olczak-Kowalczyk Dorota
Published: February 2017

Background. The anatomy and low mineral content of primary teeth, especially soon after their eruption, predispose to acute progression of caries. Untreated early childhood caries (ECC) can rapidly lead to destruction of the crown and to pulpal involvement. It is, therefore, important to depict its clinical consequences in relation to caries intensity and age. Aim of the study. To assess the correlation of clinical consequences of ECC with its intensity and age in urban population of children with high risk of caries in Poland. Material and methods. In a group of high caries risk children from Warsaw aged below 6 years the following were evaluated: dental health (decayed, filled, missing teeth due to caries (dmft/dmfs), carious pulp exposure) and mucosal health (ulcerations caused by decayed teeth, fistulae, abscesses (pufa). Four age groups were distinguished: less than 3 years, 3-4 years, 4-5 years and 5-6 years. Statistical analysis: Kruskal-Wallis test (significance level p=0.05). Results. Among 223 children (mean age 4.30±1.154 years) dmft>0 was found in 80% (mean dmft=6.14±5.49, dmfs=11.60±12.92), restorative index was 0.23±0.33. Pufa >0 was observed in 26% (mean 0.853±1.839) with the highest value in the youngest age group (mean 1.20±2.222). Correlations between dmft, dmfs and pufa were observed. Statistically significant correlations were found between teeth missing due to caries and the clinical consequences of untreated caries. Conclusions. The younger the child affected by caries, the more severe the consequences of untreated caries. It has been observed that the rate of consequences increases with caries intensity.
Periodontal status in growing patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate
Authors: Wyrębek Beata , Górska Renata , Cudziło Dorota , Plakwicz Paweł
Published: February 2017

Aim of the study. To evaluate differences in periodontal parameters and oral hygiene between cleft and control sides in growing patients with unilateral cleft. Materials and Methods: 15 patients, aged 10 to 18 years, with unilateral cleft lip and palate. Evaluation of probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), gingival recession (REC), vestibule depth (VD), keratinized gingiva (KG), presence of plaque (PCR) and bleeding on probing (BoP) for eight maxillary anterior teeth were performed. Types of fraena and mucosa deformities were also evaluated. Results. Significant differences for PD (but not for CAL) were found only at some surfaces of lateral incisors and canines. Keratinized gingiva was significantly narrower at lateral incisors, canines and first premolars on the cleft side (mean values were: 2.8 mm and 5.4 mm for lateral incisors, 2.7 mm and 3.9 mm for canines, 3.1 mm and 4.7 mm for first premolars, respectively for the affected and the control side). Significantly shallower vestibule at central and lateral incisors was found at some group of teeth (mean values were: 7.0 and 9.2 mm for central incisors, 8.6 and 11.6 mm for lateral incisors, respectively for the affected and control side). Due to tissue malformations it was difficult to assess the upper labial fraena. High scores were recorded for PCR and BoP both on the cleft and the control side. Conclusions. Malformations of soft tissues caused by cleft and previous surgical procedures negatively affected periodontal parameters on the cleft side. It is requisite to introduce periodontal assessment into comprehensive approach in children with clefts to control development of periodontal disease.
Use of microcomputed tomography for the evaluation of canal filling quality depending on the part of root canal
Authors: Jaworska Małgorzata , Kierklo Anna
Published: February 2017

Introduction. High-resolution microcomputed tomography (microCT) is an emerging technology with several applications to endodontics. Aim of the study: To analyse in detail root canal fillings in the apical third, in the middle and coronal thirds in in vitro conditions with the use of microCT. Material and methods. Eighty single roots were prepared with the “step-back” technique or with a Pro File system using the “crown-down” technique. Each main group was divided into two subgroups and obturated with either cold lateral (CL) condensation or thermoplastic (Th) compaction with System B and Obtura II. The distribution of voids (number and volume) was assessed by means of microCT. Results. In the apical third of the root canal, in total over three times more external voids (e-voids) (598) with a greater volume than internal voids (i-voids) (167) were found. In the middle third the numbers of i-voids (664) and e-voids (651) were similar. The mean volume of i-voids was higher among root canals filled using CL condensation as compared to Th compaction (p=0.001). The greatest number of i-voids (3872) and e-voids (1888) were found in the coronal third. The mean volume of i-voids was higher among root canals filled using CL condensation as compared to those filled by means of Th compaction (p=0.001). Conclusions. Irrespective of the obturation methods, the most hermetically filled part of the root canal was the apical third while the coronal third was the least hermetically filled part. E-voids with a greater volume predominated in the apical part, while numerous small i-voids were detected closer to the crown.
Evaluation of morphological relations between lower craniofacial skeletal structures and dimensions of upper respiratory tract in skeletal Classes I and III
Authors: Stelmańska Karolina , Paluch Zbigniew , Twardokęs Marta , Ura-Sabat Katarzyna , Frelich Hanna , Szlęzak Michał , Misiołek Maciej
Published: February 2017

Introduction. Review of the literature indicates the relationship between upper airways patency and lower jaw morphology. Aim of the study. To design multidimensional models to describe morphological relations of the linear and angular dimensions of hard tissues of the lower facial skeleton and the cervical spine (independent variables) with the linear dimensions of the upper respiratory tract (dependent variables). The obtained models took into consideration the age, gender and the skeletal Class I and III of the evaluated individuals. Material and method. The patients represented two skeletal classes: I (n = 97; 42.4%) and III (n = 53; 23.1%). Prior to orthodontic treatment, lateral cephalometric radiography (LCR) was performed in all patients. The obtained cephalometric measurements were evaluated statistically. Results. The statistical analysis pointed to significant differences between variables of the URT and dimensions of the facial skeleton and the cervical spine. It also revealed significant differences between variables of the URT and dimensions of the facial skeleton and the cervical spine. The independent variable Co-Gn emerged as an important predictor in regression of the nasopharynx. The anteroinferior height of the face and mandibular inclination were the factors relevant for oropharynx. Variables of the cervical spine were significant predictors in laryngopharyngeal models. Conclusions. The results illustrating morphological interrelations between the lower face and dimensions of the URT air space may prove helpful in planning orthodontic treatment, with or without teeth extraction, as well as orthognathic surgeries.
Which frog's legs do froggies eat? The use of DNA barcoding for identification of deep frozen frog legs (Dicroglossidae, Amphibia) commercialized in France
Authors: Ohler Annemarie , Nicolas Violaine
Published: February 2017

Several millions frogs captured in the wild in Indonesia are sold for food yearly in French supermarkets, as deep frozen frog legs. They are commercialized as Rana macrodon, but up to 15 look-alike species might also be concerned by this trade. From December 2012 to May 2013, we bought 209 specimens of deep frozen frog legs, and identified them through a barcoding approach based on the 16S gene. Our results show that 206 out of the 209 specimens belong to Fejervarya cancrivora, two to Limnonectes macrodon and one to F. moodiei. Thus only 0.96 % of the frogs were correctly identified. Unless misclassification was intentional, it seems that Indonesian frog leg exporters are not able to discriminate between the species. The quasi absence of L. macrodon in our samples might be an indication of its rarity, confirming that its natural populations are declining rapidly, in agreement with its “vulnerable” status according to the IUCN Red List. Our results show that the genetic and morphological diversity of the frogs in trade is much higher than the genetic and morphological diversity measured so far by scientific studies. These results underline the need for large scale studies to assess the status of wild populations.
Molecular Biomarkers for the Evaluation of Colorectal Cancer: Guideline From the American Society for Clinical Pathology, College of American Pathologists, Association for Molecular Pathology, and American Society of Clinical Oncology
Authors: Sepulveda Antonia R. , Hamilton Stanley R. , Allegra Carmen J. , Grody Wayne , Cushman-Vokoun Allison M. , Funkhouser William K. , Kopetz Scott E. , Lieu Christopher , Lindor Noralane M. , Minsky Bruce D. , Monzon Federico A. , Sargent Daniel J. , Singh Veena M. , Willis Joseph , Clark Jennifer , Colasacco Carol , Bryan Rumble R. , Temple-Smolkin Robyn , B. Ventura Christina , Nowak Jan A.
Published: February 2017

Objectives.—

To develop evidence-based guideline recommendations through a systematic review of the literature to establish standard molecular biomarker testing of colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues to guide epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) therapies and conventional chemotherapy regimens.

Methods.—

The American Society for Clinical Pathology, College of American Pathologists, Association for Molecular Pathology, and American Society of Clinical Oncology convened an expert panel to develop an evidence-based guideline to establish standard molecular biomarker testing and guide therapies for patients with CRC. A comprehensive literature search that included more than 4,000 articles was conducted.

Results.—

Twenty-one guideline statements were established.

Conclusions.—

Evidence supports mutational testing for EGFR signaling pathway genes, since they provide clinically actionable information as negative predictors of benefit to anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody therapies for targeted therapy of CRC. Mutations in several of the biomarkers have clear prognostic value. Laboratory approaches to operationalize CRC molecular testing are presented.
Academic Cultures in Singapore and Hong Kong
Authors: Walker Allan , Bodycott Peter
Published: February 2017

Academic Cultures in Singapore and Hong Kong: Some Personal Impressions
Willing Hands and Hearts: The Rebuilding of the Royal University of Cambodia
Authors: Chamnan Pit
Published: February 2017

The Royal University of Phnom Penh, formerly Khmer Royal University, was founded in January 1960, with a Faculty of Letters and Humanities and a Faculty of Science and Technology. The language of instruction was French. The university closed in 1975; between 1975 and 1979, under a regime that targeted the educated, most of its faculty were killed. Of those who survived, few remained once the borders opened. Deserted for almost five years, the campus became another victim of the grim civil war.
The Future of South African Research Universities
Authors: Stetar Joseph
Published: February 2017

In recent decades a widely discussed aspect of higher education policy has been the relationship between universities at the center and those at the periphery—that is, between universities of the highly developed countries and those of developing countries. The debate has focused on the universities in developing countries and their disadvantage in the highly sophisticated, rapidly changing international or global knowledge network. The case of South Africa’s research universities illustrates the dilemmas.
Recent French Developments
Authors: Musselin Christine , Mignot-Gerard Stephanie
Published: February 2017

French universities have long been known for their weak governance capacity. Research by Erhard Friedberg and Christine Musselin on this topic (Enquête d’universités, 1989) and their comparative work on French and German universities clearly confirmed this characteristic. They show that French university administrators tend to behave as primus inter pares rather than as active promotors of collective projects. In most cases, university bodies came to “␣ nondecisions,” not making any decisions at all, rubberstamping choices made by individual faculty members, leaving the final decision to the ministry, or simply implementing the criteria set by the Parisian central administration. Thus, individual autonomy was considerable while institutional autonomy was limited␣ ; moreover the latter was considered somewhat illegitimate. In the view of these two authors, the weak governance of French universities allowed the Ministry of Education to play an interventionist role that also maintained the weakness at the institutional level. Fifteen years later, the authors of this article have done a new study on French university governance, funded by the Agency for the Modernization of the Universities—created in 1997 as part of the French Association of University Presidents. Based on 250 in-depth interviews at four universities, the study shows that French universities experienced a number of important changes within the last decade and have strengthened their governance.
Financing Higher Education in Palestine
Authors: Kuhail Hisham , Hauptman Arthur M.
Published: February 2017

Despite great obstacles over its relatively short threedecade history, Palestinian higher education has helped to meet the rising demand for further education, providing access in West Bank/Gaza to those who had been forcibly deprived of the chance to study abroad. But longstanding demographic and fiscal pressures, coupled with inadequately defined priorities and chronic economic and political problems only heightened by the recent turbulence, have led to a higher education system in fundamental need of repair. In recognition of these facts, the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) of the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) has decided to develop a financing strategy for the purpose of creating a more effective, accessible, efficient, and accountable higher education system.
China's New Private Education Law
Authors: Yan Fengqiao , Levy Daniel
Published: February 2017

The private education law, promulgated on December 28, 2002, is China’s first national legislation on private education. The law covers all educational levels, although we are focusing on the three articles (16, 53, and 55) that cover higher education. The law’s main thrust concerning higher education is to provide a legal framework to facilitate private growth and initiate a longer process to accredit, merge, dismantle, and change institutions at that level.
Afghanistan: Challenges and Attitudes
Authors: Hayward Fred , Amiryar Sara
Published: February 2017

In an effort to obtain a sense of public perceptions and attitudes about higher education in Afghanistan after 25 years of war, we conducted 14 focus groups in Herat, Kabul, Kapesa, and Kundoz provinces during June and July 2003, as part of a project conducted for the Ministry of Higher Education by the Academy for Educational Development funded by the International Development Agency. The focus groups included high school and college students, parents, college and university instructors, school teachers, business people, and women professionals.
The Comparative Academic Performance of International Students in Australia
Authors: Olsen Alan John , Burgess Zena , Sharma Rajeev
Published: February 2017

International students do just as well as Australian students. This is the key finding from a study of the academic performance of 338,000 full-time students at 22 Australian uni- versities in 2003. The results of the study are important to international education professionals globally at a time when there have been allegations that Australian universities were dropping stan- dards to favor foreign students. The Sydney Morning Herald claimed in June 2005 to have found evidence of quality falling at universities to cater to international students with poor English seeking degrees so as to be accepted for migration. The research proved these allegations to be untrue. Australian students passed 89.4 percent of courses attempted, international students 88.8 percent. The results suggest that in their recruitment of international students Australian universities set their standards at about the right level.
Corruption in Vietnamese Higher Education
Authors: McCornac Dennis
Published: February 2017

There is no doubt that the Vietnamese higher education system is in need of serious reform. Corruption is epidemic, and actions must be taken to change the environment in which these practices flourish. The recent decision by the Ministry of Education and Training to adopt new, stricter measures on national exams and the increased media attention on corruption are steps in the right direction. If Vietnam desires to obtain an international standard educational system, required reforms are necessary from all parties. Perhaps, most importantly, there must be a monumental change in the attitude and thinking by students, faculty, and parents. Education is a right and privilege that is earned, not a commodity to be sold by administrators and faculty.
Higher Education under a Labour Government
Authors: Shattock Michael
Published: February 2017

The Labour Party's victory in the general election of 1997 was greeted with a wave of popular enthusiasm. The new governments involvement includes the commitment to widening access to higher education, strengthening the system, while it also increased interventions. While there are danger signs in unwise ministerial interventionism, as a consequence of its size, its cost, and its economic importance higher education has become a legitimate object of public policy in a way that was barely conceivable two decades ago.