bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of CAPE on oxidative stress and histopathological values in rats treated with subacute dichlorvos
Authors: NUR Gökhan , GÜVEN Aysel , AKSU KILIÇLE Pınar
Published: December 2019

This study was designed to investigate the protective effect of CAPE against dichlorvos induced hepatotoxicity in rats. 40 rats were used in the study, including 10 in each group. Corn oil of 5 mg/kg (solvent) was administered intragastrically to rats in the group 1, dichlorvos of 5 mg/kg was dissolved in corn oil and administered to rats in the group 2 via gavage, dichlorvos (5 mg/kg, via gavage route) and CAPE (10 μM/kg, intraperitoneally) were administered to rats of the group 3 with one-hour interval providing that CAPE treatment was started three days earlier than dichlorvos administration. The rats in the group 4 were administered with 10% solvent ethanol via intraperitoneally. All administrations continued for 15 days and blood of animals was drawn via intracardiac route after they were sacrificed by cervical dislocation under ketamine/xylazine anesthesia. Total antioxidant, total oxidant, and paraoxonase levels were measured from the obtained plasma samples. As a result of dichlorvos administration, paraoxonase activity and total antioxidant levels decreased; whereas, total oxidant levels increased. Histopathological analysis revealed that liver tissue appeared normal in control groups (1 and 4); on the other hand, there were degeneration, congestion, cellular infiltration, and necrotic areas in the group administered with dichlorvos. Even though frequency of lesions decreased, similar lesions were observed in the group with Dichlorvos+CAPE. Consequently, it was determined that while dichlorvos administration increased oxidative stress, CAPE administration had a protective potential increasing antioxidant capacity.
Perceptual grouping constrains inhibition in time-based visual selection
Authors: Zupan Zorana , Watson Derrick G.
Published: December 2019

In time-based visual selection, task-irrelevant, old stimuli can be inhibited in order to allow the selective processing of new stimuli that appear at a later point in time (the preview benefit; Watson & Humphreys, 1997). The current study investigated if illusory and non-illusory perceptual groups influence the ability to inhibit old and prioritize new stimuli in time-based visual selection. Experiment 1 showed that with Kanizsa-type illusory stimuli, a preview benefit occurred only when displays contained a small number of items. Experiment 2 demonstrated that a set of Kanizsa-type illusory stimuli could be selectively searched amongst a set of non-illusory distractors with no additional preview benefit obtained by separating the two sets of stimuli in time. Experiment 3 showed that, similarly to Experiment 1, non-illusory perceptual groups also produced a preview benefit only for a small number of number of distractors. Experiment 4 demonstrated that local changes to perceptually grouped old items eliminated the preview benefit. The results indicate that the preview benefit is reduced in capacity when applied to complex stimuli that require perceptual grouping, regardless of whether the grouped elements elicit illusory contours. Further, inhibition is applied at the level of grouped objects, rather than to the individual elements making up those groups. The findings are discussed in terms of capacity limits in the inhibition of old distractor stimuli when they consist of perceptual groups, the attentional requirements of forming perceptual groups and the mechanisms and efficiency of time-based visual selection.
The Role of Extraversion, IQ and Contact in the Own-Ethnicity Face Recognition Bias
Authors: Hills Peter J. , Lowe Leanne , Hedges Brooke , Teixeira Ana Rita
Published: December 2019

While IQ is weakly related to the overall face recognition (Shakeshaft & Plomin, 2015), it plays a larger role in the processing of misaligned faces in the composite face task (Zhu et al., 2010). This type of stimuli are relatively novel and may reflect the involvement of intelligence in the processing of infrequently encountered faces, such as those of other-ethnicities. Extraversion is associated with increased eye contact which signifies less viewing of diagnostic features for Black faces. Using an old/new recognition paradigm, we found that IQ negatively correlated with the magnitude of the own-ethnicity bias (OEB) and that this relationship was moderated by contact with people from another ethnicity. We interpret these results in terms of IQ enhancing the ability to process novel stimuli by utilising multiple forms of coding. Extraversion was positively correlated with the OEB in White participants and negatively correlated with the OEB in Black participants suggesting that extraverts have lower attention to diagnostic facial features of Black faces, leading to poorer recognition of Black faces in both White and Black participants, thereby contributing to the relative OEB in these participants. The OEB is dependent on participant variables such as intelligence and extraversion.
Microleakage of Aesthetic Restorations Following Functional Simulation and Immersion in Saudi-Traditional Mouth Rinses
Authors: Alqarni Mohammed A. , Abdelaziz Khalid M. , Al Shahrani Omar Saeed , Al Asmari Ahmed Abdullah , Sabrah Saad Ali , Al Qahtani Mohammed Thamer
Published: December 2019

AIM: The study is aimed to assess the effect of 3 Saudi-traditional types of mouth rinses (Karadah, Myrrh, salted water) on the microleakage of composite and glass-ionomer restorations subjected to thermal cycling and cyclic loading.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: Class V cavities in both buccal and lingual surfaces of eighty extracted premolars were restored with both nano-filled composite and glass-ionomer restoratives. Half the number of restored teeth (group 1, n = 40) were subjected to further thermal cycling and cyclic loading to mimic the in-service functional stresses. The rest of the teeth were left as control with no functional simulation (group 2, n = 40). Teeth of each group were then stored wet for one month in 4 subgroups (n = 10) according to the storage media (distilled water, salted water, Myrrh and Karadah extracts). Following wet ageing, all teeth were immersed in methylene blue solution for 24 hrs, followed by sectioning in Bucco-lingual direction. The microleakage was inspected using stereomicroscope and rated from 0-4 according to its penetration depth. The collected non-parametrical data was then analysed statistically using Kruskal-Wallis One-way ANOVA at Î± = 0.05.
RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference observed in microleakage between specimens treated with any of the mouthwashes for both glass ionomer and composite restorations in the presence and absence of thermal cycling and cyclic loading (p = 0.889).
CONCLUSION: Given the results of the present study, the Saudi-traditional types of mouth rinses are not contributory to microleakage in aesthetic-based composite and glass-ionomer restorations.
Brain Vitalization Gymnastics Improved Cognitive Function Marked by Increased BDNF, Decreased Serum Interleukin-6 and Decreased S-100Î² Expression among Elderly in West Denpasar Primary Health Clinic
Authors: Laksmidewi Anak Agung Ayu Putri , Sudewi Anak Agung Raka , Adiputra Nyoman , Antari Dwi , Suliani Oka
Published: December 2019

Background: Brain vitalization gymnastics (BVG) is a form of physical exercise which attempts to synchronize bodily movements with cognition within the same time frame. This study aims to prove BVG can improve cognitive function among the elderly.
BACKGROUND: Brain vitalisation gymnastics (BVG) is a form of physical exercise which attempts to synchronise bodily movements with cognition within the same time frame.
AIM: This study aims to prove BVG can improve cognitive function among the elderly.
METHODS: The impact of BVG was evaluated as opposed to elderly gymnastics (regarded as a control group) for a 4-week study period. Outcomes measured were improvements of cognitive function assessed by MoCA-Ina questionnaire, as well as the difference in serum levels of BDNF, IL-6, and S100Î². An experimental pretest-posttest control design was applied to evaluate BDNF and IL-6 levels, while the post-test only designed to evaluate S100Î² levels. Parametric data were tested for normality before being proceeded into either parametric (independent studentâ€™ t) or non-parametric (Mann Whitney) test.
RESULTS: BVG significantly improved cognitive function better than elderly gymnastics with MoCA-Ina score of 1.53 Â± 1.58 dan 0.11 Â± 2.54, respectively (p â‰¤ 0.047). BVG group also had increased BDNF levels when compared with control (-6020.58 Â± 7857.22 dan 0.11 Â± 2.54; p = 0.027). Whereas BVG had lower IL-6 levels as opposed to the control group (median pre-test IL-6: 2212, median post-test IL-6: 3197.50; p = 0.004). Meanwhile, S100Î² levels were found lower among BVG when compared with the control group, although statistically insignificant (p = 0.40).
CONCLUSION: BVG programme for 4 weeks improved: (1) brain plasticity as shown by increased serum BDNF and S100Î² levels (although the latter was statistically not-significant), as well as marked decrease of IL-6 levels, (2) cognitive function as proven by an increase of MoCA-Ina score when compared with elderly gymnastics.
Successful Treatment of Isotretinoin Induced Musculoskeletal Pain by Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid
Authors: Feily Amir
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND: Daily supplementation with vitamin B12 and folate, which are the cofactors of the enzymatic reactions involved in Hcy metabolism, can lower plasma levels of Hcy and prevent osteoporosis induced by retinoid
CASE PRESENTATION: We reported six patients with nodulocystic acne who reported musculoskeletal pain after taking isotretinoin which successfully treated with daily supplementation of folic acid and B12.
CONCLUSION: We suggest our colleagues consider these supplements when a patient suffers from musculoskeletal pain following starting isotretinoin and continue the treatment as well. In the end, the authors concluded that robust trials with more patients are needed to establish the efficacy of Vit B12 and folic acid in the treatment of isotretinoin induced musculoskeletal pain.
Correlation between Breast Self-Examination Practices and Demographic Characteristics, Risk Factors and Clinical Stage of Breast Cancer among Iraqi Patients
Authors: Al-Gburi Ahmad S. A. , Alwan Nada A. S.
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND: Breast Cancer (BC) is the most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death among women globally. The disease can be cured with limited resources if detected early. Breast self-examination (BSE) is considered a cost-effective feasible approach for early detection of that cancer in developing countries.
AIM: To determine the correlation between BSE performance and demographic characteristics, risk factors and clinical stage of BC among Iraqi patients.
METHODS: This retrospective study included a total of 409 female patients diagnosed with BC at the Referral Training Center for Early Detection of Breast Cancer and the National Cancer Research Center in Baghdad. The studied variables included the age of the patient, occupation, marital and educational status, parity, history of lactation, contraceptive pill intake, family history of cancer and the clinical stage of the disease.
RESULTS: Our findings revealed that the most important predictors for practicing BSE was family history of BC or any other cancers (OR = 3.87, P = 0.018) followed by being a governmental employee (OR = 1.87, P = 0.024), history of contraceptive use (OR = 1.80, P = 0.011) and the high level of education (OR = 1.73, P = 0.004). On the other hand, there was no significant correlation between the practice of BSE and the BC stage at the time of presentation.
CONCLUSION: There is a relatively poor practice of BSE among Iraqi patients diagnosed with BC. It is mandatory to foster the national cancer control strategies that focus on raising the level of awareness among the community through public education as a major approach to the early detection of cancer in Iraq.
Bipolar Reconstruction for Recurrent Instability of the Hip
Authors: Nadaud Matthew C , Fehring Thomas K , Odum Susan , Mason J Bohannon , Griffin William L , McCoy Thomas H
Published: December 2019

abstract

Between 1986 and 1998, 81 total hip revisions were performed for recurrent instability. Twenty-three revisions were fixed cups to bipolars. Average follow-up was 50 months. Radiographic evaluation showed no significant osteolysis and average migration of 1.7 mm. The average postoperative Harris hip score was 74. All patients who underwent revision to a bipolar prosthesis had no further instability. Acetabular revision to a bipolar prosthesis provides stability in recurrent prosthetic hip instability.
Evidence for novel epigenetic marks within plants
Authors: Mahmood Asaad M , Dunwell Jim M
Published: December 2019

Variation in patterns of gene expression can result from modifications in the genome that occur without a change in the sequence of the DNA; such modifications include methylation of cytosine to generate 5-methylcytosine (5mC) resulting in the generation of heritable epimutation and novel epialleles. This type of non-sequence variation is called epigenetics. The enzymes responsible for generation of such DNA modifications in mammals are named DNA methyltransferases (DNMT) including DNMT1, DNMT2 and DNMT3. The later stages of oxidations to these modifications are catalyzed by Ten Eleven Translocation (TET) proteins, which contain catalytic domains belonging to the 2-oxoglutarate dependent dioxygenase family. In various mammalian cells/tissues including embryonic stem cells, cancer cells and brain tissues, it has been confirmed that these proteins are able to induce the stepwise oxidization of 5-methyl cytosine to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), 5-formylcytosine (5fC), and finally 5-carboxylcytosine (5caC). Each stage from initial methylation until the end of the DNA demethylation process is considered as a specific epigenetic mark that may regulate gene expression. This review discusses controversial evidence for the presence of such oxidative products, particularly 5hmC, in various plant species. Whereas some reports suggest no evidence for enzymatic DNA demethylation, other reports suggest that the presence of oxidative products is followed by the active demethylation and indicate the contribution of possible TET-like proteins in the regulation of gene expression in plants. The review also summarizes the results obtained by expressing the human TET conserved catalytic domain in transgenic plants.
The roles of genes in the bitter taste
Authors: Smail Harem Othman
Published: December 2019

The aims of this review were to understand the roles of bitter taste genes in humans. Some of the peoples have the capacity to taste some chemical substance such as phenylthiocarbamide (PTC) while others cant not based on the dietary hazards and food preferences. There are two alleles responsible to express these phenotypes which are homozygous recessive. In human TAS2R38 genes located on the chromosome number 7 and consist of different nucleotide polymorphism that related to detection of the phenotype of different chemical compounds such as 6-n-propylthiouracil (PROP) and phenylthiocarbamide bitterness and this Gene is the member of the TAS2R genes which are eleven pseudogenes and twenty that has roles in many biological processes.

There are many factors that affect the bitter taste such as food, age, sex, and different diseases. The mechanism of food bitter taste and genotype of TAS2R38 until know not well understood due to that the proof of relation between bitter taste sensitivity and food is harmful. there are many different diseases can impact the influence of taste such as neoplasm and lifestyle such as consumption of alcohol along with the use of medication, head trauma, upper tract infections. On the other hand, A relation between TAS2R38 genotype and meal preferences has been observed among children, however, no associations have been mentioned among older adults. Some previous research proved some vital points that show an association between type 1 of diabetes and phenylthiocarbamide (PTC) but other studies cannot demonstrate that. However, of other disease such as obesity is controversial but other studies reported to the relationship between them.
Enjeux éthiques des emprises olfactives et infraolfactives du conditionnement de l’air
Authors: Balez Suzel
Published: December 2019

La qualité de l’air intérieur peut participer à l’interprétation de situation quotidiennes et/ou induire un certain nombre de comportements. Le conditionnement de l’air peut donc non seulement permettre des prises sur le réel, mais aussi exercer une emprise sur les usagers du cadre bâti. Cet article examine d’abord plusieurs paradoxes relatifs à l’appréhension de notre environnement chimique. Ensuite seront présentés les enjeux principaux des tentatives de manipulation des comportements à travers les qualités de l’air intérieur : classiquement quand il s’agit d’améliorer la productivité (espaces de travail) ou de générer de l’attraction (marketing sensoriel), mais aussi à des fins récréatives (capitalisme émotionnel) ou encore pédagogiques (amélioration des processus d’apprentissage). Enfin sera discutée la potentialité d’une « éthique de l’emprise » des qualités de l’air intérieur dans la conception et la matérialisation du cadre bâti.Mots-clefs français manquants
L’Architecture sous pression. Expérimentations techniques ou architectures sous-marines, du commandant J.‑Y. Cousteau à l’architecte J. Rougerie (1960-1980)
Authors: Camus Christophe
Published: December 2019

Dans cet article, nous analysons un type spécifique et extrême d’espace hyper-conditionné au sein d’un milieu hyper-contraint : les maisons sous la mer conçues et développées au cours des années 1960-1980. Une première partie présente plusieurs programmes d’habitat de cette période, des expérimentations technoscientifiques pionnières de Jacques-Yves Cousteau (1962-1965), aux recherches architecturales de Jacques Rougerie (1977-1982). La deuxième partie montre comment ces habitats subaquatiques soumis à de fortes pressions s’affranchissent progressivement des questions techniques pour développer des solutions plus architecturales. Enfin, la dernière partie, examine les développements d’une véritable architecture subaquatique qui ouvre ces espaces hyper-conditionnés sur le milieu sous-marin pour l’habiter pleinement.
Chagas Disease Infection Prevalence and Vector Exposure in a High-Risk Population of Texas Hunters
Authors: Gunter Sarah M. , Ronca Shannon E. , Sandoval Micaela , Coffman Kimberly , Leining Lauren , Gorchakov Rodion , Murray Kristy O. , Nolan Melissa S.
Published: December 2019

Chagas disease, caused by the vector-borne parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, remains one of the most significant neglected tropical diseases affecting the Americas. Identifying high-risk populations is important for understanding Chagas disease transmission and directing public health resources. We recently hypothesized that Texas hunters may be at an elevated risk for contracting Chagas disease because of opportunities for vector exposure and contact with blood of infected reservoirs. To assess their unique exposure risks, we conducted a statewide screening program of Texas hunters. A total of 885 study participants were interviewed and tested for T. cruzi infection; 18 screened positive on a rapid, point-of-care test; however, none were found positive through confirmatory testing. We did find a high prevalence of reported direct contact with wildlife blood as well as triatomine and other arthropod disease vectors. This large-scale screening program represents a novel approach to better understand the vector-borne disease risk in this unique population.
Información subléxica, argumental y combinatoria de los verbos saber y conocer
Authors: Sanz Tordesillas Ana
Published: December 2019

El error de combinación léxica es muy frecuente en la enseñanza de español como lengua extranjera. A menudo tanto a alumnos como a profesores nos resulta difícil encontrar una explicación clara y concisa que justifique por qué en algunos casos la combinación de unas palabras con otras es imposible. Me refiero a ejemplos como *saber la nieve por conocer la nieve, o *saber un bar por conocer un bar, habituales en la clase de español como lengua extranjera (a partir de ahora, ELE) incluso en niveles avanzados.
The Impact of Executive Management on Internal Auditing Quality Under the Agency's Problem: Evidence From Egypt
Authors: Wagdi Osama , Hasaneen Amira , Metwally Madyha
Published: December 2019

The study provides a framework for determinants of an impact of Executive Management on internal auditing quality according to eight dimensions (1) leadership style of executive management, (2) Organizational Culture, (3) operation cost of internal auditing, (4) providing information and disclosure for internal auditor (5) cooperation and facilitation from executive management (6) the attitude of executive management of earnings management, (7) the attitude of executive management for creative accounting and (8) professional ethics of executive management. The population of the study is Egyptian manufacturing firms listing at EGX and their employees. Accordingly, the number of received questionnaires was 392 from 28 firms in the first half of 2019 but the financial reports for 2018. The study found the impact of executive management on internal auditing quality, and it is significant at 0.01 level. According to adjusted R-squared; executive management interprets (97.1%) of an internal auditing quality level. Finally; the current framework of corporate governance need to take into organizational characteristics, as well as the ethical and behavioural variables, with than further controls on the Board of Directors, as well as ensuring the independence of internal audit to maximize the quality of internal audit.
Students in Poverty: How to Keep Persistent in Schooling—A Case Study on the Poor Students’ Pursuing Schooling Experience in Different Ages of China
Authors: Liu Jingjing
Published: December 2019

Education of citizens is a hot topic concerned by governments and educators in China. Over the past 60 years, the Chinese government has adopted different policies of educational subsidies in different periods, benefiting many students from poor families. In addition to direct financial aid, there are other factors affecting poor students’ schooling. This study interviewed seven individuals from low-income families who studied in different ages, from 1950s to 2010s. The issues covered in the interview included the family's economic situation during their schooling, kinds of financial support they once got from schools and the government, parents’ attitude towards their studying, and the attitude of individuals towards learning in financial difficulty, etc. and studied individuals how to overcome the economic difficulties and complete the learning process under the influence of internal and external factors. The study showed that the respondents’ successful ones of different ages were all benefited from the financial support from the state and schools. Their yearning for formal school education and their recognition of the value of knowledge are the intrinsic driving forces for them to adhere to their studies. When the government and schools provide much direct financial assistance to poor students, they should also take active measures to improve students’ attitude towards school education and knowledge, stimulating their enthusiasm and initiative in learning, take measures to promote students’ learning ability, improving their academic self-confidence, which plays an important role in deciding whether poor individuals can persisting in schooling.
How Sociodemographic Variables and Social Values Predict Work-Related General Anxiety in Brunei Public and Private Sector Employees
Authors: Mundia Lawrence
Published: December 2019

Background: Numerous studies show that employees tend to have anxiety and other psychological problems at places of work. The present investigation explored the prevalence of work-related general anxiety in 860 randomly chosen Brunei public and private sector employees.Methods: A quantitative field survey design was used to reach many participants and employed binary logistic regression procedure with backward elimination in analyzing the data.Results: Males were far less likely to have work-related general anxiety compared to females. Employees who sought help from prayer / religion were nearly 1.7 times more likely to have work-related general anxiety compared to those who do not get such help. Workers who regularly got help from family members on problems had also high likelihood of possessing a great amount of work-related general anxiety compared to those who did not often get help from family members. Employees with a low educational background had high odds ratios for possessing work-related general anxiety compared to those with high education.Compared to high scorers: (1) low scorers on peace and security variable were less likely to have work-related general anxiety; (2) low scorers on personal wellbeing and happiness were also less likely to experience work-related general anxiety; (3) low scorers on self-regulation and self-direction were as well less likely to have work-related general anxiety; and (4) low scorers on employer-employee relationships were equally less likely to have work-related general anxiety issues. However, (5) low scorers on moral obligations were 1.6 times more likely to have work-related general anxiety problems; (6) low scorers on satisfaction with work-related achievements were 1.9 times more likely to have work-related general anxiety; (7) low scorers on interpersonal trust variable had high odds ratios for having work-related general anxiety problems; and (8) low scorers on work stress problems were surprisingly also highly likely to have work-related general anxiety problems.Conclusions: Sociodemographic variables and social work values presented above had different effects on work-related anxiety in employees. These are the variables to which attention and priority should be directed and accorded when counselling workers.
The Contribution of Business Management Trainings on Women Smallholder Farmers’ Entrepreneurial Spirit in Siteki Area of Eswatini
Authors: Kibirige Douglas , Singh Ajay S. , Dlamini Sotja G. , Mavuso Sebenele
Published: December 2019

Women make essential contributions to the agricultural and rural economies in most developing countries including Eswatini yet they are the most visible face of poverty. As a strategy of empowering women to up-lift them from abject poverty, “Luhlelo Lolunotsisa Temabhizinisi” (LULOTE) has developed business management training programs for rural women smallholder farmers to enhance their entrepreneurship spirit and skills. The LULOTE in English can be interpreted as a program that helps businesses to advance/prosper. It is a Non-Governmental Organization was established in 1986 in Eswatini to promote entrepreneurial culture and inspire entrepreneurs. This paper ought to find out the contributions of business management trainings on the level of entrepreneurial spirit and skills of women smallholder farmers as its main objective. Data was collected through the use of questionnaires and personal interviews with a sample size of 120 farmers. Descriptive statistics and the Ordinary Least Square (OLS) multiple regression models were used as methods of analysis. The results of this study indicate that most farmers interviewed were aged above 49 years, married (40%), and primary school dropout (mean of 6 years in school), spent an average of 10 years in farming and at least 50% on average indicated that farming was their main occupation. Results further revealed that the trained women by LULOTE had a higher entrepreneurial spirit than the non-trained women scoring an average index of 3.45 and 2.77, respectively. The LULOTE trained women also were rated higher with a 3.50 score compared to the non-trained rated at 3.01 scores. The determinants of level of entrepreneurial spirit among sampled women included age of respondent, level of education, farming as major occupation, and incomes from remittances. Determinants of level of entrepreneurial skills among sampled women included, farming income, off-farm income and previous job of the respondent. Based on the independent T-test results, there was a significant difference in the statements mean scores related to the level of farmers’ entrepreneurial spirit & Skills between LULOTE members and non-LULOTE members at 1% and 5% level. Therefore, the research concludes that LULOTE trainings greatly contributed to improving the entrepreneurial spirit and skills of the women. Since there is an observable positive result of training women, all stakeholders including government, private sector, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), among others should increase on the training programs for all farming age groups including the youth.
Tropical Forage Grasses Intercropped Under Lenient Grazing Intensities Promote Greater Soil Cover
Authors: Fernandes Patrick Bezerra , Barbosa Rodrigo Amorim , Morais Maria Da Graça , Medeiros-Neto Cauby de , Fernandes Henrique Jorge , Gurgel Antonio Leandro Chaves , Difante Gelson Dos Santos , Costa Carolina Marques , Sbrissia André Fischer , Santana Juliana Caroline Santos , Silva Fábio Adriano Santos e
Published: December 2019

The diversity of grasses in the intercropping promotes greater soil cover regardless of the grazing intensity used. The aim was evaluated how cultivation systems (monoculture and intercropped) influence the proportion of soil discovered under different grazing intensities. The experiment was conducted at the premises of the Brazilian Agricultural Research Company. The pastures were combined two cultivation systems: monoculture of Panicum maximum cv. BRS Zuri; intercropping of Panicum maximum cv. BRS Zuri, Brachiaria brizantha cv. Xaraes and Brachiaria decumbens cv. Basilisk. Four evaluation cycles were performed, which totaled in 2136 observations. In the contrast between evaluation cycles, it is possible to infer that cycles II, III and IV have a negative effect in relation to cycle I, because after the first evaluation there is an increase in the proportion of soil discovered in the pastures studied. In relation to cultivation systems, the intercropped managed at high grazing intensities impacts negative effects, and it is possible to observe the highest values of uncovered soil, as well as the lowest tussock distribution values. The intercropping of tropical climate pastures has greater soil cover when managed in lenient grazing intensity.
Into the Mind’s Eye: Exploring the Fast-Same Effect in the Same-Different Task
Authors: Walker Jesika A. , Cousineau Denis
Published: December 2019

The fast-same effect is the observation that “same” responses are much faster than “different” responses in the same-different task. Moreover, identical stimuli are responded to faster than stimuli that are the same in name only (e.g., B and b). We examine Bamber’s (1969) identity reporter model (a two-stage model predicting load effects), Proctor’s (1981) facilitation framework, and Krueger and Shapiro’s (1981) priming framework, proposed to account for these effects. Facilitation and priming are strong for identical and repeated stimuli, for phonological associates, and, in principle, for any form of association. We thus manipulated two types of associations: nominal (changing the letter case, preserving phonology) and learned (matching arbitrary symbols to letters) associations and used extended training to see variations in load effects. We found that overall performance benefits from phonological information and from training, although training did not change load effects. Additionally, the results from a transfer phase show capacity limitation for learned associates, which severely constrains facilitation. This finding is inconsistent with a priming framework. The results are discussed using an expanded version of Bamber’s identity reporter model, which is also compatible with Proctor’s facilitation framework.
Placekeeping Ability as a Component of Fluid Intelligence: Not Just Working Memory Capacity
Authors: Burgoyne Alexander P. , Hambrick David Z. , Altmann Erik M.
Published: December 2019

The question of what cognitive processes contribute to fluid intelligence (Gf)—the ability to solve novel problems—continues to be central in intelligence research. Here, we considered the contribution of placekeeping, which is the ability to perform a sequence of steps in a prescribed order without omissions or repetitions. Placekeeping plays a role in problem solving but also rests on the ability to remember past performance, so it may simply reduce to working memory capacity (WMC). To investigate this possibility, we evaluated whether placekeeping accounts for individual differences in Gf above and beyond WMC. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that placekeeping ability accounted for 12% of the variance in Gf above and beyond WMC. By contrast, WMC accounted for only 2% of the variance in Gf above and beyond placekeeping ability. Structural equation modeling revealed that placekeeping ability and WMC are distinct at the latent variable level, and together they accounted for 77% of the variance in Gf. However, whereas placekeeping ability significantly predicted Gf in the structural equation model, WMC did not. In general, the results suggest that placekeeping ability is distinct from WMC and contributes substantially to individual differences in Gf.
The Influence of Hedonic and Utilitarian Shopping Value Towards Consumer Behavioral Intention Among Youth Mall Shoppers
Authors: Hudin Norlaile Salleh , Annuar Nur Shafiqa Azrin Khairil , Razak Ahmad Zainal Abidin Abd
Published: December 2019

In the past decade, considerable amount of researches investigated the influence of hedonic and utilitarian shopping values on consumer behavioral intention. Accordingly, this has driven the current study to achieve its objective which is to determine the influence of hedonic and utilitarian shopping values on consumer consumer behavioral intention among youth in Malaysia. Embarking on the quantitative methodology, a survey is conducted among 469 university students who enrolled to a compulsory university course. The results showed that hedonic and utilitarian shopping values had positive influence on the youth consumer behavioral intention. This implies that shopping mall developers should consider hedonic and utilitarian preferences in terms of the design, selection of stores and functionality in creating a shopping mall particularly in serving youth market segment.
Contemporary Management Accounting Practices and Managerial Performance Amongst the Malaysian Co-operatives Sector
Authors: Janudin Sharul Effendy , Halim Hazianti Abdul , Habidin Nurul Fadly , Hanif Farahaini Mohd
Published: December 2019

Co-operatives in Malaysia have urgent jobs in creating business frameworks, and making it workable for the nation to join the worldwide co-operatives society and refined economies. Thus, top management in Malaysian cooperatives aggressively design and implement their strategic plan through strategic accounting procedures in leadership. The purpose of this research is to examine the association between the contemporary management accounting practices (MAP) and managerial performance in the Malaysian’ co-operative sector. Management team from the 100 leading co-operatives in Malaysia were the respondents. Descriptive on the adoption level and its relationship with the managerial performance has been analysed. The finding indicates the level of contemporary MAP is high and there is significant relationship between contemporary MAP and managerial performance among Malaysian Co-operatives. This research offers a exclusive details investigation of the contemporary MAP and an signal of upcoming trends.
Incentive Effects of Granting Equity-Based Payment on Reducing Top Executive Turnover
Authors: Ismail Zuriadah , Ahmad Noor Lela , Norwani Norlia Mat , Zabit Mohd Nazir bin Md
Published: December 2019

The main focus of the study is to examine the incentive effect of granting equity-based payments for reducing turnover among the executives. In specific, the study was guided on determining the influencing effects of managerial ownership and equity-based payment may reduce executive turnover among the Malaysian Listed companies. From the analysis, the main finding shows that firms with equity-based programme with a presence of family control indicates that turnover is likely to be a lower. This implies that family ties play a significant role for removing of inefficient executives. And, where the family members are also served as the board members, the likelihood to shield from being removed is consistent with the management entrenchment hypothesis. Then, extended examination results for the mix pay components of cash and equity reveal the turnover is found to produce less incentive for executives to stay in the firm. The result implies that executives are willing to lose their equity benefits from unexercised value of shares equity and nd the firms fail to restrain executives’ departure as the findings documented in past studies.
Statistical confidentiality as an element of the protection of the constitutional right to privacy
Authors: Zapadka Piotr
Published: December 2019

The confidentiality of statistical data, one of the areas of classified data, is a part of the institutional legal framework designed as a coherent safeguard of natural persons’ right to privacy, at the same time recognising the fact that collecting statistical data for public statistics satisfies an important public need. Therefore it is necessary to reach a sensible compromise between justified public interest and private interest. The article analyses selected aspects of statistical confidentiality regarded as a tool for the execution of the constitutional duty to protect the identity of persons participating in statistical surveys. The aim of this paper is to define the extent to which the process of collecting and storing data, provided for by the law on public statistics, constituties a justified and lawful interference with the constitutional rights and freedoms of natural persons. The analysis of the Polish and foreign regulations pertaining to this matter indicates that statistical confidentiality serves as a protective measure for the right to privacy for natural persons, guaranteed by Art. 47 of the Polish Constitution.
Corn stover usage and farm profit for sustainable dairy farming in China
Authors: He Yuan , Cone John W. , Hendriks Wouter H. , Dijkstra Jan
Published: December 2019

Objective: This study determined the optimal ratio of whole plant corn silage (WPCS) to corn stover (stems+leaves) silage (CSS) (WPCS:CSS) to reach the greatest profit of dairy farmers and evaluated its consequences with corn available for other purposes, enteric methane production and milk nitrogen efficiency (MNE) at varying milk production levels.Methods: An optimization model was developed. Chemical composition, rumen undegradable protein and metabolizable energy (ME) of WPCS and CSS from 4 cultivars were determined to provide data for the model.Results: At production levels of 0, 10, 20, and 30 kg milk/cow/d, the WPCS:CSS to maximize the profit of dairy farmers was 16:84, 22:78, 44:56, and 88:12, respectively, and the land area needed to grow corn plants was 4.5, 31.4, 33.4, and 30.3 ha, respectively. The amount of corn available (ton DM/ha/yr) for other purposes saved from this land area decreased with higher producing cows. However, compared with high producing cows (30 kg/d milk), more low producing cows (10 kg/d milk) and more land area to grow corn and soybeans was needed to produce the same total amount of milk. Extra land is available to grow corn for a higher milk production, leading to more corn available for other purposes. Increasing ME content of CSS decreased the land area needed, increased the profit of dairy farms and provided more corn available for other purposes. At the optimal WPCS:CSS, MNE and enteric methane production was greater, but methane production per kg milk was lower, for high producing cows.Conclusion: The WPCS:CSS to maximize the profit for dairy farms increases with decreased milk production levels. At a fixed total amount of milk being produced, high producing cows increase corn available for other purposes. At the optimal WPCS:CSS, methane emission intensity is smaller and MNE is greater for high producing cows.
Relationship of dairy heifer reproduction with survival to first calving, milk yield and culling risk in the first lactation
Authors: Fodor István , Lang Zsolt , Ózsvári László
Published: December 2019

Objective: The aim of our study was to determine the associations of heifer reproductive performance with survival up to the first calving, first-lactation milk yield, and the probability of being culled within 50 days after first calving.Methods: Data from 33 large Holstein-Friesian commercial dairy herds were gathered from the official milk recording database in Hungary. The data of heifers first inseminated between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2014 were analyzed retrospectively, using Cox proportional hazards models, competing risks models, multivariate linear and logistic mixed-effects models.Results: Heifers (n = 35,128) with younger age at conception were more likely to remain in the herd until calving, and each additional month in age at conception increased culling risk by 5.1%. Season of birth was related to first-lactation milk yield (MY1; n = 19,931), with cows born in autumn having the highest milk production (p<0.001). The highest MY1 was achieved by heifers that first calved between 22.00 and 25.99 months of age. Heifers that calved in autumn had the highest MY1, whereas calving in summer was related to the lowest milk production (p<0.001). The risk of culling within 50 days in milk in first lactation (n = 21,225) increased along with first calving age, e.g. heifers that first calved after 30 months of age were 5.52-times more likely to be culled compared to heifers that calved before 22 months of age (p<0.001). Calving difficulty was related to higher culling risk in early lactation (p<0.001). Heifers that required caesarean section were 24.01-times more likely to leave the herd within 50 days after first calving compared to heifers that needed no assistance (p<0.001).Conclusion: Reproductive performance of replacement heifers is closely linked to longevity and milk production in dairy herds.
β-Carotene prevents weaning-induced intestinal inflammation by modulating gut microbiota in piglets
Authors: Li Ruonan , Li Lingqian , Hong Pan , Lang Wuying , Hui Junnan , Yang Yu , Zheng Xin
Published: December 2019

Objective: Weaning is an important stage in the life of young mammals, which is associated with intestinal inflammation, gut microbiota disorders, and even death. β-Carotene displays anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can prevent the development of inflammatory diseases. However, whether β-carotene can affect intestinal microbiota remains unclear. Methods: Twenty-four piglets were distributed into four groups: the normal suckling group (Con), the weaning group (WG), the weaning+β-carotene (40 mg/kg) group (LCBC), and the weaning+β-carotene (80 mg/kg) group (HCBC). The serum, jejunum, colon, and faeces were collected separately from each group. The effects of β-carotene on the phenotype, overall structure, and composition of gut microbiota were assessed in weaning piglets. Results: The results showed that β-carotene improved the growth performance, intestinal morphology and relieved inflammation. Furthermore, β-carotene significantly decreased the species from phyla Bacteroidetes and the genus Prevotella, and Blautia, and increased the species from the phyla Firmicutes and the genera p-75-a5, and Parabacteroides compared to the WG group. Spearman’s correlation analysis showed that Prevotella and Blautia were positively correlated, and Parabacteroides and Synergistes were negatively correlated with the levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), while p-75-a5 showed negative correlation with IL-6 in serum samples from piglets. Conclusion: These findings indicate that β-carotene could alleviate weaning-induced intestinal inflammation by modulating gut microbiota in piglets. Prevotella may be a potential target of β-carotene in alleviating the weaning-induced intestinal inflammation in piglets.
An investigation of seasonal variations in the microbiota of milk, feces, bedding, and airborne dust
Authors: Nguyen Thuong Thi , Wu Haoming , Nishino Naoki
Published: December 2019

Objective: The microbiota of dairy cow milk varies with the season, and this accounts in part for the seasonal variation in mastitis-causing bacteria and milk spoilage. The microbiota of the cowshed may be the most important factor because the teats of a dairy cow contact bedding material when the cow is resting. The objectives of the present study were to determine whether the microbiota of the milk and the cowshed vary between seasons, and to elucidate the relationship between the microbiota.Methods: We used 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing to investigate the microbiota of milk, feces, bedding, and airborne dust collected at a dairy farm during summer and winter.Results: The seasonal differences in the milk yield and milk composition were marginal. The fecal microbiota was stable across the two seasons. Many bacterial taxa of the bedding and airborne dust microbiota exhibited distinctive seasonal variation. In the milk microbiota, the abundances of Staphylococcaceae, Bacillaceae, Streptococcaceae, Microbacteriaceae, and Micrococcaceae were affected by the seasons; however, only Micrococcaceae had the same seasonal variation pattern as the bedding and airborne dust microbiota. Nevertheless, canonical analysis of principle coordinates revealed a distinctive group comprising the milk, bedding, and airborne dust microbiota.Conclusion: Although the milk microbiota is related to the bedding and airborne dust microbiota, the relationship may not account for the seasonal variation in the milk microbiota. Some major bacterial families stably found in the bedding and airborne dust microbiota, e.g., Staphylococcaceae, Moraxellaceae, Ruminococcaceae, and Bacteroidaceae, may have greater influences than those that varied between seasons.