bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amelioration of Hyperglycaemia, Oxidative Stress and Dyslipidaemia in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Wistar Rats Treated with Probiotic and Vitamin C
Authors: Aluwong Tagang , Ayo Joseph , Kpukple Alkali , Oladipo Olusola
Published: May 2016

Clinical and experimental evidence suggests that hyperglycaemia is responsible for the oxidative stress in diabetes mellitus. The study was designed to investigate the comparative effects of probiotic and vitamin C (Vit-C) treatments on hyperglycaemia, oxidative stress and dyslipidaemia in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Type 1 diabetes (T1DM) was induced in male Wistar rats by a single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of alloxan (150 mg/kg). Six groups of the animals received the following treatment regimens for four weeks: (1) Normal saline, per os; (2) alloxan (150 mg/kg, i.p.); (3) alloxan (150 mg/kg) + insulin (4 U/kg, subcutaneously); (4) alloxan (150 mg/kg) + probiotic (4.125 × 106 CFU/100 mL per os); (5) alloxan (150 mg/kg) + Vit-C (100 mg/kg, i.m.); (6) alloxan (150 mg/kg) + probiotic (4.125 × 106 CFU/100 mL per os) + Vit-C (100 mg/kg, intramuscularly). Probiotic + Vit-C decreased (p < 0.05) blood glucose concentration in diabetic treated group, when compared with the untreated diabetic group. Probiotic + Vit-C reduced malondialdehyde concentration, in the serum, brain and kidneys, respectively, but increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Probiotic and Vit-C may be more effective than Vit-C alone, in ameliorating hyperglycaemia, oxidative stress and dyslipidaemia in alloxan-induced diabetic rats.
Climate Change, Politics and Religion: Australian Churchgoers’ Beliefs about Climate Change
Authors: Pepper Miriam , Leonard Rosemary
Published: May 2016

A growing literature has sought to understand the relationships between religion, politics and views about climate change and climate change policy in the United States. However, little comparative research has been conducted in other countries. This study draws on data from the 2011 Australian National Church Life Survey to examine the beliefs of Australian churchgoers from some 20 denominations about climate change—whether or not it is real and whether it is caused by humans—and political factors that explain variation in these beliefs. Pentecostals, Baptist and Churches of Christ churchgoers, and people from the smallest Protestant denominations were less likely than other churchgoers to believe in anthropogenic climate change, and voting and hierarchical and individualistic views about society predicted beliefs. There was some evidence that these views function differently in relation to climate change beliefs depending on churchgoers’ degree of opposition to gay rights. These findings are of interest not only for the sake of international comparisons, but also in a context where Australia plays a role in international climate change politics that is disproportionate to its small population.
Transforming Adverse Cognition on the Path of Bhakti: Rule-Based Devotion, “My-Ness,” and the Existential Condition of Bondage
Authors: Chilcott Travis
Published: May 2016

Early Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇava theologians developed a unique path of Hindu devotion during the 16th century through which an aspirant cultivates a rapturous form of selfless love (premā) for Kṛṣṇa, who is recognized as the supreme and personal deity. In the course and consequence of cultivating this selfless love, the recommended practices of devotion are claimed to free one from the basic existential condition of bondage that is of concern for a wide range of South Asian religious and philosophical traditions. One of the principle cognitive tendencies characterizing this condition is to have thoughts and feelings of possessiveness over objects of the world, or what is referred to as the state of “my-ness” (mamatā), e.g., my home, my children, or my wealth. Using the therapeutic model of schema therapy as a heuristic analogue, this article explores the relationship between recommended practices of rule-based devotion (vaidhi-bhakti) and the modulation of thoughts and feelings of possessiveness towards mundane objects. I argue that such practices function as learning strategies that can systematically rework and modulate how one relates to and responds to these objects in theologically desirable ways. I conclude by suggesting that connectionist theories of cognition and learning may offer a promising explanatory framework for understanding the dynamics of this kind of relationship.
Monitoring the Topography of a Dynamic Tidal Inlet Using UAV Imagery
Authors: Long Nathalie , Millescamps Bastien , Guillot Benoît , Pouget Frédéric , Bertin Xavier
Published: May 2016

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are being increasingly used to monitor topographic changes in coastal areas. Compared to Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR) data or Terrestrial Laser Scanning data, this solution is low-cost and easy to use, while allowing the production of a Digital Surface Model (DSM) with a similar accuracy. Three campaigns were carried out within a three-month period at a lagoon-inlet system (Bonne-Anse Bay, La Palmyre, France), with a flying wing (eBee) combined with a digital camera. Ground Control Points (GCPs), surveyed by the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and post-processed by differential correction, allowed georeferencing DSMs. Using a photogrammetry process (Structure From Motion algorithm), DSMs and orthomosaics were produced. The DSM accuracy was assessed against the ellipsoidal height of a GNSS profile and Independent Control Points (ICPs) and the root mean square discrepancies were about 10 and 17 cm, respectively. Compared to traditional topographic surveys, this solution allows the accurate representation of bedforms with a wavelength of the order of 1 m and a height of 0.1 m. Finally, changes identified between both main campaigns revealed erosion/accretion areas and the progradation of a sandspit. These results open new perspectives to validate detailed morphological predictions or to parameterize bottom friction in coastal numerical models.
The Effects of a Multi-Ingredient Performance Supplement on Hormonal Profiles and Body Composition in Male College Athletes
Authors: Sharp Matthew , Shields Kevin , Rauch Jacob , Lowery Ryan , Durkee Shane , Wilson Gabriel , De Souza Eduardo
Published: May 2016

Periods of intense training can elicit an acute decline in performance and body composition associated with weakened hormone profiles. This study investigated the effects of a multi-ingredient performance supplement (MIPS) on body composition and hormone levels in college athletes following a six-week training protocol. Twenty male college athletes were equally assigned to MIPS and placebo (PLA) groups for supplementation (three pills, twice daily) in conjunction with resistance training and specialized sports training (e.g., nine total sessions/week) for six weeks. Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry determined body composition at weeks 0 and 6. Serum samples collected at weeks 0 and 6 determined free testosterone (FT), total testosterone (TT), IGF-1 and total estrogen (TE) levels. PLA experienced a significant decline in lean body mass (LBM) (−1.5 kg; p < 0.05) whereas the MIPS sustained LBM. The MIPS increased TT 21.9% (541.5 ± 48.7 to 639.1 ± 31.7) and increased FT 15.2% (13.28 ± 1.1 to 15.45 ± 1.3 ng/dL) (p < 0.05). Conversely, PLA decreased TT 7.9% (554.5 ± 43.3 to 497.2 ± 39.1 ng/dL), decreased FT 17.4% (13.41 ± 1.8 to 11.23 ± 2.55 ng/dL), and decreased FT:E 12.06% (p < 0.05). These findings suggest the MIPS can prevent decrements in LBM and anabolic hormone profiles during intense training periods.
Are the Rural Electrification Efforts in the Ecuadorian Amazon Sustainable?
Authors: Feron Sarah , Heinrichs Harald , Cordero Raúl
Published: May 2016

In this paper, we assess the sustainability of rural electrification programs in Ecuador, paying special attention to programs targeting small indigenous communities in the Amazon basin. Our assessment considers four dimensions of sustainability (institutional, economic, environmental, and socio-cultural) and is based on an exhaustive qualitative document analysis, complemented by semi-structured expert interviews. We found that disruptive changes have affected the electrification policies in Ecuador during decades of avoiding the development of strengthened institutions. Despite this major drawback, we found that there is a consensus on granting access to energy for all. This partially explains the national efforts, persistent through different administrations to fund rural electrification. However, in the case of off-grid photovoltaic solutions, these efforts have consistently neglected allocating funds for operation and maintenance, which has seriously compromised the sustainability. Moreover, although Ecuadorian officials declared to favor stand-alone photovoltaic systems in the case of indigenous communities in the Amazon, we found that environmental or socio-cultural aspects have a minor role in the selection of these systems. Progress regarding environmental awareness, social acceptance, and cultural justice, is still needed for ensuring the sustainability of rural electrification efforts in the Ecuadorian Amazon.
CO2 Emissions and Cost by Floor Types of Public Apartment Houses in South Korea
Authors: Jang Hyoung , Kim Tae , Chae Chang
Published: May 2016

In each country in the world, there is a strong need for all industries to reduce CO2 emissions for sustainable development as a preparation for climatic change. The biggest issue in many developed countries, including the United States, is to reduce CO2 emissions for the upcoming implementation of Carbon Emissions Trading. The construction industry, in particular, which accounts for up about 30% of CO2 emissions, will need studies on the amount of CO2 emissions. The purpose of this study is to present the most environmentally friendly and economical apartment house plan types according to the increasing number of layers by evaluating the amount of CO2 emissions and economic efficiency. The results indicated that flat and Y-shaped types are more eco-friendly and economical in lower levels of less than 20 stories. However, the L-shaped type is more highly eco-friendly and economically efficient in higher levels of more than 20 stories. The results of this paper would help to make a decision on the building types and the number of stories in the early stages of construction.
Are Local Food Chains More Sustainable than Global Food Chains? Considerations for Assessment
Authors: Brunori Gianluca , Galli Francesca , Barjolle Dominique , Van Broekhuizen Rudolf , Colombo Luca , Giampietro Mario , Kirwan James , Lang Tim , Mathijs Erik , Maye Damian , De Roest Kees , Rougoor Carin , Schwarz Jana , Schmitt Emilia , Smith Julie , Stojanovic Zaklina , Tisenkopfs Talis , Touzard Jean-Marc
Published: May 2016

This paper summarizes the main findings of the GLAMUR project which starts with an apparently simple question: is “local” more sustainable than “global”? Sustainability assessment is framed within a post-normal science perspective, advocating the integration of public deliberation and scientific research. The assessment spans 39 local, intermediate and global supply chain case studies across different commodities and countries. Assessment criteria cover environmental, economic, social, health and ethical sustainability dimensions. A closer view of the food system demonstrates a highly dynamic local–global continuum where actors, while adapting to a changing environment, establish multiple relations and animate several chain configurations. The evidence suggests caution when comparing “local” and “global” chains, especially when using the outcomes of the comparison in decision-making. Supply chains are analytical constructs that necessarily—and arbitrarily—are confined by system boundaries, isolating a set of elements from an interconnected whole. Even consolidated approaches, such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), assess only a part of sustainability attributes, and the interpretation may be controversial. Many sustainability attributes are not yet measurable and “hard” methodologies need to be complemented by “soft” methodologies which are at least able to identify critical issues and trade-offs. Aware of these limitations, our research shows that comparing local and global chains, with the necessary caution, can help overcome a priori positions that so far have characterized the debate between “localists” and “globalists”. At firm level, comparison between “local” and “global” chains could be useful to identify best practices, benchmarks, critical points, and errors to avoid. As sustainability is not a status to achieve, but a never-ending process, comparison and deliberation can be the basis of a “reflexive governance” of food chains.
Sustainable Refugee Migration: A Rethink towards a Positive Capability Approach
Authors: Al-Husban Mohammed , Adams Carl
Published: May 2016

A major challenge facing many countries around the world is how to sustainably address the issues of increased numbers of refugee migrants. The refugee migrant “issue” is often heavily political as a high density of migrants in local areas impacts communities (e.g., disrupting local employment, service and culture). Different migrants come with different “baggage” and needs which can be a significant draw on the hosting communities’ resources. This paper argues that sustainable long-term solutions to refugee migrants will require a rethink to the existing dominant models of containment and charity. The paper draws upon insights from a study of a large refugee camp in Jordan over a three-and-a-half-year period, and historical cases of refugee migration. The paper presents a sustainable model that develops long-term capability for the various stakeholder groups.
Old Game, New Rules: Rethinking the Form of Physics
Authors: Baumgarten Christian
Published: May 2016

We investigate the modeling capabilities of sets of coupled classical harmonic oscillators (CHO) in the form of a modeling game. The application of the simple but restrictive rules of the game lead to conditions for an isomorphism between Lie-algebras and real Clifford algebras. We show that the correlations between two coupled classical oscillators find their natural description in the Dirac algebra and allow to model aspects of special relativity, inertial motion, electromagnetism and quantum phenomena including spin in one go. The algebraic properties of Hamiltonian motion of low-dimensional systems can generally be related to certain types of interactions and hence to the dimensionality of emergent space-times. We describe the intrinsic connection between phase space volumes of a 2-dimensional oscillator and the Dirac algebra. In this version of a phase space interpretation of quantum mechanics the (components of the) spinor wavefunction in momentum space are abstract canonical coordinates, and the integrals over the squared wave function represents second moments in phase space. The wave function in ordinary space-time can be obtained via Fourier transformation. Within this modeling game, 3+1-dimensional space-time is interpreted as a structural property of electromagnetic interaction. A generalization selects a series of Clifford algebras of specific dimensions with similar properties, specifically also 10- and 26-dimensional real Clifford algebras.
The Smallest Valid Extension-Based Efficient, Rare Graph Pattern Mining, Considering Length-Decreasing Support Constraints and Symmetry Characteristics of Graphs
Authors: Yun Unil , Lee Gangin , Kim Chul-Hong
Published: May 2016

Frequent graph mining has been proposed to find interesting patterns (i.e., frequent sub-graphs) from databases composed of graph transaction data, which can effectively express complex and large data in the real world. In addition, various applications for graph mining have been suggested. Traditional graph pattern mining methods use a single minimum support threshold factor in order to check whether or not mined patterns are interesting. However, it is not a sufficient factor that can consider valuable characteristics of graphs such as graph sizes and features of graph elements. That is, previous methods cannot consider such important characteristics in their mining operations since they only use a fixed minimum support threshold in the mining process. For this reason, in this paper, we propose a novel graph mining algorithm that can consider various multiple, minimum support constraints according to the types of graph elements and changeable minimum support conditions, depending on lengths of graph patterns. In addition, the proposed algorithm performs in mining operations more efficiently because it can minimize duplicated operations and computational overheads by considering symmetry features of graphs. Experimental results provided in this paper demonstrate that the proposed algorithm outperforms previous mining approaches in terms of pattern generation, runtime and memory usage.
Docking Simulation of the Binding Interactions of Saxitoxin Analogs Produced by the Marine Dinoflagellate Gymnodinium catenatum to the Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel Nav1.4
Authors: Durán-Riveroll Lorena , Cembella Allan , Band-Schmidt Christine , Bustillos-Guzmán José , Correa-Basurto José
Published: May 2016

Saxitoxin (STX) and its analogs are paralytic alkaloid neurotoxins that block the voltage-gated sodium channel pore (Nav), impeding passage of Na+ ions into the intracellular space, and thereby preventing the action potential in the peripheral nervous system and skeletal muscle. The marine dinoflagellate Gymnodinium catenatum produces an array of such toxins, including the recently discovered benzoyl analogs, for which the mammalian toxicities are essentially unknown. We subjected STX and its analogs to a theoretical docking simulation based upon two alternative tri-dimensional models of the Nav1.4 to find a relationship between the binding properties and the known mammalian toxicity of selected STX analogs. We inferred hypothetical toxicities for the benzoyl analogs from the modeled values. We demonstrate that these toxins exhibit different binding modes with similar free binding energies and that these alternative binding modes are equally probable. We propose that the principal binding that governs ligand recognition is mediated by electrostatic interactions. Our simulation constitutes the first in silico modeling study on benzoyl-type paralytic toxins and provides an approach towards a better understanding of the mode of action of STX and its analogs.
Toxin and Growth Responses of the Neurotoxic Dinoflagellate Vulcanodinium rugosum to Varying Temperature and Salinity
Authors: Abadie Eric , Muguet Alexia , Berteaux Tom , Chomérat Nicolas , Hess Philipp , Roque D’OrbCastel Emmanuelle , Masseret Estelle , Laabir Mohamed
Published: May 2016

Vulcanodinium rugosum, a recently described species, produces pinnatoxins. The IFR-VRU-01 strain, isolated from a French Mediterranean lagoon in 2010 and identified as the causative dinoflagellate contaminating mussels in the Ingril Lagoon (French Mediterranean) with pinnatoxin-G, was grown in an enriched natural seawater medium. We tested the effect of temperature and salinity on growth, pinnatoxin-G production and chlorophyll a levels of this dinoflagellate. These factors were tested in combinations of five temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 °C) and five salinities (20, 25, 30, 35 and 40) at an irradiance of 100 µmol photon m−2 s−1. V. rugosum can grow at temperatures and salinities ranging from 20 °C to 30 °C and 20 to 40, respectively. The optimal combination for growth (0.39 ± 0.11 d−1) was a temperature of 25 °C and a salinity of 40. Results suggest that V. rugosum is euryhaline and thermophile which could explain why this dinoflagellate develops in situ only from June to September. V. rugosum growth rate and pinnatoxin-G production were highest at temperatures ranging between 25 and 30 °C. This suggests that the dinoflagellate may give rise to extensive blooms in the coming decades caused by the climate change-related increases in temperature expected in the Mediterranean coasts.
Applications of Replicating-Competent Reporter-Expressing Viruses in Diagnostic and Molecular Virology
Authors: Li Yongfeng , Li Lian-Feng , Yu Shaoxiong , Wang Xiao , Zhang Lingkai , Yu Jiahui , Xie Libao , Li Weike , Ali Razim , Qiu Hua-Ji
Published: May 2016

Commonly used tests based on wild-type viruses, such as immunostaining, cannot meet the demands for rapid detection of viral replication, high-throughput screening for antivirals, as well as for tracking viral proteins or virus transport in real time. Notably, the development of replicating-competent reporter-expressing viruses (RCREVs) has provided an excellent option to detect directly viral replication without the use of secondary labeling, which represents a significant advance in virology. This article reviews the applications of RCREVs in diagnostic and molecular virology, including rapid neutralization tests, high-throughput screening systems, identification of viral receptors and virus-host interactions, dynamics of viral infections in vitro and in vivo, vaccination approaches and others. However, there remain various challenges associated with RCREVs, including pathogenicity alterations due to the insertion of a reporter gene, instability or loss of the reporter gene expression, or attenuation of reporter signals in vivo. Despite all these limitations, RCREVs have become powerful tools for both basic and applied virology with the development of new technologies for generating RCREVs, the inventions of novel reporters and the better understanding of regulation of viral replication.
Tourism Destination Image (TDI) Perception Within a Regional Winescape Context
Authors: Bruwer Johan , Gross Michael J. , Lee Hong Chul
Published: May 2016

This study conceptualizes the perception of a tourism destination image (TDI) in the process integrating multiple theories such as servicescape, place-based, and destination perceptions. The research outlines the conceptualization of a wine TDI in the form of a regional winescape framework as perceived by visitors. The nature of the wine tourism product and experience requires that a research approach be developed that differs from the generic approaches used in mainstream TDI studies. A free form approach was used to integrate TDI perception, services marketing, servicescape, and place-based marketing theories. The winescape construct is identified within a framework of eight dimensions for a well-known Australian region. The most important winescape dimension is the natural beauty/geographical setting. The in-state and out-of-state origin dynamic affects visitors' wine tourism behavior and perception of the region's winescape. For in-state and out-of-state visitors, there are pronounced differences in their perception of the region's winescape dimensions. Increasing distance from the destination region is pivotal in the perception of the winescape dimensions and thus the TDI.
Examining Chinese Tourists' Nature-based Tourism Participation Behavior: Incorporating Environmental Concern Into a Constraint-negotiation Model
Authors: Chen Annie , Peng Norman
Published: May 2016

Finding the balance between economic development and preservation of the natural environment is a challenging yet important task. This is a particularly pressing issue in the case of China, because it is the largest and fastest growing market for tourism. The purpose of this research
is to examine Chinese tourists' participation in nature-based, tourism activities by incorporating tourists' environmental concern—measured by a revised New Environmental Paradigm scale—into a tourism constraint-negotiation model. The responses of 409 Chinese tourists show that
environmental concern will positively affect tourists' motivation, which, in turn, will affect their negotiation strategy and ultimately their participation behavior. The theoretical and managerial implications of this study are discussed in the context of the tourism literature.
Can Anybody Hear Me? a Critical Analysis of Young Residents' Voices in Tourism Studies
Authors: Canosa Antonia , Moyle Brent D. , Wray Meredith
Published: May 2016

In this review article, tourism is recognized as a powerful force of change for host communities. The authors maintain that many empirical studies of residents' perceptions of tourism have argued that tourism has the ability to transform the lives of locals who inhabit a given destination region, generating both positive and negative economic, environmental, and sociocultural impacts there. However, the authors suggest that the focus of these received studies has been placed on the perceptions and experiences of adult residents, resulting in an absence of research that examines how young residents view, perceive, and adapt to tourism in their communities. To address this gap, this review article critically analyzes the role of young residents in Tourism Studies to date. An inventory of 30 previous studies that focused on young residents in tourism research was compiled and analyzed. Adapting a framework of the presence and role of Indigenous people in tourism research, the authors classified these articles into three categories—namely, the silent, the acknowledged, and the youth-focused. In this inspection, key findings identified the lack of children's and young people's agency and voice, providing a theoretically driven undercurrent guiding future inquiry and developing a pathway toward new “voice-generative” methods. The authors recommend that the specific approaches that they identify for deployment in the field should be ethically sensitive to the needs of children and young people and thereby be more accommodating in their capacity to develop and enhance discourse on youth in tourism.
Development of SSR markers for Psychotria homalosperma (Rubiaceae) and cross‐amplification in four other species
Authors: Sugai Kyoko , Watanabe Kenta , Kato Hidetoshi , Sugawara Takashi
Published: May 2016

Premise of the study:

Twenty‐six microsatellite (simple sequence repeat [SSR]) markers were characterized in Psychotria homalosperma (Rubiaceae), an endemic evergreen tree in the Bonin Islands, Japan, to investigate the genetic structure and gene flow of the species.

Methods and Results:

Using next‐generation sequencing, we developed 26 SSR markers for P. homalosperma with perfect motifs from di‐ to pentanucleotide repeats. Of these, the Chichijima and Hahajima island populations of P. homalosperma had mean allele numbers of 6.50 and 6.81, respectively. The mean expected heterozygosities were 0.578 and 0.606, respectively. In addition, 10 and eight of these markers were successfully amplified for P. boninensis and P. serpens, respectively, occurring in the same or adjacent areas.

Conclusions:

The SSR markers developed in this study will be useful for future studies concerning the population genetics of P. homalosperma and will facilitate the development of a conservation strategy.
DUAL STELLAR HALOS IN THE STANDARD ELLIPTICAL GALAXY M105 AND FORMATION OF MASSIVE EARLY-TYPE GALAXIES
Authors: Lee Myung Gyoon , Jang In Sung
Published: May 2016

M105 is a standard elliptical galaxy, located in the Leo I Group. We present photometry of the resolved stars in its inner region at R ≈ 4′ ≈ 4R
eff, obtained from F606W and F814W images in the Hubble Space Telescope archive. We combine this with photometry of the outer region at R ≈ 12′ ≈ 12R
eff from archival imaging data. Color–magnitude diagrams of the resolved stars in the inner region show a prominent red giant branch (RGB) with a large color range, while those for the outer region show better a narrow blue RGB. The metallicity distribution function (MDF) of the RGB stars shows the existence of two distinct subpopulations: a dominant metal-rich population (with a peak at [M/H] ≈ 0.0) and a much weaker metal-poor population (with a peak at [M/H] ≈ −1.1). The radial number density profiles of the metal-rich and metal-poor RGB stars are fit well by a Sérsic law with n = 2.75 ± 0.10 and n = 6.89 ± 0.94, and by a single power law (σ ∝ R
−3.8 and σ ∝ R
−2.6), respectively. The MDFs of the inner and outer regions can be described well by accretion gas models of chemical evolution with two components. These provide strong evidence that there are two distinct stellar halos in this galaxy, blue metal-poor and red metal-rich halos, consistent with the results based on globular cluster systems in bright early-type galaxies (ETGs). We discuss the implications of these results with regard to the formation of massive ETGs in the dual halo mode formation scenario.
CONSTRAINTS ON THE ARCHITECTURE OF THE HD 95086 PLANETARY SYSTEM WITH THE GEMINI PLANET IMAGER
Authors: Rameau Julien , Nielsen Eric L. , Rosa Robert J. De , Blunt Sarah C. , Patience Jenny , Doyon René , Graham James R. , Lafrenière David , Macintosh Bruce , Marchis Franck , Bailey Vanessa , Chilcote Jeffrey K. , Duchene Gaspard , Esposito Thomas M. , Hung Li-Wei , Konopacky Quinn M. , Maire Jérôme , Marois Christian , Metchev Stanimir , Perrin Marshall D. , Pueyo Laurent , Rajan Abhijith , Savransky Dmitry , Wang Jason J. , Ward-Duong Kimberly , Wolff Schuyler G. , Ammons S. Mark , Hibon Pascale , Ingraham Patrick , Kalas Paul , Morzinski Katie M. , Oppenheimer Rebecca , Rantakyearö Fredrik T. , Thomas Sandrine
Published: May 2016

We present astrometric monitoring of the young exoplanet HD 95086 b obtained with the Gemini Planet Imager between 2013 and 2016. A small but significant position angle change is detected at constant separation; the orbital motion is confirmed with literature measurements. Efficient Monte Carlo techniques place preliminary constraints on the orbital parameters of HD 95086 b. With 68% confidence, a semimajor axis of

au and an inclination of

are favored, with eccentricity less than 0.21. Under the assumption of a coplanar planet–disk system, the periastron of HD 95086 b is beyond 51 au with 68% confidence. Therefore, HD 95086 b cannot carve the entire gap inferred from the measured infrared excess in the SED of HD 95086. We use our sensitivity to additional planets to discuss specific scenarios presented in the literature to explain the geometry of the debris belts. We suggest that either two planets on moderately eccentric orbits or three to four planets with inhomogeneous masses and orbital properties are possible. The sensitivity to additional planetary companions within the observations presented in this study can be used to help further constrain future dynamical simulations of the planet–disk system.
SIGNIFICANT ENHANCEMENT OF H2 FORMATION IN DISK GALAXIES UNDER STRONG RAM PRESSURE
Authors: Henderson Benjamin , Bekki Kenji
Published: May 2016

We show for the first time that H2 formation on dust grains can be enhanced in disk galaxies under strong ram pressure (RP). We numerically investigate how the time evolution of H i and H2 components in disk galaxies orbiting a group/cluster of galaxies can be influenced by the hydrodynamical interaction between the gaseous components of the galaxies and the hot intracluster medium. We find that compression of H i caused by RP increases H2 formation in disk galaxies before RP rapidly strips H i, cutting off the fuel supply and causing a drop in H2 density. We also find that the level of this H2 formation enhancement in a disk galaxy under RP depends on the mass of its host cluster dark matter halo, the initial positions and velocities of the disk galaxy, and the disk inclination angle with respect to the orbital plane. We demonstrate that dust growth is a key factor in the evolution of the H i and H2 mass in disk galaxies under strong RP. We discuss how the correlation between H2 fractions and surface gas densities of disk galaxies evolves with time in the galaxies under RP. We also discuss whether galaxy-wide star formation rates (SFRs) in cluster disk galaxies can be enhanced by RP if the SFRs depend on H2 densities.
Modelling and Estimation of Volatility Using ARCH/GARCH Models in Jordan’s Stock Market
Authors: AL-Najjar Dana Mohammad
Published: May 2016

Financials have been concerned constantly with factors that have impact on both taking and assessing various financial decisions in firms. Hence modelling volatility in financial markets is one of the factors that have direct role and effect on pricing, risk and portfolio management. Therefore, this study aims to examine the volatility characteristics on Jordan’s capital market that include; clustering volatility, leptokurtosis, and leverage effect. This objective can be accomplished by selecting symmetric and asymmetric models from GARCH family models. This study applies; ARCH, GARCH, and EGARCH to investigate the behavior of stock return volatility for Amman Stock Exchange (ASE) covering the period from Jan. 1 2005 through Dec.31 2014. The main findings suggest that the symmetric ARCH /GARCH models can capture characteristics of ASE, and provide more evidence for both volatility clustering and leptokurtic, whereas EGARCH output reveals no support for the existence of leverage effect in the stock returns at Amman Stock Exchange.
Role of Prostaglandin E2 in the Modulation of Wnt Canonical Signaling in Cells on Microstructured Titanium Surfaces
Authors: Manfredi Edoardo , Lumetti Simone , Rivara Federico , Toffoli Andrea , Calciolari Elena , Cacchioli Antonio , Ravanetti Francesca , Ghiacci Giulia , Macaluso Guido , Galli Carlo
Published: May 2016

Background

Rough surface topography enhances the activation of Wnt canonical signaling, a pathway required for osteoblast differentiation. The present study investigated the effects of the modulation of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) signaling on osteoblastic differentiation on titanium surfaces for endosseous implants with different topographies.

Methods

C2C12 cells were plated on polished or acid-etched/sand-blasted (SLA) titanium discs and stimulated with 1 μM PGE2 or 100 nM cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin. Activation of Wnt canonical signaling was measured with a reporter system. Gene expression was measured in the same cell system by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Osteoblastic MC3T3 cells were then plated on polished or SLA titanium discs with or without indomethacin, and their proliferation and the expression of osteoblast-specific genes was assessed by RT-PCR. Cell morphology was furthermore studied on SEM, and cell adhesion was assessed by fluorescent labeling of focal adhesion.

Results

PGE2 decreased Wnt signaling stimulation in cells growing on polished or SLA surfaces, while indomethacin increased the expression of Wnt target genes in C2C12 and MC3T3 cells, by reporter assay. Moreover, indomethacin increased the expression of early differentiation marker alkaline phosphatase in MC3T3 cells on polished discs and of late marker osteocalcin in cells on SLA titanium.

Conclusions

Prostaglandin signaling affects the activation of Wnt canonical pathway in osteoblastic and mesenchymal cells on microstructured surfaces.
Do Adhesive Systems Influence the Color Match of Resin Composites?
Authors: Ritter Débora D. , Rocha Rachel O. , Soares Fabio Z.M. , Lenzi Tathiane L.
Published: May 2016

Background

This in vitro study evaluated the influence of adhesive systems on the color match of a resin composite with different translucencies.

Methods

Sixty disk-shaped specimens were made with A2 and opaque A2 (OA2) shades of nanohybrid resin composite Z250 XT. Specimens of each shade (n = 30) were randomly reassigned to 3 subgroups according to adhesive system: a 2-step etch-and-rinse adhesive (Adper Single Bond Plus), a 2-step self-etch system (Clearfil SE Bond) and a universal adhesive (Scotchbond Universal Adhesive). The bonding agents were applied to resin composite specimens following the manufacturers’ recommendations. Additionally, 5 disk samples of each adhesive system were prepared. Colorimetric evaluation (CIE L*a*b* system) was performed immediately after polishing the sample and application of the adhesive systems. Color changes (ΔE and ΔE00) were calculated between 2 measurements. Color coordinates L*, a* and b* of the adhesive disks were also assessed. The data obtained were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test (α = 0.05).

Results

The application of Scotchbond Universal Adhesive to the resin composite A2 shade resulted in the highest color change (p<0.01; ΔE = 3.1 ± 0.7 and ΔE00 = 1.8 ± 0.4). However, no significant difference was observed among adhesive systems when applied to the resin composite OA2 shade (p>0.05). Scotchbond Universal Adhesive revealed augmented yellowing and greening in comparison with other experimental groups.

Conclusions

The universal adhesive tested resulted in higher visually perceptible color changes when using a more translucent resin composite shade, but this was clinically acceptable.
Spiritual Support for Adolescent Cancer Patients: A Survey of Pediatric Oncology Centers in Italy and Spain
Authors: Proserpio Tullio , Veneroni Laura , Silva Matteo , Lassaletta Alvaro , Lorenzo Rosalia , Magni Chiara , Bertolotti Marina , Barisone Elena , Mascarin Maurizio , Jankovic Momcilo , D'Angelo Paolo , Clerici Carlo A. , Garrido-Colino Carmen , Gutierrez-Carrasco Ignacio , Echebarria Aizpea , Biondi Andrea , Massimino Maura , Casale Fiorina , Tamburini Angela , Ferrari Andrea
Published: May 2016

Introduction

Spirituality is a fundamental aspect of the psychological well-being of adolescents with cancer. This study reports on a survey conducted at pediatric oncology centers in Italy and Spain to examine the situation concerning the provision of spiritual support.

Methods

An ad hoc questionnaire was distributed including multiple-choice questions on whether or not spiritual support was available; the spiritual counselor's role; how often the spiritual counselor visited the unit; and the type of training this person had received.

Results

A spiritual support service was available at 24 of the 26 responding centers in Italy and 34/36 in Spain. The training received by the spiritual counselor was exclusively theological in most cases (with medical or psychological training in a few cases). In both countries the spiritual counselor was mainly involved in providing religious services and support at the terminal stage of the disease or in talking with patients and families. Cooperation with caregivers was reported by 27.3% and 46.7% of the Italian and Spanish centers, respectively, while the daily presence of the chaplain on the ward was reported by 18.2% and 26.7%.

Conclusions

The role of the spiritual counselor in pediatric oncology – in Italy and Spain at least – is still neither well-established nor based on standardized operating methods or training requirements. A model that implies the constant presence of a spiritual counselor in hospital wards may be proposed to provide appropriate spiritual support to adolescents with cancer.
Clark's Ferry and Tavern: Gateway to the Juniata Valley
Authors: Hart Victor A. , Wilson Jason L.
Published: May 2016

The evolution of the transportation history of the Commonwealth can be viewed at the confluence of the Susquehanna and Juniata rivers where in 1790 John Clark built a tavern and a ferry to transport travelers across the rivers. While the ferry system has been replaced by the current Clark's Ferry Bridge, the 1790 wood and stone tavern structure remains as one of the oldest buildings in the town of Duncannon. Archaeological and historical information can be gleaned from this important structure, which retains a vast amount of its 1790–1800 integrity. It stands as a reminder of the days of the packhorse, stagecoach, Conestoga wagon, canal boats, railroads, and automobiles at the entrance to the Juniata Valley.
The Anabaptists of Juniata County: A Historical Profile
Authors: Landis Betty Ann
Published: May 2016

The Anabaptist story in Juniata County begins with Johannes Kröebiel Jr., a young, ambitious Swiss Mennonite seeking a wider place in the New World. In the 1770s Johannes began to carve a future for his own family and succeeding generations on central Pennsylvania's frontier land. Within the next century, Mennonite, Amish, Brethren, and Brethren-in-Christ groups had growing settlements in the beautiful Juniata Valley. Today dozens of Anabaptist congregations of various affiliations have found their home in the rural county and the saga of faith continues. Their story is similar to Anabaptist settlement in other central and western Pennsylvania rural counties.
¿Puede construirse “actitud cooperativa” en los participantes de un sistema educativo con un enfoque de competencias?
Authors: Alas Ventura Alfono , Van de Velde Herman
Published: May 2016

Cuando las personas participamos en procesos de formación llevamos cierta actitud o prácticas individualistas que han sido fomentadas por el sistema educativo y el tipo de sociedad en el que vivimos. Esta actitud se refleja no solamente en nuestros procesos formativos personales sino también en las dinámicas, enfoques y formas de relacionamiento social que establecemos, tanto en el ámbito familiar, laboral o comunitario. La sociedad, hoy en día, con todo su sistema comercial, nos ha empujado a competir entre nosotras/os, justificándose en la consecución de metas cada vez más elevadas. Este modelo también está presente en los contextos educativos: se fomenta la competitividad tanto por parte de las familias, que esperan el éxito escolar, como por parte de la propia escuela o comunidad donde se trabaja la mayor parte del tiempo de forma individual. Este artículo somete a una revisión crítica el sistema de educación salvadoreño con enfoque de competencias, pero a la vez se propone que los procesos de aprendizaje trasciendan las paredes de la escuela y se establezcan relaciones horizontales entre los participantes, mediante la práctica cotidiana de la “cooperación genuina”, dicho paradigma se convierta en un estilo de vida.
Actitudes ante prácticas inclusivas en Educación
Authors: Rayo Perez Aura Hilda , Pereyra López Jilma
Published: May 2016

El presente artículo resume una investigación de carácter cualitativa, con enfoque fenomenológico realizada con la comunidad educativa en el centro escolar Monseñor “Oscar Arnulfo Romero” de la ciudad de Estelí, en el I semestre del año 2014. Con esta investigación se pretende conocer las actitudes de la comunidad educativa ante prácticas de la inclusividad educativa. Las técnicas aplicadas para la recolección de información fueron: entrevista a profundidad, encuestas, grupo focal y la escala tipo Likert para medir actitudes. La información obtenida con las técnicas aplicadas fue analizada en función de los objetivos formulados. Los resultados más relevantes indican que las actitudes ante prácticas inclusivas en este centro son inclusivas. Existe falta de estrategias metodológicas por parte de las maestras para atender a niños y niñas con necesidades educativas. Se da poca atención por técnicos metodológicos del Ministerio de Educación. Poca participación de padres-madres de familia en las actividades del centro escolar en función de contribuir a la formación y desarrollo de habilidades que preparan al niño-niña para la sociedad, independientemente de las características propias.
Appraising Computing Self-Efficacy Emotions across a 5-Week Multimedia Authoring Project
Authors: DeCoursey C. A. , Sati C. Bernal
Published: May 2016

Emotion is a key aspect of how non-specialists learn computing. The emotions included in Computing Self-Efficacy (CSE) research were identified prior to the emergence of recent models of emotion. There has been no attempt to inventory attitudes elicited while learning computing, using contemporary psycholinguistic models of subjectivity. This study of 58 medical students in Saudi Arabia used Appraisal analysis of weekly written personal responses to gain a comprehensive overview of emotions elicited during five weeks’ instruction on website-building. A Before-After Survey identified gains made in reported frequency of tasks performed outside class. A Weekly Attitude Survey identified the strength of 6 previously-identified CSE emotions, framed as positive-negative pairs. Participant journals showed that many emotions included in previous CSE emotions are not frequently-realised, and attitudes are changeable across the learning process. Overall, most positive-negative pairs do not behave correlatively, some persist where others progress, and incidence is a better guide than polarity to an attitude’s significance. Capacity and confidence suggest three stages in learning a computing task.
Evaluation of the 3M™ Petrifilm™ Rapid Aerobic Count Plate for the Enumeration of Aerobic Bacteria: Collaborative Study, First Action 2015.13
Authors: Bird Patrick , Flannery Jonathan , Crowley Erin , Agin James , Goins David , Jechorek Robert ,   Collaborators:, Angeles K , Beers K , Brahmanda B , Brandt A , Brooks R , Brown B , Cuthbert N , Fagundes C , Gonzales K , Hankins A , Hardrath L , Kupski B , Lopez C , Marchant-Tambone J , Mastalerz A , McMahon W , Meyer J , Miller K , Morris A , Payne-McDaniel K , Pickett J , Reynolds J , Rodgers R , Schoeni J , Thompson L , Wright H
Published: May 2016

The 3M™ Petrifilm™ Rapid Aerobic Count (RAC) Plate is a sample-ready culture medium system containing dual-sensor indicator technology for the rapid quantification of aerobic bacteria in food products. The 3M Petrifilm RAC Plate was compared to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bacteriological Analytical Manual (FDA BAM) Chapter 3 (Aerobic Plate Count) for the enumeration of aerobic bacteria in raw easy-peel shrimp and the Standard Methods for the Examination of Dairy Products (SMEDP) Chapter 6 (Standard Plate Count Method) for the enumeration of aerobic bacteria in pasteurized skim milk and instant nonfat dry milk (instant NFDM). The 3M Petrifilm RAC Plate was evaluated using a paired study design in a multilaboratory collaborative study following current AOAC validation guidelines. Three target contamination levels (low, 10–100 CFU/g; medium, 100–1000 CFU/g; and high 1000–10 000 CFU/g) were evaluated for naturally occurring aerobic microflora for each matrix. For raw easy-peel shrimp, duplicate 3M Petrifilm RAC Plates were enumerated after 24 ± 2 h incubation at both 32 and 35°C. Pasteurized skim milk 3M Petrifilm RAC Plates were enumerated after 24 ± 2 h incubation at 32°C, and instant NFDM 3M Petrifilm RAC Plates were enumerated after 48 ± 3 h incubation at 32°C. No statistical difference was observed between 3M Petrifilm RAC Plate and FDA BAM or SMEDP reference methods for each contamination level.
Historical biogeography of Thyrsophorini psocids and description of a new neotropical species of Thyrsopsocopsis (Psocodea: Psocomorpha: Psocidae)
Authors: Román-Palacios Cristian , García Aldrete Alfonso N. , González Obando Ranulfo
Published: May 2016

When based on phylogenetic proposals, biogeographic historic narratives have a great interest for hypothesizing paths of origin of the current biodiversity. Among the many questions that remain unsolved about psocids, the distribution of Thyrsophorini represents still a remarkable enigma. This tribe had been considered as exclusively Neotropical, until the description of Thyrsopsocopsis thorntoni Mockford, 2004, from Vietnam. Three hypotheses have been proposed to explain this atypical distribution, recurring to dispersal, vicariance and morphological parallelism between lineages, but the lack of evidence has not allowed a unique support. Here, we describe a new Neotropical species of Thyrsopsocopsis, and also attempt to test the three biogeographical hypotheses in a phylogenetic context. In our analyses, the position of Cycetes (Cycetini) and Thyrsopsocopsis among Thyrsophorini psocids is well resolved, suggesting a dispersal event from the Neotropics for both genera.