bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Training and Visit System on Professionalization of Extension Agents in Osun State Agricultural Development Programme of Nigeria
Authors: Akintonde JO , Akinboye OA , Farayola CO , Akintola OS
Published: March 2013

The study was carried out to examine the effect of training and visit system on professionalization of extension agents in Osun State Agricultural Development Programme of Nigeria. Seventy-five data were collected by interviewing extension agents constituted the sample size and were interviewed through the aid of using a well-structured questionnaire and information obtained were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages and person correlation coefficient was used for testing the research hypothesis. The findings revealed that 80% of the respondents were between the age group of 30 -50 years, spent between 10  30 years in service (84%) and are married (98.7%). A large proportion (56%) of the respondents holds higher national diploma in general agriculture, exhibited favorable attitude towards the farmers (93.3%), specials in general agriculture (34.7%) and required training in one or more areas of agriculture (69.3%). Analysis performed shows that all the characteristics had positive relationship with effect of training and visit on professionalization of extension agents except years of service, which had a negative relationship though all characters were statistically insignificant. Hence, the more the numbers of years spent on the job the more experience you would be. Which indicated that personal characteristics of the respondent influenced the professionalization of the extension agents through training and visit system? DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v2i1.13993 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 2 (1): 37-41, June, 2012
Pheromone Use for Insect Control: Present Status and Prospect in Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Md Azharul
Published: March 2013

The insects world is filled with many odors. Insects use these odors to cue them in a variety of complex social behaviors, including courtship, mating, and egg laying. Scientists and pest control specialists have known about these complex communication systems for decades. The main aim of this study was to visualize the availability, trends and differences in the sources of pheromone control in agricultural growth of Bangladesh. It also concerned on constrains and present use of pheromone and their possible recommendation on behalf of Bangladesh agriculture. It concentrated on the data during last three decades (1980-2010), comprising status of pheromone use in Bangladesh agriculture and its future. Review revealed that Bangladesh has been enormously successful in increasing pheromone use in agricultural production (especially for vegetables). Understanding of the nature of pheromones and their potential for pest control along with the future prospective of pheromone technique in agriculture were stated. Since the pheromone, technologies for control of major crop pests in Bangladesh are still limited. So that this review emphasized on more attention to the authority to increase the research works and project facilities related to develop and promote pheromone techniques. It is highly recommended to increase availability of pheromone in market, more investment in research and development, introduction of newly identified pheromone for specific pest, to assist government and nongovernment organizations to work with farmers to reduce harmful insecticide use and promote pheromone tactics as one part of integrated crop management (ICM). DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v2i1.14005 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 2 (1): 47-55, June, 2012
Abundance of Plankton Population Densities in Relation to Bottom Soil Textural Types in Aquaculture Ponds
Authors: Siddika F , Shahjahan M , Rahman MS
Published: March 2013

Plankton is an important food item of fishes and indicator for the productivity of a water body. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of bottom soil textural conditions on abundance of plankton in aquaculture pond. The experiment was carried out using three treatments, i.e., ponds bottom with sandy loam (T1), with loam (T2) and with clay loam (T3). The ranges of water quality parameters analyzed were suitable for the growth of plankton during the experimental period. Similarly, chemical properties of soil were also within suitable ranges and every parameter showed higher ranges in T2. A total 20 genera of phytoplankton were recorded belonged to Chlorophyceae (7), Cyanophyceae (5), Bacillariophyceae (5), Euglenophyceae (2) and Dinophyceae (1). On the other hand, total 13 genera of zooplankton were recorded belonged to Crustacea (7) and Rotifera (6). The highest ranges of phytoplankton and zooplankton densities were found in T2 where low to mediumtype bloom was observed during the study period. Consequently, the mean abundance of plankton (phytoplankton and zooplankton) density was significantly highest in T2. The highest abundance of plankton in the T2 indicated that pond bottom with loamy soil is suitable for the growth and production of plankton in aquaculture ponds. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v2i1.14006 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 2 (1): 56-61, June, 2012
Effects of Stocking Density on Growth and Production Performance of Indigenous Stinging Catfish, Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch)
Authors: Kohinoor AHM , Khan MM , Yeasmine S , Mandol P , Islam MS
Published: March 2013

An on-farm experiment was undertaken in nine earthen ponds to evaluate the growth and production potentials of stinging catfish shing, Heteropneustes fossilis for the period of six months from March to August 2010. Three stocking densities such as 1,25,000 (T1), 1,87,500 (T2) and 2,50,000 ha-1 (T3) were tested with three replications each. Fish were fed with commercial pelleted feed containing 35% crude protein. After six months rearing, the mean harvesting weights of shing were 69.42±6.20, 58.74±3.85 and 49.50±4.52g in T1, T2 and T3, respectively. Significant (P<0.05) highest mean harvesting weight was found in T1. The best survival was found in T1 (87%) among the treatments. The calculated mean production of shing (H. fossilis) in three treatments such as T1, T2 and T3 were 7549±52, 9031±71 and 8786±60 kg ha-1, respectively, which were significantly different (p<0.05) from each other. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v2i2.14009 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 2 (2): 9-14 December, 2012
Economic Analysis of Locust Beans Processing and Marketing in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
Authors: Farayola CO , Okpodu V , Oni OO
Published: March 2013

This study was designed to estimate the economic analysis of locust bean processing and marketing in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. Primary data was used and purposive sampling technique was adopted to select the respondents used for the study. A total number of 60 respondents were interviewed. The data collected were analyzed using inferential statistical tool such as regression analysis. Budgetary analysis technique was also used to analyze the profitability of locust bean processing and marketing in the study area. Majority of the processors and marketers are making profits; 68.3% operate above breakeven point while 26.7% operate at breakeven point and the rest 5% was below the breakeven point, this indicates that they neither profit nor lost. The regression analysis result shows that quantity processed, family size and years of experience in processing are significant at 1%, 5% and 10% respectively while education level and stall rent is negative and significant at 1% and 5% respectively. F- Test also explained that independent variables are jointly significant at 1% probability level with an adjusted R2 of 78.9%. The overall rate of return on investment indicates that average rate of return is 0.5 (50%), which is positive. It is therefore concluded that profit made by the processors and marketers can be improved on by increasing the quantity of locust bean being processed through adoption of newly discovered method of processing and improved method of preservation, packaging and marketing of the product to international standard by reducing the odour of the product without the loss of essential nutrients and palability in order to generate foreign exchange. Also, rules and regulations against cutting of economic trees for alternative uses should be enforced to maximize their values. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v2i2.14012 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 2 (2): 36-43, December, 2012
Human Factors that Derail Extension Services Delivery in Developing Countries: Implications for Policy
Authors: Ajani EN , Onwubuya EA
Published: March 2013

The paper examines human factors derailing extension services delivery in developing countries. Poor management of rewards and incentives; quality of work life; poor assessment system; limited quality of human resource; inadequate extension support training materials; inconsistencies of government programmes; inadequate staff training and poor extension programme evaluation were viewed as major constraints. Considering the role of extension to agricultural development, the paper recommends that efforts should be made by the various stakeholders in agricultural extension services to improve the capability of human resources involved in extension services and highlights the need for government agricultural programmes to be consistent to enable the beneficiaries of such programmes derive the benefits that will boost productivity in agriculture. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v2i2.14015 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 2 (2): 54-57, December, 2012
Next-Generation Sequencing: From Understanding Biology to Personalized Medicine
Authors: Frese Karen , Katus Hugo , Meder Benjamin
Published: March 2013

Within just a few years, the new methods for high-throughput next-generation sequencing have generated completely novel insights into the heritability and pathophysiology of human disease. In this review, we wish to highlight the benefits of the current state-of-the-art sequencing technologies for genetic and epigenetic research. We illustrate how these technologies help to constantly improve our understanding of genetic mechanisms in biological systems and summarize the progress made so far. This can be exemplified by the case of heritable heart muscle diseases, so-called cardiomyopathies. Here, next-generation sequencing is able to identify novel disease genes, and first clinical applications demonstrate the successful translation of this technology into personalized patient care.
Metabolomics as a Tool to Investigate Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Plants
Authors: Arbona Vicent , Manzi Matías , Ollas Carlos , Gómez-Cadenas Aurelio
Published: March 2013

Metabolites reflect the integration of gene expression, protein interaction and other different regulatory processes and are therefore closer to the phenotype than mRNA transcripts or proteins alone. Amongst all –omics technologies, metabolomics is the most transversal and can be applied to different organisms with little or no modifications. It has been successfully applied to the study of molecular phenotypes of plants in response to abiotic stress in order to find particular patterns associated to stress tolerance. These studies have highlighted the essential involvement of primary metabolites: sugars, amino acids and Krebs cycle intermediates as direct markers of photosynthetic dysfunction as well as effectors of osmotic readjustment. On the contrary, secondary metabolites are more specific of genera and species and respond to particular stress conditions as antioxidants, Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) scavengers, coenzymes, UV and excess radiation screen and also as regulatory molecules. In addition, the induction of secondary metabolites by several abiotic stress conditions could also be an effective mechanism of cross-protection against biotic threats, providing a link between abiotic and biotic stress responses. Moreover, the presence/absence and relative accumulation of certain metabolites along with gene expression data provides accurate markers (mQTL or MWAS) for tolerant crop selection in breeding programs.
6,6'-(1E,1'E)-((1R,2R)-1,2-Diphenylethane-1,2-diyl)bis(azan-1-yl-1-ylidene)bis(methan-1-yl-1-ylidene)bis(2-tert-butyl-4-((trimethylsilyl)ethynyl)phenol)
Authors: Huber Thimo , Niehues Lennart , Cativiela Carlos , Finn M. , Díaz David
Published: March 2013

Functionalizable salen derivative, 6,6'-(1E,1'E)-((1R,2R)-1,2-diphenylethane-1,2-diyl)bis(azan-1-yl-1-ylidene)bis(methan-1-yl-1-ylidene)bis(2-tert-butyl-4-((trimethylsilyl) ethyn-yl)phenol) (3), was synthesized by condensation between (1R,2R)-1,2-diphenylethane-1,2-diamine (2) and 3-tert-butyl-2-hydroxy-5-((trimethylsilyl)ethynyl) benzaldehyde (1) under refluxing conditions. The title compound was characterized by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, FT-IR, high-resolution mass spectrometry, optical rotation and melting point determination.
Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) Studies of Gold and Silver Nanoparticles Prepared by Laser Ablation
Authors: Herrera Gloria , Padilla Amira , Hernandez-Rivera Samuel
Published: March 2013

Gold and silver nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared in water, acetonitrile and isopropanol by laser ablation methodologies. The average characteristic (longer) size of the NPs obtained ranged from 3 to 70 nm. 4-Aminobenzebethiol (4-ABT) was chosen as the surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) probe molecule to determine the optimum irradiation time and the pH of aqueous synthesis of the laser ablation-based synthesis of metallic NPs. The synthesized NPs were used to evaluate their capacity as substrates for developing more analytical applications based on SERS measurements. A highly energetic material, TNT, was used as the target compound in the SERS experiments. The Raman spectra were measured with a Raman microspectrometer. The results demonstrate that gold and silver NP substrates fabricated by the methods developed show promising results for SERS-based studies and could lead to the development of micro sensors.
Persistent Scatterer Interferometry (PSI) Technique for Landslide Characterization and Monitoring
Authors: Tofani Veronica , Raspini Federico , Catani Filippo , Casagli Nicola
Published: March 2013

: The measurement of landslide superficial displacement often represents the most effective method for defining its behavior, allowing one to observe the relationship with triggering factors and to assess the effectiveness of the mitigation measures. Persistent Scatterer Interferometry (PSI) represents a powerful tool to measure landslide displacement, as it offers a synoptic view that can be repeated at different time intervals and at various scales. In many cases, PSI data are integrated with in situ monitoring instrumentation, since the joint use of satellite and ground-based data facilitates the geological interpretation of a landslide and allows a better understanding of landslide geometry and kinematics. In this work, PSI interferometry and conventional ground-based monitoring techniques have been used to characterize and to monitor the Santo Stefano d’Aveto landslide located in the Northern Apennines, Italy. This landslide can be defined as an earth rotational slide. PSI analysis has contributed to a more in-depth investigation of the phenomenon. In particular, PSI measurements have allowed better redefining of the boundaries of the landslide and the state of activity, while the time series analysis has permitted better understanding of the deformation pattern and its relation with the causes of the landslide itself. The integration of ground-based monitoring data and PSI data have provided sound results for landslide characterization. The punctual information deriving from inclinometers can help in defining the actual location of the sliding surface and the involved volumes, while the measuring of pore water pressure conditions or water table level can suggest a correlation between the deformation patterns and the triggering factors.
Shifts in Global Vegetation Activity Trends
Authors: De Jong Rogier , Verbesselt Jan , Zeileis Achim , Schaepman Michael
Published: March 2013

Vegetation belongs to the components of the Earth surface, which are most extensively studied using historic and present satellite records. Recently, these records exceeded a 30-year time span composed of preprocessed fortnightly observations (1981–2011). The existence of monotonic changes and trend shifts present in such records has previously been demonstrated. However, information on timing and type of such trend shifts was lacking at global scale. In this work, we detected major shifts in vegetation activity trends and their associated type (either interruptions or reversals) and timing. It appeared that the biospheric trend shifts have, over time, increased in frequency, confirming recent findings of increased turnover rates in vegetated areas. Signs of greening-to-browning reversals around the millennium transition were found in many regions (Patagonia, the Sahel, northern Kazakhstan, among others), as well as negative interruptions—“setbacks”—in greening trends (southern Africa, India, Asia Minor, among others). A minority (26%) of all significant trends appeared monotonic.
Survey on aflatoxin in beer sold in Spain and other European countries
Authors: Burdaspal P.A. , Legarda T.M.
Published: March 2013

Aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1 and G2) were surveyed in 417 beer samples purchased from the retail market in Spain (n=336), France (n=49), Portugal (n=15), Ireland (n=11) and Italy (n=6) in the period 2006-2012. In addition, 4 samples were acquired from Ghana and one from Israel. The analytical procedure was based on immunoaffinity clean-up and liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Aflatoxin was detected in 72.6% of the samples acquired in the Spanish market and in 182 out of 200 samples brewed in Spain with levels ranging from 0.08 to 36.12 ng/l for all four aflatoxins. The mean and median values of positive samples were estimated to be 3.51 and 2.07 ng/l, respectively, for samples acquired in Spain and 3.82 and 2.60 ng/l, respectively, for samples brewed in Spain. The mean and median values for the group of imported beers were 2.64 and 0.51 ng/l, respectively. Regarding the whole group of beers from European countries (417 samples), the incidence of positive samples was 64.7% with concentrations ranging from 0.07 to 45.18 ng/l for total aflatoxins with mean and median values of 3.47 and 1.82 ng/l, respectively. The overall median concentrations of aflatoxins in the samples of beers produced in Spain were 2.27-2.32 ng/l and for the whole group of European beers 0.43-0.62 ng/l (lower bound - upper bound). The median values obtained in this study for aflatoxin in beers consumed in Spain would result in an intake of approx. 97-112 pg/per capita/day, which represents a very small fraction (approx. 0.5% in a worst-case scenario) of the estimated average exposure to total aflatoxins.
Dabigatran Etexilate: Management In Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Javedani Parisa P. , Horowitz B. Zane , Clark Wayne M. , Lutsep Helmi L.
Published: March 2013

A 54-year-old man treated with dabigatran experienced new onset of a stroke with a score of 9 on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale. Administration of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA) was not recommended because of the dabigatran therapy. Angiography showed occlusion of the left middle cerebral artery by an embolic thrombus. Suction thrombectomy achieved flow through the inferior division of the artery. Computed tomography of the head showed possible intracranial hemorrhage, and dabigatran reversal was attempted with prothrombin complex concentrate and recombinant factor VIIa. Coagulation studies before administration of the reversal blood products showed a partial thromboplastin time of 30.3 seconds; 1 hour after administration, the partial thromboplastin time was 28.5 seconds. No evidence of intracranial hemorrhage was apparent on repeated computed tomography scans of the brain. He was discharged with aspirin and warfarin and a stroke score of 8. (American Journal of Critical Care. 2013;22:169–176)

The use of long-term oral anticoagulation is indicated for prevention of cardiac thromboembolism in selected patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. With the emergence of new potent oral agents— including the selective direct thrombin inhibitor dabigatran—clinicians must become familiar with the management of such patients. In this case report, we present a man who had an acute ischemic stroke while taking dabigatran and discuss the medical decision making regarding management issues.
CNE Article: Pain After Lung Transplant: High-Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation vs Chest Physiotherapy
Authors: Esguerra-Gonzalez Angeli , Ilagan-Honorio Monina , Fraschilla Stephanie , Kehoe Priscilla , Lee Ai Jin , Marcarian Taline , Mayol-Ngo Kristina , Miller Pamela S. , Onga Jay , Rodman Betty , Ross David , Sommer Susan , Takayanagi Sumiko , Toyama Joy , Villamor Filma , Weigt S. Samuel , Gawlinski Anna
Published: March 2013

Background

Chest physiotherapy and high-frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) are routinely used after lung transplant to facilitate removal of secretions. To date, no studies have been done to investigate which therapy is more comfortable and preferred by lung transplant recipients. Patients who have less pain may mobilize secretions, heal, and recover faster.

Objectives

To compare effects of HFCWO versus chest physiotherapy on pain and preference in lung transplant recipients.

Methods

In a 2-group experimental, repeated-measures design, 45 lung transplant recipients (27 single lung, 18 bilateral) were randomized to chest physiotherapy (10 AM, 2 PM) followed by HFCWO (6 PM, 10 PM; group 1, n=22) or vice versa (group 2, n=23) on postoperative day 3. A verbal numeric rating scale was used to measure pain before and after treatment. At the end of the treatment sequence, a 4-item patient survey was administered to assess treatment preference, pain, and effectiveness. Data were analyzed with χ2 and t tests and repeated-measures analysis of variance.

Results

A significant interaction was found between mean difference in pain scores from before to after treatment and treatment method; pain scores decreased more when HFCWO was done at 10 AM and 6 PM (P =.04). Bilateral transplant recipients showed a significant preference for HFCWO over chest physiotherapy (11 [85%] vs 2 [15%], P=.01). However, single lung recipients showed no significant difference in preference between the 2 treatments (11 [42%] vs 14 [54%]).

Conclusions

HFCWO seems to provide greater decreases in pain scores than does chest physiotherapy. Bilateral lung transplant recipients preferred HFCWO to chest physiotherapy. HFCWO may be an effective, feasible alternative to chest physiotherapy. (American Journal of Critical Care. 2013;22:115–125)
Optimization of denaturing high performance liquid chromatography technique for rapid detection and identification of acetic acid bacteria of interest in vinegar production
Authors: Sagarzazu Noelia Isabel , Martínez Maribel , Algarra Cristina , Butrón Javier , González-Navarro Carlos J. , Virto Raquel
Published: March 2013

This paper evaluates the use of denaturing high performance liquid chromatography (DHPLC) technology for the discrimination of genetic differences in the 16S rRNA and alcohol dehydrogenase (AdhA) genes among bacterial species based on its efficiency and sensitivity to enable the detection and discrimination of different genetic sequences. In order to optimize DHPLC protocols for the analysis of 16S rRNA gene fragments amplified from bacteria, DNA isolated from 22 different strains representing main bacterial groups of interest in food microbiology was analyzed. While the use of 16S rRNA gene did not allow to difference two wild strains of Acetobacter malorum, this region revealed as useful to differentiate them from some pathogenic bacteria as Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Listeria monocytogenes, Listeria innocua, Clostridium perfringens or Sthapylococcus aureus, from spoilage microorganisms as Xantomonas vesicatoria and Alicyclobacillus spp., and also from lactic acid bacteria as Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus sakei, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactococcus lactis that may suppose technological risk during vinegar production. The results demonstrate that 16S rRNA gene region is not adequate for the discrimination of the acetic acid bacteria (AAB) strains, so AdhA gene was selected to identify the two wild strains of Acetobacter malorum. Also 6 different reference strains of AAB were separated based on differences in AdhA gene region. DHPLC technology is able to discriminate between these two wild strains of A. malorum based on differences existing in the AdhA gene region. The data obtained indicate that the technique is capable of identifying most bacteria at species level and even at strain level with optimization of the protocols. This is of particular relevance in the case of AAB due to their poor recovery on culture media and difficulties in detection of viable but non cultivable cells.
Analysis of variation of main components during aging process of Shanxi Aged Vinegar
Authors: Chen Tao , Gui Qing , Shi Jing Jing , Zhang Xiu Yan , Chen Fu Sheng
Published: March 2013

Shanxi aged vinegar (SAV) is the most famous traditional vinegar in northern China. It is produced from several kinds of cereal by spontaneous solid-state fermentation techniques. The distinctive processing techniques such as smoking of the Pei, aging by insolating in summer and taking out ice in winter formed during the long-term production practice have been named as the national intangible cultural heritage. Some research reports about the nutritional composition, flavor compounds of SAV have been published, but there is no report on the changes of main components during aging process in SAV. In this study, the volatile flavor compounds, amino acids, organic acids, trace elements and other conventional ingredients in SAV were examined by headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, automatic amino acid analyzer, high performance liquid chromatography, plasma emission spectroscopy and other modern analytical techniques. The results showed that most conventional ingredients (organic acids, free amino acids, carbohydrates) were increased during aging process. There were 20 different amino acids in SAV, the concentration of total amino acids reached 19.73 mgxmL–1 in eight-year-old vinegar. There were 8 different organic acids in SAV, and acetic acid and lactic acid were main organic acids. A total of 58 different flavor compounds were detected in SAV. The results of this study can help us to understand the class and concentration of main components in SAV, and provide data for manufacturers to improve production process and product quality.
Molecular Basis and Clinical Management of Gaucher Disease
Authors: Di Rocco Maja , Loggini Andrea , Russo Pierluigi
Published: March 2013

Gaucher disease (GD) type I is an autosomal recessive disease caused by a genetic deficiency of lysosomal β-glucocerebrosidase that leads to accumulation of undergraded substrate glucocerebroside and other glycolipids, thus causing damage in different organs. GBA is the only gene in which mutations are known to cause GD. Nearly 300 mutations have been identified in GD patients, including frame-shift mutations, point mutations, deletions, insertions, splice site mutations and recombinants. The variety of phenotypes associated to GD shows imperfect correlation with mutations. GD encompasses a spectrum of clinical findings from a perinatal lethal form to an asymptomatic form. However the classification of GD by clinical subtype is still useful in describing the wide range of clinical findings and broad variability in presentation. Three major clinical types are delineated: type I (chronic nonneuropathic), type II (acute neuropathic), and type III (chronic neuropathic). Patients with type I GD present with visceromegaly, hematological complications, and bone disease. Cardiac and pulmonary complications are rare. Type I GD adult patients have elevated risk of malignancies, Parkinson’s disease or Parkinsonism. Neuropathic forms of GD are rare and clinically ranging from lethal perinatal form to very mild form limited to abnormalities of horizontal ocular saccades. Diagnosis of acid β-glucosylceramidase relies on enzyme activity in peripheral blood leukocytes or skin fibroblasts and/or identification of GBA mutations. Enzyme replacement therapy is an effective treatment for non-neuropathic GD. Substrate inhibitor is the alternative therapy for some patients with GD is miglustat, iminosugar inhibitor of glucocerebroside synthase.
Adenocarcinoma of the urinary bladder, mesonephroid type: a rare case
Authors: Abbas Mahmoud , Kramer Mario W. , Wolters Mathias , Herrman Thomas R.W. , Becker Jan U. , Kreipe Hans-Heinrich
Published: March 2013

Primary adenocarcinoma of the urinary bladder is a rare disease. It occurs in 0.5–2% of all bladder cancers and is discussed as the malignant counterpart of nephrogenic adenomas. We report a 46-year-old white female presented with gross hematuria for clinical examination. Histopathology revealed pT2, Pn1, L1, G2 adenocarcinoma of the bladder and carcinoma in situ according to the TNM classification. Computed tomography scan diagnostic was unremarkable. Patients with adenocarcinoma of the urinary bladder should be treated vigorously and without time delay. Only 7 cases of adenocarcinoma in the urinary bladder (mesonephroid) have been described until now. We present a case of clear cell adenocarcinoma of the urinary bladder, mesonephroid type that early diagnosed and till now 3 months after the cystectomy without symptoms and without complications.
Mathematical Representation of Social Capital and Human Bonds shown for the Great East Japan Earthquake
Authors: Kawarada Hideo , Suito Hiroshi
Published: March 2013

Directly after the Great East Japan disaster, various acts for mutual aid among victims and also between victims and non-victims spread out in different places throughout Japan. This paper presents a mathematical formulation of social capital regarded as existing as the background to these actions, with application to refuge phenomena in the aftermath of the accident at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant.
Ethnic Differences in the Home Environment and Physical Activity Behaviors among Low-Income, Minority Preschoolers in Texas
Authors: Chuang Ru-Jye , Sharma Shreela , Skala Katie , Evans Alexandra
Published: March 2013

Purpose.

To evaluate the ethnic differences in the home physical activity and screen time environment of preschoolers enrolled in Head Start.

Design.

Cross-sectional.

Setting.

Sixteen Harris County Department of Education (HCDE) Head Start centers, Texas.

Subjects.

Seven hundred and six preschoolers enrolled in HCDE Head Start centers and their parents.

Measures.

Items from the parent-reported Healthy Home Survey evaluating the home physical activity environment and the Nutrition Screening form evaluating screen time.

Analysis.

Mixed model linear and logistic regression analysis.

Results.

Of the parents, 75.06% were overweight or obese. Hispanic parents were more likely to have a yard or open space (p = .014) and usable play equipment in the yard (p = .019) for their children to play in compared to African-Americans. Conversely, more African-American parents reported having a television (TV) in their preschooler's bedroom (p = .032) and were less likely to cut down their child's TV viewing time (p = .036). African-American preschoolers were reportedly more likely to eat while watching TV (p = .009), play video games for ≥ 2 hours on weekdays (p = .018) and have computer time for ≥ 2 hours on weekends (p = .007), compared to Hispanics.

Conclusion.

The Hispanic participants of this study had a healthier home environment for physical activity and screen time as compared with their African-American counterparts. Future interventions targeting lifestyle change need to address these factors in an ethnic-specific manner.
Effects of Social Injustice on Breast Health—Seeking Behaviors of Low-Income Women
Authors: Bowen Shelly-Ann , Williams Edith M. , Stoneberg-Cooper Chayah M. , Glover Saundra H. , Williams Michelle S. , Byrd Michael D.
Published: March 2013

Purpose.

The study uses qualitative research to gain a better understanding of what occurs after low-income women receive an abnormal breast screening and the factors that influence their decisions and behavior. A heuristic model is presented for understanding this complexity.

Design.

Qualitative research methods used to elicited social and cultural themes related to breast cancer screening follow-up.

Setting.

Individual telephone interviews were conducted with 16 women with confirmed breast anomaly.

Participants.

Low-income women screened through a national breast cancer early detection program.

Method.

Grounded theory using selective coding was employed to elicit factors that influenced the understanding and follow-up of an abnormal breast screening result. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed, and uploaded into NVivo 8, a qualitative management and analysis software package.

Results.

For women (16, or 72% of case management referrals) below 250% of the poverty level, the impact of social and economic inequities creates a psychosocial context underlined by structural and cultural barriers to treatment that forecasts the mechanism that generates differences in health outcomes. The absence of insurance due to underemployment and unemployment and inadequate public infrastructure intensified emotional stress impacting participants' health decisions.

Conclusion.

The findings that emerged offer explanations of how consistent patterns of social injustice impact treatment decisions in a high-risk vulnerable population that have implications for health promotion research and systems-level program improvement and development.
Health Behavior and Behavioral Economics: Economic Preferences and Physical Activity Stages of Change in a Low-Income African-American Community
Authors: Leonard Tammy , Shuval Kerem , de Oliveira Angela , Skinner Celette Sugg , Eckel Catherine , Murdoch James C.
Published: March 2013

Purpose.

To examine the relationship between physical activity stages of change and preferences for financial risk and time.

Design.

A cross-sectional, community-based study.

Setting.

A low-income, urban, African-American neighborhood.

Subjects.

One hundred sixty-nine adults.

Measures.

Self-reported physical activity stages of change—precontemplation to maintenance, objectively measured body mass index and waist circumference, and economic preferences for time and risk measured via incentivized economic experiments.

Analysis.

Multivariable ordered logistic regression models were used to examine the association between physical activity stages of change and economic preferences while controlling for demographic characteristics of the individuals.

Results.

Individuals who are more tolerant of financial risks (odds ratio [OR] = 1.31, p < .05) and whose time preferences indicate more patience (OR = 1.68, p < .01) are more likely to be in a more advanced physical activity stage (e.g., from preparation to action). The likelihood of being in the maintenance stage increases by 5.6 and 10.9 percentage points for each one-unit increase in financial risk tolerance or one-unit increase in the time preference measure, respectively.

Conclusion.

Greater tolerance of financial risk and more patient time preferences among this low-income ethnic minority population are associated with a more advanced physical activity stage. Further exploration is clearly warranted in larger and more representative samples.
Associations between Body Mass Index and Park Proximity, Size, Cleanliness, and Recreational Facilities
Authors: Rundle Andrew , Quinn James , Lovasi Gina , Bader Michael D. M. , Yousefzadeh Paulette , Weiss Christopher , Neckerman Kathryn
Published: March 2013

Purpose.

To determine whether body mass index (BMI) is associated with proximity to neighborhood parks, the size of the parks, their cleanliness, and the availability of recreational facilities in the parks. Design. Cross-sectional.

Setting.

New York City.

Subjects.

Adults (13,102) were recruited from 2000 to 2002 (median age 45 years, 36% male).

Measures.

Anthropometric and sociodemographic data from study subjects were linked to Department of Parks & Recreation data on park space, cleanliness, and facilities. Neighborhood-level sociodemographic and park proximity metrics were created for half-mile–radius circular buffers around each subject's residence. Proximity to park space was measured as the proportion of the subject's neighborhood buffer area that was total park space, large park space (a park > 6 acres) and small park space (a park #6 acres).

Analysis.

Hierarchical linear models were used to determine whether neighborhood park metrics were associated with BMI.

Results.

Higher proximity to large park space was significantly associated with lower BMI (beta = −1.69, 95% confidence interval = −2.76, –.63). Across the population distribution of proximity to large park space, compared to subjects living in neighborhoods at the 10th percentile of the distribution, the covariate-adjusted average BMI was estimated to be .35 kg/m2 lower for those living in neighborhoods at the 90th percentile. The proportion of neighborhood area that was small park space was not associated with BMI, nor was park cleanliness or the availability of recreational facilities.

Conclusion.

Neighborhood proximity to large park spaces is modestly associated with lower BMI in a diverse urban population.
A Descriptive Evaluation of CDC's LEAN Works! Leading Employees to Activity and Nutrition—A Web-Based Employer Tool for Workplace Obesity Management
Authors: Roemer Enid C. , Liss-Levinson Rivka C. , Samoly Daniel K. , Guy Gery P. , Tabrizi Maryam J. , Beckowski Meghan S. , Pei Xiaofei , Goetzel Ron Z.
Published: March 2013

Purpose.

The study aim was to determine the utility of and satisfaction with a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Web-based employer tool, CDC's LEAN Works!, which provides evidence-based recommendations and promising practices for obesity prevention and control at worksites.

Design.

This study examined employers' natural usage (i.e., without any study parameters on how, when, or how much to use the Web site and its resources) and impressions of the Web site.

Setting.

Employers of varying sizes, industry types, and levels of maturity in offering obesity management programs and from both private and public sectors were recruited to participate in the study.

Participants.

A convenience sample of 29 employers enrolled to participate.

Method.

Participants were followed over a 12-month period. First impressions, bimonthly use of the Web site, and final assessments were collected using self-report surveys and individual interviews. Descriptive analyses were conducted.

Results.

Almost all (96%) of participants reported a positive experience with the Web site, noting it provided a wealth of information. Most reported they planned to continue to use the Web site to develop (77%), implement (92%), and evaluate (85%) their obesity management programs. Aspects of the Web site that employers found valuable included a step-by-step implementation process, templates and toolkits, specific recommendations, and promising practices.

Conclusion.

CDC's LEAN Works! is a useful resource for employers wishing to develop and implement evidence-based workplace obesity prevention programs.
Do We Have the Evidence We Need and are We Communicating it Well?
Authors: O'Donnell Michael P.
Published: March 2013

Despite the growth of evidence on the health and financial impact of workplace health promotion, experts in health policy and management are not aware of this evidence. To change this, we need to publish in their journals, speak at their conferences, and collaborate with them on evaluation and research. These collaborations have the additional advantage of our learning how to conduct population level analysis and express findings in the terms policy makers understand.
Victory Through Airpower. El Disney atípico
Authors: Flórez Rodríguez David
Published: March 2013

En este artículo se analizan las técnicas y substratoideológico de uno de los largos más atípicos de laDisney. Realizado durante la Segunda Guerra Mundial,Victory Through Air Power se construye como unarma de propaganda que busca influir sobre la opiniónpública de forma que el gobierno de los EEUUadopte una política radical que permita finalizarcuanto antes, y con el menor coste, el conflicto mundial.Con este objetivo, y a pesar de las penurias deltiempo de guerra, que en la película se traducen, porejemplo, en el uso continuo de animación limitada,los animadores de la Disney se las arreglan para daruna lección sobre cómo traducir conceptos abstractosen imágenes, para lo que la animación parece estarespecialmente bien dotada.
Views of the Neighbourhood: A Photo-Elicitation Study of the Built Environment
Authors: Alexander Victoria D.
Published: March 2013

Drawing on a participant-centred, photo-elicitation study of the built environment in three neighbourhoods, I discuss how people see their neighbourhoods, both in the visual and aesthetic sense, and also how they view (metaphorically) their local surroundings. Participants took part in photo-elicitation interviews and, previously, in standard (verbal-only) semi-structured interviews. Results suggest that people care about their neighbourhoods and value local amenities, attractive houses, public art, and trees, greenery and open spaces. They are concerned about such mundane issues as litter and poorly kept properties, which they find unattractive. Pictures of narrow alleyways and deserted areas were prevalent in connection with fear and vulnerability. I suggest that as participants construct their views of the built environment, they situate their actual neighbourhoods against idealised ‘imagined’ neighbourhoods, and both the actual surroundings and the idealised construction play into their views of their own place. In addition, it is clear that when participants are asked to take photographs of their neighbourhoods, they think visually. Consequently, participants enact their responses differently in visual research than they do in verbal-only research.
Young People and School GCSE Attainment: Exploring the ‘Middle’
Authors: Connelly Roxanne , Murray Susan J. , Gayle Vernon
Published: March 2013

The term ‘missing middle’ has been used to describe the position of ordinary young people in youth research. There have been recent appeals for youth researchers to concentrate upon the lives of ordinary young people and to better document their educational experiences through the secondary analysis of large-scale social surveys. This paper presents a series of exploratory analyses that attempt to identify the school-level educational attainment and social characteristics of ordinary young people using contemporary survey data.

We undertake a series of exploratory analyses of data from the British Household Panel Survey. These data cover the period directly after General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) qualifications were introduced. The dataset provides measures of school attainment and suitable individual, household and parental measures. We detect gender differences in school GCSE performance, with females outperforming males. There are some effects due to differences in parental education levels and household circumstances. There is a large group of young people who fail to gain any GCSEs, their attainment falls far short of benchmark standards, and has negative consequences. In contrast gaining a moderate level of GCSEs at school has a positive effect in relation to employment in early adulthood.

Our analyses fail to convince us that there are distinctive, or discrete, categories of GCSE attainment. The evidence explored here persuades us that there are no crisp boundaries that mark out a ‘middle’ category of moderate GCSE attainment. We conclude that there are clear benefits to understanding school attainment as being located upon a continuum, and that measures which reflect the heterogeneity of GCSE performance as fully as possible should be preferred.
Ordinary Lives: ‘Typical Stories’ of Girls’ Transitions in the 1960s and the 1980s
Authors: Goodwin John , O'connor Henrietta
Published: March 2013

Since 2000 we have been engaged in restudies of transitions projects from the 1960s and 1980s and we have used historic data to problematise past experiences of school to work to question assumptions around complexity and linearity. Yet, in our own analyses, we have perhaps followed too closely the dominant transition discourses, concentrating only on those young people for whom transitions were not straightforward thus privileging the non-linear and complex at the expense of those who had largely unremarkable education and early work experiences. In doing so we have missed important lessons located in the life stories of the previously ‘ordinary kids’ in these past studies. In this paper, we seek to build upon the work of Roberts (2011) and France (2007) , by returning to our own school to work restudies with two main aims in mind. First, we consider the emergent notions of ‘ordinary’ and ‘unspectacular’ transitions in the context of past studies of youth. We reflect critically on the concept of the ‘ordinary’ and consider ‘typicality’ as an alternative. Second, we use data, in the form of eight vignettes, from Adjustment of Young Workers to Work Situations and Adult Roles (1962) and Young Adults in the Labour Market (1983), to develop our understanding of the ordinary or typical in the lived realities of the transitions of girls in one labour market (Leicester) from the 1960s and 1980s. We conclude the paper by reflecting upon what lessons can be learnt from those who made seemingly ordinary transitions during past periods of economic change and transformation.
Phytoplankton lysis predicts dissolved organic carbon release in marine plankton communities
Authors: Agustí S. , Duarte C. M.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. The relationship between the percent extracellular carbon release (PER) and the specific lysis rates of phytoplankton was examined across a range of communities spanning from highly oligotrophic ones in the subtropical Atlantic Ocean to productive ones in the N. African upwelling and the Southern Ocean. Communities in oligotrophic waters supported high phytoplankton cell lysis rates and low particulate primary production rates but high dissolved primary production and PER. The percent extracellular carbon released increased with increasing lysis rates to reach an asymptote at about 80% PER with specific lysis rates > 1.5 d−1, observed in the most oligotrophic conditions tested. These results confirm that high phytoplankton mortality in the oligotrophic ocean leads to high PER, accounting for the large fraction of the photosynthetic carbon channelled through bacteria characteristic of oligotrophic marine communities.