bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hormonal contraception: Habits and awareness female students of the University of Novi Sad, Vojvodina, Serbia
Authors: Mijatovic Vesna , Samojlik Isidora , Petkovic Stojan , Horvat Olga , Tomic Zdenko , Sabo Ana
Published: October 2014

Introduction. Despite a large number of modern contraceptive methods
available in the market today, numerous studies have shown insufficient
awareness of young women about these forms for birth control. The aim of this
study was to compare characteristics of common use of contraceptives as well
as the awareness of hormonal contraception among female students of the
Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Technical Sciences in Novi Sad.
Materials and Methods. In the study which was conducted in 2012 240 female
students of the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Technical Sciences
participated. The average age of students of the Faculty of Medicine and the
Faculty of Technical Sciences was 24.06 ? 3.24 and 22.72 ? 0.90 years,
respectively. They completed an anonymous questionnaire, which consisted of
three parts. The first part comprised general questions, the second part
included characteristics of the sexual life of students and their
contraceptive habits, while in the third part students were asked to evaluate
the accuracy of statements about hormonal contraception. The obtained data
were statistically processed by using appropriate methods. Results. The
average age when the students of the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of
Technical Sciences had the first sexual intercourse was 18.74 ? 2.61 and
18.75 ? 2.59, respectively. One third of students from both faculties (30.91%
from the Faculty of Medicine and 35% from the Faculty of Technical Sciences)
had only one sexual partner. Modern contraception was used by 83.64% of the
medical students and by 80% of those from the Faculty of Technical Sciences.
Contraception was used regularly by 54.54% of the medical students and 43% of
those from the Faculty of Technical Sciences. The most frequently applied
contraceptive method was condom (90% of the medical students and 93% of the
Faculty of Technical Sciences students, respectively). Oral contraceptives
were used by 24.54% of the medical students and 11% of those form the Faculty
of Technical Sciences. There was a statistically significant difference in
the knowledge level between the two groups since the medical students gave
quantitatively higher range of expected responses than the students from the
Faculty of Technical Sciences. Conclusion. It is necessary to increase the
availability of adequate information on various types of contraception to
student population in Vojvodina.
Glycated hemoglobin a1c as a modern biochemical marker of glucose regulation
Authors: Kojic-Damjanov Suncica , Djeric Mirjana , Eremic-Kojic Nevena
Published: October 2014

Glycated Hemoglobin Structure and Synthesis of Molecule. Glycated hemoglobin
A1c, the major fraction of glycated hemoglobin, is formed by irreversible
nonenzymatic glycation. Its concentration depends only on the life span of
red blood cells and blood glucose levels. Clinical Significance of Glycated
Hemoglobin A1c. It is the key parameter for monitoring the regulation of
diabetes and for assessing the risk of microvascular complications. It is a
diagnostic criterion for diabetes as well. Its concentration reflects the
average value of blood glucose over the last two to three months. The
estimated average glucose, a new parameter which facilitates the patient?s
self-monitoring of diabetes, can be calculated from its value. Methods for
Determining Glycated Hemoglobin A1c and their Standardization. Immunoassay
and ion-exchange chromatography are commonly used methods for the glycated
hemoglobin determination in routine laboratory practice. The advantage of
immunoassay is that there is no need for the sample pretreatment in order to
eliminate unstable glycated hemoglobin A1c intermediary forms, and the
possibility of false positive results is lower. The current program of
standardization requires traceability to the International Federation of
Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine reference method. Reporting and
Interpretation of Results of Glycated Hemoglobin A1c Determination. Glycated
Hemoglobin A1c can be reported as % or as mmol/mol. In our country, it is
recommended to use the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and
Laboratory Medicine units (mmol/mol). When interpreting the results, the
potential causes of falsely high or low values must always be taken into
consideration. Recommendations for Clinical Practice. Periodic determinations
of glycated hemoglobin A1c are recommended for monitoring of diabetes
regulation. Additionally, the determination is recommended for the diagnosis
of diabetes. The target value for the prevention of microvascular
complications is < 7% and the diagnostic criterion for diabetes is ? 6.5%.
HbA1c as a Predictor of Diabetes and as an Outcome in the Diabetes Prevention Program: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors:   Diabetes Prevention Program Research Group
Published: October 2014

OBJECTIVE

Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), a standard measure of chronic glycemia for managing diabetes, has been proposed to diagnose diabetes and identify people at risk. The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) was a 3.2-year randomized clinical trial of preventing type 2 diabetes with a 10-year follow-up study, the DPP Outcomes Study (DPPOS). We evaluated baseline HbA1c as a predictor of diabetes and determined the effects of treatments on diabetes defined by an HbA1c ≥6.5% (48 mmol/mol).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We randomized 3,234 nondiabetic adults at high risk of diabetes to placebo, metformin, or intensive lifestyle intervention and followed them for the development of diabetes as diagnosed by fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and 2-h postload glucose (2hPG) concentrations (1997 American Diabetes Association [ADA] criteria). HbA1c was measured but not used for study eligibility or outcomes. We now evaluate treatment effects in the 2,765 participants who did not have diabetes at baseline according to FPG, 2hPG, or HbA1c (2010 ADA criteria).

RESULTS

Baseline HbA1c predicted incident diabetes in all treatment groups. Diabetes incidence defined by HbA1c ≥6.5% was reduced by 44% by metformin and 49% by lifestyle during the DPP and by 38% by metformin and 29% by lifestyle throughout follow-up. Unlike the primary DPP and DPPOS findings based on glucose criteria, metformin and lifestyle were similarly effective in preventing diabetes defined by HbA1c.

CONCLUSIONS

HbA1c predicted incident diabetes. In contrast to the superiority of the lifestyle intervention on glucose-defined diabetes, metformin and lifestyle interventions had similar effects in preventing HbA1c-defined diabetes. The long-term implications for other health outcomes remain to be determined.
Effect of Type of Cutting Tips on Cutting Forces in Turning
Authors: Polák Pavel , Žitňanský Ján , Ferancová Martina
Published: October 2014

The aim of this article is to demonstrate the efect of cutting materials and geometry of cutting tips on cutting forces in turning as well as the quality and precision of machined surface. The experiment focuses on measuring cutting forces when turning a sample of steel 11 523 at a constant feed rate and cut depth and at varying speeds of a spindle. Measurements were made using exchangeable cutting tips of diferent types. The results will be evaluated in terms of the impact of diferent characteristics of cutting tips and variable spindle speeds.
Control of Electric Drives in the Best Efficiency Region of Pumping System
Authors: Bakman Ilja
Published: October 2014

The paper concentrates on improving the efficiency of the pumping system in which pumps are run by variable speed drives. The method is applicable to system consisting of several centrifugal pumps. Problems arising from running the pumps outside the optimal efficiency region are discussed. Common principles of operation and control of typical boosting pumping station are represented. Methods of regulation of productivity of the system are described. The proposed method is based on prediction of future efficiency of pumps before making adjustments of pumping system productivity. The proposed method is basing on tracking the working point of pump on efficiency graph. Monitoring the location of working point vs. efficiency graph enables to evaluate its current and future distances from the best efficiency point of the pump. Knowing the current number of running pumps it is possible to predict the location of working point after adjustment of productivity of the system. Ability to predict the increase or decrease of efficiency enables to enhance the adjustment of productivity of the system. Methods of graphical analysis of working state of the pumping system are representing topic for future research.
Low-Cost Voltage Zero-Crossing Detector for AC-Grid Applications
Authors: Vorobyov Maxim , Vitols Kristaps
Published: October 2014

Renewable energy sources and energy storage devices are becoming more popular. Some of them like small hydropower turbines, wind turbines and diesel generators produce AC voltage with different frequency and voltage than the main grid. For them power electronics converters are necessary. Power electronics converters presented in industry use two or three level energy conversion, although direct AC to AC converters exist, but one of the main problems is the switch commutation when current or voltage is crossing the zero point. Zero crossing sensors are used to solve this problem. They consist of current or voltage measurement unit and zero crossing detector. Different approaches are used for zero crossing: hardware or software. Hardware approach is simple but it has low precision. Software approach has high precision but it is complicated and expensive. In this paper a simple low cost high precision approach is presented. It takes all advantages from both approaches. While tested with two types of microcontrollers the precision of experimental measurement is 25 μs - 40 μs.
Attenuation of enoyl coenzyme A hydratase short chain 1 expression in gastric cancer cells inhibits cell proliferation and migration in vitro
Authors: Zhu Xiao-San , Gao Peng , Dai Yi-Chen , Xie Jun-Pei , Zeng Wei , Lian Qing-Na
Published: October 2014

Enoyl coenzyme A hydratase short chain 1 (ECHS1) is an important part of the mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation pathway. Altered ECHS1 expression has been implicated in cancer cell proliferation. This study assessed ECHS1 expression in human gastric cancer cell lines and investigated the effects of ECHS1 knockdown on gastric cancer cell proliferation and migration. The human gastric cancer cell lines SGC-7901, BGC-823 and MKN-28, and the immortalized human gastric epithelial mucosa GES-1 cell line were analyzed for ECHS1 protein levels using western blot. The effectiveness of ECHS1-RNA interference was also determined using western blot. Proliferation and migration of the siECHS1 cells were respectively measured with the CCK-8 and transwell assays. Phosphorylation of PKB and GSK3β was assessed using western blot. ECHS1 protein levels were significantly higher in poorly differentiated cells than in well-differentiated cells and immortalized gastric epithelial mucosa cells. Stable expression of ECHS1 shRNA was associated with an over 41% reduction in the ECHS1 protein levels of siECHS1 cells. Constitutive knockdown of the ECHS1 gene in siECHS1 cells was associated with significantly inhibited cell proliferation and migration. We also observed decreased levels of PKB and GSK3β phosphorylation in siECHS1 cells. ECHS1 expression is increased in human gastric cancer cells. Increased ECHS1 expression activates PKB and GSK3β by inducing the phosphorylation of the two kinases. ECHS1 may play important roles in gastric cancer cell proliferation and migration through PKB- and GSK3β-related signaling pathways.
Is wild boar heading towards movement ecology? A review of trends and gaps
Authors: Morelle Kevin , Lehaire François , Lejeune Philippe
Published: October 2014

Studies about the movement of mammals have recently gained much emphasis thanks to the development of new tracking technology, allowing highly accurate recording of animal movement. However, the amount of data made available requires effective theoretical and analytical framework for appropriate scientific use, i.e. to answer questions of interest. Within this review, we used systematic reviewing technique and the movement ecology framework to assess current knowledge and gaps in wild boar Sus scrofa spatial behaviour, species of high economic, ecological and social interest. Specifically, we observed that the development of new tracking techniques (radio‐telemetry and global positioning system) has promoted movement‐related studies since the early 2000. However, the ecology of movement, i.e. the why, how, when and where exactly an individual is moving is rarely the focus of these studies, which instead lies in the consequences of wild boar movement, e.g. the spread of disease, seed dispersal or damage. Most of the current studies are thus concerned with the interaction between environmental factors and spatial behaviour of the species, while other components of movement, internal state, navigation, and motion capacity are seldom studied. Compared to others ungulates, we also observed that wild boar movement ecology is still poorly considered in the literature. This review highlights the need for more quantitative descriptions of movement and behavioural‐based approaches relating wild boar movement to its internal, navigational, and motion capacities. We expect that facilitated access to tracking technologies, in terms of cost and miniaturization, along with current interest in movement ecology will greatly promote increased knowledge in wild boar spatial behaviour.
Den abandonment and transitional day bed use by black bears Ursus americanus in Newfoundland
Authors: Rayl Nathaniel D. , Fuller Todd K. , Organ John F. , McDonald John E. , Otto Robert D. , Mahoney Shane P.
Published: October 2014

The use of day beds for extended periods during the transition into and out of the physiological state of hibernation has been documented in many bear populations, but has never been quantifi ed. Additionally, den abandonment by black bears Ursus americanus has rarely been observed at northern latitudes except after den visits by researchers. In three areas on the northern island of Newfoundland, where male and female black bears spent an average of 158 and 178 d denning, respectively, we identified den sites and extended‐use day beds (occupied continuously for 6–26 d) remotely using GPS collars, and here provide the first systematic description of the use of these day beds by bears. We documented den abandonment in 6 (9%; 3 F, 3 M) of 67 bear‐winters (6 [14%] of 44 radio‐collared bears) and the use of extended‐use transitional day beds in 16 (24%) of 67 bear‐winters (15 [34%] of 44 radio‐collared bears, 8 F, 7 M). In 5 of 10 instances bears left their fall day beds on days with > 15 mm of rain (mean = 28.2 mm, range = 15.6–63.6 mm), which was more than would be expected by chance (p < 0.01). We had more than one year of denning data for 17 bears, 6 (35%) of which reused den sites in diff erent years. Further, we observed some bears using day bed and den sites interchangeably. Though we hypothesized that environmental (flooding) or anthropogenic disturbance (researcher‐, forestry‐related, or recreational) may have played a role in den abandonment, we found no such relationships, nor was there a difference in the rate of abandonment or day bed use between male and female bears. We could not assess the eff ects of microhabitat attributes, condition, or reproductive status, but acknowledge that these factors may have played a role in den changes.
Upper bounds on subglacial channel development for interior regions of the Greenland ice sheet
Authors: Dow C.F. , Kulessa B. , Rutt I.C. , Doyle S.H. , Hubbard A.
Published: October 2014

We use a simple numerical model to test whether surface water influx to the bed of the interior Greenland ice sheet has the potential to cause significant subglacial channel growth similar to that observed near the ice-sheet margin and at alpine glaciers. We examine the effects on channel growth from (1) rapid supraglacial lake drainage events and (2) sustained water input into moulins. By assuming that all drainage occurs through subglacial channels and by prescribing favorable pressure conditions at the domain inlet, the model can provide upper bounds on channel growth. Our results indicate that R-channels do not grow significantly within the limited period of high pressure associated with lake drainage events. Subsequent channel growth only occurs with sustained pressures above overburden. Rapid closure of channels at low pressures suggests channels in the interior are unlikely to draw significant quantities of water from nearby distributed networks. These results indicate that other drainage mechanisms such as turbulent sheets or linked-cavity networks are likely to be of greater importance for interior subglacial drainage than the growth of channels.
Carboxylated or Aminated Polyaniline—Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes Nanohybrids for Immobilization of Cellobiose Dehydrogenase on Gold Electrodes
Authors: Tanne Johannes , Kracher Daniel , Dietzel Birgit , Schulz Burkhard , Ludwig Roland , Lisdat Fred , Scheller Frieder , Bier Frank
Published: October 2014

Polymer-multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) nanohybrids, which differ in surface charge have been synthesized to study the bioelectrocatalysis of adsorbed cellobiose dehydrogenase (CDH) from Phanerochaete sordida on gold electrodes. To obtain negatively charged nanohybrids, poly(3-amino-4-methoxybenzoic acid-co-aniline) (P(AMB-A)) was covalently linked to the surface of MWCNTs while modification with p-phenylenediamine (PDA) converted the COOH-groups to positively charged amino groups. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) measurements verified the p-phenylenediamine (PDA) modification of the polymer-CNT nanohybrids. The positively charged nanohybrid MWCNT-P(AMB-A)-PDA promoted direct electron transfer (DET) of CDH to the electrode and bioelectrocatalysis of lactose was observed. Amperometric measurements gave an electrochemical response with KMapp = 8.89 mM and a current density of 410 nA/cm2 (15 mM lactose). The catalytic response was tested at pH 3.5 and 4.5. Interference by ascorbic acid was not observed. The study proves that DET between the MWCNT-P(AMB-A)-PDA nanohybrids and CDH is efficient and allows the sensorial detection of lactose.
Current Challenges Towards the Development of a Blood Test for Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Santiago Jose , Potashkin Judith
Published: October 2014

Parkinson’ disease (PD) is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disease worldwide. To date, there is no disease-modifying agent, and current medical treatment only provides symptomatic benefits. Early diagnosis of PD would be useful in clinical practice to identify patients for clinical trials, test potential drugs and neuroprotective agents and track their therapeutic effect. Considerable progress has been made in the discovery and validation of diagnostic biomarkers for PD. In particular, blood-based biomarkers have shown promise in identifying PD patients in samples from independent clinical trials. Evaluation of these biomarkers in de novo patients and individuals at risk for PD remains a top priority. Here, we review the current advances and challenges toward the clinical translation of these biomarkers into a blood-based test for PD.
Glutathionylation of the L-type Ca2+ Channel in Oxidative Stress-Induced Pathology of the Heart
Authors: Johnstone Victoria , Hool Livia
Published: October 2014

There is mounting evidence to suggest that protein glutathionylation is a key process contributing to the development of pathology. Glutathionylation occurs as a result of posttranslational modification of a protein and involves the addition of a glutathione moiety at cysteine residues. Such modification can occur on a number of proteins, and exerts a variety of functional consequences. The L-type Ca2+ channel has been identified as a glutathionylation target that participates in the development of cardiac pathology. Ca2+ influx via the L-type Ca2+ channel increases production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cardiomyocytes during periods of oxidative stress. This induces a persistent increase in channel open probability, and the resulting constitutive increase in Ca2+ influx amplifies the cross-talk between the mitochondria and the channel. Novel strategies utilising targeted peptide delivery to uncouple mitochondrial ROS and Ca2+ flux via the L-type Ca2+ channel following ischemia-reperfusion have delivered promising results, and have proven capable of restoring appropriate mitochondrial function in myocytes and in vivo.
Cloning, Expression, Sequence Analysis and Homology Modeling of the Prolyl Endoprotease from Eurygaster integriceps Puton
Authors: Yandamuri Ravi , Gautam Ranjeeta , Darkoh Charles , Dareddy Vanitha , El-Bouhssini Mustapha , Clack Beatrice
Published: October 2014

eurygaster integriceps Puton, commonly known as sunn pest, is a major pest of wheat in Northern Africa, the Middle East and Eastern Europe. This insect injects a prolyl endoprotease into the wheat, destroying the gluten. The purpose of this study was to clone the full length cDNA of the sunn pest prolyl endoprotease (spPEP) for expression in E. coli and to compare the amino acid sequence of the enzyme to other known PEPs in both phylogeny and potential tertiary structure. Sequence analysis shows that the 5ꞌ UTR contains several putative transcription factor binding sites for transcription factors known to be expressed in Drosophila that might be useful targets for inhibition of the enzyme. The spPEP was first identified as a prolyl endoprotease by Darkoh et al., 2010. The enzyme is a unique serine protease of the S9A family by way of its substrate recognition of the gluten proteins, which are greater than 30 kD in size. At 51% maximum identity to known PEPs, homology modeling using SWISS-MODEL, the porcine brain PEP (PDB: 2XWD) was selected in the database of known PEP structures, resulting in a predicted tertiary structure 99% identical to the porcine brain PEP structure. A Km for the recombinant spPEP was determined to be 210 ± 53 µM for the zGly-Pro-pNA substrate in 0.025 M ethanolamine, pH 8.5, containing 0.1 M NaCl at 37 °C with a turnover rate of 172 ± 47 µM Gly-Pro-pNA/s/µM of enzyme.
Mixing Analysis of Passive Micromixer with Unbalanced Three-Split Rhombic Sub-Channels
Authors: Hossain Shakhawat , Kim Kwang-Yong
Published: October 2014

A micromixer with unbalanced three-split rhombic sub-channels was proposed, and analyses of the mixing and flow characteristics of this micromixer were performed in this work. Three-dimensional Navier-Stokes equations in combination with an advection-diffusion model with two working fluids (water and ethanol) were solved for the analysis. The mixing index and pressure drop were evaluated and compared to those of a two-split micromixer for a range of Reynolds numbers from 0.1–120. The results indicate that the proposed three-split micromixer is efficient in mixing for a range of Reynolds numbers from 30–80. A parametric study was performed to determine the effects of the rhombic angle and sub-channel width ratio on mixing and pressure drop. Except at the lowest Reynolds number, a rhombic angle of 90° gave the best mixing performance. The three-split micromixer with minimum minor sub-channel widths provided the best mixing performance.
Antioxidant, 5-Lipoxygenase Inhibitory and Cytotoxic Activities of Compounds Isolated from the Ferula lutea Flowers
Authors: Znati Mansour , Ben Jannet Hichem , Cazaux Sylvie , Souchard Jean , Harzallah Skhiri Féthia , Bouajila Jalloul
Published: October 2014

A phytochemical investigation of the Ferula lutea (Poir.) Maire flowers has led to the isolation of a new compound, (E)-5-ethylidenefuran-2(5H)-one-5-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), designated ferunide, 4-hydroxy-3-methylbut-2-enoic acid (2), reported for the first time as a natural product, together with nine known compounds, verbenone-5-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (3), 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid (4), methyl caffeate (5), methyl 3,5-O-dicaffeoylquinate (6), 3,5-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid (7), isorhamnetin-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside, narcissin (8), (−)-marmesin (9), isoimperatorin (10) and 2,3,6-trimethylbenzaldehyde (11). Compounds 3–10 were identified for the first time in Ferula genus. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods, including 1D and 2D NMR experiments, mass spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis (compound 2), as well as by comparison with literature data. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic activities of isolated compounds were evaluated. Results showed that compound 7 exhibited the highest antioxidant activity with IC50 values of 18 ± 0.5 µmol/L and 19.7 ± 0.7 µmol/L by DPPH radical and ABTS radical cation, respectively. The compound 6 exhibited the highest anti-inflammatory activity with an IC50 value of 5.3 ± 0.1 µmol/L against 5-lipoxygenase. In addition, compound 5 was found to be the most cytotoxic, with IC50 values of 22.5 ± 2.4 µmol/L, 17.8 ± 1.1 µmol/L and 25 ± 1.1 µmol/L against the HCT-116, IGROV-1 and OVCAR-3 cell lines, respectively.
Nutrients Intake Is Associated with DNA Methylation of Candidate Inflammatory Genes in a Population of Obese Subjects
Authors: Bollati Valentina , Favero Chiara , Albetti Benedetta , Tarantini Letizia , Moroni Alice , Byun Hyang-Min , Motta Valeria , Conti Diana , Tirelli Amedea , Vigna Luisella , Bertazzi Pier , Pesatori Angela
Published: October 2014

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential association between dietary nutrients and alterations in DNA methylation in a set of five candidate genes, including CD14, Et-1, iNOS, HERV-w and TNFα, in a population of overweight/obese subjects. We evaluated possible associations between gene methylation and clinical blood parameters, including total cholesterol (TC), low- and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C and HDL-C), triglyceride and homocysteine levels. We employed validated methods to assess anthropometric, clinical and dietary data, as well as pyrosequencing to evaluate DNA methylation of the five candidate genes in 165 overweight/obese subjects. There was no association between body mass index and DNA methylation of the five candidate genes in this group of subjects. Positive associations were observed between TNFα methylation and blood levels of LDL-C (β = 0.447, p = 0.002), TC/HDL-C (β = 0.467, p = 0.001) and LDL-C/HDL-C (β = 0.445, p = 0.002), as well as between HERV-w methylation and dietary intakes of β-carotene (β = 0.088, p = 0.051) and carotenoids (β = 0.083, p = 0.029). TNFα methylation showed negative associations with dietary intakes of cholesterol (β = −0.278, p = 0.048), folic acid (β = −0.339, p = 0.012), β-carotene (β = −0.332, p = 0.045), carotenoids (β = −0.331, p = 0.015) and retinol (β = −0.360, p = 0.008). These results suggest a complex relationship among nutrient intake, oxidative stress and DNA methylation.
Global Retrieval of Diatom Abundance Based on Phytoplankton Pigments and Satellite Data
Authors: Soppa Mariana , Hirata Takafumi , Silva Brenner , Dinter Tilman , Peeken Ilka , Wiegmann Sonja , Bracher Astrid
Published: October 2014

Diatoms are the major marine primary producers on the global scale and, recently, several methods have been developed to retrieve their abundance or dominance from satellite remote sensing data. In this work, we highlight the importance of the Southern Ocean (SO) in developing a global algorithm for diatom using an Abundance Based Approach (ABA). A large global in situ data set of phytoplankton pigments was compiled, particularly with more samples collected in the SO. We revised the ABA to take account of the information on the penetration depth (Zpd) and to improve the relationship between diatoms and total chlorophyll-a (TChla). The results showed that there is a distinct relationship between diatoms and TChla in the SO, and a new global model (ABAZpd) improved the estimation of diatoms abundance by 28% in the SO compared with the original ABA model. In addition, we developed a regional model for the SO which further improved the retrieval of diatoms by 17% compared with the global ABAZpd model. As a result, we found that diatom may be more abundant in the SO than previously thought. Linear trend analysis of diatom abundance using the regional model for the SO showed that there are statistically significant trends, both increasing and decreasing, in diatom abundance over the past eleven years in the region.
The Influence of Tractor-Seat Height above the Ground on Lateral Vibrations
Authors: Gomez-Gil Jaime , Gomez-Gil Francisco , Martin-de-Leon Rebeca
Published: October 2014

Farmers experience whole-body vibrations when they drive tractors. Among the various factors that influence the vibrations to which the driver is exposed are terrain roughness, tractor speed, tire type and pressure, rear axle width, and tractor seat height above the ground. In this paper the influence of tractor seat height above the ground on the lateral vibrations to which the tractor driver is exposed is studied by means of a geometrical and an experimental analysis. Both analyses show that: (i) lateral vibrations experienced by a tractor driver increase linearly with tractor-seat height above the ground; (ii) lateral vibrations to which the tractor driver is exposed can equal or exceed vertical vibrations; (iii) in medium-size tractors, a feasible 30 cm reduction in the height of the tractor seat, which represents only 15% of its current height, will reduce the lateral vibrations by around 20%; and (iv) vertical vibrations are scarcely influenced by tractor-seat height above the ground. The results suggest that manufacturers could increase the comfort of tractors by lowering tractor-seat height above the ground, which will reduce lateral vibrations.
Survey on Fall Detection and Fall Prevention Using Wearable and External Sensors
Authors: Delahoz Yueng , Labrador Miguel
Published: October 2014

According to nihseniorhealth.gov (a website for older adults), falling represents a great threat as people get older, and providing mechanisms to detect and prevent falls is critical to improve people’s lives. Over 1.6 million U.S. adults are treated for fall-related injuries in emergency rooms every year suffering fractures, loss of independence, and even death. It is clear then, that this problem must be addressed in a prompt manner, and the use of pervasive computing plays a key role to achieve this. Fall detection (FD) and fall prevention (FP) are research areas that have been active for over a decade, and they both strive for improving people’s lives through the use of pervasive computing. This paper surveys the state of the art in FD and FP systems, including qualitative comparisons among various studies. It aims to serve as a point of reference for future research on the mentioned systems. A general description of FD and FP systems is provided, including the different types of sensors used in both approaches. Challenges and current solutions are presented and described in great detail. A 3-level taxonomy associated with the risk factors of a fall is proposed. Finally, cutting edge FD and FP systems are thoroughly reviewed and qualitatively compared, in terms of design issues and other parameters.
Characterizing Cyberbullying among College Students: Hacking, Dirty Laundry, and Mocking
Authors: Kota Rajitha , Schoohs Shari , Benson Meghan , Moreno Megan
Published: October 2014

Bullying behaviors occur across the lifespan and have increasingly migrated to online platforms where they are known as cyberbullying. The purpose of this study was to explore the phenomenon of cyberbullying among college students. Participants were recruited for focus groups through purposeful sampling, including recruitment from groups traditionally at risk for bullying. Focus groups discussed views and perceptions of cyberbullying on campuses. Groups were led by a trained facilitator and were audio recorded and manually transcribed. The constant comparative approach was used to identify themes and representative quotations. The 42 participants had an average age of 19.2 (SD = 1.2), 55% were female, 83% were Caucasian. Three themes emerged from the data: (1) lack of agreement on a definition of cyberbullying, but consensus on three representative scenarios: hacking, dirty laundry and mocking; (2) concerns with translating definitions of traditional bullying to cyberbullying; (3) opinions that cyberbullying may manifest differently in college compared to younger adolescents, including increased potential for long-term effects. College students were not in agreement about a theoretical definition, but they could agree upon specific representative instances of cyberbullying. Future studies could consider using common case examples or vignettes of cyberbullying, or creation of developmentally representative definitions by age group.
Wireless Sensor Network Powered by a Terrestrial Microbial Fuel Cell as a Sustainable Land Monitoring Energy System
Authors: Pietrelli Andrea , Micangeli Andrea , Ferrara Vincenzo , Raffi Alessandro
Published: October 2014

This work aims at investigating the possibility of a wireless sensor network powered by an energy harvesting technology, such as a microbial fuel cell (MFC). An MFC is a bioreactor that transforms energy stored in chemical bonds of organic compounds into electrical energy. This process takes place through catalytic reactions of microorganisms under anaerobic conditions. An anode chamber together with a cathode chamber composes a conventional MFC reactor. The protons generated in the anode chamber are then transferred into the cathode chamber through a proton exchange membrane (PEM). A possible option is to use the soil itself as the membrane. In this case, we are referring to, more properly, a terrestrial microbial fuel cell (TMFC). This research examines the sustainability of a wireless sensor network powered by TMFC for land monitoring and precision agriculture. Acting on several factors, such as pH, temperature, humidity and type of soil used, we obtained minimum performance requirements in terms of the output power of the TMFC. In order to identify some of the different network node configurations and to compare the resulting performance, we investigated the energy consumption of the core components of a node, e.g., the transceiver and microcontroller, looking for the best performance.
Relativity with Respect to Measurement: Collapse and Quantum Events from Fock to Cramer
Authors: Chiatti Leonardo , Licata Ignazio
Published: October 2014

Some observations are presented starting with the well-known article by Vladimir Fock “Quantum Physics and Philosophical Problems”, published in 1971. In this article, which summarizes for Western readers a long and complicated reflection of the foundations of quantum mechanics (QM), Fock illustrates his “minimal” interpretation of this theory. By minimal, we mean that it only uses concepts related to the operational aspects of the measurement procedures, avoiding any mention of definite quantum ontologies (Bell’s beables). It is argued that, by taking into account the time reversal invariance of the microscopic processes and introducing the notion of irreversibility in an appropriate manner, Fock’s description becomes an anticipation of the “transaction” notion introduced by Cramer a decade later. So, the concept of “collapse” does retain the features of a QM “freak” postulate to become a new way to look at the elementary quantum processes.
Innovative Research Methodology
Authors: Fields Ziska
Published: October 2014

The knowledge economy requires that social science researchers start questioning the type of knowledge they are producing and the type of methods they are using to produce this knowledge. This chapter explains how the knowledge economy is linked to creativity, innovation, and qualitative research. This chapter aims specifically to highlight the need and importance of innovative research methodologies in a knowledge economy. Emerging innovative qualitative research methodologies in social sciences are briefly identified, and arguments for and against methodological innovation are explored. The stages of creativity and phases of innovation are highlighted in a research environment to show social science researchers that innovative research methodologies can be generated and that barriers to creativity and innovation can be overcome using various techniques. After reading this chapter, the reader will be able to apply creativity and innovation to identify new and novel ways of undertaking qualitative research, as well as being able to integrate innovate methodologies with existing methodologies.
Netnography
Authors: Alavi Shirin
Published: October 2014

This chapter seeks to impart understanding of Netnography as a new qualitative, interpretive research methodology that uses Internet-optimized ethnographic research techniques to study the online communities. As a method, Netnography is faster, simpler, and less expensive than ethnography, and more naturalistic and unobtrusive than focus groups or interviews. It provides information on the symbolism, meanings, and consumption patterns of online consumer groups. As a marketing research technique, Netnography uses the information publicly available in online forums to identify and understand the needs and decision influences of relevant online consumer groups. Compared to traditional and market-oriented ethnography, Netnography is far less time consuming and elaborate. Owing to the relevance of studying sensitive research topics, in particular when access to informants is difficult, Netnography can be applied in an analysis of cross-consumer online communication.
Triangulation in Organizational Research
Authors: Tran Ben
Published: October 2014

The use of qualitative and quantitative methods in studying the same phenomenon has received attention among the scholars and researchers. As a result, it has become an accepted practice to use some form of triangulation in social research. In the social sciences, the use of triangulation can be traced back to Campbell and Fiskel. This was later developed by Webb and elaborated by Denzin beyond its conventional association with research methods and designs in science. The objective of science is to discover, describe, and explain the fact, whereas in the case of social science it is to observe, verify, and conclude. This chapter also covers the positivist view and the postmodernism and post-positivism paradigms of triangulation as well as the types of knowledge derived from the usage of triangulation in organizational research. This chapter concludes with how triangulation validates knowledge in human competence within an organizational setting.
The Second Generation of the Laddering Methodology and Its Use in Studying Decision Making
Authors: Morandin Gabriele , Bergami Massimo , Bagozzi Richard P.
Published: October 2014

The laddering technique can be considered a meaning-based qualitative approach for understanding preferences, motivations, and other general determinants of consumer and organizational choices. This chapter begins by presenting the original version of the laddering technique and its limitations and then introduces the technique's second generation. Based on Means-End Chains Theory (MEC Theory), the laddering methodology is used to uncover mental schemas in the form of cognitive maps by using principles derived from social network analysis. The bases for motives, goals, or values can be studied with such procedures. It also allows us to understand the influence of cognitive schemas on attitudes and behaviors through appropriate quantitative tests. Using data from a sample of 102 members of the Ducati community participating in a motorcycle event, the authors present the rationale and procedures involved in laddering and illustrate its overall approach while discussing its strengths and weaknesses.
Business Graduate Skills
Authors: Olivares Silvia Olivares
Published: October 2014

This chapter describes a model of competences composed of skills business professionals should possess once they graduate. The multilevel model considers competences from individual level to contextual (environmental) level requirements in order to start or lead a company in a complex and changing work environment. This chapter suggests that the academic institutions of higher education should learn about the emerging competences of different levels and types required from the current and future graduates when they reach the marketplace. Doing so will definitely help these academic institutions to design academic programs and services involving co-curricular and core-curricular activities on the campus in order to build and evaluate those different but interdependent competences.
A Balanced Approach to Education
Authors: Khan Mohammad Ayub
Published: October 2014

This chapter intends to find out answers to a rather complicated question facing almost all universities and business schools in the world: How to have a balanced approach to education. In so doing, this chapter discusses an integrative approach to curriculum development and having a best combination of teaching, research, and continuing education as a source of a balanced approach to education. All these components—curriculum development, teaching, research, and continuing education—are crucial for the existence and growth of higher educational institutions now and in the future. Furthermore, the chapter studies all the various factors that influence the development and implementation of a balanced approach to education in academic institutions and proposes strategies and models to help academic administrators design and implement balanced education approaches.
Achieving Flexibility via Contingency Planning Activities in the Supply Chain
Authors: Skipper Joseph B. , Hall Dianne J. , Hazen Benjamin T. , Hanna Joe B.
Published: October 2014

Supply chain disruptions significantly impact businesses worldwide. Many organizations work towards improving flexibility so as to prepare for such disruptions and maintain competitive advantage. This research effort examines four activities that are associated with the contingency planning process to determine which, if any, of these processes are ultimately supportive of organizational flexibility. These activities are: information sharing, external collaboration, internal collaboration, and information technology usage. A survey method is employed to examine the perceptions of 103 contingency planners to determine which of these potential determinants are positively related to organizational flexibility. The data are analyzed using partial least square regression, and reveal that information technology use and external collaboration are significant determinants of organizational flexibility. Implications of our findings are discussed and future research to support this burgeoning area of supply chain management is proposed.
Helicopter Performance Improvement with Variable Rotor Radius and RPM
Authors: Mistry Mihir , Gandhi Farhan
Published: October 2014

This paper examines rotor power reductions achievable through a combination of radius and RPM variation. The study is based on a utility helicopter similar to the UH-60A and considers +17% to –16% variation in radius and ±11% variation in RPM about the baseline, over a
range of airspeed, gross weight, and altitude. Results show that decreasing RPM alone effectively reduced power at cruise velocities in low-and-light conditions, but the power reductions diminished at increasing altitude and/or gross weight, and in low-speed flight. Increasing radius alone,
on the other hand, had greatest effectiveness in power reduction in high-and-heavy operating conditions and at lower flight speeds. When radius and RPM variation is used in combination, minimum RPM is always favored, along with radius increases at increasing altitude and gross weight, and
in low-speed operation. At low-to-moderate gross weight, the significant power reductions seen in cruise and at low altitude with RPM variation alone are obtained even at higher altitude, and over the airspeed range, using radius and RPM variation in combination. In high-and-heavy conditions,
the combination of RPM reduction and radius increase yields very large power reductions of over 20% and up to 30% over the baseline. Power reduction in low-and-light conditions comes almost entirely from profile power reduction due to RPM decrease. In cruise and high-speed flight, the profile
power reductions progressively give way to induced power reductions at increasing gross weight and altitude. At low speeds, reduction in induced power due to increased radius and decreased disk loading dominates.
Geology of Terrace map-area, British Columbia (103 I E1/2)
Authors: Duffell S , Souther J G
Published: October 2014

Terrace map-area covers 2,800 square miles of the Coast and Hazelton Mountains of west-central British Columbia. The Coast Mountains are composed largely of rocks of the Coast Intrusions, which cut sedimentary and volcanic rocks from Permian to Cretaceous age.
The main contact runs, generally, northwesterly but large apophyses extend eastward. Granodiorite and adamellite predominate in the main mass and quartz-diorite, diorite, gabbro, and minor syenite in the apophyses and stocks; true granite forms a minor component of both. These rocks may be divided
into four main facies on the basis of type and proportion of mafic content: gabbro, pyroxene-quartz diorite, inner, and border facies. Each facies may be subdivided again on a basis of textural and colour variation.
Dykes fall into four main groups and are instrumental in the location of mineralized quartz veins.
The Hazelton Mountains to the north are composed largely of sedimentary strata of Upper Jurassic-Lower Cretaceous age, here named the Bowser Group. These rocks, previously included with the Hazelton Group or referred to as the Skeena Formation, are now known to underlie thousands of square miles of
north-central British Columbia, and are sufficiently distinctive to be classed as a group.
The Pleistocene period produced the wide, flat, gravel- and clay-filled Kitimat-Kitsumkalum Valley, so important now to the economy of the area,
providing ample room for industrial and urban development. Occurrences of gold, silver, lead, zinc, and copper minerals are common.
Medical management of myxomatous mitral valve disease: An evidence-based veterinary medicine approach
Authors: Burchell Richard K. , Schoeman Johan
Published: October 2014

Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is the most common heart disease of dogs. The current management of MMVD in dogs is mostly pharmacological, and the recommendations for treatment are based on a number of veterinary studies. Notwithstanding the current consensus regarding the medical management of MMVD, there remains active debate as to which drugs are the most effective. In order to understand how recommendations are constructed in the pharmacological management of diseases, the veterinarian needs to understand the concept of evidence-based veterinary medicine, and how the findings of these studies can be applied in their own practices. This review summarises the current veterinary literature and explains how the consensus regarding the management of MMVD has been reached. This review highlights the limitations of veterinary studies in order to provide veterinary practitioners with a sense of the difficulty there is in establishing the benefit of one treatment over the other. Veterinarians should therefore apply treatment recommendations based on the best evidence, integrated with a pathomechanistic understanding of the disease process and clinical experience.