bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilization of different plant species available in coconut plantation to produce nutrient rich vermicompost
Authors: Senarathne S. H. S. , Ilangamudali I. M. P. S.
Published: October 2016

Vermicomposting is a well known technology that produces a valuable organic fertilizer from Organic waste. Weeds in coconut plantations are good organic sources for vermicompost production. The experiment was carried out to evaluate the quality of vermicompost produced by different weed or plant species commonly available in coconut plantations and also to evaluate the effect of these residues on the earth worm activity in the vermicomposting process. Vermicomposts were produced using different plant or weed species collected from coconut plantations in combination with cattle manure.The highest N content and worm growth was found in the vermicompost produced using Puereria phasioloides, Gliricidia sepium and Tithonia diversifolia. The highest P content was recorded in vermicompost samples produced using Tithonia diversifolia and Panicum maximum. Tithonia diversifolia, Puereria phasioloides and Gliricidia sepium showes significantly higher K content than the other plant species residues. Organic Carbon content was significantly high in vermicompost made with Tithonia diversifolia, Gliricidia sepium, Tephrosia purpurea, Chromoleana odorata, Panicum maximum and Hyptis suaveolens. Worm multiplication rate was significantly lower % by Lantana camara, Chromoleana odorata, Hyptis suaveolens and Vernonie zeylanica substrates, possibly due to chemical compounds present in these plant species. The results shows that Gliricidia sepium, Puereria phasioloides and Tithonia diversifolia are the best species for vermicomposting when compared with other weed species in coconut plantations.
A thematic analysis of therapists' perspectives on therapeutic alliance rupture moments
Authors: Soygüt Gonca , Gülüm İsmail Volkan
Published: October 2016

This study aimed to qualitatively examine the perspectives of therapists using different theoretical orientations on rupture moments. The study features a qualitative research design. Six different therapy session segments were presented to the participants and questions were asked to gather their perspectives on the segments. The thematic analyses conducted on 20 therapistsâ€™ evaluations on the 6 rupture segments of 5 patients were based on two categories: i) the causes of the rupture moments, ii) the recommendations for resolution. Findings revealed that therapists are more likely to report patientsâ€™ negative contribution as the main cause of rupture moments. Participants attributed less importance to the negative contribution of the therapist or to the therapist-patient relationship in rupture moments, and therapists tended to suggest mostly technical resolutions to ruptures. This second-generation alliance research draws attention to relational aspects of the rupture resolution processes for a positive outcome. However, our findings yielded that there was a lack in therapistsâ€™ evaluations in addressing the contribution of the therapists and/or therapist-patient relationship to rupture moments. This highlights the importance of supervision training to foster therapistsâ€™ awareness of rupture moments and develop their skills for resolution in the context of the therapist-patient relationship.
Is there any association between renal failure and hepatotoxic photosensitization caused by feeding foxtail millet (Setaria italica) in sheep and goats?
Authors: Omidi Arash , Izadi Yazdanabadi Fateme , Esmaeilpour Ukabed
Published: October 2016

Photosensitivity is an abnormal skin reaction to direct sunlight exposure. Photosen sitivity occurred because of failure to excrete phylloerythrin due to hepatic dysfunction. Foxtail millet feeding can induce hepatotoxic photosensitization and influence on different organs. This study attempts to evaluate renal function and serum electrolyte status in sheep and goats experimentally feeding foxtail millet. Twelve male goats and sheep were kept in the sunlight. The animals were fed foxtail millet diet freely in a eight-week experimental period. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, hematocrit and hemoglobin were measured until last day of experiment in a weekly manner. On the last day, the animals were euthanized and kidneys were removed for pathologic examination. Data were analyzed using repeated measurement analysis by SPSS software (version 20). Three sheep showed clinical signs of photosensitivity. BUN showed a decreasing trend from the second week of the experiment. Creatinine was increased in the six and second weeks. An increase in sodium concentration in goats from fourth week was significant. Sodium levels in sheep showed a fluctuational change. Potassium and phosphorus of sheep and phosphorus in the blood of goats were increased from the second week. Potassium in goats was constant during the time. Magnesium in the blood of sheep and goats was increased from the third and fourth weeks, respectively. The hematocrit and hemoglobin increased significantly over time. Moderate to severe hyperemia with abundant deposits of blue-violet material in the collecting ducts and mild degenerative changes in the convoluted tubules in sheep kidneys and congestion in the center of the goats’ kidney were seen. In conclusion, feeding the foxtail millet can cause renal dysfunction, and changes in the balance of some serum electrolytes.
The effects of probiotic Yeasture® using at different rearing periods on performance, intestinal microbial population and carcass traits in broiler chickens
Authors: Khaliq Mahyar , Ebrahimnezhad Yahya
Published: October 2016

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of using probiotic Yeasture® at different rearing periods on performance, intestinal microbial population and carcass traits in broiler chickens. A total of 378 one day old chickens (male and female) were randomly allotted to one of the 21 floor pens in a completely randomized design with seven treatments and three replicate groups and eighteen chickens in each group (9 male and 9 female). The Experiment treatments consisted of seven groups: A (control, without probiotic), B (prebiotics feeding between 1 to 10 days), C (prebiotics feeding between 1 to 24 days), D (prebiotics feeding between 1 to 42 days), E (prebiotics feeding between 11 to 24 days), F (prebiotics feeding between 11 to 42 days) and G (prebiotics feeding between 24 to 42 days). The chickens received the desired probiotic at different days of rearing period. The basal diets were corn and soybean meal, so 0.3 g/kg of basal diets in starter (1-10 days), 0.25 g/kg of basal diets in grower (11-24 d) and 0.2 g/kg of basal diets in finisher (24-42 d) period of probiotic was added to the basal diets for each other than treatment. The growth performance (evaluated through body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio), intestinal microbial population (the measurement of Lactobacillus and Coliforms) and carcass traits (relative weights of carcass, intestine, liver, gizzard and abdominal fat) were determined. Body weight gains and feed conversion ratio were significantly improved in broilers with added probiotic compared to the control group (P<0.05) whereas feed intake was not significantly altered. In addition, intestinal microbial population and carcass and gizzard weights markedly increased in the probiotic treated birds compared to control chickens (P<0.05). These results show that diet supplementation with probiotic Yeasture® at the early days of the rearing periods of broiler chickens especially, 1 to 24 and 1 to 42 days, had a positive effect on intestinal microbial population, leading to more nutrients being assimilated by the chickens and consequently greater performance in broiler chickens.
Temporospatial distribution of Culicoides species and Culicoides imicola in northern Jordan
Authors: Mukbel Rami M. , Alajlouni Almajeed M. , Alshehabat Musa A. , Bataineh Siham M. , Al-Majali Ahmad M.
Published: October 2016

The aim of this study was to estimate geographical distribution of Culicoides species and Culicoides imicola in northern governorates of Jordan. The study was conducted by placing light traps in four climatically different geographical locations during 2011. Suitability maps were created by layering and compiling climatic parameters into the GIS data to highlight locations and time suitable for growth of C. imicola. Collected insect samples were assorted by morphology to identify Culicoides species. Molecular analysis was used to identify Culicoides spp. and C. imicola. In total, 25,196 insects were trapped of which 3491 (12.7%) were morphologically identified as Culicoides spp. The highest counts Culicoides spp. were recorded in Deir Alla (47%), Banikenaneh (31%) and Al-Shouneh (21%) respectively. The peak activity was recorded during August through October. Morphological identification failed to identify Culicoides species in 4 locations while polymerase chain reaction analysis identified Culicoides spp. in all locations except Al-mafraq. C. imicola could only be identified in Deir Alla, Bani-kenaneh and Al-Shouneh. There was no evidence of viral genome of epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus, blue tongue virus and bovine ephemeral fever virus in the trapped midges.
Epitheliogenesis imperfecta in a crossbred Holstein calf, southwestern Iran
Authors: Azizi Shahrzad , Amirmohammadi Mehdi , Kheirandish Reza , Dahesh Paria
Published: October 2016

Epitheliogenesis imperfect (EI) is a rare autosomal recessive skin defect that is clinically identified with absence of cutaneous epithelium of the limbs, muzzle and nostrils as well as oral mucous membranes. This congenital newborn desease is reported mainly in domestic animals. The present study described EI in a 13 day-old, female crossbred Holstein calf. Gross examination showed epithelium agenesis of two front and hind limbs skin around the carpal and tarsal joints, and also extensive areas of the metacarpal and metatarsal regions. The calf died 5 days after antibiotic therapy and use of topical cream.
Theology and higher education: The place of a Faculty of Theology at a South African university
Authors: Beyers Jaco
Published: October 2016

In 2017, the Faculty of Theology celebrates its centenary at the University of Pretoria. Celebrating a centennial is as much as looking back as looking forward. In a changing world with changing paradigms how does one remain relevant? Different challenges and expectations presented to tertiary institutions of education in a new dispensation puts all concerned with higher education in South Africa under pressure. The question addressed in this article is how will a Faculty of Theology (in this case at the University of Pretoria) remain relevant to such an extent that it is continued to be viewed as desirable to have such a faculty present at a university, participating in the academic process and simultaneously continues to contribute to the well-being of the South African society. The author suggests the following guidelines for consideration. In order to remain relevant for the next couple of hundred years the Faculty of Theology should engage contextually with society, practise interdisciplinary Theology, engage in interreligious dialogue while still remaining connected to faith communities. A paradigm of post-foundationalism enables Theology to exercise Theology in a relevant and meaningful manner.
Cultural stereotyping of the lady in 4Q184 and 4Q185
Authors: Geyser-Fouché Ananda
Published: October 2016

Wisdom and wickedness as a ‘Woman’ have always attracted much discussion, especially in the ways images of the female are employed in wisdom literature. This article focuses on two Qumran texts that fall into the category of wisdom literature, namely 4Q184 and 4Q185, and the metaphorical appropriation of the woman as a figure of wisdom or a figure of wickedness. By combining a number of traditions in certain forms, sages tried to establish an education for their learners on how to obtain wisdom with the ultimate purpose of creating harmony. The ultimate purpose of the wisdom teachings of the sages was to confirm the harmony in the universe, and these teachings were also conveyed to their learners. In their instructions, they often employed binary opposites such as ‘wise’ and ‘fool’ according to which someone was characterised, or rather stereotyped. The result of such binary stereotyping was that the ‘whore’ and the ‘holy one’ represented opposite poles, and became fixed images in Judaism. According to feminist exegetes, these images typify the concept of cultural stereotyping. This article aims to illustrate that two Qumran texts, 4Q184 and 4Q185, regarded as wisdom texts, employ the female stereotypes that were known in the wisdom literature of Judaism.
A cross-sectional study to assess any possible linkage of C/T polymorphism in CYP17A1 gene with insulin resistance in non-obese women with polycystic ovarian syndrome
Authors: Banerjee Ushasi , Dasgupta Anindya , Khan Aparna , Ghosh Mrinal Kanti , Roy Pranab , Rout Jayanta Kumar , Roy Priyankar , Dhara Suparna
Published: October 2016

Background & objectives:

Insulin resistance (IR) is a major confounding factor in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) irrespective of obesity. Its exact mechanism remains elusive till now. C/T polymorphism in the -34 promoter region of the CYP17 gene is inconsistently attributed to elucidate the mechanism of IR and its link to hyperandrogenemia in obese PCOS patients. In the present study we aimed to evaluate any association of this polymorphism with IR in non-obese women with PCOS.

Methods:

Polymorphism study was performed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of the Msp A1 digest of the PCR product of the target gene in 75 PCOS cases against 73 age and BMI matched control women. Serum testosterone, BMI and HOMA-IR (homeostatic model of assessment-insulin resistance) were analyzed by standard techniques. A realistic cut-off value for the HOMA-IR was obtained through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for exploring any possible link between IR and T/C polymorphism in the case group.

Results:

Significant increases in serum testosterone and HOMA-IR values were observed among the case group (P<0.001) without any significant elevation in BMI and FBG compared to controls. Cut-off value for IR in the PCOS patients was 1.40 against a maximum sensitivity of 0.83 and a minimum false positivity of 0.13. The analysis revealed an inconclusive link between the C/T polymorphic distribution and insulin resistant case subjects.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The results showed that CYP17A1 gene was not conclusively linked to either IR or its associated increased androgen secretion in non-obese women with PCOS. We propose that an increased sensitivity of insulin on the ovarian cells may be the predominant reason for the clinical effects and symptoms of androgen excess observed in non-obese PCOS patients in our region.
The making of indigenous vascular prosthesis
Authors: Unnikrishnan Madathipat , Viswanathan Sidharth , Balasubramaniam K. , Muraleedharan C.V. , Lal Arthur Vijayan , Mohanan P.V. , Mohanty Meera , Kapilamoorthy Tirur Raman
Published: October 2016

Background & objectives:

Vascular illnesses are on the rise in India, due to increase in lifestyle diseases and demographic transition, requiring intervention to save life, organ or limbs using vascular prosthesis. The aim of this study was to develop indigenous large diameter vascular graft for treatment of patients with vascular pathologies.

Methods:

The South India Textile Research Association, at Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, developed seamless woven polyester (Polyethylene terephthalate) graft at its research wing. Further characterization and testing followed by clinical trials were conducted at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. Fifteen in vivo experiments were carried out in 1992-1994 in pigs as animal model. Controlled (phase I) clinical trial in ten patients was performed along with control graft. Thereafter, phase II trial involved 22 patients who underwent multi-centre clinical trial in four centres across India.

Results:

Laboratory testing showed that polyester graft was non-toxic, non-leeching and non-haemolytic with preserved long-term quality, further confirming in pigs by implanting in thoracic aorta, comparable to control Dacron grafts. Perigraft incorporation and smooth neointima formation which are prime features of excellent healing characteristics, were noted at explantation at planned intervals. Subsequently in the phase I and II clinical trials, all patients had excellent recovery without mortality or device-related adverse events. Patients receiving the test graft were followed up for 10 and 5 years, respectively. Serial clinical, duplex scans and CT angiograms performed periodically confirmed excellent graft performance.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Indigenously developed Chitra vascular graft was comparable to commercially available Dacron graft, ready for clinical use at affordable cost to patients as against costly imported grafts.
The Maximal Solution and Comparison Theorems for the Periodic Discrete-Time Riccati Equation
Authors: Chen Xiao-Shan
Published: October 2016

Properties and comparison theorems for the maximal solution of the periodic discrete-time Riccati equation are supplemented by an extension of some earlier results and analysis, for the discrete-time Riccati equation to the periodic case.
The Nigerian Cocoa Farmers and the Fluctuations in World Cocoa Prices in the 1930s
Authors: Muojama Olisa Godson
Published: October 2016

The dynamics of the international economy, such as the 1930s fluctuations in the prices of primary commodities on the world market, affected Nigerian economy and society a great deal. Of all the commodity producers in Nigeria, cocoa farmers were the worst hit. This is because cocoa farmers depended on the world market for sale of their produce and were thus subordinated to the vagaries of the international economy. This study examines the Nigerian cocoa industry within the deglobalized capitalism of the interwar years in order to show why and how the fluctuations in commodity prices of the 1930s affected cocoa producers in Nigeria. Archival materials provided data for this historical reconstruction. The 1930s global fluctuations in the prices of primary commodities gave rise to wide fluctuation in cocoa farmers’ incomes and fall in their purchasing power. There was also increase in cocoa tax regime, resulting in cocoa farmers’ inability to, among other things, send their children to school and pay their fees and tax easily. The study is a contribution to knowledge on cocoa industry, commodity price fluctuations, and inter-war years.Key Words: Cocoa, Price Fluctuations, world market
Current understanding of the driving mechanisms for spatiotemporal
variations of atmospheric speciated mercury: a review
Authors: Mao Huiting , Cheng Irene , Zhang Leiming
Published: October 2016

Abstract. Atmospheric mercury (Hg) is a global pollutant and thought to be the main source of mercury in oceanic and remote terrestrial systems, where it becomes methylated and bioavailable; hence, atmospheric mercury pollution has global consequences for both human and ecosystem health. Understanding of spatial and temporal variations of atmospheric speciated mercury can advance our knowledge of mercury cycling in various environments. This review summarized spatiotemporal variations of total gaseous mercury or gaseous elemental mercury (TGM/GEM), gaseous oxidized mercury (GOM), and particulate-bound mercury (PBM) in various environments including oceans, continents, high elevation, the free troposphere, and low to high latitudes. In the marine boundary layer (MBL), the oxidation of GEM was generally thought to drive the diurnal and seasonal variations of TGM/GEM and GOM in most oceanic regions, leading to lower GEM and higher GOM from noon to afternoon and higher GEM during winter and higher GOM during spring–summer. At continental sites, the driving mechanisms of TGM/GEM diurnal patterns included surface and local emissions, boundary layer dynamics, GEM oxidation, and for high-elevation sites mountain–valley winds, while oxidation of GEM and entrainment of free tropospheric air appeared to control the diurnal patterns of GOM. No pronounced diurnal variation was found for Tekran measured PBM at MBL and continental sites. Seasonal variations in TGM/GEM at continental sites were attributed to increased winter combustion and summertime surface emissions, and monsoons in Asia, while those in GOM were controlled by GEM oxidation, free tropospheric transport, anthropogenic emissions, and wet deposition. Increased PBM at continental sites during winter was primarily due to local/regional coal and wood combustion emissions. Long-term TGM measurements from the MBL and continental sites indicated an overall declining trend. Limited measurements suggested TGM/GEM increasing from the Southern Hemisphere (SH) to the Northern Hemisphere (NH) due largely to the vast majority of mercury emissions in the NH, and the latitudinal gradient was insignificant in summer probably as a result of stronger meridional mixing. Aircraft measurements showed no significant vertical variation in GEM over the field campaign regions; however, depletion of GEM was observed in stratospherically influenced air masses. In examining the remaining questions and issues, recommendations for future research needs were provided, and among them is the most imminent need for GOM speciation measurements and fundamental understanding of multiphase redox kinetics.
A novel framework for molecular characterization of atmospherically relevant
organic compounds based on collision cross section and mass-to-charge ratio
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Krechmer Jordan E. , Groessl Michael , Xu Wen , Graf Stephan , Cubison Michael , Jayne John T. , Jimenez Jose L. , Worsnop Douglas R. , Canagaratna Manjula R.
Published: October 2016

Abstract. A new metric is introduced for representing the molecular signature of atmospherically relevant organic compounds, the collision cross section (Ω), a quantity that is related to the structure and geometry of molecules and is derived from ion mobility measurements. By combination with the mass-to-charge ratio (m∕z), a two-dimensional Ω − m∕z space is developed to facilitate the comprehensive investigation of the complex organic mixtures. A unique distribution pattern of chemical classes, characterized by functional groups including amine, alcohol, carbonyl, carboxylic acid, ester, and organic sulfate, is developed on the 2-D Ω − m∕z space. Species of the same chemical class, despite variations in the molecular structures, tend to situate as a narrow band on the space and follow a trend line. Reactions involving changes in functionalization and fragmentation can be represented by the directionalities along or across these trend lines, thus allowing for the interpretation of atmospheric transformation mechanisms of organic species. The characteristics of trend lines for a variety of functionalities that are commonly present in the atmosphere can be predicted by the core model simulations, which provide a useful tool to identify the chemical class to which an unknown species belongs on the Ω − m∕z space. Within the band produced by each chemical class on the space, molecular structural assignment can be achieved by utilizing collision-induced dissociation as well as by comparing the measured collision cross sections in the context of those obtained via molecular dynamics simulations.
An intercalibrated dataset of Total Column Water Vapour and Wet Tropospheric Correction based on MWR on board ERS-1, ERS-2 and Envisat
Authors: Bennartz Ralf , Höschen Heidrun , Picard Bruno , Schröder Marc , Stengel Martin , Sus Oliver , Bojkov Bojan , Casadio Stefano , Diedrich Hannnes , Eliasson Salomon , Fell Frank , Fischer Jürgen , Hollmann Rainer , Preusker Rene , Willén Ulrika
Published: October 2016

Abstract. The Microwave Radiometers (MWR) on-board ERS-1, ERS-2, and Envisat provide a continuous time series of brightness temperature observations between 1991 and 2012. Here we report on a new Total Column Water Vapour (TCWV) and Wet Tropospheric Correction (WTC) dataset that builds on this time series. We use a one-dimensional variational approach to derive TCWV from MWR observations and ERA-Interim background information. A particular focus of this study lies on the intercalibration of the three different instruments, which is performed using constraints on liquid water path (LWP) and TCWV. Comparing our MWR-derived time series of TCWV against TCWV derived from Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) we find that the MWR-derived TCWV time series is stable over time. However, observations potentially affected by precipitation show a degraded performance compared to precipitation-free observations in terms of the accuracy of retrieved TCWV. An analysis of WTC shows further that the retrieved WTC is superior to purely model-derived WTC for all satellites and for the entire time series. Even compared to operational WTC retrievals, which incorporate additional observational data, the here-described dataset shows improvements in particular for the mid-latitudes and for the two earlier satellites ERS-1 and ERS-2. The dataset is publicly available under doi:10.5676/DWD_EMIR/V001.
Spatio-temporal vegetation dynamics and relationship with climate over East Africa
Authors: Musau John , Patil Sopan , Sheffield Justin , Marshall Michael
Published: October 2016

Abstract. Vegetation plays a key role in the global climate system via modification of the water and energy balance. Its coupling to climate is therefore important particularly in the tropics, where severe climate change impacts are expected. Vegetation growth is mutually controlled by temperature and water availability while it modifies regional climate through latent heat flux and changes in albedo. Consequently, understanding how projected climate change will impact vegetation and the forcing of vegetation on climate for various land cover types in East Africa is vital. This study provides an assessment of the vegetation trends in East Africa using Leaf Area Index (LAI) time series for the period 1982 to 2011, lead/lag correlation analysis between LAI and climate, a statistical estimation of vegetation feedback on climate using lagged covariance ratios as well as spatial regression analysis. Our results show few significant changes in current LAI trends though persistent declining vegetation trends are shown from Southern Ethiopia extending through Central Kenya into Central Tanzania. Precipitation (temperature) exerts widespread positive (negative) forcing on lagging vegetation except in forests. Positive correlations between the lagging Antecedent Precipitation Index (API) and LAI were dominant compared to temperature. Positive vegetation feedback on precipitation dominates across the region while a stronger negative forcing is exerted on Tmin compared to Tmax. Spatial dependence was also shown as a key component in the vegetation-climate interactions in the region. Given the vital role of land surface dynamics on local and regional climate, these results provide a valuable point of reference for evaluating the land-atmosphere coupling in the region.
Estimation of flash flood using surface water model and GIS technique in Wadi El Azariq, East Sinai, Egypt
Authors: El Osta Maged M. , El Sabri Mohamed Sh. , Masoud Milad H.
Published: October 2016

Abstract. The study of flash flood hazard phenomenon and runoff potentialities are the major task of a hydrologists especially in arid and semi-arid regions. This paper presents a new approach to modeling flash floods in dryland catchments by the integration between physiographic features of the study basin, Geographic Information System (GIS) and Watershed Modelling System (WMS). Advanced Space borne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) data was used to prepare a digital elevation model (DEM) with 30 m resolution and Geographical Information System (GIS) was used to evaluate the linear, areal and relief characteristics of Wadi El Azariq basin, East Sinai, Egypt. The qualitative and quantitative analysis of thirty eight morphometric parameters were estimated and interlinked to produce nine effective parameters for evaluation of the flash flood hazard in the study area. As a result of the sparse hydrologic information, the relation between rainfall and runoff was calculated depending on the morphometric information, GIS techniques, Watershed Modeling System (WMS) and Hydrologic Engineering Center-Hydrologic Modeling System software (HEC HMS). Based on the nine effective morphometric parameters that have a direct effect on flood prone area and control the hydrologic behavior of the basin, flash flood hazard of Wadi El Azariq sub-basins were identified and classified into two groups (High and low hazard degrees). Hydrographs for Wadi El Azariq basin were constructed with different return periods of maximum daily rain fall. The calculated volume of the total surface runoff ranges from 4.1 × 106 m3 to 13.8 × 106 m3 at return periods of 5 years and 100 year respectively based on the maximum daily rainfall events. This study draws specifics about the flash flood prone areas, planning rainwater harvesting and flood management approaches of Wadi El Azariq basin.
“A Strange, Ventriloquous Voice”: Louisiana Creole, Whiteness, and the Racial Politics of Writing Orality
Authors: Gipson Jennifer
Published: October 2016

Documents of nineteenth-century Louisiana Creole folklore have largely been equated with the black Creole-speaker’s voice—and studied separately from white writers’ literary or satirical uses of the language. Building on Jordan and de Caro (1996), who show how early folklore study in Louisiana offered a mechanism of white self-situation, this article considers folklore collection alongside other modes of representing orality in writing. From Reconstruction Era satires or supposed folktales to blackface theater of the 1930s, these texts shape ideologies of language across disciplinary and generic boundaries, racialize orality, enact literacy, and even help to claim the ethnic label Creole as “whites only.”
Perception of Saudi Mothers of Their Children with Down Syndromein Al-Khobar City, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al haiz Aqil S , Khan Ataur Rahman , Saleh Ahmed Abdulmohsen Albin , Al Shehri Shaher Zafer , Sabra Amr A.
Published: October 2016

PURPOSE: To evaluate the perception (awareness, feeling, belief and intention of attribute, characteristics and behaviors) of Saudi mothers of their children with DS and to identify the possible factors that affect their perception.

MATERIALS & METHODS: A cross sectional survey was conducted in Al-Khobar city, Saudi Arabia (SA),in 2015 involving all Saudi mothers of children with DS in special education schools in the private sector (n=100). Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Al-Khobar city, Saudi Arabia (SA),in 2014involving all Saudi mothers of children with DS in special education schools in the private sector (n=100). Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire.A Spss 21 was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS: The response rate was 73%. The study found that 53.4% had a positive perception of their children with DS while 46.6 % perceived their children negatively. It is concluded that this positive perception of Saudi mothers of their children with DS related to: the burden (effect) imposed by the children with DS on the family and society, causal attribution of DS, education of children with DS, social integration and discrimination as well as health, treatment and care of the children with DS. The negative perception related to acceptance and joy with DS children, the quality of life of DS children, over-protection and dependence of these children as well as an embarrassment and disappointment of having children with DS.

Accordingly, it is recommended that educational programs be designed form others with children with DS, and for the community to improve mothers' disposition toward their children.
Trends in Gender Differences in Self-Rated Health in Korea: Evidence from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2001-2012
Authors: Needham Belinda L. , Kim Soojung , Concors Erica , Wing Jeffrey J.
Published: October 2016

Despite rapid economic growth during the last half of the twentieth century, gender inequality has remained high in Korea. Using data from the 2001 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), previous research found that gender differences in sociostructural and psychosocial factors contributed to a substantial female excess in poor self-rated health. To the extent that women’s overall social status relative to men has improved over time in Korea, it is possible that the gender gap in perceived health has decreased. This study used repeated cross-sectional KNHANES data from 2001-2012 to examine temporal trends in gender differences in self-rated health. In age-adjusted models, we found no significant trend in the female excess of poor self-rated health among respondents aged 25-44 (p=0.685). In contrast, we found a statistically significant downward trend among those aged 45-64 (p<0.001). In fully adjusted models controlling for age and behavioral, sociostructural, and psychosocial covariates, we found a marginally significant upward trend (p=0.08) among younger respondents, while the downward trend among older respondents remained significant (p<0.001). More work is needed to determine why gendered health disparities decreased among older adults in Korea but not among those aged 25-44.
The Pathology of the Dual-Career Couples: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Gerami Mohammad Hassan , Etemadi Ozra , Ahmadi Sayyed Ahmad , Fatehizade Maryam
Published: October 2016

INTRODUCTION: The structure of traditional family was now changing towards the dual-career ones and due to the impacts that dual-career couples have on the structure of the family, it was necessary to investigate these effects from a discovery perspective. On this base, the present study aims to investigate the pathology of the Iranian dual-career couples’ life.

METHOD: In terms of methodology, the study was done qualitatively and it was validated by the grounded theory. The participants were dual-career couples in Yazd. The sampling was done purposefully with 24 participants in a half-organized interview. A theoretically codified method and grounded theory were used to analyze and validate data gathered in this respect.

FINDINGS: The findings of the study showed that the pathology of the dual-career couples based on three issues and aspects include entity and conceptual and abstract contents. It included A: reasons and elements (career- family and family-career conflicts, the hierarchical order for power and influence,  issues and management of financial and economic affairs), B: actions (the responsibility division, the problem of sexual and marital relations in, the issues of child raising and child rearing, decrease of intimacy and the time of being together), and C: consequences (lack of happiness and joy, decrease of the relations with the relatives, nutritional, spiritual and psychological issues).

CONCLUSION: Generally, the results of the study showed that dual-career couples’ experience the pathology and conflicts influence their job and these pathologies were presented in the form of a conceptual model.
La terapia de la coherencia: un enfoque constructivista apoyado por la neurociencia contemporánea
Authors: Jasiński Michał , Paz Clara , Feixas Guillem
Published: October 2016

ResumenEn el presente artículo se describe la terapia de la coherencia (TC). Con el fin de presentar este enfoque se realiza una breve descripción del constructivismo y su influencia tanto en la TC, como en la psicoterapia en general. Se continúa con la explicación detallada de la historia, teoría y metodología de la TC. Se describe también la reconsolidación de la memoria, un fenómeno descubierto recientemente en el campo de la neurociencia que parece ocurrir en el proceso de la TC y se presentan sus implicaciones para la psicoterapia. Se utiliza un breve estudio de caso para explicar el proceso de la TC de forma práctica. Finalmente, se describe el estado acual y el futuro de este enfoque terapéutico. AbstractCoherence therapy (CT) is described in the present article. Constructivism´s influence on psychotherapy in general and on CT specifically is discussed briefly, followed by a detailed presentation of CT´s history, theory and methodology. Memory reconsolidation, a recently discovered phenomenon which is stated to occur in CT process, is described as well together with its implications for psychotherapy field. A brief case study is presented to show CT´s process in prac­tice and the future and limitations of CT are dis­cussed in the final part of the article
Diferencias en función del sexo en la percepción del riesgo asociado al consumo de drogas en jóvenes
Authors: Herruzo Carlos , Lucena Valentina , Ruiz-Olivares Rosario , Raya Antonio , Pino María José
Published: October 2016

ResumenEl objetivo de este estudio consiste en caracterizar la percepción del riesgo asociado tanto a sustancias legales (alcohol, tabaco e inhalantes) como ilegales (cannabis, cocaína, heroína, anfetaminas, drogas de diseño, alucinógenos) entre los jóvenes de 18 a 29 años en seis dimensiones (problemas para la salud física, salud psíquica, tráfico, capacidad para realizar tareas, relaciones interpersonales y problemas legales) y, además, si existen diferencias de percepciones en función del sexo. Con un diseño ex post facto de grupo único se han estudiado los perfiles perceptivos de 3819 jóvenes andaluces en las nueve drogas citadas. La percepción de los jóvenes muestra patrones diferentes para cada droga, destacando que existen ciertos sesgos los problemas psíquicos derivados del alcohol, que son vistos como menos peligrosos que los problemas de salud o los efectos sobre la salud del cannabis, que se ven como menos peligrosos que los del tabaco. Con respecto a la variable sexo, las mujeres perciben las drogas estudiadas como más peligrosas, salvo el caso de los inhalantes y ciertas dimensiones específicas de otras drogas, en concreto, el riesgo para la salud física en la cocaína, y los accidentes de tráfico y el riesgo para la salud física en el caso de las anfetaminas. Se sugieren enfatizar estos aspectos en las campañas informativas y preventivas. AbstractThe aim of this study was to characterize the perception of the risk associated to both legal substances (alcohol, tobacco and inhalants) as illegal (cannabis, cocaine, heroin, amphetamines, designer drugs, hallucinogens) among youth 18 to 29 years old in six dimensions (problems for the physical health, mental health, traffic, ability to perform tasks, interpersonal relations and legal problems), and also, if weather such perceptions are different by sex. With a ex post facto single group design, were studied the perceptual profiles of 3,819 Andalusian young people about cited drugs. The perceptions of young people show different patterns for each drug, enhancing that there are certain biases about the psychic problems derivatives of alcohol, which are viewed as less dangerous than the problems of health; or the health effects of cannabis, which are seen as less dangerous than the tobacco. With regard to sex variable, women perceive drugs studied as more dangerous, except in the case of inhalants and certain specific dimensions of other drugs, in particular, the risk to the physical health in cocaine, and traffic accidents and the risk to the physical health in the case of amphetamines. Emphasizing these aspects in information campaigns and preventive measures is suggested.
Patrón de Conducta Tipo A y B, y su relación con las adicciones conductuales
Authors: Belmonte Steibel Gisele , Ruiz-Olivares Rosario , Herruzo Cabrera Javier
Published: October 2016

ResumenEl objetivo de esta investigación fue relacionar el patrón de conducta Tipo A y B (PCTA y PCTB) con la posibilidad de presentar adicciones a Internet, juego, compras y abuso del teléfono móvil en una muestra de jóvenes de la provincia de Córdoba (España). Con un diseño prospectivo expost-facto con dos grupos, se elaboró un cuestionario con el que se recogieron datos sociodemográficos, y en el que se incluyeron otros cuestionarios como el Test de adicción a las compras, el Test de adicción a Internet de Echeburúa (2003), el Cuestionario Breve de Juego Patológico de Fernández-Montalvo, Echeburúa y Baéz (1997); algunos ítems sobre el uso del teléfono móvil; y el cuestionario de PCTA de Jenkins. Participaron 3815 jóvenes de la provincia de Córdoba (España) con un rango de edad entre los 18 y 29 años. Los resultados indican que los jóvenes PCTA son los que más compran, juegan, se conectan a Internet y usan el móvil. En conclusión se puede inferir que los jóvenes con patrón de personalidad Tipo A tienen más posibilidades de presentar conductas adictivas que los jóvenes de patrón de conducta Tipo B. AbstractThis research aimed to relate the possibility of sub­mitting the Type A and the Type B behavior patterns to the no-substance addiction. We investigated the Internet addiction, the gambling, the shopping, and the misuse of mobile in a sample of youth people. With a prospective design ex-post-facto two groups, a questionnaire was developed to collect sociodemo­graphic data, in which we included the Test of Shop­ping Addiction, the Test of Internet Addiction from Echeburúa (2003), the Pathological Gambling Brief Questionnaire from Fernandez-Montalvo Echeburúa y Baez (1997), some items on Mobile Phone Usage, and the Jenkins Activity Survey. Young people from the Province of Córdoba, Spain, have participated (N = 3815, age range between 18 and 29). Results in­dicated that young people characterized as Type A behavior pattern show bigger propension to shop­ping, to playing, to Internet connection, and to use of mo­bile phone. According to logistic regression, The Type B behavior pattern showed to be a protective factor for addiction to shopping. In conclusion it can be inferred that young people of Type A behavior pattern are more likely to have addictive behaviors that young people of Type B behavior pattern.
The Effects of Virtual Reality on the Upper Extremity Skills of Girls with Rett Syndrome: A Single Case Study
Authors: Mraz Kourtney , Eisenberg Grace , Diener Pamela , Amadio Gina , Foreman Matthew H. , Engsberg Jack R.
Published: October 2016

Introduction: Rett Syndrome (RTT) is a genetic disorder primarily seen in females that inhibits the use of a girl’s hands in everyday activities. A girl with RTT spends the majority of her day engaged in stereotypical hand wringing/mouthing movements at midline of the body. The probable cause behind the neurological effects of RTT is a mutation in the gene that encodes for methyl-CpG protein 2 (MeCP2). The hand wringing/mouthing behaviors preclude a girl with RTT from using the upper extremities in purposeful tasks such as school work, play skills, and other activities of daily living.
Objectives: To develop a virtual reality (VR)-based therapeutic intervention that 1) decreases upper extremity stereotypies (repetitive movements that serve no function) that interfere with purposeful arm and hand use and 2) promotes purposeful, goal-directed arm function; improve upper extremity motor skills in girls with RTT.
Materials and Methods: Using FAAST Software and Microsoft Kinect sensor, one girl with RTT participated in a 12-week IVR intervention (1 hour/session, 3 sessions/week, 36 total hours). Pre- and post-assessments were administered to examine any changes in upper extremity function.
Results: The VR intervention led to improvements in use of the upper extremities to complete self-care activities, an increased number of reaches completed in a 15-minute period, and decreased time engaged in stereotypical hand movements.
Conclusion: Future work will add additional support to determine the effectiveness of virtual reality as an intervention for girls with RTT.
Personalized Virtual Reality for Upper Extremity Rehabilitation: Moving from the Clinic to a Home Exercise Program
Authors: Behar Cherie , Lustick Maxwell , Foreman Matthew H. , Webb Jennifer , Engsberg Jack R.
Published: October 2016

Introduction: Traditional rehabilitation does not provide adequate repetitions for maximal motor recovery in the clinic and home exercise programs (HEPs) have low compliance rates. Personalized virtual reality (PVR) is a promising low-cost therapeutic tool for improving compliance by incorporating the client's interests, abilities, and goals into a motivating and engaging intervention using internet games.
Objectives: The current study aimed to develop and refine a clinic-to-home PVR intervention, determine its feasibility and usability in an outpatient rehabilitation clinic and as a HEP, and examine its effects on motivation/engagement, compliance, motor repetitions, and functional motor performance.
Methods: The PVR system utilizes a Microsoft Kinect sensor to track the participants’ movements, free software to translate movements to keystrokes, and free internet games. The therapist matched participants’ interests to internet games, customized therapeutic movements for game play, and increased the movement thresholds for game activation as participants improved.
Two participants who had strokes resulting in upper extremity (UE) hemiplegia were recruited. The participants attended outpatient occupational therapy (OT) services twice weekly. Following training, the participants used the PVR system at home in place of their UE HEP. They continued to receive traditional OT once a week and clinic-PVR once a week for 5-8 weeks.
Results: The PVR intervention was successfully implemented in the clinic and the clients’ homes. PVR increased motivation and treatment compliance. The clients exhibited improvements in UE active range of motion, function, symptoms, and occupational performance.
Conclusion: Preliminary evidence suggests PVR can improve motivation, compliance, function, and occupational performance. However, larger scale studies and protocol refinement are necessary.
Novel fully vertical GaN p–n diode on Si substrate grown by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Mase Suguru , Urayama Yuya , Hamada Takeaki , Freedsman Joseph J. , Egawa Takashi
Published: October 2016

We report novel GaN fully vertical p–n diode on Si grown by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition. The thick strained layer superlattice is effective in controlling a doping level of 1016 cm−3 in an n−-GaN drift layer. The GaN p–n diode exhibits a differential on-resistance R
on of 7.4 mΩ cm2, a turn-on voltage of 3.4 V, and a breakdown voltage V
B of 288 V. The corresponding Baliga’s figure of merit (FOM)

is 11.2 MW/cm2. A good FOM value for the GaN-on-Si vertical p–n diode is realized for a drift layer thickness of 1.5 µm without using substrate removal technology.