bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in Agriculture and Abundance of Snow Geese Affect Carrying Capacity of Sandhill Cranes in Nebraska
Authors: PEARSE AARON T. , KRAPU GARY L. , BRANDT DAVID A. , KINZEL PAUL J.
Published: March 2010

ABSTRACT  The central Platte River valley (CPRV) in Nebraska, USA, is a key spring‐staging area for approximately 80% of the midcontinent population of sandhill cranes (Grus canadensis; hereafter cranes). Evidence that staging cranes acquired less lipid reserves during the 1990s compared to the late 1970s and increases in use of the CPRV by snow geese (Chen caerulescens) prompted us to investigate availability of waste corn and quantify spatial and temporal patterns of crane and waterfowl use of the region. We developed a predictive model to assess impacts of changes in availability of corn and snow goose abundance under past, present, and potential future conditions. Over a hypothetical 60‐day staging period, predicted energy demand of cranes and waterfowl increased 87% between the late 1970s and 1998–2007, primarily because peak abundances of snow geese increased by 650,000 and cranes by 110,000. Compared to spring 1979, corn available when cranes arrived was 20% less in 1998 and 68% less in 1999; consequently, the area of cornfields required to meet crane needs increased from 14,464 ha in 1979 to 32,751 ha in 1998 and 90,559 ha in 1999. Using a pooled estimate of 88 kg/ha from springs 1998–1999 and 2005–2007, the area of cornfields needed to supply food requirements of cranes and waterfowl increased to 65,587 ha and was greatest in the eastern region of the CPRV, where an estimated 54% of cranes, 47% of Canada geese (Branta canadensis), 45% of greater white‐fronted geese (Anser albifrons), and 46% of snow geese occurred during ground surveys. We estimated that a future reduction of 25% in available corn or cornfields would increase daily foraging flight distances of cranes by 27–38%. Crane use and ability of cranes to store lipid reserves in the CPRV could be reduced substantially if flight distance required to locate adequate corn exceeded a physiological maximum distance cranes could fly in search of food. Options to increase carrying capacity for cranes include increasing accessibility of cornfields by restoring degraded river channels to disperse roosting cranes and increasing wetland availability in the Rainwater Basin to attract snow geese using the CPRV.
Identifying Movement States From Location Data Using Cluster Analysis
Authors: VAN MOORTER BRAM , VISSCHER DARCY R. , JERDE CHRISTOPHER L. , FRAIR JACQUELINE L. , MERRILL EVELYN H.
Published: March 2010

ABSTRACT  Animal movement studies regularly use movement states (e.g., slow and fast) derived from remotely sensed locations to make inferences about strategies of resource use. However, the number of movement state categories used is often arbitrary and rarely inferred from the data. Identifying groups with similar movement characteristics is a statistical problem. We present a framework based on k‐means clustering and gap statistic for evaluating the number of movement states without making a priori assumptions about the number of clusters. This allowed us to distinguish 4 movement states using turning angle and step length derived from Global Positioning System locations and head movements derived from tip switches in a neck collar of free‐ranging elk (Cervus elaphus) in west central Alberta, Canada. Based on movement characteristics and on the linkage between each state and landscape features, we were able to identify inter‐patch movements, intra‐patch foraging, rest, and inter‐patch foraging movements. Linking behavior to environment (e.g., state‐dependent habitat use) can inform decisions on landscape management for wildlife.
Application of Multivariate Statistical Analysis to Chemical, Physical and Sensory Characteristics of Majorcan Cheese
Authors: Castell-Palou África , Rosselló Carmen , Femenia Antoni , Simal Susana
Published: March 2010

The chemical composition and the physical and sensory characteristics of three types of Majorcan cheese (half-ripened, ripened and old-ripened) were studied. In total, 22 parameters (7 chemical, 7 physical and 8 sensory) were evaluated using ANOVA and Tukey's multiple range test. Only 15 variables exhibited significant changes (p<0.001) during ripening. Principal component analysis (PCA), cluster analysis of variables (CAV) and stepwise discriminant analysis (SDA) were applied to estimate the usefulness of the chemical, physical and sensory determinations for the differentiation and classification of Majorcan cheeses. PCA allowed the reduction of 15 variables to 3 independent components accounting for the 85.6% of the explained variation. The first principal component was representative of the ripening stage. CAV confirmed the correlation between the studied variables obtained by PCA. Using SDA it was determined which variables best classified the cheese samples according to their ripening stage. Finally, the classification functions allowed the correct classification of 93.5% of the cheese samples.
Effect of the Look AHEAD Study Intervention on Medication Use and Related Cost to Treat Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Redmon J. Bruce , Bertoni Alain G. , Connelly Stephanie , Feeney Patricia A. , Glasser Stephen P. , Glick Henry , Greenway Frank , Hesson Louise A. , Lawlor Michael S. , Montez Maria , Montgomery Brenda ,   the Look AHEAD Research Group
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effect of a lifestyle intervention to produce weight loss and increased physical fitness on use and cost of medications to treat cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in people with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Look AHEAD is a multicenter randomized controlled trial of 5,145 overweight or obese individuals with type 2 diabetes, aged 45–76 years. An intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI) involving group and individual meetings to achieve and maintain weight loss through decreased caloric intake and increased physical activity was compared with a diabetes support and education (DSE) condition. Medications prescribed to treat diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia were compared at baseline and 1 year. Medication costs were conservatively estimated using prices from a national online pharmacy.

RESULTS

Participants randomized to an ILI had significantly greater improvements in CVD risk parameters and reduced medication use and cost compared with those assigned to DSE. At 1 year, average number of medications prescribed to treat CVD risk factors was 3.1 ± 1.8 for the ILI group and 3.6 ± 1.8 for the DSE group (P < 0.0001), with estimated total monthly medication costs of $143 and $173, respectively (P < 0.0001). DSE participants meeting optimal care goals at 1 year were taking an average of 3.8 ± 1.6 medications at an estimated cost of $194/month. ILI participants at optimal care required fewer medications (3.2 ± 1.7) at lower cost ($154/month) (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

At 1 year, ILI significantly improved CVD risk factors, while at the same time reduced medication use and cost. Continued intervention and follow-up will determine whether these changes are maintained and reduce cardiovascular risk.
Clinical Performance of a Two-step Self-etch Adhesive with Additional Enamel Etching in Class III Cavities
Authors: Ermis R. B. , Temel U. B. , Celik E. U. , Kam O.
Published: March 2010

Clinical Relevance

This mild, two-step self-etch adhesive system showed acceptable clinical performance in Class III cavities after three years. Additional etching of the enamel margins improved the marginal quality of restorations bonded with this adhesive system.
Changes in Degree of Conversion and Microhardness of Dental Resin Cements
Authors: Yan Y. L. , Kim Y. K. , Kim K-H. , Kwon T-Y.
Published: March 2010

Clinical Relevance

Chemical- and dual-cured resin cements, as well as light-cured resin cements, appear to be cured within the first 24 hours post-mix or post-light activation with no further significant changes in the degree of conversion or microhardness.
Bond Strength and Quality of the Hybrid Layer of One-step Self-etch Adhesives Applied with Agitation on Dentin
Authors: Amaral R. C. , Stanislawczuk R. , Zander-Grande C. , Gagler D. , Reis A. , Loguercio A. D.
Published: March 2010

Clinical Relevance

Vigorous application on the dentin surface is an excellent tool capable of improving the immediate performance of simplified self-etch adhesive systems.
Gray Zone Lymphomas in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Liang Xiayuan , Greffe Brian , Cook Bruce , Giller Roger , Graham Douglas K. , McGranahan Amy N. , Wang Michael
Published: March 2010

Gray zone lymphomas are defined as lymphoid malignancies that cannot be reliably classified into a single distinct disease entity after all available morphologic, immunophenotypic, and molecular investigations have been performed. The 2008 World Health Organization Classification proposed 2 gray zone lesions: (1) B-cell lymphoma, unclassifiable, with features intermediate between diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and Burkitt lymphoma and (2) B-cell lymphoma, unclassifiable, with features intermediate between diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and classical Hodgkin lymphoma. These gray zone lesions are rare, especially in pediatric patients, and create a great challenge to both pathologists and oncologists because this differential diagnosis has direct implications for management strategies. In this manuscript, we report 2 cases of pediatric patients with gray zone lymphoma and review clinicopathologic features, treatment options, and outcomes of this uncommon tumor.
Cerebral glucose metabolism: Influence on perihematomal edema formation after intracerebral hemorrhage in cat models
Authors: Lin Xiangtao , Tang Yuchun , Sun Bo , Hou Zhongyu , Meng Haiwei , Li Zhenping , Liu Qingwei , Liu Shuwei
Published: March 2010

Background: Most intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) imaging studies focus on structural brain changes. Stereotactic neuroimaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) are helpful in the diagnosis of ICH, monitoring the subsequent recovery and investigating its functional mechanisms.

Purpose: To explore the influence of the changes in cerebral glucose metabolism on perihematomal edema formation in an experimental cat model of ICH.

Material and Methods: Forty-eight cats were divided into 1 sham operation group (6 cats) and 7 ICH model groups (42 cats)”. The ICH model groups were injected with 1.0 ml autologous nonheparinized blood into their thalami using accurate stereotactic guidance apparatus. MRI and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET/CT scans were acquired at 2, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 120 h following the intervention. Pearson's correlation test was used to evaluate the association between T2-weighted signal intensity and the edema volume. Student's t test and q test were used to identify the times of significant temporal changes.

Results: The volume of perilesional edema did not significantly increase from 2 h to 12 h after ICH, but then increased by 229.4% at 24 h, peaked (by 273.5%), and steadily decreased by 72 h. The FDG intensity in perihematomal edema tissues was markedly reduced 2 h after ICH on PET images, reached its lowest level at 12 h, and then steadily increased at 24 h and 48 h. The changes of standard absorption value (SUV) in perihematomal edema were consistent with those of FDG intensity.

Conclusion: Perihematomal glucose metabolism abnormalities have a close relationship with the formation of vasogenic edema. Furthermore, abnormal glucose metabolism may impair capillary integrity and increase blood–brain barrier permeability.
Flat-detector computed tomography with intravenous contrast material application in experimental aneurysms: Comparison with multislice CT and conventional angiography
Authors: Struffert Tobias , Doelken Marc , Adamek Edyta , Schwarz Marc , Engelhorn Tobias , Kloska Stephan , Ott Sabine , Doerfler Arnd
Published: March 2010

Background: Despite limited soft tissue resolution flat-detector computed tomography (FD-CT) provides substantial superior spatial resolution in comparison with multislice computed tomography (MS-CT). This may add value in the visualization of small vascular structures if intravenous contrast application leads to substantial opacification and visibility of intracranial vessels or aneurysms.

Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility of visualization of vascular structures by FD-CT angiography (FD-CTA) after intravenous contrast injection compared with MS-CTA and intra-arterial digital subtracted angiography (IADSA) in an animal model.

Material and Methods: Aneurysms were created in the right common carotid artery in six New Zealand White Rabbits using the elastase technique. Imaging was performed using FD-CTA, MS-CTA (injection of 1 ml/kg body weight) and IADSA. Anonymized volume rendering reconstruction (VRT), maximum intensity projection (MIP), and multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) images were reconstructed and evaluated by two experienced reviewers for aneurysm geometry and vascular structure anatomy using standard tools of a dedicated workstation.

Results: Aneurysms could be successfully created in all animals. Measurements of aneurysm geometry (aneurysm height, width, neck width) and vascular structures (brachiocephalic trunk, carotid artery diameter and plane) were nearly identical in all three modalities. Intra- and inter-observer correlations of the different parameters showed high r values between 0.83 and 0.99.

Conclusion: Our results show the feasibility of FD-CTA in comparison with MS-CTA and IADSA in an animal model. Despite limited soft tissue resolution, opacification of vascular structures with sufficient contrast to the surrounding structures was possible in all animals. Vascular structures appeared better delineated in FD-CTA than in MS-CTA, probably due to the superior spatial resolution.
On the Biological and Genetic Diversity in Neospora caninum
Authors: Al-Qassab Sarwat E. , Reichel Michael P. , Ellis John T.
Published: March 2010

Neospora caninum is a parasite regarded a major cause of foetal loss in cattle. A key requirement to an understanding of the epidemiology and pathogenicity of N. caninum is knowledge of the biological characteristics of the species and the genetic diversity within it. Due to the broad intermediate host range of the species, worldwide geographical distribution and its capacity for sexual reproduction, significant biological and genetic differences might be expected to exist. N. caninum has now been isolated from a variety of different host species including dogs and cattle. Although isolates of this parasite show only minor differences in ultrastructure, considerable differences have been reported in pathogenicity using mainly mouse models. At the DNA level, marked levels of polymorphism between isolates were detected in mini- and microsatellites found in the genome of N. caninum. Knowledge of what drives the biological differences that have been observed between the various isolates at the molecular level is crucial in aiding our understanding of the epidemiology of this parasite and, in turn, the development of efficacious strategies, such as live vaccines, for controlling its impact. The purpose of this review is to document and discuss for the first time, the nature of the diversity found within the species Neospora caninum.
Application of Thermoeconomics to Industrial Ecology
Authors: Valero Antonio , Usón Sergio , Torres César , Valero Alicia
Published: March 2010

Industrial Ecology involves the transformation of industrial processes from linear to closed loop systems: matter and energy flows which were initially considered as wastes become now resources for existing or new processes. In this paper, Thermoeconomics, commonly used for the optimization and diagnosis of energy systems, is proposed as a tool for the characterization of Industrial Ecology. Thermoeconomics is based on the exergy analysis (Thermodynamics) but goes further by introducing the concepts of purpose and cost (Economics). It is presented in this study as a systematic and general approach for the analysis of waste flow integration. The formulation is based on extending the thermoeconomic process of the cost formation of wastes in order to consider their use as input for other processes. Consequently, it can be applied to important Industrial Ecology issues such as identification of integration possibilities and efficiency improvement, quantification of benefits obtained by integration, or determination of fair prices based on physical roots. The capability of the methodology is demonstrated by means of a case study based on the integration of a power plant, a cement kiln and a gas-fired boiler.
(Un)Bounded Rationality in Decision Making and Game Theory – Back to Square One?
Authors: Güth Werner , Kliemt Hartmut
Published: March 2010

Game and decision theory start from rather strong premises. Preferences, represented by utilities, beliefs represented by probabilities, common knowledge and symmetric rationality as background assumptions are treated as “given.” A richer language enabling us to capture the process leading to what is “given” seems superior to the stenography of decision making in terms of utility cum probability. However, similar to traditional rational choice modeling, boundedly rational choice modeling, as outlined here, is far from being a “global” theory with empirical content; rather it serves as a tool to formulate “local” theories with empirical content.
Correction: Archibong, A.E., et al. Effects of Benzo(a)pyrene on Intra-testicular Function in F-344 Rats
Authors: Archibong Anthony E. , Ramesh Aramandla , Niaz Mohammad S. , Brooks Cynthia M. , Roberson Shannon I. , Lunstra Donald D.
Published: March 2010

We found some errors in Figure 4 in our paper published in the International journal of Environmental Research and Public Health [1].[...]
Community Mobilization and the Framing of Alcohol-Related Problems
Authors: Herd Denise
Published: March 2010

The goal of this study was to describe how activists engaged in campaigns to change alcohol policies in inner city areas framed alcohol problems, and whether or not their frameworks reflected major models used in the field, such as the alcoholism as a disease model, an alcohol problems perspective, or a public health approach to alcohol problems. The findings showed that activists’ models shared some aspects with dominant approaches which tend to focus on individuals and to a lesser extent on regulating alcohol marketing and sales. However, activists’ models differed in significant ways by focusing on community level problems with alcohol; on problems with social norms regarding alcohol use; and on the relationship of alcohol use to illicit drugs.
Light Converting Inorganic Phosphors for White Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Chen Lei , Lin Chun-Che , Yeh Chiao-Wen , Liu Ru-Shi
Published: March 2010

White light-emitting diodes (WLEDs) have matched the emission efficiency of florescent lights and will rapidly spread as light source for homes and offices in the next 5 to 10 years. WLEDs provide a light element having a semiconductor light emitting layer (blue or near-ultraviolet (nUV) LEDs) and photoluminescence phosphors. These solid-state LED lamps, rather than organic light emitting diode (OLED) or polymer light-emitting diode (PLED), have a number of advantages over conventional incandescent bulbs and halogen lamps, such as high efficiency to convert electrical energy into light, reliability and long operating lifetime. To meet with the further requirement of high color rendering index, warm light with low color temperature, high thermal stability and higher energy efficiency for WLEDs, new phosphors that can absorb excitation energy from blue or nUV LEDs and generate visible emissions efficiently are desired. The criteria of choosing the best phosphors, for blue (450-480 nm) and nUV (380-400 nm) LEDs, strongly depends on the absorption and emission of the phosphors. Moreover, the balance of light between the emission from blue-nUV LEDs and the emissions from phosphors (such as yellow from Y3Al5O12:Ce3+) is important to obtain white light with proper color rendering index and color temperature. Here, we will review the status of phosphors for LEDs and prospect the future development.
Vitamin D status during Pregnancy and Aspects of Offspring Health
Authors: Ponsonby Anne-Louise , Lucas Robyn M. , Lewis Sharon , Halliday Jane
Published: March 2010

Low maternal vitamin D levels during pregnancy have been linked to various health outcomes in the offspring, ranging from periconceptional effects to diseases of adult onset. Maternal and infant cord 25(OH)D levels are highly correlated. Here, we review the available evidence for these adverse health effects. Most of the evidence has arisen from observational epidemiological studies, but randomized controlled trials are now underway. The evidence to date supports that women should be monitored and treated for vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy but optimal and upper limit serum 25(OH)D levels during pregnancy are not known.
Phytochemicals in the Control of Human Appetite and Body Weight
Authors: Tucci Sonia A.
Published: March 2010

Since obesity has grown to epidemic proportions, its effective management is a very important clinical issue. Despite the great amount of scientific effort that has been put into understanding the mechanisms that lead to overconsumption and overweight, at the moment very few approaches to weight management are effective in the long term. On the other hand, modern society is also affected by the growing incidence of eating disorders on the other side of the spectrum such as anorexia and bulimia nervosa which are equally difficult to treat. This review will try to summarise the main findings available in the literature regarding the effect of plants or plant extracts (phytochemicals) on human appetite and body weight. The majority of plant extracts are not single compounds but rather a mixture of different molecules, therefore their mechanism of action usually targets several systems. In addition, since some cellular receptors tend to be widely distributed, sometimes a single molecule can have a widespread effect. This review will attempt to describe the main phytochemicals that have been suggested to affect the homeostatic mechanisms that influence intake and body weight. Clinical data will be summarised and scientific evidence will be reviewed.
Acquisition of Bidirectional Reflectance Factor Dataset Using a Micro Unmanned Aerial Vehicle and a Consumer Camera
Authors: Hakala Teemu , Suomalainen Juha , Peltoniemi Jouni I.
Published: March 2010

This paper describes a method for retrieving the bidirectional reflectance factor (BRF) of land-surface areas, using a small consumer camera on board an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and introducing an advanced calibration routine. Images with varying view directions were taken of snow cover using the UAV. The vignetting effect was corrected from the images, and reflectance factor images were calculated using a calibrated white target as a reference. After spatial registration of the images using a corresponding point method, the target surface was divided into a grid, and a BRF was generated for each grid element. Lastly a model was fitted to the BRF dataset for data interpretation. The retrieved BRF were compared to parallel ground measurements. Comparison showed similar BRF and reflectance factor characteristics, which suggests that accurate measurements can be taken with cheap consumer cameras, if enough attention is paid to calibration of the images.
Ground Filtering Algorithms for Airborne LiDAR Data: A Review of Critical Issues
Authors: Meng Xuelian , Currit Nate , Zhao Kaiguang
Published: March 2010

This paper reviews LiDAR ground filtering algorithms used in the process of creating Digital Elevation Models. We discuss critical issues for the development and application of LiDAR ground filtering algorithms, including filtering procedures for different feature types, and criteria for study site selection, accuracy assessment, and algorithm classification. This review highlights three feature types for which current ground filtering algorithms are suboptimal, and which can be improved upon in future studies: surfaces with rough terrain or discontinuous slope, dense forest areas that laser beams cannot penetrate, and regions with low vegetation that is often ignored by ground filters.
Refractive Index Sensor Based on a 1D Photonic Crystal in a Microfluidic Channel
Authors: Nunes Pedro S. , Mortensen Niels Asger , Kutter Jörg P. , Mogensen Klaus B.
Published: March 2010

A refractive index sensor has been fabricated in silicon oxynitride by standard UV lithography and dry etching processes. The refractive index sensor consists of a 1D photonic crystal (PhC) embedded in a microfluidic channel addressed by fiber-terminated planar waveguides. Experimental demonstrations performed with several ethanol solutions ranging from a purity of 96.00% (n = 1.36356) to 95.04% (n = 1.36377) yielded a sensitivity (Δλ/Δn) of 836 nm/RIU and a limit of detection (LOD) of 6 x 10-5 RIU, which is, however, still one order of magnitude higher than the theoretical lower limit of the limit of detection 1.3 x 10–6 RIU.
Ambient Intelligence Systems for Personalized Sport Training
Authors: Vales-Alonso Javier , López-Matencio Pablo , Gonzalez-Castaño Francisco J. , Navarro-Hellín Honorio , Baños-Guirao Pedro J. , Pérez-Martínez Francisco J. , Martínez-Álvarez Rafael P. , González-Jiménez Daniel , Gil-Castiñeira Felipe , Duro-Fernández Richard
Published: March 2010

Several research programs are tackling the use of Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN) at specific fields, such as e-Health, e-Inclusion or e-Sport. This is the case of the project “Ambient Intelligence Systems Support for Athletes with Specific Profiles”, which intends to assist athletes in their training. In this paper, the main developments and outcomes from this project are described. The architecture of the system comprises a WSN deployed in the training area which provides communication with athletes’ mobile equipments, performs location tasks, and harvests environmental data (wind speed, temperature, etc.). Athletes are equipped with a monitoring unit which obtains data from their training (pulse, speed, etc.). Besides, a decision engine combines these real-time data together with static information about the training field, and from the athlete, to direct athletes’ training to fulfill some specific goal. A prototype is presented in this work for a cross country running scenario, where the objective is to maintain the heart rate (HR) of the runner in a target range. For each track, the environmental conditions (temperature of the next track), the current athlete condition (HR), and the intrinsic difficulty of the track (slopes) influence the performance of the athlete. The decision engine, implemented by means of (m; s)-splines interpolation, estimates the future HR and selects the best track in each fork of the circuit. This method achieves a success ratio in the order of 80%. Indeed, results demonstrate that if environmental information is not take into account to derive training orders, the success ratio is reduced notably.
Near-Infrared Fluorescence Detection of Acetylcholine in Aqueous Solution Using a Complex of Rhodamine 800 and p-Sulfonato-calix[8]arene
Authors: Jin Takashi
Published: March 2010

The complexing properties of p-sulfonatocalix[n]arenes (n = 4: S[4], n = 6: S[6], and n = 8: S[8]) for rhodamine 800 (Rh800) and indocyanine green (ICG) were examined to develop a near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence detection method for acetylcholine (ACh). We found that Rh800 (as a cation) forms an inclusion complex with S[n], while ICG (as a twitter ion) have no binding ability for S[n]. The binding ability of Rh800 to S[n] decreased in the order of S[8] > S[6] >> S[4]. By the formation of the complex between Rh800 and S[8], fluorescence intensity of the Rh800 was significantly decreased. From the fluorescence titration of Rh800 by S[8], stoichiometry of the Rh800-S[8] complex was determined to be 1:1 with a dissociation constant of 2.2 mM in PBS. The addition of ACh to the aqueous solution of the Rh800-S[8] complex caused a fluorescence increase of Rh800, resulting from a competitive replacement of Rh800 by ACh in the complex. From the fluorescence change by the competitive fluorophore replacement, stoichiometry of the Rh800-ACh complex was found to be 1:1 with a dissociation constant of 1.7 mM. The effects of other neurotransmitters on the fluorescence spectra of the Rh800-S[8] complex were examined for dopamine, GABA, glycine, and L-asparatic acid. Among the neurotransmitters examined, fluorescence response of the Rh800-S[8] complex was highly specific to ACh. Rh800-S[8] complexes can be used as a NIR fluorescent probe for the detection of ACh (5 × 10-4−10-3 M) in PBS buffer (pH = 7.2).
Comparison of the Farming System and Carbon Sequestration between Conventional and Organic Rice Production in West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Komatsuzaki Masakazu , Syuaib M. Faiz
Published: March 2010

Organic farming provides many benefits in Indonesia: it can improve soil quality, food quality and soil carbon sequestration. This study was designed to compare soil carbon sequestration levels between conventional and organic rice farming fields in west Java, Indonesia. The results from soil analysis indicate that organic farming leads to soil with significantly higher soil carbon storage capacity than conventional farming. Organic farming can also cut some farming costs, but it requires about twice as much labor. The sharecropping system of rice farming in Indonesia is highly exploitative of workers; therefore, research should be conducted to develop a fairer organic farming system that can enhance both local and global sustainability.
Negotiating Identity: Experiences of "Visiting Home" Among Chinese Americans
Authors: Maruyama Naho U. , Weber Ian , Stronza Amanda L.
Published: March 2010

"Roots tourism" is loosely defined as a type of tourism in which ethnic minorities visit their ancestral lands to discover ethnic roots and culture. Despite the recent popularity of this type of tourism, many gaps remain in the study of roots tourism, particularly about its influence
on the tourists' identity. This exploratory study investigates the ways in which second and subsequent generations of Chinese Americans discuss their identity and feelings of belonging after visiting China. Face-to-face, in-depth interviews with Chinese Americans revealed that, contrary to
the idea that roots tourism experiences provide individuals with strong feelings of belonging to one's ancestral land, interviewees did not return from their visit with a feeling of connection to China. Rather, they reported a need to negotiate and redefine who they were and where they belonged.
This study highlights how physical markers of Chinese identity added complexity to the negotiation of one's identity. Because the interviewees "looked" Chinese, in a variety of situations they were automatically assumed to be Chinese while their American identity was ignored. Although Chinese
Americans occasionally took advantage of such ascribed identity as Chinese, they often felt frustration, anger, and ambiguity about how they defined themselves and how others defined them. As a result of visiting China, although Chinese American tourists developed a certain sense of affinity
to their ancestral land, they also affirmed that their true home was in the US. This study suggests a complexity and limitation to fostering a sense of belonging to their ancestral land through roots tourism.
Cultural Values and Service Quality: Host and Guest Perspectives
Authors: Truong Thuy-Huong , King Brian
Published: March 2010

This article explores the respective cultural values of American tourists and Vietnamese service providers in the context of Vietnam as a destination. The Principal Components Analysis method is used to identify and group the distinctive cultural values of tourists and hosts with a
view to providing an enhanced understanding of tourist–host perceptions of service quality in cross-cultural settings. The research has both practical and academic significance. Drawing upon the marketing, tourism, and cultural studies literature and examining cultural values in tourism
settings, the article proposes some strategic directions for tourism managers and marketers in Vietnam. From a theoretical perspective, the study provides an enhanced understanding of Rokeach's model. This instrument has previously been applied in the fields of sociology, psychology, and marketing.
In the present case it is used to measure cross-cultural perceptions and the associated insights should be useful for tourism researchers, developers, marketers, and managers. It provides an evidence base that can guide provision to meet the needs of Asian and Western tourists with particular
reference to perceptions in cross-cultural contexts. The research applies an empirically based model to development related challenges confronting the tourism sector. It applies the theories of human values to tourism and demonstrates the important influence of cultural backgrounds on tourist
perceptions.
Ring opening metathesis polymerization-derived block copolymers bearing chelating ligands: synthesis, metal immobilization and use in hydroformylation under micellar conditions
Authors: Pawar Gajanan M , Weckesser Jochen , Blechert Siegfried , Buchmeiser Michael R
Published: March 2010

Norborn-5-ene-(N,N-dipyrid-2-yl)carbamide (M1) was copolymerized with exo,exo-[2-(3-ethoxycarbonyl-7-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]hept-5-en-2-carbonyloxy)ethyl]trimethylammonium iodide (M2) using the Schrock catalyst Mo(N-2,6-Me2-C6H3)(CHCMe2Ph)(OCMe(CF3)2)2 [Mo] to yield poly(M1-b-M2). In water, poly(M1-b-M2) forms micelles with a critical micelle-forming concentration (cmc) of 2.8 × 10−6 mol L−1; Reaction of poly(M1-b-M2) with [Rh(COD)Cl]2 (COD = cycloocta-1,5-diene) yields the Rh(I)-loaded block copolymer poly(M1-b-M2)-Rh containing 18 mg of Rh(I)/g of block copolymer with a cmc of 2.2 × 10−6 mol L−1. The Rh-loaded polymer was used for the hydroformylation of 1-octene under micellar conditions. The data obtained were compared to those obtained with a monomeric analogue, i.e. CH3CON(Py)2RhCl(COD) (C1, Py = 2-pyridyl). Using the polymer-supported catalyst under micellar conditions, a significant increase in selectivity, i.e. an increase in the n:iso ratio was accomplished, which could be further enhanced by the addition of excess ligand, e.g., triphenylphosphite. Special features of the micellar catalytic set up are discussed.
Fire fighter fatality investigation and prevention program: Findings from a national evaluation
Authors: Petersen Karen , Witt Michael , Morton Katherine , Olmsted Murrey , Amandus Harlan , Proudfoot Steven , Wassell James
Published: March 2010

Firefighters are called on to rescue people and protect property under serious and hazardous conditions. Some 100 firefighters die each year on duty, and another 95,000 are injured. Recommendations developed through the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program (FFFIPP) point to many safety practices that could improve the health and safety of the nation’s firefighters.

The purpose of this report is to summarize the findings of a recent evaluation of the FFFIPP. Based on a national survey of fire departments and focus groups with frontline firefighters, the evaluation focused on firefighters’ awareness of FFFIPP recommendations, the extent to which recommendations are being implemented, the factors affecting implementation, and NIOSH’s dissemination practices.

We learned that most fire departments are aware of the FFFIPP and follow its recommendations; nevertheless, various shortfalls, especially regarding cardiovascular health, motor vehicle safety, and procedures on the fireground, persist. The greatest shortfalls exist in small and volunteer fire departments where resources limit the ability to purchase needed equipment and prepare firefighters to carry out their duties safely. We identified numerous specific improvements that NIOSH could make to promote health and safety.
Digital Repositories and Possibilities of Their Integration into Higher Education
Authors: Vrana Radovan
Published: March 2010

Due to abundance of information available on the Internet, society seeks new types of digital information resources which would facilitate better delivery of information for different purposes. One such information resource type is digital institutional repository. Successful use of digital institutional repositories depends mostly on quality of content they offer, and on unrestricted access to that content. On the other side of the information chain, users i.e. students should be taught how to critically approach and evaluate content they find in digital institutional repositories in order to enrich their learning experience and make it more successful. To find out more about similarities and differences between top 10 largest open access digital information repositories, a comparison of their most important functions was carried out. The results of the comparison give us valuable indicators about possibilities of their use in learning process based on their properties and presence of the most important functions modern information resources should have. Generally speaking, as digital repositories gain more public attention, it can be expected that they will be used even more in future for various purposes, including education.
ICT Training for Special Education Frontline Professionals: A Perspective from Students of a Master's Degree on Special Education
Authors: Ribeiro Jaime , Moreira António
Published: March 2010

A large number of special education professionals agree on the fact that Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) is an important tool for teachers and students to overcome barriers and promote the acquisition of skills. ICT can promote school and social integration by diminishing the obstacles for students with Special Education Needs (SEN). A correct educational implementation of ICT depends strongly on the teacherâ??s awareness of the possibilities of their application and his/her training and capacity to adapt to the differentiated learning styles that he/she encounters in his/her teaching of SEN students. However, the lack of or no training on ICT is one of the most frequently pointed reasons for not using or for misusing the potential that ICT can offer to the education of pupils with SEN as pedagogical tools or as individual Assistive Technologies (AT). The findings of a survey conducted with teachers attending a Masterâ??s Degree on special education, balancing the acquisition of general ICT skills and facts on specially oriented ICT solutions for students with learning disabilities, will be reported here. The educational support provided by trained and specialized professionals at ease with basic ICT skills and assisted by specialized means and techniques constitute a form of aid for the student who needs to see his/her disadvantage reduced or overcome.
Lower Secondary School Students' Attitudes Toward Computer-Supported Laboratory Exercises
Authors: Špernjak Andreja , Puhek Miro , Šorgo Andrej
Published: March 2010

In Science teaching laboratory work is recognized as one of the cornerstones. In school science laboratory work computers can be used as computer supported laboratory (real) and as virtual laboratory. In the first case â??real
Peer Assessment System for Modern Learning Settings: Towards a Flexible E-Assessment System
Authors: Al-Smadi Mohammad , Guetl Christian , Kappe Frank
Published: March 2010

According to the rapid changes in our life styles and in order to cope with the new requirements for modern learning settings and activities, several applications have been developed to provide our modern society with these learning settings. E-assessment as a main part of e-learning has been affected by these new settings and new aspects such as peer assessment have become more and more important. In this paper, we will present a computer-assisted peer assessment system that can be used to improve the learning process. An overall architecture will be presented and an experiment has been conducted. First findings will be discussed and future work will be mentioned.
The Impact of Formal Education on Computer Literacy
Authors: Milić Melita , Škorić Igor
Published: March 2010

In this paper we will present the survey conducted on 149 students in Croatia. This research includes eight grade students of elementary schools, fourth-grade students of secondary schools and second year university students, as the relevant age groups.

Given that these age groups through the course of their schooling to some extent pass some form of IT training, we wanted to explore how it affected their overcoming of computer literacy. The main goal was to investigate how and how much formal education affect the knowledge of computer literacy in diffrent age groups.
E-Learning Materials for 3rd Grade of Primary School - Physics
Authors: Repnik Robert , Grubelnik Vladimir
Published: March 2010

It is very important for the development of natural science competences of children to choose the right approach to teaching the physics. E-learning materials developed so far are a useful addition to the learning process. Their function is to assist in explaining the real world around us. Among other goals, this means the explanation of experiments and preparation to conduct them. In the frame of our national project we have prepared the e-learning materials which cover the basics of physics for primary school pupils. Children are encouraged to study the materials and conduct their own experiments. Teachers who have used our materials are giving us very encouraging responses and would like to use other learning materials prepared in this way.
The Effector T Cell Response to Ryegrass Pollen Is Counterregulated by Simultaneous Induction of Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Mittag Diana , Scholzen Anja , Varese Nirupama , Baxter Lorraine , Paukovics Geza , Harrison Leonard C. , Rolland Jennifer M. , O’Hehir Robyn E.
Published: March 2010

Allergy is associated with pathological Th2 responses to otherwise harmless environmental Ags. In contrast, nonallergic individuals mount nonpathological immune responses to allergens, partly attributed to regulatory T cell (Treg) activity. Although thymus-derived natural Tregs have been shown to maintain tolerance to self-Ags and prevent autoimmunity, the generation of Tregs specific to non–self-Ags is less well understood. We investigated the potential for induction of Tregs from PBMCs of ryegrass pollen-allergic or healthy subjects by stimulation in vitro with ryegrass pollen extract in the absence of additional exogenous stimuli. We found that two subsets of proliferating CD4+ T cells were induced, one expressing intermediate levels of Foxp3 (and IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-17, or IL-2) and the other expressing high levels of Foxp3 (and no effector cytokines). After enrichment based on CD39 expression, the Foxp3hi subset suppressed CD4+ T cell proliferation and IFN-γ production. The Foxp3hi Treg originated from both conversion of dividing non-Tregs (CD4+CD25−CD127hi) and expansion of natural Tregs (CD4+CD25+CD127lo). Stable functional Tregs expressing high levels of Foxp3 were induced simultaneously with effector T cells by allergen stimulation. Induction of Foxp3hi Tregs was reduced in allergic subjects. These results indicate that the cogeneration of Foxp3hi Tregs in response to allergen may be a mechanism for controlling allergic reactions in healthy individuals, which is impaired in those with allergies.
IFN Regulatory Factor-1 Bypasses IFN-Mediated Antiviral Effects through Viperin Gene Induction
Authors: Stirnweiss Anja , Ksienzyk Antje , Klages Katjana , Rand Ulfert , Grashoff Martina , Hauser Hansjörg , Kröger Andrea
Published: March 2010

Viperin is an antiviral protein whose expression is highly upregulated during viral infections via IFN-dependent and/or IFN-independent pathways. We examined the molecular alterations induced by the transcriptional activator IFN regulatory factor (IRF)-1 and found viperin to be among the group of IRF-1 regulated genes. From these data, it was not possible to distinguish genes that are primary targets of IRF-1 and those that are targets of IRF-1–induced proteins, like IFN-β. In this study, we show that IRF-1 directly binds to the murine viperin promoter to the two proximal IRF elements and thereby induces viperin expression. Infection studies with embryonal fibroblasts from different gene knock-out mice demonstrate that IRF-1 is essential, whereas the type I IFN system is dispensable for vesicular stomatitis virus induced viperin gene transcription. Further, IRF-1, but not IFN type I, mediates the induction of viperin transcription after IFN-γ treatment. In contrast, IRF-1 is not required for IFN-independent viperin induction by Newcastle disease virus infection and by infection with a vesicular stomatitis virus mutant that is unable to block IFN expression and secretion. We conclude that the IRF-1 mediated type I IFN independent mechanism of enhanced viperin expression provides a redundant mechanism to protect cells from viral infections. This mechanism becomes important when viruses evade innate immunity by antagonizing the induction and function of the IFN system.
Treatment Failure of a TLR-7 Agonist Occurs Due to Self-Regulation of Acute Inflammation and Can Be Overcome by IL-10 Blockade
Authors: Lu Hailing , Wagner Wolfgang M. , Gad Ekram , Yang Yi , Duan Hangjun , Amon Lynn M. , Van Denend Nathaniel , Larson Emily R. , Chang Amy , Tufvesson Helena , Disis Mary L.
Published: March 2010

Multiple TLR agonists have been shown to have antitumor effects in animal models. However, the therapeutic efficacy of TLR agonist monotherapy in cancer treatment has been limited, and the mechanisms of failure remain unknown. We demonstrate that topical treatment with a TLR-7 agonist, imiquimod, can elicit significant regression of spontaneous breast cancers in neu transgenic mice, a model of human HER-2/neu+ breast cancer. However, tumor growth progressed once imiquimod therapy was ended. Gene expression analysis using tumor-derived RNA demonstrated that imiquimod induced high levels of IL-10 in addition to TNF-α and IFN-γ. Elevated levels of circulating IL-10 were also detected in sera from imiquimod-treated mice. Elevated serum IL-10 appeared to be derived from IL-10 and dual cytokine secreting (IFN-γ+ and IL-10+) CD4+ T cells rather than CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T regulatory cells, which were also induced by imiquimod treatment. Blockade of IL-10, but not TGF-β, enhanced the antitumor effect of imiquimod by significantly prolonging survival in treated mice. These data suggest that the excessive inflammation induced by TLR agonists may result in a self-regulatory immunosuppression via IL-10 induction and that blocking IL-10 could enhance the therapeutic efficacy of these agents.