bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Optimization Techniques for Gene Expression Data Analysis
Authors: Dara Suresh , Tiwari Arvind Kumar
Published: March 2017

The feature selection from gene expression data is the NP hard problem, few of evolutionary techniques give optimal solutions to find feature subsets. In this chapter, authors introduce some evolutionary optimization techniques and proposed a Binary Particle Swarm Optimization (BPSO) based algorithm for feature subset selection. The Feature selection is one of the important and challenging tasks for gene expression data where many traditional methods failed and evolutionary based methods were succeeded. In this study, the initial datasets are preprocessed using a quartile based fast heuristic technique to reduce the crude domain features which are less relevant in categorizing the samples of either group. The experimental results on three bench-mark datasets vis-a-vis colon cancer, defused B-cell lymphoma and leukemia data are evaluated by means of classification accuracies. Detailed comparative studies with some of popular existing algorithms like Genetic Algorithm (GA), Multi Objective GA are also made to show the superiority and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Expatriate Staffing in Foreign Subsidiaries of Multinationals
Authors: Can Esin , Çetinarslan Haldun Şecaattin
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this chapter is to present a literature review of the published journal articles, from 1975 to 2016, related to the topic of expatriate staffing in foreign subsidiaries of MNCs. This chapter explains the main ideas, major findings and core limitations of the 37 articles searched via Web of Science™ Core Collection. Then, it gives the main ideas of other 32 articles found as a result of a legacy search to expand the review. The authors found that the number of firms/cases and parent/host countries in the studies is often limited, which makes it hard to generalize the findings. As revealed in recent studies, the results indicate that MNCs choose local-hired foreign managers for their subsidiary management teams as well as locals and expatriates. It is believed that this review will act as a guide for postgraduates, researchers, academicians, and professionals for their future work.
Sustainable Framework to Attract, Develop, and Retain Global Talent
Authors: Baporikar Neeta
Published: March 2017

Effective talent management is essential for ‘competitive edge and future survival' (Marchington & Wilkinson, 2012, p. 200). Moreover, volatile economic context makes talent management more crucial to organisational success. Similarly attracting, developing and retaining talent particularly managerial, professional and technical in a sustainable way is herculean task indeed. With a growing problem of limited specialist and technical skills in the labour market there is definitely going to be escalated ‘war for talent', Both male and female leadership talent might be warranted for organisational success and economic development. There is also a considerable body of research suggesting a link between language, communication and how gender – and leadership – gets ‘done' in organisations. This chapter through grounded research and in depth literature review intends to discuss the current scenario and propose a sustainable framework to attract develop and retain global talent in particular. It is hoped that the chapter contributes and add to the talent management knowledge base.
High-Resolution Melting Curve Analysis of the 16S Ribosomal Gene to Detect and Identify Pathogenic and Saprophytic Leptospira Species in Colombian Isolates
Authors: Peláez Sánchez Ronald G. , Quintero Juan Álvaro López , Pereira Martha María , Agudelo-Flórez Piedad
Published: March 2017

It is important to identify the circulating Leptospira agent to enhance the performance of serodiagnostic tests by incorporating specific antigens of native species, develop vaccines that take into account the species/serovars circulating in different regions, and optimize prevention and control strategies. The objectives of this study were to develop a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)–high-resolution melting (HRM) assay for differentiating between species of the genus Leptospira and to verify its usefulness in identifying unknown samples to species level. A set of primers from the initial region of the 16S ribosomal gene was designed to detect and differentiate the 22 species of Leptospira. Eleven reference strains were used as controls to establish the reference species and differential melting curves. Twenty-five Colombian Leptospira isolates were studied to evaluate the usefulness of the PCR–HRM assay in identifying unknown samples to species level. This identification was confirmed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the 16S ribosomal gene. Eleven Leptospira species were successfully identified, except for Leptospira meyeri/Leptospira yanagawae because the sequences were 100% identical. The 25 isolates from humans, animals, and environmental water sources were identified as Leptospira santarosai (twelve), Leptospira interrogans (nine), and L. meyeri/L. yanagawae (four). The species verification was 100% concordant between PCR–HRM and phylogenetic analysis of the 16S ribosomal gene. The PCR–HRM assay designed in this study is a useful tool for identifying Leptospira species from isolates.
First Insight Into the Fluoroquinolone and Aminoglycoside Resistance of Multidrug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Varghese Bright , Al-Hajoj Sahal
Published: March 2017

In Saudi Arabia, there were no nationwide screening studies conducted so far to determine the aminoglycoside and fluoroquinolone resistance among multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) isolates. Therefore, as the first attempt in the country, a retrospective analysis has been conducted on a nationwide collection of 2,956 M. tuberculosis clinical isolates screened with phenotypic drug susceptibility testing to define MDR-TB. Enrolled MDR-TB isolates were subjected to second-line drug susceptibility testing, detection of mutations conferring resistance to aminoglycosides and fluoroquinolone, followed by 24-loci mycobacterial interspersed repetitive unit–variable number of tandem repeat typing and spoligotyping. Overall, 83 isolates were identified as MDR-TB, and 13 (15.7%) isolates showed resistance to second-line drugs. Moxifloxacin (low level) showed higher resistant rates (10.8%) followed by ofloxacin (7.2%), capreomycin (3.6%), kanamycin (3.6%), and amikacin (2.4%). Overall fluoroquinolone resistance was 12%, whereas aminoglycoside resistance was 7.2%. Predominant mutations conferring resistance to fluoroquinolone were found in gyrA A90V and D94G, whereas aminoglycoside resistance was observed only with rrs gene A1401G mutation. The corresponding strain lineages predominated with Indo-Oceanic and East-African Indian origin. Interestingly, none of the isolates with second-line drug resistance was defined as extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB). Surprisingly, many isolates (50.6%) were panresistant to first-line drugs. Saudi Arabia faces considerable burden of fluoroquinolone- and aminoglycoside-resistant MDR-TB. Higher incidence of panresistant MDR-TB reveals a threat for the emergence of XDR-TB strains in the near future.
The Human Microbiome in the Fight Against Tuberculosis
Authors: Wood Madeleine R. , Yu Elaine A. , Mehta Saurabh
Published: March 2017

The human microbiome is an intriguing potentially modifiable risk factor in our arsenal against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the leading infectious disease killer globally. Previous studies have shown associations between the human microbiome and pulmonary disease states; however, etiological links between the microbiome and tuberculosis (TB) infection or disease remain unclear. Immunomodulatory roles of the microbiome may prove to be a critical asset in the host response against TB, including in preventing TB infection, reducing progression from latency, mitigating disease severity, and lowering the incidence of drug resistance and coinfections. This review examined the associations between TB and the gut and lung microbiome. Eight studies were identified through a PubMed database search, including one animal study (N = 1), case report (N = 1), and case–control studies (N = 6). TB infection and disease were associated with reduced gastrointestinal microbial diversity in a murine model and human case report. Sputum microbial diversity differed by TB status in case–control studies, although some reported heterogeneous findings. Current evidence suggests that the gut and lung microbiome are associated with TB infection and disease. However, as studies are limited, etiological and longitudinal research is needed to determine clinical relevance.
Serum Lipids and Lipoproteins During Uncomplicated Malaria: A Cohort Study in Lambaréné, Gabon
Authors: Visser Benjamin J. , de Vries Sophia G. , Vingerling Rieke , Gritter Martin , Kroon Danielle , Aguilar Lídia Ciudad , Kraan Rik B. J. , Wieten Rosanne W. , Danion François , Sjouke Barbara , Adegnika Akim A. , Agnandji Selidji T. , Kremsner Peter G. , Hänscheid Thomas , Mens Petra F. , van Vugt Michèle , Grobusch Martin P.
Published: March 2017

The serum lipid profile in malaria patients has been found to differ from that of healthy controls. We investigated serum lipid profile changes in malaria patients over time compared with patients with other febrile diseases. In total, 217 patients were included in the study (111 malaria patients and 106 symptomatic controls, defined as malaria-negative febrile patients). Serum lipid levels (mmol/L) were significantly lower in malaria patients compared with those with other febrile diseases (total cholesterol [TC] = 3.26 [standard deviation = 0.94] versus 3.97 [1.22; P < 0.001]; high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C] = 0.43 [0.47] versus 1.05 [0.67; P < 0.001], low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-C] = 2.05 [0.76] versus 2.42 [0.90; P < 0.001]. Triglycerides (TGs) levels were higher in malaria patients (1.81 [1.02] versus 1.11 [0.82; P < 0.001]). No significant differences were found for apolipoprotein A1, apolipoprotein B, and lipoprotein(a). Cholesterol levels increased toward reference values on day 28 (TC = 3.26–3.98, P < 0.001; HDL-C = 0.43–0.96, P < 0.001; LDL-C = 2.05–2.60, P < 0.001). TG levels decreased from 1.81 on admission to 1.76 (day 3) and 0.88 (day 28; P = 0.130). Lipid profile changes were not correlated with parasitemia or Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein 2 levels. This study confirms characteristic temporary lipid profile changes in malaria. Lipid profile changes demonstrated a good accuracy to discriminate between malaria and other febrile diseases (area under the curve = 0.80 (95% confidence interval = 0.742–0.863, P < 0.001). Several plausible hypotheses exist regarding the pathophysiology of lipid profile changes in malaria. Further studies to elucidate the precise pathways may lead to improved understanding of the underlying pathophysiology.
OBD-II Related SAE Specification Verification Test Procedures1
Authors:   Vehicle E E System Diagnostic Standards Committee
Published: March 2017

This SAE Recommended Practice recommends test methods, test procedures, and specific test parameters to help verify that vehicles and test tools can communicate using SAE J1962. These test procedures are to be used whenever SAE J1850 communication parameters need to be verified. However, all specific details for testing are not specified, e.g., sample size, environment, vibration, etc.
WHEEL NUT SEAT STRENGTH
Authors:   Wheel Standards Committee
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this test is to evaluate the axial strength of the nut seat of wheels intended for use on passenger cars, light trucks, and multipurpose vehicles. In addition, a minimum contact area is recommended to ensure enough strength for the rotational force in tightening a nut against the nut seat. While this test ensures the minimum strength of the nut seat, the wheel must also have a degree of flexibility. This flexibility, as well as bolt tension, are important to maintain wheel retention.
Accessory Drive Tensioner Test Standards (Mechanical Rotary Type)
Authors:   Belt Drive (Automotive) Systems Committee
Published: March 2017

To document test procedures and set-ups that address known failure modes for mechanical rotary tensioners and establish minimum acceptance criteria. This SAE Standard does not encompass the pulley or pulley bearing. The sample sizes should be determined by agreement between the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and the supplier.

The failure modes to be addressed are:

a

Durability

Corrosion
Contamination

Structural
Wear

Temperature
Alignment

b

Functional

Clamp Load
Damping

Drop (Safety)
Lift Lugs

Load
Noise

Ozone
Snap
Mercury Switch Removal Process
Authors:   Circuit Protection and Switch Device Committee
Published: March 2017

Mercury capsules have been used in the automotive industry in various switching applications. The basic design and performance characteristics of mercury switches (or capsules) make these components particularly suited to underhood light and trunk light applications. The processes described in this SAE Standard deal with the location, removal, storage, and recycling of mercury switches and capsules associated with these underhood and trunk light applications.
La progresiva adaptación del conflictivo artículo 12 de la Convención de la ONU sobre los Derechos de las personas con discapacidad en el ordenamiento jurídico español
Authors: Botello Pedro
Published: March 2017

El Estado Español viene implementando en nuestro ordenamiento jurídico el artículo 12 de la Convención de la ONU sobre los Derechos de las Personas con Discapacidad, a través de ciertas medidas importantes, como pueden ser el hecho de que nuestro Tribunal Supremo comience a otorgar a la curatela el papel que merece, o la reciente Ley Orgánica 1/2015 mediante la cual se anuncia la sustitución de los términos procedimiento de incapacitación e incapacitados.
Pela necessidade da regulamentação dos Refugiados Ambientais: O caso Haiti-Brasil pós-terremoto de 2010
Authors: Gois Romulo Lima Silva de , Verges João Vitor Gobis , Roxo Maria José
Published: March 2017

Objetiva-se com este artigo subsidiar a indicação conceitual de uma nova categoria de migrantes, os “refugiados ambientais”, e relacionar o aumento do fluxo mundial destes dando destaque a estopins como a vulnerabilidade socioambiental decorrente das alterações climáticas ou demais fenômenos naturais de extremo impacto. Apresenta-se o conceito de refugiados, diferenciando-o de concepções semelhantes. Demonstra-se que os “refugiados ambientais” não estão abarcados formalmente em nenhum tipo de norma internacional existente, e por isso alvitra um alargamento conceitual do refúgio. Desenvolve-se o conceito de “refugiados ambientais”, seus fatores impulsionadores e suas características. Trata-se do conceito estrito e da ocorrência dos desastres naturais, e delimita-se o objeto de estudo interligando o aumento do fluxo de “refugiados ambientais” em razão da ocorrência de desastres naturais. Aponta-se em linhas gerais que os sujeitos sociais que fogem em virtude de acontecimentos climáticos e desastres naturais também devem ser considerados “refugiados”. Apresentam-se dados sobre o terremoto ocorrido no Haiti em 2010 e se demonstra o aparecimento de uma nova rota migratória de haitianos ao Brasil, podendo ser indício de que esses migrantes são os primeiros refugiados ambientais do século XXI naquele país. Apresenta-se a regulamentação anômala estatal brasileira à migração haitiana pós-terremoto de 2010 e se defende que os migrantes sejam tratados como “refugiados ambientais”
O alcance do acesso à justiça eficiente por intermédio do ativismo judicial
Authors: Maillart Adriana , Rios Bruno Carlos
Published: March 2017

O presente trabalho possui o escopo de examinar a concepção de acesso à justiça frente ao mero ingresso formal do cidadão no processo judicial. Avaliando a concreta entrega da prestação jurisdicional por meio do fenômeno do ativismo judicial, destinada a alcançar a cabal pacificação social, a contenda gira em torno das dificuldades de ordem prática em se estabelecerem objetivamente os limites e critérios das decisões ativistas do Poder Judiciário, averiguando a função judicial na consolidação dos valores contidos na Constituição Federal. Além disso, o artigo aborda conceituações acerca do acesso à justiça eficiente e do ativismo judicial, traçando um paralelo entre os dois sistemas, haja vista a organização constitucional contemporânea referente à participação e fiscalização entre os três Poderes do Estado. Por fim, o estudo almeja examinar a adjacência da ordem jurídica justa diante das funções estatais, para que ocorra de maneira harmônica e equilibrada, sem que seja abalado um dos pilares do Estado Democrático de Direito: o princípio da separação dos Poderes.
Spraying of swine buildings with lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) essential oil does not produce blood absorption in swine
Authors: Lee Seung-Jin , Kim Ki-Hyun , Mechesso Abraham Fikru , Park Na-Hye , Park Seung-Chun
Published: March 2017

Cymbopogon citratus (Lemon grass) essential oils have been used in swine buildings to reduce the offensive odor emanating from swine buildings. The present study was designed to investigate plasma residues of citral which is a major constituent of the essential oils of Cymbopogon citratus.

An HPLC method was established, validated and used for the determination of citral in swine plasma harvested from blood samples taken at the 14th, 21st and 28th day after spraying swine buildings with the 3% Lemon grass essential oil. Thereafter, analysis of the sample was conducted using HP ODS Hypersil column (200 × 4.6 mm, 5 µm) with a mobile phase consisting of methanol and 0.5% acetic acid; and a flow rate of 1mL/ min. The method was validated for parameters such as accuracy, precision, linearity and detection limits. Plasma spiked with standard citral (95%) revealed two chromatograms with retention times of about 10.7 and 12.2 minutes. The calibration curves for the citral isomers were found to be linear in the tested concentration ranges and mean recoveries wre 101% and 99.17%. This method was used to determine the residues of citral in swine plasma pretreated with methanol. Surprisingly, there was no any detectable level of citral in swine plasma within the 28 days of exposure.

spraying of swine buildings with essential oils of lemon grass oil does not cause plasma residues of citral.

 
Antifungal Activity of Weed Extracts on Candida Albicans: An In-vitro Study
Authors: Kamurthy Hemalatha , Tejmal Mandan , Majumder Pulak , Ambujakshi HR
Published: March 2017

The genus Candida is caused morbidity and mortality in human beings. The virulence factors of the Candida albicans have the great role in the pseudohyphae formation by attached with epithelial cells and endothelial cells. The aim of the study was to evaluate the antifungal activity of weed extracts used in traditional herbal medicine. The weeds were selected on the basis of their reported ethnobotanical uses. Water and alcoholic weed extracts were screened in vitro for their antifungal activity against fungus C. albicans. 50μl concentration of minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of Mimosa pudica extract in alcohol and 70μl concentration of MIC of Oxalis corniculata extract shows in alcohol. We conclude from this that these extracts exhibit amazing fungicidal properties that support their traditional uses. The presence of phytochemicals in the extracts including, tannins, alkaloids, steroids, glycosides, triterpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds and organic acids like, Malic acid, tartaric acid and citric acid may be responsible for these activities. The acetone extracts of plant are more efficient as compared to the water extract.

 
Evaluation of the estrogenic properties of aqueous extracts of Tragia benthamii Baker (Euphorbiaceae) and Graptophyllum pictum (Acanthaceae) and their ability to alleviate some menopausal symptoms induced by ovariectomy in Wistar rats
Authors: Ketcha Wanda Germain Jean Magloire , Djiogue Sefirin , Djoussi Njimfo Sosthène Onésiphore , Awounfack Charline Florence , Njamen Dieudonné
Published: March 2017

Tragia benthamii Baker (Euphorbiaceae) and Graptophyllum pictum Linn (Acanthaceae) are two Cameroonian medicinal plants traditionally used against female reproductive tract disorders, during and after the reproductive period, and as an abortifacient. Since there were no scientific data supporting the above claims and pharmacological studies characterizing their estrogenic properties, we therefore aimed to evaluate their ability to induce estrogen-like effects on primary estrogens targets, uterine, vagina and mammary gland; as well as their ability to alleviate hot flushes in ovariectomized adult rats. For this purpose, we applied a 3-day uterotrophic assay to determine the estrogenic effects of each extract and the mixture of both plants as used by traditional practitioners. The extracts were administered orally for 3 days to the 10 to 12 weeks aged ovariectomized rats. The results obtained showed that the aqueous extract of T. benthamii at the dose of 500 mg / kg BW, the aqueous extract of G. pictum at all the tested doses as well as the aqueous extract of the mixture  at 275 mg / kg body weight induced a significant increase (p ˂ 0.01) of the uterine epithelium thickness. In addition, the aqueous extract of T. benthamii at the dose of 500 mg / kg BW, as well as the aqueous extract of the mixture at the doses of 50 and 275 mg / kg induced acinar development and eosinophil secretions. These results are proof of estrogen-like effects of T. benthamii and G. pictum and therefore justify the traditional use of these plants. This suggests the presence in these plants, of secondary metabolites with estrogenic properties, can induce cell proliferation, and to correct disorders of post-oophorectomy œstrogénopénia in the Wistar rats and therefore menopausal disorders.
Physico-Chemical Evaluation for Allium hookeri Thw. Enum Leaves
Authors: Swarnalata Nepram , Sharma Shailendra
Published: March 2017

Awareness and general acceptability of the natural products is increasing day by day because of its lesser side effect and cost factor. Above 80% of the world population is depending upon herbal medicines. Use of plants as medicine is the oldest practice that has been used in all countries from ancient time. Based on those old practices medicines of modern days are derived either directly or indirectly from the natural products. Manipur is one of the north eastern states of India and one of the hot spot areas of biodiversity, blessed with the amazing variety of flora and fauna.

Allium hookeri belongs to Alliaceae family and is a perennial herb growing in dampy soil in every kitchen garden in Manipur. It is locally known as Maroi Napakpi and used as spice and condiment in almost all Manipuri dishes. Its taste is preferred over onion in Manipur.Fresh leaves and fibrous roots are used as medicine in reducing temperature, in swelling as an antimicrobial and antioxidant and reducing blood cholesterol etc. It is reported that its root has antioxidant, free radical scavenging, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory action. In Manipur people are taking fresh green leaves for many ailments like reducing temperature, reducing blood cholesterol, etc.. So the present study has been carried out to evaluate pharmacognostic and physicochemical analysis of shade dried leaves of Allium hookeri.. The reported information will provide data which will be useful in proper identification and authentification of this plant for future research work.
On the multi-day haze in the Asian continental outflow: An important
role of synoptic condition combined with regional and local sources
Authors: Seo Jihoon , Kim Jin Young , Youn Daeok , Lee Ji Yi , Kim Hwajin , Lim Yong Bin , Kim Yumi , Jin Hyoun Cher
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Air quality of the megacities in the populated and industrialized regions like East Asia is affected by both local and regional emission sources. A combined effect of regional transport and local emissions on multi-day haze was investigated by synthetic analysis of PM2.5, sampled at both an urban site in Seoul, South Korea and an upwind background site in Deokjeok Island over the Yellow Sea, during a severe multi-day haze episode in late February 2014. Inorganic components as well as carbonaceous species of daily PM2.5 samples were measured, and gaseous pollutants, local meteorological factors and synoptic meteorological conditions were also determined. Dominance of fine-mode particles, a large secondary inorganic fraction (76 %), high OC/EC ratio (7.3), and highly oxidized aerosols under relatively warm, humid, and stagnant conditions characterize the multi-day haze episode; however, the early and late stages of the episode show different chemical compositions of PM2.5. High concentrations of sulfate in both Seoul and the upwind background in the early stage suggest a significant regional influence on the onset of the multi-day haze. At the same time, high concentrations of nitrate and organic compounds in Seoul, which are local and highly correlated with meteorological factors, suggest the contribution of local emissions and secondary formation under the stagnant meteorological condition to the haze. A slow eastward-moving high-pressure system from southern China to the East China Sea induces the regional transport of aerosols and potential gaseous precursors for secondary aerosols from the North China Plain in the early stage but provides stagnant conditions conducive to the accumulation and the local formation of aerosols in the late stage. A blocking ridge over Alaska developed during the episode hinders the zonal propagation of synoptic-scale systems and extends the haze period to several days. This study provides chemical insights of haze development sequentially by regional transport and local sources, and shows that the synoptic condition plays an important role for the dynamical evolution of long-lasting haze in the Asian continental outflow region.
New results on equatorial thermospheric winds and temperatures from Ethiopia, Africa
Authors: Tesema Fasil , Mesquita Rafael , Meriwether John , Damtie Baylie , Nigussie Melessew , Makela Jonathan , Fisher Daniel , Harding Brian , Yizengaw Endawoke , Sanders Samuel
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Measurements of equatorial thermospheric winds, temperatures, and 630 nm relative intensities were obtained using an imaging Fabry–Perot interferometer (FPI), which was recently deployed at Bahir Dar University in Ethiopia (11.6° N, 37.4° E, 3.7° N magnetic). The results obtained in this study cover 6 months (53 nights of useable data) between November 2015 and April 2016. The monthly-averaged values, which include local winter and equinox seasons, show the magnitude of the maximum monthly-averaged zonal wind is typically within the range of 70 to 90 ms−1 and is eastward between 19:00 and 21:00 LT. Compared to prior studies of the equatorial thermospheric wind for this local time period, the magnitude is considerably weaker as compared to the maximum zonal wind speed observed in the Peruvian sector but comparable to Brazilian FPI results. During the early evening, the meridional wind speeds are 30 to 50 ms−1 poleward during the winter months and 10 to 25 ms−1 equatorward in the equinox months. The direction of the poleward wind during the winter months is believed to be mainly caused by the existence of the interhemispheric wind flow from the summer to winter hemispheres. An equatorial wind surge is observed later in the evening and is shifted to later local times during the winter months and to earlier local times during the equinox months. Significant night-to-night variations are also observed in the maximum speed of both zonal and meridional winds. The temperature observations show the midnight temperature maximum (MTM) to be generally present between 00:30 and 02:00 LT. The amplitude of the MTM was  ∼  110 K in January 2016 with values smaller than this in the other months. The local time difference between the appearance of the MTM and a pre-midnight equatorial wind was generally 60 to 180 min. A meridional wind reversal was also observed after the appearance of the MTM (after 02:00 LT). Climatological models, HWM14 and MSIS-00, were compared to the observations and the HWM14 model generally predicted the zonal wind observations well with the exception of higher model values by 25 ms−1 in the winter months. The HWM14 model meridional wind showed generally good agreement with the observations. Finally, the MSIS-00 model overestimated the temperature by 50 to 75 K during the early evening hours of local winter months. Otherwise, the agreement was generally good, although, in line with prior studies, the model failed to reproduce the MTM peak for any of the 6 months compared with the FPI data.
Abiotic versus biotic controls on soil nitrogen cycling in drylands along a 3200 km transect
Authors: Liu Dongwei , Zhu Weixing , Wang Xiaobo , Pan Yuepeng , Wang Chao , Xi Dan , Bai Edith , Wang Yuesi , Han Xingguo , Fang Yunting
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Nitrogen (N) cycling in drylands under changing climate is not well understood. Our understanding of N cycling over larger scales to date relies heavily on the measurement of bulk soil N, and the information about internal soil N transformations remains limited. The 15N natural abundance (δ15N) of ammonium and nitrate can serve as a proxy record for the N processes in soils. To better understand the patterns and mechanisms of N cycling in drylands, we collected soils along a 3200 km transect at about 100 km intervals in northern China, with mean annual precipitation (MAP) ranging from 36 to 436 mm. We analyzed N pools and δ15N of ammonium, dual isotopes (15N and 18O) of nitrate, and the microbial gene abundance associated with soil N transformations. We found that N status and its driving factors were different above and below a MAP threshold of 100 mm. In the arid zone with MAP below 100 mm, soil inorganic N accumulated, with a large fraction being of atmospheric origin, and ammonia volatilization was strong in soils with high pH. In addition, the abundance of microbial genes associated with soil N transformations was low. In the semiarid zone with MAP above 100 mm, soil inorganic N concentrations were low and were controlled mainly by biological processes (e.g., plant uptake and denitrification). The preference for soil ammonium over nitrate by the dominant plant species may enhance the possibility of soil nitrate losses via denitrification. Overall, our study suggests that a shift from abiotic to biotic controls on soil N biogeochemistry under global climate changes would greatly affect N losses, soil N availability, and other N transformation processes in these drylands in China.
Tailored Corneo-Conjunctival Autografting in Primary and Secondary Pterygium Surgery
Authors: Genidy Mahmoud M. , Abdelghany Ahmed A. , Alio Jorge L.
Published: March 2017

Purpose

To describe the outcomes of a novel technique for pterygium removal: tailored corneo-conjunctival autograft, which offers the advantages of better postoperative cosmetic outcomes and recurrence prevention.

Methods

This retrospective interventional noncomparative study included 420 eyes in 370 patients (ages 25-60 years) (127 women, 243 men). We divided the patients into 2 groups. The first group included 348 primary pterygium; the second group included 72 recurrent pterygium. All underwent the same type of corneo-conjunctival autograft surgery from April 2009 to March 2014. The average follow-up period was 12 months. The main outcome measures were to assess pain after surgery, conjunctival healing, cosmetic appearance, and pterygium recurrence at the end of follow-up.

Results

In both groups, the graft donor site healed promptly without excessive scarring. No patient complained of pain during first week after surgery, except for mild discomfort. No major complications were observed such as infection or graft necrosis. In the first group, 2 patients had graft retraction towards the nasal side and were successfully managed conservatively. One patient had Tenon granuloma, which was removed surgically. Recurrence during the follow-up period was seen in one patient (0.2%). In the second group, no recurrent pterygium cases were observed.

Conclusions

The proposed type of corneo-conjunctival autograft offers the advantage of better postoperative cosmetic outcomes. This new technique is effective for surgical management of both primary and recurrent pterygium and preventing its recurrences.
Microcredit in Lebanon: First Data on Its Beneficiaries
Authors: Wahidi Inaya
Published: March 2017

In Lebanon, microfinance is not specially developed. Financial institutions that allocate microcredits are NGOs that are mildly supported by the government. The activity of these institutions affects only 11.5% of the population (IFC, 2008, cited by Mayoukou et al., 2013, p.4). These authors note the lack of empirical data related to microcredit granted by microfinance institutions in Lebanon, particularly regarding the characteristics of their beneficiaries. Our study emphasizes the characteristics of beneficiaries of microcredit allocated by MFIs (microfinance institutions) in Lebanon. As a result of data obtained from MFI heads, the results seem to show that NGOs MFIs give more credit to men than to women, and a low percentage of credit goes to startups. In addition, beneficiaries have a low level of education, poor or moderately poor, and are located in rural areas. Gender discrimination in the allocation of micro-credits was highlighted on the basis of the first data processed in this work. The results of the interviews with MFI’s administrative officials seem to show that the men loan officers may distinguish between male and female beneficiaries and prefer to grant microcredit to a man. Women beneficiaries may have less information about the credits offered by them, or do not take initiative because they live in a patriarchal society. Moreover, men go through their wives to get another microcredit.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Livestock Manure Management in Southwestern Siberia, Russia
Authors: Storrle Maria , Brauckmann Hans-Jorg , Broll Gabriele
Published: March 2017

This study investigates the amounts of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions due to manure handling within different livestock production systems in Tyumen oblast of Western Siberia. Tyumen oblast occupies approx. 160 000 km² of Asian taiga and forest steppe. The amount of GHGs from manure was calculated as a function of the handling according to current IPCC guidelines for ecozones and livestock production systems. The entire Tyumen oblast has annual 7 400 t methane emissions and 440 t nitrous oxide emissions from manure. Three livestock production systems are prevalent in Tyumen oblast: Mega farms, small farms and peasant farms. The share of mega farms is 81 % (171 kt CO2 eq). Additionally, the slurry system in mega farms causes environmental pollution. GHG emissions and environmental pollution could be reduced by implementing solid manure systems or pasturing, by installing storage facilities for slurry outside the stables and through application of the manure as fertiliser at mega farms. In small farms solid manure systems and a small stocking density of livestock lead to smallest GHG emissions (1 %, 3 kt CO2 eq) from manure. In peasant farming 18 % (38 kt CO2 eq) of GHGs are emitted due to pasturing.
El empobrecimiento matemático de las propuestas de enseñanza de Física en los textos oficiales de secundaria
Authors: Barbé Joaquim , Espinoza Salfate Lorena , Gellert Uwe
Published: March 2017

En este trabajo presentamos los resultados de caracterizar las propuestas de enseñanza de los textos oficiales de Física en Chile de 7.º básico a 2.º medio, con el propósito de identificar factores de naturaleza curricular que dificultan el paso de los estudiantes de educación básica a educación media, y que obstaculizan el logro de los aprendizajes esperados declarados en los programas de estudio. Para ello usamos como marco teórico la teoría antropológica de lo didáctico (Chevallard, 1999), en particular la noción de praxeología. Fruto de dicho análisis pudimos establecer un fenómeno didáctico que denominamos «la desmatematización de las propuestas de enseñanza de la Física en la enseñanza secundaria». Creemos que este no es un hecho aislado de Chile y que puede ser un fenómeno didáctico de carácter más general, tal y como lo enuncia Chevallard (2013).
Evaluar para transformar: evaluación de la docencia universitaria bajo el prisma de la sostenibilidad
Authors: Aznar-Minguet Pilar , Ull M.Angeles , Martínez-Agut M.Pilar , Piñero Albert
Published: March 2017

El objetivo principal de este estudio se dirige a diagnosticar el nivel de introducción de la sostenibilidad en las actividades docentes y facilitar la autoevaluación profesional del profesorado universitario desde criterios de sostenibilidad.El estudio está basado en la investigación evaluativa como metodología asociada al paradigma sociocrítico; se analizan los resultados de la aplicación de un cuestionario autodiagnóstico validado, dirigido al profesorado de las áreas científico-técnicas de la Universitat de València. En el proceso sistemático de recogida y análisis de la información se han aplicado criterios para garantizar la calidad del juicio emitido.Los resultados ofrecen un diagnóstico sobre la inclusión de la sostenibilidad en la docencia en las áreas de Ciencias e Ingeniería, objeto del estudio, y pueden servir como punto de partida para iniciar un proceso de cambio y transición hacia prácticas docentes que incluyan los principios, criterios y valores relacionados con la sostenibilidad.
Injuries and overloads in combat sports exemplified by Thai boxing and judo
Authors: Bolach Bartosz , Witkowski Kazimierz , Piepiora Paweł Adam , Sokólski Robert , Bolach Eugeniusz
Published: March 2017

Background: and study aim: Each sports activity, particularly combat sports, involves various injuries and overloads. Injuries are a result of impact of sudden large for ceson tissues, while overloads are caused by small but repetitive forces, which lead to some dysfunction, pain. The aim of this study was to compare injuries and overloads in two combat sports, namely judo and Thai boxing.
Material and methods: The study was conducted on 34 judokas (from MaKo Judo Wrocław Sports Club) and 34 Thai boxers (from Puncher Wrocław Sports Club). The group of Thai boxers consisted of 29 men and 5 women, where as the judoka group was comprised of 23 men and 11 women. The average age of participants was 22.6 years. Internship competes patients was 3 years. The training period was similar for Thai boxers and judokas: Thai boxers trained on average for 8.5hper week, while judokas trained for 6.9h per week.
Results: The study demonstrated that the most common injuries in Thai boxers occurred in lower limbs, while in judokas– in shoulder joints, knee joints and the spine. Thai boxers most frequently developed overloads in lower limbs, whereas judokas– in shoulder joints and the spine.
Conclusions: Thai boxers considerably more frequently sustained injuries of feet, elbow joints and thighs, compared to judokas, who sustained more knee joint injuries. Judokas considerably more frequently suffered from injuries of shoulder joints and the spine compared to Thai boxers. Thai boxers more often developed overloads of lower limbs and elbow joints compared to judokas. On the other hand, judokas considerably more frequently sustained overloads of the spine and shoulder joints compared to Thai boxers.
Perception of injury risk in Muay Thai kickboxing
Authors: Strotmeyer Stephen J. , Lystad Reidar P.
Published: March 2017

Introduction. Notwithstanding the important role risk perception may play in the occurrence and prevention of sports injuries, there is very limited empirical data pertaining to athletes in combat sports. Hence, the purpose of this study was to examine the injury risk perception among Muay Thai fighters.
Material and methods. Muay Thai fighters completed an online survey in which they rated the perceived risk of injury in a range of different sports. Perceived comparative risk was obtained indirectly by subtracting perceived risk of injury to oneself from perceived risk of injury to a peer. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, comparison of means, and ordinal logistic regression.
Results. Muay Thai fighters perceived the risk of injury in their own sport to be significantly lower than that in other collision and contact sports, including popular combat sports such as boxing and mixed martial arts. On average, Muay Thai fighters perceived their own risk injury to be significantly lower compared to their peers (p < .001).
Conclusions. There appears to be a mismatch between actual and perceived injury risk among Muay Thai fighters, who, moreover, exhibit a significant degree of comparative optimism. Because behaviour is determined by perceived rather than actual risk, underestimation of injury risk may lead to an increased frequency of injury. Future injury prevention strategies in combat sports such as Muay Thai kickboxing should consider educational- and psychosocial-based interventions that include efforts to correct erroneous beliefs and attitudes about actual risk of injury in the sport.
Anthropometric Parameters of Amateur Boxers: Comparability and Sensitivity of Equations used to Calculate Body Density
Authors: Davis Philip , Beneke Ralph
Published: March 2017

IIntroduction. The comparability and validity of equations used to calculate body density and body fat in boxers is unknown.
Material and methods. Twenty-one amateur boxers covering all 10 weight categories had seventeen anthropometric measurements taken. Comparison was made between four different percentage body fats based on different body density equations and five different sum of x values.
Results. The results suggest that low and medium-weight boxers are similar in terms of morphological (mesomorph-ectomorph) and anthropometric characteristics, contrasting against the ‘different breed’ of the high-weight group (mesomorph-endomorph). Results from different body density equations differ by as much as 7.6%. The body density equation of Lohman is the most reliable at detecting differences between weight groups.
Conclusion. Priority should be given to measuring subscapular, abdominal and thigh skin folds as they have largest variation between weight categories. Using the sum of 6a (triceps, subscapular, bicep, iliac crest, abdominal and thigh) as opposed to the total sum of 8 improves data collection speed, comparability and validity when making comparisons over time and between boxers. The use of a body fat percentage should only be use as a last resort for feedback of results in layman’s terms and its limitations made clear.
The effects of test trial and processing level on immediate and delayed retention
Authors: Chang Sau Hou
Published: March 2017

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of test trial and processing level on immediate and delayed retention. A 2 × 2 × 2 mixed ANOVAs was used with two between-subject factors of test trial (single test, repeated test) and processing level (shallow, deep), and one within-subject factor of final recall (immediate, delayed). Seventy-six college students were randomly assigned first to the single test (studied the stimulus words three times and took one free-recall test) and the repeated test trials (studied the stimulus words once and took three consecutive free-recall tests), and then to the shallow processing level (asked whether each stimulus word was presented in capital letter or in small letter) and the deep processing level (whether each stimulus word belonged to a particular category) to study forty stimulus words. The immediate test was administered five minutes after the trials, whereas the delayed test was administered one week later. Results showed that single test trial recalled more words than repeated test trial in immediate final free-recall test, participants in deep processing performed better than those in shallow processing in both immediate and delayed retention. However, the dominance of single test trial and deep processing did not happen in delayed retention. Additional study trials did not further enhance the delayed retention of words encoded in deep processing, but did enhance the delayed retention of words encoded in shallow processing.
Transmitting sport values: The importance of parental involvement in children’s sport activity
Authors: Danioni Francesca , Barni Daniela , Rosnati Rosa
Published: March 2017

The transmission of positive values between parents and children is generally considered to be the hallmark of successful socialization. As this issue has been widely discussed but surprisingly little researched - especially with reference to core sport values - in this study we aimed to: 1) analyze adolescent athletes’ acceptance of the sport values their parents want to transmit to them (i.e., parental socialization values) and 2) examine the relationship between parental involvement in children’s sportive activity and adolescents’ acceptance of their parents’ socialization values. One hundred and seventy-two Italian adolescents (48.3% male, 51.7% female) who regularly practice team sports were asked to fill out a questionnaire which included the Youth Sport Values Questionnaire – 2 and the Parental Involvement in Sport Questionnaire. The dyadic correlations revealed that young athletes are in general willing to accept their parents’ socialization values in regards to sport. Moreover, from the relative weight analysis (a relatively new data analysis strategy), it emerged that parental involvement characterized by praise and understanding is the most important predictor of adolescents’ willingness to accept their parents’ sport values. Implications of these results and further expansion of the study are discussed.
Generic assumptions in utterance interpretation: the case of indirect instructions
Authors: Aitken Martin
Published: March 2017

This article addresses the role played by genre in the way in which language users interpret ‘indirect’ directive utterances in the special discourse context of technical instructions. In linguistics, issues of genre have most often been approached from socially oriented frameworks such as systemic functional linguistics and the ethnomethodology of the Swales-Bhatia school. The present article instead adopts the cognitive framework of relevance theory to account for a process of comprehension founded on two modularised cognitive processes, viz. decoding of semantic content and relevance-driven inferential manipulation of resulting representations to which generic assumptions about the discourse provide significant contextual input.
Die Polysemie in der Allgemeinsprache und in der juristischen Fachsprache. Oder: Zur Terminologie der "Sache" im Deutschen
Authors: Eriksen Lars
Published: March 2017

No abstract.
Comprendre la monstration des crimes. Une étude comparée du récit médiatique des violences extrêmes contre les civils durant la Grande Guerre
Authors: Chabot Joceline , Kasparian Sylvia
Published: March 2017

Cet article présente les résultats d’une recherche comparée sur les récits médiatiques du « massacre des Arméniens » et des « atrocités allemandes » dans la presse canadienne francophone durant la Grande Guerre. Quelles sont les spécificités du récit de ces événements eu égard à la définition et la qualification des crimes perpétrés contre les populations civiles ? Le recours aux outils informatisés de données textuelles nous a permis de traiter 1 172 articles de presse afin de rendre visible et de comparer les termes par lesquels les « atrocités allemandes » commises contre les civils sur le front ouest en 1914 et le « massacre des Arméniens » de l’Empire ottoman en 1915-1916 se sont inscrits dans l’espace médiatique. Cette analyse comparative des actes impliquant des violences extrêmes contre les civils devrait valider notre hypothèse selon laquelle les contemporains ont compris le caractère systématique, intentionnel et radical des crimes commis par les autorités ottomanes contre la population arménienne.