bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a Wind Noise Attenuation Algorithm on Subjective Annoyance and Speech-in-Wind Performance
Authors: Korhonen Petri , Kuk Francis , Seper Eric , Mørkebjerg Martin , Roikjer Majken
Published: May 2016

Background:Wind noise is a common problem reported by hearing aid wearers. The MarkeTrak VIII reported that 42% of hearing aid wearers are not satisfied with the performance of their hearing aids in situations where wind is present.Purpose:The current study investigated
the effect of a new wind noise attenuation (WNA) algorithm on subjective annoyance and speech recognition in the presence of wind.Research Design:A single-blinded, repeated measures design was used.Study Sample:Fifteen experienced hearing aid wearers with bilaterally symmetrical
(≤10 dB) mild-to-moderate sensorineural hearing loss participated in the study.Data Collection and Analysis:Subjective rating for wind noise annoyance was measured for wind presented alone from 0° and 290° at wind speeds of 4, 5, 6, 7, and 10 m/sec. Phoneme identification
performance was measured using Widex Office of Clinical Amplification Nonsense Syllable Test presented at 60, 65, 70, and 75 dB SPL from 270° in the presence of wind originating from 0° at a speed of 5 m/sec.Results:The subjective annoyance from wind noise was reduced for wind
originating from 0° at wind speeds from 4 to 7 m/sec. The largest improvement in phoneme identification with the WNA algorithm was 48.2% when speech was presented from 270° at 65 dB SPL and the wind originated from 0° azimuth at 5 m/sec.Conclusion:The WNA algorithm used
in this study reduced subjective annoyance for wind speeds ranging from 4 to 7 m/sec. The algorithm was effective in improving speech identification in the presence of wind originating from 0° at 5 m/sec. These results suggest that the WNA algorithm used in the current study could expand
the range of real-life situations where a hearing-impaired person can use the hearing aid optimally.
THE HUBBLE SPACE TELESCOPE UV LEGACY SURVEY OF GALACTIC GLOBULAR CLUSTERS. VII. IMPLICATIONS FROM THE NEARLY UNIVERSAL NATURE OF HORIZONTAL BRANCH DISCONTINUITIES*
Authors: Brown T. M. , Cassisi S. , D’Antona F. , Salaris M. , Milone A. P. , Dalessandro E. , Piotto G. , Renzini A. , Sweigart A. V. , Bellini A. , Ortolani S. , Sarajedini A. , Aparicio A. , Bedin L. R. , Anderson J. , Pietrinferni A. , Nardiello D.
Published: May 2016

The UV-initiative Hubble Space Telescope Treasury survey of Galactic globular clusters provides a new window into the phenomena that shape the morphological features of the horizontal branch (HB). Using this large and homogeneous catalog of UV and blue photometry, we demonstrate that the HB exhibits discontinuities that are remarkably consistent in color (effective temperature). This consistency is apparent even among some of the most massive clusters hosting multiple distinct sub-populations (such as NGC 2808, ω Cen, and NGC 6715), demonstrating that these phenomena are primarily driven by atmospheric physics that is independent of the underlying population properties. However, inconsistencies arise in the metal-rich clusters NGC 6388 and NGC 6441, where the discontinuity within the blue HB (BHB) distribution shifts ∼1000–2000 K hotter. We demonstrate that this shift is likely due to a large helium enhancement in the BHB stars of these clusters, which in turn affects the surface convection and evolution of such stars. Our survey also increases the number of Galactic globular clusters known to host blue-hook stars (also known as late hot flashers) from 6 to 23 clusters. These clusters are biased toward the bright end of the globular cluster luminosity function, confirming that blue-hook stars tend to form in the most massive clusters with significant self-enrichment.
Hα IMAGING OF NEARBY SEYFERT HOST GALAXIES
Authors: Theios Rachel L. , Malkan Matthew A. , Ross Nathaniel R.
Published: May 2016

We used narrowband (Δλ = 70 Å) interference filters with the CCD imaging camera on the Nickel 1.0 m telescope at Lick Observatory to observe 31 nearby (z < 0.03) Seyfert galaxies in the 12 μm active galaxy sample. We obtained pure emission-line images of each galaxy, which reach down to a flux limit of 7.3 × 10−15 erg cm−2 s−1 arcsec−2, and corrected these images for [N ii] emission and extinction. We separated the Hα emission line of the “nucleus” (central 100–1000 pc) from that of the host galaxy. The extended Hα emission is expected to be powered by newly formed hot stars, and indeed correlates well with other indicators of current star formation rates (SFRs) in these galaxies: extended 7.7 μm polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, total far-infrared, and radio luminosity. Relative to what would be expected from recent star formation, there is a 0.8 dex excess of radio emission in our Seyfert galaxies. The Hα luminosity we measured in the centers of our galaxies is dominated by the active galactic nucleus (AGN), and is linearly correlated with the hard X-ray luminosity. There is, however, an upward offset of 1 dex in this correlation for the Seyfert 1s, because their nuclear Hα emission includes a strong additional contribution from the broad-line region. We found a correlation between SFR and AGN luminosity. In spite of selection effects, we concluded that the absence of bright Seyfert nuclei in galaxies with low SFRs is real, albeit only weakly significant. Finally, we used our measured spatial distributions of Hα emission to determine what these Seyfert galaxies would look like when observed through fixed apertures (e.g., a spectroscopic fiber) at high redshifts. We found that although all of these Seyfert galaxies would be detectable emission-line galaxies at any redshift, most of them would appear to be dominated by (>67%) their H ii region emission. Only the most luminous AGNs (log(L
Hα
/erg s−1) > 41.5) would still be identified as such at z ∼ 0.3.
A NEW CONSTRAINT ON THE Lyα FRACTION OF UV VERY BRIGHT GALAXIES AT REDSHIFT 7
Authors: Furusawa Hisanori , Kashikawa Nobunari , Kobayashi Masakazu A. R. , Dunlop James S. , Shimasaku Kazuhiro , Takata Tadafumi , Sekiguchi Kazuhiro , Naito Yoshiaki , Furusawa Junko , Ouchi Masami , Nakata Fumiaki , Yasuda Naoki , Okura Yuki , Taniguchi Yoshiaki , Yamada Toru , Kajisawa Masaru , Fynbo Johan P. U. , Fèvre Olivier Le
Published: May 2016

We study the extent to which very bright (

) Lyman-break-selected galaxies at redshifts

display detectable Lyα emission. To explore this issue, we obtained follow-up optical spectroscopy of 9

galaxies from a parent sample of 24

galaxy candidates selected from the 1.65 deg2 COSMOS-UltraVISTA and SXDS-UDS survey fields using the latest near-infrared public survey data, and new ultra-deep Subaru z′-band imaging (which we also present and describe in this paper). Our spectroscopy yielded only one possible detection of Lyα at z = 7.168 with a rest-frame equivalent width

. The relative weakness of this line, combined with our failure to detect Lyα emission from the other spectroscopic targets, allows us to place a new upper limit on the prevalence of strong Lyα emission at these redshifts. For conservative calculation and to facilitate comparison with previous studies at lower redshifts, we derive a 1σ upper limit on the fraction of UV-bright galaxies at

that display

, which we estimate to be

. This result may indicate a weak trend where the fraction of strong Lyα emitters ceases to rise, and possibly falls between z ≃ 6 and

. Our results also leave open the possibility that strong Lyα may still be more prevalent in the brightest galaxies in the reionization era than their fainter counterparts. A larger spectroscopic sample of galaxies is required to derive a more reliable constraint on the neutral hydrogen fraction at

based on the Lyα fraction in the bright galaxies.
K2 ROTATION PERIODS FOR LOW-MASS HYADS AND THE IMPLICATIONS FOR GYROCHRONOLOGY
Authors: Douglas S. T. , Agüeros M. A. , Covey K. R. , Cargile P. A. , Barclay T. , Cody A. , Howell S. B. , Kopytova T.
Published: May 2016

As the closest open cluster to the Sun, the Hyades is an important benchmark for many stellar properties, but its members are also scattered widely over the sky. Previous studies of stellar rotation in the Hyades relied on targeted observations of single stars or data from shallower all-sky variability surveys. The re-purposed Kepler mission, K2, is the first opportunity to measure rotation periods (P
rot) for many Hyads simultaneously while also being sensitive to fully convective M dwarf members. We analyze K2 data for 65 Hyads and present P
rot values for 48. Thirty-seven of these are new measurements, including the first P
rot measurements for fully convective Hyads. For 9 of the 11 stars with P
rot in the literature and this work, the measurements are consistent; we attribute the two discrepant cases to spot evolution. Nearly all stars with masses ≲0.3 M
⊙ are rapidly rotating, indicating a change in rotation properties at the boundary to full convection. When confirmed and candidate binaries are removed from the mass–period plane, only three rapid rotators with masses ≳0.3 M
⊙ remain. This is in contrast to previous results showing that the single-valued mass–period sequence for ≈600 Myr old stars ends at ≈0.65 M
⊙ when binaries are included. We also find that models of rotational evolution predict faster rotation than is actually observed at ≈600 Myr for stars ≲0.9 M
⊙. The dearth of single rapid rotators more massive than ≈0.3 M
⊙ indicates that magnetic braking is more efficient than previously thought, and that age–rotation studies must account for multiplicity.
UNBOUND DEBRIS STREAMS AND REMNANTS RESULTING FROM THE TIDAL DISRUPTIONS OF STARS BY SUPERMASSIVE BLACK HOLES
Authors: Guillochon James , McCourt Michael , Chen Xian , Johnson Michael D. , Berger Edo
Published: May 2016

The kinetic energy of a star in orbit about a supermassive black hole is a significant fraction of its rest mass energy when its periapse is comparable to its tidal radius. Upon its destruction, a fraction of this energy is extracted and injected into the stellar debris, half of which becomes unbound from the black hole, with the fastest material moving at

. In this paper, we present a formalism for determining the fate of these unbound debris streams (UDSs) as they depart from the black hole and interact with the surrounding gas. As the density and velocity varies along the length of a UDS, we find that hydrodynamical drag quickly shapes UDSs into loop-like structures, with the densest portions of the streams leading portions of lower density. As UDSs travel outwards, their drag against the ISM increases quadratically with distance, which causes UDSs to deposit their momentum and energy into the ambient medium before the surrounding shocked ISM has a chance to cool. This sudden injection of

erg into the ambient medium generates a Sedov-like unbound debris remnant (UDR) that mimics supernova remnants (SNRs) in energetics and appearance, accelerates particles which will produce cosmic rays and synchrotron emission, and provides momentum feedback into the molecular clouds surrounding a black hole. We estimate that a few of these UDRs might be present within a couple degrees of the Galactic Center masquerading as SNRs, and that the UDR scenario is a plausible explanation for Sgr A east.
STAR FORMATION IN W3—AFGL 333: YOUNG STELLAR CONTENT, PROPERTIES, AND ROLES OF EXTERNAL FEEDBACK
Authors: Jose Jessy , Kim Jinyoung S. , Herczeg Gregory J. , Samal Manash R. , Bieging John H. , Meyer Michael R. , Sherry William H.
Published: May 2016

One of the key questions in the field of star formation is the role of stellar feedback on the subsequent star formation process. The W3 giant molecular cloud complex at the western border of the W4 super bubble is thought to be influenced by the massive stars in W4. This paper presents a study of the star formation activity within AFGL 333, a ∼104
M
⊙ cloud within W3, using deep JHK

s
photometry obtained from the NOAO Extremely Wide Field Infrared Imager combined with Spitzer IRAC and MIPS photometry. Based on the infrared excess, we identify 812 candidate young stellar objects (YSOs) in the complex, of which 99 are Class I and 713 are Class II sources. The stellar density analysis of YSOs reveals three major stellar aggregates within AFGL 333, namely AFGL 333 Main, AFGL 333 NW1 and AFGL 333 NW2. The disk fraction within AFGL 333 is estimated to be ∼50%–60%. We use the extinction map made from the

colors of the background stars and CO data to understand the cloud structure and to estimate the cloud mass. From the stellar and cloud mass associated with AFGL 333, we infer that the region is currently forming stars with an efficiency of ∼4.5% and at a rate of ∼2–3 M
⊙ Myr−1 pc−2. In general, the star formation activity within AFGL 333 is comparable to that of nearby low mass star-forming regions. We do not find any strong evidence to suggest that the stellar feedback from the massive stars of nearby W4 super bubble has affected the global star formation properties of the AFGL 333 region.
THE NEXT GENERATION VIRGO CLUSTER SURVEY XVI: THE ANGULAR MOMENTUM OF DWARF EARLY-TYPE GALAXIES FROM GLOBULAR CLUSTER SATELLITES
Authors: Toloba Elisa , Li Biao , Guhathakurta Puragra , Peng Eric W. , Ferrarese Laura , Côté Patrick , Emsellem Eric , Gwyn Stephen , Zhang Hongxin , Boselli Alessandro , Cuillandre Jean-Charles , Jordan Andres , Liu Chengze
Published: May 2016

We analyze the kinematics of six Virgo cluster dwarf early-type galaxies (dEs) from their globular cluster (GC) systems. We present new Keck/DEIMOS spectroscopy for three of them and re-analyze the data found in the literature for the remaining three. We use two independent methods to estimate the rotation amplitude (V
rot) and velocity dispersion (σ
GC) of the GC systems and evaluate their statistical significance by simulating non-rotating GC systems with the same number of GC satellites and velocity uncertainties. Our measured kinematics agree with the published values for the three galaxies from the literature and, in all cases, some rotation is measured. However, our simulations show that the null hypothesis of being non-rotating GC systems cannot be ruled out. In the case of VCC 1861, the measured V
rot and the simulations indicate that it is not rotating. In the case of VCC 1528, the null hypothesis can be marginally ruled out, and thus it might be rotating although further confirmation is needed. In our analysis, we find that, in general, the measured V
rot tends to be overestimated and the measured σ
GC tends to be underestimated by amounts that depend on the intrinsic V
rot/σ
GC, the number of observed GCs (N
GC), and the velocity uncertainties. The bias is negligible when N
GC ≳ 20. In those cases where a large N
GC is not available, it is imperative to obtain data with small velocity uncertainties. For instance, errors of ≤2 km s−1 lead to V
rot < 10 km s−1 for a system that is intrinsically not rotating.
A UNIFORM CATALOG OF MOLECULAR CLOUDS IN THE MILKY WAY
Authors: Rice Thomas S. , Goodman Alyssa A. , Bergin Edwin A. , Beaumont Christopher , Dame T. M.
Published: May 2016

The all-Galaxy CO survey of Dame et al. is by far the most uniform, large-scale Galactic CO survey. Using a dendrogram-based decomposition of this survey, we present a catalog of 1064 massive molecular clouds throughout the Galactic plane. This catalog contains 2.5 × 108 solar masses, or

25

−
5.8

+
10.7

%

of the Milky Way's estimated H2 mass. We track clouds in some spiral arms through multiple quadrants. The power index of Larson's first law, the size-linewidth relation, is consistent with 0.5 in all regions—possibly due to an observational bias—but clouds in the inner Galaxy systematically have significantly (∼30%) higher linewidths at a given size, indicating that their linewidths are set in part by the Galactic environment. The mass functions of clouds in the inner Galaxy versus the outer Galaxy are both qualitatively and quantitatively distinct. The inner Galaxy mass spectrum is best described by a truncated power law with a power index of γ = −1.6 ± 0.1 and an upper truncation mass of M
0 = (1.0 ± 0.2) × 107
M
⊙, while the outer Galaxy mass spectrum is better described by a non-truncating power law with γ = −2.2 ± 0.1 and an upper mass of M
0 = (1.5 ± 0.5) × 106
M
⊙, indicating that the inner Galaxy is able to form and host substantially more massive GMCs than the outer Galaxy. Additionally, we have simulated how the Milky Way would appear in CO from extragalactic perspectives, for comparison with CO maps of other galaxies.
A key to the East Palaearctic and Oriental species of the genus Rhysipolis Foerster, and the first host records of Rhysipolis longicaudatus Belokobylskij (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Rhysipolinae)
Authors: Zhang Ying , Xiong Zi-Cheng , van Achterberg Kees , Li Tao
Published: May 2016

A key to the East Palaearctic and northern Oriental species of Rhysipolis Foerster, 1862 (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Rhysipolinae) is presented. Rhysipolis longicaudatus Belokobylskij, 1994 (stat. nov.) is redescribed, the first host records are given and it is reported new for China.

Rhysipolis longicaudatus was reared from Taleporia sp. (Lepidoptera: Psychidae) in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and from Bazaria turensis Ragonot (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in Qinghai Province.
Leadership Education within Transitional Justice Instruments
Authors: Campbell Andrew H.
Published: May 2016

Transitional justice is an evolving field of study and is still in its infancy stage of theoretical development (Bell, 2009; Skarr & Wiebelhaus-Brahm, 2013). This chapter introduces leadership not only as a critical and overlooked dimension of executing transitional justice instruments but also as a strategic enabler within the transitional justice and peacebuilding discipline. In fact, literature analysis noted there lacks a theoretical understanding and application of leadership concepts, principles, and studies within the transitional justice formula (Teital, 2008). Ferch (2012) and Tutu (2000) suggest political leaders influence the rise of conflict and maintenance of peace between nations and sub-groups. The discussion addresses the theoretical leadership constructs and conceptual relationships that impact organizational leaders executing transitional justice formulas and peacebuilding activities. Furthermore, presenting a leadership framework that identifies individual and organizational competencies as well as an educational framework provides a baseline for organizational development as agencies seek to improve delivery of services in civic engagement and peacebuilding activities.
Promoting Peace through Democratizing Schools on Gandhian Vision
Authors: Abdul Gafoor K.  , Narayanan Mini
Published: May 2016

The more one realizes about himself, the more he appreciates about the other. The need of having a harmonious mind and life with the nature through an education powered by peace and non-violence is stressed in this chapter. An attempt is made to advocate ways to prepare children in accomplishing peace through instructional principles implied by Gandhian philosophy. Classroom practices proposed herein embrace peace education strategies to develop tolerance in children for the survival in the global society. It also deals with the classroom practices that can be designed to find the “self” in a child to make him self-sufficient, natural and complete. A student-centered approach, which comprises strategies like collaborative learning, cooperative learning, discussion forums, and problem solving strategies not only strengthens the human relationships but also creates a sense of unity in diversity.
The Dawning of the Environmental Ethics and the New Holistic Paradigm for Peace
Authors: Queirós António dos Santos
Published: May 2016

In this chapter we want to discuss the new holistic paradigm for peace that blossomed with the dawning of the Environmental Ethics in the 20st and 21st century, on the framework of “Meaning and Concept of Peace Education”. We introduce to the debate the question of “Political ethics” and the problem of “political alienation”, trying to answer the key question of “Holistic Peace: Need of Hour” - Why must environmental ethics prevail, over democratic and socialist politics, modern science and international right? The topics and concepts of “Pedagogical Paradigms of Peace Education”, connected to the “Models and Strategies of Peace Education” and “Peace Education in Class-Room Practice” will be discussed in the context of literacy to a new paradigm for the science and civilization, report the case-study of Portuguese CEFOP.Conimbriga (R&D).
Beyond Ethnicity and Racism
Authors: Haelyon Hilla
Published: May 2016

According to Robertson (2000), globalization has changed the human texture in classrooms at universities and colleges. The need to acquire knowledge, and the importance of higher education have contributed to the diversity. The 21st century has made teaching a challenging task, in which the teacher is a major player in the arena. Political struggles about and through education occur in university campuses, different groups of students participate actively or passively in political activity. This complex situation requires new methods of teaching and guidance. Teachers should expand their teaching methods, sharpen their awareness and sensitivity to the socio- cultural forces in class, and often use creative means, in order to ensure a pleasant learning environment that promotes the didactic goals.
Blended Approach
Authors: Harnish Richard , Plous F.K.
Published: May 2016

High Speed Rail development is an increasingly significant, interesting topic in the present and expected to continue to grow even more in the future. Implementation of high-speed rail would require the right type of track network system that would need to be maintained and/or built, as necessary. In this chapter, the author recommends that the United States will need to use the Blended or Building Block Approach to develop high-speed rail. He presents several examples of blended infrastructure worldwide for high-speed rail, which would offer a range of tools here in the United States for high-speed rail development.
CORPORAÇÕES FINANCEIRAS: UMA ANÁLISE DO BANCO SANTANDER NO BRASIL (2006 - 2012)
Authors: Dias Bruno Bonsanto , Videira Sandra Lúcia
Published: May 2016

Como entidades do capital, os bancos são fundamentalmente grandes agentes organizadores e reprodutores do espaço global contemporâneo. À vista disso, este trabalho buscou fomentar algumas reflexões teóricas a respeito do protagonismo dos bancos diante da economia capitalista, tendo como objetivo principal trazer uma análise geográfica sobre a atuação do Banco Santander no Brasil, o maior banco estrangeiro em atividade no país no período de 2006 a 2012. Buscou-se investigar as principais condições do sistema político-econômico brasileiro durante as últimas décadas do século XX e início do XXI, as quais culminaram com uma forte atuação do Banco Santander em território brasileiro. Para elucidar a dinâmica territorial do banco, foi necessário buscar dados que nos informassem o número de agências do Santander e suas respectivas localizações. Para tanto, recorreu-se a fontes bibliográficas e consultas ao órgão regulador do sistema financeiro no Brasil, o Banco Central do Brasil, bem como aos relatórios anuais do Banco Santander no Brasil. O recorte temporal da pesquisa se deu a partir do ano de 2006, em função da aquisição do Banco Real por parte do Santander, processo responsável por aumentar significativamente sua territorialidade no país. A pesquisa revelou uma disposição espacial heterogênea entre as regiões do país com relação ao número de agências e serviços prestados pelo banco. Os espaços mais dotados de meios técnico-científicos informacionais e, consequentemente, mais atrativos ao capital, coincidem com os estados cuja concentração do número de agências do Banco Santander é maior, demonstrando o comportamento típico de uma corporação do capital em tempos de globalização financeira.
PERCEPÇÃO AMBIENTAL DE MORADORES DA SUB-BACIA HIDROGRÁFICA DO CÓRREGO HORIZONTE SOB OS ASPECTOS DA CONSERVAÇÃO DO SOLO E ÁGUA
Authors: Rodrigues Rogério Rangel , Cândido Amarilson De Oliveira , Ferrari Jéferson Luiz , De Lima Wallace Luís
Published: May 2016

A visão de preservação ambiental engloba todas as áreas do meio ambiente, contribuindo tanto para a sustentabilidade do meio ambiente quanto para a agricultura. Nesse sentido, objetivou-se com esse trabalho avaliar a percepção ambiental dos moradores da zona rural da sub-bacia hidrográfica do córrego Horizonte quanto aos aspectos da conservação do solo e da água. A sub-bacia hidrográfica do córrego Horizonte fica localizada no distrito de Rive, município de Alegre, Sul do estado do Espírito Santo. Para a coleta dos dados utilizou-se de questionários tipo fechado contendo perguntas estruturadas de forma a identificar os problemas socioambientais existentes e a percepção e conscientização dos moradores acerca das práticas conservacionistas do solo e da água. Foram visitadas e investigadas 14 propriedades rurais e entrevistados seus respectivos responsáveis. Os dados levantados foram georreferenciados, tabulados, analisados, interpretados e apresentados na forma de tabelas e gráficos. O estudo demonstrou que há conscientização dos moradores a respeito da importância das práticas de conservação do solo e da água, porém em grande parte das propriedades rurais é comum a observação de algum tipo de erosão do solo e a existência de nascentes desprotegidas. Em algumas propriedades rurais o sistema de produção, predominantemente convencional, pode ser mudado para o agroecológico, visto que existe um considerável aporte de material orgânico proveniente da produção de bovinos.
Impact Factor of Journals
Authors: Mahaliyanaarachchi Rohana P.
Published: May 2016

No Abstract
The Length Polymorphism of the Locus psbA-trnH is Idyllic to Detect the Adulterations of Black Pepper with Papaya Seeds and Chili
Authors: Dissanayake D.R.R.P. , Herath H.M.P.D. , Dissanayake M.D.M.I.M. , Chamikara M.D.M. , Jayakody M.M. , Amaresekara S.S.C. , Kularathna K.W.T.R. , Karannagoda N.N.H. , Ishan M. , Sooriyapathirana S.D.S.S.
Published: May 2016

Black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) is an important spice. The adulteration of black pepper seeds and powder with papaya seeds, green chili and red chili can be seen and limited studies have been conducted to detect these adulterants. The objectives of the present study were to assess the appropriateness of morphometric methods to discriminate papaya seed and chili adulterations in black pepper and to establish a DNA based strategy to detect these adulterations. A necessary adulteration series of seeds and powders were prepared for the analyses along with commercial samples. The appearance of the seed and powder samples were slightly different but not very distinct among the pure and adulterated samples emphasizing the need of a biochemical approach to detect the adulteration. The adulterated and commercial black pepper samples received lower pungency ranks compared to that of pure samples. QIAGEN DNeasy® Plant Mini Kit was successful in extracting PCR amplifiable DNA from any sample without papaya seeds and the modified CTAB method was able to extract required PCR amenable DNA from any sample with papaya seed material. The universal DNA barcoding primer pair, psbA-trnH, was used to amplify the DNA. Black pepper DNA yielded 200 bp band, chili and papaya DNA yielded 450 bp band and DNA from adulterated samples produced both 200 bp and 450 bp bands. Therefore this strategy can be used to detect papaya / chili adulterations in black pepper.
Antifungal Activity of Croton aromaticus L. in vitro, Against Post-Harvest Fungal Pathogens Isolated from Tropical Fruits
Authors: Wijesundara S.A.D.T.L. , Kannangara B.T.S.D.P. , Abeywickrama K.
Published: May 2016

Synthetic fungicides are widely used in controlling postharvest diseases of fruits worldwide. The interest of finding natural bioactive components has increased due to the harmful effects of synthetic fungicides on environment and health. Present study was an attempt to evaluate the antifungal activity of ethanolic extract of Croton aromaticus leaves in vitro, against mycelial growth and spore germination of postharvest fungal pathogens isolated from banana (Colletotrichum musae, Lasiodiplodia theobromae), papaya (Colletotrichum gleosporioides, L. theobromae) and mango (Alternaria alternata, Pestalotiopsis mangiferae, L. theobromae), and to analyze phytochemicals of the extract qualitatively. Inhibitory effect of the ethanolic extract was investigated by well diffusion method with different concentrations (1, 5, 10, 30, 50, 100, 200 and 300 mg ml-1) along with positive control (Captan) and negative control (DMSO). Significant inhibitory effects (P < 0.05) were exhibited by the extract against C. musae, P. mangiferae, A. alternata and C. gleosporioides except L. theobromae. The lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of the leaf extract (5 mg ml-1) was observed for C. gleosporioides and P. mangiferae. Qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, terpenoids, quinones, phytosterols and flavonoids in leaf extract of the plant. Thin layer chromatographic (TLC) assay revealed the presence of four bioactive compounds with Rf values of 0.551, 0.672, 0.810 and 0.913.
Field growth traits and insect-host plant interactions of two transgenic canola (Brassicaceae) lines with elevated trichome numbers
Authors: Alahakoon U. , Adamson J. , Grenkow L. , Soroka J. , Bonham-Smith P. , Gruber M.
Published: May 2016

Plant growth and insect resistance characteristics were determined for two Brassica napus Linnaeus (Brassicaceae) lines, AtGL3+ and K-5-8, developed for enhanced trichome densities relative to their parental cultivar Westar. In the field, both transgenic lines had glabrous cotyledons that curled upwards at emergence but flattened with time, and young leaves with elevated trichome density. Flea beetle (Phyllotreta cruciferae (Goeze) and Phyllotreta striolata (Fabricius); Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) feeding was reduced on true leaves of both lines by 30–50% compared with insecticide-free Westar. Flea beetle feeding levels on cotyledons of the two hairy-leaved lines were lower than on unprotected Westar and similar to those seen on insecticide-treated Westar. Antixenosis and antibiosis resistance was observed when diamondback moths (Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus); Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) interacted with the hairy AtGL3+ and K-5-8 lines in the laboratory. Although the numbers of eggs laid by female diamondback moths on the transformed lines were similar to or higher than on Westar, in feeding bioassays larvae moved off AtGL3+ plants and larval feeding injury decreased on the transformed lines compared with Westar leaves. No agronomic or seed yield penalties were found for plants of K-5-8. These data highlight the utility of manipulating trichome regulatory genes to increase plant resistance against brassicaceous insect pests.
First evaluations of oxygen-ozone therapy in antibiotic-resistant infections
Authors: Franzini Marianno , Valdenassi Luigi , Ionita Giulia
Published: May 2016

Acquired antibiotic resistance represents one of the main restrictions to an effective antibacterial chemotherapy. The continuous growth of the phenomenon draws a therapeutical problem to eradicate infections. Ozone presents known properties, such as antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, immunomodulation, and reactivation of microcirculation. Oxygen-ozone therapy has no collateral effects, it is minimally invasive, it is not painful and it does not cause allergic or toxic reactions or drug-drug interactions. Therefore, oxygen-ozone therapy has proved to be useful to control and run out infections in patients with a noted antimicrobial resistant pathology. We are evaluating the best protocol to treat these pathologies, to obtain the most efficient therapeutical response.
Motivation, engagement, attitudes and buying intent of female Facebook users
Authors: Le Roux Irene , Maree Tania
Published: May 2016

Orientation: This research examined the influence of motives and engagement on brand attitudes and the influence thereof on buying intentions in the context of online social media brand communities.Research purpose: The primary purpose was to investigate the interrelationship between motives, engagement, brand attitudes and buying intent of female Facebook brand apparel community members in South Africa.Motivation for the study: Social media created a new tool for marketers to break through advertising clutter. Scholars assert that the influence of social media brand communities on consumers’ attitudes, behaviour and intentions need to be studied, and such research should be applied to a specific industry.Research design, approach and method: A total of 333 female apparel brand community members on Facebook completed a quantitative, structured online survey. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to investigate the interrelationship between the constructs.Main findings: The results indicated significant relationships between some of the hypothesised constructs, namely hedonic motives and brand attitude, as well as brand attitude and buyingintention.Practical/managerial implications: The findings suggested marketers should create entertaining and useful brand community experiences, as that lead to favourable attitudes, and positively influence buying intention. Suggestions for marketers to use this platform effectively to engage community members were provided.Contribution: The research contributed to the limited knowledge on brand community behaviour on Facebook in an emerging market context. This research examined female consumers, an influential segment of social media users. It provided empirical support for the theoretical relationship between brand attitude and buying intention.
The viable but non-culturable state in pathogenic Escherichia coli: A general review
Authors: Pienaar Jennifer A. , Singh Atheesha , Barnard Tobias G.
Published: May 2016

Background: The persistence and pathogenicity of pathogenic bacteria are dependent on the ability of the species to survive in adverse conditions. During the infectious process, the organism may need to pass through certain hostile anatomical sites, such as the stomach. Under various environmental stresses, many bacteria enter into the viable but non-culturable (VBNC) state, where they are ‘alive’ or metabolically active, but will not grow on conventional media. Escherichia coli bacteria encounter several diverse stress factors during their growth, survival and infection and thus may enter into the VBNC state.Objectives: This review discusses various general aspects of the VBNC state, the mechanisms and possible public health impact of indicator and pathogenic E. coli entering into the VBNC state.Method: A literature review was conducted to ascertain the possibleimpact of E. coli entering into the VBNC state.Results: Escherichia coli enter into the VBNC state by means of several induction mechanisms. Various authors have found that E. coli can be resuscitated post-VBNC. Certain strains of pathogenic E. coli are still able to produce toxins in the VBNC state, whilst others are avirulent during the VBNC state but are able to regain virulence after resuscitation.Conclusion: Pathogenic and indicator E. coli entering into the VBNC state could have an adverse effect on public health if conventional detection methods are used, where the number of viable cells could be underestimated and the VBNC cells still produce toxins or could, at anytime, be resuscitated and become virulent again.
Integrating spirituality and rationality the long and arduous journey of the historical development of theological training in the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa
Authors: Nel Marius , Janse van Rensburg Fika
Published: May 2016

The chequered path of the development of theological training in the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa (AFM of SA) started with animosity towards any form of training in favour of the presumed equipment provided by the anointment with the Spirit. Later it led to recognition of the need for better training in the form of Bible school equipment for ministering in assemblies. Finally, the need for proper theological training was acknowledged. The composition of the church’s membership and the way it was treated by other denominations influenced the way the Pentecostal Movement defined its stance towards theological training. In this article the AFM of SA’s journey and development of its viewpoint towards theological training will be discussed.Keywords: Theological training, AFM of SA, Bible school, Auckland Park Theological Seminary, North-West University
Differential Effects of TRPA and TRPV Channels on Behaviors of Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Thies Jennifer , Neutzler Vanessa , O'leary Fidelma , Liu He
Published: May 2016

TRPA and TRPV ion channels are members of the transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channel superfamily, which mediates various sensory transductions. In Caenorhabditis elegans, the TRPV channels are known to affect chemosensation, while the TRPA-1 channel is associated with thermosensation and mechanosensation. We examined thermosensation, chemosensation, and osmosensation in strains lacking TRPA-1 or TRPV channels. We found that TRPV channel knockout worms exhibited similar behavioral deficits associated with thermotaxis as the TRPA-1 channel knockout, suggesting a dual role for TRPV channels. In contrast, chemosensation responses, assessed by both avoidance reversal behavior and NaCl osmosensation, were dependent on TRPV channels but seemed independent of TRPA-1 channel. Our findings suggest that, in addition to TRPA-1 channel, TRPV channels are necessary for thermotaxis and may activate, or modulate, the function of TRPA-1 channels. In contrast, TRPA-1 channels do not have a dual responsibility, as they have no functional role in odorant avoidance or osmosensation.
Integrating Heterogeneous Biomedical Data for Cancer Research: the CARPEM infrastructure
Authors: Canuel Vincent , Countouris Hector , Laurent-Puig Pierre , Burgun Anita , Rance Bastien
Published: May 2016

Cancer research involves numerous disciplines. The multiplicity of data sources and their heterogeneous nature render the integration and the exploration of the data more and more complex. Translational research platforms are a promising way to assist scientists in these tasks. In this article, we identify a set of scientific and technical principles needed to build a translational research platform compatible with ethical requirements, data protection and data-integration problems. We describe the solution adopted by the CARPEM cancer research program to design and deploy a platform able to integrate retrospective, prospective, and day-to-day care data. We designed a three-layer architecture composed of a data collection layer, a data integration layer and a data access layer. We leverage a set of open-source resources including i2b2 and tranSMART.

Citation: Rance B, Canuel V, Countouris H, Laurent-Puig P, Burgun A. Integrating heterogeneous biomedical data for cancer research: the CARPEM infrastructure.
Novel Application of HDlive Silhouette and HDliveFlow: Clinical Significance of the ‘See-through Fashion’ in Prenatal Diagnosis
Authors: Pooh Ritsuko K
Published: May 2016

Owing to prenatal ultrasound technology, there has been an immense acceleration in understanding of early human development. Recent advanced three-dimensional (3D) technology has produced exciting new applications of high-definition live (HDlive) silhouette and HDliveFlow imaging.

By HDlive silhouette mode, an inner cystic structure with fluid collection can be depicted through the outer surface structure of the body and it can be appropriately named as see-through fashion’. Additionally, HDlive silhouette can depict hyperechoic structures, such as bones because skeletal system is demonstrated by ultrasound as conspicuously echogenic organs.

HDliveFlow imaging adds more spatial resolution to conventional 3D ultrasound angiogram. HDliveFlow imaging demonstrates fine peripheral blood vessels, such as vascularity of the lung, brain and eyeballs. HDliveFlow combined with silhouette mode demonstrates the accurate location of vascularity inside organs. Simultaneous visualization of both structure and vascularity is quite comprehensive and may add further clinical information of vascularization.

Thus, ‘see-through fashion’ imaging technology provides us comprehensive orientation and persuasive localization of inner morphological structure as well as of angiostructure inside the fetal organs. HDlive silhouette and flow imaging add further clinical significance to conventional three/four-dimensional (3D/4D) imaging in fields of sonoembryology and neurosonology, and may open up a new field of sono-ophthalmology. Owing to novel applications with clinical significance, fetal ultrasound is at present noninvasive, direct-viewing of the embryo/fetus, and all-inclusive technology, and is definitely the first modality of prenatal diagnosis with infinite potential.

How to cite this article

Pooh RK. Novel Application of HDlive Silhouette and HDliveFlow: Clinical Significance of the ‘Seethrough Fashion’ in Prenatal Diagnosis. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2016;10(1):90-98.
Does Parity have an Effect on Fetal Behavior? A Comparison between Primi- and Multiparas
Authors: Uiko Hanaoka , Mohamed Ahmed Mostafa AboEllail , Rina Uematsu , Junko Noguchi , Takashi Kusaka , Asim Kurjak
Published: May 2016

Aim

To evaluate the effect of parity on fetal behavior between primi- and multiparas.

Materials and methods

Fetal behavior was assesed by Kurjak's antenatal neurodevelopmental test (KANET) using four-dimensional (4D) ultrasound between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation. Forty-four primiparous and 61 multiparous women were studied. The total value of the KANET score and values of each parameter (8 parameters) were compared

Results

The total KANET score was normal in both groups except for in only one case in the multiparous group (total KANET score of 9), and there was no significant difference in the total KANET score. When individual KANET parameters were compared, we found a significant difference in only one fetal movement, isolated eye blinking, between fetuses of primiparas (median, 2; range, 0–2) and multiparas (median, 1; range, 0–2) (p < 0.040). No significant differences were noted in the other seven parameters.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the level of relaxation of pregnant women may affect fetal behavior, particularly the rate of eye blinking. A relaxed state of primiparas may promote the maturation of the fetal brain, especially the central dopamine system function

How to cite this article

Hata T, Hanaoka U, AboEllail MAM, Uematsu R, Noguchi J, Kusaka T, Kurjak A. Does Parity have an Effect on Fetal Behavior? A Comparison between Primiand Multiparas. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2016;10(1):99-102.
Assessment of Knowledge, Perception, Attitude, and Practices of Expectant and Lactating Mothers regarding their own as well as their Infants’ Oral Health in Qassim Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Sedky Nabila Ahmed
Published: May 2016

Objectives

Assessing knowledge, perception, attitude, and practices of pregnant/lactating mothers concerning their own and their infants’ oral health in relation to their oral health status and educational level.

Materials and Methods

Anonymous self-administered questionnaire, 317 completed it, response rate = 90.57%. It constituted sections for demography, evaluating oral health knowledge during pregnancy/postpartum, saliva-sharing behavior of mother with baby, infant-feeding practices, and perception of oral health knowledge and attitudes. Oral health condition was measured using decayed, missing, and filling, papillary, marginal, and attached gingiva, and simplified oral hygiene indices. Four scores were constructed from participants’ responses to interpret results.

Results

Fair oral hygiene, moderate gingivitis, and caries index was the oral health status, with negative correlation with educational level. About 66.88% had poor perception and practices toward their oral health during pregnancy, with significant difference and negative correlation with oral health status. Significant difference (P<0.001) & positive correlation was detected regarding knowledge about causes of oral/ dental problems and oral health attitude in relation to level of education with 58.68% poor knowledge and negative attitude. Above three quarters had poor knowledge and practices and negative attitude for their infants’ oral health, with significant result and positive correlation with educational level. Poor perception (54.26%) was recorded regarding causes of oral/ dental diseases, methods of tooth cleaning, and types and benefits of using toothpaste in relation to oral health status with a significant difference and negative correlation.

Conclusion

Data revealed that expectant and lactating mothers had poor knowledge, perception and practices, and negative attitude toward their oral health during pregnancy and postpartum as well as their children's oral health.

How to cite this article

Sedky NA. Assessment of Knowledge, Perception, Attitude, and Practices of Expectant and Lactating Mothers regarding their own as well as their Infants’ Oral Health in Qassim Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. J Contemp Dent 2016;6(1):24-37.
Growth of atmospheric clusters involving cluster–cluster collisions: comparison of different growth rate methods
Authors: Kontkanen Jenni , Olenius Tinja , Lehtipalo Katrianne , Vehkamäki Hanna , Kulmala Markku , Lehtinen Kari E. J.
Published: May 2016

Abstract. We simulated the time evolution of atmospheric cluster concentrations in a one-component system where not only do clusters grow by condensation of monomers, but cluster–cluster collisions also significantly contribute to the growth of the clusters. Our aim was to investigate the consistency of the growth rates of sub-3 nm clusters determined with different methods and the validity of the common approach to use them to estimate particle formation rates. We compared the growth rate corresponding to particle fluxes (FGR), the growth rate derived from the appearance times of clusters (AGR), and the growth rate calculated based on irreversible vapor condensation (CGR). We found that the relation between the different growth rates depends strongly on the external conditions and the properties of the model substance. The difference between the different growth rates was typically highest at the smallest, sub-2 nm sizes. FGR was generally lower than AGR and CGR; at the smallest sizes the difference was often very large, while at sizes larger than 2 nm the growth rates were closer to each other. AGR and CGR were in most cases close to each other at all sizes. The difference between the growth rates was generally lower in conditions where cluster concentrations were high, and evaporation and other losses were thus less significant. Furthermore, our results show that the conventional method used to determine particle formation rates from growth rates may give estimates far from the true values. Thus, care must be taken not only in how the growth rate is determined but also in how it is applied.