bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Curriculum Approaches in Language Teaching: Forward, Central, and Backward Design
Authors: Richards Jack C.
Published: March 2013

The development and implementation of language teaching programs can be approached in several different ways, each of which has different implications for curriculum design. Three curriculum approaches are described and compared. Each differs with respect to when issues related to input, process, and outcomes, are addressed. Forward design starts with syllabus planning, moves to methodology, and is followed by assessment of learning outcomes. Resolving issues of syllabus content and sequencing are essential starting points with forward design, which has been the major tradition in language curriculum development. Central design begins with classroom processes and methodology. Issues of syllabus and learning outcomes are not specified in detail in advance and are addressed as the curriculum is implemented. Many of the ‘innovative methods’ of the 1980s and 90s reflect central design. Backward design starts from a specification of learning outcomes and decisions on methodology and syllabus are developed from the learning outcomes. The Common European Framework of Reference is a recent example of backward design. Examples will be given to suggest how the distinction between forward, central and backward design can clarify the nature of issues and trends that have emerged in language teaching in recent years.
The Sponsors of Sex Offender Bills Speak Up
Authors: Meloy Michelle , Curtis Kristin , Boatwright Jessica
Published: March 2013

In the first investigation of its kind, a national U.S. sample of state-level policy makers ( N = 61) were interviewed about their perceptions of the sexual offenders in their state, their state’s sex offender laws, and collateral consequences of these laws, among other efficacy questions. Respondents were selected nonrandomly, as policy makers who sponsored sex offender bills were deliberately targeted for inclusion in the study. It was presumed these respondents would be more knowledgeable about sex offenders and sex offender laws. Results indicated that most respondents were familiar with the sex offender legislation in their state, that most of the laws were drafted with hopes of increasing public safety, and that policy makers believed their laws were functioning as intended, although empirical data are lacking to support these latter claims. Despite a strong conviction that sex offender laws are necessary to control sexual recidivism, policy makers discussed numerous complications and potentially deleterious effects of their own laws.
Loyalty, Love, and Investments
Authors: Hogan Nancy L. , Lambert Eric G. , Griffin Marie L.
Published: March 2013

In a time of restricted budgets, true recognition of staff as a resource calls for correctional institutions to be more prudent in developing an environment that promotes staff commitment. Although prior research has examined affective commitment, far fewer studies have modeled the relationship between critical workplace factors and continuance and normative commitment. This study uses three key organizational concepts (job stress, job involvement, and job satisfaction) to explore their differing impacts on the three types of organizational commitment (continuance, normative, and affective). The study found that key workplace and demographic variables had varying effects on each type of commitment. This supports and extends findings from prior correctional studies suggesting that organizational commitment is not only a multidimensional construct but also that the mechanisms responsible for the development of each type of commitment differ. With this in mind, correctional administrators should recognize the need for various strategies to increase different forms of commitment among correctional staff.
Selective killing of candidate AML stem cells by antibody targeting of IL1RAP
Authors: Askmyr Maria , Ågerstam Helena , Hansen Nils , Gordon Sandra , Arvanitakis Alexandros , Rissler Marianne , Juliusson Gunnar , Richter Johan , Järås Marcus , Fioretos Thoas
Published: March 2013

Key Points

IL1RAP is overexpressed on candidate AML stem cells and is a promising target for antibody-based therapy.
Proechimys (Rodentia, Echimyidae): characterization and taxonomic considerations of a form with a very low diploid number and a multiple sex chromosome system
Authors: Amaral Paulo JS , Nagamachi Cleusa Y , Noronha Renata CR , Costa Marlyson JR , Pereira Adenilson L , Rossi Rogerio V , Mendes-Oliveira Ana C , Pieczarka Julio C
Published: March 2013

Background

Proechimysis the most diverse genus in family Echimyidae, comprising 25 species (two of which are polytypic) and 39 taxa. Despite the numerous forms of this rodent and their abundance in nature, there are many taxonomic problems due to phenotypic similarities within the genus and high intraspecific variation. Extensive karyotypic variation has been noted, however, with diploid numbers (2n) ranging from 14 to 62 chromosomes. Some heteromorphism can be found, and 57 different karyotypes have been described to date.

Results

In the present work, we describe a cytotype with a very low 2n. Specimens ofProechimyscf.longicaudatuswere collected from two different places in northern Mato Grosso state, Brazil (12°54″S, 52°22″W and 9°51′17″S, 58°14′53″W). The females and males had 16 and 17 chromosomes, respectively; all chromosomes were acrocentric, with the exception of the X chromosome, which was bi-armed. The sex chromosome system was found to be XY1Y2, originating from a Robertsonian rearrangement involving the X and a large acrocentric autosome. Females had two Neo-X chromosomes, and males had one Neo-X and two Y chromosomes. NOR staining was found in the interstitial region of one autosomal pair.

Conclusions

Comparison of this karyotype with those described in the literature revealed thatProechimyswith similar karyotypes had previously been collected from nearby localities. We therefore suggest that thisProechimysbelongs to a different taxon, and is either a new species or one that requires reassessment.
Characterization of bacterial biota in the distal esophagus of Japanese patients with reflux esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus
Authors: Liu Ning , Ando Takafumi , Ishiguro Kazuhiro , Maeda Osamu , Watanabe Osamu , Funasaka Kohei , Nakamura Masanao , Miyahara Ryoji , Ohmiya Naoki , Goto Hidemi
Published: March 2013

Background

The distal esophagus harbors a complex bacterial population. We hypothesized that a better understanding of bacterial communities in the esophagus would facilitate understanding of the role of bacteria in esophageal disease. Here, we investigated bacterial composition in the distal esophagus in subjects with a normal esophagus, reflux esophagitis, and Barrett’s esophagus.

Methods

Two biopsy specimens were obtained from the distal esophagus at 1 cm above the gastroesophageal junction under endoscopic examination in 18 patients (6 each with normal esophagus, reflux esophagitis, and Barrett’s esophagus) and used for histological examination and DNA extraction. Fragments of 16S rDNA genes were amplified by PCR using general bacterial primers, and bacterial populations were examined. A third biopsy specimen was taken from the patients with Barrett’s esophagus to histologically confirm the replacement of squamous epithelium with columnar epithelium in the distal esophagus.

Results

Endoscopic diagnoses of normal esophagus, esophagitis, and Barrett’s esophagus were confirmed by histological findings. The total amount of bacterial DNA detected did not significantly differ among groups (p > 0.1). On average, each of the 18 subjects yielded about 350 clones, of which 40 were randomly picked and sequenced. Analysis of 147 16S rDNA sequences from 240 clones of 6 subjects with normal esophagus yielded four phyla, Proteobacteria (49%), Firmicutes (40%), Bacteroidetes (8%), and Actinobacteria (3%). Similar analysis of 139 16S rDNA sequences from 240 clones of 6 patients with reflux esophagitis yielded 6 phyla, Proteobacteria (43%), Firmicutes (33%), Bacteroidetes (10%), Fusobacteria (10%), Actinobacteria (2%), and TM7 (2%). while that of 138 16S rDNA sequences from 240 clones of 6 cases of Barrett’s esophagus yielded 5 phyla, Firmicutes (55%), Proteobacteria (20%), Bacteroidetes (14%), Fusobacteria (9%), and Actinobacteria (2%). Thus, microbial communities differed among patients with a normal esophagus, reflux esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus.

Conclusions

Esophageal bacterial composition differs under conditions of normal esophagus, reflux esophagitis, and Barrett’s esophagus. Diverse bacterial communities may be associated with esophageal disease.
A retrospective survey on injuries in Croatian football/soccer referees
Authors: Gabrilo Goran , Ostojic Marko , Idrizovic Kemal , Novosel Bozidar , Sekulic Damir
Published: March 2013

Background

Injury among soccer referees is rarely studied, especially with regard to differences in the quality level of the refereeing. Additionally, we have found no study that has reported injury occurrence during official physical fitness testing for soccer referees. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency, type and consequences of match-related and fitness-testing related injuries among soccer referees of different competitive levels.

Methods

We studied 342 soccer referees (all males; mean age 32.9 ± 5.02 years). The study was retrospective, and a self-administered questionnaire was used. In the first phase of the study, the questionnaire was tested for its reliability and applicability. The questionnaire included morphological/anthropometric data, refereeing variables, and musculoskeletal disorders together with the consequences.

Results

The sample comprised 157 main referees (MR; mean age 31.4 ± 4.9 years) and 185 assistant referees (AR; mean age 34.1 ± 5.1 years) divided into: international level (Union of European Football Associations-UEFA) referees (N = 18; 6 MRs; 12 ARs) ; 1st (N = 78; 31 MRs; 47 ARs), 2nd (N = 91; 45 MRs; 46 ARs); or 3rd national level referees (N = 155; 75 MRs; 80 ARs). In total, 29% (95%CI: 0.23–0.37) of the MRs and 30% (95%CI: 0.22–0.36) of the ARs had experienced an injury during the previous year, while 13% (95%CI: 0.05–0.14) of the MRs, and 19% (95%CI: 0.14–0.25) of the ARs suffered from an injury that occurred during fitness testing. There was an obvious increase in injury severity as the refereeing advanced at the national level, but the UEFA referees were the least injured of all referees. The results showed a relatively high prevalence of injuries to the upper leg (i.e., quadriceps and hamstrings) during physical fitness testing for all but the UEFA referees. During game refereeing, the ankles and lower legs were the most commonly injured regions. The MRs primarily injured their ankles. The ARs experienced lower leg and lower back disorders. However, the overall injury rate was equal for both groups, with 5.29 (95%CI: 2.23–8.30) and 4.58 (95%CI: 2.63–6.54) injuries per 1000 hours of refereeing for MRs and ARs, respectively.

Conclusion

In addition to the reported risk of injury during soccer games, physical fitness testing should be classified as a risk for injury among soccer referees. Special attention should be given to (I) lower leg injuries during games and (II) upper leg injuries during physical fitness tests. A higher physical fitness level and a qualitative approach to training are recognized as protective factors against injury. Subsequent studies should investigate the specific predictors of injuries among referees.
A mutant screening method by critical annealing temperature-PCR for site-directed mutagenesis
Authors: Liu Ying , Wu Ting , Song Jian , Chen Xuelian , Zhang Yu , Wan Yu
Published: March 2013

Background

Distinguishing desired mutants from parental templates and undesired mutants is a problem not well solved in Quikchange™ mutagenesis. Although Dpn I digestion can eliminate methylated parental (WT) DNA, the efficiency is not satisfying due to the existence of hemi-methylated DNA in the PCR products, which is resistant to Dpn I. The present study designed a novel critical annealing temperature (T
c)-PCR to replace Dpn I digestion for more perfect mutant distinguishing, in which part-overlapping primers containing mutation(s) were used to reduce initial concentration of template DNA in mutagenic PCR. A T
c-PCR with the same mutagenic primers was performed without Dpn I digestion. The T
c for each pair of the primers was identified by gradient PCR. The relationship between PCR-identified T
c and T
m of the primers was analyzed and modeled with correlation and regression.

Results

Gradient PCR identified a T
c for each of 14 tested mutagenic primers, which could discriminate mismatched parental molecules and undesired mutants from desired mutants. The PCR-identified T
c was correlated to the primer’s T
m (r = 0.804, P<0.0001). Thus, in practical applications, the T
c can be easily calculated with a regression equation, T
c = 48.81 + 0.253*T
m.

Conclusions

The new protocol introduced a novel T
c-PCR method for mutant screening which can more efficiently and accurately select against parental molecules and undesired mutations in mutagenic sequence segments.
DNA repair/replication transcripts are down regulated in patients with Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Xu Huichun , Rosales-Reynoso Mónica A , Barros-Núñez Patricio , Peprah Emmanuel
Published: March 2013

Background

Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) and its associated disorders are caused by the expansion of the CGG repeat in the 5’ untranslated region of the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) gene, with disease classification based on the number of CGG repeats. The mechanisms of repeat expansion are dependent on the presence of cis elements and the absence of trans factors both of which are not mutually exclusive and contribute to repeat instability. Expansions associated with trans factors are due to the haploinsuffient or reduced expression of several DNA repair/metabolizing proteins. The reduction of expression in trans factors has been primarily conducted in animal models without substantial examination of many of these expansion mechanisms and trans factors in humans.

Results

To understand the trans factors and pathways associated with trinucleotide repeat expansion we have analyzed two microarray datasets which characterized the transcript expression in patients with FXS and in controls.

Conclusion

We observed significant down regulation of DNA damage/repair pathway transcripts. This observation was consistent in both datasets, which used different populations. Within these datasets, several transcripts overlapped in the direction of association and fold change. Further characterization of these genes will be critical to understand their role in trinucleotide repeat instability in FXS.
Geophysical investigations of historic buildings—A case study of the Great Church of St. Sophia
Authors: Yilmaz Oz
Published: March 2013

As part of a structural restoration project in 2010, I conducted a 3D ground-penetrating radar (GPR) survey at the Great Church of St. Sophia to investigate the foundations of the present structure. I inferred from the time slices the geometry of the foundation remnants of the previous structure that existed at the same site, mixed with the landfill, which I know exists at the site from the construction history of the current structure. I further delineated the geometry of the cistern, which I discovered beneath the inner narthex during a previous 2D reconnaissance GPR survey. The cistern is approximately 60 m long and 5 m wide at a depth of 1 m below the ground level. I also discovered a water pipe that approaches the cistern in the perpendicular direction from the outer court of the church grounds. The cistern may be connected with this pipe to the Great Cistern of the Byzantine period, approximately 500 m away from the church grounds.
Detection of karstic limestone bedrock by shallow seismic refraction in an area west of Assiut, Middle Egypt
Authors: Aati Ali H. Abdel , Shabaan Sabah H.
Published: March 2013

The main goal of this study was the detection of complex surface and internal structures of limestone bedrock over the entire area planned for urban development on the lower Eocene plateau, west of Assiut, Egypt. A 2.5D shallow seismic refraction survey provided sufficient resolution for mapping faults and karst at the scale required for civil engineering plans. The 3D P-wave seismic velocity map was developed from integration of a series of 2D spreads recorded along a 2D grid using only inline spreads.
SEG's 82nd Annual Meeting in review
Authors: Clark Dean
Published: March 2013

The major numbers (registration, exhibiting companies, sponsorship, etc.) for the Society of Exploration Geophysicists International Exposition and 82nd Annual Meeting, held in November in Las Vegas, were all within a standard deviation of the recent norm—with one stunning exception. The Technical Program received 1560 submissions, 376 more than the previous high (set, coincidentally or perhaps not, in 2008 when the convention was last held in Las Vegas). The deluge of submissions was a surprise and resulted, because of limitations in space and time, to a rejection rate of 45%, twice as high as usual. John Louie, chairman of the Steering Committee, estimated that “between 100 and 150 abstracts had to be rejected despite strong enough reviews to have been accepted in most other years.”
SEAM Update
Authors: Oristaglio Michael
Published: March 2013

At the end of January, SEAM Corporation issued the first request-for-bids (RFB) on numerical simulations for its Phase II consortium “Land Seismic Challenges.” The consortium has been working on three separate models covering different settings, and challenges, for seismic exploration on land. The first model to be completed, called the Unconventional Model, represents subtle features of shale-gas shale reservoirs embedded in a complex stratigraphic section and overlain by the buried topography of a typical midcontinent basin. The Arid Model places these same shale-gas reservoirs and stratigraphic section beneath a 500-m thick near-surface zone with features characteristic of desert areas—such as karsts, buried stream channels or wadis, with unconsolidated, low-velocity surface sediments juxtaposed with outcropping, high-velocity refractors. Finally, the Foothills Model contains complex structural features, typical of fold-and-thrust zones, and is topped by near-surface layer consisting of extreme topography and rapid lateral variations often found in mountainous regions.
Case Report: Capecitabine-induced radiation recall phenomenon: a case report
Authors: Aguilar José , García Elena , García-Garre Elisa
Published: March 2013

Radiation recall dermatitis is defined as an inflammatory reaction of the skin at the site of previous irradiation. Different drugs have been associated with triggering this phenomenon, and it can also affect other areas and organs where previous radiotherapy has been administered. The time gap between the inflammatory reaction and previous radiation can range from days to several years. We report a case of capecitabine-induced Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) grade 4 (ulcerating dermatitis) recall skin toxicity of skin irradiated 3 years previously. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of capecitabine-induced RTOG grade 4 (ulcerating dermatitis) recall skin toxicity of previously irradiated skin. Clinicians should be aware of this phenomenon, even when considering patients for whom it has been a long time since previous radiation therapy. This unusual and late drug side effect should be borne in mind in the differential diagnosis and management of advanced-disease patients as it may be confused with local relapse or infectious complication of previously operated areas.
The Effect of Heat Treatments and Degradation Behavior of High-Rate Dischargeability in Ti-V-based Alloys as Anode Materials for Nickel-Metal-Hydride Batteries
Authors: Wu Y. F. , Liu Y. N. , Li C.S. , Zhang Y. P. , Zhang S. N. , Ma X. B. , Chen Y. Z. , Xi Z. P.
Published: March 2013

The phase structure and electrochemical properties of TiV2.1Ni0.4Zr0.06Cu0.03Cr0.1 alloys as anode materials for nickel-metal-hydride batteries treated at different temperatures were investigated. The alloys mainly consist of a bcc (V,Ti)H0.81 main phase and a network structure of hcp C14 laves phase, along the grain boundaries of the main phase. The lattice distortion is induced to a large extent for the sample treated at 1123 K. The electrochemical measurements indicate that the maximum discharge capacity of this sample is decreased, but improved cycling stability and high-rate dischargeability (HRD) are achieved. The deterioration behavior of the HRD for Ti-V-based alloys is discussed in the paper.
Criação compartilhada de um jogo: um instrumento para o diálogo sobre sexualidade desenvolvido com adolescentes
Authors: Nogueira Maria José , Barcelos Samuel , Barros Héliton , Schall Virgínia Torres
Published: March 2013

Este trabalho descreve o processo de desenvolvimento de um Jogo Educativo, desenvolvido, de forma compartilhada, com adolescentes da Vila Cafezal, comunidade em uma área de favelas de Belo Horizonte. Por meio de oficinas em grupos operativos, criou-se um espaço de diálogo sobre sexualidade e gravidez na adolescência. Fazem parte do jogo: (1) oitenta cartas de perguntas e respostas; (2) um baralho de reflexão, e (3) um baralho de locais, demarcando espaços públicos da Vila Cafezal. Constatou-se que o processo desenvolvido auxiliou os jovens na construção de conhecimento, no diálogo e compreensão sobre atitudes de cada gênero. Tanto o processo descrito no presente artigo quanto o material produzido podem ser utilizados como alternativas para se criar um ambiente saudável e interativo para se trabalhar os temas referentes a sexo e sexualidade, na perspectiva requerida pelos Parâmetros Curriculares Nacionais (PCN) e pelas demandas do Serviço Único de Saúde (SUS).
Aspectos didáticos, laicos e científicos de artigos de divulgação científica de duas revistas de conteúdo geral
Authors: Jorge Juliana , Escolano Ângela Coletto Morales , Cassiolato Ana Maria Rodrigues
Published: March 2013

Muitos professores buscam, em textos jornalísticos, revistas ou jornais, matérias com conteúdo científico para utilizarem como material de apoio em classe. Será que o conteúdo científico contido nesse material é, realmente, aproveitável? O discurso utilizado pelos jornalistas promove o conhecimento científico sobre os assuntos que discutem? Assim, este trabalho teve por objetivo analisar, quanto ao conteúdo científico, didático e acessível, matérias das revistas semanais de conteúdo geral mais lidas do país, Veja e Época, publicadas em 2008, com o tema Meio Ambiente. Os resultados permitiram concluir que os textos apresentados pela revista Veja promovem um discurso científico aproveitável do ponto de vista didático, podendo ser utilizados em sala de aula como material de apoio e complementar pelos professores.
Momentos pedagógicos e as etapas da situação de estudo: complementaridades e contribuições para a Educação em Ciências
Authors: Gehlen Simoni Tormöhlen , Maldaner Otavio Aloisio , Delizoicov Demétrio
Published: March 2013

Parte da pesquisa em Educação em Ciências tem se apoiado de forma significativa nas ideias de Freire e Vygotsky para configurar novas propostas curriculares. Destacam-se as propostas abordagem temática freireana e Situação de Estudo, balizadas, respectivamente, pelos pressupostos de Freire e Vygotsky. O objetivo deste trabalho consiste em analisar o processo de desenvolvimento das propostas em sala de aula, em que a abordagem temática freireana tem como base os momentos pedagógicos, enquanto a Situação de Estudo também apresenta determinadas etapas. Sinaliza-se que há complementaridade entre as propostas, em que as etapas da Situação de Estudo - problematização, primeira elaboração, função da elaboração e compreensão conceituai - , que configuram o processo da significação conceitual, contribuem no contexto dos momentos pedagógicos, uma vez que a organização do conhecimento pode ser potencializada seguindo as etapas da significação conceitual abordadas pela Situação de Estudo.
Integração entre atividades computacionais e experimentais como recurso instrucional no ensino de eletromagnetismo em física geral
Authors: Dorneles Pedro Fernando Teixeira , Araujo Ives Solano , Veit Eliane Angela
Published: March 2013

Investigam-se formas de integração entre atividades computacionais e experimentais de modo a torná-las complementares, auxiliando os alunos a atingirem uma aprendizagem significativa de conceitos de Física e compreenderem algumas ideias sobre modelos científicos. A proposta didática, fundamentada: na teoria de Ausubel sobre aprendizagem significativa, na visão epistemológica de Bunge sobre modelos teóricos, e na teoria sociointeracionista de Vygotsky, foi aplicada a uma turma de licenciatura em Física da UFRGS, abrangendo todo o conteúdo de Eletromagnetismo em nível de Física Geral. Os resultados mostram que a integração proposta pode proporcionar aos alunos uma visão epistemológica mais adequada sobre o papel dos modelos teóricos em Física e das atividades computacionais e experimentais nos processos de aprendizagem, promovendo a interatividade e seu engajamento no próprio aprendizado, e transformando a sala de aula em um ambiente propício para uma aprendizagem significativa.
Craniofacial Cephalometric Morphology and Later Need for Orthognathic Surgery in 6-Year-Old Children with Bilateral Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Heliövaara Arja , Leikola Junnu , Hukki Jyri
Published: March 2013

Objective

Six-year-old children with bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP) were examined to evaluate the need for orthognathic surgery later in life and to cephalometrically compare the craniofacial morphology of those needing orthognathic surgery with those not needing surgery.

Design

Retrospective longitudinal study.

Patients

Thirty-eight consecutive nonsyndromic patients with BCLP (29 boys).

Main Outcome Measures

Children with BCLP were analyzed from lateral cephalograms taken at a mean age of 6.1 years (range 5.8 to 6.6 years). The need for orthognathic surgery in these patients was determined from hospital records at the mean age of 18.2 years (range 15.5 to 20.2 years). Student's t test and chi-square test were used in statistical analysis.

Results

The overall frequency of maxillary or bimaxillary osteotomy was 66% (25 of 38). The patients needing maxillary or bimaxillary osteotomies had flatter soft tissue profiles (n-sn-gn), shorter lower facial heights (ANS-ME), and smaller mean values of the ANB angle (sagittal maxillomandibular relationship) at the age of 6 years than those who did not. ANB angle was the most significant predictor for later osteotomy. Despite individual variation, all children (n = 13) whose ANB angle was less than 7°, needed later orthognathic surgery; whereas, none of those whose ANB angle was greater than 12.5° (n = 6) needed maxillary osteotomies.

Conclusions

Two thirds of children with BCLP needed orthognathic surgery later in life. Half of the children who needed later osteotomies could be identified at the age of 6 years by having an ANB angle less than 7°.
Using atmospheric trajectories to model the isotopic composition of rainfall in central Kenya
Authors: Soderberg Keir , Good Stephen P. , O'Connor Molly , Wang Lixin , Ryan Kathleen , Caylor Kelly K.
Published: March 2013

The isotopic composition of rainfall (δ2H and δ18O) is an important tracer in studies of the ecohydrology, plant physiology, climate and biogeochemistry of past and present ecosystems. The overall continental and global patterns in precipitation isotopic composition are fairly well described by condensation temperature and Rayleigh fractionation during rainout. However, these processes do not fully explain the isotopic variability in the tropics, where intra‐storm and meso‐scale dynamics may dominate. Here we explore the use of atmospheric back‐trajectory modeling and associated meteorological variables to explain the large variability observed in the isotopic composition of individual rain events at the study site in central Kenya. Individual rain event samples collected at the study site (n = 41) range from −51‰ to 31‰ for δ2H and the corresponding monthly values (rain volume‐weighted) range from −15‰ to 15‰. Using the Hybrid Single Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT) model, we map back‐trajectories for all individual rain hours occurring at a research station in central Kenya from March 2010 through February 2012 (n = 544). A multiple linear regression analysis demonstrates that a large amount of variation in the isotopic composition of rainfall can be explained by two variables readily obtained from the HYSPLIT model: (1) solar radiation along the trajectory for 48 hours prior to the event, and (2) distance covered over land. We compare the measurements and regression model results to the isotopic composition expected from simple Rayleigh distillation along each trajectory. The empirical relationship described here has applications across temporal scales. For example, it could be used to help predict short‐term changes in the isotopic composition of plant‐available water in the absence of event‐scale sampling. One can also reconstruct monthly, seasonal and annual weighted mean precipitation isotope signatures for a single location based only on hourly rainfall data and HYSPLIT model results. At the study site in East Africa, the annual weighted mean δ2H from measured and modeled values are −7.6‰ and −7.4‰, respectively, compared to −18‰ predicted for the study site by the Online Isotopes in Precipitation Calculator.
Assessing social concerns in water tariffs
Authors: Martins Rita , Cruz Luís , Barata Eduardo , Quintal Carlota
Published: March 2013

In the European Union, water supply services are referred to as ‘services of general interest’, meaning that they are subject to multiple, potentially conflicting, public service obligations. This paper considers empirical data for Portuguese municipalities and provides a comprehensive approach to assessing the social dimension by evaluating whether the concerns of universal access to water services for basic needs, affordability and equity are embodied in the corresponding water supply tariffs. Accordingly, ‘essential minimum quantities’ (EMQs) of water for representative households are calculated and then compared with the lowest tariff block's upper limit, by water utility. Next, charges underlying the EMQs are calculated and compared with the average income of each representative household, by municipality. The results show that, in general, the EMQs are enclosed in the first block of consumption and also that the corresponding water charges do not represent a disproportionate burden on average household size and income. Nonetheless, our findings indicate that, when considering the 20% poorest households, the water charges raise affordability concerns in an important number of municipalities. Further, the results show that there is a socio-economic inequity that favours the better-off households.
Advances in benchmarking to improve water utility operations: a review of six IWA books
Authors: Berg Sanford V.
Published: March 2013

Six recent publications by the International Water Association underscore the growing importance of quantitative studies of water utilities for identifying (1) performance patterns, (2) trends in key indicators and (3) best practice. Since each author takes a different approach to the problem of performance measurement and incentives for improvement, the books provide different perspectives on the decision-relevance of empirical analysis and cases for managers and policymakers. Key lessons from the volumes include the use of benchmarking as a tool for establishing better internal incentives, the importance of data collection and auditing and the role of transparency in helping stakeholders become more informed about utility operations. Analysts need to help stakeholders understand sector complexities, where hydrology, topology, historical developments outside current management's control, population income levels and the amount of skilled labor differ widely across and even within nations. The six books taken together underscore the value of quantifying relative performance and improving our awareness of production processes and the institutional arrangements that support strong water sector performance.
On weaker forms of relator Menger, relator Rothberger and relator Hurewicz properties
Authors: Kocev Darko
Published: March 2013

We introduce new selection principles in relator spaces using neighbourhoods
and closures in the same manner as it was done in [1, 11, 20] in topological
spaces and prove that these properties are weaker versions of the
corresponding selection principles defined in [12]. Some properties of these
selection principles are proved.
A note on some sequence spaces of weighted means
Authors: Malkowsky Eberhard , Özger Faruk
Published: March 2013

We show that the sequence spaces ar0 , arC and ar? are equal to the sets of
all sequences whose Ces?ro means of order 1 converge to 0, converge and are
bounded. As a consequence of this, we are able to considerably simplify the
known results and their proofs in [1, 2], and to add the characterisations of
some more classes of matrix transformations.
Power series of fuzzy numbers with real or fuzzy coefficients
Authors: Kadak Uğur , Başar Feyzi
Published: March 2013

Following Talo and Ba?ar [Determination of the duals of classical sets of
sequences of fuzzy numbers and related matrix transformations, Comput. Math.
Appl. 58 (2009) 717-733], we essentially deal with the power series of fuzzy
numbers. We give two examples on the geometric series of fuzzy numbers and
by using the four different cases of un of nth power of a fuzzy number u,
we interest in the convergence of a power series of fuzzy numbers. Finally,
we introduce the concept of a power series of fuzzy numbers with fuzzy
coefficients.
Under Which Conditions are Whistleblowing “Best Practices” Best?
Authors: Zhang Jian , Pany Kurt , Reckers Philip M. J.
Published: March 2013

Public companies are required by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 to establish an anonymous reporting (whistleblowing) channel for employee reporting of questionable accounting practices. Corporate audit committees are provided flexibility in implementing this requirement and a controversial choice is the type of reporting channel. Most commentators argue that “best practices” call for an externally administered “hotline.” To examine the efficacy of externally administered versus internally administered channels we conducted a behavioral experiment. Our results reveal a significant main effect with reporting intentions being greater if the hotline is administered externally. We then examine whether this finding is robust across selected environmental and employee-specific conditions and find that it is not. Our results suggest that the primary reporting benefits of an externally administered hotline are for organizations with a history of poor responsiveness to whistleblowing and for employees registering relatively low on the proactivity scale. Specifically, we find that an externally administered hotline obtains higher reporting intentions under conditions wherein a previous incidence of whistleblowing notably failed to achieve a good outcome. Also, this effect is only statistically significant for participants registering as relatively low on a “proactivity” scale.
Pertraction of methylene blue using a mixture of D2EHPA/M2EHPA and sesame oil as a liquid membrane
Authors: Kazemi Pezhman , Peydayesh Mohammad , Bandegi Alireza , Mohammadi Toraj , Bakhtiari Omid
Published: March 2013

An experimental study on the pertraction of methylene blue (MB) through a supported liquid membrane (SLM) using a mixture of mono-(2-etylhexyl) ester of phosphoric acid (M2EHPA) and bis-(2-etylhexyl) ester of phosphoric acid (D2EHPA) and sesame oil as the liquid membrane (LM) was performed. Parameters affecting the pertraction of MB such as initial MB concentration, carrier concentration, feed phase pH, and stripping phase concentration were analyzed. Optimal experimental conditions for MB pertraction (permeability of 5.63 × 10−6) were obtained after a 7 h separation with the MB concentration in the feed phase of 80 mg L−1, D2EHPA/M2EHPA concentration in membrane phase of 40 vol. %, feed pH of 6, and acetic acid concentration in the stripping phase of 0.4 mol L−1. Kinetics of transport and stability of the SLM system were also studied and the mass transfer coefficient for this system was evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to morphologically characterize the membrane surface.
Pension Funds, the Requirement of Providing the Minimum Guaranteed Return and Excessive Legislative Restrictions of Pension Fund Investments
Authors: Markovič Hribernik Tanja , Jakopanec Igor
Published: March 2013

To reduce the exposure of the pension fund's members to financial risks, legislation in Slovenia and some other countries promises a so-called minimum guaranteed return and at the same time hinders the portfolio diversification process of pension funds. We intend to demonstrate in this article, on a case study basis and using a combination of empirical data from two Slovenian pension funds and a hypothetical one, that by precisely matching the investments' characteristics to the characteristics of the pension fund's liabilities, some important financial risks can be mitigated, while others can even be hedged entirely. We also intend to demonstrate that with the implementation of a proper policy of risk measurement and management, complemented with stress testing practices, excessive legislative restrictions for investments are no longer necessary. Some restrictions can even hinder portfolio diversification and the risk management process.
Employment-adjusted Human Development Index
Authors: Mihci Hakan , Tolga Taner Mehmet , Sezen Bulent
Published: March 2013

Purpose - The current HDI has a limited capacity to reflect the human condition and country rankings in an accurate way. In addition, the main critiques on the HDI suggest that it uses very few or perhaps the wrong indicators in measuring human development levels in countries. This paper aims to investigate whether the inclusion of employment as a criterion in the HDI would yield a different ranking of nations.

Design/methodology/approach - In this study, estimates of the proposed Employment-adjusted Human Development Index (E-HDI) are provided for seventy-seven countries for the 2000-2007 period, and comparisons are made both for changes in the human development index (HDI) and rankings over time in each country and for differences between the E-HDI and the UNDP’s HDI across countries.

Findings - The experience of a relatively large number of 77 sample countries has offered promising results for the path to improve the current status of the HDI, and hence, to overcome its weakness in terms of ranking of countries. The additional indicator, i.e. employment, improves the explanatory power of the HDI and makes significant contributions to its reliability.

Research limitations/implications - The major limitation of the present study has been the lack of data for a number of the human development indicators for the rest of the countries in the world.

Practical implications - The employment-adjusted index has great potential to make the HDI more operational.

Social implications - By means of E-HDI, the human development performance of the countries can be better evaluated and compared with other countries by using additional information obtained from the employment position of their citizens.

Originality/value - This will be the first paper in the literature that incorporates employment into the HDI..
Acute toxicity of vipoxin and its components: is the acidic component an “inhibitor” of PLA2 toxicity?
Authors: Atanasov Vasil N. , Stoykova Silviya , Goranova Yana , Mitewa Mariana , Petrova Svetla
Published: March 2013

Vipoxin is a heterodimeric neurotoxin isolated from the venom of the Bulgarian long-nosed viper Vipera ammodytes meridionalis. Vipoxin represents a noncovalent association of two subunits - a basic and toxic phospholipase A2 enzyme, and an acidic nonenzymatic component (vipoxin’s acidic component). It was postulated that the phospholipase A2 subunit was more toxic than the whole vipoxin complex and the function of the acidic component was to reduce the enzymatic and toxic activities of the basic phospholipase A2. In the present study, we report new data on the acute toxicity (LD50) of vipoxin and its individual separated components. Vipoxin LD50 (mice, i.p. and i.v.) values were found to be 0.7-1.2 mg/kg b.w. (i.p.) and 0.9-1.3 mg/kg b.w. (i.v.). The established LD50 values for the separated pure phospholipase A2 subunit are higher - 10.0-13.0 mg/kg b.w (i.p.) and 2.2-3.0 mg/kg b.w. (i.v.), i.e. the individual phospholipase A2 subunit displays less toxic activity than vipoxin, contrary to the data published in the literature. The reconstituted vipoxin complex (obtained after preliminary incubation of pure separated phospholipase A2 and acidic component showed enzyme activity and toxicity comparable to that of the native vipoxin complex. Addition of acidic component to the phospholipase A2 subunit showed a positive effect on the enzymatic activity, reaching maximal enzyme reaction rate of acidic component to phospholipase A2 molar ratio of 0.8:1 on using 4-nitro-3-octanoyloxy-benzoic acid as substrate. For the first time we showed that the acidic subunit was absolutely required for the toxic activity of vipoxin. Based on the obtained results, we assume that the function of the acidic component is to stabilize the neurotoxin’s quaternary structure, required for its toxic and enzymatic activities, similarly to the role of the acidic component of crotoxin.
Treatment of comminuted tibial shaft fractures in four dogs with the use of interlocking nail connected with type I external fixator
Authors: Piórek A. , Adamiak Z. , Jaskólska M. , Zhalniarovich Y.
Published: March 2013

The treatment of comminuted tibial shaft fractures in canine patients is burdened by significant risk which involves bone healing complications, such as delayed bone union. Complications may result from iatrogenic damage to blood vessels during fracture stabilization. To minimize this risk, treatment methods increasingly often rely on the concept of biological osteosynthesis. One of such methods involves the treatment of fractures with the use of new hybrid fixator consisted of an interlocking nail connected with type I external fixator. Connection of the nail with external fixator has been recently developed to maximize treatment efficiency. This manner of stabilization increases bone-fixator construct strength on forces acting in the place of fracture. It also enables fracture fixation with minimal damage of the blood supply of bone fragments. This article describes surgical procedure of stabilization of comminuted tibial bone fractures in four dogs by the use of interlocking nail connected with external fixator type I, discusses and evaluates the results of clinical treatment with the involvement of the said fixator. To control bone consolidation process the radiograms were taken in 6 and 8 week of healing.

In all cases, the reviewed methods of clinical treatment were successful in producing bone union after eight week of healing. During the whole period of observations no complication was observed. In all cases the intramedullary nail were left in the medullary canal after the healing process was finished. The fixator supported quick restoration of limb function after treatment.
The use of percutaneous abdominal ultrasound examination in diagnosing equine small intestinal disorders
Authors: Porzuczek A. , Kiełbowicz Z. , Haines G.
Published: March 2013

In equine field practice, the diagnosis of small intestinal disorders is usually based on the presence of distended loops on rectal palpation and large volumes of reflux obtained after the passage of a nasogastric tube. Percutaneous abdominal ultrasound examination has been widely utilized in both human and small animal internal medicine in most cases of gastrointestinal discomfort. The purpose of this study was to identify which measurable parameters were important in reaching a diagnosis of small intestinal abnormality and determining treatment options. Horses of various age, sex and breed were involved in this research. Identifying the number of areas where distended loops of small intestine (SI) were detected, their diameter in cross section and motility were the most important parameters identified when formulating a prognosis.
Characterization of bacteria of the genus Staphylococcus isolated from the eggs of Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica)
Authors: Pyzik E. , Marek A.
Published: March 2013

The study attempted to analyse and characterize bacteria of the genusStaphylococcusisolated from the surface and contents of quail eggs, taking into account their phenotypic properties, biochemical reactions, antibiotic sensitivity patterns, and PCR to test for the presence of themecA gene, which is responsible for resistance to methicillin. The study included 45 strains of the genusStaphylococcusisolated from the whites, yolks and shells of table quail eggs. The results obtained indicate that a fairly high percentage of the retail quail eggs tested were contaminated withStaphylococcusbacteria. Among the species isolated (11 in total), the most frequently occurring strains were ofStaphylococcus hominis(26.7%), followed byStaphylococcus aureus(15.6%),S.xylosusandS. lentus(13.3% each), while percentages of the otherStaphylococcusspecies were under 10%. TheStaphylococcusstrains tested had highly differentiated biochemical and enzymatic properties. As many as 7 biotypes were distinguished among the 7S. aureusisolates, 6 biotypes within the speciesS. xylosus(6 strains tested), 5 biotypes among the 6 strains ofS. lentus, but only 4 biotypes among the 12S. hominisstrains. The antibiotic sensitivity testing showed 15.5% of the strains to be resistant to one or more of the therapeutic agents tested. Moreover, some isolates exhibited intermediate sensitivity to the drugs, particularly to gentamicin (24.4%), neomycin (31.1%), streptomycin (46.7%) and Linco-Spectin (48.9%).
Changes in the SUSPPUP ratio and fractional excretion of strong monovalent electrolytes in hospitalized dogs with canine babesiosis
Authors: Zygner W. , Gójska-Zygner O. , Wędrychowicz H.
Published: March 2013

In this study an increased SUSPPUP ratio and fractional excretion of potassium in dogs infected with Babesia canis suggested mineralocorticoid excess in canine babesiosis. A significant increase in strong monovalent electrolyte fractional excretions in azotaemic dogs infected with B. canis probably resulted from acute tubular necrosis.
The value of Fluorescence Polarisation Assay in verification of problematic sera from pigs for brucellosis
Authors: Weiner M. , Szulowski K. , Iwaniak W.
Published: March 2013

The aim of the study was an evaluation of fluorescence polarisation assay (FPA) as a potential tool improving specificity of serological diagnosis of brucellosis in pigs. The evaluation was done by comparing the results of FPA with the results of rose bengal test (RBT), serum agglutination test (SAT), complement fixation test (CFT) and ELISA when false positive sera were tested. One hundred ninety porcine samples, reacting positively in at least one classical serological assay were used. We observed that among 198 sera, 104 were also positive in FPA. The studies confirmed that porcine FPA adds little as far as specificity in comparison to other methods is concerned.