bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Almanac “Woman and Russia” and the Soviet Feminist Movement at the end of the 1970s
Authors: Milewska-Pindor Nadina
Published: January 2014

This article presents a short history of the origin and creation of the Almanac “Women and Russia,” which began as a samizdat underground publication devoted to the problem of women and childrearing in the USSR. The idea for creating such an Almanac originated in the mid 1970s in the Leningrad circle of ‘unofficial culture’, at the initiative of the artist Tatyana Mamonova, religious philosopher Tatyana Goricheva, and the women author Natasha Malachovska. The women writers featured in the first edition of the Almanac addressed not only questions about the social conditions prevailing in the USSR, but above all exposed the consequences for women living and functioning ina patriarchal social order, and ironically one where all the questions concerning ‘women’s rights’ were deemed to have been resolved in a progressive fashion much earlier. Not only is the substance of the Almanac important, but the circumstances surrounding its publication and the subsequent consequences related to its publishing also reveal the state of the ‘women’s movement’ in the USSR of that time. These include the reactions of the representatives of the dissident culture, the interventions of the security apparatus and the attendant repression of the women activists and its effect on their lives, and the support of feminist organizations from abroad. Each of the afore-mentioned reactions and consequences became an element of and shaped the everyday lives of the activists involved in the creation of the Almanac. The events related in this work confirm the opinion of those researchers who consider that the publication of the Almanac marked the beginning of the resurrection of the feminist movement in Russia.
The Currency of Fantasy: Discourses of Popular Culture in International Relations
Authors: Wang Ningchuan
Published: January 2014

The “facts” of international politics constitute the first-order representations of political life and can be reflected in popular entertainment as second-order or fictional representations. This article demonstrates that discourses of popular culture are powerful and implicated in International Relations (IR) studies. The article makes two correlated claims: the first is that the humanist and anthropological methodology often used to analyse pop culture could also be used to analyse international issues, if appropriately contextualized; the second claim is that a nation can manifest its ‘discourse’ in international politics via its popular culture, as soft power.
Importance of Motivating Factors for International Mobility of Students: Empirical Findings on Selected Higher Education Institutions in Europe
Authors: Novak Riko , Slatinšek Anja , Devetak Gabrijel
Published: January 2014

This article explores the importance of motivating factors for the international mobility of undergraduate students who participated in a mobility programme and completed part of their studies at selected higher education institutions. The empirical research was conducted on a population of 3,539 mobile undergraduate students, who took part in mobility programmes between 2006 and 2011 at three selected higher education institutions in three different European countries (1 - Germany: Duale Hochschule Baden‑Württemberg Karlsruhe, 2 - Norway: University of Tromsø, 3 - Slovenia: University of Primorska, Faculty of Management). The purpose of this article is to present the underlying motivating factors in relation to the selected institution on a sample of 288 undergraduate students during the period studied. On the basis of these findings, we came to the conclusion that most of the students participated in students’ mobility programmes especially to gain international study and life experiences. Furthermore, we established a statistically significant difference in the duration of a mobility period in connection with gender and the satisfaction with the mobility programme.
Removal of low molecular organic acids from aqueous solutions with reactive extraction
Authors: Szternel Dominika , Regel-Rosocka Magdalena , Wiśniewski Maciej
Published: January 2014

This paper presents investigation on removal of low molecular organic acids (acetic, lactic, succinic and fumaric) from aqueous solutions with reactive extraction. The results specifically show that the extraction efficiency of acids depends on the type of extractant, diluents of the organic phase and the initial pH of the aqueous phase. It is possible to separate succinic or fumaric from lactic and acetic acids with high selectivity with the use of TOA and Aliquat 336, respectively. Increasing the pH of the aqueous phase results in a reduction of fumaric acid extraction efficiency with solvating extractants. This can be explained by the decreasing share of acidic form, whose extraction is favored by these extractants. Efficient extraction of both fumaric acid and fumarate using Aliquat 336 can be explained by the ionic structure of the quaternary ammonium salt, capable of transporting both forms of the acid.
Synthesis and physicochemical characterization of silicafillers modified with octakis({3-methacryloxypropyl}dimethylsiloxy) octasilsesquioxane
Authors: Szwarc-Rzepka K. , Gogola N. , Siwińska-Stefańska K. , Marciniec B. , Jesionowski T.
Published: January 2014

Hybrid nanofillers of silica grafted with octakis({3-methacryloxypropyl}dimethylsiloxy) octasilsesquioxane were obtained by the method based on solvent evaporation with the use of both hydrated or emulsion spherical silica. Octakis({3-methacryloxypropyl}dimethylsiloxy) octasilsesquioxane was applied as a modifying agent and it was synthesized by employing the hydrosilylation reaction. The effectiveness of modification of the hybrid nanofillers obtained was verified using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance (29Si and 13C CP MAS NMR). The products obtained were characterized by determination of their physicochemical properties and porous structure, including specific surface area, pore diameter and pore volume. Dispersion degree and particle size of the nanofillers was characterized by NIBS (Non-Invasive Back-scatter) method and laser diffraction technique, while their morphology by transmission electron microscopy.
Remediation of heavy metals from soil using quartz sand functionalized with organic amino silanes
Authors: Grzesiak Piotr , Łukaszyk Joanna , Schroeder Grzegorz , Kurczewska Joanna
Published: January 2014

The results of the research studies concerning the binding of heavy metals (HMs) by quartz sand functionalized with amino silanes have been described. The studies have been carried out on soils sampled from the areas affected by emissions from Copper Smelter and Refinery. The research aims to increase the food safety in the areas of industrial impact. The presence of polyamine chain in the hybrid materials obtained enables a binding of heavy metals (nickel, copper, cobalt). The best results are observed for the hybrid material having four amine groups (four coordination centers) per molecule. For this material the highest content after two extraction cycles (pH 7.0 and 5.0) is observed for copper (98.2%), but for other ions (nickel, cobalt) it is at least 85% of the initial amount of components available for plants.
Existence of mild solutions for semilinear differential equations with nonlocal and impulsive conditions
Authors: Olszowy Leszek
Published: January 2014

This paper is concerned with the existence of mild solutions for impulsive semilinear differential equations with nonlocal conditions. Using the technique of measures of noncompactness in Banach and Fréchet spaces of piecewise continuous functions, existence results are obtained both on bounded and unbounded intervals, when the impulsive functions and the nonlocal item are not compact in the space of piecewise continuous functions but they are continuous and Lipschitzian with respect to some measure of noncompactness, and the linear part generates only a strongly continuous evolution system.
Variability of Abies alba-dominated forests in Central Europe
Authors: Świerkosz Krzysztof , Reczyńska Kamila , Boublík Karel
Published: January 2014

Using vegetation databases from Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia and our own material collected during a field work, we have analysed the variability of species composition of Abies alba-dominated communities in Central Europe. Analysis was performed using a modified TWINSPAN algorithm in the JUICE software. Ecological analysis was performed on the basis of mean Ellenberg indicator values with a MoPeT_v1.0.r script prepared in R software. In general, the findings indicated that there are at least 8 types of Central European silver fir-dominated forests with different patterns in species composition and habitat conditions. These are the oligotrophic subcontinental silver fir forests of the Polish highlands, oligotrophic (sub)montane silver fir forest, hygrophilous silver fir forests, oligo-mesotrophic (sub)montane silver fir forests, mesotrophic (sub)montane silver fir forests, submontane and montane calcicolous silver fir forests of the Alps and the Carpathians, eutrophic silver fir-beech forests and silver fir ravine forests. The main conclusion is that the diversity of species composition of Abies alba-dominated forests in Central Europe is lower than described in current regional synthesis, which was confirmed by ecological analyses.
Percussion signals of Lygus rugulipennis Poppius (Heteroptera: Miridae)
Authors: Koczor Sándor , Cokl Andrej
Published: January 2014

The European tarnished plant bug (Lygus rugulipennis Poppius) is among the most serious pests in the family Miridae, and therefore there is increasing interest in understanding the behaviour of this species. In the present study, laboratory recordings were taken using a laser vibrometer on adult males and females to ascertain whether acoustic signals are involved in intraspecific communication. Recordings were both carried out on plant and loudspeaker membrane substrates. Males and females emitted vibratory signals and the present results indicate that these signals are important during courtship. The basic signal characteristics measured were the dominant frequency, pulse duration, repetition time and number of pulses per group within the signal. Male and female signals did not differ in respect to any of these characteristics. Plant recorded signals were longer because of different mechanical properties of substrates. Additionally, the high frequency components were attenuated due to the low-pass filtering properties of plants. As this is the first study on vibratory communication of the European tarnished plant bug, we believe these findings may contribute considerably to the better understanding of the mating behavior of this important pest species.
High intraspecific genetic and morphological variation in the pioneer lichen Cladonia rei colonising slag dumps
Authors: Osyczka Piotr , Rola Kaja , Lenart-Boroń Anna , Boroń Piotr
Published: January 2014

This study investigates the genetic and morphological variability of the lichen Cladonia rei inhabiting strongly contaminated postsmelting slag dumps in southern Poland. Altogether, 27 C. rei samples were analysed, including 17 from a single population in one dump. The phylogenetic analysis includes samples of C. rei, outgroup species, and external sequences of Cladonia section representatives from GenBank. Comparative analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) rDNA sequences revealed the presence of 19 C. rei haplotypes overall, including several of the most frequent, of which 11 are represented by single individuals only. As many as 12 haplotypes were recorded within a single population. Three strongly supported monophyletic clades comprised of specimens from different geographical regions were recovered. Morphometric analysis showed great phenotypic variability within particular clades. Apart from a full range of previously known morphological forms of the species, an additional specific morphotype was recognised in the dumps; however, its representatives do not create a monophyletic group. High genetic variability within a single population suggests that C. rei has a great potential for colonising anthropogenic habitats. This attribute emphasises the role of this lichen as an essential pioneer in the early stages of natural regeneration of such sites.
Acute and joint toxicity of twelve substituted benzene compounds to Propsilocerus akamusi Tokunaga
Authors: Cao Chuan-Wang , Niu Fang , Li Xiao-Peng , Ge Shi-Lin , Wang Zhi-Ying
Published: January 2014

This study investigated the toxic effects of 12 substituted benzenes exposed to Propsilocerus akamusi larvae singly and as mixtures. Their toxicities were quantified in terms of median effective concentration (EC50) killing 50% of the larvae. For individual substituted benzenes to 4th-instar P. akamusi larvae, the toxicity was in decreasing order of p-chlorophenol > nitrobenzene > phenol > 1,2-dimethylbenzene > 1,3-dimethylbenzene > chlorobenzene > p-phenylenediamine > 1,4-dimethylbenzene > m-phenylenediamine > methylbenzene > benzene > aniline. The order of toxicity among three isomers of dimethylbenzene was 1,2-dimethylbenzene > 1,3-dimethylbenzene > 1,4-dimethylbenzene while p-phenylenediamine > m-phenylenediamine. The binary substituted benzene compounds’ toxicities were evaluated by toxic unit (TU), additive index (AI), mixture toxicity index (MTI) and similarity parameter index (λ). The evaluation results of TU and MTI for 9 substituted benzene compounds were completely consistent while the results of AI were the same as the results of λ based on 24 h EC50 of binary substituted benzenes. The evaluation results of 10 substituted benzene compounds were consistent using TU, MTI, AI and λ evaluation methods. 52.63% and 47.37% of binary substituted benzene tests on P. akamusi larvae showed synergism and partial addition/antagonism, respectively, under mixtures of equal proportions. These results suggest that substituted benzenes indicate acute and binary joint toxicity to P. akamusi.
Synthesis, crystal structures, spectral, electrochemical and magnetic properties of di-µ-phenoxido-bridged dinuclear copper(II) complexes with N-salicylidene-2-hydroxybenzylamine derivatives: axial coordination effect of dimethyl sulphoxide molecule
Authors: Kakuta Yoshihisa , Masuda Naoyuki , Kurushima Michihiro , Hashimoto Takashi , Yoshioka Daisuke , Sakiyama Hiroshi , Hiraoka Yuya , Handa Makoto , Mikuriya Masahiro
Published: January 2014

The template reaction of salicylaldehyde and its substituted derivatives and 2-hydroxy-5-bromobenzylamine or 2-hydroxy-5-chlorobenzylamine with copper(II) acetate in dimethyl sulphoxide (dmso) afforded eight dinuclear Cu(II) complexes, [Cu2(L)2(dmso)2] (H2 L = N-salicylidene-2-hydroxy-5-bromobenzylamine, N-salicylidene-2-hydroxy-5-chlorobenzylamine and their 5-bromo, 5-nitro and 5-methyl-substituted salicylidene derivatives). These Cu(II) complexes were characterised by IR and UV-VIS-NIR spectroscopy, electric conductivity, cyclic voltammetry, and temperature dependence of magnetic susceptibilities (4.5–300 K). In the THF solution, the complexes are nonelectrolytes and exhibit a characteristic CT band due to phenoxido-bridging at 360–384 nm. In the cyclic voltammograms, an irreversible reduction process was observed at −1.18–1.54 V vs Fc/Fc+. Single-crystal X-ray crystallography revealed that two Cu(II) ions were bridged by the two phenoxido-oxygen atoms of the two Schiff-base ligands with axial coordination of dmso molecules forming a square pyramid with a Cu-Cu distance of 3.0628(8)–3.0931(6) °A. In accordance with the crystal structures, the magnetic interaction between the two Cu(II) ions is relatively anti-ferromagnetic with −2J value of 386–575 cm−1. The axial coordination effect of the dmso molecule was discussed in relation to the correlation between the Cu-O-Cu angle and the −2J value.
Hemilabile imino-phosphine palladium(II) complexes: synthesis, molecular structure, and evaluation in Heck reactions
Authors: Motswainyana William , Onani Martin , Lalancette Roger , Tarus Paul
Published: January 2014

The ligands 2-(diphenylphosphino)benzyl-(2-thiophene)methylimine (V) and 2-(diphenylphosphino) benzyl-(2-thiophene)ethylimine (VI) were prepared from 2-(diphenylphosphino)benzaldehyde and thiophene amines with very good yields. An equimolar reaction of V and VI with either PdCl2(cod) (cod = cyclooctadiene) or PdClMe(cod) afforded palladium(II) complexes I–IV. The molecular structure of II was confirmed by X-ray crystallography. The coordination geometry around the palladium atom exhibited distorted square planar geometry at the palladium centre. Complexes I, II, and IV were evaluated as catalysts for Heck coupling reactions of iodobenzene with methyl acrylate under mild reaction conditions; 0.1 mole % catalyst, Et3N base, MeCN reflux for 8 h, 80°C; isolated yield on a 10 mmol scale with catalyst I (64 %), II (68 %), and IV (58 %). They all exhibited significant activities.
Alkaline hydrogen peroxide pretreatment of energy crops for biogas production
Authors: Michalsk Karina , Ledakowicz Stanisław
Published: January 2014

In this study, the influence of alkaline hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) pretreatment of the three different plant sources: Miscanthus giganteus, Sorghum Moench, and Sida hermaphrodita, for biogas production was investigated. The influence of temperature, reaction time, and H2O2 concentration on the efficiency of biomass degradation and on the further methanogenic fermentation were studied. The results obtained after chemical pretreatment indicate that using H2O2 at alkaline conditions leads to the decomposition of three major structures: lignin, hemicellulose, and cellulose. The best results were achieved for the process performed at 25°C for 24 h with the use of a 5 mass % H2O2 solution. Although the degradation level was very high for all three plant sources, the biogas production from the energy crops pretreated chemically was strongly inhibited by byproducts and the residual oxygen formed after H2O2 decomposition. This fact indicates that alkaline H2O2 pretreatment is a very promising method for plant material degradation for further biogas production, but pretreated biomass must be separated from supernatant before the fermentation process because of the high concentration of inhibitors in the hydrolysates. The best results were obtained for Sida with biogas and methane production of 2.29 Ndm3 and 1.06 Ndm3, respectively.
Exergames as a Teaching Tool in Physical Education?
Authors: Meckbach Jane , Gibbs Béatrice , Almqvist Jonas , Öhman Marie , Quennerstedt Mikael
Published: January 2014

Video games are often highlighted as risk factors in relation to physical inactivity and increasing levels of obesity. Now a new type of video game, the exergame, has entered the market. In recent years, several countries have increasingly foregrounded exergames as a possible activity for use in school PE and as perhaps improving young people’s knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors in relation to health and physical exercise. The purpose of this study is to explore Swedish PE teachers’ perceptions and use of exergames and also the barriers to and reasons for using exergames based on a survey containing closed- and open-ended questions. A total of 493 teachers (10% of all Swedish PE teachers) answered the questionnaire. The responses were coded and entered into SPSS, allowing for both descriptive data and cross-table analyses. The results show that 80 percent are familiar with exergames, 17 percent are recreational exergamers, and a few (3%) have tried using exergames in physical education and health. The reasons for introducing exergames are generally as follows: encouraging physical activity, offering different types of movement, and having fun. The barriers to introducing exergames are mainly: financial, prioritizing other activities, and the teachers’ own knowledge. The majority of the PE teachers are generally positive to introducing exergames as a teaching aid into their subject. However, this requires developing the teachers’ own knowledge of exergames. The choice of teaching content and the introduction of new activities and teaching tools also involve critically examining the games, and this, in turn, entails didactic reflection.
Exercise Only, Exercise With Mechanical Traction, or Exercise With Over-Door Traction for Patients With Cervical Radiculopathy, With or Without Consideration of Status on a Previously Described Subgrouping Rule: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Fritz Julie M. , Thackeray Anne , Brennan Gerard P. , Childs John D.
Published: January 2014

Study Design

Randomized clinical trial.

Objectives

To examine the effectiveness of cervical traction in addition to exercise for specific subgroups of patients with neck pain.

Background

Cervical traction is frequently used, but its effectiveness has not been adequately examined. Existing studies have failed to target patients most likely to respond. Traction is typically recommended for patients with cervical radiculopathy. A prediction rule has been described to identify a narrower subgroup of patients likely to respond to cervical traction.

Methods

Patients with neck pain and signs of radiculopathy were randomized to 4 weeks of treatment with exercise, exercise with mechanical traction, or exercise with over-door traction. Baseline assessment included subgrouping-rule status. The primary outcome measure (Neck Disability Index, scored 0–100) and secondary outcome measure (neck and arm pain intensity) were assessed at 4 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months after enrollment. The primary analyses examined 2-way treatment-by-time interactions. Secondary analyses examined validity of the subgrouping rule by adding 3-way interactions.

Results

Eighty-six patients (53.5% female; mean age, 46.9 years) were enrolled in the study. Intention-to-treat analysis found lower Neck Disability Index scores at 6 months in the mechanical traction group compared to the exercise group (mean difference between groups, 13.3; 95% confidence interval: 5.6, 21.0) and over-door traction group (mean difference between groups, 8.1; 95% confidence interval: 0.8, 15.3), and at 12 months in the mechanical traction group compared to the exercise group (mean difference between groups, 9.8; 95% confidence interval: 0.2, 19.4). Secondary outcomes favored mechanical traction at several time points. The validity of the subgrouping rule was supported on the Neck Disability Index at the 6-month time point only.

Conclusion

Adding mechanical traction to exercise for patients with cervical radiculopathy resulted in lower disability and pain, particularly at long-term follow-ups. The study protocol was registered at http://clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00979108).

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 2b-. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2014;44(2):45–57. Epub 9 January 2014. doi:10.2519/jospt.2014.5065
The French human Salmonella surveillance system: evaluation of timeliness of laboratory reporting and factors associated with delays, 2007 to 2011
Authors: Jones G , Le Hello S , Jourdan-da Silva N , Vaillant V , de Valk H , Weill F  X , Le Strat Y
Published: January 2014

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
An outbreak of Salmonella Newport associated with mung bean sprouts in Germany and the Netherlands, October to November 2011
Authors: Bayer C , Bernard H , Prager R , Rabsch W , Hiller P , Malorny B , Pfefferkorn B , Frank C , de Jong A , Friesema I , Stark K , Rosner B M
Published: January 2014

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
The Danish Microbiology Database (MiBa) 2010 to 2013
Authors: Voldstedlund M , Haarh M , Mølbak K , the MiBa Board of Representatives
Published: January 2014

The Danish Microbiology Database (MiBa) is a national database that receives copies of reports from all Danish departments of clinical microbiology. The database was launched in order to provide healthcare personnel with nationwide access to microbiology reports and to enable real-time surveillance of communicable diseases and microorganisms. The establishment and management of MiBa has been a collaborative process among stakeholders, and the present paper summarises lessons learned from this nationwide endeavour which may be relevant to similar projects in the rapidly changing landscape of health informatics.
Does prey density limit Amur tiger Panthera tigris altaica recovery in northeastern China?
Authors: Zhang Changzhi , Zhang Minghai , Stott Philip
Published: January 2014

A residual population of Amur tigers Panthera tigris altaica probably survives in the eastern Wanda Mountains (EWM) in China, where the main prey species are red deer Cervus elaphus, eastern roe deer Capreolus pygargus and wild boar Sus scrofa ussuricus. We used 53 snow sample plots each containing about 29 km of transects to detect ungulate presence and determined their total density in EWM in 2002 to be 87.9 ± 8.9 kg km−2. We then applied these data to three published models that predict the relationship between tiger density and prey biomass density to obtain three estimates of tiger carrying capacity in EWM. Existing estimates of tiger density suggest that tigers were below carrying capacity estimates. Relationships between prey density and tiger density from 15 studies indicate a threshold prey biomass of 195 kg km−2 (CI: 33‐433), below which a tiger population cannot be sustained. We therefore concluded that the EWM population of tigers is in peril. We compared densities between the years 2002 and 2008 using comparable data and found that the EWM populations of the three ungulate prey species all experienced decreases of 40‐45%, apparently due to intense poaching. This rapid decline in prey density and pervasive threats to tigers and their prey in the EWM demands immediate and effective protection of ungulate and tiger populations from poaching if tigers are to persist and recover.
Resource availability and use by Eurasian otters Lutra lutra in a heavily modified river‐canal system
Authors: Kloskowski Janusz , Rechulicz Jacek , Jarzynowa Barbara
Published: January 2014

The freshwater habitats of semi‐aquatic carnivores in Europe have undergone substantial alterations due to regulation and construction of artificial watercourses. We compared seasonal estimates of otter Lutra lutra food composition with concomitantly collected data on fish availability and otter holt location in a strongly human‐modified ecosystem comprising the upper stretches of the Wieprz‐Krzna Canal, the longest artificial waterway in Poland, and an associated regulated river. Concrete lining of the canal, extreme water level variation and regular vegetation clearance to enhance water flow substantially limited otter food and shelter resources, yet the canal offered attractive habitats for some fish and hibernating amphibians, while otter resting sites were available at the closely adjacent river. The taxonomic composition of fish in the otter diet, reconstructed based on faecal analysis, was largely reflected in electrofishing catches. Fish communities in our study area were numerically dominated by small‐sized species and otters fed on very small fish (median seasonal total lengths: 46‐54 mm). Either the smaller fish in the population were taken or prey sizes did not differ from those available. The significant contribution of amphibians and waterbirds to otter diet (seasonally 41‐75% in terms of biomass) indicated poor fish supplies for otters in the canal‐river system. High trophic diversity, compared to other otter studies in temperate climatic conditions, indicates that otters facing unstable food conditions exhibit great flexibility in their diet, which may facilitate colonisation of anthropogenic, depauperate environments. Otter occurrence provides little opportunity for conflict with human economic interests in ecosystems that are highly managed for purposes other than fish production. Since anthropogenic habitats are typically poor in some resources, such as shelter structures, their suitability for otters can be enhanced by ensuring good connectivity with nearby less‐disturbed habitats, where the necessary resources can be supplemented.
Effects of climate change on European ducks: what do we know and what do we need to know?
Authors: Guillemain Matthieu , Pöysä Hannu , Fox Anthony D. , Arzel Céline , Dessborn Lisa , Ekroos Johan , Gunnarsson Gunnar , Holm Thomas Eske , Christensen Thomas Kjær , Lehikoinen Aleksi , Mitchell Carl , Rintala Jukka , M⊘ller Anders Pape
Published: January 2014

The consequences of climate change for bird populations have received much attention in recent decades, especially amongst cavity‐nesting songbirds, yet little has been written on ducks (Anatidae) despite these being major elements of wetland diversity and important quarry species. This paper reviews the major known consequences of climate change for birds in general, and relates these to the limited information available specifically for ducks. Climate change can influence migration distance and phenology, potentially affecting patterns of mortality, as well as distribution and reproductive success in ducks. Studies addressing effects of climate change are, however, restricted to very few duck species, including mallardAnas platyrhynchosand common eiderSomateria mollissima. Shifts in winter duck distributions have been observed, whereas the mismatch hypothesis (mistiming between the periods of peak energy requirements for young and the peak of seasonal food availability) has received limited support with regard to ducks. We propose a range of monitoring initiatives, including population surveys, breeding success monitoring schemes and individual duck marking, which should later be integrated through population modelling and adaptive management to fill these gaps.
Trees on farms: diversity, carbon pool and contribution to rural livelihoods in Kanchanpur District of Nepal
Authors: Baral SK , Malla R , Khanal S , Shakya R
Published: January 2014

Trees and shrubs are important component of rural farming system in Nepal. This paper assesses tree diversity and carbon pool of trees and shrubs outside forests as well as their contribution in the rural economy of the study area. In the land use classification map derived from the high resolution ALOS Pan-sharpened imagery, random selection was made among systematic grid in the agriculture class to find out the inventory plot. The plot was designed as nested plot. Firstly, tree measurement was done and then leaves, branch samples as well as soil samples were collected from each sample plot. Structured questionnaire survey was used to assess the contribution of trees and shrubs on rural livelihoods. The biomass and soil samples were analyzed using dry combustion method to estimate the carbon content. The amount of carbon stock difference between farmland with TOF and without TOF was found 26.56 Mg (megagram) ha-1. There was 350,714.6 Mg above ground carbon, 35,103.36 Mg root carbon and 84451.18 Mg soil carbon accumulated by total trees and shrubs on farms in the District. Hence, the total carbon pool of the District in different agroforestry systems was estimated to be 470,269.18 Mg. Homegarden system was found to be a good agroforestry system in terms of having higher species richness, tree diversity and relatively higher amount of above and below ground carbon per unit area. The results also showed that the trees on farms contributed16.4% (NRs. 3689 per household/year) and 17.1% (NRs. 2613 per household/year) of farmland income and livestock income respectively. The results, thus, indicate that trees on farms have visible impacts on rural livelihoods, harboring rich plant diversity and sequestering substantial amount of carbon. Banko Janakari, Vol. 23, No. 1, Page 3-11 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/banko.v23i1.9462
Monitoring above-ground forest biomass: A comparison of cost and accuracy between LiDAR assisted multisource programme and field-based forest resource assessment in Nepal
Authors: Kandel PN
Published: January 2014

Analyzing forest monitoring costs and accuracy of forest carbon stock estimates are important criteria in the framework of Reducing Emission from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD), because Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) system has been seen as an investment that aims to generate financial benefits to forest owners. Thus, comparisons of cost efficiency and accuracy were carried out between the LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) Assisted Multisource Programme (LAMP) and the field-based multisource Forest Resource Assessment (FRA) applied in the 23500 km2 Terai Arc Landscape (TAL) of Nepal in 2011 to estimate Above Ground Biomass (AGB). The model-based LAMP was applied by integrating 5% LiDAR sampling, wall to wall RapidEye satellite image and field sample plot inventory. The design-based FRA was carried out to generate comprehensive forest resource information. Administrative and initial variable costs of both approaches were calculated separately, and converted to unit costs for comparison. To compare the subsequent forest monitoring costs, cumulative costs were derived on the basis of the calculated present variable items and expenditures. The accuracies were calculated by using mean error of mean biomass estimates (tons/ha) at different spatial scales ranging from 1 to 350,000 ha forests. Design-based FRA was found to be cost-efficient (USD 0.22/ha) as compared to the LAMP approach (USD 0.28/ha) for baseline data collection, whereas administrative cost of multisource FRA (USD 0.26/ha) was significantly higher. Although a huge amount of data were generated through multisource FRA in each cycle, the LAMP approach appears to be cost-efficient to estimate AGB in subsequent forest inventory. The mean errors in the LAMP-derived mean biomass estimate were significantly smaller at all spatial resolutions than the FRA-plot-derived mean biomass estimate. The study concludes that spatial accuracy of LAMP is good enough to estimate biomass stock of Community Forests (CFs) where average size of CF is 150 ha in the study area. Banko Janakari, Vol. 23, No. 1, Page 12-22 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/banko.v23i1.9463
Economic valuation of ecosystem services in protected areas: A case study from Nepal
Authors: KC B , Kandel PN , Adhikari S
Published: January 2014

The research examines the value of ecosystem services in Baghmara Buffer Zone Community Forest of Nepal determining willingness of local users and tourists for sustainable management and conservation of natural resources as well as recreational and aesthetic services, during September of 2010. The contingent valuation survey was administered to 95 users and 100 tourists. For users, the distance to forest, family size, nature of residence, gender and size of land holding seem to be the prominent factors that affected upon their willingness to pay. The projected average willingness to pay by all users for recreational and aesthetic services was NRs. 33,347 (about US$ 460) per year. The tourists were divided into domestic and international to elicit willingness to pay for ecosystem services. The responses were found varied according to the nature of tourists. For domestic tourists, income was only factor that affected their willingness to pay, but for international tourists along with income, gender, travel group and education were major determinants of willingness to pay. The average projected willingness to pay by all tourists was US$ 3,806,468 per year.The research highlights that the conservation area systems in Nepal has a high potential to generate additional resources against ecosystem services provided additional services to the tourists and a mechanism to tap such contribution. Banko Janakari, Vol. 23, No. 1, Page 42-50 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/banko.v23i1.9466
Effects of fertilizer application on fruiting-yield of Jatropha curcas Linn.
Authors: Aryal KR , Das AK , Timilsina YP , Baral SK
Published: January 2014

Banko Janakari, Vol. 23, No. 1, Page 57-60 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/banko.v23i1.9468
Key Word Index to Vol. 23, No. 1, May 2013
Authors: Editor The
Published: January 2014

Banko Janakari, Vol. 23, No. 1, Page 63 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/banko.v23i1.9470
Regional integration and free movement in Central Africa Integración regional y libre circulación en África Central L'intégration régionale et la libre circulation en Afrique centrale
Authors: Nono Guy Marcel
Published: January 2014

A pillar of African emergence and an important issue of political debate that is central to regional integration, free movement is however not yet acquired in Central Africa. Yet a glance at the pre colonial history invites us to believe that Central Africa has been an area of free movement. The recognition of a right that cannot be realized only by an agreement leads to the Central African states pledging to work together in the context of regional integration by recognizing their citizens' right to full mobility. This contribution highlights the efforts, challenges and prospects of free movement in Central Africa by reference to the African Union framework, and asks if the legal and institutional framework of free movement in Central Africa has led to the emergence of a social policy supportive of free movement at the sub regional level.

Spanish
La libre circulación de personas es un pilar del África emergente, un tema importante en el debate político, un punto central de la integración regional, y sin embargo todavía intangible en África Central. No obstante, una mirada a la historia precolonial nos invita a pensar que África Central ha sido un espacio de libre circulación. El reconocimiento de un derecho que no puede realizarse sólo por un acuerdo, conduce a que los Estados de África Central se comprometan a trabajar juntos en el marco de la integración regional para reconocer el derecho de sus ciudadanos a la movilidad total. Esta contribución destaca los esfuerzos, desafíos y perspectivas de la libre circulación en África Central en referencia con el marco de la Unión Africana, y se pregunta si el marco legal e institucional de la libre circulación en África Central ha llevado a la aparición de una política social que apoye la libre circulación a nivel subregional.

French
Pilier de l'émergence de l'Afrique, enjeu des débats politiques et de l'intégration, la libre circulation n'est pas encore un acquis en Afrique Centrale. Pourtant, un regard porté sur l'histoire précoloniale nous invite à croire que l'Afrique centrale a été un espace de libre circulation. La reconnaissance d'un droit ne pouvant se faire que par l'objet d'un accord, les États d'Afrique Centrale se sont engagés dans le choix d'une histoire à réaliser ensemble dans le cadre de l'intégration, en consacrant dans des pactes communautaires la pleine mobilité de leurs ressortissants. Cette contribution met en évidence les efforts, défis et perspectives de la libre circulation en Afrique centrale par référence au cadre de l'Union africaine, et pose la question de savoir si le cadre juridique et institutionnel de la libre circulation en Afrique centrale a conduit à l'émergence d'une politique sociale en faveur de la libre circulation au niveau sous régional.
Predictive value of intraoperative 5-aminolevulinic acid–induced fluorescence for detecting bone invasion in meningioma surgery
Authors: Della Puppa Alessandro , Rustemi Oriela , Gioffrè Giorgio , Troncon Irene , Lombardi Giuseppe , Rolma Giuseppe , Sergi Massimo , Munari Marina , Cecchin Diego , Gardiman Marina Paola , Scienza Renato
Published: January 2014

Object

Bone invasion is a major concern in meningioma surgery, since it is predictive of the recurrence of cranial involvement, morbidity, and mortality. Bone invasion has been reported in 20%–68% of studies with histopathologically confirmed data. Unfortunately, radical resection of bone invasion remains challenging. The aim of this study was to assess the role of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) fluorescence in guiding the resection of bone-invading meningiomas. To this purpose, the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of 5-ALA in detecting meningioma bone invasion were evaluated.

Methods

Data from 12 patients affected by bone-invading meningiomas (7 with skull base and 5 with convexity meningiomas) who had undergone surgery with the assistance of 5-ALA fluorescence and neuronavigation between July 2012 and March 2013 at the Department of Neurosurgery of Padua were retrospectively analyzed. To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of 5-ALA fluorescence in detecting meningioma tissue, a pathologist analyzed 98 surgical bone samples under blue light, according to different fluorescence patterns. Magnetic resonance images and CT scans were obtained pre- and postoperatively to determine the extent of bone invasion resection.

Results

The rate of 5-ALA–induced fluorescence of both tumor and bone invasion was 100%. Based on the pathological examination of bone specimens, 5-ALA presented a sensitivity of 89.06% (95% CI 81.41%–96.71%) and a specificity of 100% in detecting meningioma bone invasion, while the positive and negative predictive values were 100% and 82.93% (95% CI 71.41%–94.45%), respectively. At the postoperative stage, MRI did not detect cases of meningioma bone invasion, whereas CT scans revealed residual hyperostosis in 2 cases.

Conclusions

In summary, 5-ALA fluorescence represents a suitable and reliable technique for identifying and removing bone infiltration by meningiomas. However, further studies are needed to prove the clinical consequences of this promising technique in a larger population.
Computed tomography characteristics in pediatric versus adult traumatic brain injury
Authors: Sarkar Korak , Keachie Krista , Nguyen UyenThao , Muizelaar J. Paul , Zwienenberg-Lee Marike , Shahlaie Kiarash
Published: January 2014

Object

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of injury, hospitalization, and death among pediatric patients. Admission CT scans play an important role in classifying TBI and directing clinical care, but little is known about the differences in CT findings between pediatric and adult patients. The aim of this study was to determine if radiographic differences exist between adult and pediatric TBI.

Methods

The authors retrospectively analyzed TBI registry data from 1206 consecutive patients with nonpenetrating TBI treated at a Level 1 adult and pediatric trauma center over a 30-month period.

Results

The distribution of sex, race, and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score was not significantly different between the adult and pediatric populations; however, the distribution of CT findings was significantly different. Pediatric patients with TBI were more likely to have skull fractures (OR 3.21, p < 0.01) and epidural hematomas (OR 1.96, p < 0.01). Pediatric TBI was less likely to be associated with contusion, subdural hematoma, subarachnoid hemorrhage, or compression of the basal cisterns (p < 0.05). Rotterdam CT scores were significantly lower in the pediatric population (2.3 vs 2.6, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

There are significant differences in the CT findings in pediatric versus adult TBI, despite statistical similarities with regard to clinical severity of injury as measured by the GCS. These differences may be due to anatomical characteristics, the biomechanics of injury, and/or differences in injury mechanisms between pediatric and adult patients. The unique characteristics of pediatric TBI warrant consideration when formulating a clinical trial design or predicting functional outcome using prognostic models developed from adult TBI data.
Modified periinsular hemispherotomy: operative anatomy and technical nuances
Authors: Kovanda Timothy J. , Rey-Dios Roberto , Travnicek Jared , Cohen-Gadol Aaron A.
Published: January 2014

Surgical options for pediatric patients with marked dysfunction of a single epileptogenic hemisphere have evolved over time. Complications resulting from highly resective operations such as anatomical hemispherectomy, including superficial siderosis and secondary hydrocephalus, have led to the development of less resective and more disconnective functional hemispherectomy. Functional hemispherectomy has recently given rise to hemispherotomy, the least resective operation primarily aimed at disconnecting the abnormal hemisphere. Hemispherotomy is effective in decreasing seizure frequency and most likely decreases the risk of postoperative complications when compared with its predecessors. Hemispherotomy is a technically challenging operation that requires a thorough understanding of 3D cerebral anatomy to ensure adequate hemispheric disconnection without placing important structures at risk. The details of germane operative anatomy are not currently available because of the difficulty in exposing this operative anatomy adequately in cadavers to prepare detailed instructive illustrations. Using 3D graphic models, the authors have prepared 2D overlay illustrations to discuss the relevant operative nuances for a modified form of this procedure. Through hemispherotomy, experienced surgeons can effectively treat patients with unilateral epileptogenic hemisphere dysfunction while limiting potential complications.
A comparison of costs associated with endoscope-assisted craniectomy versus open cranial vault repair for infants with sagittal synostosis
Authors: Vogel Timothy W. , Woo Albert S. , Kane Alex A. , Patel Kamlesh B. , Naidoo Sybill D. , Smyth Matthew D.
Published: January 2014

Object

The surgical management of infants with sagittal synostosis has traditionally relied on open cranial vault remodeling (CVR) techniques; however, minimally invasive technologies, including endoscope-assisted craniectomy (EAC) repair followed by helmet therapy (HT, EAC+HT), is increasingly used to treat various forms of craniosynostosis during the 1st year of life. In this study the authors determined the costs associated with EAC+HT in comparison with those for CVR.

Methods

The authors performed a retrospective case-control analysis of 21 children who had undergone CVR and 21 who had undergone EAC+HT. Eligibility criteria included an age less than 1 year and at least 1 year of clinical follow-up data. Financial and clinical records were reviewed for data related to length of hospital stay and transfusion rates as well as costs associated with physician, hospital, and outpatient clinic visits.

Results

The average age of patients who underwent CVR was 6.8 months compared with 3.1 months for those who underwent EAC+HT. Patients who underwent EAC+HT most often required the use of 2 helmets (76.5%), infrequently required a third helmet (13.3%), and averaged 1.8 clinic visits in the first 90 days after surgery. Endoscope-assisted craniectomy plus HT was associated with shorter hospital stays (mean 1.10 vs 4.67 days for CVR, p < 0.0001), a decreased rate of blood transfusions (9.5% vs 100% for CVR, p < 0.0001), and a decreased operative time (81.1 vs 165.8 minutes for CVR, p < 0.0001). The overall cost of EAC+HT, accounting for hospital charges, professional and helmet fees, and clinic visits, was also lower than that of CVR ($37,255.99 vs $56,990.46, respectively, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Endoscope-assisted craniectomy plus HT is a less costly surgical option for patients than CVR. In addition, EAC+HT was associated with a lower utilization of perioperative resources. Theses findings suggest that EAC+HT for infants with sagittal synostosis may be a cost-effective first-line surgical option.