bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biochemical Analysis of Melia azedarach (Chinaberry) Leaf Extract Collected from Laoang, Northern Samar, Philippines
Authors: Coria Jenny Cyrill T. , Dagalea Flyndon Mark S. , Somoray Maria Judy M.
Published: July 2024

Melia azedarach belongs to the Meliaceae family and is known by various names, such as Chinaberry, ride of India, Bead-tree, Cape lilac, Persian lilac. It is commonly found in warmer and tropical regions, including Southeast Asia and various other parts of the world. The leaves, bark, stem and roots have a medicinal application and effective against the herpes simplex virus. This study focuses on the characterization of bioactive potential of Melia azedarach (Chinaberry) leaf extract. Physical properties were determined in terms of color, odor, solubility, boiling point, density, and pH.  Furthermore, the secondary metabolites were determined in terms of alkaloids, phenols, tannin, saponin, and phenolic compound. Likewise, Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy is used to determine the functional group present on the leaf extract. Lastly, to determine the bioactive potential of Melia azedarach (Chinaberry) leaf extract Ultraviolet Visible (UV-vis) Spectrophotometer was used.  Result showed that Melia azedarach (Chinaberry) has a yellow green color with a pleasant odor, miscible with ethanol and water, immiscible with benzene, lower boiling point than water, less dense than water and a pH which is moderately acidic. Furthermore, a positive result showed in phytochemical screening for alkaloids, phenols, tannin, saponin and phenolic compound, which implies that the plant sample can be used as antioxidant, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory. Subsequently, FTIR and UV-vis analysis showed a positive result for the determination of functional group and bioactive potential among secondary metabolites which means that it is possible for the application in developing therapeutic medicines and in developing natural remedies. Therefore, the findings of this study will benefits the whole scientific community since it would provide added information and evidences as possible application for the development of pharmaceutical medicine. Furthermore, this study is beneficial to the whole scientific community since it would provide added information about the characterization of bioactive potential present in these leaf extract. It also, provides alternative treatments for common health issues particularly in communities that are in far-flung areas with limited access to modern healthcare. Overall, this compound simplifies treatments, may lower healthcare costs, and significantly improves quality of life.
Climate Change impact on Weeds and Herbicide Efficacy
Authors: Parvati  , K. Poojitha , K. M. Pravalika , Teli Kashinath Gurusiddappa
Published: July 2024

Climate change is the change in statistical distribution of weather pattern that lasts for an extended period of time. There are several components of these climate changes occurring globally that includes uneven rainfall, droughts, floods, warming of atmosphere etc. These are the most important challenges influencing natural ecosystems, agricultural productivity and food security. Climate change is not only influencing crop plants and forests directly but can also impact the pests of these crops. Weeds respond to climate change by changing the duration of their life cycles, population dynamics and shift to new habitats and become a potential competitor to crop plants thereby reducing the production and productivity of crops. Elevated temperature and elevated CO2 level in the environment interfere with herbicide activity, which affects the herbicide absorption, translocation and thereby reduces the efficacy of the applied herbicide. Weeds’ resistance to herbicides may probably increase due to further aggressive growth of weeds in future climate conditions, which can cause a decline in the efficacy of routinely used herbicides.
Performance of Rosy Adenium (Adenium obesum) Genotype under Prayagraj Agro-Climatic Conditions
Authors: Varghese Silvia R , Fatmi Urfi
Published: July 2024

Aim: The experiment was conducted in the Department of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Science, Prayagraj, during 2023-2024.
Study Design: The experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized Design (CRD).
Methodology: 10 Rosy adenium genotypes and each genotype was replicated 3 times. The different genotypes used in the experiment were R4, R5, R23, R33, R35, R53, R73, R124, R163, R169.
Results: The result obtained showed that the genotype R73 showed significantly higher performance in parameters like plant height, caudex diameter, graft length, graft diameter, days taken to bud initiation, number of petals per flower, flower diameter, self-life and which was found to be at par with genotype R33 in plant height, caudex diameter, graft length, graft diameter, days taken to bud initiation, number of petals per flower, flower diameter, self-life.
Conclusion: Hence, genotype R73 and R33 is excellent in terms of performance and plant growth under Prayagraj agro-climatic conditions.
Effects of Climate Variability on Bushfire Regimes in the Bagoué Region, Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Diabate Wagnimè , Dibi-Anoh Agoh Pauline
Published: July 2024

Bushfires are an important factor in the dynamics of savannah landscapes. This study is carried out in the Bagoué region to evaluate the relationships between climatic variability and bushfire regimes. To achieve this objective, rainfall and temperature data were analyzed. The information’s were collected with 300 heads of household surveyed, 100 in Boundiali, Kouto and Tengrela were selected, respectively. A purposive sampling was defined according to the following criteria: any person who uses fires in agricultural activity; the respondent must be at least 30 years old and have been in the survey for at least 20 years. The results recorded from 1990 to 2002, showed that the rainfall was increased at 14.8%followed by a 10.7% and was decreased between 2003 and 2020 in Boundiali. Average annual rainfall was 1,408.99 mm, with a 13.2% increase between 1990 and 2002 and a 20.1% deficit between 2003 and 2020. Average annual rainfall in Tengrela also showed h1,515.9 mm, with a surplus of 171.5 mm, i.e. an increase of 12.8% from 1990 to 2002 and a rainfall deficit of 9.2% from 2003 to 2020. Temperatures rise to 0.7°C, 0.74°C and 0.74°C in Boundiali, Kouto and Tengrela between 1990 and 2020, respectively. Three fire periods were identified with lowest intensities and frequencies. The combination of rainfall declining, the temperatures increasing, the highest dry biomass, and the agricultural activities contributes to the emergence of bushfires in the Bagoué region. This study highlights the importance of addressing these factors to mitigate the impact of bushfires. This research highlights the importance of considering climatic factors in understanding bushfire dynamics in savannah landscapes.
Optimizing Anesthesia Care in TAVR Patients: A Case Report and Review of Literature against Indian Scenario
Authors: Datye Amruta , Patil Ravikant
Published: July 2024

TAVR has now been accepted across the globe as a standard treatment in management of severe AS. The procedure got simpler over past two decades with newer and advanced generation valves and deployment techniques. Similarly, with evolved anesthesia techniques, peri-operative optimization and adoption of minimalist approach has considerably reduced the complications, shorten the stay and reduced all-cause morbidity and morbidity.
India has seen surge in patients undergoing TAVR after first procedure in 2011. However, various factors economic, physician learning curve, demography seem to a play role in widespread adoption of this form of treatment.
Evaluation of Various Genotypes of Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.) on Quality Traits
Authors: Sagar K. Rajendar , Babu B. Ramesh , Babu M. Ravindra , Rao M. Paratpara
Published: July 2024

A field investigation is done in which thirty-six genotypes of bitter gourd were evaluated to estimate the quality traits under study. Randomized block design is followed and the genotypes are replicated twice. The study was conducted during Rabi 2021. Major variations have been observed among the genotypes for each character that are studied, based on the analysis of variance. Genotype VBGC-9 had a high TSS (4.600Brix), While genotype VBGC-22 had the highest Vitamin-C content (114.50 mg/100mg). The highest titratable acidity was found in genotype VBGC-13 (0.05%), and was followed by VBGC-18 (0.05%) and VBGC-33 (0.05%). The genotype VBGC-27 had its highest total sugar content (3.77%), VBGC-18 (3.25%) has the highest amount of reducing sugars, followed by VBGC-31 (3.25%) and VBGC-32 (3.25%). Therefore, after several years and locations of testing, the best-performing genotypes may be recommended for commercial cultivation and used to promote bitter gourd cultivation efforts as elite germplasm lines or varieties.
Analisis Makna Gambar Label Kemasan Produk Pureco Floor Cleaner sebagai “Household Representation”
Authors: Utami Maya Putri
Published: July 2024

Produk rumah tangga merupakan produk yang sangat dekat dengan kehidupan sehari-hari di dalam rumah tangga, terutama bagi orang tua yang memiliki bayi atau hewan peliharaan di rumahnya. Untuk merepresentasikan image dari produk, desain kemasan memiliki peran yang sangat penting. Pureco merupakan merek dari produk-produk rumah tangga yang menggunakan bahan alami dari tanaman sebagai bahan baku utama di dalam pembuatannya. Pada kemasan produk Pureco terdapat gambar yang berbentuk ilustrasi ember, pel, bayi, anak anjing, dan anak kucing yang menunjukkan makna gambar sebagai household representation. Gambar-gambar tersebut dapat diartikan sebagai representasi dari sebuah rumah tangga yang ramah anak, hewan peliharaan, dan aman. Penelitian ini menggunakan tinjauan desain dengan pendekatan kritik seni dan bertujuan untuk mengetahui apa makna yang terkandung di dalam ilustrasi kemasan produk Pureco Floor Cleaner sebagai “household representation.”
Perancangan Board Game Sebagai Media Pelatihan Karyawan dalam Penerapan Core Value AKHLAK di PT Pos Indonesia (Persero)
Authors: Wijaya Vincensius Dinar Satria , Prasida T. Arie Setiawan , Prestiliano Jasson
Published: July 2024

Setiap perusahaan Badan Usaha Milik Negara (BUMN) termasuk PT Pos Indonesia (Persero) wajib menerapkan nilai inti budaya perusahaan yaitu AKHLAK. Kebijakan tersebut telah tertulis pada Surat Edaran Menteri BUMN Nomor SE-7/MBU/07/2020 tanggal 1 Juli 2020. Berdasarkan nilai indeks implementasi nilai AKHLAK, PT Pos Indonesia (Persero) masih tergolong kurang sehat. Penelitian ini membahas tentang penerapan nilai-nilai dari budaya perusahaan AKHLAK yang wajib diterapkan PT Pos Indonesia (Persero). Tujuan dibuatnya penelitian ini adalah dirancangnya board game sebagai media pelatihan karyawan tentang core values AKHLAK sehingga karyawan dapat lebih mudah untuk memahami penerapan dari budaya perusahaan AKHLAK. Metode yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah metode deskriptif dengan strategi linier. Hasil yang didapatkan adalah board game “Pohon AKHLAK” dapat digunakan menjadi media untuk melatih karyawan dalam memahami core values AKHLAK dan berhasil dengan baik.
Lanthanide‐IMAC enrichment of carbohydrates and polyols
Authors: Schemeth Dieter , Rainer Matthias , Messner Christoph B. , Rode Bernd M. , Bonn Günther K.
Published: October 2013

In this study a new type of immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography resin for the enrichment of carbohydrates and polyols was synthesized by radical polymerization reaction of vinyl phosphonic acid and 1,4‐butandiole dimethacrylate using azo‐bis‐isobutyronitrile as radical initiator. Interaction between the chelated trivalent lanthanide ions and negatively charged hydroxyl groups of carbohydrates and polyols was observed by applying high pH values. The new method was evaluated by single standard solutions, mixtures of standards, honey and a more complex extract of Cynara scolymus. The washing step was accomplished by acetonitrile in excess volumes. Elution of enriched carbohydrates was successfully performed with deionized water. The subsequent analysis was carried out with matrix‐free laser desorption/ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry involving a TiO2‐coated steel target, especially suitable for the measurement of low‐molecular‐weight substances. Quantitative analysis of the sugar alcohol xylitol as well as the determination of the maximal loading capacity was performed by gas chromatography in conjunction with mass spectrometric detection after chemical derivatization. In a parallel approach quantum mechanical geometry optimizations were performed in order to compare the coordination behavior of various trivalent lanthanide ions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and optical properties of nanocomposite film of CdS:Cu with biomacromolecules
Authors: Wang Liping , Sun Yujie , Zhang Fu
Published: October 2013

Nanocomposite films of CdS:Cu nanoparticles with chitosan and sodium alginate were prepared using spin‐coating method, and characterized by X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis), and photoluminescent spectrum. The CdS:Cu nanoparticles have a cubic structure with an average crystal size of ∼2 nm, which show blue shift in UV–vis absorption spectra compared to bulk CdS. Furthermore, the CdS:Cu nanoparticles are formed steadily with increasing number of composite layers and homogeneously distributed between the chitosan and alginate layer. AFM measurement shows that the average height of a mono‐layered composite film is 25 nm. Emissions ascribed to the electron–hole recombination of CdS and the t2‐like energy level of Cu was observed for the multi‐layered composite films. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:477–481, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
The Rate and Mortality of Postoperative Venous Thromboembolism of Moderate Risk Surgery in Asian Patients without Thrombo‐prophylaxis: Systematic Review with Meta‐analysis
Authors: Kanchanabat Burapa , Stapanavatr Wikoon , Manusirivithaya Sumonmal , Srimantayamas Satid
Published: October 2013

Background

The general gynecologic and neurologic surgeries are regard as carrying moderate risk for postoperative venous thromboembolism (VTE). This review analyzed the postoperative VTE rate of these surgeries in Asia.

Methods

Inclusion criteria were: prospective study; deep vein thrombosis (DVT) diagnosed by venography, ultrasonography, or radionucleotide scan; and no thromboprophylaxis. The pooled proportion was back calculated from Freeman–Tukey variant transformation, using a random effect model.

Results

Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and KoreaMed were searched. Fourteen studies (total population of 1,625) published from 1974 to 2008 were included. In general surgery, the pooled rate of all‐sites proximal, isolated distal DVT was 13.4, 2.1, and 11.8 % (radionucleotide scan). The cancer patients carried a higher all‐sites DVT rate (19.7 % radionucleotide scan and 17.4 % ultrasound). Gynecologic and neurologic surgery had 3.1 % (ultrasound) and 3.8 % (radionucleotide scan) all‐sites DVT rate. For general, gynecologic, and neurologic patients, the pooled rates of symptomatic DVT were 1.5, 0.2, and 1.0 % respectively. The pooled rate of symptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE) was 0.4 % for general surgery. No patients died from PE (pooled rate 0.2 %); however, a single PE death was reported in the excluded study.

Conclusions

Postoperative symptomatic VTE was relatively low in Asia. Further study is required to stratify VTE risk and the need for thromboprophylaxis in individual patients.
Motorised Two‐Wheeler Crash and Helmets: Injury Patterns, Severity, Mortality and the Consequence of Gender Bias
Authors: Gupta Amit , Jaipuria Jiten , Bagdia Amit , Kumar Subodh , Sagar Sushma , Misra Mahesh C.
Published: October 2013

Background

India records the maximum number of deaths from motorised two‐wheeler vehicle (MTV) accidents in the world with mandatory helmet laws for males but not females. This study was designed to investigate injury patterns, severity, mortality, and helmet usage among hospital admitted victims of a MTV crash with a paired subgroup analyses on female victims.

Methods

Hospital trauma registry from January 2011 to July 2012 for all adult victims of a MTV crash was analysed for outcomes of mortality, serious head injury, severe facial injury, and cervical spine injury while adjusting for age, gender, use of alcohol/drugs, injury severity score, and presence of shock by multivariable logistic regression model. Groups of helmeted victims (HV) and nonhelmeted victims (NHV) were identified.

Results

A total of 2,718 victims were included. HV suffered maximum injuries to the lower extremity (29.04 %) and had reduced adjusted odds of death (odds ratio (OR) 0.65; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.48–0.86), serious head injury (OR 0.34; CI 0.26–0.45), cervical spine injury (OR 0.74; CI 0.54–1.06), and serious facial injury (OR 0.87; CI 0.57–1.26) compared with NHV who suffered maximum injuries to the head (24.49 %). Compliance with helmet use was 52.91 and 7.94 % among males and females respectively. A total of 224 pairs of male driver and female pillion involved in same MTV crash were identified, and the predominantly helmeted male had reduced odds of death (OR 0.44; CI 0.21–0.84) and severe head injury (OR 0.42; CI 0.24–0.72) compared with overwhelmingly nonhelmeted females.

Conclusions

Helmet laws must be strictly enforced, and society should think about the cost being born by its fairer counterpart by the gender‐based differential law.
Cost‐effectiveness of Surgery in Low‐ and Middle‐income Countries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Grimes Caris E. , Henry Jaymie Ang , Maraka Jane , Mkandawire Nyengo C. , Cotton Michael
Published: October 2013

Background

There is increasing interest in provision of essential surgical care as part of public health policy in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC). Relatively simple interventions have been shown to prevent death and disability. We reviewed the published literature to examine the cost‐effectiveness of simple surgical interventions which could be made available at any district hospital, and compared these to standard public health interventions.

Methods

PubMed and EMBASE were searched using single and combinations of the search terms “disability adjusted life year” (DALY), “quality adjusted life year,” “cost‐effectiveness,” and “surgery.” Articles were included if they detailed the cost‐effectiveness of a surgical intervention of relevance to a LMIC, which could be made available at any district hospital. Suitable articles with both cost and effectiveness data were identified and, where possible, data were extrapolated to enable comparison across studies.

Results

Twenty‐seven articles met our inclusion criteria, representing 64 LMIC over 16 years of study. Interventions that were found to be cost‐effective included cataract surgery (cost/DALY averted range US$5.06–$106.00), elective inguinal hernia repair (cost/DALY averted range US$12.88–$78.18), male circumcision (cost/DALY averted range US$7.38–$319.29), emergency cesarean section (cost/DALY averted range US$18–$3,462.00), and cleft lip and palate repair (cost/DALY averted range US$15.44–$96.04). A small district hospital with basic surgical services was also found to be highly cost‐effective (cost/DALY averted 1 US$0.93), as were larger hospitals offering emergency and trauma surgery (cost/DALY averted US$32.78–$223.00). This compares favorably with other standard public health interventions, such as oral rehydration therapy (US$1,062.00), vitamin A supplementation (US$6.00–$12.00), breast feeding promotion (US$930.00), and highly active anti‐retroviral therapy for HIV (US$922.00).

Conclusions

Simple surgical interventions that are life‐saving and disability‐preventing should be considered as part of public health policy in LMIC. We recommend an investment in surgical care and its integration with other public health measures at the district hospital level, rather than investment in single disease strategies.
State of the Art of Robotic Surgery in Organ Transplantation
Authors: Tzvetanov Ivo , Bejarano‐Pineda Lorena , Giulianotti Pier C. , Jeon Hoonbae , Garcia‐Roca Raquel , Bianco Francesco , Oberholzer José , Benedetti Enrico
Published: October 2013

Within the last two decades the application of minimally invasive surgical technologies has shown significant benefits when it comes to complex surgical procedures. Lower rates of complications and higher patient satisfaction are commonly reported. Until recently these benefits were inaccessible for patients with solid organ transplantation, because conventional laparoscopy was seen as nonapplicable in such technically demanding procedures. The introduction of the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System, with its inherent advantages, has expanded the ability to complete solid organ transplantation in a minimally invasive fashion. Robotic applications in kidney, pancreas, and liver transplantation have been reported. The initial results showed the viability of this technique in the field. The most extensive experience has been described in kidney transplantation. Over 700 donor nephrectomies and more than 70 renal transplants have been performed successfully with the robotic system. The proven advantage of the robotic technique, especially in obese kidney recipients, is a significantly lower rate of surgical site infection, which in these highly immunosuppressed patients is reflected in superior outcomes. The first results in pancreas transplantation and living donor hepatectomy are very promising; however, larger series are needed in order to address the value of the robotic surgery in these areas of solid organ transplantation.
UK medical school over-assessment: a simple solution
Authors: Sharma Neel
Published: October 2013

None
The role of ERK1/2 in the regulation of proliferation and differentiation of astrocytes in developing brain
Authors: Cheng Peipei , Alberts Ian , Li Xiaohong
Published: October 2013

Extracellular signal regulated kinases (ERK) are important components of the Ras‐Raf‐MEK‐ERK signaling pathway cascades that mediate intracellular stimuli transduction and gene expression. ERK1 (44 kDa) and ERK2 (42 kDa) are homologous subtypes of the ERK family, which participate in regulation of a variety of cell activities, including cell proliferation, migration and differentiation, especially in the central nervous systerm (CNS). Hence, they exert critical effects on neuron and astrocyte development. Astrocytes are critically involved in maintaining CNS homeostasis and supporting neuron growth. When exposed to an extracellular stimulus, such as inflammation or oxidative stress, the corresponding cell response can be regulated by the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Furthermore, several lines of evidence have demonstrated a correlation between astrocyte activity and the Ras‐Raf‐MEK‐ERK signaling pathway. However many questions remain unanswered regarding the role of ERK1/2 in astrocyte development. This review summarizes the possible role of ERK1/2 signaling cascades in modulating the proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis of astrocytes in both physiological and pathological conditions. In addition, this review also briefly elucidates the participation of ERK1/2 in the process of human brain glia tumor oncogenesis and metastasis, which will provide some concepts for treatment strategies to delay the process of tumor evolution.
Non‐neuronal cell responses differ between normal and Down syndrome developing brains
Authors: Kanaumi Takeshi , Milenkovic Ivan , Adle‐Biassette Homa , Aronica Eleonora , Kovacs Gabor G.
Published: October 2013

Down syndrome (DS), the most common genetic cause of mental retardation, is characterized by reduced number of neurons and delayed myelination. Though non‐neuronal cells in the brain are vital for the development, survival, and function of neurons, there is a paucity of comparative studies of normal development and DS, in particular in the temporal lobe, a region of interest for cognitive decline. We evaluated immunoreactivity for CD68 (macrophage), HLA‐DR (microglia), Olig2 and TPPP/p25 (oligodendroglia), and GFAP (astroglia) in the germinal matrix (GM), temporal lobe white matter (TeWM) and hippocampus from 14 weeks of gestations to newborn in 28 DS patients and 30 age‐matched controls. The rate of increase of CD68 positive cells in the GM, CA1 hippocampal subregion and subiculum was significantly higher in DS. The density of Olig2 positive cells in the GM was lower in DS brains at early stages, then showed a transient increase contrasting controls. Olig2 expression increased more in the TeWM in DS, suggesting an altered pattern of oligodendrocyte progenitor generation. GFAP‐immunoreactivity in DS was significantly lower in the middle pregnancy period in the TeWM and did not increase between early and middle periods in the GM compared to controls, likely reflecting a defect in astrocyte production. The altered expression of non‐neuronal cell markers during normal development and DS may play a role in, or reflect, defective neurogenesis, leading to reduced number of neurons and delayed myelination in the developing DS brain. This has implications for the understanding of the mental retardation in DS patients.
RATIONAL GROUP ACTIONS ON AFFINE PI-ALGEBRAS
Authors: LORENZ MARTIN
Published: October 2013

LetRbe an affine PI-algebra over an algebraically closed field$\mathbb{k}$and letGbe an affine algebraic$\mathbb{k}$-group that acts rationally by algebra automorphisms onR. ForRprime andGa torus, we show thatRhas only finitely manyG-prime ideals if and only if the action ofGon the centre ofRis multiplicity free. This extends a standard result on affine algebraicG-varieties. Under suitable hypotheses onRandG, we also prove a PI-version of a well-known result on spherical varieties and a version of Schelter's catenarity theorem forG-primes.
Social norms and reference points: integrating sociology and ecology
Authors: MANNING ROBERT E.
Published: October 2013

Reference points are an approach to defining the thresholds of sustainable human use of environmental resources. The rationale for reference points can be found in a number of foundational environmental frameworks, including common property resources, carrying capacity, ecosystem management, and sustainability. However, these frameworks also suggest that reference points have both ecological and social components, and that formulation of reference points should be informed by society. Social norms, developed in sociology, offer a theoretical and empirical approach to informing reference points and have been useful in defining, measuring and managing the sustainability of parks and protected areas. Integrating sociology and ecology through the application of social norms to reference points may be a useful approach to environmental management. This paper describes social norms and their application, and illustrates the integration of sociology and ecology to more fully inform reference points.
The increasing application of multiplex nucleic acid detection tests to the diagnosis of syndromic infections
Authors: GRAY J. , COUPLAND L. J.
Published: October 2013

On 14 January 2013, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced permission for a multiplex nucleic acid test, the xTAG®Gastrointestinal Pathogen Panel (GPP) (Luminex Corporation, USA), which simultaneously detects 11 common viral, bacterial and parasitic causes of infectious gastroenteritis, to be marketed in the USA. This announcement reflects the current move towards the development and commercialization of detection technologies based on nucleic acid amplification techniques for diagnosis of syndromic infections. We discuss the limitations and advantages of nucleic acid amplification techniques and the recent advances in Conformité Européene – in-vitrodiagnostic (CE-IVD)-approved multiplex real-time PCR kits for the simultaneous detection of multiple targets within the clinical diagnostics market.
Enhanced surveillance for toxoplasmosis in England and Wales, 2008–2012
Authors: HALSBY K. , GUY E. , SAID B. , FRANCIS J. , O'CONNOR C. , KIRKBRIDE H. , MORGAN D.
Published: October 2013

A report on Toxoplasma gondii by the UK Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food recommended that more accurate figures on the burden of disease in the UK are needed. We present the first 5 years of data from an enhanced surveillance scheme for toxoplasmosis in England and Wales. Between 2008 and 2012, 1824 cases were reported, with an average of 365 each year. There were 1109 immunocompetent cases, the majority presenting with lymphadenopathy, and 364 immunosuppressed cases, with central nervous system and systemic symptoms most frequently reported. There were also 190 pregnant and 33 congenital cases. Of the pregnant cases, 148 were asymptomatic (probably detected during screening), while 28 suffered a fetal loss or stillbirth. The enhanced surveillance system has led to an improvement in the detection of toxoplasmosis in England and Wales. However, numbers are still likely to be an underestimate, biasing towards the more severe infections.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding rabies in Filipinos following implementation of the Bohol Rabies Prevention and Elimination Programme
Authors: DAVLIN S. L. , LAPIZ S. M. , MIRANDA M. E. , MURRAY K. O.
Published: October 2013

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding rabies in Bohol, Philippines were assessed following introduction of the Bohol Rabies Prevention and Elimination Programme. A cross-sectional questionnaire was administered to 460 households chosen utilizing the WHO's Expanded Programme on Immunization coverage cluster survey technique with population proportionate to size. Scores for KAP were evaluated using linear regression. The majority of households had heard of rabies (94%); however, specific knowledge of rabies was limited. Only 18% knew to report a suspected rabid dog to the authorities. In multivariate analyses, having known someone with rabies had the greatest effect on knowledge scores. Employment (professional or non-professional) had the greatest effect on attitudes scores, and only the knowledge score was significantly associated with higher practices scores. Several factors, notably, personal experience with rabies, affect KAP in Bohol. The programme should continue to focus on education and include personal accounts to underscore why rabies prevention and control is so important.
The Short-Term “Bridge Model” Study Abroad Program: Peacebuilding in Latin America
Authors: Pugh Jeffrey D.
Published: October 2013

The conventional wisdom about political science international education assumes that students choose between short “island” study abroad programs that are accessible but have only superficial impact, and longer immersion programs, achieving a greater effect. This article argues that well-designed study abroad programs can combine the best of both models to achieve significant impact even in a short program. It proposes a “bridge model” for reconceptualizing study abroad not as a discrete event with more or less impact on student learning, but as a key intervention that furthers a student's overall development within an internationalized curriculum. The article examines the case of a peacebuilding study abroad program in Ecuador. It measures alumni perceptions of impact, objective outcomes, and alumni network development. The key finding is that solid program design and structured cross-cultural interaction produces the type of long-term effect and networks traditionally associated with immersion programs.
Support at Any Distance? The Role of Location and Prejudice in Public Opposition to the “Ground Zero Mosque”
Authors: Schaffner Brian F.
Published: October 2013

In 2010, a debate erupted about plans to construct a mosque (as part of a larger multicultural center) approximately two blocks from Ground Zero in New York City. The main justification given by those who opposed the mosque was that building it so close to Ground Zero would appear to be insensitive. Public opinion appeared to support this notion, as large majorities of Americans registered their opposition to the mosque in surveys conducted at the time. In this article, I examine whether distance was, in fact, an important factor influencing citizens' opposition to the mosque. Using a survey experiment, I asked for opinions on the building of a mosque while randomizing how far the mosque was located from Ground Zero. Results from the experiment indicate that opposition to the mosque was unaffected by how far the mosque would be located from Ground Zero, but strongly influenced by factors such as partisanship, ideology, and tolerance for out groups.
Promoting Student Learning and Scholarship through Undergraduate Research Journals
Authors: Mariani Mack , Buckley Fiona , Reidy Theresa , Witmer Richard
Published: October 2013

Previous research indicates that undergraduate research activities promote student-faculty collaborations and have a positive impact on students, faculty, and institutions. A review of 13 active undergraduate political science journals indicates that these publications take a variety of approaches in format, frequency, and submission requirements. Further, a survey of undergraduate political science journal editors shows that the role of students and faculty and the sources of support for journal publication vary considerably. Finally, case studies of the undergraduate journal experience at three different institutions suggest that political science journals promote student engagement and student-faculty collaboration.
Active Learning Strategies for Diverse Learning Styles: Simulations Are Only One Method
Authors: Bromley Pam
Published: October 2013

Although political science instructors increasingly recognize the advantages of incorporating active learning activities into their teaching, simulations remain the discipline's most commonly used active learning method. While certainly a useful strategy, simulations are not the only way to bring active learning into classrooms. Indeed, because students have diverse learning styles—comprised of their discrete learning preferences—engaging them in a variety of ways is important. This article explores six active learning techniques: simulations, case studies, enhanced lectures, large group discussion, small group work, and in-class writing. Incorporating these activities into an introductory, writing-intensive seminar on globalization and surveying students about their engagement with course activities, I find that different activities appeal to students with different learning preferences and that simulations are not students most preferred activity. Bringing a broader range of active learning strategies into courses can improve teaching for all students, no matter their learning style.
Conclusion: Managing (In)security in Post-Arab Spring Transitions
Authors: Gledhill John
Published: October 2013

The long-established authoritarian regimes in Libya, Yemen, and Egypt were very different in form. It is not surprising, therefore, that the way in which those regimes came to an end in 2011 varied significantly across cases. Nor is it surprising that the dynamics of transition in those cases have also varied since the Arab Spring. That said, the studies in this symposium have shown that, despite their many differences, processes of regime transition in Libya, Yemen, and Egypt have also shared two significant traits. First, disagreements among stakeholders over basic questions of institutional design have generated intense uncertainty about the nature of posttransition regimes. Second, political and military actors have occasionally turned to violence, in an effort to “resolve” their disagreements through force. In our symposium, we have tried to clarify the relationship between these shared traits of uncertainty and violence. To do this, we have disaggregated the concept of transitional uncertainty, considered the degree to which different forms of uncertainty have already fomented insecurity in post-Arab Spring states, and offered assessments of whether uncertainty may (continue to) prove destabilizing in those states going forward.
Assessing (In)security after the Arab Spring
Authors: Gledhill John
Published: October 2013

More than two years after the heady days of protest and uprising that characterized the Arab Spring, the glow of revolution has given way to the intricacies and complications of regime building. Coalitions are being formed, constitutions written, judiciaries vetted, and security services (re)built. As collective attention focuses on these complexities of regime restructuring, it is worth noting that a fundamental security paradox sits at the heart of transitions in the Middle East and North Africa. On one hand, individuals who hit the streets or battlefields in support of revolution in 2011 did so in the belief that a new form of government would improve their political, social, and economic security over the long term. On the other hand, subsequent (and ongoing) efforts to draft new rules of the political game have triggered internal conflicts and, on occasion, those conflicts have compromised citizens' physical security over the short term.
A Contractualist Reading of Kant's Proof of the Formula of Humanity
Authors: Cureton Adam
Published: October 2013

Kant offers the following argument for the formula of humanity (FH): Each rational agent necessarily conceives of her own rational nature as an end in itself and does so on the same grounds as every other rational agent, so all rational agents must conceive of one another's rational nature as an end in itself. As it stands, the argument appears to be question-begging and fallacious. Drawing on resources from the formula of universal law (FUL) and Kant's claims about the primacy of duties to oneself, I propose a contractualist reconstruction of this puzzling line of reasoning.
Kant's Argument for the Principle of Intensive Magnitudes
Authors: Jankowiak Tim
Published: October 2013

In the firstCritique,Kant attempts to prove what we can call the ‘principle of intensive magnitudes’, according to which every possible object of experience will possess a determinate ‘degree’ of reality. Curiously, Kant argues for this principle by inferring from a psychological premise about internal sensations (they have intensive magnitudes) to a metaphysical thesis about external objects (they also have intensive magnitudes). Most commentators dismiss the argument as a failure. In this article I give a reconstruction of Kant's argument that attempts to rehabilitate the argument back into his broader transcendental theory of experience. I argue that we can make sense of the argument's central inference by appeal to Kant's theory of empirical intuition and by an analysis of the way in which Kant thinks sensory matter constitutes our most basic representations of objects.
Catholicism and the Making of the U.S. Pacific
Authors: Moran Katherine D.
Published: October 2013

In the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, in the context of the development of U.S. power in the Pacific, some American Protestants began to articulate a new approach to Catholicism and American national identity. In Southern California, Anglo-American boosters began to celebrate the region's history of Spanish Franciscan missions, preserving and restoring existing mission buildings while selling a romantic mission story to tourists and settlers. In the Philippines, U.S. imperial officials, journalists, and popular writers tempered widespread critiques of contemporary Spanish friars, celebrating the friars' early missionary precursors as civilizing heroes and arguing that Filipino Catholic faith and clerical authority could aid in the maintenance of imperial order. Against persistent currents of anti-Catholicism and in distinct and locally contingent ways, American Protestants joined Catholics in arguing that the United States needed to evolve beyond parochial religious bigotries. In both places, in popular events and nationally circulating publications, the celebration of particular constructions of Catholic histories and authority figures served to reinforce U.S. continental expansion and transoceanic empire.
George Reginald Balleine: Historian of Anglican Evangelicalism
Authors: Atherstone Andrew
Published: October 2013

A History of the Evangelical Party in the Church of England(1908) by G.R. Balleine (1873–1966) is the classic narrative history of the Anglican evangelical movement, still enduringly popular more than a century after its publication. It has long outlived its author but is usually read without reference to him. This paper examines Balleine's approach to historical research and demonstrates how his personal theological priorities shaped hisHistory. In particular, it highlights his concerns in his parish ministry in Bermondsey, south London, for innovative evangelism, political activism and loyal Anglican churchmanship; his disinterest in doctrinal definitions and his abhorrence of ecclesiastical controversy. The paper argues that Balleine's lively account of Anglican evangelicalism's past in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries was also an apologia and mandate for the future direction of the movement as it entered the twentieth century. It concludes by pointing to the sharp irony that while theHistoryhas gained a reputation for impeccable evangelical credentials, the historian was on a divergent trajectory away from his evangelical roots.
A new taxonomic arrangement for Paleorhinus scurriensis
Authors: Stocker Michelle R.
Published: October 2013

The paraphyletic genus ‘Paleorhinus’ is understood currently as a cosmopolitan phytosaur taxon from the Late Triassic. There is no consensus regarding the number of species of ‘Paleorhinus,’ with multiple species and genera synonymised into a single genus or even a single species at various points in its published history. The taxonomy is confounded by historical descriptions without the benefit of comparisons to more recently collected specimens, emphasis on plesiomorphic cranial morphology as diagnostic features of the genus, and lack of cladistic analyses. When included in a recent explicitly cladistic phylogenetic analysis, the holotype of ‘Paleorhinus’ scurriensis (TTU P-00539) was found to be the earliest-branching phytosaur with respect to other North American specimens previously referred to ‘Paleorhinus,’ and is generically distinct from Paleorhinus. ‘Paleorhinus’ scurriensis differs from all known phytosaurs in five unambiguous characters: basitubera widely separated mediolaterally; ridge present on lateral surface of jugal; thickened shelf present along posteroventral edge of expanded pterygoid-quadrate wing; ‘septomaxillae’ separated and excluded from internarial septum; and nasal swelling present posterior to posterior borders of nares. This detailed morphological description of an early-branching phytosaur taxon is a first step towards resolving long-standing issues surrounding specific anatomical features and relationships among early members of the clade.
On the hierarchy of deformation processes in nanocrystalline alloys: Grain boundary mediated plasticity vs. dislocation slip
Authors: Schäfer Jonathan , Stukowski Alexander , Albe Karsten
Published: October 2013

Hybrid molecular dynamics and Monte-Carlo simulations on the deformation behavior of nanocrystalline Pd–Au are presented. A semi-grandcanonical Monte-Carlo scheme is employed during straining to allow for local relaxation by chemical equilibration and to effectively shortcut diffusional processes. Altering the balance between an imposed straining and local relaxation reveals a strong correlation of the irreversible plastic deformation and the frequency of local relaxation. Using a novel method to quantify the amount of crystal slip strain from atomistic data, it is demonstrated how plastic deformation carried by dislocations changes as a function of the local relaxation. The results indicate that conventional molecular dynamics simulations overestimate the contributions of dislocation slip to the overall plastic deformation of nanocrystalline samples.
Texture-induced enhancement of the magnetocaloric response in melt-spun DyNi2 ribbons
Authors: Ibarra-Gaytan P. J. , Sánchez-Valdes C. F. , Sánchez Llamazares J. L. , Álvarez-Alonso Pablo , Gorria Pedro , Blanco J. A.
Published: October 2013

The magnetocaloric properties of melt-spun ribbons of the Laves phase DyNi2 have been investigated. The as-quenched ribbons crystallize in a single-phase MgCu2-type crystal structure (C15; space group Fd3¯m) exhibiting a saturation magnetization and Curie temperature of MS = 157 ± 2 A m2 kg−1 and TC = 21.5 ± 1 K, respectively. For a magnetic field change of 2 T, ribbons show a maximum value of the isothermal magnetic entropy change |ΔSMpeak| = 13.5 J kg−1 K−1, and a refrigerant capacity RC = 209 J kg−1. Both values are superior to those found for bulk polycrystalline DyNi2 alloys (25% and 49%, respectively). In particular, the RC is comparable or larger than that reported for other potential magnetic refrigerants operating at low temperatures, making DyNi2 ribbons promising materials for use in low-temperature magnetic refrigeration applications.
Spin valve effect across the metal-insulator transition in V2O3
Authors: Erekhinsky Mikhail , de la Venta J. , Schuller Ivan K.
Published: October 2013

The magnetoresistance of Ni/V2O3/Py devices shows interesting behavior in the temperature dependence across the V2O3 metal-insulator transition. A spin-valve effect (∼0.1%) is found below the transition temperature when V2O3 is in the insulating phase. Contrary to expectation, the spin-valve effect disappears when device is heated above 150 K and V2O3 is in the metallic state. At these temperatures, the behavior of the device is governed by anisotropic magnetoresistance of Ni. Using finite method analysis of our device we show that disappearance of the spin-valve effect cannot be explained by changes in the current distribution with temperature.
Antibacterial effects of laser ablated Ni nanoparticles
Authors: Shamaila S. , Wali H. , Sharif R. , Nazir J. , Zafar N. , Rafique M. S.
Published: October 2013

The interaction of nickel nanoparticles with Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria has been studied. The nickel nanoparticles have been fabricated by continuous wave laser ablation of nickel target and their properties are studied using different characterization techniques. The antibacterial activity of nickel nanoparticles was checked against E. coli bacteria. Escherichia coli were cultured in nutrients broth and different concentrations of nickel nanoparticles were added to bacterial culture solution to investigate the interaction of nickel nanoparticles with bacteria and to check toxicity of the nickel nanoparticles against E. coli. The fabricated Ni nanoparticles have exhibited considerable antimicrobial activity against E. coli.
Efficient and stable deep blue polymer light-emitting devices based on β-phase poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene)
Authors: Zhang Xinwen , Hu Qi , Lin Jinyi , Lei Zhenfeng , Guo Xin , Xie Linghai , Lai Wenyong , Huang Wei
Published: October 2013

In this work, the thin films of β-phase poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene) (PFO) were realized using 1,2-dichloroethane as solvent. The absorption and photoluminescence spectra show an additional absorption peak at 435 nm and a red-shifted emission band, which indicates the formation of β-phase in the film. Polymer light-emitting devices based on thin films of β-phase PFO were fabricated. Device with β-phase exhibits efficiency of up to 3.43 cd/A that is 3.7 times higher than that of the device with amorphous phase. Furthermore, the device with β-phase emission has obvious advantages such as stable deep blue emission and high color purity over amorphous-phase device.