bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrospective Cohort Study of Phototherapy and Childhood Cancer in Northern California
Authors: Newman Thomas B. , Wickremasinghe Andrea C. , Walsh Eileen M. , Grimes Barbara A. , McCulloch Charles E. , Kuzniewicz Michael W.
Published: May 2016

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate the association between neonatal phototherapy use and childhood cancer.

METHODS:

This retrospective cohort study included 499 621 children born at ≥35 weeks’ gestation from 1995 to 2011 in Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals, who survived to hospital discharge and were followed ≥60 days. We obtained data on home and inpatient phototherapy, covariates, and cancer incidence from electronic records. We used propensity-adjusted Cox and Poisson models to control for confounding and unequal follow-up times.

RESULTS:

There were 60 children with a diagnosis of cancer among 39 403 exposed to phototherapy (25 per 100 000 person-years), compared with 651 of 460 218 unexposed children (18 per 100 000 person-years; incidence rate ratio [IRR] 1.4; P = .01). Phototherapy was associated with increased rates of any leukemia (IRR 2.1; P = .0007), nonlymphocytic leukemia (IRR 4.0; P = .0004), and liver cancer (IRR 5.2; P = .04). With adjustment for a propensity score that incorporated bilirubin levels, chromosomal disorders, congenital anomalies, and other covariates, associations were no longer statistically significant: Adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) were 1.0 (0.7–1.6) for any cancer, 1.6 (0.8–3.5) for any leukemia, 1.9 (0.6–6.9) for nonlymphocytic leukemia, and 1.4 (0.2–12) for liver cancer. Upper limits of 95% confidence intervals for adjusted 10-year excess risk were generally <0.1% but reached 4.4% for children with Down syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS:

Although phototherapy use was associated with increased cancer rates (particularly nonlymphocytic leukemia), control for confounding variables eliminated or attenuated the associations. Nonetheless, the possibility of even partial causality suggests that avoiding unnecessary phototherapy may be prudent.
A paroxysmalis pitvarfibrilláció kezelésének transzkatéteres ablatiós technikái: új generációs krioballon vagy kontakterő-méréssel kombinált rádiófrekvenciás ablatio?
Authors: Nagy Zsófia , Kis Zsuzsanna , Som Zoltán , Földesi Csaba , Kardos Attila
Published: May 2016

Introduction: Contact force sensing radiofrequency ablation and the new generation cryoballoon ablation are prevalent techniques for the treatment of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Aim: The authors aimed to compare the procedural and 1-year outcome of patients after radiofrequency and cryoballoon ablation. Method: 96 patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (radiofrequency ablation: 58, cryoballoon: 38 patients; 65 men and 31 women aged 28–70 years) were enrolled. At postprocedural 1, 3, 6 and 12 months ECG, Holter monitoring and telephone interviews were performed. Results: Procedure and fluorosocopy time were: radiofrequency ablation, 118.5 ± 15 min and 15.8 ± 6 min; cryoballoon, 73.5 ± 16 min (p<0.05) and 13.8 ± 4.,1 min (p = 0.09), respectively. One year later freedom from atrial fibrillation was achieved in 76.5% of patients who underwent radiofrequency ablation and in 81% of patients treated with cryoballoon. Temporary phrenic nerve palsy occurred in two patients and pericardial tamponade developed in one patient. Conclusions: In this single center study freedom from paroxysmal atrial fibrillation was similar in the two groups with significant shorter procedure time in the cryoballoon group. Orv. Hetil., 2016, 157(22), 849–854.
Qualificando a adesão à democracia: quão democráticos são os democratas brasileiros?
Authors: Fuks Mario , Casalecchi Gabriel Avila , Gonçalves Guilherme Quaresma , David Flávia Felizardo
Published: May 2016

Resumo O presente artigo busca qualificar a adesão à democracia no Brasil. Ele parte da ideia de que a adesão à democracia é mais bem entendida de um ponto de vista multidimensional. Os indivíduos podem aderir a diferentes princípios subjacentes à democracia, em vez de optarem pela simples adesão ou não a ela. Nosso enfoque são os democratas: queremos saber quão democráticos são os democratas brasileiros. Utilizamos aqui o banco de dados Barômetro das Américas de 2006 a 2012. Os resultados mostram que existem diferentes níveis de adesão à democracia, conforme o princípio democrático em questão. Os brasileiros aderem com maior intensidade à dimensão participativa, em detrimento da procedimental e da representativa. Mostramos, no entanto, que esses princípios podem caminhar de forma mais ou menos independente.
Em defesa das valências: uma réplica
Authors: Feres Júnior João
Published: May 2016

Resumo O artigo é uma resposta sistemática e detalhadas às críticas que Luis Felipe Miguel fez em artigo recente à metodologia da análise de valência (MAV). Segundo o autor: (1) a MAV confunde emissor, receptor, pesquisador e objeto do discurso; (2) reduz drasticamente a complexidade do processo comunicativo; (3) reproduz o ideal normativo da imparcialidade jornalística; (4) está sujeita à excessiva subjetividade. Pretendo mostrar que esses argumentos arrolados por Miguel contra a MAV são, quando não equivocados, superficiais. Contra suas críticas argumento que: (1) estudos de valência focam somente o emissor, sem prejuízo para a análise; (2) reduzem complexidade como outras metodologias em ciências sociais; (3) não dependem do pressuposto da imparcialidade para serem feitos; (4) estão menos sujeitos às distorções subjetivas do que metodologias de estudo da mídia como análise de agendamento e de enquadramento, preconizadas por Miguel.
Parameters Associated with Marginal Bone Loss around Implant after Prosthetic Loading
Authors: Koller Clarissa D. , Pereira-Cenci Tatiana , Boscato Noéli
Published: May 2016

Abstract This study evaluated retrospectively the association among occlusal, periodontal and implant-prosthetic parameters and marginal bone loss (MBL) around implants and survival rate at 5.7 ±3.2 years of follow-up after prosthetic loading. Eighty-two patients received 164 external hexagon implants. After the standard healing period (3 to 6 months), the implants were restored with single-tooth or up to three splinted crowns. All patients were followed according to a strict maintenance program with regular recalls and clinically evaluated by a calibrated examiner. The MBL measurements taken from standardized radiographs made at permanent crown placement (baseline) and after the last evaluation were calculated considering occlusal, periodontal and implant-prosthetic parameters. Veneer fractures and abutment loosening were not considered failure. Two implants failed during the follow-up period, resulting in a survival rate of 98.8%. Cox regression analyses showed MBL associated with non-working side contacts (p=0.047), inadequate anterior guidance (p=0.001), lateral group guidance involving teeth and implants (p=0.015), periimplant plaque index (p=0.035), prosthetic design (p=0.030) and retention (p=0.006). Inadequate occlusal pattern guide, presence of visible plaque, and cemented and splinted implant-supported restoration were associated with greater MBL around the implant.
Antiparasitic drugs: in vitro tests against nematophagous fungi
Authors: Ferreira G. F. , Freitas T. M. , Gonçalves C. L. , Mendes J. F. , Vieira J. N. , Villareal J. P. , Nascente P. S.
Published: May 2016

Abstract The use of biological agents has been intensified in recent years against eggs and larvae of gastrointestinal nematodes as an alternative control method in pasture plant health management, with the concomitant use with antiparasitic drugs still occurring. The aim of this study was to test the in vitro activity of the following antiparasitic drugs: Ivermectin and albendazole against the following nematophagous fungi: Paecilomyces fumosoroseus, Paecilomyces lilacinus and Paecilomyces variotii. The agar diffusion test was performed using an initial concentration of 0.0016g/mL of each drug, after solidification of the culture medium containing the drug concentration each nematophagous fungi was inoculated. The results showed that in a concentration of 80μg/mL, the fungal growth decreased, however, with the concentration of 160μg/mL, there was no fungal growth in both drugs, compared to the control, which indicates an inhibition in the development of the nematophagous fungi studied when they come in contact with ivermectin and albendazole.
Efeito de diferentes técnicas extrativas no rendimento, atividade antioxidante, doseamentos totais e no perfil por clae-dad de dicksonia sellowiana (presl.). Hook, dicksoniaceae
Authors: OLIVEIRA V.B. , ZUCHETTO M. , OLIVEIRA C.F. , PAULA C.S. , DUARTE A.F.S. , MIGUEL M.D. , MIGUEL O.G.
Published: May 2016

RESUMO A espécie Dicksonia sellowiana, conhecida popularmente como xaxim, é uma samambaia natural do continente americano e encontrada no Brasil na Mata Atlântica. Em 2001 sua utilização para confecção de vasos para jardinagem foi proibida, e a mesma foi inserida na lista do IBAMA como espécie ameaçada de extinção. O presente trabalho descreve o efeito de diferentes técnicas de extração, incluindo ultra-som, turbólise, maceração, infusão, decocto e soxhlet utilizando etanol e solvente hidroalcoólico 70%, sob aspectos físicos e químicos. Foi avaliado o rendimento de cada extração, o perfil por CLAE-DAD, o conteúdo de polifenóis, flavonoides, proantocianidinas e esteroides além das atividades antioxidantes pelos métodos DPPH e redução do complexo fosfomolibdênio. Os dados foram avaliados estatisticamente através de desvio padrão, Tuckey e PCA. Os resultados demonstraram que a extração por Soxhlet utilizando ambos os solventes é a que possui maior rendimento final, porém o rendimento não está diretamente relacionado com o aumento nos teores de bioativos totais e atividades antioxidantes. As extrações por decocção e turbólise utilizando solvente hidroalcoólico foram as que apresentaram melhores resultados nos teores totais e na atividade antioxidante, resultados que ficam evidentes quando avaliados por PCA, demonstrando que este solvente e estas extrações são mais seletivas no estudo proposto.
Teor e composição química do óleo essencial de erva-baleeira (Varronia curassavica Jaqc.) em função dos horários de coleta
Authors: QUEIROZ T.B. , MENDES A.D.R. , SILVA J.C.R.L. , FONSECA F.S.A. , MARTINS E.R.
Published: May 2016

RESUMO A erva-baleeira (Varronia curassavica Jaqc.) é uma importante planta medicinal, com ocorrências em vários biomas brasileiros, dela é possível extrair óleo essencial utilizado na produção de fitoterápicos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar o efeito do horário de coleta das folhas sobre o teor e os constituintes químicos do óleo essencial da V. curassavica. As folhas foram obtidas da coleção do germoplasma do Horto Medicinal do Instituto de Ciências Agrárias da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (ICA/UFMG). Os tratamentos constaram de cinco horários de coleta (6:00, 9:00, 12:00, 15:00 e 18:00 horas) e três repetições, utilizando o delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado. O óleo essencial foi extraído pelo método de hidrodestilação, utilizando-se o sistema Clevenger e a constituição química determinada por cromatografia em fase gasosa acoplada à espectrometria de massas (CG/EM). O teor do óleo essencial não sofreu influencia do horário de coleta. Entretanto, o horário de coleta influenciou a composição química do óleo essencial de erva-baleeira. Os compostos majoritários em todos os horários de coleta foram β-cariofileno (22,6 a 27,4%), elixeno (14,9 a 17,2%) e γ-muuroleno (9,1 a 9,8%). Já o composto de menor abundância relativa, sabineno (1,1 %), apresentou ocorrência apenas as 6 h da manhã.
Influence of storage time and temperature on the chemical composition of the essential oil of Hyptis pectinata L. Poit
Authors: JESUS A.S. , BLANK A.F. , ALVES M.F. , ARRIGONI-BLANK M.F. , LIMA R.N. , ALVES P.B.
Published: May 2016

ABSTRACT Hyptis pectinata, popularly known as “sambacaitá”, is a native medicinal herb used by local people for treating disease. Its pharmacological, antimicrobial, and medicinal properties have been reported in several studies. The essential oil of the leaves is rich in terpene compounds responsible for its properties. Because there are factors that can influence the chemical composition of essential oils, the objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of storage on Hyptis pectinata essential oil for 360 days at two different temperatures. The essential oil was distilled from dried leaves of seven-month-old plants using the hydrodistillation method, and the chemical composition was determined using GC-MS and GC/FID. The effects of storage on the essential oil Hyptis pectinata were tested over the course of a year (0, 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180, 240, 300, and 360 days), using two temperatures: room (±32ºC) and freezer (-20ºC). The predominant compounds in the essential oil are β–caryophyllene, caryophyllene oxide, and germancrene D. The concentration of the chemical constituents of the essential oil varied depending on the storage temperature, and over the 360 days. The storage of the essential oil at room temperature over one year resulted in higher concentrations of β-elemene, α-copaene, germacrene D, caryophyllene oxide, and (E,E)-α-farnesene and lower content of α-humulene and β-caryophyllene, compared to the results obtained from storing the essential oil in a freezer. These results indicate that the essential oil should be stored in a freezer, which provides greater stability to the concentration of the chemical constituents.
Germinação de sementes e emergência de plântulas de jutaí (Hymenaea parvifolia Huber.)
Authors: SILVA B.M.S. , CESARINO F.
Published: May 2016

RESUMO O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a influencia do tamanho e da temperatura na germinação das sementes, assim como, da posição de escarificação do tegumento e a profundidade de semeadura na emergência de plântulas de jutaí. As sementes foram separadas em três grupos: sementes pequenas, médias e grandes. A germinação das sementes foram realizadas nas temperaturas de 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 e 45 °C e com fotoperíodo de 12 horas. As sementes escarificadas foram colocadas para germinar em 0, 2, 4 e 6 cm de profundidade de semeadura. As sementes médias e grandes apresentaram maiores porcentagens e índices de velocidade de germinação. A faixa de temperatura ótima de germinação está entre 25 e 35°C. A escarificação no hilo da semente ou não é adequada para quebra de dormência de sementes de jutaí. Profundidades de semeadura iguais ou superiores a 4 cm são inadequadas para a emergência de plântulas de jutaí.
Matrimonio igualitario, identidad de género y disputas por el derecho al aborto en Argentina. La política sexual durante el kirchnerismo (2003-2015)
Authors: Tabbush Constanza , Díaz María Constanza , Trebisacce Catalina , Keller Victoria
Published: May 2016

Resumen: Los gobiernos 'progresistas' (pink tide) en materia socioeconómica del Cono Sur no tienen la misma trayectoria en el avance de los derechos de las mujeres y colectivos LGBT. Lo distintivo de la política sexual de la Argentina (2003-2015) es la tensión entre el avance de la agenda de derechos de la diversidad sexual, con la aprobación de leyes como matrimonio igualitario e identidad de género, y los esfuerzos frustrados del feminismo por legalizar el derecho al aborto. Este artículo presenta un estudio comparativo de estos tres intentos de reformas normativas durante el período de gobierno conocido como kirchnerismo. El análisis empírico identifica cuatro dimensiones fundamentales que, en su combinación, abren oportunidades o generan resistencias al cambio normativo en políticas de género y sexualidad: los vínculos entre Poder Ejecutivo e Iglesia; la política de partidos en un sistema presidencialista; los marcos interpretativos de cada demanda; las formas organizativas y estrategias de las organizaciones que las promueven.
Situación social y legal de gays, lesbianas y personas transgénero y la discriminación contra estas poblaciones en América Latina
Authors: Barrientos Jaime
Published: May 2016

Resumen: Este artículo revisa brevemente algunas de las condiciones socioculturales y legales que favorecen -o desfavorecen- la vida de gays, lesbianas y personas transgéneros en América Latina y recopila algunos datos comparativos disponibles sobre la situación legal de dichas poblaciones y la discriminación ejercida ellas. Se concluye indicando el alcance y persistencia del prejuicio y la discriminación hacia gays, lesbianas y personas transgénero en la región.
Diagnósticos e Intervenções no Ensino de Bioquímica
Authors: Scatigno Andreza Costa , Torres Bayardo Baptista
Published: May 2016

A aprendizagem da Bioquímica tem sido um problema para muitos alunos de cursos de graduação, às vezes resistente aos esforços dos docentes. A falta de clareza sobre as bases do problema enfrentado pelos participantes do processo dificulta a adoção de medidas para resolvê-lo. Este artigo relata a pesquisa para diagnosticar as dificuldades dos alunos do curso Nutrição de uma Instituição de Ensino Superior da rede particular de ensino com o aprendizado de Bioquímica. As dificuldades resultavam da pequena proficiência nas diferentes linguagens empregadas na comunicação bioquímica: visual, verbal e simbólica. Os dados obtidos foram usados para subsidiar o planejamento e a aplicação de intervenções corretivas dos problemas detectados. Os resultados gerais da reformulação curricular mostraram um ganho considerável no aprendizado e melhoria na motivação dos estudantes.
Terra nullius, Inuit Habitation and Norse Occupation – With Special Emphasis on the 1933 East Greenland Case
Authors: Ørebech Peter Thomas
Published: May 2016

Sovereignty acquired by occupation entails “recognize[d] title based on discovery,” “a reasonable period [of] … effective occupation of the region claimed to be discovered” and “the continuous and peaceful display of State authority.” Only terra nullius is subject to occupation. A territory inhabited by indigenous groups that sustain social and political organization may impede an occupying power because the terra nullius requirement fails. While sovereignty over thinly populated areas are often lax, case law requires less public involvement in these sparsely inhabited areas. This study reveals that the Dano-Norwegian Kings regarded the Inuit as “our subjects.” The Kings’ pretention of absolutum dominium and jurisdiction involved both the Norse and Inuit ethnic groups and “bygð ok ubygð” (settled and unsettled) land. The exodus of the Norse peoples in 1450 AD for 200 years did not undermine the acquired sovereignty of the Dano-Norwegian Crown, which as a result, spoiled the 1931 Norwegian pretentions to legally occupy East-Greenland. Denmark’s triumph in the 1933-East Greenland case resulted from a “zero-sum principle.” More than a 100 years earlier, the Danish Kingdom lost a succession of countries and dependencies. The 1814 Kiel Treaty transferred mainland Norway to Sweden, but explicitly states that none of the ancient Norwegian dependencies, Greenland, Iceland and Faroe Islands would follow suit. Thus, these territories remained part of the Kingdom of Denmark.(Published: May 2016)Citation: P. T. Ørebech. “Terra nullius, Inuit Habitation and Norse Occupation – With Special Emphasis on the 1933 East Greenland Case.” Arctic Review on Law and Politics, Vol. 7, No. 1, 2016, pp. 20–41. http://dx.doi.org/10.17585/arctic.v7.262
The presence of Chlamydia phage PhiCPG1 capsid protein VP1 genes and antibodies in patients infected with Chlamydia trachomatis
Authors: Ma Jingyue , Liu Yuan , Liu Yuanjun , Li Lingjie , Hou Shuping , Gao Xibo , Qi Manli , Liu Quanzhong
Published: May 2016

Chlamydia phage PhiCPG1 has been found in Chlamydia caviae in a guinea pig model for inclusion conjunctivitis, raising the possibility that Chlamydia phage is also present in patients infected with C. trachomatis (Ct). In the present study, we assayed for presence of Chlamydia phage capsid protein VP1 genes and antibodies in 84 non-Ct controls and 206 Ct patients using an enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA), followed by verification with Western blot. None of the subjects were exposed to an antibiotic treatment or had a C. pneumoniae infection. The VP1 antibody test was positive in both, the ELISA and Western blot assay, in 4 Ct patients. PCR amplification experiments revealed presence of the VP1 gene in 5 Ct patients. The results suggest that Chlamydia phage capsid protein VP1 may exist in some Ct patients.
Cultural Orientation in China: Differences Across Five Generations of Employees
Authors: Ma Jun , Hu Zhonghui , Gocłowska Małgorzata A.
Published: May 2016

Following recent shifts in economic models and family structure in China, younger generations of Chinese employees have been found to exhibit values and behaviors that are visibly different from those held and displayed by the cultural mainstream. To gain a better grasp of this phenomenon,
we examined how cultural orientation (with a focus on vertical individualism and vertical collectivism) varies with age and tenure in a diverse sample of Chinese employees (N = 306). Our results revealed a negative association of both age and tenure with vertical individualism, and
follow-up analyses showed that the biggest increase in vertical individualism occurred in the post-1990s generation of employees. The post-1990s generation also showed a visible decrease in horizontal collectivism, but this cultural orientation was not significantly associated with age or
tenure. Limitations and implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Error Orientation and Entrepreneurial Decision Making in Chinese Enterprises: Opportunity Identification As Mediator
Authors: Wei Xueyan , Hisrich Robert D.
Published: May 2016

We examined how error orientation and opportunity identification behavior relate to entrepreneurial decision making in Chinese small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and how these perceptions of opportunity identification mediate the effects of error orientation on entrepreneurial decision
making. We analyzed 187 questionnaires from participants in SME firms in China. The results indicated that perceived error orientation and opportunity identification were related to and explained variance in entrepreneurial decision making. Opportunity identification also fully or partially
mediated the relationship between error orientation and entrepreneurial decision making. Elevating opportunity identification beliefs and clarifying an entrepreneur's understanding of the importance of opportunity identification for the functionality and effectiveness of his/her firm can help
promote entrepreneurial decision making. Alertness to error orientation can contribute to the development of stronger perceptions of entrepreneurial opportunity identification and lead to better entrepreneurial decision making.
Comparing Expenditure Patterns and Travel Characteristics Among NFL Fans with Different Levels of Team Identification
Authors: Chengming Hu  , Cole Shu
Published: May 2016

Sport tourism is one of the more rapidly developing leisure activities worldwide, and is widely discussed in literature of the field. The anticipated economic impact generated from tourists in sport events is a key motivation for hosting them. Investigation of psychological and sociodemographic
factors that enhance sport tourist expenditure can enhance our overall understanding of sport tourist consumptive and travel behaviors for industry and research purposes. As fans' team identification has been identified as a major motivation for attending sport events, the sampling in this
study consists of sport tourists attending the 2012 Super Bowl who were divided into two groups based on the levels of team identification: fans of 2012 Super Bowl NFL teams and fans of other, non-2012 Super Bowl NFL teams. The results indicate that these two Super Bowl tourist segments have
significantly different expenditure patterns on food and beverage, shopping, local transportation, and entertainment. They also differ greatly on travel characteristics such as party size, travel length, and numbers of previous visits. Applying team identification as a variable to analyze
sport tourists' expenditure patterns and travel characteristics can thus help event marketers and local tourism stakeholders to design effective marketing strategies for mega-sport events and local tourist attractions both on and off season.
Application of Automatic Choreography Software Based on Virtual Technology in the Gymnastics Teaching
Authors: ZHOU Yingbao
Published: May 2016

this research designed simulation system of gymnastics automatic choreography software. To successfully design the gymnastics movements, experiment adopted solutions based on key frame spline interpolation calculation which managed to solve the problem of location deviation; quaternion interpolation algorithm was adopted to solve the rotation problem of the subject and the body, which made the modified action by computer auxiliary choreography system completely returned to virtual figure animation. In addition, for coordination of dance and audio, this paper established movement fragments library based on sentiment types, proposed viable approach of synchronized audio and video model. Teaching experience was conducted in the gymnastics course of physical education at the University and achieved good results.
An Integrated Web Portal for Water Quality Monitoring through Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Ahmedi Lule , Sejdiu Besmir , Bytyçi Eliot , Ahmedi Figene
Published: May 2016

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are aiding water quality monitoring with support for real-time and remote quality measurements in terrain. Environmental monitoring portals receiving data from sensors have been a practice since a while among researchers. However, the Web portal introduced here is essentially an integrated portal since it supports modeling and management of both, the observational stream data on water quality coming from wireless sensors – dynamic data, as well as of the data describing the WSN itself, its devices and the corresponding site allocation data – static data. Access is given to a wide range of individuals, from water experts to WSN engineers, to general public. Experts' module infers statistics about water parameters given the experts' data and rules. The portal is further distinguished for its level of scalability: it allows adding with ease new components, like add certain new regulatory documents for water quality, and directly compare data measured by sensors with corresponding quality standards. The aim is to enrich the portal with semantics in future.
Genetic parameters for hydrocyanic acid content in forage sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench)
Authors: Mohanraj K. , Gopalan A. , Shanmuganathan M.
Published: May 2016

Six lines (IS 1003, IS 3504, IS 3541, IS 6354, CO 27 and CO 28) and four testers (IS 0030, AKSS 5, GSSV 1 and TNS 52) were crossed in line x tester design to produce 24 hybrid combinations. These hybrids along with their ten parents were grown in a randomized block design with three replications. The samples for estimation of hydrocyanic acid content were taken 32 days after sowing. The analysis of variance indicated significant differences for HCN content in all the genotypes. It also clearly shown that, the specific combining ability (SCA) variance for HCN content was higher than general combining ability (GCA) variance indicating the trait is controlled by non additive gene action. The parents IS 3541, CO 27 and IS 0030 were found to be the best ones based on GCA effects and the hybrids IS 1003 x TNS 52, IS 6354 x IS 0030 and IS 3541 x TNS 52 were found to have maximum negative SCA effects for HCN content. Heterosis breeding, recurrent selection and other population improvement procedures were suggested for getting varieties with reduced HCN contents.
Management of powdery mildew disease of rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) in Sri Lanka
Authors: Rajapakse R. G. A. S. , Edirimanna E. R. S. P. , Kahawatta J.
Published: May 2016

Powdery mildew disease is the most destructive disease of rambutan in Sri Lanka, which seriously threatens quality fruit production. Therefore, studies were conducted to identify the causal agent, cross infection potential of pathogen with other crops, resistant/tolerant germplasm and safer chemicals for management of powdery mildew of rambutan.Pathogen of powdery mildew of rambutan was identified as Oidium nephelii. Pathogen did not show infection on leaves of rubber, mango, durian and orange which are potential hosts for Oidium species. All germplasm including recommended varieties were susceptible to the disease. Therefore, studies were directed to identify safer chemicals to control the disease. Spraying of wettable sulphur (5g/l.) at young foliage stage, at flowering, just after fruit setting and 3 weeks after fruit setting on to the plants completely controlled mildew disease of rambutan.
Analysis of cost of milk production in Ratnapura district
Authors: Jayaweera T. S. P. , Ruwandeepika H. A. D. , Kendaragama K. M. S. B. , Fernando W. A. P. , Jayarathne H. M. K. P. , Thotawaththe T. S. J.
Published: May 2016

The success of Dairy farming, as a form of business, depends on profitable milk production and marketing. The price of milk depends on various factors such as demand, supply, cost of production, location of the area and marketing channel. Profit margin in the dairy industry has been considered to rest on the difference between the cost of production per liter of milk and the average farm gate price for milk. The objective of this study was to identify the factors affecting the cost of milk production in Ratnapura District and suggest a reasonable and appropriate price for a liter of milk produced by dairy farmers in the district considering the cost of production of milk.A field survey was conducted using a pre-tested questionnaire on the cost of milk production in the area. Two hundred and fifty dairy farmers were selected from the district for the study by using simple random sampling method.The highest amount of cost has been spent for labour. It was estimated to be 44.1% of the total cost while 41.7% of the total cost represents the feeding cost. The rest of the cost is due to other operational costs, like cost of depreciation of initial investment (3.1%), cost of veterinary services (3.2 %), cost of building repairs (0.6%), cost of death and losses (4.9 %) and breeding & miscellaneous costs (2.4 %). The costs of production of a liter of milk by an average farmer, when his family labour costs are included and excluded were Rs. 25.50 and Rs. 14.60 respectively. The average price paid to all farmers surveyed was Rs. 28.75 per liter of milk. It greatly varies with fat content of the milk. Average herd size of the area was four animals per farm. Average milking cows per farm were 2.8.It is recommended to have a minimum price of Rs.30 per liter of milk to make dairying a fairly profitable for farmers in the area.
Bone Marrow CD11c+ Cell–Derived Amphiregulin Promotes Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Ding Lin , Liu Tianju , Wu Zhe , Hu Biao , Nakashima Taku , Ullenbruch Matthew , Gonzalez De Los Santos Francina , Phan Sem H.
Published: May 2016

Amphiregulin (AREG), an epidermal growth factor receptor ligand, is implicated in tissue repair and fibrosis, but its cellular source and role in regeneration versus fibrosis remain unclear. In this study, we hypothesize that AREG induced in bone marrow–derived CD11c+ cells is essential for pulmonary fibrosis. Thus, the objectives were to evaluate the importance and role of AREG in pulmonary fibrosis, identify the cellular source of AREG induction, and analyze its regulation of fibroblast function and activation. The results showed that lung AREG expression was significantly induced in bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. AREG deficiency in knockout mice significantly diminished pulmonary fibrosis. Analysis of AREG expression in major lung cell types revealed induction in fibrotic lungs predominantly occurred in CD11c+ cells. Moreover, depletion of bone marrow–derived CD11c+ cells suppressed both induction of lung AREG expression and pulmonary fibrosis. Conversely, adoptive transfer of bone marrow–derived CD11c+ cells from bleomycin-treated donor mice exacerbated pulmonary fibrosis, but not if the donor cells were made AREG deficient prior to transfer. CD11c+ cell-conditioned media or coculture stimulated fibroblast proliferation, activation, and myofibroblast differentiation in an AREG-dependent manner. Furthermore, recombinant AREG induced telomerase reverse transcriptase, which appeared to be essential for the proliferative effect. Finally, AREG significantly enhanced fibroblast motility, which was associated with increased expression of α6 integrin. These findings suggested that induced AREG specifically in recruited bone marrow–derived CD11c+ cells promoted bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis by activation of fibroblast telomerase reverse transcriptase–dependent proliferation, motility, and indirectly, myofibroblast differentiation.
Remittances Impact on Economic Growth, Domestic Savings and Domestic Capital at the Presence of ODA and FDI in Selected MENA Countries
Authors: Sabra Mahmoud Mohammed
Published: May 2016

This article investigates the impact of remittances on economic growth, investment and domestic savings in selected MENA labor exporting countries. The estimations have been done in the presence of other international capital inflow, which are foreign aid and foreign direct investment. A multiple equations model estimated simultaneously using different techniques. We found a positive impact of remittances on both growth and investment, meanwhile a negative impact on domestic savings. Aid impacts negatively on both growth and savings where it finance consumption instead of investment and enhance rent seeking behavior. Government expenditure and FDI are important source of growth. We recommended that policies for encouraging final use of productive investment of remittances. In addition, enhancing more project of migrant in home country that may facilitate their trade with host countries. Finally, more efficient allocation of aid is requires, and attracting more FDI.
Products of Admissible Monomials in the Polynomial Algebra as a Module over the Steenrod Algebra
Authors: Mothebe Mbakiso Fix
Published: May 2016

Let ${\P}(n) ={\F}[x_1,\ldots,x_n]$ be the polynomial algebra in $n$ variables $x_i$, of degree one, over the field $\F$ of two elements. The mod-2 Steenrod algebra $\A$ acts on ${\P }(n)$ according to well known rules.  A major problem in algebraic topology is that of determining $\A^+{\P}(n)$, the image of the action of the positively graded part of $\A$. We are interested in the related problem of determining a basis for the quotient vector space ${\Q}(n) = {\P}(n)/\A^{+}\P(n)$.  Both ${\P }(n) =\bigoplus_{d \geq 0} {\P}^{d}(n)$ and ${\Q}(n)$ are graded, where ${\P}^{d}(n)$ denotes the set of homogeneous polynomials of degree $d$. ${\Q}(n)$ has been explicitly calculated for $n=1,2,3,4$ but problems remain for $n \geq 5.$ In this note we show that if  $u = x_{1}^{m_1} \cdots x_{k}^{m_{k}} \in {\P}^{d}(k)$  and $v = x_{1}^{e_1} \cdots x_{r}^{e_{r}} \in {\P}^{d'}(r)$ are an admissible  monomials, (that is,  $u$ and $v$ meet a criterion to be in a certain basis for ${\Q}(k)$ and ${\Q}(r)$ respectively), then for each permutation $\sigma \in S_{k+r}$ for which $\sigma(i)<\sigma(j),$ $i<j\leq k$ and $\sigma(s)<\sigma(t),$ $k<s<t\leq k+r,$ the monomial $x_{\sigma(1)}^{m_1} \cdots x_{\sigma(k)}^{m_{k}} x_{\sigma(k+1)}^{e_1} \cdots x_{\sigma(k+r)}^{e_r} \in {\P}^{d+d'}(k+r)$ is admissible.  As an application we consider a few cases when $n=5.$
Taxonomic significance of achene morphology of selected Rosa taxa (Rosaceae) occurring in Poland
Authors: Jagodziński Andrzej M. , Maciejewska-Rutkowska Irmina , Wrońska-Pilarek Dorota , Bocianowski Jan
Published: May 2016

Achenes of roses were rarely studied and the studies were focused on anatomical research, mainly on pericarp structure and its development. We investigated the achene morphology by light- and scanning electron microscopy (LM and SEM) of 17 Rosa taxa from three sections (R. gallica from Gallicanae section, R. pendulina and R. rugosa from Rosa section, and R. agrestis, R. canina, R. canina var. corymbifera, R. dumalis, R. dumalis var. caesia, R. inodora, R. jundzillii, R. micrantha, R. rubiginosa, R. sherardii, R. ×subcanina, R. tomentosa, R. villosa, R. zalana from Caninae section). Eight quantitative and eight qualitative features were examined based on 9181 achenes, in total. Average achene size ranged from 4.37 to 5.39 mm in length and from 2.57 to 3.32 mm in width. The lowest morphological variability among the examined taxa was found in R. canina var. corymbifera, and the highest in R. gallica, R. inodora, and R. sherardii. The most diagnostic features of the achenes studied were suture (visible or invisible), presence or absence of hairs, hairs distribution and density, the exocarp sculpture and cuticle pattern type (we have distinguished four exocarp sculpture and three cuticle pattern types), and length. Qualitative achene features have significantly higher diagnostic value than quantitative ones. Taxonomical value of these features is quite high on the species and section level. Our study has shown that the previously mentioned morphological features of achenes can be used as valuable, additional diagnostic features in delimitation of Rosa taxa at the species and section level. Based on the morphological features of achenes, a determination key for all Rosa taxa studied was created.
Dynamic Path Planning Algorithm for a Mobile Robot Based on Visible Space and an Improved Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Xiaolei , Zhao Yan , Deng Nianmao , Guo Kai
Published: May 2016

In this study, a series of new concepts and improved genetic operators of a genetic algorithm (GA) was proposed and applied to solve mobile robot (MR) path planning problems in dynamic environments. The proposed method has two superiorities: fast convergence towards the global optimum and the feasibility of all solutions in the population. Path planning aims to provide an optimal path from a starting location to a target location, preventing collision or so-called obstacle avoidance. Although GAs have been widely used in optimization problems and can obtain good results, conventional GAs have some weaknesses in an obstacle environment, such as infeasible paths. The main ideas in this paper are visible space, matrix coding and new mutation operators. In order to demonstrate the superiority of this method, three different obstacle environments have been used and an experiment is conducted. This algorithm is effective in both static and dynamic environments.
Optimal Design and Tuning of PID-Type Interval Type-2 Fuzzy Logic Controllers for Delta Parallel Robots
Authors: Lu Xingguo , Liu Ming
Published: May 2016

In this work, we propose a new method for the optimal design and tuning of a Proportional-Integral-Derivative type (PID-type) interval type-2 fuzzy logic controller (IT2 FLC) for Delta parallel robot trajectory tracking control. The presented methodology starts with an optimal design problem of IT2 FLC. A group of IT2 FLCs are obtained by blurring the membership functions using a variable called blurring degree. By comparing the performance of the controllers, the optimal structure of IT2 FLC is obtained. Then, a multi-objective optimization problem is formulated to tune the scaling factors of the PID-type IT2 FLC. The Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm (NSGA-II) is adopted to solve the constrained nonlinear multi-objective optimization problem. Simulation results of the optimized controller are presented and discussed regarding application in the Delta parallel robot. The proposed method provides an effective way to design and tune the PID-type IT2 FLC with a desired control performance.
A influência da consciência ambiental e das atitudes em relação ao consumo sustentável na intenção de compra de carne bovina
Authors: Quevedo-Silva Filipe , Lima-Filho Dario De Oliveira , Freire Otávio
Published: May 2016

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the influence of environmental concern and attitudes towards sustainable consumption on the purchase intention of environmentally sustainable beef meat. Therefore, we conducted a study with 300 beef consumers of Campo Grande-Mato Grosso do Sul, the capital of the second largest state of Brazil in terms of slaughter. We conducted a probability sample. We adopted the method of uniform stratified sampling. The survey was conducted with face-to-face interviews. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling. The results indicate that environmental concern influenced sustainable beef meat purchase intention directly and indirectly. Furthermore, formal education influenced consumers’ level of environmental concern, presenting a moderating effect on the proposed model. The results also indicate that the purchase intention of consuming a meat with an attribute of environmental sustainability is still low among consumers. This paper contributes by being the first to study environmental sustainability at the beef's Agribusiness system including the perspective of the consumer. Furthermore, we provide data that suggest that education is more relevant than income for the sustainable consumption.
Thematic Content Analysis: Is There a Difference Between the Support Provided by the MAXQDA® and NVivo® Software Packages?
Authors: Oliveira Mirian , Bitencourt Claudia Cristina , Santos Ana Clarissa Matte Zanardo dos , Teixeira Eduardo Kunzel
Published: May 2016

Content analysis is widely used in qualitative research. It can be organized into three approaches: lexical analysis (nature and richness of the vocabulary), syntactic (verb tenses and modes) and thematic (themes and frequency), used complementarily or separately, depending on the research objective. Whatever the approach, the volume of data is usually large and qualitative data analysis software could help simplify the operational activities. The aim of this study is to analyze the contribution of the NVivo® and MAXQDA® software packages in thematic content analysis. Achieving this objective involves a review of the main characteristics of thematic content analysis and an examination of both software packages, and finally, a comparison between them. The main results are: the similarity between the features available for qualitative data analysis in the two software packages and the differences in their interfaces. The potential gain provided by using these packages depends on the researcher’s knowledge of content analysis since they do not substitute the researcher in the coding process. A considerable reduction in execution time of the analysis, as well as the possibility of applying different filters are important benefits obtained aiding the researcher to reflect on the data collected and obtain inferences.
Sustentabilidade e educação superior: análise das ações de sustentabilidade de duas instituições de ensino superior de Santa Catarina
Authors: Pontes Andrea Simone Machiavelli , Carneiro Caroline , Petry David Rodrigo , Pilatti Citania Aparecida , Sehnem Simone
Published: May 2016

This qualitative and descriptive study, aims to understand the concepts of sustainability and identify how they are included in the action planning of Higher Education Institutions (HEI) of Santa Catarina. Therefore, a brief literature review on the topic of sustainability was held and on the relationship of sustainability with education and later with the HEI. The problem of this study consists in identify how the surveyed HEIs are inserting sustainability in a practical way, in the institution´s activities. The disclosed results showed that HEI adopt attitudes that meet the global context, both in its institutional actions, including the practice of the courses offered to its target audience, and in its image in the community. Thus, through the printed documents analysis and information available in the corporate website of the HEIs studied - National Service of Commercial Education (SENAC/SC) and Educational Society of Santa Catarina (SOCIESC), it was possible to identify that both organizations adopt actions and practices for the inclusion of sustainability in its institutional activities, which responds readily to the general purpose of this study.
Tunnel Vision
Authors: Garrison Thomas G. , Richmond Dustin , Naughton Perry , Lo Eric , Trinh Sabrina , Barnes Zachary , Lin Albert , Schurgers Curt , Kastner Ryan , Newman Sarah E.
Published: May 2016

Archaeological tunneling is a standard excavation strategy in Mesoamerica. The ancient Maya built new structures atop older ones that were no longer deemed usable, whether for logistical or ideological reasons. This means that as archaeologists excavate horizontal tunnels into ancient Maya structures, they are essentially moving back in time. As earlier constructions are encountered, these tunnels may deviate in many directions in order to document architectural remains. The resultant excavations often become intricate labyrinths, extending dozens of meters. Traditional forms of archaeological documentation, such as photographs, plan views, and profile drawings, are limited in their ability to convey the complexity of tunnel excavations. Terrestrial Lidar (light detection and ranging) instruments are able to generate precise 3D models of tunnel excavations. This article presents the results of a model created with a Faro™ Focus 3D 120 Scanner of tunneling excavations at the site of El Zotz, Guatemala. The lidar data document the excavations inside a large mortuary pyramid, including intricately decorated architecture from an Early Classic (A.D. 300–600) platform buried within the present form of the structure. Increased collaboration between archaeologists and scholars with technical expertise maximizes the effectiveness of 3D models, as does presenting digital results in tandem with traditional forms of documentation.
Role of Doppler Sonography in Early Detection of Splenic Steal Syndrome
Authors: Li Chaolun , Quintini Cristiano , Hashimoto Koji , Fung John , Obuchowski Nancy A. , Sands Mark J. , Wang Weiping
Published: May 2016

Objectives

To retrospectively investigate the role of Doppler sonography in the early detection of splenic steal syndrome.

Methods

Fifty cases of splenic steal syndrome after orthotopic liver transplantation were identified. A control group was matched to the splenic steal syndrome group. Information was collected about the clinical presentation, liver enzyme levels, Doppler sonographic results, and follow‐up after patients underwent splenic artery embolization.

Results

A persistent hepatic arterial diastolic reversal waveform was observed in 25 patients with splenic steal syndrome versus 0 control patients. The mean hepatic arterial resistive index (RI) values ± SD were 0.95 ± 0.09 in patients with splenic steal syndrome and 0.80 ± 0.10 in control patients (P < .0001). One week after orthotopic liver transplantation, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the RI was 0.884 (95% confidence interval, 0.793–0.975; P = .001) for splenic steal syndrome diagnosis. After splenic artery embolization, there was normalization of the reversal waveform, with an average RI of 0.77 ± 0.11 (P < .0001).

Conclusions

Dynamic changes in the hepatic arterial waveform and RI are keys to detecting splenic steal syndrome with Doppler sonography.