bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transient simulations of the present and the last interglacial climate using a coupled general circulation model: effects of orbital acceleration
Authors: Varma V. , Prange M. , Schulz M.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. Numerical simulations provide a considerable aid in studying past climates. Out of the various approaches taken in designing numerical climate experiments, transient simulations have been found to be the most optimal when it comes to comparison with proxy data. However, multi-millennial or longer simulations using fully coupled general circulation models are computationally very expensive such that acceleration techniques are frequently applied. In this study, we compare the results from transient simulations of the present and the last interglacial with and without acceleration of the orbital forcing, using the comprehensive coupled climate model CCSM3 (Community Climate System Model 3). Our study shows that in most parts of the world, the simulation of long-term variations in interglacial surface climate is not significantly affected by the use of the acceleration technique (with an acceleration factor 10) and, hence, large-scale model-data comparison of surface variables is not hampered. However, in high-latitude regions where the surface climate has a direct connection to the deep ocean, e.g. in the Southern Ocean or the Nordic Seas, acceleration-induced biases in sea-surface temperature evolution may occur with potential influence on the dynamics of the overlying atmosphere.
Evolution of a highly dilatant fault zone in the grabens of Canyonlands National Park, Utah, USA – integrating fieldwork, ground-penetrating radar and airborne imagery analysis
Authors: Kettermann M. , Grützner C. , van Gent H. W. , Urai J. L. , Reicherter K. , Mertens J.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. The grabens of Canyonlands National Park are a young and active system of sub-parallel, arcuate grabens, whose evolution is the result of salt movement in the subsurface and a slight regional tilt of the faulted strata. We present results of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) surveys in combination with field observations and analysis of high-resolution airborne imagery. GPR data show intense faulting of the Quaternary sediments at the flat graben floors, implying a more complex fault structure than visible at the surface. Direct measurements of heave and throw at several locations to infer fault dips at depth, combined with observations of primary joint surfaces in the upper 100 m, suggest a highly dilatant fault geometry. Sinkholes observed in the field as well as in airborne imagery give insights in local dilatancy and show where water and sediments are transported underground. Based on correlations of paleosols observed in outcrops and GPR profiles, we argue that either the grabens in Canyonlands National Park are older than previously assumed or that sedimentation rates were much higher in the Pleistocene.
The influence of virus infections on antioxidant levels in the genetically modified plum variety "Honeysweet" (Prunus domestica L.)
Authors: Sochor Jiri , Krska Boris , Polak Jaroslav , Jurikova Tunde
Published: July 2015

It is well-known that polyphenolic compounds are found abundantly in fruit, but various kinds of diseases  lower these levels. This work measures total polyphenolic content, antioxidant activity and the levels of specific important antioxidants in fruits of the genetically modified (GM) plum variety HoneySweet, trees  which were previously inoculated with a range of different virus infections.  These were the Plum Pox virus (PPV), Prune Dwarf virus (PDV) and Apple Chlorotic Leaf-Spot virus (ACLSV). Uninoculated trees were used as controls. Antioxidant activity was measured using four different photometric  methods – DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), DMPD (N-dimethyl-p-phenylenediamine), ABTS (2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) and FRAP (Ferric reducing antioxidant power). Total polyphenol content was measured using the Folin–Ciocalteau method. The profiles of 10 specific antioxidant constituents in the fruits of the GM plum variety HoneySweet were detected and analyzed, since these are of interest for their role in human diets and could play a role in the resistance of plants to viruses. Detection was made using HPLC with UV-VIS detection.  They were: gallic acid, p-coumaric acid, 4-aminobenzoic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, vanillin, rutin and quercetin. The compound with the highest concentration was chlorogenic acid (587 mg/100 g), and that with the lowest was p-coumaric acid (0.95 mg/100 g). Of the four methods of antioxidant activity used, in three the lowest levels of antioxidant activity were seen where the PPV virus was combined with ACLSV, and in three the highest levels were seen in the un-inoculated control without any infection. The highest values of total polyphenols were seen in the control (65.3 mg/100 g), followed by infection of PPV, then treatment PPV, PDV and ACLSV, then treatment PPV and PDV and finally the lowest levels were seen in treatment PPV and ACLSV (44.2 mg/100 g), which was also that with the lowest antioxidant activity.
Interspecies and seasonal differences of retinol in dairy ruminant´s milk
Authors: Hodulová Lucia , Vorlová Lenka , Kostrhounová Romana , Klimešová-Vyletělová Marcela , Kuchtí­k Jan
Published: July 2015

Milk is an essential source of macronutrients and among lipophilic vitamins is significant source of retinol. The contribution of milk to the reference daily intake for retinol varies from 11% to 16%, worldwide. The most consumed dairy products are fresh, dehydrated and condensed milk in which the amonuts of retinol are not modified to those of in whole milk. Retinol is essential to ensure a good functionality of the immune system and plays a critical role in vision, reproduction, cell differentiation as well as growth and development and is found only in animal tissues. The aim of our study was to evaluate the interspecies differences in the retinol concentration of whole raw bovine, caprine and ovine milk and to observe seasonal variation of retinol in bulk tank milk samples. Samples of raw milk were colleceted on different farms in the Czech Republic between 2013 and 2014. Retinol was measured by ultra high performance liquid chromatography with UV detection (325 nm) in isocratic mode after alkaline saponification with methanolic potassium hydroxide solution and liquid-liquid extraction into non polar organic solvent of whole raw milk. To avoid vitamin losses or degradation during the procedure, antioxidants were added to the sample extraction media. Our results indicate significant interspecies differences between bovine and ovine milk and caprine and ovine milk. Concentration of retinol is very similar in bovine and caprine milk 0.96 ±0.11 mg/L, 0.94 ±0.25 mg/L, respectively. The mean concentration in sheep´s milk is 1.75 ±0.24 mg/L. The seasonal variation of retinol in raw bovine milk was detected as high significant, with the highest concentration during winter. These results contribute to the nutrition evaluation of milk in the Czech Republic and indicate, that the sheep´s milk is the best source of retinol among the milks of ruminants kept in the Czech Republic, however it is not used in its fluid form for human consumption.
The testing of sanitizers efficacy to enterococci adhered on glass surfaces
Authors: Čanigová Margita , Ducková Viera , Kročko Miroslav , Bezeková Jana , Gábor Michal , Vnučková Zuzana
Published: July 2015

The aim of this work was to test the ability of 6 strains of enterococci to adhere on glass surfaces in environment with different content of milk residues and then to evaluate efficacy of 2 commercial sanitizers (alkaline and acidic) used in milk production. Tested enterococci were isolated from milk, dairy products and from rinse water after sanitation milking machine. Suspension of enterococci (8 log CFU.ml-1) was prepared in phosphate buffered saline (PBS), PBS with content 0.1% and 1% of skimmed reconstituted milk. Glass plates were immersed into bacterial suspension for 1 h at 37 °C. The number of enterococci adhered on glass surface in PBS achieved an average value 3.47 log CFU.mm-2, in PBS with 0.1% of milk 2.90 CFU.mm-2, in PBS with 1% of milk 2.63 CFU.mm-2. Differences between the tested files were not statistically significant (p >0.05). In the second part of work the glass plates with adhered enterococci were exposed to the effect of alkaline sanitizer (on basis of NaOH and NaClO), respectively acidic sanitizer (on basis of H3PO4). Sanitation solutions were prepared and tested according to manufacturer recommendations (concentration 0.25%, contact time 20 min, temperature   20 °C). Alkaline sanitation solution was 100% effective against all tested enterococci regardless to content of milk residues in environment. Acidic sanitation solution was 100% effective only against E. faecalisD (isolated from rinse water after sanitation). Average value of reduction of enterococci with acidic sanitation solution, which were on glass plates in environment PBS was 2.84 CFU.mm-2, in PBS with 0.1% of milk was 2.45 CFU.mm-2 and in PBS with 1% of milk was2.16 CFU.mm-2. It can be concluded, that increase of milk residues in environment decrease the adhesion of enterococci on glass surface, but also effectiveness of acidic sanitation solution.
Qualitative parameters of non-traditional types of vegetables
Authors: Kudrnáčová Eva , Kouřimská Lenka
Published: July 2015

The main aim of this study was to determine selected quality indicators of non-traditional types of leafy vegetables. Mizuna (Brassica rapa japonica), Chinese mustard (Brassica juncea), edible chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum coronarium) and arugula (Eruca sativa) belonged among the selected species of vegetables. During the one-year experiment, spring and autumn sowing was carried out for these species of vegetables. The measured quality parameters were the content of nitrates and ascorbic acid. Sampling was done in the morning and in the laboratory, the samples were further processed according to the type of determination. To determine the content of nitrates and ascorbic acid, leaves were removed from plants. The filtrate from the leaves was then prepared. Determination of nitrates and ascorbic acid was carried out using a special test strip and device Rqflex plus 10. The results of measurement of both sowing varieties were compared. Total nitrate content was higher up to 22% in plants sown in the autumn except edible chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum coronarium). The highest content was recorded in arugula (Eruca sativa), which was recently implemented to the studies of the European Union and for which there were set the limits of nitrates. Overall, the nitrate content ranged from 221 to 334 ppm in spring varieties and from 249 to 384 mg/kg in autumn varieties. Ascorbic acid content was very high in Chinese mustard (Brassica juncea), edible chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum coronarium) and arugula (Eruca sativa) in both spring and autumn varieties. Values of ascorbic acid ranged from 839 in autumn sowing up to 2909 mg/kg in spring sowing. These non-traditional types of leafy vegetables could be included among the other importants sources of vitamin C in the future.
The influence of additional fluors on the retention ability of dough and the technological quality of bakery products
Authors: Bojňanská Tatiana , Šmitalová Jana
Published: July 2015

The work monitored rheofermentation properties of dough prepared from composite flours formed by 70% of wheat flour T650 and the addition of 30%. Three kinds of additions were used, namely spelt flour, amaranth flour and buckwheat flour. To determine rheofermentation properties Rheofermentometer Rhea F4 was used, by means of which the dough development, the production of fermentation gases, retention ability of dough and the activity of used baking yeast were analysed. The best ability to retain formed fermentation gas had wheat flour (control) and composite flour with the addition of spelt flour. The composite flour with addition of amaranth flour showed a retention coefficient compared to the control lower by 13%, and the composite flour with addition of buckwheat flour showed a retention coefficient compared to the control reduced by 20%. Control flour and composite flours were then processed in the baking experiment. Based on its results it was possible to evaluate the effect of the addition and retention capacity of dough on the quality of the final products (experimental loaves). The biggest loaf volume (200 cm3) and the optimal vaulting (0.65) were found in the control and a loaf made of composite flour with addition of spelt. Loaf volume, produced from composite flours with the addition of amaranth, and buckwheat was compared to control lower by 18.7%, and 16.3% respectively. The value of vaulting of these products (0.40) can be evaluated as unsatisfactory. Based on the evaluation of results observed by measuring on the rheofermentometer and baking experiment results it can be concluded that a better ability to retain the formed fermentation gas, thus ensuring high volume, had loaves made from wheat flour T650 and composite flour with addition of spelt flour. Based on the findings, it is possible to state that the results of rheofermentometric measurements predict the volume and vaulting of bakery products. By means of Rheofermentometer valuable information has been gained concerning the quality of bakery ingredients, especially flour and yeast.
Phthalate migration from packaging materials into food
Authors: Bogdanovičová Soňa , Jarošová Alžbeta
Published: July 2015

The content of dibutylphthalate (DBP) and di- (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in samples of packages used for packaging meat productsand the phthalate migration from packaging materials to meat products were studied. Five samples of textile packaging intended for cooked meat production were analysed as well asthe final product which was filled into packages. Subsequently an analysis was carried out (after 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days of storage) of the finished meat products stored over the course of their intended shelf life at ambient temperature of 4 °C. Determination of phthalates was conducted by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method with UV detection at a wavelength of 224 nm on the Zorbax Eclipse C8 column. The content of phthalates in the final product was below the limit of quantification. According to the Regulation of the Commission (EU) No. 10/2011, the specific migration limit of products intended for food contact is 1.5 mg.kg-1of food simulant for DEHP and 0.3 mg.kg-1 for DBP. After filling and the first day of storage of the meat product, four package samples release the said phthalates to an extent that it exceeded the limits of the Commission Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011. Already after the seventh day of storage, all samples (with the exception of sample 2 for DBP) exceeded SMLs. Monitoring of each phthalate migration in individual samples during storage (for 28 days) produced a rising tendency.  In sample 1, DBP increased from 0.40 to 3.37 mg.kg-1, while DEHP from 0.58 to 14.66 mg.kg-1. In sample 2, DBP increased from ≤0.2 mg.kg-1 to 4.34 mg.kg-1, whileDEHP from 1.46 to 28.20 mg.kg-1. In sample 3, DBP increased from ≤0.2 mg.kg-1 to  8.27 mg.kg-1, while DEHP from 1.67 to 14.84 mg.kg-1. In sample 4, DBP increased from 0.27 to 6.12 mg.kg-1, while DEHP from 2.37 to 13.22 mg.kg-1. In sample 5, DBP increased from 0.32 to 11.11 mg.kg-1, while DEHP from 1.91 to 15.42 mg.kg-1.
The use of fruit extracts for production of beverages with high antioxidative activity
Authors: Tarko Tomasz , Duda-Chodak Aleksandra , Semik Dorota , Nycz Michał
Published: July 2015

Free radicals and reactive oxygen species can cause many diseases of the circulatory and nervous system as well as tumors. There are many ways of preventing and treating these diseases including the consumption of products that contain significant amounts of antioxidant compounds, such as polyphenols and antioxidative vitamins. However, currently food stores offer mainly convenient food, ready-to-eat foodstuffs or highly processed products. During numerous technological treatments they have been deprived of many valuable compounds occurring in fresh products. Therefore, an important element of the food production technology is to ensure a proper composition of valuable human health-promoting compounds, mostly vitamins, minerals and polyphenols in final food product. Consumers often and willingly drink beverages. They are also a good starting base for supplementation. Drinks can be enriched with polyphenols, which may reduce the risk of lifestyle diseases, owing to their antiradical potential. The aim of this study was to use the fruit extracts for beverages enrichment in order to increase their antioxidative potential and polyphenol content. For the experiment the fruits of Cornelian cherry, lingonberry, elderberry, hawthorn and Japanese quince were used. Fruit was extracted with 80% ethanol, and then thickened by distillation under reduced pressure. Extracts were used to enrich the apple, orange and grapefruit beverages. Antioxidative activity and total polyphenols content in final beverages were determined. Also, sensory analysis was carried out. The fortification of tested beverages resulted in an increased antioxidative activity and total polyphenol content in case of all applied fruit extracts. Among the beverages composed, the best antioxidative properties were found in a beverage of red grapefruit, whereas the best organoleptically evaluated was the orange beverage. The scores of on the sensory evaluation revealed that the addition of extracts from Japanese quince fruit (in the case of apple and orange beverages) and lingonberry extract (grapefruit beverage) were preferred than the other samples.
Properties and nutritional value of wheat bread enriched by hemp products
Authors: Švec Ivan , Hrušková Marie
Published: July 2015

Hemp (Cannabis sativa) is annual plant that is native to China and remained as important material for food, industrial and medical purposes. As source of cannabinoids belongs to controversial, but due to its excellent nutritional profile, non-gluten protein, fat and fibre it has potential in bakery products. Addition of 5% - 20% of hemp press cake fine flour and fine wholemeal significantly increased dietary fibre content, but their influence on volume of laboratory baked bread was different. Reflecting actual dosage, both types of hemp press cake flour diminished bun sizes about 6% - 33%; volumes of bread containing hulled wholemeal were comparable to standard (mean 310 mL/100 g vs. 333 ml/100 g, respectively. Only dehulled wholemeal hemp form increased the bread specific volume (6% - 30%), especially as 10% fortification (434 mL/100 g). Six Canadian hemp products were added as 10% and 20% on wheat flour base, comprising fine hemp flour and coarse hemp powder, dehulled whole seeds, hulled hemp seeds with sea salt as well as 50% and 43% hemp protein concentrates (KP1-KP6, respectively). The higher level of KP1, KP2, KP5 and KP6, the lower bread specific volumes were determined (decrease about 9% - 48%). Soft increase in buns size caused by 10% and 20% KP3 (323 and 319 ml/100 g vs. 296 mL/100 g) was insignificant. The effect of KP4 was reversely verifiable, magnifying the parameter about 25% and 17%, respectively. In terms of protein content in bread, a level 11.75% in wheat bread has risen to approx. 14.5% and 18.0% when 10% and 20% of KP3 and KP5, respectively, was included into bread recipe. All six Canadian hemp products increased dietary fibre content in bread, mainly owing to KP4 and both protein concentrates (up to 4 and 3 times, respectively). Incorporation of hemp flour up to the level of 10% positively affected bread sensorial properties.
Changes in the microflora composition of goat and sheep milk during lactation
Authors: Kalhotka Libor , Dostálová Lenka , Šustová Květoslava , Kuchtí­k Jan , Detvanová Lenka
Published: July 2015

The aim of this work was to determine extend of microbial contamination of raw milk in individual seasons. Raw goat milk (3 farms) and sheep milk (2 farms) were analyzed. Milk was produced on farms of different way of farming and with a different number of milked animals. Samples were taken during lactation three terms in the beginning, middle and end of lactation. In milk, following groups of microorganisms were determined by standard methods: total count of microorganisms (TCM), psychrotrophic microorganisms, Enterobacteriaceae, lactic acid bacteria (lactobacilli), enterococci, aerobic and anaerobic thermoresistant microorganisms (TMRae, TMRan), micromycetes (yeast and moulds). In goat milk, the following numbers of microorganisms were detected: total count of microorganisms (TCM) from 105 to 109 CFU x mL-1, lactobacilli from 102 to 105 CFU x mL-1, bacteria fam. Enterobacteriaceae from 101 to 105 CFU x mL-1, enterococci from 101 to 105 CFU x mL-1, thermoresistant aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms (TMRae and TMRan) from units to 103 resp. 105 CFU x mL-1, psychrotrophic microorganisms from 101 to 106 CFU x mL-1, micromycets from 101 to 104 CFU x mL-1. In the sheep milk, the following numbers of microorganisms were determined: TCM from 105 to 106 CFU x mL-1, lactobacilli from 103 to 106 CFU x mL-1, bacteria fam. Enterobacteriaceae from 101 to 105 CFU x mL-1, enterococci from 101 to 104 CFU x mL-1, TMRae and TMRan from units to 105 CFU x mL-1, psychrotrophic microorganisms from 104 to 106 CFU x mL-1, micromycets from 102 to 104 CFU x mL-1. From the above mentioned results, the following conclusions can be suggested. The bacterial counts of raw goat and sheep milk are highly variable and influenced by a number of important factors in the course of lactation and year (temperature, health, secondary contamination etc.). The bacterial numbers are not affected by the stage of lactation. High numbers of microorganisms in goat and sheep milk may be primarily caused by the insufficient cleaning and sanitizing of milking equipment or low hygiene of hand milking. An important role may also act the cooling rate of  milk and purity of cooling eguipment.
CATIONIC COPOLYMERIZATION OF ISOBUTYLENE WITH ISOPRENE: KINETICS OF THE PROCESS AND DETERMINATION OF KINETIC CONSTANTS
Authors: Ulitin N. V. , Tereshchenco K. A. , Shiyan D. A. , Zaikov G. E.
Published: July 2015

A theoretical description has been developed of the kinetics of isobutylene with isoprene (IIR) cationic polymerization in the environment of methyl chloride on aluminum trichloride as the catalyst. Based on experimental data on the kinetics of copolymerization (isobutylene conversion curve) and the molecular weight characteristics of the copolymer of IIR, kinetic constants for the process were found. Adequacy of the developed theoretical description of the kinetics of the IIR copolymerization process was confirmed by comparing the experimental molecular-weight characteristics calculated by this description, independent characteristics, and IIR unsaturation.
An Empirical Investigation of the Impact of Technological Factors on Computer – Based Information Systems (CBIS) Usage by Managers in Banking Sector in Sudan
Authors: Adam Nawal Abdalla
Published: July 2015

Computers are becoming more available in Sudanese banks with more sophisticated software and advanced information systems. But factors that might affect acceptance and utilization of these systems by managers need to be examined. This paper seeks to assess the influence of technological factors on computer-based information systems usage by managers in Sudanese banks with reference to the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). A questionnaire was distributed to a sample of 120 randomly selected middle level managers from different banks in Khartoum State and Gezira State in Sudan. Linear and multiple regression analysis and χ 2 (chi – square) tests were conducted to determine the relationship between the dependent research variable (computer- based information system usage) and the independent research variables (perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, manager involvement in system design and implementation, and availability of technical support). Findings of this study suggest that the perceived ease of using the system (PEOU) and the perceived usefulness of the system (PU) have significant influence on the computer- based information system usage by banks’ managers. The empirical evidence also proved that the perceived ease of use and the perceived usefulness were fully mediating the influence of the technological factors (manager involvement in system design and implementation and technical support). The academic and practical implications of the study were discussed and suggestions for future research was presented.
Induced pluripotent stem cells: An update
Authors: Singh Anubha , Kumar Singh Deepak , Bhoria Usha
Published: July 2015

Introduction: The discovery that the mature cells can be reprogrammed to become pluripotent increased the enormous interest in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology for their potential application in biomedical sciences. The breakthrough research offering induction of pluripotent status in somatic cells by direct reprogramming depends upon the genes used for induction. The induced pluripotent stem cells share features with embryonic stem cells such as pluripotency and immortality. The iPSC technology opened new avenues and provided vast opportunities for regenerative therapy and therapeutic drug development. This review summarizes the developments in iPSC technology highlighting the generation of iPSCs from blood as a source, which is a very important finding, alleviating the need for more invasive techniques such as skin punch biopsies.
The Automatic Activation of Emotion and Emotion-Laden Words: Evidence from a Masked and Unmasked Priming Paradigm
Authors: Kazanas Stephanie A. , Altarriba Jeanette
Published: July 2015

A primed lexical decision task (ldt) was used to determine whether emotion (e.g., love, fear) and emotion-laden (e.g., puppy, hospital) word processing differs, both explicitly and implicitly. Previous experiments have investigated how emotion word processing differs from both abstract and concrete word processing (Altarriba & Bauer, 2004; Altarriba, Bauer, & Benvenuto, 1999). to assess for differences between emotion and emotion-laden word processing, 2 experiments were conducted, the first assessing explicit processing (using an unmasked ldt) and the second assessing automatic processing (using a masked ldt). the prediction that semantic priming would differ between emotion word pairs and emotion-laden word pairs was confirmed in both experiments, with shorter response times for emotion targets and greater priming effects for emotion word pairs than for emotion-laden word pairs. the role of valence is discussed, emphasizing the ways valence affects the speed with which these words are accessed and processed.
Interference Resolution in Emotional Working Memory as a Function of Alexithymia
Authors: Colligan Sean M , Koven Nancy S.
Published: July 2015

Although alexithymia is recognized as a set of traitlike deficits in emotion processing, research suggests there are concomitant cognitive issues as well, including what appears to be an unusual pattern of enhanced working memory (wm) despite broader executive dysfunction. it is unknown whether this enhancement includes the executive elements of wm and whether executive control of wm in alexithymia differs for emotional and neutral stimuli. this study examined how alexithymia moderates patterns of interference resolution in wm with valenced and nonvalenced stimuli. Participants (N = 93) completed the toronto Alexithymia scale and a recency probes wm task containing positive, negative, and neutral stimuli, with some trials containing proactive interference from previous trials. the reaction time difference between interference and noninterference trials indexed degree of interference resolution. toronto Alexithymia scale score moderated a within- subject effect such that, when valenced probes were used, there was less proactive interference in the positive relative to negative valence condition; this valence- based interference discrepancy was significant for a subset of highly alexithymic participants. Alexithymia did not moderate proactive interference to negative or neutral stimuli or accuracy of responses. these results suggest that, although alexithymia does not influence executive control in wm for nonemotional items, alexithymic people demonstrate an idiosyncratic response to positive stimuli that might indicate blunted reactivity.
Towards a Mechanistic Understanding of the Effects of Body Posture on Facial Emotion Categorization
Authors: Civile Ciro , Obhi Sukhvinder S.
Published: July 2015

this study investigated the causes of the face– body congruence effect (fBce), which refers to the advantage in performance when participants are asked to categorize emotional faces compounded with emotional matching body postures (congruent) compared with incongruent face– body compound stimuli (body postures mismatching the facial emotions). experiment 1 showed that manipulations aiming to alter holistic processing significantly reduced the fBce. in particular, the disruption of holistic processing affected significantly the performance for congruent composites. however, no effect was obtained on the incongruent stimuli. in experiment 2, the inversion manipulation showed a clear disadvantage for incongruent stimuli brought by the disruption of the single feature orientation information. thus, we found confirmation of the different processing involved in perceiving congruent and incongruent stimuli. finally, experiment 3 confirmed that we are able to reduce entirely the fBce when the orientation of the units (the face and the body) constituting the incongruent composites is matched.
Cognitive Processing of Scrambled Faces: Effects of Instructions and Task
Authors: Rakover Sam S.
Published: July 2015

the present study tests rakover and cahlon’s (2013) face- checking model, which grades 7 regular and scrambled faces on a scale of similarity to an upright regular face, by predicting the results of 2 experiments in upright and inverted orientations: experiment 1, which uses the interest choice task (to choose from a pair of faces the one most interesting), and experiment 2, which uses the old/new recognition task. the main results of these 2 experiments show that in comparison to rakover and cahlon’s (2013) findings, the face- checking model preserves its ability to predict satisfactorily the order of the 7 faces in the 2 experiments especially in the upright orientation; however, the model’s success in making accurate point predictions is reduced significantly in both the upright and the inverted orientations.
The Construction of Instrumental Music Teacher Identity
Authors: Natale-Abramo Melissa
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this qualitative multiple case study is to uncover various discourses that constituted the identity construction of three instrumental music teachers. I apply a poststructural theoretical framework--particularly the ideas of discourse, discursive field, and performativity--and narrative analysis to uncover a variety of discourses that shape music teacher identity. The data I collected includes interviews, journal entries, and observations of three band teachers over the course of one school year. I employ narrative analysis to analyze data and to uncover how the participants constructed their music teacher identities in the practice of teaching. I identified four themes related to the construction of their music teacher identities: (a) pedagogical discourses that conflict, (b) subordination of music as a discipline, (c) negotiation of class and race, and (d) performativity of sexuality. The findings suggest that these discourses constitute the performativity of instrumental music teacher identity and have implications for music teacher education and music teacher identity research.
Sexual function after surgical treatment for penile cancer: Which organ-sparing approach gives the best results?
Authors: Sedigh Omid , Falcone Marco , Ceruti Carlo , Timpano Massimiliano , Preto Mirko , Oderda Marco , Kuehhas Franklin , Sibona Mattia , Gillo Arianna , Gontero Paolo , Rolle Luigi , Frea Bruno
Published: July 2015

Introduction: We compared the postoperative sexual function of patients who underwent wide local excision (WLE) and glansectomy with urethral glanduloplasty for penile cancer.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed clinical data of 41 patients affected by superficial, localized penile cancer (≤cT2a) between 2006 and 2013. Patients with severe erectile dysfunction and not interested in resuming an active sexual life were selected for penile partial amputation. Patients with preoperative satisfying erectile function and concerned about the preservation of their sexual potency were scheduled for WLE (Group A) or glansectomy with urethral glanduloplasty (Group B). Sexual function was assessed with the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire and the Sex Encounter Profile (SEP). At 1 year, patients were asked to complete the questionnaires again and were questioned about their genital sensibility and ejaculatory reflex persistence. Postoperative complications were reported according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Statistical analysis was performed by two-tailed test: Student t-test and chi-square.Results: Among the 41 patients enrolled, 12 underwent WLE (29.2%), 23 glansectomy with urethral glanduloplasty (56%) and 6 with penile partial amputation (14.6%). A decrease in postoperative IIEF was recorded in both groups, but was statistically significant only in Group B (p = 0.003). As for the SEP, while no significant changes were recorded postoperatively in Group A, a marked reduction was reported for Group B, with a statistically significant decrease in the possibility of achieving penetrative intercourse (p = 0.006) and in the perceived satisfaction during sexual activity (p = 0.004).Conclusions: WLE lead to better sexual outcomes and less postoperative complications as compared to glansectomy with urethral glanduloplasty.
Teoría microsocial de los símbolos literarios: el análisis del cambio sociocultural como desafío del siglo XXI
Authors: Garcia-Peña Lilia Leticia
Published: July 2015

Nuestro mundo en el siglo XXI cambia velozmente, la literatura es especialmente sensible a las dinámicas sociales y las expresa, estéticamente, con profundidad y claridad. En este trabajo propongo un enfoque microsocial del análisis de los símbolos literarios para la interpretación de las representaciones del cambio sociocultural en las obras, y para la reafirmación de la literatura como expresión y agente de la dinámica sociocultural me apoyo en la microsociología de Erving Goffman.
Rastros del Anáhuac
Authors: Pérez Padilla María Dolores
Published: July 2015

Este trabajo busca poner en relieve algunos puntos significativos de la novela Cuauhtémoc. La defensa del Quinto Sol, de Pedro Ángel Palou, desde una concepción de la narrativa como discurso capaz de expresar la experiencia humana del tiempo, de la propia historicidad, así como el entendimiento del hombre como un ser constituido por la palabra. Puesto que esta novela participa tanto de la historiografía como de la ficción, el autor teje la historia de la caída del Anáhuac mediante la selección de algunos de los hechos que considera más definitorios de ese derrumbe, y mediante convenciones de la ficción en sí. Además, explora las posibles vivencias, puntos de vista y juicios de los personajes míticos e históricos. Y también busca recrear la palabra fundadora de la cultura que sucumbe, la de la cultura mexica, que como toda palabra ritual está habitada por la poesía.
¿La narcocultura demuestra la naturaleza antimoderna y neoconservadora de la posmodernidad?
Authors: Ritondale Elena
Published: July 2015

El presente artículo quiere averiguar qué características semánticas, narrativas y estilísticas de la narcocultura testimonian una naturaleza antimoderna de la posmodernidad mexicana. Tras reseñar los estudios teóricos más representativos con respecto al debate general acerca de las corrientes neoconservadora de la posmodernidad, y explicar cuáles son las características de la narconarrativa que la acercan a otras obras posmodernas, se analizan las obras de Yuri Herrera y de Diego Enrique Osorno.
Presentación. Pasado futuro
Authors: Zabalgoitia Mauricio
Published: July 2015

Presentación. Pasado futuro
Formação continuada de professores da educação profissional
Authors: Castaman Ana Sara , Vieira Marilandi Maria Mascarello
Published: July 2015

O artigo relata uma experiência de formação pedagógica realizada em 2012 com docentes da educação profissional de uma instituição federal. Os dados empíricos foram coletados por meio de relatos dos participantes durante o curso e enfocam a importância da formação continuada para docentes que não tiveram formação pedagógica em seus cursos superiores, bem como a contribuição para o processo ensino e aprendizagem. Conclui-se que a formação continuada contribuiu para reflexões colaborativas entre os docentes e no seu fazer cotidiano.Palavras-chave: formação continuada de professores, processo ensino e aprendizagem, educação profissional.
Os desafios da gestão democrática diante da diversidade das políticas públicas presentes no cotidiano escolar
Authors: Possebon Camila Moresco , Veleda Nicole Zanon
Published: July 2015

Este trabalho apresenta as reflexões das bolsistas do subprojeto Pedagogia/UFSM/Pibid com o objetivo de propor alternativas de organização escolar que permitam a sistematização das atividades ofertadas no contraturno, para promover a participação efetiva dos alunos. A metodologia adotada é de abordagem qualitativa do tipo pesquisa-ação. Como fonte de dados utilizou-se o controle de frequência e as justificativas das faltas dos alunos. Como referencial teórico foram utilizados estudos de Libâneo (2008) e Freire (1983; 2000) acerca da gestão democrática no contexto escolar. Portanto, conclui-se que traçar estratégias de organização de atividades no turno inverso, atentando para a sua intencionalidade é uma das alternativas de promover a participação efetiva dos alunos nessas atividades. Palavras-chave: gestão democrática, sala multidisciplinar, atividades extracurriculares.
O sistema nacional de educação narrado no documento base das conferências nacionais de educação/Conae e a gestão da escola contemporânea
Authors: Castanho Ana Paula da Silva Pozzobon
Published: July 2015

Esta pesquisa analisa quais orientações, para a gestão democrática, inclusão e diversidade, nos oferece o documento base da Conferência Nacional de Educação/Conae na melhoria da gestão da escola pública contemporânea. Também busca analisar como estes princípios orientadores aparecem no projeto pedagógico da Escola Municipal de Lagoa Vermelha - RS. Apresenta-se, aqui, particularidades acerca da gestão educacional democrática brasileira na atualidade em uma escola contemporânea apoiando-se no referencial teórico para apontar as tendências apresentadas pela educação que estão em vigor no país, bem como, suas relações com os princípios orientadores da presente pesquisa. Para tanto, a metodologia utilizada baseia-se na abordagem qualitativa de caráter documental, desenvolvida a partir da busca de informações em documentos que não receberam qualquer tratamento científico.Palavras-chave: gestão democrática, inclusão, diversidade, políticas públicas.
Contribuições da gestão escolar para a qualidade da educação
Authors: Gelatti Leticia Degrandi , Marquezan Lorena Inês Peterini
Published: July 2015

Este trabalho é fruto da pesquisa em uma escola municipal de Santa Maria, RS, sobre os resultados desta no Ideb/2011. O objetivo da pesquisa foi investigar que ações são desenvolvidas pela gestão da escola para facilitar o processo de aprendizagem dos alunos e contribuir para esse sucesso. A metodologia adotou a abordagem quanti-qualitativa, utilizando-se de estudo de caso, entrevista semiestruturada com a equipe diretiva da escola, observação, pesquisa no projeto político-pedagógico da escola e dados quantitativos sobre o Ideb. Como resultados da pesquisa percebeu-se que, nessa escola a democracia é vivenciada na práxis pedagógica e social, bem como as ações que facilitam o sucesso escolar são planejadas e vivenciadas com a participação de toda a comunidade escolar, características de uma educação de qualidade.Palavras-chave: gestão escolar, avaliação, Ideb, qualidade da educação.
Gestão escolar: um olhar sobre o seu referencial teórico
Authors: Lima Paulo Gomes
Published: July 2015

Análise sobre as tentativas de construção de um referencial teórico da gestão escolar. Por meio das contribuições bibliográficas de Jalali (1995); Barroso (1995); Griffiths (1974) e Lima (2009) percorremos o itinerário histórico da gestão escolar descrevendo três períodos, a saber: a) Primeiro período: a proposição de uma teoria da administração educacional; b) segundo período: a busca de uma administração educacional; c) terceiro período: a contribuição de Greenfield por meio da proposição de um trabalho intersubjetivo no âmbito escolar. Concluímos que, embora a proposta de Greenfield, não conseguisse àquela época uma projeção tão ampla, serviu de embasamento para o que mais tarde seria considerado como um dos pilares da gestão educacional, isto é, o esforço para se conceber posturas e ações profissionais condizentes com a própria humanidade não se negando pela ciência, mas se reafirmando, inclusive por meio dela. O grande desafio da escola na contemporaneidade é comprometer-se com a transformação e ruptura com a estrutura da teoria social que reduz o processo educacional à um instrumento de alienação e expropriação material do homem, reivindicando concretamente mudanças substanciais e qualitativa, vetor de sua ação e orientação teórica, enquanto sujeito histórico. Palavras-chave: gestão escolar, referencial teórico, transformação social.
Ultrasonic Treatment of Algae in a New Jersey Reservoir
Authors: Schneider Orren D. , Weinrich Lauren A. , Brezinski Scott
Published: July 2015

A system of ultrasonic buoys was installed in the Canoe Brook Reservoir 1 in Short Hills, N.J., to assess the impact of the system on controlling algae and cyanobacteria in the reservoir. The four buoys operated for five months in spring/summer 2014. The results of the study indicated that the ultrasonic system was effective for controlling algae when the correct ultrasonic program was used. During the testing period, geosmin and methyl isoborneol concentrations were well controlled. Additionally, the average alum dose used by the plant was reduced by 22% compared with the same period in 2013, with improved dissolved air flotation effluent turbidity and combined filter effluent turbidity and an 83% increase in unit filter run volumes. An economic assessment showed the buoys saved approximately $87,800 in operational costs, with a projected simple payback time of 1.8 years for the system.
Optimization of Coagulation Pretreatment Conditions in a Ceramic Membrane System
Authors: Alansari Amir , Selbes Meric , Karanfil Tanju , Amburgey James
Published: July 2015

The goal of this project was to identify optimal coagulation pretreatment conditions and cleaning protocols in a pilot‐scale ceramic membrane system. A matrix of coagulation conditions (coagulant dose and pH) was investigated using aluminum sulfate and ferric chloride at two source waters (river and lake). Increasing backwash frequency to every 30 min and selecting a 30‐s interval proved to be critical since it reduced the effects of irreversible fouling during operation. After optimizing the clean‐in‐place procedure, the membranes were consistently recovered to 4 to 5 psi after the cleaning process. Results showed that optimal pretreatment conditions with aluminum sulfate reduced membrane total fouling rates by at least 80% relative to the control train. Optimal pretreatment with ferric chloride reduced membrane total fouling rates by 95% relative to the control train; however, the pretreatment conditions in which ferric chloride was effective were narrow compared with aluminum sulfate.
Malignant Melanoma Arising in Red Tattoo Ink
Authors: Joyce Cormac Weekes , Duff Gerald , McKenna Dermot , Regan Padraic James
Published: July 2015

We report the case of a 33-year-old male who presented with a malignant melanoma on his anterior chest wall. The lesion was only found in the red ink pigment of the tattoo, as were several in-transit dermal metastases. Possible explanations include a pre-existing lesion which was seeded with red ink or the possibility of the red ink causing an inflammatory reaction leading to malignant transformation. This is the first reported case of a melanoma developing in the red ink pigment of a multi-colored tattoo.
Potential Use of Transferred Lymph Nodes as Metastasis Detectors after Tumor Excision
Authors: Nicoli Fabio , Ciudad Pedro , Lim Seong Yoon , Lazzeri Davide , D'Ambrosia Christopher , Kiranantawat Kidakorn , Chilgar Ram M , Sapountzis Stamatis , Sacak Bulent , Chen Hung-Chi
Published: July 2015

Due to the fact that it reliably results in positive outcomes, lymph node flap transfer is becoming an increasingly popular surgical procedure for the prevention and treatment of lymphedema. This technique has been shown to stimulate lymphoangiogenesis and restore lymphatic function, as well as decreasing infection rates, minimizing pain, and preventing the recurrence of lymphedema. In this article, we investigate possible additional benefits of lymph node flap transfer, primarily the possibility that sentinel lymph nodes may be used to detect micro-metastasis or in-transit metastasis and may function as an additional lymphatic station after the excision of advanced skin cancer.
The active-zone protein Munc13 controls the use-dependence of presynaptic voltage-gated calcium channels
Authors: Calloway Nathaniel , Gouzer Géraldine , Xue Mingyu , Ryan Timothy A
Published: July 2015

Presynaptic calcium channel function is critical for converting electrical information into chemical communication but the molecules in the active zone that sculpt this function are poorly understood. We show that Munc13, an active-zone protein essential for exocytosis, also controls presynaptic voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) function dictating their behavior during various forms of activity. We demonstrate that in vitro Munc13 interacts with voltage-VGCCs via a pair of basic residues in Munc13's C2B domain. We show that elimination of this interaction by either removal of Munc13 or replacement of Munc13 with a Munc13 C2B mutant alters synaptic VGCC's response to and recovery from high-frequency action potential bursts and alters calcium influx from single action potential stimuli. These studies illustrate a novel form of synaptic modulation and show that Munc13 is poised to profoundly impact information transfer at nerve terminals by controlling both vesicle priming and the trigger for exocytosis.
An open chat with… Johannes Herrmann
Authors: Tsagakis Ioannis , Herrmann Johannes
Published: August 2024

Johannes Herrmann is a Professor of Cell Biology at the University of Kaiserslautern in Germany. His research focus is centred on the biogenesis of mitochondrial proteins. Johannes is a member of the German Academy of Sciences and member of the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) Biochemistry Panel. He has been a member of the FEBS Publication Committee since 2021. In this interview, he explains the source of his scientific interest in mitochondrial biology and details how the work of the FEBS Publication Committee safeguards the future of the FEBS Press journals.