bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction and analysis of Hydrogeological Landscape units using Self-Organising Maps
Authors: Cracknell M. J. , Cowood A. L.
Published: April 2016

The Hydrogeological Landscape (HGL) framework divides geographic space into regions with similar landscape characteristics. HGL regions or units are used to facilitate appropriate management actions tailored to individual HGL units for specific applications such as dryland salinity and climate-change hazard assessment. HGL units are typically constructed by integrating data including geology, regolith, soils, rainfall, vegetation and landscape morphology, and manually defining boundaries in a GIS environment. In this study, we automatically construct spatially contiguous regions from standard HGL data using Self-Organising Maps (SOM), an unsupervised statistical learning algorithm. We compare the resulting SOM-HGL units with manually interpreted HGL units in terms of their spatial distributions and attribute characteristics. Our results show that multiple SOM-HGL units successfully emulate the spatial distributions of individual HGL units. SOM-HGL units are shown to define subregions of larger HGL units, indicating subtle variations in attribute characteristics and representing landscape complexities not mapped during manual interpretation. We also show that SOM-HGL units with similar attributes can be selected using Boolean logic. Selected SOM-HGL units form regions that closely conform to multiple HGL units not necessarily connected in geographic space. These SOM-HGL units can be used to establish generalised land management strategies for areas with common physical characteristics. The use of SOM for the construction of HGL units reduces the subjectivity with which these units are defined and will be especially useful over large and/or inaccessible regions, where conducting field-based validation is either logistically or economically impractical. The methodology presented here has the potential to contribute significantly to land-management decision-support systems based on the HGL framework.
The language use, attitudes, and motivation of Chinese students prior to a semester-long sojourn in an English-speaking environment
Authors: Jackson Jane
Published: April 2016

Second language acquisition scholars have long recognized that language attitudes and motivation can play a critical role in second language (L2) learning, leading to variations in willingness to communicate (WTC) and initiate interactions in that language. This paper reports on the pre-sojourn phase of a mixed-method study that investigated the language and intercultural learning of 149 Chinese students from a Hong Kong university who participated in a semester-long exchange program in an English-speaking country. By way of a questionnaire survey, document analysis (e.g., study plans), and in-depth interviews, the first phase examined their pre-sojourn language use, attitudes, and motivation, as well as their aims, expectations, and concerns about their impending study and residence in the host environment. Studies of this nature are essential to provide direction for pre-sojourn orientations and other interventions that can support and optimize the language enhancement and intercultural engagement of outgoing L2 international exchange students.
Evaluation of Back‐Calculated Size and Timing Estimates for Juvenile Chinook Salmon Using Otolith Structure and Chemistry
Authors: Claiborne Andrew M. , Campbell Lance A.
Published: April 2016

Otolith chemistry is often used to reconstruct origin, life history, and migratory pathways in anadromous fishes. Although the accuracy and precision of back‐calculated size at a particular life history transition (such as when anadromous fish move from fresh to saline water) is often not estimated. We evaluated back‐calculated size and timing estimates based on otolith ratios of strontium to calcium (Sr:Ca) in Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha marked with elevated concentrations of strontium chloride (SrCl). We used a combination of laser‐ablation, inductively coupled, plasma mass spectrometry (LA‐ICPMS), back‐calculation models, and daily increments to evaluate the accuracy of such estimates. Overall, back‐calculated size at marking was underestimated by <2 mm using direct and proportional back‐calculations of FL based on otolith Sr:Ca. Proportional back‐calculations of fish length were underestimated on average by 2.60 mm (SD, 2.09) when somatic growth (%/d) was less than otolith growth (%/d) and overestimated by an average of 4.89 mm (SD, 3.19) when somatic growth was greater than otolith growth. However, when somatic and otolith growth were equal, proportional back‐calculations were more accurate than direct estimates. Overall, the number of otolith daily increments since Sr:Ca inflection underestimated the actual days since marking by a median of 1 d (SD, 0.57) and was similar for individuals sampled 8–79 d after marking. Results from this study suggest that life history parameters for Chinook Salmon estimated using LA‐ICPMS, back‐calculation models, and daily increments are robust estimates suitable for ecological field studies.

Received September 22, 2015; accepted December 29, 2015 Published online April 18, 2016
Spindle-E cycling between nuage and cytoplasm is controlled by Qin and PIWI proteins
Authors: Andress Arlise , Bei Yanxia , Fonslow Bryan R. , Giri Ritika , Wu Yilong , Yates John R. , Carthew Richard W.
Published: April 2016

Transposable elements (TEs) are silenced in germ cells by a mechanism in which PIWI proteins generate and use PIWI-interacting ribonucleic acid (piRNA) to repress expression of TE genes. piRNA biogenesis occurs by an amplification cycle in microscopic organelles called nuage granules, which are localized to the outer face of the nuclear envelope. One cofactor required for amplification is the helicase Spindle-E (Spn-E). We found that the Spn-E protein physically associates with the Tudor domain protein Qin and the PIWI proteins Aubergine (Aub) and Argonaute3 (Ago3). Spn-E and Qin proteins are mutually dependent for their exit from nuage granules, whereas Spn-E and both Aub and Ago3 are mutually dependent for their entry or retention in nuage. The result is a dynamic cycling of Spn-E and its associated factors in and out of nuage granules. This implies that nuage granules can be considered to be hubs for active, mobile, and transient complexes. We suggest that this is in some way coupled with the execution of the piRNA amplification cycle.
Coarsening Bias: How Coarse Treatment Measurement Upwardly Biases Instrumental Variable Estimates
Authors: Marshall John
Published: April 2016

Political scientists increasingly use instrumental variable (IV) methods, and must often choose between operationalizing their endogenous treatment variable as discrete or continuous. For theoretical and data availability reasons, researchers frequently coarsen treatments with multiple intensities (e.g., treating a continuous treatment as binary). I show how such coarsening can substantially upwardly bias IV estimates by subtly violating the exclusion restriction assumption, and demonstrate that the extent of this bias depends upon the first stage and underlying causal response function. However, standard IV methods using a treatment where multiple intensities are affected by the instrument–even when fine-grained measurement at every intensity is not possible–recover a consistent causal estimate without requiring a stronger exclusion restriction assumption. These analytical insights are illustrated in the context of identifying the long-run effect of high school education on voting Conservative in Great Britain. I demonstrate that coarsening years of schooling into an indicator for completing high school upwardly biases the IV estimate by a factor of three.
Effect of Soft Kernel Texture on the Milling Properties of Soft Durum Wheat
Authors: Murray Jessica C. , Kiszonas Alecia M. , Wilson Jeff , Morris Craig F.
Published: April 2016

Worldwide, nearly 20 times more common wheat (Triticum aestivum) is produced than durum wheat (T. turgidum subsp. durum). Durum wheat is predominately milled into coarse semolina owing to the extreme hardness of the kernels. Semolina, lacking the versatility of traditional flour, is used primarily in the production of pasta. The puroindoline genes, responsible for kernel softness in wheat, have been introduced into durum via homoeologous recombination. The objective of this study was to determine what impact the introgression of the puroindoline genes, and subsequent expression of the soft kernel phenotype, had on the milling properties and flour characteristics of durum wheat. Three grain lots of Soft Svevo and one of Soft Alzada, two soft‐kernel back‐cross derived durum varieties, were milled into flour on the modified Quadrumat Senior laboratory mill at 13, 14, and 16% temper levels. Samples of Svevo (a durum wheat and recurrent parent of Soft Svevo), Xerpha (a soft white winter wheat), and Expresso (a hard red spring wheat) were included as comparisons. Soft Svevo and Soft Alzada exhibited dramatically lower single‐kernel characterization system kernel hardness than the other samples. Soft Svevo and Soft Alzada had high break flour yields, similar to the common wheat samples, especially the soft hexaploid wheat, and markedly greater than the durum samples. Overall, Soft Svevo and Soft Alzada exhibited milling properties and flour quality comparable, if not superior, to those of common wheat.
Long-Term Field Evaluation Reveals Huanglongbing Resistance inCitrusRelatives
Authors: Ramadugu Chandrika , Keremane Manjunath L. , Halbert Susan E. , Duan Yong Ping , Roose Mikeal L. , Stover Ed , Lee Richard F.
Published: April 2016

Citrus huanglongbing (HLB) is a destructive disease with no known cure. To identify sources of HLB resistance in the subfamily Aurantioideae to which citrus belongs, we conducted a six-year field trial under natural disease challenge conditions in an HLB endemic region. The study included 65 Citrus accessions and 33 accessions belonging to 20 other closely related genera. For each accession, eight seedling trees were evaluated. Based on quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of the pathogen titers and disease symptoms, eight disease-response categories were identified. We report two immune, six resistant, and 14 tolerant accessions. Resistance and tolerance observed in different accessions may be attributed to a multitude of factors, including psyllid colonization ability, absence of pathogen multiplication, transient replication of the bacterium, lack of pathogen establishment in the plant, delayed infection, or recovery from infection. Most citrus cultivars were considered susceptible: 15 citrons, lemons, and limes retained leaves in spite of the disease status. Resistance and high levels of field tolerance were observed in many noncitrus genera. Disease resistance/tolerance was observed in Australian citrus relative genera Eremocitrus and Microcitrus, which are sexually compatible with citrus and may be useful in future breeding trials to impart HLB resistance to cultivated citrus.
Variation in Growth, Colonization of Maize, and Metabolic Parameters of GFP- and DsRed-Labeled Fusarium verticillioides Strains
Authors: Wu Lei , Conner R. L. , Wang Xiaoming , Xu Rongqi , Li Hongjie
Published: April 2016

Autofluorescent proteins are frequently applied as visual markers in the labeling of filamentous fungi. Genes gfp and DsRed were transformed into the genome of Fusarium verticillioides via the Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation method. The selected transformants displayed a bright green or red fluorescence in all the organelles of the growing fungal mycelia and spores (except for the vacuoles) both in cultures and in the maize (Zea mays) roots they colonized. The results of gene-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis and the thermal asymmetrical interlaced (TAIL)-PCR analysis demonstrated that gfp and DsRed were integrated on different chromosomes of the fungus. Reductions in the colony growth on the plates at pH 4.0 and 5.5 was observed for the green fluorescent protein (GFP)-transformant G3 and the DsRed-transformant R4, but transformants G4 and R1 grew as well as the wild-type strain at pH 4.0. The speed of growth of all the transformants was similar to the wild-type strain at pH ≥ 7. The insertion of gfp and DsRed did not alter the production of extracellular enzymes and fumonisin B by F. verticillioides. The transformants expressing GFP and DsRed proteins were able to colonize maize roots. However, the four transformants examined produced fewer CFU in the root samples than the wild-type strain during a sampling period of 7 to 28 days after inoculation.
X-ray diffraction from nonuniformly stretched helical molecules
Authors: Prodanovic Momcilo , Irving Thomas C. , Mijailovich Srboljub M.
Published: April 2016

The fibrous proteins in living cells are exposed to mechanical forces interacting with other subcellular structures. X-ray fiber diffraction is often used to assess deformation and movement of these proteins, but the analysis has been limited to the theory for fibrous molecular systems that exhibit helical symmetry. However, this approach cannot adequately interpret X-ray data from fibrous protein assemblies where the local strain varies along the fiber length owing to interactions of its molecular constituents with their binding partners. To resolve this problem a theoretical formulism has been developed for predicting the diffraction from individual helical molecular structures nonuniformly strained along their lengths. This represents a critical first step towards modeling complex dynamical systems consisting of multiple helical structures using spatially explicit, multi-scale Monte Carlo simulations where predictions are compared with experimental data in a `forward' process to iteratively generate ever more realistic models. Here the effects of nonuniform strains and the helix length on the resulting magnitude and phase of diffraction patterns are quantitatively assessed. Examples of the predicted diffraction patterns of nonuniformly deformed double-stranded DNA and actin filaments in contracting muscle are presented to demonstrate the feasibly of this theoretical approach.
Identification of rogue datasets in serial crystallography
Authors: Assmann Greta , Brehm Wolfgang , Diederichs Kay
Published: April 2016

Advances in beamline optics, detectors and X-ray sources allow new techniques of crystallographic data collection. In serial crystallography, a large number of partial datasets from crystals of small volume are measured. Merging of datasets from different crystals in order to enhance data completeness and accuracy is only valid if the crystals are isomorphous,i.e.sufficiently similar in cell parameters, unit-cell contents and molecular structure. Identification and exclusion of non-isomorphous datasets is therefore indispensable and must be done by means of suitable indicators. To identify rogue datasets, the influence of each dataset on CC1/2[Karplus & Diederichs (2012).Science,336, 1030–1033], the correlation coefficient between pairs of intensities averaged in two randomly assigned subsets of observations, is evaluated. The presented method employs a precise calculation of CC1/2that avoids the random assignment, and instead of using an overall CC1/2, an average over resolution shells is employed to obtain sensible results. The selection procedure was verified by measuring the correlation of observed (merged) intensities and intensities calculated from a model. It is found that inclusion and merging of non-isomorphous datasets may bias the refined model towards those datasets, and measures to reduce this effect are suggested.
Data processing pipeline for serial femtosecond crystallography at SACLA
Authors: Nakane Takanori , Joti Yasumasa , Tono Kensuke , Yabashi Makina , Nango Eriko , Iwata So , Ishitani Ryuichiro , Nureki Osamu
Published: April 2016

A data processing pipeline for serial femtosecond crystallography at SACLA was developed, based onCheetah[Bartyet al.(2014).J. Appl. Cryst.47, 1118–1131] andCrystFEL[Whiteet al.(2016).J. Appl. Cryst.49, 680–689]. The original programs were adapted for data acquisition through the SACLA API, thread and inter-node parallelization, and efficient image handling. The pipeline consists of two stages: The first, online stage can analyse all images in real time, with a latency of less than a few seconds, to provide feedback on hit rate and detector saturation. The second, offline stage converts hit images into HDF5 files and runsCrystFELfor indexing and integration. The size of the filtered compressed output is comparable to that of a synchrotron data set. The pipeline enables real-time feedback and rapid structure solution during beamtime.
Amyloid-β plaque deposition measured using propagation-based X-ray phase contrast CT imaging
Authors: Astolfo Alberto , Lathuilière Aurélien , Laversenne Vanessa , Schneider Bernard , Stampanoni Marco
Published: April 2016

Amyloid beta accumulation into insoluble plaques (Aβp) is known to play a significant role in the pathological process in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The presence of Aβp is also one of the neuropathological hallmarks for the disease. AD final diagnosis is generally acknowledged after the evaluation of Aβp deposition in the brain. Insoluble Aβp accumulation may also concur to cause AD as postulated in the so-calledamyloid hypothesis. Therefore, the visualization, evaluation and quantification of Aβp are nowadays the keys for a better understanding of the disease, which may point to a possible cure for AD in the near future. Synchrotron-based X-ray phase contrast (XPC) has been demonstrated as the only imaging method that can retrieve the Aβp signal with high spatial resolution (up to 10 µm), high sensitivity and three-dimensional information at the same time. Although at the moment XPC is suitable forex vivosamples only, it may develop into an alternative to positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in Aβp imaging. In this contribution the possibility of using synchrotron-based X-ray phase propagation computed tomography to visualize and measure Aβp on mouse brains is presented. A careful setup optimization for this application leads to a significant improvement of spatial resolution (∼1 µm), data acquisition speed (five times faster), X-ray dose (five times lower) and setup complexity, without a substantial loss in sensitivity when compared with the classic implementation of grating-based X-ray interferometry.
Submillisecond X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy from a pixel array detector with fast dual gating and no readout dead-time
Authors: Zhang Qingteng , Dufresne Eric M. , Grybos Pawel , Kmon Piotr , Maj Piotr , Narayanan Suresh , Deptuch Grzegorz W. , Szczygiel Robert , Sandy Alec
Published: April 2016

Small-angle scattering X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy (XPCS) studies were performed using a novel photon-counting pixel array detector with dual counters for each pixel. Each counter can be read out independently from the other to ensure there is no readout dead-time between the neighboring frames. A maximum frame rate of 11.8 kHz was achieved. Results on test samples show good agreement with simple diffusion. The potential of extending the time resolution of XPCS beyond the limit set by the detector frame rate using dual counters is also discussed.
Crystal structure and photoluminescence properties of a new CdIIcoordination polymercatena-poly[bis[4-bromo-2-({[2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)ethyl]imino}methyl)phenolato-κ3N,N′,O]di-μ3-chlorido-di-μ2-chlorido-bis(methanol-κO)tricadmium(II)]
Authors: Yahsi Yasemin , Ozbek Hatice , Aygun Muhittin , Kara Hulya
Published: April 2016

Schiff base–metal complexes have been used widely as catalysts for many organic reactions, such as ring-opening polymerization and oxidation. In view of the importance of CdIIcoordination polymers and in an effort to enlarge the library of such complexes, the title novel polymeric CdIItridentate Schiff base complex, [Cd3(C13H16BrN2O)2Cl4(CH4O)2]n, has been synthesized and characterized by elemental analyses, UV and IR spectroscopies, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The complex crystallizes in the triclinicP\overline{1} space group with two symmetry-independent CdIIatoms, one of which lies on an inversion centre, and analysis of the crystal structure shows that both CdIIatoms are six-coordinated; the environment around one CdIIatom can be described as distorted octahedral, while that around the second CdIIatom is octahedral. The CdIIatoms are linked by chloride ligands to form a one-dimensional coordination polymer. The nonbonding intermolecular Cd...Cd distances are 3.7009 (4) and 4.3563 (5) Å. Furthermore, the photoluminescence properties of the complex have been investigated and it displays a strong red emission in the solid state at room temperature.
Voluntary traceability standards and the role of economic incentives
Authors: Stranieri Stefanella , Cavaliere Alessia , Banterle Alessandro
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The proliferation of traceability standards shed light on the understanding of the mechanisms leading agri-food firms to choose among different kind of rules and systems for their implementation. The present paper investigates the role of firms economic incentives on the adoption of different traceability systems. In specific, the analysis aims at segmenting food firms on the basis of economic incentives for the adoption of voluntary traceability and the levels of the system complexity implemented.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey based on an ad hoc questionnaire was conducted in 2014 on a sample of firms certified ISO 22005/2008. Cluster analysis was run for the analysis and one-way ANOVA was used to confirm differences among clusters.

Findings

The analysis presents three different clusters in terms of economic incentives for voluntary traceability and the level of systems complexity implemented. All the clusters reveal that supply chain incentives play a key role. Moreover, ‘fine traceability’ clusters firms with high level of traceability. They consider food safety as an important incentive to adopt a voluntary standard. ‘Medium traceability’ groups firms with an average level of traceability system complexity. The interviewed consider the firm reputation as strategic driver for voluntary standard implementation. The cluster ‘coarse traceability’ groups firms which introduced traceability for quality differentiation of products on the market. These firms implemented a low level of traceability system complexity.

Research limitations/implications

The paper presents some limitations due to the sample dimension. Future research is oriented to test such results on an extended sample and to analyse the relationships between the traceability system implemented and the different kind of economic incentives for traceability standards.

Originality/value

The present paper offers two main contributions. From a conceptual point of view it tries to deepen existing knowledge on the mechanisms regulating the existence of different traceability standards. From a managerial point of view, the analysis contributes in the understanding of firm strategies in relation to the adoption of different traceability systems. Such results could address firm management on the allocation of financial resources for the adoption of different traceability systems.
Towards a grounded view of collaboration in Indian agri-food supply chains: a qualitative investigation
Authors: Aggarwal Shikha , Srivastava Manoj Kumar
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand the process and role of supply chain collaboration in Indian agri-food industry and highlight the perceptions of buyers and suppliers towards each other. The paper seeks to find out how can collaboration in agri-food supply chain lead to low wastage and better efficiency. Also, the paper attempts to capture the nuances of collaborative practices and perceptions of buyers and suppliers towards collaboration.

Design/methodology/approach

Case study methodology in a top Indian food-processing firm was conducted to explore the application and benefits of collaboration in supply chains. In-depth interviews with upstream supply chain members were conducted to understand the process of supply chain collaboration. Grounded Theory Methodology was used to analyze the transcripts.

Findings

Firstly, through content analysis of interview transcripts a comprehensive framework and a generic model was derived to understand the process of supply chain collaboration. Supplier selection, Joint Planning and Information sharing were found to be main antecedents while profits; waste reduction and supply chain efficiency were major outcomes of collaboration. Secondly, it was found that the suppliers are usually more skeptical of the buyers and don’t trust them easily. While, for buyers, it is very important to have good relations with suppliers and should make provide incentives to suppliers for collaboration.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to elaborate the process and outcomes of collaborative activities along an Indian agri-food supply chain through in-depth qualitative study. In developing countries, agriculture industry is the backbone of economy. Therefore, the insights developed in this study may be useful for managers in agribusiness to dwell into such supply chain practices that would increase profit and efficiency, and decrease wastage.
Presence of enterobius vermicularis infections and food hygiene knowledge levels among catering industry personnel
Authors: Uçar Asli , Arısoy Munevver , Çakıroğlu Funda Pınar , Candar Sabri
Published: April 2016

Purpose

This study was aimed to determine the presence of Enterobius vermicularis in workers in hospital kitchens in Ankara, Turkey and the levels of their food hygiene knowledge

Design/methodology/approach

The study included 270 employees of six catering companies that cater to hospitals in Ankara who agreed to participate in the study. Two-part questionnaires were used. The first part solicited demographic information, and the second part’s questions determined the workers’ personal hygiene knowledge. Samples taken from the participants to determine the presence of Enterobius vermicularis were collected using the cellophane application method.

Findings

The parasite was found in 78.1% of the personnel. The average hygiene knowledge scores were 58.94+18.1 on a 100-point scale. The changes introduced by the new "Food Hygiene Regulation" should be implemented without abolishing the food handler examination.

Originality/value

Food safety is an important issue that can affect lots of people. Food handlers are an important part for contamination of food. Because of this reason their hygiene knowledge and personal hygiene are very important. Because of high rate of Enterobius vermicularis the results show that they are not careful about their personal hygiene rules. So they can contaminate to food and can cause food-borne illnesses. The paper highlights the importance of education that affects food safety practices in food industry
Implementation of information literacy programmes in public libraries
Authors: Kingori George , Njiraine Dorothy , Maina Stephen
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the implementation of information literacy programmes in the public libraries in Kenya as demonstrated through a case study of the major public library in the country – Kenya National Library Service (KNLS).

Design/methodology/approach

The use of a case study research design made it possible to establish in-depth personal views, opinions and attitudes of the various respondents through face-to-face interviews and questionnaires. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches were used to collect data from the respondents. Purposive and random sampling techniques were used, and data were analyzed.

Findings

Major findings of this study indicated that the majority of users at the KNLS relied heavily on the print information materials, while some users, especially researchers, utilized the Internet for their academic work or research. The findings indicated that information literacy should be embedded in the information literacy programmes in all public libraries.

Research limitations/implications

The study was confined to the KNLS. A much wider scope could be untenable, necessitating such limitation.

Practical implications

As KNLS is the national library charged with the responsibility of providing public library services, it is a major player in terms of policies and guidelines. The study will encourage users in public libraries to appreciate the importance of information resources and also sensitize public library administrators to support information literacy programmes.

Social implications

The study will enable the educational administrators to develop and plan relevant instructional models related to information literacy, critical thinking and independent learning. The challenges and solutions experienced at the KNLS can be applied in other public libraries in Kenya.

Originality/value

The study identified the various gaps and challenges that exists in implementation of information literacy programmes in public libraries. Major recommendations of this study are: users should be provided with training on use of information resources; library staff should be provided with methodology skills to make them effective trainers; and public libraries should partner with other stakeholders to provide information literacy programmes. In addition, adequate funding for physical, material and human resources should be provided to facilitate the implementation of information literacy programmes in the public libraries in Kenya.
Embedded librarianship: questions and answers from librarians in the trenches
Authors: Kvenild Cassandra , Tumbleson Beth E. , Burke John J. , Calkins Kaijsa
Published: April 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to share the current state of embedded librarianship in learning management systems as reported by academic librarians. The paper highlights the best practices, as well as continuing questions, in the field of embedded librarianship.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected participant feedback in two active, participatory panel discussions at national conferences. The open forums were centered on three guiding themes of embedded librarianship: building connections with faculty and students; utilizing technology tools; and providing information literacy and assessment. Participants answered directed questions, and their responses were recorded and analyzed for this paper.

Findings

Librarians report an increasing demand for library services in learning management systems. Collaboration and partnerships across campus are required for successful embedded librarian projects. Technology tools continue to evolve and change, and most librarians can anticipate using multiple learning management systems over time. There is an ongoing need for professional development in online library instruction and assessment.

Originality/value

This paper provides a snapshot of the current state of embedded librarianship in learning management systems. It offers insights about what academic librarians value, what they have learned and what concerns they still have about library instruction in online environments.
Characterization of Printing Inks Using DART‐Q‐TOF‐MS and Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) FTIR
Authors: Williamson Rhett , Raeva Anna , Almirall Jose R.
Published: April 2016

The rise in improved and widely accessible printing technology has resulted in an interest to develop rapid and minimally destructive chemical analytical techniques that can characterize printing inks for forensic document analysis. Chemical characterization of printing inks allows for both discrimination of inks originating from different sources and the association of inks originating from the same source. Direct analysis in real‐time mass spectrometry (DART‐MS) and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR) were used in tandem to analyze four different classes of printing inks: inkjets, toners, offset, and intaglio. A total of 319 samples or ~ 80 samples from each class were analyzed directly on a paper substrate using the two methods. DART‐MS was found to characterize the semi‐volatile polymeric vehicle components, while ATR‐FTIR provided chemical information associated with the bulk components of these inks. Complimentary data results in improved discrimination when both techniques are used in succession resulting in >96% discrimination for all toners, 95% for all inkjets, >92% for all offset, and >54% for all intaglio inks.
Identity Preservation in International Feed Supply Chains
Authors: Varacca Alessandro , Soregaroli Claudio
Published: April 2016

With the progressive internationalisation of food and feed supply chains, Identity Preservation (IP) has become an important feature for traded agricultural products to ensure that the right product reaches the right customer. In this article, we focus on IP based on voluntary technical schemes for non‐Genetically Modified (non‐GM) crops. Three critical steps are identified along the supply chain: product management at the origination/destination port, product transportation and product processing in dedicated plants. Best management practices and coordination mechanisms are implemented by actors along the supply chain to ensure that the product maintains its IP. This translates into a higher degree of dependency among actors. Although ‘formal’ vertical integration through mergers and/or acquisition is rare, voluntary schemes require very tight coordination which is enforced through downstream‐driven technical requirements and process certification standards. Market uncertainty is also observed, as the future availability of non‐GM crops could become scarce, raising input prices for downstream firms. Food processors and retailers that invested in the non‐GM attribute as part of their brand equity are those at higher risk. For these players it is crucial to assure product availability in the long run and to make sure consumers are willing to pay the extra costs of IP goods.
A Profile of non‐GM Crop Growers in the United States
Authors: Kalaitzandonakes Nicholas , Magnier Alexandre
Published: April 2016

In the US, the management of coexistence between GM and non‐GM production systems has been left to market forces. Non‐GM growers in the US assume the responsibility and costs of coexistence and, in turn, are compensated in the form of price premiums paid for non‐GM crops. Using a producer survey we find that non‐GM corn and soybean growers in the US are commercial farmers not much different in size, asset ownership and demographic characteristics to farmers that only grow GM crops. Non‐GM growers seem to self‐select and participate in non‐GM production because they have fields that are sufficiently isolated and enough storage and labour to facilitate segregation. They grow non‐GM crops primarily to improve farm profitability, diversify and manage financial risk. Importantly, coexistence issues are not perceived to be major constraints by most non‐GM growers and even by a significant share of farmers who do not produce non‐GM crops. This is an important insight as farmers' perceptions are shaped within the context of the widespread adoption of GM crops in most US corn and soybean production regions. Furthermore, these views do not seem to suggest the presence of market failure in ensuring the coexistence of GM and non‐GM corn and soybean production in the US.
Quantification of population sizes of large herbivores and their long‐term functional role in ecosystems using dung fungal spores
Authors: Baker Ambroise G. , Cornelissen Perry , Bhagwat Shonil A. , Vera Fransciscus W. M. , Willis Katherine J.
Published: April 2016

The relationship between large herbivore numbers and landscape cover over time is poorly understood. There are two schools of thought: one views large herbivores as relatively passive elements upon the landscape and the other as ecosystem engineers driving vegetation succession. The latter relationship has been used as an argument to support reintroductions of large herbivores onto many landscapes in order to increase vegetation heterogeneity and biodiversity through local‐scale disturbance regimes. Most of the research examining the relationship between large herbivores and their impact on landscapes has used extant studies. An alternative approach is to estimate the impact of variations in herbivore populations through time using fossil dung fungal spores and pollen in sedimentary sequences. However, to date, there has been little quantification of fossil dung fungal spore records and their relationship to herbivore numbers, leaving this method open to varied interpretations.

In this study, we developed further the dung fungal spore method and determined the relationship between spore abundance in sediments (number cm−2 year−1) and herbivore biomass densities (kg ha−1). To establish this relationship, we used the following: (i) the abundance of Sporormiella spp., Sordaria spp. and Podospora spp. spores in modern sediments from ponds and (ii) weekly counts of contemporary wildlife over a period of 5 years from the rewilded site, Oostvaardersplassen, in the Netherlands.

Results from this study demonstrate that there is a highly significant relationship between spore abundance and local biomass densities of herbivores that can be used in the calibration of fossil records. Mammal biomass density (comprising Konik horses, Heck cattle and red deer) predicts in a highly significant way the abundance of all dung fungal spores amalgamated together. This relationship is apparent at a very local scale (<10 m), when the characteristics of the sampled ponds are taken into account (surface area of pond, length of shoreline). In addition, we identify that dung fungal spores are principally transported into ponds by surface run‐off from the shores.

These results indicate that this method provides a robust quantitative measure of herbivore population size over time.
A Pilot Study of the Safety and Initial Efficacy of Ivermectin for the Treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Roche Daniel J. O. , Yardley Megan M. , Lunny Katy F. , Louie Stan G. , Davies Daryl L. , Miotto Karen , Ray Lara A.
Published: April 2016

Background

Ivermectin (IVM) is an antiparasitic agent that has been shown to reduce alcohol intake in mice, suggesting IVM as a potential treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD). However, the safety profile of IVM administered in combination with an intoxicating dose of alcohol has not been characterized in humans.

Methods

This pilot project sought to provide the first clinical evidence that IVM could be repositioned as an AUD pharmacotherapy by examining (i) the safety of combining IVM (30 mg oral , once a day [QD]) with an intoxicating dose of intravenous alcohol (0.08 g/dl) and (ii) the effects of IVM on alcohol cue‐induced craving and subjective response to alcohol. Eleven individuals with AUD participated in a randomized, placebo‐controlled, crossover study in which they received the study medication, participated in a cue exposure paradigm followed by intravenous alcohol administration, and remained in an inpatient unit overnight for observation.

Results

IVM treatment, versus placebo, did not increase the number or severity of adverse effects during alcohol administration or throughout the visit. However, IVM did not reduce cue‐induced craving nor did it significantly affect subjective response to alcohol.

Conclusions

These results suggest that IVM (30 mg oral, QD) is safe in combination with an intoxicating dose of alcohol, but do not provide evidence that this dose of IVM is effective in reducing alcohol craving or its reinforcing effects. Given the preclinical data suggesting IVM is effective in reducing alcohol consumption in mice, additional studies testing larger samples and alternate dosing regimens are warranted to further characterize the potential efficacy of IVM as an AUD treatment.
Effects of ADH1B and ALDH2 Genetic Polymorphisms on Alcohol Elimination Rates and Salivary Acetaldehyde Levels in Intoxicated Japanese Alcoholic Men
Authors: Yokoyama Akira , Kamada Yoko , Imazeki Hiromi , Hayashi Emiko , Murata Shigenori , Kinoshita Kenji , Yokoyama Tetsuji , Kitagawa Yoshinori
Published: April 2016

Background

The genetic polymorphisms of alcohol dehydrogenase‐1B (ADH1B) and aldehyde dehydrogenase‐2 (ALDH2) are associated with the risk of alcoholism and upper aerodigestive tract cancer in alcoholics. Salivary ethanol (sEtOH) levels are well correlated with blood EtOH levels.

Methods

To study the effects of ADH1B and ALDH2 genotypes on the alcohol elimination rate (AER) and salivary acetaldehyde (sAcH) levels, we measured the sEtOH and sAcH levels twice at a 1‐hour intervals in 99 intoxicated Japanese alcoholic men who had stopped drinking for 4 or more hours.

Results

The initial sEtOH levels did not differ between the ADH1B*2 group (n = 50) and the ADH1B*1/*1 group (n = 49) (median: 0.617 vs. 0.762 mg/ml). The salivary AER (sAER) increased as the sEtOH levels increased (p < 0.0001). After stratification according to the sEtOH levels (<0.4, 0.4 to 0.99, and ≥1.00 mg/ml), the median sAER of the ADH1B*2 group was 0.075, 0.188, and 0.228 mg/ml/h, respectively, and that of the ADH1B*1/*1 group was 0.037, 0.115, and 0.233 mg/ml/h, respectively. The sAER of the ADH1B*2 group was faster than that of the ADH1B*1/*1 group overall (p = 0.001) and when the sEtOH category was 0.4 to 0.99 mg/ml (p < 0.0001). The ADH1B genotype and the sEtOH levels had an interaction effect on the sAER (p = 0.036). A multiple linear regression analysis with a stepwise procedure selected the ADH1B*2 allele (p = 0.004) and the sEtOH levels (p < 0.0001) as positive predictors of sAER. The sAER did not differ according to the ALDH2 genotype. The sAcH levels were higher than the blood AcH levels reported in alcoholics, probably because of AcH production by oral microorganisms. The sAcH of the ALDH2*1/*2 group (n = 18) was higher than that of the ALDH2*1/*1 group (n = 81) overall (p = 0.0008) and when the corresponding sEtOH category was ≥1.00 mg/ml (median: 3.195 vs. 1.776 μg/ml, p = 0.009). A multiple linear regression analysis selected the ALDH2*1/*2 and the sEtOH levels as positive predictors of the sAcH levels (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

The enhanced AER in ADH1B*2 carriers and the increased sAcH levels in ALDH2*1/*2 carriers among intoxicated alcoholics provide possible mechanisms explaining how each genetic polymorphism affects the risk of alcoholism and upper aerodigestive tract cancer.
Patterns of type 2 diabetes monitoring in rural towns: How does frequency of HbA1c and lipid testing compare with existing guidelines?
Authors: Paul Christine L. , Piterman Leon , Shaw Jonathan E. , Kirby Catherine , Barker Daniel , Robinson Jennifer , Forshaw Kristy L. , Sikaris Kenneth A. , Bisquera Alessandra , Sanson‐Fisher Robert W.
Published: April 2016

Objective

To indicate levels of monitoring of type 2 diabetes in rural and regional Australia by examining patterns of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and blood lipid testing.

Design and Setting

Retrospective analysis of pathology services data from twenty regional and rural towns in eastern Australia over 24 months.

Participants

Of 13 105 individuals who had either a single HbA1c result ≥7.0% (53 mmol mol−1); or two or more HbA1c tests within the study period.

Main outcome measures

Frequency of testing of HbA1c and blood lipids (cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and triglycerides) were compared with guideline recommendations.

Results

About 58.3% of patients did not have the recommended 6‐monthly HbA1c tests and 30.6% did not have annual lipid testing. For those who did not receive tests at the recommended interval, the mean between‐test interval was 10.5 months (95% CI = 7.5–13.5) rather than 6 months for HbA1c testing; and 15.7 (95% CI = 13.3–18.1) months rather than annually for blood lipids. For those with at least one out‐of‐range test result, 77% of patients failed to receive a follow‐up HbA1c test and 86.5% failed to receive a follow‐up blood lipid test within the recommended 3 months. Patients less than 50 years of age, living in a more remote area and with poor diabetes control were less likely to have testing at the recommended intervals (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Although poor diabetes testing is not limited to rural areas, more intensive diabetes monitoring is likely to be needed for patients living in non‐metropolitan areas, particularly for some subgroups.
Secondary fracture prevention needs to happen in the country too: The first two and a half years of the Coffs Fracture Prevention Clinic
Authors: Fraser Sandy , Wong Peter K. K.
Published: April 2016

Objective

To report the initial two and a half years' experience of one of the first Fracture Liaison Services in regional Australia.

Design

Case study.

Setting

Hospital Clinic, mid‐north coast NSW.

Participants

Patients aged ≥50 years with a fragility fracture identified at Coffs Harbour Health Campus July 2012 to December 2014.

Intervention

Patients were identified by a Fracture Liaison Coordinator (FLC) and seen in Fracture Prevention Clinic (FPC) by a rheumatologist. Patients discharged from FPC were contacted via telephone on one occasion 12 months later.

Main outcome measures

Number/characteristics of patients seen in or declining an appointment in FPC, type of bone protective therapy commenced and patient adherence with this.

Results

An appointment in FPC was offered to 222 patients but declined by 56 patients. One hundred and sixty‐six patients were seen in FPC, of whom 40% (n = 66/166) had a prevalent fragility fracture but only 12% (n = 8/66) were on bone protective therapy. Eighty‐two percent (n = 136/166) commenced bone protective therapy. Of the 55 patients discharged from FPC with long enough follow‐up to allow contact at 12 months, 60% (n = 33/55) required bone health advice during the follow‐up telephone call at 12 months. Of the 31 patients who commenced bone protective therapy, 65% (n = 20/31) said they were adherent with medication.

Conclusions

A FLC, committed clinician and supportive hospital environment were all that was required for an effective Fracture Liaison Service in a regional hospital. The number of patients who declined an appointment suggested the implications of a fragility fracture were often not appreciated.