bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidendrum tolimense Lindl. (Orchidaceae), una especie sudamericana encontrada en Costa Rica
Authors: Hágsater Eric
Published: February 2016

U n a e s p e c i e p r e v i a m e n t e c o n o c i d a d e s u r A m é r i c a h a s i d o e n c o n t r a d a e n l a C o r d i l l e r a d e Talamanca, Costa Rica. Epidendrum tolimense pertenece al Grupo Elleanthoides y es la primera especie de este grupo que se encuentra fuera de los Andes. 
Sinopsis del género Gibsoniothamnus (Schlegeliaceae) en Costa Rica, con una nueva especie
Authors: Morales J. Francisco
Published: February 2016

Gibsoniothamnus ficticius (Schlegeliaceae), una nueva especie de Costa Rica, es descrita e ilustrada y se comentan sus relaciones con especies afines. Se incluye una clave y una breve sinopsis de las especies del género en Costa Rica. 
Validation of four Malaxis species (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Dressler Robert L.
Published: February 2016

Se validan los nombres de cuatro especies de Malaxis descritas como nuevas sin diagnosis latina en Selbyana 24(2), 2003. 
Degradation and mobility of petroleum hydrocarbons in oil sand waste
Authors: Scale Kyle O , Korbas Tomasz S , Fleming Ian R
Published: February 2016

In Northern Alberta, Canada, large volumes of low-grade ‘lean’ oil sand (LOS) overburden are translocated during the surface mining of oil sands and remain in future reclaimed landscapes. The objectives addressed in this paper are to (a) characterise the on-site petroleum hydrocarbon (PHC) content of LOS; (b) evaluate the effect of LOS temperature on rates of carbon dioxide (CO2) flux and PHC biodegradation and (c) evaluate the potential for PHC to leach from LOS into groundwater. The results show that LOS is predominantly composed of heavier F3 and F4 PHC fractions, the temperature appears to affect carbon dioxide fluxes and PHC degradation rates and it is unlikely that the presence of LOS in reclamation soils will release significant quantities of PHC into groundwater.
Shear bearing of cross-plate joints between diaphragm wall panels – I: model tests and shear behaviour
Authors: Chen Jin-Jian , Wang Jian-Hua , Qiao Pizhong , Hou Yong-Mao , Gu Qian-Yan
Published: February 2016

This paper, the first part of two companion papers, describes a test programme involving seven specimens and experiments to investigate the effect of three main design parameters of longitudinal steel plates in cross-plate joints on the shear capacity. The load–displacement relationship, cracking of the concrete and strain of the longitudinal steel plate were experimentally measured. It was found that the failure modes of the specimens can be categorised into two types – concrete crushing and steel plate yielding. The failure mode is mainly affected by the relative stiffness of the cross-plate joints, while the ultimate shear load is primarily influenced by the number and area ratio of holes in the longitudinal plates. The paper shows that the available analytical expression for the shear capacity of rib shear connectors cannot be readily applied to cross-plate joints, and therefore further investigations should be conducted to develop a new shear capacity prediction formula for cross-plate joints. This experimental study on the performance of concrete diaphragm walls with cross-plate joints sheds light on the shear failure behaviour of diagram walls and provides some benchmark data for numerical analysis and development of empirical design formulae.
A Criminalização da Pobreza nas Ações da Polícia Militar Brasileira
Authors: Ismar Donizete de Freitas Filho  , Rubens Correia Junior
Published: February 2016

Análise e levantamento de dados sobre a violência urbana e policial, estabelecendo a relação entre os abusos e excessos cometidos pela polícia militar brasileira em suas ações. Neste contexto, diversos estudos demonstram certa seletividade e um padrão seguido por estas instituições, assim como um racismo arraigado, haja vista, que suas vítimas são quase que em sua totalidade negros e pobres. Assim, tais instituições se tornaram um eficaz instrumento executor da nova política estatal de “criminalização da pobreza”. Através da denominada “violência legitimada” tais instituições buscam tornar legais suas ações, apoiadas por uma sociedade que ao longo dos tempos demonstra demasiado anseio punitivo. Paralelamente a estes movimentos sociais associam-se ideais como “direitos humanos para humanos direitos” e “bandido bom, é bandido morto”. Por fim, analisar-se-á a teoria do direito penal do inimigo diante o “estado de guerra urbano” vivenciado no estado democrático de direito brasileiro.
Dental considerations in a patient with haemophilia
Authors: Khyati Chandra , Triveni Mavinakote Gowda , Gopal Rini , Tarunkumar Ab. , Hanagavadi Suresh , Mehta Dhoom Singh
Published: February 2016

Haemophilia is a rare blood clotting disorder, characteristic features of which include extemporaneous and post-traumatic subcutaneous bleeding and mucosal haemorrhages. Genetic deficiency of coagulation factor VIII results in haemophilia A, while deficiency of factor IX leads to haemophilia B. The most common treatment for haemophilia A is administration of recombinant or plasma-derived factor VIII concentrate, to raise the levels of the deficient factor VIII. Tranexamic acid is also used as an anti-fibrinolytic agent that inhibits plasminogen activators present in oral secretion and stabilises the clot. Administration of factor IX is required in haemophilia B. Treatment leads to increased longevity and quality of life for patients. Dental conditions and treatments are more complicated and uncertain in patients with haemophilia due to bleeding risk, thus restorative dental care is of paramount importance for those with haemophilia. The fear of bleeding during treatment procedures is the primary cause of lack of proper dental care for people with haemophilia in countries with limited health care resources. This case report highlights the significance of clinical examination and investigation, and the importance of proper interaction between a haematologist and the periodontist for correct multidisciplinary and uneventful management of periodontal health of a patient with haemophilia.
Reseña del libro: Indios imaginarios e indios reales en los relatos de la conquista de México, Rozat Dupeyron, Guy
Authors: Romano Ruggiero
Published: February 2016

.
Survival of tunneled hemodialysis catheters after percutaneous placement.
Authors: Weber Ewa , Liberek Tomasz , Wołyniec Wojciech , Gruszecki Marcin , Rutkowski Bolesław
Published: February 2016

Tunneled catheters are becoming increasingly used as a permanent dialysis access. Easy way of insertion and good long-term patency make them competitive to fistulas in some groups of patients.
Late complications and survival of 180 tunneled catheters inserted from June 2010 to December 2013 in 171 unselected hemodialysis patients were analyzed.
The cumulative time of observation was 2103.5 patient-months and median observation was 9 months (range of 0.5-45 months). Only 19 out of 180 catheters were removed due to complications (12 for infections, 4 due to malfunction and 3 because of mechanical damage). Majority of catheters were removed electively: 27 after maturation of arterio-venous fistula (AVF), 4 after kidney transplant, 5 after transfer to peritoneal dialysis and 3 due to the recovery of renal function. At the end of the observation, 58 catheters were still in use and 64 patients had died with functioning catheter. When censored for elective catheter removal and patient death, 88.2% of catheters survived for 1 year. Catheter survival was significantly better in older patients (over 65 years, in comparison to patients < 65 years, p = 0.046).
Nearly 90% of all inserted catheters gave reliable dialysis access as long as it was needed. Among them, over 30% of the inserted catheters were in use at the end of the observation period, and over 30% of patients had died with a functioning catheter. The results of tunneled catheters survival are encouraging and they should be taken into consideration during decision-making on vascular access, especially in the older patients.
Employing Evidence: Does it Have a Job in Vocational Libraries?
Authors: Martina Cecily , Jones Bradley
Published: February 2016

Objective - Evidence based librarianship (EBL) springs from medical and academic origins. As librarians are tertiary educated (only occasionally with supplementary qualifications covering research and statistics) EBL has had an academic focus. The EBL literature has significant content from school and university perspectives, but has had little, if any, vocational content. This paper suggests a possible Evidence Based Librarianship context for vocational libraries.

Methods - A multidisciplinary scan of evidence based literature was undertaken, covering medicine and allied health, librarianship, law, science and education. National and international vocational education developments were examined. The concept and use of evidence in vocational libraries was considered.

Results - Library practice can generally benefit from generic empirical science methodologies used elsewhere. Different areas, however, may have different concepts of what constitutes evidence and appropriate methodologies. Libraries also need to reflect the evidence used in their host organisations. The Australian vocational librarian has been functioning in an evidence based educational sector: national, transportable, prescriptive, competency based and outcome driven Training Packages. These require a qualitatively different concept of evidence compared to other educational sectors as they reflect pragmatic, economic, employability outcomes.

Conclusions - Vocational and other librarians have been doing research but need to be more systematic about design and analysis. Librarians need to develop ‘evidence literacy’ as one of their professional evaluation skills. Libraries will need to utilise evidence relevant to their host organisations to establish and maintain credibility, and in the vocational sector this is set in a competency based framework. Competency based measures are becoming increasingly relevant in school and university (including medical) education.
Evidence based library and information practice: the time is now
Authors: Marshall Joanne G.
Published: February 2016

Evidence based library and information practice: the time is now
The randomised controlled trial in medical research: using bibliometric methods to identify core journals
Authors: Loy John
Published: February 2016

A review of:

Tsay, Migh-yueh, and Yen-hsu Yang. “Bibliometric Analysis of the Literature of Randomized Controlled Trials.” Journal of the Medical Library Association 93.4 (October 2005): 450-58.

Objective – To explore the characteristics and distribution of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in the medical literature. The study aims to identify the growth patterns of the RCT, key subject matter, country and language of publication, and determine a list of core journals which contain a substantial proportion of the RCT literature.

Design – Retrospective analysis of RCTs.

Setting – Medical journal literature.

Subjects – A total of 160,213 articles published between 1965-2001. Detailed analysis of a subset numbering 114,850 articles published from 1990-2001.

Methods – The study seeks to identify all RCTs in MEDLINE from 1965-2001, and examines the growth rate of the RCT. The authors then do a more detailed analysis on a subset of data from 1990-2001, using Access database and Excel spreadsheet software, and PERL programming language. The references were analyzed by five fields within MEDLINE; publication type, source, language, country of publication, and descriptor (subject index).

Main results – An exponential growth rate for the RCT is demonstrated, suggesting that in the medical literature development has not yet matured and that research using this method continues to grow. A growth rate for the RCT of 11.2% per annum is identified.

The most common form of publication is the journal article, making up approximately 98% of the RCT literature. Approximately 75% of the RCTs are multicentre trials indicating that this is the design of choice adopted by researchers.

The United States proves to be the greatest source of RCT literature, with 39.9% of journals and 50.6% of articles originating there. After the USA, the most productive countries are England (15.8% of journals and 21.7% articles) and Germany (6.5% journals and 6.1% articles). As might be expected, English is the predominant language providing 92.9% of the total publications. Of the remaining 7%, German is the most common language accounting for 2.2%.

The top three areas being researched are:

1. Drug therapy for hypertension - 2291 citations

2. Anticancer drug combinations - 2140 citations

3. Drug therapy and asthma - 1397 citations

Bradford’s law of scattering is successfully applied, identifying four zones of journals which each publish approximately 26,000 articles.

Conclusion – The results indicate that bibliometric methods can be applied to the medical literature, and highlight those disciplines in which RCTs more often occur. A core list of 42 journal titles is presented, providing busy practitioners with invaluable guidance as to which journals are most likely to publish the greater number of RCTs.
Persuasive Evidence: Improving Customer Service through Evidence Based Librarianship
Authors: Abbott Wendy Anne
Published: February 2016

Objective - To demonstrate how evidence based practice has contributed to informing decisions and resolving issues of concern in service delivery at Bond University Library.

Methods - The paper critically analyses three evidence based research projects conducted at Bond University Library. Each project combined a range of research methods including surveys, literature reviews and the analysis of internal performance data to find solutions to problems in Library service delivery. The first research project investigated library opening hours and the feasibility of twenty-four hour opening. Another project researched questions about the management of a collection of feature films on DVD and video. The third project investigated issues surrounding the teaching of EndNote to undergraduate students.

Results - Despite some deficiencies in the methodologies used, each evidence based research project had positive outcomes. One of the highlights and an essential feature of the process at Bond University Library was the involvement of stakeholders. The ability to build consensus and agree action plans with stakeholders was an important outcome of that process.

Conclusion - Drawing on the experience of these research projects, the paper illustrates the benefits of evidence based information practice to stimulate innovation and improve library services. Librarians, like most professionals, need to continue to develop the skills and a culture to effectively carry out evidence based practice.
Undergraduate students do not understand some library jargon typically used in library instruction
Authors: Kloda Lorie Andrea
Published: February 2016

A review of:

Hutcherson, Norman B. “Library Jargon: Student Recognition of Terms and Concepts Commonly Used by Librarians in the Classroom.” College and Research Libraries 65.4 (July 2004): 349-54.

Objective – To determine students’ level of recognition for 28 commonly used terms in library instruction.

Design – Survey, multiple-choice questionnaire.

Setting – Large state university library in the United States (this is assumed from the author’s current affiliation).

Subjects – 300 first- and second-year university students enrolled in a library skills course between September 2000 and June 2003.

Methods – Two 15-question multiple-choice questionnaires were created to verify students’ understanding of 28 terms commonly used in library instruction, or “library jargon”. Each questionnaire included 12 unique terms and, in order to ensure consistency between questionnaire results, three common terms. For each question, a definition was provided and four terms, including the correct one, were offered as possible answers. Four variants of each survey were developed with varied question and answer order. Students who completed a seven-week library skills lab received one of the two questionnaires. Lab instructors explained the objective of the survey and the students completed them in 10 to 15 minutes during class time. Of the 300 students enrolled in the lab between September 2000 and June 2003, 297 returned completed questionnaires. The researcher used Microsoft Excel to calculate descriptive statistics, including the mean, median, and standard deviation for individual questionnaires as well as combined results. No demographic data were collected.

Main results – The mean score for both questionnaires was 62.31% (n=297). That is, on average, students answered 9.35 out of 15 questions correctly, with a standard deviation of +-4.12. Students were able to recognize library-related terms to varying degrees. Terms identified correctly most often included: plagiarism (100%), reference services (94.60%), research (94.00%), copyright (91.58%), and table of contents (90.50%). Terms identified correctly the least often included: Boolean logic (8.10%), bibliography (14.90%), controlled vocabulary (18.10%), truncation (27.70%), and precision (31.80%). For the three terms used in both questionnaires, results were similar.

Conclusion – The results of this study demonstrate that terms used more widely (e.g. plagiarism, copyright) are more often recognized by students compared with terms used less frequently (e.g. Boolean logic, truncation). Also, terms whose meanings are well-understood in everyday language, such as citation and authority, may be misunderstood in the context of library instruction. For this reason, it can be assumed that students may be confused when faced with this unfamiliar terminology. The study makes recommendations for librarians to take measures to prevent misunderstandings during library instruction such as defining terms used and reducing the use of library jargon.
Evidence-Based Marketing for Academic Librarians
Authors: Song Yoo-Seong
Published: February 2016

Objective - In developing marketing strategies for the Business & Economics Library (BEL) at the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign (UIUC), a survey was designed to answer the following questions:

• Should BEL develop marketing strategies differently for East Asian business students?

• What services do graduate business students want to receive from BEL?

• With whom should BEL partner to increase visibility at the College of

Business?

Marketing research techniques were used to gather evidence upon which BEL could construct appropriate marketing strategies.

Methods - A questionnaire was used with graduate business students enrolled at UIUC. The survey consisted of four categories of questions: 1) demographics, 2) assessment of current library services, 3) desired library services, and 4) research behavior. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and hypothesis testing to answer the three research questions.

Results - East Asian business students showed similar assessment of current services as non-East Asian international business students. Survey results also showed that graduate business students had low awareness of current library services. The Business Career Services Office was identified as a co-branding partner for BEL to increase its visibility.

Conclusion - A marketing research approach was used to help BEL make important strategic decisions before launching marketing campaigns to increase visibility to graduate business students at UIUC. As a result of the survey, a deeper understanding of graduate business students’ expectations and assessment of library services was gained. Students’ perceptions became a foundation that helped shape marketing strategies for BEL to increase its visibility at the College of Business. Creating marketing strategies without concrete data and analysis is a risky endeavor that librarians, not just corporate marketers, should avoid.
3rd International EBL Conference - Abstracts of Papers and Poster Sessions
Authors: EBLIP EBLIP
Published: February 2016

3rd International EBL Conference - Abstracts of Papers and Poster Sessions
Editorial: Small steps forward through critical appraisal
Authors: Koufogiannakis Denise
Published: February 2016

Editorial: Small steps forward through critical appraisal
Análise de Eficiência de Conversor Čuk em Baixa Tensão
Authors: Pereira Fernando Reiszel
Published: February 2016

O conversor Čuk é atrativo por apresentar baixa flutuação das correntes de entrada e saída e operar tanto como abaixador ou elevador de tensão. Porém, os componentes usados na construção do conversor Čuk são submetidos a correntes maiores que as encontradas em outras topologias, o que faz com que a eficiência destes conversores não seja satisfatória, principalmente em aplicações de baixa tensão. Este trabalho descreve um conversor Čuk que aplica uma corrente constante a um LED de potência, usando como entrada a faixa de tensão operacional de uma bateria íon-lítio. A escolha criteriosa dos componentes usados no projeto permitiu uma alta eficiência para este tipo de conversor, mesmo quando usado em baixas tensões. Os resultados obtidos mostram que é possível fornecer uma corrente constante de 1 A para um LED de 3,5 W de potência ao longo de toda a faixa útil de tensões geradas por uma bateria de íon-lítio (4,2 V a 3,0 V) com uma eficiência de 90%.
Estratégia de Saturação Dinâmica da Capacidade de Conversores Multifuncionais Conectados à Rede Elétrica
Authors: Bonaldo Jakson P. , Paredes Helmo K. M. , Pomilio José A.
Published: February 2016

Este artigo propõe uma estratégia de controle que permite a utilização plena da capacidade de conversores multifuncionais conectados à rede elétrica. A técnica proposta é baseada na estimação dinâmica de um coeficiente de compensação ( ) para melhoria do fator de potência da rede no ponto de acoplamento da unidade consumidora, incluindo uma fonte de energia com o respectivo conversor e a carga local. Assim, o sinal de referência é proporcional a , que ajusta dinamicamente a intensidade da compensação conforme a capacidade de potência remanescente do conversor. Para demostrar a eficácia da estratégia proposta, resultados experimentais e de simulação são obtidos considerando um cenário real, no qual tanto a carga quanto a geração são intermitentes.
Control Of Utility Interfaces In Low-voltage Microgrids
Authors: Tenti Paolo , Caldognetto Tommaso , Buso Simone , Danilo I. Brandao
Published: February 2016

This paper presents a general control technique for utility interactive inverters in low-voltage microgrids. The Utility Interface (UI) is a three-phase power conversion unit, equipped with energy storage, which governs the interaction between the utility grid and the microgrid. The UI is in charge of several functions: in grid-connected operation, it performs as a voltage-supporting unit and compensates the reactive power, unbalance, and distortion caused by loads, whereas in islanded operation, it performs as a voltage- forming unit and sets the voltage and frequency for the entire microgrid. Moreover, the UI ensures seamless transitions from grid-connected to islanded operation and actively decouples the microgrid and the mains. Finally, the UI can perform as a centralized microgrid controller for distributed energy resources. The UI is therefore a crucial component, which needs to be analyzed carefully to ensure safe and reliable operation for the microgrid. This paper discusses a control approach that provides all required functionalities and ensures proper microgrid operation even in case of non- intentional islanding or severe load transients. The experimental results show the behavior of the system in different scenarios.
Predictive Control Approach For Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Drive
Authors: Bartsch Arthur G. , Negri Gabriel H. , Scalabrin Camila R. , Cavalca Mariana S. M. , Nied Ademir , De Oliveira José
Published: February 2016

– This paper presents a predictive control approach for speed control of a permanent magnet synchronous motor with trapezoidal back-electromotive force drive. The prediction model was numerically identified and considers existent transport delays in the drive. The proposed technique operates with six- step and pulse-width modulations, which are normally used in proportional-integrative control structures. A computational cost analysis was also done. Results show improvements in speed performance, comparing to tested proportional-integral control.
Impact of feeding balanced rations on milk production, methane emission, metabolites and feed conversion efficiency in lactating cows
Authors: Sherasia P. L. , Phondba B. T. , Hossain S. A. , Patel B. P. , Garg M. R.
Published: February 2016

A field study on early lactating crossbred cows (n=35) was conducted to evaluate the effect of feeding balanced rations on milk production, enteric methane emission, metabolites and feed conversion efficiency (FCE). In comparison to requirements, the dietary intake of protein and energy were higher by 25.0 and 12.7% whereas, calcium and phosphorus intake were lower by 30.0 and 27.0%, respectively. Balanced feeding improved daily 4% FCM yield by 0.7 kg/cow (P<0.05) and intestinal flow of microbial nitrogen (N) by 37.0% (P<0.01), whereas, reduced (P<0.01) feeding cost by 17.0% and enteric methane emission (g/d/cow and g/kg milk yield) by 14.6 and 18.1%, respectively. Level of IgG, IgA, IgM and uric acid content increased significantly, whereas BUN level reduced (P<0.01) from 18.2 to 15.0 mg/dl. FCE improved (P<0.01) from 0.8 to 1.0 and efficiency of microbial protein synthesis also improved (P<0.01) by 63.6% owing to feeding of balanced rations indicating better performance of cows. Present study indicates that feeding nutritionally balanced rations improved milk production, feed conversion efficiency and reduced methane emission in lactating cows under field conditions.
Cross-regional analysis on usage of Indigenous Technical Knowledge in dairy farming
Authors: Ponnusamy* K. , Kale Rajiv Baliram , Ravi K.N. , Devi M.C. Arulmozhi , Sharma Parvinder
Published: February 2016

Farmers in India have been using traditional health care practices in dairy farming since time immemorial. Present paper is an attempt to review the Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) practised and documented across five regions in India viz., North, South, East, West and North East regions to understand the prevalence of ITKs and its dynamics of usage across the country. Cross regional analysis of location specificity of different ITKs, similarities and variation in ingredients usage and researchable issues in ITKs would help in further promoting its widespread usage. Large inter-regional variation in the ITK usage warrants a scope to popularize the validated ITKs among the dairy farmers of other regions where these are not being practised. Concerted research efforts are required in treatment of the important diseases like mastitis which causes heavy economical losses to the farmers, whereas the ITKs may be refined in the form of user friendly package for ultimate solution to the diseases.
Comparative evaluation of second generation anticoagulant rodenticides against Mus musculus
Authors: Bhattacharyya B. , Borah R. K.
Published: February 2016

An investigation was carried out at the Animal House cum Rodent Laboratory, Department of Entomology, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat during 2013-14 to evaluate the efficacy of four anticoagulant rodenticides against commensal rodent, Mus musculus. The efficacy of anticoagulant rodenticides viz., brodifacoum, flocoumafen and difenacoum along with bromadiolone were evaluated against Mus musculus under no-choice and choice feeding trial. In both choice and nochoice feeding trials the efficacy of brodifacoum (0.005%) wax block was significantly better than flocoumafen (0.005%) and difenacoum (0.005%) but at par with bromadiolone (0.005%). In no-choice feeding trial, 100 per cent mortality was achieved with brodifacoum and bromadiolone within 4-7 days observation period but significantly lower mortality was recorded in flocoumafen (80%) and difenacoum (60%). The wax block formulation of difenacoum showed poor palatability as more consumption of plain bait was recorded over poison bait against test animals. Under no-choice test, the poison ingested between male and female were not significant in case of all the toxicants. The consumption of poison bait by the test animals of both the sexes under choice test was reduced in comparison to no-choice test because of availability of an alternate plain food along with the poison bait. The post treatment consumption of bait was significantly lower in case of brodifacoum and bromadiolone in comparison to flocoumafen and difenacoum. This shows the effectiveness of these two rodenticides viz. brodifacoum and bromadiolone against rodent species.
Analysis of genetic variability and correlation among traits in exotic germplasm of pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]
Authors: Singh Om Vir , Singh A. K.
Published: February 2016

The 27 accessions of pearl millet of African origin were studied during kharif 2013 and 2014 in a randomized complete block design in the hot arid climate of Rajasthan. The study was conducted to assess the magnitude of presence of genetic variability and associations among characters namely, grain yield per plant (gm.), number of tillers per plant, plant height (cm), panicle length (cm), panicle diameter (cm), number of leaves per plant, days to 50% flowering and test weight(gm.). The result showed that genetic variability was present among the accessions for all studied characters. The estimated PCV (%) and GCV (%) were high for all characters. The broad sense heritability (%) and genetic advance (% of mean) estimates were also high for all studied characters. The number of tillers per plant, panicle length (cm), panicle diameter (cm) and days to 50% flowering had positive and significant genotypic, phenotypic and environmental correlation coefficients with grain yield per plant. The presence of genetic variability, high heritability and genetic advance and association with grain yield of number of tillers per plant, panicle length (cm), panicle diameter (cm) and days to 50% flowering amenable them for selection and enhancement of grain yield.
Nature of genetic diversity for seed yield and its component traits in urdbean [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]
Authors: Kamannavar P. Y. , Revanappa S. B. , Vijaykumar A. G. , Basamma K. , Ganajaxi
Published: February 2016

Genetic diversity was assessed in thirty urdbean cultivars including advance breeding lines by Mahalanobis D2 statistics using seed yield and its component morphological traits. Analysis of genetic diversity revealed considerable amount of diversity among the genotypes and led to their grouping into eight clusters. The cluster-I comprising 14 genotypes was the largest followed by cluster-II and III with 5 and 4 genotypes respectively. The remaining clusters were monogenotypic. Pods per plant (32.5%), seed yield per plant (30%) and plant height (21.5%) were mainly responsible for genetic diversity. Based on inter-cluster distance and mean performance of clusters for different traits, the crosses among genotypes like, DBG-5, DU-1, Manikya, KU-7638, and DBG-3 are expected to produce desirable segregants for yield and other yield related traits.
Incidence of bacterial blight pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. pisi in pea seeds grown in Rajasthan, India
Authors: Verma Ashwani Kumar , Arora Pooja , Agrawal Kailash
Published: February 2016

Seeds of pea (Pisum sativum L.) originated from various districts of Rajasthan, India were collected and tested from 2010 to 2014 for the presence of seed borne bacterial pathogen namely Pseudomonas syringae pv. pisi causing bacterial blight of pea. The pathogen was identified using morphological, cultural, biochemical, pathogenicity and host tests followed by 16S rRNA based molecular characterization. The results showed that these strains belonged to Pseudomonas syringae pv. pisi. The partial 16S rRNA sequences obtained were deposited in the database of Genebank, NCBI (Acc. No. KF251036). The incidence of the pathogen was recorded 3.5 to 91.5% in pea seed samples collected from 25 districts of Rajasthan. The results showed that highest (91.5%) incidence was recorded in Tonk, followed by Jaipur (87%) and Dausa (85.5%) while lowest incidence recorded in pea seed samples from Ajmer (3.5%).
Early Blood Transfusion and Resolution of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Associated with Massive Subgaleal Hemorrhage
Authors: Modanlou Houchang , Hutson Shandee , Merritt Allan Thurman
Published: February 2016

Abstract

A male infant delivered to a primipara woman following vacuum applications. He was vigorous at birth, with small caput and scalp bruising. His head was enlarging; he became pale with respiratory distress. Subgaleal hemorrhage (SGH) was suspected. His hematocrit was noted to be 26.2 percent prior to transfusion of O, Rh-negative blood (40 mL/kg). Moderate disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) was noted at 12 hours of age. Posttransfusion of fresh frozen plasma (FFP), his condition became stable, and DIC gradually resolved. Head magnetic resonance imaging did not show intracranial hemorrhage. Although one episode of seizures was noted, electroencephalogram was normal.

With the application of obstetric vacuum, we recommend that the neonatal health care professionals frequently evaluate the infant’s condition. In light of developing fluctuant subgaleal fluid associated with pallor, anemia, metabolic acidosis, and respiratory distress, immediate blood transfusion is warranted. In the presence of DIC, transfusion of FFP is beneficial.
The Pathogenesis of Implant‐Related Reactive Lesions: A Clinical, Histologic and Polarized Light Microscopy Study
Authors: Halperin‐Sternfeld Michal , Sabo Edmond , Akrish Sharon
Published: February 2016

Background: Peri‐implant soft tissue reactive lesions (I‐RLs) may jeopardize implant success and survival. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, its pathogenesis is unknown. The objective of this study is to conduct a clinicopathologic and polarized light microscopy (PLM) analysis of 14 new I‐RLs and compare them with comparable tooth‐associated cases (T‐RLs) to better understand I‐RL pathogenesis.

Methods: Fifty‐eight new cases of I‐RL and T‐RL were retrieved from the pathology department archives of Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel. Retrospective analysis of histopathologic and clinical features was conducted, documented, and then compared for: 1) I‐RL (n = 14), 2) peri‐implant pyogenic granuloma (I‐PG) (n = 5), 3) peri‐implant peripheral giant cell granuloma (I‐PGCG) (n = 9), 4) T‐RL (n = 44), 5) tooth‐associated pyogenic granuloma (T‐PG) (n = 21), and 6) tooth‐associated peripheral giant cell granuloma (T‐PGCG) (n = 23). Presence of foreign bodies was assessed using PLM.

Results: Foreign bodies were found more commonly in I‐RLs (n = 13/14; 93%) when compared with T‐RLs (n = 18/44; 41%), which was a statistically significant difference (P = 0.01) with an odds ratio of 7.9. Microscopically, I‐PGCG was associated with: 1) lower multinucleated giant cell count (P = 0.04); 2) lower density of mesenchymal cells (P = 0.05); and 3) more diffuse, non‐lobulated stromal morphology (P = 0.001). Clinically, I‐RLs were found in patients who were older, and all cases were located in the posterior region: mandible (n = 12/14; 86%) and maxilla (n = 2/14; 14%).

Conclusions: In cases of implant failure, implantation of foreign bodies may play a role with subsequent development of I‐PG and I‐PGCG‐like lesions. Clinicians should be aware of this risk so they can implement measures to minimize adverse implant outcomes.
Effects of Melatonin on Oxidative Stress Index and Alveolar Bone Loss in Diabetic Rats With Periodontitis
Authors: Kose Oguz , Arabaci Taner , Kara Adem , Yemenoglu Hatice , Kermen Eda , Kizildag Alper , Gedikli Semin , Ozkanlar Seckin
Published: February 2016

Background: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of systemic melatonin treatment on serum oxidative stress index (OSI) and alveolar bone loss (ABL) in rats with diabetes mellitus (DM) and periodontitis.

Methods: Seventy Sprague Dawley rats were divided into control, experimentally induced periodontitis (EP), DM, EP‐DM, EP and melatonin treatment (EP‐MEL), DM and melatonin treatment (DMMEL), and EP‐DM‐MEL groups. DM was induced by alloxan, after which periodontitis was induced by ligature for 4 weeks. After removal of the ligature, the rats in the melatonin groups (EP‐MEL, DM‐MEL, and EP‐DM‐MEL) were treated with a single dose of melatonin (10 mg/body weight) every day for 14 consecutive days. At the end of the study, all of the rats were euthanized, and intracardiac blood samples and mandible tissues were obtained for biochemical and histologic analyses. Serum levels of total oxidant status/total antioxidant status and OSI were measured. In addition, neutrophil and osteoclast densities and myeloperoxidase activities were determined in gingival tissue homogenates, and ABL was evaluated with histometric measurements.

Results: Melatonin treatment significantly reduced fasting plasma glucose levels in the rats with DM. In addition, reduced OSI and ABL levels were detected in the EP‐MEL and DM‐MEL groups; the reductions in the EP‐DM‐MEL group were found to be more prominent. Melatonin also significantly decreased the increased myeloperoxidase activities and osteoclast and neutrophil densities in the EP, DM, and EP‐DM groups.

Conclusion: It is revealed in this experimental study that melatonin significantly inhibited hyperglycemia‐induced oxidative stress and ABL through antiDM and antioxidant effects in rats with DM and periodontitis.
Inventory Valuation Under Cyclical Demand: A Modelling Approach
Authors: Specht James , Kagan Albert , Lau Kin-Nam
Published: February 2016

Traditional EOQ models are limited in use because of the constant demand assumption. Firms rarely face constant demand and, therefore, these firms have restrictive use for the EOQ model. The proposed MIPM model in contrast can project orders and schedules for both variable and constant demand. The MIPM model capitalizes on state of the art programming techniques and current computer software. It permits firms to determine the minimum inventory costs in all product demand situations. In addition, it can be used to improve cash planning and to assist in optimized product contribution to firm profits through sensitivity analysis.
The Scanning Of Task Environments In Hospitals: An Empirical Study
Authors: Subramanian Ram , Kumar Kamalesh , Yauger Charles
Published: February 2016

The objectives of the paper were to identify the natural taxonomy of hospitals based on their task environmental scanning activities, and to test if scanning practices had any relationship with the overall performance of these hospitals. A cluster analysis yielded for groups of hospitals each of which had distinct scanning characteristics. Results showed significantly different performances across these groups. Hospitals with the most advanced scanning function performed better than hospitals that used less advanced methods to scan the task environment.
Bank Stock Returns And Quarterly Earnings: Price Responses To Imminent Earnings Announcements
Authors: Gosnell Thomas F. , Heuson Andrea J. , Lamy Robert E.
Published: February 2016

Numerous studies have documented that most of the stock price reaction to earnings announcements have occurred by the time the earnings information is made public. This study considers stock price reaction during the time period between the end of the accounting calendar when the forthcoming earnings information is ostensibly available to top management and the earnings release date to measure anticipatory price responses to imminent quarterly earnings announcements. Using bank stocks, the results indicate that portfolios composed of banks that eventually announce improved earnings show significant positive abnormal returns soon after the close of the accounting quarter while portfolios composed of banks that eventually publicize poor profit performance exhibit significant negative abnormal returns.
Applied Scale Development: Measurement Of Store Image
Authors: Reardon James , Mikller Chip E. , Coe Barbara
Published: February 2016

The paper discusses the need for the development of measures that can be used in an applied domain. It suggests that applied scales differ from scales used for scientific research in several ways. The paper presents an applied scale developed for use by retail managers to assess store image. Unlike previous research, the priorities used in the development of the scale included the applicability of the scale by store managers.
Earnings Per Share Reporting: A Movement Toward International Harmonization
Authors: Jerris Scott I.
Published: February 2016

Earnings per share (EPS) is one of the most widely quoted financial measures used in assessing firm performance. Due to the use of the price-earnings ratio in financial analysis, some countries have established a standard for the computation of EPS measures. This paper compares, contrasts and illustrates current EPS reporting practices for two countries with actual pronouncements: the United States, and the United Kingdom. These two countries were specifically chosen because they represent how current EPS reporting practices can differ on a number of dimensions. In addition, this paper discusses the exposure draft of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) as compared to that of the International Accounting Standards Committee (IASC), based on a joint project to harmonize the reporting of EPS measures. Final passage of the exposure drafts is expected in mid-1997.
An Empirical Assessment Of The Determinants Of Bank Branch Manager Compensation
Authors: Stites-Doe Susan , Cordeiro James J.
Published: February 2016

A model of branch-management compensation based on human capital and performance measures is tested using data on managers from eighty-two branches of a large, Eastern United States bank. Human capital factors such as managerial rank, gender, years of schooling, experience in the industry, and age are found to explain branch manager pay levels, after controlling for competition, and branch size.
Commercial Use of the Internet: Some Pros and Cons
Authors: Saunders Gary
Published: February 2016

The U.S. Department of Defense originally designed the Internet to increase the productivity of government workers and it has now become an enormous opportunity for businesses to advertise, correspond with clients, order from suppliers, and conduct many other business functions at minimal cost.  The Internet has achieved faster acceptance by Americans than any other previous technologies and businesses are already discovering that the Web is having a profound impact on how they conduct business.  Conservative estimates are for Internet retail sales to reach $7 billion by the year 2000, and some respected analysts predict it to grow to $100 billion over the next five to eight years.  As with any new initiative, there are costs, benefits, and risks associated with the undertaking.  Anyone who wishes to maintain a Web site on the Internet can do so at a modest cost, or in some cases at no cost.  One of the many benefits to be gained from placing a company on the Internet such as gaining access to the World Wide Web (WWW).  The WWW gives anyone who is connected the ability to communicate with distant computers all over the world and provides the benefit of being able to send and receive electronic mail (E-mail).   While there are a number of different risks incurred when a company establishes a Web site and goes on the Internet the biggest concern, by far, is security.  When a company installs a Web server at their site, they open a window into their local network that the entire Internet can peer through.  These substantial risks notwithstanding, the Internet provides an opportunity that business cannot afford to pass up.  The number of companies that have already taken advantage of the Internet and the rapid increase in the number of Internet users has fueled a phenomenal growth in electronic commerce.  The Internet provides an excellent opportunity to increase sales at a lower marginal cost than was possible before.  Companies that pass up this tremendous opportunity will probably  not survive in the 21st century competitive climate.
Another Look At Theoretical And Em-pirical Issues In Event Study Methodology
Authors: McWilliams Thomas P. , McWilliams Victoria B.
Published: February 2016

The goal of this manuscript is to help to improve the integrity of research that uses event study methodology.  We discuss issues related to correctly performing event studies and, in some cases, provide alternatives to a variety of recommendations made by McWilliams and Siegel (1997) regarding the application of event study methodology. While McWilliams and Siegel provide a good starting point for providing guidance in the use of event study methodology, our revised recommendations add additional value beyond McWilliams and Siegel by being more consistent with statistical theory, existing research results, and accepted practice.  These recommendations, along with those found in McWilliams and Siegel, should lead to higher quality research, regardless of the discipline to which event study methodology is applied.
Developing Essential Skills For Success In The Business World: A Look At Forecasting
Authors: Giullian Marc A. , Odom Marcus D. , Totaro Michael W.
Published: February 2016

As the business environment evolves, the skills required for success in business careers are also evolving. A major purpose of the undergraduate business curriculum is to prepare students for their careers in this evolving business environment.  Educators should periodically reassess the skills needed by business graduates and ensure that those skills are included in their undergraduate curricula.  According to leaders in business and industry, one of the most important skills needed in today’s competitive business environment is the ability to use data to make projections and forecasts about the future. Unfortunately, forecasting skills currently receive limited attention in undergraduate business curricula.  This paper addresses the limited attention given to forecasting skills and presents empirical evidence on the effect of providing students with forecasting instruction.  One group of students was instructed on the use of certain quantitative forecasting skills and was asked to provide a forecast using a real world data set.  Their results were compared to a control group that did not receive any instruction in forecasting methods.   The results show that certain forecasting skills can be effectively taught in the university classroom and students can utilize these skills to make projections and forecasts about the future.