bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Social Determinants of Depression in Elderly Korean Immigrants in Canada: Does Acculturation Matter?
Authors: Kim Wooksoo , Chen Ya-Ling
Published: February 2012

Depression in old age significantly decreases the quality of life and may lead to serious consequences, such as suicide. Existing literature indicates that elderly Korean immigrants may experience higher levels of depression than other racial ethnic group elders. The purpose of this exploratory study was to investigate factors that influence depression among older Korean immigrants in Toronto. A total of 148 participants, ages 60 years or older (mean age = 74.01, SD = 8.24), completed face-to-face interviews in Korean language. Hierarchical regression analyses were conducted by adding variables in three steps: 1) demographic variables; 2) acculturation variables (years of immigration and English proficiency); and 3) social determinants (social integration variables, physical health, and financial satisfaction). Results showed that acculturation factors were not associated with depression. Instead, social determinants variables, including lower physical health status and lower financial status, living alone, and lower level of social activity, predicted higher level of depressive symptoms, along with lower education. The final regression model explained about 37% of variance of depression in the sample. These results suggest that social determinants, not acculturation, are important factors explaining the levels of depression in Korean immigrant elders living in a metropolitan city in Canada. Implications for practice are discussed.
Effects of Potassium Oxalate on Knoop Hardness of Etch-and-Rinse Adhesives
Authors: Silva SMA , Malacarne-Zanon J , Carvalho RM , Alves MC , De Goes MF , Anido-Anido A , Carrilho MR
Published: February 2012

The objective of this study was to determine whether the hardness of etch-and-rinse adhesives may be affected by the pretreatment of acid-etched dentin with potassium oxalate desensitizer. Unerupted human third molars were cut into crown segments by removing the occlusal enamel and roots. The pulp chamber of these crown segments was connected to a syringe barrel filled with phosphate-buffered saline so that the moisture of dentin was maintained during the bonding procedures. Three etch-and-rinse adhesives—two two-step systems (Adper Single Bond 2 [SB], One-Step [OS]) and one three-step system (Adper Scotchbond Multi-Purpose [MP])—were applied to acid-etched dentin that had been treated (experimental groups) or not (control groups) with potassium oxalate (BisBlock). The Knoop hardness (KHN) of adhesives was taken at different sites of the outer surface of the adhesive-bonded dentin. The KHN of the three tested adhesives applied to acid-etched dentin treated with potassium oxalate was significantly lower than that exhibited by the respective controls (not treated with oxalate; p<0.05). Regardless of the adhesive, the treatment with potassium oxalate reduced the adhesives' KHN (p<0.05), with the OS system exhibiting the lowest KHN compared with the MP and SB systems.
A Clinical Study of Direct Composite Full-Coverage Crowns: Long-Term Results
Authors: Alonso V , Caserio M
Published: February 2012

Objective

Long-term assessment of the clinical behavior of direct composite full-coverage crowns using transparent strip crowns as a matrix.

Method

A retrospective observational study without controls of 21 restorations was performed: nine teeth with hypoplasia, six conoid teeth, and six with microdontia. The mean patient age was 22.5 ± 8.2 years. The clinical procedure consisted of cleaning the tooth, acid etching and application of adhesive, after which a transparent strip crown was filled with composite and placed on the tooth. The gingival contour was polished using multifluted burs and interproximal spaces polished with polishing strips. Patients were examined after a period of 12.5 (±4.6) years by two observers who recorded the plaque index and evaluated the restorations in accordance with the modified U. S. Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria.

Results

Except for one case, all the scores obtained on the basis of the USPHS criteria were within the acceptable range. There were no cases of secondary caries. The statistically significant variations were anatomical form, marginal adaptation, marginal discolouration, and surface roughness.

Discussion

This technique is simple and noninvasive. It is a viable long-term treatment option for teeth with amelogenesis or microdonts and is especially suitable for patients still undergoing growth.
Sol-gel thin films with anti-reflective and self-cleaning properties
Authors: Çamurlu Hasan , Kesmez Ömer , Burunkaya Esin , Kiraz Nadir , Yeşil Zerin , Asiltürk Meltem , Arpaç Ertuğrul
Published: February 2012

Self-cleaning photocatalytic TiO2 films are beneficial since they reduce the maintenance cost and enhance the efficiency of various optical systems, especially thermal and photovoltaic solar systems. However, the presence of a TiO2 layer on glass reduces the transmission of incident light, which leads to a decrease in efficiency. This drawback can be overcome by applying a layer of anti-reflective coating beneath the TiO2 layer. Generally, the anti-reflective layer is porous silica. The presence of the anti-reflective layer compensates for the loss of light transmittance caused by the photocatalytic TiO2 top layer. This paper reviews some of the previous and the latest fundamental studies in the literature on anti-reflective, self-cleaning and multi-functional films.
Characteristics of sorption of uncomplexed and complexed Pb(II) from aqueous solutions onto peat
Authors: Bulgariu Laura , Bulgariu Dumitru , Macoveanu Matei
Published: February 2012

Batch experiments aimed at the sorption of Pb(II) onto peat were performed from an aqueous solution in both the absence and presence of common complexing agents (acetate or citrate). The influence of the initial pH of the solution, metal ion concentration and contact time on the sorption efficiency of Pb(II) was examined at ambient temperature (18 ± 0.5) °C for each experiment. The results showed that the presence of acetate improved the efficiency of the sorption process, while the presence of citrate in the aqueous solution decreased the efficiency of the Pb(II) sorption onto peat. The equilibrium data fitted well with the Langmuir isotherm model and confirmed the monolayer sorption of uncomplexed and complexed Pb(II) species onto peat. The values of maximum sorption capacities (q max) were 135.13 mg g−1 for Pb(II) complexed with acetate, q > 79.36 mg g−1 for uncomplexed Pb, q > 38.46 mg g−1 for Pb(II) complexed with citrate. The kinetics of Pb(II) sorption onto peat, in both the absence and presence of complexing agents, indicated a pseudosecond order mechanism. Analysis of IR spectra showed that carboxylic and hydroxyl groups had an important role in the binding process of Pb(II) species onto peat.
Postimplantation Development of Cloned Rabbit Embryos Reconstructed with Foetal and Adult Skin-Derived Fibroblast Cell Nuclei
Authors: Kosenyuk Yuriy , Skrzyszowska Maria , Gajda Barbara , Ryńska Bożenna
Published: February 2012

Postimplantation Development of Cloned Rabbit Embryos Reconstructed with Foetal and Adult Skin-Derived Fibroblast Cell Nuclei

The aim of the study was to determine the postimplantation developmental potential of nuclear transfer (NT) derived rabbit embryos, which were reconstructed with foetal fibroblast (FF) or adult skin fibroblast (AF) cell nuclei. A total of 97 embryos reconstructed with FF cell nuclei (Group I) were transferred into the oviducts of 6 pseudopregnant recipients and 101 embryos reconstructed with AF cell nuclei (Group II) were transferred to 6 foster mothers. The presence of fetuses (with the symptoms of early resorption of amniotic sacs) was confirmed in the 4/6 (66.7%) and 1/6 (16.7%) recipient-females in Group I and Group II, respectively. The implantation rate was significantly higher for cloned embryos originating from the oocytes receiving foetal fibroblasts than for those derived from adult skin fibroblasts (P<0.1). Nonetheless, all pregnancies were lost and no progeny were obtained.
An introduction to Taiwan e-Learning and Digital Archives Program (TELDAP)
Authors: Lin Simon C. , Yen Eric
Published: February 2012

Taiwan e-Learning and Digital Archives Program (TELDAP) is a long-term, multi-generational, cross-divisional programme that will enhance the cultural, academic, socio-economic and educational values of Taiwan Digital Archives. Among the nine National Projects, TELDAP is the only one focusing on the Arts and Humanities. Unique for its combination of humanities with information technology, TELDAP aims to promote and coordinate content digitisation and preservation at leading museums, archives, universities, research institutes, and other content holders in Taiwan. This paper presents an overview of the history, achievements and challenges of the TELDAP.
Lessons Learned from Chicago Wilderness—Implementing and Sustaining Conservation Management in an Urban Setting
Authors: Heneghan Liam , Mulvaney Christopher , Ross Kristen , Umek Lauren , Watkins Cristy , Westphal Lynne M. , Wise David H.
Published: February 2012

We summarize the factors that shaped the biodiversity of Chicago and its hinterland and point out the conservation significance of these ecological systems, addressing why conservation of Chicago’s biodiversity has importance locally and beyond. We highlight Chicago Wilderness (CW), a regional biodiversity conservation alliance committed to protecting nature and enriching the lives of the region’s residents. Chicago Wilderness, with over 250 institutional members, has for over a decade coordinated the efforts of diverse institutions, including federal, state, and local agencies, public land-management agencies, conservation organizations, and scientific and cultural institutions. Chicago Wilderness is committed to using science and emerging knowledge as a foundation for its conservation work. CW has several specialist teams that promote an interdisciplinary approach to conservation; we focus on the work of the CW Science Team, the one team with a research mission. The scientific investigations that are undertaken to provide a knowledge base for the work of Chicago Wilderness have drawn upon a wide variety of conservation paradigms, including that of resilience thinking, which we illustrate in a series of case studies.
ACVR1, a Therapeutic Target of Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva, Is Negatively Regulated by miR-148a
Authors: Song Hao , Wang Qi , Wen Junge , Liu Shunai , Gao Xuesong , Cheng Jun , Zhang Deli
Published: February 2012

Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a rare congenital disorder of skeletal malformations and progressive extraskeletal ossification. There is still no effective treatment for FOP. All FOP individuals harbor conserved point mutations in ACVR1 gene that are thought to cause ACVR1 constitutive activation and activate BMP signal pathway. The constitutively active ACVR1 is also found to be able to cause endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) in endothelial cells, which may cause the formation of FOP lesions. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an essential role in regulating cell differentiation. Here, we verified that miR-148a directly targeted the 3' UTR of ACVR1 mRNA by reporter gene assays and mutational analysis at the miRNA binding sites, and inhibited ACVR1 both at the protein level and mRNA level. Further, we veriﬁed that miR-148a could inhibit the mRNA expression of the Inhibitor of DNA binding (Id) gene family thereby suppressing the BMP signaling pathway. This study suggests miR-148a is an important mediator of ACVR1, thus offering a new potential target for the development of therapeutic agents against FOP.
A Highly Sensitive CMOS Digital Hall Sensor for Low Magnetic Field Applications
Authors: Xu Yue , Pan Hong-Bin , He Shu-Zhuan , Li Li
Published: February 2012

Integrated CMOS Hall sensors have been widely used to measure magnetic fields. However, they are difficult to work with in a low magnetic field environment due to their low sensitivity and large offset. This paper describes a highly sensitive digital Hall sensor fabricated in 0.18 μm high voltage CMOS technology for low field applications. The sensor consists of a switched cross-shaped Hall plate and a novel signal conditioner. It effectively eliminates offset and low frequency 1/f noise by applying a dynamic quadrature offset cancellation technique. The measured results show the optimal Hall plate achieves a high current related sensitivity of about 310 V/AT. The whole sensor has a remarkable ability to measure a minimum ±2 mT magnetic field and output a digital Hall signal in a wide temperature range from −40 °C to 120 °C.
Defining the Symmetry of the Universal Semi-Regular Autonomous Asynchronous Systems
Authors: Vlad Serban E.
Published: February 2012

The regular autonomous asynchronous systems are the non-deterministic Boolean dynamical systems and universality means the greatest in the sense of the inclusion. The paper gives four definitions of symmetry of these systems in a slightly more general framework, called semi-regularity, and also many examples.
Specific IgA antibodies in the diagnosis of acute brucellosis
Authors: El-Mohammady Hanan , Shaheen Hind Ibrahim , Klena John David , Nakhla Isabelle Antoun , Weiner Mattew A , Armstrong Adam Wilson
Published: February 2012

An Egyptian female with night sweats, headache, and back pain was diagnosed with acute brucellosis one week after returning from a North African country. Humoral immune responses to specific immunogenic proteins were investigated before and after treatment. ELISA was performed to detect levels of specific antibody (Ab) titers. Immunoblot analysis of Ab recognizing specific Brucella antigenic bands was also performed. IgA was detected on the day of disease onset. Specific agglutination titer was 1:160; it doubled three days later and treatment was implemented. Blood culture yielded Gram-negative coccobacilli after one month, confirmed as B. melitensis by AMOS-PCR. Immunoblotting revealed IgM Abs against two protein bands of 112 and 130-kDa observed only during the acute stage. On the other hand, the intensity of IgG Abs against 21 and 21.5-kDa protein bands positively correlated with the time of convalescence. Based on our observations we conclude that specific IgA levels may be used as an early diagnostic marker for Brucella and high molecular weight protein bands may be useful in the differentiation between acute and chronic brucellosis.
Evaluation of the immunological effect of beta alanyl-l-histidine against Schistosoma mansoni antigens in rabbits
Authors: Ali Sanaa Ahmed
Published: February 2012

Introduction: The influence of vaccination on healthy (non-infected) rabbits treated with Schistosoma mansoni egg antigens, cercariae, and worms as prophylactic agents against infection, and the benefit of beta alanyl-l-histidine treatment against Schistosoma mansoni infection were investigated. Methodology: This study involved individual injection of three Schistosoma mansoni antigens: soluble egg antigen (SEA), cercarial antigen preparation (CAP) and soluble worm antigen preparation (SWAP), in three rabbit groups, respectively. Three other groups each received the same specific antigen in conjunction with the administration of (beta alanyl-l-histidine) L-carnosine. Hepatic total protein, glycogen and glycogen phosphorylase, total serum protein and one diminution electrophoresis of   protein fractions (180 KDa; 116 KDa; 97, 4 KDa, serum albumin 66 KDa; 48. 5 KDa; 29 KDa; 18.400 KDa; 14.200 KDa; 6.5 KDa) were measured in all the rabbit groups. Results: Elevation in most parameters was observed in the immunized groups. Carnosine treatment of rabbit groups immunized with SEA, CAP and SWAP in comparison to the non-carnosine-treated immunized groups resulted in amelioration of serum protein fractions in all SEA and SWAP-immunized animals, and reduction in glycogen phosphorylase b in SWAP animals alone. In addition, changes in glycogen content were observed in the CAP-immunized group. Conclusion: L-carnosine has a beneficial effect in the amelioration of most biochemical parameters as a result of S. mansoni antigen immunization.
Evaluation of “Cyscope”, a novel fluorescence-based microscopy technique for the detection of malaria
Authors: Gwanzura Lovemore , Mayini Justin , Mabhanga Katherine , Chipinduro Joseph , Mashamba Kansomba , Mutenherwa Menard , Mutambu Susan L , Mutsvangwa Junior , Mason Peter Robert
Published: February 2012

Introduction: This study was designed to compare the detection of malaria parasites in peripheral blood smears using the Cyscope malaria rapid fluorescent microscopic technique and light microscopy of Giemsa-stained smears. Methodology: A total of 295 blood smears were collected from patients of all age groups presenting with clinical signs and symptoms of malaria to 10 City Health Clinics in Harare.  For each patient two blood films were prepared. Microscopic examination was done independently in two laboratories, with one performing the Giemsa stain and the other the Cyscope method.  After the tests were completed, the results were then matched and recorded without any alterations. Results: An equal number of men and women were malaria positive and their ages ranged from five to 66 years. Concordance in the detection of parasites (positive or negative) was 98.6% (291/295).  In all four cases of discordance, malaria parasites were detected using the Cyscope but not with conventional microscopy. The Cyscope gave a 100% sensitivity and a specificity of 98.6%.  Conclusion: The Cyscope may be a valuable addition to diagnostics of malaria  in  resource-limited settings such as Zimbabwe.
First report of acute autochthonous hepatitis E in Portugal
Authors: Duque Vitor , Ventura Conceição , Seixas Diana , Da Cunha Saraiva , Meliço-Silvestre António
Published: February 2012

Hepatitis E infection is usually a self-limiting disease. In industrialized countries, sporadic cases of acute hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections have been described; their number seems to be increasing in European countries. We report the first human case of autochthonous acute hepatitis E confirmed in Portugal. Patients with acute non-A-C hepatitis should be tested for HEV in Portugal and hepatitis E infection should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained hepatitis cases.
Two cases of dengue meningitis: a rare first presentation
Authors: Goswami Rudra Prosad , Mukherjee Arindam , Biswas Tapan , Karmakar Partha Sarathi , Ghosh Alakendu
Published: February 2012

Dengue, a mosquito-borne disease caused by a flavivirus, is recognized in over 120 countries with 3.6 billion people living in areas at risk. Neurological manifestations are infrequently reported as clinical consequences of dengue infection. Though severe dengue may be associated with meningoencephalitis, meningitis is a rare initial presentation of otherwise uncomplicated dengue fever. We report two adult patients who presented with fever, headache, and nuchal rigidity without the typical symptoms of dengue infection. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis showed lymphocytic pleocytosis in one and slight neutrophilic pleocytosis in the other with a normal glucose value and negative bacterial cultures. Dengue was suspected because thrombocytopenia was symptomatic in one patient and documented during the hospital course, and was confirmed by demonstration of IgM antibody in the cerebrospinal fluid samples specific for dengue in both cases. Our report demonstrates that meningitis with or without encephalitis can be the first manifestation of dengue infection. In endemic areas, dengue infection should be considered as a probable etiological agent of meningitis. Regular monitoring of platelet count can be an invaluable diagnostic screening tool. In appropriate clinical settings detection of anti-dengue IgM both in serum and in CSF may lead to correct diagnosis.
Argon Laser Iridoplasty to Improve Visual Function Following Multifocal Intraocular Lens Implantation
Authors: Solomon Renée , Barsam Allon , Voldman Alex , Holladay Jack , Bhogal Maninder , Perry Henry D. , Donnenfeld Eric D.
Published: February 2012

PURPOSE:

To describe the use of argon laser iridoplasty following implantation of a multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) to improve visual function.

METHODS:

Argon laser spots of 500-mW power, 500-μm spot diameter, and 500-ms duration were placed in the midperipheral iris in the area in which the iris was encroaching on the IOL.

RESULTS:

Argon laser iridoplasty provided statistically significant improvement in visual function including corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) and subjective quality of vision in 14 eyes from 11 patients. Mean CDVA improved from 0.24 (20/35 Snellen) to 0.10 (20/25 Snellen) logMAR (
P
<.0001), and mean subjective quality of vision improved from 2.9 to 7.5 (
P
<.0001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Argon laser iridoplasty should be considered in correcting visual problems associated with decentered multifocal IOLs.
De los Perissodactyla europeos a los Notoungulata argentinos
Authors: Cerdeño E.
Published: February 2012

No disponible
Morotochoerus de Uganda (17.5 Ma) y Kenyapotamus de Kenia (13-11 Ma): implicaciones sobre el origen de los hipopotámidos
Authors: Pickford M.
Published: February 2012

El objetivo de este trabajo es describir e interpretar los dientes suiformes de Moroto, Uganda, y Ngorora, Kenia, que contribuyen al debate sobre las relaciones hipo-anthracothere-whale. Las primeras etapas de la evolución de los hipopotámidos son relativamente poco conocidas a causa de la escasez de su registro fósil en edades superiors a los 7 Ma. Nuevos ejemplares de Morotochoerus en Uganda revelan que no están estrechamente relacionados con Hippopotamidae, las semejanzas superficiales de los dientes de la mandíbula con los de los hipopótamos representan convergencias y no homologías. Algunas muestras de Palaeopotamus ternani aparecen en el Medio Mioceno de Kenia {Maboko, ca 16 Ma; Muruyur, ca 14.5 Ma; Fort Ternan, ca 13.7 Ma}, mientras que desde la base del Mioceno tardío, Kenyapotamus coryndonae aparece en Kenia {Ngerngerwa, ca 10.5-10 Ma; Nakali, ca 10.5 Ma; Samburu Hills, ca 9,5 Ma}, {Ch’orora Etiopía, ca 10.5 Ma} {y Túnez Beglia Formación ca 11-10 Ma}. La obtención de especímenes de Kenyapotamus de la Formación Ngorora, Kenya, con edad ca 11 Ma, es de interés porque incluye dientes bien conservados, incluyendo un m/3 en buenas condiciones. Estos ejemplares apoyan la hipótesis de que los hipotámidos descienden de paleoquéridos y no de antracotéridos.
Extinción de Equidae y Proboscidea en América del Sur. Un test usando datos de isótopos de carbono
Authors: Prado J. L. , Alberdi M. T. , Sánchez B. , Gómez G.
Published: February 2012

Los isótopos del carbono preservados en 166 muestras de dientes y huesos fósiles son un dato clave para entender la ecología de los de caballos y gonfoterios durante el Plio-Pleistoceno en América del Sur. Para analizar los cambios en las reconstrucciones de la dieta durante este lapso temporal hemos dividido las muestras en 19 grupos, teniendo en cuenta la sistemática y la cronología de cada localidad. En este estudio, las dietas de ambos grupos son evaluadas para probar las hipótesis sobre su extinción. El alto fraccionamiento en el uso de los recursos entre los herbívoros que asume la hipótesis del desequilibrio co-evolutivo es sustentada por los datos isotópicos de los caballos del Pleistoceno tardío. Hippidion y Equus tenían una dieta muy diferente. En contraste, las especies de gonfoterios de finales del Pleistoceno parecen tener una dieta menos especializada con una combinación de plantas C3 y C4, que está en consonancia con los supuestos de la hipótesis del mosaico de nutrientes, pero no admite los supuestos de la hipótesis de desequilibrio Co-evolutivo.
Geocronología de la Terraza Compleja de Arganda en el valle del río Jarama (Madrid, España)
Authors: Panera J. , Torres T. , Pérez-González A. , Ortiz J. E. , Rubio-Jara S. , Uribelarrea del Val D.
Published: February 2012

La Terraza Compleja de Arganda (TCA), situada en el tramo bajo del río Jarama (Madrid), está formada por sucesivos apilamientos de secuencias fluviales denominados de abajo a arriba Arganda I, II, III y IV, en los que se han encontrado importantes yacimientos arqueológicos y paleontológicos del Pleistoceno (Áridos 1 y 2, Valdocarros o HAT), y numerosos conjuntos de industria lítica del Paleolítico inferior y medio. Hasta ahora, la única referencia cronológica disponible para la TCA era la proporcionada por el estadio evolutivo de los micromamíferos de los yacimientos Áridos 1 en Arganda I y Valdocarros en Arganda II. En este trabajo, se propone la equivalencia de las distintas unidades de la TCA con terrazas escalonadas y se establece un marco cronológico numérico, obtenido mediante dataciones de termoluminiscencia, luminiscencia ópticamente estimulada y racemización de aminoácidos. Arganda I (≈ T+30-32 m) se situaría hacia el final del MIS 11 o en el inicio del MIS 9, Arganda II (≈T+23-24 m) se correspondería con el inicio del MIS 7, Arganda III (≈T+18-20 m) se situaría entre el MIS 7 y el MIS 5, y Arganda IV comenzaría su deposición en el MIS 5 finalizando su sedimentación en el MIS 1 al sur de Arganda del Rey (Madrid).
Una nueva especie de Adelpharctos (Mammalia, Carnivora, Ursidae) del Oligoceno Superior de las “Fosforitas de Quercy” (Francia)
Authors: De Bonis L.
Published: February 2012

El género Adelpharctos era solo conocido por una especie A. mirus representada por una única mandibular (p2-m2) procedente de las colecciones antiguas del Quercy, cuya edad geológica es desconocida. Nuevo material procedente de la localidad de Pech-du-Fraysse completa nuestro conocimiento sobre el género, en particular para el maxilar y la dentición superior. Adelpharctos pertenece a la subfamilia Hemicyoninae, familia Ursidae. El género difiere de los hemicioninos del Mioceno medio, que tienen dentición más robusta, y de los del grupo Cephalogae-Phoberogale por algunos caracteres morfológicos. Se interpreta como perteneciente a una línea procedente del grupo ancestral primitivo de la subfamilia Hemicyoninae.
La asociación de carnívoros miocenos de Grecia
Authors: Koufos G. D.
Published: February 2012

La asociación de carnívoros miocenos de Grecia incluye un gran número de taxones, descritos en numerosos artículos desde las primeras décadas del siglo XIX. El presente artículo supone un esfuerzo de síntesis de todos estos taxones, suministrando información sobre su historia, localidad, edad, así como su distribución estratigráfica e inferencias paleoambientales. El registro de los carnívoros del Mioceno inferior y medio es pobre, debido a que las localidades existentes y los fósiles son raros. Sin embargo, el Mioceno superior es considerablemente rico, incluyendo numerosos taxones. Las localidades miocenas con carnívoros y su edad se exponen en un cuadro estratigráfico que abarca las Zonas de Mamíferos Europeas desde la MN4 a la MN 13. La localidad tipo, holotipo y algunas notas históricas y morfológicas se suministran para cada taxón. Algunos taxones de carnívoros fueron definidos sobre material griego, nuevas fotografías de los holotipos sonfiguradas. La distribución estratigráfica de los taxones de carnívoros griegos cubren un lapso de tiempo comprendido entre los 19,0 a los 5,3 Ma. La mayoría de los taxones miocenos (Adcrocuta, Hyaenictitherium, Plioviverrops, Protictitherium, Ictitherium, Indarctos, Dinocrocuta, Promephitis) desaparecen al final del Mioceno. La composición de la asociación de carnívoros miocenos de Grecia incluye principalmente vivérridos (Lophocyon, Euboictis), mientras que los hiénidos, percrocútidos, félidos y mustélidos son más escasos. Por el contrario la asociación del Mioceno superior es más rica, incluyendo más subfamilias y más especies; dominando hienas y mustélidos, mientras que los vivérridos están ausentes. La estructura de la comunidad (gremio) de carnívoros del Mioceno superior es similar a la del actual Serengeti, indicativo de un ambiente relativamente abierto, similar a la sabana, de acuerdo con los resultados de otros trabajos realizados en el área.
Cañada: Una nueva sucesión de micromamíferos del Vallesiense inferior y Turoliense del área de Daroca (Cuenca de Calatayud- Montalbán, España)
Authors: López-Guerrero P. , García-Paredes I. , Van den Hoek Ostende L. W. , Van Dam J. A. , Álvarez-Sierra M. Á. , Hernández-Ballarín V. , Van der Meulen A. J. , Oliver A. , Peláez-Campomanes P.
Published: February 2012

Se da a conocer una nueva sección que incluye nueve yacimientos de microvertebrados en superposición estratigráfica en la Cuenca de Calatayud-Montalbán (España). Se describen las localidades de la sección de la Cañada y sus faunas de micromamíferos, lo que posibilita su correlación con el Vallesiense inferior de la cercana sección de Nombrevilla. Los resultados obtenidos en este trabajo son importantes debido a que ayudan a mejorar la resolución temporal del registro faunístico del Vallesiense inferior del área de Daroca, y a precisar su posición bioestratigráfica relativa. Por otra parte, el tramo superior de la sección de la Cañada incluye dos faunas del Turoliense que incrementan el escaso conocimiento del registro de esta edad en la Cuenca de Calatayud-Montalbán.
Les petits Mammifères du Burdigalien (MN3; Miocène) d’Estrepouy (Gers, France): liste faunique actualisée
Authors: Hugueney M. , Bulot C.
Published: February 2012

[fr] La liste faunique des petits mammifères d’Estrepouy (Bassin Aquitain, France) est revue: du matériel nouveau est ajouté et les déterminations sont mises à jour. Les petits mammifères sont représentés par une trentaine d’espèces (dont sept insectivores), alors que le gisement un peu plus récent de Wintershof- West (Allemagne) - représentatif du niveau mammalien MN3 - atteint plus de quarante espèces (dont vingt insectivores). Les différences dans la représentation des espèces semblent indiquer à Estrepouy un paléoenvironnement plus sec; toutefois, en Espagne, le paléoenvironnement du niveau MN3 semble encore plus sec.
Anatomía functional del esqueleto post-craneal de Styriofelis lorteti (Carnivora, Felidae, Felinae) del Mioceno Medio (MN 6) de Sansan (Gers, France)
Authors: Salesa M. J. , Antón M. , Morales J. , Peigné S.
Published: February 2012

El esqueleto post-craneal del felino Styriofelis lorteti, del Mioceno medio de Europa, ha sido tradicionalmente conocido en base a fósiles fragmentarios, procedentes principalmente del yacimiento francés de Sansan. El descubrimiento en este yacimiento de un esqueleto casi completo, durante la campaña de 1990, abrió la posibilidad de llevar a cabo un análisis sin precedentes de la morfología y función de este félido primitivo. En este trabajo se describe este material, comparándose con una muestra de felinos fósiles y actuales, hallándose una combinación entre una morfología general moderna, con adaptaciones moderadas para la locomoción terrestre, junto con una serie de caracteres primitivos que relacionan a S. lorteti con los félidos más antiguos como Proailurus lemanensis.
Andegameryx andegaviensis Ginsburg, 1971 (Artiodactyla, Ruminantia,) del Mioceno inferior de Estrepouy (MN3, Francia)
Authors: Quiralte V. , Morales J.
Published: February 2012

En esta nota describimos algunos de los restos del yacimiento del Mioceno inferior de Estrepouy (MN3, Francia) atribuidos por Roman & Viret (1934) a Amphitragulus aruelianensis, cambiando su asignación a Andegameryx andegaviensis Ginsburg, 1971. El reestudio del material y su comparación con los restos de A. andegaviensis de otras localidades europeas del Mioceno inferior, incluyendo la localidad tipo de la especie, permiten confirmar su presencia entre la fauna de rumiantes fósiles de Estrepouy.
Nuevos datos sobre Andegameryx (Mammalia, Ruminantia) del Mioceno Inferior de las Bardenas Reales (Navarra, España)
Authors: Quiralte V. , Murelaga X. , Larrasoaña J. C. , Astibia H. , Morales J.
Published: February 2012

En este trabajo se describen los nuevos hallazgos de rumiantes fósiles del Mioceno inferior (Rambliense, MN3) de las Bardenas Reales (Navarra). Este material está compuesto por dentición y ha sido clasificado como Andegameryx aff. andegaviensis Ginsburg, 1971. El estudio morfológico y métrico muestra que los restos de las Bardenas son muy semejantes a los de la población española de Andegameryx andegaviensis de Cetina de Aragón (Zaragoza), de talla algo mayor que las poblaciones francesas de esta especie. Sin embargo, también tiene afinidades con material de Andegameryx procedente de otras localidades españolas como Loranca del Campo (Cuenca). Los nuevos hallazgos permiten confirmar sin dudas la presencia de Andegameryx en las Bardenas Reales (Cuenca del Ebro), poniendo de manifiesto que este género de rumiante estuvo ampliamente extendido en las cuencas interiores de España durante el Mioceno inferior.
Los suoideos de talla pequeña del Mioceno de Europa y Asia
Authors: Pickford M.
Published: February 2012

La historia del estudio de los suoideos de talla pequeña del Mioceno de Eurasia es compleja por varias razones: la escasez de material fósil, un grado alto de convergencia y paralelismo dental entre linajes cercana y lejanamente relacionados, y la frecuente errónea identificación de los fósiles, teniendo como resultado el desarrollo gradual de una taxonomía confusa. Los cambios en la taxonomía por encima del nivel de género, han contribuído a esta complejidad; linajes europeos clasificados como Suidae en 1924 ahora se reparten en tres familias separadas; Suidae, Palaeochoeridae y Sanitheriidae. Estudios recientes han clarificado considerablemente la situación, pero quedan varios asuntos problemáticos por resolver, especialmente en el caso de los Palaeochoeridae. El registro fósil de algunos taxones es limitado, así que es necesario recopilar los especímenes actualmente reconocidos para completer nuestro conocimiento con respecto a ellos. Este trabajo incluye material no descrito previamente de Palaeochoeridae y pequeños Suidae, así como la reinterpretación de algunos fósiles publicados en revistas científicos poco accesibles. Entre estos últimos se incluyen algunos taxones que tienen prioridad sobre nombres propuestos recientemente. Se lleva a cabo una revisión sistemática de estas formas, y se finaliza con una propuesta de revisión taxonómica de Palaeochoeridae, una familia que ha tomado recientemente gran importancia en el debate acerca de los orígenes de Hippopotamidae.
Una nueva especie de Agriarctos (Ailuropodinae, Ursidae, Carnivora) en la localidad de Nombrevilla 2 (Zaragoza, España)
Authors: Abella J. , Montoya P. , Morales J.
Published: February 2012

Una nueva especie de úrsido primitivo, Agriarctos beatrix procedente de la localidad de Nombrevilla 2 (Zaragoza, cuenca de Calatayud-Daroca) es descrita en este trabajo. Los nuevos fósiles de Nombrevilla 2 se relacionan estrechamente con Agriarctos depereti de la localidad de Soblay (Vallesiense superior, Francia), pero en la forma española los caracteres derivados compartidos son más primitivos. Agriarctos beatrix es la primera aparición conocida hasta el presente de un miembro de la subfamilia Ailuropodinae en el registro fossil.
Les Grands Mammifères du Burdigalien (MN3; Miocène) d’Estrepouy (Gers, France): liste faunique actualisée
Authors: Ginsburg L.
Published: February 2012

[fr] Des grands mammifères sont determines pour le Miocène inférieur (MN3) de Etrepouy, Gers, France. 17 taxons appartenant à trois déterminés ont été identifies: Carnivora; Amphicyon lanthanicus, Cynelos helbingi, Plithocyon bruneti, Hemicyon gargan, Palaeogale hyaenoides, Semigenetta elegans et Pseudaelurus turnauensis. Perissodactyla; Anchitherium aurelianense, Protaceratherium minutum et Diaceratherium cf. aurelianense. Arctiodactyla; Aureliachoerus aurelianensis, Xenohyus venitor, Caenotherium aff. lintillae, Andegameryx andegaviensis, Oriomeryx willii, Procervulus praelucidus, Lagomeryx parvulus et Procervulus praelucidus. L’association des mammifères Estrepouy regarde un peu plus âgé que celui représenté à la localité de référence du MN3 á Wintershof-Ouest (Allemagne).
Disruptive Product Strategy for Industry First Mover
Authors: Lu Iuan-Yuan , Wei Chao-Ching
Published: February 2012

This chapter combines disruptive innovation with industry evolution theory to construct an innovation planning phase, including exploration, assessment, strategy formation, and activity planning, and further verified it using qualitative interviews and quantitative analysis of a successful disruptive innovation case in the IT industry. The research constructs an industry evolution model of disruptive innovation and first mover’s strategic direction. When an enterprise is positioned in the market with a disruptive innovation, it is expected to gain a large market and give customers enough reasons to make a purchase. During the course of the planning phase, a firm should use different strategic approaches, such as innovative differentiation, leading product, low price expansion, and diversification of the product line, in order to create a significant strategic synergy which will help to speed the time to market and obtain the advantage of low cost, thus producing a “single innovation concept with diversified value contribution” to help restructure the entire market.
Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies
Authors: Finardi Ugo
Published: February 2012

Nanotechnologies and nanosciences are one of the most important novelties in the panorama of sciences and technologies. This work presents: their evolution since their first emergence; their most important scientific and technological features; the analysis of their role in society and economics in the socio-economic literature; their main areas of scientific and technological evolution and deployment; the motivations of the interests towards them in science and society. Nanotechnologies and nanosciences originate from a recombination of pre-existing research fields; they have the character of being a general-purpose technology and are linked to classic scientific areas. The character of Disruptive Technology of nanotechnologies and nanosciences is assessed also with the use of experimental data from a bibliographic analysis. Several examples of nanotechnological items are presented, either yet in the hands of consumers or showing promising features for the near future. The accurate description of this newly expanding area of sciences and technologies can provide important insights to the scholars and practitioners who are engaged in the study of this field of science, technology, and innovation, or aim at comparing this with related fields.
Phytoremediation of Nickel
Authors: Mudhoo Ackmez , Lin Zhi-Qing
Published: February 2012

Nickel (Ni) is one of the toxic heavy metals, and is recognized for its negative effects on the environment where it bioaccumulates and poses a serious threat to human and environmental health. Treatments of nickel pollution need to be done with the consideration that toxic nickel ions (Ni2+) are converted into less toxic chemical forms so that its toxicity to human health and the environment is reduced. Phytoremediation is an emerging green technology that combines the disciplines of plant ecophysiology, soil chemistry, and microbiology to clean up Ni-polluted soils and waters. This solar–driven biological process is now being viewed as an ecologically sustainable alternative to the environmentally destructive or conventional physio-chemical remediation technologies. This chapter gives an overview of the environmental chemistry, speciation, and toxicity of Ni, elaborates on the removal of Ni by phytoremediation processes reported in recent literature, and highlights the key economic and management aspects of Ni phytoextraction.
Innovation in Financing Mechanism of Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
Authors: Kunal
Published: February 2012

This research work presents a conceptual framework used for analyzing financing mechanism for ICT projects. The focus is on developing countries with a focus on bridging digital divide and using ICT services for economic development. This is an effort in achieving millennium development goals, and the conventional financing mechanism of international organizations has been summarized. The aim is to increase the effectiveness of investment, and for the same purpose, a number of new financing mechanisms are devised by funding organization/agencies. These innovative mechanisms have been summarized with special focus on advantages and disadvantages. The graphic illustrations help in understanding fund flow in financing mechanism. These innovative mechanisms are further explained with the help of cases. A number of innovative financing mechanisms have been presented, which can be adopted for ICT projects in developing countries.
Branding Innovation
Authors: Aydogan-Duda Neslihan
Published: February 2012

The impact of innovation on the competitive ability of firms is obvious. R&D activities are expensive, time consuming, and risky. Hence, protecting the rights to any innovative output is extremely important. Given this context, the author delves into understanding how branding works to help companies to benefit from the fruits of their innovation. Patent rights are important; however, as it is discussed in the literature, owning patent rights might not suffice. Business and process improvement without branding could face problems in the 21st knowledge economy. Companies should see brand as a “patent” through which customers emotionally connect and choose their products and services over competitors. Just as patents are designed to provide exclusivity in a market, brand offers that, tacitly, if properly executed. Branding can establish a self-sustaining relationship between customers and the producers thereby helping companies to be protected from patent infringement. In this study, the author shows evidence to the lack of any viable branding strategy on innovation by the few Turkish firms that have filed patents. This explains the lagging of the Turkish companies in internationalizing their brands.
Dual-SIM Phones
Authors: Odikayor Dickinson C. , Oghogho Ikponmwosa , Wara Samuel T. , Adebayo Abayomi-Alli
Published: February 2012

Dual-SIM mobile phones utilize technology that permits the use of two SIMs at a time. The technology permits simultaneous access to the mobile network services. Its disruptive nature is with reference to the mobile phone market in Nigeria and other parts of the world. Earlier market trend was inclination to “newer” and “better” phones, in favour of established single-SIM mobile phone manufacturers like Nokia and Samsung. Introduction of dual-SIM phones mainly manufactured by Chinese mobile phone manufacturing firms propelled user preference for phones acquisition which permits dual and simultaneous access to mobile network. This technology has compelled its adoption by established manufacturing names in order that they may remain competitive. It is a clear case of a disruptive technology, and this chapter focuses on it need, effects, and disruptive nature.
Meeting User Needs
Authors: Fulkerson Diane M.
Published: February 2012

Determining how a library can meet user needs can be accomplished through different methods. Libraries can use focus groups, surveys, or other means of assessment. Liquid+® is a survey available to all academic libraries from the Association of Research Libraries. Most libraries who administer the Liquid+® survey can use the survey results to do additional internal surveys with users or to meet with small groups of users to improve their services.
Developing Digital Collections
Authors: Fulkerson Diane M.
Published: February 2012

Digital collections are found in most libraries. They include not only databases but also photographs, institutional repositories, manuscript collections, materials from the university archives, or special collections. Designing digital collections and making them available to users expands the resources users can access for a research project.
Remote Access and Course Management Software
Authors: Fulkerson Diane M.
Published: February 2012

In addition to electronic reserves, instructors can link database materials through course management systems (CMS). This type of software allows faculty to link articles from databases into their course materials. This chapter provides an overview of different course management software and explains how instructors or librarians can link course materials into these systems.
Mobile Technologies
Authors: Fulkerson Diane M.
Published: February 2012

Millions of people have a smartphone, and with smartphone technology comes the ability for Internet connectivity and with that the ability to access library resources. EBSCO, Elsevier, ProQuest, Gale/Cengage, and other database vendors have capitalized on the increased use of smartphones by developing the capability for library users to access EBSCO databases from their smartphones. Mobile technology extends beyond smartphones and includes technology gadgets such as e-book readers, the iPad, netbooks, and laptops. As technology that is more mobile becomes available, the ability and need to connect remotely will increase. Mobile technology has grown beyond cell phones and personal digital assistants to other types of devices most recently Apple’s iPad. Gone are the days when the only computer available was the one on your desk. With better technology came laptops, and now netbooks and e-book readers. To access the Internet, campuses have wireless technology in most classrooms and libraries. The proliferation of mobile technology and the ability to gain access to the Internet from almost any place means libraries and database vendors need to make sure their websites and resources are compatible with mobile devices.
Remote Access Technology Problems
Authors: Fulkerson Diane M.
Published: February 2012

With any remote access technology, problems can and do arise. Some of the common problems with remote access technologies are security, broken links, and privacy. Most remote technology is relatively stable, but unfortunately, problems occur from time to time. It is important that the library has someone monitor the technology to make sure there are no problems. Users become frustrated when trying to access a resource from off-campus only to find they cannot.
Communication Framework to Empower 21st Century Engineers and IT Professionals
Authors: Pandian Ambigapathy , Ismail Shaik Abdul Malik Mohamed , Abdullah Ahmad Sofwan Nathan
Published: February 2012

The role of communication has been emphasised ever since Dewey (1929; 1958) refreshingly eulogised the role and impact of communication in social discourse. Analysis of contemporary research outcomes and current literature clearly indicate that communication skills top the priority list with regard to workplace needs that will spur organizational advancement both financially and qualitatively. This chapter focuses on dissecting the workplace needs of engineers and IT professionals with specific emphasis on current and future communicational demands in the Malaysian engineering sector. It also highlights the non-linear nature of communication, which is essentially bidirectional or multidirectional in orientation. The chapter then elucidates its key findings within the Malaysian context as well as proposes a new curriculum design framework for the generation of contemporary syllabuses that meets the dynamic demands of workplace communication. It concludes with suggestions on how engineering and IT professionals as well as purveyors of communication skills syllabuses need to be sensitised on the importance of communication skills in the post-Fordian economic paradigm.