bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short Term Effects of Mobilization Techniques on Neck Pain and Deep Neck Flexor Muscle Endurance in Patients with Mechanical Chronic Neck Pain
Authors: Kılınç Hasan Erkan , Harput Gülcan , Baltacı Gül , İnce Deniz İnal
Published: December 2014

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to investigate short term effects of cervical and scapular mobilization techniques on neck pain and deep cervical muscles endurance in chronical mechanical neck pain patients.

Methods:

22 chronical mechanic neck pain patients four male 18 female (mean age: mean±sd 35.59± 15.85) were included. Before treatment, neck pain level (visual analog scale) and deep neck flexor muscles endurance (in supine position with digital chronometer) of all patients were evaluated. Cyriax cervical mobilization for 10 minutes and scapular mobilization for 10 repetition 10 sets were performed to patients as treatment protocol. After treatment, 24 hours after and a week after evaluations of neck pain and deep cervical muscles endurance were repeated.

Results:

Before treatment Neck pain Visual Analog Scale scores was 5.78±1.43 point, 2.80±1.99 point after treatment, 24 hours later 3.36±2.12 point, one week later 3.91±2.24 point. This alteration was found significant statistically (p<0.01). Before treatment deep cervical flexor muscle endurance score was 27.25±17.74 sec, after treatment 39.46±25.20 sec, 24 hours later 38.67±28.43 and one week later 40.11±27.82 sec. This alteration was also found significant statistically (p=0.01).

Conclusion:

Initially neck pain scores in our subjects decreased quickly, after 24 hours these scores increased but last scores were below first neck pain level in a week follow-up. Deep neck cervical flexor muscles test scores also increased quickly, after 24 hours later this scores were stable along a week. Mobilization techniques are effective methods on neck pain and endurance in chronical mechanic neck pain patients.
A Comparison of Dynamic Postural Stability Between Asymptomatic Controls and Male Patients One Year After ACL Reconstruction (Pilot Study)
Authors: Ataoglu Muhammed Baybars , Hazar Zeynep , Kafa Nihan , Özer Mustafa , Citaker Seyit
Published: December 2014

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to determine if dynamic postural stability gained one year after ACL reconstruction in patients who received rehabilitation.

Methods:

Seven male patients (mean age=32,66 ±6,47) who had previously undergone ACL reconstruction (ACL-R) and 7 sex-and general physical activity matched uninjured controls included to study. Mean time since original injury was 13±3,31 months. Dynamic postural control was assessed with 20° knee flexion with Star Excursion Balance test. Each participant performed 3 trials of the anterior, posterior-medial, and posterior-lateral directional components of the SEBT. Reach distances for each directional component were compared with non-injured leg and healthy controls’.

Results:

There was no significant difference in all directions of Star Excursion Balance test between neither the operated and uninjured knees of patients nor between patients and healthy controls (p>0,05).

Conclusion:

No deficits in dynamic postural stability were present average one year after ACL reconstruction in patients who received rehabilitation. It can be said that rehabilitation is effective in the recovery of dynamic postural stability.
Gender and Musical Instrument Stereotypes in Middle School Children
Authors: Wrape Elizabeth R. , Dittloff Alexandra L. , Callahan Jennifer L.
Published: December 2014

Previous studies have established that gender stereotypes are associated with children’s choice of musical instrument. Though some have suggested that these gender stereotypes may be trending toward change, other studies have indicated that gender stereotypes are long-standing and still very much at issue. This descriptive study of middle school band students ( N = 99) examined instrument gender stereotypes using improved methods of measurement and found evidence that instrument gender stereotypes remain entrenched and pose a persisting problem facing music educators. Importantly, younger and more inexperienced band members may be more open to counterstereotypical views. Suggested changes in research methods and directions for future study are discussed, as are implications for music educators.
Influence of bioaugmentation on biodegradation of phenanthrene-contaminated soil by earthworm in lab scale
Authors: Asgharnia Hosseinali , Jonidi Jafari Ahmad , Rezaei Kalantary Roshanak , Nasseri Simin , Mahvi Amirhossein , Yaghmaeian Kamyar , Esrafili Ali , Dadban Shahamat Yousef
Published: December 2014

Background

Use of earthworm to eliminate the phenanthrene from the soil (bioaccumulation) is developed as an economical method. Bioaugmentation of microorganism was used for promotion of bioaccumulation by earthworm. The aim of this study was to determine the bioaccumulation or biodegradation of phenanthrene by Eisenia fetida and bacterial consortium in polluted soil.

Methods

The amount of 0.4 kg of the polluted soil in the ratio of 10 and 30 mg phenanthrene per kg of dry soil was transferred into each pot. Afterwards, bacteria and earthworms were added to each pot in separate and combination. The samples were kept under field conditions, and the retention concentrations of phenanthrene were analyzed after 8 weeks.

Results

Results showed that the Eisenia fetida was able to significantly remove phenanthrene from the polluted soil samples. Bioaccumulation and bioaugmentation alone have the removal efficiency of 60.24% and 50.3%, respectively. In the combined mode, phenanthrene removal efficiency was 63.81%.

Conclusions

The current study indicated that the use of earthworms, could improve both phenanthrene bioavailability and microbial activity, which led to enhancing removal of carbon-based pollutants.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Improves Breast Screening Sensitivity in BRCA Mutation Carriers Age ≥ 50 Years: Evidence From an Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis
Authors: Phi Xuan-Anh , Houssami Nehmat , Obdeijn Inge-Marie , Warner Ellen , Sardanelli Francesco , Leach Martin O. , Riedl Christopher C. , Trop Isabelle , Tilanus-Linthorst Madeleine M.A. , Mandel Rodica , Santoro Filippo , Kwan-Lim Gek , Helbich Thomas H. , de Koning Harry J. , Van den Heuvel Edwin R. , de Bock Geertruida H.
Published: December 2014

Purpose

There is no consensus on whether magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) should be included in breast screening protocols for women with BRCA1/2 mutations age ≥ 50 years. Therefore, we investigated the evidence on age-related screening accuracy in women with BRCA1/2 mutations using individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis.

Patients and Methods

IPD were pooled from six high-risk screening trials including women with BRCA1/2 mutations who had completed at least one screening round with both MRI and mammography. A generalized linear mixed model with repeated measurements and a random effect of studies estimated sensitivity and specificity of MRI, mammography, and the combination in all women and specifically in those age ≥ 50 years.

Results

Pooled analysis showed that in women age ≥ 50 years, screening sensitivity was not different from that in women age < 50 years, whereas screening specificity was. In women age ≥ 50 years, combining MRI and mammography significantly increased screening sensitivity compared with mammography alone (94.1%; 95% CI, 77.7% to 98.7% v 38.1%; 95% CI, 22.4% to 56.7%; P < .001). The combination was not significantly more sensitive than MRI alone (94.1%; 95% CI, 77.7% to 98.7% v 84.4%; 95% CI, 61.8% to 94.8%; P = .28). Combining MRI and mammography in women age ≥ 50 years resulted in sensitivity similar to that in women age < 50 years (94.1%; 95% CI, 77.7% to 98.7% v 93.2%; 95% CI, 79.3% to 98%; P = .79).

Conclusion

Addition of MRI to mammography for screening BRCA1/2 mutation carriers age ≥ 50 years improves screening sensitivity by a magnitude similar to that observed in younger women. Limiting screening MRI in BRCA1/2 carriers age ≥ 50 years should be reconsidered.
Influence of Pore Size on Ethylene Hydrate Formation in Carbon Materials
Authors: Wei Yajuan , Sun Yan , Su Wei , Liu Jia
Published: December 2014

The formation of gas hydrates in porous carbon materials is highly dependent on the potential field in the pores. The formation of ethylene hydrate from water and ethylene in carbon materials with different pore-size distributions was investigated at 303 K. The potential field in the pores was favourable for the formation of gas hydrate when the pores were less than 1.2 nm. By comparison, when the pores were larger than 6 nm, little ethylene hydrate was formed. When the pore sizes were less than 2.35 nm, the ethylene molecules occupied both the large (L) and small (S) cavities simultaneously. However, when the pore sizes were greater than 2.82 nm, only the L cavities were occupied. This was proven by measuring the molar ratio of the water to ethylene at equilibrium.
Adsorption and One-Dimensional Growth of Al and in Chains on Si(100): 2×1: A Kinetic Monte Carlo Approach
Authors: Albia Jason R. , Albao Marvin A. , Ramos Henry J.
Published: December 2014

Understanding the adsorption of adatom on the surface of an adsorbent and its interaction with defect sites should be considered in tailoring the growth of one-dimensional (1D) chains. Kinetic Monte Carlo simulation of a suitable atomistic lattice-gas model describing the adsorption and 1D submonolayer growth of Al and In on Si(100): 2 × 1 was performed to investigate the resulting nanowire morphology in the presence of various C-defect densities at various deposition temperatures. Average island density (Nav) in Al/Si (100) generally obeys the classically predicted Arrhenius behaviour as temperature increases. By contrast, In adatoms exclusively nucleate on C defect, where Nav is equivalent to defect density. In Al/Si (100) and In/Si (100), Nav showed linear and ‘power law’ dependence on coverage, respectively, whereas the average island size (Sav) for both systems showed linear dependence on coverage. The nanowires morphology in the Al/Si (100) system showed considerable dependence on flux variation. Because of the low-diffusion barrier of In adatom and high-detachment barrier on C defect, In/Si (100) is insensitive to flux. Morphology of In chains is dictated by the defect density: an increase in defect density caused higher island density and smaller island sizes irrespective of coverage and flux rates.
Multiple-Presence Statistics of Heavy Trucks Based on High-Speed Weigh-in-Motion Data
Authors: Gil Heungbae , Kang Sanggyu
Published: December 2014

The simultaneous presence of multiple heavy trucks on road bridges causes a higher stress to the structural members of bridges than the presence of a single heavy truck. Truck traffic data acquired using weigh-in-motion systems are typically used to assess the multiple-presence probability for side-by-side and following trucks. A number of high-speed weigh-in-motion (HS-WIM) systems are installed in the Korean Expressway Network to control overloaded vehicles and obtain long-term truck weight data. In this study, the multiple-presence probabilities for following and side-by-side trucks were determined using data from two HS-WIM sites. The correlation probability between the gross vehicle weights (GVWs) of successive trucks was also calculated. To determine the characteristics of heavier truck loads, the multiple-presence probabilities for the overweight trucks, which exceed the legal weight limit, were calculated separately. The analysis of the HS-WIM data showed that the multiple-presence probabilities of the trucks increased with the headway distance of following or side-by-side trucks, and the probability of following truck events was lower than that of side-by-side truck events. The probability of side-by-side truck events increased with the increase of daily truck traffic (DTT), whereas the probability of following truck events was only slightly affected by the DTT. The full correlation probabilities of the GVW for the following and side-by-side trucks were low.
Experimental and Simulation Studies on the Seismic Performance of I-section Steel-Concrete Composite Columns
Authors: Hui Cun , Cao Wanlin , Wang Yuanqing , Wang Bin
Published: December 2014

This study analyses the working mechanism and seismic performance index of I-section steel-reinforced concrete columns with concealed double steel plates and bottom-strengthened I-section concrete-filled steel tube columns subjected to compression-bending load. For this purpose, six column models with different constructions were tested under horizontal low cyclic loading. Based on the experiments, the load-bearing capacity, stiffness and degradation process, ductility, hysteretic energy dissipation capacity and failure characteristics of the models were analysed. The formulae for calculating the load-bearing capacity for the normal and oblique sections of I-section steel-concrete composite columns were derived, and the finite element (FE) numerical simulation of the classical specimens was performed. According to the results, the load-bearing capacity, ductility and seismic energy dissipation capacity of the bottom-strengthened I-section steel-concrete composite columns are obviously improved when compared with those of the conventional I-section steel-concrete composite columns. Moreover, the calculated and FE numerical simulation results are found to be in good agreement with the experimental results. Further, the bottom-strengthened I-section steel-concrete composite column shows better seismic behaviour and higher energy dissipation capacity under suitable constructional requirements, indicating their suitability for constructing high-rise buildings.
Interfacial Behavior of RC Beams Strengthened with FRP under Fatigue Loading
Authors: Deng Jiangdong , Liu Airong , Ma Zhongguo John , Huang Peiyan , Zhou Rui
Published: December 2014

The paper aims to study interfacial behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) beams strengthened with fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) under fatigue loading. A series of fatigue tests were conducted in the laboratory. The infrared detection technology was used to record the FRP-concrete interfacial fatigue behaviors. The results demonstrated that the fatigue development by RC beams strengthened with FRP was divided into three typical stages: rapid increase, stable-change, and uncontrollable propagation. The period of stable-change accounted for more than 99% of the fatigue lifetime. The average bending stiffness and the average FRP fatigue strain of the stable-change phase obtained under certain fatigue load were close to those obtained under the same monotonic load. The FRP threshold strain of the fatigue failure was about 37% of that of the monotonic load. The infrared thermograms showed that the interfacial fatigue debonding originated from the midspan and expanded to one end of the strengthened beam, which led to the final failure. The FRP fatigue strain and interfacial damage stayed stable in most of the fatigue lifetime, indicating good interfacial anti-fatigue properties. Based on the experimental data obtained in this study, a double logarithm formula was proposed to predict the fatigue life of RC beams strengthened with FRP under cyclic bending loads.
Varying Numbers of Players in Small-Sided Soccer Games Modifies Action Opportunities during Training
Authors: Vilar Luís , Esteves Pedro T. , Travassos Bruno , Passos Pedro , Lago-Peñas Carlos , Davids Keith
Published: December 2014

This study examined the effects of the numbers of players involved in small-sided team games (underloading and overloading) on opportunities for maintaining ball possession, shooting at goal and passing to teammates during training. These practice constraint manipulations were assumed to alter values of key performance variables identified in previous research, such as interpersonal distances between players and time to intercept shots and passes. Fifteen male soccer players (age: 19.60±1.99 years) were grouped into three teams and played against each other in different versions of small-sided soccer games, in which the number of players was manipulated in three different conditions: 5 vs. 5, 5 vs. 4 and 5 vs. 3. Dependent variables were the values of interpersonal distance between an outfield attacker and nearest defender (ID), and the relative distance of a defender needed to intercept the trajectory of a shot (RDishot) or pass (RDipass). Statistical analyses revealed that mean ID values were significantly lower in 5 vs. 5 than in 5 vs. 4 and 5 vs. 3 conditions, and significantly lower in 5 vs. 4 than 5 vs. 3. They also revealed that mean values of RDishot were significantly higher in 5 vs. 3 than in 5 vs. 5 conditions. Finally, results showed that the mean values of RDipass were significantly higher in 5 vs. 3 than in 5 vs. 5. Findings revealed how task constraints in SSGs can be manipulated to vary values of key spatial and temporal performance variables (interpersonal distance and time to intercept) to influence the nature of interpersonal interactions between competing players during practice. We observed that these manipulations tended to decrease opportunities for maintaining ball possession during training when equal numbers of attackers and defenders existed in SSGs, and led to more shots and passes emerging when the number of defenders was decreased relative to attackers.
A Decline in Anaerobic Distance Capacity of Champion Athletes over the Years?
Authors: Morton R Hugh
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this study is to investigate trends over time in critical speed, anaerobic distance capacity and maximal ‘instantaneous’ speed of male and female running record holders. At ten year intervals, a model of human bioenergetics is fitted to the then existing records at nine distances from 100m to the marathon, to provide estimates of these performance attributes. An indicator variable accounts for gender differences. Critical speed for men over the last 100 years and for women over the last 50 years has risen; men by 30% and women by 73% (though still below that of men). Maximal instantaneous speed has risen similarly. Conversely, anaerobic distance capacity has been declining. For men the decline has been slow but significant, but in women it has been dramatic. Application of this model to the progression of running records confirms training and cross-sectional studies suggesting that changes in performance parameters of elite runners are not independent of each other. Evolutionary or training induced performance improvements do not necessarily imply improvements in all parameters of the bioenergetic system.
A Biomechanical Analysis of the Farmers Walk, and Comparison with the Deadlift and Unloaded Walk
Authors: Winwood Paul W. , Cronin John B. , Brown Scott R. , Keogh Justin W. L.
Published: December 2014

This study compared the biomechanical characteristics of the farmers walk, deadlift and unloaded walk. Six experienced male strongman athletes performed farmers' walks and deadlifts at 70% of their 1RM deadlift. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were apparent at knees passing with the farmers lift demonstrating greater trunk extension, thigh angle, knee flexion and ankle dorsiflexion. Significantly greater mean vertical and anterior forces were observed in the farmers lift than deadlift. The farmers walk demonstrated significantly greater peak forces and stride rates and significantly shorter stride lengths, ground contact times, and swing times than unloaded walk. Significantly greater dorsiflexion, knee flexion, thigh angle, and significantly lesser trunk angle at foot strike were also observed in the farmers walk. The farmers lift may be an effective lifting alternative to the deadlift, to generating more anterior-propulsive and vertical force with less stress to the lumbar spine due to the more vertical trunk position.
Effects of a Short-Term In-Season Plyometric Training Program on Repeated-Sprint Ability, Leg Power and Jump Performance of Elite Handball Players
Authors: Hermassi Souhail , Gabbett Tim J. , Ingebrigtsen Jørgen , van den Tillaar Roland , Chelly Mohamed Souhaiel , Chamari Karim
Published: December 2014

This study examined the effects of 8-weeks of in-season lower limb plyometric training on repeated-sprint ability (RSA), leg power and jumping performance in elite male handball players. Twenty-four participants (age 20 ± 0.3 years, body mass 89.1 ± 2.1 kg, height 1.88± 0.07 m, body fat 13.2 ± 1.3%) were randomly assigned to a control group (CG; n = 10, handball training only) or an experimental group (PG; n = 14, biweekly plyometric training, and handball training). The players were tested for RSA using a protocol of 6 × (2 × 15m) shuttle sprints, separated by 20 s of active recovery. Best time in a single trial (RSAbest), fastest total time (RSATT) and performance decrement (RSAdec) were determined. Leg power was determined by the peak power output (PP) during a 7-second all-out cycling test. Jump heights during the squat jump (SJ) and the countermovement jump (CMJ) were measured. Compared to the CG, PG significantly improved the RSAbest (p < 0.01), RSATT (p <0.01) and RSAdec (p < 0.001), average PP (p < 0.01) and all vertical jump performances (p < 0.001 for SJ and p <0.01 for CMJ). Biweekly plyometric training improved several aspects of RSA performance, leg power, and jumping performance during the season in elite male handball players. However, no interaction effect was found between the groups for the repeated sprint ability test (p = 0.062) or relative peak power (p=0.075). Coaches and strength and conditioning professionals should devote additional time for plyometric training in elite male handball players during the season to improve physical performance.
Effects of an Injury Prevention Program on Injury Rates in American Youth Football
Authors: Barron Mary J. , Branta Crystal F. , Powell John W. , Ewing Martha E. , Gould Daniel R. , Maier Kimberly
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this study was to determine if the time-loss (TLIR) and non-time-loss injury rates (NTLIR) in youth football were decreased by the implementation of the P.R.E.P.A.R.E injury prevention program. This study consisted of two groups: coaches and players. Some coaches took the program and select elements of the program were instituted. The injury rates (IR) in the players were compared pre and post. There was a reduction of some of the IRs during the intervention season. This reduction may be due in part to some of the coaches completing the entire program and all of the coaches instituting six elements of the program. Continued research is needed to determine if the IRs, in youth football, are consistently reduced by implementation of the program. Further research is needed to examine the impact of coaches taking and implementing the program on the reduction of injuries in other youth sports.
Athletic Performance Decreases in Young Basketball Players after Sitting
Authors: Alberti Giampietro , Annoni Massimo , Ongaro Lucio , Scurati Raffaele , Michielon Giovanni
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of prolonged sitting on the vertical jump of young basketball players. After a standard warm-up of 15 minutes, players from five basketball teams underwent countermovement jump (CMJ) and stiff leg (SL) tests (T1 time point). The tests were repeated (T2 time point) after the participants spent 20 minutes under different conditions, one by each team: playing, sitting, standing, and active while sitting. Sitting players further resumed the activity for two minutes, after which the CMJ and SL tests were repeated. Neither the playing nor the standing players showed significant differences in vertical jump capacity between T1 and T2. After being seated for 20 minutes, the jump height decreased in all seated players. After workout resumption, the sitting players' jump height was only slightly lower and not significantly different than the post-warm-up condition. Sitting on the bench after warm-up decreases the performance.
The Effects of Graduated Compression Sleeves on Muscle Performance: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Pereira Maria C. , Bottaro Martim , Brown Lee E. , Rocha-Junior Valdinar A. , Martorelli Saulo S. , Neumann Murillo , Carmo Jake
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of graduated compression sleeves on muscle performance during high-intensity exercise. Twenty-four resistance trained men were randomly assigned to one of two groups: compression sleeve (GCS, n=11) or placebo sleeve (GPS, n=13). Participants performed 4 sets of 10 unilateral maximal eccentric/concentric elbow flexion repetitions on an isokinetic dynamometer at 120°s−1 with 1 min of inter-set rest. Average torque, work and power were measured during concentric and eccentric actions. ANOVA revealed no significant interactions or main effects for group for any variable. However, values decreased significantly across sets for average torque (1st = 46.55 ± 11.11 Nm to 4th = 36.75 ± 8.78 Nm), average work (1st = 78.83 ± 18.49 J to 4th = 53.26 ± 10.04 J) and average power (1st = 52.3 ± 12.03 W to 4th = 32.59 ± 8.82 W). Therefore, the use of a graduated compression sleeve appears not enhance isokinetic elbow flexion muscle performance.
Herbert Simon on organizational decision-making for long-term survival
Authors: Harter Nathan
Published: December 2014

This essay summarizes the Harry Camp Lectures of Herbert Simon as they pertain to organizational decision-making. Organizations struggle to survive in ways not unlike organisms in the natural world, whether by means of domination or adaptation — though with the profound advantage of making conscious decisions how to adapt, rather than trusting to trial-and-error. Unfortunately, many experts in decision-making advise organizations to adopt methods for optimization that are unrealistic, if not impossible, such that the objective of survival is actually threatened by such advice.
Molecular phylogeny and taxonomy of the endolithic lichen genus Bagliettoa (Ascomycota: Verrucariaceae)
Authors: Yuzon Jennifer , Roux Claude , Lendemer James C. , Gueidan Cécile
Published: December 2014

Despite their importance in bio‐deterioration, the taxonomy of the calcicolous endolithic lichen genus Bagliettoa is still problematic, mostly because of difficult identifications and unsettled species concepts. In this study, the traditional morphology‐based species and genus delimitations were tested using the phylogenetic markers ITS, mcm7 and mtSSU. Bayesian and maximum likelihood approaches were used on a dataset of 82 specimens to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships between the eight most common species of Bagliettoa. Molecular data confirmed the placement of B. limborioides, the type of the generic name, within the clade including species usually considered as part of Bagliettoa. Five other species were monophyletic and well supported (B. baldensis, B. calciseda, B. cazzae, B. marmorea, B. parmigerella). Relationships within a clade including B. parmigera, B. steineri and specimens with intermediate characters (here referred to as B. cf. suzaeana) were not resolved and weakly supported. This species complex (also called B. parmigera s.l.) is in need of a further revision. After revision of the type material, a lectotype is chosen for Bagliettoa parmigerella. Additionally, the new combinations Bagliettoa rubrocincta and Bagliettoa suzaeana are proposed based on their morphological similarity to other species of Bagliettoa. A key to the 12 currently recognized species is provided, which will hopefully help ecologists and biogeologists to identify species from this difficult genus of endolithic lichens.
Molecular phylogenetics and morphology of Beaucarnea (Ruscaceae) as distinct from Nolina, and the submersion of Calibanus into Beaucarnea
Authors: Rojas-Piña Vanessa , Olson Mark E. , Alvarado-Cárdenas Leonardo O. , Eguiarte Luis E.
Published: December 2014

Despite the economic importance and longstanding worldwide commercialization of representatives of the Beaucarnea lineage, it remains poorly known systematically. One of the main systematic problems is lack of certainty regarding the validity of the genus itself. Some authors consider Beaucarnea a synonym of its close relative Nolina, whereas others consider Beaucarnea a distinct genus. In addition to the Beaucarnea vs. Nolina controversy, the boundary between Beaucarnea and Calibanus is an issue that has not yet been addressed. Here we show that Beaucarnea is a well‐supported entity, distinct from Nolina on molecular and morphological grounds. Additionally, we demonstrate the absence of reciprocal monophyly between Beaucarnea and Calibanus and formally include Calibanus within Beaucarnea. These decisions were based on maximum parsimony, Bayesian, and maximum likelihood analyses of datasets including ten species of Beaucarnea, two species of Calibanus, six species of Nolina, and five species of Dasylirion, with sequences from the nuclear ITS and plastid trnL‐F and ycf1 regions. Our taxonomic decisions were also based on morphological observations of herbarium specimens and on the literature. We illustrate the diagnostic features of the genera with phylogenetic character mapping. Finally, we offer a redescription of Beaucarnea to accommodate the former Calibanus species and give a key to the taxonomically valid Beaucarnea species.
Science of international law in the post-Soviet space
Authors: Стародубцев Григорий , Starodubtsyev Grigoriy
Published: December 2014

The article is dedicated to review of scientific and educational

literature on the theory of international law during the period

from 1991 to the present time. The article covers the main trends of

studying and researching of problems of international law in Russia

as well as in former Soviet republics, which today are independent

States.
«The play of gems» in pro cess of legitimation of the ruling elite: the eluding East
Authors: Скиперских Александр , Skiperskikh Aleksandr
Published: December 2014

The article contains an analysis of folk tales, revealing the

main algorithm of construction of power in the Eastern States.
Book Reviews
Authors: Phipps Fiona MacVane
Published: December 2014

Pain, Distress and the Newborn Baby by Margaret Sparshott is destined to become a required text for all neonatal intensive care students as well as a valued guide for paediatric and neonatal nurses, medics and midwives. This well researched and referenced text sensitively addresses the problem of the inevitable pain and distress experienced by preterm and ill neonates, as a direct result of the treatment designed to maintain life and prevent long term damage. The author draws on her own extensive experience in the field of neonatal nursing to examine whether the trauma and suffering experienced by the ill neon ate affect the child's future psychological health and development. By also acknowledging the anxiety and stress which neonatal staff feel as a result of necessary medical and nursing procedures, Ms Sparshott offers very practical suggestions for creating a supportive and nourishing environment within the neonatal unit.
Genetic regulation of allolysis in response to sub-lethal antibiotic stress in Streptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: DASH MANISHA , DASH HIRAK R. , DAS SURAJIT
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Dash M, Dash HR, Das S. 2014. Genetic regulation of allolysis in response to sub-lethal antibiotic stress in Streptococcus pneumoniae. Nusantara Bioscience 6: 111-117. Allolysis is the phenomenon of cell lysis induced by other cells of the same species. Gram-positive bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, a major human pathogen exhibits competence induced allolysis that increases the genetic recombination and enhances the virulence. During allolysis, a group of non-competent bacterial cells is lysed by another group of competent cells in the same culture. This process is regulated by com operon as well as bacteriocin. In this study, allolysis was induced in Streptococcus pneumoniae MTCC655 by sub-lethal dose of antibiotic (chloramphenicol) and the mechanism of allolysis has been deduced by amplification of lytA, lytC and cbpD genes in the bacterium. The strain was found to be resistant to a number of antibiotics including amoxicillin, cefpodoxime, erythromycin, and vancomycin. The early onset of allolysis induction from 7-9 h under normal conditions to 2-3 h by sub-lethal dose of chloramphenicol was observed.
Review: Emulsification properties of soy bean protein
Authors: CHEN WENPU , LI XIANG , RAHMAN MD. RAMIM TANVER , AL-HAJJ NABIL QAID M. , DEY KAMALESH CHANDRA , RAQIB SALEH MUHAMMED
Published: December 2014

Chen W, Li X, Rahman MRT, Al-Hajj NQM, Dey KC, Raqib SM. 2014. Emulsification properties of soy bean protein. Nusantara Bioscience 6: 196-202. Emulsion stability and emulsifying ability are two important factors in food industry. Soy protein has the great of interest because of its amphilic structure. Î²-Conglycinnin and glycinin are main components in soy protein which can be used as emulsifiers in food processing. However, due to its size and molecular weight, the emulsifying ability of soy protein is limited. By chemical, physical and enzymatic modification, the emulsifying ability of soy protein can be improved. The addition of polysaccharides in emulsion is common. The interaction of polysaccharides and proteins are being discussed in this review. In some complex food emulsion, the function of soy protein molecules and emulsifier at the interface need to be investigated in the future study.
Electronic Medical Record–Based Performance Improvement Project to Document and Reduce Excessive Cardiac Troponin Testing
Authors: Love Sara A , McKinney Zeke J , Sandoval Yader , Smith Stephen W , Kohler Rebecca , Murakami MaryAnn M , Apple Fred S
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND

We assessed the utilization rationale behind provider ordering of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) testing for the diagnosis of myocardial infarction after implementation of a hospital-wide serial order protocol.

METHODS

During 2 months in 2013, any request for additional cTnI testing within 30 days of the initial serial cTnI order prompted an electronic health record best practice alert (BPA), which included clinical decision support that could be bypassed by giving a clinical indication. cTnI orders were not limited (timing, number), and upon BPA, trigger data was collected for clinical indications and actions, patient stay (duration, location), International Classification of Diseases, Revision 9 diagnosis, cTnI orders, and timing of cTnI measurements.

RESULTS

The BPA was triggered 1477 times by 423 providers who cared for 702 patients. There were a mean of 3.6 cTnI results per patient, 2.1 BPAs per patient, and 1.2 visits per patient. Providers (42% of whom were residents) acknowledged and overrode the BPA 97% of the time. In response to the BPA, 65% of providers selected a prepared rationale: 64% acute coronary syndrome/ST-elevation myocardial infarction/non–ST-elevation myocardial infarction; 30% demand ischemia; and 6% non-ACS myocardial necrosis. Of the remaining 35% of providers, 71% listed no rationale for their additional cTnI orders. Of patients with a BPA, 93% had non–ACS-related primary International Classification of Diseases, Revision 9 diagnosis, and 58% of the time, patients' cTnI results never increased during their stay. In 53% of cases, BPAs were generated by a request for an additional cTnI series when <2 results were available.

CONCLUSIONS

Providers largely ignored the BPA that warned of potential overutilization of cTnI testing independent of diagnosis, including ACS.
Global Brand Architecture Position and Market-Based Performance: The Moderating Role of Culture
Authors: Talay M. Berk , Townsend Janell D. , Yeniyurt Sengun
Published: December 2014

Companies expend vast resources to create product and brand portfolios in the global marketplace. Yet knowledge of the market-based performance implications of various positions in a firm's portfolio architecture is lacking in the literature. To further the understanding of managing brands in the global marketplace, the authors develop a conceptual framework based on the tenets of signaling theory, explore the relationship between global brand architecture and market-based performance, and consider how culture moderates this relationship. The results of the analyses, from a panel data set of 165 automotive brands operating in 65 countries from 2002 to 2008, reveal that global brands perform better in the marketplace than their nonglobal counterparts. Cultural values indeed provide boundary conditions for this relationship, suggesting that alternative strategies for some markets may be advisable.
Consumers’ Response to Commercials: When the Energy Level in the Commercial Conflicts with the Media Context
Authors: Puccinelli Nancy M. , Wilcox Keith , Grewal Dhruv
Published: December 2014

This research examines how media-induced consumer activation level affects consumer response to highly energetic commercials. Over six studies, including a Hulu field experiment, the authors report that consumers who are experiencing a deactivating emotion (e.g., sadness induced by a movie) find it more difficult to watch highly energetic commercials compared with consumers who are not experiencing a deactivating emotion. As a result, consumers experiencing a deactivating emotion are less likely to watch highly energetic commercials and recall the advertiser compared with consumers who are not experiencing a deactivating emotion. The authors do not observe these effects when consumers experiencing a deactivating emotion watch commercials that are moderately energetic or when consumers do not experience a deactivating emotion. These findings suggest that when advertisers run commercials in a media context that induces a deactivating emotion (e.g., sadness, relaxation, contentment), they should avoid running highly energetic commercials (e.g., with upbeat, enthusiastic spokespeople). In addition, this research recommends that when advertisers are unable to determine the emotions induced by the media context, they should run commercials that are moderate in energy. The results of a meta-analysis across the present studies show that consumers experiencing a deactivating emotion will respond as much as 50% more favorably to moderately energetic commercials compared with highly energetic commercials.
Stability and Change in Consumer Traits: Evidence from a 12-Year Longitudinal Study, 2002–2013
Authors: Steenkamp Jan-Benedict E.M. , Maydeu-Olivares Alberto
Published: December 2014

This article examines the temporal dynamics in 11 consumer traits in a broad sample of 1,411 Dutch consumers followed for 12 years. The traits encompass consumer-specific expressions of all Big Five personality dimensions and map responses to the 4 Ps. The authors examine measurement stability and individual and population trajectories over time, as well as test–retest correlations, profile stability, and structural stability. They find that consumer traits are almost as stable as Big Five personality traits, even when measured with only a few items. Yet stability does not preclude change. The authors report notable trends that reflect the process of aging and/or changing attitudes in society over time. They disentangle both effects and find that society's changes in consumer traits are largely consistent with dynamic cultural theory. In paying special attention to the effects of the Great Recession, they find that price consciousness is most susceptible to changes in environmental conditions. Theoretical and managerial implications of the findings conclude.
Compliance of blood sampling procedures with the CLSI H3-A6 guidelines: An observational study by the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) working group for the preanalytical phase (WG-PRE)
Authors: Simundic Ana-Maria , Church Stephen , Cornes Michael P. , Grankvist Kjell , Lippi Giuseppe , Nybo Mads , Nikolac Nora , van Dongen-Lases Edmee , Eker Pinar , Kovalevskaya Svjetlana , Kristensen Gunn B.B. , Sprongl Ludek , Sumarac Zorica
Published: December 2014

An observational study was conducted in 12 European countries by the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine Working Group for the Preanalytical Phase (EFLM WG-PRE) to assess the level of compliance with the CLSI H3-A6 guidelines.

A structured checklist including 29 items was created to assess the compliance of European phlebotomy procedures with the CLSI H3-A6 guideline. A risk occurrence chart of individual phlebotomy steps was created from the observed error frequency and severity of harm of each guideline key issue. The severity of errors occurring during phlebotomy was graded using the risk occurrence chart.

Twelve European countries participated with a median of 33 (18–36) audits per country, and a total of 336 audits. The median error rate for the total phlebotomy procedure was 26.9 % (10.6–43.8), indicating a low overall compliance with the recommended CLSI guideline. Patient identification and test tube labelling were identified as the key guideline issues with the highest combination of probability and potential risk of harm. Administrative staff did not adhere to patient identification procedures during phlebotomy, whereas physicians did not adhere to test tube labelling policy.

The level of compliance of phlebotomy procedures with the CLSI H3-A6 guidelines in 12 European countries was found to be unacceptably low. The most critical steps in need of immediate attention in the investigated countries are patient identification and tube labelling.
Solvent extraction of Nd(III) in a Y type microchannel with 2-ethylhexyl phosphoric acid-2-ethylhexyl ester
Authors: Zhang Libo , Xie Feng , Li Shiwei , Yin Shaohua , Peng Jinhui , Ju Shaohua
Published: December 2014

Conventional extraction equipment has many problems like a long mixing time, a large factory area occupation, a large amount of organic solvent consumption and so on. In this paper, a micro solvent extraction system for the extraction of Nd(III) was investigated to solve the above issues. The initial aqueous pH 4.0 and saponification rate 40% of 2-ethylhexyl phosphoric acid-2-ethylhexyl ester (P507) were selected as the optimal experimental conditions. The extraction equilibrium was quickly achieved within 1.5 s, without any mechanical mixing in a narrow channel (100 μm in width and 120 μm in depth) at a volumetric flow rate from 5.55×10
Prevalence of bullying in secondary schools in Port Harcourt
Authors: Alex-Hart Balafama Abinye , Okagua Joyce , Opara Peace Ibo
Published: December 2014

Background: School bullying is a global problem involving a high proportion of students worldwide. However, its prevalence and types in secondary schools in Port Harcourt is not yet known.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and types of bullying in secondary schools in Port Harcourt.

Subjects: A total of 1160 students from six secondary schools in Port Harcourt comprised the sample.

Materials and methods: This was a cross-sectional school-based study conducted in Port Harcourt in March 2014. Two mixed schools, two all-boys schools, and two all-girls schools were selected using purposive sampling technique. Stratified random sampling technique, by class strata (senior secondary 1, 2 and 3) was used to select 1160 students from the six schools. A 22-item self-administered questionnaire adapted from a previous study was modified and used in this study. The questions covered the prevalence, type of bullying, and socio-demographic data. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 (IBM SPSS Incorporated, Chicago, IL, USA).

Results: About 82.2% reported being victims of bullying, whereas 64.9% reported being bullies. About 9.7% and 11.8% were neither bullies nor bullied, respectively. Bullying was significantly higher in the all-boys (90.8%) and all-girls (82.9%) schools than in the mixed schools (73.5%), p=0.000. More males were victims (53.4%) and bullies (53.3%) but more females (55.4%) were bully-victims. The most common (57.5%) type of bullying was physical bullying.

Conclusion: The rate of bullying was found to be very high in secondary schools in Port Harcourt.
Organocatalytic functionalisation through boron chemistry
Authors: Palau-Lluch Gerard , Sanz Xavier , La Cascia Enrico , Civit Marc G. , Miralles Nuria , Cuenca Ana B. , Fernández Elena
Published: December 2014

Diboron reagents can be activated both, from a metal or free-metal context, and consequently the addition of boryl units to unsaturated substrates proceeds sometimes with complementary selectivity. We highlight here the power of boron chemistry to functionalize molecules and provide new routes towards challenging compounds.
The Rise and Influence of Weibo (Microblogs) in China
Authors: Harwit Eric
Published: December 2014

China’s weibo community numbered more than 300 million users in 2013. This article assesses the rise and influence of microblogs from political, social, and commercial aspects. It examines ways the Chinese government has controlled microblogs, considers newer competing forms of communication, and assesses trends in Chinese digital discourse.
Achieving Effective Pandemic Response in Taiwan through State-Civil Society Cooperation
Authors: Schwartz Jonathan
Published: December 2014

In this paper, I draw on pandemic preparedness and response efforts in Taiwan as a case study to argue that the Li Zhang, a straddler institution at the local level, plays a key role in facilitating state-civil society trust and cooperation in pandemic response.
Introducing a Special Issue on the Reinvention of Food
Authors: Grasseni Cristina , Paxson Heather , Bingen Jim , Cohen Amy J. , Freidberg Susanne , West Harry G.
Published: December 2014

This introduction to a special issue forwards “the reinvention of food” as an analytical framework within which to make sense, together, of current projects valorizing “traditional” methods of food production as well as efforts to reimagine more sustainable or transparent food provisioning schemes.
Bernardino de Sahagún's Psalmodia Christiana:
Authors: Candelaria Lorenzo
Published: December 2014

In Mexico City, 1583, Pedro Ocharte published the first book of vernacular sacred song in the Americas—the Psalmodia Christiana (Christian Psalmody) by Bernardino de Sahagún, a Spanish missionary of the Franciscan Order. Sahagún composed his book of 333 songs in the Nahuatl language during the second half of the sixteenth century to promote the formation of Catholic Mexica (better known as “Aztec”) communities in the central valley of Mexico. Well-received in its day as a primer on tenets of the Catholic faith, the life of Christ, and the virtues of the saints, it was denounced before the Inquisition in the eighteenth century and has otherwise existed in the shadow of Sahagún's monumental Historia general de las cosas de Nueva España, a pioneering anthropological study of the Mexica that did not become widely available until the nineteenth century. This article repositions the undervalued Psalmodia Christiana as a polished outcome of the anthropological research for which Sahagún is most remembered, setting in relief the understudied legacy of Western plainchant in the Christian evangelization of the New World and, more broadly, the extent to which the Mexica's native traditions were folded into the apostolic work of Catholic missionaries in post-Tridentine New Spain.