bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toward multimodal ethnopoetics
Authors: Kataoka, Kuniyoshi
Published: June 2014

Multimodal analysis of discourse is a fast-developing area of linguistic research. With this trend in mind, the purpose of the current chapter is twofold: first, to briefly review previous endeavors in the study of linguistic poetics with special attention to parallelism and repetition (cf. Jakobson 1960, 1966), and to seek potential paths to expand it to multimodal analyses of natural discourse by incorporating the ideas from ethnopoetics (Hymes 1981, 1996, 2003) and gesture studies (McNeill 1992, 2005); and second, to present a sample analysis of media discourse in the framework of “multimodal ethnopoetics” by highlighting the interplay between the verbal-nonverbal coordination and the audio-visual representations. With these goals in mind, we confirm that poeticity is not a distinctive quality restricted to constructed poetry but is an endowment to any kind of natural discourse that is co-constructed by language, the body, and the environment.

Specifically, I first review some basic and extended concepts of repetition and parallelism, identifying the notion of “lines” as the fundamental criterion for conducting Hymesian ethnopoetics, in which lines are weaved into larger, culture-specific units on the “verse/stanza” levels. In addition, it is proposed that para-linguistic and nonverbal aspects of language use may (un)consciously contribute to the construction of poetic structure, typically in terms of “catchment” (McNeill 2005) and the distributional configuration of gestures (Kataoka 2009, 2010, 2012). In the latter half of the paper, we move on to examine an actual case (a Japanese TV commercial) in which poetic intentions are apparently maximized for greater appeal to the audience and larger profit from the product. The analysis indicates that the aesthetics encoded and shared therein could be an outcome of the repeated practice, accumulated and sedimented by attending to the ongoing – whether actual or virtual – participation, which is generally facilitated by favored manners of conduct, or “habitus” (Bourdieu 1990).
Keeping the promise of the Millennium Development Goals: Why language matters
Authors: Romaine Suzanne
Published: June 2014

The adoption of the Millennium Declaration in 2000 by 189 member-states of the United Nations defined a critical moment for global cooperation as leaders committed themselves to achieve eight specific development objectives known as the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by 2015. As the largest and arguably most ambitious initiative on the international development agenda, the MDGs have become the normative framework for human development, and the MDG language of goals and targets now shapes the global debate about how to define and measure development. Examination of the progress achieved thus far towards the MDGs pinpoints language at the very heart of major fault lines in the development process: those most often left behind are language minorities. Keeping the promise of the MDGs requires a new understanding of the critical role of language in human development. Because there can be no true development with linguistic development, only by putting language at the center of development can we close the gaps and meet key targets of the MDGs and other global agendas such as Education for All (EFA) and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). This article issues an urgent call for linguists to make their voices heard.
The problematization of racial/ethnic minority student participation in U.S. study abroad
Authors: Thomas M'Balia
Published: June 2014

Within U.S. higher education, there has been concern expressed about the underrepresentation of racial/ethnic minority students in U.S. study abroad programs. Though as a whole these students participate in study abroad at lower rates than their Caucasian counterparts, the fact that study abroad participation is even problematized by race/ethnicity (rather than other social categories such as gender, socioeconomic status or field of study) and the manner by which this is done warrant critical investigation. Drawing upon Foucault's concept of problematization (1984, 1988), this paper examines the discourses and practices (both discursive and nondiscursive) that mark current study abroad literature in which participation by U.S. undergraduates is tracked, categorized and ranked by race and ethnicity. It further problematizes the taken-for-granted assumptions that masquerade as truths and inhabit the methodological and analytical practices that govern research on racial and ethnic minority students, and in the process, uncovers an overarching code of thought that permeates the literature. Ultimately, this paper seeks to challenge the “truths” and counter the assumptions upon which this code of thought is based by highlighting those voices only marginally recognized in study abroad participation literature. These voices provide a local and contextualized perspective on the factors contributing to the lower rates of participation among one racial/ethnic minority category: African Americans. Although the paper does not take up the topic of language learning in study abroad contexts, it does present the real world challenge of language-in-use. It addresses the material and subject effects that a problematization of study abroad participation by race/ethnicity has on students, research practices, institutional and governmental policies, and the allocation of resources related to language study and the promotion and support of study abroad.
Foreign Investment, Institutional Quality, Public Expenditure, and Activity of Venture Capital Funds in Emerging Market Countries
Authors: Herrera-Echeverri Hernán , Haar Jerry , Estevez-Bretón Juan Benavides
Published: June 2014

This paper empirically analyzes the effects of foreign direct investment (FDI), institutional quality, and the size of a government on venture capital (VC) activity. We conclude that institutional quality, FDI, and public spending have definitive importance as elements for the development of a public policy that increases the quantity and quality of VC fund (VCF) investment. Higher institutional quality, greater FDI, and lower public spending allow the volume of VCF investment to grow. FDI shows a higher level of significance in promoting investment in high-tech companies, and institutional quality increases the productivity of FDI investment in the generation of VCF. Government spending dramatically and (counter-intuitively) adversely affects the activities of VCF. Notably, the higher the institutional quality of a country, the less state intervention is required to promote investment of VCF. The results are consistent with the hypothesis of the FDI spillover and crowding out by public spending.
Ab initio study of mechanism of forming a spiro-Si-heterocyclic compound involving Ge from (CH3)2Ge=Si: and formaldehyde
Authors: Ming Jingjing , Han Junfeng , Lu Xiuhui
Published: June 2014

(CH3)2Ge=Si: and its derivatives (X2Ge=Si:, X=H, F, Cl, Br, Ph, Ar) are a new species. Their cycloaddition reaction is a new area for the study of silylene chemistry. The mechanism of the cycloaddition reaction between singlet (CH3)2Ge=Si: and formaldehyde was investigated with the CCSD(T)//MP2/6-31G* method. From the potential energy profile, it can be predicted that the reaction has one dominant pathway. The reaction rule presented is that the two reactants first form a four-membered Ge-heterocyclic silylene through the [2+2] cycloaddition reaction. Because of the 3p unoccupied orbital of Si: atom in the four-membered Ge-heterocyclic silylene and the π orbital of formaldehyde forming a π→p donor-acceptor bond, the four-membered Ge-heterocyclic silylene further combines with formaldehyde to form an intermediate product. The Si: atom in the intermediate product is sp3 hybridized after transition state, and this intermediate isomerizes to a spiro-Si-heterocyclic compound involving Ge via a transition state.
Effect of Manganese Sulphide Size on the Precipitation of Tin Heterogeneous Nucleation in as-Cast Steel
Authors: Sun Guilin , Song Bo , Tao Sufen , Cai Zeyun
Published: June 2014

Tramp elements in steels such as tin have been thought harmful because of the hot brittleness at grain boundaries and will be enriched in new steels because of difficulty of removal. It has been an important and difficult matter for metallurgist to use these elements. In the present paper, the as-cast steel containing high concentration of tin is prepared in laboratory and tin precipitates at the manganese sulphide inclusions have been found. A theoretical model is established to calculate the size of manganese sulphide inclusions acted as the heterogeneous nucleation site of tin precipitation. The results show that the inclusions with the smaller contact angle between tin precipitate is more advantageous to be the nucleus of tin heterogeneous nucleation. In this experiment, the manganese sulphide inclusions whose size is 2~4 μm in diameter can act as the nuclei of the nucleation of tin precipitation.
Modeling Style Rotation: Switching and Re-switching
Authors: Golosov Edward , Satchell Stephen
Published: June 2014

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the dynamics and statistics of style rotation based on the Barberis–Shleifer model of style switching. Investors in stocks regard the forecasting of style-relative performance, especially style rotation, as highly desirable but difficult to achieve in practice. Whilst we do not claim to be able to do this in an empirical sense, we do provide a theoretical framework for addressing these issues. We develop some new results from the Barberis–Shleifer model which allows us to understand some of the time series properties of styles’ relative performance and determine the statistical properties of the time until a switch between styles. In conclusion, we discuss potential applications of our findings to empirical data.
Crystal structure of N'2,N'6-bis(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)-pyridine-2,6- dicarbohydrazide pentahydrate, C19H25N7O7
Authors: Li Chuan-Hui , Guo Jian-Bin , Wu Wen-Shi
Published: June 2014

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Crystal structure of tris(1,10-phenanthroline-!2N,N')cobalt(II) diperchlorate, C36H24Cl2CoN6O8
Authors: Chen Xia , Zhang Daopeng
Published: June 2014

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Peace Science: A Multiple Attribute Approach
Authors: Levy Sheldon G.
Published: June 2014

The major dependent variable in peace science research has appropriately been death from inter-group conflict with war the major focus. However, a tenable hypothesis is that the same or similar motivations result in other risks to life. For example, the number of human deaths each year from preventable nonmilitary sources is approximately 20,000,000. Most major sources that assess the loss of life from military and related conflicts identify, over a long period of time, not more than 2,000,000/year. This dependent variable may also be extended to the non-military category. For example, evidence has emerged that approximately twenty-percent of the active duty female members of the US military are sexually assaulted by other members of the military during their period of service (Dick 2012). Thus, it seems reasonable to address a variety of phenomena that may be represented by a common set of attributes. These variables should include degree of physical injury, size of acting units, and public vs. private agents. Preventable non-military death is similar to the classification for death from war except that the agents are frequently private, such as corporations. This analysis is intended to contribute to a continuing discussion of the boundaries of the peace science domain. One function of the discussion is to foster the examination of a range of behaviors that may derive from a set of basic motives and goals. The discussion section concludes with reference to the problem of understanding a central factor in inter-group conflict – identification with the group.
The New Gestural Cinema
Authors: Berry Chris
Published: June 2014

This essay examines the work of Chinese artist Yang Fudong, who often uses moving images in his art. It notes that not only has he always been interested in the gestural, but also that he has become increasingly drawn to gestural cinema. It argues that Yang Fudong’s output is a prime example of a new gestural cinema, and that this new gestural cinema is encouraged by the political economy of working on the transnational art scene, or the “artscape.” It goes on to ask how Yang Fudong has been able to deploy this new gestural cinema to his own artistic ends. Noting the debates about whether the gestural is an alternative and even redemptive language or whether it is the excess that stands beyond meaning, the essay argues that Yang’s art exercises the tension between the two potential understandings to produce his own unique effects. In Yang’s gestural cinema, the promise of meaning and narrative coherence is repeatedly invoked, and associated with the appearance of numerous figures of the modern, young, and educated individual. Yet, this promise is always frustrated, creating a structure that moves us from gesture as a way of conveying embodied experience to thinking about what meanings might attach to the gestures without imposing any particular conclusion on the spectator. This ambiguity is ethical insofar as it demands our cogitation rather than our judgment.
Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease Masquerading as Acute Demyelinating Encephalomyelitis-Like Illness
Authors: Kim Gun-Ha , Kim Kyoung Min , Suh Sang-il , Ki Chang-Seok , Eun Baik-Lin
Published: June 2014

X-linked Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMTX1) is a clinically heterogeneous hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy with X-linked transmission. Common clinical manifestations of CMTX1 disease, as in other forms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease, are distal muscle wasting and weakness, hyporeflexia, distal sensory disturbance, and foot deformities. Mutations in the connexin-32 gene (gap junction protein β1 [GJB1]) are responsible for CMTX1 disease. In this report, we describe a patient with CMTX1 disease presenting with recurrent attacks of transient and episodic acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis (ADEM)–like symptoms without previous signs of lower extremity weakness or foot deformities; the patient, as well as his asymptomatic mother, exhibited a novel GJB1 mutation (p.Met1Ile). Differential diagnosis of recurrent and transient ADEM-like illness, if unexplained, should include the possibility of CMTX1 disease.
Posterior Spinal Cord Infarction Due to Fibrocartilaginous Embolization in a 16-Year-Old Athlete
Authors: Bansal Seema , Brown Wendy , Dayal Anuradha , Carpenter Jessica L.
Published: June 2014

Spinal cord infarction is extremely rare in children, and, similar to cerebrovascular infarcts, the pathogenesis is different from adults. Spinal cord infarcts are most commonly reported in adults in the context of aortic surgery; in children, the etiology is frequently unknown. Fibrocartilaginous embolization is a potential cause of spinal cord infarct in both populations. It is a process that occurs when spinal injury has resulted in disc disease, and subsequently disc fragments embolize to the cord, resulting in ischemia and/or infarction. In this report, we present a 16-year-old athlete who presented with symptoms of acute myelopathy after a period of intense exercise. Our original concern was for an inflammatory process of the spinal cord; however, given her history of competitive tumbling and degenerative disc changes on her initial spine magnetic resonance imaging scan, diffusion-weighted imaging was performed, which demonstrated acute spinal cord infarction. Unlike many cases of spinal cord infarction, our patient was fortunate to make a near-complete recovery. This case highlights the importance of recognizing rare causes of spinal cord pathology and considering infarction in the differential diagnosis of acute myelopathy because management and prognosis varies.
Incidental Findings of Nonparentage: A Case for Universal Nondisclosure
Authors: Palmor Marissa , Fiester Autumn
Published: June 2014

We advocate for the incorporation of a new clause into the consent forms for pediatric genetic testing that clearly states that any incidental information about parentage will not be revealed, regardless of the result. Using a case of misattributed maternity, we examine both the pro- and antidisclosure arguments. In the absence of arguments that clearly demonstrate irrevocable harm from nondisclosure and against a backdrop of arguments that compellingly highlight the potential for serious harms from disclosing incidental findings of nonparentage, we advocate for a universal, institution-wide policy of nondisclosure. Our proposed policy of universal nondisclosure not only provides a viable solution to the disclosure dilemma but also empowers patients to know what testing is available to them and to seek it out on their own terms, fully informed. With an easily implemented consent change, clinics can take a clear and firm stance in the disclosure debate. As a result, patients will be protected, policy will be widely understood, and cases will be resolved consistently and clearly.
Cognitive Deficit and Mental Health in Homeless Transition-Age Youth
Authors: Saperstein Alice M. , Lee Seonjoo , Ronan Elizabeth J. , Seeman Rachael S. , Medalia Alice
Published: June 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

There is increasing recognition of the cognitive consequences of socioeconomic adversity during childhood, which can impair learning and negatively affect social and emotional development. However, there is a paucity of research on cognitive functioning and mental health among transition-age homeless youth. This study aimed to address this knowledge gap by examining the prevalence and functional significance of cognitive impairment and mental health disorders in a sample of 18- to 22-year-old homeless youth.

METHODS:

Participants (N = 73) were recruited from a vocational support program at Covenant House New York, a care agency for homeless youth. Assessments included diagnostic assessment for mental health disorders and evaluation of neurocognition and vocational outcomes.

RESULTS:

Youth demonstrated histories of academic instability, academic achievement below expectation, and high rates of untreated psychiatric disorders, the most prominent of which were anxiety, substance use, and mood disorders. Of those who had a mental health diagnosis, more than half demonstrated cognitive deficits. Performance on measures of working memory and verbal memory was <70% of that of the age-matched normative population. Cognitive impairment was associated with a significant risk for making a wage insufficient for independent living.

CONCLUSIONS:

These data confirm the need to focus on cognitive as well as emotional and physical health in transition-age youth. Comprehensive intervention at this later developmental stage has the potential to facilitate the acquisition of skills needed for academic, vocational, and independent living success in adulthood.
Readmissions Among Children Previously Hospitalized With Pneumonia
Authors: Neuman Mark I. , Hall Matthew , Gay James C. , Blaschke Anne J. , Williams Derek J. , Parikh Kavita , Hersh Adam L. , Brogan Thomas V. , Gerber Jeffrey S. , Grijalva Carlos G. , Shah Samir S.
Published: June 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Pneumonia is a leading cause of hospitalization and readmission in children. Understanding the patient characteristics associated with pneumonia readmissions is necessary to inform interventions to reduce avoidable hospitalizations and related costs. The objective of this study was to characterize readmission rates, and identify factors and costs associated with readmission among children previously hospitalized with pneumonia.

METHODS:

Retrospective cohort study of children hospitalized with pneumonia at the 43 hospitals included in the Pediatric Health Information System between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2011. The primary outcome was all-cause readmission within 30 days after hospital discharge, and the secondary outcome was pneumonia-specific readmission. We used multivariable regression models to identify patient and hospital characteristics and costs associated with readmission.

RESULTS:

A total of 82 566 children were hospitalized with pneumonia (median age, 3 years; interquartile range 1–7). Thirty-day all-cause and pneumonia-specific readmission rates were 7.7% and 3.1%, respectively. Readmission rates were higher among children <1 year of age, as well as in patients with previous hospitalizations, longer index hospitalizations, and complicated pneumonia. Children with chronic medical conditions were more likely to experience all-cause (odds ratio 3.0; 95% confidence interval 2.8–3.2) and pneumonia-specific readmission (odds ratio 1.8; 95% confidence interval 1.7–2.0) compared with children without chronic medical conditions. The median cost of a readmission ($11 344) was higher than that of an index admission ($4495; P = .01). Readmissions occurred in 8% of pneumonia hospitalizations but accounted for 16.3% of total costs for all pneumonia hospitalizations.

CONCLUSIONS:

Readmissions are common after hospitalization for pneumonia, especially among young children and those with chronic medical conditions, and are associated with substantial costs.
Death of a Child in the Emergency Department
Authors: O’Malley Patricia , Barata Isabel , Snow Sally ,   AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS Committee on Pediatric Emergency Medicine,   AMERICAN COLLEGE OF EMERGENCY PHYSICIANS Pediatric Emergency Medicine Committee,   and EMERGENCY NURSES ASSOCIATION Pediatric Committee, Shook Joan E. , Ackerman Alice D. , Chun Thomas H. , Conners Gregory P. , Dudley Nanette C. , Fuchs Susan M. , Gorelick Marc H. , Lane Natalie E. , Moore Brian R. , Wright Joseph L. , Benjamin Lee S. , Barata Isabel A. , Alade Kiyetta , Arms Joseph , Avarello Jahn T. , Baldwin Steven , Brown Kathleen , Cantor Richard M. , Cohen Ariel , Dietrich Ann Marie , Eakin Paul J. , Gausche-Hill Marianne , Gerardi Michael , Graham Charles J. , Holtzman Doug K. , Hom Jeffrey , Ishimine Paul , Jinivizian Hasmig , Joseph Madeline , Mehta Sanjay , Ojo Aderonke , Paul Audrey Z. , Pauze Denis R. , Pearson Nadia M. , Rosen Brett , Russell W. Scott , Saidinejad Mohsen , Sloas Harold A. , Schwartz Gerald R. , Swenson Orel , Valente Jonathan H. , Waseem Muhammad , Whiteman Paula J. , Woolridge Dale , Snow Sally K. , Vicioso Michael , Nagle Jason T. , Renaker Anne M. , Tomoyasu Flora , Cadwell Sue , Herrin Shari , Brecher Deena
Published: June 2014

This Technical Report was reaffirmed November 2024.

The death of a child in the emergency department (ED) is one of the most challenging problems facing ED clinicians. This revised technical report and accompanying policy statement reaffirm principles of patient- and family-centered care. Recent literature is examined regarding family presence, termination of resuscitation, bereavement responsibilities of ED clinicians, support of child fatality review efforts, and other issues inherent in caring for the patient, family, and staff when a child dies in the ED. Appendices are provided that offer an approach to bereavement activities in the ED, carrying out forensic responsibilities while providing compassionate care, communicating the news of the death of a child in the acute setting, providing a closing ritual at the time of terminating resuscitation efforts, and managing the child with a terminal condition who presents near death in the ED.
Plant hormones, plant growth regulators
Authors: Végvári György , Vidéki Edina
Published: June 2014

Plants seem to be rather defenceless, they are unable to do motion, have no nervous system or immune system unlike animals. Besides this, plants do have hormones, though these substances are produced not in glands. In view of their complexity they lagged behind animals, however, plant organisms show large scale integration in their structure and function. In higher plants, such as in animals, the intercellular communication is fulfilled through chemical messengers. These specific compounds in plants are called phytohormones, or in a wide sense, bioregulators. Even a small quantity of these endogenous organic compounds are able to regulate the operation, growth and development of higher plants, and keep the connection between cells, tissues and synergy beween organs. Since they do not have nervous and immume systems, phytohormones play essential role in plants’ life. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(26), 1011–1018.
The diagnosis of hepatitis C viral infection
Authors: Gervain Judit
Published: June 2014

The successful therapy of hepatitis C viral infection requires that the illness is diagnosed before the development of structural changes of the liver. Testing is stepwise consisting of screening, diagnosis, and anti-viral therapy follow-up. For these steps there are different biochemical, serological, histological and molecular biological methods available. For screening, alanine aminotransferase and anti-HCV tests are used. The diagnosis of infection is confirmed using real-time polymerase chain reaction of the viral nucleic acid. Before initiation of the therapy liver biopsy is recommended to determine the level of structural changes in the liver. Alternatively, transient elastography or blood biomarkers may be also used for this purpose. Differential diagnosis should exclude the co-existence of other viral infections and chronic hepatitis due to other origin, with special attention to the presence of autoantibodies. The outcome of the antiviral therapy and the length of treatment are mainly determined by the viral genotype. In Hungary, most patients are infected with genotype 1, subtype b. The polymorphism type that occurs in the single nucleotide located next to the interleukin 28B region in chromosome 19 and the viral polymorphism type Q80K for infection with HCV 1a serve as predictive therapeutic markers. The follow-up of therapy is based on the quantitative determination of viral nucleic acid according to national and international protocols and should use the same method and laboratory throughout the treatment of an individual patient. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(26), 1019–1023.
Bioinspired Functionally Graded Nanocomposites Synthesized Through Magnetophoretic Processes for Tailored Stress Reduction
Authors: Nardi Tommaso , Leterrier Yves , Månson Jan-Anders E.
Published: June 2014

Through a unique combination of magnetophoretic and photopolymerization processes, approximately 150 μm thick functionally graded films based on a UV-curable matrix and containing Fe3O4@SiO2 core-shell nanoparticles are synthesized. Owing to their continuous composition gradients and to the considerable variations in elastic modulus (up to ≈70 %) when going from particle-depleted to particle-enriched regions, such materials are highly efficient in reducing the mechanical stress arising from thermal variations, therefore improving the material efficiency towards durability and delamination problems.
Ecosystem‐Specific Composition of Dissolved Organic Matter
Authors: Roth Vanessa-Nina , Dittmar Thorsten , Gaupp Reinhard , Gleixner Gerd
Published: June 2014

We investigated the molecular composition of dissolved organic matter (DOM) from various rivers, bogs and soil sites to test for their ecosystems unique molecular patterns. This information is prerequisite for searching of new marker compounds that might help tracing the fate of ecosystem‐derived organic matter from terrestrial to marine systems. We used electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (ESI‐FT‐ICR‐MS) to identify the ecosystem‐specific molecular DOM characteristics. We investigated 39 samples and explored their patterns through nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMDS). Based on the intrasystem similarity, we identified unique molecular formulae for each ecosystem and compared their main characteristics. Our data indicate a pH influence on all samples and possibly a vegetation influence on soil water samples. We interpreted the lack of nitrogen‐containing compounds in the surface water and the lower molecular size in the soil water with higher microbial activity and reworking in soils and the lack of aromatic compounds in surface waters as the result of photo degradation. Our results demonstrate that this approach is suitable for resolving ecosystem‐specific markers; the tannin molecular formulae seemed to be particularly suited markers for forest systems. However, we emphasize that it is necessary to collect a larger number of samples and reasonable environmental parameters to explain the distinctive molecular features and evaluate new markers. Aside from the ecosystem‐specific features, we also found a suite of compounds that were present in all samples, indicating the convergent evolution of terrestrial DOM for a wide gradient of physicochemical and biological features. The molecular formulae of these ubiquitous compounds match those of carboxyl‐rich alicyclic molecules (CRAM), but distinction from lignin is only possible by applying methods that elucidated the molecular structure.
Response of Dissolved Organic Matter in the Forest Floor of a Temperate Spruce Stand to Increasing Throughfall
Authors: Klotzbücher Thimo , Kaiser Klaus , Kalbitz Karsten
Published: June 2014

In temperate spruce forests, dissolved organic matter (DOM) from forest floors is the major source of organic matter entering the mineral soil and thus it determines important soil properties and element cycling through the ecosystem. We examined effects of doubling locally collected throughfall for 6 yr on the concentrations of dissolved organic C (DOC) and properties of DOM (aromaticity, degree of molecule complexity) in the forest floor. Forest floor solutions below the Oi, Oe, and Oa horizons were sampled every 2 to 4 wk using tension lysimeters. For the controls, the average DOC concentrations in 2002 to 2007 were 43.8 ± 2.6 mg L−1 below the Oi, 49.6 ± 2.7 mg L−1 below the Oe, and 61.0 ± 2.0 mg L−1 below the Oa horizon. Doubling throughfall resulted in average DOC concentrations of 37.4 ± 1.8 mg L−1 (Oi), 49.3 ± 1.6 mg L−1 (Oe), and 50.1 ± 8.0 mg L−1 (Oa). The decreases in concentrations due to throughfall addition as well as the effects on DOM properties were, however, not statistically significant. It is commonly assumed that throughfall inputs are linearly related to water fluxes within and from the forest floor. Under that assumption, the results suggest that DOM fluxes are controlled by water fluxes rather than by the quantity of C that can be mobilized from the soil organic matter. Hence, increasing precipitation due to future climate changes presumably will result in enhanced DOM fluxes into the mineral horizons.
Polyphosphate‐ and Glycogen‐Accumulating Organisms in One EBPR System for Liquid Dairy Manure
Authors: Liu Ze‐hua , Pruden Amy , Ogejo Jactone Arogo , Knowlton Katharine F.
Published: June 2014

Two enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) sequencing batch reactors (SBR1, SBR2) treating liquid dairy manure were operated with the same hydraulic retention time (HRT) and solids retention time (SRT), but with different aeration cycles. During eight months of operation, both SBRs achieved good removal of total phosphorus (P) (TP; 56.8 and 73.5% for SBR1 and SBR2 respectively) and of orthophosphate (OP; 76.2 vs. 82.7%, P < 0.05). Growth dynamics of presumptive phosphate‐accumulating organisms (PAOs) and glycogen‐accumulating organisms (GAOs) were examined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). SBR1 was enriched with a greater abundance of PAOs while SBR2 was characterized by a greater abundance of GAOs. These results demonstrate the capability of EBPR of dairy manure and challenge conventional wisdom, since greater abundance of PAOs in EBPR system was not associated with improved OP removal and greater abundance of GAOs did not indicate deterioration of the EBPR system.
Methylmercury Accumulation and Toxicity to Cyanobacteria: Implications of Extracellural Polymeric Substances and Growth Properties
Authors: Chen Ho‐Wen , Wu Yi‐Yan , Li You‐Xuan , Huang Winn‐Jung
Published: June 2014

This investigation examines how extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) and environmental factors influence the bioaccumulation of monomethylmercury (MMeHg) using a culture of Microcystis aeruginosa, which dominates eutrophic reservoir populations. The identified EPSs were classified as carbohydrates and proteins. Evaluation of the bioaccumulation of MMeHg in cells by multiple regression analysis reveals that the concentration of EPSs in filtrate, the initial concentration of MMeHg in media, and the age of the culture significantly affected the amount of accumulation of MMeHg. Based on the composition profiles, the concentrations of soluble carbohydrates were significantly higher in the cells with bioaccumulated MMeHg than in the control ones. Preliminary results based on SEM‐map investigations suggest that most of the MMeHg accumulated in the cytoplasm (intracellular). Additionally, the effective concentrations (EC50) of MMeHg that inhibit the growth of M. aeruginosa were 5.1 to 7.8 μg/L in the logarithmic phase and 2.5 to 4.6 μg/L in the stationary phase.
Service Quality, Perceived Value, Customer Satisfaction, and Behavioral Intention Among Fitness Center Members Aged 60 Years and Over
Authors: Yu Hyun Soon , Zhang James J. , Kim Dae Hyun , Chen Kenny K. , Henderson Chris , Min Sophia D. , Huang Haiyan
Published: June 2014

Our aim in this study was to examine the structural relationships among service quality, perceived value, customer satisfaction, and behavioral intention. Participants, who were all aged 60 years or older and who were members of a sport and fitness center, completed surveys to assess
these relationships. Scanning electron microscopy results showed that provision of high-quality services for older adult consumers in a sport and fitness center elevated perceived value, enhanced customer satisfaction, reduced complaint behavior, and ultimately increased the likelihood of
renewed membership and continued use of the center facilities.
Campus Job Suppliers' Preferred Personality Traits of Chinese Graduates: A Grounded Theory Investigation
Authors: Jia Lijun , Xu Yun , Wu Meijuan
Published: June 2014

In this study we examined the preferred personality traits of Chinese university graduates from the perspective of job suppliers during the campus recruitment season. We collected data from 689 job specifications posted by companies on 3 well-known campus recruitment websites in China.
We also introduced the concept of big data. The results, obtained using grounded theory, revealed that suppliers' desired personality characteristics include self-motivation, self-balance, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and openness to experience. These types of personality traits are helpful
to increase undergraduates' chances of employment and improve their employability.
Classroom Assessment: Teacher Practices, Student Perceptions, and Academic Self-Efficacy Beliefs
Authors: Alkharusi Hussain , Aldhafri Said , Alnabhani Hilal , Alkalbani Muna
Published: June 2014

We examined the effects of teachers' classroom assessment practices and students' perceptions of assessment tasks on students' academic self-efficacy beliefs as 1 dimension of student academic motivation. Participants (N = 1,457) were students sourced from 99 classrooms of public
secondary schools in Oman. Results of multilevel analysis showed that student academic self-efficacy beliefs were significantly and positively influenced by students' perceptions of the assessment tasks. Specifically, congruence with planned learning, authenticity, transparency, and diversity
all had significant positive influences on self-efficacy beliefs, as did frequent communication by the teacher about the assessment with students and teachers' frequent use of nonachievement grading factors. Implications are discussed for classroom practices and research related to classroom
assessment.
Types of Poverty and Entrepreneurial Intention in Bangladesh
Authors: Chen Shouming , Shen Yuliang , Naznin Papiya , Wang Hui , Wu Sibin
Published: June 2014

We used the theory of planned behavior to hypothesize how economic poverty and perceived poverty predict college students' intention to start businesses. Based on the argument that entrepreneurial intention will be based on perception of both feasibility and desirability of a business
venture, we tested whether or not people experiencing different types of poverty (the poor, the unsatisfied, and the complacent) have a different degree of likelihood of starting up a business. We collected data from a sample of 350 students in Bangladesh. Our results showed that the poor
were the most likely to start a business after graduation, followed by the unsatisfied, and the complacent had the lowest score for probability of starting a business after graduation. Findings and implications of the study are discussed.
Pleiotropic Mechanisms for the Glucose-Lowering Action of DPP-4 Inhibitors
Authors: Omar Bilal , Ahrén Bo
Published: June 2014

Dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)-4 inhibition is a glucose-lowering treatment for type 2 diabetes. The classical mechanism for DPP-4 inhibitors is that they inhibit DPP-4 activity in peripheral plasma, which prevents the inactivation of the incretin hormone glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 in the peripheral circulation. This in turn increases circulating intact GLP-1, which results in stimulated insulin secretion and inhibited glucagon secretion, in turn increasing glucose utilization and diminishing hepatic glucose production, which, through reduction in postprandial and fasting glucose, reduces HbA1c. However, recent experimental studies in mainly rodents but also to a limited degree in humans have found additional mechanisms for DPP-4 inhibitors that may contribute to their glucose-lowering action. These nonclassical mechanisms include 1) inhibition of gut DPP-4 activity, which prevents inactivation of newly released GLP-1, which in turn augments GLP-1-induced activations of autonomic nerves and results in high portal GLP-1 levels, resulting in inhibited glucose production through portal GLP-1 receptors; 2) inhibition of islet DPP-4 activity, which prevents inactivation of locally produced intact GLP-1 in the islets, thereby augmenting insulin secretion and inhibiting glucagon secretion and possibly preventing islet inflammation; and 3) prevention of the inactivation of other bioactive peptides apart from GLP-1, such as glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide, stromal-derived factor-1α, and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide, which may improve islet function. These pleiotropic effects may contribute to the effects of DPP-4 inhibition. This Perspectives in Diabetes outlines and discusses these nonclassical mechanisms of DPP-4 inhibition.
Effect of Salsalate on Insulin Action, Secretion, and Clearance in Nondiabetic, Insulin-Resistant Individuals: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Kim Sun H. , Liu Alice , Ariel Danit , Abbasi Fahim , Lamendola Cindy , Grove Kaylene , Tomasso Vanessa , Ochoa Hector , Reaven Gerald
Published: June 2014

OBJECTIVE

Salsalate treatment has been shown to improve glucose homeostasis, but the mechanism remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of salsalate treatment on insulin action, secretion, and clearance rate in nondiabetic individuals with insulin resistance.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a randomized (2:1), single-blind, placebo-controlled study of salsalate (3.5 g daily for 4 weeks) in nondiabetic individuals with insulin resistance. All individuals had measurement of glucose tolerance (75-g oral glucose tolerance test), steady-state plasma glucose (SSPG; insulin suppression test), and insulin secretion and clearance rate (graded-glucose infusion test) before and after treatment.

RESULTS

Forty-one individuals were randomized to salsalate (n = 27) and placebo (n = 14). One individual from each group discontinued the study. Salsalate improved fasting (% mean change −7% [95% CI −10 to −14] vs. 1% [−3 to 5], P = 0.005) but not postprandial glucose concentration compared with placebo. Salsalate also lowered fasting triglyceride concentration (−25% [−34 to −15] vs. −6% [−26 to 14], P = 0.04). Salsalate had no effect on SSPG concentration or insulin secretion rate but significantly decreased insulin clearance rate compared with placebo (−23% [−30 to −16] vs. 3% [−10 to 15], P < 0.001). Salsalate was well tolerated, but four individuals needed a dose reduction due to symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Salsalate treatment in nondiabetic, insulin-resistant individuals improved fasting, but not postprandial, glucose and triglyceride concentration. These improvements were associated with a decrease in insulin clearance rate without change in insulin action or insulin secretion.
Evaluation of an improved sustained-release buprenorphine formulation for use in mice
Authors: Healy Jason R. , Tonkin Jennifer L. , Kamarec Stacey R. , Saludes Mitchell A. , Ibrahim Sherif Y. , Matsumoto Rae R. , Wimsatt Jeffrey H.
Published: June 2014

Objective—To evaluate analgesic effects of an improved sustained-release buprenorphine (BUP-SR) formulation administered to mice.

Animals—36 male Swiss-Webster mice.

Procedures—Mice were assigned to each of 3 treatment groups (n = 12 mice/group). Treatments were administered SC (vehicle [control treatment], 1.5 mg of buprenorphine hydrochloride [BUP-HCl]/kg, and 1.5 mg of BUP-SR/kg). Mice were evaluated (total activity, gastrointestinal tract motility, respiratory rate, cataleptic behavior, and tall-flick and hot plate nociception tests) to determine behavioral and physiologic responses at 4, 24, and 48 hours after treatment administration. Body weight and respiratory rate were measured before and at each time point after treatment administration.

Results—SC administration of BUP-SR resulted in significant antinociception effects for 48 hours for the hot plate and tall-flick nociception tests without substantial adverse effects. Gastrointestinal tract motility and total activity were higher at 4 hours for mice receiving BUP-SR than for mice receiving the vehicle, but values were the same between these groups at 24 and 48 hours. The BUP-SR group had a lower respiratory rate than did the control group at all times after treatment administration. Mice treated with BUP-SR had no significant changes in body weight during the study, whereas mice treated with BUP-HCl had a significant decrease in body weight at 24 and 48 hours.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—BUP-SR administration resulted in antinociception effects for 48 hours. Results of this study indicated that the improved BUP-SR formulation could be safely administered SC and conferred superior analgesia, compared with that for BUP-HCl, in mice.
Characterization of IgE-mediated cutaneous immediate and late-phase reactions in nonallergic horses
Authors: Woodward Michelle C. , Andrews Frank M. , Kearney Michael T. , Del Piero Fabio , Hammerberg Bruce , Pucheu-Haston Cherie M.
Published: June 2014

Objective—To characterize the response of skin of nonallergic horses following ID injection of polyclonal rabbit anti-canine IgE (anti-IgE) and rabbit IgG.

Animals—6 healthy horses.

Procedures—Skin in the cervical area was injected ID with anti-IgE and IgG. Wheal measurements and skin biopsy specimens were obtained before and 20 minutes and 6, 24, and 48 hours after injection. Tissue sections were evaluated for inflammatory cells at 4 dermal depths. Immunohistochemical analysis for CD3, CD4, and CD8 was performed, and cell counts were evaluated.

Results—Anti-IgE wheals were significantly larger than IgG wheals at 20 minutes and 6 and 24 hours after injection. There were significantly more degranulated mast cells after anti-IgE injection than after IgG injection. There were significantly more eosinophils at 6, 24, and 48 hours and neutrophils at 6 hours after anti-IgE injection, compared with cell numbers at those same times after IgG injection. There were significantly more eosinophils in the deeper dermis of anti-IgE samples, compared with results for IgG samples. No significant differences between treatments were detected for CD3+, CD4+, or CD8+ cells.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Injection of anti-IgE antibodies was associated with the development of gross and microscopic inflammation characterized by mast cell degranulation and accumulation of inflammatory cells, particularly eosinophils and neutrophils. This pattern appeared to be similar to that of horses with naturally developing allergic skin disease, although lymphocytes were not increased; thus, ID injection of anti-IgE in horses may be of use for evaluating allergic skin diseases of horses.
Direct comparison of solid-phase gastric emptying times assessed by means of a carbon isotope–labeled sodium acetate breath test and technetium Tc 99m albumin colloid radioscintigraphy in healthy cats
Authors: Schmitz Silke , Götte Birte , Borsch Christian , Kunz Clemens , Failing Klaus , Neiger Reto
Published: June 2014

Objective—To directly compare solid-phase gastric emptying times assessed by means of a [13C]sodium acetate breath test ([13C]-SABT) and technetium Tc 99m albumin colloid radioscintigraphy (99mTc-ACR) in healthy cats.

Animals—12 healthy cats.

Procedure—After ingestion of a test meal containing 50 mg of [13C]sodium acetate and 250 MBq of 99mTc-albumin colloid, each cat underwent simultaneous [13C]-SABT and 99mTc-ACR on 2 consecutive days. Breath samples and scintigrams were acquired at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180, 210, 240, 300, 360, 480, and 600 minutes after meal ingestion. Quartiles of gastric emptying (25%, 50%, and 75%) were calculated for breath test analysis by use of the area under the curve of the 13C:12C ratio. Quartiles of gastric emptying times were extrapolated from the scintigraphic findings by beans of nonlinear curve regression analysis.

Results—Mean ± SD gastric half-emptying (50%) times obtained with [13C]-SABT and 99mTc-ACR, were 239 ± 28 minutes and 276 ± 59 minutes, respectively. A 2-way repeated-measures ANOVA revealed that mean gastric emptying times determined with [13C]-SABT and 99mTc-ACR differed significantly. For the stages of gastric emptying, Pearson correlation between the 2 methods was good at 25% (r = 0.655) and weak at 50% (r = 0.588) and 75% (r = 0.566)of gastric emptying.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that the [13C]-SABT can be a valid alternative to 99mTc-ACR in healthy cats; it was easy to perform, was tolerated well by the cats, and had acceptable correlation to scintigraphic findings at gastric emptying of 25%, 50% and 75%. Studies in cats with delayed gastric emptying will be needed to verify the validity of the [13C]-SABT.