bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technical Note: How long can seawater oxygen samples be stored before titration?
Authors: Lankhorst M. , Chavez G. , Nam S. H. , Send U.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. The concentration of dissolved oxygen in seawater is routinely measured using a standardized titration method that involves analysis shortly after the water sample has been collected. However, none of the existing procedural documents are specific about how soon after collection the titration has to be done. Here, we report on a small number of samples where duplicates were collected and one batch was titrated within days after collection, while the other batch was stored for several weeks before titration. In addition, for a subset of the samples a third batch was taken that was stored like the others but with a particular chemical already added before storage. Comparison between the batches confirms that there is no significant difference between the ones that were stored and the ones that were analyzed sooner, indicating that a month-long storage period is acceptable. The implication of this is that such oxygen samples do not necessarily have to be analyzed while still on the ship; instead, it is possible to transport them ashore for analysis there.
The use of soil electrical resistivity to monitor plant and soil water relationships in vineyards
Authors: Brillante L. , Mathieu O. , Bois B. , van Leeuwen C. , Lévêque J.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Soil water availability deeply affects plant physiology. In viticulture it is considered as a major contributor to the "terroir" expression. The assessment of soil water in field conditions is a difficult task especially over large surfaces. New techniques, are therefore required to better explore variations of soil water content in space and time with low disturbance and with great precision. Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) meets these requirements, for applications in plant sciences, agriculture and ecology. In this paper, possible techniques to develop models that allow the use of ERT to spatialise soil water available to plants are reviewed. An application of soil water monitoring using ERT in a grapevine plot in Burgundy (north-east of France) during the vintage 2013 is presented. We observed the lateral heterogeneity of ERT derived Fraction of Transpirable Soil Water (FTSW) variations, and differences in water uptake depending on grapevine water status (leaf water potentials measured both at predawn and at solar noon and contemporary to ERT monitoring). Active zones in soils for water movements were identified. The use of ERT in ecophysiological studies, with parallel monitoring of plant water status, is still rare. These methods are promising because they have the potential to reveal a hidden part of a major function of plant development: the capacity to extract water from the soil.
Soil d13C and d15N as a good indicator for predicting the site index of Galician pine forests (Pinus pinaster Ait. and Pinus sylvestris L.)
Authors: Fernández I. , Pérez-Ventura L. , González-Prieto S. J. , Cabaneiro A.
Published: October 2014

Stable isotopes natural abundance (13C, 15N) was studied in soils from P. pinaster Ait. and P. sylvestris L. plantations located in Galicia, NW Spain, to evaluate the use of isotopic techniques for stand quality estimation. Combinations of old/young forest plantations of high/low site index, growing on acidic soils over two different parent materials (granite/schists) were studied. Significantly lower 13C in soils under P. pinaster (–27.03‰) as compared with soils under P. sylvestris (–26.13‰) were found (P < 0.001). However, soil 15N of both species did not differ significantly. Significant linear regressions between soil 13C and site index for P. pinaster were found, pointing at the 13C signature of the soil as a good stand quality indicator, especially over schists. For P. sylvestris over schists, linear regression between soil 15N and site index suggests that 15N could be used as a complementary tool in quality determinations. As a general trend for both tree species, stands with high site index showed more depleted soils in 13C and 15N as compared with low site index stands.
Characterisation of overstocked uneven-aged stands of Abies alba Mill. in the Val d’Aran (Spanish Pyrenees). Analysis of the selection cutting treatments applied.
Authors: Aunós Alvaro , Blanco Ricardo
Published: October 2014

Analysis of the selection cutting treatments applied We describe the structure of uneven-aged silver-fir stands with a growing stock in which large diameter classes initially had an excessive representation. Silvicultural treatments were applied to correct diameter distribution trends towards a regular structure. The initial state of the forest revealed a high density in mature individuals, but no regeneration problems were detected, neither mechanical stability difficulties, in any of the stands. The selective cutting treatments concentrated mainly on trees over the 30-cm diameter class, but all diameter classes were treated. As a result of these silvicultural management actions the polewood layer was released from vertical competition. Yet, stand structure is far from irregular, which precludes to consider these stands in an equilibrium state.
Biomass accumulation and carbon sequestration after heavy mechanical thinning on post-fire Pinus pinaster seedlings (Monte ‘Fraguas’, Guadalajara, Central Spain)
Authors: Madrigal J. , Hernando C. , Guijarro M. , Díez C. , Jiménez E.
Published: October 2014

An experience has been conducted on aPinus pinaster stand in Guadalajara (Central Spain) affected by a wildfire in 1992 to evaluate biomass allocation of different seedling fractions and to quantify the differences between two heavy pine seedling mechanical thinnings. Nine permanent plots (20 m 20 m) were installed in the study area, in 2000. After measuring initial seedling density (10,000 seedlings/ha), a completely randomized block design was used. Three plots remained as control, three were treated with a heavy pine seedling thinning and the other three were treated with a very heavy pine seedling thinning. In each plot, a yearly dasonomic inventory and a biomass destructive inventory every two years, removing 10 representative seedlings of each treatment, were carried out. Multiplicative models (y = axb) have been elaborated in order to relate dasometric variables with the biomass obtained through destructive samplings. The highest correlation coefficients (from 0.80 to 0.97) were obtained for the stem groundline diameter. Results show that biomass accumulation of different seedling fractions is significantly different among treatments, being the increment of C higher with the heaviest thinning. These changes were higher the two first years after thinning. Nevertheless, Carbon sequestration of the stand was significantly higher in the control plots. Consequently, heavy thinning on post-fire Pinus pinaster seedlings makes better their vigour, and decreases forest fire hazard, but at the same time, it produces an important extraction of Carbon sequestrated.
European framework for surveillance and monitoring of habitats: a methodological approach for Spain
Authors: Bunce R. G.H. , Pérez-Soba M. , Gómez-Sanz V. , García del Barrio J. M. , Elena-Rosselló R.
Published: October 2014

There is a well defined policy requirement for a practical and reproducible procedure for surveillance and monitoring of habitats in Spain that can subsequently be fitted into a European framework. Any such procedure also needs to incorporate records of the Spanish habitat classification. A procedure is described that will satisfy those requirements and has been field tested both in Spain and in Europe. Rigorous rules and training are required; otherwise changes from baseline records cannot reliably be separated from background noise. The procedure uses the classical plant life forms long used in biogeography and is based on their statistical relationship with the environment. This relationship has been validated statistically and the procedure has also been tested in the field in all European environmental zones and widely in Spain. 130 General Habitat Categories are defined and these are enhanced in the field by recording environmental, site and management qualities to produce a flexible database that can then be interrogated. The rules for mapping the habitats mean that they can be used for descriptive purposes or for monitoring. In conjunction with stratification and subsequent sampling, national estimates of stock and change can then be produced. Finally, based on the previous experience of SISPARES, a methodological scheme is proposed for adapting the approach to Spain. The proposal will allow links to be made between European scale surveillance and monitoring to those already obtained for Spain.
Growth and longevity in Canary pine (Pinus canariensis Smith.)
Authors: Génova M. , Santana C.
Published: October 2014

This paper exposes the major results we have obtained in the dendrochronological and dendroecological analysis of Pinus canariensis that we have been developing in the Canary Islands since several years ago. We analyse the variability in tree ring formation based on a wide sampling from several natural pine forests. Applying several synchronisation techniques, recurrent dysfunctions in cambial activity resulting in total or partial missing rings have been established, and, when possible, local and individual chronologies have been built. We also analyse representative growing patterns and trends and we estimate the age structure in forest populations where dated sequences have been available. Finally, we estimate the dendrochronological age of certain monument trees by a new original method.
Conjoint analysis and natural areas: an application to the Desert de les Palmes Park
Authors: Bengochea A. , Fuertes A. M. , Del Saz S.
Published: October 2014

We use stated preference methods to analyze consumer preferences on the attributes of protected natural areas and to estimate the willingness to pay for reducing the risk of fires in the site. For the first goal, conjoint analysis is used. Three attributes are considered: biodiversity, dimension of the natural area and the economic contribution that would have to be made for its maintenance and preservation. The willingness to pay for reducing the risk of fires has been estimated using choice experiment. The data have been gathered from a mail survey conducted among people living near the Desert de les Palmes Park, a protected area located in the Valencian Community (Spain).
Impact of the efficiency in the consumption of biomass in the Chilean cellulous sector
Authors: Loaiza R. , Ortiz-Cañavate J. , Solar M. , Farias O.
Published: October 2014

On the basis of official statistics, and data obtained directly of the companies of the sector cellulose Kraft, there are shown the characteristics of the use of biomass like energetic waste matter used by the sector. There are identified volumes, sources, costs and there are obtained Specific Consumer’s indicators of Energy, for type of energy, and the impact of the efficiency in the generation of electricity. The most relevant aspects of the study reflect an inadequate energetic management and incorporation of technology only with objectives of physical increase of the production without an exact conscience that all energy saved in processes is possible to sell it as electricity. The impact of a use at minor levels of efficiency, in the consumption of energy, meant for the year 2002 a reduction of sales of surpluses of electricity of about 85%.
Quantitative differences, qualitative outcomes
Authors: Pollarolo Giulia , Gonzalez Cayetano
Published: October 2014

Fruit fly neuroblasts can either self-renew, rest or take on a specialized form, depending on the levels of a protein called Prospero.
Rethinking Research Relationships in Qualitative Research
Authors: Mitchell Terry L. , Radford Joyce L.
Published: October 2014

The research relationship within qualitative research methods, that is, the relationship between researcher and research participant, is reexamined in this paper We draw upon our own research experiences of working with high-risk individuals and vulnerable communities in reframing a discussion of the interview process. We illustrate the emotionally provocative and volatile nature of the research relationship and argue for the necessity of social research protocols which extend beyond a utilitarian research framework, the expansion of the researcher's role to include skillful navigation of the intersubjective aspects of research interviewing, and participant advocacy.
Empowerment, Crises Et Modernité
Authors: Dallaire Nicole , Chamberland Claire
Published: October 2014

L'objet de cet article est double. D'une part, il tente d'enrichir le concept d'empowerment collectif en s'inspirant de la sociologie des mouvements sociaux. Ce courant fait place au sujet et è sa capacité de donner un sens è ses expériences mais propose également des outils conceptuels pour mieux comprendre les notions de pouvoir et de conscientisation. Il est particulièrement compatible avec le nouveau paradigme de recherche constructiviste qui émerge en psychologie communautaire. D'autre part, cet article pose la question de la place qu'occupe l'empowerment dans l'intervention psychosociale. À cet effet, la recension de 200 projets de promotion-prévention de la région métropolitaine de Montréal permet d'amorcer une réponse et de s'interroger sur l'avenir des pratiques s'inscrivant dans une perspective d'empowerment.
First Nations Counsellor Training in British Columbia: Strengthening the Circle
Authors: McCormick Rod M.
Published: October 2014

First Nations people in British Columbia are struggling to overcome the effects of assimilationist practices and cultural loss. Many of the mental health problems facing First Nations people today can be traced to this loss. Their communities believe the best way to address this problem is by training their own people as mental health professionals who could then provide informed and culturally relevant counselling services. In the spring of 1996 a provincewide survey was conducted to determine the nature of counsellor training needed by First Nations people in the province of British Columbia. This article describes the rationale for this survey and the results.
Les Conditions De Réussite En Prévention/Promotion En Enfance-Famille-Jeunesse: Une Question De Justification Et De Faisabilité
Authors: Chamberland Claire , Dallaire Nicole , Lindsay Jocelyn , Hébert Jacques , Fréchette Lucie , Beaudoin Ginette , Cameron Sylvie
Published: October 2014

Des écrits portant sur les programmes performants en matière de prévention/promoition ont permis d'identifier un certain nombre de conditions de réussite. Toutefois, les programmes recensés visent surtout des populations cibles (parents adolescents, parents ou adultes qui vivent des stress); une minorité vise des milieux de vie. De plus, l'essentiel du corpus de connaissances s'articule autour de prograes bien structurés et bénéficiant de devis d'évaluation scientifique. Enfin nous ne connaissons è peu près pas les conditions de réussite des actions préventives et promotionnelles provenant des milieux comunautaires de type plus alternatif qui agissent souvent de manière plus holistique et dans certains cas sur les déterminiants plus strcuturels è l'origine des problèmes des jeuns et des familles. Cette recherche vise è documenter les conditions de réussite tel que percues par une variété d'acteurs ocuvrant dans le sectuer de prêvention/promotion en enfance-jeunesse-famille au Québec. La perception des conditions de réussite auprès de 307 intervenants ou promoteurs de projets des secteur institutionnel et communautaire est examinée. Les résultats mettent en évidence deux types de facterus; ceux reliés è la qualité des actions (le niveau de justification) et ceux reliés au contexte d'implantation (le nivequ de faisablilité).
Practical Discourse As Policy Making: An Application of Habermas's Discourse Ethics Within a Community Mental Health Setting
Authors: Willette Christine
Published: October 2014

This paper describes the application of Habermas's communication ethics in resolving an ethical dilemma that arose in the daily operation of a women's hostel. By generating the conditions of practical discourse, several obstacles to an open, non-hierarchical discussion among staff were removed. The process aided the clarification of differing views within an atmosphere of mutual respect. The discourse resulted in a modification of usual practice that might not have been achieved if an unexamined interpretation of standard policy had been applied. Some difficulties and limitations of this adaptation are also described.
Fostering Empowering Participation in Prevention Programs for Disadvantaged Children and Families: Lessons From Ten Demonstration Sites
Authors: Cameron Gary , Cadell Susan
Published: October 2014

Empowering participation is relevant to many prevention programs. Yet many attempts at empowerment proceed without any clear understanding of the nature of empowerment or the practical requirements of an empowering process. This paper draws on the extensive program-development research for two Canadian prevention projects for disadvantaged children and families: the Parent Mutual Aid Organizations in Child Welfare Project and the Better Beginnings. Better Futures Prevention Project. The lessons learned in these projects about fostering empowering participation are summarized. The paper emphasizes the necessity to respect the demanding and complex requirements of successful empowering participation as well as the need to balance empowering participation with other priorities in prevention programs and projects.
L'Intervention Auprès Des Toxicomanes Judiciarisés: Les Intervenants Et Intervenantes Se Prononcent
Authors: Schneeberger Pascal , Brochu Serge
Published: October 2014

De nombreuses études révèlent qu'un grand nombre de personnes toxicomanes commettent des activités criminelles et qu'è l'inverse, plusieurs individus judiciarisés ont développé une dépendance è une substance psychoactive. On remarque par ailleurs que les individus aux prises avec cette double problématique présentent un profil bio-psychosocial nettement plus détérioré. Face è ces personnes, les interventants et les intervenantes du Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux de mème que ceux et celles du Ministère de la Sécurité publique se sentent généralement inconfortables, ayant peu de ressources pour les aider. Cette étude présente les résultats d'une consultation par groupes de discussion auprès d'intervenants et d'intervenantes oenvrant dans ces différents ministères québécois quant è leur opinion sur les services è offrir aux contrevenants et aux contrevenantes toxicomanes. Les résultats indiquent qu'une évaluation adéquate de la problématique et de la motivation de la clientèle, qu'une bonne communication entre les intervertants et les intervenantes des divers réseaux et qu'une évaluation appropriée des différentes ressources sont des éléments essentiels è la réussite d'une intervention efficace. Les auteurs rappellent aussi la prudence qu'il faut démontrer lorsqu'intervention et controle se cotoient de façon si étroite.
L'Échelle De Dépression Postnatale D'Edimbourg: Validité Au Québec Auprès De Femmes De Statut Socio-éConomique Faible
Authors: Rivières-Pigeon Catherine Des , Séguin Louise , Brodeur Jean-Marc , Perreault Michel , Boyer Ginette , Colin Christine , Goulet Lise
Published: October 2014

Cet article évalue la validité de construit et la fiabilité d'une version québécoise de l'échelle de dépression postnatale d'Edimbourg (EPDS) auprès d'une population de mères de statut socio-économique faible. Cette échelle a été conçue spécifiquement pour mesurer la symptomatologie dépressive des mères è la période postnatale dans le but de pallier les problèmes de validité apparente que peuvent comporter les échelles conçues pour une population générale. Deux cent vingt-quatre mères recrutées dans le cadre du programme intégré de prévention et de promotion en périnatalité «Naitre égaux, grandir en santé» (Martin & Boyer, 1995) ont répondu è l'EPDS entre le 22 et le 35 jour postpartum. L'analyse factorielle confirmative, effectuée avec LISREL, fait ressortir un modèle è 2 facteurs, le premier reflétant la présence de symptômes dépressifs et le second, celle d'anxiété cognitive. Cette structure est differente de celle proposée par Cox, Holden et Sagovsky (1987), auteurs et auteures de l'EPDS. Elle correspond cependant aux résultats d'autres auteures et auteurs qui se sont penchés sur la structure factorielle de l'EPDS en utilisant l'analyse factorielle confirmative (Pop, Komproe, & van Son, 1992) et est le signe d'une bonne validité de construit. La fiabilité de l'instrument s'est également révélée satisfaisante, avec un indice alpha de Cronbach de 0.82 pour l'ensemble des questions.
Suicide Prevention in Canada: A History of a Community Approach
Authors: Leenaars Antoon A.
Published: October 2014

Suicide is a major mental health and public health problem in Canada. Canada's suicide rate ranks above average in comparison to countries around the world. The prevention of suicide predates the European presence in Canada and much can be learned from these endeavours. Current efforts grew largely from the grass roots, with little government support or initiative (with a few provincial/territorial exceptions). Canada's community efforts have been diverse and inclusive. Among such efforts have been: (a) traditional approaches among Native peoples, (b) the establishment of the first crisis centre in Sudbury in the 1960s, (c) the development of a comprehensive model in Alberta, (d) the beginning of a survivor movement in the 1980s, and (c) the national prevention efforts of the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention. There are, however, striking lacks—most notable among them the paucity of support for research in Canada. Future efforts will call for even greater community response to prevent suicide and to promote wellness.
In Times of War and Terror: Philosophical Counselling as an Alternative to Treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Schuster Shlomit C.
Published: October 2014

In this paper I question some of the ideas behind mainstream psychological help provided and advocated by the American Counseling Association in situations that can be best described as life threatening. I contrast Post-traumatic Stress Disorder treatment with what I propose as the help philosophical counsellors can offer in crisis situations. I present an elementary description of the relatively new profession of Philosophical Practice, or Philosophical Counselling, and provide examples—taken from my philosophical practice in Israel, from philosophical theory, and from philosophers' autobiographies—that give legitimacy to the claims of philosophical practitioners.
The “World Mental Health” Framework: Dominant Discourses in Mental Health and International Development
Authors: Jakubec Sonya
Published: October 2014

This paper draws on experiences and research in mental health and international development to explore a dominant “World Mental Health” discourse. This kind of analysis provides a starting place to examine the critiques and ongoing theorizing of a global mental health ideology. Seeing the field as it is socially organized (Smith, 1987, 1990a, 1999) necessitates an understanding of how an ideological “World Mental Health” is discursively arranged as part of a global undertaking to decrease poverty and increase capitalist productivity and trade. Through this exploration of the discourses in use internationally, I argue that rediscovering local truth is possible as researchers pursue and share knowledge that has as its starting place a way of knowing outside these dominant discourses.
Mechanical and Wear Properties of Sisal Fiber Cellulose Microcrystal Reinforced Unsaturated Polyester Composites
Authors: Lv Jian , Zeng Deming , Wei Chun
Published: October 2014

In this paper, sisal fiber cellulose microcrystal (SFCM) was prepared by the sulfate pulping method, and sisal fiber cellulose microcrystal/unsaturated polyester (SFCM/UP) in situ resin was polymerized. Furthermore, the SFCM/UP composite was prepared by rolling and molding techniques. Effects of SFCM content on mechanical and wear properties of the UP composites were studied. Structure and properties of the in situ SFCM/UP resin and its composites were characterized by using Fourier transform infrared, polarized optical microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and other methods. The results showed that the addition of SFCM by in situ polymerization significantly improves the thermal stability of UP: The decomposition temperature (Td5) of SFCM/UP in situ resin, at thermal weight loss of 5%, is increased by 16°C compared to that of the pure UP resin. On a condition that the SFCM content was 2%, the impact strength, flexural strength, and flexural modulus of SFCM/UP composites are higher than those of UP composites by 41.08%, 52.52%, and 32.31%, respectively. Moreover, the addition of SFCM significantly enhances the wear properties of unsaturated polyester composite at 200°C; the volume wear rate of SFCM/UP composite is lower than that of UP composites by 64%, indicating SFCM could significantly strengthen and toughen UP composites.
A 13‐year prospective cohort study on the effects of aging and frailty on the depression–pain relationship in older adults
Authors: Sanders Joost B. , Comijs Hannie C. , Bremmer Marijke A. , Deeg Dorly J. H. , Beekman Aartjan T. F.
Published: October 2014

Objectives

The primary aim of the study is to investigate the effect of age and aging on the association between pain and depression over 13 years. We hypothesized that (1) this association would become stronger with age and frailty and that (2) this association is mainly driven by somatic and psychological factors.

Methods

Data were derived from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam, a prospective population‐based cohort study with four follow‐up measurements over 13 years, consisting of 1528 respondents (mean age 67.9 ± 8.1). Depressive symptoms were measured using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale; pain was measured with an adapted version of the Nottingham Health Profile. Follow‐up time and age were used as proxy variables for aging and gait speed as frailty marker. Cognition, mastery and neuroticism were measured using the mini mental state examination, the Pearlin Mastery Scale and the Dutch Personality Questionnaire respectively.

Results

Linear mixed models showed that pain and depressive symptoms were associated over the 13‐year follow‐up: b = 0.095, p < 0.001. Neither aging nor frailty changed this association. Measured somatic and psychological characteristics explained 40% of the covariance between pain and depressive symptoms over time.

Discussion

When dealing with people suffering from pain and depression, interventions should be similar for all aged people, encompassing both somatic and psychological factors, irrespective of age or frailty status. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Effects of Leadership Style, Organizational Outcome, and Gender on Attributional Bias Toward Leaders
Authors: Lopez Edward S. , Ensari Nurcan
Published: October 2014

The current study examined the effects of leadership style (charismatic or autocratic) on followers' internal and external attributions for their organization's success or failure. In addition, role incongruence between the leadership style and gender was examined within the context of attributional error. Confirming the hypotheses, the results showed a three‐way interaction between leadership style, gender and organizational outcome. Supporting the role incongruity theory, when there was role incongruence between the leadership style and gender (i.e., the female autocratic leader), the attributions for failure were more unfavorable toward the leader. The effect of leadership style on internal attributions for failure was mediated by likeability of the leader. Overall, the current study was the first experimental investigation of the effects of leadership style, organizational outcomes, and gender on attributional biases within a single design.
Evaluation of a natural methionine source on broiler growth performance
Authors: Hayat Zafar , Rehman Abd ur , Akram Kashif , Farooq Umar , Saleem Gulbeena
Published: October 2014

BACKGROUND

Methionine, a sulfur‐containing amino acid, is essential for the health and growth of broilers, so its optimum level should be provided in broiler diets. Synthetic methionine sources used by poultry nutritionists may cause health hazards in broilers as, during conversion of synthetic methionine to the active form, homocysteine is produced which may be injurious to body tissues when there is a lack of coordination between methyl group donors and acceptors. Thus the present study evaluates the efficacy of a natural methionine source.

RESULTS

The comparative growth performance of broilers fed synthetic and/or natural methionine was observed. Results revealed that the basal diet has a lower growth performance (P < 0.05) than all other diets. However, replacement of synthetic methionine with a naturally sourced methionine has no significant effect (P > 0.05) on weight gain, feed consumption or feed conversion ratio. Serum biochemistry values and slaughter data also indicated no effect due to two different methionine sources (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study show that synthetic methionine may effectively be replaced with a naturally sourced methionine without affecting the health and growth performance of broilers. However, additional research is needed to further explore other natural sources of methionine. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Simultaneous N, C, S stable isotope analyses using a new purge and trap elemental analyzer and an isotope ratio mass spectrometer
Authors: Fourel François , Martineau François , Seris Magali , Lécuyer Christophe
Published: October 2014

RATIONALE

The evolution of stable isotope applications has demonstrated the increasing need for the determination of more than one isotopic signature from the same sample. Simultaneous determinations of 13C/12C and 15 N/14 N have become a widespread technique but up to now very few fully automated systems have offered the possibility of also measuring 34S/32S from the same sample aliquot. This could be critical when sample amounts are limited, but it could also represent a significant gain of analytical time or cost. The technique that we are presenting provides these multiple isotopic signatures on small sample aliquots with high precisions, especially for sulfur determinations.

METHODS

A high‐precision, easy and rapid method for the simultaneous measurement of carbon (13C/12C), nitrogen (15 N/14 N) and sulfur (34S/32S) ratios as well as elemental concentrations was employed, using a new combination of an elemental analyzer and an isotope ratio mass spectrometer. The elemental analyzer was based on 'purge and trap' technology rather than conventional packed‐gas chromatography (GC) gas separation. Emphasis was put on the efficiency of the system to reliably combust sulfur‐bearing compounds of both organic and inorganic origin with high conversion yields.

RESULTS

High‐quality measurement of 34S/32S ratios was obtained using various international reference materials. A working calibrated material was also selected and characterized for all three isotopic signatures in order to fully use the capacities of the system in future work.

CONCLUSIONS

The possibilities of such a system for the reliable measurement of S isotope ratios as well as N and C isotope ratios within the same aliquot of sample opens up new fields of investigation in many domains where multi‐isotopic approaches are required. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Historical Changes in Fish Assemblage Composition Following Water Quality Improvement in the Mainstem Trinity River of Texas
Authors: Perkin J. S. , Bonner T. H.
Published: October 2014

The Clean Water Act of 1972 is credited with improving water quality across the USA, although few long‐term studies tracking hydrologic, chemical, and biological responses to cleanup efforts exist. The Trinity River of Texas was plagued by poor water quality for more than a century before passage of legislation to reduce point source pollution from the Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW) Metroplex. We tracked changes in components of flow regime; concentrations of ammonia, nitrate, phosphorus, and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD); and fish assemblage composition in three mainstem reaches during a 40‐year period (1968–2008) following implementation of a large‐scale cleanup initiative. Results suggest little change in flow regime components such as magnitude, timing, and rate of change among the three reaches during 1968–2008. Concentrations of water quality parameters declined through time and with greater distance from DFW, including the lowest concentrations in the reach downstream of a mainstem reservoir (Lake Livingston). Fish assemblage composition shifts correlated with attenuated nutrient and BOD concentrations, and species richness generally increased among all reaches. Native and intolerant fishes consistently increased through time among all three reaches, although lentic and non‐native species also increased downstream of Lake Livingston. Our findings suggest a revitalization of the Trinity River fish assemblage associated with reduced nutrient pollution in DFW (even among distant reaches) and also illustrate potential confounding factors such as stream impoundment and continued nutrient deposition that likely preclude complete recovery. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
AGE MATTERS, AND SO MAY RATERS
Authors: Huang Becky H. , Jun Sun-Ah
Published: October 2014

Research on the age of learning effect on second language learners’ foreign accents utilizes human judgments to determine speech production outcomes. Inferences drawn from analyses of these ratings are then used to inform theories. The present study focuses on rater differences in the age of learning effect research. Three groups of raters who differed in their native language background and language experience participated in the study: inexperienced native English speaker (NES) raters, experienced NES raters, and advanced nonnative English speaker (NNES) raters. All raters evaluated 64 speech samples taken from both NESs and NNESs who varied in their age of arrival in the second-language-speaking country. Results from the study showed that experienced NES raters were better than the other two rater groups at distinguishing NESs from NNESs. Although no rater group differences were found in scaling speakers’ foreign accents or in their interrater reliability, inexperienced NES raters were stricter in their ratings than both experienced NES raters and advanced NNES raters. Implications for research on age of learning effects are discussed.
Gedanken-Handlungs-Fusion und Zwangssymptome–eine Validierungsstudie der Thought Action Fusion-Skala (TAF-Skala) für den deutschen Sprachraum
Authors: Hansmeier Jana , Exner Cornelia , Rief Winfried , Glombiewski Julia
Published: October 2014

Theoretischer Hintergrund: Dysfunktionale Annahmen über die Beziehung zwischen mentalen Ereignissen und Verhaltensweisen, sogenannte Gedanken-Handlungs-Fusionen, nehmen eine wichtige Rolle insbesondere in der Erforschung von Zwangssymptomen ein. Fragestellung: Struktur und psychometrische Eigenschaften der deutschen Version der „Thought Action Fusion Skala” (TAF-Skala) zur Erfassung von Gedanken-Handlungs-Fusionen wurden untersucht. Methode: Überprüft wurden verschiedene Gütekriterien an einer klinischen Stichprobe von 203 Probanden (davon 71 mit Zwangsstörung, 51 mit Angststörungen und 81 mit einer Major Depression) und einer nicht-klinschen Stichprobe (n = 300). Ergebnisse: Die Originalstruktur mit drei Skalen konnte in explorativen und konfirmatorischen Faktoranalysen bestätigt werden. Interne Konsistenzen und Retest-Reliabilitäten waren zufriedenstellend bis sehr gut, die diskriminate und konvergente Validität bedingt zufriedenstellend. Die TAF-Skala konnte gut zwischen klinischen und nicht-klinischen Probanden unterscheiden, allerdings nicht zwischen verschiedenen klinischen Stichproben. Schlussfolgerungen: Die deutsche Version der TAF-Skala ist ein zu großen Teilen valides und reliables, aber nicht zwangsspezifisches Messinstrument zur Erfassung von Gedanken-Handlungs-Fusionen und für den Einsatz in Forschung und Praxis geeignet.
Novel graphene oxide sponge synthesized by freeze-drying process for the removal of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol
Authors: Wang Jiali , Gao Xueli , Wang Yuhong , Gao Congjie
Published: October 2014

Graphene oxide (GO) spongy materials as environmental pollutant scavengers have drawn great attention owing to their ultralarge surface area, unique spongy structure and hydrogen-bonding interactions.
Membrane indentation triggers clathrin lattice reorganization and fluidization
Authors: Cordella Nicholas , Lampo Thomas J. , Melosh Nicholas , Spakowitz Andrew J.
Published: October 2014

Clathrin-mediated endocytosis involves the coordinated assembly of clathrin cages around membrane indentations, necessitating fluid-like reorganization followed by solid-like stabilization.
Average Mahler’s measure and 𝐿_{𝑝} norms of Littlewood polynomials
Authors: Choi Stephen , Erdélyi Tamás
Published: October 2014

Littlewood polynomials are polynomials with each of their coefficients in the set

{
−
1
,
1
}

\{-1,1\}

. We compute asymptotic formulas for the arithmetic mean values of the Mahler’s measure and the

L
p

L_p

norms of Littlewood polynomials of degree

n
−
1

n-1

. We show that the arithmetic means of the Mahler’s measure and the

L
p

L_p

norms of Littlewood polynomials of degree

n
−
1

n-1

are asymptotically

e

−
γ

/

2

n

e^{-\gamma /2}\sqrt {n}

and

Γ
(
1
+
p

/

2

)

1

/

p

n

\Gamma (1+p/2)^{1/p}\sqrt {n}

, respectively, as

n
n

grows large. Here

γ
\gamma

is Euler’s constant. We also compute asymptotic formulas for the power means

M

α

M_{\alpha }

of the

L
p

L_p

norms of Littlewood polynomials of degree

n
−
1

n-1

for any

p
>
0

p > 0

and

α
>
0

\alpha > 0

. We are able to compute asymptotic formulas for the geometric means of the Mahler’s measure of the “truncated” Littlewood polynomials

f
^

\hat {f}

defined by

f
^

(
z
)
:=
min
{

|

f
(
z
)

|

,
1

/

n
}

\hat {f}(z) := \min \{|f(z)|,1/n\}

associated with Littlewood polynomials

f
f

of degree

n
−
1

n-1

. These “truncated” Littlewood polynomials have the same limiting distribution functions as the Littlewood polynomials. Analogous results for the unimodular polynomials, i.e., with complex coefficients of modulus

1
1

, were proved before. Our results for Littlewood polynomials were expected for a long time but looked beyond reach, as a result of Fielding known for means of unimodular polynomials was not available for means of Littlewood polynomials.
Nod Factor Receptors Form Heteromeric Complexes and Are Essential for Intracellular Infection inMedicagoNodules
Authors: Moling Sjef , Pietraszewska-Bogiel Anna , Postma Marten , Fedorova Elena , Hink Mark A. , Limpens Erik , Gadella Theodorus W.J. , Bisseling Ton
Published: October 2014

Rhizobial Nod factors are the key signaling molecules in the legume-rhizobium nodule symbiosis. In this study, the role of the Nod factor receptors NOD FACTOR PERCEPTION (NFP) and LYSIN MOTIF RECEPTOR-LIKE KINASE3 (LYK3) in establishing the symbiotic interface in root nodules was investigated. It was found that inside Medicago truncatula nodules, NFP and LYK3 localize at the cell periphery in a narrow zone of about two cell layers at the nodule apex. This restricted accumulation is narrower than the region of promoter activity/mRNA accumulation and might serve to prevent the induction of defense-like responses and/or to restrict the rhizobium release to precise cell layers. The distal cell layer where the receptors accumulate at the cell periphery is part of the meristem, and the proximal layer is part of the infection zone. In these layers, the receptors can most likely perceive the bacterial Nod factors to regulate the formation of symbiotic interface. Furthermore, our Förster resonance energy transfer-fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy analysis indicates that NFP and LYK3 form heteromeric complexes at the cell periphery in M. truncatula nodules.
Lesson study incorporating phase-based instruction using Geometer's Sketchpad and its effects on Thai students’ geometric thinking
Authors: Adulyasas Lilla , Abdul Rahman Shafia
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– Geometry has, in many countries, proved to be one of the problematic topics in mathematics. The purpose of this paper is to report on a study that was carried to investigate the effects of lesson study incorporating phase-based instruction (LS-PBI) using Geometer's Sketchpad (GSP) on Thai students’ geometric thinking.

Design/methodology/approach

– The effectiveness of the LS-PBI using GSP within the targeted context was assessed in a quasi-experimental research approach involving three groups of mixed ability grade 7 students (12-year-olds) in one of the schools in Yala province, Thailand. These groups (Group 1: n=30, Group 2: n=28 and Group 3: n=29) were taught the topic of properties of 2D and 3D geometric shapes through phase-based instruction using GSP in turn by three different teachers. The teachers observed the lesson study teaching protocol. Data were collected using pre-test and post-test to assess students’ van Hiele level of geometric thinking. In addition, six students were selected to be observed in order to give supplementary data on their level of geometric thinking changed.

Findings

– Findings revealed that the LS-PBI was effective in improving students’ geometric thinking. Analysis of paired sample t-test showed that there was a significant difference in the pre-test and post-test scores in each group after each LS session. Analysis of covariance showed that there was a significant difference in the post-test scores among the three groups of students.

Originality/value

– The findings of this original study suggest that the LS-PBI using GSP was effective in enhancing students’ geometric thinking.
Brain-compatible, web-based information security education: a statistical study
Authors: Reid Rayne , van Niekerk Johan
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– This paper aims to demonstrate that learners prefer brain-compatible cyber security educational material, over traditional presentation methods.

Design/methodology/approach

– A prototype brain-compatible cyber security educational system was evaluated using a survey as a research instrument.

Findings

– Presenting cyber security material in a brain-compatible manner is an effective way in which to stimulate the learners’ interest, engages them in the learning experience and motivates them to learn.

Originality/value

– As far as could be determined, no previous studies showed the relevance of brain-compatible pedagogical techniques to cyber security education.
Duverger's Law in mixed legislative systems: The impact of national electoral rules on district competition
Authors: Rich Timothy S.
Published: October 2014

How do institutional factors shape district competition in mixed legislative systems? Preliminary evidence suggests the distinction between sub‐types of mixed systems alone poorly explains variation in district results. Consistent with the contamination thesis, this analysis suggests three additional national‐level factors at play: fused ballots, the electoral threshold for proportional representation seats, and the existence of compulsory voting laws. Regression analysis on an original dataset covering 90 mixed system elections in 23 countries (1990–2012) finds that while mixed member majoritarian systems correlate with fewer district candidates, these three often overlooked factors are also statistically significant. This analysis highlights the complexity of mixed systems and suggests why many of them diverge from Duverger's Law.
Biofilm formation by enteric pathogens and its role in plant colonization and persistence
Authors: Yaron Sima , Römling Ute
Published: October 2014

The significant increase in foodborne outbreaks caused by contaminated fresh produce, such as alfalfa sprouts, lettuce, melons, tomatoes and spinach, during the last 30 years stimulated investigation of the mechanisms of persistence of human pathogens on plants. Emerging evidence suggests that Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli, which cause the vast majority of fresh produce outbreaks, are able to adhere to and to form biofilms on plants leading to persistence and resistance to disinfection treatments, which subsequently can cause human infections and major outbreaks. In this review, we present the current knowledge about host, bacterial and environmental factors that affect the attachment to plant tissue and the process of biofilm formation by S. enterica and E. coli, and discuss how biofilm formation assists in persistence of pathogens on the plants. Mechanisms used by S. enterica and E. coli to adhere and persist on abiotic surfaces and mammalian cells are partially similar and also used by plant pathogens and symbionts. For example, amyloid curli fimbriae, part of the extracellular matrix of biofilms, frequently contribute to adherence and are upregulated upon adherence and colonization of plant material. Also the major exopolysaccharide of the biofilm matrix, cellulose, is an adherence factor not only of S. enterica and E. coli, but also of plant symbionts and pathogens. Plants, on the other hand, respond to colonization by enteric pathogens with a variety of defence mechanisms, some of which can effectively inhibit biofilm formation. Consequently, plant compounds might be investigated for promising novel antibiofilm strategies.
Age Progression of Neuropathological Markers in the Brain of the Chilean Rodent Octodon degus, a Natural Model of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Inestrosa Nibaldo C. , Ríos Juvenal A. , Cisternas Pedro , Tapia‐Rojas Cheril , Rivera Daniela S. , Braidy Nady , Zolezzi Juan M. , Godoy Juan A. , Carvajal Francisco J. , Ardiles Alvaro O. , Bozinovic Francisco , Palacios Adrián G. , Sachdev Perminder S.
Published: October 2014

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder and the leading cause of age‐related dementia worldwide. Several models for AD have been developed to provide information regarding the initial changes that lead to degeneration. Transgenic mouse models recapitulate many, but not all, of the features of AD, most likely because of the high complexity of the pathology. In this context, the validation of a wild‐type animal model of AD that mimics the neuropathological and behavioral abnormalities is necessary. In previous studies, we have reported that the Chilean rodent Octodon degus could represent a natural model for AD. In the present work, we further describe the age‐related neurodegeneration observed in the O. degus brain. We report some histopathological markers associated with the onset progression of AD, such as glial activation, increase in oxidative stress markers, neuronal apoptosis and the expression of the peroxisome proliferative‐activated receptor γ coactivator‐1α (PGC‐1α). With these results, we suggest that the O. degus could represent a new model for AD research and a powerful tool in the search for therapeutic strategies against AD.