bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fisheries, fish culture, tilapias and politics
Authors: Fernando C.H. , Gurgel J.J.S.
Published: May 2015

In the past few years much attention has been focused on dwindling marine fish stocks and the means available to counter the effects of this growing problem. Over fishing has been targeted as the main cause. Many newspaper and magazine articles on the subject of over fishing have been added to the growing scientific journal publications and books. Conservation measures are being implemented but their impacts will very likely not reverse the trend. One option to provide more fish for human consumption is through fish culture which, since traditional techniques began to be modernized in earnest in the 1950's, has been expanding rapidly. With the exception of production in China, efforts with the major carps have not been very productive, especially in tropical countries, and these and several other fishes currently in culture have relatively limited possibilities of substituting the shortfall of marine fish in the future. The tilapias, on the other hand, have shown much greater potential recently, and are increasingly marketed worldwide. In two or three decades, farming tilapias may prove to be the means of supplying a large quantity of fish to fill the increasing gap between demand and supply. Furthermore, tilapias can contribute additional resources through integration with traditional reservoir fisheries and rice-fish culture. This paper explores these growing changes in tilapia culture and inland fisheries especially in the tropics. We do not claim any deep knowledge nor are we predicting the economical and sociological impacts of the winds of change affecting fisheries worldwide.
Lipid composition and fatty acid profiles of wild caught and cultured black tiger shrimp, Penaeus monodon, in Sri Lanka
Authors: Croos M.D.S.T. De , Jayasinghe J.M.P.K. , Edirisinghe E.M.R.K.B. , De Silva D.N.
Published: May 2015

Lipid levels and fatty acid profiles in the flesh of wild caught and cultured Penaeus monodon were analyzed using, gas chromatography. The mean percentage lipid level of cultured P. monodon (3.9% ± 0 2 dry weight) was not significantly higher than that of the wild caught P. monodon (3.7% ± 0.1). The fatty acid profiles of wild caught and cultured shrimp were found to be significantly different from each other. The predominant fatty acids found in the flesh of both groups were Palmitic acid (16:0), Stearic acid (18:0), Oleic acid (18: ln-9), Vaccenic acid (18: ln-7), Linoleic acid (18:2n­6), Arachidonic acid-Omega-6 (20:4n-6), Eicosapentaenoic acid-Omega-3 (20:5n-3), and Docosahexaenoic acid-Omega-3 (22:6n-3). Total saturated fatty acids (38.12% ± 1.59) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (18.31% ± 1.57) contents were not significantly different in wild caught and reared P. monodon while monounsaturated fatty acid levels (44.82% ± 1.41) were significantly higher in wild caught P. monodon. Palmitoleic (C16:1), Heptadecenoic (C17:1), Myristoleic (C14:1), Vaccenic (C18: 1n-7), Hexadecatetaenoic (C16:4n-3), Alpha linoleic Omega-3 (C18:23n-3), Stearidonic (C18:4n-3), Docosatetraenoic (C22:4n-6), Docosapentaenoic (C22:5n-6) and Arachidonic Omega-6 (20:4n-6) contents were significantly high in wild caught shrimp, while Linoleic Omega-6 (18:2n-6) and Docosahexaenoic Omega-3 (22:6n-3) were significantly high in cultured shrimp.
Assessment of toxic heavy metal levels in black tiger shrimp, Peneaus monodon cultured in the northwestern province of Sri Lanka
Authors: Senadheera S.P.S.D. , Pathiratne K.A.S.
Published: May 2015

The aim of this study was to determine the levels of three toxic heavy metals; lead, cadmium and chromium in the muscle tissue of the shrimp, Penaeus monodon cultured in the North Western Province (NWP) of Sri Lanka to examine whether the levels of these toxic heavy metals exceed the permissible/guide levels stipulated in the established quality guidelines for human consumption. Lead, cadmium and chromium concentrations in the muscle tissue of the shrimp, P. monodon from selected farms that fed from four selected water sources (Puttalam lagoon, Dutch canal, Mundal lagoon and Gembarandiya lagoon) in the NWP were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry using standard analytical procedures.The levels (Mean±SEM) of lead, chromium and cadmium in the muscle tissue of the shrimp (in µg g-1 wet weight) were 0.096±0.024, 0.200±0.004 and 0.057±0.004 respectively. Even though water source-wise differences could not be detected in relation to the cadmium levels, lead and chromium levels in the shrimp tissue cultured in water from the four water sources were significantly different from each other. However, none of these metals in the shrimp tissue exceeded the maximum permissible levels or the guide levels established by the statutory authorities under fish import/export regulations. The present study indicates that there is no risk of intake of these metals from the shrimp, P. monodon cultured in the NWP of Sri Lanka as the current residue levels in the muscle tissue of the shrimp are within the safety permissible levels for human consumption.
Limnology of Kandy Lake before the outbreak of a cyanobacteria bloom in May 1999. III. Phytoplankton composition and succession
Authors: Silva E.I.L. , Samaradiwakara S.R.M.S.
Published: May 2015

Composition and succession of the phytoplankton community in Kandy lake were examined from September 19% to August 1998, with a view to understand the community structure and its seasonal and spatial distribution patterns. Thirty-seven species of phytoplankton belonging to eight taxonomic groups were identified. The number of species per sampling occasion ranged from 15 to 25 with an average of 20. There were 15 Chlorophyceae species but only seven species were important in the community structure. Pediastrum simplex appeared as either dominant or sub-dominant species. Cyanophyceae, the second most important group was represented by nine species with moderate densities of Micorcystis aeruginosa and Merismopedia punctata. The diatom, Aulacoseira granulata, was also found as either a dominant or a sub-dominant species with three other diatom species of minor importance.The occurrence of A. granulata and P. simplex showed a rhythmic oscillation under wet and dry weather conditions until the latter was curtailed by other species from April 1998 onwards. The phytoplankton density was low during the peak rainy season. Four functional species of phytoplankton were identified. These were a) large chain forming centric diatom, A. granulata dominating during the wet weather (K-strategist); b) a colony forming Chlorophyceae, i.e., P. simplex common during the dry weather (K-strategist); c) Colony forming Cyanobacteria namely scum forming M. aeruginosa (r-strategist); and d) M. punctata, a small colony forming non-heterocystous cyanobacteria, appearing in moderate numbers throughout the year (K-strategist).
Microbiological quality of fresh and frozen cultured black tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) cultured in Sri Lanka
Authors: Ariyawansa K.W.S. , Hettiarachchi K.S. , Jayasooriya S.P.
Published: May 2015

The prevalence of the pathogenic bacteria, Salmonella sp. Vibrio cholerae, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, total conforms, faecal coliforrns and Escherichia coli in cultured shrimp, pond sediments, water and the pelleted feed were analysed. Raw frozen shrimps were also analysed for total plate count, coliforms, faecal coliforms, E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio cholerae.In shrimp, water and sediments the total coliform counts were <3- 93 MPN/g, 0-45 MPN/100m1 and 3.6-93 MPN/g, while the faecal coliform counts were <3-15 MPN/g, 0-11 MPN/100m1 and <3-23 MPN/g respectively. E. coil were in the ranges of 0-8 MPN/100 ml (water), <3-9.1 MPN/g (sediment) and <3-7.3 MPN/g (shrimp). In one occasion, feed was highly contaminated with coliforms (>1100 MPN/g), faecal conforms (>1100 MPN/g) and E. coli (460 MPN/g), Salmonella sp were not recovered from samples of shrimp, pond water, sediments and feed. V. parahaemolyticus was detected in farm shrimp, sediment and water at a density of 101-102 cfu/g.The total plate counts for frozen shrimp were 102-107 cfu/g. In 27% samples it ranged from 105 cfu/g to 106 cfu/g while in 59% it was 106- 107cfu/g. The E. coil count of frozen shrimp ranged from <3 to 10 MPN/g with 94% counts less than 3 MPN/g. Vibrio cholerae, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Salmonella sp. and Staphylococcus aureus were not found in frozen shrimp samples.
Evaluation of nine HIV rapid test kits to develop a national HIV testing algorithm in Nigeria
Authors: Bassey Orji , Bond Kyle , Adedeji Adebayo , Oke Odafen , Abubakar Ado , Yakubu Kachiro , Jelpe Tapdiyel , Akintunde Ezekiel , Ikani Patrick , Ogundiran Adeniyi , Onoja Ali , Kawu Issa , Ikwulono Gabriel , Saliu Idris , Nwanyawu Okey , Deyde Varough
Published: May 2015

Background: Non-cold chain-dependent HIV rapid testing has been adopted in many resource-constrained nations as a strategy for reaching out to populations. HIV rapid test kits (RTKs) have the advantage of ease of use, low operational cost and short turnaround times. Before 2005, different RTKs had been used in Nigeria without formal evaluation. Between 2005 and 2007, a study was conducted to formally evaluate a number of RTKs and construct HIV testing algorithms. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to assess and select HIV RTKs and develop national testing algorithms. Method: Nine RTKs were evaluated using 528 well-characterised plasma samples. These comprised 198 HIV-positive specimens (37.5%) and 330 HIV-negative specimens (62.5%), collected nationally. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated with 95% confidence intervals for all nine RTKs singly and for serial and parallel combinations of six RTKs; and relative costs were estimated. Results: Six of the nine RTKs met the selection criteria, including minimum sensitivity and specificity (both ≥ 99.0%) requirements. There were no significant differences in sensitivities or specificities of RTKs in the serial and parallel algorithms, but the cost of RTKs in parallel algorithms was twice that in serial algorithms. Consequently, three serial algorithms, comprising four test kits (BundiTM, DetermineTM, Stat-Pak® and Uni-GoldTM) with 100.0% sensitivity and 99.1% – 100.0% specificity, were recommended and adopted as national interim testing algorithms in 2007. Conclusion: This evaluation provides the first evidence for reliable combinations of RTKs for HIV testing in Nigeria. However, these RTKs need further evaluation in the field (Phase II) to re-validate their performance.
Malcolm X’s the ballot or the bullet speech? Its implications for Black Liberation Theology in present-day South Africa
Authors: Tshaka Rothney S.
Published: May 2015

This article attempts to bring one of the greatest speeches of Malcolm X back to life in the current South Africa – the year 2015. It is a year of growing frustration and extreme dissatisfaction with basic living conditions amongst the greater part of black people in the country. Recounting the influences that Malcolm X had on Black Liberation Theology in South Africa, the article proposes that Black Liberation Theology in South Africa moves away from being an inward-looking critical theology to one that identifies with the basic concerns of the most vulnerable in society. It criticises both the political and the economic hegemonies that are currently perceived to perpetuate much of apartheid’s grave social ills in democratic South Africa. It calls attention to party politics that floods society with propaganda but in reality seems to have little real interest in the social well-being of the masses. In the article, the question as to what Malcolm X would have said about the current South African socio-economic context is asked. It is clear that both structural apartheid residues as well as the pure selfish interests of the current political rulers gang up against the chances of black people ever experiencing social justice in the near future.
Serological survey of antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii and Coxiella burnetii in rodents in north-western African islands (Canary Islands and Cape Verde)
Authors: Foronda Pilar , Plata-Luis Josué , Del Castillo-Figueruelo Borja , Fernández-Álvarez Ángela , Martín-Alonso Aarón , Feliu Carlos , Cabral Marilena D. , Valladares Basilio
Published: May 2015

Coxiella burnetii and Toxoplasma gondii are intracellular parasites that cause important reproductive disorders in animals and humans worldwide, resulting in high economic losses. The aim of the present study was to analyse the possible role of peridomestic small mammals in the maintenance and transmission of C. burnetii and T. gondii in the north-western African archipelagos of the Canary Islands and Cape Verde, where these species are commonly found affecting humans and farm animals. Between 2009 and 2013, 108 black rats (Rattus rattus) and 77 mice (Mus musculus) were analysed for the presence of Coxiella and Toxoplasma antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and indirect immunofluorescence (IFA), respectively. Our results showed a wide distribution of C. burnetii and T. gondii, except for T. gondii in Cape Verde, in both rodent species. The overall seroprevalence of C. burnetii antibodies was 12.4%; 21.1% for Cape Verde and 10.2% for the Canary Islands. With respect to T. gondii, seropositive rodents were only observed in the Canary Islands, with an overall seroprevalence of 15%. Considering the fact that both pathogens can infect a large range of hosts, including livestock and humans, the results are of public health and veterinary importance and could be used by governmental entities to manage risk factors and to prevent future cases of Q fever and toxoplasmosis.
Cerebral Blastomycosis: Radiologic-Pathologic Correlation of Solitary CNS Blastomycosis Mass-Like Infection
Authors: Stavrakis Costas , Narayan Ananth , Voronel Olga
Published: May 2015

Blastomycosis is a fungal infection rarely seen in clinical practice. Endemic to the Midwestern United States as well as the Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Ontario, Blastomyces dermatitidis characteristically involves the skin and lungs. Central nervous system (CNS) involvement, although a rare complication of this disease, can be fatal. The current literature on CNS blastomycosis primarily centers on the spectrum of traditional imaging features of T1- and T2-weighted imaging with which this entity can present. However, here we present the direct histopathologic correlation of the imaging findings of solitary mass like CNS blastomycosis, with an emphasis on the association of diffusion restriction within the lesion with a granulomatous immune response.
Testicular Ischemia Due to a Band Around the Spermatic Cord
Authors: Artul Suheil , Fahoum Basel , Nseir William , Habib George
Published: May 2015

We present a case of an 18-year-old boy who was admitted to our hospital with a 2-day history of pain in the right scrotum. Ultrasound examination showed signs of ischemia, with dampened testicular arterial flow and bell-clapper deformity. Surgery revealed a constricting fibrous band around the distal spermatic cord resembling the bell-clapper deformity.
Analyticity results for the cumulants in a random matrix model
Authors: Gurau Razvan G. , Krajewski Thomas
Published: May 2015

The generating function of the cumulants in random matrix models, as well as the cumulants themselves, can be expanded as asymptotic (divergent) series indexed by maps. While at fixed genus the sums over maps converge, the sums over genera do not. In this paper we obtain alternative expansions both for the generating function and for the cumulants that cure this problem. We provide explicit and convergent expansions for the cumulants, for the remainders of their perturbative expansion (in the size of the maps) and for the remainders of their topological expansion (in the genus of the maps). We show that any cumulant is an analytic function inside a cardioid domain in the complex plane and we prove that any cumulant is Borel summable at the origin.
Social service providers' perspectives on casino gambling in older adult clients
Authors: Stansbury Kim L. , Beecher Blake , Schumacher Mitzi , Martin Fayetta , Clute Mary Ann
Published: May 2015

There has been an upward trend in gambling, particularly among older adults. With the baby-boomer generation moving toward retirement, this trend is expected to increase. Availability and social acceptability of casinos in the United States are 2 of many precipitating factors for older adults' increased enthusiasm for gambling. Noticeably absent from the literature on casino gambling is the perspective of senior social service providers (SSSPs). The present study used a cross-sectional open-ended questionnaire completed by 88 SSSPs in Washington State. The purpose of this study was to describe the SSSPs' (a) perceptions of older adults' motivations to participate in casino gambling, (b) experience with older adults who have gambling problems, (c) views and knowledge of problem gambling, and (d) perception of the need for training on gambling problems. The most prevalent reasons cited for older adults to patronize casinos were the entertainment of gambling and the desire to win money. The least prevalent reasons included peer pressure, to learn new things, and for a public smoking environment. Many respondents (42.0%) felt that their clients were aware of the risks of casino gambling. However, almost one third (29.5%) reported that their clients were largely unaware of the risks. Almost all of the respondents (85.2%) reported they had not received any training regarding problem gambling. The findings indicate the need to educate SSSPs about the potential positive and negative consequences of casino gambling.
Delay and probability discounting in the context of gambling function and expectancies
Authors: Thomas Katie B. , Derenne Adam , Weatherly Jeffrey N.
Published: May 2015

The current study investigated the relationship between two forms of discounting (delay and probability) and two measures of factors that may maintain gambling behavior (behavioral contingencies and expectancies). Participants (272 undergraduates) completed discounting questions for scenarios of gaining or losing $1,000 or $100,000 with uncertain or delayed outcomes. They also filled out the South Oaks Gambling Screen, the Gambling Functional Assessment -Revised, and the Gambling Expectancies Questionnaire. Results showed that gambling for positive reinforcement was consistently the best predictor of discounting, suggesting that the function of gambling behavior may be a better predictor of discounting than are the emotional expectancies of gambling. However, the direction of the relationship was inconsistent, with function negatively predicting discounting of both uncertain gains and losses. No consistent relationship was found between discounting and gambling for negative reinforcement or emotional expectancies. Results were generally the same when non-gamblers were excluded from the analyses. The results suggest that studying gambling function may be an informative pursuit.
Instrument Development for the FocaL Adult Gambling Screen (FLAGS-EGM): A Measurement of Risk and Problem Gambling Associated with Electronic Gambling Machines
Authors: Schellinck Tony , Schrans Tracy , Schellinck Heather , Bliemel Michael
Published: May 2015

Previous research, based on a survey of 374 electronic machine gamblers living in Ontario, Canada, led to the selection of statements and the creation of ten constructs for the development of a new instrument, the FocaL Adult Gambling Screen for Electronic Gambling Machines (FLAGS-EGM). In this study, we used the Partial Least Squares Path Analysis form of Structural Equation Modelling to produce a hierarchical set of the ten constructs with proven predictive power for problem gambling. Receiver Operating Characteristic analysis identified cut off values for all of the constructs that predicted the target values with the desired degree of accuracy. Active gamblers were placed in five categories: No Detectable Risk, Early Risk, Intermediate Risk, Advanced Risk and Problem Gamblers. As described here, the FLAGS-EGM instrument has the potential to be applied in many situations in which identification of at-risk EGM gamblers is needed.
Sensory Processing and Sleep in Typically Developing Infants and Toddlers
Authors: Vasak Mark , Williamson James , Garden Jennifer , Zwicker Jill G.
Published: May 2015

OBJECTIVE. To explore the relationship between sensory processing patterns and sleep problems in typically developing infants and toddlers.

METHOD. A retrospective chart review of 177 infants and toddlers from a community occupational therapy sleep clinic included descriptive and correlational analyses of data from the Infant/Toddler Sensory Profile and Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire.

RESULTS. More than half of participants (55%) demonstrated a pattern of increased sensory processing in one or more quadrants, with sensitivity being most common (36%). We found small but significant correlations between increased seeking and shorter daytime sleep duration (r = −.24, p = .002) and between increased sensitivity and longer time to settle to sleep (r = .27, p < .001).

CONCLUSION. This study adds to recent literature linking sensory processing patterns to sleep problems and is the first to demonstrate this relationship in young, typically developing children. Results support the role of occupational therapy in addressing sleep difficulties in children.
‘Progress is Great … ’: Making Sense of the Colonial Past in Outback Australia
Authors: Vincent Eve
Published: May 2015

This essay deals with the residue of the past in the present, in the small country town of Ceduna. Empirical historical detail about the history of this isolated place is interwoven with ethnographic material about people—Aboriginal and white—making sense of that past.
'You are too square, I need to straighten you out': The Tamed Rebels of 1950s Coming-of-Age Films in Cross-Cultural Perspective
Authors: Weidauer Friedemann J.
Published: May 2015

Coming-of-Age films have in common that they must address the social contradictions an adolescent experiences as he or she joins the world of adults. At the same time they have to come to a resolution of these contradictions that is acceptable to the audiences as well as the direct or indirect mechanisms of censorship of the movie industry. In the aftermath of World War II,  a number of social paradigms had been upset (as for example gender roles, intergenerational relations, representations of state and paternal authority).The 1950s were thus a time when the contradictions experienced by all generations of adolescents were even more acutely brought to the foreground and thus represent a particularly fertile ground for this genre. The Coming-of Age films of this period played a crucial role in reintroducing established social paradigms by way of offering “false closures” that temporarily offered resolutions to the contradictions experienced by this particular generation of young adults.
Convergence: The Making of the Canning Stock Route Project and Yiwarra Kuju Exhibition
Authors: Davenport Acker Carly
Published: May 2015

This article discusses the processes, practices and successes of the Canning Stock Route project and Yirwarra Kuju exhibition, carried out between 2006 and 2012.
Still in My Mind: An Exploration of Practice-led Experimental Research in Progress
Authors: Croft Brenda L.
Published: May 2015

The author, an Indigenous woman of mixed heritage, aGurindji/Malgnin/Mudpurra person on her father’s side discusses her practice-led research project, Still in My Mind: Gurindji Experience, Location and Visuality. This project draws inspiration from the words of revered Gurindji elder Vincent Lingiari, profoundly reiterating a deep commitment to his Gurindji/Malgnin peoples and their homelands on Wave Hill in the Northern Territory.
Preface: "Improving seismic networks performances: from site selection to data integration" (EGU2015 SM1.2/GI1.5 session)
Authors: Pesaresi D. , Pedersen H. , Starovoit Y.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. The number and quality of seismic stations and networks in Europe continually improves, nevertheless there is always scope to optimize their performance. In this EGU2015 SM1.2/GI1.5 session we welcomed contributions from all aspects of seismic network installation, operation and management. This includes site selection; equipment testing and installation; planning and implementing communication paths; policies for redundancy in data acquisition, processing and archiving; and integration of different data sets including GPS and OBS.
Field-aligned chorus wave spectral power in Earth's outer radiation belt
Authors: Breuillard H. , Agapitov O. , Artemyev A. , Kronberg E. A. , Haaland S. E. , Daly P. W. , Krasnoselskikh V. V. , Boscher D. , Bourdarie S. , Zaliznyak Y. , Rolland G.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Chorus-type whistler waves are one of the most intense electromagnetic waves generated naturally in the magnetosphere. These waves have a substantial impact on the radiation belt dynamics as they are thought to contribute to electron acceleration and losses into the ionosphere through resonant wave–particle interaction. Our study is devoted to the determination of chorus wave power distribution on frequency in a wide range of magnetic latitudes, from 0 to 40°. We use 10 years of magnetic and electric field wave power measured by STAFF-SA onboard Cluster spacecraft to model the initial (equatorial) chorus wave spectral power, as well as PEACE and RAPID measurements to model the properties of energetic electrons (~ 0.1–100 keV) in the outer radiation belt. The dependence of this distribution upon latitude obtained from Cluster STAFF-SA is then consistently reproduced along a certain L-shell range (4 ≤ L ≤ 6.5), employing WHAMP-based ray tracing simulations in hot plasma within a realistic inner magnetospheric model. We show here that, as latitude increases, the chorus peak frequency is globally shifted towards lower frequencies. Making use of our simulations, the peak frequency variations can be explained mostly in terms of wave damping and amplification, but also cross-L propagation. These results are in good agreement with previous studies of chorus wave spectral extent using data from different spacecraft (Cluster, POLAR and THEMIS). The chorus peak frequency variations are then employed to calculate the pitch angle and energy diffusion rates, resulting in more effective pitch angle electron scattering (electron lifetime is halved) but less effective acceleration. These peak frequency parameters can thus be used to improve the accuracy of diffusion coefficient calculations.
Evaluation of a multi-satellite soil moisture product and the Community Land Model 4.5 simulation in China
Authors: Jia B. , Liu J. , Xie Z.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Twenty years of in situ soil moisture data from more than 300 stations located in China are used to perform an evaluation of two surface soil moisture datasets: a microwave-based multi-satellite product (ECV-SM) and the land surface model simulation from the Community Land Model 4.5 (CLM4.5). Both soil moisture products generally show a good agreement with in situ observations. The ECV-SM product has a low bias, with a root mean square difference (RMSD) of 0.075 m3 m-3, but shows a weak correlation with in situ observations (R = 0.41). In contrast, the CLM4.5 simulation, forced by an observation-based atmospheric forcing data, produces better temporal variation of surface soil moisture (R = 0.52), but shows a clear overestimation (bias = 0.05 m3 m-3) and larger RMSD (0.09 m3 m-3), especially in eastern China, caused by inaccurate descriptions of soil characteristics. The ECV-SM product is more likely to be superior in semi-arid regions, mainly because of the accurate retrievals and high observation density, but inferior over areas covered by dense vegetation. Furthermore, it shows a stable to slightly increasing performance in China, except for a decrease during the 2007–2010 blending period. Results from this study can provide comprehensive insight into the performances of the two soil moisture datasets in China, which will be useful for their improvements in merging algorithms or model simulations and for applications in soil moisture data assimilation.
An innovative optical and chemical drill core scanner
Authors: Sjöqvist A. S. L. , Arthursson M. , Lundström A. , Calderón Estrada E. , Inerfeldt A. , Lorenz H.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. We describe a new innovative drill core scanner that semi-automatedly analyses drill cores directly in drill core trays with X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, without the need for much sample preparation or operator intervention. The instrument is fed with entire core trays, which are photographed at high resolution and scanned by a 3-D profiling laser. Algorithms recognise the geometry of the core tray, number of slots, location of the drill cores, calculate the optimal scanning path, and execute a continuous XRF analysis of 2 cm width along the core. The instrument is equipped with critical analytical components that allow an effective QA/QC routine to be implemented. It is a mobile instrument that can be manoeuvred by a single person with a manual pallet jack.
Newfoundland Neogene sediment drifts: transition from the Paleogene greenhouse to the modern icehouse
Authors: Friedrich O. , Norris R. D. , Wilson P. A. , Opdyke B. N.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. This workshop brought together specialists from various fields to develop a drilling proposal to fill the "Oligo-Miocene Gap" that exists in our understanding of the functions of Earth's systems. We propose to establish the first continuous high-deposition record of the Oligo-Miocene through new International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) drilling in the North Atlantic to allow the development of a continuous Neogene cyclostratigraphy and to enhance our knowledge of Oligo-Miocene ocean–ice–climate dynamics. The workshop was held in Heidelberg from 15 to 17 September 2014 funded by ESF (EARTHTIME EU), NSF, and the ECORD MagellanPlus Workshop Series Program. A total of 24 participants from six different countries (Australia, France, Germany, the Netherlands, United Kingdom, and United States) attended the workshop, including several early career stage researchers. We discussed certain aspects of Cenozoic paleoceanography and paleoclimate and how the gaps in the Oligo-Miocene could be filled using scientific drilling. The ultimate goal of the workshop (to submit a pre-proposal to IODP) was achieved (IODP Proposal 874-pre was submitted 1 October 2014). Our workshop consisted of overview presentations followed by self-selected breakout groups that discussed different topics and produced text and figures for the proposal. Here, we give a short overview of the major topics discussed during the workshop and the scientific goals presented in the resulting IODP pre-proposal.
Remediation of degraded arable steppe soils in Moldova using vetch as green manure
Authors: Wiesmeier M. , Lungu M. , Hübner R. , Cerbari V.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. In the Republic of Moldova, non-sustainable arable farming led to severe degradation and erosion of fertile steppe soils (Chernozems). As a result, the Chernozems lost about 40% of their initial amounts of soil organic carbon (SOC). The aim of this study was to remediate degraded arable soils and promote carbon sequestration by implementation of cover cropping and green manuring in Moldova. Thereby, the suitability of the legume hairy vetch (Vicia sativa) as cover crop under the dry continental climate of Moldova was examined. At two experimental sites, the effect of cover cropping on chemical and physical soil properties as well as on yields of subsequent main crops was determined. The results showed a significant increase of SOC after incorporation of hairy vetch mainly due to increases of aggregate-occluded and mineral-associated OC. This was related to a high above- and belowground biomass production of hairy vetch associated with a high input of carbon and nitrogen into arable soils. A calculation of SOC stocks based on equivalent soil masses revealed a sequestration of around 3 t C ha−1yr−1 as a result of hairy vetch cover cropping. The buildup of SOC was associated with an improvement of the soil structure as indicated by a distinct decrease of bulk density and a relative increase of macroaggregates at the expense of microaggregates and clods. As a result, yields of subsequent main crops increased by around 20%. Our results indicated that hairy vetch is a promising cover crop to remediate degraded steppe soils, control soil erosion and sequester substantial amounts of atmospheric C in arable soils of Moldova.
The Impact of Cornell Note-Taking Method Instruction on Grammar Learning of Iranian EFL Learners
Authors: Davoudi Mohammad , Moattarian Neda , Zareian Gholamreza
Published: May 2015

Given the potential benefits of classroom note taking as an essential learning strategy, the aim of the present study was to investigate how effective Cornell note-taking instruction and use could be in language grammar learning process. The variable of gender was also taken into consideration. For these reasons, 70 intermediate EFL students, 44 males and 26 females, formed two homogenous groups and underwent an experiment in which, after both groups took a pre-test, the experimental group received special training on how to take Cornell notes. Then, the two groups were exposed to grammar instruction. When the treatment was over, a test of grammar was administered to both groups. A careful examination of the data, using a series of T-tests, clearly depicted that the experimental group had outperformed the control one. With respect to the variable of gender, no significant difference was observed between the two groups. The conclusions were further discussed and used to develop some practical applications of the study.
Memorandum of Understanding Between the Government of the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Government of Australia, Relating to the Settlement of Refugees in Cambodia & UNHCR Response to Australia-Cambodia Agreement on Refugee Relocation
Authors: Harrington Ryan
Published: May 2015

On September 26, 2014, the Government of the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Government of Australia concluded a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Relating to the Settlement of Refugees in Cambodia. The agreement provides for refugees on the Pacific Island of Nauru to be voluntarily relocated to Cambodia. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and several international human rights organizations have lambasted the agreement, maintaining that Australia would be contravening its humanitarian and refugee obligations.
Modelling and prediction of a destination’s monthly average daily rate and occupancy rate based on hotel room prices offered online
Authors: Oses Noelia , Gerrikagoitia Jon Kepa , Alzua Aurkene
Published: May 2015

Tourism metrics are essential for managing a destination. Hotel performance metrics such as average daily rate and occupancy rate are two of the most prominent metrics for the industry. The authors’ research group works on developing methods for estimating tourism metrics based on digital footprint. Data available publicly on the Internet, including hotel room prices, are collected daily. This article shows that the prices offered online have a high positive correlation with those reported by official statistics at the Nomenclature of Units for Territorial Statistics 2 level after the online prices have been preprocessed and, thus, the relevance of this data source is established. This article then presents a model for explaining and predicting mean hotel occupancy rates by destination based on these prices. The results are very promising, the fit is excellent and the predictions are also good. In summary, prices have moved from reflecting the expected demand to reflecting the actual demand and occupancy rate.
Effect of calf sex on some productive, reproductive and health traits in Holstein cows
Authors: Chegini Arash , Ghavi Hossein-Zadeh Navid , Hosseini-Moghadam Hossein
Published: May 2015

Records of Holstein cows from March 1992 to April 2008 from 194 large herds and comprising from 402,716 records for productive traits to 178,344 records of somatic cell count were used to study the effect of calf sex in different parities and calving season on the subsequent productive, reproductive and health traits in Holstein cows. T-test procedure of SAS software was used to investigate the effect of calf sex and season of calving on aforementioned traits. Cows with female calves had higher milk and fat yield, persistency of milk and fat yield and longer lactation length, while cows that gave birth to male calves had shorter calving interval and longer productive life. Also, cows with female calves had higher milk yield per day of lactation in the first two parities, but there was no difference in milk yield per day of lactation for parities ≥ 3. There was no relationship among mean somatic cell count and sex of born calf. Fall calves had the highest adjusted milk yield and milk yield per day of lactation, however, winter calves had the longest lactation lengthand productive life and the highest somatic cell count. Results from this study demonstrate that it seems necessary to consider the effect of calf sex on aforementioned traits when making decision to use sexed semen or conventional semen.
Short communication: The effect of different inclusion levels of polyethylene glycol as a silage additive on ensilage characteristics of pomegranate peel and in vitro rumen fermentation
Authors: Hatami Ali , Alipour Daryoush , Hozhabri Fardin , Tabatabaei Meisam
Published: May 2015

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of ensiling pomegranate peel (PP) with different levels of polyethylene glycol (PEG) on its chemical composition, tannin content, in vitro gas production and fermentation characteristics. Fresh PP was chopped and ensiled in mini silos made of polyvinyl chloride tubing. Five levels of PEG were studied: 0 (control), 5, 10, 15, and 20% of fresh PP (dry matter basis). Total phenolics, total tannins, crude ash, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber content and pH decreased with increasing PEG levels, whereas dry matter and non-fiber carbohydrates content, non-tannin phenols, lactic acid and ammonia concentrations and buffering capacity increased. The water soluble carbohydrates and ether extract concentrations were not influenced by the addition of PEG. The partitioning factor and efficiency of microbial biomass production were quadratically decreased (p=0.020 and p=0.032, respectively) as PEG inclusion increased, but the in vitro apparent dry matter disappearance did not differ among treatments. Compared to control, the in vitro true disappearance and in vitro fiber digestibility had a tendency to be higher in silages treated with PEG (p=0.081 and p=0.069, respectively). The metabolizable energy content and total volatile fatty acids concentration increased quadratically by PEG inclusion. The asymptotic gas production and rate of gas production were higher in PEG-treated silages. Overall, ensiling PP with PEG can improve the fermentation characteristics of this by-product.
Impact of different cropping conditions and tillage practices on the soil fungal abundance of a Phaeozem luvico
Authors: Gomez Romina P. , Aulicino Mónica B. , Mónaco Cecilia I. , Kripelz Natalia , Cordo Cristina A.
Published: May 2015

Fungal diversity seems to be a good indicator of ecosystem disturbance and functioning. The purpose of this work was to quantify the fungal population as a sensitive indicator of the changes caused by stubble placement in two tillage systems: reduced tillage (RT) and conventional tillage (CT) with and without cropping. To this end, we determined the effect of soil disturbances such as N fertilization, tillage practice, and cropped area on the soil fungal communities of a Phaeozem luvico of the El Salado river basin (Argentina). Soil samples (at 0-10 cm depth) were collected from a field cultivated with wheat at post-harvest, before sowing and at tillering. The relative abundance of individuals of the fungal population was studied on Nash Snyder and Oxgall agar media after different treatments and assessed as colony forming units (CFU/gof soil). The diversity of the fungal population was studied by Shannon´s index (H). The tillage system showed a marked effect only at post-harvest and the number of propagules was highest under RT for both culture media. The largest values of H were found only at post-harvest when Oxgall agar was used. A significant decrease in the values of H was observed when CT and high fertilization was applied in the wheat cropped area. The relative abundance of individuals of the fungal population was different in soils under the different tillage practices.
Fungal trunk pathogens associated with wood decay of pistachio trees in Iran
Authors: Mohammadi Hamid , Sarcheshmehpour Mehdi , Mafi Ebrahim
Published: May 2015

Over the growing seasons of 2011–2013, various pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) cv. Fandoghi, and wild pistachio (P. atlantica Desf. subsp. mutica) trees were inspected in Iran to determine the aetiology of trunk diseases with specific reference to species of Phaeoacremonium and Botryosphaeriaceae spp. Samples were collected from branches of trees exhibiting yellowing, defoliation, canker and dieback, as well as wood discoloration in cross sections. Fungal trunk pathogens were identified using morphological and cultural characteristics as well as comparisons of DNA sequence data of the ITS and TEF-1α (for Botryosphaeriaceae species) and β-tubulin gene (for Phaeoacremonium species) regions. Phaeoacremonium parasiticum was the dominant species followed by Phaeoacremonium aleophilum, Botryosphaeria dothidea, Neofusicoccum parvum, Phaeoacremonium cinereum, Phaeoacremonium viticola and Dothiorella viticola. Pathogenicity tests were undertaken to determine the role of these species on pistachio under field conditions. Neofusicoccum parvum and Pm. aleophilum caused the longest and smallest lesions respectively. This study represents the first report on the occurrence and pathogenicity of Phaeoacremonium species on P. vera cv. Fandoghi. This also represents the first report of Pleurostomophora sp. on pistachio and Pm. parasiticum and D. viticola on wild pistachio.
Antifungal potential of Bacillus vallismortis R2 against different phytopathogenic fungi
Authors: Kaur Preet K. , Kaur Jaspal , Saini Harvinder S.
Published: May 2015

The cash crops grown in an agro-climatic region are prone to infection by various fungal pathogens. The use of chemical fungicides over the years has resulted in emergence of resistant fungal strains, thereby necessitating the development of effective and environmental friendly alternatives. The natural antagonistic interactions among different microbial populations have been exploited as an eco-friendly approach for controlling fungal pathogens resistant to synthetic chemicals. Morphologically distinct bacterial cultures (150), isolated from rhizospheric soils of wheat, rice, onion and tomato plants were screened for their antifungal potential against seven phytopathogenic fungi prevalent in the State of Punjab (India). The bacterial isolate R2, identified as Bacillus vallismortis, supported more than 50% inhibition of different phytopathogenic fungi (Alternaria alternata, Rhizoctonia oryzae, Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium moniliforme, Colletotrichum sp, Helminthosporium sp and Magnaporthe grisea) in dual culture plate assay. The thin layer chromatography based bio-autography of acid-precipitated biomolecules (APB) indicated the presence of more than one type of antifungal molecule, as evidenced from zones of inhibition against the respective fungal pathogen. The initial analytical studies indicated the presence of surfactin, iturin A and fengycin-like compounds in APB. The antifungal activity of whole cells and APB of isolate R2 was evaluated by light and scanning electron microscopy. The wheat grains treated with APB and exposed to spores of A. alternata showed resistance to the development of black point disease, thereby indicating the potential application of R2 and its biomolecules at field scale level.
Books of Laughter and Forgetting: Satire and Trauma in the Novels of Il'f and Petrov
Authors: Vinokour Maya
Published: May 2015

The Soviet 1920s and '30s saw heated debate around the issue of laughter, with writers and political actors alike asking, should the Soviet person laugh at all, and if so, how? This article considers the birth of Soviet laughter as reflected in Il'ia Il'f and Evgenii Petrov's popular satirical novels,The Twelve Chairs(1928) andThe Golden Calf(1931). I argue that Il'f and Petrov's relatively consistent critical unassailability throughout the Soviet period rests on two techniques. First, they acknowledge trauma without dwelling on it—it is always already in the past, with dramatic focus placed instead on the socialist future. Second, they encourage collective, outward-oriented laughter, stimulating Soviet citizens to unite themselves against the possible enemies of socialism. Thus, despite its inclusion of some subversive elements (like the ideologically volatile trickster Ostap Bender), Il'f and Petrov's satire was at the vanguard of what became official literary ideology.
Determination of Oxytetracycline from Salmon Muscle and Skin by Derivative Spectrophotometry
Authors: Toral M Inés , Sabay Tamara , Orellana Sandra L , Richter Pablo
Published: May 2015

A method was developed for the identification and quantification of oxytetracycline residues present in salmon muscle and skin using UV-Vis derivative spectrophotometry. With this method, it was possible to reduce the number of steps in the procedure typically required for instrumental analysis of a sample. The spectral variables, order of the derivative, scale factor, smoothing factor, and analytical wavelength were optimized using standard solutions of oxytetracycline dissolved in 900 mg/L oxalic acid in methanol. The matrix effect was significant; therefore, quantification for oxytetracycline residues was carried out using drug-free salmon muscle and skin samples fortified with oxytetracycline. The LOD and LOQ were found to be 271 and 903 μg/kg, respectively. The precision and accuracy of the method were validated using drug-free salmon muscle and skin tissues fortified at three different concentrations (8, 16, and 32 mg/kg) on 3 different days. The recoveries at all fortified concentrations were between 90 and 105%, and RSDs in all cases were less than 6.5%. This method can be used to screen out compliant samples and thereby reduce the number of suspect positive samples that will require further confirmatory analysis.