bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Historical colonization patterns of Dolichospermum lemmermannii (Cyanobacteria) in a deep lake south of the Alps
Authors: Salmaso Nico , Boscaini Adriano , Capelli Camilla , Cerasino Leonardo , Milan Manuela , Putelli Sara , Tolotti Monica
Published: December 2015

Since the beginning of the 1990s, Lake Garda showed the appearance of extended surface water blooms of Dolichospermum lemmermannii (Nostocales, Cyanobacteria). Between the 1990s and the 2000s, the blooms appeared also in the other large lakes south of the Alps (Iseo, Como and Maggiore). Despite the sudden appearance of the blooms, the correct identification of the establishment time of the populations of Dolichospermum in the southern subalpine lake district remained unclear. In this work, the establishment of the populations of D. lemmermannii in Lake Garda has been evaluated by the direct counting of sub-fossil akinetes extracted from sediment cores, and by estimating the abundance of filaments germinated from sub-fossil viable akinetes. The two techniques provided comparable results, allowing locating the beginning of the establishment of Dolichospermum around the middle of the 1960s. Four strains of Dolichospermum germinated from akinetes isolated from the core sediments between around the 1989 and 2012 did not show any mutation or recombination signal in the rpob gene sequences, suggesting a strong founder effect. The establishment of Dolichospermum coincided with the beginning of the rapid increase of total phosphorus as inferred from the distribution of sub-fossil diatoms in the sediment core. These results supported the hypothesis of a strong link between the shift of Lake Garda from ultraoligotrophy/oligotrophy to oligo-mesotrophy and the development of Dolichospermum. This colonisation pattern was possibly reinforced by the increase in the water temperatures in the subalpine lake district during the last 3 decades. In warmer lakes, gas-vacuolated Nostocales are favoured by high replication rates and, in particular, by their ability to control vertical movements in stratified water columns. This allows these species to exploit the gradients of light and nutrients, giving them a competitive advantage compared to other species. From a management point of view, the control and decrease of Dolichospermum should be obtained through the reduction and control of nutrient loads to the lake.
Everything you wanted to know about regime shifts in the marine environment and have not dared to ask, yet
Authors: Pusceddu Antonio , Bianchelli Silvia
Published: December 2015

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Welcome to Geriatric Care
Authors: Pilotto Alberto
Published: December 2015

When the President of the Italian Society of Geriatrics Hospital and Community (SIGOT), a prestigious and historical 30-year-old national scientific society devoted to Geriatrics, invited me to join the project to launch the new official journal of the Society, my first reaction was Geriatric Care! It will be the name of this new journal. Indeed, Geriatric Care is more than just a name of a new journal. Geriatric Care is a method in clinical practice, an effective model for the management of older people and the main objective of our work as geriatricians...
Endothelial progenitor cells and vascular health: effects of lifestyle’s modifications
Authors: Cesari Francesca , Gori Anna Maria , Romagnuolo Ilaria , Abbate Rosanna
Published: December 2015

During the last years increasing evidence showed that bone marrow-derived cells with angiogenic capability, named endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), possess the capacity to home to sites of vascular injury, so contributing to the neoangiogenesis in vivo and to the maintenance of the homeostasis of vascular endothelium. Currently, potent triggers for the mobilisation of EPCs from bone-marrow are known. In addition to some pharmacological treatment such as statins, erythropoietin, PPAR-gamma agonists and angiotensin-II receptor antagonists, the effects of healthy lifestyle, via mobilization and functional improvement of EPC, is increasingly recognized. In this review we analyze, the effects of lifestyle interventions on EPCs. In particular we will focus on physical activity and cardiac rehabilitation protocols, weight reduction, and smoking cessation. Moreover, the negative effects of depression, mood disturbances and type D-personality on EPCs are also considered.
Peer-to-peer psychological contracts in the South African wine industry
Authors: Penfold Ruth , Ronnie Linda
Published: December 2015

Orientation: Very few studies examine the impact of peer relationships on the psychological contract.Research purpose: Using the backdrop of wine farm workers in the Western Cape, South Africa, the aim of our study was to explore the nature of peer relationships shaping the psychological contract. Motivation for the study: The agricultural sector of South Africa, in particular the wine farms in the Western Cape, has undergone radical change in the past decades as a result of labour legislation and changing government structures. It was therefore expected that these changes would influence the psychological contracts held by wine farm workers.Research approach, design and method: This qualitative study sampled all 24 full-time employees and 2 managers on the Constantia Hills Wine Estate in Cape Town, South Africa. Semi-structured interviews were conducted using the critical incident technique in combination with a series of open questions.Main findings: Our findings showed support for the existence of peer-to-peer psychological contracts and noted the valuable influence of a suitable conduit individual on the relationship between employees and their employer.Practical and/or managerial implications: Wine farm workers in South Africa have a strong need to be consulted after a lifetime of having no voice. In addition to ensuring suitable levels of two-way communication, management must understand the inter-peer contract and the nature of the relationships sustaining it.Contribution: Whilst literature has suggested that management of the psychological contract lies firmly within the domain of the employer, our findings indicated that ensuring harmonious peer-to-peer contracts was also central to good working relationships.
Achieving excellence in private intensive care units: The effect of transformational leadership and organisational culture on organisational change outcomes
Authors: Jordan Portia J. , Werner Amanda , Venter Danie
Published: December 2015

Orientation: Organisational change outcomes in private intensive care units are linked to higher patient satisfaction, improved quality of patient care, family support, cost-effective care practices and an increased level of excellence. Transformational leadership and fostering a positive organisational culture can contribute to these change outcomes.Research purpose: The study determined whether transformational leadership and a supportive organisational culture were evident in six private intensive care units in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. A conceptual framework to investigate the relationship between transformational leadership, organisational culture, and organisational change outcomes, was proposed and tested.Motivation for the study: The prevalence of transformational leadership, a positive organisational culture and their effect on organisational change outcomes in private healthcare industries require further research in order to generate appropriate recommendations.Research design, approach and method: A positivistic, quantitative design was used. A survey was conducted using a questionnaire which, in previous studies, produced scores with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients greater than 0.80, to collect data from a sample of 130 professional nurses in private intensive care units.Main findings: Transformational leadership and a positive organisational culture were evident in the private intensive care units sampled. A strong, positive correlation exists between transformational leadership, organisational culture, and organisational change outcomes. This correlation provides sufficient evidence to accept the postulated research hypotheses. Innovation and intellectual stimulation were identified as the factors in need of improvement.Practical or managerial implications: The findings of the study may be used by managers in intensive care units to promote organisational change outcomes, linked to transformational leadership and a positive organisational culture.Contribution: The study provides evidence of the way in which transformational leadership and a positive organisational culture affect organisational change outcomes in the context of private healthcare in South Africa, thereby addressing a research gap in this area.
Blunt Hepatic Trauma: Suggested Algorithm for Surgical and Nonoperative Management
Authors: Azevedo Camila Issa , Franciscani Aparecida Andrade Ribeiro , Souza Amanda Baraldi , Filho Fabio Mendes Botelho , Starling Sizenando Vieira
Published: December 2015

Objective

This study aims to analyze the outcomes of blunt hepatic trauma, and compare operative treatment (OT) and nonoperative management (NOM) emphasizing the stratified results by grade of injury and failure rate.

Materials and methods

This is a prospective study of cases admitted to João XXIII Hospital, located in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, from January 2013 to December 2013. Patients were admitted with blunt hepatic trauma on emergency room (ER) and were divided into two groups. One group contained patients who met the criteria for NOM, and the other group was formed by patients with surgical indication.

Results

During the study period, 47 patients were admitted with blunt liver injury and 43 (91.4%) met the inclusion criteria for NOM. The rate of NOM failure was 9.3%: 50% of them had grade II injury and 50% had grade V. The patients with grade II injury had also extrahepatic lesions and, in those with grade V, the failure was due to bleeding.

Conclusion

Nonoperative management has become the standard of care for patients with blunt liver injuries in trauma centers. However, as grade V injuries have a higher failure rate, they might receive special attention from the surgical team.

How to cite this article

Azevedo CI, Franciscani AAR, Souza AB, Filho FMB, Starling SV, Drumond DAF. Blunt Hepatic Trauma: Suggested Algorithm for Surgical and Nonoperative Management. Panam J Trauma Crit Care Emerg Surg 2015;4(1):1-5.
Pediatric and Adult Blunt Traumatic Bladder Rupture: A Comparative Review
Authors: Tyroch Alan Henry , Matlock Kinzie
Published: December 2015

Background

To determine the incidence, features and associated injuries of pediatric bladder rupture (BR) vs adult BR due to blunt trauma.

Materials and methods

A retrospective study from 1st January 2001 to 31st December 2012 was performed for blunt traumatic BR in pediatric and adult patients. Demographics, mean injury severity score, mean length of stay, incidence, mortality, diagnostic modality, management and associated injuries were evaluated.

Results

Of 4,884 pediatric blunt trauma admissions, eight children had BR. Sixty-six adults sustained BR out of 18,283 blunt trauma admissions. Gross hematuria was present in a majority of both groups. Computed tomography (CT) cystogram was the most frequent diagnostic modality utilized. Pelvic fracture and intra-abdominal injury were the most commonly associated injuries in both groups.

Conclusion

Although blunt traumatic BR is extremely rare, BR is associated with high injury severity score, prolonged length of stay and associated injuries. Diagnosis and treatment are essentially identical for both population. All patients with gross hematuria (with or without pelvic fracture), microscopic hematuria with anterior pelvic fracture and pelvic fracture with pelvic fluid on CT scan warrant evaluation with cystography. Intraperitoneal BR and combined intraperitoneal and extraperitoneal BR should be repaired operatively. Most extraperitoneal BR may be treated nonoperatively with transurethral catheter.

How to cite this article

Tyroch AH, Matlock K. Pediatric and Adult Blunt Traumatic Bladder Rupture: A Comparative Review. Panam J Trauma Crit Care Emerg Surg 2015;4(1):11-15.
Descending Necrotizing Cervicomediastinitis Secondary to Esophageal Perforation: Management in a Hospital with Limited Resources
Authors: Molina Juan Carlos Salamea , Arízaga Sofia , Rodas Edgar Bruck , Pino Raul , Reinoso Jeovanni
Published: December 2015

The esophageal perforation is the result of an iatrogenic cause, spontaneous cause or external trauma. The injury belonging to trauma can have different etiologies, such as the ones that are caused because of strange bodies or caustic substances. Within complications that can appear in esophageal perforation, we have the descending necrotizing mediastinitis, which is a mediastinal infection that starts in the oropharyngeal area. The spread of the infection through the anatomical spaces to the mediastinum can produce a mortality of 67%.

How to cite this article

Arízaga S, Rodas EB, Pino R, Reinoso J, Salamea JC. Descending Necrotizing Cervicomediastinitis Secondary to Esophageal Perforation: Management in a Hospital with Limited Resources. Panam J Trauma Crit Care Emerg Surg 2015;4(1):23-29.
Prospective Evaluation of a Protocol of Whole Body CT based only in Mechanism of Injury in Major Trauma Patients
Authors: Silva Eduardo Rissi , Rossi Felipe , Mori Newton Djin , Garcia Diogo FV , Utiyama Edvaldo
Published: December 2015

Background

There is an important increase in the use of whole body computed tomography (WBCT) around the world although its benefits are still controversial.

We hypothesized that the use of a WBCT protocol in the major trauma patients based on mechanism of injury alone would reduce the number of injuries that would have been missed if CT was only done based on clinical findings.

Study design

A prospective observational study with the inclusion of 144 patients with major blunt trauma during 5 months at our academic center. Data were collected from all patients including: epidemiology, clinical status on scene and at the emergency department, time of the scan (including patient handling), clinical findings during initial assessment and WBCT scan findings, dividing exams in with or without findings (normal). Looking for findings that would go unnoticed if CT was done based on clinical findings. Glasgow coma scale (GCS) 15 and GCS <15 were compared and data are presented as absolute values of mean ± SD. Analysis of data was done with Chi-square test (p < 0.05).

Results

One hundred forty-four patients with major trauma that were included in the protocol. Normal CT scan was found in 44 cases and 100 scans had at least one positive finding associated with the trauma and 35 CTs (25%) had at least one injury that would be missed without the WBCT protocol. Glasgow coma scale of 15 patients and those with 14 or less were compared regarding the number of normal vs positive scan (p = 0.45) and for scans with unnoticed injuries (p = 0.1) and there was no difference between the two groups.

Conclusion

A significant number of injuries would have been missed if a WBCT scan protocol based on mechanism of injury was not used in our center. There was no difference in the number of probably missed injuries in patients with a GCS = 15 or those with GCS ≤14.

How to cite this article

Silva ER, Rossi F, Mori ND, Garcia DFV, Utiyama E. Prospective Evaluation of a Protocol of Whole Body CT based only in Mechanism of Injury in Major Trauma Patients. Panam J Trauma Crit Care Emerg Surg 2015;4(2):66-69.
Enseñanza-Aprendizaje de Trauma en Colombia: Un Análisis de Planes de Estudio de Pregrado
Authors: Rubiano Andres Mariano , Muñoz Jorge Hernán Montenegro , Ortiz Adriana Fernanda Romero , Ramos Karen Yahaira Solano , Medina Edovan Gonzalez , Álvarez Sandra Lucia Lozano
Published: December 2015

Introduccion

La enseñanza en la prevención, promoción y atención urgente del paciente con trauma ha sido poco implementada en la educación médica de Latinoamérica. La preparación del personal médico y paramédico es fundamental para que el manejo de éste tipo de pacientes sea la adecuada y con calidad. El propósito de este estudio es identificar el estado actual de la enseñanza en el tema específico de cuidado de trauma y violencia tanto de las universidades públicas y privadas colombianas en sus programas académicos de pregrado de Medicina y Enfermería.

Materiales Y métodos

Se trata de un estudio descriptivo, con datos obtenidos a través de la revisión del currículo de los programas de pregrado en enfermeria y medicina con registro vigente en el Sistema Nacional de Información de la Educación Superior (SNIES) de Colombia hasta Noviembre de 2013. Se realizaron análisis de frecuencia y bivariados.

Resultados

Se analizaron los currículos de 60 Programas Académicos de Enfermería y 52 de Medicina. Solo 7 (13.4%) programas de medicina y 2 (3.3%) de enfermería contaban con asignaturas o materias relacionadas con manejo especifico del paciente con trauma o víctima de violencia. Dentro de los programas de medicina 3 (42.9%) pertenecen al sector público ubicandose la mayor parte en la región central del país. En uno de los currículos se identificaron 3 asignaturas cuyo objetivo es el abordaje y manejo del paciente con trauma. En cuanto a enfermeria los 2 programas hacían parte de la misma Universidad pero en sedes diferentes.

Conclusion

Teniendo en cuenta que la violencia y el trauma son un problema de salud pública en Colombia, los diferentes programas académicos en salud deberían contar dentro de su curriculo con asignaturas que incluyan aspectos tan relevantes como la promocion, prevencion, atención y rehabilitación de este grupo de pacientes. Sin embargo dicha cátedra solo esta presente en unos pocos los programas de medicina y enfermería, siendo necesario realizar ajustes al curriculo para lograr su inclusión, con el objetivo de mejorar la atención integral y el desarrollo de políticas públicas.

How to cite this article

Muñoz JHM, Ortiz AFR, Ramos KYS, Medina EG, Álvarez SLL, Escobar AMR. Enseñanza- Aprendizaje de Trauma en Colombia: Un Análisis de Planes de Estudio de Pregrado. Panam J Trauma Crit Care Emerg Surg 2015;4(2):70-76.
Traumatic Abdominal Hernia Masquerading as Strangulated Spigelian Hernia
Authors: Chandrasekhar Malarvizhi , Jebakumar Jim , Nagarajan D , Menon Aravind
Published: December 2015

Spigelian hernia is a rare hernia constituting 0.1 to 2% of all hernias and needs high degree of clinical suspicion to diagnose. It has high chances of strangulation and hence operative management is advised. Traumatic abdominal wall hernia (TAWH) is yet another type of rare hernia usually occurring due to blunt trauma. This patient presented with TAWH with features of strangulation, at the anatomical site of Spigelian hernia mimicking a strangulated Spigelian hernia. He underwent emergency exploratory laparotomy, resection and anastomosis of involved small bowel segment with anatomical repair of defect. Patient recovered uneventfully in postoperative period.

How to cite this article

Nagarajan D, Chandrasekhar M, Jebakumar J, Menon A. Traumatic Abdominal Hernia Masquerading as Strangulated Spigelian Hernia. Panam J Trauma Crit Care Emerg Surg 2015;4(2):103-106.
Mapeamento de competências e perfil dos bibliotecários que atuam na educação profissional e tecnológica de Goiás
Authors: Silva Cecília Morena Maria da , Cintra Faria Ana Carolina , Baptista Sofia Galvão
Published: December 2015

Este artigo apresenta resultados de pesquisa de Mestrado em Ciência da Informação e trata da identificação do perfil e das competências necessárias ao bibliotecário que atua na área de educação profissional e tecnológica. Utilizou-se, para a coleta de dados, o método quanti-qualitativo, aplicado através questionário estruturado. A amostra foi composta por doze bibliotecários que atuam no Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia de Goiás. O estudo traz abordagens sobre o perfil do bibliotecário contemporâneo, competência e competência do profissional da informação e constata, após a análise dos dados, que o perfil do bibliotecário e as competências que os mesmos julgam necessárias ao exercício de suas atividades estão em conformidade com o perfil e competências destacados na literatura pesquisada.
Contract gangs: race, gender and vulnerability
Authors: Goodall Heather
Published: December 2015

While violence directed at Indian students in Australian cities has been highlighted in the Indian and Australian press, far less attention has been paid to the violence directed at Indians in rural areas. This has most often involved Indians employed in contract labour in seasonal industries like fruit or vegetable picking. This article reviews various media accounts, both urban and rural, of violence directed at Indians from 2009 to 2012. It draws attention to the far longer history of labour exploitation which has taken place in rural and urban Australia in contract labour conditions and the particular invisibility of rural settings for such violence. Racial minorities, like Aboriginal and Chinese workers, and women in agriculture and domestic work, have seldom had adequate power to respond industrially or politically. This means that in the past, these groups been particularly vulnerable to such structural exploitation. The paper concludes by calling for greater attention not only to the particular vulnerability of Indians in rural settings but to the wider presence of racialised and gendered exploitation enabled by contract labour structures.
Students, Migrants or Citizens: the Violence of Liminal Spaces
Authors: Ghosh Devleena
Published: December 2015

Half a decade ago, after a spate of violent incidents in 2009 and 2010, where Indian students had been assaulted and robbed and one student, Nitin Garg, had been murdered, Indian students and taxi drivers held a big rally in Melbourne which made front-page news in India. The rally followed a number of demonstrations calling for greater police action and protection. The attacks had already attracted condemnation in the Indian media; for example, the influential Indian news magazine, Outlook, ran a cover story titled ‘Why the Aussies hate us’ (Outlook, 2010), concluding that Australia needed to examine its racial biases and the hangovers from the White Australia policy.
Atmospheric changes caused by galactic cosmic rays over the period 1960–2010
Authors: Jackman C. H. , Marsh D. R. , Kinnison D. E. , Mertens C. J. , Fleming E. L.
Published: December 2015

Abstract. The Specified Dynamics version of the Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model (SD-WACCM) and the Goddard Space Flight Center two-dimensional (GSFC 2-D) models are used to investigate the effect of galactic cosmic rays (GCRs) on the atmosphere over the 1960–2010 time period. The Nowcast of Atmospheric Ionizing Radiation for Aviation Safety (NAIRAS) computation of the GCR-caused ionization rates are used in these simulations. GCR-caused maximum NOx increases of 4–15 % are computed in the Southern polar troposphere with associated ozone increases of 1–2 %. NOx increases of ∼ 1–6 % are calculated for the lower stratosphere with associated ozone decreases of 0.2–1 %. The primary impact of GCRs on ozone was due to their production of NOx. The impact of GCRs varies with the atmospheric chlorine loading, sulfate aerosol loading, and solar cycle variation. Because of the interference between the NOx and ClOx ozone loss cycles (e.g., the ClO + NO2 + M → ClONO2 + M reaction) and the change in the importance of ClOx in the ozone budget, GCRs cause larger atmospheric impacts with less chlorine loading. GCRs also cause larger atmospheric impacts with less sulfate aerosol loading and for years closer to solar minimum. GCR-caused decreases of annual average global total ozone (AAGTO) were computed to be 0.2 % or less with GCR-caused tropospheric column ozone increases of 0.08 % or less and GCR-caused stratospheric column ozone decreases of 0.23 % or less. Although these computed ozone impacts are small, GCRs provide a natural influence on ozone and need to be quantified over long time periods.
Effects of nitrate and phosphate supply on chromophoric and fluorescent dissolved organic matter in the Eastern Tropical North Atlantic: a mesocosm study
Authors: Loginova A. N. , Borchard C. , Meyer J. , Hauss H. , Kiko R. , Engel A.
Published: December 2015

Abstract. In open-ocean regions, as is the Eastern Tropical North Atlantic (ETNA), pelagic production is the main source of dissolved organic matter (DOM) and is affected by dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) and phosphorus (DIP) concentrations. Changes in pelagic production under nutrient amendments were shown to also modify DOM quantity and quality. However, little information is available about the effects of nutrient variability on chromophoric (CDOM) and fluorescent (FDOM) DOM dynamics. Here we present results from two mesocosm experiments ("Varied P" and "Varied N") conducted with a natural plankton community from the ETNA, where the effects of DIP and DIN supply on DOM optical properties were studied. CDOM accumulated proportionally to phytoplankton biomass during the experiments. Spectral slope (S) decreased over time indicating accumulation of high molecular weight DOM. In Varied N, an additional CDOM portion, as a result of bacterial DOM reworking, was determined. It increased the CDOM fraction in DOC proportionally to the supplied DIN. The humic-like FDOM component (Comp.1) was produced by bacteria proportionally to DIN supply. The protein-like FDOM component (Comp.2) was released irrespectively to phytoplankton or bacterial biomass, but depended on DIP and DIN concentrations. Under high DIN supply, Comp.2 was removed by bacterial reworking, leading to an accumulation of humic-like Comp.1. No influence of nutrient availability on amino acid-like FDOM component in peptide form (Comp.3) was observed. Comp.3 potentially acted as an intermediate product during formation or degradation of Comp.2. Our findings suggest that changes in nutrient concentrations may lead to substantial responses in the quantity and quality of optically active DOM and, therefore, might bias results of the applied in situ optical techniques for an estimation of DOC concentrations in open-ocean regions.
The Importance of Soft Skill Development for Veterinary Technology Graduates and Veterinary Businesses
Authors: Walker Danny , Roberts Jason , Mehlhorn Joey
Published: December 2015

Freshman veterinary technology students and practicing veterinarians were both surveyed to determine their perceptions of the importance of skills needed to be successful in a veterinary technology career. Questions focused on distinguishing between soft business skills and technical skills. Findings indicated that practicing veterinarians prized teamwork skills as the overall most important trait in a potential employee. Students rated the ability to work in a group as important, but not as high as management skills. Students did recognize the importance of soft skills such as communication and conflict resolution. These findings confirmed students have mixed perspectives on the importance of technical versus soft skills in the veterinary technology industry. Students indicate that they understand the importance of business related skills in the profession. It is important that educators work to develop graduates who add soft skills to the traditional technical skills they receive in their program. Industry professionals value soft skills and in a competitive environment for employees, it will be important to prepare students to become industry ready graduates.
Sagebrush Response to Conifer Cover
Authors: Kitchen Karen A. , Goldsmith Brittany , Robison-Cox Jim , Frisina Michael , Sowell Bok
Published: December 2015

Sagebrush habitat is declining throughout the United States. This can have negative impacts for big game as well as other wildlife species. The purpose of our research was to analyze the relationship between several abiotic factors and the cover of two conifer species, Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and Rocky Mountain juniper (Juniperus scopulorum), on the cover of Wyoming (Artemisia tridentata spp. wyomingensis) and mountain (Artemisia tridentata spp. Vaseyana) big sagebrush. Abiotic factors, percent cover of sagebrush and conifers, and individual conifer age and canopy area were recorded at 40 Wyoming and 40 mountain big sagebrush plots at each of three study sites in southwest Montana (n = 240). No correlation was found between any abiotic factor and live sagebrush cover over all sites (p>0.05). A model of the relationship between the combined cover of the two conifer species and the two subspecies of big sagebrush was developed. The best-fit model included the terms: study site, sagebrush subspecies,  and the interaction, study site by sagebrush subspecies as the independent variables, with as the dependent variable (  = Intercepti– 0.401 ; R2 = 0.61). There was a negative relationship between conifer cover and sagebrush cover and no difference in the effects of conifer cover on the two sagebrush subspecies. Validation trials were successful at one of three locations outside the study area and suggested that the model is better suited to lower elevation, less productive sites. Individual Douglas-fir have a 3 fold larger canopy area than Rocky Mountain juniper at comparable ages (p<0.001). Controlling conifers to increase Wyoming big sagebrush does not appear to be effective due to the low level of sagebrush cover. If conifer control is desired, Douglas-fir should be targeted over Rocky Mountain juniper on mountain big sagebrush sites, but not on Wyoming big sagebrush sites.
Recent Comovements of the Yen-US Dollar Exchange Rate and Stock Prices in Japan
Authors: Tsuji Chikashi
Published: December 2015

This paper examines the recent relations of the yen/US dollar exchange rate and stock prices in Japan. Using bivariate Bayesian Vector Autoregressive (VAR) models, we derive several interesting findings as follows. First, 1) our analyses by Bayesian VAR models clarify that recently, the daily lags of the yen/dollar exchange rate series statistically significantly explain the evolution of the Nikkei 225, Nikkei 500, Japan Securities Dealers Association Quotation (JASDAQ), and Tokyo Stock Price Index (TOPIX) Core 30 stock index prices in Japan. Second, 2) our impulse response analyses reveal that Japanese stock prices clearly respond to the yen/dollar exchange rate changes in the recent years whilst the exchange rate changes little respond to the stock prices in Japan. As above our results demonstrate, recently, the past yen/dollar exchange rate time-series much more affect the evolution of the Japanese stock prices whilst the past Japanese stock price series little affect the yen/dollar exchange rate changes. Moreover, 3) analyzing the time-varying correlation coefficients between the yen/dollar exchange rate changes and Japanese stock returns, we also find the large increases in the contemporaneous correlations between the exchange rate and stock returns in the recent years in Japan.
Adaptation of irrigation networks to climate change: Linking robust design and stakeholder contribution
Authors: Granados Alfredo , Martín-Carrasco Francisco J. , García de Jalón Silvestre , Iglesias Ana
Published: December 2015

Agriculture is a particularly sensitive sector to the potential impacts of climate change. Thus, irrigation infrastructure is required to be robust to cope with these potential threats. The objective of this research is designing more robust irrigation networks, considering cost and stakeholder contribution. To that end, the investigation was addressed in three phases: a sensitivity analysis to understand the effectiveness of the distinct variables, a cost-effectiveness analysis assessing their efficiency, and a global study of the most efficient variables to provide an insight into their function. The sensitivity analysis indicates that the networks oversized by means of the coefficient of utilisation or the factor of safety, behave better than those oversized via the continuous specific discharge; moreover, the degree of freedom has been shown ineffective. The cost-effectiveness analysis shows that the coefficient of utilisation and the factor of safety are the most efficient variables, as they introduced safety margin oversizing fewer network elements and to a lesser extent than the continuous specific discharge. It also shows that stakeholder contribution, conveyed as a reduction of the degree of freedom, plays an important role in the network’s adaptive capacity to change. The global study of these variables reveals the subtlety of the coefficient of utilisation, which is the variable that better reproduces the farmer behaviour during demand increase scenarios. In conclusion, the results identify the coefficient of utilisation as the variable which provides the safest margins and reveal the importance of stakeholder contribution in absorb the demand increase in a better manner.
A bottom-up model to describe consumers’ preferences towards late season peaches
Authors: Groot Etiénne , Albisu Luis M.
Published: December 2015

Peaches are consumed in Mediterranean countries since ancient times. Nowadays there are few areas in Europe that produce peaches with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), and the Calanda area is one of them. The aim of this work is to describe consumers’ preferences towards late season PDO Calanda peaches in the city of Zaragoza, Spain, by a bottom-up model. The bottom-up model proves greater amount of information than top-down models. In this approach it is estimated one utility function per consumer. Thus, it is not necessary to make assumptions about preference distributions and correlations across respondents. It was observed that preference distributions were neither normal nor independently distributed. If those preferences were estimated by top-down models, conclusions would be biased. This paper also explores a new way to describe preferences through individual utility functions. Results show that the largest behavioural group gathered origin sensitive consumers. Their utility increased if the peaches were produced in the Calanda area and, especially, when peaches had the PDO Calanda brand. In sequence, the second most valuable attribute for consumers was the price. Peach size and packaging were not so important on purchase choice decision. Nevertheless, it is advisable to avoid trading smallest size peaches (weighting around 160 g/fruit). Traders also have to be careful by using active packaging. It was found that a group of consumers disliked this kind of product, probably, because they perceived it as less natural.
Seasonal changes in reproductive activity, sperm variables and sperm freezability in Blanca Andaluza bucks
Authors: Gallego-Calvo Lourdes , Gatica M. Carolina , Santiago-Moreno Julian , Guzmán José L. , Zarazaga Luis
Published: December 2015

Interest in the preservation of endangered breeds such as the Blanca Andaluza goat, has increased and some steps should be therefore taken to ensure it. The study was designed to determine the seasonal reproductive pattern of Blanca Andaluza bucks, and whether this affects the quality of their semen and its freezability over the year. Seven bucks were used and their body weight, testicular weight, plasma testosterone concentration and fresh sperm quality determined every week. The collected sperm was cryopreserved and stored; it was then thawed and the same sperm quality variables measured every fortnight. High plasma testosterone concentrations were recorded during the summer and autumn, and low concentrations were recorded during winter and spring (p<0.001). No differences were seen between seasons in terms of the percentage of bucks ejaculating, the percentage of active bucks, or ejaculate volume. However, the sperm concentration, the total number of sperm per ejaculate, and the values for most fresh sperm variables were lower during the winter period (at least p<0.05). After freezing-thawing, the quality of winter-collected sperm was better, in some respects, than that of summer-collected sperm (at least p<0.05). These results reveal that Blanca Andaluza bucks show seasonal reproductive activity in terms of their plasma testosterone concentration, but no clear change in their sexual behaviour between seasons was observed. The values of fresh sperm variables also vary over the year, reaching their lowest during winter. However, after freezing-thawing, winter-collected sperm is of overall better quality than sperm collected during the summer.
Short communication: Impact of the intensity of milk production on ammonia and greenhouse gas emissions in Portuguese cattle farms
Authors: Pereira José , Trindade Henrique
Published: December 2015

The aim of this study was evaluate the relationship between the intensity of milk production for a wide range of Portuguese commercial cattle farms and NH3 and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from manure management and enteric fermentation. A survey was carried out at 1471 commercial dairy cattle farms (Holstein-Friesian) and the NH3, N2O and CH4 emissions at each stage of manure management were estimated as well as CH4 losses from enteric fermentation. Gaseous emissions were estimated by a mass flow approach and following the recommendations of IPCC guidelines. The manure management and enteric fermentation in a typical Portuguese cattle farm contributes with 7.5±0.15 g N/L milk produced as NH3 and 1.2±0.22 kg CO2 equivalent per litre of milk as GHG. Increasing milk production will significantly reduce NH3 and GHG emissions per litre of milk produced. It can be concluded that a win-win strategy for reducing NH3 and GHG emissions from dairy cattle farms will be the increase of milk production on these farms. This goal can be achieved by implementing animal breeding programs and improving feed efficiency in order to increase productivity.
A polymorphism in the stearoyl-CoA desaturase gene promoter influences monounsaturated fatty acid content of Duroc × Iberian hams
Authors: Henriquez-Rodriguez Eliana , Tor Marc , Pena Ramona N. , Estany Joan
Published: December 2015

Data on 74 dry-cured hams from Duroc × Iberian pigs were used to examine whether the tag polymorphism AY487830:g.2228T>C in the promoter region of the stearoyl-CoA desaturase [SCD] gene affect fat desaturation and monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) as previously described in purebred Duroc hams. Samples were taken from sliced trays of dry-cured hams marketed as Jamón Ibérico de cebo, which were randomly purchased from the same supplier in different stores of the same supermarket chain. Genomic DNA was isolated from each sample to genotype for SCD and gender. Also, a sample of two slices was used to determine fat content and fatty acid (FA) composition by gas chromatography. The effect of the genotype (TT and CT) and gender (barrows and gilts) was estimated under a Bayesian setting. Results showed that the SCD polymorphism was associated to fat composition but not to fat content, with TT hams showing increased C18:1n-7, C18:1n-9, C20:1n-9 and MUFA (probability between 0.92-0.98) and decreased C18:2n-6, C20:4n-6 and polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) (probability between 0.91-0.99) as compared to the CT. As a result, the TT hams had more MUFA (0.95%) and a higher MUFA/PUFA ratio (0.43) than the CT. Barrows had more saturated FA (SFA) and less PUFA than gilts. No differences in MUFA content were found between genders. The SCD polymorphism had a greater impact on MUFA than using hams from barrows instead of gilts. It is concluded that the SCD polymorphism is a good tool to increase MUFA and MUFA/PUFA ratio in Duroc crossbred dry-cured hams.
An Exploratory Investigation into Customer Perceived Value of Food Products in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen The Ninh , Vu Phuong Anh , Phan Thi Thu Hoai , Cao Tuan Khanh
Published: December 2015

The creation of customer value is of paramount importance for organizations’ success, and has been in the central interest of practitioner literature. This present study seeks to explore how Vietnamese customers perceive functional, economic, emotional and social value of consuming food products. Paper-based surveys have been administered to a sample of 410 food customers in the city of Hanoi. The survey results show that customer perceived value of food products is relatively low. The findings provide insights into the dimensionality of customer perceived value, and suggest implications to food companies for enhancing the value of their offerings. In addition, this study may serve as a basis for future research in the domain of customer value.
Management Report Ex. Art. 2428 c.c. in Local Authority Companies
Authors: Oliva Nadia
Published: December 2015

The aim of this paper is to analyze the Local Authorities management reports, particularly those of nine companies involved in the water distribution services in light of the changes made by the legislator to Article 2428 c.c. The new article of the Civil Code has, indeed, provided for the integration, in the management report, of a series of figures and prospective non-financial tools, regarding the environment, employees relationships and the company’s performance, and provided information on developments of management, strategies, plans and business programs. The operational methodology used has been based on a detailed analysis of the existing literature on the matter and on an empirical analysis that has been actualized in the investigation of document sources (management reports and, where possible, social balance reports). What has emerged from the analysis is that, except that for few exceptions, there is a general lack of information on environment, risks and personnel. Indeed, through the recent changes and additions, the legislator has, in effect, made mandatory, albeit in an indirect (i.e. through the editing of the management report), the drafting of a mini social statement. This was necessary in light of the fact that the recent evolution of the role played by companies, and local authorities in particular, has led to the recognition of a social and environmental dimension of their activities, which combines and integrates with the management, economic, financial and competitive profiles.
Export Market Orientation and Organizational Knowledge Enhance Export Market Performance
Authors: Kim-Soon Ng , Rahil Mostafa Muosa , Mohammed Ali Abusalah Elmabrok , Ahmad Abd Rahman
Published: December 2015

Exporters exporting to the Arab Countries should focus on market orientation and organizational knowledge activities to enhance their export performance. Marketing concept suggests that the long term purpose of an organization is to satisfy customer needs for the purpose of maximizing profits. Thus, this study investigated the relationship between export market orientation, organizational knowledge and export market performance. The hypothesized relationships between export market orientation, organizational knowledge and export market performance were empirically tested through structure equation modeling. A total of 223 duly completed self-administrated survey questionnaires collected from each representative manufacturers who export to the Arab market were analyzed. The result shows that export market orientation and organizational knowledge positively influence export market performance. The square multiple correlations between the exogenous constructs and endogenous construct was found to be 49%. It means that when there is one unit of increase in export market orientation and organizational knowledge, there will be 49 units of increase of export market performance for Malaysian manufacturers exporting to Arab countries. Result implies that exporters exporting to Arab countries should focus on market orientation and organizational knowledge activities in their organization to enhance export performance.
A Corporate Social Responsibility Framework for Mining Sector Using Analytic Network Process
Authors: Okan Tarhan , Peker Iskender , Demirelli Serife
Published: December 2015

The aim of this study is to develop a corporate social responsibility (CSR) framework for mining sector and put forward the differences in the CSR perception and interests of the main stakeholders in mining sector, which are defined as government, mining corporations, and other social stakeholders. Analytic Network Process (ANP), which is a decision making technique with multiple criteria, is used in measuring the criteria to be able to bring out how stakeholders perceive CSR activities of mining corporations and which activities they attach more importance and priority. According to the results, for government institutions the most important main criterion identified is “legal criteria”, and for mining companies it is “economic criteria”. On the other hand, from the perspective of other social stakeholders, which consists of “academicians, local community, and non-governmental organizations”, the results show that the main criterion of “environmental criteria” has the highest importance. Study results clearly put forward the differences among stakeholders’ perceptions and interests.
Is a MBA Degree Necessary to Be a CEO of Large Corporation: The Case of Fortune Magazine Global Top 100 Corporations?
Authors: Zandi GholamReza , Yap Peng Lok Stanley , Aslam Ayesha , Singh Daljit
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this paper is to examine if Chief Executive Officer (CEO) educational level particularly MBA has an impact on the performance of organizations or not. Top hundred companies around the world, who are leading and generating revenue in billion dollars per annum, either their CEO’s are MBA holders to make enough strong strategies for growth. The analysis is based upon the data collected form top 100 companies. The data consist of size of company, no of employees, industry, sector, CEO’s gender, education, experience, revenue, profit. This research is to study to understand if a Master in Business Administration (MBA) degree is absolute necessary to become a CEO of Global 100 companies; The research will answer if an MBA degree really necessary to become a CEO of Global 100 company?
Customizing a Math Course with Your Students
Authors: Russo Mark F.
Published: December 2015

A high school math class designed around students' interests and ideas lifts their attitudes toward mathematics and their overall achievement.
Stacking Cans: Abstracting from Computation
Authors: Roy George J. , Safi Farshid , Graul LuAnn
Published: December 2015

Ordering and analyzing stacks of cans give students experience connecting computation and algebraic reasoning.
Journey to Centers in the Core
Authors: Groth Randall E. , Kent Kristen D. , Hitch Ebony D.
Published: December 2015

Students travel through a series of lessons as they analyze data and unpack the meaning of measures of center.
Understanding Linear Functions and Their Representations
Authors: Wells Pamela J.
Published: December 2015

A linear card-sort activity helps students synthesize their understanding of linear functions while problem solving and reasoning; contains an activity sheet.
The Right Time to Start Writing
Authors: Casa Tutita M.
Published: December 2015

Readers share information on hot topics and current issues in the early childhood and elementary school mathematics education community. The journal community contributes perspectives on previously published TCM articles and editorials, and authors and other readers respond.
Mark D. Nanos and Magnus Zetterholm, Eds. Paul within Judaism: Restoring the First-Century Context to the Apostle
Authors: Stegman Thomas D.
Published: December 2015

No abstract is available.
Bildning till verklighet och icke-representationell
Authors: Dahlin Bo
Published: December 2015

This paper explores the educational significance of the critique of representationalism. As it includes the notion of non-representational knowledge, Rudolf Steiner’s epistemology is introduced and further linked to elements in Bergson and Deleuze. Humboldt’s idea of Menschenbildung as the central function of knowledge is brought in, since both Humboldt and Steiner emphasise knowledge as mediating the interplay between self and world, producing a deeper sense of reality. Such an education must respect the living nature of genuine concepts as well as the aesthetic aspects of learning. After a note on the educational abuse of language in discursive closures, some traits of Steiner’s practical pedagogy are presented as possible practical implications.