bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The first structure in a family of peptidase inhibitors reveals an unusual Ig-like fold
Authors: Rigden Daniel J , Xu Qingping , Chang Yuanyuan , Eberhardt Ruth Y , Finn Robert D , Rawlings Neil D
Published: July 2013

We report the crystal structure solution of the Intracellular Protease Inhibitor (IPI) protein fromBacillus subtilis, which has been reported to be an inhibitor of the intracellular subtilisin Isp1 from the same organism. The structure of IPI is a variant of the all-beta, immunoglobulin (Ig) fold. It is possible that IPI is important for protein-protein interactions, of which inhibition of Isp1 is one. The intracellular nature of ISP is questioned, because an alternative ATG codon in theipigene would produce a protein with an N-terminal extension containing a signal peptide. It is possible that alternative initiation exists, producing either an intracellular inhibitor or a secreted form that may be associated with the cell surface.  Homologues of the IPI protein from other species are multi-domain proteins, containing signal peptides and domains also associated with the bacterial cell-surface. The cysteine peptidase inhibitors chagasin and amoebiasin also have Ig-like folds, but their topology differs significantly from that of IPI, and they share no recent common ancestor. A model of IPI docked to Isp1 shows similarities to other subtilisin:inhibitor complexes, particularly where the inhibitor interacts with the peptidase active site.
Taking steps: Construction of an analysis tool to study the interaction during a lap game
Authors: Pérez Jèssica
Published: July 2013

This article discusses the construction of an instrument for the analysis of the adult-child interaction during lap games coming from the traditional repertoire of the Autonomous Community of Catalonia. This research, whicih is part of a Teacher Training and Innovation Project, aims to study from two analytical perspectives musical situations which usually happen during the daily lives of a two-year-old group of children. The research process was emerging while being carried out mainly based on video data collection. As part of the analysis process, an analysis tool and two guides are constructed for categorization, one for music and another for gesture, spacial and linguistic issues. It is, therefore, a tool that takes into account multiple communication modes involved in the realization of lap games, allowing a holistic study. The thoroughness of issues analyzed allows to consider this activity as solid basis for musical learning that let us be aware of the impact for future interactions.
Cellulose recycling as a source of raw chirality
Authors: Corne Valeria , Botta María Celeste , Giordano Enrique D. V. , Giri Germán F. , Llompart David F. , Biava Hernán D. , Sarotti Ariel M. , Mangione María I. , Mata Ernesto G. , Suárez Alejandra G. , Spanevello Rolando A.
Published: July 2013

Modern organic chemistry requires easily obtainable chiral building blocks that
show high chemical versatility for their application in the synthesis of
enantiopure compounds. Biomass has been demonstrated to be a widely available
raw material that represents the only abundant source of renewable organic
carbon. Through the pyrolitic conversion of cellulose or cellulose-containing
materials it is possible to produce levoglucosenone, a highly functionalized
chiral structure. This compound has been innovatively used as a template for the
synthesis of key intermediates of biologically active products and for the
preparation of chiral auxiliaries, catalysts, and organocatalysts for their
application in asymmetric synthesis.
Green chemistry in Brazil
Authors: Corrêa Arlene G. , Zuin Vânia G. , Ferreira Vitor F. , Vazquez Patricia G.
Published: July 2013

The philosophy of green chemistry has been very well received in Latin America’s
research and development programs. In this review we describe the green
chemistry contributions of Brazilian research groups over the last three
years.
Definition of the halogen bond (IUPAC Recommendations
2013)
Authors: Desiraju Gautam R. , Ho P. Shing , Kloo Lars , Legon Anthony C. , Marquardt Roberto , Metrangolo Pierangelo , Politzer Peter , Resnati Giuseppe , Rissanen Kari
Published: July 2013

This recommendation proposes a definition for the term “halogen bond”, which
designates a specific subset of the inter- and intramolecular interactions
involving a halogen atom in a molecular entity.
Papiertechnologische Fragestellungen als Beschreibungskriterien für moderne künstlerische Druckgrafiken und Handzeichnungen
Authors: Neuheuser Hanns Peter
Published: July 2013

In Archiven, Bibliotheken und Museen ist eine große Zahl von Dokumenten mit intrinsischer Bedeutung vorhanden. Deshalb wurden diese Dokumente auch schon früher auf ausgewählten Papieren abgedruckt. Hierzu gehören bibliophile Editionen, literarische Texte, Musiknoten, kartographische Materialien, insbesondere aber auch künstlerische Handzeichnungen und gedruckte Grafiken. Neben den Inhalten dieser Dokumente können die handgeschöpften Papiere wichtige Hinweise auf die Provenienz geben, indem über den Herstellungsprozess auf Ort und Zeit geschlossen werden kann. Solche Informationen liegen zudem immer vor dem eigentlichen Beschreiben vor. Dieser Beitrag befasst sich mit papiertechnologischen Verfahren und der Papieranalyse speziell auf solche Dokumente bezogen. Weiterhin werden Verfahren zur standardisierten Beschreibung und Evaluierung dieser Informationen aufgezeigt.
Bibliotheken zwischen strukturellen Veränderungen, Kosten, Benchmarking und Wettbewerb
Authors: Dugall Berndt
Published: July 2013

Bibliotheken stehen heute vor unterschiedlichen, aber überwiegend neuen Herausforderungen. Die Folgen einer zunehmenden Digitalisierung lassen tradierte Aufgaben und Arbeitsabläufe zunehmend obsolet werden. An ihre Stelle treten teilweise neue Anforderungen, die auch eine Hinwendung zu bisher ungewohnten Aufgaben bedeuten. Globalbudgets in den Hochschulen, verbesserte Controlling-Verfahren und wachsende Kosten-Nutzen-Analysen erzeugen weiteren Druck. Es kommt hinzu, dass auch Ranking-Verfahren mehr und mehr eingesetzt werden, um den zumindest relativen Stellenwert einer Einrichtung zu belegen. Nicht zuletzt stehen die Bibliotheken auch in einem zunehmenden Wettbewerb, sowohl untereinander als auch mit anderen Einrichtungen innerhalb und außerhalb von Hochschulen. Der Aufsatz versucht, die damit verbundenen Probleme und den Umgang mit ihnen aufzuzeigen.
Die digitale Wiederherstellung der „Aschebücher“
Authors: Heist Andrea , Schmidt Karin
Published: July 2013

Seit 2009 werden restaurierte „Aschebücher“ digitalisiert und im
Dokumentenmanagementsystem (DMS) der Herzogin Anna Amalia Bibliothek (HAAB)
erschlossen. Durch den Brand wurde ein Teil der Bücher so stark geschädigt,
dass sie nicht mehr oder nur schwer identifiziert werden können, so dass die
Fachöffentlichkeit mit Methoden des Internets unterstützend einbezogen wird
und mittels eines interaktiven Moduls Hinweise zur Identifizierung geben
kann. Es werden technische Anpassungen des DMS und organisatorische
Zusammenhänge erläutert. Seit April 2012 konnten mit Hilfe zahlreicher
Hinweise bereits eine Reihe von Titeln identifiziert werden.
Das Restaurierungs- und Digitalisierungszentrum in Köln und „Das digitale
Historische Archiv Köln“
Authors: Berger Andreas
Published: July 2013

Durch den Einsturz des Historischen Archivs der Stadt Köln am 3. März
2009 wurden die Archivalien beschädigt, in Teilen oder ganz zerstört und
stark verunordnet. Neben der Konservierung und Restaurierung steht die
Identifizierung und Ordnung des Archivguts im Fokus der Arbeiten. Die Ziele
sind dabei die Erhaltung und die Nutzbarmachung der Archivalien. Die
Identifizierung der Archivalien, bei denen es sich fast ausschließlich um
Unikate handelt, wird in drei aufeinander aufbauenden Phasen
geleistet.
Spectrum Policy and the Evolution of the Wireless Internet: Some Thoughts on Where Economists Agree and Disagree
Authors: Hahn Robert , Passell Peter
Published: July 2013

This essay reviews public policies for spectrum use, distinguishing among them by whether economists agree on their value and why. Spectrum policy could have a large impact on the development of the Internet and the pace of technological change in the wireless industry. We conclude that economists agree on many aspects, but substantive disagreements remain on some important issues – notably on using spectrum policy as a tool for addressing potential sources of inefficiency in the wireless market.
Synthesis of heterocyclic compounds by reaction of dialkyl acetylenedicarboxylates with thiourea derivatives
Authors: Eshghi Hossein , Bakavoli Mehdi , Abedini-Torghabeh Javad , Rahimizadeh Mohammad , Keykha Amir
Published: July 2013

Phosphorus ylides have been prepared in excellent yields by the three-component reaction of activated electron-deficient acetylenic esters (dimethyl and diethyl acetylenedicarboxylate) and thiourea derivatives in the presence of triphenylphosphine. In some cases, these ylides were cyclized to dihydropyrimidothiazine, thioxoimidazolidine, and thioxotetrahydropyrimidine derivatives.
American juvenile justice system: history in the making
Authors: Meng Aaron , Segal Roland , Boden Eric
Published: July 2013

The original theory behind separating juvenile offenders from adult offenders was to provide care and direction for youngsters instead of isolation and punishment. This idea took hold in the 19th century and became mainstream by the early 20th century. In the 1950s and 1960s, public concern grew because of a perceived lack of effectiveness and lack of rights. The Supreme Court made a series of rulings solidifying juvenile rights including the right to receive notice of charges, the right to have an attorney and the right to have charges proven beyond a reasonable doubt. In the 1980s, the public view was that the juvenile court system was too lenient and that juvenile crimes were on the rise. In the 1990s, many states passed punitive laws, including mandatory sentencing and blanket transfers to adult courts for certain crimes. As a result, the pendulum is now swinging back toward the middle from rehabilitation toward punishment.
Prevention of suicidal behavior in adolescents with post-traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Ruby Eugene , Sher Leo
Published: July 2013

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is significantly associated with an increased risk for suicidal behavior among adolescents. Suicide is one of the top three causes of adolescent deaths worldwide. Despite the strong relationship between PTSD and suicidal behavior, precise causal pathways linking PTSD to suicide in adolescents remains unclear. A slew of mediating factors and variables commonly present themselves with both suicide and PTSD, including co-morbid psychiatric disorders, exposure to different forms of trauma and stressful life events, core neurobiological changes, and mental, emotional, and physiological states such as hyperarousal, impulsivity, and aggression. Because youth is such a critical stage of development, it is very important that at-risk adolescents are identified and referred for treatment. With many treatment challenges in these populations, effective implementation and use of prevention methods are of increasing importance. The most proven prevention methods include physician education, means restriction, and gatekeeper training. Other strategies that have received empirical support are public education campaigns and implementing guidelines for the media, including those for television, print media, and the Internet.
Self-esteem in adolescents with chronic physical illness vs. controls in Northern Russia
Authors: Zashikhina Anna , Hagglof Bruno
Published: July 2013

Objective:This work aims to study self-esteem in adolescents with diabetes, asthma and epilepsy; compare the results with those of the representative sample of healthy adolescents; and evaluate the predictive value of certain demographic, family-related, and disease-related factors on self-esteem.

Methods:A total of 148 chronically ill adolescents and 301 matched healthy counterparts completed the Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale and the “I think I am” questionnaire. Adolescents’ parents answered socio-economic status questions. Disease severity was evaluated by doctors of the outpatient clinic.

Results:Comparison analysis of the three disease groups revealed highest self-esteem perception in adolescents with diabetes, and lowest in adolescents with epilepsy. Unexpectedly, adolescents with diabetes scored higher than their healthy counterparts. There were no significant differences between the reports of adolescents with asthma and controls. In the epilepsy group, self-esteem was predicted mostly by disease severity and socio-economic status in diabetes and asthma groups, as well as by age and gender.

Conclusion:The maintenance of positive self-esteem in adolescents with diabetes and asthma is a very reassuring finding. The other results of our study provide support for recognizing adolescents with epilepsy as a vulnerable group in the society. A multidisciplinary professional approach targeted on adolescents with epilepsy is needed, with focus on factors connected with maturation and gender issues.
Textplagiate in der Wissenschaft und deren Verhinderung / Text plagiarism in science and its prevention –Theoretical considerations and empirical findings / Le plagiat de texte dans le domaine des sciences et saprévention: Considérations théoriques et résultats
Authors: Reichmann Gerhard
Published: July 2013

Der Beitrag behandelt die Problematik von Textplagiaten, die von Hochschullehrern bzw. Studierenden im Zuge ihrer wissenschaftlichen Tätigkeit erstellt werden. Als Ergänzung zu den theoretischen Überlegungen wurde eine empirische Untersuchung zur Thematik durchgeführt, in deren Rahmen 72 Hochschullehrer und mehr als 600 Studierende befragt wurden. Im Beitrag wird zunächst diskutiert, unter welchen Voraussetzungen man überhaupt von einem Textplagiat in der Wissenschaft sprechen kann. Diesen Ausführungen folgt eine Analyse möglicher Ursachen für das Plagiieren. Dabei wird v. a. auf die Ergebnisse der vorliegenden empirischen Studie zurückgegriffen. Der vierte Abschnitt ist möglichen Strategien zur Verhinderung von Plagiaten gewidmet, wobei zwischen Maßnahmen der Aufklärung und Maßnahmen der Abschreckung unterschieden wird. Die Wirksamkeit der vorgestellten Strategien wird anhand der Ergebnisse der empirischen Studie überprüft. Insgesamt zeigt sich, dass sowohl Hochschullehrer als auch Studierende hinsichtlich der Plagiatsproblematik durchaus sensibilisiert sind.
Normdatenpflege in Zeiten der Automatisierung. Erstellung und Evaluation automatisch aufgebauter Thesaurus-Crosskonkordanzen / Authority data maintenance in times of automation. Creation and evaluation of automatically established cross-concordances between controlled vocabularies / La gestion de notices d’autorité à l’époque de l’automatisation. Création et évaluation de correspondances entre thesauri générés de façon automatique
Authors: Kempf Andreas Oskar , Zapilko Benjamin
Published: July 2013

Thesaurus-Crosskonkordanzen bilden eine wichtige Voraussetzung für die integrierte Suche in einer verteilten Datenstruktur. Ihr Aufbau erfordert allerdings erhebliche personelle Ressourcen. Der vorliegende Beitrag liefert Evaluationsergebnisse des Library Track 2012 der Ontology Alignment Evaluation Initiative (OAEI), in dem Crosskonkordanzen zwischen dem Thesaurus Sozialwissenschaften (TheSoz) und dem Standard Thesaurus Wirtschaft (STW) erstmals automatisch erstellt wurden. Die Evaluation weist auf deutliche Unterschiede in den getesteten Matching- Tools hin und stellt die qualitativen Unterschiede einer automatisch im Vergleich zu einer intellektuell erstellten Crosskonkordanz heraus. Die Ergebnisse sprechen für einen Einsatz automatisch generierter Thesaurus-Crosskonkordanzen, um Domänenexperten eine maschinell erzeugte Vorselektion von möglichen Äquivalenzrelationen anzubieten.
Laser acupuncture in treatment of childhood bronchial asthma
Authors: Elseify Magda Y. , Mohammed Nagwa Hassan , Alsharkawy Asmaa A. , Elseoudy Mai E.
Published: July 2013

Laser acupuncture is widely used as an alternative treatment for chronic illnesses. Objective: to evaluate the effect of biostimulation by low-level power laser on the traditional Chinese acupuncture points for Egyptian asthmatic children. Method: Thirty asthmatic boys and 20 asthmatic girls 7–18 years (10.6±2.8) were randomly selected from the outpatient chest clinic of Ain Shams University, Children hospitals, and National Research Center outpatient Clinic of Acupuncture, from April 2009 to March 2010. Patients’ symptoms, medications, asthma control questionnaire (ACQ), and spirometric values were recorded before and 1 month after completion of 10 laser acupuncture sessions. Each patient received 10 laser sessions (3 sessions/week) on traditional Chinese acupoints. Results: Started with 36 patients suffering daytime and nocturnal symptoms, ended with two patients suffering nocturnal symptoms (p < 0.001). Also, 48 patients reported better exercise tolerance (p < 0.001). Forced expiratory volume in the first second, forced vital capacity, and peak expiratory flow % increased from 81.8±25.2, 85.4±21.5, and 71.8±22.9 to 98.5±28.1, 104.3±26.2, and 84.3±24.1, respectively (p < 0.001). ACQ improved from 13.9±3.8 to 23.3±3.6 (p < 0.001), 92% of patients became well controlled. Inhaled steroids dose decreased from 200–450 to 0–200 μg/day and all patients stopped short acting B2 agonist (SABA) rescue (p < 0.01, 0.001). Conclusion: low-intensity laser acupuncture can be safe and effective treatment in asthmatic children.
Lobbying in the Virtual World: Perceptions in the Nonprofit Sector
Authors: Miller-Stevens Katrina , Gable Matthew J.
Published: July 2013

Electronic lobbying efforts have become an essential, yet profoundly underutilized strategy of nonprofit organizations to advance the representation of the underserved in policymaking. Through a survey and interviews of leaders and staff members in state nonprofit associations that are members of the National Council of Nonprofits, this study examines the use and perceived effectiveness of nonprofit electronic lobbying activities and the communication channels employed for this purpose, in addition to exploring social crises and technological barriers potentially limiting nonprofit adoption of these activities. The study concludes that state nonprofit associations actively utilize email as an electronic lobbying activity to reach policymakers, but the activity is rarely employed to disseminate information to the general public. Social media methods such as blogging and social networking sites are used less frequently, but they are often perceived as being highly effective as a grassroots lobbying activity.
Optimal Sequence-Based Control and Estimation of Networked Linear Systems
Authors: Fischer Jörg , Reinhardt Marc , Hanebeck Uwe D.
Published: July 2013

In this paper, a unified approach to sequence-based control and estimation of linear networked systems with multiple sensors is proposed. Time delays and data losses in the controller-actuator link are compensated by sending sequences of control inputs. The sequence-based design paradigm is further extended to the sensor-controller connections without increasing the load of the network. In this context, we present a recursive solution based on the Hypothesizing Distributed Kalman Filter (HKF) that is included in the overall sequence-based controller design.
On the Optimization of the Transport Layer for Networked Control Systems
Authors: Blind Rainer , Allgöwer Frank
Published: July 2013

Recent publications showed that packet loss significantly reduces the performance of Networked Control Systems (NCS). One approach to increase the reliability of the communication system is to retransmit lost packets. Obviously, such retransmissions take time and thus require to increase the sampling time, what generally degrades the performance. Thus, we raise the question whether it is worth to increase the sampling time to allow more packet transmissions per sampling interval. To answer this question, we present and analyze four different configurations of the transport layer. Finally, with the help of three simple examples, we show that the control performance can be improved by a proper design of the transport layer.
Shrinkage action mechanism of shrinkage-reducing admixtures based on the pore solution
Authors: Ran Qianping , Gao Nanxiao , Liu Jiaping , Tian Qian , Zhang Jiangang
Published: July 2013

The low molecular polyether shrinkage-reducing admixture (SRA) is widely used, but the shrinkage mechanism is still unclear. In this study, an investigation was carried out with four SRAs from the view point of molecular structure and property, while the pore solution was used as the research object. It was shown from the shrinkage performance experiments that the addition of 2% dipropylene glycol (SRA2), diethylene glycol-monobutyl ether (SRA3) and diethylene glycol-tert-butyl ether (SRA4) reduced the drying shrinkage by up to 19·2%, 44·4% and 28·5%, respectively, and reduced the autogenous shrinkage by up to 23·8%, 65·1%, 68·8% respectively. However, diethylene glycol (SRA1) did not show any shrinkage-reducing performance. The results of the surface tension, ion concentration and SRA concentration tests showed that the shrinkage-reducing ability is closely related to the molecular structures of SRAs. The shrinkage-reducing abilities of the amphiphilic SRAs are proportional to the surface tension of the pore solution, but inversely proportional to the potassium (K+) and sodium (Na+) ion concentrations. However, the surface tension reduction is not the main action mechanism for the hydrophilic SRAs. The shrinkage-reducing abilities of hydrophilic SRAs are related to their molecular diameters and the K+ and Na+ concentrations of the pore solution.
Dietary niche expansion of a kelp forest predator recovering from intense commercial exploitation
Authors: Hamilton Scott L. , Newsome Seth D. , Caselle Jennifer E.
Published: July 2013

Marine ecosystems are increasingly at risk from overexploitation and fisheries collapse. As managers implement recovery plans, shifts in species interactions may occur broadly with potential consequences for ecosystem structure and function. In kelp forests off San Nicolas Island, California, USA, we describe striking changes in size structure and life history traits (e.g., size at maturation and sex change) of a heavily fished, ecologically important predator, the California sheephead (Semicossyphus pulcher). These changes occurred in two phases: (1) after intense commercial fishery exploitation in the late 1990s and (2) following recovery in the late 2000s, nearly a decade after management intervention. Using gut contents and stable‐isotope values of sheephead and their prey, we found evidence for a dietary niche expansion upon recovery of population size structure to include increased consumption of sea urchins and other mobile invertebrate grazers by larger sized fish. By examining historical diet data and a time series of benthic community composition, we conclude that changes in dietary niche breadth are more likely due to the recovery of size structure from fishing than major shifts in prey availability. Size‐dependent predator–prey interactions may have ecosystem consequences and management measures that preserve or restore size structure, and therefore historical trophic roles of key predators, could be vital for maintaining kelp forest ecosystem health.
Digital Writing and Diversity: The Effects of School Laptop Programs on Literacy Processes and Outcomes
Authors: Zheng Binbin , Warschauer Mark , Farkas George
Published: July 2013

Over the last decade, the number of one-to-one laptop programs in U.S. schools has steadily increased. Though technology advocates believe that such programs can assist student writing, there has been little systematic evidence for this claim, and even less focused on technology use by at-risk learners. This study examined the effect of daily access to laptops on the writing outcomes and processes of 2,158 upper elementary students in two school districts, and the effect among diverse students. In a California district, students showed improved English language arts achievement in both a partial laptop program year and a full laptop program year. In a Colorado district, overall writing test score gains were not statistically significant; however in both districts, at-risk student groups (i.e., Hispanics and low-income learners) showed significant gains. In addition, survey results, interviews, and observations indicate that at-risk learners used the laptops more frequently than their counterparts at school for a variety of learning purposes. This study suggests that well-planned use of laptops and digital media can help diverse learners improve their literacy processes and outcomes.
Corporate Tax Preferences: Identification and Accounting Measurement
Authors: Musumeci James J. , Sansing Richard C.
Published: July 2013

This study evaluates the relation between a firm's long-run cash effective tax rate (ETR) and the extent to which a corporation's projects are tax-favored or tax-disfavored. We first derive a measure of the extent to which a project is tax-favored that is independent of the project's financial accounting treatment. We argue that our measure, which focuses on the present value of the government's tax collections from the project, is superior to the traditional measure that compares the pretax and after-tax internal rates of return of the project. We then use our measure as a benchmark with which to examine the relation between the ETR and tax preferences. We find that the long-run cash ETR is an unreliable tax preference measure, even when the asset is depreciated for financial reporting purposes at the rate at which its productivity declines.
Periodontal status of ectopic canines after orthodontic treatment
Authors: Evren Ayşegül Dalkılıç , Nevzatoğlu Şirin , Arun Tülin , Acar Ahu
Published: July 2013

Objective:

To evaluate the periodontal health and tooth vitality of palatally impacted and buccal ectopic maxillary canines after completion of orthodontic treatment.

Materials and Methods:

Fifteen patients who had unilateral, palatally impacted canines and 15 patients who had unilateral, buccal ectopic canines comprised the subjects of the study. Clinical and radiographic data was collected by recalling the patients in both groups after a mean period of 3.82 ± 1.54 years following completion of their orthodontic treatment. In both groups, the contralateral, normally placed canines served as controls.

Results:

Palatally impacted canines had greater pocket depths, higher gingival levels, higher electric pulp testing scores, and reduced bone levels compared to their contralaterals. Buccal ectopic canines had increased plaque and gingival bleeding index, greater pocket depths, reduced attached gingival width, higher gingival levels, increased clinical crown lengths, and higher electric pulp testing scores compared to their contralaterals. Buccal ectopic canines had lower electric pulp testing scores and higher bone levels compared to palatally impacted canines.

Conclusion:

All ectopic canines had increased plaque and gingival bleeding index, greater pocket depths, reduced attached gingival width, higher gingival levels, increased crown lengths, higher electric pulp testing scores, and reduced bone levels compared to their contralaterals.
Using Passive Energy Systems in Ecofarm Architecture
Authors: Csontos Györgyi
Published: July 2013

The history of eco (organic) farming in Hungary has begun in 1983. Currently, approx. 2% of the agricultural area is managed this way. This research gives a survey on the architectural backgrounds of this specific land management type.

Sustainability and energy conservation have brought along a new demand in the construction industry, including design and operation of agricultural buildings: the usage of energy efficient, environmentally friendly and preferably renewable energy based building alternatives.

Among the energy-saving solutions we have to emphasize those passive systems in particular, which use the natural conditions (sunlight, shading, ventilation, gravity, etc.) on their own, without the help of mechanical equipment, and achieve energy efficiency by placing and structuring technological buildings accordingly.
New Ideas in Scoring the Mental Rotation Test
Authors: Bölcskei Attila , Kovács András Zsolt , Kušar Domen
Published: July 2013

Spatial ability development is of paramount importance in engineering training, especially for architects. The paper aims to compare results achieved by the world-wide Mental Rotation Test (MRT) at the University of Ljubljana and at the Ybl Faculty of SzIU in Budapest, with respect to total scores, improvement and hand preferences. The paper concludes that the mental rotation aspect of spatial intelligence can significantly be developed by Descriptive Geometry courses in both countries. Sophisticated statistical analysis, however, leads to new ideas in scoring MRT. The main goal of the paper is to present an alternative scoring system, which seems to be fairer and provides the expected statistical behavior of samples.
Additional Results to the Structural Analysis of Eccentrically Compressed Cross-Section Made of no Tension Material
Authors: Hazay Máté
Published: July 2013

The mechanical behaviour of eccentrically compressed stocky bars of rectangular cross section, having no-tension material is well known. The aim of the structural analysis is to determine the distribution of the stresses arisen from the effect of an eccentrically compressive force, i.e. to describe the shape of the stress block, and to calculate the compressive resistance of the bar. Some important details of the phenomenon could not be found in the technical literature. In our paper we study these details. We evaluate the analytical functions of the curves, bounding areas lain around the kern or the point of gravity, on which areas the eccentric force acts a pentagonal compressed zone arisen. Furthermore, we determine the resistance of the stocky bar in the cases of triangular and rectangular compressive zone.
The Significance of the Concept of Mercy and Its Value in One’s Life, According to Imam Bediuzzaman Said Nursi
Authors: Muflih Betania Kartika
Published: July 2013

This work investigates the approach used by Imam Bediuzzaman Said Nursi in interpreting the Qur’anic verses on Allah being Merciful and Compassionate and attempts to understand his lively scriptural approach to the value of mercy, which makes life meaningful and purposeful. This work aims to highlight distinctive aspects and features of his approach and methodology of Qur’anic exegesis. It discusses the background, reason, and the purpose behind Imam Bediuzzaman’s approach to the issue at hand. It is also important to note that this work is not merely an intellectual enterprise but living answers to problems he personally experienced. The article presents a textual analysis to answer the research questions and address the main problem. It concludes that it is necessary to situate Nursi’s work within the context of Tawhid (Divine Unity), which constitutes the background of his entire system of thought. Through the insight of Tawhid, all that happens in this universe is the product of universal mercy and under the direct control of Merciful Lord. From the perspective of Tawhid too, the order in this universe is the manifestation of the Compassionate Creator’s practices. Indeed, Imam Bediuzzaman’s approach provides a framework for a profound understanding and interpretation of the concept of mercy and its impact on one’s life and social fabric.
Extracellular hydrolytic enzyme production by proteolytic bacteria from the Antarctic
Authors: Tropeano Mauro , Vázquez Susana , Coria Silvia , Turjanski Adrián , Cicero Daniel , Bercovich Andrés , Mac Cormack Walter
Published: July 2013

Cold−adapted marine bacteria producing extracellular hydrolytic enzymes are important for their industrial application and play a key role in degradation of particulate organic matter in their natural environment. In this work, members of a previously−obtained protease−producing bacterial collection isolated from different marine sources from Potter Cove (King George Island, South Shetlands) were taxonomically identified and screened for their ability to produce other economically relevant enzymes. Eighty−eight proteolytic bacterial isolates were grouped into 25 phylotypes based on their Amplified Ribosomal DNA Restriction Analysis profiles. The sequencing of the 16S rRNA genes from representative isolates of the phylotypes showed that the predominant culturable protease−producing bacteria belonged to the class Gammaproteobacteria and were affiliated to the genera Pseudomonas, Shewanella, Colwellia, and Pseudoalteromonas, the latter being the predominant group (64% of isolates). In addition, members of the classes Actinobacteria, Bacilli and Flavobacteria were found. Among the 88 isolates screened we detected producers of amylases (21), pectinases (67), cellulases (53), CM−cellulases (68), xylanases (55) and agarases (57). More than 85% of the isolates showed at least one of the extracellular enzymatic activities tested, with some of them producing up to six extracellular enzymes. Our results confirmed that using selective conditions to isolate producers of one extracellular enzyme activity increases the probability of recovering bacteria that will also produce additional extracellular enzymes. This finding establishes a starting point for future programs oriented to the prospecting for biomolecules in Antarctica.
Role of Organic and Inorganic Nutrient Sources in Improving Wheat Crop Production
Authors: Ahmad M. , Afzal M. , Ahmad A. , Ahmad A.U.H. , Azeem M.I.
Published: July 2013

Effects of organic manures on grain yield and yield components of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivar Minthar-03 were studied at (RARI) Regional Agricultural Research Institute Bahawalpur, Pakistan, during 2010-2011 seasons in chemistry division. The present study have six treatments i.e. control, NPK=150-120-60 kg/ha, control, NPK= 150-120-60 kg/acre, NPK+ poultry manure 50 kg /acre, NPK + press mud 500 kg/acre, NPK + city compost 300 kg/acre, NPK + humic acid 4 kg/acre. Combinations of NPK + PM 50 kg/ha having high plant height (102.53) while number of (343) tillers/m2 was obtained high in combination with NPK + city compost 300 kg/ha which was at par with combination (NPK + press mud 500 kg/acre) having plant height 100.90. spike length, number of grains /spike, 1000 grains weight, grain yield t/ha was 13.35 cm, 61.85, 40.60 grams and 3.14 t/ha respectively obtained in treatment (NPK + press mud 500 kg/acre). While minimum amount of plant height (94.80), number of tillers/m2 (223), spike length (10.35 cm), number of grains/spike (43.43), 1000 grains weight (35.33g), grain yield t/ha (38.41) was found in control where no dose of organic and inorganic fertilizer were applied.
Effect of Different Sowing Techniques and Mulches on the Growth and Yield Behavior of Spring Planted Maize (Zea Mays L.)
Authors: Zamir M.S.I. , Yasin G. , Javeed H.M.R. , Ahmad A.U.H. , Tanveer A. , Yaseen M.
Published: July 2013

A field trail was carried out to evaluate the effect of different sowing techniques and mulches on the growth and yield attributes of maize. The experiment was conducted at the Agronomic Research Farm, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad during spring season, 2011. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with split plot arrangement having three replications with net plot size of 7.0 m × 4.5 m. Field experiment comprised of five sowing methods (S1: ridge sowing, S2: ridge sowing alternate double sided, S3: bed sowing, S4: furrow sowing and S5 flat sowing) and three mulches (M1: maize pith, M2: wheat straw, M3: rice straw) was conducted during 2011 spring season under the tropical condition. The results showed that cobs length, cob diameter, and number of grains per cob, 1000-grain weight, biological yield and grain yield were maximum under ridge sowing method (S1) following the ridge sowing alternate double sided (S2). Furrow sowing shows least response to the agronomic and yield related parameters of spring maize. Among the mulch treatments; wheat straw mulch (M2) perform better and gave higher grain yield (6.21 Mg ha-1) as compared to the rice straw mulch and maize pith. Sowing techniques and mulches showed statistically non significant results for quality parameters (starch contents, oil contents and protein contents). Interaction of all three quality parameters was also observed non significant.
Impact of Livestock Manure, Nitrogen and Biofertilizer (Azotobacter) on Yield and Yield Components Wheat (Triticum Aestivum L.)
Authors: Esmailpour A. , Hassanzadehdelouei M. , Madani A.
Published: July 2013

Integrated nutrient management strategies involving chemical and biologic fertilizer is a real challenge to stop using the high rates of agrochemicals and to enhance sustainability of crop production. In order to study the effects of livestock manure, chemical nitrogen, and biologic (Azotobacter) fertilizers on yield and yield components of wheat, an agricultural experiment in the form of split factorial design with three replications was conducted in Elam region, Iran. The aim of this research was assessment of the effects of these fertilizers separately and in integrated forms; and setting out the best fertilizer mixture. The results showed that treatment with livestock manure, Azotobacter and chemical nitrogen increased plant height, biological and grain yield. Using livestock manure and Azotobacter increased biologic yield through increase in plant height which cause to increase in grain yield without any significant changes in harvest index and other yield components, but the use of chemical nitrogen caused an increase in plant height, No. of spikelete/spike, No. of grain/spike, one thousand grain weight and harvest index, biologic and grain yield. In the light of the results achieved, we may conclude that using livestock manure and chemical nitrogen fertilizer together with the Azotobacter had the maximum impact on yield; and that we can decrease use of chemical fertilizers through using livestock manure and biologic fertilizers and to reach to the same yield when we use only chemical fertilizers.
Impact of Varying Planting Patterns and Fertilizer Application Strategies on Autumn Planted Sunflower Hybrid
Authors: Yasin M. , Mahmood A. , Ali A. , Aziz M. , Javaid M.M. , Iqbal Z. , Tanveer A.
Published: July 2013

Achene yield, oil contents and protein contents are vital yield attributes of sunflower crop. To acquaint the impact of NP rates and planting patterns on the production potential of autumn sunflower hybrid Hysun-33 and fertilizer use efficiency a field experiment was executed in 2005. Treatments comprised of four NP combinations viz. 0-0, 50-35, 100-70 and 150-105 NP kg ha-1 and two planting patterns viz. bed sowing with 75 cm wide beds separated by 20 cm furrows and bed sowing with 60 cm wide beds separated by 25 cm furrows. Treatment 150-105 NP kg ha-1 with 75 cm wide beds separated by 20 cm furrows was found to be supercilious as it exhibited significant lofty achene yield (3360.00 kg ha-1), number of achene head-1 (1267.02), 1000-achene weight (68.65 g), biological yield (11166.6 kg ha-1) and harvest index (30.09%). Contrastingly, treatment 0-0 N-P kg ha-1 with 60 cm wide bed separated by 25 cm plant spacing bestowed the minimum grain yield. Frail increase in oil contents with gradual increase in fertilizer levels but it did not procure at a level of significance. Superior protein contents (27.71%) were revealed in treatment 150-105 N-P kg ha-1 with 75 cm wide bed separated by 20 cm plant spacing.
The Effect of Nacl Priming on Emergence, Growth and Yield of Fenugreek Under Saline Conditions
Authors: Soughir M. , Elouaer M.A. , Hannachi C.
Published: July 2013

Salinity is considered as a major abiotic stress affecting crop production in arid and semi-arid regions in the world. Poor germination and decrease of seedling growth are major results of poor crop establishment and failure. Many research studies have shown that seed priming is an efficient method for increasing plant growth and yield in saline condition. For this reason, this experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of NaCl priming on the emergence and seedling growth of Tunisian fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) under salinity conditions. Seeds of fenugreek were primed with NaCl (4 g L-1) for 36 h in continuous 25°C. Primed (P) and non-primed (NP) seeds were sown in plastic pots and placed in greenhouse for 4 months. Experiments were conducted using various NaCl concentrations (0, 4, 6, 8 and 10 g L-1). Results showed that emergence percentage of primed seeds was greater than nonprimed seeds. Roots length, plant height, leaf area, fresh and dry weight and yields of plants derived from primed seeds were higher compared with non-primed seeds. Na+ content of plants derived from primed seeds was lower than that of primed ones. In the other side, K+ and Ca2+ content of plants derived from primed seeds was higher compared with plants derived from nonprimed seeds. These results suggest that NaCl priming of fenugreek seeds increased salt tolerance of seedlings by reducing Na+ and promoting K+ and Ca2+ accumulation.
Demographic Study on the Total Sura de Stepă Breed Population in Romania
Authors: Creangă Şt. , Dascălu D.L. , Ruginosu Elena , Borş I. , Ilie Daniela Elena , Cean Ada
Published: July 2013

The research was conducted from August until November 2012 in the districts of Moldavia (Botoşani, Suceava, Iaşi, Vaslui, Bacău, Neamţ, Galaţi and Vrancea), in the West and the Central part of the country (Cluj and Covasna districts) and in the South-East of the country (Tulcea and Brăila districts). The choice of the districts was established based on the informations received from Animal Improvement and Breeding Offices in Romania. The purpose of this research was to identify the effective of Sura de stepă cattle breed in Romania and the evaluation of the phenotypic characters in steppe animals, which belong to the variety of Moldavian breed. The results showed that the Sura de stepă breed consists of a minor part, being raised in just two districts of Moldavia, Iaşi and Neamţ, respectively, as a pure breed with an average of 0,03 % (83 cows), at the Research and Development Station for Cattle Breeding (R.D.S.C.B.) Dancu-Iaşi, with a core of preservation of 59 cows (0,19 %) and at the Holding TCE 3 Brazi Society, Neamţ district, with a core of 24 cows (0,06 %), and under half-breed form with an average of 0,33 % (592 cows). In Harghita, Covasna and Cluj districts, 295 cows from the Sura de stepă breed, Hungarian variety, were identified, excepting being the animals belonging to University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj, which come from R.D.S.C.B. Dancu-Iaşi, which are Romanian Sura de stepă, Moldavian variety. In Tulcea district, 20 cows of half-breed Sura de stepă and 50 cows of pure breed cattle, Moldavian variety, were identified, from which 24 cows at a private landlord in Pardina locality, Tulcea district, and 26 cows belonging to nine owners from different localities (C.A. Rosetti, Pardina, Chilia Veche, Sfântu Gheorghe, Crişan), each owning 2-3 cows. The analysis of the main body indices showed that the Sura de stepă cows from Pardina, Tulcea county, are of small size and weight, having smaller values in all analysed parameters, compared to the Sura de stepă cows from R.D.S.C.B. Dancu-Iaşi from the North-East part of the country, which however fitted the specific limits of the breed, Moldavian variety.
Who Would Stay, Who Would Be Dismissed? An Empirical Consideration of Value-Added Teacher Retention Policies
Authors: Winters Marcus A. , Cowen Joshua M.
Published: July 2013

Several states have recently adopted or are pursuing policies that deny or revoke tenure from teachers who receive poor evaluation ratings over time based in part on quantitative measures of performance. Using data from the state of Florida, we estimate such value-added measures to consider the future effectiveness and number of teachers who would have been dismissed under different versions of these policies. Students assigned to teachers who would have been dismissed according to a value-added policy made considerably smaller academic improvements than did students assigned to teachers who would have avoided dismissal. Critically, however, we show that specific policy design determines the extent of the potential for value-added to improve the overall quality of the teaching workforce.
Locating the Experimental Novel in Erasure and The Water Cure
Authors: Morton Seth
Published: July 2013

Abstract:

The article examines the way that the experimental evolves in Percival Everett’s work, bringing into focus a dialectic in his fiction between play, the imaginative, and the fantastic, on the one hand, and mimesis, realism, and the everyday, on the other. It argues that the synthesis of this dialectic does not allow us to escape or transcend the scene of art but rather returns us, more forcefully, to the ground-zero tension that exists in the work of art itself. This tension, at the heart of all experimentation, is a generative space of self-reflexivity and meaning making that names the scene of art for what it is.
Setting One’s House in Order: Theoretical Blackness in Percival Everett’s Fiction
Authors: Stewart Anthony
Published: July 2013

Abstract:

The article argues that Percival Everett’s fiction is not fiction at all, or at least, not just fiction. It is more an attempt to hew out and work in spaces in between conventional literary categories in order not to provide answers but to provoke better questions that might be asked about his work and by extension the works of other writers as well. From here, it is not much of a leap to recognize that the lessons for reading produced by Everett’s texts translate easily into lessons for reading other, perhaps more problematic and conventionalized signifiers, like the notion of the “African American novelist” or, for that matter, any person who is not “like me,” whoever that “me” might happen to be. In other words, Everett’s novels occupy and draw our attention to the spaces in between conventional notions of literary fiction and equally conventional notions of literary theory.
Trout Fishing and Red Herring: The Meaning of Going Wild in Percival Everett’sDamned If I Do
Authors: Dumas Frédéric
Published: July 2013

Abstract:

The article explores the complex notion of wildness that characterizes the twelve stories of Percival Everett’s Damned If I Do and examines the palindromic nature of meaning that sheds light on the coherence of the collection. Everett’s stories belong to a literary tradition, dating back to the nineteenth century, that celebrates life in an almost Edenic Western landscape. The violence, the humour, and the flights of creative fancy that characterize Damned If I Do point to an understanding of the wilderness that informs both the diegetic world and the textual nature of that world.
The Real and the Unreal, or the Endogenous and the Exogenous: The Case of Walk Me to the Distance and Wounded
Authors: Julien Claude
Published: July 2013

Abstract:

The article brings together two novels that were published twenty years apart: Percival Everett’s Walk Me to the Distance and Wounded. Although, of course, the two stories are marked by the different social concerns of their different periods, there is a clear thematic continuity that links them. Beyond each story’s particular journey, each is haunted by violence under several guises. No story speaks its author’s words or mind-set directly. Art is no didactic exercise. The article suggests, nevertheless, that fiction is a confrontation between endogenous forces (the author’s own stand) and various exogenous forces, ways, and attitudes the author declines to share.