bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effects of biochar on the physical properties of bare soil
Authors: Ventura Francesca , Salvatorelli Fiorenzo , Piana Stefano , Pieri Linda , Pisa Paola Rossi 
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACTThe pyrolysis conversion of vegetable residues into energy and biochar, and its incorporation in agricultural soil, reduces CO2emission and provides a longterm soil carbon sequestration. Moreover, biochar application in soil seems to increase nutrient stocks in the rooting layer, improving crop yield. Compared with the numerous studies assessing the positive effect of biochar on yield, however, little research has been published elucidating the mechanisms responsible for the reported benefits. Few studies cited soil moisture as the key factor, attributing the increased yield to the higher soil water availability.The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of biochar on the physical and hydraulic properties of a bare Padana Plain (Cadriano, Bologna) agricultural soil. A preliminary plot experiment in 2009 explored the influence of 10 and 30 kg ha–1of biochar on soil moisture, without effects from plants. Results of the first experiment suggested using higher biochar rates in a similar experimental scheme. During the second experiment, 30 and 60 t ha–1doses were investigated. Soil water content, bulk density, electrical conductivity and soil water retention were measured. The comparison between treated soils and the control indicates that the biochar rate is directly correlated to electrical conductibility and inversely correlated with bulk density. The effect on the density of soil can be very positive in case of heavy soils. The dark colour of the char increased the surface temperature with respect to the control, while no differences were detected at 7·5 cm depth. No influences were found on other soil characteristics, including soil pH, moisture and water retention.
Sociodemographic Factors Associated with Tobacco Smoking among Intermediate and Secondary School Students in Jazan Region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Gaffar Abdelrahim Mutwakel , Alsanosy Rashad Mohammed , Mahfouz Mohamed Salih 
Published: March 2013

Background The objectives of this study were to (i) determine the prevalence of and characteristics associated with tobacco smoking; (ii) identify the factors associated with tobacco smoking; and (iii) evaluate the association between tobacco smoking and khat chewing among intermediate and secondary school students in Jazan Region, Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with a representative sample ( N = 4100) of intermediate and secondary school students in Jazan Region. The data were collected using a pretested modified version of the global youth tobacco survey questionnaire. Results A total of 3923 students from 72 intermediate and secondary schools for males and females in Jazan Region, Saudi Arabia, were included in this study. The ever having smoked prevalence was 17.3%, and the current smoking prevalence was 10.7%. The most important independent predictors of smoking were academic performance (odds ratio [OR]: 5.32), having friends who used khat (OR: 3.23), and having friends who used tobacco (OR: 2.88). Conclusions Understanding the factors and predictors associated with tobacco use are crucial to identifying high-risk groups to design tobacco prevention and control programs. For the first time, a strong and statistically significant association was identified between tobacco smoking and khat chewing among intermediate and secondary school students in Jazan Region. Because the use of khat is increasingly spreading outside of its traditional areas to Europe and America, this finding may have an important impact on tobacco control efforts internationally.
Self-Forgiveness, Shame, and Guilt in Recovery from Drug and Alcohol Problems
Authors: McGaffin Breanna J. , Lyons Geoffrey C. B. , Deane Frank P. 
Published: March 2013

Background People with drug and/or alcohol problems often experience feelings of shame and guilt, which have been associated with poorer recovery. Self-forgiveness has the potential to reduce these negative experiences. Methods The current study tested theorized mediators (acceptance, conciliatory behavior, empathy) of the relationships between shame and guilt with self-forgiveness. A cross-sectional sample of 133 individuals (74.4% male) receiving residential treatment for substance abuse completed self-report measures of shame, guilt, self-forgiveness, and the mediators. Results Consistent with previous research, guilt had a positive association with self-forgiveness, whereas shame was negatively associated with self-forgiveness. Acceptance mediated the guilt and self-forgiveness relationship and had an indirect effect on the shame and self-forgiveness relationship. Conclusions These findings emphasize the importance of targeting acceptance when trying to reduce the effects of shame and guilt on self-forgiveness.
Antioxidant Capacity of Newly Developed Pigmented Rice Cultivars in Korea
Authors: Kang Mi Young , Rico Catherine W. , Bae Hyun Jung , Lee Sang Chul 
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACTThe antioxidant capacity of newly developed and highly popular pigmented rice cultivars (black rice, Galsaekchalmi, Jeoktomi, Hongchalmi, and Nogwonmi) in South Korea was analyzed. The rice grains were ground into powder, extracted with 70% ethanol, filtered, and concentrated with a rotary evaporator. The samples were analyzed for phenolic, flavonoid, and phytic acid contents, free radical scavenging activity, reducing power, ferrous ion chelating ability, lipid peroxidation inhibition, and superoxide dismutase‐like activity. The ethanolic extracts from pigmented rice cultivars showed greater antioxidant activity than that of the normal white rice. The black rice exhibited the highest free radical scavenging activity, ferrous chelating ability, and total phenolic and flavonoid contents. The reducing power and phytic acid content were found to be highest in Hongchalmi cultivar. The inhibition of lipid peroxidation was markedly higher in Jeoktomi compared with the other rice samples. The Nogwonmi rice showed the lowest antioxidant activity among the pigmented varieties analyzed. These findings provide valuable information on the antioxidant potential of newly developed pigmented rice varieties and may assist plant breeders in the selection of cultivars for the development of new lines of rice with enhanced functional quality.
Small Interfering RNA–Mediated Translation Repression Alters Ribosome Sensitivity to Inhibition by Cycloheximide inChlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Ma Xinrong , Kim Eun-Jeong , Kook Insun , Ma Fangrui , Voshall Adam , Moriyama Etsuko , Cerutti Heriberto 
Published: March 2013

AbstractSmall RNAs (sRNAs; ∼20 to 30 nucleotides in length) play important roles in gene regulation as well as in defense responses against transposons and viruses in eukaryotes. Their biogenesis and modes of action have attracted great attention in recent years. However, many aspects of sRNA function, such as the mechanism(s) of translation repression at postinitiation steps, remain poorly characterized. In the unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, sRNAs derived from genome-integrated inverted repeat transgenes, perfectly complementary to the 3′ untranslated region of a target transcript, can inhibit protein synthesis without or with only minimal mRNA destabilization. Here, we report that the sRNA-repressed transcripts are not altered in their polyadenylation status and they remain associated with polyribosomes, indicating inhibition at a postinitiation step of translation. Interestingly, ribosomes associated with sRNA-repressed transcripts show reduced sensitivity to translation inhibition by some antibiotics, such as cycloheximide, both in ribosome run-off assays and in in vivo experiments. Our results suggest that sRNA-mediated repression of protein synthesis in C. reinhardtii may involve alterations to the function/structural conformation of translating ribosomes. Additionally, sRNA-mediated translation inhibition is now known to occur in a number of phylogenetically diverse eukaryotes, suggesting that this mechanism may have been a feature of an ancestral RNA interference machinery.
14-3-3 Regulates 1-Aminocyclopropane-1-Carboxylate Synthase Protein Turnover in Arabidopsis
Authors: Yoon Gyeong Mee , Kieber Joseph J. 
Published: March 2013

Abstract
14-3-3 proteins are a family of conserved phospho-specific binding proteins involved in diverse physiological processes. Plants have large 14-3-3 gene families, and many binding partners have been identified, though relatively few functions have been defined. Here, we demonstrate that 14-3-3 proteins interact with multiple 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate synthase (ACS) isoforms in Arabidopsis thaliana. ACS catalyzes the generally rate-limiting step in the biosynthesis of the phytohormone ethylene. This interaction increases the stability of the ACS proteins. 14-3-3s also interact with the ETHYLENE-OVERPRODUCER1 (ETO1)/ETO1-LIKE (EOLs), a group of three functionally redundant proteins that are components of a CULLIN-3 E3 ubiquitin ligase that target a subset of the ACS proteins for rapid degradation by the 26S proteasome. In contrast with ACS, the interaction with 14-3-3 destabilizes the ETO1/EOLs. The level of the ETO1/EOLs in vivo plays a role in mediating ACS protein turnover, with increased levels leading to a decrease in ACS protein levels. These studies demonstrate that regulation of ethylene biosynthesis occurs by a mechanism in which 14-3-3 proteins act through a direct interaction and stabilization of ACS and through decreasing the abundance of the ubiquitin ligases that target a subset of ACS proteins for degradation.
Advanced quality management system for product families in mass customization and reconfigurable manufacturing
Authors: Davrajh Shaniel , Bright Glen 
Published: March 2013

PurposeProduction of a high variety of products introduces complexities in the quality processes involved in a manufacturing system. Previous methods of quality assurance and control are not sufficient to manage the quality characteristics that are significant to each customer. Research into quality management for these environments has been isolated and segmented. No framework exists to holistically manage product quality within an unstable manufacturing environment. This paper seeks to propose a method of holistically managing product quality in a manufacturing environment with high customer input and product variety. The development of a reconfigurable inspection apparatus is discussed as a technological requirement for performing the quality control aspect of the management system.Design/methodology/approachThe quality requirements of modern manufacturing systems were established. The required flow of information for an advanced quality management system was proposed and compared to the information flow in a traditional quality management system. The developed reconfigurable inspection apparatus was tested by performing an inspection of a product configuration within a part family of torches. Commercial products were used for the construction of the apparatus, including the electrical and software aspects. A commercially available simulation package was used to simulate the effects of a random customer order on production flow whilst implementing the developed apparatus.FindingsModular inspection equipment would prove essential to the implementation of quality control when considering advanced manufacturing environments. An overall management system is also needed for the verification of product quality as per individual customer requirements. Quality needs to be integrated as per TQM principles.Research limitations/implicationsTraditional quality control tools may not always be applicable for unstable market demand. The research indicated the required progression of quality systems to successfully manage the quality for advanced manufacturing. The widespread availability of commercial components for the inspection apparatus verified the shift in supplier focus to meet the needs of shifting manufacturing requirements.Practical implicationsThe proposed approach to assure and control quality, as well as the researched inspection apparatus, provided the capability of being implemented in a manufacturing environment that involves production of a variety of products as opposed to being limited to one part family. The use of modular mechanical, electrical and software components will ease the implementation of reconfigurable inspection stations into existing manufacturing setups.Originality/valueResearch indicated that quality systems need to be further developed for assuring and controlling product quality of products with high customer input. No system existed that could holistically consider the quality requirements of a product from design to delivery.
Auto body taillight assembly modeling and fitting variation induced by tighten‐up sequence analyzing
Authors: Wang Hua , Gao Xiang 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThis paper seeks to propose an auto body taillight assembly model using finite element analysis. Fitting variation induced by tighten‐up sequence is analyzed by the model to control the dimensional quality of auto body.Design/methodology/approachThe taillight assembly model is constructed with finite elements to depict the assembly process of the taillight. The validity of the simulation model is proved by the consistence between the pressures obtained from the finite elements simulation results and the pressure sensitive paper. The fitting variation induced by tighten‐up sequences is analyzed with the proposed model. GAGE R&R method is employed to check the significant difference among four different sequences and a rational conclusion is obtained.FindingsThe proposed finite element model could be used for taillight fitting quality control. The results have shown that as far as the car taillight assembly structure discussed in the paper is concerned, the taillight final fitting quality has nothing to do with the tighten‐up sequence of connecting bolts.Originality/valueThe taillight assembly model is first constructed with finite elements to depict the assembly process of the taillight. For the first time, GAGE R&R method is employed to check the significant difference among the fitting qualities obtained by different sequences. The results of this research will enhance the understanding of the optimal fitting of car taillight, and help to systematically improve the productivity and the fitting quality in the automotive industry.
Issues and challenges faced by building surveyors in Malaysia
Authors: Shah Ali Azlan , Jia Woon Chen 
Published: March 2013

PurposeA Building Surveyor (BS) is a professional who carries out building control functions and performance‐related assessments which require an organised approach. The profession is involved in preparing for physical development, supervision of construction quality and assessment of the physical condition of a building. However, the awareness of the importance of BSs in Malaysia is still very low. The capabilities of BS graduates have long been debated by other professionals in the Malaysian construction industry and there are some issues that need to be clarified prior to the granting of government approval to the profession. The purpose of this paper is to concentrate on the issues and challenges faced by graduate building surveyors in Malaysia. In addition, the paper focuses on the employment trend of BS graduates.Design/methodology/approachFollowing a literature review, a triangulation approach was used in this study which involved a questionnaire survey (sample size 64) and interviews with selected respondents.FindingsFrom the results, it can be concluded that BSs are still in high demand in Malaysia, even without the Building Surveyor Act, which is required to provide government endorsement of the profession. In terms of challenges faced by graduate BSs, the lack of a specific act governing BS practices and approved by the government was found to be the most important challenge that needs to be resolved as soon as possible.Originality/valueThis paper contributes to the debate about the importance of ensuring statutory recognition of the BS profession in Malaysia.
Data centres in the UK: property and planning issues
Authors: Jones Peter , Hillier David , Comfort Daphne 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe continuing growth of digital technology has been accompanied by an explosion in digital data generation. These data are processed, stored, managed and exchanged in data centres but there is limited general awareness appreciation of the role such centres play as the driving hub of the economy. With this in mind, the purpose of this paper is to provide a simple review of the data centre property market and the changing geography of such centres and to review a number of the environmental and planning issues associated with the development of new data centres.Design/methodology/approachThe paper begins with a description of the characteristics and origins of data centres, outlines the data centre property market and the changing geography of new purpose built data centres within the UK and discusses a range of the environmental and planning issues associated with the development of such centres.FindingsThe paper reveals that four different types of data centre can be recognised, that relationship between supply and demand within the data centre property market is a contested issue and that the geography of new data centre development is changing. Data centre developers are increasingly looking for designs that increase energy efficiency and reduce carbon dioxide and the planning issues associated with such developments include classifying the use class, environmental and design considerations and employment generation.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper provides an accessible review of the development of data centres in the UK and as such it will be of interest to those working in, engaging with, and studying the data centre market.Originality/valueThe paper provides an accessible review of the development of data centres in the UK and as such it will be of interest to those working in, engaging with, and studying data centres.
Expropriation, valuation and compensation practice in Ethiopia
Authors: Yirsaw Alemu Belachew 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to examine the expropriation, valuation and compensation practice. This paper tries to investigate how the expropriation and compensation laws are implemented when privately held land and attached real properties are taken for public purpose development in Bahir Dar city and surrounding. However, further research should be undertaken nation‐wide to explore the problems throughout the country.Design/methodology/approachThe paper reports the findings of a survey of expropriatees from main practices throughout Bahir Dar city and its surroundings.FindingsThere is a big gap between the actual practice of expropriation, valuation and compensation and the Laws. Lack of application of standardized methods and procedures created situations of unfair valuation and compensation.Practical implicationsThe practical implication is that the living status of affected people before and after expropriation could be useful.Originality/valueThe value of the paper for government officials, real property valuers and investors is that transparency, consistency and fair compensation are useful.
Factors influencing continuing professional development
Authors: Brekelmans Gerard , F. Poell Rob , van Wijk Kees 
Published: March 2013

Purpose
– The aim of this paper is to present an inventory of expert opinions on the factors that influence the participation of registered nurses in continuing professional development (CPD) activities.

Design/methodology/approach
– A Delphi study was conducted among 38 Dutch experts (nursing employers, managers, education institutions, and professional associations). Data collection comprised three rounds: experts completed two consecutive rounds of questionnaires and participated in a discussion meeting.

Findings
– Main influencing factors were: a CPD registration system, the attractiveness of the nursing profession, nurses
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identification with the nursing profession, opportunities for workplace learning, the line manager as role model, and attractive education programs.

Research limitations/implications
– Being part of a larger study, for the present paper only nursing experts were asked their opinion about shaping CPD for nurses. Further research should bring in the views of nurses themselves and investigate how the wider environment influences CPD participation.

Practical implications
– As all stakeholders were found to have their own roles in the CPD process, collaboration among employers, managers, education institutions, and professional associations will be crucial to create a conducive learning climate for nurses. HRD practitioners in healthcare can use the study findings to advise hospitals about implementing the right conditions to support CPD for nurses.

Originality/value
– A qualitative study using the Delphi method to discover factors influencing CPD in nursing had not been conducted before. Unlike many studies looking essentially at formal education, the present paper takes into account workplace learning among nurses as well.
Effects of social support on professors’ work stress
Authors: Moeller Christin , Chung‐Yan Greg A. 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine how various types of workplace social support from different support sources interact with occupational stressors to predict the psychological well‐being of university professors.Design/method/approachA total of 99 full‐time professors participated via an online or paper questionnaire.FindingsUsing moderated hierarchical multiple regressions, the results support the hypotheses that the effects of occupational stressors on professors’ psychological well‐being vary depending on the level of perceived workplace social support. However, although workplace social support buffered the effects of some occupational stressors (i.e. work overload), social support exacerbated the adverse effects of others (i.e. decision‐making ambiguity).Research limitations/implicationsThe dichotomous effects of social support suggest that the impact of social support may be moderated by another variable, such as perceived control over the stressor at hand. The present findings echo calls for further refinements to models of social support to examine how individuals’ situational appraisals shape the variable interactive effects of stressors and social support on individuals’ health and well‐being.Originality/valueThis study provides new insight into academic work stress by systematically examining the effects of workplace social support on professors’ work stress experience. This study also extends our current understanding of the relationships among stressors, strains, and social support by providing empirical evidence that workplace social support is neither consistently beneficial nor a unidimensional construct.