bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water Stress Patterns of Xerophytic Plants in an Urban Landscape
Authors: Martinson Richard , Lambrinos John , Mata-González Ricardo
Published: May 2019

Efficient water use in urban landscapes is a common objective throughout the western United States. Vegetative species promoted for their drought tolerance characteristics are often included in landscapes designed for resource conservation. However, water requirements of most common landscape species have not been quantified. This is especially true for xerophytic species. This lack of landscape plant water requirement data is a significant constraint on the design of efficient irrigation systems and management practices affecting urban landscape water use. Current irrigation practices often fail to consider the unique physiology of xerophytic species, and irrigation scheduling models may not be appropriate for xeric landscapes using xerophytic vegetation as the primary method of reducing water use. This work describes the seasonal patterns of growth and xylem water status for four regionally native xeric shrub species planted in an unirrigated urban landscape in the semi-arid environment of central Oregon. The four species (Artemisia tridentata, Holodiscus microphyllus, Ericameria nauseosa, and Ribes cereum) exhibited substantial growth over the course of 18 months without irrigation in a heavily modified urban soil profile. Water potential of the four species was strongly correlated with surface (10 cm) soil moisture (r ≥ 0.90), less so with reference monthly evapotranspiration (r ≤ 0.55), and only weakly with water vapor deficit (r ≤ 0.22). In A. tridentata and H. microphyllus, xylem water potential became more negative during the growing season and tracked the seasonal decline in soil moisture. In contrast, the xylem water potential of E. nauseosa and R. cereum tracked soil moisture early in the season but became less responsive to soil moisture in the driest months, suggesting different drought adaptation strategies in these species. Three of the four species showed no visual signs of drought stress and maintained acceptable aesthetics even as soil moisture decreased to less than 10%. However, R. cereum exhibited a drought dormancy strategy that made it less aesthetically desirable. These results suggest that extreme xerophytic shrubs provide an opportunity for significant reductions in water use in urban landscapes.
Screening Progenies of Mexican Race Avocado Genotypes for Resistance to Phytophthora cinnamomi Rands
Authors: Sánchez-González Enrique I. , Gutiérrez-Soto J. Guadalupe , Olivares-Sáenz Emilio , Gutiérrez-Díez Adriana , Barrientos-Priego Alejandro F. , Ochoa-Ascencio Salvador
Published: May 2019

Because of the low availability of avocado rootstocks with resistance to Phytophthora cinnamomi, it is necessary to search for genotypes that offer resistance and that could be used as commercial rootstocks. The objective of this study was to select progeny from the genotypes of Mexican race avocado plants that are resistant to P. cinnamomi. Seedlings from 12 avocado genotypes were placed in containers inoculated with a mycelial suspension of P. cinnamomi. Signs of disease in the upper part of the seedlings were registered every 3 days for 8 weeks using a visual scale of damage severity. The χ2 test (P < 0.009) showed significant differences among the genotypes evaluated, with ‘Todo el Año’ being the most resistant, as demonstrated by its rating of 70% asymptomatic seedlings, followed by ‘Plátano’ with 40%. The most susceptible genotypes were ‘María Elena’, ‘Silvestre’, and ‘Hass’, with 100% mortality. Seedling inoculation facilitated the detection of resistance to P. cinnamomi. ‘Todo el Año’ showed resistance toward P. cinnamomi. Therefore, individuals of its offspring could be recommended for use as rootstocks after confirming their resistance with a second evaluation, as well as performing tests in multiple localities to demonstrate their productive behavior after grafting.
Assessing Preharvest Field Temperature and At-harvest Fruit Quality for Prediction of Soft Scald Risk of ‘Honeycrisp’ Apple Fruit during Cold Storage
Authors: Leisso Rachel , Hanrahan Ines , Mattheis Jim
Published: May 2019

‘Honeycrisp’ apple is susceptible to the postharvest chilling disorder soft scald that renders fruit unmarketable. Reducing or preventing this disorder is an important component of ‘Honeycrisp’ postharvest management. In commercial settings, advanced fruit maturity and orchard history contribute to an estimation of soft scald susceptibility, but additional at-harvest information indicative of soft scald risk would enable better management decisions. In this study, we obtained fruit from commercial orchards for 3 successive years, and assessed field growing degree days (GDD), field chilling hours (CH), and fruit quality metrics at harvest, followed by soft scald incidence assessment at 12 weeks of cold storage. The analyses indicated starch index, soluble solids content (SSC), internal ethylene concentration, titratable acidity (TA), peel background color, firmness, GDD, or CH do not reliably indicate fruit susceptibility to soft scald. However, SSC and TA were elevated in fruit that later developed soft scald, and a higher number of GDD also sometimes preceded soft scald, which is consistent with advanced fruit maturity that can enhance soft scald risk. Overall, results suggest that other tools may be required to accurately predict postharvest soft scald on a quality control laboratory scale. The statistical analyses applied to the present study would have utility for assessing other soft scald prediction tools or markers.
Hydrolyzed Organic Fish Fertilizer and Poultry Litter Influence Yield and Rhizosphere Ecology of Sweetpotato
Authors: Lindsey Lauren , Shange Raymon , Ankumah Ramble O. , Mortley Desmond G. , Karki Sangita
Published: May 2019

Organic fertilization techniques have become an attractive alternative to conventional techniques, but there remains interest in their impact on rhizosphere ecology. This study was aimed at assessing the impacts of various organic fertilizer amendments on storage root yield, chemical, biochemical, and microbial factors in the rhizosphere ecosystem and the bacterial community composition in the rhizosphere ecosystem. Four sweetpotato cultivars (J6/66, NCC-58, TU Purple, and Whatley/Loretan) and four organic fertilizer treatments [poultry litter, Megabloom (fish protein), NPK, and an untreated control] were used in the study. The experiments were conducted as a randomized complete block design with a 4 × 4 factorial treatment arrangement and three replications. Fertilizer treatments were split-applied at the rate of 134–67–67 kg·ha−1 NPK equivalent based on soil test recommendations 1 and 4 weeks after planting as single bands 15 cm from the plants and organic amendments were calculated based on total N content. Rhizosphere soil samples were collected at harvest and analyzed for soil pH, soil organic carbon (SOC), bacterial 16S rDNA, and selected soil enzymes. Organic amendments did not affect storage root yield or percent dry matter but enhanced both the mass and number of US#1 storage roots. Rhizosphere pH varied depending on cultivar and cultivar response varied with pH and ranged from 6.1 to 6.8, whereas SOC was similar regardless of the amendment. The impact of fertilizers was evident as Megabloom (fish protein) treatment suppressed the relative abundance (RA) of nitrifiers (Nitrosococcus and Nitrosomonadaceae). Also, the rhizosphere of ‘Whatley/Loretan’ seemed to have been a beneficial habitat for populations of common nitrogen-fixing bacteria Bradyrhizobium elkanii, and Rhodospirillaceae sp. as their RA increased significantly in the rhizosphere. That bacteria associated with carbon and nitrogen cycling under aerobic conditions were found to be ubiquitous in the rhizosphere of sweetpotato, suggesting that certain amendments positively impacted the populations of nitrogen-cycling bacteria, thus making them a viable alternative to NPK when considering increasing or sustaining yield while promoting long-term soil health.
Inheritance of Resistance to Pepper huasteco yellow vein virus in Capsicum annuum L.
Authors: Retes-Manjarrez Jesús Enrique , Hernández-Verdugo Sergio , López-Orona Carlos Alfonso , Medina-López Raymundo , Garzón-Tiznado José Antonio , Retes-Cázarez Jesús Enrique
Published: May 2019

Pepper huasteco yellow vein virus (PHYVV) is a major disease in pepper (Capsicum annuum) that causes quantitative and qualitative losses to the crop in Central America and part of North America. To date, no resistant cultivars are available, and breeding is hampered by the lack of knowledge of the inheritance of this trait. Sources of resistance to PHYVV have been identified in the wild peppers of Mexico. The objectives of this study were to determine the grade of dominance, to analyze the maternal influence, and to estimate the number of genes involved in this resistant trait to PHYVV in the resistant wild pepper accession UAS12. Three susceptible parent lines—‘Anaheim’ (Ana), ‘Ancho Gigante’ (AG), and ‘Yolo Wonder’ (YW)—were crossed with resistant UAS12 accession to develop F1 (reciprocal), F2, and BC1 progenies in three families. Plants from this study were inoculated with PHYVV through Bemisia tabaci, evaluated phenotypically, and the segregation of disease scores was studied. A single recessive gene was found to control resistance to PHYVV in the resistant UAS12 accession, although segregation patterns suggested that other minor genes could participate in the expression of this resistant trait. No proof was found for maternal inheritance of PHYVV resistance. The gene symbol phv is proposed for PHYVV resistance in UAS12 accession in pepper. These results provide useful information for the design of pepper breeding programs in the introgression of this trait into commercial pepper backgrounds.
Turfgrass Species Affect the Establishment and Bloom of Kura Clover (Trifolium ambiguum) in Lawns
Authors: Lane Ian , Watkins Eric , Spivak Marla
Published: May 2019

Lawns represent one of the largest cultivated areas in urban landscapes, and in the Upper Midwest of the United States, lawns are typically composed of a small number of cool-season turfgrass species. There is increased interest in enhancing areas dedicated to lawns using flowering species for conservation purposes—for example, to support pollinators. In this study we used a model flowering forb, Kura clover (Trifolium ambiguum M. Bieb.), because—like many flowering species of conservation interest—it is slow to establish and is sensitive to grass competition. We varied the Kura clover seeding rate into four different turfgrass species treatments: kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.), hard fescue (Festuca brevipila Tracy), tall fescue [Schedonorus arundinaceum (Schreb.) Darbysh.], and perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) in two separate trials. Establishment and bloom of Kura clover was significantly greater in trial 1 for kentucky bluegrass and hard fescue than tall fescue and perennial ryegrass. In trial 2, Kura clover established significantly greater in kentucky bluegrass compared with tall fescue and perennial ryegrass, whereas Kura establishment in hard fescue was not significantly different from the other treatments. The seeding rate of Kura clover did not affect establishment in either trial. The results from this study suggest kentucky bluegrass and hard fescue are promising turf companion grasses for future forb/turf interseeding research.
Spectral Quality of Light Can Affect Energy Consumption and Energy-use Efficiency of Electrical Lighting in Indoor Lettuce Farming
Authors: Kong Yuyao , Nemali Ajay , Mitchell Cary , Nemali Krishna
Published: May 2019

High energy-use cost for electric lighting is one of the major issues challenging sustainability of the indoor lettuce-farming industry. Thus, maximizing electrical energy-use efficiency (EUE, g·KWh−1), defined as the ratio of dry matter production (g) to electrical energy consumption (EEC, KWh−1), is crucial during indoor production. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are energy efficient and highly suitable for indoor farms. Research on optimal spectral quality of LEDs for lettuce growth is extensive; however, there is limited research examining LED spectral quality effects on EEC and EUE. Photon efficiency, defined as the ratio of light output to electrical energy input (PE, µmol·J−1), generally is used for selection of LED fixtures. Because PE does not account for differences in emitted light spectrum, it is not clear whether light-fixture selection based on PE can maximize EUE in lettuce production. This study comprised two experiments. In Expt. 1, we used four “phosphor-converted” commercial LEDs with different light intensities and spectra to model the effect of light spectral quality on lettuce shoot dry weight (SDW), EEC, and EUE. We also evaluated relations between EUE vs. PE and EUE vs. PER (PE based on red light) for indoor lettuce production. Results indicated that light spectral quality affected SDW, EEC, and EUE in lettuce production. Fitted models indicated that EEC increased linearly with increasing percentage of red-light output and was unaffected by other spectral colors or ratios. However, EUE increased in a curvilinear fashion with an increasing ratio of red to blue (R:B) light and reached a maximum at a ratio of 4.47. Similar to EUE, SDW also responded in a curvilinear fashion to R:B. Results also indicated that EUE correlated poorly with PE but linearly to PER. In Expt. 2, we grew three lettuce varieties under two commercial LED fixtures. They had similar levels of PE but different percentages of red, R:B, and PER values. Regardless of the variety, fixtures with greater percentages of red, R:B, and PER significantly increased EUE. We conclude that red-light quality is an important determinant of EUE and growers should select fixtures based on R:B and high PER in indoor lettuce farming.
Strategies for the Regeneration of Paphiopedilum callosum through Internode Tissue Cultures Using Dark–light Cycles
Authors: Huy Nguyen Phuc , Luan Vu Quoc , Cuong Le Kim , Nam Nguyen Ba , Tung Hoang Thanh , Hien Vu Thi , Le Dung Tien , Paek Kee Yoeup , Nhut Duong Tan
Published: May 2019

Paphiopedilum spp. is one of the most commercially popular orchids because of its variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. However, it is at risk for extinction because of its exploitation. Regeneration of orchid plants using internode segments is extremely difficult. In this study, young P. callosum plants (1.5 cm) were exposed to eight dark–light cycles (14 days of dark and 1 day of light) for stem elongation to increase the number of nodes to obtain internode tissues. After 75 days of culture, the highest callogenesis (31.25%) was achieved when internode tissue was cultured on liquid Schenk and Hildebrandt (SH) medium containing 30 g·L−1 sucrose, 1.0 mg·L−1 Thidiazuron (TDZ), 1.0 mg·L−1 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), and cotton wool as the support matrix. The optimal media for induction of protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) were the same compositions as previously mentioned and were supplemented with 9 g·L−1 Bacto agar as the gelling agent. PLB clumps (5–6 PLBs/clump) produced the best shoots on medium containing 0.5 mg·L−1 α-Naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and 0.3 mg·L−1 TDZ. Among the organic substances tested, 200 g·L−1 potato homogenate (PH) added to Hyponex N016 medium supplemented with 1.0 mg·L−1 NAA, 30 g·L−1 sucrose, 170 mg·L−1 NaH2PO4, 1.0 g·L−1 peptone, and 9 g·L−1 Bacto agar resulted in the best rooting. The rooted plantlets with four to five leaves were acclimatized and had a 100% survival rate. The method presented in this research provides a strategy for the development of highly effective propagation of Paphiopedilum species using ex vitro explants for both conservation and horticultural purposes.
Turbotronik – On the Border between the Local Music Scene and a Genre in the Making
Authors: Banić Grubišić Ana , Kulenović Nina
Published: May 2019

This paper shows preliminary results from an ethnographic study of the modern musical phenomena that gathers “authors from the Serbian scene”, who’s creations are based on the mixture of the newly composed folk music and turbo-folk, along with various alternative music genres and styles. The research is conducted through the technique of semi-structured interviews with the artists and event organizers, as well as attending different events (concerts, compilation promotion, festivals Zasram and FESRAM), and using written and audiovisual materials that are accessible on the Internet. One of the main aims of this study is to designate the form of “turbotronik” phenomena in the context of music genre and scene, as well as recognizing its local characteristics. Through the analysis of different processes that influence the formatting of a specific music genre (name of the genre, the narrative on genre origin, visual identity, specific sound, the thematic of the songs and characteristics of the genre’s public) “turbotronik” is being observed as sort of a “genre in the making”.
The Anthropology of the Temple: Contribution to the Study of Spatial Behavior within the Serbian Orthodox Church
Authors: Marković Ivica
Published: May 2019

According to William Robertson Smith’s and Paul Florensky’s thesis that the ritual as a cult foundation is the base of every religion and culture, this paper explores the interdisciplinary structure, dynamics and understanding of the sacral space in which the Holy Liturgy is practiced within the Serbian Orthodox Church. With the theoretical and methodological guidelines of the anthropology of Christianity, this paper studies the liturgical and theoretical function of the temple with the goal to analyze the liturgical ritual in a concrete space in relation with the posturing and positioning of the body, the orientation, direction and kind of movement of the liturgy participants. The author claims that it is necessary to place the operative focus on the naos, the part of interior intended for participants, since its use is most susceptible to variations which can be relevantly empirically monitored. Thus the subject focuses on the spatial behavior in the mentioned part of the temple and its border zones, both during the Holy Liturgy and individually, passing from doctrinal into the sphere of folk Christian orthodoxy.
STRUCTURE OF ARCHITECTURE – TENSEGRITIES IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF ARCHITECTURAL SPACE
Authors: POLINCEUSZ Piotr
Published: May 2019

Computer techniques allow the digital recording of any spatial form, which significantly changes designing methods. The possibility of the use of computer animation in the analysis of the designed shape allows the digital recording of the changing structure. The paper focuses on the future use of the structures and their development and presents ways of applying tensegrity structures and of space extraction characterizing the architecture. The classification of structural variations is presented as well.
SHEAR BUCKLING RESISTANCE OF CANTILEVER GIRDERS WITH CORRUGATED WEB
Authors: BASIŃSKI Witold
Published: May 2019

The study reports investigations into shear buckling resistance of the corrugated web of cantilever SIN girders. Experimental tests were conducted on ten SIN girders with the web height of 500, 1000, 1250 and 1500 mm made to 1:1 scale. The tests confirmed the advantageous effect of support stiffeners of cantilever girder parts on shear buckling resistance. Load-displacement paths of global displacements in cantilevers of SIN girders were analysed. The Finite Element Method was used to construct models that simulated the behaviour of the experimental models. The numerical analysis of FEM girders was conducted for twelve models with the web height ranging from 500 to 1500 mm, and web thickness of 2, 2.5 and 3 mm. In the FEM analysis, different modes of the web failure, namely local and interactive ones, were taken into account. Based on experimental investigations and the FEM analysis, a method for estimating design shear buckling resistance of the corrugated web in cantilever girders with support stiffener was proposed. The method was based on the determination of interactive buckling resistance. It was demonstrated that support stiffeners in cantilever girders produced an advantageous effect on increase in shear buckling resistance. The solution developed was compared with the methods currently employed to determine buckling resistance. Conclusions and recommendations were drawn on dimensioning of cantilever girders with support stiffener.
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CEMENT MORTAR WITH GRAPHENE OXIDE
Authors: KRYSTEK Małgorzata
Published: May 2019

These days, nanotechnology has already influenced many fields of science and technology, including civil engineering. Cementitious composites incorporating various nanomaterials have emerged as novel materials with improved microstructure, mechanical properties and durability. Over the past decades, graphene oxide has appeared as one of the most promising nanomaterials for civil engineering applications. However, the effect of graphene oxide addition on the properties of cementitious composites has not yet been fully investigated. The paper presents the studies on the mechanical properties of cement mortar reinforced with the 0.03 wt.% of graphene oxide (dosage by weight of cement). Graphene oxide proved to accelerate the cement hydration, in particular at the early stages of mortar hardening, hence improving the mortar performance during mechanical tests. The significant enhancement of the flexural, cubic and cylindrical compressive strength has been reported, thus showing the great nanotechnology potential for concrete structures.
EVALUATION OF ECOLOGICAL CONCRETE USING MULTI-CRITERIA ECOLOGICAL INDEX AND PERFORMANCE INDEX APPROACH
Authors: KUBISSA Wojciech , JASKULSKI Roman , CHEN Jiajian , NG Pui-Lam , GODLEWSKA Wioletta , REITERMAN Pavel
Published: May 2019

This paper proposes a new method of rational and quantitative assessment of ecological concrete in terms of the ecological impact and engineering performance. The concrete mix is evaluated through the multi-criteria Ecological Index (EI) and Performance Index (PI) approach. The EI accounts for the impact of the concrete on environment including the carbon emission and raw materials usage, whereas the PI accounts for the engineering performance of the concrete such as compressive strength and water sorptivity. Depending on the applications of the concrete, different criteria may be chosen for the evaluation. Concrete mixes reported in the literature comprising different types of cement, supplementary cementitious materials and aggregates are analyzed to illustrate the applicability of the proposed multi-criteria assessment method. It is shown that the proposed method is able to effectively reflect the concurrent ecological impact and engineering performance of concrete mixes, and hence facilitate rational design of ecological concrete to suit practical engineering applications.
THE EFFECTS OF DEAD LOADS IN CANTILEVER CONCRETING BRIDGES
Authors: MACHELSKI Czesław
Published: May 2019

Cantilever concreting technology is one of the modern methods of constructing concrete long-span bridges. Characteristic feature of those bridges is the long-term span deflection resulting from the rheological processes in the concrete and in the pre-tensioning steel. It can also be caused by the material deterioration, e.g. concrete cracking, as well as the changes in the bridge structure, such as the support settlements. The aggregate result of bridge exploitation are the changes in its grade line, considered in this paper as the bridge span deflection line. The aim of the paper is the assessment of the internal forces on the basis of the bridge span deformation. Furthermore, an algorithm for the correction of the deflection function determined on the basis of surveying measurements (low precision measurements) is proposed. It is characterized by a significant improvement of the computational results, and it hardly “smoothens” the primary measurement results. The algorithm can be used to analyse the selected part of the bridge structure, e.g. the longest span. The paper proposes a universal coefficient of cantilever deflection, which is calculated on the basis of the cantilever joint moment when the final static scheme of the bridge is created. It can be used for the comparative analyses of various bridges. The value of the coefficient is dependent on the geometry of the cantilever box cross-section only.
THE IMPACT OF CONSTRUCTION WORKS CONDUCTED ON THE ROUTE DTŚ ON A LOCAL AIR QUALITY EVALUATED WITH THE USE OF NO2 MEASUREMENTS
Authors: MUCHA Walter , ŻELIŃSKI Jacek
Published: May 2019

One of the basic documents of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) procedure is the Environmental Impact Report. It contains information obtained during the investor’s assessment of any impact on the environment that may be caused by the object – also from the side of construction works at the investment stage. The authors, on the basis of nitrogen dioxide concentration data obtained from continuous, multi month measurements carried out with the use of the OPSIS device over the diametrial route DTŚ construction site in Gliwice, have evaluated the NO2 emission impact on the atmospheric air at the construction phase. The measurements made by the authors enabled in verifying the correctness of the assessments and comments regarding the impact of construction works conducted on the route DTŚ on the atmospheric air in the construction phase, contained in the Environmental Impact Report.
FABRICATION AND CHARACTERISATION OF CHITOSAN/COCONUT FIBER COMPOSITE MEMBRANES FOR ELIMINATING CU2+ AND PB2+ FROM AQUEOUS SOLUTIONS
Authors: TRUONG Thi-Cam-Trang , BUI Manh-Ha , NGUYEN Dang-Khoa , KOBAYASHI Takaomi
Published: May 2019

Coconut fiber was chemically modified by NaOCl/NaOH, and then was composited through a cross-linking reaction with glutaraldehyde. The chitosan/coconut fiber (CTS/CF) composite membranes were prepared at various ratios of coconut fiber (CF) and then tested to determine their ability to eliminate aqueous heavy metals. The results showed that CTS/CF composite membranes having CF ratio of 80 wt% exhibited good mechanical strength as 89.8 MPa. In the elimination experiment of heavy metal ions, the CTS/CF 20/80 also showed that the removal capacity of Cu (II) and Pb (II) were over 90%.
The draft genome of Ditylenchus dipsaci
Authors: Mimee Benjamin , Lord Etienne , Véronneau Pierre-Yves , Masonbrink Rick , Yu Qing , Akker Sebastian Eves-van den
Published: May 2019

Ditylenchus dipsaci is a devastating pest to many crops worldwide. We present the first genome sequence for this species, produced with PacBio sequencing and assembled with CANU.
First report of the dagger nematode Xiphinema pachtaicum on onion in Morocco
Authors: Mokrini Fouad , Dababat Abdelfattah
Published: May 2019

In 2018, during a survey in Souss region of Morocco, the dagger nematode Xiphinema pachtaicum was found parasitizing onion, (Allium cepa L.). The populations of dagger nematode were identified on the basis of their morphological and morphometric characters and by sequencing and analysing the D2D2 region of 28S rRNA. Microscopic observation of females demonstrated the occurrence of Xiphinema pachtaicum on onion. The 28S D2D3 sequences shared 99 to 100% similarity with sequence corresponding to X. pachtaicum in GenBank. To our knowledge this is the first report of Xiphinema pachtaichum infecting onion in Morocco.
Integrable Matrix Product States from boundary integrability
Authors: Pozsgay Balázs , Piroli Lorenzo , Vernier Eric
Published: May 2019

We consider integrable Matrix Product States (MPS) in integrable spin
chains and show that they correspond to “operator valued” solutions of
the so-called twisted Boundary Yang-Baxter (or reflection) equation. We
argue that the integrability condition is equivalent to a new linear
intertwiner relation, which we call the “square root relation”, because
it involves half of the steps of the reflection equation. It is then
shown that the square root relation leads to the full Boundary
Yang-Baxter equations. We provide explicit solutions in a number of
cases characterized by special symmetries. These correspond to the
“symmetric pairs” (SU(N),SO(N)) and
(SO(N),SO(D)\otimes⊗SO(N-D)),
where in each pair the first and second elements are the symmetry groups
of the spin chain and the integrable state, respectively. These
solutions can be considered as explicit representations of the
corresponding twisted Yangians, that are new in a number of cases.
Examples include certain concrete MPS relevant for the computation of
one-point functions in defect AdS/CFT.
Studying the dynamics of nonlinear interaction between enterprise populations
Authors: Ivanchenko Hennadii , Vashchaiev Serhii
Published: May 2019

The article highlights the results of a study of the dynamic evolutionary processes of trophic relations between populations of enterprises. A model based on differential equations is constructed, which describes the economic system and takes into account the dynamics of the specific income of competing populations of enterprises in relations of protocooperation, nonlinearity of growth and competition. This model can be used to analyze the dynamics of transient processes in various life cycle scenarios and predict the synergistic effect of mergers and acquisitions. A bifurcation analysis of possible scenarios of dynamic modes of merger and acquisition processes using the neural network system of pattern recognition was carried out. To this end, a Kohonen self-organizing map has been constructed, which recognizes phase portraits of bifurcation diagrams of enterprises life cycle into five separate classes in accordance with the scenarios of their development. As a result of the experimental study, characteristic modes of the evolution of economic systems were revealed, and also conclusions were made on the mechanisms of influence of the external environment and internal structure on the regime of evolution of populations of enterprises.
Esophageal Foreign Body - Banta (glass ball) A simple maneuver for removal
Authors: Mujeeb Muhammad , Ali Mubarik , Ahmed ,Waseem
Published: May 2019

Impaction of foreign bodies in the digestive tract is usually at upper end of the oesophagus. Patient presents with dysphagia and excessive salivation. X-Ray Neck AT and Lateral are essential before oesophagoscopy. We are presenting an interesting case of ,a child who had impacted Banta (Glass Ball) at the upper end of the oesophagus and was removed with unique maneuver.
Breast conservation Surgery for Carcinoma Breast
Authors: Khan Aamer Zaman , Khan Basma , Naqi Syed Asghar , Ranjha Aftab Ahmad , Abid Khalid Javed
Published: May 2019

A prospective study consisting of 15 patients with proven carcinoma of breast was carried out on the surgical floor of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital , Lahore from December 2001 to May 2003. All the patients included in the study had either carcinoma in situ, or on clinical examination had T1N0M0, T1N1M0 or T2N0M0 tumour. Operative procedures performed were lumpectomy/segmentectomy followed by local radiotherapy in 5 patients (33.3%) and segmental mastectomy followed by axillary dissection and local radiotherapy in 10 cases (66.6%). Seven cases (46.6%) received post operative chemotherapy. Most of these cases were followed up. Tumour recurrence was noted down in one case (6.66%). Other complications included local wound infection in one case (6.66%) and mild lymphoedema of upper limbs in one case (6.66%). Patient with local recurrence was treated by re-excision. The results of this study support the data that conservation surgery of breast followed by radiotherapy resulted in rates of disease free and of overall survival that were not significantly different from rates observed after total mastectomy.
Occupation and Bladder Tumor: Result of the incident cases
Authors: Tahir Muhammad Muzammil , Hayat Khizar , Bhatti Kamran Hassan , Husain Sajjad
Published: May 2019

Bladder tumour is a devastating condition demand a lot of consultation and follow up. In patients suffering from superficial bladder tumour recurrence rate after five years follow up is 15-20%. The occupation most commonly concerned with bladder tumour are farmers. persons dealing with pesticide, dye industry, transport and office workers. We conducted the study to see the occupational involvement in our set up. We found the farmers 43.2% are most commonly involved in bladder tumour. The uncontrolled use of pesticides, illiteracy, poor economic condition and non-availability of basic diagnostic tool at gross root level are the main cause in its late diagnosis and treatment.
Role of Grommets in Otitis Media with Effusion
Authors: Malik Kashif Iqbal , Bhutta Zubair Iqbal , Mukhtar Nadeem , Pal Mansoor Basir
Published: May 2019

The outcome of otitis media with effusion (OME) in children is generally good. 54 children with symptomatic otitis media with effusion not responding to medical treatment of four weeks were treated with grommet insertion at Jinnah Hospital. On one year follow-up no major complication was noted. However five patients required retympanostomy due to recurrence of disease. Procedure was accompanied by adenoidectomy in 15 patients and tonsillectomy in 8 patients. Adenotonsillectomy was decided on individual basis. The mean duration of stay for ventilation tubes was ???? and they extruded spontaneously in all except one patient, who required removal under general anesthesia. One patient had persistent residual perforation which was treated by cigarette paper method.
Comparison of FNAC vs Excision Biopsy for suspected Tuberculous Cervical Lymphadenopathy
Authors: Farooq Ajmal , Ameen Imran
Published: May 2019

Although Excision Biopsy has traditionally been required to diagnose cervical tuberculous lymphadenitis tine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) has also been found to be useful. This prospective study presents the comparison of FNAC vs Excision Biopsy for suspected tuberculous cervical lymphadenitis in 100 consecutive. The aim and objective of the study was to determine whether FNAC is helpful in diagnosing tuberculous cervical lymphadenopathy thus avoiding Excision Biopsy. Patients between 5-70 years of age with suspected tuberculous lymphadenitis were included. Among these 62% were female and 38% were male 74% belong to poor class and 26% to middle class. 86%, were having history of immunization again tuberculosis with BCG. While 14% had no such history. The neck swelling was present in all 100 patients with some percentage of associated symptoms. The FNAC was positive for tuberculosis in 80 (80%) patients and Excision Biopsy in 94(94%) patients. Excision Biopsy was more sensitive than FNAC (94% vs 80%) in diagnosing tuberculous cervical lymphadenopathy. So it was concluded that FNAC is a safe alternative to Excision Biopsy and it should be recommended as first line and Excision Biopsy as second line investigation only if results of FNAC are negative.
An Experimental study of Coagulation Profile in Albino Rats Fed on Canola Oil Supplemented with Atherogenic Element for a period of 6 weeks
Authors: Farooq Muhammad , Tayyib Muhammad , Tasneem Tahira , Sirhindi Ghazanfar Ali , Ditta Allah , Ashraf Muhammad , Chaudhary Naseer Ahmad
Published: May 2019

An experimental study on albino rats was designed to estimate the coagulation parameters like Prothrombin time (PT), Activated Partial Thromboplatin Time (APTT) and fibrinogen level and coagulation parameters were compared in animals fed on low and high cone of canola oil and canola supplemented with atherogenic element. Sixty albino rats were selected and divided into five different groups with twelve rats in each group. Group A was given synthetic diet (control) and other four groups were given low and high cone. of canola oil and canola oil+atherogenic elements for 6 weeks duration. At 6th week blood samples were collected. PT and APTT were reduced in groups taking different cone of canola + atherogenic element when compared with those on pure canola oil. Groups on canola+atherogenic diet showed increased fibrinogen level when comparing with those on pure canola oil for six weeks.
Role of Laparoscopy - A Diagnostic Aid, its Indications & Benefits
Authors: Saeed Munir , Ayyaz Mahmood , Cheema Muhammad Arshad
Published: May 2019

Patients with an obscure and unrelievable abdominal condition may be forced to receive open laparotomy for diagnosis. Diagnostic Laparoscopy has been suggested as an alternative to diagnostic laparotomy in selected cases. It is a prospective descriptive study in which, thirty one patients under-going diagnostic Laparoscopy using conventional pneumoperitoneal techniques from January 2000 to June 2002 were included in this study. The correlation between preoperative diagnosis. laparoscopic diagnosis and pathologic diagnosis as well as the outcome of laparoscopic diagnosis and treatment have been assessed. Major indications for diagnostic Laparoscopy included acute abdominal pain (n=9). chronic abdominal pain (n=13), different intraabdominal tumor (n=7). All patients with acute abdominal conditions. 8 of the 13 patients with chronic abdominal pain and 4 of the 7 patients with abdominal tumors had no reasons for a further exploratory procedure, thus preventing the morbidity or mortality which might occur after unnecessary laparotomy. Diagnostic Laparoscopy benefits patients by avoiding unnecessary surgery. avoiding unnecessary delay in diagnosis and treatment and shortening the operative and hospitalized period. However. it provides only an alternative not a substitute for traditional diagnostic procedures and will never lessen the importance of conventional laparotomy.
Non Surgical Management of Mini Guide Wire Embolism with Self Made Guide Wire Snare
Authors: Sheikh Shabbir H , Ashfaq Muhammad , Sheikh Abdul Rauf , Zubair Muhammad
Published: May 2019

A 5 3 years old male presented in emergency department of local hospital with acute inferior wall myocardial infarction During his initial course of treatment he dev eloped symptomatic bradycardia and 2:1 artioventricular block, for which he was tried for implantation of temporary pacing lead through right subclavian vein with 6 F venous sheath. During the procedure the operator embolized the J-tip mini guide wire in the heart, for which the patient was shifted to our hospital for the management of the embolised guide wire and coronary angiography. The patient was immediately brought to cardiac catheterization laboratory and the position of mini guide wire was located under fluoroscopy. Its upper end was lying near the junction of superior vena cava with right atrium and the lower end was in the right common iliac vein. ContinuedÂ
Role of Pyloric Exclusion in Duodenal Trauma - Historical Perspective
Authors: Rathore Munir Ahmad , Chaudhry Zafarullah , Chaudhry Abdul Majeed
Published: May 2019

Background: Majority of duodenal injuries requires simple repair. Pyloric exclusion is recommended for injuries involving 50-70% of circumference. This adjunct procedure has specific complications. The benefit is uncertain. This review article assesses the benefit of the procedure Methods: Published literature over the last two decades was reviewed. It was sourced from indexed journals and Medline. Conclusion: The role remains equivocal. Perhaps some advantage in delayed or failed duodenal repair. The incidence of complications may be substantial.
Assessment of the prospects of using new materials in the construction industry of China
Authors: Ikonnikova Albina Viktorovna , Grigoreva Marina Aleksandrovna , Zhiqiang Zhang
Published: May 2019

The article assesses the prospects of the use of new building materials in the construction industry in China, and describes the German technology on the construction of buildings, as well as nanotechnologies as the «lotus effect» and the «thermos» effect.
Natural Products for the Treatment of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Wang Ze , He Chunyang , Shi Jing-Shan
Published: May 2019

Neurodegenerative diseases are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by the
progressive degeneration of the structure and function of the central nervous system or peripheral
nervous system. Alzheimer's Disease (AD), Parkinson's Disease (PD) and Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
are the common neurodegenerative diseases, which typically occur in people over the age of 60.
With the rapid development of an aged society, over 60 million people worldwide are suffering from
these uncurable diseases. Therefore, the search for new drugs and therapeutic methods has become
an increasingly important research topic. Natural products especially those from the Traditional
Chinese Medicines (TCMs), are the most important sources of drugs, and have received extensive
interest among pharmacist. In this review, in order to facilitate further chemical modification of
those useful natural products by pharmacists, we will bring together recent studies in single natural
compound from TCMs with neuroprotective effect.
Using Microemulsion as Carrier for Drug Transdermal Delivery: The Effect of Surfactants and Cosurfactants
Authors: Lu I-Ju , Fu Yaw-Syan , Chang Wen-Yu , Wu Pao-Chu
Published: May 2019

Background:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of types of surfactants and cosurfactants
on physicochemical properties and permeability of sumatriptan-loaded microemulsions through rat skin.

Methods:

Different types of surfactants and cosurfactants were used to prepare drug-loaded microemulsions. The
physicochemical characters and permeability parameters of these formulations were measured.

Results:

The experimental microemulsions with varying components had small droplet size ranging from 24.6 nm
to 2568.8 nm, low viscosity ranging from 7.49 to 43.34 cps and significant permeation enhancement ratio ranging
from 23.0 to 98.6 when compared to the control group.

Conclusion:

The composition and proportion of surfactants and cosurfactants were key factors for the physiochemical
properties of drug-loaded microemulsions. The cumulative transdermal amount of the microemulsion
containing mixture surfactant of Laureth-3/Laureth-23 was higher than that of the microemulsion with a mixture
of Tween 80/Span 20. In the selected cosurfactant, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether (DEGMEE) showed highest
permeation enhancement. Thermodynamic stability tests revealed that the experimental microemulsion was a
stable enough formulation to be considered as a suitable carrier for sumatriptan.
Developing Stress Assessment forms for Thai Cancer Patients: The Thai Version of the Modified Symptoms of Stress Inventory (Modified SOSI)
Authors: Sumneangsanor Tipsuda , Ruchiwit Manyat , Weglicki Linda
Published: May 2019

Background:

Cancer is a progressive illness that often has a prolonged treatment time
and that severely impacts a person’s quality of life. In Thailand, approximately 113,000 new cancer
patients are diagnosed each year. Furthermore, cancer patients also have a high mortality rate
of 90%, indicating that cancer is a major health problem both in Thailand and around the world.
Physical manifestations of cancer include pain in the organs where cancer has already spread and
side effects of treatment, such as chemotherapy and radiation, which adversely impact the mental
state of cancer patients. Increased stress often results in other subsequent health conditions. Thus,
identifying stress quickly and promptly in cancer patients through proper stress management is
important.

Objective:

To develop and monitor accurate stress evaluation according to the self-perceptions (Thai
version of the Modified Symptoms of Stress Inventory, Modified SOSI) of cancer patients in Thailand.

Research Methodology:

This study consists of three steps according to the research guidelines of
Wongwiwatthananukit, Newton, and Popovich (2002): (1) the process of creating and developing
tools; (2) the process of reviewing questions concerning the tools by experts; and (3) testing procedures
for the use of the tools.

Results:

Content consistency using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient from 30 samples were determined
to be .906. Investigation of the construct validity of the SOSI found that the relationships indicated
in stress consisted of physical, mental, and behavioral. Significant relationships between these three
aspects were determined by the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) measure of sampling as adequacy = 0.80,
and Bartlett’s test of sphericity gave statistical significance at 0.05. The most important indicator
was the physical, followed by the mental, while the behavioral had the least weight importance.

Conclusion:

The results of this study confirm that the Thai version of the Modified Symptoms of
Stress Inventory (Modified SOSI), comprising 30 questions, was able to evaluate stress, including
physical, mental and behavioral responses to stress. This inventory was considered concise and appropriate
for cancer patients and can be used with other populations.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis to Fentanyl TTS with Good Tolerance to Systemic Fentanyl
Authors: Rojas-Pérez-Ezquerra Patricia , Micozzi Sarah , Torrado-Español Ines , Rodríguez-Fernández Ana , Albéndiz-Gutiérrez Vicente , Noguerado-Mellado Blanca
Published: May 2019

Background:

Fentanyl is primarily an opioid agonist. It is frequently used in general anesthesia as a potent analgesic. It can be administered either orally, transdermally or systemically. Adverse effects due to opium alkaloids are usually because of a non-specific histamine release. Only in a few cases, a true allergy mechanism could be involved. Immediate reactions to opioids are most frequent than delayed reactions. In the past years, delayed reactions have increased in frequency because of the wide use of Transdermal Therapeutic System (TTS) with several opioids for its potent analgesic properties.

Objective:

The objective was to study delayed reaction to fentanyl TTS and cross-reactivity with other opioids.

Methods:

A 52-year-old man with a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer who began treatment for a bone metastases pain with fentanyl TTS, at a dose of 50 micrograms per hour (mcg/h) is the subject of the study. After 10-15 days of treatment, he developed an itchy papulovesicular rash in the application site of the fentanyl TTS. Afterward, eczema and superficial desquamation just on the application site of the patch were observed. He changed several times the site of application, but always developing the same symptoms in every single application. Later on, he tolerated other opioids such as oral morphine or tramadol. An allergy workout was performed. We performed Patch Tests (PT) with fentanyl at a concentration of 10% in aqua (aq) and with buprenorphine 10% aq., in order to investigate probable crossreactivity among other topical opioids.

Results:

Readings were recorded at day 2 (D2) and day 4 (D4), with positive PT only with fentanyl at D2 (+++) and D4 (+++). We decided to perform a single-blind challenge test with buprenorphine 35 mcg/h in TTS, with a negative result. At this moment, fentanyl TTS was replaced by buprenorphine TTS, with good tolerance.

Conclusion:

We present the case of Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD) due to hypersensitivity to fentanyl with good tolerance to buprenorphine. Positive PT in this patient suggests a type IV hypersensitivity mechanism. Allergic reactions to opioids are frequently immediate, but delayed reactions could appear, especially when the drug is administered topically.