bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The assesment of land cover in the Nowy Targ commune with particular focus on the area of Natura 2000
Authors: Prus Barbara , Budz Łukasz
Published: February 2015

The rural landscape in Poland has been changing for the past several dozen years. The changes
are visible in the land use and land cover. Technological progress, changes in people’s outlook
and a low profitability of agriculture resulted in transformations of rural landscapes, especially
in the areas of high level of land fragmentation, as it is the case in the south part of Poland. These
changes are accompanied by growing awareness of environmental or cultural landscape protection related issues. Recent years have also brought new forms of environmental protection, for
example the programme Natura 2000, being the result of agreements with European Union.
The network of Natura 2000 cover the areas of special protection of birds, habitats, and according to the Act on Nature Conservation – areas of special interest for the Community. The goal
of this form of protection is a preservation of valuable or engendered elements of biodiversity.
The question arises then whether in the era of landscape transformations and changes of land
cover qualifying a particular area as part of Natura 2000 network has any influence on the way
of land use. The aim of the article is an analysis and evaluation of land cover changes, also in
the areas covered by Natura 2000 programme, within the piedmont commune of Nowy Targ in
Małopolskie Voivodeship. Moreover, a thesis is proposed that submontane lands, specifically
used, due to large terrain height differences, are faced with less intense urbanization pressures
and land transformations. Is it also the case of the Nowy Targ commune, covered in more than
22% by the Natura 2000 areas?
Rural development programme in Poland, the Czech Republic and Austria
Authors: Dudzińska Małgorzata , Kocur-Bera Katarzyna
Published: February 2015

For several reasons, rural areas in Poland developed much more slowly than urban areas, and to
a large extent, they have been neglected. The situation was much improved after Poland’s accession to the EU, with continuous flow of funds for the development of agriculture. These actions
facilitated faster development of such areas, while the structure of the latter has improved. The
current instrument for the implementation of the EU policy for rural areas, operating within the
second pillar of the Common Agricultural Policy, is the Rural Development Programme for the
years 2007–2013 (RDP 2007–2013).
The present document contains a comparative analysis of the Rural Development Programme
2007–2013 as implemented within three states, namely: Poland, Austria, and the Czech Republic.
General conditions and limits to the granted financial assistance have been determined in the
EU regulations, therefore they can not differ between Poland, the Czech Republic, and Austria.
What differs, however, is the projects and investment tasks implemented within particular
measures.
In the article, the aforementioned countries have been compared in terms of rural areas, and in
terms of measures implemented within the Rural Development Programme in each of them.
It has been noted that there have been 44 measures implemented within the Rural Development
Programme 2007–2013, while only 19 of these are implemented within thematic axis 2 – improving the environment and countryside. Poland is implementing 26 measures in total, the
Czech Republic is implementing 32, and Austria – 31. The highest amount of financing per
country’s area went to Austria, and the lowest – to the Czech Republic. The Czech Republic possesses the most favourable structure of the rural areas, while Poland possesses the least favourable structure thereof. In the present work, the method of logical and descriptive analysis was
employed, based on the Polish and international subject literature.
Determination of geodetic control network points using GPS technology for the purpose of monitoring power lines in difficult terrain conditions
Authors: Jawor Mateusz , Gargula Tadeusz
Published: February 2015

The present work discusses the issue of determining geodetic control network in order to monitor the condition of power lines. The problem was presented using the example of the physical
survey of an actual infrastructure – a high voltage power line. Difficult terrain conditions constituted a significant factor for determining an appropriate measurement method. The measurement itself was conducted using two methods, independently of one another: the classical
traverse method, and the RTK (Real Time Kinematic) GPS method. The following criteria were
assumed for the purpose of the comparison: measurement effectiveness and the accuracy of
the calculation result. Basic monitoring procedures of power lines were also presented, implemented based on the measurement network established beforehand.
Calculation of transit times when turning working machines at the edges of rectangular plots
Authors: Anigacz Wojciech
Published: February 2015

The article presents the derivation of formulas for calculating the length of the sector and transit
times of working machines at the edges of a rectangular plot. Working width of machines and
the width and length of the patch were taken into account. This article is the first in a series
devoted to the influence of the path length and the transit times on the edges of plots upon the
decrease of net profit in agricultural farms.
Financial impact of adopting local spatial development plans
Authors: Gil-Mastalerczyk Joanna
Published: February 2015

Under the Law on Spatial Planning and Development of 27 March 2003, many municipalities
and cities in Poland are obligated to draw up a zoning plan – one of the main instruments (in
addition to the budget, local development program of a territorial unit, and the feasibility study)
for the implementation of local economic policy. This situation exposes local government units
to considerable financial implications associated with the adoption of the plan and its consequences.
In the current formal and legal reality, urbanization and space management generate huge costs,
resulting in negative financial results.
Failing to prepare the local plan can protect municipal budget from those costs, on the other
hand, as a consequence the lack of such plan prevents rational implementation of spatial planning. This can lead to investment activities conducted under random, uncoordinated decisions,
and even to urban chaos.
The article makes an attempt to analyze this problem, presented on the basis of pertinent laws,
and insights arising from the direct experience of the author – as a practitioner who handles the
contents of local development plans daily.
Brentuximab Vedotin in Patients With Hodgkin Lymphoma and a Failed Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation: Results From a Named Patient Program at Four Italian Centers
Authors: Carlo-Stella Carmelo , Ricci Francesca , Dalto Serena , Mazza Rita , Malagola Michele , Patriarca Francesca , Viviani Simonetta , Russo Domenico , Giordano Laura , Castagna Luca , Corradini Paolo , Santoro Armando
Published: February 2015

Background.

Brentuximab vedotin (BV) has demonstrated an extraordinary efficacy in heavily pretreated classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) patients, targeting CD30-positive cells; however, limited data have been reported on the efficacy of BV in cHL patients failing allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT). The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the efficacy and safety of BV in a multicenter setting of cHL relapsing or progressing after allo-SCT.

Methods.

Sixteen BV-naïve patients with recurrent cHL after allo-SCT were included in a compassionate use program and treated with intravenous BV at the dose of 1.8 mg/kg of body weight every 3 weeks for a maximum of 16 cycles.

Results.

The objective response rate was 69%. Five patients (31%) had complete remission, and 6 (37%) had partial remission. Stable disease was observed in 4 patients (25%), and progressive disease was observed in 1 (6%). After median follow-up of 26 months (range: 5–30 months), median progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and duration of response were 7, 25, and 5 months, respectively. The 2-year PFS and OS were 20% and 61%, respectively. Grade 3–4 hematological adverse events included anemia (15%), thrombocytopenia (12%), and neutropenia (18%). Grade 3 peripheral sensory neuropathy occurred in 2 patients (12%).

Conclusion.

BV therapy is an effective and safe approach for achieving transient disease control in cHL patients with failed allo-SCT. To improve disease control, future studies should explore the combination of BV with targeted agents.
Teaching Pre-Service Teachers to Integrate Serious Games in the Primary Education Curriculum
Authors: Romero Margarida , Barma Sylvie
Published: February 2015

Curriculum integration is one of the main factors in the teachers’ decision-making process when deciding to use games in formal educational contexts. Based on this observation, we aim to introduce pre-service teachers to Game Based Learning (GBL) and Serious Games (SG) integration in the curriculum. The teaching experience aims to facilitate different approaches to GBL and SG integration in the curriculum, including three types of GBL activities. Firstly, the use of Serious Games (SG), designed for educational purposes from the start; secondly, the game creation as a learning activity through game authoring platforms; thirdly, the use of repurposed entertainment games, which, despite not having being intentionally designed for educational purposes, could be diverted for meeting the curriculum objectives of primary education. A group of 51 pre-service teachers participated in the teaching experience during which they selected a GBL activity among the three types of GBL and SG integration in the curriculum. Most of the teachers succeed to identify SG created for educational purposes, and we observed 6 entertainment games repurposed for educational objectives, none of the pre-service teachers decided to integrate a game creation activity in the curriculum. We analyze the results of the teaching pre-service experience and the opportunities to introduce GBL and SG in pre-service teachers’ education.
Tricuspid Valve Regurgitation Following Temporary or Permanent Endocardial Lead Insertion, and the Impact of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Sadreddini Masoud , Haroun Michelle J , Buikema Lisanne , Morillo Carlos , Ribas Sebastian , Divakaramenon Syamkumar , Connolly Stuart J , Nieuwlaat Robby , Lonn Eva M , Healey Jeff S , Dokainish Hisham
Published: February 2015

Background:

While some studies indicate that permanent pacemaker implantation is associated with development of tricuspid regurgitation (TR), other studies indicate no association.Little is known about the impact of temporary lead insertion during ablation procedures, or whether therapy (CRT) prevents TR post-device implantation.

Hypothesis:

We hypothesized that permanent, but nottemporary endocardial leads, are associated with development of TR, and that CRT would prevent (physiologic) TR.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective study of consecutive patients who underwent first device or radiofrequency catheter ablation over a 12-month period at a single, tertiary academic center who underwent pre- and post-procedure echocardiography.

Results:

In the 89 patients in the device group, the degree of TR significantly increased ≥ 1 grade post-permanent lead implantation: 9 had less TR, 46 were unchanged, and 34 had more TR(p=0.005). TR increased in the 62 patients who underwent device implantation without CRT (p=0.005), but did not increase in the 27 patients with CRT (p=0.47). In the 66 patients in the ablation group, there was no significant change in TR post-ablation: 8 had less TR, 48 were unchanged, and 10 had more TR (p=0.31).

Conclusion:

Permanent endocardial lead implantation was associated with an increase in TR; however, patients who underwent device implantation with CRT did not have an increase in TR.Temporary lead insertion during ablation was not associated with changes in the degree of TR. A large, prospective study is needed to accurately define the incidence and exact mechanisms of permanent endocardial lead-related TR.
A Virtual Mental Health Clinic for University Students: A Qualitative Study of End-User Service Needs and Priorities
Authors: Farrer Louise , Gulliver Amelia , Chan Jade KY , Bennett Kylie , Griffiths Kathleen M
Published: February 2015

Background

Help seeking for mental health problems among university students is low, and Internet-based interventions such as virtual clinics have the potential to provide private, streamlined, and high quality care to this vulnerable group.

Objective

The objective of this study was to conduct focus groups with university students to obtain input on potential functions and features of a university-specific virtual clinic for mental health.

Methods

Participants were 19 undergraduate students from an Australian university between 19 and 24 years of age. Focus group discussion was structured by questions that addressed the following topics: (1) the utility and acceptability of a virtual mental health clinic for students, and (2) potential features of a virtual mental health clinic.

Results

Participants viewed the concept of a virtual clinic for university students favorably, despite expressing concerns about privacy of personal information. Participants expressed a desire to connect with professionals through the virtual clinic, for the clinic to provide information tailored to issues faced by students, and for the clinic to enable peer-to-peer interaction.

Conclusions

Overall, results of the study suggest the potential for virtual clinics to play a positive role in providing students with access to mental health support.
A new theorem on the absolute Riesz summability factors
Authors: Bor Hüseyin
Published: February 2015

In [5], we proved a main theorem dealing with absolute Riesz summability
factors of infinite series using a quasi-?-power increasing sequence. In this
paper, we generalize that theorem by using a general class of power
increasing sequences instead of a quasi-?-power increasing sequence. This
theorem also includes some new and known results.
I-lacunary statistical convergence of sequences of sets
Authors: Ulusu Uğur , Dündar Erdinç
Published: February 2015

In this paper we study the concepts of Wijsman I-statistical convergence,
Wijsman I-lacunary statistical convergence and Wijsman strongly I-lacunary
convergence of sequences of sets and investigate the relationship between
them.
Iteration by Cesàro means for quasi-contractive mappings
Authors: Razani A. , Goodarzi Z.
Published: February 2015

Let C be a nonempty closed convex subset of a Banach space E and T be a
quasi-contractive mapping on C. We prove, the sequence {xn}, iteratively
defined by, {x1 ? C, yn = snxn + (1-sn)Tnxn, xn+1 = tnxn + (1-tn) 1/n+1 ?nj=0 Tjyn,
is weakly convergent to a point of F(T). Moreover, by
a numerical example (using Matlab software), the main result and the rate of
convergence are illustrated.
The generalized of Selberg’s inequalities in C*-module
Authors: Kabbaj Samir , Chahbi Abdellatif , Charifi Ahmed , Bounader Nourdine
Published: February 2015

We obtain a Generalized of Selberg?s type inequalities in Hilbert spaces and their extensions in operators algebras, in C*-modules and in algebras of adjointable A-linear maps. Some applications for improving the Bessel type inequality result are given.
Some Cesaro-type summability spaces of order α and lacunary statistical convergence of order α
Authors: Et Mikail , Şengül Hacer
Published: February 2015

In the paper [32], we have defined the concepts of lacunary statistical
convergence of order ? and strong N?(p)-summability of order ? for
sequences of complex (or real) numbers. In this paper we continue to examine
others relations between lacunary statistical convergence of order ? and
strong N?(p)-summability of order ?.
Inclusion and argument properties for the Srivastava-Khairnar-More operator
Authors: Tang Huo , Deng Guantie , Sokół Janusz , Li Shuhai
Published: February 2015

In the present paper, we derive several inclusion relationships and argument
properties for certain classes of multivalent analytic functions associated
with a family of linear operators involving the Srivastava-Khairnar-More
operator. Furthermore, some invariant properties under convolution with
convex functions for these classes are investigated. Relevant connections of
the results presented here with those obtained in earlier works are also
pointed out.
Nondifferentiable higher order symmetric duality under invexity/generalized invexity
Authors: Gulati T.R. , Verma Khushboo
Published: February 2015

In this paper, we introduce a pair of nondifferentiable higher-order
symmetric dual models. Weak, strong and converse duality theorems for this
pair are established under the assumption of higher order invexity/generalized
invexity. Self duality has been discussed assuming the function involved to
be skew-symmetric. Several known results are obtained as special cases.
On local property of absolute summability of factored Fourier series
Authors: Bor Hüseyin , Yu Dansheng , Zhou Ping
Published: February 2015

We establish two general theorems on the local properties of the absolute
summability of factored Fourier series by applying a recently defined
absolute summability, |A,?n|k summability, and the class S (?n, ?n) which
generalize some well known results and can be applied to improve many
classical absolute summability methods.
Predictor homotopy analysis method (PHAM) for nano boundary layer flows with nonlinear Navier boundary condition: Existence of four solutions
Authors: Shivanian Elyas , Alsulami Hamed , Alhuthali Mohammed , Abbasbandy Saeid
Published: February 2015

In the present work, the classical laminar boundary layer equation of the
flow away from the origin past a wedge with the no-slip boundary condition
replaced by a nonlinear Navier boundary condition is considered. This
boundary condition contains an arbitrary index parameter, denoted by n > 0,
which appears in the differential equation to be solved. Predictor homotopy
analysis method (PHAM) is applied to this problem and more, it is proved
corresponding to the value n = 1/3, there exist four solutions. Furthermore,
these solutions are approximated by analytical series solution using PHAM for
further physical interpretations.
Uniform cantor sets as hyperbolic boundaries
Authors: Xiao Yingqing , Gu Junping
Published: February 2015

In this paper, we prove that the Gromov hyperbolic space (?,h) which was
introduced by Z. Ibragimov and J. Simanyi in [3] is an asymptotically PT??1
space and extend the methods of [3] to the case of uniform Cantor sets, show
that the uniform Cantor set is isometric to the Gromov hyperbolic boundary at
infinity of some asymptotically PT-1 space.
The influence of naphthenic acids and their fractions onto cell membrane permeability
Authors: Pavlovic Ksenija , Grbovic Ljubica , Vasiljevic Bojana , Zupunski Andrea , Putnik-Delic Marina , Maksimovic Ivana , Kevresan Slavko
Published: February 2015

The influence of naphthenic acids (NAs) mixture and their narrow fractions
(called NA pH 4, pH 8 and pH 10) onto permeability of beetroot cell membrane
is examined. The results showed that the effect depends on treatment
duration, concentration and NAs structure. Longer treatment of plant cell
membranes with sodium naphthenate (Na-naph) resulted in the increase of
membrane permeability (e.g. 4-hour treatment with Na-naph (C=100 ?mol L-1)
increased membrane permeability about 3 times, while prolongation of
treatment to 24 hour resulted in the 18 times increasing of the effect). NAs
in the concentration range from 0.1 to 10 ?mol L-1 does not change membrane
permeability, while membrane permeability is increasing linearly with
concentration increasing from 10-100 ?mol L-1. The strongest effect expressed
fraction pH 8, where bi- and tricyclic carboxylic acids are the most
abundant. These structures are predominant in the total NAs mixture as well.
Thereby could be explained their closest, but a little bit weaker effect,
comparing to NAs present in fraction pH 8. The effect of NAs onto beetroot
cell membrane is between the effects of anionic (SDS and LS) and non-ionic
surfactants (Triton X-100).
The role of the clergy in the creation and work of the state authorities during the first Serbian uprising: Part one
Authors: Janjic Jovan
Published: February 2015

Priests fulfill their mission among the people, and therefore share its fate.
They recognize and share its needs, difficulties and aspirations. That was
also the case during the First Serbian Uprising. Serbian people and Serbian
clergy, therefore, shared the same needs and aspirations to get rid of the
Ottoman occupation and to have their own state in which they will live by
their own laws. This paper attempts to show how the clergy helped the
establishment of Serbian authorities when the Turkish feudal system
collapsed in the area of the Pashaluk of Belgrade, and how it participated
in their work. This paper tried to show what was immediately done to lead
to the establishment of the Serbian state in the making, but also what was
done indirectly, through the priestly mission, in order to reach this goal.
In particular, it was shown how Stevan Stratimirovic, the Metropolitan of
Karlovci, who was the largest and undisputed spiritual authority among the
rebels, with his frequent appeals for respect of law and order, often
directly addressing rebel leaders, contributed to creating an environment
for establishment and work of the new Serbian state authorities. It seems
that in the legal and historical literature, as well as in historiography in
general, these activities which indirectly lead to the creation of the state
after the First Serbian Uprising were not sufficiently analyzed, and in this
paper they are at least partially covered.
Biomechanical evaluation of finger trap suture variants for securing catheters
Authors: Ricker Zachary H. , Rochat Mark C. , Payton Mark E.
Published: February 2015

Objective—To biomechanically evaluate various finger trap patterns and suture materials for securing 5F polyvinylchloride and polypropylene catheters.

Design—In vitro prospective study.

Sample—132 finger trap constructs.

Procedures—Each group of constructs comprised 6 to 10 replicates each of 3 finger trap patterns tied with 2–0 glycolide-lactide copolymer (GLC), braided nylon, and monofilament polypropylene suture on 5F polypropylene and polyvinylchloride catheters. The 3 finger trap variants were of similar lengths but differed in the number of surgeon's throws included in the pattern. Constructs were tested with a universal materials testing machine to the point of failure or a maximum of 100 mm of distraction. Force and distraction data were evaluated for significance with a competing risks model.

Results—There was no difference in performance (as measured by the proportion of test failures, median distraction distance, or median force at failure or end of testing) attributable to the finger trap pattern variants. Sixteen of 66 constructs with polyvinylchloride catheter material failed at ≤ 100 mm distraction, whereas all polypropylene constructs failed during testing. For polypropylene catheters, braided nylon or GLC suture withstood greater distraction distance and force, respectively. For polyvinylchloride catheters, differences among suture types were nonsignificant.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Data suggested that, for the material combinations evaluated, a finger trap suture pattern with fewer knots may provide catheter security similar to that for patterns tied with a more traditional pattern. These results should not be extrapolated to catheters of different diameters or materials, patterns tied with different suture sizes, or clinical performance in vivo without further testing.
In-Office Use of a Steroid-Eluting Implant for Maintenance of Frontal Ostial Patency after Revision Sinus Surgery
Authors: Janisiewicz Agnieszka , Lee Jivianne T.
Published: February 2015

Achieving long-term, successful outcomes with endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) can be challenging in patients with recalcitrant chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Local complications, including scar formation and ostial stenosis, can lead to recurrent blockage and subsequent relapse. The frontal sinus is particularly vulnerable to surgical failure given its narrow outflow and inaccessibility to topical therapies. The advent of steroid-eluting sinus implants has enhanced ESS outcomes, with significant reductions in synechiae, inflammation, and secondary postoperative interventions when placed in the ethmoid cavity. However, use of this technology in the frontal sinus has yet to be described. The purpose of this report is to present two cases, in which in-office frontal placement of a mometasone furoate (MF)-eluting implant facilitated maintenance of ostial patency after revision ESS. The clinical presentation, in-office intervention, and treatment outcomes were examined. Two patients (male, 63 and 68 years of age) with a history of multiple ESS presented with recurrent unilateral frontal headache refractory to medical therapy. Nasal endoscopy/imaging revealed frontal sinus outflow obstruction. Both declined revision ESS under general anesthesia and underwent endoscopic frontal sinustomy/ostial dilation in the clinic. A MF-eluting implant was placed in the frontal sinus at the end of the procedure, with preservation of ostial patency upon last follow-up at 3 and 11 months, respectively. In-office placement of a MF-eluting implant successfully maintained frontal ostial patency in patients with a history of multiple ESS. Additional randomized trials are necessary to determine statistical significance, cost-effectiveness analysis, and long-term efficacy of frontal sinus implantation.
Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis Due to Egg Allergy Presenting as Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Tse Kevin Y. , Christiansen Sandra C.
Published: February 2015

We describe a case of a 25-year-old female with newly diagnosed egg allergy, presenting with both peripheral and duodenal eosinophilia suspicious for eosinophilic gastroenteritis (EG). The EG was severe enough to have likely caused acute pancreatitis. Cessation of all egg products lead to resolution of all symptoms. This represents the first report of EG manifesting as pancreatitis due to egg ingestion.
Feasibility of Replacing Chemical Fertilizer by Using Organic Fertilizer in Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Considering Dry Matter Content and Estimatimation of Different Growth Parameters
Authors: Akhter Z , Imam MH , Razzak MA , AKhter AHM MR , AKhter M
Published: February 2015

An experiment was conducted at the experimental field of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka during the period from October 2010 to March 2011 to study the feasibility of replacing chemical fertilizer by using organic fertilizer in wheat. The experiment comprised of 10 treatments, such as T0: Control condition; T1: All chemical fertilizer as recommended dose; T2: Cowdung as recommended dose; T3: Compost as recommended dose; T4: ½ Cowdung + ½ Compost; T5: Cowdung + Compost; T6: Cowdung + ½ Chemical fertilizer; T7: Compost + ½ Chemical fertilizer; T8: Cowdung + Compost +½ Chemical fertilizer and T9: ½ Cowdung + ½ Compost + ½ Chemical fertilizer. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. At 30, 50, 70, 90 and 110 (Days After Sowing) DAS, the highest dry matter content plant-1 was recorded from T1 (0.30 g, 3.87 g, 8.84 g, 19.58 g and 30.18 g), whereas the lowest weight from T0 (0.18 g, 2.49 g, 6.50 g, 11.80 g and 18.08 g). At 30-50 DAS, the highest (Crop Growth Rate) CGR was found from T1 (5.35 g m-2day-1), while the lowest CGR from T0 (3.46 g m-2day-1). At 50-70 DAS, the highest CGR was found from T7 (8.34 g m-2day-1), while the lowest CGR from T0 (6.70 g m-2day-1). At 70-90 DAS, the highest CGR was found from T1 (17.89 g m-2day-1), while the lowest CGR from T0 (8.83 g m-2day-1). At 90-110 DAS, the highest CGR was found from T8 (18.69 g m-2day-1), while the lowest CGR from T0 (10.47 g m-2day-1). At 30-50 DAS, the highest RGR was found from T3 (0.134 g g-1 day-1) and the lowest RGR from T5 and T8 (0.127 g g-1 day-1). At 50-70 DAS, the highest RGR was found from T3 (0.049 g g-1 day-1) and the lowest RGR from T9 (0.041 g g-1 day-1). At 70-90 DAS, the highest RGR was found from T3 (0.040 g g-1 day-1) and the lowest RGR from T0 (0.030 g g-1 day-1). At 90-110 DAS, the highest (Relative Growth Rate) RGR was found from T3 (0.026 g g-1 day-1) and the lowest RGR from T0 (0.021 g g-1 day-1). The longest spike (19.86 cm), highest grain yield (3.71 t ha-1) and highest straw yield (5.78 t ha-1) was attained from T1 and the shortest spike (14.33 cm), lowest grain yield (2.06 t ha-1) and lowest straw yield (4.49 t ha-1) from T0.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v6i1.22032 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 6(1): 07-10 2013
Study on Contamination of Roadside Food by E. coli and Salmonella in Chittagong City Area
Authors: Khan MSI , Begum MR , Haque MR , Asgar MA , Islam MS , Kibria ASMG
Published: February 2015

This study was conducted to determine the contamination of E. coli and Salmonella for different types of foods in Chittagong city area. In case of laboratory examination, almost half (49.58%) of the samples were contaminated where 28.75% positive for E. coli. and 20.83% for Salmonella. The positive cases for type A sample was 20 out of 96 constituting 20.83% whereas the positive cases for type B sample was 49 out of 144 constituting 34.03% for E. coli. The positive cases of type A sample was 15 out of 96 making up 15.63% and for type B sample was 35 out of 144 making up 24.31% for Salmonella.A chi-square (?2) test was used to examine the equality of observed proportions for E. coli and Salmonella of each item of both types of food where significant difference among the observed proportion for E. coli (p-value<0.01) and Salmonella (p-value=0.032) for different items of A type and for E. coli (p-value<0.01) for different items of B type were observed and an odds ratio (OR) was measured for association between exposure and outcome where the probability of contaminated by E. coli of type B food is higher than contaminated of type A food (OR= 1.96 and CI:1.07-3.58). The probability of contaminated by Salmonella of type B food was higher than type A food (OR= 1.73 and CI: 0.89-3.39).The comparatively high bacteria in type B samples indicated contamination from water, practice of inadequate hygienic measures, mishandling, improper storage, inadequate cooking and above all unhygienic condition of the retail shops.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v6i1.22033 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 6(1): 11-14 2013
Effectiveness of Social Safety Net Programs on Community Resilience to Hazard Vulnerable Population in Bangladesh
Authors: Hassan R , Islam MS , Saifullah ASM , Islam M
Published: February 2015

A number of Social Safety Net Programs (SSNPs) are the measures taken by the government of Bangladesh in order to reduce the portion of its population vulnerability to natural disaster. Bangladesh has a comprehensive portfolio of both food, cash and income generating technology based SSNPs. This study assessed the current status of SSNPs and its effectiveness in Bagerhat (cyclone and coastal flood prone) and Gaibandha (river flood prone) districts. Specially, the study depicted SSNPs within the view of natural hazards (climatic change impacts shocks, floods, cyclones and storm surges, flash floods, drought, tornadoes and landslides). This study showed that the organizational performance in the delivery of SSNPs as well as its technical guidance provided to task teams and program managers for identifying indicators of governance and service quality in the targeted SSNPs programs. This study identified that the governance issues along the results chain of service delivery and suggested policy and performance indicators for assessing the program had a significant impact of the outcome of the SSNPs.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v6i1.22052 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 6(1): 123-129 2013
Medical Waste Management: A Case Study on Rajshahi City Corporation in Bangladesh
Authors: Alam MZ , Islam MS , Islam MR
Published: February 2015

The management of medical waste (MW) is of great importance due to its impact on human health and environment. The present practices of improper management of generated medical wastes in different Healthcare Establishment (HCEs) in Rajshahi City Corporation (RCC) is playing a contributing role to create vulnerable condition in spreading out the Diarrhea, Hepatitis and various skin related diseases. The objectives of the study are to identify different types of wastes, its generation rate and assess the existing waste management in various HCEs. The study was carried out in 14 different HCEs that generated much portion of MW of total generated MW in RCC. The methodology of this project was descriptive and consisted of the use of field survey and interviews with the relevant authorities and personnel involved in the management of MW. It was found that the surveyed HCEs generate a total of 1495 kg/day of MW; of which about 1328.6 kg/day (88.87%) are non-infectious and about 166.4 kg/day (11.13%) are infectious. The average waste generation rate for surveyed HCEs is 1.54 kg/bed/day or 0.30 kg/patient/day. It was found from the survey that there is no proper and systematic management of medical wastes. The study reveals that lack of awareness; financial support and willingness are responsible for improper management of MW. So the RCC and HCEs authorities should adopt appropriate policy regarding this issue and provide training program on relevant personnel who are engaged in medical waste management.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v6i1.22062 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 6(1): 173-178 2013
Preparation of Wastelage with Poultry Droppings and Oat Forage (Avena sativa) as a Feed for Cattle
Authors: Khatun H , Khan RI , Moniruzzaman M
Published: February 2015

In this experiment, wastelage was prepared by ensiling Oat forage (Avena sativa) with fresh caged layer excreta (CLE) at varying proportions to investigate the feeding values of wastelage for cattle and protect environment from poultry droppings. Oat forage was mixed with 0, 20, 40 and 60% CLE and 5% molasses in each treatment on dry matter (DM) basis and ensiled in air tight plastic container under room temperature. After 56 days, ensiled mixtures were opened. All the wastelages had desirable aroma, yellowish green color, soft texture and were mould free. The pH, DM, crude protein (CP), crude fiber (CF), ether extra ct (EE), ash, nitrogen free extract (NFE), in vitro organic matter digestibility and metabolizable energy were significantly influenced by levels of CLE. The percentages of DM, CP and Ash (37.34, 18.95 and 14.45, respectively) were highest in wastelage with 60% CLE (p<0.05) followed by 40 and 20% CLE. The pH, CF and NFE were decreased linearly (p<0.05) from 4.5 to 3.90, 19.91 to 17.81% and 52.34 to 44.71%, respectively as the level of CLE increased from 0 to 60%. In all treatments, the EE content was not significantly influenced by the different level of CLE. The in vitro organic matter digestibility and metabolizable energy also increased significantly (p<0.05) with the increase of CLE and maximum value (65.5% and 9.10 MJ/kg DM, respectively) was obtained in wastelage with 40% CLE, which was statistically identical with 60% CLE. The results suggest that ensiling Oat forage with up to 60% CLE improve the feeding value of wastelage.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v6i1.22072 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 6(1): 233-237 2013
Investigation on the Nitrogen Fixing Cyanobacteria (BGA) in Rice Fields of North-West Region of Bangladesh. III: Filamentous (Heterocystous)
Authors: Hasan MA
Published: February 2015

The experiment was conducted to carry out the nitrogen fixing cyanobacterial (BGA) resources and their distribution pattern in rice fields of North-West region of Bangladesh during the period of 2011. Considering the vast importance of Blue-green algae (BGA) in agricultural land especially in rice fields, their twelve months long systematic was undertaken. A total of 10 genera with 37 species of filamentous-heterocystous blue-green algal forms were identified and recorded from this region. Out of 37 species, 9 species belonging to the genus Anabaena, 8 to Nostoc, 5 to Cylindrospermum, 4 to Calothrix, 3 to Rivularia, 3 to Gloeotrichia and 2 to Aulosira; while 1 species belonging to each genus of Anabaenopsis, Microcheate and Aphanizomenon. The distribution pattern of filamentous-heterocystous BGA in rice fields over the study area has also been observed in this study. With few exceptions, the filamentous-heterocystous BGA are more or less uniformly distributed all over the study areas. All of the BGA members have a tremendous ability to contribute on enhancing agricultural production by fixing atmospheric nitrogen and adding organic matter, vitamins, growth promoting substances etc to the soil and crops.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v6i1.22075 J. Environ. Sci. & Natusral Resources, 6(1): 253-259 2013
Indirect and Non-use Values of Halda River- A Unique Natural Breeding Ground of Indian Carps in Bangladesh
Authors: Kabir MH , Kibria MM , Hossain MM
Published: February 2015

Bangladesh is a Riverine country; however, Halda River is of special interest among them in recent time for being the only tidal freshwater River in the world that serves as a natural spawning ground for major Indian carps. Besides, this River serves some indirect and non-use values. This study aims at estimating the economic worth of the indirect and non-use value of Halda River. Both indirect and non-use values of this River were calculated by using contingent valuation method. The study found that total indirect use value per year from this River was Tk. 29.50 million. We also estimated that total non-use value was Tk. 31.46 million which comprised of bequest value of Tk. 14.85 million and option value of Tk. 16.61 million. The study suggests that this valid source of information should take into consideration for the decision makers in taking projects and programmes aimed at managing this River more wisely in the future.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v6i2.22092 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 6(2): 31-36 2013
Effect of Fertilizers on Yield and Nutrient Uptake by Binadhan-7 Rice Grown in old Brahmaputra Floodplain Soils
Authors: Sarker RR , Ali MM , Rahman MH , Khan MK
Published: February 2015

The economic rate of nutrients was determined with eight different fertilizer treatment applied on T. aman rice (var. Binadhan-7) in Old Brahmaputra Floodplain Soils (AEZ-9) during 2012 and 2013 at Trisal, Mymensingh. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The treatment combinations were: T1 (N64 P14 K28 S6 Zn1), T2 (N80 P14 K28 S6 Zn1), T3 (N80 P17.5 K28 S6 Zn1), T4 (N80 P14 K35 S6 Zn1), T5 (N64 P17.5 K35 S6 Zn1), T6 (N80 P17.5 K35 S6 Zn1), T7 (N48 P10.5 K21 S4.5 Zn0.75), and T8 (control). Grain and straw yields were significantly affected by the application of fertilizers at different rates. Results revealed that the average highest grain (4.86 t ha-1) was recorded in T6 (N80 P17.5 K35 S6 Zn1) treatment and straw yield (5.34 t ha-1) was recorded in treatment T3 (N80 P17.5 K28 S6 Zn1) which is 132.54% and 86.06% respectively higher over control treatment. The second highest grain yield (4.77 t ha-1) was obtained in T3 treatment and straw (5.18 t ha-1) was recorded in T6 treatment. Average (2012 & 2013) nutrient uptake (grain and straw) was the highest in T3 treatment. Partial budget analysis demonstrated the highest net benefit of Tk. 69,673 ha-1 in T6 followed by Tk. 68,833 ha-1 in T3 and the highest MBCR (4.29) was obtained in T3 treatment. The present investigation suggests that treatment T3 (N80 P18 K28 S6 Zn1) might be the best profitable fertilizers dose to sustain Binadhan-7 rice production in Old Brahmaputra Floodplain Soils.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v6i2.22096 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 6(2): 55-59 2013
Comparative Study on Chemically and Biologically Raised Crackers Biscuits
Authors: Rahman MS , Siddiqui AA , Matin A
Published: February 2015

The experiment was conducted to the comparative study of chemically and biologically raised cracker biscuit. There were two different formulas; Formula -A was biologically raised (using dry yeast) and Formula B was chemically raised (using sodium bicarbonate, no yeast) crackers. For analyzing the quality of products, samples were collected from different points of the plant and conducted physical, chemical and organoleptic test. From physical test report it is found that the appearance, texture, color and flavor are better for formulation  A than the formulation  B. According to chemical test report it are found that oven moisture, Packing moisture, Fat and Ash were 1.9%, 2.8%,24.0% and 0.93% respectively of formulation  A and 2.0%, 3.1%, 24.2% and 0.92% respectively for formulation  B. From the panel test report 66.66% group voted the formula A and 33.33% group voted the formula  B by the team -1 and secondly we form teamed  2 by rearranging the team members of one and two. According to team-2 83.33% group voted the formula A and 16.66% group voted the formula  B. All the test reports supported that biologically raised crackers biscuits was better than the chemically raised crackers biscuits.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v6i2.22103 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 6(2): 97-100 2013
The Puppet Narrator ofVanity Fair
Authors: Murphy Ryan Francis
Published: February 2015

My essay sheds new light on the perceived shortcomings of Thackeray's narrator in Vanity Fair. There exists, I maintain, a level of narratological sophistication for which Thackeray is not adequately praised, and his dramatised narrator – a character long misunderstood and often maligned – is the key to our renewed understanding. In addition to thoroughly canvassing the ‘puppet’ narrator's dramatic evolution, I examine the ways in which previous scholars have both rejected and misrepresented ‘Before the Curtain’, Thackeray's introduction to the complete novel – what I call the novel's ‘surprise beginning’.
Marginal Productivity Gained Through Prefabrication: Case Studies of Building Projects in Auckland
Authors: Shahzad Wajiha , Mbachu Jasper , Domingo Niluka
Published: February 2015

Several studies have documented benefits of prefabrication system (prefab) compared to the traditional building system (TBS). However, the documented benefits have been anecdotal or fragmented with reports of isolated case study projects. Few studies have looked at the objectively quantified benefits from statistical significance point of view and across building types in New Zealand. This study contributes to filling this knowledge gap by analyzing cost and time-savings, and productivity improvement achievable by the use of prefab in place of the TBS. Records of completion times and final contract values of 66 building projects implemented using prefab in Auckland were collected. The building types included commercial, houses, apartments, educational, and community buildings. The project details included final contract sums, completion dates, gross floor areas, and number of floors. Based on these details, the equivalent completion times and the final cost estimates for similar buildings implemented using the TBS were obtained from the Rawlinsons construction data handbook and feedback from some designers and contractors. Marginal productivity outcome for each building project was computed as the product of the cost and time-savings achieved using the prefab. Results showed that the use of prefab in place of TBS resulted in 34% and 19% average reductions in the completion times and costs, respectively. This also translated to overall 7% average improvement in the productivity outcomes in the building projects. Univariate ANOVA-based hypothesis test results showed that ‘building type’ had no significant effects on the cost and productivity improvement outcomes, but had significant effect on the time savings analyzed in the case study projects. The greatest productivity gain of 11% was achieved in house projects. These evidence-based results could guide optimized use of prefab for specific building application. The hypothesis-testing outcome provides insights on one of several potential influences on prefab improvements, which will be analyzed in subsequent research.
Simulating Dynamic Stall Effects for Vertical Axis Wind Turbines Applying a Double Multiple Streamtube Model
Authors: Dyachuk Eduard , Goude Anders
Published: February 2015

The complex unsteady aerodynamics of vertical axis wind turbines (VAWT) poses significant challenges to the simulation tools. Dynamic stall is one of the phenomena associated with the unsteady conditions for VAWTs, and it is in the focus of the study. Two dynamic stall models are compared: the widely-used Gormont model and a Leishman–Beddoes-type model. The models are included in a double multiple streamtube model. The effects of flow curvature and flow expansion are also considered. The model results are assessed against the measured data on a Darrieus turbine with curved blades. To study the dynamic stall effects, the comparison of force coefficients between the simulations and experiments is done at low tip speed ratios. Simulations show that the Leishman–Beddoes model outperforms the Gormont model for all tested conditions.
Harmonic Injection-Based Power Fluctuation Control of Three-Phase PV Systems under Unbalanced Grid Voltage Conditions
Authors: Zhou Nian-Cheng , Lou Xiao-Xuan , Yu David , Wang Qiang-Gang , Wang Jia-Jia
Published: February 2015

Unbalanced voltage will inevitably cause power and DC voltage fluctuations in a three-phase PV system. The deterioration of power quality will do great harm to the PV panels and the loads, so it is necessary to suppress the power fluctuations. This paper further explores the coefficients control strategy of PV converters under unbalanced voltage conditions, aiming to suppress power fluctuations by controlling the injection of some specific orders of current harmonics into the grid. In order to achieve this, the current reference of the PV inverter has been changed by bringing in two control coefficients, and the expression of each order of the current harmonics has been deduced. Based on the standards of PV systems, the regions from which the coefficients can be selected are determined. Then, by tuning these coefficients in the feasible regions, the output parameters (power fluctuation, current THD and odd harmonics) can be controlled precisely. The model of this method is built and simulated in PSCAD/EMTDC, and as a result, it is shown that the power fluctuations can be restricted according to different power quality requirements.