bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the influence of water table depth on transpiration of two vegetation communities in a lake floodplain wetland
Authors: Xu Xiuli , Zhang Qi , Li Yunliang , Li Xianghu
Published: August 2016

Groundwater plays an important role in supplying water to vegetation in floodplain wetlands. Exploring the effect of water table depth (WTD) on vegetation transpiration is essential to increasing understanding of interactions among vegetation, soil water, and groundwater. In this study, a HYDRUS-1D model was used to simulate the water uptake of two typical vegetation communities, Artemisia capillaris and Phragmites australis, in a floodplain wetland (Poyang Lake wetland, China). Vegetation transpiration was compared for two distinct hydrological conditions: high water table (2012) and low water table (2013). Results showed that vegetation transpiration in the main growth stage (July–October) was significantly influenced by WTD. Under high water table conditions, transpiration of A. capillaris and P. australis communities in the main growth stage totaled 334 and 735 mm, respectively, accounting for over 90% of the potential transpiration. Under low water table conditions, they decreased to 203 and 510 mm, respectively, due to water stress, accounting for merely 55% of the potential transpiration. Scenario simulations found different linear relationships between WTD and the ratio of groundwater contribution to vegetation transpiration. An increase of 1 m in WTD in the main growth stage may reduce the ratio by approximately 25%.
Fecal indicator and Ascaris removal from double pit latrine content
Authors: Dey Digbijoy , Ridwanul Haque A. T. M. , Kabir Babar , Ubaid Sharmin Farhat
Published: August 2016

Since May 2006, the BRAC Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Programme in Bangladesh has enabled more than 30 million people to achieve hygienic sanitation, contributing to an increase in sanitation coverage from 33 to 83% in programme areas and rapid progress towards universal access. In rural areas, most families have single pit latrines that need to be emptied when full. Since 2007, BRAC has promoted the use of hygienic double-pit latrines. Use of double-pit latrines, where appropriate, is also recommended in the Bangladeshi Draft National Water Supply and Sanitation Strategy. More than 800,000 double-pit latrines are in use in BRAC WASH areas, delaying the need for emptying and allowing time for the fecal matter to decompose while the resting pit is sealed. This paper focuses on a study undertaken by BRAC WASH to treat and safely use fecal material from double pit latrines as an organic fertilizer for rice and other crops. The study investigated the removal of pathogens from pit waste through simple solar drying and conducted analysis on nutrient properties of fecal sludge. The study showed a significant positive impact on developing organic fertilizer from fecal sludge.
A non-phosphorus water treatment agent in water injection system: inhibiting strontium sulfate and dispersing ferric oxide
Authors: Liu Y. M. , Zhou Y. M. , Yao Q. Z. , Wu Z. , Chen Y. Y. , She C. G. , Wu W. D. , Sun W.
Published: August 2016

Due to the increasing temperature in water injection system, scales are sediments that are firmly attached on the metal surface in the industrial equipment. These scales, including calcium and ferric oxide precipitations, can cause heat transfer problems. A non-phosphorus water treatment agent APES/AA/AMPS was synthesized by acrylic acid (AA), ammonium allylpolyethoxy sulphate (APES) and 2-acrylamido-2-methyl propanesulfonic acid (AMPS) with the solution of ammonium persulfate as an initiator. The properties of scale inhibition and dispersion of water treatment agent APES/AA/AMPS were studied by using the commonly used standard test methods. The results showed that APES/AA/AMPS had excellent scale inhibition and dispersion performance. The performance of APES/AA/AMPS on strontium sulfate was 93.3% at the dosage of 9 mg·L−1. When the concentration was 4 mg·L−1, the dispersion of iron oxide was optimal according to the solution transmittance of 13.7%. The morphology and crystallinity changes of strontium sulfate in scanning electron microscopy and X-ray powder diffraction showed that the mechanism of the inhibition on strontium sulfate is adsorption.
Anaerobic digestion of sludge differing in inorganic solids content: performance comparison and the effect of inorganic suspended solids content on degradation
Authors: Duan Nina , Dai Xiaohu , Dong Bin , Dai Lingling
Published: August 2016

High inorganic suspended solids (ISS) content of sludge in many areas (especially with combined sewage systems) results in low VS/TS (volatile solids, VS; total solids, TS) levels and raises concerns about its effect on anaerobic digestion. The performances of sludge anaerobic digestion with different feeding VS/TS levels as well as the effect of ISS content on the anaerobic degradation process were investigated in completely stirred tank reactors by semi-continuous and batch experiments. In semi-continuous experiment with sludge at VS/TS of 61.4%, 45.0, 30.0% and 15.0%, biogas yield, VS reduction and methane content decreased logarithmically with the feeding VS/TS decreasing; slightly higher volatile fatty acid concentration was observed at VS/TS 15%. Results of the batch experiments suggested that acetogenesis and methanogenesis are obviously affected by high ISS addition, while hydrolysis is less affected. The retardment of substrate conversion rate is probably attributed to decreased mass transfer efficiency at high ISS content.
O Qualis Periódicos e sua utilização nas avaliações
Authors: Soma Nei Yoshihiro , Alves Alexandre Donizeti , Yanasse Horacio Hideki
Published: August 2016

O Qualis Periódicos é um conjunto de listas contendo títulos de periódicos que tiveram publicações de docentes e discentes dos programas que fazem parte do Sistema Nacional de Pós-Graduação. A utilização do Qualis tem ocorrido na apreciação por parte da CAPES de propostas de cursos novos e na avaliação, com atribuição de notas, de cursos reconhecidos pela CAPES em funcionamento. Apresenta-se aqui algumas reflexões sobre as elaborações das listas Qualis, uma proposta para se tentar montar uma lista única e, finalmente, a utilização do Qualis em outras avaliações que não aquelas pela CAPES.
Qualis: Implicações para a avaliação de programas de pós-graduação das diferentes áreas do conhecimento - uma análise preliminar.
Authors: Rodacki André Luiz Felix
Published: August 2016

O artigo “Dez coisas que você deveria saber sobre o Qualis”, aborda dez pontos essenciais que permitem melhorar sua compreensão e responde claramente vários questionamentos que muitos coordenadores de área recebem frequentemente. Essa abordagem passa pela descrição do processo de elaboração do Qualis, indica as funções e distorções em sua aplicação indiscriminada, descreve o processo pelo qual as listas (WebQualis) são geradas. Além disso, o manuscrito aborda regras comuns a todas as áreas de avaliação, debate critérios classificatórios e a forma de atualização do WebQualis. Finalmente, discorre sobre a diversidade de classificações entre área e debate a perspectivas comparativas entre áreas de conhecimento, além de apontar para o uso indevido do Qualis. Na presente análise, os dez pontos serão abordados e discutidos individualmente, além de expandidos em sua discussão a fim de observar algumas implicações para o sistema de avaliação dos programas de pós-graduação das diferentes áreas do conhecimento. Trata-se de uma análise preliminar pelo fato de que os dados são restritos apenas aos dois primeiros anos do período de avaliação quadrienal (2013-2016).
Dez coisas que você deveria saber sobre o Qualis
Authors: Barradas Barata Rita De Cássia
Published: August 2016

Este artigo trata de dez pontos essenciais para se compreender o Qualis Periódicos e, assim, dirimir as dúvidas frequentemente apresentadas aos coordenadores de área por editores científicos, docentes e alunos de programas de pós-graduação. As questões serão apresentadas de modo a esclarecer aspectos aplicáveis a todas as áreas de avaliação sempre que possível. Alguns aspectos particulares terão por base a experiência da área de Saúde Coletiva.
Análise dos resultados de indeferimento nas bolsas de graduação sanduíche no programa Ciência sem Fronteiras (CNPq): 2012-2014
Authors: Lima Damísia , Calabro Luciana , Souza Diogo Onofre Gomes de
Published: August 2016

O presente trabalho apresenta uma análise dos resultados de indeferimento nas solicitações de bolsa de graduação sanduíche no exterior pelo programa Ciência sem Fronteiras no CNPq, nos anos de 2012 a 2014. O objetivo foi o de propor medidas para diminuir os índices de indeferimento, aumentando o percentual de demanda qualificada. As justificativas de indeferimento foram categorizadas e agrupadas nas três etapas eliminatórias das Chamadas Públicas, utilizando uma “análise textual discursiva” como ferramenta analítica. Identificou-se que 53,3% das candidaturas indeferidas puderam ser registradas em categorias passíveis de intervenção pelo CNPq para otimização do processo seletivo.
Use of a Collagen Matrix as a Substitute for Free Mucosal Grafts in Pre-Prosthetic Surgery: 1 Year Results From a Clinical Prospective Study on 15 Patients
Authors: Maiorana Carlo , Beretta Mario , Pivetti Luca , Stoffella Enrico , Grossi Giovanni B. , Herford Alan S.
Published: August 2016

Background:

The presence of keratinized tissue around dental implants is more than desirable either from a functional and aesthetic point of view, making soft tissue grafting a common practice in implant rehabilitation. Autogenous soft tissue grafting procedures are usually associated with high morbidity. Aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a xenogeneic collagen matrix as a substitute for soft tissue grafting around dental implants.

Methods:

15 consecutive patients underwent a vestibuloplasty and grafting, both in the mandible and the maxilla, with a collagen matrix.

Results:

The primary endpoint was to evaluate the resorption of the graft along with the re-epithelization grafted area. The percentage of the resorption was 44,4%, with a mean gain in vestibular height of 3 mm. Secondary endpoints evaluated the clinical appearance, the hemostatic effect and the post-operative pain. All subjects referred minimal pain with no bleeding. No adverse reaction nor infection were noted.

Conclusion:

This study showed that the used collagen matrix can find major interest in those patients who need a greater aesthetic outcome as the matrix has a perfect integration with the surrounding tissues. Furthermore it is strongly recommended for those patients who can bear little pain.

Clinical Significance:

Post-operative morbidity of autologous grafts is the biggest concern of this type of surgery. The possibility to use a soft tissue substitute is a great achievement as morbidity decreases and bigger areas can be treated in a single surgery.

The present study showed the efficacy of a collagen matrix as this kind of substitute.
Relationship Between Wind Instrument Playing Habits and Symptoms of Temporomandibular Disorders in Non-Professional Musicians
Authors: Nishiyama Akira , Tsuchida Erisa
Published: August 2016

Background:

In this study, we focused on the habits of wind instrumentalists as well as the presence of playing instruments, and investigated associations between the risk of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and playing wind instruments in non-professional musicians.

Material and Methods:

Seventy-two non-professional players of wind instruments (instrument group) (mean(SD), 20.0(1.1) y; 42 women) and 66 non-players (control group) (22.0(2.6) y; 45 women) participated in this study. Factors were investigated using questionnaires (a screening questionnaire for TMD, instrument playing habits, years of experience, and time played per day).

Result:

The prevalence of a high risk of TMD was not significantly different between the instrument group (29.2%) and control group (21.2%). In the instrument group, the frequency of subjects who felt mouthpiece pressure in the high risk of TMD group (47.6%) was significantly greater than that in the low risk of TMD group (21.6%). Mouthpiece pressure was found to be a significant factor contributing to a high risk of TMD (odds ratio, 3.31; 95% CI, 1.12–9.79).

Conclusion:

This study suggests that pressure from the mouthpiece was one of the contributing factors related to a high risk of TMD in non-professional wind instrument players.
Are Pediatric Antibiotic Formulations Potentials Risk Factors for Dental Caries and Dental Erosion?
Authors: Valinoti Ana Carolina , Costa Jr. Luiz Carlos da , Farah Adriana , Pereira de Sousa Valéria , Fonseca-Gonçalves Andréa , Maia Lucianne Cople
Published: August 2016

Introduction:

One of the most frequent parents’ concerns is that oral antibiotic formulations induce dental damage in their children’s. This study aimed to assess the cariogenic and erosive potentials of 29 pediatric antibiotics.

Materials and Methods:

Replicates of each antibiotic were analyzed for the concentration of sugars (sucrose, glucose and fructose) and sorbitol by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The pH was determined by digital pHmeter. Titratable acidity was determined in triplicate using the same pHmeter by gradual addition of 0.1N sodium hydroxide (NaOH) until pH 7.0. Viscosity measurements were carried out using a viscosimeter. In order to rank the relative performance of each medicine, the DEA (Data Envelopment Analysis) methodology was used.

Results:

Sucrose was present in most samples (n=24) with concentrations ranging from 26 to ≈ 100g% (w/w). Only one antibiotic contained sorbitol (66.9g%). Twenty seven antibiotics presented pH values ranging from 4.1 to 6.9 and most of them (n=15) showed the pH below the critical value for dissolution of hydroxyapatite. The values of titratable acidity and viscosity ranged from 0.26 to 40.48 ml and from 20 to 1780cP, respectively. DEA methodology showed that two medicines were distant from the performance frontier (Klaricid®50mg and Zinnat®250mg), which means that these medicines showed the worst performance and, therefore, greater potential for dissolution of dental enamel.

Conclusion:

Many antibiotics presented high concentration of sugars, high titratable acidity, pH below the critical value and high viscosity which can be considered risk factors for dental caries and erosion, when consumed frequently.
Acceptance towards Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Quality of Life: Antecedent and outcome using partial least square method
Authors: Abd Rashid Arlinah , Hanif Azlina , Kamaruddin Rohana
Published: August 2016

The good and service tax (GST) in Malaysia was implemented in 2015 as a tax reform program to generate a stable source of revenue. This study explores the respondents' behaviour towards GST, a week post-implementation. The partial least square (PLS) modelling was used to establish the relationship between acceptance, knowledge and feelings towards GST as well as the household quality of life. There is a positive relationship between the antecedents and the quality of life. Acceptance of GST exerts a significant relationship towards feelings and quality of life. The study concludes that Malaysians, in general, accept GST that ensures a better quality of life in the future.
Patterns of Quality Of Life among Older Urban Dwellers with Mobility Disability in Malaysia
Authors: Abdullah Nik Nairan , Ahmad Saman Mohd Shahril , Kahn Sabzali Musa , Al-Kubaisy Waqar
Published: August 2016

Mobility disability affects the quality of life for the older urban population. The objectives of this research paper were to determine the burden of mobility disability and explore influential factors affecting the quality of life of urban community aged 50 and above with mobility disability. Total of 481 participants who were randomly selected from two urban health centres have been interviewed using structured questionnaire in December 2014. The prevalence of mobility disability was 23.1%. All domains quality of life of older urbanites with mobility disability were significantly affected as compared with those without. These factors need to be emphasized in future planning for elderly.
Competency Framework for the Property Management Industry
Authors: Baharum Zarita Ahmad , Hwa Ting Kien , Salleh Sharuzaman Mohd
Published: August 2016

Property management is a very complex and challenging profession due to its nature and coverage of work in managing not just the four walls but what inside and outside the four walls. In addition, the task also requires monitoring of 24/7 and 365 days. The team of property management consists of various backgrounds to ensure that it can cater the needs and requirements of each building. Thus, to deliver quality services would require a minimum competency according to their scope and area of work. This research is aim to develop the property management competency framework that is applicable in the Malaysian property management service delivery. The method used is using focus group consists of the experts in the industry either private organizations or public institutions; nationally and internationally. Findings reveal that the knowledge base and technical skills required of today's property management professional have changed significantly. The competency requirements for a professional property manager include advanced technical knowledge, a good grasp of business operations and a working knowledge of the real estate business environment. The ability to integrate different business concepts, apply sustainability principles, to be cost effective and a strong ethical foundation is an essential element of a successful professional property manager. Hence, it is crucial to have the minimum competency level as a basis to deliver excellent quality service as well as to be adapted and adaptable to the environment, the stakeholders and the buildings.© 2016. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.Keywords: Property management, competency framework, property management industry
Are Euclidean Distance and Network Distance Related ?
Authors: Cubukcu K. Mert , Taha Hatcha
Published: August 2016

Although spatial distance is a very important concept for a wide variety of disciplines including social, natural, and information sciences, the methods used to measure spatial distance are not directly expressed and fully explained. In this study, we calculate and compare Euclidean distances and network distances for 10 randomly selected European cities. On the contrary to the findings reported in past research, we find that there is not a global straight forward relation between the Euclidian distance and network distance.© 2016. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.Keywords: Euclidean distance; network distance; network analysis
How Does Street Vending Contribute to Walkability? A report on a study in Yuncheng, China
Authors: Sun Ziwen , Bell Simon , Scott Iain
Published: August 2016

In contemporary Chinese cities, street vendors often emerge in a predictable space where numerous people frequently walk or stay. In this sense, the ubiquitous phenomenon of street vending closely relates to the walkability of urban space in the Chinese context. The use of Actor-Network Theory (ANT) analyses a series of immaterial and material actors, which intertwine as a heterogeneous network within complex associations. Based on our previous reviews, this study is the first exploration to implicate the heterogeneous network of street vending as a possible approach to understanding walkable spaces.© 2016. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.Keywords: Street Vendors, Actor-Network Theory, Walkable Spaces
The Effects of Colour in Work Environment: A systematic review
Authors: Savavibool Nattha
Published: August 2016

In work environment, colour is considered an important design element used to provide aesthetics and company’s branding. Colour can affect human’s perception and behaviour. This review aims to investigate and analyse the existing studies on the effects of workplace colour toward worker’s mood, wellbeing and outcomes. 40 papers fitted the inclusion criteria were selected to review. The results show a significant influence of colour on three aspects of effects; namely, Psychological Effects (e.g. mood, emotion), Physiological Effects (e.g. stress, comfort, wellbeing), and Outcomes (e.g. productivity, performance, creativity). Finally, the review concludes with issues to be addressed for further research.© 2016. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.Keywords: Colour perception; Colour psychology; Effect of colour; Work environment
Minimum Wage and Productivity: The perspectives and implications of Malaysian hotel employees
Authors: Mohd Idaya Husna
Published: August 2016

This paper explores the effect of the newly introduced National Minimum Wage (NMW) on the productivity of Malaysian hotel employees based on the insight of several domains which include the analysis of government policy, literature reviews, fieldwork and stakeholder views. The fieldwork includes an extensive employee quantitative survey research to explore their responses to the potential impact of the NMW on their productivity. The findings of this study highlighted the understanding of the productivity concept based on the employees’ understanding and perspective. Based on the findings of this research, in terms of productivity, it is clear that the employees are ready to respond positively to the changes in their work pattern provided wages are increased. This thesis makes a significant contribution towards assisting the key players in the hotel industry (policy makers, hotel associations, trade unions, employers,and employees) to develop a more strategic and effective approach to the implementation of the NMW.© 2016. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.Keywords: Minimum Wage, Productivity, Hotel industry, Wages
Plagiarism: An Empirical Evidence of Business Students
Authors: Rusdi Syezreen Dalina , Hussein Norashikin , Abdul Rahman Nor Azian , Noordin Fauziah
Published: August 2016

As the education world places countless emphasis on achievement and success, the issue of academic dishonesty particularly involving plagiarism has reached prevalent extents especially in the institutions of higher learning. Since this contemporary problem in higher education requires very urgent attention to curb, various factors were assessed for their influence on students’ degree of plagiarism act. Therefore, this paper focuses on the extent of the business students’ self-perceived plagiarism and factors contributing to the act. A total of 152 questionnaires were collected from final year students of four business degree programs in one of a public university in Malaysia. Findings revealed that negative attitude, followed by competence lacking were the major contributors of self-perceived plagiarism. Discussion and significance of the study are further discussed.© 2016. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.Keywords: academic dishonesty, self-perceived plagiarism
Assessment of Adaptable Urban Environment for Public Art Integration through Observation Study: Johor Bahru City Centre
Authors: Jasmi Muhammad Falihin , Nik Mohamad Nik Hanita
Published: August 2016

 In Malaysia, there is an unprecedented interest in public art, especially in the major cities. Notwithstanding the increasing interest, however, the local agenda, rationale and placement of public art are extensively debatable. Therefore, this paper aims to examine the adaptable urban environment for public art integration towards enhancing the image of Johor Bahru City Centre, through an observation study. It identifies the urban morphology that substantiates development of a suitability plan for public art placement, whilst refining legibility, connectivity, and urban fabric. The outcome of this paper is hoped to support multi-disciplinary built environment professionals in defining guidelines and strategies for public art, towards a liveable city.© 2016. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.Keywords: Public Art; Urban Environment; Adaptable Environment; Urban Morphology
A Structural Equation Model of Improvement in Quality of Life in a Community-Based Development Projects in Nigeria
Authors: Muhammad Zayyanu , Jonathan Zungwenen , Johar Foziah , Majid Rafee M
Published: August 2016

The lingering problem of poverty has prompted many countries to adopt community-based development strategy towards improving the Quality of Life (QoL) of their citizens. Numerous studies have focused on assessing QoL by measuring the manifested (measured) variables and ignored the significant contribution of some “latent” factors. Using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), this paper investigated the factors that influence improvement in the QoL in a Community-based Poverty Reduction Project (CPRP) in Nigeria. The model indicates that the measured variables cause only 36% (R2 = 0.36) of the reduction in poverty level of the project beneficiaries. This finding implies that there are other “hidden” factors responsible for the improvement in the quality of life.© 2016. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.Keywords: Quality of Life, Community-based Development Projects, Poverty Reduction, Structural Equation Modelling
Prezbiter jako podmiot odpowiedzialny za przepowiadanie słowa Bożego w świetle obowiązującego magisterium Kościoła
Authors: Kantor Robert
Published: August 2016

Przepowiadanie słowa Bożego jest jednym z najważniejszych zadań spoczywających na Kościele. Słowo Boże jest darem dla całego Kościoła. W jego przekazie uczestniczą przede wszystkim prezbiterzy. Głoszenie słowa Bożego jest obowiązkiem i uprawnieniem wyni­kającym z przyjętego przez nich sakramentu święceń. Magisterium Kościoła, a zwłaszcza adhort. apost. Verbum Domini w kilku miejscach podjęła zagadnienie związane z prze­powia­daniem tego słowa przez prezbiterów. Papieski dokument przedstawia wskazówki dla kapłanów dotyczące głoszenia homilii, modlitwy Liturgią godzin, przeprowadzania nabożeństw słowa Bożego, odnoszące się do wartości milczenia, uroczystego głoszenia słowa Bożego w świątyni, duszpasterstwa biblijnego, miejsca słowa Bożego w katechezie oraz w życiu kapłana.
Teaching Electrolysis Using STSE Method, Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Bar Varda , Azaiza Ebtisam , Azaiza Dima , Shirtz Aviv Spector
Published: August 2016

The paper presents a case study aimed at introducing electrolysis to a group of high school students. The instructional method consisted of hands on experiences and discussions undertaken in a facility for highly motivated students with access to high quality equipment. The method of instruction is not used in schools where the students study daily, nor did they learn electrolysis within their regular curriculum. The instruction was built on experimenting with the basic scientific concepts of electrolysis together with understanding technological applications. Learning included the concepts of ions, reduction potentials and being exposed to the way current is moving in an aqueous solution, in contrast to the electrons that carry the current in metals.

The instruction consisted on 15 sections; the duration of each was 90 minutes. The involvement was done through the method of pre-test, instructional set, and a post-test. The post-test revealed difficulties found in the previous literature concerning this discipline. A T-test showed a significant difference between the pre and the post-test results. Curricula suggestions to improve the teaching of both the electrolysis cell and the Galvanic cell are offered. All the students said that they enjoyed the method of instruction and wished to continue to learn according to the same method in their school. The paper is preceded by a short description of the history of electrochemistry and concern for pupil’s difficulties.
Knowledge and Perception of Cord Blood Bank among Lebanese Population
Authors: Charif Hamdar Bassam , Abla Rita
Published: August 2016

The cord blood cells are hematopoietic stem cells which can differentiate only into blood cells. In other words, cord blood stem cells are blood cell precursors which can form red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Nowadays, these cells are being used to treat blood and immune system that associated with genetic diseases, cancers, and blood disorders.

Due to the great value of the stem cells, new research and technology show that it is highly recommended that cord blood cells are reserved for the future use. This paper will shed light on the important aspects and the ability of doing blood cord bank in Lebanon.

This paper is exploratory in nature and its mere purpose is to focus on some aspects that were first not known in the Arab world in general and in Lebanon in specific. To achieve all the above, a questionnaire has been designed and delivered to the sample via different means.

An overview of this paper reveals some understanding about the level of awareness achieved by the Lebanese citizens. Other objectives came into play and some of those were the relation between banking cord blood and religion.

The outcome of this paper is a practicability study of blood cord bank which is related two concepts, with and against, by revealing the pros and cons of this subject.
Challenges of Addressing Environmental Problems due to Quarrying Operation in Uwandani Ward, Pemba
Authors: Moh’d Seif Hamza , Kanyama Ahmad
Published: August 2016

This paper examines the challenges of addressing environmental challenges arising from aggregates quarrying at Uwandani Ward in Pemba, Zanzibar. Specifically, the study examines i) the socio-economic importance of quarrying, ii) the environmental impacts, iii) the interventions done to address environmental problems, and iv) the constraints over interventions. Data collection methods included household questionnaire survey, key informants interviews and participant observations. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and content analysis techniques were used in the analysis and processing of quantitative and qualitative data. The findings showed that although the revenue generated from quarrying operation is crucial for the livelihood of the local people, persistent environmental problems have been difficult to address due to lack of education, poverty, rapid increase of quarrying operations, drought and climate change variability, apathy in the community and inferior technology used in the quarrying operations. Furthermore, the challenges of tackling environmental problems are contributed by unsuccessful piecemeal interventions of the government because of the lack of clear recognition and appreciation of the artisanal quarrying operation contribution in the livelihood of local people. This paper recommends that the government recognizes and appreciates informal quarrying operations in order to put effective policies to develop the sector and address its environmental problems. This should be accompanied by the participation of all stakeholders in planning and implementation to address environmental problems through bottom-up approaches.
Diagnosed and Undiagnosed Diabetes Prevalence by County in the U.S., 1999–2012
Authors: Dwyer-Lindgren Laura , Mackenbach Johan P. , van Lenthe Frank J. , Flaxman Abraham D. , Mokdad Ali H.
Published: August 2016

OBJECTIVE

Previous analyses of diabetes prevalence in the U.S. have considered either only large geographic regions or only individuals in whom diabetes had been diagnosed. We estimated county-level trends in the prevalence of diagnosed, undiagnosed, and total diabetes as well as rates of diagnosis and effective treatment from 1999 to 2012.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used a two-stage modeling procedure. In the first stage, self-reported and biomarker data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were used to build models for predicting true diabetes status, which were applied to impute true diabetes status for respondents in the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). In the second stage, small area models were fit to imputed BRFSS data to derive county-level estimates of diagnosed, undiagnosed, and total diabetes prevalence, as well as rates of diabetes diagnosis and effective treatment.

RESULTS

In 2012, total diabetes prevalence ranged from 8.8% to 26.4% among counties, whereas the proportion of the total number of cases that had been diagnosed ranged from 59.1% to 79.8%, and the proportion of successfully treated individuals ranged from 19.4% to 31.0%. Total diabetes prevalence increased in all counties between 1999 and 2012; however, the rate of increase varied widely. Over the same period, rates of diagnosis increased in all counties, while rates of effective treatment stagnated.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate substantial disparities in diabetes prevalence, rates of diagnosis, and rates of effective treatment within the U.S. These findings should be used to target high-burden areas and select the right mix of public health strategies.
Management Status of Agricultural Plant Genetic Resources in Nepal
Authors: Paudel M N , Joshi B K , Ghimire K H
Published: August 2016

Agricultural plant genetic resources (APGRs) are one of the pivotal sources for developing high yielding, stress tolerance varieties to sustain food and nutritional security of the world. Nepal has established National Agriculture Genetic Resource Centre (NAGRC), alias Genebank under the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC) in Khumaltar premise in 2010 AD (2066 BS). NAGRC has been doing collection, identification, characterization, and regeneration of APGRs since its establishment. There are more than 11000 collections of APGRs in the Genebank. These accessions include cereals, pseudo cereals, pulses, oilseeds and vegetable of orthodox seed whereas crops having recalcitrant seed are conserved in the field Genebank, on-farm genebank and tissue bank. To analyze characters of new accessions, standard passport data are recorded and entered to accessions giving geographical locations and coordinates. The APGRs have been collected, cleaned, processed, preserved and regenerated and characterized according to the standard procedures and norms used by scientists across the world. Types of Genebank and options for effective management of APGRs in Nepal have explained in brief. This paper tries to explain the importance and management of APGRs with respect to sustain food and nutritional security of Nepal in coming days ahead.Agronomy Journal of Nepal (Agron JN) vol. 4, 2016, Page: 75-91
Evaluation of Black Rice under Different Fertilizer Doses in Western Terai, Nepal
Authors: Khadka Ram Bahadur
Published: August 2016

The black rice varieties are considered to have multiplier benefits in human health due to the presence of different antioxidants. An experiment was conducted at RARS, Khajura during rainy season of 2014 to evaluate the response of black rice with different doses of fertilizers and to document the basic phonological characters. It was found to be of short duration, low productive and non-responsive towards the fertilizer doses. Due to health benefiting qualities, the market price could easily compensate the low productivity and be of high commercial value in farming communities. However, more detail studies required on agronomy, protection, quality and breeding aspects before going to commercialization.Agronomy Journal of Nepal (Agron JN), Vol.4, Page: 136-141, 2016
Resource assessment of Bel (Aegle marmelos) and potentiality to establish its processing enterprise in Tanahun district of Nepal
Authors: Baral K. , Upreti B. R.
Published: August 2016

Participatory resource assessment of Aegle marmelos was carried out in six community forests (CFs) of the Jamune VDC of Tanahun district to find out potentiality for establishing community-based A. marmelos processing enterprise in the locality. Circular sample plots of 500 square meters were laid down taking 5% sampling intensity. The DBH (Diameter at Breast Height) and height of trees on the sample plots were measured and classified them into three DBH classes (10–20 cm, 20–30 cm and more than 30 cm). The number of the fruits on the three branches of each A. marmelos tree – one lower branch, one middle branch and one top branch were counted, the average number of fruits on the three branches calculated and multiplied with the number of the branches of the tree to find out the average number of fruits per tree. By calculating the weighted mean of the three different DBH-class trees, the total number of the fruits was estimated. The study found 54,830 kg of harvestable amount of A. marmelos fruit in the studied six CFs which can produce 19190.5 kg of pulp per year. Thus, establishment of juice processing enterprise was found to be feasible in the locality. Nevertheless, some shortcomings related to the management of A. marmelos resource, such as lacking of information and management options for A. marmelos trees in the Operation Plans (OPs), lower regeneration status of A. marmelos trees, higher incidences of forest-fire and open grazing in the CFs, were also recorded. The study suggests for carrying out awareness-generating activities targeted to the CF user group members, revision of OPs and incorporation of A. marmelos resource information and management options and preparation and implementation of regeneration protection plan against forest fire and grazing.Banko JanakariA Journal of Forestry Information for NepalVol. 26, No. 1, page: 32-37, 2016
Forest type mapping using object-based classification method in Kapilvastu district, Nepal
Authors: Chaudhary A. K. , Acharya A. K. , Khanal S.
Published: August 2016

In the recent years, object-based image analysis (OBIA) approach has emerged with an attempt to overcome limitations inherited in conventional pixel-based approaches. OBIA was performed using Landsat 8 image to map the forest types in Kapilvastu district of Nepal. Systematic sampling design was adopted to establish sample points in the field, and 70% samples were used for classification and 30% samples for accuracy assessment. Landsat image was pre-processed, and the slope and aspect derived from the ASTER DEM were used as additional predictors for classification. Segmentation was done using eCognition v8.0 with the scale parameter of 20, ratios of 0.1 and 0.9 for shape and color, respectively. Classification and Regression Tree (CART) and nearest neighbor classifier (k-NN) methods were used for object-based classification. The major forest types observed in the district were KS (Acacia catechu/ Dalbergia sissoo), Sal (Shorea robusta) and Tropical Mixed Hardwood. The k-NN classification technique showed higher overall accuracy than the CART method. The classification approach used in this study can also be applied to classify forest types in other districts. Improvement in classification accuracy can be potentially obtained through inclusion of sufficient samples from all classes.Banko JanakariA Journal of Forestry Information for NepalVol. 26, No. 1, Page: 38-44, 2016
Estimating tiger and its prey abundance in Bardia National Park, Nepal
Authors: Karki J. B. , Jhala Y. V. , Pandav B. , Jnawali S. R. , Shrestha R. , Thapa K. , Thapa G. , Pradhan N. M. B. , Lamichane B. R. , Barber-Meyer S. M.
Published: August 2016

We estimated tiger and wild prey abundance in the Bardia National Park of Nepal. Tiger abundance was estimated from camera trap mark recapture in 85 days between December, 2008 to March, 2009 by placing 50 camera trap pairs in 197 trap locations with a sampling effort of 2,944 trap nights. We photo captured 16 individuals (≥1.5 year old) tigers identified on the basis of their unique stripe patterns. The number and density (per 100 km2) of tiger was 19 (SE 3.3) and 1.31 (SE 0.32), respectively. Distance sampling was used to assess the prey abundance on 170 systematically laid line transects between May–June, 2009. The density of all the wild prey (individuals/km2) was 56.3 (SE 6.5). The density (individuals/km2Banko JanakariA Journal of Forestry Information for NepalVol. 26, No. 1, Page:  60-69, 2016
Impact of roads on biodiversity: a case study from Karekhola rural road in Surkhet district of Nepal
Authors: KC J. K. , Gautam A. P.
Published: August 2016

Loss and degradation of biodiversity is continuing despite the past conservation efforts in Nepal. Out of many potential causes, this study strives to investigate the effects of a road project on biodiversity in the Middle Hills of Nepal. Information about floristic composition was collected from the adjoining community forests using group of 30 circular sample plots, each located at 50 m and 20 m far from the edge of the road. Results provide evidence that rural road projects are contributing to reduction of biodiversity which may be due to the removal of low-yielding timber species near the road-edge. The study also suggests that proximity to road-edge reduces under- storey vegetation which will lead less capable forest to sustain its original biodiversity. However, silvicultural operations have potential to minimize the indirect loss of biodiversity caused by road projects.Banko JanakariA Journal of Forestry Information for NepalVol. 26, No. 1, Page: 70-77, 2016
Plant diversity and stand structure comparison of Mikania micrantha invaded and non-invaded tropical Shorea robusta forest
Authors: Basnet S. , Chand D. B. , Chand D. B. , Wagle B. H. , Wagle B. H. , Rayamajhi B. , Rayamajhi B.
Published: August 2016

Mikania micrantha is considered to be the most problematic in terrestrial ecosystem in Eastern and Central Nepal. Despite the current situation of the Mikania invasion, quantitative data on the impacts and scale of the problems are lacking for the country. Due to the lack of information regarding scale of invasion, the stakeholders have not put forwarded the proper control mechanism of the species. This paper has made an attempt to analyze the scale of invasion through the comparison of plant biodiversity and basal area per hectare as the significance of stand structure between Mikaniainvaded and non-invaded tropical Shorea robusta forest areas. This study was conducted in Barandabhar Buffer Zone Forest of Chitwan National Park. Sampling and measurement was conducted in both the invaded and non-invaded forest areas. The stand structure of both the invaded and non-invaded areas were compared in terms of different parameters like seeding density, sapling density, pole basal area per hectare and tree basal area per hectare. Statistical analysis showed that there is significant impact of Mikania on plant diversity at seedling and sapling stages. There is negative effect of Mikania on stand structure of the forest. Hence, there is urgent need to control the invasive weed so as to control further invasion and to conserve biodiversity and productivity.Banko JanakariA Journal of Forestry Information for NepalVol. 26, No. 1, Page: 78-81, 2016
Microbial inoculant influences the germination and growth of Albizia lebbeck seedlings in the nursery
Authors: Khan B. M. , Kabir M. A. , Hossain M. K. , Mridha M. A. U.
Published: August 2016

Microbial inoculants (MI), a biofertilizer, composed of many different beneficial microorganisms has positive role on seed germination and growth of plants. In the present study, its efficacy on seed germination and seedling growth of Albizia lebbeck in the nursery was studied. The seeds were sown in polybags filled with a mixture of forest soil and cow dung (3:1) and treated with 0.1%, 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 5% and 10% concentrations of MI. Most of the parameters studied (seed germination, shoot and root lengths, dry weights of shoot and root, collar diameter, leaf number etc) were found maximum in 2% of MI . Although the highest vigor index, volume index and quality index (7053, 3738 and 1.106, respectively) were found in 2% MI, but the highest sturdiness (65.95) was found in 1% MI solution. The nodule number was higher at a very low (0.5%) concentration of MI but it normally decreased with the increase of concentration. Total pigment content in leaf was recorded highest (112.86 mg.L-1) in 2% of MI. Therefore, MI influences seed germination and seedling growth of A. lebbeck and the low concentration (2%) of the inoculant can be recommended for getting maximum seed germination and seedling growth of the species studied.Banko JanakariA Journal of Forestry Information for NepalVol. 26, No. 1, Page: 82-89, 2016