bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
miPrimer: an empirical-based qPCR primer design method for small noncoding microRNA
Authors: Kang Shih-Ting , Hsieh Yi-Shan , Feng Chi-Ting , Chen Yu-Ting , Yang Pok Eric , Chen Wei-Ming
Published: December 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are 18–25 nucleotides (nt) of highly conserved, noncoding RNAs involved in gene regulation. Because of miRNAs’ short length, the design of miRNA primers for PCR amplification remains a significant challenge. Adding to the challenge are miRNAs similar in sequence and miRNA family members that often only differ in sequences by 1 nt. Here, we describe a novel empirical-based method, miPrimer, which greatly reduces primer dimerization and increases primer specificity by factoring various intrinsic primer properties and employing four primer design strategies. The resulting primer pairs displayed an acceptable qPCR efficiency of between 90% and 110%. When tested on miRNA families, miPrimer-designed primers are capable of discriminating among members of miRNA families, as validated by qPCR assays using Quark Biosciences’ platform. Of the 120 miRNA primer pairs tested, 95.6% and 93.3% were successful in amplifying specifically non-family and family miRNA members, respectively, after only one design trial. In summary, miPrimer provides a cost-effective and valuable tool for designing miRNA primers.
Developing data interoperability using standards: A wheat community use case
Authors: Dzale Yeumo Esther , Alaux Michael , Arnaud Elizabeth , Aubin Sophie , Baumann Ute , Buche Patrice , Cooper Laurel , Ćwiek-Kupczyńska Hanna , Davey Robert P. , Fulss Richard Allan , Jonquet Clement , Laporte Marie-Angélique , Larmande Pierre , Pommier Cyril , Protonotarios Vassilis , Reverte Carmen , Shrestha Rosemary , Subirats Imma , Venkatesan Aravind , Whan Alex , Quesneville Hadi
Published: December 2017

In this article, we present a joint effort of the wheat research community, along with data and ontology experts, to develop wheat data interoperability guidelines. Interoperability is the ability of two or more systems and devices to cooperate and exchange data, and interpret that shared information. Interoperability is a growing concern to the wheat scientific community, and agriculture in general, as the need to interpret the deluge of data obtained through high-throughput technologies grows. Agreeing on common data formats, metadata, and vocabulary standards is an important step to obtain the required data interoperability level in order to add value by encouraging data sharing, and subsequently facilitate the extraction of new information from existing and new datasets.

During a period of more than 18 months, the RDA Wheat Data Interoperability Working Group (WDI-WG) surveyed the wheat research community about the use of data standards, then discussed and selected a set of recommendations based on consensual criteria. The recommendations promote standards for data types identified by the wheat research community as the most important for the coming years: nucleotide sequence variants, genome annotations, phenotypes, germplasm data, gene expression experiments, and physical maps. For each of these data types, the guidelines recommend best practices in terms of use of data formats, metadata standards and ontologies. In addition to the best practices, the guidelines provide examples of tools and implementations that are likely to facilitate the adoption of the recommendations.

To maximize the adoption of the recommendations, the WDI-WG used a community-driven approach that involved the wheat research community from the start, took into account their needs and practices, and provided them with a framework to keep the recommendations up to date. We also report this approach’s potential to be generalizable to other (agricultural) domains.
An update on phloem transport: a simple bulk flow under complex regulation
Authors: Liesche Johannes , Patrick John
Published: December 2017

The phloem plays a central role in transporting resources and signalling molecules from fully expanded leaves to provide precursors for, and to direct development of, heterotrophic organs located throughout the plant body. We review recent advances in understanding mechanisms regulating loading and unloading of resources into, and from, the phloem network; highlight unresolved questions regarding the physiological significance of the vast array of proteins and RNAs found in phloem saps; and evaluate proposed structure/function relationships considered to account for bulk flow of sap, sustained at high rates and over long distances, through the transport phloem.
Informal Lending in Emerging Markets
Authors: Bao Weining , Ni Jian , Singh Shubhranshu
Published: December 2017

Microentrepreneurs in emerging markets often rely on informal lenders for their routine borrowing needs. This paper investigates informal lenders’ and microentrepreneurs’ incentives to participate in a lender–borrower relationship in a market in which repayments are neither law protected nor asset secured. We consider a borrower who seeks a short-term loan, invests in a project, and repays in full using her project earnings if the project is successful. If the project fails, the borrower uses her outside option to repay over a period of time. The analysis uncovers an interesting effect of the borrower’s outside option on the loan rate offered by the lender—the loan rate first increases and then decreases with the borrower’s outside option. An important policy implication is that an increase in the outside options of the poor microentrepreneurs might actually reduce their surplus. Finally, we find that lenders in emerging markets may be more likely to engage in informal lending compared to those in developed or poorer markets.
Achieving Time-Sensitive Organizational Performance Through Mindful Use of Technologies and Routines
Authors: Gardner John W. , Boyer Kenneth K. , Ward Peter T.
Published: December 2017

Organizational performance is often dependent on the timing of critical processes and the simultaneous use of both technology and routines. Existing publications emphasize the importance of time sensitivity but also reflect divergent, untested perspectives. Prior works do not clearly explain or examine how different mechanisms are associated with achieving time-sensitive versus general (or non-time-sensitive) performance. We build on concepts from organizational mindfulness and organizational routines to address these gaps. Specifically, this paper examines how the mindful use of information technologies and adherence to specified routines are associated with both time-sensitive and general organizational performance. We employ split-group structural equation modeling based on high and low levels of information technology adoption to account for potential technology contingencies in performance. We use time-sequenced data from 262 U.S. hospitals to analyze two categories of clinical care quality: time-sensitive care and general care. The results indicate that mindful use of technologies is associated with both time-sensitive and general performance in contexts with high technology adoption but not in those with low adoption. In contrast, adherence to specified routines is associated with time-sensitive performance in contexts with low technology adoption but not in those with high adoption. The results also clarify that high levels of technology adoption and mindful use may at times assume the place of specified routines in their association with time-sensitive performance. Finally, we find evidence that continuous improvement may bridge adherence to specified routines and mindful use of technologies.
Scaling Limit of a Limit Order Book Model via the Regenerative Characterization of Lévy Trees
Authors: Lakner Peter , Reed Josh , Simatos Florian
Published: December 2017

We consider the following Markovian dynamic on point processes: at constant rate and with equal probability, either the rightmost atom of the current configuration is removed, or a new atom is added at a random distance from the rightmost atom. Interpreting atoms as limit buy orders, this process was introduced by Lakner et al. [Lakner et al. (2016) High frequency asymptotics for the limit order book. Mark. Microstructure Liq. 2:1650004 [83 pages]] to model a one-sided limit order book.

We consider this model in the regime where the total number of orders converges to a reflected Brownian motion, and complement the results of Lakner et al. [Lakner P, Reed J, Stoikov S (2016) High frequency asymptotics for the limit order book. Mark. Microstructure Liq. 2:1650004 [83 pages]] by showing that, in the case where the mean displacement at which a new order is added is positive, the measure-valued process describing the whole limit order book converges to a simple functional of this reflected Brownian motion. Our results make it possible to derive useful and explicit approximations on various quantities of interest such as the depth or the total value of the book.

Our approach leverages an unexpected connection with Lévy trees. More precisely, the cornerstone of our approach is the regenerative characterization of Lévy trees due to Weill [Weill M (2007) Regenerative real trees. Ann. Probab. 35:2091–2121. MR2353384 (2008j:60205)], which provides an elegant proof strategy which we unfold.
Just leave them kids alone
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: December 2017

Government policy and thinking regarding what is best for the youngest children in this country is often disjointed, which is brought into stark focus when we begin analysing mental health statistics.
Castles of the imagination: children in total control
Authors: Solly Kathryn
Published: December 2017

When you were younger, chances are that you would at some point have made a den to play in, whether with friends or alone, you were separate from the world and creating your own powerful, personal reality.
Goodwill can't even offer plasters
Authors: Morris Jo
Published: December 2017

We are approaching the end of the first term since the full roll out of 30-hour ‘free’ childcare and sadly, as predicted, not only is the sector feeling the strain, the minister really is not one for listening.
Watch those marbles roll
Authors: Chalmers Debbie
Published: December 2017

Marbles are a fascinating resource for children of all ages and can provide multiple opportunities for play and learning, from the simplest sensory experiences to the most complicated of structures.
Helping puppets to learn
Authors: Davies Sarah
Published: December 2017

Children love having new characters to engage with, which is why using puppets in one form or another can be so appealing. Here, we offer ideas and practical advice for practitioners looking for a way in.
Are you sitting comfortably?
Authors: Roberts Ann R
Published: December 2017

The art of storytelling is one of the oldest forms of entertainment but is as relevant today as it has always been. Providing an environment in which stories can be created and told is both fun and vital.
Prognostic factors for the outcome of extracorporeal shockwave therapy for calcific tendinitis of the shoulder
Authors: Chou W-Y. , Wang C-J. , Wu K-T. , Yang Y-J. , Ko J-Y. , Siu K-K.
Published: December 2017

Aims

We conducted a study to identify factors that are prognostic of the outcome of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) for calcific tendinitis of the shoulder.

Patients and Methods

Since 1998, patients with symptomatic calcific tendinitis of the rotator cuff have been treated with ESWT using an electrohydraulic mode shockwave device. One year after ESWT, patients were grouped according to the level of resorption of calcification.

Results

Of 241 symptomatic shoulders, complete resorption (CR) of calcification occurred in 134 (CR group). The remaining 107 shoulders had incomplete resorption (ICR) (ICR group). Gartner type I calcification was most common (64.5%) in the ICR group. The mean duration of symptoms before ESWT was significantly longer in the ICR group. Overall, 81% of the CR group and 23.4% of the ICR group were symptom free. There was a strong relationship between subsidence of symptoms and remission of calcification. Poor prognosis was significantly related to Gartner type I calcification, calcification extent > 15 mm and duration of symptoms > 11 months.

Conclusion

Patients with calcific tendinitis of the shoulder who have the factors identified for a poor outcome after ESWT should undergo a different procedure. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:1643–50.
[RETRACTED] Comparative study on the effectiveness of a corticosteroid injection for carpal tunnel syndrome in patients with and without Raynaud’s phenomenon
Authors: Roh Y. H. , Noh J. H. , Gong H. S. , Baek G. H.
Published: December 2017

Aims

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of a corticosteroid injection for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) in patients with and without Raynaud’s phenomenon.

Patients and Methods

In a prospective study, 139 patients with CTS were treated with a corticosteroid injection (10 mg triamcinolone acetonide); 34 had Raynaud’s phenomenon and 105 did not (control group). Grip strength, perception of touch with a Semmes-Weinstein monofilament and the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaires (BCTQ) were assessed at baseline and at six, 12 and 24 weeks after the injection. The Cold Intolerance Severity Score (CISS) questionnaire was also assessed at baseline and 24 weeks after the injection.

Results

The two groups had similar baseline BCTQ scores, but the scores in the Raynaud’s phenomenon group were significantly higher than those in the control group at 12 and 24 weeks after the injection. Throughout the 24-week follow-up, there were no significant differences in the mean grip strength between the groups, whereas the mean Semmes-Weinstein monofilament sensory index for the control group was significantly higher than that of the Raynaud’s phenomenon group. The mean CISSs were not significantly different between the groups at baseline and at 24 weeks. After 24 weeks, 11 patients (32%) in the Raynaud’s phenomenon group and 16 (15%) in the control group required carpal tunnel decompression (p = 0.028). Multivariable analysis indicated that concurrent Raynaud’s phenomenon (odds ratio (OR) 2.6) and severe electrophysiological grade (OR 2.1) were independently associated with a failure of treatment after a corticosteroid injection.

Conclusion

Although considerable improvements in symptoms will probably occur in patients with Raynaud’s phenomenon who have CTS, they have higher risk of poor functional outcomes and failure of treatment than those without Raynaud’s phenomenon. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:1637-1642.
2. PENCEGAHAN PRAKTEK KEJAHATAN EKONOMI DALAM PERDAGANGAN BEBAS – ORIGIN FRAUD DALAM INDUSTRI MEBEL KAYU DI JEPARA
Authors: Hanura Marten , P Sheiffi Puspa , Basith Dir Andi Akhmad , P Shary Charlotte
Published: December 2017

Indonesia has been known to have abundant natural resources and culture-based creative industries.The country is therefore vulnerable to the practice of fraud of origin. One of many industrial sectorssusceptible to that particular crime is the wooden furniture businesses. In many cases, it is apparent thatnatural products and raw materials of Indonesia are being exported without listing the country as the place oforigin. The most common Indonesian material falls within this illegal practice are timber products. In theprovince of Central Java, Jepara has been a prominent center of timber industry producing high quality timberproducts and wooden raw materials. From a unique standpoint, the timber industry in Jepara is deeply rootedto the culture and identity of the natives, making the attempt to separate the discussion between timber industryand the people of Jepara not only imprudent but virtually impossible. By looking at the statistic in whichJepara’s public education level is assessed to be still below the national standard, and as well bearing to thegeneral fact that the timber actors in Jepara are more focused on product sales rather than important technicalaspects such as certification of origin, it should be projected that crimes such as fraud of origin could be easilycommitted in Jepara. This study is using a comparative advantage theory and theories or models of H-O toinvestigate how the practice of fraud of origin in Jepara occurs and how to resolve such problem.
PRESENTASI DIRI NETIZEN dalam KONSTRUKSI IDENTITAS di MEDIA SOSIAL dan KEHIDUPAN NYATA
Authors: Lailiyah Nuriyatul
Published: December 2017

In real life we often took identity as something given. Social media gave users the opportunity to present themselves as they wished. Social media gave chances to people to choose the kind of person they wished to be in social medai. People could then construct their identity the same as or different from their true selves in the real world.This study aimed to identify and understand the self-presentation of social media users in the construction of identity in social media and identity in real life. The study was conducted through the methods of phenomenology and avatar research. Data was gathered by by in-depth interviews and observations in informants social media accounts.The results showed several findings, namely: construction of identity in social media take the positive part of identity in the real world, informants consistently set a certain image in the social media in match to their expectations, social media became a mean of users personal branding. Informants also divided into two categories: first, the group that consistently maintain the image they were trying to build. second, groups that occasionally appeared different from the image they wanted to construct.
Transforming Growth Factor-Î²1 gene polymorphism and osteoporosis in postmenopausal egyptian women
Authors: Taha Inass M. , Abdu Allah Azza M. , Hamoudah Maha A. F. , Justin Carlus S.
Published: December 2017

Transforming growth factor-Î²1 (TGF-Î²1) is a wide spread bone matrix protein that affect the function, formation and cell-cell interactions of osteoclasts and osteoblasts to regulate bone remodeling and sustain adequate bone mass. The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of the two polymorphism of transforming growth factor-Î²1 T869C and C-509T in developing osteoporosis in postmenopausal Egyptian women. This study was performed on 138 postmenopausal osteoporosis/osteopenic women and 128 postmenopausal female control group. There was a significant statistical difference in the CC, CT and TT (T869C) genotype frequencies between the osteopenia/osteoporosis and control subjects (p value <0.001). There was a non-significant statistical difference in the CC, CT and TT (T-509C) genotype frequencies between the osteopenia/osteoporosis and control subjects (p value <0.082). There was a significant statistical difference between TT,CT and CC of (T869C) and T score, Z score and calcium of osteopenia/osteoporosis group (p value <0.001). There was a non-significant statistical difference between TT, CT and CC of (T-509C) and T score, Z score of osteopenia/osteoporosis group (p value 0.32,0.31),but there was a statistically significant difference between the three genotyping and serum calcium and creatinine (p value 0.04). Multivariate regression analysis showed that T869C polymorphism is a significant risk factor for osteopenia/ osteoporosis (OR 3.57, 95% CI= 1.56-5.67). We concluded that T869C polymorphism of the TGF-Î²1 gene has an impact on bone mineral density and enhancement of the susceptibility to osteopenia/osteoporosis in Egyptian women.
Antifungal activity of silver nanoparticles on Fluconazole resistant Dermatophytes identified by (GACA)4 and isolated from primary school children suffering from Tinea Capitis in Ismailia – Egypt
Authors: Amin Mariam E. , Azab Marwa M. , Hanora Amro M. , Abdalla Salah
Published: December 2017

Fungal infections caused by dermatophytes recently became more common. Available antifungal drugs are limited because of emergence of resistant strains due to prophylaxis with them, so there is an urgent need for novel antifungals. This study is aimed to detect the antifungal activity of silver nanoparticles (SNPs) on Fluconazole resistant dermatophytes isolated from primary school children clinically suffering from tinea capitis and attending El-Sheikh Zaid Dermatology Center in Ismailia. The study was done on 112 clinical cases. Examination with potassium hydroxide(KOH) of hair samples was done, followed by routine identification using culturing, macroscopical and microscopical examination and biochemical tests, finally molecular identification using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) with (GACA) 4 was done. Fluconazole resistance of these dermatophytes was detected by different methods including agar disc diffusion method and broth microdilution susceptibility testing. Silver nanoparticles susceptibility testing was carried out on these Fluconazole resistant dermatophytes. The Ubiquitin 1 (Ub 1) gene was detected in samples which were Fluconazole resistant but SNPs susceptible. In this study dermatophytes were found only in 70 samples (62.5%). They were belonged to 3 species: Trichophyton violaceum, Microsporum gypseum and Microsporum canis. Fluconazole resistance was found in 58 samples (82.85%). Both M. canis and M. gypseum were resistant to all used concentrations of SNPs, while T. violaceum was susceptible to 50 µg/ml SNPs solution. The Ub1 gene was detected in 1 sample (4.8%). Therefore SNPs can be used for treatment of T. violaceum, while they can't be used for treatment of M. canis or M. gypseum.
Bioactive flavones isolated from Tunisian Artemisia campestris L. Leaves
Authors: Metoui Rafika , Bouajila Jalloul , Znati Mansour , Cazaux Sylvie , Neffati Mohamed , Akrout Ahmed
Published: December 2017

Four flavones were isolated from dried leaves of Artemisia campestris L. 2',4',5,7-tetrahydroxy-5',6-dimethoxyflavone, eupatilin and dimethoxycentaureidin were reported for the first time in this species whereas cirsiliol was previously identified but it was isolated for the first time. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods, including 1D and 2D NMR experiments and mass spectrometry analysis. In addition, all isolated flavones were evaluated for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-superoxide dismutase, anti-xanthine oxidase and cytotoxic activities. The results showed that all isolated compounds exhibited potent anti-xanthine oxidase activity with IC50 ranging from 3.3 to 6.8 µM, which was higher than that of the control compound allopurinol (8.2 ± 0.6 µM). In addition, cirsiliol was found to be the most cytotoxic against OVCAR-3, IGROV-1and HCT-116 cell lines at 15µM, with inhibition percentage values of 53.7, 48.8 and 40.9%, respectively. All compounds also showed weak to moderate anti-inflammatory and anti-superoxide dismutase activities.
Biochemical evaluation of hydroxyurea derivative schiff bases in liver of rats
Authors: Parlak Akif Evren , Karagozoglu Yusuf , Alayunt Naci O. , Turkoglu Semra , Yildirim Isil , Karatepe Mustafa , Koparir Metin
Published: December 2017

In this study, it was aimed to examine the antioxidant and antihepatotoxic effects of hydroxyurea derivative Schiff bases on serum biochemical parameters (AST, ALT, LDH, urea, creatinine and total bilirubin) and antioxidant parameters (SOD, CAT, GPx, MDA). In this study, a total of 49 adult male Wistar rats was examined and they were divided into 7 equal groups. DMSO, which is diluted only with corn oil, was administered to control group. 25 mg / kg ligand, 25 mg / kg Schiff base - manganese, 25 mg / kg Schiff base-copper, 25 mg / kg Schiff base - zinc, 25 mg / kg Schiff base - nickel, 25 mg / kg Schiff base - cobalt complexes were administered to rats of experimental group subcutaneously for 15 days with three-day intervals throughout the test process. All specimens were killed by decapitation and their livers were extracted. According to the results obtained, ALT level was observed to be higher (P<0.05) in the Cu-L group compared to other groups. LDH level was observed to be higher (P<0.05) in the Cu-L and Co-L groups compared to other groups. SOD level was observed to be higher (P<0.05) in the Cu-L, Mn-L and Zn-L groups compared to other groups. MDA level was observed to be higher (P<0.05) in the Ni-L, Cu-L, Zn-L groups compared to other groups. In conclusion, it can be suggested that the determination of the pharmacological characteristics of them can be beneficial in numerous fields of application thanks to the antioxidant and hepatotoxic activities demonstrated by hydroxyurea derivative Schiff bases.
A meta-analysis study of the association between EGFR rs2252586 mutation and the risk of glioma
Authors: Xin Ye , Han Fu-Gang , Chen Dong , Chen Jing , Fang Chun-Xia , Lou Li , Liu Han
Published: December 2017

Several studies reported the association between Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) rs2252586 mutation and glioma susceptibility. However, the results of these studies were inconsistent. A computer-based search using EMBASE and PubMed databases was conducted. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to assess the strength of association between EGFR rs2252586 mutation and glioma susceptibility. The EGFR rs2252586 mutation was significantly associated with an increased risk of glioma (OR=1.16; 95%CI, 1.11–1.21; P<0.00001). When stratified by tumor subtype, the significantly elevated risk was observed in glioblastoma (OR=1.15; 95%CI, 1.04–1.26; P=0.007) but not in oligodendroglioma (OR=1.19; 95%CI, 0.97–1.46; P=0.10). When we excluded the studies with small sample size (case number < 1000), a significant association between EGFR rs2252586 mutation and glioma susceptibility remained (OR=1.16; 95%CI, 1.09–1.22; P<0.00001). In conclusion, this meta-analysis found that EGFR rs2252586 mutation was significantly associated with glioma risk.
The antiosteoporosis effect of icariin in ovariectomized rats: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Yu , Zuo Haojiang , Liu Xuewei , Xiong Jingyuan , Pei Xiaofang
Published: December 2017

Herba Epimedii (Yinyanghuo or Horny Goat Weed) is a traditional Chinese medicine widely used in treating osteoporosis. As the major active component, icariin is intensively investigated in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats. However, misleading conclusions can be generated in animal studies with various experimental designs. Therefore, a systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the efficacy of icariin against osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats. PubMed, EMBASE and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure databases were searched to identify studies of icariin in ovariectomized rats. Two independent authors selected and reviewed the publications. Data were pooled using a DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model. The results demonstrated that ovariectomized rats treated with icariin had significantly higher bone mineral density (femur and lumbar spine) and lower bone turnover markers (serum alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin) compared with the ovariectomized control group. For bone histomorphometric parameters, the percentages of trabecular area and trabecular thickness were significantly higher while the trabecular separation was significantly lower in the ovariectomized rats treated with icariin. Based on these results, the presnet study suggested that icariin might possess substantial antiosteoporosis effect in ovariectomized rats. Safety studies and large randomized clinical trials are needed to further support possible clinical applications of icariin in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.
Ferula gummosa gum induces apoptosis via ROS mechanism in human leukemic cells
Authors: Moradzadeh Maliheh , Sadeghnia Hamid Reza , Mousavi Seyed Hadi , Mahmoodi Merat , Hosseini Azar
Published: December 2017

Ferula species known for its oleo-resins that are recognized valuable industrial crops and food products. In this study, we examined the level of cellular oxidants, cytotoxicity, apoptosis and differentiation induced by oleo resin gum from Ferula gummosa (30-250 µg/mL), as well as Arsenic trioxide (50 µM, as positive control), in leukemic (NB4 and HL-60 cells) and normal polymorph nuclear cells during 72 h. Resazurin assay was used to determine cell viability following treatment with F. gummosa (30-250 µg/mL). Intracellular reactive oxygen species was measured by fluorimetry using carboxy 2"², 7"²-dichlorofluorescein diacetate. Apoptotic cells were evaluated using PI staining of DNA fragmentation by flow cytometry (sub-G1 peak). Differentiation of cells evaluated by Giemsa staining and Nitro Blue Tetrazolium reduction. F. gummosa showed a concentration-dependent suppression in cell survival with IC50 values of 41.8 µg/mL for HL60 and 59.2 µg/mL for NB4 cells after 72 h treatment. ROS formation and apoptotic cells were concentration-dependently increased following treatment with F. gummosa, similar to As2O3. F. gummosa did not induce differentiation of leukemic cells towards granulocytic pattern. The resin did not have toxic effect on PMN cells (<800 µg/mL). In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that F. gummosa induced apoptosis through ROS mechanism on leukemic cells as a concentration and time dependent manner. The precise signaling pathway by which F. gummosa induce apoptosis needs further research.
Exploring Security Issues and Solutions in Cloud Computing Services – A Survey
Authors: Kumar P. Ravi , Raj P. Herbert , Jelciana P.
Published: December 2017

Cloud computing is emerging as one of the powerful computing technologies in the field of Information Technology due to its flexibility and cost reduction. This paper provides a detailed survey on security issues of the services provided by cloud computing and solutions to mitigate them. The main objective of this paper is to empower a new researcher to figure out the concepts of cloud computing, the services provided by them, and the security issues in the services. It also provides solutions to avoid or mitigate the different security issues which occur in the services provided by cloud computing. Additionally, it provides insight into the cloud computing model proposed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), data stages and data security basics in a multi-tenant environment. This paper explores the different security methods proposed by different researchers and analyzes them.
Application of Genetic Algorithm Based Intuitionistic Fuzzy k-Mode for Clustering Categorical Data
Authors: Goyal Akarsh , Sourav Patra Anupam , Kalyanaraman P.
Published: December 2017

In present times a great number of clustering algorithms are available which group objects having similar features. But most of the datasets have data values that are categorical, which makes it difficult to implement these algorithms. The concept of genetic algorithm on intuitionistic fuzzy k-Mode method is proposed in the paper to cluster categorical data. This model is an extension of intuitionistic fuzzy k-Mode in which the notion of fitness related objective functions, crossovers, mutations and probability has been added to provide better clusters for the data objects. Also the intuitionistic parameter has been retained for the calculation of membership values of element x in a given cluster. UCI repository datasets were used for assessing efficacy of algorithms. The qualified analysis and results depict much consistent performance, where a significant improvement is achieved as compared to intuitionistic fuzzy k-Mode and simulated annealing based intuitionistic fuzzy k-mode. Genetic Algorithm based intuitionistic fuzzy k-Mode is very efficient when clustering is applied on large datasets that are categorical in nature, which proves to be very critical for data mining processes.
Real-Time Thermal Mapping for Heat & Cool Archipelagos of Bengaluru, India
Authors: Gopinath Rajesh , Banerjee Aditya , Sachin S. , Tiwari Prakhar , Wilson Sunny
Published: December 2017

Blessed with a salubrious climate, the city of Bengaluru over the past few decades has constantly witnessed thermal discomfort owing to several Urban Heat islands that have mushroomed within the city. The subsequent increase in builtup area, consequent loss of productive agricultural lands/green zones, encroachment of surface water bodies coupled with the ill-preparedness of decision makers to handle the demand for land have invariably crumbled the natural micro-climate of the city. In this present research, an attempt has been made to detect the distribution of Urban Heat Islands in Bengaluru City by conducting real-time survey at 100 observatories marked across the entire urban & rural locations; with thermohygrometers as per the W.M.O. guidelines. The study confirmed the violation of the Human Thermal Comfort Range in 9, 83, 98, 99, 98 and 80 observatories for the monitoring at 6 AM, 9 AM, 12 PM, 3 PM, 6 PM and 9 PM respectively.
Ramp - Metering Algorithms Evaluated within Simplified Conditions
Authors: Janota Aleš , Holečko Peter , Gregor Michal , Hruboš Marián
Published: December 2017

Freeway networks reach their limits, since it is usually impossible to increase traffic volumes by indefinitely extending transport infrastructure through adding new traffic lanes. One of the possible solutions is to use advanced intelligent transport systems, particularly ramp metering systems. The paper shows how two particular algorithms of local and traffic-responsive control (Zone, ALINEA) can be adapted to simplified conditions corresponding to Slovak freeways. Both control strategies are modelled and simulated using PTV Vissim software, including the module VisVAP. Presented results demonstrate the properties of both control strategies, which are compared mutually as well as with the initial situation in which no control strategy is applied
An Accuracy Problem of the Fwd Time History with Regard to the Application of the Sasw Method
Authors: Komačka Jozef
Published: December 2017

A Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) represents one group of the devices used for diagnostics of pavement bearing capacity. Usually, the FWD dynamic load is substituted by a static load in the evaluation process to determine the equivalent modulus of a pavement structure or modulus of pavement layers. However, the data recorded during a bearing capacity test by FWD can be used to reveal the propagation of a dynamic impulse generated by FWD. It gives a possibility to use them in an evaluation method based on the propagation of waves generated by dynamic impulse. Therefore, the FWD time history data was assessed with regard to possible using in the method of the Spectral Analysis of Surface Waves. Basically, the possibility to determine the velocity of a generated surface wave was evaluated. It was found out the same deflection values exist at consecutive time intervals in the relevant part of the time history data (the arrival of the front of the wave or the area of maximum deflection value). Two methods were used to determine the exact time of the wave occurrence at receivers. It was concluded the differences between the used methods exist. It means the calculated velocities of a wave and shear modulus are also different. Importance of the shear modulus differences were estimated using the Slovak bearing capacity classification based on elastic modulus values. Taking into account the range of modulus in one classification class it can be stated the differences in the shear modulus determined according to used two methods could be very significant if the values calculated for short distance of the receiver are used. In the case of longer distance of the receivers the differences are not so high and significant.
Pressure Coefficients Acting Upon the Cylinder Obtained by Numerical and Experimental Analysis
Authors: Medvecká Soňa , Ivánková Oľga , Macák Marek
Published: December 2017

Analysis of wind flow acting upon high-rise buildings is a very common topic. This paper deals with experiment in the Boundary Layer Wind Tunnel (BWLT) in Bratislava and comparison with the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation and values given in the Eurocode. The analyzed object was the model of building with circular cross section (cylinder). External wind pressure coefficients were compared in three height levels of model.
Dynamics of the adoption of improved aquaculture technologies among fish farmers in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Olaoye Olalekan Jacob , Ezeri Godfrey Nnamdi Onyenoro , Akegbejo-Samsons Yemi , Awotunde Joseph Mubo , Ojebiyi Wahab Gbenga
Published: December 2017

The study assessed the adoption of improved aquaculture technologies among fish farmers in Lagos State, Nigeria. A total of 90 fish farmers were sampled through the multistage sampling technique. A validated and pretested interview schedule was used to obtain primary information from the fish farmers. Obtained data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results obtained revealed that more than half and about one-third of the fish farmers sourced credit facilities from cooperative societies and Esusu, respectively, while almost all sold their fishes as smoked fish. Higher proportions of the fish farmers were aware, tried and adopted most of the improved aquaculture technologies with some of the fish farmers also discontinuing most of the previously adopted technologies. The findings of the study also reported that the fish farmers had positive attitude towards the adoption of improved aquaculture technologies. Results of regression analysis revealed that secondary occupation of the fish farmers (β=−0.324, p<0.01), annual income level (β=−0.471, p<0.05), cost of pond construction (β=0.477, p<0.05) and total profit realized (β=−0.466, p<0.05) were significant predictors of the adoption of improved technologies by the fish farmers with an R2 implying that 46.0% of the variability in the fish farmers’ adoption of improved aquaculture technologies is explained by the socio-economic and production characteristics of the fish farmers. The study concluded that the adoption of improved aquaculture technologies is dynamic and highly influenced by the socio-economic characteristics of the fish farmers which also change with time. It is therefore recommended that technologies that received low level of adoption or which discontinued after earlier adoption should be worked on so that the adoption of those technologies would translate to increased income level of fish farmers, reduced cost of pond construction and increased profit of the fish farmers.
Length-weight relationships of five Cultrinae fish species and two of their hybrids from China
Authors: Xiong Xue-Mei , Zhao Bo-Wen , Nie Chun-Hong , Wang Wei-Min , Gao Ze-Xia
Published: December 2017

TThe length-weight relationships (LWRs) were determined for five freshwater fish species collected from Liangzi Lake, the Xi River and Longxi River in China, including Megalobrama amblycephala, Megalobrama skolkovii, Megalobrama pellegrini and Megalobrama terminalis belonging to the genus Megalobrama, as well as white Amur bream (Parabramis pekinensis) of the genus Parabramis. Three of these five species had no previous LWR estimates in the FishBase. The LWRs of hybrids from Megalobrama amblycephala ♀ × Parabramis pekinensis ♂ and Megalobrama amblycephala ♀ × Megalobrama terminalis ♂ were also reported for the first time.
The Protective Role of Vitamin C and Chitosan Against Paraquat-induced Oxidative Stress in Muscles of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)
Authors: Sharifinasab Zeinab , Banaee Mahdi , Mohiseni Mohammad , Noori Ahmad
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of antioxidants, including vitamin C, chitosan or a combination of both, on oxidative stress markers in muscles, as edible tissues of fish, exposed to paraquat. Fish exposed to 0.02 mg/L paraquat for 21 days were fed different diets: a normal diet, a diet containing chitosan (1000 mg/kg diet), a diet with vitamin C (1000 mg/kg diet) or both vitamin C and chitosan. Oxidative stress markers, including the activity of catalase, total antioxidant and malondialdehyde (MDA), as well as biochemical parameters including the activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatine phosphokinase (CPK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE), were measured in muscles. Fish exposure to paraquat increased LDH, CPK, catalase and MDA activity significantly, while it significantly decreased AST, ALT and AChE activity and total antioxidant capacity in muscles. Administration of vitamin C, combined with chitosan, to fish exposed to paraquat was effective in regulating AChE, AST, ALT, LDH, CPK and catalase activity. A significant increase in the total antioxidant status and a significant decrease in MDA levels were observed in fish fed chitosan-vitamin C complex. In conclusion, it is suggested that combined supplementation with vitamin C and chitosan may improve the detoxification system in the muscles of fish and protect common carp from paraquat toxicity.
Threatened Fishes of the World: Telestes Croaticus (Steindachner, 1866) (Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae)
Authors: Jelić Dušan , Krivek Gabriella
Published: December 2017

Telestes croaticus is a freshwater fish endemic in Croatia. It is a stygophile species, living above ground but occasionally retreating into subterranean waters. This species is found in the southwest region of Croatia, in the Lika-Jadova and Ričica drainages, in cold and clear waters in lowland habitats with little current, and in springs and associated wetlands. It is protected under Croatian law and was listed by the IUCN Red List as Endangered (EN). It has an extremely limited distribution which makes it vulnerable to different kind of traits such as habitat destruction, water extraction, dam construction, agricultural water pollution and especially the introduction of non-indigenous fish species. Suggested conservation actions for this species are: bans on watercourse regulation, reduction of pollution and eradication of alien fish species. Due to its fast decline in the last 10 years, it is our proposition that T. croaticus should be upgraded to a Critically Endangered species under criterion A2ace A4ace.
Wild-Caught Versus Farmed Fish – Consumer Perception
Authors: Tomić Marina , Lucević Zoran , Tomljanović Tea , Matulić Daniel
Published: December 2017

We have limited knowledge of determinants of consumer preferences for wild-caught versus farmed-raised fish, so this work aims to investigate the impact of sociodemographics, habits and frequency of fresh fish consumption, such as involvement in cooking, on the preferences for wild versus farmed fish. A survey was done on a sample of 1151 fish consumers in Croatia. Results showed that female, older consumers, consumers with higher income and those living in coastal parts of Croatia give higher preferences for wild fish and they detect differences between the taste of wild and farmed fish. Consumers with higher levels of habits of fresh fish consumption, who eat fresh fish often and are more involved in cooking, prefer wild-caught fish. These findings provide valuable information for the aquaculture sector, especially for planning marketing strategies for the promotion of farmed fish.
Evidence for Chlordecone-Stimulated Oxidative Stress in Different Tissues of the Cichlid Fish, Pseudetroplus Maculatus (Bloch, 1795)
Authors: Asifa Kunimmal Poothaadammal , Chitra Kumari Chidambaran
Published: December 2017

The present study was designed to assess the effect of chlordecone on the stimulation of oxidative stress in gill, liver and brain tissues of the cichlid fish, Pseudetroplus maculatus. Fishes were exposed to chlordecone at two sublethal concentrations, 3.5 and 7 μg/L, for 24, 72 and 96 h, maintaining ten animals in each group. Chlordecone treatment did not alter the body weight of the animal. However, significant increase in the secretion of mucous and decrease in the weights of gill, brain and hepatosomatic index were observed at 7 μg/L of chlordecone treatment only after 96 h. Gill tissue showed significant increase in the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione reductase along with elevated levels of hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidation in concentration and timedependent manner. This could be the defensive mechanism of gill tissue to escape the toxic effects of chlordecone. In the liver tissue, superoxide dismutase activity was increased by 39% at 3.5 μg/L and by 73% at 7 μg/L of chlordecone treatment. Activities of catalase and glutathione reductase were decreased 3 to 9 times at 3.5 and 7 μg/L concentrations, respectively, with concomitant increase in hydrogen peroxide generation (17 to 28 times) and lipid peroxidation (3 to 7 times) at the end of 96 h, which reveals the failure of hepatic antioxidant system to prevent free radical generation owing to chlordecone exposure. Activities of all antioxidant enzymes in the brain were inhibited by 29 to 80% along with the induction of hydrogen peroxide (13 to 20 times) and lipid peroxidation (6 to 11 times), thereby indicating imbalance in the antioxidant status. Activities of gill and liver marker enzyme - alkaline phosphatase - and acetylcholinesterase in brain were decreased. Therefore, imbalance in the antioxidant defence system as a result of chlordecone toxicity could lead to susceptible oxidative stress in various tissues of the fish.
Zooplankton in Ancient and Oligotrophic Lake Ohrid (Europe) in Association with Environmental Variables
Authors: Tasevska Orhideja , Špoljar Maria , Gušeska Dafina , Kostoski Goce , Patcheva Suzana , Sarafiloska Elizabeta Veljanoska
Published: December 2017

Zooplankton is studied in the ancient, tectonic, oligomictic and oligotrophic Lake Ohrid (Macedonia, South Eastern Europe). The main aim of this study was to assess the seasonal and spatial patterns of the zooplankton functional feeding guilds in relation to the environmental conditions. Metalimnion of the lake was detected as the most productive environment, where biomass of the phytoplankton and abundance of the zooplankton reached their maxima. Pelagial zooplankton of low abundance (25 ± 22 ind. L−1) consisted of 16 species including two endemic copepods,Arctodiaptomus steindachneri(Richard, 1897) andCyclops ochridanus(Kiefer, 1932). Copepods obtained remarkable share (60%) in the zooplankton assemblage. Microphagous zooplankton was mainly comprised of the most abundant rotiferKellicottia longispina(Kellicott, 1879) in summer, and copepod nauplii during the springEudiaptomus gracilis(Sars, 1862) andC.ochridanus,and autumnC.ochridanus. Due to their requirements for the bacterio-detritus suspension, this microphagous zooplankton occupied aphotic hypolimnion during the entire study period. Raptorials were typically represented by copepodites and adult copepods in the metalimnion, and were significantly and positively affected by temperature (r= 0.417,p= 0.001), dissolved oxygen (r= 0.463,p= 0.0001) and, particularly, phytoplankton biomass (r= 0.708,p< 0.00001). This is the first study in which the link between the lower and higher trophic levels is investigated in Lake Ohrid.