bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Demographic characteristics of Slovenians in Vojvodina at the beginning of the XXI century
Authors: Knezevic Aleksandar
Published: January 2015

According to the results from the 2011 Census, in Autonomous Province of
Vojvodina (hereinafter referred to as ?Vojvodina?) there were 1,815
Slovenians, or 45% of the total number of Slovenians in the Republic of
Serbia. Slovenians make up only 0.09% of the total population in Vojvodina.
All demographic indicators show a profound demographic decline in the
population based on biological depopulation that began in the late 1960s.
Furthermore, a negative trend in natural increase was further strengthened by
inverse migrations that started several years after they had colonized
Vojvodina, especially south Banat. Slovenians in Vojvodina, at an average age
of 52.1 years, were ranked second place in the rank of ethnicity by age,
which clearly indicates to intense process of population ageing and inability
to achieve positive effects of natural movement. Although this population is
statistically small in number, this paper clarifies the underlying causes of
extremely unfavorable demographic trends that characterized Slovenian
population in Vojvodina over the last several decades.
Disability and censuses: Methodological challenges and experience in measuring disability
Authors: Markovic Milan
Published: January 2015

The present article has the primary objective of displaying stances about the
role, the reach and limitations of a Census as a means of collecting data on
disability in different countries. It will present the purpose of the
Recommendation from the Washington Group on Disability Statistics in the
context of introducing disability-related questions in national censuses from
the year 2010 onwards. Furthermore, the article will inspect the limitations
regarding measuring disability and functional difficulties through the means
of a census, relying on the experience from other countries and scholarly
research. This part will strongly focus on the formulations made by the
Washington Group on Disability Statistics and the set of short questions
presently used in national censuses. Finally, the article will briefly
observe the experience from the Serbian national census in 2011 in measuring
functional difficulties for the first time.
Demographic characteristics and life satisfaction in settlements of Fruska Gora mountain region: Besenovo case study
Authors: Djercan Bojan , Bubalo-Zivkovic Milka , Lukic Tamara , Solarevic Milica
Published: January 2015

Serbia has been facing an economic crisis for the last two decades, which is
one of the causes of poor demographic situation in the country. Along with
low or negative rates of population growth and ageing of population, the
majority of municipalities in Vojvodina have a negative migration balance.
Vojvodina is characterized by long-term trend in the decrease of young
population and the increase of old population. These two processes are
affected by low birth rate and life expectancy increase. The bad economic
situation and the ageing of population are especially apparent in mountainous
areas and peripherally located settlements. This situation has not bypassed
Besenovo, mountainous village of Fruska Gora. Field research and conduction
of the questionnaire have found out that the population of this village is
not satisfied with the basic living standard.
The impact of emigration from Serbia to Hungary on the human resources of Vojvodina
Authors: Gabric-Molnar Iren , Slavic Agnes
Published: January 2015

In the recent decades the migration processes and circular migration are
increasing worldwide and have become more and more complex. There has been a
new type of international migration - back and forth international migration.
Nowadays, job seeking in the international space, brain circulation, multiple
citizenship and identity, property ownership and consumption at the place of
origin and at destination residence result in completely new lifestyles in
Central and Eastern Europe, too. After the disintegration of the socialist
regime both in Serbia and Hungary, new types of emigrants from Serbia
appeared in Hungary, namely students, highly qualified workers,
entrepreneurs, elders and circulars. The most recent types of migrants along
the Serbian-Hungarian border area are: economic emigrants (emigrant physical
workers); creative class (entrepreneurs, businessmen, international traders);
circulars and seasonal emigrants, as well as students. The hypothesis of this
work is that the main motive of emigration from Serbia to Hungary is the
economic motive, especially job-seeking. The analysis of emigration from
Serbia to Hungary is based on the interviews and questionnaire-based research
obtained among emigrants from Vojvodina to Hungary, who were living in
Hungary or commuting there regularly between 2010 and 2013. The obtained data
prove the hypothesis. The economic motives are present even when the
emigrants do not stay in Hungary, but move off to more developed countries of
the EU.
The disappearance of Serbs in Croatia
Authors: Djurdjev Branislav , Livada Svetozar , Arsenovic Daniela
Published: January 2015

Based on the latest references and the Census of the population in Croatia
from 1880 to 2011, the paper presents current and future trends in the
number, share and aging of Serbian population in Croatia. Until the 2001
Census, the share of Serbs was slowly decreasing, in spite of evident
persecutions, organized migrations and killings during the First and,
especially, the Second World War. The breaking point occurred in the last
decade of the 20th century when the share of Serbs dropped to one fifth when
compared to the maximum, or to one third, when compared to the beginning of
the decade. The 2011 Census shows that a small remaining share of Serbs is
dominated by ageing population, so the projections indicate that the share of
Serbs will have dropped to only 2.4% until 2051.
How to motivate policy makers to face demographic challenges?
Authors: Rasevic Mirjana , Nikitovic Vladimir , Lukic-Bosnjak Dragana
Published: January 2015

If we want to understand the deeper truth, or intend to interpret phenomena
through the perception of a specific population, a more holistic perspective
might be necessary. By applying foresight exercise, some new patterns might
be discovered and shifts in study aspects inhibited. Such an approach intends
to give meaning to future perceptions, expectations and fears of experts,
decision makers and civilians. Its activities are designed to address
critical questions, which might significantly shape the future of a country
in the coming years. Foresight exercise reinforces thinking about what future
steps should be taken, if a specific scenario becomes reality. Personal life
stories based on binary opposition of the futures of a country can be used to
unambiguously show the policy makers all the relevant implications that
different futures might have regarding fertility, migration, population
ageing, human capital and labour market in Serbia in the forthcoming period.
Furthermore, it seems that such foresight exercise, as a qualitative
approach, can provide additional insight into quantitative methods of
forecasting demographic future of a country.
Determinants of demographic development of the Republic of Srpska at the beginning of the 21th century
Authors: Marinkovic Drasko , Majic Aleksandar
Published: January 2015

For decades now, the Republic of Srpska has been affected by the natural
depopulation process and starting with 2002 it has been manifested through
negative rate of natural increase resulting from natality decrease and
mortality increase. During the target period, the number of the live-born
declined by 28% whereas the number of the dead increased by 25%. Clearly,
negative demographic figures along with negative migrations resulted in the
total depopulation. Negative migration balance additionally complicates
negative demographic trend, which results in total depopulation of large
proportions. Major issue of the Republic of Srpska population is the
phenomenon of low fertility resulting from a whole range of negative factors.
Therefore, the implementation of population policy measures is fundamental
for both society and population in the country.
Differential mortality in Vojvodina according to the economic activity and occupation
Authors: Radivojevic Biljana , Marinkovic Ivan
Published: January 2015

This paper analyses the differential mortality in Vojvodina according to the
economic activity and occupations of the population. The analysis covers the
period from 1971 to 2011. The aim of the research is to determine the
influence of socio-economic factors on differences in the level of mortality
among different population groups. In particular, the aim is to detect the
impact of working conditions and manner of performing the job to the
differences in the mortality of the population with different occupations.
Also, the goal is to detect changes in differential mortality according to
economic activity and occupations of the population during the analysed
period.
Marital behavior of the elderly population in Serbia
Authors: Ivkovic Marija , Todoric Jovana , Mucic Marija
Published: January 2015

The aim of this paper is to examine contemporary marital behavior of the
population in Serbia older than 65 years. Models of marital behavior are a
reflection of culture, tradition, local customs, economic status, cultural
and historical heritage, and as such are subject to change. Extending the
life expectancy of the population, and the change of socio-economic and
cultural circumstances, had led to changing in marital behavior and marital
structure of the old population. To track these changes and comprehend the
current situation, we analyzed indicators such as the marriage and divorce
rates for this age group, as well as current marital structure, comparing
them with previous values. It is particularly noteworthy that for the first
time (based on data from the 2011 census), we can analyze the frequency and
characteristics of informal marriage unions (cohabitation), which provides
important insights into the marital life of the elderly.
Principles of art in Serbian and European laws and stands of Christian orthodox church on art
Authors: Kovacek-Stanic Gordana
Published: January 2015

In Serbia, Biomedically Assisted Fertilization is regulated by the Act on
Treatment of Infertility with Biomedically Assisted Fertilization Procedures
from 2009, and by the Family Act from 2005, the provisions on the family
status of the child. In European context, the principles of the application
of biology and medicine are regulated by the Council of Europe Convention
from 1997 for the Protection of Human Rights and Dignity of the Human Being
with regard to the Application of Biology and Medicine (Convention on Human
Rights and Biomedicine). In this paper, Serbian law is compared with
European law as well as the stands of Christian Orthodox Church which
represents the dominant religion in Serbia. Comparison of principles
stipulated in the Act and the Convention with the stands of the Christian
Orthodox Church shows that domestic law, European law and stands of
Christian Orthodox Church are based on similar grounds. It is the protection
of human being, human dignity, and application of principle of medical
justification. However, there is great difference of opinions when the
question of acceptable and allowed procedures is raised. For example, there
is an opinion that donor insemination is not in compliance with Christian
Orthodox stands. On the contrary, positive law accepts donor insemination,
both sperm and egg donations. As regards the surrogate motherhood, this is
unacceptable for Orthodox Church and it is still not allowed in Serbia, but
de lege ferenda it might be permitted in Serbia, as the Draft of Civil Code
proposes that surrogate motherhood should be permitted and regulated by a
new law.
Problematic areas of the Republic of Srpska within the context of demographic changes
Authors: Mandic Mira , Zivkovic Milenko
Published: January 2015

The paper discusses problematic areas in the Republic of Srpska, from the
aspects of spatial distribution of the population and demographic changes
during the period between the last two censuses. The paper also treats causes
and consequences of an unbalanced spatial development. Social-economic
processes indicate the increase of regional differences, the consequences of
which are numerous and they also differentiate the country?s area on several
grounds. One of the consequences is the unbalanced development and spatial
distribution of the population. Assuming that the demographic potential
triggers the complex valorization of an area, the paper also indicates
limitations and risks of the future development resulting from demographic
changes. Starting with 1960s, the poor total demographic potential of the
Republic of Srpska area has been particularly strong in rural areas. This
further implies the necessity to change the approach to demographic
development strategies. From both theoretical and practical aspects, the
paper also addresses the consequences of the unbalanced spatial distribution
of the population. The polarized development of the country jeopardizes the
economic and geopolitical sustainability of the demographically depressive
peripheral areas and makes it difficult to integrate into modern development
processes.
The changes in natural movement of population in the city of East Sarajevo
Authors: Lukic-Tanovic Mariana , Danilovic Danijel
Published: January 2015

One of the main demographic problems of the Republic of Srpska is a negative
natural increase which has been recorded from 2002 on-wards. The same problem
has been registered in the city of East Sarajevo, so this trend and changes
in the natural movement of the population of the city will be observed in
future work and research. The components of natural movement were observed
for the period from 1997 to 2012 because the official statistical records
refer to that period. The aim of this paper was to analyze the basic
components of natural increase, the birth rate, mortality rate and natural
increase in East Sarajevo, and to determine if there is homogeneity in this
respect, i.e. whether all municipalities of the city have the same trend when
natural movement of population is concerned. This paper will also show how
local authorities and local communities deal with certain demographic
problems. Does the City Council implements appropriate measures of population
policy and can the city of East Sarajevo expect ?a brighter future??
Behavioral Implications of Big Data's Impact on Audit Judgment and Decision Making and Future Research Directions
Authors: Brown-Liburd Helen , Issa Hussein , Lombardi Danielle
Published: January 2015

SYNOPSIS

This paper addresses information processing weaknesses and limitations that can impede the effective use and analysis of Big Data in an audit environment. Drawing on the literature from psychology and auditing, we present the behavioral implications Big Data has on audit judgment by addressing the issues of information overload, information relevance, pattern recognition, and ambiguity. We also discuss the challenges that auditors encounter when incorporating Big Data in audit analyses and the various analytical tools that are currently used by companies in the analysis of Big Data. The manuscript concludes by raising questions that future research might address related to utilizing Big Data in auditing.
Controllability of nonlinear implicit fractional integrodifferential systems
Authors: Balachandran Krishnan , Divya Shanmugam
Published: January 2015

In this paper, we study the controllability of nonlinear fractional integrodifferential systems with implicit fractional derivative. Sufficient conditions for controllability results are obtained through the notion of the measure of noncompactness of a set and Darbo’s fixed point theorem. Examples are included to verify the result.
Improving the stability of discretization zeros with the Taylor method using a generalization of the fractional-order hold
Authors: Zeng Cheng , Liang Shan , Zhang Yuzhe , Zhong Jiaqi , Su Yingying
Published: January 2015

Remarkable improvements in the stability properties of discrete system zeros may be achieved by using a new design of the fractional-order hold (FROH) circuit. This paper first analyzes asymptotic behaviors of the limiting zeros, as the sampling period T tends to zero, of the sampled-data models on the basis of the normal form representation for continuous-time systems with a new hold proposed. Further, we also give the approximate expression of limiting zeros of the resulting sampled-data system as power series with respect to a sampling period up to the third order term when the relative degree of the continuous-time system is equal to three, and the corresponding stability of the discretization zeros is discussed for fast sampling rates. Of particular interest are the stability conditions of sampling zeros in the case of a new FROH even though the relative degree of a continuous-time system is greater than two, whereas the conventional FROH fails to do so. An insightful interpretation of the obtained sampled-data model can be made in terms of minimal intersample ripple by design, where multirate sampled systems have a poor intersample behavior. Our results provide a more accurate approximation for asymptotic zeros, and certain known results on asymptotic behavior of limiting zeros are shown to be particular cases of the ideas presented here.
Further results on robust fuzzy dynamic systems with LMI D-stability constraints
Authors: Assawinchaichote Wudhichai
Published: January 2015

This paper examines the problem of designing a robust H∞ fuzzy controller with D-stability constraints for a class of nonlinear dynamic systems which is described by a Takagi-Sugeno (TS) fuzzy model. Fuzzy modelling is a multi-model approach in which simple sub-models are combined to determine the global behavior of the system. Based on a linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach, we develop a robust H∞ fuzzy controller that guarantees (i) the L2-gain of the mapping from the exogenous input noise to the regulated output to be less than some prescribed value, and (ii) the closed-loop poles of each local system to be within a specified stability region. Sufficient conditions for the controller are given in terms of LMIs. Finally, to show the effectiveness of the designed approach, an example is provided to illustrate the use of the proposed methodology.
A system for deduction-based formal verification of workflow-oriented software models
Authors: Klimek Radosław
Published: January 2015

The work concerns formal verification of workflow-oriented software models using the deductive approach. The formal correctness of a model’s behaviour is considered. Manually building logical specifications, which are regarded as a set of temporal logic formulas, seems to be a significant obstacle for an inexperienced user when applying the deductive approach. A system, along with its architecture, for deduction-based verification of workflow-oriented models is proposed. The process inference is based on the semantic tableaux method, which has some advantages when compared with traditional deduction strategies. The algorithm for automatic generation of logical specifications is proposed. The generation procedure is based on predefined workflow patterns for BPMN, which is a standard and dominant notation for the modeling of business processes. The main idea behind the approach is to consider patterns, defined in terms of temporal logic, as a kind of (logical) primitives which enable the transformation of models to temporal logic formulas constituting a logical specification. Automation of the generation process is crucial for bridging the gap between the intuitiveness of deductive reasoning and the difficulty of its practical application when logical specifications are built manually. This approach has gone some way towards supporting, hopefully enhancing, our understanding of deduction-based formal verification of workflow-oriented models.
Detection of the pufferfish toxin tetrodotoxin in European bivalves, England, 2013 to 2014
Authors: Turner A D , Powell A , Schofield A , Lees D N , Baker-Austin C
Published: January 2015

We report the first detection of tetrodotoxins (TTX) in European bivalve shellfish. We demonstrate that TTX is present within the temperate waters of the United Kingdom, along the English Channel, and can accumulate in filter-feeding molluscs. The toxin is heat-stable and thus it cannot be eliminated during cooking. While quantified concentrations were low in comparison to published minimum lethal doses for humans, the results demonstrate that the risk to shellfish consumers should not be discarded.
Epidemiology of age related hearing loss
Authors: Quaranta Nicola , Coppola Francesco , Casulli Mara , Barulli Maria Rosaria , Panza Francesco , Tortelli Rosanna , Solfrizzi Vincenzo , Sabbä Carlo , Logroscino Giancarlo
Published: January 2015

Presbycusis or age related hearing loss (ARHL) is the most common sensory deficit in the elderly. It is a multifactorial condition that involves a multitude of intrinsic and extrinsic factors acting on the inner ear over a lifetime, which cumulatively lead to impairments in cochlear transduction of acoustic signals. ARHL is characterized by a loss of hearing sensitivity and a decreased ability to understand speech in the presence of background noise. Epidemiological studies have shown that in the USA hearing loss prevalence approximately doubles every decade of life from the second through to the seventh decade. In Europe, approximately 30% of males and 20% of females have a hearing loss of 30dB HL or more at age 70 years, and 55% of males and 45% of females at age 80 years. Central auditory processing disorders (CAPD) refer to an impairment in the central auditory pathways that leads to impaired speech understanding. The prevalence of CAPD in subjects older than 65 years has been reported to be between 9% and 14%. Recent studies have highlighted the strict correlation between ARHL and cognition in older adults; in particular, hearing impairment could precede the onset of mild cognitive impairment and dementia. The use of hearing tests, and the early diagnosis and treatment of ARHL, may potentially represent a way to prevent cognitive impairment and deserves further research.
Pollinia morphology to some members of asclepiadaceae of Pakistan
Authors: Yaseen Shumaila , Perveen Anjum
Published: January 2015

Diversities in the pollinia morphology of the family Asclepiadaceae in respect to pollinium shape, size, color, length and breadth of pollinial sac, length and breadth of corpusculum and length and breadth of caudicle were studied in 13 species belonging to eight genera (Cynanchum L., Calotropis R.Br., Glossonema Decaisne., Leptadenia R.Br., Pergularia L., Sarcostemma R.Br., Tylophora R.Br and Vincetoxicum N. M. von Wolf.) Calotropis procera (Ait.) Ait. f. yielded largest pollinia sac. (906.4 4.4.7 ?m) whilst the smaller one (109.8 × 48.0 ?m) was represented by Cynanchum pollens Hemsley and Lace. In respect of the length and breadth of the corspuseulem, C. Procera yielded the lowest one bt Leptodaenia pyrotechnium yielded the smallest (65.2 × 41.2 ?m). DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v43i3.21590 Bangladesh J. Bot. 43(3): 249-253, 2014 (December)
Free radicals scavenging -antioxidant phytochemicals in cherry tomato (Solanum lycopersicon var. Ceresiforme (DUNAL) A. Gray)
Authors: Rai Gyanendra Kumar , Kumar Rajesh , Kumar Ranjeet Ranjan , Dogra Sheetal
Published: January 2015

Significant differences (p ? 0.05) were observed among the cherry tomato lines for the principal antioxidants, viz. total carotenoids, lycopene and vitamin-C. Vitamin-C content ranged from 17.62 - 46.16 mg/100 g, the total carotenoid content ranged from 3.86 - 6.66 mg/100 g and lycopene content ranged from 2.83 - 5.26 mg/100 g on fresh weight basis. The total phenolics, another important class of antioxidants, also differed significantly amongst the cherry tomato line (12.41-31.17 mg gallic acid equivalent/100 g). Significant variation (p ? 0.05) was also observed for pH and titrable acidity. The pH varied from 4.15 - 4.52 and anhydrous citric acid ranged from 0.050 up to 0.323%. The total soluble solids were 3.41 - 5.16%. The maximum vitamin-C content was recorded in VRCT-6 (46.16 mg/100 g) closely followed by VRCT-7 (45.51 mg/100 g) and VRCT-15 (44.71 mg/100 g), whereas maximum total carotenoid content were recorded in VRCT-16 (6.66 mg/100 g) followed by VRCT-7 (6.48 mg/100 g) and VRCT-1(6.36 mg/100 g), respectively. On the other hand, maximum lycopene content was estimated in VRCT-16 (5.26 mg/100 g) followed by VRCT-3 (5.23 mg/100 g) and VRCT-14 (4.73 mg/100 g). Maximum acidity and total water soluble solids were recorded in VRCT-9 (0.323%) and VRCT-7 (5.16%), respectively. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v43i3.21591 Bangladesh J. Bot. 43(3): 255-260, 2014 (December)
Effects of defoliation on photosynthesis, dry matter production and yield in Soybean
Authors: Islam Md Tariqul
Published: January 2015

Two pot experiments were conducted to assess the effect of various degree of defoliation on photosynthesis, dry matter production and yield in soybean. Defoliation significantly increased rate of photosynthesis and transpiration and leaf conductance of the soybean genotypes however, it decreased dry matter production and yield. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v43i3.21592 Bangladesh J. Bot. 43(3): 261-265, 2014 (December)
Determining different plant leaves fractal dimensions: a new approach to taxonomical study of plants
Authors: Bayirli Mehmet , Selvi Selami , Cakilcioglu Ugur
Published: January 2015

Fractal dimensions of leaves from Cercis canadensis L., Robinia pseudoacacia L., Amelanchier arborea (F.Michx.) Fernald, Prunus persica (L.) Batsch, Quercus alba L., Carpinus caroliniana Walter, Ficus carica L., Morus rubra L., Platanus orientalis L., and Ulmus rubra Muhl. were calculated. The values were then confirmed and compared by those obtained from box-counting method and the exponent values of densitydensity correlation function (first time in the literature). It is now proposed for the first time that there is a relationship between a fractal dimension of the leaf and a surface density of the image and was concluded that together with other measures, the fractal dimensions with surface density function could be used as a new approach to taxonomical study of plants. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v43i3.21593 Bangladesh J. Bot. 43(3): 267-275, 2014 (December)
Selection parameters for fruit yield and related traits in chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)
Authors: Yatung Tasso , Dubey Rakesh KR , Singh Vikas , Upadhyay Garima , Pandey AK
Published: January 2015

Thirty genotypes of chilli were evaluated in RBD with three replications at vegetable research farm, CHF, CAU, Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh, India during kharif, 2011. Variability, correlation and path analysis were carried out to study the character association and contribution, respectively. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the genotypes for all traits. High PCV and GCV, heritability, genetic advance were observed for days to first flowering, plant height, number of seed per fruit, number of fruit per plant, ascorbic acid and fruit yield per plant. Correlation indicated that fruit yield per plant was positively and significantly correlated with number of branch per plant, number of fruit per plant and chlorophyll content while negative and significant association was established with ascorbic acid content. Maximum positive direct effect on fruit yield per plant was imposed by fruit weight, number of fruit per plant, number of seed per fruit and capsaicin content. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v43i3.21600 Bangladesh J. Bot. 43(3): 283-291, 2014 (December)
Morphological variability of acorns and its taxonomic significance in Quercus. from Turkey
Authors: Bakis Y , Babaç MT
Published: January 2015

Morphological variations of acorn among and within the groups of Quercus species were studied. A total of 617 acorns belonging to 14 species representing all 3 sections of Quercus L. (Fagaceae) in Turkey were examined in this study. Specimens were collected from 47 different populations over both Anatolian and Thrace part of Turkey. Principal component analysis was used to analyze the morphological characteristics of acorns. Results obtained from this study demonstrate the use of morphological characters in differentiating the taxa of Quercus and Cerris sections studied. Another important finding is the introgression among the acorns of species within Quercus section DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v43i3.21601 Bangladesh J. Bot. 43(3): 293-299, 2014 (December)
Four new records of Acrocarpous mosses for Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Md Saidur , Khatun Hamida
Published: January 2015

Two species from each of the genus Fissidens Hedw. and Hyophila Brid. are dealt with. The species are Fissidens taxifolius Hedw., F. involutus Wils. ex Mitt., Hyophila perannulata Ren. et Card. and H. rosea Williams reportd as new to the Acrocarpous moss flora of Bangladesh. A detailed taxonomic description of each species with location, date of collection, name of collector and artificial keys of species are provided. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v43i3.21602 Bangladesh J. Bot. 43(3): 301-308, 2014 (December)
Ethnobotanical aspects of some geophytes from Ergan Mountain, Turkey
Authors: Korkmaz Mustafa , Alpaslan Zennettin , Turgut Nevzat , Ilhan Veli
Published: January 2015

The genotypes of Ergan mountain, Erzican, Turkey were studied and documented. A total of 25 taxa belonging to 14 genera and 9 families have been collected in this study. Local name, used plant parts and the ethnobotanical uses of the geophyte - species were determined. Of the recorded taxa, 48% belonged to Irano- Twianian phytogeographic region, 12% to Europe-Siberian region and 4% to Mediterranean region. Five taxa namely, Allium armenum Boiss. & Kotschy, A. sintenisii Freyn, Muscentoiceleste Formin, Fritillaria pinardii Boiss. and Tulipa armena sbusp. Lyia (Baker) Marais recorded from the study area are endemic to Turkey. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v43i3.21604 Bangladesh J. Bot. 43(3): 315-321, 2014 (December)
Assesment of recombinant lines of maize hybrids for inbred development
Authors: Chandel Uttam , Mankotia BS , Thakur KS
Published: January 2015

Maize (Zea mays L.) breeders currently exploit genetically narrow-base populations by deriving the recombination lines from F2 of commercial single cross hybrids. A mating design was proposed for maize hybrid evaluation as source germplasm. The commercial single cross hybrids, Hi Shell, DKC 7074 and PMZ 4, developed by the commercial company, Monsanto, were evaluated for their usefulness as germplasm. According to mating design three criteria were used: the percentage of inbreeding depression, the general combining ability and the specific combining ability. PMZ 4 had a lower percentage (21.9) of inbreeding depression, which was also combined with positive general combining ability (7.5) and negative specific combining ability. The estimated percentage of inbreeding depression was greater in DKC 7074 (31.4) and in Hi Shell (25.3). DKC 7074 also had negative general combining ability (35.5), while Hi Shell had positive specific combining ability (75.0). Therefore, evaluation through mating design showed PMZ 4 possesses more desirable genes and that its F2 may be a more profitable germplasm for developing elite inbred lines DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v43i3.21615 Bangladesh J. Bot. 43(3): 363-366, 2014 (December)
Evaluation of pearl millet and mungbean intercropping systems in arid region of Rajasthan (India)
Authors: Ram Kalu , Meena RS
Published: January 2015

A field experiment was conducted during kharif season, 2011 to evaluate different row ratio of pearl millet with mungbean in the arid region of Rajasthan. The treatments comprised of sole pearl millet at 45 cm spacing, one sole mungbean and ten pearl millet with mungbean treatments row in different ratio. The intercropping of pearl millet with mungbean in 1 : 7, followed by 2 : 6 and 1: 3 row ratio produced maximum pearl millet equivalent yield (PMEY), land equivalent ratio (LER), aggresivity , net returns,benefit cost (B : C) ratio and also better nutrient uptake by these treatments compared to sole and other intercropping treatments. Aggressivity values showed that inter crop mungbean did not offer any competition to pearl millet in different row ratio, while relative crowding coefficient (RCC) values indicated was a yield disadvantage in mungbean in all the intercropping system except 1: 7 row ratio. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjb.v43i3.21616 Bangladesh J. Bot. 43(3): 367-370, 2014 (December)
Hollow bulb obturator in right total maxillectomy patient
Authors: Suwal Pramita , Shrestha Pragya
Published: January 2015

Maxillectomy is relatively a common surgical procedure, resulting in a surgical defect. The acquired defect needs to be corrected by the prosthetic replacement, challenging the goals of prosthodontic treatment which includes special clinical and lab procedure for the fabrication of obturator for a patient who has undergone maxillectomy. This article describes the stepwise procedure for the fabrication of hollow bulb obturator. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v14i1.16988 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.14(1) 2015 p.91-94
Evaluating the Age-Dependent Potential for Protein Deposition in Naked Neck Meat Type Chicken
Authors: Khan Daulat , Wecke Christian , Sharifi Ahmad , Liebert Frank
Published: January 2015

The introduction of the naked neck gene (Na) into modern meat type chicken is known to be helpful in increasing the tolerance for a high ambient temperature (AT) by reducing the feather coverage which allows for a higher level of heat dissipation compared to normally feathered (na/na) birds. In addition, reduced feather coverage could affect requirements for sulfur containing amino acids. As a prerequisite for further modeling of individual amino acid requirements, the daily N maintenance requirement (NMR) and the threshold value of daily N retention (NRmaxT) were determined. This was carried out using graded dietary protein supply and exponential modeling between N intake (NI) and N excretion (NEX) or N deposition (ND), respectively. Studies with homozygous (Na/Na) and heterozygous (Na/na) naked neck meat type chicken utilized 144 birds of average weight (50% of each genotype and sex) within two N balance experiments during both the starter (days 10–20) and the grower period (days 25–35). Birds were randomly allotted to five diets with graded dietary protein supply but constant protein quality. The observed estimates depending on genotype, sex and age varied for NMR and NRmaxT from 224 to 395 and 2881 to 4049 mg N/BWkg0.67/day, respectively.
Kinetic Analyses of Data from a Human Serum Albumin Assay Using the liSPR System
Authors: Henseleit Anja , Pohl Carolin , Kaltenbach Hans-Michael , Hettwer Karina , Simon Kirsten , Uhlig Steffen , Haustein Natalie , Bley Thomas , Boschke Elke
Published: January 2015

We used the interaction between human serum albumin (HSA) and a high-affinity antibody to evaluate binding affinity measurements by the bench-top liSPR system (capitalis technology GmbH). HSA was immobilized directly onto a carboxylated sensor layer, and the mechanism of interaction between the antibody and HSA was investigated. The bivalence and heterogeneity of the antibody caused a complex binding mechanism. Three different interaction models (1:1 binding, heterogeneous analyte, bivalent analyte) were compared, and the bivalent analyte model best fit the curves obtained from the assay. This model describes the interaction of a bivalent analyte with one or two ligands (A + L ↔ LA + L ↔ LLA). The apparent binding affinity for this model measured 37 pM for the first reaction step, and 20 pM for the second step.
Modeling and Analyzing the Interaction between Network Rumors and Authoritative Information
Authors: Xia Lingling , Jiang Guoping , Song Yurong , Song Bo
Published: January 2015

In this paper, we propose a novel two-stage rumor spreading Susceptible-Infected-Authoritative-Removed (SIAR) model for complex homogeneous and heterogeneous networks. The interaction Markov chains (IMC) mean-field equations based on the SIAR model are derived to describe the dynamic interaction between the rumors and authoritative information. We use a Monte Carlo simulation method to characterize the dynamics of the Susceptible-Infected-Removed (SIR) and SIAR models, showing that the SIAR model with consideration of authoritative information gives a more realistic description of propagation features of rumors than the SIR model. The simulation results demonstrate that the critical threshold λc of the SIAR model has the tiniest increase than the threshold of SIR model. The sooner the authoritative information is introduced, the less negative impact the rumors will bring. We also get the result that heterogeneous networks are more prone to the spreading of rumors. Additionally, the inhibition of rumor spreading, as one of the characteristics of the new SIAR model itself, is instructive for later studies on the rumor spreading models and the controlling strategies.
Smoking-Related Knowledge, Attitude, Social Pressure, and Environmental Constraints among New Undergraduates in Chongqing, China
Authors: Xu Xianglong , Leung Doris , Li Bing , Wang Pengfei , Zhao Yong
Published: January 2015

Background: Smoking has resulted in numerous deaths in China. Data indicate that 21% of college students in China are smokers. Objective: This study aimed to examine the smoking-related behaviors of undergraduates, as influenced by knowledge, attitude, social pressure, and environmental constraints. Method: A convenience sampling of 412 fresh undergraduates from two universities in the University Town in Chongqing, China was recruited. Chi-square tests were used to compare the smoking-related variables between smokers and non-smokers. Moreover, logistic regression was used to examine the factors that associated with smoking status in undergraduates. Results: Smokers and non-smokers differ in terms of knowledge, attitudes toward smoking, participation in tobacco promotional activities, and sources of social pressure. Logistic regression model identified that sex, living cost, five smoking-related attitudes of “Smoking is pleasurable, Smoking relaxes me, Smoking makes me look strong, Smoking is a waste of money, Smoking can help me study better”, the social pressure “Smoking brings comfort during celebration”, and the environmental constraints “How did you get your cigarettes in the past 30 days?” are significantly associated with smoking. Conclusions: The findings provide a better understanding of the epidemic of smoking among fresh undergraduates in Chongqing, China. This study provides more detailed consideration of the implications for the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) policies, especially on restriction of retail sales outlets and tobacco promotion activities near universities in China.
Local Sustainability and Gender Ratio: Evaluating the Impacts of Mining and Tourism on Sustainable Development in Yunnan, China
Authors: Huang Ganlin , Ali Saleem
Published: January 2015

This study employed rapid evaluation methods to investigate how the leading industries of mining and tourism impact sustainability as manifest through social, economic and environmental dimensions in Yunnan, China. Within the social context, we also consider the differentiated impact on gender ratio—which is a salient feature of sustained development trajectories. Our results indicate that mining areas performed better than tourism areas in economic aspects but fell behind in social development, especially regarding the issue of gender balance. Conclusions on environmental status cannot be drawn due to a lack of data. The results from the environmental indicators are mixed. Our study demonstrates that rapid evaluation using currently available data can provide a means of greater understanding regarding local sustainability and highlights areas that need attention from policy makers, agencies and academia.
Prevalence of Virulence Determinants and Antimicrobial Resistance among Commensal Escherichia coli Derived from Dairy and Beef Cattle
Authors: Bok Ewa , Mazurek Justyna , Stosik Michał , Wojciech Magdalena , Baldy-Chudzik Katarzyna
Published: January 2015

Cattle is a reservoir of potentially pathogenic E. coli, bacteria that can represent a significant threat to public health, hence it is crucial to monitor the prevalence of the genetic determinants of virulence and antimicrobial resistance among the E. coli population. The aim of this study was the analysis of the phylogenetic structure, distribution of virulence factors (VFs) and prevalence of antimicrobial resistance among E. coli isolated from two groups of healthy cattle: 50 cows housed in the conventional barn (147 isolates) and 42 cows living on the ecological pasture (118 isolates). The phylogenetic analysis, identification of VFs and antimicrobial resistance genes were based on either multiplex or simplex PCR. The antimicrobial susceptibilities of E. coli were examined using the broth microdilution method. Two statistical approaches were used to analyse the results obtained for two groups of cattle. The relations between the dependent (VFs profiles, antibiotics) and the independent variables were described using the two models. The mixed logit model was used to characterise the prevalence of the analysed factors in the sets of isolates. The univariate logistic regression model was used to characterise the prevalence of these factors in particular animals. Given each model, the odds ratio (OR) and the 95% confidence interval for the population were estimated. The phylogroup B1 was predominant among isolates from beef cattle, while the phylogroups A, B1 and D occurred with equal frequency among isolates from dairy cattle. The frequency of VFs-positive isolates was significantly higher among isolates from beef cattle. E. coli from dairy cattle revealed significantly higher resistance to antibiotics. Some of the tested resistance genes were present among isolates from dairy cattle. Our study showed that the habitat and diet may affect the genetic diversity of commensal E. coli in the cattle. The results suggest that the ecological pasture habitat is related to the increased spreading rate of the VFs, while the barn habitat is characterised by the higher levels of antimicrobial resistance among E. coli.
Isolation and Characterization of Six AP2/ERF Transcription Factor Genes in Chrysanthemum nankingense
Authors: Gao Chunyan , Li Peiling , Song Aiping , Wang Haibin , Wang Yinjie , Ren Liping , Qi Xiangyu , Chen Fadi , Jiang Jiafu , Chen Sumei
Published: January 2015

The AP2/ERF family of plant transcription factors (TFs) regulate a variety of developmental and physiological processes. Here, we report the isolation of six AP2/ERF TF family genes from Chrysanthemum nankingense. On the basis of sequence similarity, one of these belonged to the Ethylene Responsive Factor (ERF) subfamily and the other five to the Dehydration Responsive Element Binding protein (DREB) subfamily. A transient expression experiment showed that all six AP2/ERF proteins localized to the nucleus. A yeast-one hybrid assay demonstrated that CnDREB1-1, 1-2 and 1-3 all function as transactivators, while CnERF1, CnDREB3-1 and 3-2 have no transcriptional activation ability. The transcription response of the six TFs in response to wounding, salinity and low temperature stress and treatment with abscisic acid (ABA), salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) showed that CnERF1 was up-regulated by wounding and low temperature stress but suppressed by salinity stress. The transcription of CnDREB1-1, 1-2 and 1-3 was down-regulated by ABA and JA to varying degrees. CnDREB3-1 and 3-2 was moderately increased or decreased by wounding and SA treatment, suppressed by salinity stress and JA treatment, and enhanced by low temperature stress and ABA treatment.
Insecticide-Mediated Up-Regulation of Cytochrome P450 Genes in the Red Flour Beetle (Tribolium castaneum)
Authors: Liang Xiao , Xiao Da , He Yanping , Yao Jianxiu , Zhu Guonian , Zhu Kun
Published: January 2015

Some cytochrome P450 (CYP) genes are known for their rapid up-regulation in response to insecticide exposures in insects. To date, however, limited information is available with respect to the relationships among the insecticide type, insecticide concentration, exposure duration and the up-regulated CYP genes. In this study, we examined the transcriptional response of eight selected CYP genes, including CYP4G7, CYP4Q4, CYP4BR3, CYP12H1, CYP6BK11, CYP9D4, CYP9Z5 and CYP345A1, to each of four insecticides in the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum. Reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) revealed that CYP4G7 and CYP345A1 can be significantly up-regulated by cypermethrin (1.97- and 2.06-fold, respectively), permethrin (2.00- and 2.03-fold) and lambda-cyhalothrin (1.73- and 1.81-fold), whereas CYP4BR3 and CYP345A1 can be significantly up-regulated by imidacloprid (1.99- and 1.83-fold) when 20-day larvae were exposed to each of these insecticides at the concentration of LC20 for 24 h. Our studies also showed that similar levels of up-regulation can be achieved for CYP4G7, CYP4BR3 and CYP345A1 by cypermethrin, permethrin, lambda-cyhalothrin or imidacloprid with approximately one fourth of LC20 in 6 h. Our study demonstrated that up-regulation of these CYP genes was rapid and only required low concentrations of insecticides, and the up-regulation not only depended on the CYP genes but also the type of insecticides. Our results along with those from previous studies also indicated that there were no specific patterns for predicting the up-regulation of specific CYP gene families based on the insecticide classification.
How Amino Acids and Peptides Shaped the RNA World
Authors: Van der Gulik Peter , Speijer Dave
Published: January 2015

The “RNA world” hypothesis is seen as one of the main contenders for a viable theory on the origin of life. Relatively small RNAs have catalytic power, RNA is everywhere in present-day life, the ribosome is seen as a ribozyme, and rRNA and tRNA are crucial for modern protein synthesis. However, this view is incomplete at best. The modern protein-RNA ribosome most probably is not a distorted form of a “pure RNA ribosome” evolution started out with. Though the oldest center of the ribosome seems “RNA only”, we cannot conclude from this that it ever functioned in an environment without amino acids and/or peptides. Very small RNAs (versatile and stable due to basepairing) and amino acids, as well as dipeptides, coevolved. Remember, it is the amino group of aminoacylated tRNA that attacks peptidyl-tRNA, destroying the bond between peptide and tRNA. This activity of the amino acid part of aminoacyl-tRNA illustrates the centrality of amino acids in life. With the rise of the “RNA world” view of early life, the pendulum seems to have swung too much towards the ribozymatic part of early biochemistry. The necessary presence and activity of amino acids and peptides is in need of highlighting. In this article, we try to bring the role of the peptide component of early life back into focus. We argue that an RNA world completely independent of amino acids never existed.