bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Application of Interferon-γ Release Assays for the Prevention of Tuberculosis in Countries with Low Incidence
Authors: Lange Christoph , Mandalakas Anna M. , Kalsdorf Barbara , Denkinger Claudia M. , Sester Martina
Published: January 2017

Despite global efforts to control tuberculosis (TB) the estimated number of people who developed TB worldwide increased to an all-time record of more than 10 million in 2015. The goal of the World Health Organization (WHO) to reduce the global incidence of TB to less than 100 cases per million by 2035, cannot be reached unless TB prevention is markedly improved. There is a need for an improved vaccine that better protects individuals who are exposed to Mycobacterium tuberculosis from infection and active disease compared to the current M. bovis Bacille Calmette Guérin (BCG) vaccine. In the absence of such a vaccine, prevention relies on infection control measures and preventive chemotherapy for people with latent infection with M. tuberculosis (LTBI), who have the highest risk of progression to active TB. During the past decade, interferon-γ release assays (IGRAs) have increasingly replaced the tuberculin skin test as screening tools for the diagnosis of LTBI in countries with a low incidence of TB. Despite recent WHO guidelines on the management of LTBI, the definition of groups at risk for TB remains controversial, and the role of IGRAs for TB prevention in low-incidence countries remains uncertain. We reviewed the scientific literature and provide recommendations for the use of IGRAs for LTBI diagnosis in low-incidence countries. These recommendations are based on the number of patients needing treatment in order to prevent one case of TB. As the positive predictive value of IGRAs for the development of TB is sub-optimal, research must focus on the identification of alternative biomarkers that offer better predictive ability in order to substantially reduce the number needing treatment while improving the prevention of TB and improving the effectiveness of targeted preventive chemotherapy.
Development of procedure for the assessment of cognitive complexity of stoichiometric tasks
Authors: Horvat Saša , Segedinac Mirjana D. , Milenković Dušica D. , Hrin Tamara N.
Published: January 2017

The aim of this study was the creation of a procedure for determining the cognitive complexity of stoichiometric tasks and its validation. The created procedure included an assessment of the difficulty of concepts and skills, and an assessment of the concepts’ interactivity. There were 82 students who participated in the study, with an educational profile of a pharmaceutical technician. As a research instrument for assessing performance, test of knowledge was used. Each task in the test was followed by a seven-point Likert scale for the evaluation of invested mental effort. The validity of this instrument for the assessment of cognitive complexity was confirmed by a series of linear regression analysis where extremely high values of correlation coefficients are obtained among the examined variables: student’s performance and invested mental effort (dependent variables) and cognitive complexity (independent variable).

 
Epidemiologia, rehabilitación y pronóstico de las afasias.
Authors: Sedano Santiago Gilda , Rodríguez Gárate Pedro
Published: January 2017

Objetivos: Evaluar la epidemiología, rehabilitación y pronóstico de los pacientes afásicos de la unidad de Terapia del Lenguaje del Departamento de Rehabilitación del Hospital Nacional Guillermo Almenara Irigoyen-Essaludatendidos durante 25 años (1991- 2015). Material y métodos: Se evaluaron mil pacientes de la Unidad de Terapia del Lenguaje del Departamento de Rehabilitación del Hospital Nacional Guillermo Almenara Irigoyen-Essalud;todos los pacientes fueron evaluados y diagnosticados utilizando el test de Boston luego de un año de terapia intensiva luego de iniciada la enfermedad. Results: Con lo que se encontró que la misma, epidemiológicamentees más frecuente en varones (62%), la edad predominante está entre los 50-79 años (74%), el nivel de escolaridad es de primaria y secundaria completa (60%); la ocupación es de obreros y amas de casa en 39%; el factor de riesgomas importante es la hipertensión arterial en un 62%. El inicio de la rehabilitación se realiza a los 9 meses del inicio de la enfermedad (72%), la etiología más frecuente son los accidentes cerebro vasculares en un 85%, la afasia predominante es la tras cortical sensorial- acústica (amnésica) en 40% evolucionan favorablemente el acústico amnésico y broca en un 80% con terapia individual y grupal. La global solo en 50% y la de Wernicke en solo 30%, siendo de mejor pronostico la acústico- amnésica y Broca y mal pronóstico la de Wernicke o comprensiva y de regular evolución la global o total. Conclusiones: De los 1000 pacientes, 220 pacientes (22%) en el PRE test presentaban su lenguaje deteriorado en forma severa: articulación, fluidez, vocabulario y gramaticalidad.
Mycobacterium leprae BACILLEMIA IN BOTH TWINS, BUT ONLY MANIFEST AS LEPROSY IN ONE SIBLING
Authors: Sukmawati Netty , Agusni Indropo , Listiawan M. Yulianto , Prakoeswa Cita Rosita S. , Adriaty Dinar , Wahyuni Ratna , Iswahyudi Iswahyudi
Published: January 2017

Leprosy in twins is rarely reported. A 19 years-old male student, from Lamongan district, was diagnosed as Multibacillary (MB) leprosy in the Skin and STD Clinic of Dr. Soetomo General Hospital Surabaya. Multiple anesthetic skin lesions were found, but the bacteriologic examination was negative for Acid Fast Bacilli (AFB). Histopathology examination support the diagnosis of BL type of leprosy. His twin brother that has been lived together since born until present seems healthy without any complaints of skin lesions and have no signs of leprosy. When a serologic examination for leprosy was performed, a high anti PGL-1 antibody level was found in patient (IgM anti PGL-1 2937 and IgG anti PGL-1 3080 unit/ml) while his healthy twin brother showed only low level (IgM 745 and IgG 0 unit/ml). Interestingly when a PCR study was performed to detect M.leprae in the blood, both of them showed positive results. Using the TTC method, a genomic study of for M.leprae, it is revealed that both samples were identic ( 27x TTC repeats). According to patient’s history, he had a traffic accident and got a wound in the knee seven years ago, while the skin lesions seems started from this area around three years ago before it spread to other parts of the body. The patient was treated with Multi-drug therapy (MDT) while his sibling got a prophylactic treatment for leprosy. After 6 months of treatment, the leprosy skin lesions were diminished and the serologic anti PGL-1 has been decreased. His healthy brother also showed a decrease in anti PGL-1 level and no skin signs of leprosy.
Kerion Type of Tinea Capitis Treated with Double Pulse Dose Terbinafine
Authors: Chandra Franky
Published: January 2017

Objective: Tinea capitis is a common dermatophyte infection affecting hair and skin which always requires systemic treatment to get a clinical and mycologic cure, preventing relapse, and infection spread. Griseofulvin has been the antifungal therapy of choice for tinea capitis, but it often requires higher doses and a longer duration than recommended. Thus, effective alternative antifungal with good oral tolerability and shorter course of treatment are therefore required. The objective of this report is to evaluate the effectiveness of double pulse dose terbinaﬁne for tinea capitis alternative therapy.Method: A case of kerion type of tinea capitis in a two-year-old girl was reported. Diagnosis was established based on clinical manifestations of alopecia, presented as erythematous macule with pustules, hemorrhagic crusts, and scales on the scalp, accompanied with occipital lymphadenopathy. Fungal culture showed growth of Microsporum canis (M. canis) colonies. Patient was treated with doubled pulse dose terbinafine 125 mg/day and 2% ketoconazole shampoo for two months.Result: Clinical improvements were found on 35th day of follow up, while mycologic cure was achieved on 60th day of follow up. Tolerability was excellent and no side effects observed.Conclusion: Double pulse dose terbinafine is effective for kerion type of tinea capitis. Key words: double pulse dose, kerion, M. canis, terbinafine, tinea capitis
JORNAL COMÉRCIO DO AMAZONAS E A CONSTRUÇÃO DO ACONTECIMENTO: as representações sobre o governo da Bolívia
Authors: Mendes Francielle Maria Modesto , Lobo Gilberto Mendes da Silveira
Published: January 2017

O presente artigo tem como objetivo mostrar, a partir das edições do jornal Comércio do Amazonas, de 1899, a construção de acontecimento midiático. No cotidiano, a imprensa produz uma visão de mundo que atende ao que aqui chamamos de campanha, ou seja, estratégia discursiva subordinada aos anseios de uma elite político-econômica e a determinados fins pré-estabelecidos, como a manutenção ou ascensão ao poder de grupos. No caso estudado, a partir das publicações do diário amazonense, foi se construindo representações “negativas” de agentes do Governo da Bolívia com a finalidade de desconstruir suas imagens perante a opinião pública brasileira e evitar que eles ocupassem os rios Acre, Iaco e Purus, onde hoje é o estado do Acre. Os autores usados para fundamentar os estudos são Michel Foucault, Patrick Charaudeau, Teun Van Dijk, Walter Lippman e Nelson Traquina.
A imagem de Moisés no judaísmo helenístico
Authors: Ruppenthal Neto Willibaldo
Published: January 2017

Este artigo visa apresentar as transformações da imagem de Moisés no judaísmo helenístico, elencando uma série de fontes judaicas sobre o Êxodo (Artapanus, Ezequiel o trágico, Flávio Josefo e Filo de Alexandria), enfatizando não somente as tradições literárias presentes nestes como ainda as caracterizações de Moisés, que ganha aspectos gregos enquanto um legislador sábio e corajoso, chegando ao ponto da divinização.
Estimation of the Buffet Limited Altitude for a Typical Commercial Jet Aircraft
Authors: Varghese Remya , Jayakumar Manu
Published: January 2017

The estimation of Buffet limit altitude is highly pertinent while dealing with high altitude operations of commercial jet airplanes. Since buffet limitation is an important factor in deciding the airplane performance, the estimation of the same is highly recommended for day to day operations. In the research work conducted, the buffet restriction is considered by considering a load factor of 1.3 associated with 390 bank angle. The study is conducted under ISA, ISA+15 conditions for the airplane with fixed weight at the top of the climb segment. The main motive is to analyze the variation of 1.3g buffet limited altitude when the outside air temperature turns hotter and its dependence on airplane weight. The mathematical equations used for calculating the variation of lift with altitude and ISA conditions are stated in the paper. The results are well illustrated with the aid of graphs and plots. The research offers a wide scope on the analysis of altitude limitations for commercial jet airplanes and a sharp orientation towards further studies in the respective regime.
Enabling Inertial Response of Variable-Speed Wind Turbines: A Survey and New Perspectives
Authors: Shang Lei
Published: January 2017

With the rapid development of wind power generations, the inertial response of wind turbines (WTs) are widely concerned recently, which is important for grid frequency dynamic and stability. This paper recognizes and understands the inertial response of type-3 and type-4 WTs from the view of equivalent internal voltage, in analogy with typical synchronous generators (SGs). Due to the dynamic of the equivalent inertial voltage different from SGs, the electromechanical inertia of WTs is completely hidden. The rapid power control loop and synchronization control loop is the main reasons that the WT's inertial response is disenabled. On the basis of the equivalent internal voltage's dynamic, the existing inertia control method for WTs are reviewed and summarized as three approaches from the view of WT's control, i.e. optimizing the power control or synchronization control or both. At last, the main challenges and issues of these inertia controls are attempted to explain and address.
Uridine Triphosphate Thio-analogues Inhibit Platelet P2Y12 Receptors and Aggregation
Authors: Guenduez Dursun , Tanislav Christian , Sedding Daniel , Parahuleva Mariana , Santoso Sentot , Troidl Christian , Hamm Christian , Aslam Muhammad
Published: January 2017

Platelet P2Y12 is an important ADP receptor that is involved in agonist-induced platelet aggregation and is a valuable target for the development of anti-platelet drugs. Here we characterise the effects of thio-analogues of uridine triphosphate (UTP) on ADP-induced platelet aggregation. Using human platelet-rich plasma we demonstrate that UTP inhibits P2Y12 but not P2Y1 receptors and antagonises 10 μM ADP-induced platelet aggregation in a concentration-dependent manner with an IC50 value of ~250 μM. An 8-fold higher platelet inhibitory activity was observed with a 2-thio analogue of UTP (2S-UTP), with an IC50 of 30 μM. The 4-thio analogue (4S-UTP) with an IC50 of 7.5 μM was 33-fold more effective. A 3-fold decrease in inhibitory activity, however, was observed by introducing an isobutyl group at the 4S- position. A complete loss of inhibition was observed with thio-modification of the γ phosphate of the sugar moiety, which yields an enzymatically stable analogue. The interaction of UTP analogues with P2Y12 receptors was verified by P2Y12 receptor binding and cAMP assays. These novel data demonstrate for the first time that 2- and 4-thio analogues of UTP are potent P2Y12 receptor antagonists that may be useful for therapeutic intervention.
A Robust Liquid Chromatographic Method for the Analysis of Azithromycin in Bulk Samples, Tablets and Suspensions
Authors: Okaru Alex O. , Abuga Kennedy O. , Kamau Franco N. , Ndwigah Stanely N. , Lachenmeier Dirk W.
Published: January 2017

A simple, isocratic and robust RP-HPLC method for the analysis of azithromycin was developed, validated and applied for the analysis of bulk samples, tablets and suspensions. The optimum chromatographic conditions for separation were established as mobile phase comprising of acetonitrile-0.1M KH2PO4 pH 6.5-0.1M tetrabutyl ammonium hydroxide pH 6.5-water (25:15:1:59% v/v/v/v) delivered at a flow rate of 1.0 ml/min. The stationary phase consisted of reverse-phase XTerra® (250 mm× 4.6 mm i.d., 5 µm particle size) maintained at a temperature of 43 °C with a UV detection at 215 nm. The method was found to be linear in the range 50-150% (r2=0.997). The limits of detection and quantification were found to be 0.02% (20 µg) and 0.078% (78 µg) respectively with a 100.7% recovery of azithromycin. Degradation products of azithromycin in acidic and oxidative environments at 37 °C were resolved from the active pharmaceutical ingredient and thus the method is fit for the purpose.
Comparing the Incomparable: ‘Speaking Out’ and the Use of Drawings in Notebooks by Physicists
Authors: Hollestelle Harmen
Published: January 2017

To understand the possibility of interaction between scientific experimenting and artistic drawing in the form of drawings made in notebooks, assumed is a common element, a spiritual property, and transference as a mechanism for causality. Scientists, scientific experiments and artistic drawings all have different merits. Here the concept ‘speaking out’ in its meaning of expressiveness is proposed to bridge these differences. Scientific action and artistic action cannot be compared directly. However, a common spiritual element will make the investigated object, experimental set-up and notebook drawings comparable in the sense of translations authorized by the physicist. They all then speak out from the same source. In this paper considered are recent drawings made by physicists during experimentation, in notebooks and diaries. Discussed is transferal causality between the physicist, the artistic drawing and all the relevant objects belonging to the experiment. Spiritual properties are introduced for the physicist being a person, and for the investigated object, the experimental set-up and the drawings as objects.
Application of HEC-HMS Model to Assess Streamflow and Water Resources Availability in Stung Sangker Catchment of Mekong’ Tonle Sap Lake Basin in Cambodia
Authors: Sok Kimhuy , Oeurng Chantha
Published: January 2017

Hydrologic studies on rainfall-runoff have been extensively conducted in many regions around the globe to fulfill various desirable needs with a purpose of effective and proper planning and managing water resources for present and future uses, whereas such study is not well drawn much attention to river catchments of Tonle Sap Lake Basin in Cambodia, which may prevail to water insecurity. The Stung Sreng catchment, which is one among them considered to be a significant basin for water resources management in Cambodia, is remarkably increasing under intolerable pressures in water resources development. This study was to apply HEC-HMS (Hydrological Engineering Center-Hydrological Model System) model to predict streamflow of Stung Sangker catchment, located in Tonlesap Lake Basin in Cambodia. The result showed that the calibration was good at monthly basis. The model performance was given by Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency criteria followed by 0.44 for daily and 0.71 for monthly basis, respectively. Moreover, the Percent Bias (PBIAS) for daily and monthly simulation was 4.13% and 3.56%, indicating a satisfactory model fit. The HEC-HMS conceptual model can be used to simulate flow of Stung Sangke catchment on a continuous time scale particularly monthly basis. The result also indicated that there was a clear seasonal variation in monthly water availability, especially during both wet and dry season.
Are Pharmacy Graduates from an Indonesian University Prepared to Deliver Patient Care?
Authors: Ernawati Desak , Lee Ya Ping , Sunderland Bruce , Hughes Jeff
Published: January 2017

Pharmacists’ roles in providing patient care remain limited in Indonesia, hence this study aimed to determine the preparedness of pharmacy graduates from one university in Indonesia to deliver patient care. Pharmacy graduates (both registered pharmacists [104] and recent graduates eligible for registration [45]) were sent a validated self-administered survey. The survey sought their perceptions about whether they had acquired 16 patient care related attributes. Further, it sought their opinion on the desirability of having those attributes. Data were analysed using SPSS version 22.0. Sixteen of 104 (15.4%) registered pharmacists and 40 of 45 (88.9%) recent pharmacy graduates participated in the study. More than 50% of participants in both groups were female and most participants were aged in their 20s. Of the recent pharmacy graduates the majority perceived they had at least partially acquired four of 16 list attributes. Male and female recent graduates had significantly different beliefs about their leadership ability (p=0.004). In comparison, most registered pharmacists perceived they had 10 out of the 16 listed attributes. The findings of this study suggested that pharmacy graduates should be better prepared to deliver patient care, and that curriculum redesign with expansion of experiential learning is required.
Proposal for Evaluating Workers’ Work Characteristics – Case Study on Business Machinery Production Line –
Authors: Taki Seiko ,   Chiba Institute of Technology, Kajihara Yasuhiro , Yamamoto Arou ,   Tokyo Metropolitan University, Tokyo, Japan
Published: January 2017

The General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB) is widely used to evaluate a subject’s cognitive ability for the purpose of selecting appropriate employment. The results of the GATB have been used to place staff in departments ranging from clerical departments to assembly lines. However, at actual manufacturing and assembly sites, workers receive mixed evaluations of “slow work” and “fast work” from the site administrators even though they all have high GATB scores for their jobs. In this study, with the aim of improving job design and employment selection, we do a detailed analysis of the existing GATB method of evaluating work characteristics and worker capacities. We conduct inspection ratings to measure each worker’s ability to adjust their working speeds and analyze the relationship between the GATB score and the worker evaluations. Next, we discover specific motions that explain the evaluation of workers by analyzing worker motions during the GATB. Lastly, we propose a method of determining whether an employee can work quickly in the field.
Development of Warm-Press-Forming Method of CFRTP Motor Vehicle Floors with Complicated Shapes
Authors: Kurose Masashi ,   National Institute of Technology, Gunma College, Nakamura Hitoshi , Nishi Masato , Hirashima Tei , Abe Norihide , Kaburagi Tetsushi ,   Correpsonding author,,   Asano Co., Ltd., Gunma, Japan,   JSOL Corporation, Tokyo, Japan,   Tokyo Institute of Technology, Kanagawa, Japan,   Gunma Industrial Technology Center, Gunma, Japan
Published: January 2017

In this paper, some large automotive parts with complex shapes are produced to report the results of our efforts to develop press molding technologies for thermoplastic carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRTP). Members of industry, academia, and the government collaborated to realize this project. The project includes a molding experiment, CAE analysis, and material strength measurements. In the material test, a tensile test, bending test, heat distortion test, and torsion test are carried out to produce several stress-strain curves. Applying the new analytical model in the simulation shows that accuracy is improved. As a result, by measuring the temperature change during the forming of complex shapes, a large automotive part with a complex shape was successfully molded in a short time. Other productivity improvements are also reported on.
Comparison of the performance of a microwave based and an NMR based biomaterial moisture measurement instruments
Authors: Österberg Petri Juhani , Heinonen Martti , Ojanen-Saloranta Maija Johanna , Mäkynen Anssi Jaakko
Published: January 2017

This article compares the performance of an NMR-based and a microwave based moisture measurement instruments designed for biomaterials. The conventional moisture measurement method, Loss-on-Drying (LoD) serves as a reference measurement for both instruments. Six different biomaterials at three moisture content levels were measured with the microwave instrument and five biomaterials with the NMR instrument. After instrument calibrations, the difference and variation of the measurement results for parallel samples and the repeatability of the NMR and microwave instruments were estimated. Reasonable agreement between the measurement methods was achieved.
MN·m torque calibration for nacelle test benches using transfer standards
Authors: Schlegel Christian , Kahmann Holger , Kumme Rolf
Published: January 2017

To verify all technical aspects of wind turbines, more and more nacelle test benches have come into operation. One crucial parameter is the initiated torque in the nacelles, which amounts to several MN·m. So far, no traceable calibration to national standards has been performed in such test benches. The paper will show calibration possibilities which already exist and also show future prospects.
Production trend identification and forecast for shop-floor business intelligence
Authors: Viharos Zsolt János , Csanaki Jeno , Nacsa János , Edelényi Márton , Péntek Csaba , Kis Kirisztián Balázs , Fodor Ádám , Csempesz János
Published: January 2017

The paper introduces a methodology to define production trend classes and also the results to serve with trend prognosis in a given manufacturing situation. The prognosis is valid for one, selected production measure (e.g. a quality dimension of one product, like diameters, angles, surface roughness, pressure, basis position, etc.) but the applied model takes into account the past values of many other, related production data collected typically on the shop-floor, too. Consequently, it is useful in batch or (customized) mass production environments. The proposed solution is applicable to realize production control inside the tolerance limits to proactively avoid the production process going outside from the given upper and lower tolerance limits.

The solution was developed and validated on real data collected on the shop-floor; the paper also summarizes the validated application results of the proposed methodology.
Outage severity analysis and RAM evaluation of italian overhead transmission lines from a regional perspective
Authors: Khalil Mohamed , Laurano Christian , Leone Giacomo , Zanoni Michele
Published: January 2017

Power transmission lines represent the core of the High Voltage Network since they are responsible for the transport of the electrical energy from the generation power plants to the electrical substations. In this paper, an analysis of the outages occurred to the Italian Overhead Transmission Lines (OHTLs) from 2008 to 2015 is carried out. A new simple and effective reliability index, namely the Severity Factor, is introduced with the aim to drive the prioritization of the failure causes and the enhancement of the maintenance activities. The analysis has been performed focusing on the geographical distribution of the OHTLs. For each analyzed region, the voltage levels more prone to failure have been determined. The proposed methodology, thanks to the introduction of the Severity Factor, is a useful and effective tool for the identification of the transmission network criticalities and the enhancement of the related maintenance activities. Finally, an evaluation of the reliability, availability, safety and maintainability (RAMS) of the Italian OHTL network has been performed from a regional point of view.
Uncertainty in vision based modal analysis: probabilistic studies and experimental validation
Authors: Lavatelli Alberto , Zappa Emanuele
Published: January 2017

This paper analyses the issues related with the application of photogrammetric methods in the context of modal analysis. In this field of mechanical testing, the vibrations of the measurand are monitored. The possibility to measure displacement of several monitored points without directly instrumenting those, pushes the interest toward the application of an image based measurement system. However, the process of acquiring a moving target with a camera is complex due to the motion blur phenomenon. The effects of this particular phenomenon on uncertainty generation and propagation are discussed in parallel with Monte Carlo simulation and experimental approach. The case study here proposed focuses on the estimation of the main modal parameters (first two resonant frequencies and amplitudes) of a structure with the help of 2D Blob Analysis, with particular focus in comparing the performances of photogrammetry with the ones of classic motion transducers. The results of both the approaches confirm that the choice of using photogrammetry as an input for modal analysis should be made carefully, since the actual behavior of a structure can be distorted. Nonetheless, the results show that particular care should be made in the choice of structural excitation when using vision based techniques.
Growth, instability and forecast of marine products export from India
Authors: Das Apu , Kumar Nalini Ranjan , Rani Prathvi
Published: January 2017

This paper analysed growth and instability in export of marine products from India with an attempt to forecast the total export quantity of marine products from the country. The compound growth rates and instability indices of marine products export from India were estimated for major importing countries viz., Japan, USA, European Union, South-east Asia and Middle East; as more than 80% of the marine products export from India destines to these markets. The study revealed high compound growth rate and low instability in case of selected countries. The study also revealed that India’s marine products export concentrated mainly to those countries, which were falling in less desirable or least desirable category which has affected export performance of the country. Forecast of India’s marine products export was done by fitting univariate Auto Regressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) models. ARIMA (1, 1, 0) was found suitable for modelling marine products export from India. The results of ARIMA model indicated increasing trend in export of Indian marine products. This calls for serious attention by policy makers to identify competitive and stable market destinations for marine products export which could help in harnessing the potential of marine products export from India.
Biology of the ornamental cyprinid fish Danio dangila (Hamilton, 1822) from the North-eastern hill region of India
Authors: Mahapatra B. K. , Vinod K. , Lakra W. S.
Published: January 2017

The moustache danio Danio dangila (Hamilton, 1822) is one of the most popular native ornamental fishes of theNorth-eastern hill region of India. The species needs immediate attention owing to its reduced abundance in the wild. The length-weight relationship of D. dangila indicated an isometric growth in general and was found to follow the cube law. The L-W relationships derived for the species were: log W = -5.009 + 3.00 log L (male and female combined); log W = -5.542 + 3.31 log L (male) and log W = -5.462 + 3.26 log L (female). The 41-50 mm size group was found to be predominant (44.25%) in the wild. The fish predominantly feeds on phytoplankton (97.12%), with Myxophycea forming 68%, followed by Zygnemophyceae 25%, Ulvophyceae 3%, Zygnematophyceae 2%, Cryptophyceae 1% and Bacillariophyceae 1%. The major zooplankton group in the diet was Rotifera. Nematodes and other similar worms also formed a part of their diet. The sex ratio (female: male) estimated was 1:1.77. The gonadosomatic index (GSI) for gravid females ranged from 2.55 to 24.12 with an average value of 7.65. The minimum and maximum fecundity were 400 and 2000 in females having a length of 52 and 64 mm and weight of 2.52 and 3.15 g respectively.
Estimation of gillnet and hook selectivity for Carangoides fulvoguttatus (Forsskal, 1775) captured off Kanyakumari coast of India
Authors: Balasubramanian A. , Meenakumari B. , Pravin P. , Dhanapal K. , Boobendranath M. R. , Erzini K.
Published: January 2017

Selectivity and fishing powers of multi-mesh gillnets with mesh sizes of 13.5, 14, 14.5 and 15 cm and hooks No. 5, 6, 7 and 8 were studied using the experimental catch data of the carangid Carangoides fulvoguttatus. (Forsskal, 1775). The selectivity curves, parameters and residual plots for different models viz., normal scale, normal location, log-normal, gamma and bi-normal models were produced applying the SELECT (Share Each Length Class Total) methodology which has been incorporated in the software GILLNET (Generalised Including Log-Linear N Estimation Technique). The models were evaluated using the statistical tools viz., model deviance, dispersion parameter and residual plots to determine the best fit of the selectivity data. The uni-normal model, normal scale was found as best fit for the gillnet catch data while bi-normal was identified as suitable model for the hook catch data. The mesh size of 14.5 cm and hook No. 5 performed better than the other modeled meshes and hooks respectively. Gillnet selectivity data did not converge into bi-normal model due to single mode of capture. However, the hook catch data converged into bi-normal model with two modes of selection curve. Over dispersion was found common in catch data obtained from both gears due to larger size of fishes caught and demonstrated lack of fit in both selection data.
Comparative analysis of branchial ionocytes in Caspian Sea zander, Sander lucioperca (Linnaeus, 1758) using Na+, K+-ATPase immunolocalisation at different salinities
Authors: Ahmadnezhad Mohaddeseh , Oryan Shahrbanoo , Bahmani Mahmoud , Bourani Mohammad Sayad
Published: January 2017

Gill morphology and branchial ionocyte variability were examined in zander Sander lucioperca (Linnaeus, 1758)fingerlings, having two different body weights (1 and 2 g) for a period of ten days following their transfer from freshwater to two different salinities (7 and 12‰ Caspian Sea water) using Na+, K+-ATPase (NKA) immunolocalisation. Survival rates and plasma osmolarity levels at the end of each salinity challenge were measured. By the end of the experiment, bothweight groups were able to survive and successfully acclimate to salinity change. The number and size of branchial ionocytes in the gills dramatically decreased in both size groups; while, the filament ionocytes in both weight groups reformed at the end of the acclimation period. The results indicated both groups to be in the same osmoregulatory developmental stage, despite difference in their body weight. Also, their blood osmotic pressure and gill ionocyte changes at different salinity were similar when transferred to iso-osmotic condition. Further studies are needed for complete understanding of zander osmoregulatory systems exposed to different salinities.
Development and characterisation of polymorphic microsatellite markers in the pearl oyster Pteria penguin (Roding, 1798)
Authors: Zhang Nan , Ma Zhenhua , Zhang Dianchang , Guo Huayang , Lin Lin , Jiang Shigui
Published: January 2017

We developed and characterised 12 polymorphic microsatellite loci for Pteria penguin (Roding, 1798), an important pearl oyster species for pearl production in China. The number of observed alleles per locus ranged from 5 to 26 within 46 individuals. The observed and expected heterozygosities per locus ranged from 0.2 to 0.925 and 0.707 to 0.945, respectively. The polymorphism information content values per locus ranged from 0.656 to 0.929. Ten loci were in accordance with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and no significant linkage disequilibrium was detected between loci. These new microsatellite markers will be useful for population and conservation genetic studies of P. penguin.
Narcine atzi Carvalho & Randall, 2003 (Pisces: Narcinidae) - an addition to Indian ichthyofauna
Authors: Sujatha K. , Iswarya Deepti V. A. , Ravali V. , Jha Sneha
Published: January 2017

A species of electric ray of family Narcinidae, Narcine atzi Carvalho & Randall, 2003 has been recorded for the first time from Indian waters. Five specimens of N. atzi in the length range of 343-415 mm (TL) were collected from demersal shrimp trawl catches at Visakhapatnam, central eastern coast of India. The present paper provides description on morphometric characters of the species along with a comparative account on earlier descriptions.
Food and feeding habits of the greenback grey mullet Liza subviridis (Valenciennes, 1836) from Parangipettai waters, south-east coast of India
Authors: Ashiq Ur Rahman M. , Lyla P. S. , Ajmal Khan S.
Published: January 2017

The feeding ecology and prey preference of greenback grey mullet Liza subviridis (Valenciennes, 1836) were investigated in Parangipettai waters (11°29′25.55″N; 79°45′38.62″E) from May 2011 to April 2012. A total of 328 male and 360 female specimens of L. subviridis were analysed. Detritus and sand particles formed the major food item of L. subviridis in both sexes besides, diatoms, dinoflagellates, algae, zooplankton, foraminiferans, polychaetes and larval forms were also noticed and ranked respectively based on the quantities. Feeding intensity showed that the percentage of ‘empty’ stomachs varied from 7.2% (November 2011) to 19.3% (August 2011) and from 7.1% (March 2012) to 19.2% (August 2011) in males and females respectively whereas the ‘gorged’ stomach in males and females was in the ranges of 4.6% (March 2012) - 14.5% (December 2011) and 4.6% (September 2011) - 14.5% (April 2012). The gastrosomatic index of males and females ranged between 5.9% (October 2011) - 8.2% (May 2011) and 6.1% (March 2012) - 8.1% (May 2011) respectively. The results agree with the previous reports and extend the understanding on its well-being, reproductive seasons and stock of L. subviridis in Parangipettai waters.
Assessment of sperm quality and short term preservation of sperm in grey mullet Mugil cephalus Linnaeus, 1758
Authors: Ramachandran Balamurugan , Natesan Munuswamy
Published: January 2017

Quality of fresh milt of grey mullet Mugil cephalus Linnaeus, 1758 was assessed based on motility grade, motility duration, sperm count and seminal plasma osmolality. Freshly collected milt from live males (n=17) were examined individually for motility assessment. Motility grade was four in fifteen samples whereas three in other two samples analysed. Other sperm quality parameters such as motility duration, sperm density and seminal plasma osmolality were : 421.38±137 sec, 1.67±0.3x108 nos. ml-1 and 362.28±79.13 m Osmol kg-1 respectively. To standardise short term preservation of sperm, four different extenders such as ringer solution for marine fish, modified marine fish ringer solution, V2E extender and honey in fish ringer solution were experimented. The results indicated that short term preservation at 4oC over a period of 10 days with V2E extender at 1:1 ratio significantly (p<0.05) retained the highest sperm motility grade (2.6±0.5) over other dilutions such as 1:2 and 1:3 on 5th day. However, on 10th day of observation, sperms were immotile after activation with seawater, in undiluted as well as diluted milt samples. This probably indicates that V2E extender is effective for short term preservation of sperm in grey mullet.
Globalization challenges in a globalized world
Authors: Boriçi Dr.Sc. Gjon
Published: January 2017

Globalization is an ongoing phenomenon trying to redefine the economic, social, cultural and political dynamics of contemporary societies. The communication among countries and not only them, has been increased expanding political ties, making possible greater economic integration and wider cultural relations combined with augmented global wealth across the world. But, the process of globalization is in wider terms considered a beneficial one, but also viewed by some countries as a menace to national sovereignty and national culture. This paper tries to explain the obstacles to the process of globalization and its attendant benefits. Although globalization has arisen as a result of a more stable world, the factors that had contributed to its rise also help the factions interested to bring destabilization. In an academic approach in this article, between the research and comparative methods, I have been trying to get the maxims between economy, politics and diplomacy in their efforts of affecting the global era.
Golf Ball Mark Severity and Recovery as Affected by Mowing Height, Rolling Frequency, Foot Traffic, and Moisture
Authors: Young Joseph , Richardson Mike , Karcher Douglas
Published: January 2017

Core Ideas

Digital image analysis methods to evaluate putting green ball mark severity and recovery.

Firmer surfaces from dry conditions or lightweight rolling increased maximum ball mark injury area.

Rate of recovery was similar for all treatments, but increased wear increased time to 50% recovery.

Demonstrates positive attributes of dispersing foot and equipment traffic throughout the green.

Putting greens experience stress from golf balls striking the surface, maintenance equipment, and foot traffic. Improved creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.) cultivars, sand‐based root zones, and skilled superintendents maintain plant health while providing firmer conditions. Many researchers have studied effects of compaction and wear on putting greens, but few have determined the effect of these stresses on ball marks. The objective of this research was to evaluate ball mark severity and recovery of creeping bentgrass under different mowing heights (2.5, 3.2, and 4.0 mm), rolling frequencies (0, 3, or 6 d wk−1), and foot traffic using digital image analysis. Digital images of golf balls placed in the depression were used to calculate ball mark depth, and a cover analysis was conducted to model ball mark injury area using a one phase decay model to determine theoretical maximum injury, slope, and days to 50% recovery. Soil moisture content was positively correlated with ball mark depth, but common stresses rarely altered ball mark depth. The mean theoretical maximum ball mark injury was 377 mm2 greater for daily rolled treatments in 2010 compared to non‐rolled treatments. The slope of recovery rarely changed among treatments suggesting that theoretical maximum ball mark injury area has a greater effect on recovery. Lastly, combining the lowest mowing height or daily rolling and foot traffic slowed the time ball marks took to reach 50% recovery. This research demonstrates the effects common management practices and soil moisture have on the severity and recovery of ball marks during environmental stress.
The Production, Consumption, and Environmental Impacts of Rice Hybridization in the United States
Authors: Nalley L. , Tack J. , Durand A. , Thoma G. , Tsiboe F. , Shew A. , Barkley A.
Published: January 2017

Core Ideas

This study estimated the economic and environmental impact of hybrid rice adoption.

The blast resistance in hybrid rice is estimated to be worth $14.35 million annually.

Hybrid adoption in the Mid‐South feeds an additional 5.89 million people annually.

The LCA indicated that hybrid rice had lower environmental impact, mainly due to increase d yields.

The introduction of hybrid rice in the United States gives producers an alternative to traditionally cultivated, conventional lines. The objective of our study is to estimate the economic (consumer and producer welfare) and environmental impacts of the commercial adoption of hybrid rice in the Mid‐South of the United States. In our study, the revenue gains associated with hybrid adoption were estimated at an average of $76.24 million annually from 2003 to 2013, using existing research findings in combination with original modeling. Disease packages, specifically the blast resistance found in all publically released hybrids, led to both cost and fungicide reductions, which in turn result in higher profits and increased levels of environmental sustainability. The cost savings from eliminating fungicide applications and mitigating yield loss through embedded blast resistance in hybrids were estimated at $14.35 million annually from 2003 to 2013. The RiceFlow model results from our study suggest that the yield premiums through heterosis and blast resistance associated with hybrid adoption in the Mid‐South increased US exports by 383,000 Mg annually and has fed an additional 5.89 million people annually. Furthermore, the results from our detailed Life Cycle Assessment show that hybrid rice has lower environmental (fossil fuel depletion, ecotoxicity, carcinogenics, eutrophication, acidification, global warming, and ozone depletion) impacts per megagram of rice than conventional rice.
Gastrointestinal Duplication Presenting as Neonatal Intestinal Obstruction: An Experience of 15 Years at Tertiary Care Centre
Authors: Rattan Kamal Nain , Bansal Shruti , Dhamija Aastha
Published: January 2017

Background: Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) duplications are one of the rare congenital anomalies and can occur in any portion of the gastrointestinal tract but are more commonly encountered in small intestine. The duplication cysts cause symptoms like abdominal mass and intestinal obstruction requiring surgery or may remain asymptomatic. We are reporting our 15 years’ experience duplication cysts presenting in neonates.Methods: It is a retrospective study undertaken in the department of pediatric surgery between 2001 and 2015 for GIT duplications in neonates. Patients were analyzed for their antenatal diagnosis, age, sex, clinical diagnosis, investigatory approach, operative management and surgical outcomes.Results: Total number of neonates, diagnosed with gastrointestinal duplication in the last 15 years, was 17. Male to female ratio was 3.3:1. The most common location was found to be the ileum occurring in 71% of cases. Apart from ileum, 2 cases of duodenal and 1 case each of gastric, colonic and cecal duplication cyst were encountered. Majority cases presented with sub-acute intestinal obstruction and were managed successfully by resection and end to end anastomosis. Associated gut atresia was found in 4 cases while 1 case was found to be associated with perforation of gut.Conclusion: Gastrointestinal tract duplications often present with typical symptoms of gastrointestinal tract obstruction. Early diagnosis and management is required to prevent postoperative morbidity and mortality.
Mesenteric Cyst in Association with Type-II Jejunoileal Atresia
Authors: Piplani Rajat , Acharya Samir Kant , Sugandhi Nidhi , Bagga Deepak
Published: January 2017

A rare case of type-II jejunoileal atresia with mesenteric cyst in a neonate is being reported here with a brief review of literature.
Malpositioned Central Line in A Neonate Presenting as Superficial Abdominal Abscess
Authors: Garg Manasi , Rajan Nishanth , Dhua Anjan , Krishnan Lalitha
Published: January 2017

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Intussusception in Premature Baby: Unusual Cause of Bowel Obstruction and Perforation
Authors: Tepmalai Kanokkarn , Naowapan Thanyaluk , Singhavejsakul Jesda , Laohapensang Mongkol , Khorana Jiraporn
Published: January 2017

Intussusception in a premature baby is a rare condition. We report a male preterm infant, who developed abdominal distension and abdominal wall erythema. He was operated with suspicion of NEC but an ileo-ileal intussusception and intestinal perforation were encountered at operation.
Giant Choledochal Cyst in A Neonate
Authors: Sarin Yogesh Kumar , Raj Prince , Kumar Parveen , Garg Anju
Published: January 2017

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Chylous Ascites in a Newborn with Gastroschisis. Case Report
Authors: Zalles-Vidal Cristian Ruben , Peñarrieta-Daher Alejandro , Ibarra-Rios Daniel , Fernandez-Portilla Emilio , Bracho-Blachet Eduardo
Published: January 2017

Chylous ascites is a rare disease, only two cases associated with gastroschisis have been published. We report a case treated conservatively with total parenteral nutrition (TPN) and octreotide. We reviewed the literature about management options for the chylous ascites.
Newborn with Gastroschisis associated with Limb Anomalies
Authors: Win Phyu Phyu
Published: January 2017

Gastroschisis is often found together with other extra intestinal conditions such as limb, spine, cardiac, central nervous system and genitourinary abnormalities. There are reports of its association with young maternal age. The cases presented here highlight the association of gastroschisis with limbs anomalies and young maternal age.
Congenital Giant Dysplastic Kidney Presenting as Respiratory Distress: A Case Report
Authors: Kumar Mahesh , Gathwala Geeta , Rattan KN , Lather Sandeep , Dalal Poonam
Published: January 2017

Multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK) is the most common form of renal cystic disease in children and is one of the most common causes of abdominal mass in infancy. Here in we are reporting a rare case of a large MCKD that caused respiratory compromise and the infant presented with respiratory distress.
Abdominal Plain Radiograph in Neonatal Intestinal Obstruction
Authors: Prasad G Raghavendra , Aziz Amtul
Published: January 2017

A comprehensive all-inclusive resource on plain radiograph in neonatal intestinal obstruction is presented. This is an attempt to develop a protocol and to regain expertise in evaluating a plain radiograph that most often yields more than enough clues to diagnose and to decide a plan of action.