bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus stoichiometry in differently aged lucerne stands during flowering
Authors: Lu Jiaoyun , He Shubin , Wang Zhennan , Yang Huimin
Published: April 2016

This study aimed to test the hypothesis that stoichiometric ratios of C, N and P change with plant growth during flowering. The C:N, C:P and N:P varied without solid trends during flowering. The C:N was significantly different only between cuts, while the C:P and N:P were influenced by age, cut and their interaction. The C:N and C:P were higher in the 1st cut than in the 2nd cut, while for N:P, it was opposite. No solid trends were observed with the effects of age on both C:P and N:P. The N and P were closely correlated with C:N, C:P and N:P. Conclusively, stoichiometric ratios of C, N and P varied during flowering and changed with stand age and cut.
SOBRE A LÓGICA DAS RELAÇÕES ENTRE TQM E INOVAÇÃO: INSIGHTS E PROPOSIÇÕES TEÓRICAS
Authors: Guerra Rodrigo Marques de Almeida , Severiano Filho [In memoriam] Cosmo , Tondolo Vilmar Antônio Gonçalves
Published: April 2016

O presente estudo tem o objetivo principal de compreender, por meio de uma revisão sistemática da literatura, a relação entre TQM e inovação, com o intuito de gerar insights e proposições teóricas. Para isso foram analisados 16 dos 20 principais artigos obtidos da base de dados Scopus por meio dos termos TQM e inovação, além de 23 publicações adicionais, obtidas de forma reversa daquelas revisadas, totalizando 39 textos. Os resultados da pesquisa sugerem que: TQM e inovação possuem diversos pontos convergentes; poucos estudos correlacionam o elemento trabalho em equipe aos cinco tipos de inovação; estudos anteriores associam melhoria contínua à inovação incremental; existem poucas evidências sobre a relação existente entre TQM e inovação radical.
Retratos do outro: representação e memória na análise do desvio na publicidade
Authors: Pereira Cláudia Da Silva , Rocha Everardo
Published: April 2016

O objetivo deste trabalho é lançar um olhar sobre as representações publicitárias das coisas que estão à margem dos padrões sociais e que oferecem perigo ao estabelecido - no caso desse trabalho, anúncios publicitários que falam da transgressão traduzida nas representações do Hippie e do Punk. Para tanto, três temas serão centrais nas reflexões deste trabalho: “representações sociais, “contracultura” e “desvio”. A publicidade é uma instância de negociação de significados e, nestas dinâmicas, atuam as mais diversas forças sociais. Analisando representações das contraculturas na publicidade, é possível perceber os limites e possibilidades culturais que estão por trás de um discurso que deve trazer bem-estar.
Meios de Comunicação: lugar de memória ou na história?
Authors: Barbosa Marialva
Published: April 2016

O artigo procura discutir até que ponto a categoria teórica lugar de memória seria eficiente para tratar da relação meios de comunicação e história. Num segundo momento, para mostrar como os meios de comunicação procuram um lugar na história e não na memória, analisa-se algumas narrativas construídas em torno do acontecimento memorável Abolição da Escravatura, em 1888, mostrando a interdição ao testemunho dos escravos, produzindo camadas de esquecimento em relação a esses atores fundamentais da história do Brasil .
Tecnologías de internet (de Arpanet a la 3G)
Authors: López Rubio Gustavo
Published: April 2016

A pesar de que Internet es una herramienta ampliamente utilizada, su conocimiento técnico queda reducido a ingenieros y profesionales de telecomunicación y tecnologías de información. Por eso, su funcionamiento, "grosso modo", supone una gran laguna para la mayor parte de las personas que la utilizan, aunque lo hagan frecuentemente. Tal vez esto sea debido a que "Internet es fácil de usar pero difícil de comprender".1 y como para comprender algo es preciso conocerlo previamente, cabe preguntarse:

¿Qué es Internet? Una buena respuesta nos la da Harley Hahn: "¿Es posible que haya un impulso biológico que nos incite a crear computadoras? Creo que no. Pero una vez hemos desarrollado estos extraños y maravillosos esclavos, lo más seguro es que haya un programa genético irresistible que nos invita a continuar. En nuestro interior, hay una voz que oímos sólo subconscientemente y sólo como una especie; una voz que nos ordena tomar estas computadoras, conectarlas mediante redes y (...) comunicarnos.

Esto nos lleva a la segunda idea: cuando conectamos computadoras, indudablemente estamos creando algo que es mucho más importante que la suma de sus partes. Como hemos dicho, Internet se compone de millones de personas, pero 1as computadoras no son importantes; las utilizamos, solamente para ejecutar nuestros programas (esto es, para que sigan nuestras instrucciones).
Dimensión política de la pobreza: reflexión sobre la responsabilidad pública en un contexto de desresponsabilización política
Authors: Díe Olmos Luis
Published: April 2016

Apuntes para la comprensión de la pobreza en las sociedades desarrolladas.

La pobreza no es una fatalidad ni una característica natural de la sociedad. Mucho menos, corresponde al "orden" social o a la "naturaleza" de la sociedad. La pobreza, hoy más que nunca en la historia de la humanidad, es evitable puesto que hay en el mundo y entre nosotros recursos suficientes para remediarla. El problema no es de medios, sino de prioridades políticas y de objetivos: de querer o no querer. La pobreza supone un sufrimiento tal para las personas que la padecen que ninguna de ellas podría desearla para sí o para los suyos I. Esto nos exige desmentir y denunciar toda afirmación que responsabilice únicamente a estas personas de su situación de pobreza o que, todavía peor, las culpabilice. Tal responsabilización o culpabilización tiende a servir y perpetuar las distintas formas de poder y privilegios y, por ello, plantean como inevitables la pobreza y la injusticia, puesto que aísla la pobreza y sus causas del resto de la sociedad como si nada ni nadie más que los pobres tuviera nada que ver con las situaciones en las que viven éstos. La causa última de la pobreza es la desigual, y por ello injusta, distribución de los recursos de todo tipo (vivienda, sanidad, educación y cultura, muy especialmente la capacitación profesional y el empleo, ingresos, posibilidades de ocio y de utilización del tiempo libre, seguridad y estabilidad vitales, relaciones humanas y afectivas, autorrealización personal y sentido vital...) y de las oportunidades de promoción personal y familiar de desarrollo humano.
Un análisis provincial comparativo de la localización de actividades profesionales en áreas rurales
Authors: Polo Inmaculada , Paniagua Ángel
Published: April 2016

Los Servicios a empresas están considerados como la nueva fuente de empleo por la gran flexibilidad que presentan. Estos servicios cubren actividades demandadas desde las muy cualificadas hasta las menos, consiguiendo servicios de gran calidad con gran flexibilidad en la producción y por tanto en el empleo, variables predominantes en el entorno económico actual. El crecimiento de estos servicios se ve potenciado por las distintas actividades laborales nuevas que van surgiendo, orientadas principalmente hacia un trabajo autónomo y distintos proyectos individuales.

Tanto el trabajo autónomo como el teletrabajo es una de las soluciones que se están buscando en los países europeos para intentar reducir los altos índices de desempleo, enfocándolos principalmente a la incorporación al mercado laboral de la mujer, siendo el que más aceptación tiene el trabajo a tiempo parcial (Rubalcaba, 2001).

Las distintas oportunidades de empleo varían según el tipo de país con diferencias notables en relación a las condiciones del mercado laboral, factores culturales y trabajo autónomo. Como han indicado Hoggart y Paniagua (2001), durante el período 1995-

1999 el crecimiento total del número de empresas en España subió hasta el 9,5% en lugares con menos de 10.000 habitantes comparado con el 8,7% de los grandes núcleos. No hay una gran diferencia aquí, pero para compañías de los sectores profesional y servicios las cifras fueron 41,3% y 27,3%.
Percutaneous Screw Fixation of Lateral Condylar Humeral Fractures
Authors: Margalit Adam , Stein Benjamin Eric , Hassanzadeh Hamid , Ain Michael C. , Sponseller Paul D.
Published: April 2016

Lateral condylar humeral fractures are the second most common elbow injury in children and commonly occur between the ages of 5 and 10 years. There are several systems for classification of this fracture, including those of Milch (fracture line location) and Jakob et al. (displacement). Although nonoperative management is indicated for nondisplaced or minimally displaced fractures (<2 mm), operative fixation is indicated for greater displacement. Traditionally, open reduction and internal fixation has been the method used to ensure adequate reduction. However, closed reduction and internal fixation techniques for displaced fractures have been receiving increasing attention, with recent studies showing promising results. Several constructs (multiple smooth pins, a single lag screw, and threaded pins) for closed reduction and internal fixation have been described. Smooth-pin fixation has the advantage of a small diameter and easy removal, whereas threaded pins combine a small diameter with compressive properties. Compression of these small, articular fractures is important, and the optimal mode of fixation for maintaining fracture reduction is debated. Fixation with a partially threaded lag screw works by achieving metaphyseal compression, preventing loss of reduction of the distal fragment. In our experience, the compressive abilities of smooth and threaded pins are limited in the soft osteocartilaginous lateral condyle. Partially threaded lag screw fixation is indicated for pediatric patients with a substantially displaced (Jakob type-II or III) lateral condylar fracture. The major steps of the procedure are (1) preoperative planning with anteroposterior, lateral, and oblique radiographs; (2) supine positioning of the patient with the shoulder in abduction; (3) closed reduction with manual pressure; (4) guide-pin insertion through the lateral column of the distal part of the humerus; and (5) exchange of the guide pin with a lag screw. Postoperatively, the elbow is immobilized with a bivalved long-arm fiberglass cast or a posterior splint. The cast or splint is removed after interval healing is demonstrated on radiographs, and the lag screw is removed after complete fracture union is demonstrated. Complications are rare, and patients are expected to have decreased infection and open-reduction rates compared those treated with pin fixation.
The Currency of Knowledge: Education and economic growth in Latin America
Authors: Bosz Andrew Thomas , Rufatt Andrew Anthony
Published: April 2016

In the early 1960s, Latin America was on the brink of significant economic growth, withschool attainment and income levels well ahead of East Asia. However, by 2000, despitegreater financial and political efforts to develop their education system to the standard offully developed countries, Latin America had already been well surpassed by East Asia. Byconsidering the influence of education and human capital accumulation, this paperendeavours to rationalise the disparities between the economic failures of Latin America bycomparison to the economic prosperity of East Asia. Internationally standardised cognitivetesting consistently shows Latin America below East Asia, indicating a greater quality ofeducation in East Asia. Moreover, Latin America appears to experience some degree ofdifficulty in retaining its human capital due to ‘brain drain’. As such, whilst the LatinAmerican labour force continues to grow, the average level of education is deteriorating,which in turn adversely affects economic prosperity.
Construction System Reliability Analysis Based on Improved Firefly Algorithm
Authors: Li Yancang , Yu Yang , Zhao Jie
Published: April 2016

To solve the problems of multi-objective control, objective quantification difficulties and computational complexity existing in the construction management, the construction system reliability was introduced into the project management. The process of construction project was divided into several units of work based on system decomposition theory. And the reliability of each unit of work was calculated. Then, the system reliability was optimized by the improved firefly algorithm. To avoid that the basic algorithm is highly depended on the initial solution and easy to fall into local optimum at later stage, the dynamic population firefly algorithm was proposed. Engineering practice shows that the improved algorithm has higher convergence speed and accuracy of optimization. The study provides a novel method for effective construction management.
Morphometric variability of Clitellocephalus ophoni (Eugregarinida, Gregarinidae) in the intestines of Harpalus rufipes (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Authors: Brygadyrenko Viktor , Reshetniak Daria
Published: April 2016

Clitellocephalus ophoni (Tuzet and Ormieres, 1956) Clopton, 2002, is one of
the parasites of a common ground beetle species, Harpalus rufipes (De Geer,
1774), inhabiting practically the entire temperate zone of Eurasia.
Photographs of 177 gamonts and 74 syzygies of C. ophoni from specimens of
three populations of H. rufipes collected from the countryside near
Dnipropetrovsk (Ukraine), were analyzed according to 15 linear
characteristics and 18 indices for gamonts and 6 indices for syzygies. The
coefficient of variation (CV) for the majority of linear parameters for
gamonts ranged between 28.2-71.3%. Out of 15 linear parameters, only 6 showed
a normal distribution; the others showed a statistically significant
asymmetry (the maximum indicators on the histogram of distribution were
inclined to the area of minimum value). The distribution of all 18
morphological indices diverged from the norm. Two maximum indicators were
registered in the disposition of the widest point of the protomerite and
deutomerite. The minimum CV was registered for the ratio of gamont length to
the length of its deutomerite. The size ratios of the primite and satellite
in the syzygies were more constant than the morphological indices for the
gamonts. The sex of the host does not affect the length of the protomerite
and deutomerite, but does affect their width, the disposition of the nucleus
and the widest point of the deutomerite. The length of the protomerite and
deutomerite relative to the length of the gamont is better described through
linear functions, while their width has a nonlinear dynamic and is better
described through parabolic function. The ratio of morphometric indices to
total length of C. ophoni gamonts is also better described through nonlinear
functions. The data obtained on the morphological variability of C. ophoni
needs to be compared with the results for artificially infected individuals
of other Harpalus species.
Globalisation and western music historiography
Authors: Romanou Katy
Published: April 2016

Globalisation of musicology and music history aims to fuse the divisions
created during Western music?s acme, and is referred to as ?post-European
historical thinking?. Therefore, ?post? and ?pre? European historical
thinking have much in common. One aspect of this process of fragmentation
was that music history was separated from theory and that Western Music
Histories succeeded General Music Histories (a development described in some
detail in the article). Connecting global music history with ?post-European?
historical thinking is one among numerous indications of Western awareness
that European culture has reached some sort of a terminal phase.
Concurrently, countries that have been developing by following Western
Europe as a prototype, are leading today some past phase of Western
development, which, with the ideas of cultural relativism prevailing, are
not considered inferior.
Bullous lung diseases as a risk factor for lung cancer: A case report
Authors: Nagorni-Obradovic Ljudmila , Pesut Dragica , Maric Dragana , Stevic Ruza
Published: April 2016

Introduction. A possible association between lung cancer and bullous lung
disease has been suggested and recently supported by the results of genetic
studies. Case report. A previously healthy 43-year-old man, smoker, was
diagnosed with bullous lung disease at the age of 31 years. He was followed
up for 12 years when lung cancer (adenocarcinoma) was found at the site. In
the meantime, he was treated for recurrent respiratory infections.
Conclusion. There is the need for active approach in following up the
patients with pulmonary bulla for potential development of lung cancer.
Redefinition of gender roles and fertility problems
Authors: Radojcic Ljiljana , Divac-Jovanovic Mirjana
Published: April 2016

nema
Diagnostic accuracy of the A-test and cutoff points for assessing outcomes and planning acute and post-acute rehabilitation of patients surgically treated for hip fractures and osteoarthritis
Authors: Vukomanovic Aleksandra , Djurovic Aleksandar , Brdareski Zorica
Published: April 2016

Background/Aim. The A-test is used in daily clinical practice for monitoring
functional recovery of orthopedic patients during early rehabilitation. The
aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of A-test and cutoff point at
which the test can separate patients with and without functional disability
at the end of early rehabilitation. Also, it was important to determine
whether A-test has that discriminative ability (and at which cutoff points)
in the first days of early rehabilitation in order to have time to plan post
acute rehabilitation. Methods. This measurement-focused study was conducted
in the Orthopedic Ward during early inpatient rehabilitation (1st?5th day
after the operation) of 60 patients with hip osteoarthritis (HO) that
underwent arthroplasty and 60 surgically treated patients with hip fracture
(HF). For measurements we used the A-test and the University of Iowa Level of
Assistance Scale (ILAS) as the gold standard. For statistical analysis we
used the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the area under the
curve (AUC) with 95% confidence interval for the results of A-test from the
first to the fifth day of rehabilitation, sensitivity, specificity, the rate
of false positive and false negative errors, positive and negative predictive
value, ratio of positive and negative likelihood ratio, accuracy, point to
the ROC curve closest to 0.1 and Youden index for all the cutoff points.
Results. The AUC was 0.825 (0.744?0.905) for the first day of rehabilitation,
0.922 (0.872?0.972) for the second day of rehabilitation, 0.980 (0.959?1.000)
for the third day of rehabilitation, 0.989 (0.973?1.004) for the fourth day,
and 0.999 (0.996?1.001) for the fifth day of rehabilitation. The optimal
cutoff for the results of A-test was: 7/8 for the first day, 29/30 for the
fourth day, and 34/35 for the fifth day of rehabilitation. On the second and
the third day A-test had two cutoff points, the lower point safely separated
the patients with functional disability, while the upper point ruled out
functional disability. On the 2nd rehabilitation day the cutoff points were
12/13 and 17/18, on the 3rd rehabilitation day cutoff points were 13/14 and
18/19. Conclusion. The A-test has all characteristics of an accurate tool
which can be used for separating patients with and without functional
disability at all stages of early rehabilitation after surgically treated hip
disease or fracture. Based on the results of A-test within the first days of
early rehabilitation, it is possible to make a plan for postacute
rehabilitation.
Carotid surgery today: An update after 14,000 carotid endarterectomy procedures
Authors: Radak Djordje , Ilijevski Nenad , Djukic Nenad
Published: April 2016

nema
Chernobyl and Fukushima nuclear accidents: What have we learned and what have we done?
Authors: Djurovic Branka , Radjen Slavica , Radenkovic Mirjana , Dragovic Tamara , Tatomirovic Zeljka , Ivankovic Negovan , Vukmirovic Djordje , Dugonjic Sanja
Published: April 2016

nema
I-MOVE multicentre case–control study 2010/11 to 2014/15: Is there within-season waning of influenza type/subtype vaccine effectiveness with increasing time since vaccination?
Authors: Kissling Esther , Nunes Baltazar , Robertson Chris , Valenciano Marta , Reuss Annicka , Larrauri Amparo , Cohen Jean Marie , Oroszi Beatrix , Rizzo Caterina , Machado Ausenda , Pitigoi Daniela , Domegan Lisa , Paradowska-Stankiewicz Iwona , Buchholz Udo , Gherasim Alin , Daviaud Isabelle , Horváth Judit Krisztina , Bella Antonino , Lupulescu Emilia , O´Donnell Joan , Korczyńska Monika , Moren Alain ,   I-MOVE case–control study team
Published: April 2016

Since the 2008/9 influenza season, the I-MOVE multicentre case–control study measures influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE) against medically-attended influenza-like-illness (ILI) laboratory confirmed as influenza. In 2011/12, European studies reported a decline in VE against influenza A(H3N2) within the season. Using combined I-MOVE data from 2010/11 to 2014/15 we studied the effects of time since vaccination on influenza type/subtype-specific VE. We modelled influenza type/subtype-specific VE by time since vaccination using a restricted cubic spline, controlling for potential confounders (age, sex, time of onset, chronic conditions). Over 10,000 ILI cases were included in each analysis of influenza A(H3N2), A(H1N1)pdm09 and B; with 4,759, 3,152 and 3,617 influenza positive cases respectively. VE against influenza A(H3N2) reached 50.6% (95% CI: 30.0–65.1) 38 days after vaccination, declined to 0% (95% CI: -18.1–15.2) from 111 days onwards. At day 54 VE against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 reached 55.3% (95% CI: 37.9–67.9) and remained between this value and 50.3% (95% CI: 34.8–62.1) until season end. VE against influenza B declined from 70.7% (95% CI: 51.3–82.4) 44 days after vaccination to 21.4% (95% CI: -57.4–60.8) at season end. To assess if vaccination campaign strategies need revising more evidence on VE by time since vaccination is urgently needed.
Concordance of interim and final estimates of influenza vaccine effectiveness: a systematic review
Authors: Leung Vivian K , Cowling Benjamin J , Feng Shuo , Sullivan Sheena G
Published: April 2016

The World Health Organization's Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System meets twice a year to generate a recommendation for the composition of the seasonal influenza vaccine. Interim vaccine effectiveness (VE) estimates provide a preliminary indication of influenza vaccine performance during the season and may be useful for decision making. We reviewed 17 pairs of studies reporting 33 pairs of interim and final estimates using the test-negative design to evaluate whether interim estimates can reliably predict final estimates. We examined features of the study design that may be correlated with interim estimates being substantially different from their final estimates and identified differences related to change in study period and concomitant changes in sample size, proportion vaccinated and proportion of cases. An absolute difference of no more than 10% between interim and final estimates was found for 18 of 33 reported pairs of estimates, including six of 12 pairs reporting VE against any influenza, six of 10 for influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, four of seven for influenza A(H3N2) and two of four for influenza B. While we identified inconsistencies in the methods, the similarities between interim and final estimates support the utility of generating and disseminating preliminary estimates of VE while virus circulation is ongoing.
Pandemic vaccination strategies and influenza severe outcomes during the influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 pandemic and the post-pandemic influenza season: the Nordic experience
Authors: Gil Cuesta Julita , Aavitsland Preben , Englund Hélène , Gudlaugsson Ólafur , Hauge Siri Helene , Lyytikäinen Outi , Sigmundsdóttir Guðrún , Tegnell Anders , Virtanen Mikko ,   the Nordic influenza comparison group
Published: April 2016

During the 2009/10 influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 pandemic, the five Nordic countries adopted different approaches to pandemic vaccination. We compared pandemic vaccination strategies and severe influenza outcomes, in seasons 2009/10 and 2010/11 in these countries with similar influenza surveillance systems. We calculated the cumulative pandemic vaccination coverage in 2009/10 and cumulative incidence rates of laboratory confirmed A(H1N1)pdm09 infections, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions and deaths in 2009/10 and 2010/11. We estimated incidence risk ratios (IRR) in a Poisson regression model to compare those indicators between Denmark and the other countries. The vaccination coverage was lower in Denmark (6.1%) compared with Finland (48.2%), Iceland (44.1%), Norway (41.3%) and Sweden (60.0%). In 2009/10 Denmark had a similar cumulative incidence of A(H1N1)pdm09 ICU admissions and deaths compared with the other countries. In 2010/11 Denmark had a significantly higher cumulative incidence of A(H1N1)pdm09 ICU admissions (IRR: 2.4; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.9–3.0) and deaths (IRR: 8.3; 95% CI: 5.1–13.5). Compared with Denmark, the other countries had higher pandemic vaccination coverage and experienced less A(H1N1)pdm09-related severe outcomes in 2010/11. Pandemic vaccination may have had an impact on severe influenza outcomes in the post-pandemic season. Surveillance of severe outcomes may be used to compare the impact of influenza between seasons and support different vaccination strategies.
Utilization of Milk By-Product (Buttermilk) in the Preparation of Chhurpi and its Quality Evaluation
Authors: Shrestha Som Raj , Pradhananga Mahalaxmi , Das Suman Kumar Lal
Published: April 2016

Chhurpi, a traditional milk product were prepared with slight improvement in manufacturing practice; using skim milk: butter milk at different variations (SM:BM=0:100, 20:80, 40:60, 60;40. 80:20, and100:0) at 70ºC and coagulated by 2% tartaric acid maintaining pH value 5.3. The formulation having ratio SM:BM of 0:100 found to be best among all the formulations except the control one and was not significantly different in terms of flavor, body and texture, gumminess and chewiness and overall acceptability. Physico– chemical analysis of best product was found to be 10% moisture, 5.26% fat, 74.17% protein, 3.18% lactose and 6.26% total ash. Chemical analysis of the best product was not significantly different in terms of lactose content and total ash content while it was significantly different in terms of moisture content, fat content and protein content from control i.e. 100% skim milk at p<0.05. Hence, according to this research the sweet cream buttermilk as a waste of dairy industries can be solely used to convert into a value added milk product with earnings.Sunsari Technical College Journal 2015,2(1):1-6
Effects of Various Stabilizers on Sensorial Quality of Yoghurt
Authors: Bhattarai Nirmala , Pradhananga Mahalaxmi , Mishra Shyam Kumar
Published: April 2016

This research was aimed to preserve the yoghurts using stabilizers without refrigeration in terms of syneresis and sensory analysis. Yoghurts were prepared using three stabilizers viz., gelatin, carboxymethylcellulose and sodium alginate and a control (without stabilizer). For which set type yoghurt was prepared with 2% starter culture inoculation and was incubated at 43⁰C for 3 hours and was stored at 5-7⁰C. Statistical analysis of all the treatments showed that 0.2 % stabilizer containing samples were significantly superior (p<0.05). The best samples with stabilizers containing 0.2% were again compared with control. From this, 0.2% gelatin added sample had significantly superior (p<0.05) scores. Shelf life of the sample was observed and it was compared with control at refrigerated condition. Sensorial gelatin added sample was best up to eleventh days while the control was best up to seventh days. Gelatin added sample showed less syneresis compared to control and adding stabilizer seems slower the acid development and syneresis of yoghurt in terms of storage time.Sunsari Technical College Journal 2015,2(1):7-12
Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C among Blood Donors at Dharan, Sunsari, Nepal
Authors: Rai Sabina , Dongol Pranita , Khanal Hemanta
Published: April 2016

Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are the chronic viral infection that might be transmitted by blood transfusion. Nepal is known to have lowest seroprevalence in Asia. The main objective of the present study is to find out the prevalence of hepatitis B and Hepatitis C and their co-infection among blood donors during study period from March to August 2014. This was a cross sectional study among volunteer blood donors in Dharan who had donated the Blood. A total of 4930 donated blood samples were collected and screened for hepatitis B and hepatitis C by using a rapid enzyme immunoassay (EIA) technique. Among 4930 blood samples under study, the overall seroprevalence of hepatitis B were 0.22% (11 out of 4930) and hepatitis C were 0.39% (19 out of 4930) (P value = 0.01) and the prevalence being lower in females than males for both cases. Hepatitis B were more in age group of 21 -30 (0.4%) but hepatitis C in age group of 31-40 (0.5%). Hepatitis B and C are potential threats to be transmitted from unscreened blood.Sunsari Technical College Journal 2015, 2(1):13-16
Sensory and Quality Evaluation of Mayonnaise and its Effect on Storage Stability
Authors: Pradhananga Mahalaxmi , Adhikari Babita
Published: April 2016

This study aimed to evaluate the addition of skim milk powder to replace egg yolk in preparation of mayonnaise. Egg yolk was pasteurized at 150ºF (65.6ºC) about 1 minute for its safety. Mayonnaise was prepared from sunflower oil with the level varied from 65-75% and egg yolk from 9-15%. Mayonnaise made from 70% oil and 12% egg yolk was found to be best. Then skim milk powder (SMP) was added to replace 12% egg yolk in the ratios 0:100, 25:75, 50:50, 75:25 and 100:0 other constituents remaining constant. Sensory evaluation demonstrated that mayonnaise substituted with 25% skim milk powder was best. The chemical composition of the product, as well as fatty acid composition and peroxide value was analyzed. Coliform and Salmonella was not detected in microbial analysis. Sensory studies for its storage stability confirmed that the product was acceptable up to 28th days at refrigerate temperature whereas sample stored in room temperature was deteriorated after 14th days.  Sunsari Technical College Journal 2015, 2(1):48-53
Bacteriological Evaluation of Bottled Water Commercially Available in Eastern Nepal
Authors: Rai Rojina , Kumal Bindiya , Rai Devina , Keshari Arun , Bhandari Rima
Published: April 2016

The demand for bottled water is high in these days and it has been a growing concern about the microbiological quality of such processed water. The objective of this study was to assess the heterotrophic contamination and total coliform. This cross-sectional study was carried out in randomly selected 24 different commercial brands of bottled water available in the commercial market of the eastern region of Nepal. Total coliform and heterotrophic bacteria were enumerated by the membrane filtration and spread plate technique, respectively. Among 24 water sample processed, 62.5% (n=15) samples showed the heterotrophic bacterial count above the acceptable range (<50 CFU/0.1ml) and 75% (n=18) samples showed the total coliform count crossed the WHO guidelines (0 CFU/ml) and not acceptable for drinking. E. Coli was detected in 54.2% of water samples and Enterobacters aerogenes(45.8%), Enterococcus fecalis(20.8%), Pseudomonas sps (20.8%), Bacillus species (16.6%) and Staphylococcus aereus (4.2%) were also detected from different samples. Only 25% of bottled water was acceptable for drinking purpose. The presence of heterotrophs and the coliform in the bottled water is a serious concern for public health. Concerned authority should prioritize this issue and continuously monitor the quality of available bottled water manufacturers in the eastern region to provide safe drinking water to the population.Sunsari Technical College Journal 2015, 2(1):54-57
Investigation of resistance spot welds between DP450 steel and aluminum alloys
Authors: Akinay Yuksel , Hayat Fatih
Published: April 2016

In this study, the resistance spot weldability of DP450 steel and aluminum alloys (AA1050, AA6061 and AA7075) was investigated and the interfacial characteristics of fracture zones was examined via microanalysis, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDX). In addition, tensile shear load tests and hardness tests were performed to determine the mechanical properties and fracture behavior of welded joints. These results suggest that the tensile shear strength of the DP450/AA1050 and DP450/AA7075 joints was not affected by the reaction layer formed at the welding interface. This indicates that the spot weldability of DP450/AA6061 is better than DP450/AA1050 and DP450/AA7075 Al alloys.
Effect of Ni on the mechanical behavior of a high-Mn austenitic TWIP steel
Authors: Akinay Yuksel , Hayat Fatih
Published: April 2016

The effect of Ni on the mechanical properties and microstructure of twinning induced plasticity (TWIP) steels were investigated in this study. TWIP 1 (0.6 C, 24 Mn) and TWIP 2 (0.6 C, 24 Mn, 1 Ni) steels were fabricated and annealed at 700, 800 and 900 °C for 150 minutes and then air-cooled. The results revealed that the Ni containing steel (TWIP 2) exhibits a higher yield strength and tensile strength than the steel TWIP 1. Carbide precipitations have been detected in the microstructure of TWIP 1 and TWIP 2 specimens annealed at 700 °C. However, the microstructure of the steel TWIP 1 annealed at 800 and 900 °C was fully austenitic and some grains included twins. It turned out that with the addition of Ni, the formation of twinning decreased in consequence of the annealing at 800 and 900 °C.
Microstructures and properties of Cr–Cu/W–Cu bi-layer composite coatings prepared by mechanical alloying
Authors: Zhang Jiaping , Feng Xiaomei , Shen Yifu , Chen Cheng , Duan Cuiyuan
Published: April 2016

Cr–Cu/W–Cu bi-layer coatings with composite structures were fabricated by means of mechanical alloying. The Cr–Cu layer and the W–Cu layer were deposited successively and the as-synthesized bi-layer coating was made up of an inner Cr–Cu layer and an outer W–Cu layer. Microstructures, chemical and phase compositions of the as-prepared coatings were characterized. The results indicated that the bonding between the inner coating and the substrate was improved with the increase of Cu in the raw powder. The annealing treatment of the inner Cr–Cu layer was beneficial to the bonding between the inner Cr–Cu coating and the outer W–Cu coating layer. Mechanical properties such as microhardness, friction and wear resistance were tested. The as-synthesized coating could effectively improve the hardness and wear resistance of the Cu substrate.
Simulation analysis on impurity distribution in mc-Si grown by directional solidification for solar cell applications
Authors: Ganesan Nagarajan Somi , Manickam Srinivasan , Karuppanan Aravinth , Perumalsamy Ramasamy
Published: April 2016

We carried out global transient simulation of impurity distribution in multi-crystalline silicon grown by directional solidification using appropriate software. Non-metallic impurities such as carbon, nitrogen and oxygen originate from the furnace parts and each impurity atom was segregated into the mc-Si ingot based on their solubility in the crystal. During the solidification process the temperature distribution causes melt fluctuation in the Si melt, which is controlled by applying an external body force that leads to a uniform distribution of impurity atoms. Here the uniform distribution of impurity atoms was obtained by rotating the crucible at 10 rpm and the investigations were also carried out without crucible rotation and with a crucible rotation rate of 3 rpm. In this paper we have analyzed the segregation of non-metallic impurity atoms and chemical reactions between the impurity atoms, wherein three types of simulations were carried out and their results analyzed.
Friction stir welding of foamable AlSi7 reinforced by B4C
Authors: Uzun Arif , Turker Mehmet
Published: April 2016

Friction stir welding was successfully performed on B4C-reinforced foamable AlSi7 materials produced via a powder metallurgy route. Starting materials of 1 wt.% TiH2, 7 wt.% Si and 6 wt.% B4C were mixed with aluminum matrix powder. Mixed powders were then pressed, extruded and rolled for the production of foamable materials. Microstructural and macrostructural examination along with microhardness and tensile tests were performed to evaluate the weld zone characteristics of foamable materials welded by friction stir welding. Tunnels or needle-shaped gaps were observed in the macrostructures of the weld zones of samples joined at 1 250 rpm and 2 000 rpm rotational speeds. Moreover, the rough surface in the welding zone of materials decreased with increasing rotational speed. Defect-free joints were observed for samples at 1 600 rpm rotational and 40 mm min−1 traverse speeds. There was no significant difference between the microstructures of the weld zone and the base material in terms of particle size and distribution. It was observed that the B4C particles in the nugget zone were partly directed or clustered as a result of the physical mixing. Ultimate tensile strength values of B4C-reinforced foamable AlSi7 materials joined by friction stir welding were found to be lower compared to the base material. The maximum ultimate tensile strength of 135 MPa was obtained at a 1 600 rpm rotational speed and 40 mm min−1 traverse speed. The minimum tensile strength in the samples of 95 MPa was obtained at a 1 250 rpm rotational speed and 80 mm min−1 traverse speed. In all welding conditions, the hardness in the nugget zone increased compared to the base material.
Extrudate Swell of High Density Polyethylenes in Slit (Flat) Dies
Authors: Konaganti V. K. , Behzadfar E. , Ansari M. , Mitsoulis E. , Hatzikiriakos S. G.
Published: April 2016

Extrudate swell of industrial-grade high-molecular mass high-density polyethylenes (HDPEs) in flat/slit dies is studied using both experiments and simulations. The experimental set-up consists of an optical micrometer to measure the extrudate dimensions and a pair of radiation heaters to control the extrudate temperature outside the die attached to the capillary rheometer. The simulation of extrudate swell phenomenon is carried out by using a well-known integral K-BKZ model. The effects of several rheological characteristics, die characteristics, and processing conditions on swell measurements are studied systematically, and the corresponding two-dimensional, steady-state numerical predictions are presented in this paper. This study includes the effects of polymer molecular characteristics, apparent shear rate, die geometrical characteristics (length to die gap (L/H) and width to die gap (W/H)), and distance from the die exit. It is found that the integral K-BKZ model predicts well both the width and thickness extrudate swells. Extrudate swell measurements demonstrate that the thickness swell is predominant in comparison with width swell.
Structural Insights into Protein-Protein Interactions Involved in Bacterial Cell Wall Biogenesis
Authors: Laddomada Federica , Miyachiro Mayara , Dessen Andréa
Published: April 2016

The bacterial cell wall is essential for survival, and proteins that participate in its biosynthesis have been the targets of antibiotic development efforts for decades. The biosynthesis of its main component, the peptidoglycan, involves the coordinated action of proteins that are involved in multi-member complexes which are essential for cell division (the “divisome”) and/or cell wall elongation (the “elongasome”), in the case of rod-shaped cells. Our knowledge regarding these interactions has greatly benefitted from the visualization of different aspects of the bacterial cell wall and its cytoskeleton by cryoelectron microscopy and tomography, as well as genetic and biochemical screens that have complemented information from high resolution crystal structures of protein complexes involved in divisome or elongasome formation. This review summarizes structural and functional aspects of protein complexes involved in the cytoplasmic and membrane-related steps of peptidoglycan biosynthesis, with a particular focus on protein-protein interactions whereby disruption could lead to the development of novel antibacterial strategies.
Augmenting Environmental Interaction in Audio Feedback Systems
Authors: Kim Seunghun , Wakefield Graham , Nam Juhan
Published: April 2016

Audio feedback is defined as a positive feedback of acoustic signals where an audio input and output form a loop, and may be utilized artistically. This article presents new context-based controls over audio feedback, leading to the generation of desired sonic behaviors by enriching the influence of existing acoustic information such as room response and ambient noise. This ecological approach to audio feedback emphasizes mutual sonic interaction between signal processing and the acoustic environment. Mappings from analyses of the received signal to signal-processing parameters are designed to emphasize this specificity as an aesthetic goal. Our feedback system presents four types of mappings: approximate analyses of room reverberation to tempo-scale characteristics, ambient noise to amplitude and two different approximations of resonances to timbre. These mappings are validated computationally and evaluated experimentally in different acoustic conditions.
Frequency Analysis of Critical Meteorological Conditions in a Changing Climate—Assessing Future Implications for Railway Transportation in Austria
Authors: Kellermann Patric , Bubeck Philip , Kundela Günther , Dosio Alessandro , Thieken Annegret
Published: April 2016

Meteorological extreme events have great potential for damaging railway infrastructure and posing risks to the safety of train passengers. In the future, climate change will presumably have serious implications on meteorological hazards in the Alpine region. Hence, attaining insights on future frequencies of meteorological extremes with relevance for the railway operation in Austria is required in the context of a comprehensive and sustainable natural hazard management plan of the railway operator. In this study, possible impacts of climate change on the frequencies of so-called critical meteorological conditions (CMCs) between the periods 1961–1990 and 2011–2040 are analyzed. Thresholds for such CMCs have been defined by the railway operator and used in its weather monitoring and early warning system. First, the seasonal climate change signals for air temperature and precipitation in Austria are described on the basis of an ensemble of high-resolution Regional Climate Model (RCM) simulations for Europe. Subsequently, the RCM-ensemble was used to investigate changes in the frequency of CMCs. Finally, the sensitivity of results is analyzed with varying threshold values for the CMCs. Results give robust indications for an all-season air temperature rise, but show no clear tendency in average precipitation. The frequency analyses reveal an increase in intense rainfall events and heat waves, whereas heavy snowfall and cold days are likely to decrease. Furthermore, results indicate that frequencies of CMCs are rather sensitive to changes of thresholds. It thus emphasizes the importance to carefully define, validate, and—if needed—to adapt the thresholds that are used in the weather monitoring and warning system of the railway operator. For this, continuous and standardized documentation of damaging events and near-misses is a pre-requisite.
Energy Transformations in a Self-Excited Switched Reluctance Generator
Authors: Martinez-Iturbe Abelardo , Perez-Cebolla Francisco , Martín-del-Brío Bonifacio , Bernal Carlos , Bono-Nuez Antonio
Published: April 2016

Wind generation systems require mechanisms that allow optimal adaptation of the generator to varying wind speed and to extract maximum energy from the wind. Robust and affordable high-performance methods are also needed for isolated sites. This paper takes this approach, in which an AC switched reluctance generator is used as a generator with a variable rotor speed. Although the voltage obtained is of insufficient quality to connect the generator directly to the power grid, this kind of generator can be used in isolated sites to charge a battery bank with a simple bridge rectifier. Due to the nonlinear behavior of the machine with the position and current, along with the alternating nature of the current that circulates through its phases, the machine experiences cyclical energy transformations of a mechanical, electrical and magnetic nature. This paper analyzes these transformations for the purpose of providing guidelines for machine design and optimization as a wind turbine in isolated sites.
Methodology to Calculate the Costs of a Floating Offshore Renewable Energy Farm
Authors: Castro-Santos Laura , Martins Elson , Guedes Soares C.
Published: April 2016

This paper establishes a general methodology to calculate the life-cycle cost of floating offshore renewable energy devices, applying it to wave energy and wind energy devices. It is accounts for the contributions of the six main phases of their life-cycle: concept definition, design and development, manufacturing, installation, exploitation and dismantling, the costs of which have been defined. Moreover, the energy produced is also taken into account to calculate the Levelized Cost of Energy of a floating offshore renewable energy farm. The methodology proposed has been applied to two renewable energy devices: a floating offshore wave energy device and a floating offshore wind energy device. Two locations have been considered: Aguçadoura and São Pedro de Moel, both in Portugal. Results indicate that the most important cost in terms of the life-cycle of a floating offshore renewable energy farm is the exploitation cost, followed by the manufacturing and the installation cost. In addition, the best area in terms of costs is the same independently of the type of floating offshore renewable energy considered: Aguçadoura. However, the results in terms of Levelized Cost of Energy are different: Aguçadoura is better when considering wave energy technology and the São Pedro de Moel region is the best option when considering floating wind energy technology. The method proposed aims to give a direct approach to calculate the main life-cycle cost of a floating offshore renewable energy farm. It helps to assess its feasibility and evaluating the relevant characteristics that influence it the most.
Active Traveling and Its Associations with Self-Rated Health, BMI and Physical Activity: A Comparative Study in the Adult Swedish Population
Authors: Berglund Erik , Lytsy Per , Westerling Ragnar
Published: April 2016

Active traveling to a daily occupation means that an individual uses an active way of traveling between two destinations. Active travel to work or other daily occupations offers a convenient way to increase physical activity levels which is known to have positive effects on several health outcomes. Frequently used concepts in city planning and regional planning today are to create environments for active commuting and active living. Even then, little research has focused on traveling modes and subjective health outcomes such as self-rated health (SRH). This study aimed to explore and investigate associations between travel mode and health-related outcomes, such as self-rated health (SRH), body mass index (BMI) and overall physical activity, in an adult population in Sweden. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a randomly selected population-based sample (n = 1786, age 45–75 years); the respondents completed a questionnaire about their regular travel mode, demographics, lifestyle, BMI and SRH. Chi-square tests and logistic regressions found that inactive traveling was associated with poor SRH, a greater risk of obesity or being overweight and overall physical inactivity. In addition, lifestyle factors, such as choice of food and smoking habits, were associated with SRH, BMI and overall physical activity.