bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FGF21 acts as a negative regulator of bile acid synthesis
Authors: Chen Michelle M , Hale Clarence , Stanislaus Shanaka , Xu Jing , Véniant Murielle M
Published: April 2018

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a potent regulator of glucose and lipid homeostasis in vivo; its most closely related subfamily member, FGF19, is known to be a critical negative regulator of bile acid synthesis. To delineate whether FGF21 also plays a functional role in bile acid metabolism, we evaluated the effects of short- and long-term exposure to native FGF21 and long-acting FGF21 analogs on hepatic signal transduction, gene expression and enterohepatic bile acid levels in primary hepatocytes and in rodent and monkey models. FGF21 acutely induced ERK phosphorylation and inhibited Cyp7A1 mRNA expression in primary hepatocytes and in different rodent models, although less potently than recombinant human FGF19. Long-term administration of FGF21 in mice fed a standard chow diet resulted in a 50–60% decrease in bile acid levels in the liver and small intestines and consequently a 60% reduction of bile acid pool size. In parallel, colonic and fecal bile acid was decreased, whereas fecal cholesterol and fatty acid excretions were elevated. The long-acting FGF21 analog showed superiority to recombinant human FGF21 and FGF19 in decreasing bile acid levels with long duration of effect action in mice. Long-term administration of the long-acting FGF21 analogs in obese cynomolgus monkeys suppressed plasma total bile acid and 7α-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one levels, a biomarker for bile acid synthesis. Collectively, these data reveal a previously unidentified role of FGF21 in bile acid metabolism as a negative regulator of bile acid synthesis.
Leptin stimulates aromatase in the growth plate: limiting catch-up growth efficiency
Authors: Masarwi Majdi , Shamir Raanan , Phillip Moshe , Gat-Yablonski Galia
Published: April 2018

Catch-up growth (CUG) in childhood is defined as periods of growth acceleration, after the resolution of growth attenuation causes, bringing the children back to their original growth trajectory. Sometimes, however, CUG is incomplete, leading to permanent growth deficit and short stature. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanisms that limit nutritional-CUG. Specifically, we focused on the crosstalk between leptin, increased by re-feeding, and sex hormones, which increase with age.In vivostudies were performed in young male Sprague Dawley rats fedad libitumor subjected to 10/36 days of 40% food restriction followed by 90–120 days of re-feeding.In vitrostudies were performed on ATDC5 cells. Analyses of mRNA and protein levels were done using qPCR and Western blot, respectively. CUG was complete in body weight and humerus length in animals that were food-restricted for 10 days but not for those food-restricted for 36 days.In vitrostudies showed that leptin significantly increased aromatase gene expression and protein level as well as the expression of estrogen and leptin receptors in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The effect of leptin on aromatase was direct and was mediated through the MAPK/Erk, STAT3 and PI3K pathways. The crosstalk between leptin and aromatase in the growth plate suggests that re-feeding during puberty may lead to increased estrogen level and activity, and consequently, irreversible premature epiphyseal growth plate closure. These results may have important implications for the development of novel treatment strategies for short stature in children.
Az első onkológiai ellátás időfaktorának szerepe a daganatos betegségek túlélési mutatóiban. Irodalmi áttekintés
Authors: Mangel László , Tornóczky Tamás , Zemplényi Antal , Boncz Imre
Published: April 2018

Abstract:

The aim of this study was to survey the effects of the waiting time for the first oncology treatment in cancer diseases. By the analysis of 67 retrospective studies and reviews the numerical effects of treatment initiation time on survival were assessed. The “time factor” has a leading role on cancer types with aggressive biological behaviour, like breast cancer in younger age, testicular cancers, or head and neck tumours. However, a few days and reasonable delay to the first oncology intervention has no negative impact in numerous cancer diseases. The course of the primary check-up could be modified by several medical and psychosocial factors, and many times the treatment of the most advanced cancers are privileged causing an inverse survival effect. The effectiveness of the cancer therapies is determined by the optimal treatment decision, however, further research is necessary for the determination of the exact role of the “time factor” in oncology. Orv Hetil. 2018; 159(14): 535–546.
ANALISIS FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI PERUBAHAN PENDAPATAN NELAYAN AKIBAT VARIABILITAS IKLIM
Authors: Azizi Azizi , Kumala Putri Eka Intan , Fahrudin Achmad
Published: April 2018

Variabilitas iklim seperti curah hujan serta kondisi perairan dengan tinggi gelombang dan angin yang kuat mempengaruhi aktivitas nelayan di laut dalam melakukan operasional penangkapan. Kondisi ini mengakibatkan perubahan pendapatan dari para nelayan. Penelitian ini dilakukan di Desa Muara Kecamatan Blanakan Kabupaten Subang bertujuan untuk mengetahui perubahan pendapatan serta faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhinya. Jumlah responden penelitian 100 orang terdiri dari 70 orang nelayan lokal, 15 nelayan pendatang dari Brebes dan 15 nelayan pendatang dari Tuban. Metode yang digunakan adalah analisis pendapatan dan regresi berganda. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa rerata perubahan pendapatan nelayan lokal jaring insang Rp.1.753.681 (10,41%), nelayan lokal jaring payang sebesar Rp.14.321.631 (22,05%), nelayan andon Brebes Rp.11. 430.833 (23,56%) dan nelayan andon Tuban Rp.25.342.333 (22,24%). Sedangkan faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi perubahan pendapatan nelayan adalah jarak menangkap, jumlah jam kerja di laut, dummy hujan dan dummy tinggi gelombang. Title: Analysis of The Factors Affecting The Change in Fisher’s Income Due To Climate Variability (Case: The Village of Muara, subdistrict of Blanakan, Subang District) Fish capture is heavily influenced by climate variability such as rainfall, water level and winds. Such conditions affect the fishers’ income. This research was conducted at Muara Village, Blanakan Sub-District, Subang Regency, and its purpose was to identify the change of income and factors contributing income changes. This research collected data from 100 respondents consist of 70 of local fishers, 15 of andon fishers from Brebes and 15 of andon fishers from Tuban. Method of the study was income analysis and a multiple linear regression. The research found that average number of local fishers’income with gills nets was IDR 1,753,681 (10.41%), local fishers with payang nets is IDR 14,321,631 (22.05%), andon fishers from Brebes was IDR 11,430,833 (23,56%), and andon fishers from Tuban was IDR 25,342,333 (22,24%). Factors that contribute to the income changes were distance of fishing area, sailing hours, rain dummy and wave height dummy.
ENHANCING THE SCIENTIFIC LEVEL OF ENGINEERING TRAINING OF RAILWAY TRANSPORT PROFESSIONALS
Authors: Kalivoda J. , Neduzha L. O.
Published: April 2018

Purpose. Publication of the results of international scientific and technical cooperation of the Dnipropetrovsk National University of Railway Transport named after Academician V. Lazaryan (DNURT, Ukraine) and the Czech Technical University (CTU) in the field of engineering training of students on the basis of modern methods of development of scientific and creative abilities of students. Methodology. The development of scientific thought and the improvement of the professional level of students of engineering specialties of railway technical institutes may be carried out by different methods both during training and during extracurricular time. One of the methods for improving the scientific level of future engineers is the public lectures of renowned scholars and researchers from leading European higher education institutions, enabling students to have access to world-class advanced scientific idea. Findings. The authors have analyzed the activity of DNURT and CTU on scientific and educational preparation of students. It is emphasized that cooperation promotes strengthening of contacts between universities, improves the quality of students' training, is one of the factors of the professional development of future specialists, raising the scientific level of engineering training of railway transport professionals. It is proved that DNURT and CTU duly fulfill the higher education tasks of training of professional personnel who are able to work effectively in the global market, aimed at improving the quality and efficiency of education. Originality. This paper presents the analysis of results concerning the efficiency of application of modern methods for engineering training of students of technical higher educational institutions. It gives extended view of the main directions of international education activities. Practical value. It is confirmed that popularization of modern methods of propagation of engineering thought among student youth has acquired a new meaning and contributes to enhancing the scientific level of engineering training of railway transport professionals.
CONTROL BODY COORDINATION MODEL IN THE PROCESS OF RESPONSE TO LARGE-SCALE EMERGENCIES
Authors: O. M. Liashenko
Published: April 2018

Purpose. The article is devoted to developing the control body coordination model in the process of response to large-scale emergencies. Methodology. Research methods include a mathematical apparatus of the theory of hierarchical multi-level systems, predicate logic, as well as the principles of centralized management, which imply the existence of a single coordination control center in the case of occurrence of large-scale emergencies, which would determine basic rules of cooperation between control bodies, as well as the manpower and resources of the Civil Defense of Ukraine when implementing tactical action plans for the localization and recovery of emergency consequences. Findings. Based on the devised model, we propose an approach to solving the task of coordination between control bodies in the process of response to large-scale emergencies under conditions of uncertainty and incomplete information, as well as time constraints for making managerial decisions. The specifics of the model is in the use of mathematical apparatus of the theory of hierarchical multi-level systems and predicate logic in order to implement the procedures of coordination of three types of objectives, formally described by three types of tasks: 1) a global task whose solution is aimed at achieving a common global objective of the system, specifically, to minimize the consequences of emergencies; 2) a task of coordinating control body, the solving of which achieves a coordinated functioning of specialized rescue units and squads during implementation of a set of measures to liquidate consequences in the area of emergencies; 3) local tasks for control bodies over the response to emergencies, solving which aims at achieving a common global objective of the system. Originality. We proposed for the first time a structure of the hierarchical multi-level system for coordination between control bodies in the process of response to large-scale emergencies. The levels of system management are determined. The approach is proposed to solving a task of the coordination between control bodies under conditions of uncertainty and incomplete information. Coordination is ensured through the procedures of coordinating goals and tasks solved at different levels in the hierarchy of the considered system, under conditions of centralized management and the originality of emerging management situations. Practical value. Results of the present work might be applied in the tasks of coordinating management and decision-making in hierarchical multi-level systems of civil protection of population and territories from emergencies.
RESEARCH OF RATIONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE DATE COMMUNICATION LINKS OF THE INFORMATION AND MEASURING SYSTEM
Authors: I. A. Kliushnyk
Published: April 2018

Purpose. The article focuses on determining the rational parameters of data transmission interfaces for information and measuring system for testing the hydraulic transmissions, as well as determining the degree of fault to-lerance in various operating modes of the system. Methodology. In the study the researcher has determined and theoretically calculated the main characteristics of the data transmission channels from the hardware converters of the data signals of analog sensors of technological parameters to the computer. For a more complete assessment, an imitation model was created in the MATLAB environment to study the assigned task. Analysis of the results obtained from the theoretical calculations and using the simulation data model to determine the rational settings of interfaces (rational transmission speed, rational element base, rational system structure, etc.) of data transmission makes it possible to determine the rational characteristics of the system. Findings. For the existing information-measuring system for testing hydraulic locomotive transmission of diesel locomotives, studies were carried out to determine and theoretically calculate the main characteristics of the data transmission channels from the hardware converters of data signals from analog sensors of technological parameters to the computer. To study the tachometric subsystem, an imitation model was created that allowed to investigate the main characteristics of the data transmission channels from the hardware converters of data signals of analog sensors of tachometric parameters to the computer. The results of theoretical calculations were analyzed and the rational settings of the data transmission system were determined using the simulation model of data. Originality. The study to determine and theoretically calculate the main characteristics of the data transmission channels from the hardware converters of data signals of analog sensors of technological parameters to the computer showed that the system operates in the mode of actual «non-maintenance». For more detailed studies of the processes occurring in the transmission system of tachometric data, an imitation model was created in the Matlab environment. This model allowed carrying out a number of experiments. Practical value. On the basis of experiments with the model, rational ways of solving the existing problem of the system operation in the mode of actual «non-maintenance» were established. Also, the introduction of one of the proposed methods for solving the problem or combining them requires further research in the real system
HEURISTIC METHOD OF SHIPS SELECTION FOR THE COORDINATED WORK OF WATER TRANSPORT
Authors: O. V. Shcherbina  , A. G. Shibaev
Published: April 2018

Purpose. The study aims to develop a formulation methodology for ship selection in the coordinated work of sea and river transport using a heuristic approach. Methodology. To realize the purpose set in the study, the authors carried out an analysis of domestic and foreign literature sources on the current topic, studied specifics and conditions for the effective operation of marine mono-hulled ships and composite tug/barge towing ones. Findings. The analysis results allowed formulating the heuristics methods that ensure the selection of the type sizes of tug/barge towing ships for the mixed «river-sea» navigation from the priority range of ships of the existing fleet. The proposed method makes it possible to select ships in a more appropriate manner according to the established scheme of work. Rational combinations of technical and operational characteristics of such pairs as «barges and tows», «tug/barge towing ship and sea-going ship», «tug/barge towing ship and restrictive characteristics of the area of navigation» are a prerequisite for the shipping company profit growth by increasing the capacity of ships. Originality. For the first time, the authors applied a heuristic approach to the selection of tug/barge towing ships and sea-going ones for coordinated work with the performance of cargo operations on the raid of the estuary port when transporting bulk goods. The basis of the approach is the selection of a rational mix of technical and operational characteristics of barges and tugs. The proposed approach allows determining the best combination of ship type sizes in the organization of coordinated work of sea and river transport. At the same time, the continuity of the goods transportation process from the sea ports to the river ones located in the depth of the country (and in the opposite direction) is ensured. Practical value. The presented methodology is a logical continuation of the cycle of studies performed by the authors. The obtained results will also be applied in subsequent personal research developments. In addition, the presented research may be useful for shipping companies that run the tug/barge towing fleet. The presented methodology may also be introduced into the learning process of transport higher education institutions in the study of relevant disciplines.
USAGE OF CONSTRUCTION-ORIENTED SOFTWARE SCAD FOR ANALYSIS OF WORK OF MACHINE-BUILDING STRUCTURES
Authors: D. О. Bannikov
Published: April 2018

Purpose. In the case of analysis of work of the machine-building structures, the direct usage of construction-oriented software developments is impossible, since ideology and methodology for solving various tasks in construction and machine-building are different. Therefore, in the conducting of practical calculations, there is a need for a certain adjustment of the approaches put in the program complexes and their adaptation to the engineering industry. The presentation of the author's experience of the construction-oriented software SCAD usage for Windows for analyzing the work of various machine-building structures, their components and assemblies is the immediate purpose of the publication. Methodology. During a long period of time the author was engaged in analyzing the work of building, mainly thin-walled, steel structures using the Finite Element Method based on the SCAD for Windows software package. At the same time, a considerable number of machine-building structures were considered, including railroad rolling stock units. Most of these tasks grew into a scientific and research problem that needed to be thoroughly researched and analyzed before giving design recommendations. Findings. The publication presents more than a dozen different tasks, typical for the machine-building industry, which the author had to deal with. Static and quasi-static problems, the problem of motion in time, the contact problem, the problem of the cracks deve-lopment, the physical and geometric non-linearity are among them. Accordingly, for each of these problems the main challenges, features and practical techniques developed during the work are presented, as well as the constructed finite element models are presented as an illustration. Originality. The experience of construction-oriented software product usage on the basis of the Finite Element Method for analyzing of the work of machine-building structures is generalized. A number of practical methods and approaches to the solution of various problems in the machine-building sphere are set forth. Practical value. The application of the given information, methods and approaches allows not only to solve concrete practical problems of the machine-building sphere, but also to obtain correct and practically acceptable solutions.
Thermal and mechanical coupling effects on permeability of weakly cemented sandstone
Authors: You Shuang , Ji Hongguang , Wang Tao , Song Zhaoyang
Published: April 2018

The weakly cemented sandstone is the host rock in the Cretaceous and Jurassic strata with low intensity, high water-bearing capacity and sensitivity to disturbance. In order to investigate the influence of temperature and confining pressure on the permeability of weakly cemented sandstone, scanning electron microscope were used to characterize microstructure of the particles, a series of triaxial creep tests were performed on coarse sandstone, medium sandstone and fine sandstone separately, and the effect of particle size on the permeability of sandstone was also analyzed. The results indicate that the increase of confining pressure led to the plastic deformation between the rock particles, that permeability was irreversible as the confining pressure changed, and that the permeability reduction rate of coarse sandstone was lower than that of fine sandstone. The sensitivity of weakly cemented sandstone to temperature and confining pressure increased as the sizes of the particles decreased, and the effect on permeability was more obvious.
Grading evolution and critical state in a discrete numerical model of Fontainebleau sand
Authors: Ciantia M. O. , Arroyo M. , O'Sullivan C. , Gens A. , Liu T.
Published: April 2018

Granular materials reach critical states upon shearing. The position and shape of a critical state line (CSL) in the compression plane are important for constitutive models, interpretation of in situ tests and liquefaction analyses. It is not fully clear how grain crushing may affect the identification and uniqueness of the CSL in granular soils. Discrete-element simulations are used here to establish the relation between breakage-induced grading evolution and the CSL position in the compression plane. An efficient model of particle breakage is applied to perform a large number of tests, in which grading evolution is continuously tracked using a grading index. Using both previous and new experimental results, the discrete-element model is calibrated and validated to represent Fontainebleau sand, a quartz sand. The results obtained show that, when breakage is present, the inclusion of a grading index in the description of critical states is advantageous. This can be simply done using the critical state plane (CSP) concept. A CSP is obtained for Fontainebleau sand.
Briefing: Occupational safety and health regulations in Oman
Authors: Umar Tariq , Egbu Charles , Wamuziri Sam , Honnurvali Mohamed Shaik
Published: April 2018

Poor occupational safety and health (OS&H) results in an economic burden of 4% of the total world gross domestic product (GDP). Effective OS&H regulations and their implementation are one of the main factors in achieving an improved safety performance. This article discusses the current OS&H regulations applicable in all industries including construction in Oman. Construction is one of the main industries in Oman, which contributes about 9% towards its GDP. This article attempts to offer some basic understanding of the OS&H regulations applicable to both employees and employers in Oman. The current regulations comprise four chapters and 43 articles, which address some of the key areas, including the specifications of worker uniform and personal protection equipment, medical care, precautions against hazards, special precautionary measures, OS&H management system and enforcement by ministry inspectors. The minimum number of employees for an employer to have a qualified OS&H supervisor is 50. Different agreements between Oman and the International Labour Organization indicate that Oman is committed to implementing the National Programme for Work, which aims to build Oman’s labour market and to provide decent work.
EFL Reading Metacomprehension from the Developmental Perspective: A Longitudinal Case
Authors: Šamo Renata , Mikulec Alenka
Published: April 2018

As the first half of the literacy equation (reading + writing = literacy), reading is primarily considered a dynamic meaning-focused interaction in which the reader is required to build comprehension of a text in a non-linear way. In other words, the reader is constantly checking the degree to which he or she understands the given information, simultaneously trying to identify comprehension failures and employ efficient repair strategies. This ability is termed metacomprehension; when it is enhanced, comprehension is generally more successful. Metacomprehension appears to be even more important for non-native readers because of their limited vocabulary and grammar. This is the key theoretical background of the single case study described in the current paper since it follows the developmental path of an EFL learner (Croatian teenager) with special focus on his reading ability. The main aim of the study was to see how his metacomprehension would develop over an extended period of exposure to EFL in the school setting. It was based on the hypothesis that extended exposure would result in better awareness of comprehension during the reading process. The study was conducted in two parts (Grade 5 and Grade 8) and comprised a number of stages. Being a case study, multiple sources and techniques were applied in gathering data, both qualitative and quantitative, such as: a multiple-choice comprehension test, a questionnaire for measuring the reader’s awareness of strategic reading processes (in Grade 5), an English proficiency test, a text restoration task, the self-revelation (stream-of-consciousness data) technique, a post-reading interview, and observation notes (in Grade 8). The results obtained initially indicated the participant’s good EFL reading comprehension performance but later showed that he was less successful, which was related to his poor EFL proficiency. In terms of reading strategy, it can be added that, despite some initial strategic abilities, the participant did not significantly develop his strategic behaviour for EFL reading. To conclude, prolonged exposure to EFL did not lead to better reading metacomprehension in this particular school learner.
Incidence and Nature of Negotiations for Meaning during Uncontrolled Speaking Practice in English as a Foreign Language Classrooms
Authors: Garcia-Ponce Edgar Emmanuell , Mora-Pablo Irasema
Published: April 2018

The past three decades have seen an increasing interest in negotiation for meaning as interactional processes which advance language acquisition. Motivated by this claim, a number of studies have set out to determine the tasks that best promote negotiations for meaning (NfMs). However, this research has mostly tended to investigate NfM under experimental conditions, leaving considerably unexplored the negotiated interactions that might take place in real English as a foreign language (EFL) classrooms. In response to this, the present study sets out to investigate the incidence and nature of NfM in three uncontrolled EFL classrooms. In examining several teacher- and learner-led speaking tasks at basic, intermediate and advanced levels, the findings indicate that the amount of NfM is lower than those reported in previous studies. Moreover, a qualitative analysis of the interactional data suggests that the NfM across proficiency levels was limited in nature, and thus did not provide learners with all the learning benefits inherent in negotiation for meaning. These findings raise intriguing questions as to teachers’ and learners’ opportunities to negotiate meaning during EFL classroom interactions, and ways through which they can promote negotiated interactions in their EFL classrooms.
The Effects of Mnemonic Vocabulary Instruction on Content Vocabulary Learning of Students
Authors: Fasih Parima , Izadpanah Siros , Shahnavaz Ali
Published: April 2018

The present article is an investigation about the effects of mnemonic vocabulary teaching to improve content vocabulary learning in EFL classrooms. A major issue with the most of the past studies was that they paid little or no attention to the effects of using mnemonic strategies to improve content vocabulary learning. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how key word mnemonic vocabulary teaching can improve the comprehension and learning of the content vocabulary for the students. To this end, 256 third year senior high school students from 6 senior high schools in Zanjan (Iran) were selected through a multistage cluster random sampling method and based on the Cambridge placement test (2010), 230 students proved to be upper intermediate. A quasi-experimental design was used to determine the effects of a mnemonic vocabulary intervention on content vocabulary learning. In this article there were one control group (A, n=115), and one experimental group (C, n=115) all of which were male and there were selected randomly. This study was done in May 2017, and over four weeks, in two thirty-minute sessions per week, group C received key word mnemonic instruction. In order to test the effects of mnemonic vocabulary teaching on content vocabulary learning, the covariance analysis was employed and the results demonstrated that by eliminating the covariance factor of the pre-test, mnemonic vocabulary instruction improved content vocabulary learning for students. The use of keyword mnemonics as a means to differentiate instruction is an educational result that can assist teachers.
Colony PCR with ready-to-load PCR master mix (similar to GoTaq) v1
Authors: Floor Stephen
Published: April 2018

This protocol makes a master mix for PCR that is ready to load into an agarose gel. Useful for colony PCR and related.
Dengue virus type 1 (DENV-1) TaqMan (DENV1-TM2017) assay v1
Authors: M Mackay Ian , A Northill Judy
Published: April 2018

This protocol was designed and developed at this laboratory. The assay specifically targets the 3' UTR region of DENV-1 and is designed as a qualitative screening test for human cases of DENV-1 infection, but not other known DENVs.
Human rhinovirus screening conventional RT-PCR ("Gama assay") v4
Authors: M Mackay Ian , E. Arden Katherine
Published: April 2018

This is a very handy, previously published [Ref 1 and 2], rhinovirus (RV) screening and genotyping assay which I and many others have used on many sample extracts, mostly originating fromacutely ill paediatric patients, spanning well over a decade's worth of collection dates. I have not confirmedthat it can detectevery single RV genotype but I do know that it detectsmanyfrom each of the threeRV species (Human rhinovirus A,Human rhinovirus BandHuman rhinovirus C) as well as at least someHuman enterovirus(EV) genotypes. The assay picks up EVs due to the shared genetic similarities inthe5'UTR target region. This assay produces a useful backup subgenomic sequencing target for use primarilyshould the 'Wisdom VP42' protocol fail to amplifya product for sequencing. It is worth noting that these primers spana target region that can produce confusing results. Recombination withinthe 5' end of the genome of somemembers of the genusEnterovirus can lead to 5'UTR sequences generated by RV-C genotypes that appear to be RV-As (see the figure below in which green RV-Cs appear in what is expected to be the red RV-A branch of the phylogenetic tree).
Dengue virus (DENV) universal MGB TaqMan 2017 v4
Authors: M Mackay Ian , A Northill Judy
Published: April 2018

This protocol was designed and developed at this laboratory. The assay targets the capsid peptide coding region of DENV 1-4 and is desigend as a qualitative screening test for human cases of DENV infection.
Anadolu sığla ağacı (Liquidambar orientalis Mill.) beş yaşlı fidanlarında bazı kantitatif karakterlerin çeşitliliği
Authors: Alan Murat , Velioğlu Ercan , Ezen Turgay , Şıklar Sadi , Öztürk Hikmet
Published: April 2018

Anadolu sığla ağacı yayılış alanının tamamında 18 populasyon örneklenmiş, bu populasyonlar moleküler belirteç yöntemi ile değerlendirilerek genetik çeşitliliği en yüksek dokuz adet populasyon (Bozdağ, Çetibeli, Değirmenyanı, Günlükbaşı, Günnücek, Kıyra, Köyceğiz, Yatağan, Yılanlı) belirlenmiştir. Belirlenen bu populasyonlardan örneklenen 16-27 arasında değişen ağaçtan tohumlar toplanmıştır. Toplanan tohumlarla yetiştirilen fidanlar kullanılarak tesadüf blokları deneme deseninde, tek ağaç parsel düzenlemesi ile 2009 yılında 25 bloklu bir deneme kurulmuştur. Her blokta toplam 223 aile yer almış; beşinci yaşta boy, göğüs çapı ve tepe tacı ölçülmüştür. Özelliklerin tamamında populasyonlar ve aileler arası farklılıklar istatistik olarak önemli bulunmuştur. Populasyonlar için farklı gruplara bakıldığında, genel olarak Bozdağ ile Yatağan populasyonları dışındaki populasyonlar bir grupta yer almışlardır. Ayrıca Bozdağ ve Yatağan populasyonları da birbirlerinden istatistik olarak farklılık göstermiştir. Populasyonlar arasında bulunan genetik mesafeler ve bu mesafelere göre oluşturulan benzerlik ağacında da Bozdağ ve Yatağan populasyonlarının farklı olduğu ortaya çıkmıştır. Aile ortalamaları kalıtım dereceleri ve standart hataları, göğüs çapı, boy ve taç çapı için sırasıyla 0,54 ± 0,09; 0,62 ± 0,09 ve 0,40 ± 0,10 genetik varyasyon katsayıları aynı sırayla % 13,4; % 9,1 ve % 7,1 bulunmuştur. Bulgular gen koruma açısından değerlendirilmiştir.
Crack detection using serrated columnar phased array transducers
Authors: Zou Cheng , Sun Zhenguo , Cai Dong , Zhang Wenzeng , Chen Qiang
Published: April 2018

This paper presents an ultrasonic non-destructive technique for detecting cracks on the outside surface of hollow shafts, specifically on the hollow axles used in high-speed railway trains. Traditionally, the cracks on the outside surface of hollow shafts have been detected from the
inside of the central bore with monocrystal or phased array (PA) ultrasonic transducers. However, this approach still requires wedges and mechanical rotation to scan the entire cross-section while moving along the axial direction. This paper studies the performance of a serrated columnar phased
array ultrasonic transducer (SCPAUT) in the detection of longitudinal cracks on the outside surface of a hollow axle specimen. By rotating each rectangular element of a columnar phased array with a proper angle, the SCPAUT was designed to transmit shear waves through the curved inner interface
and rotationally scan the outside surface with electrical control. A prototype SCPAUT probe was made and evaluated on a cut hollow specimen with a certain number of artificial longitudinal cracks on the outside surface. The depths of the cracks ranged from 1 mm to 5 mm and numerous cracks
were manufactured with a certain inclined angle relative to the normal direction of the outside surface. The finite element method (FEM) technique was used to study the ultrasonic wave propagation and the results were compared to those from a dynamic photoelastic experiment. The results demonstrated
that the wave beam transmitted from the SCPAUT could be rotated axially and focused on the outside surface by using electrical control. The artificial longitudinal cracks were detected in the experimental test and the results of B-scan imaging of the cracks were presented.
Evaluating the efficacy of Tigecycline to target multiple cancer-types: A Review
Authors: Arora Ritika , Jain Shreya , Rahimi Hanieh
Published: April 2018

Tigecycline (TIG) is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved antibiotic that has recently demonstrated its anti-cancer properties in diverse tumour types. This review will discuss current research findings and future directions pertaining to the use of TIG in mitigating acute myeloid leukemia (AML), non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), gastric cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), breast cancer, melanoma, cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC), and glioblastoma (GM). TIG exerts its therapeutic effects via inhibition of mitochondrial functionality, interference of various signal transduction pathways, and acting synergistically with pre-existing chemotherapy drugs, all of which contribute to cell death. In comparison to conventional treatments such as chemotherapy, TIG may result in less severe and reduced side effects; this may be attributed to its selectivity and non-invasiveness. Upon evaluation of TIG’s efficacy in targeting multiple cancer-types, future efforts should aim to validate findings through human trials, broadening the scope of cancers targeted, establishing novel TIG derivatives, and assessing its performance when used in combination with other treatments.
Study of serum homocysteine level in cases of non-diabetic ischemic stroke
Authors: Murmu Malati , K. P. Karun Mahesh , Dash Sanjay , Singh Lagendra Kumar , Kar Ayaskanta , Mishra Pravin Kumar
Published: April 2018

Background: Aim of the study was to measure serum homocysteine levels in non-diabetic ischemic stroke and to co-relate its significance with other risk factors of ischemic stroke. It was a case control study.Methods: The study was done in the Department of Medicine, VSS.I.M.S.A.R, Burla, Odisha. 42 patients of non-diabetic ischemic and 42 age and sex matched controls were included in the study. Adults above the age of 18 years who were non-diabetic presenting with first-ever ischemic stroke, confirmed by CT scan of brain were included. Diabetic patients, haemorrhagic stroke, suspected embolic stroke, patients on vitamin supplementations, chronic usage of phenytoin were excluded. Routine investigations, fasting serum lipid profile and serum homocysteine levels were done.Results: Mean serum homocysteine level in ischemic stroke patients were found to be much higher (25.83 micro mol/L) in comparison to control group (9.77 micro mol/L) which is statistically significant. Mean serum homocysteine levels were found to be higher in patients with age group of more than 60 years, male sex, sedentary lifestyle, vegetarian diet, hypertensive patients and patient with normal fasting lipid profile. Statistical analysis for significance of difference was done using Chi-Square test with Yate’s correction.Conclusions: A statistically significant correlation was found between all the studied risk factors among non-diabetic patients and serum homocysteine levels. Estimation of serum homocysteine is advisable in all cases of non-diabetic ischemic strokes to know the prognosis.
Тенденции и перспективы демографического развития сельских территорий регионов Северо-Западного федерального округа
Authors: Короленко Александра Владимировна
Published: April 2018

В статье представлен анализ тенденций и перспектив демографического развития сельских территорий субъектов Северо-Западного федерального округа. Автором осуществлен обзор динамики численности, возрастной структуры, показателей воспроизводства сельского населения. Методом передвижки по возрастам построен вариативный демографический прогноз до 2035 г., на основании которого выделены типы регионов СЗФО по характеру изменения прогнозной численности сельских жителей: регионы со стабильно растущей численностью сельского населения, регионы с нестабильной динамикой численности сельского населения, регионы со стабильно снижающейся численностью сельского населения. В заключении делается вывод о необходимости использования в управлении устойчивым развитием сельских территорий дифференцированного подхода, учитывающего индивидуальные особенности и специфику сложившейся в регионах ситуации.
IN-COUNTRY VALUE (ICV) – ENTREPRENEURIAL OPPORTUNITIES IN THE COMPANIES OF OMAN
Authors: Shezawi Halima Ali Al , Khan Dr. M. Firdouse Rahman
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The objectives of the study are to analyze to the opportunities created for the new entrepreneurs through the In-Country Value (ICV) scheme; to analyze the benefits earned by the entrepreneurs through ICV in the selected companies of Oman and to critically analyze the impact of in-country value in the economic growth of Oman.

Design/methodology/approach

To carry out this research study, exploratory approach was adopted. Secondary data were obtained from seven selected companies in Oman, and the data was collected from the four perspectives of ICV, and the collected data was analyzed, and the conclusion was drawn.

Findings

The study reveals that ICV initiatives have brought a great change in the local economy through enhancement of human skills and exploration of the capabilities of human resources and the potentialities of SMEs and the ICV strategy opens opportunities to the new entrepreneurs from the local community to come up with self-employment and encourages local entrepreneurs.

Research limitations/Implications

The study reveals that the selected companies are following their own pattern of plans, programs, and strategies and there is no uniform pattern to adjudge their performances. The Ministries should define clear guidelines and periodic reports should be generated and should be publicized that will boost up the morale of the budding entrepreneurs and the local Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

Social implications

The study reveals that the ICV strategy adds value to the growth of local economy and thereby the national economy through the efforts of SMEs of Oman.

 Originality/Value

No one has ever examined the effect of ICV strategy in the local and economic development of Oman, it is a first-hand study of its kind, and the results will be useful to streamline the strategies for ICV initiatives.
Yogis, Ayurveda, and Kayakalpa
Authors: Newcombe Suzanne
Published: April 2018

How should we read claims about health and well-being which defy common sense?  Are claims of extreme longevity to be viewed as fraudulent, or as pushing the boundaries of possibility for the human body?  This article will consider the narrative and context around a particularly well-publicized incident of rejuvenation therapy, advertised as kāyakalpa (body transformation or rejuvenation), from 1938. In this year, the prominent Congress Activist and co-founder of Banaras Hindu University, Madan Mohan Malaviya (1861–1946), underwent an extreme – and very public – rejuvenation treatment under the care of a sadhu using the name of Shriman Tapasviji (c.1770?-1955). The first half of the article will explore the presentation of Malaviya’s treatment and how it inspired a focus on rejuvenation therapy within Indian medicine in the years immediately following. Exploring this mid-twentieth century incident highlight some of the themes and concerns of the historical period, just out of living memory, but in many ways similar to our own.
Transmutations: Rejuvenation, Longevity, and Immortality Practices in South and Inner Asia
Authors: Wujastyk Dagmar , Newcombe Suzanne , Barois Christèle
Published: April 2018

Wild and diverse outcomes are associated with transmutational practices: the prolongation of life, the recovery of youth, the cure of diseases, invincibility, immortality, enlightenment, liberation from the cycle of rebirths, and unending bliss. This range of outcomes is linked to specific practices taught in separate traditions and lineages in medical, alchemical, yogic and tantric milieus across South and Inner Asia. These practices can be individual or collective, esoteric or secular, and occur in different places from hospital to village to monastery; they involve transmutations of substances as well as transmutations of the body. Every expression by a particular lineage has a distinguishing articulation. Yet there are also very clear commonalities and interconnections between the traditions’ aims, methods and expected results. In this special issue of HSSA, we examine transmutational practices and their underlying concepts in this wider context of South and Inner Asian culture. How do these practices and ideas connect and cross-fertilise? And conversely, how are they delineated and distinct?
In vitro propagation of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) cultivars
Authors: Abubakar A. S. , Yahaya S. U. , Shaibu A. S. , Yahaya S. U. , Ibrahim H. , Ibrahim A. K. , Lawan Z. M. , Isa A. M.
Published: April 2018

The study is aimed at establishing a simple protocol for in vitro regeneration of sweet potato with a view to providing planting materials to farmers as well as basis for genetic improvement. Axillary buds were excised and cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal salts supplemented with 6-benzyl aminopurine (BAP), gibberellic acid (GA3) and naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) singly or in combination. The shoot height and number of leaves differed significantly among the cultivars. The result also indicated significant difference (p less than 0.01) among the cultivars with King J recording the highest mean values. Significant differences (p less than 0.05) was also recorded in the media combination with respect to organogenesis and number of shoots obtained. The results of hardening further revealed 33.33% success in the explants transferred directly to the field, as well as for the plantlets that were gradually weaned in a mixture of 3:1 sand and biochar.
Effect of feeding cotton seed cake (CSC) on growth performance and blood biochemical profile in Mehsana buffalo calves
Authors: Barman Deepandita , Prajapati K. B. , Pawar M. M. , Das Hemen , Prasad C. Kotresh , Ahirwar Maneesh
Published: April 2018

The present study was conducted in 20 growing female Mehsana buffalo calves to study the effect of feeding cotton seed cake with the objective to increase growth and blood biochemical profile. Mehsana buffalo calves of 3-6 months of age were randomly divided in two groups on the basis of body weight and age. Group I was control (T1) fed Banasdan (concentrate mixture) whereas, group II (T2) was fed with cottonseed cake @ 700g, 850g and 960g for 1st, 2nd and 3rd month of treatment, respectively in addition to concentrate feed. Both the groups fed green fodder @ 3kg and dry fodder @ 1kg per day throughout the experiment. Body weights of individual calves were recorded at the commencement of the experiment and followed by monthly interval. Blood- biochemical constituents were recorded on day 1 and thereafter on day 90 of experiment period to analyze the changes in blood constituents in T1 and T2 groups. Average daily body weight gain of calves during the experimental period was higher (P less than 0.01) in T2 group as compared to T1 group. The serum glucose level was higher (P less than 0.05) in T1 group than T2 on day 90. The values of serum cholesterol, protein, globulin, ALP, SGOT and SGPT concentration were also significantly (P less than 0.01) higher in T2 group than T1 on day 90. However, the differences for serum albumin, A/G ratio, calcium and phosphorus on day 90 were found to be non-significant whereas metabolic hormone level T3 and T4 were significantly (P less than 0.01) higher in T2 than T1 on day 90. The results are indicative of supplementation of cotton seed cake in addition to Banasdan accelerated the growth, blood biochemical parameters and hormonal levels.
Detection of Brucella antibodies in selected wild animals and avian species in Pakistan
Authors: Ali Shahzad , Saleem Samra , Imran Muhammad , Rizwan Muhammad , Iqbal Khizar , Qadir Ghulam , Ahmad Haroon , Umar Sajid , Khan Waseem Ahmad , Khan Iahtasham , Neubauer Heinrich
Published: April 2018

Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease which affects humans, farm animals and wildlife as well. In Pakistan, the status of human and farm animal brucellosis is documented but the information about brucellosis in wildlife is lacking. To access the seroprevalence of Brucella antibodies in avian (turkeys, peafowl, guineafowl, mallard ducks and Indian blue rock pigeon) and selected wild species (reptiles and amphibians), a total of 117 serum samples (reptile = 34, amphibian = 04, avian n = 79) were collected from Karachi and Pattoki regions of Pakistan. Serum samples were screened for Brucella antibodies using Rose Bengal plate test (RBPT) and11.1% serum samples were found positive. Overall, 2.5% birds, 29.4% reptiles and 25% amphibians were seropositive for Brucella antibodies. This is first report of detection of Brucella antibodies in reptiles and amphibians in Pakistan.