bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Susceptibility of Several Plum (Prunus Domestica L.) Cultivars to Plum Pox Virus (Ppv) Infection in the Field. Sharka-Like Symptoms Observed on 'Jojo' Fruit are Not Related to PPV
Authors: Malinowski Tadeusz , Rozpara Elżbieta , Grzyb Zygmunt S.
Published: July 2013

Susceptibility of plum cultivars: 'Katinka', 'Jubileum', 'Diana', 'Valjevka', 'Żółta Afaska', 'Elena', 'Jojo', 'President', 'Vision', and 'Węgierka Zwykła' (Pozegaca type, included as reference, highly susceptible cultivar) to aphid-vectored Plum pox virus (strain D), was evaluated. The trees were grown for 7-8 years in the field characterized with high infection pressure. 'Katinka' and 'President' showed susceptibility even higher than 'Węgierka Zwykła'. 'Vision' and 'Valjevka' showed relatively low susceptibility with less than 30% of trees becoming infected. All 'Jojo' trees remained free from ELISA-detectable amounts of PPV, although a high percentage of the fruit of this cultivar showed sharka-like symptoms on stones and fruit flesh. The reason for that phenomenon is not known.
Genetic Variability, Inheritance and Correlation for Mineral Contents in Cabbage (Brassica Oleracea Var. Capitata L.)
Authors: Singh B.K. , Sharma S.R. , Singh B.
Published: July 2013

Brassica vegetables are important sources of dietary minerals. However, information on the inheritance and correlation for content of mineral elements such as iron, zinc, copper, manganese, potassium, and calcium in cabbage, which is essential if the quality of this vegetable is to be improved through breeding, is not available. Therefore, the experiment was set up with seventy-one cabbage genotypes including cultivars, germplasm and F1 hybrids grown in field. Mineral composition of the genotypes tested differed highly significantly indicating the presence of adequate amount of variability. A high heritability (>80%) accompanied by high genetic advance as percentage of mean (>40%) for uptake and accumulation of Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn and Ca indicates the predominance of additive gene, which could be improved by hybridization followed by selection breeding approach. Nevertheless, heterosis breeding would be an imperative in increasing the K content in cabbage heads as indicated by non-additive gene action for K accumulation having high heritability (>80%) and low genetic advance as percentage of mean (<30%). Moreover, both additive and non-additive genes were responsible for individual head weight. A positive correlation for Fe, Zn and Mn contents with other minerals will help in simultaneous selection of mineral elements. Nevertheless, major yield contributing ‘head weight’ was negatively correlated with minerals content and emphasized the selection of smaller head size to maintain the higher minerals content in tissues of cabbage heads. Hence, assessing the heritability, inheritance and correlation for minerals would be useful in the developing mineral-rich and productive genotypes.
Comparison of Yield and Quality of Red Beet Roots Cultivated Using Conventional, Integrated and Organic Method
Authors: Szopińska Anna A. , Gawęda Maria
Published: July 2013

The experiment on different means of cultivation of red beet cv. ‘Regulski Cylinder’ was conducted in the years 2006-2009, using conventional, integrated, and organic methods. The greatest impact on total and commercial yield, the average root weight, dry weight and chemical constituents’ content in the roots had the season. In the years 2006 and 2008, the highest total and marketable yields of beet roots were obtained by organic method, but in 2009 these parameters were the lowest in organically produced plants. Total yield was correlated with mean root weight. In the years 2006 and 2008, betanine content was the lowest in organically produced roots while in the year 2009 it was the highest. The low yield of marketable roots and the low nitrates’ content were the only two parameters, which distinguished organically produced red beet roots throughout the years of experiment.
The influence of habitat conditions on the plankton in the Białe oxbow lake (Nadbużański Landscape Park)
Authors: Pasztaleniec Agnieszka , Karpowicz Maciej , Strzałek Małgorzata
Published: July 2013

The spatial differentiation of the physico-chemical parameters (KdPAR, pH, DOC, nutrient concentrations) and plankton communities (phytoplankton, Crustacea) was considered in the system: the water column without macrophytes, pleustophytes - lemnids (duckweeds) and hornwort Ceratophyllum demersum. It was demonstrated that at the study sites different habitat conditions occurred, which were related to the macrophyte assemblages. The highest values of the phytoplankton biomass and the greatest algal biodiversity were found in the site without vegetation, in both species-specific and functional terms. Zooplankton, dominated by Copepoda, reached the greatest density and species diversity at the Ceratophyllum site. Despite the substantial differentiation of habitats, the plankton diversity was quite low.
Hydromorphological assessment of the anastomosing section of the Narew River after restoration
Authors: Zieliński Piotr , Suchowolec Tomasz
Published: July 2013

Five parallel channels of the Narew River (NE Poland) were hydromorphologically assessed with the River Habitat Survey (RHS) method. Four out of the five studied channels were partly separated from the functioning system of the anastomosing river by a dike for more than 20 years, and were subjected to gradual overgrowing and shallowing. In the 1990’s and in 2002, a number of renaturisation measures were implemented, restoring sufficient discharge for the channels to make them active again. The Habitat Modification Score (HMS) obtained as a result of the survey only classifies the fragment ecologically to the third class of streams with high HMS value in the case of the current main channel of the Narew River (largely formed in an artificial manner). This suggests substantial anthropogenic changes in the river channel and its vicinity. The aggregate values of the Habitat Quality Assessment (HQA) index suggest the preservation of numerous environmentally valuable elements at all of the five studied sites of the anastomosing Narew River system. This even concerns channels which remained almost separated and functioned as oxbow lakes for more than 20 years. The highest HQA values were recorded in the case of the channel constituting the main channel before the regulation, and a neighbouring regulated channel currently fulfilling the function of the main water course in this cross-section. In spite of long-term negative changes, the studied fragment of the ecosystem of the anastomosing river is distinguished by high resistance to “anthropogenic stress”, and high capacity for spontaneous restoration of a state close to the natural one. Although lotic ecosystems constitute elements of the natural environment particularly sensitive to anthropopressure, they retain the ability to regenerate for a long time, under the condition of providing them with relevant hydrological and ecological conditions.
Additional Dialogue by… Versions of Shakespeare in the World’s Multiplexes
Authors: Paterson Ronan
Published: July 2013

William Shakespeare has been part of the cinema since 1899. In the twentieth century almost a thousand films in some way based upon his plays were made, but the vast majority of those which sought to faithfully present his plays to the cinema audience failed at the box office. Since the start of the twenty-first century only one English language film using Shakespeare’s text has made a profit, yet at the same time Shakespeare has become a popular source for adaptations into other genres. This essay examines the reception of a number of adaptations as gangster films, teen comedies, musicals and thrillers, as well as trans-cultural assimilations. But this very proliferation throws up other questions, as to what can legitimately be called an adaptation of Shakespeare. Not every story of divided love is an adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. Different adaptations and assimilations have enjoyed differing degrees of success, and the essay interrogates those aspects which make the popular cinema audience flock to see Shakespeare in such disguised form, when films which are more faithfully based upon the original plays are so much less appealing to the audience in the Multiplexes.
Reality Television for Community Development
Authors: Ramafoko Lebo , Andersson Gavin , Weiner Renay
Published: July 2013

Kwanda was an innovative community development initiative of the Soul City Institute and partners. Five deprived communities were challenged to make their areas `look better, feel better and work better’ by addressing health and development issues. Responses to this challenge were documented in a 13-episode reality TV series that culminated in a viewer vote for the most successful community. The series attracted more than a million viewers on late-night television, and feedback indicated that many viewers were motivated to take action. The evaluation of the initiative led to the conclusion that Kwanda offers possibilities for using the reality TV format to foster community development and the scaling-up of development messaging. Importantly, Kwanda demonstrated that when communities organise on their own behalf, government is better able to deliver. The evaluation also raised several questions for the Kwanda partners which would need to be taken into account in future efforts.
Through Rose or Blue and White Glasses?
Authors: Lounasmeri Lotta
Published: July 2013

The Finnish public discussion culture has often been criticized of being unanimous and consensual. In different times political journalism has treated foreign and home affairs as well as economic policy with care. In the present article, attention is paid to Finnish foreign reporting about the Soviet Union during the last decades of its existence. The empirical material used consists of media texts on major events during the Soviet era as well as interviews with key editors-in-chief at the time. The objective is to describe and analyze the ways in which critical reporting was carried out in different Finnish newspapers and the reasons behind this.
Coopetition in international maritime shipping
Authors: Lin Dung-Ying , Huang Chien-Chih
Published: July 2013

The increasingly competitive nature of maritime freight transport has stimulated carriers to improve efficiency and lower costs. The industry has gradually matured, and it has recently become the case that the larger a carrier is, the more competitive advantage it has. Therefore, carriers form strategic alliances to collaborate with each other so that they can reduce their operational costs due to economies of scale. At the same time, such alliances allow carriers to improve the quality of their service by increasing their network coverage. Although carriers collaborate to improve their operational efficiency, they compete with each other simultaneously. In other words, a game of coopetition among carriers has developed in international maritime freight transport in recent years. In this study, we propose a theoretical framework for characterizing coopetition in international maritime shipping and investigating how carriers can manage their business models. Empirical studies, together with salient analytical results, are presented and discussed.
Intrathoracic malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors: imaging features and implications for management
Authors: Kamran Sophia Constance , Shinagare Atul Bhanudas , Holler Howard Stephanie Anne , Nishino Mizuki , Hornick Jason Laurence , Krajewski Katherine Margaret , Ramaiya Nikhil Himmatsinh
Published: July 2013

Background. The aim of the study was to analyze the clinical and imaging characteristics of primary intrathoracic malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs).

Patients and methods. In this institutional review board (IRB)-approved retrospective study, clinical and imaging features of 15 patients (eight men; mean age 50 years [range 18-83)] with pathologically proven malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors seen from January 1999 to December 2011 were analyzed. Imaging features (CT in 15, MRI in 5 and PET/CT in 4) of primary tumors were evaluated by three radiologists and correlated with clinical management.

Results. Of the 15 tumors, six were located in the mediastinum (two each in anterior, middle and posterior mediastinum), four in chest wall, two were paraspinal, and three in the lung. Four patients had neurofibromatosis-1 (NF1); four tumors had heterologous rhabdomyoblastic differentiation (malignant triton tumor). Masses typically were elongated along the direction of nerves, with mean size of 11 cm. The masses were hypo- or isodense to muscles on CT, isointense on T1-weighted images, hyperintense on T2-weighted images and intensely fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) avid (mean standardized uptake value [SUV]max of 10.5 [range 4.4-23.6]). Necrosis and calcification was seen in four tumors each. Finding of invasion of adjacent structures on imaging led to change in management in seven patients; patients with invasion received chemoradiation.

Conclusions. Intrathoracic MPNSTs appear as large elongated masses involving mediastinum, lung or chest wall. Radiological identification of invasion of adjacent structures is crucial and alters therapy, with patients with invasion receiving neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemoradiation.
Biological evaluation of transdichloridoplatinum( II) complexes with 3- and 4-acetylpyridine in comparison to cisplatin
Authors: Filipovic Lana , Arandelovic Sandra , Gligorijevic Nevenka , Krivokuca Ana , Jankovic Radmila , Srdic-Rajic Tatjana , Rakic Gordana , Tesic Zivoslav , Radulovic Sinisa
Published: July 2013

Background. In our previous study we reported the synthesis and cytotoxicity of two trans-platinum(II) complexes: trans-[PtCl2(3-acetylpyridine)2] (1) and trans-[PtCl2(4-acetylpyridine)2] (2), revealing significant cytotoxic potential of 2. In order to evaluate the mechanism underlying biological activity of both trans-Pt(II) isomers, comparative studies versus cisplatin were performed in HeLa, MRC-5 and MS1 cells.

Materials and methods. The cytotoxic activity of the investigated complexes was determined using SRB assay. The colagenolytic activity was determined using gelatin zymography, while the effect of platinum complexes on matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 mRNA expression was evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR. Apoptotic potential and cell cycle alterations were determined by FACS analyses. Western blot analysis was used to evaluate the effect on expression of DNA-repair enzyme ERCC1, and quantitative real-time PCR was used for the ERCC1 mRNA expression analysis. In vitro antiangiogenic potential was determined by tube formation assay. Platinum content in intracellular DNA and proteins was determined by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry.

Results. Compound 2 displayed an apparent cytoselective profile, and flow cytometry analysis in HeLa cells indicated that 2 exerted antiproliferative effect through apoptosis induction, while 1 induced both apoptosis and necrosis. Action of 1 and 2, as analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot, was associated with down-regulation of ERCC1. Both trans-complexes inhibited MMP-9 mRNA expression in HeLa, while 2 significantly abrogated in vitro tubulogenesis in MS1 cells. Conclusions. The ability of 2 to induce multiple and selective in vitro cytotoxic effects encourages further investigations of trans-platinum(II) complexes with substituted pyridines.
Reactivity of Granulated Blast Furnace Slag
Authors: Behim Mourd , Beddar Miloud , Clastres Pierre
Published: July 2013

The Algerian iron and steel complex of El Hadjar, near the city of Annaba, produces a granulated blast furnace slag (GBFS) mainly used by the local cement factories as an addition to clinker of up to 30 % as maximum content, for manufacturing a compound CEM II type cement (Algerian Standard).

With the aim, on the one hand, of limiting the use of high clinker content in Algerian cement plants and replacing it with other constituents such as granulated blast furnace slag and, on the other hand, to use this slag as an addition to local concrete, we have attempted to characterize it according to its degree of reactivity.

The use of chemical activity indexes and caustic soda tests lead to disappointing results that are contradicted by the results obtained on mortar within the scope of the standard determination of a hydraulic efficient index. The results obtained indicated that the classification of El Hadjer slag strongly depends on its degree of fineness; it also has weak short-term activity, denoting a slower kinetics of reaction compared to classical slag. These results permit us to recommend a minimal Blaine of 3500 cm2/g for this slag.

A more intensive use of this slag in cement and concrete is undoubtedly possible, but this must be demonstrated by conducting tests on mortar and validating by a study on concrete.
Influence of the American Financial Market on Other Markets During the Subprime Crisis
Authors: Płuciennik Piotr
Published: July 2013

Subprime crisis which started in the USA in 2007 was the cause of the most significant economic disturbances since the Great Depression in 1930s. Soon it transmitted to other countries, including those in which banks were not engaged in the subprime mortgage market. The crisis hit various sectors of national economies and led to changing of the trends on the stock markets, which are connected to American capital market. In the following article we researched the influence of the American market on the other markets in the context of the financial crisis. Our analysis is based on the results obtained from the multivariate parametric models. Seeing that the data space is high-dimensional, we used GO-GARCH models introduced by van der Weide (2005) and Boswijk and van der Weide (2006).
Measurement of the Efficiency of Mutual Funds Operating on the Pan-European Market
Authors: Witkowska Dorota
Published: July 2013

In the paper the performance of 18 selected European mutual funds is evaluated. Analysis is conducted for 6 samples distinguished from the period 15.09.2006-20.01.2012. Ranking of funds is provided applying the aggregated measures that base on well known Sharpe, Treynor and Jensen ratios and four different markets indexes e.g. Euro STOXX 50, DAX, CAC 40 and FTSE 100. In the composite indicators construction we use 60 classifications of the mutual funds.
Impact of cover crops and tillage on porosity of podzolic soil
Authors: Błażewicz-Woźniak M. , Konopiñski M.
Published: July 2013

The aim of the study was to determine the influence of cover crops biomass, mixed with the soil on different dates and with the use of different tools in field conditions. The cover crop biomass had a beneficial influence on the total porosity of the 0-20 cm layer of the soil after winter. The highest porosity was achievedwith cover crops of buckwheat, phacelia and mustard, the lowest with rye. During the vegetation period the highest porosity of soil was observed in the ridges. Among the remaining non-ploughing cultivations, pre-winter use of stubble cultivator proved to have a beneficial influence on the soil porosity, providing results comparable to those achieved in conventional tillage. The differential porosity of the soil was modified not only by the catch crops and the cultivation methods applied, but also by the sample collection dates, and it did change during the vegetation period. The highest content of macropores after winter was observed for the phacelia cover crop, and the lowest in the case of cultivation without any cover crops. Pre-winter tillage with the use of a stubble cultivator increased the amount of macropores in soil in spring, and caused the biggest participation of mesopores as compared with other non-ploughing cultivation treatments of the soil. The smallest amount of mesopores was found in the ridges.
Impact of erosion and tillage on the productivity and quality of selected semiarid soils of Iran
Authors: Mehdizade B. , Asadi H. , Shabanpour M. , Ghadiri H.
Published: July 2013

This greenhouse research was carried out to study the effects of water and tillage erosion on agricultural productivity and soil quality in soil samples from a semiarid region of Iran. A factorial experiment of complete randomized block design was used to compare the effects of soil erosion (eroded and non-eroded soils), slope position, water stress and fertilizer (N-P-K) on yield and yield components of wheat as soil productivity index. The results showed that erosion ie water and tillage erosion has a significant effect (p<0.01) in decreasing soil productivity due to its negative impact on soil organic matter, nutrients (N and K) and hydraulic conductivity. Complete N-P-K fertilization and water stress had significant effects on increasing and decreasing of wheat yield, respectively. The effect of water stress in particular was so high that it could eclipse the erosion impact on yield reduction. Wheat dry matter and grain mass on foot and mid slopes were significantly higher than that on upslope positions where total N and available K were the lowest and equivalent calcium carbonate the highest. Saturated hydraulic conductivity and total nitrogen were found to be the most important soil properties as far as their correlations to wheat yield are concerned.
Using the ARP-03 for high-resolution mapping of calcic horizons
Authors: Priori S. , Fantappič M. , Magini S. , Costantini E.A.C.
Published: July 2013

The aim of this work is to present a fast and cheap method for high-resolutionmapping of calcic horizons in vineyards based on geoelectrical proximal sensing. The study area, 45 ha located in southern Sicily (Italy), was characterized by an old, partially dismantled marine terrace and soils with a calcic horizon at different depths. The geoelectrical investigation consisted of a survey of the soil electrical resistivity recorded with the Automatic Resistivity Profiling-03 sensor. The electrical resistivity values at three pseudo-depths, 0-50, 0-100 and 0-170 cm, were spatialized by means of ordinary kriging. A principal component analysis of the three electrical resistivity maps was carried out. During the survey, 18 boreholes, located at different electrical resistivity values, were made for soil description and sampling. The depth to the calcic horizon showed a strong correlation with electrical resistivity. The regression model between calcic horizon and the principal component analysis factors with the highest correlation coefficients was selected to spatialise the calcic horizon values. An Normalized Difference Vegetation Index map was used to validate the calcic horizon map in terms of crop response to different soil rooting depths. The strengths of this method are the quick, non-invasive kind of survey, the relevance for vine vigour, and the high spatial resolution of the final map.
Optimal Planning of Pollution Emergency Response with Application of Navigational Risk Management
Authors: Gucma Lucjan , Juszkiewicz Wiesław , Łazuga Kinga
Published: July 2013

According to the HELCOM AIS, there are about 2,000 ships in the Baltic marine area at any given moment. The main environmental effects of shipping and other activities at sea include air pollution, illegal deliberate and accidental discharges of oil, hazardous substances and other wastes, and the unintentional introduction of invasive alien organisms via ships’ ballast water or hulls. Original oil pollution model and optimal allocation of response resources was proposed in the paper.
Finding Deformation of the Stright Rail Track by GNSS Measurements
Authors: Koc Władysław , Chrostowski Piotr , Specht Cezary
Published: July 2013

In 2009, at the Gdansk University of Technology and Polish Naval Academy there has been carried out, for the first time, continuous satellite surveying of railway track by the use of the relative phase method based on the Polish Active Geodetic Network ASG-EUPOS and RTK (GPRS) real time service - NAVGEO. The analysis indicated strong connection between location of GNSS receiver and accuracy of position determination, the horizon obstruction deteriorated accuracy and impacts terrain obstructions, the precise GPS planning process on the position solution. It can be stated that implemented measuring technique opens a whole new perspective on applied research. As proved, it enables very precise determination of basic data definition for railway line modernization design. On-going research works focuses on the GNSS multi-receivers platform evaluation for projecting and stocktaking.

Analyses also focused on the values of deviations of transverse position XTE (Cross Track Error). In order to eliminate the influence of random measurement errors and to obtain the coordinates representing the actual shape of the track, the XTE variable was performed by different statistical and regression methods (least square method - LSM, weighted least squares - WLS, Linear Chebyshev low-pass filtering and fast Fourier transform). The paper presents the result of trial analyses realized on the newly constructed (rectilinear) and old-used up railway lines. The authors were searching the methods for filtering random measurement GNSS errors different from instantaneous shape deformations of the straight rail track.
In Vivo Ultrasound Measurement of Posterior Femoral Glide During Hip Joint Mobilization in Healthy College Students
Authors: Loubert Peter V. , Zipple J. Tim , Klobucher Michael J. , Marquardt Eric D. , Opolka Matthew J.
Published: July 2013

Study Design

Descriptive study.

Objectives

To measure femoral translational glide in vivo during posterior hip joint mobilization and to interpret data in the context of the normal arthrokinematic glide necessary for hip flexion.

Background

Joint play, or translational glide available at a joint, is largely influenced by the geometry of the articular surfaces. The high degree of congruence between the articular surfaces at the hip and the substantial arc of concavity of the acetabulum suggests that the amount of translational glide available at the hip should be very small.

Methods

Twenty subjects received manual posteriorly directed hip mobilization at a force equal to 50% of their body weight, while concurrent ultrasound imaging of the joint was performed. Images were captured before and during application of the target mobilization force. Femoroacetabular distance for each image was measured, and the average of the 3 greatest differences between corresponding before/during mobilization values represented the translational glide produced. The amplitude of arthrokinematic glide (tangential glide) was calculated using the measured femoral head radius and hip flexion passive range of motion for each subject.

Results

The average posterior femoral translational glide was 2.0 mm (range, 0.8–4.2 mm). The average calculated tangential glide required for hip flexion passive range of motion was 53.8 mm (range, 43.2–64.8 mm). The average translational glide as a percentage of tangential glide was 3.8% (range, 1.5%–7.9%).

Conclusion

Translational glides at the hip are small, particularly in the context of the amplitude of glide necessary for normal hip flexion range of motion. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(8):534–541. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.4487
Estimation of Cephalometric Norm for Bangladeshi Children (Steiners Method)
Authors: Sajedeen M , Rizvi HM , Hossain MZ
Published: July 2013

Objective: The objective of this study was to establish cephalometric norms of Bangladeshi children age range (10-13years) and to compare it with accepted standards for the Caucasian population according to Steiner analysis. Methods: Fifty healthy Bangladeshi children both male and female, with a mean age of 12.3 years, were selected from different schools of Dhaka. Selection was made on the basis of normal occlusion, balanced and pleasing profile with no obvious facial asymmetry. None of the children have undergone orthodontic treatment prior to this study. Lateral skull cephalograms were taken and traced using a standardized technique. Each cephalogram was traced twice with a one week interval by the authors. All angular and linear measurements were calculated to the nearest 0.5 degree and 0.5 mm, respectively. Steiner's method of cephalometric analysis was used to establish cephalometric norms. Results: A comparison of the results with the Steiner standards showed that the Bangladeshi children were more protrusive skeletally and dentally with a greater tendency towards bimaxillary protrusion. Further, there was a decrease in the lower facial height. Conclusion: The results of the study support the fact that norms and standards of one racial group could not be used without modification for other racial group and each different racial group would have to be treated according to its individual characteristics. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjodfo.v1i1.15970 Ban J Orthod & Dentofac Orthop, October 2010; Vol-1, No.1, 1-4
Lip Morphological Changes and Differences before and after Orthodontic Treatment
Authors: Islam MR , Kitahara T , Naher L , Nakasima A , Takahashi I
Published: July 2013

Objectives: The objective of this study is to test the hypothesis that there is a difference in the morphology of the lips of Class II div 1 and Class III malocclusion, before and after orthodontic treatment. Methods: The sample subjects included 20 adult female patients with Angle Class II div 1 malocclusion and 30 adult female patients with dento-skeletal Class III malocclusion. Frontal photographs were taken both before and after orthodontic and/or orthognathic treatment. Thirty-five landmarks were placed on each tracing made from the photograph. Thereafter, landmarks were digitized into an x and y coordinates system with the subnasal point as the origin. The Class II pretreatment and posttreatment groups of rest and smile conditions were compared with the Class III group respectively, using t-tests. Results: In the Class II pretreatment group, upper and lower lips positioned downward than that in the Class III group. When smiling, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups before treatment, whereas after orthodontic treatment both Class II and Class III groups showed the significant difference at rest and on smiling conditions. On smiling condition Class III group showed more upwards and lateral movement of the mouth corners than Class II group. Conclusion: Orthodontic treatment induced larger amount in movement of lips at smiling in both Class II and III patients, which may reflect the emotional changes in the patients after treatment. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjodfo.v1i1.15971 Ban J Orthod & Dentofac Orthop, October 2010; Vol-1, No.1, 5-12
Estimation of Arch Width in first Permanent Molar Tooth in the Normal Occlusion in Bangladeshi Population
Authors: Rahman MM , Hossain MZ
Published: July 2013

Objective: To estimate the arch width in first permanent molar tooth in the normal occlusion of Bangladeshi population. Method: This cross sectional study was conducted among the students of Dhaka Dental College & Hospital, Mirpur- 14, Dhaka-1206. Total number of subjects were hundred, among them fifty were male and fifty were female .Mean age was 23.3 years. The study was conducted from October-2004 to September -2007. Results: The inter molar arch width in male upper jaws were 36.15mm, 43.45mm, 53.82mm respectively and in lower jaw these were 27.2mm, 36.01mm and 46.55mm. The transverse values in female upper jaw were 34.01mm, 41.26mm 51.43mm respectively and in lower jaw these were 26.12mm, 33.84mm and 44.31mm. Conclusion: The idea of a single arch width could not be substantiated in the study. But the result of the study might help clinicians to define normal arch width and their variations more precisely. However, there are scopes left for the researchers to work further over the issue. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjodfo.v1i2.15983 Ban J Orthod & Dentofac Orthop, April 2011; Vol-1, No.2, 5-8
Surgical Exposure of Bilateral Palatally Impacted Upper Canines and Its Proper Alignment with Fixed Appliance in the Dental Arch - A Case Report
Authors: Rizvi HM , Chawdhury HSR , Rahman ML , Hossain MZ
Published: July 2013

A case of impacted upper canines of 18 years is presented. Any deviation from the normal sequence of development leads to the impaction of teeth. Although the best treatment alternative for impacted teeth is extraction, the same cannot be directly applied to canines. Since canines present with a high demand on aesthetic and functional requirements, alignment of impacted canines into the arch is the best treatment approach. In the present case, a fixed appliance mechanotherapy was used to bring the impacted canines into occlusion. Total treatment time was about 18 months. Post-treatment records demonstrated good vitality of the impacted tooth and the adjacent teeth. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjodfo.v1i2.15985 Ban J Orthod & Dentofac Orthop, April 2011; Vol-1, No.2, 13-15
Factors of tooth extraction among adult patients attending in exodontia department of Dhaka Dental College and Hospital
Authors: Nasreen T , Haq ME
Published: July 2013

In the management of the adult dental patient efforts are geared towards the preservation of permanent dentition as it is important for maintaining normal occlusal relationship, play role in aesthesis, speech, influence food habit and nutrition. This hospital based descriptive type of cross sectional study was done at Exodontia Department of Dhaka Dental College and Hospital to identify the factors that contribute in tooth extraction among the respondents. The study was carried out during the month of January to June 2009 and 110 respondents selected purposively. The study showed the majority of the respondents (57.3%) were in the age group of 20-39 years. Their mean age was 36.85.years, SD of age was ±13.85 and age range was 15-85 years. Among the respondents 46.4% were male and 53.6% were female. Dental caries was the leading cause of tooth extractions in 68% cases. It was also observed that post filling complication contributed in 33% cases of extraction. Patient requests due to economic cause in 16% cases, negligence in 11% cases and even distance of the treatment centre from residence reported in 15% cases. The treatment philosophy of the centre played a vital role. Heavy rush of the patient and inconvenient conservative treatment schedule caused many unnecessary extractions DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjodfo.v2i1.15996 Ban J Orthod & Dentofac Orthop, October 2011; Vol-2, No.1, 7-10
Management of congenital missing maxillary incisors by orthodontic treatment followed by fixed prosthesis
Authors: Hossain MZ , Haque S , Mamun MSA
Published: July 2013

Fixed prosthetic restoration has become a primary treatment option for the replacement of congenitally missing lateral incisors where adequate Implant restorations have limited use due to many factors. The central incisor and canine often erupt less than optimal positions adjacent to the edentulous lateral incisor space, and therefore preprosthetic orthodontic treatment is frequently required. Derotation of the central incisor and canine, space opening and correction of root proximities may be required to create appropriate space, in which fixed prosthesis may achieve an esthetic restoration. This paper presents two case reports with congenital missing lateral incisors and one case report with missing central incisors due to trauma. The paper also discusses the aspects of preprosthetic orthodontic diagnosis and the treatment that needs to be considered with conservative and fixed prosthetic replacement . DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjodfo.v2i1.15998 Ban J Orthod & Dentofac Orthop, October 2011; Vol-2, No.1, 16-19
The Potential Impact of Climate Change on Soil Properties and Processes and Corresponding Influence on Food Security
Authors: Brevik Eric
Published: July 2013

According to the IPCC, global temperatures are expected to increase between 1.1 and 6.4 °C during the 21st century and precipitation patterns will be altered. Soils are intricately linked to the atmospheric/climate system through the carbon, nitrogen, and hydrologic cycles. Because of this, altered climate will have an effect on soil processes and properties. Recent studies indicate at least some soils may become net sources of atmospheric C, lowering soil organic matter levels. Soil erosion by wind and water is also likely to increase. However, there are many things we need to know more about. How climate change will affect the N cycle and, in turn, how that will affect C storage in soils is a major research need, as is a better understanding of how erosion processes will be influenced by changes in climate. The response of plants to elevated atmospheric CO2 given limitations in nutrients like N and P, and how that will influence soil organic matter levels, is another critical research need. How soil organic matter levels react to changes in the C and N cycles will influence the ability of soils to support crop growth, which has significant ramifications for food security. Therefore, further study of soil-climate interactions in a changing world is critical to addressing future food security concerns.
Drug-Induced Apoptosis: Mechanism by which Alcohol and Many Other Drugs Can Disrupt Brain Development
Authors: Creeley Catherine , Olney John
Published: July 2013

Maternal ingestion of alcohol during pregnancy can cause a disability syndrome termed Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), which may include craniofacial malformations, structural pathology in the brain, and a variety of long-term neuropsychiatric disturbances. There is compelling evidence that exposure to alcohol during early embryogenesis (4th week of gestation) can cause excessive death of cell populations that are essential for normal development of the face and brain. While this can explain craniofacial malformations and certain structural brain anomalies that sometimes accompany FASD, in many cases these features are absent, and the FASD syndrome manifests primarily as neurobehavioral disorders. It is not clear from the literature how alcohol causes these latter manifestations. In this review we will describe a growing body of evidence documenting that alcohol triggers widespread apoptotic death of neurons and oligodendroglia (OLs) in the developing brain when administered to animals, including non-human primates, during a period equivalent to the human third trimester of gestation. This cell death reaction is associated with brain changes, including overall or regional reductions in brain mass, and long-term neurobehavioral disturbances. We will also review evidence that many drugs used in pediatric and obstetric medicine, including general anesthetics (GAs) and anti-epileptics (AEDs), mimic alcohol in triggering widespread apoptotic death of neurons and OLs in the third trimester-equivalent animal brain, and that human children exposed to GAs during early infancy, or to AEDs during the third trimester of gestation, have a significantly increased incidence of FASD-like neurobehavioral disturbances. These findings provide evidence that exposure of the developing human brain to GAs in early infancy, or to alcohol or AEDs in late gestation, can cause FASD-like neurodevelopmental disability syndromes. We propose that the mechanism by which alcohol, GAs and AEDs produce neurobehavioral deficit syndromes is by triggering apoptotic death and deletion of neurons and OLs (or their precursors) from the developing brain. Therefore, there is a need for research aimed at deciphering mechanisms by which these agents trip the apoptosis trigger, the ultimate goal being to learn how to prevent these agents from causing neurodevelopmental disabilities.
RETRACTED: Hossain et al. Health Risk Assessment of Pesticide Residues via Dietary Intake of Market Vegetables from Dhaka, Bangladesh. Foods 2013, 2, 64–75
Authors: Hossain Md. , Hossain Md. , Rahman Md. , Islam Md. , Rahman Md. , Adyel Tanveer
Published: July 2013

The following article [1], doi: 10.3390/foods2010064, website: http://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/2/1/64, has been retracted by the authors because of some major errors in broad field of pesticide residues identification and concentrations. During random cross check retention time of pesticides by HPLC did not match with the standards of detected pesticides. As a result concentration of all detected pesticides, maximum residue limits (MRLs) and health risk assessments were changed. All these errors made the article [1] as a wrong one. All authors have confirmed that the reported results produced using quite inappropriate procedures. As first author herein, I take full responsibility for the retraction of our experiments and any other errors in its contents, and would like to offer my apologies on behalf of my co-authors to the readership of Foods for any inconveniences caused by this retraction.
Using Undergraduate Researchers to Build Vector and West Nile Virus Surveillance Capacity
Authors: Hokit Grant , Alvey Sam , Geiger Jennifer , Johnson Gregory , Rolston Marni , Kinsey Daniel , Bear Neva
Published: July 2013

Vector surveillance for infectious diseases is labor intensive and constantly threatened by budget decisions. We report on outcomes of an undergraduate research experience designed to build surveillance capacity for West Nile Virus (WNV) in Montana (USA). Students maintained weekly trapping stations for mosquitoes and implemented assays to test for WNV in pools of Culex tarsalis. Test results were verified in a partnership with the state health laboratory and disseminated to the ArboNET Surveillance System. Combined with prior surveillance data, Cx. tarsalis accounted for 12% of mosquitoes with a mean capture rate of 74 (±SD = 118) Cx. tarsalis females per trap and a minimum infection rate of 0.3 infected mosquitoes per 1000 individuals. However, capture and infection rates varied greatly across years and locations. Infection rate, but not capture rate, was positively associated with the number of WNV human cases (Spearman’s rho = 0.94, p < 0.001). In most years, detection of the first positive mosquito pool occurred at least a week prior to the first reported human case. We suggest that undergraduate research can increase vector surveillance capacity while providing effective learning opportunities for students.
Effect of δ-Opioid Receptor Activation on BDNF-TrkB vs. TNF-α in the Mouse Cortex Exposed to Prolonged Hypoxia
Authors: Tian Xuesong , Hua Fei , Sandhu Harleen , Chao Dongman , Balboni Gianfranco , Salvadori Severo , He Xiaozhou , Xia Ying
Published: July 2013

We investigated whether δ-opioid receptor (DOR)-induced neuroprotection involves the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) pathway. We studied the effect of DOR activation on the expression of BDNF and other proteins in the cortex of C57BL/6 mice exposed to hypoxia (10% of oxygen) for 1–10 days. The results showed that: (1) 1-day hypoxia had no appreciable effect on BDNF expression, while 3- and 10-day hypoxia progressively decreased BDNF expression, resulting in 37.3% reduction (p < 0.05) after 10-day exposure; (2) DOR activation with UFP-512 (1 mg/kg, i.p., daily) partially reversed the hypoxia-induced reduction of BDNF expression in the 3- or 10-day exposed cortex; (3) DOR activation partially reversed the hypoxia-induced reduction in functional TrkB (140-kDa) and attenuated hypoxia-induced increase in truncated TrkB (90-kDa) in the 3- or 10-day hypoxic cortex; and (4) prolonged hypoxia (10 days) significantly increased TNF-α level and decreased CD11b expression in the cortex, which was completely reversed following DOR activation; and (5) there was no significant change in pCREB and pATF-1 levels in the hypoxic cortex. We conclude that prolonged hypoxia down-regulates BDNF-TrkB signaling leading to an increase in TNF-α in the cortex, while DOR activation up-regulates BDNF-TrkB signaling thereby decreasing TNF-α levels in the hypoxic cortex.
Non-Coding RNAs: Multi-Tasking Molecules in the Cell
Authors: Gomes Anita , Nolasco Sofia , Soares Helena
Published: July 2013

In the last years it has become increasingly clear that the mammalian transcriptome is highly complex and includes a large number of small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). Here we review the biogenesis pathways of the three classes of sncRNAs, namely short interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs) and PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs). These ncRNAs have been extensively studied and are involved in pathways leading to specific gene silencing and the protection of genomes against virus and transposons, for example. Also, lncRNAs have emerged as pivotal molecules for the transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression which is supported by their tissue-specific expression patterns, subcellular distribution, and developmental regulation. Therefore, we also focus our attention on their role in differentiation and development. SncRNAs and lncRNAs play critical roles in defining DNA methylation patterns, as well as chromatin remodeling thus having a substantial effect in epigenetics. The identification of some overlaps in their biogenesis pathways and functional roles raises the hypothesis that these molecules play concerted functions in vivo, creating complex regulatory networks where cooperation with regulatory proteins is necessary. We also highlighted the implications of biogenesis and gene expression deregulation of sncRNAs and lncRNAs in human diseases like cancer.
Matrine Activates PTEN to Induce Growth Inhibition and Apoptosis in V600EBRAF Harboring Melanoma Cells
Authors: Jin Hui , Sun Yu , Wang Shuiying , Cheng Xiaodong
Published: July 2013

Here, we report a natural chemical Matrine, which exhibits anti-melanoma potential with its PTEN activation mechanism. Matrine effectively inhibited proliferation of several carcinoma cell lines, including melanoma V600EBRAF harboring M21 cells. Flow cytometry analysis showed Matrine induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest in M21 cells dose-dependently. Apoptosis in M21 cells induced by Matrine was identified by Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) analysis and Annexin-V/FITC staining. Molecular mechanistic study suggested that Matrine upregulated both mRNA level and protein expression level of phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN), leading to inhibition of the PI3K/Akt pathway. Downregulation of phosphor-Aktser473 by Matrine activated p21 and Bax, which contributed to G0/G1 cell cycle and apoptosis. Besides, Matrine enhanced the PI3K/Akt inhibition effects to inhibit the cell proliferation with PI3K inhibitor, LY2940002. In summary, our findings suggest Matrine is a promising antitumor drug candidate with its possible PTEN activation mechanisms for treating cancer diseases, such as melanomas.
A New Metasurface Superstrate Structure for Antenna Performance Enhancement
Authors: Islam Mohammad , Ullah Mohammad , Singh Mandeep , Faruque Mohammad
Published: July 2013

A new metasurface superstrate structure (MSS)-loaded dual band microstrip line-fed small patch antenna is presented in this paper. The proposed antenna was designed on a ceramic-filled bioplastic sandwich substrate with a high dielectric constant. The proposed 7 × 6 element, square-shaped, single-sided MSS significantly improved the bandwidth and gain of the proposed antenna. The proposed MSS incorporated a slotted patch antenna that effectively increased the measured operating bandwidth from 13.3% to 18.8% and from 14.8% to 23.2% in the lower and upper bands, respectively. Moreover, the average gain of the proposed MSS-based antenna was enhanced from 2.12 dBi to 3.02 dBi in the lower band and from 4.10 dBi to 5.28 dBi in the upper band compared to the patch antenna alone. In addition to the bandwidth and gain improvements, more directive radiation characteristics were also observed from the MSS antenna compared to the patch itself. The effects of the MSS elements and the ground plane length on the reflection coefficient of the antenna were analyzed and optimized. The overall performance makes the proposed antenna appropriate for RFID and WLAN applications.