bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Choice without Awareness: Ethical and Policy Implications of Defaults
Authors: Smith N. Craig , Goldstein Daniel G. , Johnson Eric J.
Published: March 2013

Defaults have such powerful and pervasive effects on consumer behavior that they could be considered “hidden persuaders” in some settings. Ignoring defaults is not a sound option for marketers or consumer policy makers. The authors identify three theoretical causes of default effects—implied endorsement, cognitive biases, and effort—to guide thought on the appropriate marketer and policy maker responses to the issues posed for consumer welfare and consumer autonomy, including proposals for benign “nudges” of behavior. Defaults can be a preferred form of decision architecture; that is, other nonconscious influences on choice and an absence of established preferences can mean that active choice is not always the better alternative. The authors propose “smart defaults” as welfare-enhancing and market-oriented alternatives to the current practice of generally ignoring default effects. Their analysis highlights the importance of considering the process as well as the outcomes of consumer decision making and taking responsibility for consumers' mistakes arising from misuse of defaults. The authors conclude by reflecting on the ethical and policy implications of techniques that influence consumer choice without awareness.
Thermodynamic and Adsorption Behaviour of Vitamin B1 as a Corrosion Inhibitor for AISI 4130 Steel Alloy in HCl Solution
Authors: Hoseizadeh Ali Reza , Danaee Iman , Maddahy Mohammed Hosein
Published: March 2013

The inhibition ability of Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) as a green inhibitor against the corrosion of AISI steel 4130 in 1 M HCl solution was evaluated by polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Polarization studies indicated that Thiamine retards both the cathodic and anodic reactions through chemical adsorption and blocking the active corrosion sites. The adsorption of thiamine obeyed the Frumkin adsorption isotherm. Kinetic and thermodynamic parameters such as activation energy, enthalpy, entropy and free energy of activation and adsorption were calculated. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to study the steel surface with and without inhibitor.
Investigation of Cellulose and Tin Oxide Hybrid Composite as a Disposable pH Sensor
Authors: Mahadeva Suresha K. , Ko Hyun-U , Kim Jaehwan
Published: March 2013

This paper reports a low cost and disposable pH sensor made with a cellulose and tin oxide hybrid composite. Cellulose- tin oxide hybrid composite was prepared by wet chemical method, which involves immersion of a wet regenerated cellulose film in to a mixture of deionized water and SnF2(5 mM concentration), maintained at 90 ºC for a given time; 6, 12, 18 and 24 h with stirring. The proposed pH sensor showed a consistent increase of its conductance, and the sensitivity defined as the change of resistance with respect to the pH level portrays three regions with different slope rates depending on the pH value: 0.4 MΩ/pH, 31.2 kΩ/pH and 0.2 MΩ/pH in pH range of 1–4, 4–8 and 8–12, respectively. The high sensitivity at the pH range of 4–8 is very useful for industrial applications. Also, Since the proposed pH sensor is made with cellulose film, it is disposable, cheap and environment-friendly.
Tautomerism of Neutral α-Tropolone and its Protonated and Deprotonated Forms
Authors: Zborowski Krzysztof Kazimierz , Jezierski Grzegorz , Kim Younkoyoo , Proniewicz Leonard M.
Published: March 2013

Possible structures of α-tropolone (2-hydroxy-2,4,6-cycloheptatrien-1-one) tautomers: four neutral, thirteen protonated, and four deprotonated, are studied at the B3LYP/6-311++G∗∗ computational level. The energies and the free energies calculated for the studied tautomers show that for each of the three forms, among all the possible tautomers in the tautomeric mixture, only one structure is expected: a keto-enol structure with an intramolecular hydrogen bond (neutral α-tropolone molecule), the structure with two deprotonated exocyclic oxygen atoms (tropolonate, deprotonated tropolone), and the structure with two hydroxyl group forming an intramolecular hydrogen bond (protonated tropolone). The relative energies of the studied tautomers are rationalized based on the results from the atomic energy integration performed within the frame of the Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules.
Conhecimento, realidade e ensino de Física: modelização em uma inspiração bungeana
Authors: Machado Juliana , Cruz Sonia Maria Silva Corrêa de Souza
Published: March 2013

Neste trabalho procurou-se aprofundar uma reflexão epistemológica sobre a dinâmica da construção de modelos na produção do conhecimento científico, a partir de uma perspectiva epistemológica realista crítica e, a partir desta reflexão, propor uma forma de entender a modelização no ensino de Física, baseada nesta concepção. Pela profundidade da análise dos modelos que desenvolveu e, também, pela compatibilidade de suas concepções com o contexto da presente pesquisa, utilizaremos a teorização proposta por Mario Bunge como referencial para desenvolver estas reflexões. Buscando transpor as considerações deste autor para o contexto do ensino e, também, articulando-as com outras discussões consistentes sobre a construção de modelos no ensino de Física, apresenta-se um entendimento sobre a modelização em sala de aula a partir de uma inspiração bungeana. A modelização, nesta perspectiva, tem um enfoque na exploração do aspecto processual da Ciência, em particular, da relação entre as teorias científicas e a realidade.
Impactos socioambientais no Rio Paraguai, Cáceres, Mato Grosso, Brasil percepção dos pescadores da Colônia Z - 2
Authors: Bezerra Darci Ordonio dos Santos , Oliveira Haydee Torres de
Published: March 2013

Este artigo trata da análise da percepção dos pescadores cadastrados na Colônia Z-2 sobre os impactos socioambientais associados à degradação do rio Paraguai, na zona urbana de Cáceres, Mato Grosso, Brasil. Foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas para o levantamento das percepções dos pescadores e a interpretação dessas respostas. Com base na interpretação da percepção ambiental dos entrevistados, observa-se que os impactos citados provocam: mudanças nas margens do rio, na biodiversidade e no estoque pesqueiro; o assoreamento do leito do rio provocado pelo desmatamento das margens para atividade agropecuária; erosão das margens causada pelo movimento de grandes embarcações de turismo e transporte de soja, e o descaso das autoridades. Conclui-se que os profissionais da pesca de Cáceres estão sensibilizados com as ações predatórias no rio Paraguai e apresentam potencial para lutar por uma melhor qualidade de vida quando sugerem um trabalho coletivo que una interesses e coparticipação.
A Intencionalidade para a aprendizagem significativa da biomecânica: reflexões sobre possíveis evidências em um contexto de formação inicial de professores de educação física
Authors: Belmont Rachel Saraiva , Lemos Evelyse dos Santos
Published: March 2013

Assumindo a Biomecânica como um conhecimento essencial para a prática do professor de Educação Física, a presente investigação, qualitativa e do tipo estudo de caso, buscou evidências sobre a intencionalidade do aluno para aprender. Ou seja, pretendeu identificar se o tipo de interação que os alunos estabelecem entre si, com o professor e com o conhecimento/ disciplina favoreceu a aprendizagem significativa pelos mesmos. Tomando por base a Teoria da Aprendizagem Significativa e utilizando a observação participante como estratégia metodológica, os registros obtidos foram variados e, conforme a natureza, categorizados pela Análise de Conteúdo ou tratados por um teste de correlação estatística. Os resultados apontam o número de falas como indicador impreciso para caracterizar a intencionalidade para aprender. No entanto, a atenção à natureza das interações, assim como aos hábitos de estudo, apresentaram-se como indicadores apropriados para a questão. No presente caso, a maioria dos 13 alunos apresentou intencionalidade para a aprendizagem mecânica.
How does participatory irrigation management work? A study of selected water users' associations in Anand district of Gujarat, western India
Authors: Bhatt Sonal
Published: March 2013

Measuring the performance of water users' associations (WUAs) is a complex task. Literature associates a large number of parameters with their success and failure. This paper presents an in-depth study of two WUAs that are considered to be functioning well by the irrigation department in Anand, India. It discusses some new issues and innovations being tried out in Anand, namely: (1) incentives and disincentives for WUA membership; (2) outsourcing of irrigation service fees (ISF) collection by the WUAs; and (3) expansion of the scope of WUA activities beyond irrigation, with a potential impact on financial viability. The paper discusses degrees of success in WUAs in this context and tries to draw out lessons that may be widely replicable.
Rural water services in Guatemala: a survey of institutions and community preferences
Authors: Vásquez William F.
Published: March 2013

This paper investigates how drinking water is delivered in rural areas in Guatemala. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of the government, municipalities, non-governmental organizations and communities. Community preferences for improved water services are also investigated. Findings suggest that governmental and non-governmental organizations require communities to take on the operation and management of water services as a condition to investing in infrastructure. Communities are also required to contribute to the implementation of water systems. These requirements are not necessarily responsive to community preferences which, coupled with low system revenues, may jeopardize the sustainability of water projects in the long run.
Assessment of the performance of participatory irrigation management in Antalya, Turkey
Authors: Sayin Betul , Karaman Suleyman , Yilmaz Ibrahim , Ali Celikyurt M.
Published: March 2013

This study examined 29 irrigation organizations in the province of Antalya, Turkey. Sufficiency, efficiency, sustainability and producer satisfaction were used as criteria for the productivity of irrigation networks. Differences in the irrigation organizations were compared and analyzed using a number of performance indicators. It was found that the irrigation associations had an irrigation ratio of 50.4%, that the amount of water distributed in the irrigation facilities was 2.6 times more than the total amount required by the plants themselves, a production value per unit irrigated area of Turkish Lira (TL) 18,382.9 ha−1, a production value per diverted unit of irrigation water of TL1.3 m−3, an irrigation area sustainability ratio of 65%, a financial self-sufficiency ratio of 82.2%, an irrigated area per worker of 189 ha person−1, and a water fee collection ratio of 62.7%. The measurement of water taken into and distributed from a network, the establishment of a monitoring and assessment system to that end, and regular assessment of the water and the performance of the irrigation system are necessary for the efficient use of water resources. In addition, emphasis should be given to tubular irrigation systems, and therefore both water saving and modern irrigation system use should be encouraged.
Foreign funding-induced development, institutional weakening and access to water: a case study from Kerala, India
Authors: Irshad S. Mohammed
Published: March 2013

Water governance is a multifaceted political and administrative practice across the world. The domestic water management policies of developing societies are subjected to global water politics: institutional change due to foreign aid in Kerala's water governance proves this relationship. Foreign aid has shifted the control of rural drinking water supply from government to the community. The urban sector has shifted its operations from a subsidized to non-subsidized system. These shifts have undermined the institutional access to water and converted water to an economic good rather than a merit good. Thus, accessibility has been shifted to a price mechanism, eventually leading to the exclusion of the poor from an organized pipe water supply system and excluding the state from providing that piped water supply.
Optimal control for stochastic singular integro-differential Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy system using ant colony programming
Authors: Kumaresan N.
Published: March 2013

In this paper, optimal control for stochastic singular integro-differential
Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy system with quadratic performance is obtained using
ant colony programming (ACP). To obtain the optimal control, the solution of
MRDE is computed by solving differential algebraic equation (DAE) using a
novel and nontraditional ACP approach. The obtained solution in this method
is equivalent or very close to the exact solution of the problem. An
illustrative numerical example is presented for the proposed method.
A note on convergence in measure and selection principles
Authors: Djurcic Dragan , Kocinac Ljubisa
Published: March 2013

It is proved that some classes of sequences of measurable functions satisfy
certain selection principles related to special modes of convergence
(convergence in measure, almost everywhere convergence, almost uniform
convergence, mean convergence).
On the boundedness of solutions of a kind of non-autonomous differential equations of second order with finitely many deviating arguments
Authors: Tunç Cemil
Published: March 2013

We study the boundedness of the solutions to a non-autonomous differential
equation of second order with finitely many deviating arguments. We give two
examples to illustrate the main results. By this work, we improve some
boundedness results obtained for a differential equation with a deviating
argument in the literature to the boundedness of the solutions of a
differential equation with finitely many deviating arguments.
Fuzzy generalized closed sets via fuzzy grills
Authors: Das Sumita , Mukherjee M.N.
Published: March 2013

In this paper we introduce a kind of generalized fuzzy closed sets in terms
of fuzzy grills, termed G1f -closed sets, and discuss their basic properties.
We also define G1f -continuity and characterize it by G1f -closed sets. We
further define G1f -regularity and G1f -normality and study their behaviours
by means of G1f -closed sets.
Portfolio problems based on jump-diffusion models
Authors: Liu Tiantian , Zhao Jun , Zhao Peibiao
Published: March 2013

Zhou and Li [49] by virtue of stochastic linear-quadratic control theory
studied the optimal portfolio problems with the asset price process
satisfying a diffusion stochastic differential equation, and proposed the
celebrated LQ framework and the efficient frontier for the given portfolio
problem. In this paper, we consider the optimal portfolio problems based on
the asset price process satisfying a jump-diffusion stochastic differential
equation. Similarly, we also arrive at the efficient frontier of the optimal
portfolio selection problem. The conclusions obtained here can be regarded as
a natural generalization of the work by Zhou and Li [49].
Root product of lattices
Authors: Lazarevic Vera , Zizovic Malisa , Damljanovic Nada
Published: March 2013

In this paper a new product of lattices, the root product, is defined, and
here are given some basic properties of this product. By multiplying two
lattices a new lattice L is obtained. The lattice L posses better properties
in terms of dimension and determinant.
Estimation of P{X < Y} for gamma exponential model
Authors: Jovanovic Milan , Rajic Vesna
Published: March 2013

In this paper, we estimate probability P{X < Y} when X and Y are two
independent random variables from gamma and exponential distribution,
respectively. We obtain maximum likelihood estimator and its asymptotic
distribution. We perform some simulation study.
Languages for model-driven development of user interfaces: Review of the state of the art
Authors: Jovanovic Mladjan , Starcevic Dusan , Jovanovic Zoran
Published: March 2013

In model-driven user interface development, several models are used to
describe different aspects of user interface when level of detail varies. The
relations between the models are established through model transformations.
The Model Driven Engineering (MDE) approach has been proposed in software
engineering domain in order to provide techniques and tools to deal with
models in the automated way. In this paper, we will review existing user
interface languages that gain wider acceptance, and discuss their
applicability for model-driven user interface development.
A Multi–Alphabet Arithmetic Coding Hardware Implementation for Small FPGA Devices
Authors: Biasizzo Anton , Novak Franc , Korošec Peter
Published: March 2013

Arithmetic coding is a lossless compression algorithm with variable-length source coding. It is more flexible and efficient than the well-known Huffman coding. In this paper we present a non-adaptive FPGA implementation of a multi-alphabet arithmetic coding with separated statistical model of the data source. The alphabet of the data source is a 256-symbol ASCII character set and does not include the special end-of-file symbol. No context switching is used in the proposed design which gives maximal throughput without pipelining. We have synthesized the design for Xilinx FPGA devices and used their built-in hardware resources.
Hybrid Control of Electric Vehicle Lateral Dynamics Stabilization
Authors: Tabti Khatir , Bourahla Mohamend , Mostefai Lotfi
Published: March 2013

This paper presents a novel method for motion control applied to driver stability system of an electric vehicle with independently driven wheels. By formulating the vehicle dynamics using an approximating the tire-force characteristics into piecewise affine functions, the vehicle dynamics cen be described as a linear hybrid dynamical system to design a hybrid model predictive controller. This controller is expected to make the yaw rate follow the reference ensuring the safety of the car passengers. The vehicle speed is estimated using a multi-sensor data fusion method. Simulation results in Matlab/Simulink have shown that the proposed control scheme takes advantages of electric vehicle and enhances the vehicle stability.
Financial Services in the VAT System in the European Union and Croatia
Authors: Dražić Lutilsky Ivana , Broz Tominac Sanja , Dražić Lutilsky Ivana
Published: March 2013

This paper presents differences in the VAT treatment of financial services. We investigated the treatment of financial services in the VAT system in EU countries as well as in Croatia, in order to reveal differences and improvement possibilities. The results show that there is a need for significant improvement in the VAT system, especially in Croatia. Furthermore, European Union countries have applied tax regulations since 1977. The research on the VAT treatment of financial services indicates that there is unequal application of tax exemptions and adverse tax competition in EU countries. Nevertheless, Croatia is still adjusting its legislation (the tax treatment of financial services) with EU provisions. Our paper thus provides a comparative analysis of the treatment of financial services in the VAT system in EU and Croatia that could be useful for the new consideration of the financial services position in the VAT system in Croatia.
Impacts of Location on Bank Call Center Services: The Case of Turkey
Authors: Hakan Özkan Ahmet
Published: March 2013

Purpose - The CRM sector represents the quality of a company. The quality of a company might be evaluated by taking the services of a call center as a measure by the customers, because CRM is the most interactive point of the operations of all companies. Call centers represent companies with 24/7 service. Companies have to search for ways to increase the quality of their service and CRM. Call center companies started to move to Anatolia in response to government incentives. The purpose of this study was to examine the results of this change. Design/methodology/approach - Bank call centers in large cities and Anatolian bank call centers are compared. SERVQUAL is used to compare the service quality of the call centers. 100 questionnaires are used to evaluate the services of the bank call centers and 100 customers are interviewed. The banks with Anatolian call centers and the banks without Anatolian call centers are compared to each other by using the results of the interviews and questionnaires. Findings - The service quality of the call center of the banks with Anatolian call centers seems to be higher than those without them. Practical implications - The reason for the better performance of Anatolian bank call centers can be explained by using some observations. These reasons can be taken into account by CRM companies to provide better service. Originality/value - This paper is proof of that CRM agents are affected by stress factors and their environment. Therefore, stress levels have to be decreased for employees for better service. Selecting a good location is the most important step in diminishing stress levels.
Teratology – past, present and future
Authors: Ujházy Eduard , Mach Mojmír , Navarová Jana , Brucknerová Ingrid , Dubovický Michal
Published: March 2013

Teratology is the science that studies the causes, mechanisms, and patterns of abnormal development. The authors present an updated overview of the most important milestones and stages of the development of modern teratology. Development of knowledge and society led to the recognition that causes of congenital developmental disorders (CDDs) might be caused by various mechanical effects, foetal diseases, and retarded or arrested development of the embryo and foetus. Based on the analysis of the historical development of hypotheses and theories representing a decisive contribution to this field, we present a survey of the six Wilson´s fundamental principles of teratology. The aim of observing these principles is to get insight into developmental relations and to understand mechanisms of action on the level of cell populations (elementary morphogenetic processes), tissues and organs. It is important to realise that any negative intervention into the normal course of these processes, either on genetic or non-genetic basis, inevitably leads to a sequence of subsequent changes resulting in CDDs. Moreover, the classical toxicologic monotonic doseresponse paradigm recently has been challenged by the so-called “low dose-hypothesis”, particularly in the case of endocrine active substances. These include some pesticides, dioxins, polychlorobiphenyls (PCBs), and bisphenol A. Despite modern approaches of molecular biology and genetics, along with top diagnostic techniques, we are still not able to identify the actual cause in more than 65 to 70% of all congenital defects classified as having an unknown etiology. Today CDDs include any birth defect, either morphological, biochemical, or behavioural.
Women on… Combine Harvesters? Women as Farm Operators in Contemporary Poland
Authors: Gorlach Krzysztof , Drąg Zbigniew , Nowak Piotr
Published: March 2013

The authors discuss the main characteristics of women as farm operators using national sample studies conducted in 1994, 1999 and 2007. After an analysis of literature and various research results some hypotheses were formulated, i.e.: the better education of rural women than rural men, women as “unnatural” or “forced” farm operators due to various household circumstances, the “weaker” economic status of farms operated by women. Basic results of the studies carried out in 1994, 1999 and 2007 confirm the hypothesis about the weaker economic position of female operated farms. Moreover, women farm operators were slightly older and far better educated than their male counterparts. On the contrary, the males were more active off the farms in the public sphere. In addition, the circumstances of becoming farm operators did not differ significantly between males and females. Finally, there were no significant differences between “male” and “female” styles of farming.
The Mystery of Vlach Magic in the Rural Areas of 21st century Serbia
Authors: Ivkov-Džigurski Anđelija , Babić Vedrana , Dragin Aleksandra , Košić Kristina , Blešić Ivana
Published: March 2013

This article offers an ethnographic exploration of the Vlachs in the Branicevo region of Serbia. The Vlachs rarely exist anywhere as a distinct ethnic group due to their permanent assimilation with other ethnic groups. The thing that has always been linked to the folklore of the Vlachs and still attracts a large number of people to come and visit some remote parts of Eastern Serbia is definitely a certain mystery which represents the essential part of the culture of this nation. Instances of Vlach magic can be seen in the Timok area, all over Eastern Serbia and across its borders. Vlach magic is a miracle or is miraculous, when looking at how long it has been present, its unique rituals, beliefs, shamans and spells.

Vlach culture intertwined with pagan customs and interesting rituals, makes the municipalities in Eastern Serbia mysterious places in modern 21st century Europe, because the Vlachs are a mostly closed (endogamous) population which do not blend with people of other nationalities.
Treatment of tibial shaft fractures in sheep using interlocking nails, Schanz screws and type I external fixators
Authors: Piórek A. , Adamiak Z. , Zhalniarovich Y. , Jaskólska M.
Published: March 2013

This paper presents the results of a study of the treatment of transverse tibial shaft fractures in six sheep with the use of interlocking nails and type I extemal fixators. During surgery, tibial osteotomy was performed to induce an experimental fracture which was stabilized using a type I extemal fixator. Osteosynthesis was monitored for nine weeks by performing clinical tests, observing the degree of lameness and subjecting the patients to weekly radiological examinations. After nine weeks, the animals were euthanized, and samples of bone callus were sampled for histopathological analyses. Weight bearing on the fractured limb began on day 2 to 4 after treatment. Limb function was fully restored around five weeks after surgery. Radiograms taken during the observation period revealed gradual hyperplasia and progressing mineralization of bone callus at different stages of healing. The histopathological picture of the bone callus was characteristic of the phase of bone turnover and remodeling.
Overexpression of aldolase A and cytokeratin 19 in ovine pulmonary adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kycko A. , Reichert M.
Published: March 2013

Ovine pulmonary adenocarcinoma (OPA) is a transmissible lung cancer of sheep caused by jaagsiekte sheep retrovirus (JSRV). In the present study the protein profiles of five neoplastic and three non-neoplastic sheep lung tissues were examined for the identification of proteins overexpressed in ovine pulmonary adenocarcinoma. Lung sections of the experimental group of sheep were collected during necropsies for proteomic and immunohistochemical examination. Two dimensional electrophoresis (2DE) was performed using gel strips with immobilized pH gradient 3-10. As a result of 2DE gel analysis 14 spots characterized by over 2-fold higher expression in tumour proteomes were selected for mass spectrometry. In eleven spots more than one polypeptide was identified indicating overlapping of proteins in gels. In two spots demonstrating over 3-fold higher expression in OPA proteomes, single proteins: cytokerarin 19 (CK19) and aldolase A were identified. Immunohistochemical studies revealed that CK19 and aldolase A were expressed in the cytoplasm of epithelial cells of bronchioles in non-neoplastic lung sections, as well as epithelial cells of bronchioles and neoplastic cells in lung sections of OPA affected sheep. The results indicate that the overexpression of the two proteins reflects the presence of neoplastic cells in the lungs of OPA affected sheep.
Antimicrobial resistance and genotypes of staphylococci from bovine milk and the cowshed environment
Authors: Kot B. , Piechota M. , Antos-Bielska M. , Zdunek E. , Wolska K.M. , Binek T. , Olszewska J. , Guliński P. , Trafny E.A.
Published: March 2013

Investigation of antimicrobial resistance and genetic relatedness of staphylococci from milk of cows with mastitis and cowshed environment was the aim of this study. Antimicrobial resistance against 14 antimicrobials were determined by using a disc diffusion method. Genetic similarity between the most frequently isolated species was analysed by PFGE (pulsed-field gel electrophoresis). Haemolytic activity, DNase, protease and esterase production was also investigated. Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species were isolated from 30.8% of milk samples from cows with mastitis. The most frequently isolated species was Staphylococcus xylosus and yield of these organisms was significantly associated with milk of mastitis cows. S. epidermidis was a predominant penicillin-resistant species. High frequency of resistance to lincomycin was observed among isolates of S. sciuri (54.2%) and S. xylosus (25.9%) from cows with mastitis. PFGE (pulsed-field gel electrophoresis) analysis of 29 Staphylococcus aureus isolates showed the presence of 17 PFGE pulsotypes. Isolates of S. sciuri (n=36) had unique PFGE patterns. Some S. xylosus isolates from milk and milker’s hands had the same PFGE pulsotypes, and this observation could indicate that dairyman may be a potential source of the infection. The pulsotype of each of the remaining isolates of S. xylosus suggested that they might have come from common environmental sources; however, these isolates differed in antibiotic resistance pattern or virulence traits. Therefore, knowledge about antibiotic sensitivity pattern and virulence factors of a CNS isolate, besides its genotype, may be informative in tracking the source of the infection.
Biochemical markers of bone turnover during pregnancy in horses: a longitudinal study
Authors: Greiner C. , Cavalier E. , Remy B. , Gabriel A. , Farnir F. , Gajewski Z. , Carstanjen B.
Published: March 2013

The effect of pregnancy on bone metabolism was investigated in healthy mares. Venous blood samples were collected 7 times from 19 multiparous mares starting at 20-weeks pre-parturition, continuing 6 times in 4-week intervals, including the week of parturition and one week after parturition. Serum concentrations of osteocalcin (OC) and carboxy-terminal cross-linking telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I) were determined. Measurement cycles and age had a significant (p < 0.01) influence on OC and CTX-I values. Pregnancy influenced bone metabolism with peak bone formation and resorption values around the time of parturition.
Influence of temperature on survival of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in stored cattle slurry with respect to environmental biosafety
Authors: Wroński G. , Budzińska K. , Szejniuk B. , Jurek A.
Published: March 2013

The aim of the study was to determine the influence of temperature, i.e. 4 and 20oC on the Escherichia coli O157:H7 survival time in a stored cattle slurry in a laboratory model experiment. The results of this investigation indicated that the tested microorganisms underwent a gradual elimination in the cattle slurry, whereas their inactivation rate was clearly dependent on the temperature. A higher survival rate was found in Escherichia coli O157:H7 at 4oC where a theoretical survival time of these microorganisms, determined using a regression analysis, amounted to 83 days. Our study indicates that there is a necessity for the slurry to undergo hygienization processes and that a constant monitoring of liquid animal excreta in search for pathogenic microorganisms is required.
Growth Performance of Khari Goats on Supplementation of Urea Molasses Mineral Block (UMMB) in Fodder Based Diets
Authors: Tiwari MR Egan , Shrestha BK , Mandal P , Panday LN
Published: March 2013

Goat is important component of Nepalese farming system. Goat production and productivity in Nepal is not as their potential. One of the major factors causing low production and productivity of goats is lack of minerals in the diet. Therefore, to evaluate the mineral factor associated with low production and productivity of goats an experiment was carried out in growing male goats at Agriculture Research Station (Goat), Bandipur, Tanahun from February to March 2010. Ten male goats of 8-9 months of age and similar body weight were divided into two treatment groups having five animals in each group by using complete randomized design (CRD). Two types of diets were formulated for experimental animals. The animals of control group (treatment1) were provided seasonal fodder ad libitum plus concentrate mixture @ 1% of the body weight, whereas animals of treatment 2 were provided seasonal fodder and concentrate mixture same as in treatment1 plus UMMB @ 4% of the body weight. The study revealed that seasonal fodder and concentrate mixture intake of both groups was almost similar 2.0 kg and 207g, respectively and was not significantly difference in intake between diet groups. Similarly, total dry matter intake also was non-significant between diet groups. The highest body weight gain was observed in treatment 2 (3.86 ± 0.78 kg) than that of treatment1 (3.3 ± 0.90 kg). Body weight gain of the experimental animals was also found non- significant. Average daily gain (ADG) was recorded the highest in treatment 2 (85.77 g /day) in comparison to treatment1 (73.33 g/day). Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 13, No. 2 (2012) 29-32 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v13i2.7710
Estimation of Sodium and Potassium in Dogs with Diarrhoea and Vomition
Authors: Shrestha Sulochana , Shrestha Mukti N , Bindari Yugal R
Published: March 2013

The study was conducted to estimate the sodium and potassium level in dogs with diarrhea and vomition. Total 150 blood samples were collected and processed in the laboratory of Vet clinic, Krishnagalli as per the protocol of Elyte 2 test kit using colorimeter. Of the total blood samples, 8% showed normonatremia with normokalemia, 76% showed hyponatremia with hypokalemia and 16% showed hyponatremia with hyperkalemia. Diarrhoea and vomition were more prevalent in age group 0-1 years followed by more than 8 years and 1-8 years. The age group 0-1 and 1-8 years showed normonatremia with normokalemia and hyponatremia with hypokalemia but more than 8 years showed hyponatremia with hyperkalemia. Males were found more vulnerable for diarrhoea and vomition than the females. The estimated value of sodium and potassium in both sexes were obtained within normal to lower limits of normal range. German Shepherd had the higher prevalence of diarrhea and vomition among different breeds. The estimated value of sodium and potassium in different breeds showed modest difference and obtained within normal to lower limit of normal range. Na:K ratio was found less than 27:1 in 18% samples, between 27:1 to 40:1 in 26% samples and more than 40:1 in 56% samples. Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 13, No. 2 (2012) 33-38 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v13i2.7711
Assessment of Pesticide Residues in Some Vegetables Grown in Kavrepalanchok and Bhaktapur Districts
Authors: Rawal Deepa Shree , Rana N , Shrestha S , Sijapati J
Published: March 2013

Pesticides have wide spread use and their toxic residues have been reported in various environmental matrices. Thus, the determination of pesticide residues in food commodities such as vegetables, cereals, fruits, and other environmental components like soil, water has become increasingly essential requirement for consumers, producers and authorities for food quality control. Therefore, monitoring of residue level and exposure assessment of organophosphate group of pesticides namely dichlorovos and methyl parathion was carried out in 30 winter and summer vegetables supplied in Kathmandu valley. It was found that the MRL value of dichlorovos exceeded in three types of vegetables whereas in case of methyl parathion the MRL value exceeded in two types of vegetables only. The estimated average daily intake (EADI) of dichlorovos exceeded the acceptable daily intake (ADI) in 18 vegetables, whereas, regarding methyl parathion the EADI exceeded the ADI in 10 types of vegetables. Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 13, No. 2 (2012) 45-50 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v13i2.7713
Foraging Behavior of Apis mellifera L. Landraces Under Terai Condition of Nepal
Authors: Parajuli Sangita Egan , Thapa RB
Published: March 2013

A study was conducted to compare the foraging behavior of landraces of Apis mellifera L. under Terai condition of Nepal, for which the honeybee colonies were brought from Dang, Chitwan, Sarlahi and Parsa districts. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with six replications (colonies) and four treatments (landraces), i.e. Apis mellifera carnica, Apis mellifera russian, Apis mellifera buckfast and Apis mellifera ligustica. Each experimental unit consisted of 10 frame Langstroth bee hives with about 50,000 workers. Data recording continued from 26 March to 14 July in Chitwan. The landrace A.m. buckfast had the highest out-going foragers/5min (115.667 workers/ colony) significantly higher than A.m. carnica (73.500 workers/colony), A.m. russian (52.667 workers/colony) and A.m. ligustica (48.667 workers/colony), respectively. Similarly, the average number of foragers (in-coming with nectar/5min) was recorded the highest in A.m. buckfast (104.501 workers/colony) which was 1.46, 1.63, 1.78 times higher than A.m. carnica, A.m. russian, A.m. ligustica, respectively. Therefore, A.m. buckfast and A.m. carnica colonies were the best performers in relation to foraging behavior among the four evaluated land races during spring and summer seasons under Terai condition of Nepal. Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 13, No. 2 (2012) 51-56 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v13i2.7714
Quality of Chiretta (Swertia chirayita) in Cultivated and Wild Samples Collected from Different Districts of Nepal
Authors: Barakoti Tanka P , Tiwari Narendra N , Yonzon Minoba
Published: March 2013

An experiment under the scaling up project of ARS Pakhribas was conducted to identify quality and compare the cultivated and wild Chiraito (Swertia chirayita) samples collected from eastern, central and western regions hill districts during 2004. This work aimed to identify best sites/ districts for quality production of this important medicinal herb through cultivation and conservation for initiating export of value added quality product in a sustainable way. Processed product is cheaper to send the overseas market as the volume and weight are decreased. Quality analysis is necessary to ensure quality standard of international market in the context of WTO. Assessment of the collected samples was done by quantifying the extract content and analyzing bitter principle in the Herbs Production and Processing Company lab, Kathmandu. The result revealed that extract content and bitter principle percent varied depending upon different agro-eco growing conditions and extraction method. Hot extraction gave more extract of the plant than cold percolation method. Wild samples, in general, contained higher bitter principle than cultivated, whereas extract content was higher in cultivated Chiraito. The international market could be better ensured with such study result. Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 13, No. 2 (2012) 57-62 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v13i2.7715
A Checklist of Angiospermic Flora of Tinjure-Milke-Jaljale, Eastern Nepal
Authors: Limbu Dilkumar , Koirala Madan , Shang Zhanhuan
Published: March 2013

Tinjure–Milke–Jaljale (TMJ) area, the largest Rhododendron arboreum forest in the world, an emerging tourist area and located North-East part of Nepal. A total of 326 species belonging to 83 families and 219 genera of angiospermic plants have been documented from this area. The largest families are Ericaceae (36 species) and Asteraceae (22 genera). Similarly, the largest and dominant genus was Rhododendron (26 species) in the area. There were 178 herbs, 67 shrubs, 62 trees, 15 climbers and other 4 species of sub-alpine and temperate plants. The paper has attempted to list the plants with their habits and habitats. Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 13, No. 2 (2012) 87-96 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v13i2.7719
Microbial Quality and Antibacterial Activity of Herbal Medicines
Authors: Shah Bibha , Pokhrel Nabaraj
Published: March 2013

Use of herbal medicine faces constraint particularly imparting knowledge in identifying whether a product is microbiologically fit for health or not. There has been relatively less research on microbial quality of the herbal medicines in Nepal. In this context, this research has focused on microbial quality of different herbal medicines. A total of twenty one herbal medicines were collected from different sales outlet of Kathmandu. The microbial load in herbal medicine was determined by aerobic plate count method and bacterial isolates were identified based on morphological, cultural and biochemical tests. Out of twenty one herbal medicines analyzed, all were found free from pathogenic bacteria and indicator organism of fecal contamination. However , Bacillus spp. were isolated from ten herbal medicines. The microbial load on Nutrient Agar was found within the range of 1.20x103- 6.06x105 cfu/ ml (or g). Altogether six different Bacillus spp were identified and the most predominant was Bacillus subtilis. In vitro antibacterial activity of the herbal medicines, from which microorganisms were not detected, were determined against six test bacteria by cup plate method. Out of eleven different herbal medicines, five showed the zone of inhibition against all test bacteria and at least two test bacteria were inhibited by each of the herbal medicines. The highest zone of inhibition was 30 mm shown by Chitrakaharitaki Churna of concentration 100mg/ml against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 13, No. 2 (2012) 191-196 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v13i2.7735
Screening of Antibiotype among Environmental Isolates of Acinetobacter spp. in Hospital Setting
Authors: Panta Kritu , Ghimire Prakash , Rai Shiba K , Mukhiya Reena K , Singh Ram N , Rai Ganesh
Published: March 2013

Cross infection through hospital environment has been a major challenge to control nosocomial infection. This has been worse with the emergence of multidrug resistant strains. The present study was conducted to study the pattern of antibiotic resistant group of Acinetobacter spp. in hospital environment to understand possibility of nosocomial infection. The study was conducted for a period of six months during which Acinetobacter spp. from 269 samples of hospital environment (air sample, surface swab and hand swab from healthcare workers) were identified by conventional microbiological method and antibiogram was performed by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method and NCCLS guidelines. Bacterial isolates obtained from both samples were tested for their relatedness based on their resistivity pattern among the tested antibiotics. Of the total environmental samples 212 samples were found to be positive and a total of 183 gram negative isolates were obtained. Of the total gram negative isolates, 84.2% (154/183) Acinetobacter spp. were isolated. Analysis of MDR isolates revealed 70.8% (109/154) Acinetobacter spp. which was MDR. A total of 12 different antibiogram patterns were found with five different antibiotic groups tested. Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 13, No. 2 (2012) 203-208 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v13i2.7737
Chemical Analysis of Heartwood of Bijayasal (Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb.)
Authors: Joshi Khem R , Devkota Hari P , Yahara Shoji
Published: March 2013

Metlaline (1), piyaline (2), piyaline methyl ester (3), a pair of diasteriomeric epimers of marsuposide (4a and 4b), and pterostilbene (5) were isolated from the water soluble fraction of 70% MeOH extract of Pterocarpus marsupium (Roxb.) heartwood. Among them compound 3 was isolated for the first time from natural source. Pterostilbene has been found as antioxidant, anti-diabetic and anti-cancer agent. Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 13, No. 2 (2012) 219-224 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v13i2.7740
Adulteration of raw milk in the rural areas of Barisal district of Bangladesh
Authors: Chanda T , Debnath GK , Hossain ME , Islam MA , Begum MK
Published: March 2013

The study was undertakento detect the type of adulterants and preservatives added to the incoming fluid milk from rural areas to the Barisal city of Bangladesh. Total fifty milk samples were collected from five different entry points of Karapure, Dabdopia, Shaestabad, Goriarpar and Khanpura of Barisal district where ten samples were taken from each entry point. The results indicated that, 100% of the milk samples were adulterated with water irrespective of collection points and months. Cane sugar, powdered milk and starch were detected as 26.0, 14.0 and 12.0% in the milk samples, respectively. Two types of preservatives namely formalin and sodium bicarbonate were detected in the fluid milk from the study areas. Out of all samples, 10.0% was adulterated with formalin and 20.0% with sodium bicarbonate. However, none of the samples contained either hydrogen peroxide or borax. There was a positive relationship between day temperature and intensity of adding preservatives to the fluid milk. As the day temperature increased, the number of preservative positive samples also increased in a linear fashion and vice versa. It could therefore be inferred that, the consumers need to be more cautious regarding the quality of raw milk specially in summer season.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v41i2.14126Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2012. 41 (2): 112-115
Preparation of compost using layer droppings with different materials
Authors: Khatun H , Alam F , Hashem MA , Rahman SME
Published: March 2013

The experiment was carried out by anaerobic composting with layer droppings (T1), layer droppings with straw (T2), layer droppings with fodder residues (T3) and layer droppings with saw dust (T4) under soil surface to study the suitable method with layer droppings and their nutrient composition. The sample from composted materials was collected at 0, 10, 20 and 30 d for proximate analysis. In 30 d of composting dry matter and organic matter were gradually decreased in every method and which were also differed among the treatments (p<0.01). Crude protein (CP) gradually increased in every method and was higher in T3 (19.43%) and then T1 (18.93%), T4 (15.99%) and T2 (14.61%) (p<0.01) at 20 d of composting. The crude fiber content gradually decreased in every method and was higher in T2 followed by T4, T1 and T3 (p<0.01) considerably with the composting period. Ash content was increased in all treatments with the advancing of composting period (p<0.01). The C/N ratio was higher in T4 (22.4) followed by T2 (22.2), T1 (22.0) and T3 (21.9) (p<0.01) considerably with the composting period. The PH value in all treatments decreased up to first ten days then gradually increased with the increase of composting period. The pH value was higher in T1 (8.54) followed by T2 (8.15), T3 (8.10) and T4 (8.00) (p<0.01) at 30 d of composting period. The proximate compositions of all treatments were in acceptable range up to the end of composting period. Therefore, the  results suggest that composting layer droppings with fodder residues improve the nutritional  value of compost at 20d of composting time.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v41i2.14131Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2012. 41 (2): 120-123