bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sorption characteristics of phenanthrene and pyrene to surfactant-modified peat from aqueous solution: the contribution of partition and adsorption
Authors: Zhou Yanbo , Zhang Ruzhuang , Gu Xiaochen , Zhao Qing , Lu Jun
Published: January 2015

In this paper, the sorption characteristics and mechanisms of phenanthrene and pyrene onto peat (PT) and surfactant-modified peat (MPT) were investigated. Sorption results fit closely to the Partition model and Freundlich model, the coefficient of determination (R2) were higher than 0.98 and 0.99, respectively. The contributions of partition and adsorption to the total sorption of phenanthrene and pyrene by PT and MPT were analyzed quantitatively. Results indicate that the sorption process is a combination of partition and adsorption, and partition plays a major role in the sorption process. The contribution of partition increased with the increasing of initial concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The sorption ability of phenanthrene and pyrene by PT and MPT followed the order of pyrene > phenanthrene. MPT has demonstrated potential as a promising new class of materials for environmental remediation of organic pollutants.
Wastewater treatment process impact on energy savings and greenhouse gas emissions
Authors: Mamais D. , Noutsopoulos C. , Dimopoulou A. , Stasinakis A. , Lekkas T. D.
Published: January 2015

The objective of this research was to assess the energy consumption of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), to apply a mathematical model to evaluate their carbon footprint, and to propose energy saving strategies that can be implemented to reduce both energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Greece. The survey was focused on 10 WWTPs in Greece with a treatment capacity ranging from 10,000 to 4,000,000 population equivalents (PE). Based on the results, annual specific energy consumption ranged from 15 to 86 kWh/PE. The highest energy consumer in all the WWTPs was aeration, accounting for 40–75% of total energy requirements. The annual GHG emissions varied significantly according to the treatment schemes employed and ranged between 61 and 161 kgCO2e/PE. The highest values of CO2 emissions were obtained in extended aeration systems and the lowest in conventional activated sludge systems. Key strategies that the wastewater industry could adopt to mitigate GHG emissions are identified and discussed. A case study is presented to demonstrate potential strategies for energy savings and GHG emission reduction. Given the results, it is postulated that the reduction of dissolved oxygen (DO) set points and sludge retention time can provide significant energy savings and decrease GHG emissions.
Cheiloscopy, Palatoscopy and Odontometrics in Sex Prediction and Dis-crimination - a Comparative Study
Authors: V Nagalaxmi , Ugrappa Sridevi , M Naga Jyothi , Ch Lalitha , Maloth Kotya Naik , Kodangal Srikanth
Published: January 2015

Background and Objectives:

Human identification is the forensic odontologist’s primary duty in the fields like violent crime, child abuse, elder abuse, missing persons and mass disaster scenarios. In each context, dental traits may produce compelling evidence to aid victim identity, suspect identity and narrow down the outcome of investigative casework. Sometimes it becomes necessary to apply some least known and less popular techniques in identification procedure where lip prints, rugae patterns and canine odontometrics can give us comparatively valid conclusions pertaining to person’s identification. This study elucidates the significance of cheiloscopy, palatoscopy and canine odontometry in sex prediction and discrimination.

Materials and Methods:

A cross- sectional study involving a total of 60 subjects, 30 males and 30 females were selected from the outpatient department of oral medicine and radiology. Lip prints were recorded using lipstick, palatal impressions were taken with alginate and odontometric measurements were taken with digital vernier calipers from every subject. All the obtained records were analyzed by two observers.

Results:

Reliability of lip prints was assessed using Kappa coefficient. Comparison of rugae patterns was done using Chi-square test. Mean canine and inter canine width was compared using t test. A p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. Statistically significant difference was found with the different lip print patterns analyzed in males and females, while no significant difference was observed in the rugae patterns but a significant difference in the mesio-distal width of mandibular canines in males and females was found with right mandibular canine(3.73%) showing greater sexual dimorphism compared to left mandibular canine(3.06%).

Conclusion:

This study shows the uniqueness of the lip prints and rugae patterns with the lip prints showing sensitivity of 81.7% giving reliable prediction of sex over palatoscopy. Hence, cheiloscopy along with the canine odontometrics aid in sex determination and can be considered as an ancilliary forensic tool in identification.
Characterization of Priority Substances in Effluents from an Integrated Steelworks in the United Kingdom
Authors: Chen J. , Aries E. , Collins P. , Anderson D. R. , Hodges J. S.
Published: January 2015

In the Water Framework Directive, a list of priority substances that are deemed to be persistent, toxic, and liable to bioaccumulate have been identified. Within this list, a range of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and certain trace metals are relevant to the steel industry. This study summarizes work carried out by Tata Steel Europe (Rotherham, U.K.) to characterize the emissions of PAHs and trace metals from wastewater streams at one of its main integrated steelworks in the United Kingdom over a 3‐year period (2010 to 2012). The emissions inventory revealed that PAH emissions to water were almost entirely attributable to the cokemaking process, with emissions factors ranging from 20 to 55 mg/tonne of coke. Furthermore, analysis of the PAH distribution in coke oven effluents revealed that medium‐ and high‐molecular‐weight PAHs were associated with the suspended solids (particle‐bound). Regarding trace metals, both ironmaking and steelmaking processes were the most important emission sources.
Bread in the folk culture of the Serbs in its pan-Slavic context
Authors: Radenkovic Ljubinko
Published: January 2015

The Slavs do not consider bread to be a common foodstuff, but a sacred
object, a symbol of wealth and happiness. Almost all significant rituals
(holidays, rites from the life cycle of a person, occasional magical
activities) use bread. In some of them, such as marriages or the Serbian
holiday krsna slava, it is the main ritual object, which has great symbolic
value. This paper addresses the use of bread in the ritual behavior of the
Serbs and related peoples, where bread has the characteristics of a symbol
and therefore gains a communicative function (it is used to convey or to
receive information). It is also points out that the symbolic function of
bread changes depending on the grain used to make it, whether it is leavened
or unleavened, and the shape of it.
Vladimir Corovic: The last polyhistor
Authors: Samardzic Radovan
Published: January 2015

This essay portrays Vladimir Corovic (1885-1941), the distinguished Serbian
historian of Herzegovinian origin, who made a distinct mark in the field with
his prolific and wide-ranging writing. Given his vast array of interests,
both in terms of topics and historical eras, Corovic has been dubbed the last
polyhistor, following in the footsteps of Stojan Novakovic and other
historians of similar calibre.
Yield and nutritional quality of greenhouse lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) as affected by genotype and production methods
Authors: Govedarica-Lucic Aleksandra , Mojevic Mirjana , Perkovic Goran , Govedarica Branka
Published: January 2015

Greenhouse experiments were conducted in winter growing seasons in order to
evaluate the effects of genotype and production methods on yield and
nutritional quality of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.). A three-year (2009-2011)
study was conducted by randomized block system in a greenhouse without
additional heating. The trial included three genotypes of lettuce (Archimedes
RZ, Santoro RZ, Kibou RZ). Each row with these genotypes was exposed to the
following variants of covering: control-planting on bare soil, mulching
before sowing with PE-black foil, agro textile-covering plants after planting
with agro textile (17 g), a combination of mulching + agro textile.
Throughout of all the three years of the trial, it was continuously evidenced
that the genotype ?Santoro RZ? had the biggest heads and the highest yield
(15.33 kg 10 m-2), which leads to conclusion that the yield of lettuce is a
genotype characteristics. Moreover, the nutritional value (ascorbic acid
concentration) has shown that, depending on the method of production, in
average, the combination of mulching + agro textile (26.77 mg 100 g-1) had
the highest content while the control variant had significantly lower vitamin
C content (21.10 mg 100 g-1). The three-year researches have shown that the
production method and genotype significantly affect the nitrate content. An
average nitrate content was 2196.33 mg kg-1 on the control variant, and
2526.24 mg kg-1 on agro textile. Leafy lettuce of genotyp ?Kibou RZ? had
lower nitrate content (2176.85 mg kg-1) compared to ?Archimedes RZ? (2843.05
mg kg-1) and ?Santoro RZ? (2221.37 mg kg-1). However nitrate concentration in
all treatments remained within the European Union?s permissible levels.
Genetic diversity of a Serbian grapevine germplasm collection based on morphoagronomic characteristics
Authors: Rakonjac Vera , Korac N. , Todic S. , Medic M. , Beslic Z. , Kuljancic I. , Ivanisevic D. , Popov M.
Published: January 2015

The objective of this study was to evaluate diversity and relationships among
grapevine cultivars from the Serbian gene bank in Sremski Karlovci, and to
identify the most useful variables for discrimination. A total of 54
grapevine cultivars have been studied. During the period 2000-2005, twelve
quantitative and qualitative characteristics were evaluated using OIV
categories to each trait. Characterization was done using multivariate
statistical analyses: cluster and principal component analysis (PCA), Based
on cluster analysis cultivars divided into three major groups and the
clustering pattern was related to the classical eco-geographical grouping:
occidentalis, pontica and orientalis. Beside geographic origin clustering
position of cultivars throughout the dendrogram was related to main uses. The
major part (70.1%) of the total variation presented was explained by four
principal components. PC1 is highly correlated with the bunch and berry size
and PC2 with the density of prostrate hairs of young shoot tip and the
density of prostrate hairs between veins on the lower side of mature leaf.
The overall arrangement of cultivars suggests considerable phenotypical (and
presumably genetic) variability in studied germplasm collection. Furthermore,
obtained results may be useful for further utilization of available genetic
resources in gene bank managers, growing and breeding.
Development of 15 genic-ssr markers in oil-tea tree (Camellia oleifera) based on transcriptome sequencing
Authors: Jia Baoguang , Lin Qing , Zhang Lin , Tan Xiaofeng , Lei Xiaolin , Hu Xiaoyi , Shao Fenggong
Published: January 2015

Oil-tea tree is one of the most important woody edible oil plants; however,
lack of useful molecular markers hinders current genetic research. We
performed transcriptome sequencing of developing seeds and characterized
microsatellites from transcriptome sequences to identify valuable markers for
C. oleifera molecular genetics research. A total of 69,798 unigenes were
identified, in which 6,949 putative SSR motifs from 6,042 SSR-containing
unique putative transcripts were discovered. Twenty-nine primer pairs
corresponding to 29 unigene loci were designed, of which 15 polymorphic
genic-SSR markers were developed in 18 varieties and characterized by
capillary electrophoresis. The number of alleles per locus (Na) ranged from 2
to 14, the expected heterozygosity (He) ranged from 0.374 to 0.876, and the
polymorphism information content (PIC) values ranged from 0.498 to 0.887,
respectively. Cross-species amplification was also conducted in 15 varieties
of C. japonica. All 15 markers successfully amplified PCR products with
expected size in C. japonica and exhibited polymorphisms. The 15 polymorphic
genic- SSR markers will have potential for applications in genetic diversity
evaluation, molecular fingerprinting identification, comparative genome
analysis, and genetic mapping in the C. oleifera and C. japonica.
Analysis of genetic diversity of sugar beet genotypes using random amplified polymorphic DNA marker
Authors: Ghasemi Ali , Golparvar Ahmad , Isfahani Mehdi
Published: January 2015

Plant breeding programs are formulated based on the diversity and selection
of superior quantitative and qualitative traits. Hence, assessment of genetic
diversity is the first step of every plant breeding program. In this regard,
use of new methods for studying genetic diversity seems necessary. In the
present study, the genetic diversity of thirty sugar beet genotypes was
determined using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) marker. Following
the DNA extraction and optimization of experiment conditions, of the 40
primers under study, 10 primers that induced polymorphism and produced good
and clear bands in the genotypes of sugar beet were randomly selected.
Statistical calculations were carried out based on the Jaccard similarity
coefficient and UPGMA-based grouping in the NTSYS software (version 2.02).
The amplitude of the multiplied bands varied between 100 and 3000 of alkaline
pair. The polymorphism of all primers was 82.33% within the similarity limit.
The Cophenetic coefficient for the similarity matrix and the resulting curve
was obtained to be r=0.75. Genotypes 4 and 18 with a similarity coefficient
of 0.91% demonstrated the highest similarity while genotypes 21 and 15 with a
similarity coefficient of 0.63% showed the lowest similarity. Of the primers
in use, the OPB-18 primer produced 12 bands (the highest number of bands) and
the OPA-09 primer produced 5 bands (the lowest number of bands). Cluster
analysis also confirmed the results obtained from the profiles produced in
the genetic differentiation of cultivars under study as well as the
correlations resulting from the Jaccard similarity coefficient. Finally,
genotypes were categorized into 13 groups based on the results and resulting
dendrogram. Results of the cluster analysis performed using the Jaccard
similarity coefficient revealed the genetic diversity among genotypes that
emphasize on efficiency of selection in sugar beet genotypes.
The preposition potential in formation of conjunctional means
Authors: Konjuskevic Marija
Published: January 2015

In the article the ability of preposition to form conjunction or its
equivalent has been considered. The mechanism of denominalization has been
shown on the Russian material with the involvement of the author?s
observations on prepositions in the Belarusian language - the morphological
form transformation in to the subordinate part of complex sentence. The
author?s conception is: 1) the syntaxeme is the actant position in the
sentence; 2) the syntaxeme consists of the formant (preposition + flexion)
and nominative component (substantive); 3) at the level of the complex
sentence the same actant position may take the predicative unit (subordinate
part of the complex sentence); 4) the formant of the predicative syntaxeme in
transforms is the conjunctional combination ?preposition + demonstrative
pronoun that + subordinate part conjunction?. The preposition at case
syntaxeme transformation in to predicative does not change its function, but
it is included in to the conjunctional formant as one of the elements of more
complex formant - conjunctional combination. Each element of the
conjunctional combination fulfills its function: the preposition still forms
the syntaxeme, but with more complex nominative component as predicative
unit, the pronoun that is ?flection? of this nominative component
(subordinate part), and the conjunction acts as the explicator, providing
grammatical connection of the nominative component of syntaxeme with the
?flexion? and the preposition. It is noted that the mechanism and the results
of denominalization depend on the syntaxemes repertoire and character and on
the preposition meaning: the same preposition, with different meaning has
different conjunctional potential. In to the mechanism of denominalization
are involved categorematic names (classifiers), which initially are used as
structural vocabulary for forming secondary prepositions, and together with
them, for forming conjunctional combinations. The methods of transformation
of prepositional-nominal syntaxeme in to conjunctional-predicative reveal
more conjunctional means than there are in the existing grammatical and
lexicographical descriptions.
On internal definite reference in Slavic languages
Authors: Piper Predrag
Published: January 2015

The considered examples of use of the ?such and such? type of expression in
Serbian and other Slavic languages and their analysis show that they
represent a special type of reference and hold a special place in the system
of pronominal words and expressions. Regardless of the fact that they can
take a variety of functions, which are discussed in the article, their main
function is to refer to what is determined for participants in a primary
communicative situation, denoted by an utterance within an utterance, but
which is undetermined for participants in a secondary communicative situation
(with the exception of cases of same participants being involved in both
primary and secondary situations). The forms of expressing internal definite
reference are not entirely the same in all Slavic languages, although
reduplication of pronominal demonstrative prevails with a high degree of
match in their functions. The highest match is found when performing their
main function of internal definite reference, while the lowest match is found
when performing the function of euphemistic replacement of invective.
Arten der lexikalischen regulierung der Kausalität im rahmen des komplexen satzes
Authors: Alanovic Milivoj
Published: January 2015

Obwohl es sich im Falle der Kausalit?t um eine objektive Kategorie handelt,
in dieser Arbeit wollen wir auf diejenigen Beispiele zur?ckweisen, bei denen
die subjektive Wahrnehmung einer kausalen Beziehung in einem Geschehen die
entscheidende Rolle spielt. Diese subjektive Perspektive ist im Satz durch
die Einf?hrung von Modalw?rtern in der Funktion von kausalen Regulatoren
ausgedr?ckt worden, wie z. B. zwecklos, sinnlos usw. Nur durch die Einf?hrung
geeigneter kausaler Regulatoren k?nnen zwei Geschehen in
Grund-Konsequenz-Verbindung zusammengebracht werden: Du bist um sonnst
gekommen, ich bin schon fertig. Eine derartige M?glichkeit ein Geschehen zu
verstehen l?sst sich auf verschieden syntaktischen Ebenen auszudr?cken.
K voprosu o vremennyh predlozenijah s potencialom v skazuemom
Authors: Tanasic Sreto
Published: January 2015

V nastojascej rabote rec' idet o predlozenijah s formoj potenciala
/soslagatel'nogo naklonenija/ v skazuemom i vremennymi sojuzami mezdu
klauzami. Avtor ukazyvaet na nekotoriye tipy vremennyh predlozenij, o kotoryh
v nasej lingvisticeskoj literature do sih por ne bylo reci. Izvestno, cto v
serbskom jazyke imejutsja vremennye predlozenija s formoj potenciala, v
kotoryh vyrazaetsja nereferencial'noe prosloe, i uslovnye predlozenija s
formoj potenciala v obeih klauzah s sojuzom kad. V dannoj rabote
rassmatrivajutsja predlozenija, v kotoryh imeetsja v odnoj ili v obeih
klauzah forma potenciala s modal'nym znaceniem, gde mezdu klauzami
nalicestvuet kakojnibud' pervicno vremennoj sojuz. Sredi nih osobenno
vydeljajutsja interesujuscie nas vremennye predlozenija s modal'no
upotreblennym potencialom vo vremenoj klauze i predlozenija s modal'no
upotreblennym potencialom v obeih klauzah. V takih predlozenijah potencial
sohranjaet svoe modal'noe znacenie, a sojuz sohranjaet svoe vremennoe
znacenie. Avtor, na osnovanii analiza jazykovogo materiala, prisel k vyvodu,
cto zdes' rec' idet o vremennyh predlozenijah, i predlagaet tezis,
napravljajuscij na nalicie v sovremennom serbskom jazike tendencii, soglasno
kotoroj dejstvie glavnoj klauzy, otnositel'no vremeni, determiniruetsja
vremennoj klauzoj s formoj potenciala v ego pervicnom, modal'nom znacenii.
K voprosu o Horvatskoj kirilliceskoj tradicii
Authors: Stosic Jelena
Published: January 2015

Predmetom nastojascej stat'i javjaetsja sbornik tezisov dokladov naucnoj
konferencii Horvatskaja kirilliceskaja tradicija, sostojavsejsja v Zagrebe 26
i 27 dekabrja 2012 g. V stat'e osoboe vnimanie otvoditsja vzgljadam
horvatskih i bosnijskih ucastnikov konferencii, popytavsimsja peresmotret'
rjad dokazannyh naucnyh polozenij, otnosjascihsja k istorii serbskoj
kirillicy, i interpretirovat' ih, vopreki davno ustanovlennym faktam
razvitija kirilliceskogo alfavita, v aktual'nom politiceskom kljuce.
The effect of microbial inocula on the growth of black locust, Siberian elm and silver maple seedlings
Authors: Hajnal-Jafari Timea , Jarak Mirjana , Djuric Simonida , Stamenov Dragana , Orlovic Sasa
Published: January 2015

Growth and development of forest plants depend mostly on the soil microbial
activity since no mineral or organic fertilizers are applied. Microbial
processes can be activated and conditions for plants development improved
with the introduction of selected microorganisms in the soil. With the aim of
obtaining quality planting material in a shorter period of time, the effects
of Azotobacter chroococcum and Streptomyces sp. on the early growth of black
locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila) and silver-leaf
maple (Acer dasycarpum) were investigated in this study. Microorganisms were
applied individually and in a mixture (1:1). Plant height was measured on the
90th, 120th and 180th day after planting. Plant diameter, as well as the
number of actinomycetes and azotobacters was measured at the end of the
vegetation period (180 days after planting). Applied microorganisms had a
positive effect on the seedling height in all three plant species, with the
best effect found in the black locust. Effectiveness of applied
microorganisms on seedling diameter was the highest in the silver-leaf maple.
The largest number of azotobacters was found in the rhizosphere of black
locust. Number of microorganisms from both groups was increased in the
inoculated variants.
Microcystin concentration in fishpond waters
Authors: Tokodi Nada , Drobac Damjana , Simeunovic Jelica , Svircev Zorica
Published: January 2015

Cyanobacterial blooming is a worldwide problem which sometimes results in
cyanotoxin production. Most commonly produced cyanotoxins are microcystins
(MCs), potent inhibitors of protein phosphatases. Protein phosphatase 1 (PP1)
is known to be involved in the regulation of a variety of cellular processes.
In this study, MC concentration was assessed via inhibition of protein
phosphatase 1 (PP1 assay) in water samples taken from 14 lakes of Muzlja
fishpond, Vojvodina, Serbia. During the summer of 2011, cyanobacterial growth
occured in the fishpond lakes and small, planktonic crustacean Daphnia sp.
was used to control or/and prevent further development of cyanobacteria.
Different MC concentrations (calculated as microcystin-LR equivalents) were
detected, mostly depending on the occurrence and grazing of Daphnia sp. More
thorough monitoring of fishponds should be conducted, both in Serbia and
around the world, in order to gain more precise estimation of cyanotoxin
concentrations and their accumulation in organisms used for human consumption
and thus prevent possible negative health effects.
The Open University System of Brazil: A Study of Learner Support Facilities in the Northern, North-Eastern and Southern Regions
Authors: Da Cruz Duran Maria Renata , Da Costa Celso José , Amiel Tel
Published: January 2015

Since June 2011, research on the Open University System of Brazil's (UAB's) official evaluation processes relating to learner support facilities has been carried out by the Teachers' Training, New Information, Communication and Technologies research group, which is linked to the Laboratory of New Technologies for Teaching at Fluminense Federal University, Brazil. This study has followed 70 learner support facility coordinators in the northern, north-eastern and southern regions of Brazil, who were struggling to define their professional profile, analyse the official evaluation systems and suggest optimisation procedures for them. The data was obtained, organised and consolidated, firstly, by means of interviews in which the professional trajectory of the learner support facilities and management profile were highlighted; secondly, through ‘crossed visits’, in which elective regional pairs were established and a simulation of mutual evaluation was performed; and, finally, with the participation of two representatives from each region. The entire process was monitored via Moodle and what is presented here is a summary of these collaborative efforts whose goals were to (1) materialise information about the UAB's learner support facilities and (2) promote a wider debate on the official assessments between the facility coordinators and the participants of the UAB system as a whole.
Accounting Conservatism and Creditor Recovery Rate
Authors: Donovan John , Frankel Richard M. , Martin Xiumin
Published: January 2015

We examine the relation between accounting conservatism and creditor recovery rates for firms in default. We also test the link between conservatism and the length of bankruptcy resolutions. We find that creditors of firms with more conservative accounting before default have significantly higher recovery rates, and that this positive relation is more pronounced for default firms that violated covenants before the default. We also find that conservative firms have higher asset productivity, shorter bankruptcy resolution, and a significantly higher probability of emerging from bankruptcy. These results suggest that accounting conservatism preserves firm value, leading to higher creditor recovery upon borrower default.

JEL Classifications: M4; G32; G33; G34.
An Internet-Based Diabetes Management Platform Improves Team Care and Outcomes in an Urban Latino Population
Authors: Welch Garry , Zagarins Sofija E. , Santiago-Kelly Paula , Rodriguez Zoraida , Bursell Sven-Erik , Rosal Milagros C. , Gabbay Robert A.
Published: January 2015

OBJECTIVE

To compare usual diabetes care (UDC) to a comprehensive diabetes care intervention condition (IC) involving an Internet-based “diabetes dashboard” management tool used by clinicians.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used a parallel-group randomized design. Diabetes nurses, diabetes dietitians, and providers used the diabetes dashboard as a clinical decision support system to deliver a five-visit, 6-month intervention to 199 poorly controlled (HbA1c >7.5% [58 mmol/mol]) Latino type 2 diabetic (T2D) patients (mean age 55 years, 60% female) at urban community health centers. We compared this intervention to an established, in-house UDC program (n = 200) for its impact on blood glucose control and psychosocial outcomes.

RESULTS

Recruitment and retention rates were 79.0 and 88.5%, respectively. Compared with UDC, more IC patients reached HbA1c targets of <7% (53 mmol/mol; 15.8 vs. 7.0%, respectively, P < 0.01) and <8% (64 mmol/mol; 45.2 vs. 25.3%, respectively, P < 0.001). In multiple linear regression adjusting for baseline HbA1c, adjusted mean ± SE HbA1c at follow-up was significantly lower in the IC compared with the UDC group (P < 0.001; IC 8.4 ± 0.10%; UDC 9.2 ± 0.10%). The results showed lower diabetes distress at follow-up for IC patients (40.4 ± 2.1) as compared with UDC patients (48.3 ± 2.0) (P < 0.01), and also lower social distress (32.2 ± 1.3 vs. 27.2 ± 1.4, P < 0.01). There was a similar, statistically significant (P < 0.01) improvement for both groups in the proportion of patients moving from depressed status at baseline to nondepressed at follow-up (41.8 vs. 40%; no significance between groups).

CONCLUSIONS

The diabetes dashboard intervention significantly improved diabetes-related outcomes among Latinos with poorly controlled T2D compared with a similar diabetes team condition without access to the diabetes dashboard.
Reference values, intertest correlations, and test-retest repeatability of selected tear film tests in healthy cats
Authors: Sebbag Lionel , Kass Philip H. , Maggs David J.
Published: January 2015

Objective—To determine reference values, intertest correlations, and test-retest repeatability of Schirmer tear test 1 (STT-1), phenol red thread test (PRTT), tear film breakup time (TFBUT), tear osmolarity, and meibometry in healthy cats.

Design—Evaluation study.

Animals—135 healthy domestic cats aged 0.5 to 12.8 years.

Procedures—Each test was performed once in 120 cats and repeated in 40. Pearson correlation was used to assess correlation among tests. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and 95% limits of agreement (LOA) were used to evaluate test-retest repeatability.

Results—Median (95% central range) values were 18 mm/min (9 to 34 mm/min) for STT-1, 29 mm/15 s (15 to 37 mm/15 s) for PRTT, 12.4 seconds (9.1 to 17.7 seconds) for TFBUT, 322 mOsm/L (297 to 364 mOsm/L) for osmolarity, and 32 meibometry units (MU; 11 to 114 MU) for peak meibometry value. The STT-1 and PRTT values were positively correlated. Age was weakly associated with TFBUT and osmolarity. Meibometry measurements were higher for strips that contacted the tear film (285 MU) than for those that touched the eyelid margin only (32 MU). All ICCs were < 0.75, and 95% LOA were wide.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Tear deficiency should be suspected in cats with STT-1 < 9 mm/min, PRTT < 15 mm/15 s, or TFBUT < 9 to 10 seconds. Generally poor correlation among tests suggested that thorough tear film analysis requires performance of multiple tests in concert. Relatively poor test-retest repeatability should be considered when repeated tests are used to monitor tear film dysfunction and response to treatment.
Effect of the Landscape Types on Hunting Selection in Roe Deer (Capreolus Capreolus, Linnaeus 1758) Trophies in Czech Republic
Authors: Engan Jens H.
Published: January 2015

Czech Republic has a long tradition of hunting, and trophy hunting is important to manage game populations. In this study data was analysed from the five last trophy exhibitions in Czech Republic. Namely, hunter selection, compensatory selection, management selection, hunting pressure selection and depletion selection was tested in different landscape types. In compensatory hunting there is a difference between the landscape types; apparent differences exist between the landscape type with respect to hunting pressure. There was no hunter selection, or depletion selection, and no differences in management between landscape types. This study suggests that the landscape composition has an effect on selective hunting in Czech Republic.
Climatic Characteristics of Forest Vegetation Zones of the Czech Republic
Authors: Macků Jaromír
Published: January 2015

Correct derivation of climatic characteristics of forest vegetation zones is the Achilles heel of Forest site classification in the Czech Republic. A combination of low density of climatic stations, and their unsuitable location (in regard to distribution of forest complexes) make obtaining data problematic.

An important contribution to this issue is an application of aladin-climate.cz model materials from the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (CHMI) for the second time period of normal climate years 1961-1990, and the current period from 1991-2009. Calculation of climatic (temperature, precipitation, etc.) fields was conducted on a basis of observation stations. The original station series were subjected to quality control, meaning they were homogenised and supplemented by missing values in measurements. The actual calculation of the technical series is based on the IDW (Inverse Distance Weighting) method; data is used when surrounding stations are first standardised to altitude point, for which we expect a new line, and then calculated a weighted average of new value. The station data were interpolated using the geostatistical linear kriging method.

The outputs are the spatial averages for basic climatic zonal forest vegetation level, occurring in the different Natural Forest Areas (NFA). The individual climate parameters of forest vegetation zones were evaluated by regression analysis. The climate-vegetation segments (CVS) of the Czech Republic, which share similar climatic characteristics of the forest vegetation zones (FVZ), were proposed.
Student Selection, Attrition, and Replacement in KIPP Middle Schools
Authors: Nichols-Barrer Ira , Gleason Philip , Gill Brian , Tuttle Christina Clark
Published: January 2015

Skeptics of the KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program) charter school network argue that these schools rely on selective admission, attrition, and replacement of students to produce positive achievement results. We investigate this using data covering 19 KIPP middle schools. On average, KIPP schools admit students disadvantaged in ways similar to other local students, and attrition patterns are typically no different at KIPP than at nearby schools. Unlike district schools, however, KIPP schools tend to replace students who exit with higher achieving students, and fewer students are replaced in the later years of middle school. Overall, KIPP’s positive achievement impacts do not appear to be explained by advantages in the prior achievement of KIPP students, even when attrition and replacement patterns are taken into account.
Knowledge, Attitude and Stigma in Epilepsy: A Study From A Tertiary Care Centre in Nepal
Authors: Subedi Sandip , Shyangwa P M , Shakya D R , Pandey A K , Sapkota N
Published: January 2015

Introduction: Epilepsy is a common health problem which engenders a variety of medical, social, psychological and economic burdens. Stereotyped assumptions about people with conditions such as epilepsy are inherent in many cultures and Nepal is not exception .Better information about epilepsy among the people can remove the stigma associated with it. Objective: The aim of the present study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and stigma regarding epilepsy among patients with epilepsy. Methods: It is a hospital based, cross-sectional descriptive study of 47 patients visiting BPKIHS psychiatry OPD. A semi structured Proforma, knowledge attitude questionnaire and the Stigma Scale developed by M. King et.al. Was administered to collect the data. Results: Majority (66.0%) of subjects were male. Generalized seizure (76.6%) was most common presentation. Majority of subjects believed that their disease should be kept secret. Almost 81% subjects thought they could work with persons suffering from epilepsy whereas 23.4% subjects objected even to travel together with them. About 32% subjects felt bad about having epilepsy, 40.4% agreed that they were angry the way people react to their illness, and 76.6% thought that they would have had better chances in life if they did not have epilepsy. Conclusion: Knowledge about epilepsy is still patchy among patients. Despite this, attitude towards epilepsy is generally positive. Still there is significant stigma attached to this illness.  These findings call for comprehensive educational program aimed at improving the knowledge and reducing the stigma in the population at large.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v12i1.11979     Health Renaissance 2014;12(1):11-17
Outcome of Women with Previous Cesaerian Section At A Tertiary Care Hospital in Eastern Nepal
Authors: Agrawal Ajay , Chhetri S , Thakur A , Agrawal S , Basnet P
Published: January 2015

Background: Pregnant women with previous caesarean section are increasing due to the liberal use of caesarean section in first pregnancy due to multifactorial reason. The risks, benefits, and relative safety of vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) have been subject of interest for well over 100 years. Thus mutual understanding between the treating obstetrician and patient herself is a core towards achieving good maternal and perinatal outcome considering all the risk and benefit in women with previous caesarean section. Objective: The aim was to analyze the maternal and perinatal outcome in pregnant women with previous caesarean section. Methods: In this prospective observational study, 300 women with singleton pregnancy in cephalic presentation with previous one lower segment caesarean section (LSCS) having inter pregnancy interval ≥ 18 months presenting at ≥ 37-41 week period of gestation admitted for delivery were enrolled and various maternal and perinatal outcome were noted. Results: Caesarean delivery rate during the study period was 26.95%. Eighty percent of eligible women opted for trial of labor. Successful vaginal birth after caesarean section was 29%. Elective repeat caesarean delivery was 19.66%. The rate of failed VBAC was 51%. Failed VBAC increased with increasing weight of baby. There was no difference in mean birth weight among patient who had successful VBAC, who refused VBAC and who had failed VBAC. Mode of delivery had no significant effect on the number of neonatal intensive care unit admission and number of still births.  DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v12i1.11980Health Renaissance 2014;12(1):18-23
Analysis of Snake Bite Victims in a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Rao V Dharma , Bickram P , Ramyatha R P , Sumalatha N
Published: January 2015

Background: Snake-bite is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in tropical countries. In India, there are 216 species of snakes, of which only four (cobra, krait, Russell’s viper and saw scaled viper) are venomous. Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the epidemiological profile, clinical features, complications and mortality rate of snake bite victims admitted in a tertiary care hospital in Andhra Pradesh, India. Methods: The study was conducted at Mamata General Hospital, khammam from June 2010 to May 2012. A total of 39 cases with history of snake bite were analysed. Results: Out of 39 cases, majority of the cases were observed in the age group 20-50 year (66%). High incidence of snake bite was observed in males 62%). The common victims were farmers and housewives. The bite was commonly encountered while walking bare foot (30%) followed by while sleeping (14%). Fifty Four percent of victim were bitten during outdoor and agriculture related activities. Maximum number of cases (54%) presented within 12 hour of snake bite and 66% cases had 1-5 days of hospital stay. Majority (82%) were bitten on the legs below knee. Localized oedema at the site of bite was present in 70% victim. Fang/teeth marks were noted in (41%) cases. There were 59% neurotoxic snake bites, 26% haemolytic, 5% mixed and 8% non-poisonous snake bites. Most of the cases developed cellulitis at the site of snake bite (21%), shock (12%), and acute kidney injury (8%). One tenth of the cases required assisted ventilation and overall mortality rate was 8%.Conclusion: Snakebites are still common in the rural population of India. There is need to educate the public about the preventive measures of snake bite, advantages of early hospital referral and treatment.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v12i1.11981        Health Renaissance 2014;12(1):24-28
Measurement of Open Apices in Teeth for Estimation of Age In Children
Authors: Shrestha Ashish , Yadav R P , Shrtestha S , Majarjan I K , Camelio S
Published: January 2015

Background: Estimation of age has been a major factor in identification of an individual, either living or after death. Objective: To estimate and assess the dental age of children by measuring the open apices of the teeth using panoramic radiograph applying linear regression equation.  Methods: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study conducted on 50 children (25 boys and 25 girls) aged between 5-15 years. The seven left permanent mandibular teeth were assessed using panoramic radiographs which were collected from Medical Record Department, Manipal University, taken during the course of diagnosis and treatment. The number of teeth with closed apical and with open apical end of roots were examined and measured. The values were tabulated and placed on the linear regression equation proposed by Cameriere et al for the estimation of dental age. Result: The result showed no significant difference between the dental age (10.13±1.69 years) and the chronological age (10.31±1.75 years) (p=0.26). The method underestimated the mean age by 0.11 years and 0.23 years for the boys and girls, respectively. The paired sample t- test showed no significant difference between dental age and chronological age for boys (p=0.546) as well as for girls (p=0.351) Conclusion: The estimated age of children by measuring the open apices of the teeth using panoramic radiograph linear regression equation used in the European subjects closely matches with the chronological age in Asian subjects also. Keeping in context to validate more accurately the significance of linear regression equation, there is a need of larger sample size belonging to variety of ethnic and socioeconomic background.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v12i1.11983Health Renaissance 2014;12(1):33-37
Feasibility and Acceptability of Self and Peer Evaluation In Objective Structured Practical Examination (OSPE)
Authors: Vijayalakshmi K , Revathi S , Venkatesan L
Published: January 2015

Background: Objective Structured Practical Examination (OSPE) is being widely used in the assessment of clinical performance of students in healthcare profession. Objective: This study was conducted to find out the feasibility and acceptability of Self and Peer-Evaluation in Objective Structured Practical Examination (OSPE) in Psychiatric nursing among Nursing Students. Methods: A cross sectional, descriptive correlational study was conducted at Apollo College of Nursing, Chennai among 84students of 3rd Year B.Sc Nursing in Psychiatric Nursing subject. Students were selected by using purposive sampling technique. OSPE consisting of 7 stations (using the predetermined check lists for each station) was conducted. Feedback was obtained from the students and teachers involved in evaluation, immediately after completing the evaluation by using 12 items feedback questionnaire. Data was analyzed by using Descriptive (Mean, frequency, percentage) and Inferential (t-test) statistics.Results: Self and Peer evaluation in OSPE in Psychiatric nursing among Nursing Students, was feasible to conduct. Most of the students and all the teachers have accepted these methods on its various aspects. Total mean acceptability scores of students and teachers were 40.43±6.33, 45.79±2.72/48 and 42.43±7.37, 44.64±1.76/48 in self and peer evaluation respectively.Conclusion: Students’ and teachers’ feedback are essential to implement any teaching learning activities including evaluation. Self and Peer Evaluation were feasible to conduct and well accepted by the students and teachers.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v12i1.11984         Health Renaissance 2014;12(1):38-43
Knowledge and Practice towards Hygiene and Sanitation Amongst Residents of Dhankuta Municipality
Authors: Sah Ram Bilakshan , Bhattarai S , Baral D D , Pokharel P K
Published: January 2015

Background: Poor hygiene practices and inadequate sanitary conditions play major roles in the increased burden of communicable diseases within developing countries. Objectives: To know knowledge and practice regarding hygiene and sanitation of households and to find out the hygienic practices with selected variables. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from 30th April to 13th May 2012 in Dhankuta Municipality where 300 households were taken as subjects. Among 9 wards, 3 wards were randomly selected and equal number of households (100) from each ward was selected on the basis of simple random sampling. Semi-structured questionnaire was used and face to face interview was conducted. Chi-square test was applied to find out the hygienic practices with selected variables. Results: Most of respondents believed that hand washing reduces diseases (71.3%). They knew that diarrhoea is spread by dirty environment (55.7%) and drinking unsafe water (46.3%) and unhygienic food (43.3%). Majority of respondents (95.3%) washing hands with soap and water after defecation. Almost (30%) respondents used burning as a management of solid waste. The ladies were found to have better hygienic practices (92%) than gents (61.6%) and Brahmin/Chhetri (70%) were more hygienic than other ethnic groups.  Conclusion: The knowledge and practice on hygiene and sanitation among the households of Dhankuta municipality was found to be fair.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v12i1.11985         Health Renaissance 2014;12(1):44-48
Adult Sized Fibreoptic Bronchoscope Aided Nasal Intubation In A Child with Left Sided Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis
Authors: Ghimire Ashish , Bhattarai B , Subedi A , Koirala S
Published: January 2015

In temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis, direct laryngoscopy and intubation are not feasible. The scenario becomes more challenging in paediatric patients. The best technique would be fibreoptic bronchoscope (FOB) aided nasal intubation. We report successful nasal intubation with the aid of orally placed adult sized fibreoptic bronchoscope in a child with a limited mouth opening. A 6-yr-old child was brought with history of inability to open the mouth. Diagnosis of left sided TMJ ankylosis was made and interpositional arthoplasty was planned. Airway examination revealed interincisor gap of 4.6 mm. Due to tooth decay, a maximum mouth opening of 5.2 mm was observed on the left side. The airway was successfully secured through the nasal route aided by the adult sized bronchoscope inserted orally through the gap between the eroded upper and the lower teeth. Adult sized fibreoptic bronchoscope may be useful in aiding nasal intubation in pediatric patients if the mouth opening permits its introduction orally.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v12i1.11986Health Renaissance 2014;12(1):49-51
Multiple Vesical Calculi Complicating Uterine Prolapsed
Authors: Basnet P , Agrawal A , Thakur A , Uprety D K , Bhatta R , Koirala S
Published: January 2015

Vesical calculus associated with uterovaginal prolapse is very rare. We report a case of a 70–year –old multiparous lady with third degree uterovaginal prolapse for twenty years .Presence of multiple vesical calculus in the cystocele was noted on ultrasonography and x-ray pelvis while undergoing investigation for acute urinary retention. Vaginal hysterectomy with pelvic floor repair followed by suprapubic cystolithotomy was done in the patient. Multiple vesicle calculus were removed. Post operative course was uneventful. Bladder outlet obstruction resulting from prolapse is suspected to be the inciting factor in stone formation though the casual relationship between prolapse and vesical calculus is not established.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v12i1.11989Health Renaissance 2014;12(1):55-56
Medical error
Authors: Piryani R M
Published: January 2015

Most staffs agreed, for good reasons of honesty and patient  autonomy, that admission of errors is important, but the doctors struggled to decide how it should be done. Most agreed that the  socio-legal climate in Nepal, and the possible financial implications, made it difficult to be completely honest. Other strong fears  included violence from the patient, damage to the hospital’s reputation and to the reputation of the doctors and possible loss of jobs  for nurses. The situation seems to be more or less same in other hospitals of Nepal. It is imperative for every hospital in Nepal  to have a clinical ethical committee to look after this matter. There must be appropriate hospital policy on dealing with errors. Hospital staffs need specific training in reporting and disclosing error. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmc.v4i4.11954