bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OBSERVASI LINGKUNGAN PERAIRAN DAN BIOTA PENGHASIL BIOTOKSIN DI MUARA SUNGAI MANGGAR BESAR KALIMANTAN TIMUR
Authors: Sari Abdul , Murtini Jovita Tri , Peranginangin Rosmawaty
Published: March 2017

Observasi biota penghasil biotoksin serta aspek lingkungan di perairan Balikpapan di depan muara sungai Manggar Besar, Kalimantan Timur telah dilakukan.
PERKEMBANGAN DAN PENGELOLAAN PERIKANAN LEMURU, Sardinella lemuru Bleeker 1853 Dl SELAT BALI
Authors: Nurhakim Subhat , Merta I Gede Sedana
Published: March 2017

Perikanan lemuru di Selat Bali berkembang sejak tahun 1974, di mana pada tahun itu terdapat 10 unit pukat cincin. Keberhasilan alat tangkap ini menyebabkan jumlahnya terus bertambah dengan pesat, sehingga perlu diambil langkah-langkah untuk membatasi perkembangannya lebih jauh. Pada tahun 1977 jumlah pukatcincin yang beroperasi sebanyak 100 unit.
Análise da expansão térmica volumétrica e das características estruturais de soluções sólidas de (Pb, Ca)TiO3 entre 150 e 570 K
Authors: Estrada F. R. , Eiras J. A. , Garcia D.
Published: March 2017

Resumo Corpos cerâmicos de Pb1-xCaxTiO3 (titanato de chumbo modificado com cálcio) foram preparados, em concentrações 0,24≤x≤0,55, para a determinação da natureza das anomalias de expansão térmica volumétrica observadas neste sistema ferroelétrico. O método de refinamento estrutural de Rietveld foi usado para estimar a evolução térmica dos parâmetros estruturais, a partir dos dados coletados pela técnica de difração de raios X de pó, entre 150 e 590 K. Pelo fato do diagrama de fases do Pb1-xCaxTiO3 e, consequentemente, dos grupos de simetrias, não estarem ainda definidos em toda a faixa de temperatura investigada, a análise estrutural baseou-se em adequações do protocolo de refinamento que, ao final, permitiram resultados que mostraram a relação entre as anomalias na expansão térmica desse sistema com transições de simetria, os quais não são necessariamente de ordem ferroelétrica-paraelétrica.
Agronomic performance of mini-tomato hybrids from dwarf lines
Authors: Finzi Rafael Resende , Maciel Gabriel Mascarenhas , Silva Ernani Clarete da , Luz Jose Magno Queiroz , Borba Monique Ellis Aguilar
Published: March 2017

ABSTRACT Little is known about the commercial potential of mini-tomato hybrids obtained from one dwarf parent. Thus, our objective was to evaluate the agronomic performance of mini-tomato hybrids obtained by crossing a dwarf line (A) with normal lines with indeterminate (I), determinate (D) and semi-determinate (SD) growth habits. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse at the Estação Experimental de Hortaliças at the Universidade Federal de Uberlândia-UFU in Monte Carmelo, Brazil. The experiment was completely randomized with 17 treatments and four repetitions. The genetic material consisted of 16 experimental mini-tomato hybrids from the tomato germplasm bank at UFU, and a commercial hybrid (Mascot) as a control. The following variables were used to evaluate agronomic performance: fruit weight (g); number of fruits plant-1; productivity (kg plant-1); number of bunches plant-1; number of fruits bunch-1; stem diameter (mm); distance between first bunch and soil (cm); internode length (cm) and total soluble solids (°Brix). The growth habit of the parents influenced the performance of the hybrids. In general, the mini-tomato hybrids from dwarf lines differed from the control with respect to all variables except number of fruits plant-1, number of fruits bunch-1 and stem diameter. On average, hybrids from dwarf lines showed higher productivity (20%), shorter internodes (11%) and a shorter distance between the first bunch and the ground (30%), relative to the control. Using dwarf lines to obtain mini-tomato hybrids was shown to be viable since the hybrids demonstrated better agronomic performance.
Preemergence herbicides on weed control in elephant grass pasture
Authors: Brighenti Alexandre Magno , Calsavara Leonardo Henrique Ferreira , Varotto Yago Vieira Guerra
Published: March 2017

ABSTRACT Elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schum.) is an important forage crop that has been proposed as a potential feedstock for bioenergy production. However, weed interference is a major factor limiting elephant grass production. Field experiments were conducted in 2014 and 2015 to evaluate preemergence herbicides for selective weed control in an elephant grass pasture. Herbicide treatments included atrazine + S-metolachlor, atrazine + simazine, ametryn, ethoxysulfuron, S-metolachlor, diuron + hexazinone, sulfentrazone, imazethapyr, and atrazine at label use rates. Weedy and weed-free treatments were included. Atrazine + S-metolachlor, atrazine + simazine, ametryn, ethoxysulfuron, S-metolachlor, sulfentrazone, and atrazine did not cause phytotoxicity on elephantgrass 35 days after treatment (DAT). However, diuron + hexazinone and imazethapyr were the most phytotoxic on elephantgrass, resulting in 81 and 70% phytotoxicity in 2014, and 7 and 6% phytotoxicity in 2015 respectively 35 DAT. All treatments provided effective weed control (>81%) with the exception of ethoxysulfuron (0 and 11% in 2014 and 2015, respectively), and atrazine (59% in 2014). These results show that atrazine + S-metolachlor, atrazine + simazine, ametryn, ethoxysulfuron, S-metolachlor, sulfentrazone, and atrazine were selectives when applied in preemergence in elephant grass pasture.
Amphibians of Vassununga State Park, one of the last remnants of semideciduous Atlantic Forest and Cerrado in northeastern São Paulo state, Brazil
Authors: Benício Ronildo Alves , Silva Fernando Rodrigues da
Published: March 2017

Abstract Although São Paulo state has one of the best known amphibian fauna in Brazil, there are still protected areas for which the species composition remains unknown. Here, we present the first species list of anuran amphibians in Vassununga State Park. This area is one of the last remnants of semideciduous Atlantic Forest and Cerrado in the northeastern region of São Paulo state, southeastern Brazil. To survey species, we visited six sites (two ponds, two streams, and two transects) in December, January, and February of 2014-2015 and 2015-2016, totalizing 18 days of field samplings at each site. We recorded 24 anuran species belonging to four families: Bufonidae (2 species), Hylidae (11 species), Leptodactylidae (10 species), and Microhylidae (1 species). Anurans consist mainly of generalist and widely distributed species. Although none of the species recorded are threatened with extinction according to the International Red List of Endangered Species (IUCN), four species have declining population and another three species have unknown population trends.
Evolução dos processos físicos nos modelos de dinâmica de populações
Authors: Cunha Jefferson A. R. da , Cândido Ladir , Oliveira Fernando A. , Penna André L. A.
Published: March 2017

Neste texto apresentamos e discutimos um breve panorama cronológico para a dinâmica de populações, observando o ponto de vista dos autores, bem como a evolução dos principais modelos matemáticos e sua importância histórica. Com foco na predição temporal e espacial da variação do número de indivíduos de uma população, analisamos como modelar matematicamente os processos físicos como crescimento, interação, difusão e fluxo de um coletivo de indivíduos. Partimos do bem conhecido modelo de Fibonacci e discutimos como modelos que o sucederam, a saber, o modelo Malthusiano, Lotka-Volterra e Fisher-Kolmogorov, foram capazes de ampliar o entendimento do comportamento de uma população. Apresentamos, nesta linha temporal sinuosa, como as interações entre uma mesma espécie e entre espécies podem ser explicadas e modeladas. Mostramos como funciona o processo de extinção de uma espécie predadora, o fenômeno de difusão de um coletivo devido as mais diversas exigências espaciais, as migrações e invasões de territórios por meio de uma dinâmica convectiva nos modelos de dinâmica de uma população e também como a não-localidade nas interações e no crescimento ampliam enormemente nosso entendimento sobre os padrões na natureza.
Com vento a lagoa vira mar: uma etnoarqueologia da pesca no litoral norte do RS
Authors: Silva Lucas Antonio da
Published: March 2017

Resumo: Diversas comunidades de pescadores se encontram atualmente distribuídas ao longo do litoral gaúcho, demonstrando que a pesca tradicional-artesanal ainda possui grande importância na região. Entretanto, apesar da riqueza histórica e sociocultural dessas comunidades, praticamente inexistem pesquisas etnoarqueológicas sobre essas populações. Neste caso, entende-se que a etnoarqueologia é um campo de estudo que possibilita a compreensão da materialidade das populações vivas. Busca-se, através desta, o estudo da mobilidade, da sazonalidade e do uso dos espaços de pesca (pesqueiros) nessa comunidade. Para tanto, a sócio-antropologia da pesca fornece o aporte necessário para compreender a dinâmica sociocultural destes grupos. Diante disso, adota-se a proposta de Antonio Carlos Diegues de que a pesca é um elemento de coesão social e que, portanto, constrói sociedades. Entende-se, nesse sentido, que a pesca não se trata apenas de uma questão produtiva, mas também da relação de vida que os pescadores possuem com estes espaços, sendo estes construídos socialmente através do conhecimento tradicional. Por meio das observações de campo realizadas até então, foi possível estabelecer um modelo de utilização dos espaços de pesca (pesqueiros) para a região em dois períodos distintos: a cheia (outono e inverno) e a vazante (primavera e verão).
Trophic relationships among fish assemblages on a mudflat within a Brazilian Marine protected area
Authors: Campos Dafne Marcelle de Almeida Ramos , Silva Adna Ferreira da , Sales Natalice dos Santos , Oliveira Ronnie Enderson Mariano Carvalho Cunha , Pessanha Andre Luiz Machado
Published: March 2017

Abstract The present study deals with the temporal variations in diet and the trophic guilds of dominant fish species on a tidal mudflat during the dry and rainy seasons. We sought to classify the diet composition of 17 species in the Mamanguape river estuary, northeastern Brazil, identifying the dominant food components and evaluating the effects of seasonality on the guild organization. Diets varied little between species and seasons, though they seemed to be more heterogeneous during the rainy season. Five primary feeding guilds were identified, in accordance with the importance of prey in the diets: (1) Detritivore, (2) Zooplanktivore, (3) Zoobenthivore-epifaune, (4) Zoobenthivore-infaune, and (5) Piscivore. Most fishes fed on a diverse range of food items but relied heavily on zooplankton prey. Several fish species showed a tendency to a specialised diet, with almost all species showing some degree of opportunistic feeding. A high degree of diet overlap was found among some species; however, the presence of exploitative competition could not be determined.
New record of the flasher scorpionfish, Scorpaenopsis macrochir Ogilby, 1910 (Scorpaeniformes, Scorpaenidae) from Indian waters
Authors: Naranji Muddula Krishna , Velamala Govinda Rao , Knadula Sujatha
Published: March 2017

Based on two specimens of the flasher scorpionfish, species of Scorpaenopsis macrochir Ogilby, 1910 (85-96 mm, TL) collected from the Visakhapatnam coastal waters, India, we described S. macrochir as the new record from Indian waters. This species is characterized by having 12 dorsal spines, medial surface of pectoral fins with a black subterminal band along entire margin of fin; supraorbital spine ending in a single spinous point and unserrated ocular spines. Nasal spines usually divided into two to six small points. The present study describes full description of the species with illustration.
Exploring In-Flight NCCI Components and Drawing a Service Blue Print to Achieve Effective NCCI Management: An Application of the Kano Analysis
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Kim In-Sin , Go Mi-Jeong
Published: March 2017

This study: (1) explored the factors of negative customer-to-customer interaction (NCCI) throughout the flight service process and classified service quality elements according to the Kano analysis method, (2) verified the Timko customer satisfaction coefficient, and (3) presented a new service blueprint that included NCCI service management. Data were collected from 350 customers who had experience with international flight. Among 26 NCCI items derived by FGI, the results revealed 10 items of attractive quality, 13 items of must-be quality, 2 items of one-dimensional quality, and 1 item that was of indifferent quality. Also, the study produced a service blue print for NCCI management that included specific quality elements for the Timko customer satisfaction coefficient throughout the flight service process. Based on these results, academic implications of this study are discussed and practical implications are provided.
A Study of the Change in Community Solidarity Caused When Moving from a Living Space to Tourism Destination
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Lee Sang-Hoon , Ko Dong-Wan
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this study is to look into characteristics of change in solidarity among members of communities by artificially transforming living space into a tourism destination. Gamcheon 2-dong village in Busan was selected as the research target site for the sake of this study. This study principally suggests that although tourism development may be helpful to the development of community, the relationship among community members gets divided into two parts. Subsequently, there can be negative consequences hindering the development of community. Living space is a home in which local residents lead their own lives and it is maintained through their social relationships, but such relationships can be broken due to excessively transforming their living space into a tourism destination. Tourists temporarily share living space with that of local residents, and the majority of them lead their lives oblivious to any tourism. Therefore, the identity of the primary living space of local residents should be preserved. Choosing tourism development as the only alternative for community development should be avoided.
THE POTENTIALITY OF CREATING IDENTITY IN THE CONTEXT OF THE FUNCTION OF EMANCIPATION IN A BORDER LAND SCHOOL. THE EXAMPLE OF A POLISH SCHOOL IN LATVIA
Authors: Urlińska Maria Marta
Published: March 2017

Political and social changes happening in Europe at the end of the previous century inspired many researchers involved in explaining the processes of integration, assimilation or adaptation of indigenous communities and moving to the Old Continent from different parts of the world. There also appeared certain activities that support marginalized minorities. One of the many initiatives to meet the Poles living in a foreign country was one planned and conducted in Riga since 1989 by scientific communities of the UMK and UŁ, a Polish-Latvian educational experiment, aiming to organize a bilingual, bicultural and inclusive Polish school in Riga. Contemporarily, schools may perform three types of functions: to reconstruct, to adapt and to emancipate. Emancipation is an experience of freedom, which is achieved by the integration of knowledge, the possession of power and the ability to work for the best interest of an entity. The following text deals with the educational institution organized in the form of a border lands school and its role in freedom experienced by students, achieved by integrating knowledge about mechanisms that strengthen the sense of connectedness with the culture, tradition and language, as well as a minority group power’s over their own choices based on the autonomous thinking of giving power to act in a complex and ambiguous world. Running for 25 years, this longitudinal study allows us to illustrate the phenomenon of building an educational alternative in the situation of observed changes in the political and social sphere happening in the 90s in one of the countries of Eastern Europe, which has been in the Soviet sphere of influence for years. Thus, it becomes possible to demonstrate the dynamics of the phenomenon, the process of identity on the border between cultures together with an indication of the emancipatory function of a Polish school in Latvia.
THE METHODOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS OF PEDAGOGICAL RESEARCH IN THE CONTEXT OF EDUCATION IN THE 21ST CENTURY
Authors: Chehlova Zoja , Chehlovs Mihails
Published: March 2017

The methodological foundations of pedagogical research still remain a debatable and under-researched scientific issue. In our view, this is due to the following reasons:-- the lack of scientifically grounded understanding concerning the subject of pedagogy as a science;- different interpretations of the content of the object and the subject of pedagogical research;- denial of the inter-relationship of the object and the subject of pedagogical research;- lack of understanding of the role of hypothesis as the scientific basis of pedagogical research, resulting in the exclusion of the hypothesis from pedagogical research and its replacement with a research question.Different interpretations of the methodological foundations of pedagogical research and the resulting unproductive experiment determined the further study of this problem.The purpose of the article is the scientific interpretation of the methodological foundations of pedagogical research.Research Methodology – there were used the following approaches: the epistemological approach, the student- activity approach and the anthropological approach.Research method – theoretical analysis.
CONTENT DEVELOPMENT FOR ESTONIAN GENERAL COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOLS: CONTEXT, CURRICULA AND SCHOOL PRACTICE 1991-2016
Authors: Läänemets Urve
Published: March 2017

The issues of selection of the content for general comprehensive schools has become a highly debated issue in the 21st century and several countries have turned special attention to it. Estonian experience of curriculum development has shown, how important different contexts have been influencing educational reforms. The processes of educational policy making and research in the field of specification of the content in 1991-2016 have been analysed using Crawford’s specification of different contexts: the context of global, regional and local influences; the context of text production (production of curriculum documents) and the context of practice. General as well as subject specific principles can be used for selection of the content of traditional as well as new/emerging schools subjects and there should be rational proportions between the traditional and innovative content of learning for general comprehensive schools. Ahistorical and non-theoretical approaches can become counterproductive considering the school culture within a particular society.
A CHILD WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS IN MAINSTREAM PRE-PRIMARY EDUCATION
Authors: Miezīte Sandra
Published: March 2017

For development of a child with autistic spectrum disorders in general pre-school facilities was developed a set of measures. It was developed a complex of measures and research work how  to ensure the development, realizing the appropriate pedagogical correction work and implementing a number of pre-conditions; complementation of teachers’ theoretical knowledge; carried out a child's development discovery and implementation of individual educational plan using appropriate teaching methods and alternative means of communication; the improved pre-school environment for a child with autism spectrum disorders needs; realised co-operation with parents; an assistant support to a child.
FORMATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF SPEECH PERCEPTION AMONG MINORITY PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN WITH SPECIFIC LANGUAGE IMPAIRMENT
Authors: Tulovska Tatjana
Published: March 2017

Development of speech perception among schoolchildren having specific language impairment is one of the most important profiles in the work of the speech therapist.Aim of research: to research methods used by a speech therapist in work aimed at the formation and development of speech perception among schoolchildren having specific language impairment, to work out and approbate the material developed for a speech therapist’s work. While developing speech perception, the exercises are becoming more and more serious and even complicated. However, if they are offered to a schoolchild gradually or in a form of a game and if the structure of the disorder of each child alongside with his individual features are taken into account and the cooperation with parents is established, any child can essentially improve the level of his speech perception. Having analyzed the approaches to the logopedic correction work aimed at speech development and findings of other speech therapists having practice and experience in this field, the author of the given research has worked out her methodological material, i.e. a workbook “A hundred exercises for the formation and development of speech perception among minority primary school children with specific language impairment”.
Presentación
Authors: Iravedra Araceli , Sánchez Torre Leopoldo
Published: March 2017

Sin resumen
Scientific Output on Azadirachta indica (Neem): A Bibliometric Study
Authors: Singh Nirmal
Published: March 2017

Purpose: The study outlines the growth of scientific literature on Azadirachta indica in journals applying bibliometric analysis. The purpose is to provide an overview of the research activities on the subject, exploring different aspects of scientific literature. Methodology: The data was accessed in the month of August 2015 using the 'PubMed'. An advanced search was conducted in the database using the phrase 'Azadirachta indica' and alternative search terms including 'neem', 'indian lilac' and 'margosa'. The search results were filtered for journal articles, English language and up to the year 2014. A total of 1198 results were found fulfilling the search criteria. The data was downloaded in Excel format and then analyzed. The data analysis was performed using frequencies and percentages of publications. Besides, Lotka's law had been applied to assess the author productivity and Bradford's law of scattering was used to ascertain the distribution pattern of articles. Findings: A high degree of research/ authorship collaboration (.9472) on Azadirachta indica was found. All except 05.28% articles were works of joint authorship. Author productivity considering first author as well as all authors did not fit Lotka's law with a value of n=2. The distribution of articles in journals was found nearly acceptable to the Bradford's law of scattering making it obvious that there are a few core journals contributing significantly on Azadirachta indica. Originality: The paper provides an overview of the research activities on Azadirachta indica.
Setting Up Village Information Centres for Farmers of Odisha: A Pilot Survey
Authors: Barik Nilaranjan , Jena Puspanjali
Published: March 2017

Present survey is a pilot study for setting up Village Information Centres (VICs) for farmers of Odisha. The survey covers 15 Revenue villages of Deogaon block of Balangir district, Odisha in which a total numbers of 380 farmers were surveyed. An attempt has been made to identify the main sources on which farmers depend for their daily information, the kinds of frequently needed information and their approaches towards setting up of Village Information Centres. Also, the study has revealed the age group, gender and educational qualifications of the farmers.
Status of Collection in Agricultural Libraries of North India with an Overview of the Trend in Acquisition
Authors: Bhat Nazir Ahmad , Ganai Shabir Ahmad
Published: March 2017

Purpose: This paper is an attempt to explore the status of collection in Agricultural libraries of North India and assess the impact of the advent of Electronic Information Resources (EIRs) on acquisition. Design/Methodology/Approach: A questionnaire was used as data collection tool to collect data from the University Librarians. Telephonic interaction and e-mail correspondence was also used to clear doubts, remove ambiguities and obtain data from the respondents. Findings: The majority of the agricultural libraries in north India have a sound collection of information resources in print form, which may continue to act as a source of attraction for users in future for a long time to come. Yet the acquisition of information resources in print form across the studied libraries continues at routine pace, and as such the advent of e-resources seems to have not yet had any prominent impact on acquisition of resources in print form. E-Books have not yet been fully incorporated into the library collection and the e-journal collection 'CeRA' seems to meet the needs of users, as no additional e-journals are seen to be subscribed. Research Limitations: Only seven agricultural libraries have been taken as a sample. Moreover, the work is confined to only 2 aspects i.e. current status and the impact of EIRs on acquisition of information resources. Other aspects like that of collection development; storage and accommodation; preservation; library functionality and library services need to be studied as well. Originality/Value - This is the first work of its nature in north India and the findings should help librarians to decide on print and electronic forms of information resources that need to be acquired.
Soft Keyboards for the Kannada Language: A Case Study of Searching Library OPACs for Vernacular Content through Mobile Phones
Authors: Harinarayana N. S. , Nishchitha S. M.
Published: March 2017

Keyboards are the dominant Input Method Editors (IMEs) used for data input into computers. With the rise of mobile devices with touchscreen technologies, soft keyboards, also called 'on screen' or virtual keyboards, have become popular. The keyboard layout decides the data entry rate, user friendliness, and accuracy of data input. This study assesses ten soft keyboards in the Kannada language with respect to their utility for interaction with OPAC. EazyType Kannada and Google Keyboard were found to be better than others in terms of number of keystrokes required to input data. Anova and Standard deviation techniques were used to analyse the data. This study has an implication for users of OPAC in deciding the keyboard to be used on their mobile devices.
A cross sectional study of 1000 lower segment cesarean section in obstetrics and gynecology department of P. D. U Medical College, Rajkot, Gujarat, India
Authors: Chavda Dolly , Goswam Kamal , Dudhrejiya Kavita
Published: March 2017

Background: Though WHO recommends a rate of 10-15% caesarean section for a given hospital, there has been a rising trend worldwide. We estimated the recent incidence of caesarean section in Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, P.D.U. Medical College, Rajkot (Gujarat and correlated these rates with the socioeconomic, demographic, and health variables.Methods: We have studied 1000 cases of lower segment caesarean section (cross sectional study) at Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, P.D.U Medical College, Rajkot (Gujarat) to find out rate of caesarean section, common maternal and fetal indication and complications of lower segment caesarean section.Results: Caesarean section rate of the present study is 19.9%. Most common indication of LSCS was scarred uterus 39.9%.followed by fetal distress 19.1%, malpresentation 18.6%, and failed induction 7.3%. Maternal morbidities and mortalities in emergency LSCS in compare to elective LSCS. Analysis based on Robson’s ten-group showed that group 5 (Previous CS, single cephalic,>37 weeks) made the greatest contribution to total CS rate.Conclusions: Scientific advances, social and cultural changes, and medico legal considerations seem to be the main reasons for the increased acceptability of caesarean sections. The decision to perform a C-section delivery must be chosen carefully and should not be profit oriented. There is a possibility of keeping the rate to minimum by reducing number of primary caesarean sections, by proper counseling of the patients, proper monitoring and patience.
A prospective study of the predictors of mortality in acute exacerbation of COPD: an Indian perspective
Authors: Kamdar Deepali J. , Patel Dharmeshkumar
Published: March 2017

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality world-wide. In 2011, COPD was the third leading cause of death. The prevalence and burden of COPD are projected to increase over the coming decades due to continued exposure to COPD risk factors. Thus prevention, early detection and prompt treatment of COPD and it’s exacerbations may have an impact on the clinical progression and the risk of hospitalization. This is a prospective study to determine the predictors of mortality in COPD patients hospitalized for an acute exacerbation.Methods: This was a prospective study of 94 patients admitted for acute exacerbation of COPD in a tertiary care hospital over a period of 18 months. After a detailed medical history and physical examination, patient’s blood sample was sent for Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) analysis, a complete hemogram, blood sugar levels, serum albumin levels, blood urea nitrogen levels (BUN), serum creatinin levels, SGPT, SGOT and serum sodium and potassium levels. We then compared these parameters in patients who died with those who survived to determine the mortality predictors.   Results: A statistically significant relation was obtained between male gender, smoking history (odd ratio of 1.5), number of pack years (p = 0.029), history of prior admission (odds ratio of 2), longer duration of illness (p = 0.045), elevated blood sugar levels (p = 0.035), hypoalbuminaemia (0.001), hypopnatremia (0.001), respiratory acidosis (0.003), elevated partial pressure of CO2 (0.001) and mortality.Conclusions: We found a male preponderance, with increase in mortality with the increase in the number of smoking pack years. Longer duration of illness was also an important predictor of mortality. Respiratory acidosis, hyponatremia, elevated blood sugar levels and hypoalbuminemia at the time of presentation were other important predictors of mortality in patients hospitalized for acute exacerbation of COPD.
Study of prevalence and impact of hyperuricemia in a patient of hypertension
Authors: Ansari Rizwan N. , Gandhi Rina V. , Saiyed M. N. , Jain Kaushal D.
Published: March 2017

Background: The association of raised serum uric acid levels with various cardiovascular risk factors has often led to the debate of whether raised serum uric acid levels could be an independent risk factor in essential hypertension. Hence we carried out a study to examine the possibility of hyperuricemia causing hypertension, to see if there is a relationship between the serum uric acid levels and severity and duration of hypertension.Methods: The study was carried out in Smt. SCL Hospital, Saraspur, Ahmedabad, India, the study period from September 2012 to June 2014, a total of 100 patients were studied. The patients were included if they satisfied the JNC VII criteria for hypertension. They were excluded if they were having any other condition known to cause raised serum uric acid levels and secondary hypertension.Results: With the result based on the study carried out we concluded that there can be a direct relation between hyperuricemia and hypertension. Also the study showed that the SUA levels were significantly increased in patient with stage 2 hypertension in comparasion with those with stage 1 hypertension, showing that the severity of hypertension also related to the SUA levels.Conclusions: Based on the study carried out we concluded that SUA can be used as an early biochemical marker to determine the severity and duration of hypertension.
Clinico-epidemiological profile of dengue cases in a Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Authors: V. Srividya , N. Kruthika
Published: March 2017

Background: Medical college hospital being a tertiary care center receives a significant number of dengue cases from within and outside the catchment area and provides a good opportunity to study the clinical and epidemiological features of dengue infection, its prognosis and outcome so as to institute prompt preventive and control measures. The objective was to describe the clinico-epidemiological features of dengue cases admitted to pediatric ward at a Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.Methods: Cross-sectional study of 140 cases positive for NS1Ag, IgM and/or IgG by dengue rapid immuno-chromatographic card test, admitted in pediatric ward during June to August 2013 at Rajarajeswari Medical College and Hospital.Results: Majority of the patients were from rural area. Fever was present in all 140 cases. Vomiting followed by headache were the common presenting symptoms. Of the 140, 50% cases were classified as dengue fever without warning signs, 46.4% as dengue fever with warning signs and 3.6% as severe dengue. Thrombocytopenia was present in 77.1%, leucopenia in 47.9%, and raised haematocrit in 52.1% of cases. Mortality rate was 0.71%.Conclusions: Children above 5 years of age were most commonly affected age group. About 5 (3.6%) of the patients belonged to severe dengue category according to revised WHO Dengue Case Classification.
Postoperative Weight Loss Masks Metabolic Impacts of Periodontitis in Obese Rodents
Authors: Yu Ting , Zhao Li , Huang Xin , Xie Meilian , Wang Xiangli , Ma Chanjuan , Xu Yixin , Wang Yixiong , Xie Baoyi , Luo Gang , Zhang Jincai , Xuan Dongying
Published: March 2017

Background: Postoperative weight loss (POWL) is expected to occur in combined models of obesity and periodontitis. This study explores the confounding effects of POWL on the impact of ligation‐induced periodontitis on glucose and lipid metabolism in obese animals.

Methods: Combined mouse models of diet‐induced obesity (DIO) and ligation‐induced periodontitis (5‐ or 10‐day ligation) were studied. Fasting serum glucose (FSG), fasting insulin (Fins), and lipids including triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low‐ and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC), were detected via biochemistry and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. POWL and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) were calculated. Analysis of covariance was performed to identify confounding effects of POWL.

Results: The obesity, periodontitis, and 10‐day groups exhibited greater POWL than corresponding controls (P <0.01). Without considering POWL, conflicting results were found, including: 1) contradictory changes in HDLC caused by obesity or periodontitis; and 2) unequal levels of FSG, TC, and HDLC between days 5 and 10 in the sham‐ligation controls. Moreover, upregulating effects of periodontitis were found only on TG in the DIO mice, whereas those on Fins, HOMA‐IR, and HDLC were statistically veiled. After the confounding effects of POWL were filtered, periodontitis promoted increased levels of not only TG but also Fins, HOMA‐IR, and HDLC in the DIO mice (P <0.05).

Conclusions: When analyzing the interrelationship between obesity and periodontitis, the confounding effects of an imbalanced POWL should be considered. Otherwise, impact of periodontitis on metabolic dysregulation in obese animals may be underestimated.
The Impact of Pelvic Floor Muscles Exercises with and without Synergistic Muscles on Quality of Life of Women with Stage I Stress Urinary Incontinence
Authors: Ptak Magdalena , Brodowska Agnieszka , Ciećwież Sylwester , Rotter Iwona
Published: March 2017

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) influences the quality of life of women. The research applied ICIQ LUTS qol (The International Consultation Incontinence Questionnaire Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms quality of life) as a tool to measure the quality of life (QOL) of patients with stage 1 SUI in many areas. 140 perimenopausal women who participated in a urodynamic test at Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Gynecologic Oncology, Pomeranian Medical University, Police, Poland in the years 2013-2015 were enrolled in the study. Patients were divided into two groups: A and B. Two questionnaires were applied: the author’s original questionnaire and the standardized ICIQ LUTS qol. Gymnastic plans were recommended 4 times per week for the period of 3 months. The plan for group A included the exercises of pelvic floor muscles (PFM) with the simultaneous tension of the transverse abdominal muscle (TrA) and for group B included the exercises of PMF without TrA. The evaluation of the quality of life of patients with stage 1 SUI with the use of ICIQ LUTS qol among patients from groups A and B after therapy showed a significant improvement in most areas. More impact is observed in the physiotherapy of both PFM with TrA.
Medición del volumen de pesas de referencia de balanzas de presión mediante comparador óptico
Authors: Purata Sifuentes Omar Jair , Arámburo Botello Carlos Ángel , Ramírez Israel Salvador , De la O. Martínez José Luis , Funes Rodríguez Elvia
Published: March 2017

En el método de la determinación del área efectiva, para la calibración de una balanza de presión, se requiere que las pesas de referencia de la balanza estén calibradas en la magnitud de masa, para poder determinar la presión que generan. Para la calibración de las pesas de referencia, se requiere la determinación de la densidad o el volumen de las mismas. Si bien el método de pesada hidrostática es el más empleado para este fin, nuevos métodos han surgido recientemente como, por ejemplo, el que implica el uso de un picnómetro de gas. En este trabajo se propone una alternativa para la determinación del volumen de las pesas de referencia utilizadas en las balanzas de presión. El método utiliza la evaluación dimensional de las pesas de referencia mediante un comparador óptico, con lo que se evita el contacto superficial de la pesa y se calcula su volumen, basado en un modelo matemático obtenido aplicando el desarrollo de sólidos de revolución. La calidad de los resultados experimentales se evalua por comparación de la incertidumbre relativa contra resultados de la literatura, obteniéndose un desempeño favorable para el método propuesto.
Application of black walnut (Juglans nigra) husk for the removal of lead (II) ion from aqueous solution
Authors: Lawal O. S. , Ayanda O. S. , Rabiu O. O. , Adebowale K. O.
Published: March 2017

The biosorption characteristics of Pb (II) ions from aqueous solution using black walnut (Juglans nigra) seed husk (WSH) biomass were investigated using batch adsorption techniques. The effects of pH, contact time, initial Pb (II) ion concentration, and temperature were studied. The Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin isotherms were used to analyze the equilibrium data. It was found that the adsorption of Pb (II) ions onto WSH was best described by the Freundlich adsorption model. Biosorption kinetics data were tested using the pseudo-ﬁrst order and pseudo-second order models, and it was observed that the kinetics data fitted the pseudo-second order model. Thermodynamic parameters such as standard Gibbs free energy change (ΔG0), standard enthalpy change (ΔH0) and standard entropy change (ΔS0) were evaluated. The result showed that biosorption of Pb (II) ions onto WSH was spontaneous and endothermic in nature. The FTIR study showed that the following functional groups: O-H, C = O, C-O, C-H and N-H were involved in binding Pb (II) ions to the biomass.
Curriculum Development Training Improvement in the Competence Geological Disaster Mitigation Community Based
Authors: Rusman - , Rohman Asep
Published: March 2017

This research was motivated still many natural disasters in Indonesia. Geological disasters would always be an important issue in the Indonesian Nation as a consequence Indonesia's geological conditions unique region, rich in natural resources but full of potential disasters. Disaster handling required the participation of all components of the nation led to the importance of the massive dissemination of disaster information to all levels of society. The role of the community in the society was considered to be very strategic as agents of change. Unfortunately, the competence of members of the community who were still considered weak in disaster mitigation and counseling techniques became constraints the achievement of objectives disaster-conscious society. Increased competence was absolutely necessary and training could be selected as an option to improve competence. Research conducted using the method of research and development which was divided into three main stages. First, the needs analysis as a preliminary study, the second, the development of a model curriculum, and the third trials of the curriculum model to determine the effectiveness in improving the competence fields of geological disaster mitigation. This study was conducted to determine the curriculum development process proper training to improve competence in community-based geological disaster mitigation. The results showed that the model developed training curriculum based on the needs analysis proven effective in improving participants's competence to do counseling disaster mitigation. Pre-post test results showed an increase in the cognitive aspects of participants in Trial I and Trial II. Significant improvement occurred on the competence of counsel which showed a success rate of Trial II in improving the competence of counsel practice of training participants. Factors supporting the development of a model curriculum Extension Disaster Mitigation Training Community-Based Ground Motion  were: (a) the competence of lecturers geological disaster mitigation; (B) the interests of members of community volunteers; and (c) the support of policy makers, while the factors that impeded the development of curriculum models were limited clump of competence training in geology, low educational background and knowledge of the geology and ground motion, and limited time.
Adsorption Isotherm Studies on Acid Orange-10 Dye Removal using Cerium Dioxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Budiman Harry , Zuas Oman
Published: March 2017

The adsorption capacity of AO-10 from aqueous solution onto CeO2-NPs was investigated under various reaction parameters. Batch mode experiments were conducted to assess the potential of the CeO2-NPs as adsorbent for the removal of AO-10 dye from aqueous solution. Equilibrium isotherm studies were carried out under an optimum reaction condition (i.e., AO-10 dye concentration = 15 mg/L, CeO2-NPS dosage = 2 g/L, pH of dye solution = 2) obtained from this study. The equilibrium data obtained were fitted to Langmuir, Freundlich, and Redlich-Peterson isotherm models. The results shows that, the linear transform model provided the highest regression coefficient (R2 = 0.991) with the Langmuir model. The maximum monolayer adsorption capacity was found to be 33.33 mg/g at 30 °C, which is higher than some data from published literature.
Hydrogel Based on Crosslinked Methylcellulose Prepared by Electron Beam Irradiation for Wound Dressing Application
Authors: Suliwarno Ambyah
Published: March 2017

The aim of this research is to explore the possibility of methylcellulose polymer to be used as wound dressing material prepared using electron beam technique. The methylcellulose paste solution with various of molecular weight (SM-4, SM-100, SM-400, SM-4000 and SM-8000) at different concentration (15-30% w/v) were irradiated by using electron beam on the dose range of 10 kGy up to 40 kGy. Gel fraction and swelling ratio of hydrogels were determined gravimetrically. Tensile strength and elasticity of hydrogels were measured using a universal testing machine. It was found that with the increasing of irradiation dose from 10 up to 40 kGy, gel fraction and tensile strength were increased for all of hydrogels with various of molecular weight. On contrary, the swelling ratio of hydrogels decreased with increasing of irradiation dose. The optimum hydrogels elasticity were obtained from methylcellulose solution with the concentration range of 15-20% with irradiation dose of 20 kGy and showed excellent performance. The hydrogels based on methylcellulose prepared by electron beam irradiation can be considered for wound dressing material.
Synthesis and Thermal-Stability Study of Polybutylene Itaconate Modified with Divinyl Benzene and Glycerol
Authors: Wibowo Atmanto Heru , Makhnunah Ninis , Irawati Deny , Purnawan Candra , Nurhayati Nanik Dwi , Storz Henning
Published: March 2017

Polybutylene itaconate (PBI) for modification with divinyl benzene (DVB) and glycerol has been synthesized at 180 °C for 3 h via polycondensation of itaconic acid (IA) and butanediols using catalyst of Ti(OBu)4. Modification on PBI was done with addition of 15%, 20% and 25% DVB (w/w) using benzoyl peroxide. With glycerol, weight variations of glycerol:1,4-butanediol (BDO) in the synthesis were 10%, 30%, and 50% (mole/mole). PBI and PBI modified with DVB and glycerol were characterized with FTIR and TG-DTA. PBI showed a wavenumber shift from 1703 cm-1 to 1728 cm-1 of the C=O functional group from acid to esther. The DVB modification on PBI also showed that the intensity decrease of C=C stretching was due to the formation of crosslinking on the double bond. In the modification with glycerol, three dimensional networking on the polyester occurred through bonding between hydroxyl of glycerol and acid group of IA. Constant intensity of C=C stretching on polyester was seen. The thermal stability of PBI modified with DVB increased, accompanied by rigidity change of the structure. The thermal stability of PBI modified with glycerol decreased, caused by the decrease of regularity degree and the elasticity increase of the three dimensional structure of polyester.
Isolation of Bioactive Compounds from Aspergillus terreus LS07
Authors: Dewi Rizna Triana , Tachibana Sanro , Dewi Puspa , Kardono L.B.S. , Ilyas Muhammad
Published: March 2017

This study aims to search for the active components from Aspergillus terreus LS07 which isolated from an Indonesian soil. Bioassay-guided fractionations of the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extract against α-glucosidase and DPPH free radical to give four isolated compounds: oleic acid (1), ergosterol (2), butyrolactone I (3), and butyrolactone II (4). The structures of these metabolites were assigned on the basis of detailed spectroscopic analysis. Oleic acid (1) was showed significant activity toward α-glucosidase with IC50 value of 8.54 μM, but not for antioxidant. Butyrolactone I (3) and II (4) were showed significant activities against the α-glucosidase with their IC50 values at 52.17 and 96.01 μM, and those against DPPH free radicals at 51.39 and 17.64 μM, respectively. On the other hand, ergosterol (2) did not show any activities.
Influence of Operational Parameters on the Photocatalytic Activity of Powdered TiO2 for the Reduction of CO2
Authors: Zuas Oman , Kim Jin Seog , Gunlazuardi Jarnuzi
Published: March 2017

In this report, the results from a study on the influence of operational parameters on TiO2 photocatalytic activity for CO2 reduction under an ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) illumination are presented. The results indicated that the TiO2 was found to be active for CO2 reduction with CH3OH as the major products, while other minor products (CO, CH4, and C2H4) were also detected. In addition, the formation of such reduction products was obviously influenced by the operational parameters. Under this study, the optimum operational parameters for CO2 reduction at 298 °K were determined to be: NaOH concentration 0.2 M, TiO2 dosage 2 g/L, volume of the reaction media 75 mL, the pressure of system 800 kPa. It was also found that the increase in UV-vis illumination time have increased the yield of product formation. A possible reaction pathway for the formation of the reduction products is also discussed.