bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation of biopolymer films by aqueous tape casting processing
Authors: Vogelsang David F , Perilla Jairo E , Buitrago Gustavo , Algecira Néstor A
Published: February 2014

Biopolymer films have been prepared by continuous aqueous tape casting, using dextran–water solutions. The effect of dextran concentration and solution temperature on the flow behavior was studied by steady and dynamic rheological measurements. Rheological measurements revealed that increasing dextran concentration strongly increased viscosity, while increasing temperature reduced the viscosity marginally, limiting the film processing techniques to tape casting. Elastic effects were also seen in the biopolymer rheology studies, and no changes in the fluid internal microstructure were detected in the rheological measurements. The effect of casting speeds on the biopolymer film thickness was experimentally determined and compared with a pseudoplastic fluid model. Mechanical properties of the biopolymer films presented an isotropic behavior. Adding sorbitol as an external plasticizer produced more elastic films but induced an anisotropic response on the elongation at break.
Nitrogen dioxide and mortality: review and meta-analysis of long-term studies
Authors: Faustini Annunziata , Rapp Regula , Forastiere Francesco
Published: February 2014

Exposure to ambient nitrogen dioxide (NO2) has been linked to increased mortality in several epidemiological studies but the question remains of whether NO2is directly responsible for the health effects or is only an indicator of other pollutants, including particulate matter. The aim of the present review was to provide pooled estimates of the long-term effects of NO2on mortality, which are potentially useful for health impact assessment.

We selected 23 papers, published from 2004 to 2013, evaluating the relationship between NO2and mortality, also including an assessment of the effect of particulate matter exposure. A random-effects meta-analysis was carried out on 19 studies.

The pooled effect on mortality was 1.04 (95% CI 1.02–1.06) with an increase of 10 μg·m−3in the annual NO2concentration and 1.05 (95% CI 1.01–1.09) for particulate matter <2.5 μm in diameter (PM2.5) (10 μg·m−3). The effect on cardiovascular mortality was 1.13 (95% CI 1.09–1.18) for NO2and 1.20 (95% CI 1.09–1.31) for PM2.5. The NO2effect on respiratory mortality was 1.03 (95% CI 1.02–1.03) and 1.05 (95% CI 1.01–1.09) for PM2.5. Four bipollutant analyses with particulate matter and NO2in the same models showed minimal changes in the effect estimates of NO2.

There is evidence of a long-term effect of NO2on mortality as great as that of PM2.5. An independent effect of NO2emerged from multipollutant models.
Sleep apnoea is associated with major cardiac events in peripheral arterial disease
Authors: Utriainen Karri T. , Airaksinen Juhani K. , Polo Olli , Laitio Ruut , Pietilä Mikko J. , Scheinin Harry , Vahlberg Tero , Leino Kari A. , Kentala Erkki S. , Jalonen Jouko R. , Hakovirta Harri , Parkkola Riitta , Virtanen Sami , Laitio Timo T.
Published: February 2014

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is associated with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) represents severe atherosclerosis with a high mortality after vascular surgery. The role of OSA in the prognosis of these patients is not yet established.

84 patients (aged 67±9 years) scheduled for sub-inguinal surgical revascularisation were enrolled for preoperative polysomnography. The threshold for significant OSA was an apnoea/hypopnoea index ≥20 events·h−1. Major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), including cardiac death, myocardial infarction, coronary revascularisation, angina pectoris requiring hospitalisation and stroke, were used as a combined end-point.

During follow-up (median 52 months), 17 out of 39 patients with and six out of 45 patients without significant OSA suffered MACCE. In the multivariate Cox regression, the primary predictors of MACCE were significant OSA (hazard ratio (HR) 5.1 (95% CI 1.9–13.9); p=0.001) and pre-existing coronary artery disease (HR 4.4 (95% CI 1.8–10.6); p=0.001). Other significant predictors were a ≥4 year history of PAD (HR 3.8 (95% CI 1.3–11.5); p=0.02) and decreasing high-density lipoprotein/total cholesterol ratio (HR 0.95 per percentage (95% CI 0.90–1.00); p=0.048).

OSA is associated with poor long-term outcome in patients with PAD following revascularisation. OSA might have an important role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in these patients.
Genomic characteristics and comparative genomics analysis of Penicillium chrysogenum KF-25
Authors: Peng Qin , Yuan Yihui , Gao Meiying , Chen Xupeng , Liu Biao , Liu Pengming , Wu Yan , Wu Dandan
Published: February 2014

Background

Penicillium chrysogenum has been used in producing penicillin and derived β-lactam antibiotics for many years. Although the genome of the mutant strain P. chrysogenum Wisconsin 54-1255 has already been sequenced, the versatility and genetic diversity of this species still needs to be intensively studied. In this study, the genome of the wild-type P. chrysogenum strain KF-25, which has high activity against Ustilaginoidea virens, was sequenced and characterized.

Results

The genome of KF-25 was about 29.9 Mb in size and contained 9,804 putative open reading frames (orfs). Thirteen genes were predicted to encode two-component system proteins, of which six were putatively involved in osmolarity adaption. There were 33 putative secondary metabolism pathways and numerous genes that were essential in metabolite biosynthesis. Several P. chrysogenum virus untranslated region sequences were found in the KF-25 genome, suggesting that there might be a relationship between the virus and P. chrysogenum in evolution. Comparative genome analysis showed that the genomes of KF-25 and Wisconsin 54-1255 were highly similar, except that KF-25 was 2.3 Mb smaller. Three hundred and fifty-five KF-25 specific genes were found and the biological functions of the proteins encoded by these genes were mainly unknown (232, representing 65%), except for some orfs encoding proteins with predicted functions in transport, metabolism, and signal transduction. Numerous KF-25-specific genes were found to be associated with the pathogenicity and virulence of the strains, which were identical to those of wild-type P. chrysogenum NRRL 1951.

Conclusion

Genome sequencing and comparative analysis are helpful in further understanding the biology, evolution, and environment adaption of P. chrysogenum, and provide a new tool for identifying further functional metabolites.
Mode manipulation and near-THz absorptions in binary grating-graphene layer structures
Authors: Yuan Haiming , Yang Hanning , Liu Pengzi , Jiang Xiangqian , Sun Xiudong
Published: February 2014

The excitation and absorption properties of grating coupled graphene surface plasmons were studied. It was found that whether a mode can be excited is mainly determined by the frequency of incident light and the duty ratio of gratings. In the structure consisting graphene bilayer, a blueshift of the excitation frequency existed when the distance between neighbor graphene layer were decreased gradually. In graphene-grating multilayer structures, a strong absorption (approximately 90% at maximum) was found in near-THz range.
Contemporary African Artists and the Pan-African Imaginary: Skunder Boghossian, Kwabena Ampofo-Anti, and Victor Ekpuk
Authors: Okeke-Agulu Chika
Published: February 2014

The three artists discussed in this essay represent three generations of artists whose work exemplifies the accomplishments of African modernism and its enduring legacies as well as the complex conceptual, cultural, political, and ideological resources that constituted and continue to frame the twentieth-and twenty-first-century Pan-African artistic imaginary. Their work provides us the opportunity to measure and appreciate the various strategies developed by postcolonial African artists to define themselves as artistic subjects in an age of intense globalization, migration, and mobility of ideas and material cultures within and beyond ethnic, national, continental, and racial boundaries. Examined within this framework, the art of Boghossian, Ampofo-Anti, and Ekpuk tells us that Africa remains for its artists a site of powerful imaginaries, a historical place to which they are bound by ancestry, and an idea that elicits powerful aesthetic and symbolic action.
Seismic Behavior of Damage-Reduction Structures considering Local Nonlinearity with Structural Reduction Method
Authors: Li Gang , Cao Wenbin
Published: February 2014

The structural reduction method is always one of the important means of improving the computational efficiency. However, for the damage-reduction structures with local nonlinear damping elements, the traditional model reduction method can not be used directly. Therefore, this paper takes into account the effects of local nonlinear damping elements, and presents a fast nonlinear analysis method based on the reduction method updated with flexibility modification. The numerical results show that the proposed method has high accuracy and efficiency, which can consider the effects of the damper components on the structural responses.
The Behavior of a Steel Connection Equipped with the Lead Extrusion Damper
Authors: Soydan C. , Yuksel E. , Irtem E.
Published: February 2014

The seismic behavior of the steel connection equipped with the lead extrusion damper (LED) is examined through the experimental and analytical studies. The LED implemented has spherical type bulge and does not consist any lubricant layer. The experimental study is performed in Structural and Earthquake Engineering Laboratory of Istanbul Technical University (STEELAB). In the experimental part, force-displacement relations of the connections with and without LED are achieved for the reversal displacement cycles. The measures of the dissipated energy, the equivalent damping ratio and the effective stiffness are obtained from the experimental study and compared for the connections. The total energy dissipated by the connection with the LED is approximately 175% greater than the total energy dissipated by the bare connection. In the analytical part of the study, nonlinear dynamic time history analyses are performed for the selected earthquakes and mass condition using the analytical models for the connections with and without LED. The maximum top displacement decreases approximately 50% for the connection equipped with the LED respect to the bare connection for the considered earthquakes. The maximum value of restoring force for the connection equipped with LED is approximately 25% greater than the bare connection for the accomplished analyses. Finally, the LED responses obtained in the nonlinear time history analyses are compared with the isolated LED test results.
A New Methodology for Nonlinear Dynamic Analysis of Reinforced-Concrete Buildings Including Their Pile Foundations
Authors: Lee Kang Seok
Published: February 2014

At present, information on foundation–structure interactions of buildings is lacking. As a result, seismic performance evaluations of buildings seldom consider the effect of foundation performance on the building response. Recent destructive earthquakes, such as the Hokkaido Nansei-oki earthquake (magnitude M = 7.8, Japan, 1993), Northridge earthquake ( M = 6.7, U.S.A., 1994), Hyogoken-Nambu earthquake ( M = 7.2, Japan, 1995), Chi-Chi earthquake ( M = 7.6, Taiwan, 1999), Niigata Chuetsu earthquake ( M = 6.8, Japan, 2004), Sichuan earthquake ( M = 7.9, China, 2008), and Tohokuchiho Taiheiyo earthquake ( M = 9.0, Japan, 2011), have shown that building damage is significantly affected by the degree of damage sustained by the building foundation, and by the interaction between the building and its foundation. This paper presents a new methodology for nonlinear dynamic analysis of the seismic performance of reinforced-concrete (RC) buildings considering the pile foundation–structure interaction. The proposed method is applied to an actual example building that was severely damaged during the Hokkaido Nansei-oki earthquake. The results reveal that the method proposed in this study is able to predict the seismic performance of an RC building with a pile foundation and can provide fundamental data for the seismic design of such buildings.
Effects of finishing on the air permeability of woven fabrics
Authors: Havlová M.
Published: February 2014

The main aim of this paper is to estimate the influence of finishing to the permeability of woven fabrics made of multifilament threads. The property of the textile permeability is closely connected with the geometric structure of the given textile materials. A very small change in the structure of the fabric at a given location causes a change in the permeability at this location. Such a change in the structure may be due to the finishing of fabric. A demanded requirement in several applications areas of textiles is the homogeneity of their physical and mechanical properties. The laboratory measurement of the fabric permeability is very suitable for assessment of uniformity across the fabric area, because the test is very simple and non-destructive. In this research a set of polyamide and polyester multifilament woven fabrics was used. These fabrics were available both in the gray state and with the various types of applied finishes.
Influence of pH variation on Coag-flocculation kinetics of chitin derived coag-flocculant (CDC) in brewery effluent (BRE)
Authors: Menkiti M. , Onukwuli O.
Published: February 2014

Chitin Derived Coag-flocculant (CDC), is a cheap, abundant and eco-friendly deacetylated cationic polymer applied in this study at a pilot scale for the treatment of Brewery Effluent (BRE). The study investigates the influence of varying BRE pH on the coag-flocculation kinetics and behavior of the aggregation process at varying CDC dosages. The best coag-flocculation performance is recorded at rate constant, Km, of 0.0003 l/mg·min, half life, τ1/2, of 0.6846 min, pH of 4, dosage of 100 mg/l and efficiency, E (%) of 99.8791. Minimum efficiency (%) > 96 was achieved at 3 minutes of coag-flocculation, establishing CDC as an effective water treatment agent at the conditions of the experiment.
Analytic solutions of rupture angle in coulomb's earth pressure theory
Authors: Guo Zhiguang , Cheng Guoyong , Wang Fan
Published: February 2014

Coulomb's earth pressure theory is widely used in foundation pit supporting structure and retaining wall design, and Rupture angle is one of the key parameters in determining the failure surface location and the foundation pit influence scope. But there is no explicit formula of rupture angle or some wrong in existing formula. This paper, according to the limit equilibrium condition of slide wedge, obtained the analytical expression of Rupture angle which is the most simplified form in the current information. Through the numerical test this simplified solution is consistent with coulomb theory. The conclusion of this paper has some reference value in engineering application of coulomb theory.
A Bayesian approach to the optimization reliability costs
Authors: Beleulmi S. , Bellaouar A. , Lachi M.
Published: February 2014

The lack of reliability testing in a project finds its reason in financial considerations and deadlines. In this context, Bayesian techniques find their applications as they contribute to a significant reduction in the amount of reliability testing based on the classical approach, with the knowledge of the reliability data on a priori relevant components. This paper is devoted to a Bayesian approach to the optimization reliability costs of tests conducted on the electronic components installed in a lift. The Bayesian estimation provides a failure rate of 1,795·10-6 failure/hr to 60% confidence instead of 2,771·10-6 failure / hr after testing. A gain of 64, 77% in terms of time and therefore the cost of testing will be reduced considerably. When the number of failures increases (K0 = 2; 3 and 5), the real tests are not added to virtual testing and a decrease in time to be won has been recorded.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Thermoacoustic Sources Related to High-Frequency Instabilities
Authors: Zellhuber Mathieu , Schwing Joachim , Schuermans Bruno , Sattelmayer Thomas , Polifke Wolfgang
Published: February 2014

Flame dynamics related to high-frequency instabilities in gas turbine combustors are investigated using experimental observations and numerical simulations. Two different combustor types are studied, a premix swirl combustor (experiment) and a generic reheat combustor (simulation). In both cases, a very similar dynamic behaviour of the reaction zone is observed, with the appearance of transverse displacement and coherent flame wrinkling. From these observations, a model for the thermoacoustic feedback linked to transverse modes is proposed. The model splits heat release rate fluctuations into distinct contributions that are related to flame displacement and variations of the mass burning rate. The decomposition procedure is applied on the numerical data and successfully verified by comparing a reconstructed Rayleigh index with the directly computed value. It thus allows to quantify the relative importance of various feedback mechanisms for a given setup.
CFD Model for Lift Force in a Wall-Bounded Flow
Authors: Baalbaki D. , Toutant A. , Ruyer P. , Bataille F.
Published: February 2014

The modeling of the lift force in high shear rate pipe flow is an essential issue for the estimation of the droplet dispersion. The analytical models used in most CFD softwares, such as the popular models of Auton or Saffman, overestimate the intensity of the lift force for inertial particles at high particle Reynolds number. In this paper, after a review of DNS calculations, we present an overall solution for the lift force acting on a droplet in a shear flow, for moderate and high particle Reynolds number in the near-wall zone and for unbounded shear flow. Finally, some numerical results in a cylindrical pipe are presented.
Lignin distribution in waterlogged archaeological Picea abies (L.) Karst degraded by erosion bacteria
Authors: Pedersen Nanna Bjerregaard , Schmitt Uwe , Koch Gerald , Felby Claus , Thygesen Lisbeth Garbrecht
Published: February 2014

The lignin distribution in poles of waterlogged archaeological Picea abies (L.) Karst, which was decayed by erosion bacteria (EB) under anoxic conditions for approximately 400 years, was topochemically identified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and high resolution UV-microspectrophotometry (UMSP). Lignin rich cell wall compartments such as cell corner (CC), compound middle lamella (CML), torus, initial pit border and mild compression wood (CW) appeared morphologically well preserved together with S1 and S3 layers and epithelial and ray parenchyma cells. Residual material (RM) from degraded S2 showed a varied lignin distribution as evidenced by the different local UV-absorbance intensities. However, evaluation of UV-absorbance line spectra of RM revealed no change in conjugation of the aromatic ring system. Presence of RM with both very low and very high lignin absorbances showed evidence for disassembly of lignin during degradation combined with aggregation of lignin fragments and physical movement of these fractions. In contrast to TEM analysis, locally decreasing lignin content was found by UMSP in CML regions.
A Recent Development in Creep-Fatigue Testing
Authors: Kalyanasundaram Valliappa , Holdsworth Stuart , Saxena Ashok
Published: February 2014

Procedures for the assessment of components subject to cyclic loading at high temperatures require material property input data that characterize the creep-fatigue deformation response and resistance to cracking. For many years, there was no testing standard or code of practice to ensure that such information was generated in a uniform way. This was mainly because the creep-fatigue test data requirements for organizations in various industrial sectors appeared to be so different that the need for standardization was questioned. In the mid-2000s, it was recognized that even though it would make no sense to be prescriptive about such details as cycle shape, there were many aspects of creep-fatigue testing for which guidance would be beneficial to ensure acceptable uniformity in deformation and endurance data generation. In response to this realization, the state of the art relating to creep-fatigue interaction was extensively reviewed by an international group of specialists, and the generated knowledge base was used to underpin a new ASTM testing standard, ASTM E2714-09. The gathered knowledge is reviewed. There is a requirement for all ASTM standards to include a precision and bias statement, and an international interlaboratory creep-fatigue test comparison activity was facilitated to form the basis of this section of ASTM E2714-09. An integral part of the guidance given in the new standard is the recommendation for post-test metallurgical inspection and the way in which this information can be used to give added value to creep-fatigue crack initiation endurance results. The evidence gathered from this study is also examined.
Insight into Insulin Secretion from Transcriptome and Genetic Analysis of Insulin-Producing Cells of Drosophila
Authors: Cao Jian , Ni Julie , Ma Wenxiu , Shiu Vanessa , Milla Luis A , Park Sangbin , Spletter Maria L , Tang Sheng , Zhang Jun , Wei Xing , Kim Seung K , Scott Matthew P
Published: February 2014

Insulin-producing cells (IPCs) in the Drosophila brain produce and release insulin-like peptides (ILPs) to the hemolymph. ILPs are crucial for growth and regulation of metabolic activity in flies, functions analogous to those of mammalian insulin and insulin-like growth factors (IGFs). To identify components functioning in IPCs to control ILP production, we employed genomic and candidate gene approaches. We used laser microdissection and messenger RNA sequencing to characterize the transcriptome of larval IPCs. IPCs highly express many genes homologous to genes active in insulin-producing β-cells of the mammalian pancreas. The genes in common encode ILPs and proteins that control insulin metabolism, storage, secretion, β-cell proliferation, and some not previously linked to insulin production or β-cell function. Among these novelties is unc-104, a kinesin 3 family gene, which is more highly expressed in IPCs compared to most other neurons. Knockdown of unc-104 in IPCs impaired ILP secretion and reduced peripheral insulin signaling. Unc-104 appears to transport ILPs along axons. As a complementary approach, we tested dominant-negative Rab genes to find Rab proteins required in IPCs for ILP production or secretion. Rab1 was identified as crucial for ILP trafficking in IPCs. Inhibition of Rab1 in IPCs increased circulating sugar levels, delayed development, and lowered weight and body size. Immunofluorescence labeling of Rab1 showed its tight association with ILP2 in the Golgi of IPCs. Unc-104 and Rab1 join other proteins required for ILP transport in IPCs.
Balancing Charge Injection and Transport in Organic Light-emitting Diodes with a Transparent Conductive Tungsten Oxide Layer
Authors: Acharya R. , Li X. M. , Lu Y. , Cao X. A.
Published: February 2014

High-brightness green phosphorescent hybrid inorganic-organic light-emitting diodes (HyLEDs) and inverted HyLEDs (IHyLEDs) have been demonstrated. The devices comprised a transparent and conductive WO3 layer deposited by thermal evaporation, which improved both hole injection and transport, and led to more balanced charge injection and significant performance enhancement. At 20 mA/cm2, the HyLEDs had a low operation voltage of 6.1 V, 0.8 V lower than that of OLEDs with an organic hole transport layer. With an optimized layer structure, the HyLEDs reached 104 cd/m2 brightness at 7.3 V. At this brightness level, the current efficiency was 55.2 cd/A, 57% higher than that of the OLEDs. In the IHyLEDs, facile hole injection and transport through WO3 was balanced by electron injection from the indium-tin-oxide (ITO) cathode overcoated with nanometer-thick Ca, leading to a low turn-on voltage of ∼6 V. Brightness of 8133 cd/m2 was reached at 20 mA/cm2 and the corresponding current efficiency was 40 cd/A. The hybrid devices also exhibited markedly improved stability under constant-current stressing due to the robust WO3 hole transport layer.
Relações lineares entre caracteres de nabo forrageiro e de tremoço branco
Authors: Cargnelutti Filho Alberto , Toebe Marcos , Burin Cláudia , Alves Bruna Mendonça , Facco Giovani , Casarotto Gabriele
Published: February 2014

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as relações entre caracteres de nabo forrageiro (Raphanus sativus L.) e de tremoço branco (Lupinus albus L.), e identificar caracteres para a seleção indireta. Foi conduzido um experimento com nabo forrageiro e outro com tremoço branco, em Santa Maria, Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (latitude 29°42'S, longitude 53°49'W e 95m de altitude). Na colheita, foram mensurados a altura de planta, o diâmetro de caule, o número de folhas e as massas verde e seca de parte aérea em 300 plantas de nabo forrageiro e a altura de planta, o diâmetro de caule, o número de vagens e as massas verde e seca de parte aérea em 400 plantas de tremoço branco. Foi investigada a relação entre os caracteres por meio de diagramas de dispersão e análises de correlação e de trilha. Na cultura de nabo forrageiro, o diâmetro de caule tem relação linear positiva com as massas verde e seca e pode ser utilizado para seleção indireta. Na cultura de tremoço branco, o número de vagens por planta tem relação linear positiva com as massas verde e seca e pode ser utilizado para seleção indireta.
Biosynthesis of components with antifungal activity against Aspergillus spp. using Streptomyces hygroscopicus
Authors: Dodic Jelena , Roncevic Zorana , Grahovac Jovana , Bajic Bojana , Korolija Olivera
Published: February 2014

Losses of apple fruit during storage are mainly caused by fungal
phytopathogens. Traditionally, postharvest fungal disease is controlled by
the application of synthetic fungicides. However, the harmful impact on
environment as well as human health largely limits their application. To
reduce these problems in agrochemicals usage, new compounds for plant
protection, which are eco-friendly, should be developed. The aim of this
study is optimization of medium composition in terms of glucose, soybean meal
and phosphates content, by applying response surface methodology, for the
production of agents with antifungal activity against Aspergillus spp. For
biosynthesis was used strain of Streptomyces hygroscopicus isolated from the
environment. Experiments were carried out in accordance with Box-Behnken
design with three factors on three levels and three repetitions in the
central point. Antifungal activity of the obtained cultivation mediums
against Aspergillus oryzae and Aspergillus niger was determined, in vitro,
using the diffusion - disc method. For determination optimal medium
components desirability function was used. Achieved model predicts that the
maximum inhibition zone diameter (40.93 mm) against test microorganisms is
produced when the initial content of glucose, soybean meal and phosphates are
47.77 g/l, 24.54 g/l and 0.98 g/l, respectively. To minimize the consumption
of medium components and costs of effluents processing, additional three sets
of optimization were made. The chosen method for optimization of medium
components was efficient, relatively simple and time and material saving.
Obtained results can be used for the further techno-economic analysis of the
process to select optimal medium composition for industrial application.
Influence factors of photocatalytic activity of the filter media modified by TiO2
Authors: Shen Rongyan , Feng Guoyong , Liang Yuting , Zhao Xingqing , Zhang Wenyi
Published: February 2014

The gangue filter media was modified by the titanium dioxide (TiO2) through
the liquid phase deposition method. Some influence factors of photocatalytic
activity were investigated, including the mole ratio of initial solution, the
water bath temperature, the deposition time, the calcination temperature, and
the heat preservation time of calcination. The morphology of the film was
examined by SEM, EDS, and crystallite structure by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD).
The SEM, EDS, and XRD data showed that new TiO2 crystal was found in the
modified filter media. And the specific surface area of the modified filter
media greatly increased. By the orthogonal experiment, the optimum parameters
of modification were (NH4)2TiF6:H3BO3=1:2, water bath temperature of 80?C,
deposition time of 5h, calcination temperature of 500?C, and 1h heat
preservation time of calcination. Under above conditions, the heavy nitrogen
wastewater of 1589.94 mg/L COD and 18750 times chroma was treated by the
modified filter media. After 1h catalytic reaction, the decolorization rate
and COD removal rate reached 65.89% and 47.87%, respectively.
Designing a Regional Policy of Agrotourism – The Case of Auvergne Region (France)
Authors: Marsat Jean-Bernard , Menegazzi Pauline , Monin Céline , Bonniot Aurore , Bouchaud Monique
Published: February 2014

The present article reports the meeting of a research program on rural tourism with the need of knowledge expressed for a new policy in favour of agritourism, led by the Region Auvergne (France). The research program (Modintour, 2008-2011) dealt with models of tourism and studied the territorial integration of tourism. Integration of tourism develops complementarities with other local activities. Indeed agritourism is an activity which associates two distinctive sectors. The empirical study shows some importance of agritourism for the local offer, especially in the destinations of dispersed tourism. It highlights the diversity of the logics of the farmers and of their networks. It shows the relevance of support already available for the farmers through consular chamber and networks. But it shows also the stake of better cooperation between networks, the need to link the existing support system to the specialised tourism bodies, and the need for a renewed common strategy.
Helminth fauna of wild rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus in the Canary Islands, Spain
Authors: Fernández-Álvarez Á. , Feliu C. , Miquel J. , Torres J. , Foronda P.
Published: February 2014

Helminths were examined in 292 wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) collected in Tenerife, Fuerteventura, La Palma and El Hierro islands, and La Graciosa islet (Canary Islands, Spain), from 2008 to 2012. Three species of cestodes, Taenia pisiformis (Taeniidae), Andrya cuniculi and Neoctenotaenia ctenoides (Anoplocephalidae), and three species of nematodes Trichostrongylus retortaeformis (Trichostrongylidae), Passalurus ambiguus (Oxyuridae) and Calodium hepaticum (Capillariidae), were identified. Only 2 species (N. ctenoides and P. ambiguus) were regularly present in all the islands, with an average prevalence above 50 %. Possible causes of the present distribution of helminths are commented. Insular and founder effects on parasite species in isolated ecosystems are demonstrated. The finding of the zoonotic species C. hepaticum solely in La Palma, represents a novel identification of this nematode in O. cuniculus in the Canary Islands.
Natural infection with Fasciola hepatica (Linnaeus, 1758) in the European bison (Bison bonasus) in Białowieża National Park, Poland
Authors: Kiziewicz B.
Published: February 2014

The aim of our study was to determine prevalence of appearance of Fasciola hepatica L. among European bison Bison bonasus selected in Białowieża National Park, Poland from 2001 to 2006. The analyzed ITS-1 and ITS-2 sequences of nuclear DNA of Fasciola hepatica have a length of 433bp and an AT content of 47.8 % and a length of 365 bp and an AT content of 51.2 % respectively. Among 178 bison liver fluke was found in liver of 63 (35.3 %) individuals including as follow: in 39 (21.9 %) adults, 11 (6.1 %) juveniles and 13 (7.3 %) calves. Results of researches are as follow: prevalence of infection of Fasciola hepatica among bison in Białowieża National Park between 2001–2006 oscillated about 35.3%. The most extensive invasion of fascioliasis was observed in adult animals (21.9 %). We pay attention that between infected animals were calves 13 (7.3 %). Conclusions: The obtained results referring to infection of bison within the Białowieża National Park, Poland of F. hepatica are very interesting. The epidemiological importance of these finding is evident, demonstrating the fascioliasis expansion in restricted or protected areas, as National Parks such as Białowieża National Park, habitat of this wild host, and where no domestic animals are present.
Strongylids (Nematoda: Strongylidae) in two zebra species from the “Askania-Nova” Biosphere Reserve, Ukraine: biodiversity and parasite community structure
Authors: Kuzmina T. , Kharchenko V. , Zvegintsova N. , Zhang L. , Liu J.
Published: February 2014

Species composition and structure of strongylid (Nematoda: Strongylidae) community were examined in 15 plains zebras (Equus burchelli) and 8 Grevy’s zebra (Equus grevyi) kept in the “Askania-Nova” Biosphere Reserve (Ukraine). Strongylids were collected from zebras in vivo following deworming with the “Univerm” (0.2 % aversectin C, Russia). Twenty-two strongylid species (3 species of subfamily Strongylinae and 19 — of Cyathostominae) were found. In plains zebras, 21 strongylid species were found; from 3 to 14 species per host. In Grevy’s zebras, 18 strongylid species were recorded; from 4 to 14 species per host. Cyathostominae dominated in the communities of both zebra species; they composed more then 99 % of strongylid number. Comparison of strongylid biodiversity in plains zebras from the “Askania-Nova” reserve with data collected from four African countries showed low similarity of strongylid faunas in zebras from Ukraine and Africa; the strongylid community was similar to those of domestic ponies from the same area.
Chaunocephalus ferox (Digenea: Echinostomatidae) infection associated with fatal cachexia in a white stork (Ciconia ciconia)
Authors: Santoro M. , Degli Uberti B. , Galiero G. , Prisco F. , D’Alessio N. , Veneziano V.
Published: February 2014

Post-mortem examination of a sub-adult debilitated white stork (Ciconia ciconia) from southern Italy showed nodular enteritis associated with massive infection by Chaunocephalus ferox (Digenea: Echinostomatidae). Pathological changes included lesions ranging from traumatic destruction of tissues with hemorrhages and thickness of mucosa and submucosa at fluke penetration site to loss of duodenal villi and necrosis. Lesions through the whole intestinal tract associated with the digenean infection were considered as compatible with causing the cachexia and death of the white stork.
The influence of Western corn rootworm seed coating and granular insecticides on the seasonal fluctuations of soil nematode communities in a maize field
Authors: Čerevková A. , Cagáň Ľ.
Published: February 2014

Western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera, is a pest that needs to be controlled with chemicals in the maize monoculture. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of insecticides on nematode communities in a maize field. Four soil treatments were used in this experiment: variant 1 — a granular application with tefluthrin (199.5 g a.i./ha); variant 2 — a granular application with clothianidin (110 g a.i./ha); variant 3 — a seed treatment with clothianidin (1.25 μg a.i/seed); and control — a maize field without insecticides.

During the investigated period, a total of 19 117 soil nematode individuals were captured and 9 orders, 33 genera and 37 species were identified. Acrobeloides nanus, Cephalobus persegnis, Eucephalobus striatus and Basiria gracilis were the dominant species, accounting for 48 % of the total number of individuals. The mean abundance and species diversity index were significantly lower for variant 2. Bacterial feeders were the dominant trophic group for all 4 variants. The numbers of nematodes in particular trophic groups (i.e., bacterial feeders, fungal feeders and omnivores) were significantly different between variant 2 and the control. The Σ Maturity index, Maturity index and Plant parasitic index did not show significant differences among the variants. The higher values of the Enrichment and Structure indices were observed in the first month of the investigation in all 4 variants. A cluster analysis showed that nematode species population densities were strongly affected by the date of soil sample collection and by the variants used in the experiment.
Comparative analysis into the tractor-trailer braking dynamics: tractor with single axle brakes, tractor with all wheel brakes
Authors: Nastasoiu Mircea , Ispas Nicolae
Published: February 2014

The paper elaborates a mathematical model in order to conduct a study into the dynamics of tractor-trailer systems during braking. The braking dynamics is analyzed by considering two versions for the braking system: 1) braking applied on the rear axle and 2) braking applied on all four wheels. In both versions the trailer is braked on all wheels. The mathematical model enables us to determine and graphically illustrate the evolution of the following parameters: braking deceleration, braking speed and the distance traveled by the tractor during braking. The mathematical model elaborated is applied on a tractor-trailer system completing transportation works.
Diagnostic Labels Assigned to Patients With Orthopedic Conditions and the Influence of the Label on Selection of Interventions: A Qualitative Study of Orthopaedic Clinical Specialists
Authors: Miller-Spoto Marcia , Gombatto Sara P.
Published: February 2014

Background

A variety of diagnostic classification systems are used by physical therapists, but little information about how therapists assign diagnostic labels and how the labels are used to direct intervention is available.

Objective

The purposes of this study were: (1) to examine the diagnostic labels assigned to patient problems by physical therapists who are board-certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialists (OCSs) and (2) to determine whether the label influences selection of interventions.

Design

A cross-sectional survey was conducted.

Methods

Two written cases were developed for patients with low back and shoulder pain. A survey was used to evaluate the diagnostic label assigned and the interventions considered important for each case. The cases and survey were sent to therapists who are board-certified OCSs. Respondents assigned a diagnostic label and rated the importance of intervention categories for each case. Each diagnostic label was coded based on the construct it represented. Percentage responses for each diagnostic label code and intervention category were calculated. Relative importance of intervention category based on diagnostic label was examined.

Results

For the low back pain and shoulder pain cases, respectively, “Combination” (48.5%, 34.9%) and “Pathology/Pathophysiology” (32.7%, 57.3%) diagnostic labels were most common. Strengthening (85.9%, 98.1%), stretching (86.8%, 84.9%), neuromuscular re-education (87.6%, 93.4%), functional training (91.4%, 88.6%), and mobilization/manipulation (85.1%, 86.8%) were considered the most important interventions. Relative importance of interventions did not differ based on diagnostic label (χ2=0.050–1.263, P=.261–.824).

Limitations

The low response rate may limit the generalizability of the findings. Also, examples provided for labels may have influenced responses, and some of the label codes may have represented overlapping constructs.

Conclusions

There is little consistency with which OCS therapists assign diagnostic labels, and the label does not seem to influence selection of interventions.
Validity and Reliability of the Community Balance and Mobility Scale in Individuals With Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Takacs Judit , Garland S. Jayne , Carpenter Mark G. , Hunt Michael A.
Published: February 2014

Background

There is a high incidence of falls in older adults with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Adequate dynamic balance and mobility reduce the risk of falls; however, there are currently no validated, advanced tests of dynamic balance and mobility for individuals with knee OA.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the convergent validity, known-groups validity, and test-retest reliability of a dynamic test of balance and mobility, the Community Balance and Mobility Scale (CB&M), in a knee OA population.

Design

A cross-sectional design was used.

Methods

Twenty-five individuals aged 50 years and older with medial knee OA and an equal number of healthy controls completed the CB&M and other tests of balance and mobility, including the Berg Balance Scale, the Timed “Up & Go” Test, a test of maximal single-leg stance time, and the 10-Meter Walk Test (self-selected and fast walking speed). Convergent validity of balance tests with the CB&M was assessed using Pearson product moment correlation coefficients, and known-groups validity was assessed using independent t tests. Test-retest reliability of the CB&M was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and standard error of measurement (SEM).

Results

Scores on the CB&M were significantly correlated with all measures of balance and mobility for those with knee OA. There were significant differences in CB&M scores between groups. Scores on the CB&M were highly reliable in people with knee OA (ICC=.95, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]=0.70 to 0.99; SEM=3, 95% CI=2.68 to 4.67).

Limitations

Few participants had severe knee OA.

Conclusions

The CB&M displayed moderate convergent validity, excellent known-groups validity, and high test-retest reliability. The CB&M can be used as a valid and reliable tool to assess dynamic balance and mobility deficits in people with knee OA.
Cultural Factors Causing Differences in Quality Education
Authors: Pokharel Anil Kumar , Paudel Janardan
Published: February 2014

This paper presents introduction of school and college level culture in educational systems in Nepal as well as other factors that have been the cause in creating differences in the quality of education in the schools and colleges in Nepal. It explores the points like different types of schools and colleges, regional diversity, environment, teacher’s qualification, physical facilities, class management, conventional feeling, and conclusion. The analysis and interpretation is made according to some existing literature and our own experience in the field of teaching for a long time. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/researcher.v1i2.9881 Researcher 1(2) 2013: 1-10
Mass Revolution and End of the Cultural Institution in Nepal
Authors: Lamsal Apar Kumar
Published: February 2014

From 6th April to 24th April of 2006, parliamentary political parties along with the ten years long strafing underground Nepal Communist Party (Maoists) stage a mass revolution against the Royal takeover of 2002 AD for the establishment of republican state. This mass movement gained much impetus then trailed by various organizations, trade unions, students, professional employees and the general mass throughout the kingdom of Nepal. Ultimately, the age-long monarchical institution was finished from the political and cultural scenario of Nepal. This article outlines the main events and outcomes of this revolution and analyzes it. This article is based on secondary sources along with event observation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/researcher.v1i2.9882 Researcher 1(2) 2013: 11-22
Interactions of Clethodim and Sethoxydim with Other Pesticides
Authors: Chahal Gurinderbir S. , Jordan David L. , York Alan C. , Brandenburg Rick L. , Shew Barbara B. , Burton James D. , Danehower David
Published: February 2014

A wide range of agrochemicals are applied in peanut to manage biotic and abiotic stresses. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of clethodim and sethoxydim applied alone or with dimethenamid-P, pyraclostrobin, S-metolachlor, and 2,4-DB. When applied in combination with clethodim, pyraclostrobin often reduced goosegrass and large crabgrass control compared with clethodim only. Pyraclostrobin did not impact efficacy of sethoxydim in most instances. Dimethenamid-P and S-metolachlor did not negatively affect efficacy of clethodim and sethoxydim. The impact of 2,4-DB on efficacy of clethodim and sethoxydim was inconsistent. The magnitude of adverse impact on graminicides (clethodim and sethoxydim) performance did not exceed 19% and was caused primarily by pyraclostrobin. Conversely, increased efficacy of graminicides caused by chloroacetamide herbicides did not exceed 14%. Graminicides and chloroacetamide herbicides changed solution pH from slightly acidic to highly acidic. Several combinations of clethodim and sethoxydim produced temporary precipitates but no permanent precipitates. Results from these experiments suggest that applying tank mixtures containing up to four chemical components will not dramatically reduce control of emerged annual grasses in peanut.
Physico-chemical Properties of Pancakes Made from an Instant Mix Containing Different Levels of Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) Flour
Authors: Yemmireddy V. K. , Chintagari S. , Hung Y. C.
Published: February 2014

Partially defatted peanut flour has proven to exhibit excellent functional and nutritional properties in many foods. In this study, a peanut pancake instant mix was developed by replacing a portion of wheat flour with peanut flour; either 12% fat medium roast (12M) or 28% fat light roast (28L) peanut flours at various levels (20, 30, 40 and 50%) in a starting pancake formulation. Effect of peanut flour initial fat content and degree of roasting on physico-chemical properties such as viscosity of the batter, surface color, texture and composition of the pancakes were determined. In addition, the effect of microwave reheating time on moisture loss, bulk density and texture of the frozen peanut pancakes was investigated at 30% replacement level and compared with a commercial frozen pancake. Viscosity of the instant mix batter made with 12M peanut flour was higher than the control whereas 28L was lower than the control. All peanut pancakes were darker (lower L values) and browner (lower hue angle) than the control. Texture profile analysis properties such as hardness, cohesiveness and chewiness values decreased with increasing peanut flour replacement level; whereas, springiness values increased. Moisture, fat, ash and protein content were increased with increasing peanut flour replacement level. Pancakes made from 12M have higher protein content than the 28L samples at same level of replacement. Frozen peanut pancakes after microwave reheating showed significant moisture loss, increased bulk density and increased hardness and chewiness. At tested conditions a microwave reheating time of 20 or 30 s was sufficient to achieve desirable eating characteristics (moisture loss, density and texture) of peanut pancakes when compared to the commercial frozen pancakes or freshly prepared peanut pancakes. This study demonstrated that the instant peanut pancake mix has potential as a functional breakfast food item to replace regular wheat pancakes.