bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variation in body size of Phanocerus clavicornis Sharp, 1882 (Coleoptera: Elmidae: Larainae) in Atlantic Rainforest streams in response to hydraulic disturbance
Authors: Segura MO. , Siqueira T. , Fonseca-Gessner AA.
Published: April 2014

In this study, patterns of body size of Phanocerus clavicornis Sharp, 1882 (Coleoptera: Elmidae: Larainae) were investigated along a gradient of change in speed of flow conditions in streams of low order in the Atlantic Rainforest in southeastern Brazil. Specifically, the hypothesis that the distribution of P. clavicornis larvae vary in size in response to variations in the speed of flow in streams was tested. A Surber sampler was used to collect larvae from the streambed during two sampling periods, defined by the rain regime: August in the dry season and February in the rainy season. Possible differences in mean measured body size were tested by analysis of variance (ANOVA). The ANOVA result indicated for all measurements on the larvae collected in first-order streams (head width, prothoracic width and total body length), there were significant differences indicating a morphometric variation due to changing hydraulic conditions, the smallest larvae being associated with the period of greater rainfall. However, the larger streams (3rd order), where the rain events had less impact on the larval size, varied widely. The results of this study suggest that the interstitial space is important for the protection of the larvae from water flow, and that populations of P. clavicornis have high plasticity, a key feature for the occupation of unstable environments for this species. These results are important for an understanding of the life history and behavioural characteristics of the species, which allow them to persist in streams along a gradient of flow disturbance.
Influence of peak flow changes on the macroinvertebrate drift downstream of a Brazilian hydroelectric dam
Authors: Castro DMP. , Hughes RM. , Callisto M.
Published: April 2014

Successive daily peak flows from hydropower plants can disrupt aquatic ecosystems and alter the composition and structure of macroinvertebrates downstream. We evaluated the influence of peak flow changes on macroinvertebrate drift downstream of a hydroelectric plant as a basis for determining ecological flows that might reduce the disturbance of aquatic biota. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of flow fluctuations on the seasonal and daily drift patterns of macroinvertebrates. We collected macroinvertebrates during fixed flow rates (323 m3.s–1 in the wet season and 111 m3.s–1 in the dry season) and when peak flows fluctuated (378 to 481 m3.s–1 in the wet season, and 109 to 173 m3.s–1 in the dry season) in 2010. We collected 31,924 organisms belonging to 46 taxa in the four sampling periods. Taxonomic composition and densities of drifting invertebrates differed between fixed and fluctuating flows, in both wet and dry seasons, but family richness varied insignificantly. We conclude that macroinvertebrate assemblages downstream of dams are influenced by daily peak flow fluctuations. When making environmental flow decisions for dams, it would be wise to consider drifting macroinvertebrates because they reflect ecological changes in downstream biological assemblages.
Tooth morphology, implantation and replacement system of Hoplias malabaricus (Teleostei, Characiformes, Erythrinidae)
Authors: Hassunuma RM. , Stipp ACM. , Heubel MTCD. , Cestari TM. , Ceolin DS. , Nakamura RSB. , Rosseti PHO. , Assis GF.
Published: April 2014

The oropharyngeal cavity of Hoplias malabaricus, an ichthyophagous freshwater fish, is anatomically adapted to predation. Macroscopic and microscopic analyses were conducted in order to study the morphology and system of implantation and replacement of teeth. The results showed that this teleost has conical and caniniform teeth, with an orthodentin crown covered by an enameloid cap and a vascularised orthodentin in the root. With regard to the implantation system, there is a junction between the tooth and the bone tissue, as a typical physiological dental ankylosis. The teeth are replaced by a resorption process of multinucleated giant cells that actively eliminate the dentin and bone tissue.
The genus Dasineura Rondani, 1840 (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae) in Brazil
Authors: Maia VC , Silva LO
Published: April 2014

Dasineura (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae) is the gall midge genus with the highest number of known species (466 throughout the world). Only 39 species have been described from the Neotropics, being 10 from Brazil. Many records of not determined species are found in the literature. Furthermore, many unidentified specimens are deposited in the Cecidomyiidae Collection of the Museu Nacional/UFRJ, which comprises material from several Brazilian biomes. This paper provides these data, presents new records of localities and host plants, and discusses the representativeness of Dasineura in Brazil. The results point to the occurrence of 32 species in Brazil and show that the genus is much more diversified than previous knowledge indicates.
Compared leaf anatomy of Nymphaea (Nymphaeaceae) species from Brazilian flood plain
Authors: Catian G , Scremin-Dias E
Published: April 2014

Nymphaea has seven species already catalogued in the flood prone areas of the Brazilian Pantanal. However, some species remain difficult to identify and descriptions of the anatomy of vegetative organs are an important tool for infrageneric separation to aid in group taxonomy. The species collected in the Pantanal and prepared according to the usual techniques for anatomical studies showed similar structural characteristics, and data on the arrangement of vascular bundles in the midrib and petiole, as well as the form and distribution of sclereids, were consistent. Nymphaea oxypetala stands out from the other evaluated species for having a greater number of differential characters, including angular collenchyma and the absence of bicollateral bundles in the petiole. Nymphaea lingulata stands out as the only species to feature bicollateral bundles in the leaf blade. The results, summarised in the dichotomous key, facilitate the identification of species that use the flower as the main differentiation, but are in a vegetative stage.
Occupancy dynamics of South American Sea-Lions in Brazilian Haul-outs
Authors: Pavanato H. , Silva KG. , Estima SC. , Monteiro DS. , Kinas PG.
Published: April 2014

Along the Brazilian coast only two haul-outs of South American sea lions (Otaria flavescens) are known: Ilha dos Lobos and Molhe Leste, both located in the southernmost state of Brazil, Rio Grande do Sul. Most sea lions observed in these haul-outs are adult and sub-adult males. It is supposed that the species' presence in these areas is due to food supply and absence of parental assistance by males. This study analysed the use of these haul-outs by O. flavescens between 1993 and 2002 based on counting data of observed individuals. Bayesian generalised linear mixed models were used to evaluate differences in abundance between areas, long term trends and seasonal patterns. Results showed that for O. flavescens abundance had a long term trend of increased average occupancy over the study period, with seasonal variation reaching the highest within-year value in August (Ilha dos Lobos) and October (Molhe Leste). The novel application of this powerful statistical modelling approach resulted in a useful tool to quantify occupancy dynamic.
Relative growth of Acantholobulus schmitti (Rathbun, 1930) (Crustacea, Brachyura, Panopeidae) at Guaratuba Bay, southern Brazil
Authors: Frigotto SF , Marochi MZ , Masunari S
Published: April 2014

A study on the relative growth of the crab Acantholobulus schmitti (Rathbun, 1930) (Decapoda, Brachyura, Panopeidae) was performed with allometric techniques. The species is associated with lanterns used for oyster farming at Guaratuba Bay, southern Brazil. Crabs were obtained from five lanterns from March through December 2009. The following morphological characteristics were measured: the carapace width (CW), the height and length of the major cheliped propodus (LPH and LPL), the width of the female abdomen at the base of the 4th somite (AW) and the length of the male gonopod (GL). A total of 1,004 individuals of A. schmitti were measured, of which 451 were males, 323 non-ovigerous females and 230 ovigerous females. The CW of the males varied from 1.87 to 11.86 mm, that of non-ovigerous females from 1.44 to 8.77 mm and that of ovigerous females from 4.09 to 11.12 mm. The plot of LPH against CW showed a mean inflection point at 3.67 mm CW for the males. This result indicated that male crabs are juvenile below this value and adult above it. For the females, the corresponding inflection point occurred at 3.36 mm CW in the plot of AW against CW. These results, CW x LPH and CW x AW, highlight the importance of chelae enlargement at the onset of maturation in males. Similarly, the widening of the abdomen in females is required to accommodate egg clutches during the reproductive period. Heterochely was recorded in both sexes. Right-handed crabs were more frequent than left-handed ones, with percentages of 75.8% in males and 82.7% in females. The population of A. schmitti from Guaratuba Bay becomes sexually mature at an earlier age than A. schmitti from the coast of São Paulo state. The lanterns used in oyster farming furnish a safe habitat in which these crabs can spend their entire benthic life.
Density‐dependent recruitment structures a heterogeneous distribution of herbivores among host plants
Authors: Wetzel William C.
Published: April 2014

A growing body of evidence indicates that plants can influence the survival and reproduction of the insect herbivores they host via both herbivore density‐dependent and density‐independent processes. A remaining challenge is identifying how density‐dependent and density‐independent processes in herbivores contribute to the distribution of herbivores in natural populations. I tested which herbivore recruitment parameters—the intrinsic rate of increase, carrying capacity, or shape of density dependence—contributed to variance in the distribution of a gall‐making fly among individuals of its host plant by experimentally manipulating herbivore density on plants in the field. I used model selection to determine the relationships between herbivore demographic parameters and the natural, pre‐experimental pattern of herbivore abundances. The naturally occurring pattern of herbivore abundances before the experiment covaried positively with the herbivore carrying capacity, a parameter inversely related to the strength of density dependence, but not with the shape of density dependence or the intrinsic reproductive rate. This means that plants with high natural herbivore abundances had lower herbivore density dependence but not higher rates of herbivore reproduction at low abundances. More generally, these results suggest that density dependence mediated through the host plant was responsible for the significant spatial variance in abundance of this herbivore among host plants. This also means that the processes influencing the spatial variance in the abundance of this herbivore occur at high, but not at low, herbivore density. This suggests that when measuring parameters of herbivore preference for, or performance on, plants with different genotypes or phenotypes, ecologists should use a range of herbivore densities to ensure that they capture density‐dependent processes. Density‐dependent recruitment at the scale of host plants could be a widespread determinant of abundance patterns for the many insect herbivores that have high heterogeneity in abundances among host plants and low variance in that pattern through time.
Histologic Evidence of the Ability of Dermal Allograft to Function as a Barrier During Guided Bone Regeneration: A Case Report
Authors: Tarnow Dennis P. , Fletcher Paul
Published: April 2014

Introduction: Clinical reports have been published using acellular dermal matrix (ADM) as a barrier for guided bone regeneration (GBR) procedures. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first known case report that demonstrates histologically in humans that it can successfully function in this capacity.

Case Presentation: GBR, using tenting screws, bovine bone xenograft, cancellous allograft, and acellular dermal allograft as a membrane, was performed to augment a significant horizontal and vertical ridge deficiency in the area of teeth #7 and #8 of a 47‐year‐old female. At the time of reentry, a bone‐like material was evident to the top of the screw heads. Before the placement of an implant in tooth site #8, a sample of the calcified material was removed from the edentulous ridge over tooth site #7 and was sent for histologic analysis.

Conclusions: The histologic results confirmed that formation of new bone was evident, indicating that ADM likely functioned as a barrier and allowed for GBR during the healing process. Because dermal matrix is also successfully used for soft tissue ridge augmentation, practitioners now have an allograft material that can serve a dual function and is available in unlimited supply.
Does Ridge Preservation at the Time of Tooth Extraction Improve Soft Tissue Volume and/or Implant Esthetics? A Review of Current Evidence
Authors: Geisinger Maria L. , Holmes Carolyn M. , Geurs Nicolaas C. , Reddy Michael S.
Published: April 2014

Focused Clinical Question

In patients with a hopeless tooth who receive dental implant therapy for tooth replacement, does extraction socket bone grafting, ridge preservation, or socket conversion at the time of tooth extraction result in improved gingival contours and/or peri‐implant esthetics?

Clinical Scenario

A 54‐year‐old male presents for extraction of a restoratively hopeless tooth #10 (Figs. 1 and 2). He is systemically healthy and has no contraindications to routine dental care. He is interested in tooth replacement with an implant and has high esthetic demands. He asks whether there is a treatment sequence that will improve the quality and/or quantity of gingiva at the future implant site. After explanation, he opts for a delayed treatment approach with extraction and ridge preservation at tooth site #10 (Fig. 3). After initial healing, the local volume of keratinized gingiva at the site of future implant placement was adequate and the patient was satisfied with the final implant esthetic outcome after two years in function (Figs. 4 and 5).
Optimization of Collaborative Spectrum Sensing Mechanism for Cognitive Radio
Authors: Wen Zhigang , Mu Mingjun
Published: April 2014

Cognitive radio (CR) is an emerging technology that helps efficiently use spectrum. In this paper, a
collaborative spectrum sensing mechanism is proposed which combines passive detection and sensing service
compensation. Theoretical analysis and simulations show that this method not only reduces the energy cost and the
passive sensing time, but also maintains fairness in the CR communication systems.
Prediction Simulation for the Length of Garment Marking Based on QPSO-DFNN
Authors: Yan Qisheng , Zheng Rong
Published: April 2014

Because of the defects of a posteriori and experience-depended traditional method, a prediction model of the
length of garment marking based on dynamic fuzzy neural network (DFNN) combined with Quantum-behaved Particle
Swarm Optimization (QPSO) was proposed. The salient characteristics of the method are: 1) hierarchical on-line selforganizing
learning is used; 2) neurons can be recruited or deleted dynamically according to their significance to the
system’s performance; and 3) fast learning speed can be achieved. Data obtained from 32 and 10 groups are used for the
dynamic fuzzy neural network learning and simulation respectively. The simulation results demonstrate that DFNN can be
used as a prediction system for the length of garment marking and absolute value of the maximum relative error less than
5.11%, and mean absolute percentage error less than 2.01%. The DFNN may be the construction for factory to estimate
the fabric consumption and provide a new method for designing optimal cutting plan.
Numerical Simulation Techniques Research and Application in Genetic
Algorithm Design
Authors: Peng Yamian , Liu Chunfeng , Gong Dianxuan
Published: April 2014

Numerical simulation techniques are also called computer simulation, which take the computer as a means to
study all kinds of engineering and physical problems even natural objective through numerical calculation method and
image display. This paper studied the numerical simulation techniques and try to solve two-dimensional convectiondiffusion
equation parameter identification inverse problem by the genetic algorithm. Firstly, the finite element method
was illustrated to solve the steady problem of two-dimensional convection-diffusion equation before it compute parameter
identification inverse problem each time. Subsequently, it can search the best approximate solution from many initial
points and obtained the global optimum solution by means of crossover operator and mutation operator. Finally, the paper
discussed the computer simulation of GA for solving the inverse problem, and puts forward a new method for solving
inverse problem: Genetic algorithm based on the best disturbed iteration. The results of numerical simulation show that
the genetic algorithm has the higher accuracy and the quicker convergent speed. And it is easy to program and calculate
and is of great application.
Application of Neural Network Integration in Fault Diagnosis
Authors: Xiong Wei , Xian Xuehui , Zhang Lijing
Published: April 2014

According to the generation methods of individual neural network and the methods of generating conclusions from
integrated neural network, an effective neural network integration system can be constructed. An optimization method for neural
network integration is proposed. In the generation of individuals in the network integration, a variety of genetic algorithms and
particle swarm optimization algorithm are used to train individual networks, thus to improve the precision of network members
and reduce the correlation among the network members; in the conclusion generation, weight of the individual neural network is
dynamically determined. The simulation results show that the effectiveness and feasibility of the method in fault diagnosis.
Research and Simulation on Wireless Packet Scheduling Scheme Based on High-Speed Packet Access Network
Authors: Linna Hu , Ning Cao , Minghe Mao
Published: April 2014

The efficiency of high speed packet access (HSPA) systems is mainly based on Packet Scheduling Scheme
which will be the key to influencing on the system performance and ensuring the service quality for the users. In this
paper, we introduce a three step packet scheduling scheme to provide quality of services (QoS) guaranteed for high speed
uplink packet access. Then, we proposed an improved packet scheduling algorithm based on QoS parameter for mixed
service applications in order to meet the actual QoS needs of the different systems. This algorithm calculated the
scheduling priority based on the comprehensive factors, including the queuing status of each user, QoS requirements and
the sum of speeds on each channel. The simulation results show that the performance efficiency of HSPA systems
employed proposed algorithm is superior compared to the conventional PF and M-LWDF algorithm in average packet
drop and average cell throughput.
Detection of Non-Cavitated Occlusal Caries with Impedance Spectroscopy and Laser Fluorescence: an In Vitro Study
Authors: Mortensen Diana , Dannemand Katrine , Twetman Svante , Keller Mette Kirstine
Published: April 2014

Objective:

To evaluate the performance of an impedance spectroscopy technology for detecting non-cavitated
occlusal caries lesions in permanent teeth in vitro. The method was compared with a commonly used laser fluorescence
device and validated against histology.

Material and Methodology:

A non-cavitated sample of 100 extracted posterior teeth was randomly selected and assessed
for caries on enamel and dentin level with aid of CarioScan PRO (ACIS) and DIAGNOdent pen (LF pen) by three examiners.
After the measurements, the extension of the lesion was histologically determined as gold standard. Sensitivity,
specificity, accuracy and receiver-operating curves were calculated. Intra- and inter-examiner reproducibility was expressed
by intra class correlation coefficients.

Results:

The histological caries prevalence was 99% and 41% exhibited dentin caries. The ACIS technique displayed high
specificities but almost negligible sensitivities at readings >50. A similar pattern was noted for the LF pen at readings >30.
The intra- and inter-examiner reproducibility varied between 0.47 and 0.98 and the values were generally lower for the
ACIS technique than for the LF pen. The inter-examiner agreement reached excellent levels with both methods.

Conclusions:

In vitro, the ACIS technique showed a low ability to disclose occlusal caries lesions in the enamel and/or
dentin of non-cavitated permanent molars. However, further in vivo studies of permanent occlusal surfaces are needed to
mirror the clinical situation.
Carbon Dioxide Fluxes on a Soybean Field in Argentina: Influence of Crop Growth Stages
Authors: Posse Gabriela , Richter Klaus , Corin Jorgelina M. , Lewczuk Nuria A. , Achkar Antonio , Rebella Cesar
Published: April 2014

CO2 fluxes were measured in a soybean field in the Province of Buenos Aires, Argentina, with an eddy covariance
system consisting of a CO2/H2O infrared gas analyzer and a sonic anemometer. The measurements were carried out
between 24th December 2008 and 31st March 2009. The measurements continued to be carried out even after the growing
season, in order to capture data on the CO2 fluxes of dying plants and weed plants established after it. Changes in phenology
and botanical composition were accompanied with important changes in CO2 flux values and on the relative importance
exercised by three meteorological variables selected to describe the environmental condition: solar radiation, air
temperature and vapor pressure deficit (VPD). The maximum CO2 fluxes were recorded before noon and reached values
up to approximately 1.0 mg CO2 m-2 s-1, having a relation with the global radiation and VPD values. This low value was
probably associated with the few rain registered during the spring. When senescence took place, respiration processes became
more important and the field acted as a source of CO2. A weak relation was found then with the environmental conditions.
Carbon dioxide uptake was reestablished when the soil was covered by weeds but at a much lower rate. The
maximum flux value was then around 0.3 mg m-2 s-1. Carbon dioxide flux was strongly associated with global radiation,
which explained 80% of the variance.
Variations in Production and Oligomers Content Obtained Under Hydrothermal Treatment Among Five Fast-Growing Species
Authors: Díaz M.J. , Yañez R. , García Barneto A. , Martín Alfonso J.E. , Feria M.J. , Tapias R. , Fernández M.
Published: April 2014

In order to identify fast growing species utilizable for olygomer and monomer production, five fast growing
species (Paulownia fortunei, Chamaecytisus proliferus, Arundo donax, Leucaena.diversifolia and Sesbania grandiflora)
were tested. Concurrently, the biomass productivity of these species was also tested on a field scale. The biomass productivity
of the selected species studied ranges from 0.36 to 21.30 t ha-1 (o.d.b.) under Mediterranean conditions for the year
1 sprouts. In addition, the hydrothermal treatment results show that the selected species could be employed as alternative
raw material for the production of oligomers, leading to a high concentration of oligomers (9.4-23.4 g/L-1 at 190ºC).
History and Use of Wood Pyrolysis Liquids as Biocide and Plant Protection Product
Authors: Tiilikkala Kari , Fagernäs Leena , Tiilikkala Jasse
Published: April 2014

Archeological studies have found that pyrolysis liquids were already used in the time of the Neanderthal. Wood
vinegar and other slow pyrolysis liquids are produced as a by-product of charcoal production. However, future business
ideas may be the other way round as pyrolysis liquids may replace synthetic chemicals in the form of pesticides and
biocides.

Directives and regulations related to the sustainable use of pesticides govern and direct plant protection strategies towards
a lower use of synthetic chemicals. It is hoped that many mega trends of global policies will boost the use of plant based
products given that a reduced reliance on fossil fuel is a general target in the global food and feed production economy.
Pyrolysis technology has been actively studied and developed around the world and is linked to the development of the
knowledge based bio-economy. The importance and social impact of pyrolysis technologies will also be enhanced
because it is a practicable technique in the sustainable use of wastes and biomasses. However, very little scientific evidence
is available to support efficacy claims of wood vinegar and toxicology assessments of the products used. Wood tar
has been investigated a bit more thoroughly. The aim of this review was to clarify the potential of slow pyrolysis liquids
in agricultural use, in particular, in pesticide applications. In addition, some of the main challenges in developing novel
bio control technologies are discussed and the barriers in the commercialization of biological control agents are revealed.
Valorization of Agricultural Residues by Fractionation of their Components
Authors: Jiménez Luis , Rodríguez Alejandro
Published: April 2014

The combined production of the most abundant agricultural residues in Spain (viz. cereal straw, sunflower
stalks, vine shoots, cotton stalks, olive, orange and peach tree prunings, and horticultural and related residues) amounts to
over 50 million tons per year, more than 20% of which is generated by Andalusia alone.

Agricultural residues must be disposed of for various reasons including the facts that they promote contamination and pest
growth, occupy large expanses of land and hinder agricultural work. Ideally, the disposal method used should allow their
major components (cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin) or their chemical potential energy to be exploited.

Agricultural residues can be valorized by converting their components jointly (combustion, pyrolysis, gasification, liquefaction)
or separately (fractionation).

The most useful method for exploiting such components separately involves isolating cellulose fibres for papermaking
purposes. In recent times, this valorization method has led to the development of the biorefining concept. Biorefining involves
the fractionation or separation of the different lignocellulosic components of agricultural residues with a view to
their integral exploitation rather than the mere use of cellulose fibre to obtain paper products.

Biorefining replaces the classical pulping methods based on Kraft, sulphite and soda reagents with a hydrothermal treatment
followed by organosolv pulping. The hydrothermal treatment provides a liquid phase containing hemicellulose decomposition
products [both oligomers and monomers (glucose, xylose, arabinose)] and a solid phase rich in cellulose and
lignin. By contrast, the organosolv process gives a solid fraction (pulp) and a residual liquid fraction containing lignin and
other useful substances for various purposes.
Selected Process Alternatives for Biomass Refining: A Review
Authors: Gullón Patricia , Conde Enma , Moure Andrés , Domínguez Herminia , Parajó Juan Carlos
Published: April 2014

The role of biorefineries in the production of energy and chemicals from biomass of lignocellulosic nature is
reviewed. Special attention is devoted to biorefinery schemes dealing with the fractionation of lignocellulosic raw materials
by chemical treatments. The potential of hydrothermal treatments as the first stage of future biorefineries is discussed.
Special attention is devoted to the low-volume, high-added value products that can be solubilized by this type of technology.
Impact assessment wastewater discharge on water quality DTD canal Becej-Bogojevo
Authors: Pesic Vesna , Becelic-Tomin Milena , Dalmacija Bozo , Krcmar Dejan
Published: April 2014

Pressure and impact analysis requires information on the main drivers and
changes in conditions. In order to analyze such pressures and impacts, each
river basin requires: an analysis of its characteristics, a review of the
impact of human activity on the status of the surface water and an economic
analysis of water use. Pressure and impact analysis plays a central role in
the planning of river basin management. The quality of the stream at any
point depends on several major factors: lithology of the basin, weather
conditions, climate, and human impacts. Most of the polluters are located in
the big cities next to canal DTD Becej-Bogojevo canal (Odzaci,Vrbas,
Srbobran, Becej). Per year, 2900000 m3 of wastewater was discharged into the
Becej-Bogojevo section of the DTD canal: 1,4 tCOD, 0,8 0tBOD, 260 kg of
nitrogen, 19 kg of phosphorus and 282 kg of suspended solids. Of the total
volume of wastewater, 20% comes from industry and 80% from municipal
wastewater. Most of the wastewaters from the studied polluters is discharged
untreated or insufficiently treated (only primary treatment). This poor
quality wastewater threatens the receipients into which its is discharged.
Comparison of the wastewater quality results to the Decree on emission limits
and deadlines for their achievement, shows that many polluters exceed the
limits for all parameters (COD, BOD, nitrogen, phosphorus, suspended solids).
On the basis of the physico-chemical analysis of the water from the DTD
Becej-Bogojevo canal it can be concluded that the water quality is
unsatisfactory. According to the national legislation, the water quality
exceeds the values for good potential streams for most parameters at all
sampling locatio dissolved oxygen, organic matter and nutrients). Thus, we
can conclude that the water in the studied section of the DTD Becej-Bogojevo
canal does not meet the criteria for "good ecological potential". The most
vulnerable locations are downstream of the Vrbas and downstream of the Becej,
while the best quality canal water is at the furthest upstream location (CS
Bogojevo). Risk assessment based on monitoring results indicates that the
water of the studied section of the DTD Becej-Bogojevo canal is probably at
risk of failing to meet the objectives of the Water Framework Directive, as
33% of the analyzed parameters to calculate specific risk ratios were greater
than 1, and thus fall into the category of pollutants medium risk. In order
to achieve the quality (to achieve good status and good potential), there
must be a response from industrial producers, which consists primarily of
comprehensively understanding the problems and implementing measures to
minimize the impact of these problems.
Leachability and physical stability of solidified and stabilized pyrite cinder sludge from dye effluent treatment
Authors: Kerkez Djurdja , Becelic-Tomin Milena , Dalmacija Milena , Tomasevic Dragana , Roncevic Srdjan , Pucar Gordana , Dalmacija Bozo
Published: April 2014

This work is concerned with exploring the possibilities of using
solidification/stabilization (S/S) treatment for toxic sludge generated in
dye effluent treatment, when pyrite cinder is used as catalytic iron source
in the modified heterogeneous Fenton process. S/S treatment was performed by
using different clay materials (kaolin, bentonite and native clay from the
territory of Vojvodina) and fly ash in order to immobilize toxic metals and
arsenic presented in sludge. For the evaluation of the extraction potential
of toxic metals and the effectiveness of the S/S treatment applied, four
single-step leaching tests were performed. Leaching test results indicated
that all applied S/S treatments were effective in immobilizing toxic metals
and arsenic presented in sludge. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the
formation of pozzolanic products, and compressive strength measurement proved
the treatment efficacy. It can be concluded that the S/S technique has
significant potential for solving the problem of hazardous industrial waste
and its safe disposal.
Organizational Form and Accounting Choice: Are Nonprofit or For-Profit Managers More Aggressive?
Authors: Vermeer Thomas E. , Edmonds Christopher T. , Asthana Sharad C.
Published: April 2014

Although recent academic studies on nonprofits have documented aggressive accounting behavior, these studies have primarily examined the sector in isolation and have not reached definitive conclusions regarding the relative aggressiveness of the nonprofit and for-profit sectors. Using actuarial assumptions for defined benefit (DB) pension plans as a proxy for discretionary accounting choices, we examine whether nonprofit managers respond through their actuarial choices to incentives to manage DB pension assumptions, and whether differences exist in the aggressiveness of these assumptions for nonprofits and for-profits. We find evidence consistent with nonprofits managing pension assumptions when incentives and less monitoring exist. Comparing our nonprofits to a sample of for-profits, we find evidence consistent with nonprofits utilizing more aggressive pension assumptions and making stronger responses to incentives to manage these assumptions. Our findings are consistent with the premise that nonprofits are more aggressive than for-profits when using actuarial estimates that deflate pension obligations and inflate performance.
Accounting Anomalies, Risk, and Return
Authors: Penman Stephen H. , Zhu Julie Lei
Published: April 2014

This paper investigates whether so-called anomalous returns predicted by accounting numbers reflect normal returns for risk or abnormal returns. It does so via a model showing how accounting numbers inform about normal returns if pricing were rational. The model equates expected returns to expectations of earnings and earnings growth, so that any variable that forecasts earnings and earnings growth also indicates the required return if the market prices those outcomes as risky. The empirical results confirm that many accounting anomaly variables (such as accruals, asset growth, and investment) forecast forward earnings and growth, and in the same direction in which they forecast returns. While the lack of an agreed-upon asset pricing model for required returns rules out definitive conclusions, the paper provides both a framework and supporting empirical results indicating that the observed “anomalous” returns associated with accounting numbers are consistent with rational pricing.
Accounting Standards and International Portfolio Holdings
Authors: Yu Gwen , Wahid Aida Sijamic
Published: April 2014

Do differences in countries' accounting standards affect global investment decisions? We explore this question by examining how accounting distance, the difference in the accounting standards used in the investor's and the investee's countries, affects the asset allocation decisions of global mutual funds. We find that investors tend to underweight investees with greater accounting distance. Using the mandatory adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as an event that changed the accounting standards of various country-pairs, we examine how two sources of changes in accounting distance—(1) changes due to IFRS adoption of the investee, and (2) changes due to IFRS adoption in the investor's country—affect global portfolio allocation decisions. We find that the tendency to underinvest in investees with greater accounting distance significantly weakens when accounting distance is reduced, either from an investee's IFRS adoption or from IFRS adoption in the investor's country. The latter finding holds despite the fact that IFRS adoption in the investor's country had no impact on the accounting standards under which the investee firms present their financial information; the only change is in the investor's familiarity with these standards. This suggests that differences in accounting standards affect investor demand by imposing greater information-processing costs on those less familiar with the reporting standards.
The Multiple Roles of the Finance Organization: Determinants, Effectiveness, and the Moderating Influence of Information System Integration
Authors: Chang Hsihui , Ittner Christopher D. , Paz Michael T.
Published: April 2014

This study focuses on three broad Finance organization roles: reporting, compliance, and internal control/risk management (RCCR); performance management; and strategic partner. Using data from a global survey of 832 firms, we examine the determinants of the various roles' importance and their relation with Finance effectiveness. While the effects of organizational change, market growth, international operations, firm size, decentralization, and industry on Finance responsibilities vary depending upon the role, we find little evidence of tradeoffs between the various roles. Instead, we find evidence of complementarities between roles, whereby greater emphasis on one role is associated with greater Finance effectiveness in the other roles. Additionally, we find that information system integration (ISI) not only has a positive direct impact on effectiveness in all three roles, but also interacts with the importance placed on RCCR and performance management roles to improve the Finance organization's effectiveness at carrying out these responsibilities.
Studies of Transformational Leadership: Evaluating Two Alternative Models of Trust and Satisfaction
Authors: Yang Yi-Feng
Published: April 2014

This study evaluates the influence of leadership style and employee trust in their leaders on job satisfaction. 341 personnel (164 men, 177 women; M age=33.5yr., SD=5.1) from four large insurance companies in Taiwan completed the transformational leadership behavior inventory, the leadership trust scale and a short version of the Minnesota (Job) Satisfaction Questionnaire. A bootstrapping mediation and structural equation modeling revealed that the effect of transformational leadership on job satisfaction was mediated by leadership trust. This study highlights the importance of leadership trust in leadership-satisfaction relationships, and provides managers with practical ways to enhance job satisfaction.
Amperometric determination of sulfide ion by glassy carbon electrode modified with multiwall carbon nanotubes and copper (II) phenanthroline complex
Authors: Shamsipur Mojtaba , Roushani Mahmoud , Pourmortazavi Seied , Shahabadi Nahid
Published: April 2014

Electrocatalytic oxidation of sulfide ion on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and a copper (II) complex was investigated. The Cu(II) complex was used due to the reversibility of the Cu(II)/Cu(III) redox couple. The MWCNTs are evaluated as a transducer, stabilizer and immobilization matrix for the construction of amperometric sensor based on Cu(II) complex adsorbed on MWCNTs immobilized on the surface of GCE. The modified GCE was applied to the selective amperometric detection of sulfide at a potential of 0.47 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) at pH 8.0. The calibration graph was linear in the concentration range of 5 µM–400 µM; while the limit of detection was 1.2 µM, the sensitivity was 34 nA µM−1. The interference effects of SO3
2−, SO4
2−, S2O3
2−, S4O6
2−, Cysteine, and Cystein were negligible at the concentration ratios more than 40 times. The modified electrode is more stable with time and more easily restorable than unmodified electrode surface. Also, modified electrode permits detection of sulfide ion by its oxidation at lower anodic potentials.
Systematic investigation and in vitro biocompatibility studies on mesoporous europium doped hydroxyapatite
Authors: Popa Cristina , Ciobanu Carmen , Iconaru Simona , Stan Miruna , Dinischiotu Anca , Negrila Constantin , Motelica-Heino Mikael , Guegan Regis , Predoi Daniela
Published: April 2014

This paper reports the systematic investigation of europium doped hydroxyapatite (Eu:HAp). A set of complementary techniques, namely Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) technique were used towards attaining a detailed understanding of Eu:HAp. The XPS analysis confirmed the substitution of Ca ions by Eu ions in the Eu:HAp samples. Secondly, Eu:HAp and pure HAp present type IV isotherms with a hysteresis loop at a relative pressure (P/P0) between 0.4 and 1.0, indicating the presence of mesopores. Finally, the in vitro biological effects of Eu:HAp nanoparticles were evaluated by focusing on the F-actin filament pattern and heat shock proteins (Hsp) expression in HEK293 human kidney cell line. Fluorescence microscopy studies of the actin protein revealed no changes of the immunolabelling profile in the renal cells cultured in the presence of Eu:HAp nanoparticles. Hsp60, Hsp70 and Hsp90 expressions measured by Western blot analysis were not affected after 24 and 48 hours exposure. Taken together, these results confirmed the lack of toxicity and the biocompatibility of the Eu:HAp nanoparticles. Consequently, the possibility of using these nanoparticles for medical purposes without affecting the renal function can be envisaged.
Growth and characterization of hexamethylenetetramine crystals grown from solution
Authors: Babu B. , Chandrasekaran J. , Balaprabhakaran S.
Published: April 2014

Organic nonlinear optical single crystals of hexamethylenetetramine (HMT; 10 × 10 × 5 mm3) were prepared by crystallization from methanol solution. The grown crystals were subjected to various characterization techniques such as single crystal XRD, powder XRD, UV-Vis and electrical studies. Single crystal XRD analysis confirmed the crystalline structure of the grown crystals. Their crystalline nature was also confirmed by powder XRD technique. The optical transmittance property was identified from UV-Vis spectrum. Dielectric measurements were performed as a function of frequency at different temperatures. DC conductivity and photoconductivity studies were also carried out for the crystal. The powder second harmonic generation efficiency (SHG) of the crystal was measured using Nd:YAG laser and the efficiency was found to be two times greater than that of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP).
Effect of doping on structural and optical properties of ZnO nanoparticles: study of antibacterial properties
Authors: Maddahi P. , Shahtahmasebi N. , Kompany A. , Mashreghi M. , Safaee S. , Roozban F.
Published: April 2014

Sol-gel method was successfully used for synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles doped with 10 % Mg or Cu. The structure, morphology and optical properties of the prepared nanoparticles were studied as a function of doping content. The synthesized ZnO:(Mg/Cu) samples were characterized using XRD, TEM, FTIR and UV-Vis spectroscopy techniques. The samples show hexagonal wurtzite structure, and the phase segregation takes place for Cu doping. Optical studies revealed that Mg doping increases the energy band gap while Cu incorporation results in decrease of the band gap. The antibacterial activities of the nanoparticles were tested against Escherichia coli (Gram negative bacteria) cultures. It was found that both pure and doped ZnO nanosuspensions show good antibacterial activity which increases with copper doping, and slightly decreases with adding Mg.
Relationship between Customer Satisfaction and Business Performance: A Case Study of Lloyds Bank UK
Authors: Neupane Ramesh
Published: April 2014

Purpose:The main purpose of this research is to examine the relationship between customer satisfaction and business performance on a case of Lloyds Bank UK. Moreover, it also evaluates the customer satisfaction level and examines the business performance of Lloyds Bank through examining various factors of business performance. Design/Methodology: The necessary data were collected through structured questionnaires from five branches of Lloyds Bank. The sample of 250 customers and 80 management level employees are used in this research. The collected data were analysed through correlation and regression analysis, mean and standard deviation through SPSS 20. Main Findings: The mean score of every variable is more than 3 out of 5 and mean score of overall customer satisfaction is 3.89 (77.8% satisfaction) indicates that there is high level of customer satisfaction in Lloyds Bank. Similarly, mean score of overall business performance is 3.73 (75%) shows a high level of business performance. The Pearson’s coefficient of correlation between overall customer satisfaction and business performance is r = 0.343 indicated that they are positively correlated. But, regression analysis shows that customer satisfaction has not significant effect on business performance as P = 0.139 and β = 0.343. Thus, it shows that customer satisfaction has week positive relationship with business performance.Value: This research refines and reinforces the body of knowledge and understanding regarding to customer satisfaction and organisational performance analysis. These findings may be useful to the organisation for future planning to enhance customer satisfaction to increase business performance. The instruments may have practical implications for examining customer satisfaction and business performance in any business organisations.Limitations: This research was conducted through cross sectional approach and limited sample of 250 customers and 80 employees from 16 branches in the main cities of the UK. So, the findings are limited to a bank in the main cities.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijssm.v1i2.10019 Int. J. Soc. Sci. Manage. Vol-1, issue-2: 74-85
The Art and Science of Effective Time Management
Authors: Shrivastava Umesh Prasad
Published: April 2014

No abstractDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijssm.v1i2.10105 Int. J. Soc. Sci. Manage. Vol-1, issue-2: 58-59
A Survey of Available Literature on Rural Women and Women’s Work in Agriculture
Authors: Sharma Arti
Published: April 2014

Literature review is an essential part for research. Before starting research on a meticulous topic, one needs to map the types of available writings on the topic of research. Literature review helps in choosing a topic for research which has not been studied yet or less studied. It also tells the importance of research topic. This study assembles all the major categories of research on rural women and their work in agriculture.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijssm.v1i2.10284 Int. J. Soc. Sci. Manage. Vol-1, issue-2: 69-73
Residual Stress in the Cementite Phase of Cold Drawn Pearlite*
Authors: Tacq J. , Kriška M. , Seefeldt M.
Published: April 2014

Residual stressesin cold drawn, pearlitic steel wire have been measured using synchrotron diffraction. In this paper the cementite residual stress evolution is presented. A saturation of the residual stress could be observed. A simple analytical model is proposed to interpret the observed residual stresses in terms of the strain hardening behaviour of the phases present in the material. From the analytical model it follows that it is not reverse plastic yielding of the ferrite that is of primary importance in residual stress saturation, but the actual strain hardening behaviour. The experimentally observed saturation, followed by a gradual decrease of the residual micro phase stress, could be explained by an exponential strain hardening of the ferrite, while the cementite phase doesn't show significant strain hardening.