bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interaksi Genotipe x Lingkungan Hasil dan Komponen Hasil 14 Genotipe Tomat di Empat Lingkungan Dataran Rendah
Authors: Dewi Suprayanti Martia , , Sobir , Syukur Muhamad
Published: April 2017

Genotype x environment interaction (GxE) information is needed by plant breeders to assist the identification of superior genotype. Stability analysis can be done if there is a GxE interaction, to show the stability of a genotype when planted in different environments. This study aimed to estimate the effects of genotype x environment interaction on yield and yield components of fruit weight per plant as well as to look at the stability of 14 tomato genotypes at four lowland locations. The study was conducted at four locations, namely Purwakarta, Lombok, Tajur and Leuwikopo. Experiments at each location was arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Stability analysis was performed using the AMMI model. Fruit weight, fruit diameter, number of fruits per plant and total fruit weight per plant characters showed highly significant genotype x environment interactions. Variability due to the effect of GxE interaction based on a AMMI2 contributed by 88.50%. IPBT3, IPBT33, IPBT34, IPBT60 and Intan were stable genotypes under AMMI model.
Keywords: AMMI, multilocation trials
Respon 10 Varietas Krisan (Dendranthema grandiflora Tzelev) terhadap Dua Aplikasi Pemupukan di Lahan Terbuka
Authors: Rahmawati Ika , Winarto Budi
Published: April 2017

ABSTRACT

Cultivation of the chrysanthemum is usually carried out under the plastic-house to produce high quality flowers, but in some areas such as in Karo (North Sumatera), farmers have grown the plant in the open field using selected varieties for the same purpose. The study was aimed to assess responses of ten varieties of chrysanthemum toward two applications methods of fertilizer which was carried out in open-field at Segunung Experimental Garden, Indonesian Ornamental Crops Research Institute (IOCRI) from July till December 2011. The experiment was arranged in a split-plot design with three replications. The main plot was ten chrysanthemum varieties of Besar Kuning, Merah Hati and Sakuntala; Besar Bandung, Berlian Putih, Matahari Kuning, Mata Kucing, Mata Dewa, Swarna Kencana and Puspita Nusantara. The subplot were  two fertilizer applications methods, Karo and Balithi. Karo: manure 100 kg m-2 and 50 kg m-2 (in month 2), urea 30 g m-2 (in month 3) and Balithi: manure 20 ton ha-1,  urea 200 kg ha-1, 350  kg KCl ha-1 dan 300 kg SP-36 ha-1, supplementary 1.5 g urea m-2, 6 g KNO3 dan 6 g SP-36 m-2. Both methods of  applications can be applied to open field cultivation. Method of fertilizer application significantly affected stem diameter, intensity of disease infection and the time of flower initiation. The Balithi’s fertilizer application significantly reduced the intensity of rust disease on chrysanthemum, while Karo’s fertilizer application significantly increased stem diameter.

Keywords: Chrysanthemum, open-field, two fertilization application, stem diameter, rust disease
Evaluasi Pertumbuhan dan Perkembangan Arachis pintoi sebagai Biomulsa pada Budidaya Tanaman di Lahan Kering Tropis
Authors: Sumiahadi Ade , Chozin M. Achmad , Guntoro Dan Dwi
Published: April 2017

ABSTRACT

Cover crops is widely used as biomulch because of its advantages for land conservation, weed control and increasing soil nutrients, especially in upland agriculture. The objective of the research was to study the growth and development of Arachis pintoi as biomulch in upland agriculture. The experiment was carried out at IPB Experimental Field from February until May 2014. Observation was done everyweek up to 12 weeks with 10 plants were used for each observation. One stolon of A. pintoi with 4 internodes was planted in each 0.25 m2 plot. The results showed that root initiation of A. pintoi was occured at 3 weeks after planting (wap) and produced 42.4 roots with average root length of 17.10 cm on 12 wap.A. pintoi had nett assimilation rate of 0.0023 g cm-2 per day and relative growth rate of 0.052 g per day. With this growth rate, A. pintoi covered 58% of 0.25 m2 plot and produced biomass 10.08 g per plant within 12 wap. A. pintoi produced flowers on
4 wap and pods on 7 wap. A. pintoi produced root nodules through mutualism symbiosis with local Rhizobium. The equation for rate of coverage is Coverage (%) = 5.273 Time (wap)-16.512; 100% land coverage can be reached on 22 wap. Based on the results of this study, A. pintoi is potential to be used as biomulch; however, a denser spacing must be applied for faster land coverage.

Keywords: land coverage, mulch, Rhizobium, stolon
Pertumbuhan Mucuna bracteata DC. pada Berbagai Waktu Inokulasi dan Dosis Inokulan
Authors: Laksono Purwanti Budi , Wachjar Ade , Supijatno Dan
Published: April 2017

ABSTRACT

Mucuna bracteata DC. is a legume cover crop to prevent erosion and to suppress weed growth. M. bracteata can fix N2 from the air with the help of Rhizobium. M. bracteata get benefit from the symbiosis in the form of increased nodule weight, shoot dry weight, and leaf nitrogen content when the Rhizobium population in the soil is optimal. Application of inoculant is one method to increase the Rhizobium population in the soil. This study aimed to analyze the effects of inoculation times and inoculant rates on M. bracteata growth. The research was conducted in Boyolali, Central Jawa, from February to August 2014. The inoculant contained Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Aeromonas punctata. This experiment was arranged in a randomized block design with two factors and three replications. The first factor was two inoculation times, i.e at the nursery when the seedlings were 2 weeks old and in the field when the seedlings reached 5 weeks old. The second factor was 5 inoculant rates (0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 g per plant). The results showed that inoculation on 5-week-old seedlings was the best result compared to the 2-week-old seedlings. The recommended inoculant rate for Mucuna bracteata was 6.43 g per plant.

Keywords: legume cover crop, nitrogenase activity, nodule, nutrient content, runner
Regenerasi dan Aklimatisasi Kultur Antera Enam Persilangan F1 Padi Sawah
Authors: Gunarsih Cucu , Purwoko Bambang Sapta , Dewi Iswari Saraswati , Syukur Dan Muhamad
Published: April 2017

ABSTRACT

The breeding of rainfed rice tolerant to drought can be accomplished using anther culture. The objectives of this research were to determine regeneration abilities of six F1 anther culture and its acclimatization ability. The experiment was arranged in completely randomized design with 14 replications. The treatments consisted of six F1 derived from crossing:  INPARI 18 x IR83140-B-11-B (G1), INPARI 18 x B12825E-TB-1-25 (G2), INPARI 18 x IR87705-14-11-B-SKI-12 (G3), INPARI 22 x IR83140-B-11-B (G4), Bio-R81 x O18b-1 (G5), Bio-R82-2 x O18b-1 (G6). Media for callus induction was based on N6 medium + 2.0 mg L-1 NAA + 0.5 mg L-1 kinetin + 1.0 mM putresin + 60 g L-1 sucrosa, media for regeneration was based on MS + 0.5 mg L-1 NAA + 2.0 mg L-1 kinetin + 1.0 mM  putresin, and media for rooting was based on  MS + 0.5 mg L-1 IBA + 30 g L-1 sucrosa. The result indicated that all six F1 had different ability in anther culture. Bio-R82-2 x O18-b1 (G6) and  Bio-R81 x O18-b1 (G5) F1 genotype had good response both of callus induction and plant regeneration. These two F1 genotypes also gave the highest ratio of green planlet production to number of anther inoculated (GP:AI) were 5.50% and 4.65%,  respectively. In this research, there were identified doubled haploid plants were developed from 4 F1 derived cross namely G2 (2 plants), G3 (4 plants),  G5 (21 plants), and G6 (26 plants).

Keywords: Callus induction, doubled haploid, rice
EKSISTENSI RUMAH RUMAH ADAT BANJAR DALAM PEMBANGUNAN BERKELANJUTAN
Authors: Hartatik Hartatik
Published: April 2017

Rumah adat Banjar merupakan salah satu sumber daya budaya yang memiliki nilai penting bagi sejarah perkembangan arsitektur, seni dan sejarah budaya lokal. Materialnya yang terbuat dari bahan kayu menyebabkan rumah adat ini rentan terhadap kerusakan, baik karena ulah manusia, cuaca maupun  faktor biologis. Di balik keterancamannya, rumah adat mempunyai nilai yang dapat diambil manfaatnya untuk masa kini dan masa depan. Tujuan dari penelitian  ini adalah untuk menjelaskan realitas pengelolaan dari sisi pemerintah dan masyarakat, sejauhmana keberadaan rumah adat Banjar sebagai salah satu sumber daya budaya dapat dimanfaatkan dalam pembangunan berkelanjutan, serta pesan apa saja yang dapat ditangkap oleh masyarakat dalam memaknai rumah adat ini. Tulisan ini merupakan hasil penelitian kualitatif dengan metode dekriptif, pengambilan data dilakukan dengan survei dan kajian pustaka. Analisis data dilakukan dengan menggunakan penalaran induktif. Dari analisis diketahui bahwa keberadaan rumah adat Banjar belum dikelola secara maksimal, belum ada kerjasama yang harmonis terutama antara pemerintah daerah di tingkat provinsi dan kabupaten. Perjuangan dari penggiat budaya lokal membawa hasil, kini bangunan panggung telah diadopsi menjadi sebuah Peraturan Daerah. Hal tersebutmenunjukkan adanya apresiasi terhadap budaya leluhur dan keberlanjutan  kearifan lokal yang  mampu menjaga keseimbangan lingkungan rawa.
Testing the efficacy of phytohormones of microbial origin in promoting plant growth
Authors: Mahalakshmi V. , Bhagawati Ditisha
Published: April 2017

Mustard Is an Important Oilseed Which Is Used For many Purposes Like Culinary, Religious And Cultural Purposes By Humanity Since Time Immemorial. To Increase The Production of Mustard, Phytohormones Can Be Used Which Are Pro1duced With The Help Of Microorganisms. Phytohormones are the signaling or organic compound which helps in the development and growth of plant. Rhizobium and Bacillus sp were used to produce phytohormones which are isolated from different sources and investigated for their ability to produced auxin and cytokinin in PM2 and Czapek medium respectively. Thin layer chromatography and High performance liquid chromatography were performed to detect and quantify the amount of hormones in the production medium. Rhizobium produced the highest auxin (0.087mg/l) and cytokinin (0.047mg/ml) in the production medium. Then these microbiologically synthesized auxin and cytokinin were treated with mustard seeds to check their ability in promoting growth development. Auxin produced from microorganisms comparatively showed the fastest shoot development (7.9cm length) and leaf (length-1.8cm and width-1.9cm) than cytokinin and control.
Novas tecnologias e seus efeitos no processo de ensino-aprendizagem da EJA
Authors: Cavallari Juliana Santana , Salles Virgínia Neves
Published: April 2017

Pautado em uma perspectiva discursiva, este estudo busca compreender como o sujeito-aluno, com mais de 30 anos, matriculado em uma escola estadual no interior do Mato Grosso, bem como seus professores significam as novas tecnologias utilizadas na Educação de Jovens e Adultos. O corpus de pesquisa resultou de entrevistas semiestruturadas, realizadas com alunos de séries variadas e com dois professores desses alunos. A análise empreendida sugere que os professores, preocupados em abraçar o “novo”, ou seja, uma metodologia de “ponta”, repleta de recursos audiovisuais e tecnológicos, deixam de lado o que deveria estar no centro do processo de ensino-aprendizagem: o aluno e seus anseios.
CINEMA e literatura: pesquisa-ação na Educação de Jovens e Adultos
Authors: Combinato Denise Stefanoni , Paixão João Mário de Medeiros
Published: April 2017

Na expectativa de contribuir com a Educação de Jovens e Adultos, foi proposto um projeto de pesquisa-ação em uma Escola Estadual. O objetivo foi promover os aspectos educativos, culturais e pessoais por meio de exibições e discussões baseadas em filmes e textos literários. Buscou-se estimular a reflexão dos alunos sobre as informações recebidas através do cinema, da literatura e de outros meios de comunicação. Os resultados obtidos serão descritos e analisados a partir do recorte de um dos encontros sobre o trabalho e o processo de produção no cinema, articulados à literatura e à experiência de trabalho dos próprios alunos.
Approaching Health in Landscapes
Authors: Skowronski Magdalena , Risør Mette Bech , Foss Nina
Published: April 2017

Abstract

Chronic cancer patients (CCPs) pay attention and act in response to diverse bodily sensations they experience in everyday life after a cancer episode. Here, we analyse how North Norwegian CCPs use their familiar surroundings in an effort to counter bad mood, anxiety and symptoms of relapse and to strengthen their health. The core participants of the anthropological fieldwork over the course of one year were 10 CCPs from a small coastal village in northern Norway. By drawing on Tim Ingold’s understanding of taskscape, it is suggested that the participants after cancer treatment dwell in and engage with the surroundings of the village, including the core task of staying healthy. The participants are part of and embody the landscape through the temporality of taskscape, related to their ways of dealing with pain, worries and bodily sensations in everyday life.
Aktive Vaterschaft in Organisationen – Anspruchsbewusstsein und verborgene Regeln in Unternehmenskulturen
Authors: Von Alemann Annette , Beaufaӱs Sandra , Oechsle Mechtild
Published: April 2017

The social understanding of fatherhood is currently changing. This transition becomes visible not only in cultural concepts of ‘active’ fatherhood but also in new policies and an increasing number of work organizations that address fathers in their offers to reconcile family and a career. In real life, though, employees are still expected to be constantly available and to consent to career norms that reproduce hegemonic masculinities. This is a strong indicator of organizational norms that limit fathers’ capabilities to get involved in the family. In our paper, we argue that hidden rules in organizational culture may counteract official organizational policies of family friendliness. We ask how organizational contexts influence fathers’ sense of entitlement and to what extend these factors are gendered. In our argumentation, we refer to case studies of seven work organizations of different economic sectors.

Zusammenfassung

Das Verständnis von Vaterschaft hat in den letzten Jahren einen Wandel erfahren, der sich u.a. in veränderten Leitbildern aktiver Vaterschaft und entsprechenden politischen Maßnahmen äußert. Viele Arbeitsorganisationen weiten ihre Vereinbarkeitsprogramme auf Väter aus. Organisationskulturen enthalten jedoch immer noch latente Verfügbarkeitserwartungen und an traditionellen hegemonialen Männlichkeiten orientierte Karrierenormen, die sich negativ auf die Verwirklichung aktiver Vaterschaft auswirken. Wir nehmen an, dass verborgene Regeln im Unternehmensalltag wirksam sind, die offiziellen Unternehmenspolitiken zuwider laufen (können). Unser Beitrag fragt danach, in welcher Weise Organisationskulturen das Anspruchsbewusstsein von Vätern beeinflussen und wie diese Faktoren mit Geschlechternormen interagieren. Empirische Grundlage sind sieben Unternehmensfallstudien aus unterschiedlichen Wirtschaftsbereichen.
Time Series Patterns and Relationship of Energy Consumption and CO2 Emissions in Malaysia
Authors: Begum Rawshan Ara , Abdullah Sharifah Mastura Syed , Sarkar Md. Sujahangir Kabir
Published: April 2017

It is crucial to understand time series patterns of Malaysia’s energy consumption and CO2 emissions and their relationship for implementing strategies and policies to energy security and climate change mitigation.Data from 1980 to 2011 show that all types of fuel and sectors exhibited growth in energy consumption. Major fuel energy consumed are the electricity, diesel, natural gas and motor petrol while transport and industrial sectors are the main consumers of energy. Alike, electricity generation and transport sectors contribute a larger share of CO2 emissions followed by manufacturing industries and construction sectors among others. In recent years, emissions from power generation rapidly increased due to the increasing coal share of energy input instead of natural gas. Moreover, the positive and linear relationship between CO2 emission and energy consumption indicates that Malaysia’s higher rate of energy consumption leads to the increased CO2 emissions whereas a high growth of GDP and increasing population might cause increased energy consumption. However, implementation of Feed-in Tariff (FiT) mechanism would work as an incentive to reduce energy consumption and a motivation to consumers (individual or industry) to offset the incremental electricity cost by applying renewable energy and energy efficiency measures that ultimately would contribute to reduce emissions in Malaysia.
Views of Teachers, Intern doctors and Students regarding Feedback on Formative Assessment during MBBS Course in Bangladesh
Authors: Khanam Khaleda Aktar , Afroza Syeda
Published: April 2017

Objective(s): To explore the present status of feedback following formative assessment during MBBS course in Bangladesh.Methodology: This study was conducted in eight (4 govt. and 4 non govt.) medical colleges in Dhaka and outside Dhaka. The study period was July 2014 to May 2015. Total 50 teachers, 150 intern doctors, 250 students participated in this study. Different structured, self-administered questionnaire were used to collect data from the teachers, intern doctors and students.Result: Majority of the teachers (58%) , intern doctors (89%) and students (87%) disagreed about return of written answers script to the students after formative assessment, while few teachers (12.5%) teachers used to return those , out of their own interest. In this study, 80% teachers, 60% intern doctors and 50% students mentioned that individual feedback was not practiced on SOE/Oral examinations after formative feedback. Most (62.3%) of the intern doctors and students (63%) opined that the feedback they received after formative assessment were not uniform from all departments. Majority (56%) of the teachers pointed that, the timing of providing feedback was uncertain and 48% teachers declared that they gave feedback after formative assessment by marks/grade in groups whereas only 6% teachers provided it personally. Teachers (76%) added that through formative assessments followed by feedback they could identify the learning gaps and weaknesses of the students. According to teachers (86%), intern doctors (74.5%) and students (59.2%), it helped to reduce the fear in subsequent assessment. All of the respondents (teachers, intern doctors and students) figured out the factors responsible for inadequate feedback after formative assessment as compact class schedule (58%, 44.8%, 56.5% respectively), frequent assessment (48%, 49.7%, 48.1% respectively) and inadequate number of stuff (44%, 31.2%, 37.7% respectively). Teachers, intern doctors and students suggested that training of the teachers on feedback process, appointing more teachers, limiting the number of classes and formative assessments, ensuring the feedback after each formative assessments may improve the present situation of feedback in MBBS course.Conclusion: In our country context feedback following formative assessment during MBBS course are not being given following any standard manner. In this study it was figured out that different types of formative assessment are important at different phases of MBBS course. On the basis of respondents' (Teachers, Intern doctors and students) opinion, it can also be concluded that feedback is not being provided in time after formative assessment. Individual feedback is not also being practiced on SOE and practical/clinical examinations after formative assessment, rather it is being provided by some teachers' own interest but not uniformly by all the departments.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Education Vol.7(2) 2016: 2-8
Opinion of policy makers regarding the need of 'global accreditation' of undergraduate medical education in Bangladesh
Authors: Begum Suraya , Talukder Md Humayun Kabir
Published: April 2017

Accreditation of undergraduate medical education has been practicing worldwide in developed and developing countries. Fundamental ideas of this program is to ensure incorporation of ongoing global developments, evidence based scientific study and maintenance of minimum basic standard in education for population health and safety. WHO and WFME have been addressing for global standards in medical education and global accreditation of medical institutes for long time. Worldwide many countries have been responded to this call of global accreditation of medical colleges and medical education with their own context and experiencing benefits This exploratory cross sectional study has been conducted during the period of july-2014 to june-2015 to explore the opinion from key informants of medical education and views from young medical graduates. Data were collected from twenty one in-depth interviewee. Key informants stressed the necessity of an autonomous constitutional national independent accreditation body, faculty development and teacher evaluation, basic minimum resources in all listed medical colleges. Study recommended to accelerate the activities to establish national accreditation body for undergraduate medical education which will make way to achieve global accreditation in Bangladesh in coming future.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Education Vol.7(2) 2016: 9-16
Common problems faced by postgraduate students during their thesis works in Bangladesh
Authors: Matin Mohammad A , Khan Mohammad AW
Published: April 2017

Background: Thesis work is an integral part of postgraduate medical education. It serves as the first stepping stone into scientific writing. But during research work, students and supervisors face various prob-lems. A number of research works has been conducted in different parts of the world on this issue. Some of the problems are candidate related and some of them are supervisor related. In Bangladesh, no re-search work has been done to find out the problems faced by the students and supervisors during thesis work. Once the prob-lems are identified, we can find ways and means to solve those problems as much as possible. Thus the students as the primary group will be benefitted from the results of this study and the supervisors will gain in-sights and will be able to lighten the prob-lems.Method: A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted in 20 different medical colleges and institutes in Bangladesh. A total of 133 postgraduate students, 46 supervisors participated in the study. Purposive sampling technique was used. Two pretested semi-structured questionnaire were used (one for students and one for supervisors) to collect data and data analysis was done using SPSS version 19.Results: The problems in general identified were lack of students' knowledge, experience, commitment in thesis works, time constraint, excess workload, lack of fund, inadequate and irregular meeting with supervisors. Institute related problems were inadequate guidance and resources of the institute, absence of research cell and for-mats of thesis writing in the institute and inadequate cooperation from the institute.Conclusion and recommendation: The pre-sent study revealed that lack of knowledge, lack of experience, lack of fund and lack of regular meetings with supervisor were found the most important general prob-lems. Lack of research project and lack of resource were found the most common problems related to the institute. The rec-ommendations made were- research meth-odology and biostatistics should be incorporated in undergraduate and postgraduate curriculum, regular practical workshops on research methodology and biostatistics for the students and the supervisors, provision of adequate fund for academic thesis works, arrangement of adequate research facilities and resources in all institutes/universities conducting postgraduate courses, introduction of checklist and meeting schedule to be used both by supervisors and students during thesis works.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Education Vol.8(1) 2017: 22-27
Optimal Design of the Rotor Structure of a HSPMSM Based on Analytic Calculation of Eddy Current Losses
Authors: Yu Yanan , Liang Deliang , Liu Xing
Published: April 2017

The rotor eddy current losses of a high-speed permanent magnet synchronous motor reduce the efficiency of the motor and increase the temperature rise of the rotor. In severe cases, the permanent magnet of the rotor can be demagnetized, affecting the safe operation of the motor. In this paper, an analytical model of rotor eddy current losses calculation based on Maxwell equations is introduced. The eddy current losses of rotor structures, e.g., protection sleeve, shield layer and permanent magnets, are analyzed. The calculation results of rotor eddy current losses are compared with two-dimensional (2D) finite element analysis. The comparison verifies the accuracy and versatility of analytical calculation. Finally, the influences of the variables on eddy current losses in the derived model are analyzed. Based on the principle of minimizing eddy current losses, an optimized structure with copper layers covering both inner and outer surfaces of the protective sleeve is proposed. Furthermore, the optimized distribution parameter of copper film thickness is obtained.
New Approaches to Irrigation Scheduling of Vegetables
Authors: Cahn Michael , Johnson Lee
Published: April 2017

Using evapotranspiration (ET) data for scheduling irrigations on vegetable farms is challenging due to imprecise crop coefficients, time consuming computations, and the need to simultaneously manage many fields. Meanwhile, the adoption of soil moisture monitoring in vegetables has historically been limited by sensor accuracy and cost, as well as labor required for installation, removal, and collection of readings. With recent improvements in sensor technology, public weather-station networks, satellite and aerial imaging, wireless communications, and cloud computing, many of the difficulties in using ET data and soil moisture sensors for irrigation scheduling of vegetables can now be addressed. Web and smartphone applications have been developed that automate many of the calculations involved in ET-based irrigation scheduling. Soil moisture sensor data can be collected through wireless networks and accessed using web browser or smartphone apps. Energy balance methods of crop ET estimation, such as eddy covariance and Bowen ratio, provide research options for further developing and evaluating crop coefficient guidelines of vegetables, while recent advancements in surface renewal instrumentation have led to a relatively low-cost tool for monitoring crop water requirement in commercial farms. Remote sensing of crops using satellite, manned aircraft, and UAV platforms may also provide useful tools for vegetable growers to evaluate crop development, plant stress, water consumption, and irrigation system performance.
Temporary Black Henna Tattoos and Sensitization to para-Phenylenediamine (PPD): Two Paediatric Case Reports and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Panfili Elisa , Esposito Susanna , Di Cara Giuseppe
Published: April 2017

Background: The use of temporary henna tattoos has increased dramatically in recent years, especially in children and adolescents. To obtain a darker colour and prolong the life of the tattoo, red henna, a plant-derived substance, is typically added to para-phenylenediamine (PPD). The mixture is called temporary black henna tattoo (TBHT). Because of its molecular characteristics, PPD can induce skin sensitization that may cause various clinical manifestations with successive exposures, among which the most common is allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). This report describes two paediatric cases of PPD sensitization and ACD after the exposure to TBHT and summarizes the literature on this emerging clinical problem. Case Presentation: We describe two cases of childhood-onset ACD that occurred 2 and 10 days, respectively, after the application of a TBHT during the summer holidays. Patch tests showed an evident positive response to 1% PPD in both cases. Sensitization to PPD occurred in the first case because a previous henna tattoo did not result in overt symptoms; in the second case, the reaction occurred after the same tattoo was retouched. In both cases, hypopigmentation persisted and both the patients and their families were advised to avoid further contact with PPD-containing materials and substances that could lead to cross-reactions. Conclusions: Sensitization to PPD is a growing phenomenon in children. The most common cause appears to be exposure to TBHT in which PPD might be present at unknown or high concentrations. Once sensitization occurs, patients may experience severe clinical symptoms which can present with a persistent hypopigmentation when they are re-exposed to substances that contain or cross-react with PPD. Given the widespread use of PPD, TBHT could adversely affect the daily life of paediatric patients; thus, for this reason, this practice as a fashion accessory must be discouraged. In addition, it is extremely important to provide scientific information on the risks of TBHT to consumers, especially to adolescents and to the parents of younger children to prevent PPD sensitization.
Ambient Air Pollution and Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest in Beijing, China
Authors: Xia Ruixue , Zhou Guopeng , Zhu Tong , Li Xueying , Wang Guangfa
Published: April 2017

Air pollutants are associated with cardiovascular death; however, there is limited evidence of the effects of different pollutants on out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCAs) in Beijing, China. We aimed to investigate the associations of OHCAs with the air pollutants PM2.5–10 (coarse particulate matter), PM2.5 (particles ≤2.5 μm in aerodynamic diameter), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O3) between 2013 and 2015 using a time-stratified case-crossover study design. We obtained health data from the nationwide emergency medical service database; 4720 OHCA cases of cardiac origin were identified. After adjusting for relative humidity and temperature, the highest odds ratios of OHCA for a 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 were observed at Lag Day 1 (1.07; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04–1.10), with strong associations with advanced age (aged ≥70 years) (1.09; 95% CI: 1.05–1.13) and stroke history (1.11; 95% CI: 1.06–1.16). PM2.5–10 and NO2 also showed significant associations with OHCAs, whereas SO2, CO, and O3 had no effects. After simultaneously adjusting for NO2 and SO2 in a multi-pollutant model, PM2.5 remained significant. The effects of PM2.5 in the single-pollutant models for cases with hypertension, respiratory disorders, diabetes mellitus, and heart disease were higher than those for cases without these complications; however, the differences were not statistically significant. The results support that elevated PM2.5 exposure contributes to triggering OHCA, especially in those who are advanced in age and have a history of stroke.
Association between Blood Lead Levels and Delta-Aminolevulinic Acid Dehydratase in Pregnant Women
Authors: La-Llave-León Osmel , Méndez-Hernández Edna , Castellanos-Juárez Francisco , Esquivel-Rodríguez Eloísa , Vázquez-Alaniz Fernando , Sandoval-Carrillo Ada , García-Vargas Gonzalo , Duarte-Sustaita Jaime , Candelas-Rangel Jorge , Salas-Pacheco José
Published: April 2017

Blood lead levels (BLLs) and delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) activity are considered biomarkers of lead exposure and lead toxicity, respectively. The present study was designed to investigate the association between BLLs and ALAD activity in pregnant women from Durango, Mexico. A total of 633 pregnant women aged 13–43 years participated in this study. Blood lead was measured by a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer. ALAD activity was measured spectrophotometrically. Mean blood lead was 2.09 ± 2.34 µg/dL; and 26 women (4.1%) crossed the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommended level of 5 µg/dL. ALAD activity was significantly lower in women with levels of lead ≥5 µg/dL compared to those with BLLs < 5 µg/dL (p = 0.002). To reduce the influence of extreme values on the statistical analysis, BLLs were analyzed by quartiles. A significant negative correlation between blood lead and ALAD activity was observed in the fourth quartile of BLLs (r = −0.113; p < 0.01). Among women with blood lead concentrations ≥2.2 µg/dL ALAD activity was negatively correlated with BLLs (r = −0.413; p < 0.01). Multiple linear regression demonstrated that inhibition of ALAD in pregnant women may occur at levels of lead in blood above 2.2 µg/dL.
Delineating the Common Biological Pathways Perturbed by ASD’s Genetic Etiology: Lessons from Network-Based Studies
Authors: Oron Oded , Elliott Evan
Published: April 2017

In recent decades it has become clear that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) possesses a diverse and heterogeneous genetic etiology. Aberrations in hundreds of genes have been associated with ASD so far, which include both rare and common variations. While one may expect that these genes converge on specific common molecular pathways, which drive the development of the core ASD characteristics, the task of elucidating these common molecular pathways has been proven to be challenging. Several studies have combined genetic analysis with bioinformatical techniques to uncover molecular mechanisms that are specifically targeted by autism-associated genetic aberrations. Recently, several analysis have suggested that particular signaling mechanisms, including the Wnt and Ca2+/Calmodulin-signaling pathways are often targeted by autism-associated mutations. In this review, we discuss several studies that determine specific molecular pathways affected by autism-associated mutations, and then discuss more in-depth into the biological roles of a few of these pathways, and how they may be involved in the development of ASD. Considering that these pathways may be targeted by specific pharmacological intervention, they may prove to be important therapeutic targets for the treatment of ASD.
Fundamentals of Thermal Expansion and Thermal Contraction
Authors: Liu Zi-Kui , Shang Shun-Li , Wang Yi
Published: April 2017

Thermal expansion is an important property of substances. Its theoretical prediction has been challenging, particularly in cases the volume decreases with temperature, i.e., thermal contraction or negative thermal expansion at high temperatures. In this paper, a new theory recently developed by the authors has been reviewed and further examined in the framework of fundamental thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. Its applications to cerium with colossal thermal expansion and Fe3Pt with thermal contraction in certain temperature ranges are discussed. It is anticipated that this theory is not limited to volume only and can be used to predict a wide range of properties at finite temperatures.
A High Performance Lithium-Ion Capacitor with Both Electrodes Prepared from Sri Lanka Graphite Ore
Authors: Gao Xiaoyu , Zhan Changzhen , Yu Xiaoliang , Liang Qinghua , Lv Ruitao , Gai Guosheng , Shen Wanci , Kang Feiyu , Huang Zheng-Hong
Published: April 2017

The natural Sri Lanka graphite (vein graphite) is widely-used as anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), due to its high crystallinity and low cost. In this work, graphitic porous carbon (GPC) and high-purity vein graphite (PVG) were prepared from Sri Lanka graphite ore by KOH activation, and high temperature purification, respectively. Furthermore, a lithium-ion capacitor (LIC) is fabricated with GPC as cathode, and PVG as anode. The assembled GPC//PVG LIC shows a notable electrochemical performance with a maximum energy density of 86 W·h·kg−1 at 150 W·kg−1, and 48 W·h·kg−1 at a high-power density of 7.4 kW·kg−1. This high-performance LIC based on PVG and GPC is believed to be promising for practical applications, due to its low-cost raw materials and industrially feasible production.
Thermoelectric Transport in Nanocomposites
Authors: Liu Bin , Hu Jizhu , Zhou Jun , Yang Ronggui
Published: April 2017

Thermoelectric materials which can convert energies directly between heat and electricity are used for solid state cooling and power generation. There is a big challenge to improve the efficiency of energy conversion which can be characterized by the figure of merit (ZT). In the past two decades, the introduction of nanostructures into bulk materials was believed to possibly enhance ZT. Nanocomposites is one kind of nanostructured material system which includes nanoconstituents in a matrix material or is a mixture of different nanoconstituents. Recently, nanocomposites have been theoretically proposed and experimentally synthesized to be high efficiency thermoelectric materials by reducing the lattice thermal conductivity due to phonon-interface scattering and enhancing the electronic performance due to manipulation of electron scattering and band structures. In this review, we summarize the latest progress in both theoretical and experimental works in the field of nanocomposite thermoelectric materials. In particular, we present various models of both phonon transport and electron transport in various nanocomposites established in the last few years. The phonon-interface scattering, low-energy electrical carrier filtering effect, and miniband formation, etc., in nanocomposites are discussed.
Self-Developed Testing System for Determining the Temperature Behavior of Concrete
Authors: Zhu He , Li Qingbin , Hu Yu
Published: April 2017

Cracking due to temperature and restraint in mass concrete is an important issue. A temperature stress testing machine (TSTM) is an effective test method to study the mechanism of temperature cracking. A synchronous closed loop federated control TSTM system has been developed by adopting the design concepts of a closed loop federated control, a detachable mold design, a direct measuring deformation method, and a temperature deformation compensation method. The results show that the self-developed system has the comprehensive ability of simulating different restraint degrees, multiple temperature and humidity modes, and closed-loop control of multi-TSTMs during one test period. Additionally, the direct measuring deformation method can obtain a more accurate deformation and restraint degree result with little local damage. The external temperature deformation affecting the concrete specimen can be eliminated by adopting the temperature deformation compensation method with different considerations of steel materials. The concrete quality of different TSTMs can be guaranteed by being vibrated on the vibrating stand synchronously. The detachable mold design and assembled method has greatly overcome the difficulty of eccentric force and deformation.
Evaluation of Remote Sensing Inversion Error for the Above-Ground Biomass of Alpine Meadow Grassland Based on Multi-Source Satellite Data
Authors: Meng Baoping , Ge Jing , Liang Tiangang , Yang Shuxia , Gao Jinglong , Feng Qisheng , Cui Xia , Huang Xiaodong , Xie Hongjie
Published: April 2017

It is not yet clear whether there is any difference in using remote sensing data of different spatial resolutions and filtering methods to improve the above-ground biomass (AGB) estimation accuracy of alpine meadow grassland. In this study, field measurements of AGB and spectral data at Sangke Town, Gansu Province, China, in three years (2013–2015) are combined to construct AGB estimation models of alpine meadow grassland based on these different remotely-sensed NDVI data: MODIS, HJ-1B CCD of China and Landsat 8 OLI (denoted as NDVIMOD, NDVICCD and NDVIOLI, respectively). This study aims to investigate the estimation errors of AGB from the three satellite sensors, to examine the influence of different filtering methods on MODIS NDVI for the estimation accuracy of AGB and to evaluate the feasibility of large-scale models applied to a small area. The results showed that: (1) filtering the MODIS NDVI using the Savitzky–Golay (SG), logistic and Gaussian approaches can reduce the AGB estimation error; in particular, the SG method performs the best, with the smallest errors at both the sample plot scale (250 m × 250 m) and the entire study area (33.9% and 34.9%, respectively); (2) the optimum estimation model of grassland AGB in the study area is the exponential model based on NDVIOLI, with estimation errors of 29.1% and 30.7% at the sample plot and the study area scales, respectively; and (3) the estimation errors of grassland AGB models previously constructed at different spatial scales (the Tibetan Plateau, Gannan Prefecture and Xiahe County) are higher than those directly constructed based on the small area of this study by 11.9%–36.4% and 5.3%–29.6% at the sample plot and study area scales, respectively. This study presents an improved monitoring algorithm of alpine natural grassland AGB estimation and provides a clear direction for future improvement of the grassland AGB estimation and grassland productivity from remote sensing technology.
Offshore Wind and Wave Energy Assessment around Malè and Magoodhoo Island (Maldives)
Authors: Contestabile Pasquale , Lauro Enrico Di , Galli Paolo , Corselli Cesare , Vicinanza Diego
Published: April 2017

The Maldives are situated in the remote equatorial Indian Ocean, covering 900 km from north to south. The 26 coral atolls forming the archipelago are composed of sand and coral with a maximum height of about 2.30 m above the mean sea level. Periodic flooding from storm surges and the frequent freshwater scarcity are perceived by the population and the economic operators as the major environmental stresses. Moreover, the strong dependence on imported fossil fuels increases, even more, the environmental concerns. Diesel, in fact, still represents the main source of power generation, typically through privately managed small diesel sets. The real challenge for this area is to promote the environmental quality with socioeconomic growth. The present study aims to evaluate the strategic effectiveness to face these issues by wave and offshore wind energy. Resources using a 10-year hindcast dataset are here examined. The annual offshore wave power was found to range between 8.46 kW/m and 12.75 kW/m, while the 10 m and 100 m mean wind power density is respectively 0.08 kW/m2 and 0.16 kW/m2. Based on these results, an environmentally and socio-economically sustainable best-case scenario is constructed and two atoll islands (Malè and Magoodhoo) are specifically investigated. As a result, multifunctional structures and multi-use systems, which combine power generation, desalinization and coastal defence, are strongly recommended.
Greenhouse Gas and Air Pollutant Emissions of China’s Residential Sector: The Importance of Considering Energy Transition
Authors: Xing Rui , Hanaoka Tatsuya , Kanamori Yuko , Masui Toshihiko
Published: April 2017

This study focuses on China’s residential sector and examines energy use growth resulting from income increases and urbanization development. We also look at the energy transition (from primitive fuels to advanced fuels) caused by economic development, as well as the mitigation potential of greenhouse gas and air pollutants emissions. Several studies have provided evidence of a positive correlation between income and per capita final energy use at the national level. In addition to income, demographic factors such as household size and education level have also been suggested to have influences on urban energy use. In this study, we consider various socio-economic indicators to analyze their influences on household energy use. Considering the economic and climate diversity across China’s provincial regions, our analysis is based on the 31 provincial regions and examines the emissions pathways of 31 provincial regions. We first apply a multiple linear regression analysis on historical panel data to determine the correlations between socio-economic indicators and domestic energy sources. Next, we use the Asia-Pacific Integrated Model (AIM/Enduse) to estimate mitigation potential due to energy transition and sustainable policies. The results suggest that income and education levels are major drivers that have a significant impact on household energy choices both in rural and urban areas. In rural areas, climate and energy resource potential also have an impact on the choices of biomass energy use. Without consideration of energy transition constraints, future estimation of energy consumption and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions can be greatly overestimated or underestimated depending on the socioeconomic status of the province. It is important to note that the way that we consider energy transition constraints also significantly affects the air pollutants’ emissions of the household sector due to biomass consumption, especially on particulate matter 2.5 microns or less (PM2.5) emissions. Furthermore, implementation of efficient technologies contributes to achieving China’s Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) and brings the co-benefits of air pollutants’ emission reductions.
Carbon Dynamics of Reclaimed Coal Mine Soil under Agricultural Use: A Chronosequence Study in the Dongtan Mining Area, Shandong Province, China
Authors: Qu Jun-Feng , Hou Yu-Le , Ge Meng-Yu , Wang Kun , Liu Shu , Zhang Shao-Liang , Li Gang , Chen Fu
Published: April 2017

Soil organic carbon (SOC) plays an essential role in the early stages of pedogenisis and ecological restoration in reclaimed mine soils. Dynamic changes in the SOC content are essential for assessing the quality of reclaimed mine soils and the effect of ecological restoration. To objectively assess the carbon dynamics of reclaimed soils, we selected the surface (0–20 cm) soil of farmland under agricultural use (soybean–wheat rotation) from a reclamation chronosequence (R4: 4 years of reclamation, R7: 7 years of reclamation, R10: 10 years of reclamation and R13: 13 years of reclamation) in the Dongtan Mining Area, Shandong Province, China. The adjacent normal, unaffected farmland was used as a control (CK). The results showed that the SOC content gradually increased with the reclamation age until it reached 7.98 g·kg−1 for R13, which accounted for 76% of that of the CK. However, the total carbon contents of the reclaimed soils did not significantly differ from and even appeared higher than that of the CK. This is mainly because the inorganic carbon contents of the reclaimed soils ranged from 2.98 to 12.61 g·kg−1, all of which were significantly higher than the 0.87 g·kg−1 obtained for the CK. The microbial biomass carbon (MBC) content and the microbial quotient significantly increased with the reclamation age of the soil, and both parameters were markedly higher for R13 than for the CK. The dissolved organic carbon (DOC) content and its ratio to the SOC were significantly higher for R4–R13 than for the CK and DOC/SOC gradually decreased with the reclamation age. Both the reclamation age and the temperature had positive effects on the soil basal respiration (SBR). The SBR rate constantly increased with the reclamation age and was markedly higher at 25 °C than at 15 °C. The temperature sensitivity (Q10) of the SBR showed a clearly decreasing trend for the reclamation chronosequence, but its value remained higher for R13 than for the CK (2.37). The metabolic quotient constantly decreased with the reclamation age, which suggests that the survival pressure imposed on soil microbes by the soil environment gradually decreased. These results indicate that it takes a long time for organic carbon to accumulate in reclaimed mine soil and that rational agricultural use contributes to sustained improvement of the quality of reclaimed soil.