bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The work pattern of personal care workers in two Australian nursing homes: a time-motion study
Authors: Qian Si-Yu , Yu Ping , Zhang Zhen-Yu , Hailey David M , Davy Pamela J , Nelson Mark I
Published: September 2012

Background

The aim of the study is to describe the work pattern of personal care workers (PCWs) in nursing homes. This knowledge is important for staff performance appraisal, task allocation and scheduling. It will also support funding allocation based on activities.

Methods

A time-motion study was conducted in 2010 at two Australian nursing homes. The observation at Site 1 was between the hours of 7:00 and 14:00 or 15:00 for 14 days. One PCW was observed on each day. The observation at Site 2 was from 10:00 to 17:00 for 16 days. One PCW working on a morning shift and another one working on an afternoon shift were observed on each day. Fifty-eight work activities done by PCWs were grouped into eight categories. Activity time, frequency, duration and the switch between two consecutive activities were used as measurements to describe the work pattern.

Results

Personal care workers spent about 70.0% of their time on four types of activities consistently at both sites: direct care (30.7%), indirect care (17.6%), infection control (6.4%) and staff break (15.2%). Oral communication was the most frequently observed activity. It could occur independently or concurrently with other activities. At Site 2, PCWs spent significantly more time than their counterparts at Site 1 on oral communication (Site 1: 47.3% vs. Site 2: 63.5%, P = 0.003), transit (Site 1: 3.4% vs. Site 2: 5.5%, P < 0.001) and others (Site 1: 0.5% vs. Site 2: 1.8%, P < 0.001). They spent less time on documentation (Site 1: 4.1% vs. Site 2: 2.3%, P < 0.001). More than two-thirds of the observed activities had a very short duration (1 minute or less). Personal care workers frequently switched within or between oral communication, direct and indirect care activities.

Conclusions

At both nursing homes, direct care, indirect care, infection control and staff break occupied the major part of a PCW’s work, however oral communication was the most time consuming activity. Personal care workers frequently switched between activities, suggesting that looking after the elderly in nursing homes is a busy and demanding job.
Magnetite nanoparticles for functionalized textile dressing to prevent fungal biofilms development
Authors: Anghel Ion , Grumezescu Alexandru Mihai , Andronescu Ecaterina , Anghel Alina Georgiana , Ficai Anton , Saviuc Crina , Grumezescu Valentina , Vasile Bogdan Stefan , Chifiriuc Mariana Carmen
Published: September 2012

The purpose of this work was to investigate the potential of functionalized magnetite nanoparticles to improve the antibiofilm properties of textile dressing, tested in vitro against monospecific Candida albicans biofilms. Functionalized magnetite (Fe3O4/C18), with an average size not exceeding 20 nm, has been synthesized by precipitation of ferric and ferrous salts in aqueous solution of oleic acid (C18) and NaOH. Transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, and differential thermal analysis coupled with thermo gravimetric analysis were used as characterization methods for the synthesized Fe3O4/C18. Scanning electron microscopy was used to study the architecture of the fungal biofilm developed on the functionalized textile dressing samples and culture-based methods for the quantitative assay of the biofilm-embedded yeast cells. The optimized textile dressing samples proved to be more resistant to C. albicans colonization, as compared to the uncoated ones; these functionalized surfaces-based approaches are very useful in the prevention of wound microbial contamination and subsequent biofilm development on viable tissues or implanted devices.
Functionalized carbon nanotubes mixed matrix membranes of polymers of intrinsic microporosity for gas separation
Authors: Khan Muntazim Munir , Filiz Volkan , Bengtson Gisela , Shishatskiy Sergey , Rahman Mushfequr , Abetz Volker
Published: September 2012

The present work reports on the gas transport behavior of mixed matrix membranes (MMM) which were prepared from multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and dispersed within polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIM-1) matrix. The MWCNTs were chemically functionalized with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) for a better dispersion in the polymer matrix. MMM-incorporating functionalized MWCNTs (f-MWCNTs) were fabricated by dip-coating method using microporous polyacrylonitrile membrane as a support and were characterized for gas separation performance. Gas permeation measurements show that MMM incorporated with pristine or functionalized MWCNTs exhibited improved gas separation performance compared to pure PIM-1. The f-MWCNTs MMM show better performance in terms of permeance and selectivity in comparison to pristine MWCNTs. The gas permeances of the derived MMM are increased to approximately 50% without sacrificing the selectivity at 2 wt.% of f-MWCNTs' loading. The PEG groups on the MWCNTs have strong interaction with CO2 which increases the solubility of polar gas and limit the solubility of nonpolar gas, which is advantageous for CO2/N2 selectivity. The addition of f-MWCNTs inside the polymer matrix also improved the long-term gas transport stability of MMM in comparison with PIM-1. The high permeance, selectivity, and long term stability of the fabricated MMM suggest that the reported approach can be utilized in practical gas separation technology.
The microRNA miR-181c controls microglia-mediated neuronal apoptosis by suppressing tumor necrosis factor
Authors: Zhang Li , Dong Lian-Yan , Li Ya-Jian , Hong Zhen , Wei Wen-Shi
Published: September 2012

Background

Post-ischemic microglial activation may contribute to neuronal damage through the release of large amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines and neurotoxic factors. The involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the pathogenesis of disorders related to the brain and central nervous system has been previously studied, but it remains unknown whether the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines is regulated by miRNAs.

Methods

BV-2 and primary rat microglial cells were activated by exposure to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD). Global cerebral ischemia was induced using the four-vessel occlusion (4-VO) model in rats. Induction of pro-inflammatory and neurotoxic factors, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and nitric oxide (NO), were assessed by ELISA, immunofluorescence, and the Griess assay, respectively. The miRNA expression profiles of OGD-activated BV-2 cells were subsequently compared with the profiles of resting cells in a miRNA microarray. BV-2 and primary rat microglial cells were transfected with miR-181c to evaluate its effects on TNF-α production after OGD. In addition, a luciferase reporter assay was conducted to confirm whether TNF-α is a direct target of miR-181c.

Results

OGD induced BV-2 microglial activation in vitro, as indicated by the overproduction of TNF-α, IL-1β, and NO. Global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury induced microglial activation and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus. OGD also downregulated miR-181c expression and upregulated TNF-α expression. Overproduction of TNF-α after OGD-induced microglial activation provoked neuronal apoptosis, whereas the ectopic expression of miR-181c partially protected neurons from cell death caused by OGD-activated microglia. RNAinterference-mediated knockdown of TNF-α phenocopied the effect of miR-181c-mediated neuronal protection, whereas overexpression of TNF-α blocked the miR-181c-dependent suppression of apoptosis. Further studies showed that miR-181c could directly target the 3′-untranslated region of TNF-α mRNA, suppressing its mRNA and protein expression.

Conclusions

Our data suggest a potential role for miR-181c in the regulation of TNF-α expression after ischemia/hypoxia and microglia-mediated neuronal injury.
3D edge detection seismic attributes used to map potential conduits for water and methane in deep gold mines in the Witwatersrand basin, South Africa
Authors: Manzi Musa S. D. , Durrheim Raymond J. , Hein Kim A. A. , King Nick
Published: September 2012

Inrushes of ground water and the ignition of flammable gases pose risks to workers in deep South African gold mines. Large volumes of water may be stored in solution cavities in dolomitic rocks that overlie the Black Reef (BLR) Formation, while there are several possible sources for methane, namely, coal seams, kerogen found in some gold ore bodies, or methane introduced by igneous intrusions. Potential conduits that may transport water and methane to underground workings were mapped using 3D reflection seismic data. Edge detection attributes successfully identified many faults, some with displacements as small as 10 m. Faults that displace the Ventersdorp Contact Reef (VCR) and the BLR horizons were of special interest, as known occurrences of fissure water and methane in underground workings show a good correlation with faults that were imaged on the VCR and BLR horizons. Because there are uncertainties in determining the linkage of faults with aquifers and methane sources, it is considered prudent to assume that all structures that displace the VCR and BLR horizons are potential conduits.
Prediction of longer-term outcome of treatment-resistant
depression in tertiary care
Authors: Fekadu Abebaw , Rane Lena J. , Wooderson Sarah C. , Markopoulou Kalypso , Poon Lucia , Cleare Anthony J.
Published: September 2012

Background

Systematic studies on the outcome of treatment-resistant depression are
scarce.

Aims

To describe the longer-term outcome and predictors of outcome in
treatment-resistant depression.

Method

Out of 150 patients approached, 118 participants with confirmed
treatment-resistant depression (unipolar, n= 7; bipolar,
n=27; secondary, n=14) treated in a
specialist in-patient centre were followed-up for between 8 and 84 months
(mean=39, s.d.=22).

Results

The majority of participants attained full remission (60.2%), most of
whom (48.3% of total sample) showed sustained recovery (full remission
for at least 6 months). A substantial minority had persistent
subsyndromal depression (19.5%) or persistent depressive episode (20.3%).
Diagnosis of bipolar treatment-resistant depression and poorer social
support were associated with early relapse, whereas strong social
support, higher educational status and milder level of treatment
resistance measured with the Maudsley Staging Method were associated with
achieving quicker remission. Exploratory analysis of treatment found
positive associations between treatment with a monoamine oxidase
inhibitor (MAOl) in unipolar treatment-resistant depression and attaining
remission at discharge and at final follow-up, and duloxetine use
predicted attainment of remission at final follow-up.

Conclusions

Although many patients with treatment-resistant depression experience
persistent symptomatology even after intensive, specialist treatment,
most can achieve remission. The choice of treatment and presence of good
social support may affect remission rates, whereas those with low social
support and a bipolar diathesis should be considered at higher risk of
early relapse. We suggest that future work to improve the long-term
outcome in this disabling form of depression might focus on social
interventions to improve support, and the role of neglected
pharmacological interventions such as MAOIs.
The Class of Tenable Zero-Balanced Pólya Urn Schemes: Characterization and Gaussian Phases
Authors: Kholfi Sanaa , Mahmoud Hosam M.
Published: September 2012

We study a class of tenable, irreducible, nondegenerate zero-balanced Pólya urn schemes. We give a full characterization of the class by sufficient and necessary conditions. Only forms with a certain cyclic structure in their replacement matrix are admissible. The scheme has a steady state into proportions governed by the principal (left) eigenvector of the average replacement matrix. We study the gradual change for any such urn containing n → ∞ balls from the initial condition to the steady state. We look at the status of an urn starting with an asymptotically positive proportion of each color after jn draws. We identify three phases of jn: the growing sublinear, the linear, and the superlinear. In the growing sublinear phase the number of balls of different colors has an asymptotic joint multivariate normal distribution, with mean and covariance structure that are influenced by the initial conditions. In the linear phase a different multivariate normal distribution kicks in, in which the influence of the initial conditions is attenuated. The steady state is not a good approximation until a certain superlinear amount of time has elapsed. We give interpretations for how the results in different phases conjoin at the ‘seam lines’. In fact, these Gaussian phases are all manifestations of one master theorem. The results are obtained via multivariate martingale theory. We conclude with some illustrating examples.
Averaging for a Fully Coupled Piecewise-Deterministic Markov Process in Infinite Dimensions
Authors: Genadot Alexandre , Thieullen Michèle
Published: September 2012

In this paper we consider the generalized Hodgkin-Huxley model introduced in Austin (2008). This model describes the propagation of an action potential along the axon of a neuron at the scale of ion channels. Mathematically, this model is a fully coupled piecewise-deterministic Markov process (PDMP) in infinite dimensions. We introduce two time scales in this model in considering that some ion channels open and close at faster jump rates than others. We perform a slow-fast analysis of this model and prove that, asymptotically, this ‘two-time-scale’ model reduces to the so-called averaged model, which is still a PDMP in infinite dimensions, for which we provide effective evolution equations and jump rates.
On Exact Sampling of Nonnegative Infinitely Divisible Random Variables
Authors: Chi Zhiyi
Published: September 2012

Nonnegative infinitely divisible (i.d.) random variables form an important class of random variables. However, when this type of random variable is specified via Lévy densities that have infinite integrals on (0, ∞), except for some special cases, exact sampling is unknown. We present a method that can sample a rather wide range of such i.d. random variables. A basic result is that, for any nonnegative i.d. random variable X with its Lévy density explicitly specified, if its distribution conditional on X ≤ r can be sampled exactly, where r > 0 is any fixed number, then X can be sampled exactly using rejection sampling, without knowing the explicit expression of the density of X. We show that variations of the result can be used to sample various nonnegative i.d. random variables.
Coagulation Processes with Gibbsian Time Evolution
Authors: Granovsky Boris L. , Kryvoshaev Alexander V.
Published: September 2012

We prove that a stochastic process of pure coagulation has at any time t ≥ 0 a time-dependent Gibbs distribution if and only if the rates ψ(i, j) of single coagulations are of the form ψ(i; j) = if(j) + jf(i), where f is an arbitrary nonnegative function on the set of positive integers. We also obtain a recurrence relation for weights of these Gibbs distributions that allow us to derive the general form of the solution and the explicit solutions in three particular cases of the function f. For the three corresponding models, we study the probability of coagulation into one giant cluster by time t > 0.
Coalescence in Critical and Subcritical Galton-Watson Branching Processes
Authors: Athreya K. B.
Published: September 2012

In a Galton-Watson branching process that is not extinct by the nth generation and has at least two individuals, pick two individuals at random by simple random sampling without replacement. Trace their lines of descent back in time till they meet. Call that generation Xn a pairwise coalescence time. Similarly, let Yn
denote the coalescence time for the whole population of the nth generation conditioned on the event that it is not extinct. In this paper the distributions of Xn and Yn, and their limit behaviors as n → ∞ are discussed for both the critical and subcritical cases.
A Pólya Approximation to the Poisson-Binomial Law
Authors: Skipper Max
Published: September 2012

Using Stein's method, we derive explicit upper bounds on the total variation distance between a Poisson-binomial law (the distribution of a sum of independent but not necessarily identically distributed Bernoulli random variables) and a Pólya distribution with the same support, mean, and variance; a nonuniform bound on the pointwise distance between the probability mass functions is also given. A numerical comparison of alternative distributional approximations on a somewhat representative collection of case studies is also exhibited. The evidence proves that no single one is uniformly most accurate, though it suggests that the Pólya approximation might be preferred in several parameter domains encountered in practice.
A Note on ‘Improved Fréchet Bounds and Model-Free Pricing of Multi-Asset Options’ by Tankov (2011)
Authors: Bernard Carole , Jiang Xiao , Vanduffel Steven
Published: September 2012

Tankov (2011) improved the Fréchet bounds for a bivariate copula when its values on a compact subset of [0, 1]2 are given. He showed that the best possible bounds are quasi-copulas and gave a sufficient condition for these bounds to be copulas. In this note we give weaker sufficient conditions to ensure that the bounds are copulas. We also show how this can be useful in portfolio selection. It turns out that finding a copula as a lower bound plays a key role in determining optimal investment strategies explicitly for investors with some type of state-dependent constraints.
Muscle length and myonuclear position are independently regulated by distinct Dynein pathways
Authors: Folker Eric S. , Schulman Victoria K. , Baylies Mary K.
Published: September 2012

Various muscle diseases present with aberrant muscle cell morphologies characterized by smaller myofibers with mispositioned nuclei. The mechanisms that normally control these processes, whether they are linked, and their contribution to muscle weakness in disease, are not known. We examined the role of Dynein and Dynein-interacting proteins during Drosophila muscle development and found that several factors, including Dynein heavy chain, Dynein light chain and Partner of inscuteable, contribute to the regulation of both muscle length and myonuclear positioning. However, Lis1 contributes only to Dynein-dependent muscle length determination, whereas CLIP-190 and Glued contribute only to Dynein-dependent myonuclear positioning. Mechanistically, microtubule density at muscle poles is decreased in CLIP-190 mutants, suggesting that microtubule-cortex interactions facilitate myonuclear positioning. In Lis1 mutants, Dynein hyperaccumulates at the muscle poles with a sharper localization pattern, suggesting that retrograde trafficking contributes to muscle length. Both Lis1 and CLIP-190 act downstream of Dynein accumulation at the cortex, suggesting that they specify Dynein function within a single location. Finally, defects in muscle length or myonuclear positioning correlate with impaired muscle function in vivo, suggesting that both processes are essential for muscle function.
Never tear us apart – the importance of centrosome clustering
Authors: Marthiens Véronique , Piel Matthieu , Basto Renata
Published: September 2012

The presence of more than two centrosomes (centrosome amplification) at the onset of mitosis has long been associated with multipolar spindle formation, and with the generation of genetic instability. However, in recent years, several studies have shown that a process termed ‘centrosome clustering’ actively contributes to bipolar division by promoting the gathering of extra centrosomes in two main poles. In this Commentary, we describe the main proteins that are involved in centriole duplication and discuss how centrosome amplification can be generated both in vitro and in vivo. We then summarize what is currently known about the processes that contribute to bipolar spindle formation when extra centrosomes are present, and which forces contribute to this process. Finally, we discuss how extra centrosomes might contribute to tumorigenesis, giving emphasis to the role of centrosome amplification in promoting genetic instability.
Grundlagen und Anwendungen der kontaktlosen induktiven Strömungstomographie
Authors: Stefani Frank , Gerbeth Gunter , Gundrum Thomas , Wondrak Thomas
Published: September 2012

Ziel der kontaktlosen induktiven Strömungstomographie (CIFT) ist die Bestimmung von Geschwindigkeitsfeldern in metallischen und Halbleiterschmelzen. Das Verfahren beruht auf der Induktion elektrischer Ströme in bewegten Leitern unter dem Einfluß von Magnetfeldern. Die strömungsinduzierten Deformationen der Magnetfelder können außerhalb der Schmelze gemessen und für die Rekonstruktion des Geschwindigkeitsfeldes genutzt werden. Nach der Darstellung der Grundlagen werden erste Anwendungen und mögliche Erweiterungen des Verfahrens besprochen.
Biogenic habitat transitions influence facilitation in a marine soft‐sediment ecosystem
Authors: Lohrer Andrew M. , Rodil Iván F. , Townsend Michael , Chiaroni Luca D. , Hewitt Judi E. , Thrush Simon F.
Published: September 2012

Habitats are often defined by the presence of key species and biogenic features. However, the ecological consequences of interactions among distinct habitat‐forming species in transition zones where their habitats overlap remain poorly understood. We investigated transition zone interactions by conducting experiments at three locations in Mahurangi Harbour, New Zealand, where the abundance of two habitat‐forming marine species naturally varied. The two key species differed in form and function: One was a sessile suspension‐feeding bivalve that protruded from the sediment (Atrina zelandica; Pinnidae); the other was a mobile infaunal urchin that bioturbated sediment (Echinocardium cordatum; Spatangoida). The experimental treatments established at each site reflected the natural densities of the species across sites (Atrina only, Echinocardium only, Atrina and Echinocardium together, and plots with neither species present). We identified the individual and combined effects of the two key species on sediment characteristics and co‐occurring macrofauna. After five months, we documented significant treatment effects, including the highest abundance of co‐occurring macrofauna in the Atrina‐only treatments. However, the facilitation of macrofauna by Atrina (relative to removal treatments) was entirely negated in the presence of Echinocardium at densities >10 individuals/m2. The transitional areas in Mahurangi Harbour composed of co‐occurring Atrina and Echinocardium are currently widespread and are probably more common now than monospecific patches of either individual species, due to the thinning of dense Atrina patches into sparser mixed zones during the last 10–15 years. Thus, although some ecologists avoid ecotones and habitat edges when designing experiments, suspecting that it will skew the extrapolation of results, this study increased our understanding of benthic community dynamics across larger proportions of the seascape and provided insights into temporal changes in community structure associated with patch dynamics. Particularly in situations where non‐abrupt habitat transitions are commonplace, documentation of community dynamics in individual biogenic habitats and in mixed transition zones is required in order to scale‐up and generalize results.
On Irrelevance and Algorithmic Equality in Predicative Type Theory
Authors: Abel Andreas , Scherer Gabriel
Published: September 2012

Dependently typed programs contain an excessive amount of static terms which
are necessary to please the type checker but irrelevant for computation. To
separate static and dynamic code, several static analyses and type systems have
been put forward. We consider Pfenning's type theory with irrelevant
quantification which is compatible with a type-based notion of equality that
respects eta-laws. We extend Pfenning's theory to universes and large
eliminations and develop its meta-theory. Subject reduction, normalization and
consistency are obtained by a Kripke model over the typed equality judgement.
Finally, a type-directed equality algorithm is described whose completeness is
proven by a second Kripke model.
On completeness of reducibility candidates as a semantics of strong normalization
Authors: Cousineau Denis
Published: September 2012

This paper defines a sound and complete semantic criterion, based on
reducibility candidates, for strong normalization of theories expressed in
minimal deduction modulo \`a la Curry. The use of Curry-style proof-terms
allows to build this criterion on the classic notion of pre-Heyting algebras
and makes that criterion concern all theories expressed in minimal deduction
modulo. Compared to using Church-style proof-terms, this method provides both a
simpler definition of the criterion and a simpler proof of its completeness.
A Synthesis of the Procedural and Declarative Styles of Interactive Theorem Proving
Authors: Wiedijk Freek
Published: September 2012

We propose a synthesis of the two proof styles of interactive theorem
proving: the procedural style (where proofs are scripts of commands, like in
Coq) and the declarative style (where proofs are texts in a controlled natural
language, like in Isabelle/Isar). Our approach combines the advantages of the
declarative style - the possibility to write formal proofs like normal
mathematical text - and the procedural style - strong automation and help with
shaping the proofs, including determining the statements of intermediate steps.
Our approach is new, and differs significantly from the ways in which the
procedural and declarative proof styles have been combined before in the
Isabelle, Ssreflect and Matita systems. Our approach is generic and can be
implemented on top of any procedural interactive theorem prover, regardless of
its architecture and logical foundations. To show the viability of our proposed
approach, we fully implemented it as a proof interface called miz3, on top of
the HOL Light interactive theorem prover. The declarative language that this
interface uses is a slight variant of the language of the Mizar system, and can
be used for any interactive theorem prover regardless of its logical
foundations. The miz3 interface allows easy access to the full set of tactics
and formal libraries of HOL Light, and as such has "industrial strength". Our
approach gives a way to automatically convert any procedural proof to a
declarative counterpart, where the converted proof is similar in size to the
original. As all declarative systems have essentially the same proof language,
this gives a straightforward way to port proofs between interactive theorem
provers.
Genetic erosion of diversity in cereals
Authors: Petrovic Sofija , Dimitrijevic Miodrag
Published: September 2012

Cereals play an important role in human nutrition. Consequently, one of the
main goals in breeding is to obtain varieties with high genetic potential for
yield. Modern agricultural production includes the expansion of intensive
varieties over large areas that lead to narrow selection criteria in breeding
programs. The consequence is a drastic reduction in the number of species and
genotypes (genetic erosion), or harming biological diversity of local
populations, and spontaneous relatives (biodiversity) in cereals. Based on
detailed inventories of the territory of Montenegro and to some extent in
Eastern Serbia, a endangerment of gene pool in cereals could be denoted. The
reason for this is a transition to another type of agricultural production,
changing land purposes, the presence of nursing homes, and use of intensive
varieties. Old varieties and local populations represent the original genetic
variability that could be used in breeding programs and organic production.
It is therefore essential to take measures to preserve the genetic resources
of cereals.
Multivariate analysis and determination of the best indirect selection criteria to genetic improvement the biological nitrogen fixation ability in common bean genotypes (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Golparvar Reza
Published: September 2012

In order to determine the best indirect selection criteria for genetic
improvement of biological nitrogen fixation, sixty four common bean genotypes
were cultivated in two randomized complete block design. Genotypes were
inoculated with bacteria Rhizobium legominosarum biovar Phaseoli isolate
L-109 only in one of the experiments. The second experiment was considered as
check for the first. Correlation analysis showed positive and highly
significant correlation of majority of the traits with percent of nitrogen
fixation. Step-wise regression designated that traits percent of total
nitrogen of shoot, number of nodule per plant and biological yield accounted
for 92.3 percent of variation exist in percent of nitrogen fixation. Path
analysis indicated that these traits have direct and positive effect on
percent of nitrogen fixation. Hence, these traits are promising indirect
selection criteria for genetic improvement of nitrogen fixation capability in
common bean genotypes especially in early generations.
Comparation of heredity coefficients of productive traits in the population of black white cows
Authors: Spasic Zvonko , Milosevic Bozidar , Lalic Nebojsa , Samardzic Sonja , Ilic Zoran , Ristanovic Bojana
Published: September 2012

On the basis of genetic variability of economically important traits we
orientate ourselves toward specific methods development and use in genetic
improvement of a population. However, the heritability (h2) is important for
giving the answer, which traits can be included in the breeding value
evaluation of a population. For determining the heritability 1502 black white
breed cows were used: 751 mothers and 751 daughters (together 6393
lactations). The heritability coefficient of investigated traits in cows was
calculated using three methods: regression of daughters to mothers,
intraclass correlation according to bulls-sires and, for those features for
which recurrence exists during the life we used method of repeatability (R).
For average milk yield, milk fat and fat edited milk during standard
lactations by the method of regression and repeatability intermediate
coefficients of heredity were determined (from 0,291 to 0,323), while by the
interclass correlation were determined high coefficients (from 0,461 to
0,543).The heritability coefficients for average content of milk fat were low
(from 0,029 to 0,192), thus further improvement of this quantitative trait in
the population would be possible mainly via bulls sires with the higher
genetic potential.
Grain weight of genotypes of triticale (X Triticosecale Wittmack) in agroecological conditions of Banja Luka
Authors: Kondic Danijela , Knezevic Desimir , Paunovic Aleksandar
Published: September 2012

Grain weight is a genotypic characteristic that is directly related to the
realization of yield. Analysis of average grain weight was performed in ten
genotypes of winter hexaploid triticale (Trimaran, Ticino, Odisej, Agrano,
BLT21, BLT17, BLT10, Max 1793, Bogo and Tornado). Experiment was conducted
during 2005/06, 2006/07, 2007/08. in Trapisti, region Banja Luka. During the
experiment of winter triticale standard agricultural practice was applied.
Microclimatic conditions during triticale cultivation in 2006 and 2008. were
relatively similar, while in 2007. there was drought period occurrence.
Statistical analysis of observed genotypes for the specified parameter was
performed with method analysis of variance 10x3. Analyses of significant
differences were done by using LSD test, while interactive effect was
analyzed by graphical method. The average weight of triticale genotypes grain
regardless of the year showed highly statistically significant differences,
while in observation of years regardless of the genotype showed mutually
statistically significant differences. Analysis of these relationships was
observed through the interaction effects as a final evaluation of the
observed genotypes. Based on the average values of the grain weight, winter
triticale genotypes were evaluated. The average grain weight of triticale
genotypes in the observed years showed the lowest average weight in 2007
(0.0369 g), while the highest grain weight was obtained in 2006 (0.0406 g).
Statistically significant difference of the average grain weight of the
observed genotypes of triticale regardless of the year showed that genotypes
Bogo (0.0465 g), Odisej (0.0453 g) and BLT10 (0.0424 g) were those of the
highest average grain weight without significant differences between them.
These genotypes were evaluated as potentially productive genotypes under the
agroecological conditions of Banja Luka.
"Keeping Alive the Old Tradition": Spanish-Mexican Club Women in Southern California, 1880-1940
Authors: Wallis Eileen V.
Published: September 2012

This article explores the role of Spanish'Mexican women in the woman's club movement in Southern California in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. It finds that their promotion of the romantic Spanish myth conferred social status on elite and middle-class Spanish-Mexican women.
The Halliburton House and its Architect, William Alexander
Authors: Denzer Anthony
Published: September 2012

The 1938 Laguna Beach house designed by William Alexander for adventure writer Richard Halliburton is a landmark of modern architecture. This article explores the relationships between the client's goals, the architect's vision and sources of inspiration, and the construction chal lenges. It also links the house to the current discourse on "queer space" and evaluates the house's influence on contemporary literature.
John Work, J. J. Warner, and the Native American Catastrophe of 1833
Authors: Ahrens Peter
Published: September 2012

In 1833 the Native American population of California's Central Valley was decimated by an epidemic variously identified as remittent fever, cholera, typhus, or malaria. This article confirms that it was malaria introduced by the Hudson's Bay Company fur brigade led by John Works, based on the conjunction of weather, carriers,a nd contact and on the eyewitness accounts of Works, George Yount, and J.J. Warner. The Indian's catastrophe contributed to the American colonial conquest of the region.
Locating Absence: The Forgotten Presence of Monjeríos in Alta California Missions
Authors: Vaughn Chelsea K.
Published: September 2012

This article examines how California's historic mission sites represent the Native American women who worked in the missions and who were sequestered there in monjeríos (chaperoned dormitories for unmarried women). Three missions (San Luis Rey, San Juan Capistrano, and La Purísima Concepción) provide case histories of mission interpretations in which these women were completely absent, represented by signage only, or brought to visitors' attention through a recreated monjerio. However, even in the latter model, their lives are not fully represented: the monjerios were sites of punishment, a fact recorded in mission-era reports and letters but not indicated in the exhibit space.
Prevalence of Ciprofloxacin and Nalidixic Acid Resistant Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi in Bangladesh
Authors: Afroj Shirin , Ilias Mohammad , Islam Maksuda , Saha Samir K
Published: September 2012

A total of 1,059 Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi were isolated from blood samples during January 2006 to  October 2007 from urban rural facilities in Dhaka, Bangladesh, of which 980 (92.5%) isolates were nalidixic  acid resistant. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of ciprofloxacin (CIP) were determined for 127  nalidixic acid resistant Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (NARST) strains (every fifth) isolated during 2006.  Nine isolates were found to be resistant against CIP (3%) with high MIC (12 - >32 ?g/mL). Only four isolates  were found to be sensitive (MIC <0.125 ?g/mL), whereas most of the isolates (N=113) showed reduced  susceptibility (MIC 0.125  2 ?g/mL) to CIP. All these isolates were subjected to molecular typing by multiplex  PCR on VNTR (variable number tandem repeats) loci, which revealed eight different VNTR patterns. Almost  all CIP resistant strains had similar genetic organization, identical to the most common VNTR type. Restriction  fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of the gyrA gene revealed point mutations at Ser-83 and Asp-  87 in all CIP resistant strains. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v28i1.11802   Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 28, Number 1, June 2011, pp 7-11
Optimized Production and Characterization of ?-fructofuranosidase from Penicillium brevicompactum
Authors: Uma C , Gomathi D , Muthulakshmi C , Ravikumar G , Gopalakrishnan V K
Published: September 2012

The present study is aimed at the optimization of ?-fructofuranosidase from Penicillium brevicompactum using orange fruit peel waste as a substrate in Czapek Dox as basal medium by submerged fermentation (SmF). The optimum pH, temperature and incubation period for enzyme production were 5, 30°C and 4th day respectively. Of the carbon source, sucrose was recorded to be the best carbon source for enzyme production yeast extract was ideal nitrogen source for the ?-fructofuranosidase production. The enzyme was purified to 5.8 fold with recovery of 3.2% by DEAE-column chromatography and the molecular weight was estimated to be 64 KDa by SDS-PAGE. It has a Vmax value of 15.8 U/mg and Km value of 0.23 mg/ml at pH 6. The enzyme activity was found to be stable at 50°C for 30 minutes and it was stimulated by metal ions like Na+ and Ca2+ and inhibited by Zinc. These results highlight the industrial potentials of the substrates as possible raw materials for ?-fructofuranosidase enzyme production from Penicillium brevicompactum DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v28i1.11803 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 28, Number 1, June 2011, pp 13-18
Serum Helicobacter pylori Specific Antibodies Among Children With Undernourishment: A Case Control Study
Authors: Haque Warda , Ahsan Chowdhury Rafiqul , Nessa Jamalun , Yasmin Mahmuda
Published: September 2012

Infection with Helicobacter pylori has been implicated in the development of acute and chronic gastritis, peptic  ulcer disease, non-ulcer dyspepsia, and gastric MALT (mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue) lymphoma and   extragastroduodenal disorders. H. pylori infection may lead to development of hypochlorhydria and subsequent  malnourishment. This study examined the affiliation between H. pylori infection and some sociodemographic and nutritional variables including breast feeding practice, poverty, and availability of safe drinking water. Three hundred children with age ranging from zero to twelve years were enrolled in the study. Their nutritional status was assessed following standard protocol. A precoded questionnaire was filled up for obtaining data. Serostatus of anti H. pylori antibody was determined by in-house ELISA using formalin fixed   H. pylori whole cell antigen. The cut-off value of the ELISA was further validated by Immunoblot technique. Among the 149 case (malnourished) children, 107 (72%) contained anti-H. pylori antibodies and among the   control (nonmalnourished) population (n=151), 91 (60%) possessed anti-H. pylori antibodies, with an overall seroprevalence of 66%. Malnourishment was found to be more widespread among female (56%) than male children (44%). Highly significant association (p = 0.000) was reported between poor socioeconomic status and development of malnourishment. The degree of severity of malnourishment increased inversely with   the practice of exclusive breast-feeding up to 5 months of age (p = 0.010). The odds ratio relating breastfeeding to malnourishment reflected 52% reduction in the risk of development of malnourishment among   breast-fed children. The use of unsafe drinking water was associated with 5.33 times higher odds of developing   malnourishment. Poverty reduction strategies associated with improvement of hygiene condition and   promotion of breast feeding can actively contribute to the improvement of the nutritional status of the children of Bangladesh. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v28i1.11805 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 28, Number 1, June 2011, pp 25-31
Multidrug Resistance in Large-Plasmid-Associated Presumptive Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli Isolated from Contaminated Lake Water
Authors: Hossain Zakir , Sultana Papia , Deb Sudipta , Ahmed Monzur Morshed
Published: September 2012

To determine the presence of enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC), 50 water samples of three different lakes in Dhaka, Bangladesh were studied. A total of 90 strains were examined thoroughly to isolate sorbitol non-fermenting (NSF) E. coli. Twelve of 90 isolates (13.3%) from 5 samples were found to be sorbitol nonfermenter, which were further screened for rhamnose, cellobiose and sucrose fermentation. Eleven (12.2%) of 90 isolates also tested negative for cellobiose and sucrose fermentation, while only 3 (3.3%) of them were found to be rhamnose non-fermenting. Biochemical tests confirmed that 91.7% (11 of 12) of NSF strains were indole positive. Eleven NSF E. coli isolates survived at 45.5°C and mostly produced gas by fermentation within 24h. After antimicrobial susceptibility testing, 91.7% (n=11) of these isolates were found resistant to cephalexin, ampicillin and amoxicillin. Ceftazidime and nalidixic acid resistance was also observed in 75% (9 of 12) and 58.3% (7 of 12) isolates, respectively. Plasmid profile analysis revealed that nine (75%) strains harboured large plasmids of >35.8-140 megadaltons (MDa), four (33.3%) of which contained 60-MDa plasmid. Also, the large-plasmid-associated strains shared common behaviour in antimicrobial resistance and eight (88.9%) of these were resistant to four or more antibiotics. Our data suggest a possible association of source water contamination in Bangladesh with multidrug-resistant (MDR) EHEC, which is alarming to public health. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v28i1.11807 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 28, Number 1, June 2011, pp 33-40
Presence of Coliforms and Fecal Coliforms in Fast Food Items of Local Restaurants and Fast Food Outlets of Dhaka City
Authors: Faruk Mohammad Omar , Akhter Marufa Zerin
Published: September 2012

The Microbiological status of 50 fast food samples collected from middle class and lower middle class retail outlets of fast food shops and restaurants at New Market and Dhanmondi area of Dhaka city were assessed. Eighty four percent of the samples were found to be satisfactory and 16% of the samples were found to be unsafe for human consumption. Total coliform, fecal coliform, Salmonella spp, Staphylococcus aureus and    fungal count in 12%, 8%, 16%, 14% and 14% samples respectively have crossed the recommended limits and were unsafe for human consumption. Bare-handed handling of foods and use of unsafe water for dish  washing and hand washing by food handlers, keeping food for long time under lighting in display glass boxes with elevated temperatures and storage of uncooked and half cooked meat items side by side in the refrigerator    were noticed to be the possible sources and causes of microbiological contamination of the fast food items. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v28i1.11810 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 28, Number 1, June 2011, pp 49-51
Arsenic adsorption by Bacterial Extracellular Polymeric Substances
Authors: Ahsan Nazmul , Faruque Kashfia , Shamma Farah , Islam Nazrul , Akhand Anwarul A
Published: September 2012

The main objective of this work was to isolate arsenic resistant bacteria from contaminated soil, followed by screening for their ability to adsorb arsenic. Six bacterial isolates (S1 to S6) were obtained from arsenic contaminated soil samples and among these, five (S1, S2, S3, S5 and S6) were characterized as bacillus and the rest one (S4) was cocci depending on shape. All the isolates except S6 produced extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in the culture medium and displayed arsenic adsorbing activities demonstrated by adsorption of around 90% from initial concentration of 1 mg/L sodium arsenite. To clarify the role of EPS, we killed the bacteria that produced EPS and used these killed bacteria to see whether they could still adsorb arsenic or not. We found that they could adsorb arsenic similarly like that of EPS produced live bacterial isolates. From the observation it is concluded that these isolates showed potentiality to adsorb arsenic and hence might be used for bioremediation of arsenic. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjm.v28i2.11821 Bangladesh J Microbiol, Volume 28, Number 2, December 2011, pp 80-83
Becoming Present, Becoming Absent: Movement and Visual Form in the Film Adaptation ofComédie
Authors: Foster David
Published: September 2012

This article examines the use of movement and visual form in the film adaptation of Samuel Beckett's Comédie (Marin Karmitz, 1966). The article broaches the kinetic elements of the work through addressing the manner in which the diegetic motion of the film can be seen to reflect extra-diegetic cinematic processes. The sense of movement that is created through Comédie's montage is then considered at length, making use of work on this theme by two quite different (though tangentially related) theorists: Sergei Eisenstein and Jean-François Lyotard. The article then charts the film's different manifestations of formal movement, and a basic framework is proposed to explain the manner in which the film creates moments of intensity, through what is termed the ‘local movement’ of the montage, and the manner in which the film manifests an overall curve of intensity, through what is termed the montage's ‘global movement’. It is argued that each form of montagic motion is reflected in the other, and that ultimately these movements might be seen to dramatise a human drive towards, and a concomitant flight from, an impossible state of ontological totality.
Feasibility Study of Micro-Wind Turbines for Powering Wireless Sensors on a Cable-Stayed Bridge
Authors: Park Jong-Woong , Jung Hyung-Jo , Jo Hongki , Spencer Billie F.
Published: September 2012

In this study, the feasibility of using micro-wind turbines to power wireless sensors on a cable-stayed bridge is comprehensively investigated. To this end, the wind environment around a bridge onto which a turbine is installed is examined, as is the power consumption of a wireless sensor. Feasible alternators and rotors are then carefully selected to make an effective small wind generator (known as a micro-wind turbine). Using the three specially selected micro-wind turbines, a series of experiments was conducted to find the turbine best able to generate the largest amount of power. Finally, a horizontal-axis micro-wind turbine with a six-blade rotor was combined with a wireless sensor to validate experimentally its actual power-charging capability. It is demonstrated that the micro-wind turbine can generate sufficient electricity to power a wireless sensor under moderate wind conditions.