bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is it Time to Focus on Unconventional Resources?
Authors: Rajnauth J.
Published: June 2012

Trinidad and Tobago is a small country and our remaining known reserves now stand at 570 million barrels of oil and about 27 trillion cubic feet of gas. These reserves are both on land and offshore. The challenge of ensuring long-term growth of the energy sector has been great. This country has been endowed with energy resources and as a result, oil and natural gas play a central role in the socio-economic development of the country. Simultaneously they provide the necessary infra-structural economic base for the country becoming an attractive host for foreign investments in the energy sector.

In the face of declining crude oil production, relatively modest natural gas prices and no deepwater success to date, the development of our unconventional resources should now be placed into the forefront of our energy future. The large volume and long-term potential of our unconventional resources pose a big challenge today but increasing prices and improved technology is the key to their development in the future. The current worldwide trend is a move from conventional to unconventional resources due to technology advances.

This paper will evaluate the potential of developing our unconventional resources which include heavy oil, tar sands, tight sands and gas hydrates. The demand for oil and natural gas will continue to increase for the foreseeable future and we must now rely on unconventional resources to fill the gap between demand and supply. This analysis looks at the implications for the future and the technologies required for developing our unconventional resources. The research required and the technology advancement would also be discussed.
Antrum Approach Planning for Removal of Impacted Tooth Using
Cone-Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Mattos Allex Morelli Heiderich de , Queiroz Christiano Sampaio , Santos Pablo Leal Teixeira , Oliviera Adriana Borges de , Oliveira Camila , Campos Paulo Sérgio Flores
Published: June 2012

Due to the great number of structures in the maxillofacial region, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is an important procedure in presurgical planning for removal of impacted teeth. Most of the information provided by this imaging technique cannot be visualized in conventional radiographs. In addition, CBCT reduces patient exposure to radiation in comparison with helical computed tomography and provides dental practitioners with easy access. We report the clinical case of a patient who underwent a surgical procedure for removal of an impacted maxillary premolar. CBCT-assisted presurgical treatment was used, enabling a more conservative surgical access, a less traumatic and less time consuming procedure than conventional surgical intervention.
Factors Affecting the Uptake of Anti-Malarial Drugs by Children in Public
Primary Health Facilities in Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Ezedinachi Emmanuel , Odey Friday , Ameh Soter , Oduwole Olabisi , Esu Ekpereonne , Ejemot-Nwadiaro Regina , Ntadom Godwin , Etokidem Aniekan , Udoh Ekong , Asiegbu Vivian , Ugot Iyam , Asuquo Patrick , Alaribe Ambrose , Charles Joe , Nwokolo Ernest , Meremikwu Martin
Published: June 2012

Background:

Despite the supply of artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) drugs to public health
facilities in Nigeria, the uptake of these drugs appear to have remained suboptimal with low improvement in childhood
morbidity and mortality.

Aim:

To use a controlled study to estimate the factors affecting the uptake of ACT in public health facilities in Cross River
State (CRS), Nigeria.

Methods:

The design of this study was cross sectional analytical. The study was carried out in two sites, Akpabuyo
(experimental) and Obudu (control) Local Government Areas (LGA) in the south and northern parts of CRS, Nigeria,
respectively. Multidisciplinary research team consists of health professionals, biomedical and social scientists who
worked with staff of the target facilities. Validated semi-structured questionnaires were administered by trained
interviewers on respondents of consecutive households selected by multi-stage sampling procedure.

Results:

A total of 1250 households (588 in Akpabuyo and 662 in Obudu LGAs) were assessed. More informants in
Obudu had formal education than in Akpabuyo (p<0.0001). Mortality of U5 children was higher in Akpabuyo. Stepwise
regression analysis showed that farmers (p = 0.009) and people without formal education (p = <0.0001) were less likely
than older age group (p = <0.0001) to access anti-malaria drugs in Akpabuyo. Religious beliefs (p=0.003) also predicted
uptake of ACTs in Obudu.

Conclusion:

Informants' occupation, age, education and religious beliefs were key determinants of uptake of ACTs in
public health facilities in Nigeria. We recommend targeted malaria education programmes to explore the belief systems in
treating fevers in children in this population.
Evaluation of new NS maize hybrids using biplot analysis
Authors: Stojakovic Milisav , Ivanovic Mile , Bekavac Goran , Nastasic Aleksandra , Purar Bozana , Mitrovic Bojan , Stanisavljevic Dusan
Published: June 2012

The study analyzed two-year results of a testing of 20 new maize hybrids from
FAO MG 600 as compared to a standard. Data on the hybrids NS6683, NS6686,
NS281633, and NS396432 are discussed in the paper in greater detail. In order
to study grain yield, grain moisture, root and stalk lodging, and resistance
to pests and diseases, field trials using a RCB design with four replicates
were conducted in six locations in 2009 and five locations in 2010. The
results were presented in the form of GGE biplots in order to rank hybrids
relative to the standard while taking into account the genotype x environment
interaction and to identify the highest-yielding genotypes in different
environments. It was determined that the new NS hybrids had higher grain
yield than the standard by 0.883 to 1.720 tha-1, lower grain moisture by 0.85
to 2.54%, better tolerance to root and stalk lodging, and pest and disease
resistance on a par to the standard. The study identified so-called ideal
locations for particular hybrids, which may be of use when determining which
areas the hybrids are best suited for.
Heritability and mode of gene action determination for grain filling rate and relative water content in hexaploid wheat
Authors: Golparvar Ahmad
Published: June 2012

Mode of gene action, heritability and determination of the effective breeding
strategy for improvement of physiological and traits specifically in drought
stress conditions is very important. Therefore, this study was conducted by
using two drought susceptible and tolerant wheat cultivars. Cultivars Sakha8
(tolerant) and Pishtaz (susceptible) as parents along with F1, F2, BC1 and
BC2 generations were sown in a randomized complete block design with three
replications in drought stress conditions. Results of analysis of variance
indicated significant difference between generations as well as degree of
dominance revealed over-dominance for the both traits. Fitting simple
additive-dominance model designated that this model was not able to account
for changes of traits relative water content and mean of grain filling rate.
It was revealed that m-d-h-i-j model for relative water content and m-d-h-i
model for mean of grain filling rate are the best models. Estimation of
heritability and mode of gene action indicated that selection for improvement
of traits studied in stress condition and specifically in early generations
have medium genetic gain. In conclusion, grain filling rate is better than
relative water content as indirect selection criteria to improve plant grain
yield in drought stress condition.
Variability and correlations between yield components of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]
Authors: Popovic Vera , Vidic Milos , Jockovic Djordje , Ikanovic Jela , Jaksic Snezana , Cvijanovic Gorica
Published: June 2012

NS soybean cultivars were assessed for variability of and correlations
between yield components and the effect of genotype - environment interaction
on yield, yield component and morphological characteristics. Experiments were
carried out at Rimski Sancevi experiment field in 2009 and 2010. The
following characteristics were evaluated: plant height (cm), height of first
pod (cm), 1000-grain weight (g), grain yield (kg/ha) and the combined content
of oil and protein in grain (%). Combined contents of oil and protein in
grain soybean were determined by a non destructive method of near infrared
spectroscopy on PERTEN DA 7000 (NIR/VIS Spectrophotometer). The studied
characteristics varied significantly depending on genotype and year. The
highest yield of 5273 kg/ha was obtained in 2009 with the genotype Victoria.
Highest 1000-grain weights, 2009-2010, were achieved with the genotypes
Valjevka and Victoria (149.27 g and 147.23 g). Maximum heights of first pod
(19.40 cm) were recorded for the genotype Victoria, 2009-2010. Highest
protein contents were obtained with the genotypes Valjevka and Victoria,
2009-2010, were and highest oil contents (21.73%) with the genotype Tea.
Protein content was positively significantly correlated with 1000-grain
weight and negatively significantly correlated with oil content, and
negatively correlated with yield and the height of first pod. Oil content was
positively correlated with the height of first pod. Thousand-grain weight was
negatively highly significantly correlated with oil content in grain and
negatively significantly correlated the height of first pod. The results of
this study should facilitate further soybean breeding for improved seed yield
and protein and oil contents.
Variance components and correlations of agronomic traits among cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) maturity groups
Authors: Cervenski Janko , Gvozdanovic-Varga Jelica , Glogovac Svetlana
Published: June 2012

In this paper we studied the variability and correlation of cabbage traits in
different maturity groups. The study included early spring cabbages (planted
in early spring, harvested in early summer) and autumn cabbages (planted in
mid-summer, harvested in late autumn). Using coefficients of variation and
correlation coefficients, we analyzed 17 cabbage traits in 35 commercially
grown cultivars, F1 hybrids, and experimental F1 hybrids. The traits were
analyzed separately for each maturity group. In the early cabbages, the
coefficients of variation ranged from 4.8 to 44.2%. The calculated
correlation coefficients differed between the two maturity groups. The early
cabbages had 26 significant positive correlations. The positive correlations
calculated among different traits of early cabbages defined this group fully
and made it distinct from the late-maturing genotypes. Plant height and
rosette diameter in the early genotypes were highly positively correlated
with rosette weight, whole plant weight, head weight, usable portion of
head, head height, and head diameter. Plant height and rosette diameter
participate in the formation of active photosynthetic area in early
cabbages. Rosette width in these genotypes provides a greater influx of
light and heat, which results in greater head weight. Also, in early
cabbages that have greater plant height, the leaf rosette will not lie on
the cold surface of the ground in the spring. The activity of the cabbage
plant is thus more focused towards the formation of larger head weight. Head
volume in the late genotypes was highly positively correlated with rosette
diameter, whole plant weight, head weight, usable portion of head, inner
stem length, and head height. In late cabbages plant activity is directed
towards the formation of head volume due to the longer duration of the
growth period, larger leaves, and differences in climatic conditions.
Comparison of morphological and molecular genetic distances of maize inbreds
Authors: Babic Milosav , Babic Vojka , Prodanovic Slaven , Filipovic Milomir , Andjelkovic Violeta
Published: June 2012

Due to an unknown mechanism of genetic control and great environmental
effects in the process of trait expression, morphological markers are often
considered unreliable indicators of genetic relationships. Morphological
characterization of 19 maize inbreds was done according to the UPOV
descriptor, while molecular characterization was performed with RAPD markers.
Based on the estimation of phenotypes according to the UPOV descriptor, the
squared Euclidean distance was calculated and then, on the basis of this
distance, a morphological similarity matrix was formed. Jaccard similarity
coefficients were calculated on the basis of presence absence of bands on gels
in the RAPD analysis. When data were standardized, the comparison between
morphological and genetic similarity of observed maize inbreds was done. The
correlations varied from 0.47 (inbred L 217) to 0.76 (inbred L 86). The
average value of correlations for all studied inbreds amounted to 0.64.
Furthermore, the results of the cluster analysis for both markers, molecular
and morphological, had high concordance with pedigree data. Environmental
effects were decreased in morphological markers (according to the UPOV
descriptor) by rescaling a measurement scale from a scale to an ordinal level
of measurement and in such a way results of morphological markers approached
results of molecular markers in the estimation of the genetic distance (GD)
of maize inbred lines.
Length of vegetation period as parameter of common oak (Quercus robur L.) phenological variability
Authors: Batos Branislava , Miljkovic Danijela , Ninic-Todorovic Jelena
Published: June 2012

Paper presents results for length of vegetation period as factor in common
oak?s (Quercus robur L.) phenological variability. Trees in two common oaks
populations on two locations in area of Belgrade were researched. Average
length of vegetation period on site Ada Ciganlija is 166 days, while in
location Bojcinska suma is 179 days. Regarding that populations are in
similar environmental and habitual conditions, differences in results should
be treated as consequence of common oaks intra-specific variability and
genetic structure of population. Significant differences in three consecutive
years of observation are confirmed.
Source of variation and heritability of directly measured traits in performance testing of Simmental bulls
Authors: Bogdanovic Vladan
Published: June 2012

In order to study the variability and heritability of directly measured
traits (growth and body development traits) in performance test of Simmental
bulls the data on 371 bulls born and tested over the period of 13 years were
used in the analysis. The data were analyzed in order to estimate year and
month of calving, herd of origin and group in test effect as well as error
components. The components of variance were obtained using restricted maximum
likelihood (REML) methodology applied to sire model. The year and month of
birth had different effect on the variability of the growth traits, while the
herd of origin and the test group manifested a consistent, highly significant
effect on those growth traits which they could have an effect on. On the
other hand, all the body development traits were under a constant and highly
significant effect manifested by the year of calving, while the month of
calving manifested its effect, during test, at different levels of
statistical significance. A decreased effect of herd of origin on almost all
body dimensions from the start until the end of performance test was
universally observed. Heritability estimates for pre-test ADG, in-test and
lifetime ADG were 0.27, 0.39 and 0.29, respectively. Heritability estimates
for body weights were 0.23, 0.25, and 0.30 for birth weight, test-on weight,
and test-off weight, respectively. Heritability estimates for test-off height
at withers, circumference of chest, depth of chest and body length were 0.43,
0.30, 0.33 and 0.29.
Radivoje Milojkovic’s 1867 constitution draft
Authors: Stefanovski Mirjana
Published: June 2012

As an authoritative work of an excellently educated writer well acquainted
with constitutional theory and foreign constitutional solutions, Milojkovic?s
draft constitution is also a product of a serious political reasoning. That
draft deserves a particular and very important role in the nineteenth century
constitutional history of Serbia. It is an evidence of the character of
constitutional transformation prepared during the last years of Prince
Mihailo?s reign. Taken for the specimen during the enacting of Regent
Constitution of 1869, which followed it in its basic concept, composition of
constitutional solutions and framing of more important institutions, that
draft determined adoption of the model of constitutional monarchy in Serbia.
By catching sight of the Saxony?s Constitution of 1831, it transfers basic
German constitutional model, supplemented by taking into consideration other
European constitutions. Its distinction is an attempt to adapt foreign model
mostly to particular circumstances of the country and to implement
harmoniously new institutions in accordance to the Serbian constitutional
tradition.
Serbian medieval law: From revenge to ruler’s prerogative
Authors: Djekic Djordje
Published: June 2012

Since legal norms have come a long way from revenge to the ruler?s
prerogative in the period between the Slavic arrival to the Balkans and the
12th century, this paper is an attempt to offer solutions for the chronology
of these events. As the ruler?s prerogative occurs for the first time at the
end of the 12th century, it is clear that this process had to have been
completed by then. In the pre-state period Serbs had revenge and
pacification of blood (godfatherhood), which were retained even after the
state was established. In the state period the phenomenon of blood brothers
occured as another form of pacification of blood. The existence of the
system of composition payments can be proven indirectly. At the end of the
12th century the Old Serbian Law was created, which proscribed that the
ruler tried for murder and theft of church property. This is the evidence
that revenge disappeared in the meantime. Revenge and the system of
composition payments remained legally valid ways of settling disputes in
Bosnia until the end of the 15th century. As Bosnia was part of Serbia until
the end of the 10th century, this implies that until that time revenge was a
legally valid way of settling disputes in Serbia. This would mean that the
abolishment of revenge and the transfer of this dispute to the competence of
the ruler, when a blood debt was settled, which had been a remnant of the
system of composition payments, occurred in the period between the end of
the 10th century and the end of the 12th century, when it became part of the
written law. As for the theft of church property, it must be said that the
decisions of the Split (Spalatum) Assembly of 925 AD lead to the conclusion
that the state accepted to regulate the theft of church property, which
indicates that the mention of the theft of church property could have been
the record of the ruler?s prerogative. Finally, it was noticed that at least
one more felony - treason - had to be the regulated by the ruler?s
prerogative. It was a felony that could be committed only against the ruler
and the throne, for which the ruler himself tried the guilty party. Examples
have proven that this is the oldest ruler?s prerogative and a presupposition
was made that other forms of court orders were introduced after this model.
Fertility of Belgrade’s population in the context of the theory of the second demographic transition
Authors: Spasenovic Snezana , Devedzic Mirjana
Published: June 2012

The paper identifies the features of fertility in the population of Belgrade
that can be regarded as a manifestation of the second demographic
transition. The analysis focuses on fertility decline, its age model, birth
postponing, extramarital births, and exclusion from reproduction. It
compares the municipalities constituting the inner city to those belonging
to the suburbs, and checks whether the fertility changes correspond to the
context of the second demographic transition.
Serbian orthodox confessional primary schools in Romania (1919-1948)
Authors: Andjelkovic Sladjana , Stanisavljevic-Petrovic Zorica , Bugarski Stevan
Published: June 2012

This paper shows the importance of Serbian Orthodox confessional primary
schools to maintain continuity in the process of upbringing and education of
the Serbs in Romania, as well as their outstanding role in preserving
traditions, national and cultural identintety. The central questions of work
related to the operation and organization of the Serbian Orthodox
confessional elementary schools, primarily with the pedagogical aspect, in
terms of their curricula, textbooks, teaching organizations, as well as
control of work and school financing. Serbian Orthodox confessional school
during the entire period of its existence, accompanied by numerous problems
and difficulties. The establishment and development of school followed by
poor material conditions for educational work, a lack of qualified personnel,
war (no) opportunities and poverty of the majority Serbian population, which
is in a complex constellation of post-war socio-political circumstances, led
to the abolition of these schools. Although they worked in very difficult
conditions, as the only schools where the teaching is performed in the native
language, they have drawn a significant mark on the part of achieving
continuity in education, preservation of culture and tradition of the Serbian
population in Romania.
Corporate social responsibility in Serbia’s scientific-research organization
Authors: Sarcevic Danijela , Terzic Gordana
Published: June 2012

Trends in global business course, as well as globalization process have
caused the need for more clear and significant demonstration of social
responsibility in all business segments. For a long time, at business
organization level, ethical and moral expectations of management have been
present, as way to contribute to community development and welfare. This
concept is known as corporate social responsibility concept (CSR). The aim of
this paper was to show the existence of elements of CSR concept in
scientific-research organizations. First part of paper present literature
overview shaping by different theory about definition of CSR. Investigation
is present in second part of this paper. The survey was conducted on a sample
of almost 30% of these organizations in the Republic of Serbia, presented on
the basis of perception that employees and managers have about social
responsibilities of institutes were they work. Survey results indicates, that
the scientific-research organizations are represented elements of the concept
of CSR, but two-way communication between management and employees is not
sufficiently present, which directly reflects the different image, both of
them have, about socially responsibility.
Main mycotoxin concerns in Europe: MYCORED and ISM efforts to harmonize strategies for their reduction in food and feed chain
Authors: Faneli Franceska , Logrieko Francesko
Published: June 2012

There is an urgent need to study in Europe the plant exposure to mycotoxin
risk due to the identification of new toxigenic species, the continuous
evolution of species profile on the food crops and climate changes that
influence the quality of level of toxigenic fungi colonization of plant
hosts. In particular, Fusarium and Aspergillus problem in Europe has enormous
importance; recent epidemics in wheat in some areas of Northern and Central
Europe and in grape in southern Europe have brought this problem into focus
again. This concern has driven many efforts at EU level aimed to harmonize
strategies for mycotoxinreduction in food and feed chain. This is the target
of a large collaborative project of four-year duration (MYCORED as acronym),
that was approved within the European FP7- Food, Agriculture, and
Biotechnologies Work Programmes (www.mycored.eu). MYCORED aims to develop
strategic solutions for reducing mycotoxin contamination in major crops.
Novel methodologies, efficient handling procedures and
information/dissemination, and educational strategies are considered in a
context of multidisciplinary integration of know-how and technology to reduce
mycotoxin exposure worldwide. The direct involvement of ICPC countries
(Argentina, Egypt, Russia, South Africa) and international organizations
(CIMMYT, IITA) together with strong scientific alliances with international
experts and national and international societies for mycotoxicology is a
strong point of the project through sharing experiences and resources from
several past/ongoing mycotoxin projects in a global context. Similarly, the
International Society for Mycotoxicology (ISM) (http://www.mycotoxsociety.
org) aims at increasing scientific knowledge concerning biology, chemistry
and any sciences/disciplines related to mycotoxins and toxigenic fungi,
through membership networking, scientific meetings, symposia, discussions,
technical courses and publications. In this context, it would be extremely
important that MYCORED and ISM develop a network of cooperation-interaction
with the whole scientific community in order to contribute to the efforts for
harmonizing both research and legislation on mycotoxins.
Determination of the species among mitis group of genus Streptococus using a molecular identification key
Authors: Kanjo Istvan
Published: June 2012

We analyzed the gene order conservation among the species of genus
Streptococcus and based on this we developed a molecular identification key.
The identification key was not made up based on the genes? amino acid or
nucleotide sequences but on the gene order of certain genome parts, and in
this order the genes were marked with their symbols. First, we created a key
to determine the groups within the genus Streptococcus using conserved
synteny blocks in genomes. According to this, within those species that have
a fully known genome sequence, the mitis group can be divided into two
subgroups: mitis I where (S. pneumoniae, S mitis and S. oralis) and mitis II
(S. gordonii, S. sanguinis and S. parasanguinis). Then we made an
identification key to determine the species within the mitis subgroups. For
determination of the species we chose genome parts which contain such a gene
that is found in all species but the genome parts around this special gene
are different in various species. Three genome parts were sufficient to
determine the species correctly. These sequences were around the following
genes: Xaa-pro dipeptidyl-peptidase (x-prolyl-dipeptidyl aminopeptidase) -
pepX, a leucyl-tRNA synthetase - leuS and a 50S ribosomal protein L13 and 30S
ribosomal protein S9 - rplM and rpsI (these are always found beside one
another).
Some extinct plant taxa on the territory of Novi Sad and their vulnerability status in Vojvodina and Serbia
Authors: Djakic Zarko , Knezevic Aleksa , Boza Pal
Published: June 2012

Natural habitats on the territory of Novi Sad are almost fully destroyed
today, as well as their characteristic plant taxa. The reason for
disappearance of natural habitats is the development of suburban communities,
which is an irreversible process. Plant taxa, specific for wet, salty, and
sandy ecosystems grew on those habitats twenty years ago and earlier. This
paper presents the overview of 9 taxa (Suaeda maritima subsp. maritima,
Androsace elongata subsp. elongata, Cirsium boujartii subsp. boujartii, Aster
sedifolius subsp. canus, Blackstonia perfoliata subsp. serotina, Plantago
maritima subsp. maritima, Salvia nutans, Allium angulosum, and Typha
schuttleworthii). These taxa presented integral parts of autochthonous flora
of Novi Sad. Since some of these taxa were found in the field 21 years ago
and some even 93 years ago, they are extinct from the flora of Novi Sad.
Variability of Presentations and CT-Scan Findings in Children with Neurocysticercosis
Authors: Gauchan E , Malla T , Basnet S , Rao K S
Published: June 2012

Background Neurocysticercosis is one of the common neurological morbidities in childhood. Objectives To find the commonest mode of presentation of this disorder in children. The study also aims to find out the age at which it commonly occurs, commonest site affected in the brain and the ethnic group and region most commonly affected in Western Nepal. Methods Retrospective hospital based study carried out in the Department of Pediatrics, Manipal Teaching Hospital, Pokhara from June 2004 to June 2009. Results Over the period of five years, 678 patients were admitted for seizures; out of which 109 patients were diagnosed as having neurocysticercosis (16%). Out of them, 66 (60.5%) were males and 43 (39.4%) were females. The age of presentation varied from 18 months to 16 years, with mean age 9.77 years. The most common age of presentation was between 6-10 years (n=47; 43.1%) and 11-15 years (n=47; 43.1%).Maximum number of patients were from Kaski district (n=41; 37.6%) followed by Syangja (n=34; 31.1%).The commonest presentation was with seizures (n=85; 77.9 %); generalised seizures was present in 45 patients (52%). Psychiatric manifestations were present in 3 patients (2.7%). The lesions were found mostly in the parietal region (n=65; 59.6 %). Most of the lesions were single (n=89; 81.6%). Out of 109 patients, 74 patients (67.8%) improved without any recurrence of symptoms on two years follow-up. ConclusionNeurocysticercosis is a preventable zoonotic disease which results in significant morbidity in children where sanitary measures are inadequate. Any child presenting with a first episode, afebrile seizure should be screened for neurocysticercosis provided other common causes are ruled out.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v9i2.6281 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2011;9(2):17-21
The Burden of Injury in terms of Economic Loss and Disability Days: A Community Based Study from Eastern Nepal
Authors: Ghimire A , Nagesh S , Jha N , Niraula S R , Devkota S
Published: June 2012

Background Injuries are already a substantial public Health problem all over the world and are expected to increase in the 211st Century. They are major causes of deaths and disability in the population and also involve high societal costs. Objectives This study was designed to assess the economic loss due to the injury and the disability days due to different types of injuries. Methods A systematic random sampling technique was used to select 1388 households from 19 wards. A detailed questionnaire was used to collect information related to injuries to the persons suffered from injuries including treatment obtained, cost of treatment (direct/indirect cost) and length of disability. Results Among the minor injured persons, majority (93.2%) did not spend any indirect cost. 36.7% of the major inured persons spent Nepalese rupees 10,001 to NRs 100,000 as direct treatment costs. But 50% spent less than 5000 NRs as indirect cost for major injury treatment. Maximum number (67.4%) of major injured persons had disability days of 31 to 90 days. Conclusion The high incidence of injuries, especially road traffic injuries, adds a huge economic burden to nation.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v9i2.6283Kathmandu Univ Med J 2011;9(2):27-30
Incidence of Hypertension in Patients Undergoing Surgery at Dhulikhel Hospital - Kathmandu University Hospital.
Authors: Sapkota S , Sherpa M , Bhattarai B
Published: June 2012

Background Hypertension is an important public health challenge worldwide and is most important modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and renal disease. Blood pressure determination forms an integral part of anaesthesiologist’s evaluation of hispatient’s condition prior to and during surgery. Data are not available which indicate changes in blood pressure occurring preanaesthetically in hospitalized patients. There are several risks from untreated preoperative hypertension in perioperative and postoperative phase. Objective To know the incidence of hypertension in preoperative patients undergoing major surgery Methods This retrospective observational study was based on the data collected from preanaesthetic checkup record book from January 2010 to December 2010. Results A total of 955 patients were studied and analyzed in terms of hypertension and demographic characteristics. The total incidence of hypertension in preoperative phase was 10.16%. Among them 64.9% being male and 35.1% female. Maximum incidence was found in age group 50-59 years i.e. 26.6%. Among the case detected maximum patients i.e. 52% were patients with newly diagnosed hypertension and among those under medications 61.1% were using calcium channel blockers. ConclusionKnowing the incidence will help in proper preoperative optimization of the hypertensive patients and also help in decreasing the incidence of postoperative complications.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v9i2.6286 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2011;9(2):40-43
Sonographic Measurement of Fetal Pinna Length in Normal Pregnancies
Authors: Joshi K S , Chawla C D , Karki S , Shrestha N C
Published: June 2012

Background Many studies have emphasized on fetal pinna measurements and morphologic features to use this structure as an additional marker for fetal chromosomal anomaly. Objectives To assess relationship between fetal pinna length and gestation age and develop a nomogram. To assess relationship between fetal pinna length and head circumference and biparietal diameter. Methods Fetal pinna measurements from the tip of helix to the end of lobe were obtained prospectively in 850 singleton pregnant women between 15 and 40 weeks’ gestation Normal case was defined as normal sonographic findings during examination and normal infant examination at birth or both. Final study population was 787. The relationship between gestational age in weeks to pinna length in millimeters was analyzed by simple linear regression. Correlation of fetal ear length measurements with gestational age, biparietal diameter and head circumference were also obtained. Results Linear relationships were found between fetal pinna length and gestational age [Pinna Length (mm)=1.044xGestational age (weeks) -3.857]. A nomogram of normal pinna length was obtained. High correlation was found between pinna length and gestational age (r=0.942; p< 0.001), pinna length and head circumference (r=0.931; p< 0.001). Significant correlation was found between pinna length and biparietal diameter (r=0.934; p=0.004) ConclusionsThe results of this study provide a nomogram for fetal pinna. The study also provides relationship and good correlation between pinna length and other biometric measurements.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kumj.v9i2.6288 Kathmandu Univ Med J 2011;9(2):49-53
The Concept of "Normality" in German Foreign Policy since Unification
Authors: Kundnani Hans
Published: June 2012

In this paper I examine the use of the concept of "normality" in debates about German foreign policy since unification. In the early 1990s, left-wing intellectuals such as Jürgen Habermas tended to criticize the idea of "normality" in favor of a form of German exceptionalism based on responsibility for the Nazi past. A foreign policy based on the idea of "normality" was associated above all with the greater use of military force, which the right advocated and the left opposed. Thus, "normality" became a synonym for Bündnisfähigkeit. Yet, from the mid 1990s onwards, some Social Democrats such as Egon Bahr began to use the concept of "normality" to refer instead to a foreign policy based on sovereignty and the pursuit of national interests. Although a consensus has now emerged in Germany around this realist definition of foreign-policy "normality," it is inadequate to capture the complex shift in the foreign policy of the Federal Republic since unification.
Ethics in stem cell research
Authors: Fakruddin Md
Published: June 2012

Stem cells have constituted a revolution in regenerative medicine and cancer therapies by providing the possibility of generating multiple therapeutically useful cell types that could be used for treating some of genetic and degenerative disorders. However, human embryonic stem cell research raises few ethical and political controversies because of its involvement in destruction of human embryos. The ethical issues in human embryonic stem cell research encompasses not only with question of the ethics of destroying human embryos, but also with questions about complicity of researchers in destruction of embryos, moral distinction between creating embryos for research purposes and creating them for reproductive ends and the permissibility of cloning human embryos to harvest stem cells. Bangladesh should formulate its own regulations justifying its stand regarding this matter. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bioethics.v3i1.10867 Bangladesh Journal of Bioethics 2012; 3(1):13-18
Ethical case deliberation involving the end of life decision
Authors: Ebunoluwa Oduwole
Published: June 2012

End of life decisions involving the patients who are in unbearable, intense suffering are often not easy to make especially when there are moral dilemmas or conflicts. The patient, physician and care givers may have to come together to decide on a reasonable course of action. However, in arriving at a moral course of action a moral conflict may arise between all concerned parties. In resolving such a conflict there is a need to adopt a method. Here, a brief set of questions has been used as a method that can help to structure a case deliberation following a set of carefully separated steps. This paper adopts the Nijmegen method of case deliberation to analyse a case that involves a moral conflict. In addition to the method adopted the paper gives a careful consideration to the cultural underpinnings of the case. The choice of this method does not indicate that it is the best of all existing method but that the whole exercise is an attempt to point out how a moral conflict may arise in a case and how such conflict can be resolved by using a structured method. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bioethics.v3i1.10869 Bangladesh Journal of Bioethics 2012; 3(1):23-29
Transport Phenomena in Multilayered Massless Dirac Fermion System α-(BEDT-TTF)2I3
Authors: Tajima Naoya , Nishio Yutaka , Kajita Koji
Published: June 2012

A zero-gap state with a Dirac cone type energy dispersion was discovered in an organic conductor α-(BEDT-TTF)2I3 under high hydrostatic pressures. This is the first two-dimensional (2D) zero-gap state discovered in bulk crystals with a layered structure. In contrast to the case of graphene, the Dirac cone in this system is highly anisotropic. The present system, therefore, provides a new type of massless Dirac fermion system with anisotropic Fermi velocity. This system exhibits remarkable transport phenomena characteristic to electrons on the Dirac cone type energy structure.
Target Molecular Simulations of RecA Family Protein Filaments
Authors: Su Zhi-Yuan , Lee Wen-Jay , Su Wan-Sheng , Wang Yeng-Tseng
Published: June 2012

Modeling of the RadA family mechanism is crucial to understanding the DNA SOS repair process. In a 2007 report, the archaeal RadA proteins function as rotary motors (linker region: I71-K88) such as shown in Figure 1. Molecular simulations approaches help to shed further light onto this phenomenon. We find 11 rotary residues (R72, T75-K81, M84, V86 and K87) and five zero rotary residues (I71, K74, E82, R83 and K88) in the simulations. Inclusion of our simulations may help to understand the RadA family mechanism.
Antioxidant Activities of Extract and Fractions from Receptaculum Nelumbinis and Related Flavonol Glycosides
Authors: Wu Yan-Bin , Zheng Li-Jun , Wu Jian-Guo , Chen Ti-Qiang , Yi Jun , Wu Jin-Zhong
Published: June 2012

The antioxidant activities of ethanolic crude extract (ECE) and its four different solvent sub-fractions (namely, petroleum ether fraction (PEF), ethyl acetate fraction (EAF), n-butanol fraction (BF) and the aqueous fraction (AF) from the receptacles of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. (Receptaculum Nelumbinis) were investigated using two in vitro antioxidant assays. BF showed the highest total phenolic content (607.6 mg/g gallic acid equivalents), total flavonoid content (862.7 mg/g rutin equivalents) and total proanthocyanidin content (331.0 mg/g catechin equivalents), accompanied with the highest antioxidant activity compared to other fractions through 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging assays. Five flavonol glycosides, namely hyperoside (1), isoquercitrin (2), quercetin-3-O-β-D-glucuronide (3), isorhamnetin-3-O-β-D-galactoside (4) and syringetin-3-O-β-D-glucoside (5) were isolated from the Receptaculum Nelumbinis. Compounds 2–5 were isolated for the first time from the Receptaculum Nelumbinis. The five isolated ﬂavone glycosides, particularly compounds 1–3, demonstrated signiﬁcant DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activity, with IC50 values of 8.9 ± 0.2, 5.2 ± 0.2, 7.5 ± 0.1 for DPPH and 114.2 ± 1.7, 112.8 ± 0.8, 172.5 ± 0.7 µg/mL for ABTS, respectively. These results suggest that Receptaculum Nelumbinis has strong antioxidant potential and may be potentially used as a safe and inexpensive bioactive source of natural antioxidants.
Sinularones A–I, New Cyclopentenone and Butenolide Derivatives from a Marine Soft Coral Sinularia sp. and Their Antifouling Activity
Authors: Shi Haiyan , Yu Shanjiang , Liu Dong , Van Ofwegen Leen , Proksch Peter , Lin Wenhan
Published: June 2012

Nine new compounds, namely sinularones A–I (1–9), characterized as cyclopentenone and butenolide-type analogues, were isolated from a soft coral Sinularia sp., together with a known butenolide (10). Their structures were elucidated by means of spectroscopic (IR, MS, 1D and 2D NMR, CD) analysis. The absolute configurations were determined on the basis of CD and specific rotation data in association with the computed electronic circular dichroism (ECD) by time dependent density functional theory (TD DFT) at 6-31+G(d,p)//DFT B3LYP/6-31+G(d,p) level. Compounds 1–2 and 7–10 showed potent antifouling activities against the barnacle Balanus amphitrite.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Mg-5Nb Metal-Metal Composite Reinforced with Nano SiC Ceramic Particles
Authors: Subramanian Jayalakshmi , Loh Zhenhua , Seetharaman Sankaranarayanan , Hamouda Abdelmagid S. , Gupta Manoj
Published: June 2012

In this work, a Mg-5Nb metal–metal composite was reinforced with nano SiC (SiCn) ceramic reinforcement of varying volume fractions, using the disintegrated melt deposition technique. The extruded Mg-5Nb-SiCn composites were characterized for their microstructure and mechanical properties. Based on the results obtained, it was observed that the volume fraction of nano-SiC reinforcement played an important role in determining the grain size and improving the mechanical properties. A comparison of properties with those of pure Mg and Mg-5Nb composite showed that while the improvement in hardness occurred at all volume fractions, a minimum volume fraction of ~0.27% SiCn was required to increase the tensile and compressive strengths. The observed mechanical response of the composites were investigated in terms of the effect of SiCn volume fraction, processing, distribution of metallic and ceramic reinforcements and the inherent properties of the matrix and reinforcements. The influences of these factors on the mechanical behavior of the composites are understood based on the structure–property relationship.
Psycho-Social Issues in Mine Emergencies: The Impact on the Individual, the Organization and the Community
Authors: Kowalski-Trakofler Kathleen M. , Vaught Charles
Published: June 2012

This paper draws on research conducted in the past two decades examining issues related to the human element in mine disasters. While much of the emergency response community employs a systems approach that takes into account psychosocial issues as they impact all aspects of an emergency, the mining industry has lagged behind in integrating this critical element. It is only within the past few years that behavioral interventions have begun to be seen as a part of disaster readiness and resiliency in the industry. The authors discuss the potential applications of psychosocial studies and suggest ways to improve mine emergency planning, psychological support, and decision-making during a response, as well as actions in the aftermath of incidents. Topics covered, among others, include an economic rationale for including such studies in planning a mine emergency response, sociological issues as they impact such things as leadership and rescue team dynamics, and psychological issues that have an effect on individual capacity to function under stress such as during escape, in refuge alternatives, and in body recovery. This information is intended to influence the mine emergency escape curriculum and impact actions and decision-making during and after a mine emergency. The ultimate goal is to mitigate the trauma experienced by individuals, the organization, and the community.
Electronic Nose Based on Independent Component Analysis Combined with Partial Least Squares and Artificial Neural Networks for Wine Prediction
Authors: Aguilera Teodoro , Lozano Jesús , Paredes José A. , Álvarez Fernando J. , Suárez José I.
Published: June 2012

The aim of this work is to propose an alternative way for wine classification and prediction based on an electronic nose (e-nose) combined with Independent Component Analysis (ICA) as a dimensionality reduction technique, Partial Least Squares (PLS) to predict sensorial descriptors and Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) for classification purpose. A total of 26 wines from different regions, varieties and elaboration processes have been analyzed with an e-nose and tasted by a sensory panel. Successful results have been obtained in most cases for prediction and classification.
Novel Biochip Platform for Nucleic Acid Analysis
Authors: Pernagallo Salvatore , Ventimiglia Giorgio , Cavalluzzo Claudia , Alessi Enrico , Ilyine Hugh , Bradley Mark , Diaz-Mochon Juan J.
Published: June 2012

This manuscript describes the use of a novel biochip platform for the rapid analysis/identification of nucleic acids, including DNA and microRNAs, with very high specificity. This approach combines a unique dynamic chemistry approach for nucleic acid testing and analysis developed by DestiNA Genomics with the STMicroelectronics In-Check platform, which comprises two microfluidic optimized and independent PCR reaction chambers, and a sequential microarray area for nucleic acid capture and identification by fluorescence. With its compact bench-top “footprint” requiring only a single technician to operate, the biochip system promises to transform and expand routine clinical diagnostic testing and screening for genetic diseases, cancers, drug toxicology and heart disease, as well as employment in the emerging companion diagnostics market.
Monoclonal Antibodies and Toxins—A Perspective on Function and Isotype
Authors: Chow Siu-Kei , Casadevall Arturo
Published: June 2012

Antibody therapy remains the only effective treatment for toxin-mediated diseases. The development of hybridoma technology has allowed the isolation of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with high specificity and defined properties, and numerous mAbs have been purified and characterized for their protective efficacy against different toxins. This review summarizes the mAb studies for 6 toxins—Shiga toxin, pertussis toxin, anthrax toxin, ricin toxin, botulinum toxin, and Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB)—and analyzes the prevalence of mAb functions and their isotypes. Here we show that most toxin-binding mAbs resulted from immunization are non-protective and that mAbs with potential therapeutic use are preferably characterized. Various common practices and caveats of protection studies are discussed, with the goal of providing insights for the design of future research on antibody-toxin interactions.