bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Authentication of food allergens
Authors: Hoffmann-Sommergruber Karin
Published: March 2013

Pure allergen batches are required for precise personalized diagnosis of food
allergies. Furthermore, they can be used to develop sensitive allergen
detection assays in foods and are valuable tools to develop novel
immunotherapies. However, these reagents have to be well characterized and
have to meet certain quality criteria. Within the EU-Project EuroPrevall the
concept of an allergen library comprising the most important food allergens
from animal and plant derived foods was developed together with a catalogue
of physicochemical and immunological properties, that had to be investigated.
In close cooperation partners from academia and biotech industry applied well
established lab techniques as well as novel high throughput assays to analyze
the most important features of the final protein batches. It is expected that
this proof of concept will contribute to improved authentication of allergens
for both, routine application in allergy diagnosis and treatment and risk
assessment in food production.
Reliability and Minimal Detectable Change of Physical Performance Measures in Individuals With Pre-manifest and Manifest Huntington Disease
Authors: Quinn Lori , Khalil Hanan , Dawes Helen , Fritz Nora E. , Kegelmeyer Deb , Kloos Anne D. , Gillard Jonathan W. , Busse Monica ,   for the Outcome Measures Subgroup of the European Huntington's Disease Network
Published: March 2013

Background

Clinical intervention trials in people with Huntington disease (HD) have been limited by a lack of reliable and appropriate outcome measures.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability and minimal detectable change (MDC) of various outcome measures that are potentially suitable for evaluating physical functioning in individuals with HD.

Design

This was a multicenter, prospective, observational study.

Methods

Participants with pre-manifest and manifest HD (early, middle, and late stages) were recruited from 8 international sites to complete a battery of physical performance and functional measures at 2 assessments, separated by 1 week. Test-retest reliability (using intraclass correlation coefficients) and MDC values were calculated for all measures.

Results

Seventy-five individuals with HD (mean age=52.12 years, SD=11.82) participated in the study. Test-retest reliability was very high (>.90) for participants with manifest HD for the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), 10-Meter Walk Test, Timed “Up & Go” Test (TUG), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Physical Performance Test (PPT), Barthel Index, Rivermead Mobility Index, and Tinetti Mobility Test (TMT). Many MDC values suggested a relatively high degree of inherent variability, particularly in the middle stage of HD. Minimum detectable change values for participants with manifest HD that were relatively low across disease stages were found for the BBS (5), PPT (5), and TUG (2.98). For individuals with pre-manifest HD (n=11), the 6MWT and Four Square Step Test had high reliability and low MDC values.

Limitations

The sample size for the pre-manifest HD group was small.

Conclusions

The BBS, PPT, and TUG appear most appropriate for clinical trials aimed at improving physical functioning in people with manifest HD. Further research in people with pre-manifest HD is necessary.
Reliability of intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring using motor evoked potentials during resection of metastases in motor-eloquent brain regions
Authors: Krieg Sandro M. , Schäffner Michael , Shiban Ehab , Droese Doris , Obermüller Thomas , Gempt Jens , Meyer Bernhard , Ringel Florian
Published: March 2013

Object

Resection of gliomas in or adjacent to the motor system is widely performed using intraoperative neuromonitoring (IOM). For resection of cerebral metastases in motor-eloquent regions, however, data are sparse and IOM in such cases is not yet widely described. Since recent studies have shown that cerebral metastases infiltrate surrounding brain tissue, this study was undertaken to assess the value and influence of IOM during resection of supratentorial metastases in motor-eloquent regions.

Methods

Between 2006 and 2011, the authors resected 206 consecutive supratentorial metastases, including 56 in eloquent motor areas with monitoring of monopolar direct cortically stimulated motor evoked potentials (MEPs). The authors evaluated the relationship between the monitoring data and the course of surgery, clinical data, and postoperative imaging.

Results

Motor evoked potential monitoring was successful in 53 cases (93%). Reduction of MEP amplitude correlated better with postoperative outcomes when the threshold for significant amplitude reduction was set at 80% (only > 80% reduction was considered significant decline) than when it was set at 50% (> 50% amplitude reduction was considered significant decline). Evidence of residual tumor was seen on MR images in 28% of the cases with significant MEP reduction. No residual tumor was seen in any case of stable MEP monitoring. Moreover, preoperative motor deficit, recursive partitioning analysis Class 3, and preoperative radiotherapy were independent risk factors for a new surgery-related motor weakness (occurring in 64% of patients with and 11% of patients without radiotherapy, p > 0.01).

Conclusions

Continuous MEP monitoring provides reliable monitoring of the motor system and also influences the course of operation in resection of cerebral metastases. However, in establishing warning criteria, only an amplitude decline > 80% of the baseline should be considered significant.
Superior cerebellar artery–posterior cerebral artery bypass: in situ bypass for posterior cerebral artery revascularization
Authors: Rodríguez-Hernández Ana , Huang Christina , Lawton Michael T.
Published: March 2013

Iatrogenic pseudoaneurysms are rare but serious complications of transsphenoidal surgery, and an iatrogenic pseudoaneurysm of the posterior cerebral artery (PCA) has been reported just once in the literature. The authors encountered such a case with a new P1 segment PCA pseudoaneurysm after endoscopic transsphenoidal resection of a pituitary adenoma. The aneurysm proved ideal for a novel intracranial–intracranial bypass in which the superior cerebellar artery (SCA) was used as an in situ donor artery to revascularize the recipient P2 segment. The bypass allowed aneurysm trapping without causing ischemic stroke or neurological morbidity. This case represents the first reported surgical treatment of an iatrogenic PCA pseudoaneurysm. Endovascular occlusion with coils was an option, but dolichoectatic morphology requires sacrifice of the P1 segment, with associated risks to the thalamoperforators and circumflex perforators. The SCA-PCA bypass was ideal because of low-flow demands. Like other in situ bypasses, it requires no dissection of extracranial arteries, no second incision for harvesting interposition grafts, and has a high likelihood of long-term patency. The SCA-PCA bypass is also applicable to fusiform SCA aneurysms requiring revascularization with trapping. This case demonstrates a dangerous complication that results from the limited view of the posterolateral surgical field through the endoscope and the imprecision of endoscopic instruments.
An Open-Source Implementation of the Critical-Line Algorithm for Portfolio Optimization
Authors: Bailey David , López de Prado Marcos
Published: March 2013

Portfolio optimization is one of the problems most frequently encountered by financial practitioners. The main goal of this paper is to fill a gap in the literature by providing a well-documented, step-by-step open-source implementation of Critical Line Algorithm (CLA) in scientific language. The code is implemented as a Python class object, which allows it to be imported like any other Python module, and integrated seamlessly with pre-existing code. We discuss the logic behind CLA following the algorithm’s decision flow. In addition, we developed several utilities that support finding answers to recurrent practical problems. We believe this publication will offer a better alternative to financial practitioners, many of whom are currently relying on generic-purpose optimizers which often deliver suboptimal solutions. The source code discussed in this paper can be downloaded at the authors’ websites (see Appendix).
A Maximum Entropy Approach to Loss Distribution Analysis
Authors: Bee Marco
Published: March 2013

In this paper we propose an approach to the estimation and simulation of loss distributions based on Maximum Entropy (ME), a non-parametric technique that maximizes the Shannon entropy of the data under moment constraints. Special cases of the ME density correspond to standard distributions; therefore, this methodology is very general as it nests most classical parametric approaches. Sampling the ME distribution is essential in many contexts, such as loss models constructed via compound distributions. Given the difficulties in carrying out exact simulation,we propose an innovative algorithm, obtained by means of an extension of Adaptive Importance Sampling (AIS), for the approximate simulation of the ME distribution. Several numerical experiments confirm that the AIS-based simulation technique works well, and an application to insurance data gives further insights in the usefulness of the method for modelling, estimating and simulating loss distributions.
Evidence of Large-Scale Quantization in Space Plasmas
Authors: Livadiotis George , McComas David
Published: March 2013

In plasmas, Debye screening structures the possible correlations between particles. We identify a phase space minimum h* in non-equilibrium space plasmas that connects the energy of particles in a Debye sphere to an equivalent wave frequency. In particular, while there is no a priori reason to expect a single value of h* across plasmas, we find a very similar value of h* ≈ (7.5 ± 2.4)×10−22 J·s using four independent methods: (1) Ulysses solar wind measurements, (2) space plasmas that typically reside in stationary states out of thermal equilibrium and spanning a broad range of physical properties, (3) an entropic limit emerging from statistical mechanics, (4) waiting-time distributions of explosive events in space plasmas. Finding a quasi-constant value for the phase space minimum in a variety of different plasmas, similar to the classical Planck constant but 12 orders of magnitude larger may be revealing a new type of quantization in many plasmas and correlated systems more generally.
Preparation of a Paeonol-Containing Temperature-Sensitive In Situ Gel and Its Preliminary Efficacy on Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Chu Kedan , Chen Lidian , Xu Wei , Li Huang , Zhang Yuqin , Xie Weirong , Zheng Jian
Published: March 2013

In this paper, the optimal composition of a paeonol temperature-sensitive in situ gel composed of poloxamer 407 (P407) was determined, and a preliminary study of its effect on allergic rhinitis was performed. The optimal composition of the paeonol temperature-sensitive in situ gel included 2% paeonol inclusion, 22% P407, 2% poloxamer 188 (P188) and 2% PEG6000, as assessed by thermodynamic and rheological studies. The toad palate model was employed to study the toxicity of the paeonol temperature-sensitive in situ gel on the nasal mucosa. The result of this experiment showed low toxicity to cilia, which allows the gel to be used for nasal administration. The Franz diffusion cell method was used to study the in vitro release of paeonol and suggested that the in vitro release was in line with the Higuchi equation. This result suggests that the paeonol could be absorbed into the body through mucous membranes and had some characteristics of a sustained effect. Finally, the guinea pig model of ovalbumin sensitized allergic rhinitis was used to evaluate the preliminary efficacy of the gel, with the paeonol temperature-sensitive in situ gel showing a significant effect on the guinea pig model of sensitized allergic rhinitis (AR).
Polymeric Thin Films for Organic Electronics: Properties and Adaptive Structures
Authors: Cataldo Sebastiano , Pignataro Bruno
Published: March 2013

This review deals with the correlation between morphology, structure and performance of organic electronic devices including thin film transistors and solar cells. In particular, we report on solution processed devices going into the role of the 3D supramolecular organization in determining their electronic properties. A selection of case studies from recent literature are reviewed, relying on solution methods for organic thin-film deposition which allow fine control of the supramolecular aggregation of polymers confined at surfaces in nanoscopic layers. A special focus is given to issues exploiting morphological structures stemming from the intrinsic polymeric dynamic adaptation under non-equilibrium conditions.
Hypertriglyceridemia
Authors: Brahm Amanda , Hegele Robert
Published: March 2013

Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) is commonly encountered in lipid and cardiology clinics. Severe HTG warrants treatment because of the associated increased risk of acute pancreatitis. However, the need to treat, and the correct treatment approach for patients with mild to moderate HTG are issues for ongoing evaluation. In the past, it was felt that triglyceride does not directly contribute to development of atherosclerotic plaques. However, this view is evolving, especially for triglyceride-related fractions and variables measured in the non-fasting state. Our understanding of the etiology, genetics and classification of HTG states is also evolving. Previously, HTG was considered to be a dominant disorder associated with variation within a single gene. The old nomenclature includes the term “familial” in the names of several hyperlipoproteinemia (HLP) phenotypes that included HTG as part of their profile, including combined hyperlipidemia (HLP type 2B), dysbetalipoproteinemia (HLP type 3), simple HTG (HLP type 4) and mixed hyperlipidemia (HLP type 5). This old thinking has given way to the idea that genetic susceptibility to HTG results from cumulative effects of multiple genetic variants acting in concert. HTG most is often a “polygenic” or “multigenic” trait. However, a few rare autosomal recessive forms of severe HTG have been defined. Treatment depends on the overall clinical context, including severity of HTG, concomitant presence of other lipid disturbances, and the patient's global risk of cardiovascular disease. Therapeutic strategies include dietary counselling, lifestyle management, control of secondary factors, use of omega-3 preparations and selective use of pharmaceutical agents.
Mineral Metabolic Abnormalities and Mortality in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Abe Masanori , Okada Kazuyoshi , Soma Masayoshi
Published: March 2013

The survival rate of dialysis patients, as determined by risk factors such as hypertension, nutritional status, and chronic inflammation, is lower than that of the general population. In addition, disorders of bone mineral metabolism are independently related to mortality and morbidity associated with cardiovascular disease and fracture in dialysis patients. Hyperphosphatemia is an important risk factor of, not only secondary hyperparathyroidism, but also cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, the risk of death reportedly increases with an increase in adjusted serum calcium level, while calcium levels below the recommended target are not associated with a worsened outcome. Thus, the significance of target levels of serum calcium in dialysis patients is debatable. The consensus on determining optimal parathyroid function in dialysis patients, however, is yet to be established. Therefore, the contribution of phosphorus and calcium levels to prognosis is perhaps more significant. Elevated fibroblast growth factor 23 levels have also been shown to be associated with cardiovascular events and death. In this review, we examine the associations between mineral metabolic abnormalities including serum phosphorus, calcium, and parathyroid hormone and mortality in dialysis patients.
Detection of Type A Trichothecene Di-Glucosides Produced in Corn by High-Resolution Liquid Chromatography-Orbitrap Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Nakagawa Hiroyuki , Sakamoto Shigeru , Sago Yuki , Nagashima Hitoshi
Published: March 2013

The existence of di-glucosylated derivative of T-2 toxin in plant (corn powder) was confirmed for the first time in addition to that of HT-2 toxin. These masked mycotoxins (mycotoxin glucosides) were identified as T-2 toxin-di-glucoside (T2GlcGlc) and HT-2 toxin-di-glucoside (HT2GlcGlc) based on accurate mass measurements of characteristic ions and fragmentation patterns using high-resolution liquid chromatography-Orbitrap mass spectrometric (LC-Orbitrap MS) analysis. Although the absolute structure of T2GlcGlc was not clarified, two glucose molecules were suggested to be conjugated at 3-OH position in tandem when considering the structure of T-2 toxin. On the other hand, the specification of the structure seems to be more complicated in the case of HT2GlcGlc, since HT-2 toxin has two possible positions (at 3-OH and 4-OH) to be glusocylated. In addition, 15-monoacetoxyscirpenol-glucoside (MASGlc) was also detected in the identical sample.
Correlation of Naturally Occurring HIV-1 Resistance to DEB025 with Capsid Amino Acid Polymorphisms
Authors: Gallay Philippe , Ptak Roger , Bobardt Michael , Dumont Jean-Maurice , Vuagniaux Grégoire , Rosenwirth Brigitte
Published: March 2013

DEB025 (alisporivir) is a synthetic cyclosporine with inhibitory activity against human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). It binds to cyclophilin A (CypA) and blocks essential functions of CypA in the viral replication cycles of both viruses. DEB025 inhibits clinical HIV-1 isolates in vitro and decreases HIV-1 virus load in the majority of patients. HIV-1 isolates being naturally resistant to DEB025 have been detected in vitro and in nonresponder patients. By sequence analysis of their capsid protein (CA) region, two amino acid polymorphisms that correlated with DEB025 resistance were identified: H87Q and I91N, both located in the CypA-binding loop of the CA protein of HIV-1. The H87Q change was by far more abundant than I91N. Additional polymorphisms in the CypA-binding loop (positions 86, 91 and 96), as well as in the N-terminal loop of CA were detected in resistant isolates and are assumed to contribute to the degree of resistance. These amino acid changes may modulate the conformation of the CypA-binding loop of CA in such a way that binding and/or isomerase function of CypA are no longer necessary for virus replication. The resistant HIV-1 isolates thus are CypA-independent.
NHC-catalysed highly selective aerobic oxidation of nonactivated aldehydes
Authors: Möhlmann Lennart , Ludwig Stefan , Blechert Siegfried
Published: March 2013

This publication describes a highly selective oxidation of aldehydes to the corresponding acids or esters. The reaction proceeds under metal-free conditions by using N-heterocyclic carbenes as organocatalysts in combination with environmentally friendly oxygen as the terminal oxidation agent.
Hypertensive Retinopathy in Severely Hypertensive Children: Demographic, Clinical, and Ophthalmoscopic Findings From a 30-Year British Cohort
Authors: Williams Katie M. , Shah Anish N. , Morrison Danny , Sinha Manish D.
Published: March 2013

Purpose:

There is scarce data regarding the incidence and clinical features of hypertensive retinopathy in children. The authors studied a large British cohort of severely hypertensive children to ascertain who developed hypertensive retinopathy, the severity, and the visual prognosis.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed of children undergoing renal angiography for investigation of severe hypertension at a tertiary institution from 1980 to 2010. All relevant cardiovascular, radiologic, and ophthalmic information was collected from case notes of the children identified in the study period. The outcome measures were presenting blood pressure, presence/severity of hypertensive retinopathy, and visual outcome.

Results:

Fifty-three severely hypertensive children were identified; 30 with renovascular disease (RVD+) and 23 without (RVD−). The majority had ‘stage 2 hypertension.’ There were no significant differences in age, gender, or blood pressure between RVD+ and RVD− children. Seven (18%) of the 39 children receiving ophthalmic assessment had hypertensive retinopathy, of whom 6 had severe disease (retinal hemorrhages, exudates, and optic disc edema). There was a trend toward a higher prevalence of hypertensive retinopathy in the RVD+ group (n = 5) but this was not statistically significant. Children with hypertensive retinopathy had higher blood pressure than those without (median: 216/158 vs 150/98 mm Hg,
P
< .001).

Conclusions:

This is the first study examining the incidence and characteristics of hypertensive retinopathy in British children with severe hypertension. The authors found an 18% incidence of hypertensive retinopathy, in some cases with permanent visual reduction.

[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2013;50(4):222–228.]
Matching Clients to Group Therapies Based on Psychological Readiness
Authors: Fuller Pamela R.
Published: March 2013

In both inpatient and outpatient settings, there are diverse theoretical approaches, psychosocial programs, and formats for providing group therapies to those with psychological problems. A strategic approach for determining client readiness and “what to do when” may organize the various approaches and increase participation, the number of individuals who respond to therapy, and the extent to which individuals respond. This article describes the application of a conceptual, phase-specific model that was implemented within the outpatient and inpatient settings of a state psychiatric facility to enhance alignment between group interventions and individual psychological state. Specific psychological factors for assigning clients to three general phases, as well as the general types of interventions appropriate for each phase, are described. This heuristic model can be used to integrate the diverse approaches to group treatment currently in use and to better tailor group interventions to individuals.
Advanced Practice Nurse Psychiatric Bridging Intervention
Authors: Schaumberg Laurie , Narayan Suzanne M. , Wright Tracy
Published: March 2013

Depression is a prevalent and treatable condition; however, extensive waiting periods for treatment are associated with high failure to attend initial psychiatric evaluation (IPE) appointments. This article describes the development, implementation, and pilot evaluation of the Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) Psychiatric Bridging Intervention. The project was grounded in Peplau’s theory of interpersonal relations and designed to provide supportive psychoeducational counseling and initiation of psychotropic medication for clients with depressive symptoms during the time between intake and IPE. Project development was guided by Roger’s Diffusion of Innovations framework used for adopting an evidence-based innovation into an organization. A two-group design allowed comparison of preintervention clients (38 clients who received standard care) and intervention clients (19 clients who participated in the bridging intervention). The difference in IPE appointment attendance rates between the two groups approached statistical significance (
p
= 0.08). An unanticipated finding was that APN Psychiatric Bridging Intervention clients required only 30-minute IPE appointments compared to the typical 60-minute appointment.
Not in My Class You Don’t!
Authors: Ferguson Christopher J.
Published: March 2013

It has been recognized that video games may function well as a platform for education. However, educators may be reluctant to use such games, particularly those with violent content, given controversies over games in recent years. Yet recent data suggests that these controversies over video games may have been misplaced. The current chapter examines the controversies over video games, data to support and refute these controversies, and how the public debates on video games may have influenced educators’ decisions about the use of video games in their classrooms. It is argued that it is time to acknowledge that the alleged harmfulness of video games was far overrated and that educators may wish to consider how games, even those with mildly violent content, can contribute to education.
Games in Higher Education
Authors: Dyer Ronald
Published: March 2013

In an age of technological tools ranging from social media to virtual environments, higher education institutions need to re-examine the context of their content delivery, creating an opportunity for more realistic learning methodologies across the education spectrum more closely aligned with expectations from the world of work. Today’s learners consist of a cadre of individuals aptly described as “digital natives” (Prensky, 2001) whose proclivity for technology adoption is natural, as most grew up with access to computing technology and have directly experienced its evolutionary path. As such, higher education professionals are now challenged to specifically treat with a generation who perceive technology as a natural extension of their daily lives, recognizing that traditional approaches inclusive of e-learning are no longer sufficient to engage their student population.
A Perspective on Games and Patterns
Authors: Ferreira Dores , Palhares Pedro , Silva Jorge Nuno
Published: March 2013

In the last few years, the authors have been carrying out a study involving elementary school students from 3rd to 6th years of schooling. The main goal of this study is to identify the possible relationships between the ability to identify patterns and the ability to play games, in particular mathematical games. The research methodology is quantitative and most of the analysis is concerned with the verification of correlation between variables. The analysis takes into account seven factors (besides the ability of pattern recognition) identified through a factor analysis carried out on data. With these tools, the authors have been able to differentiate games according to the different measurements. In this chapter, they disclose the important steps of this research as well as the results and main conclusions reached so far.
Game-Based Teaching
Authors: Hanghøj Thorkild
Published: March 2013

This chapter outlines theoretical and empirical perspectives on how Game-Based Teaching can be integrated within the context of formal schooling. Initially, this is done by describing game scenarios as models for possible actions that need to be translated into curricular knowledge practices, pedagogical knowledge practices, and everyday knowledge practices. Secondly, the chapter emphasizes how teachers must be able to shift back and forth between various interactional roles in order to facilitate game scenarios. Finally, a discussion is presented on how teachers choose different pedagogical approaches to game-based teaching, which may or may not correspond with the pedagogical models of particular games.
High Performance Human Face Recognition using Gabor Based Pseudo Hidden Markov Model
Authors: Kar Arindam , Bhattacharjee Debotosh , Nasipuri Mita , Basu Dipak Kumar , Kundu Mahantapas
Published: March 2013

This paper introduces a novel methodology that combines the multi-resolution feature of the Gabor wavelet transformation (GWT) with the local interactions of the facial structures expressed through the Pseudo Hidden Markov Model (PHMM). Unlike the traditional zigzag scanning method for feature extraction a continuous scanning method from top-left corner to right then top-down and right to left and so on until right-bottom of the image i.e., a spiral scanning technique has been proposed for better feature selection. Unlike traditional HMMs, the proposed PHMM does not perform the state conditional independence of the visible observation sequence assumption. This is achieved via the concept of local structures introduced by the PHMM used to extract facial bands and automatically select the most informative features of a face image. Thus, the long-range dependency problem inherent to traditional HMMs has been drastically reduced. Again with the use of most informative pixels rather than the whole image makes the proposed method reasonably faster for face recognition. This method has been successfully tested on frontal face images from the ORL, FRAV2D, and FERET face databases where the images vary in pose, illumination, expression, and scale. The FERET data set contains 2200 frontal face images of 200 subjects, while the FRAV2D data set consists of 1100 images of 100 subjects and the full ORL database is considered. The results reported in this application are far better than the recent and most referred systems.
IS THERE ECOLOGICAL ADAPTATION IN COCONUT NURSERY SEEDLINGS STAGE? A PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION
Authors: PERIES R. R. A. , EVERARD J. M. D. T.
Published: March 2013

Seedlings were raised in three, nurseries representing different agro-ecologicalregions, to. test whether growing seedlings exhibited adaptation to a particularenvironment. Seed nuts were also selected from agro-ecologically different regions.The T x T seed nuts from the Isolated coconut seed garden showed a faster rate ofgermination at all sites compared to Moorock seed nuts (from the North Westernregion) or Dehigahalande seed nuts (from the Southern region). The vigor ofseedlings (a qualitative assessment based on the number of vigorous seedlingsselected) was enhanced by a good soil water supply during the early nursery stagescombined with a higher level of solar-radiation at the nursery site. There was nointeraction between the source of seed nut and site of nursery indicating the absenceof manifestation of ecological adaptation at the seedling nursery. The quality of theseedlings was enhanced by adequate soil water and high level of solar radiation onthe nursery' beds. The subsequent performance, of these seedlings would havefollowed up after field planting to confirm the assumptions on adaptation discussed.
CLONAL PROPAGATION OF COCONUT: IMPROVED CULTURE CONDITIONS FOR RHYZOGENESIS
Authors: FERNANDO S. C. , GAMAGE C. K.
Published: March 2013

Emphasis has recently been placed on improving culture conditions at the rootingstage of the coconut (Cocos nucifera L) cloning prooedure. In these experimentsshoots for rooting were obtained by culturing shoot apices.The effect of auxins (IAA, NAA, IBA), carbohydrate sources (glucose, fructose,sucrose), lighting'conditions and dark treatment on rooting were tested. Diptreatment of shoots in 10"* M IAA solution for three to seven days followed bytransfer to auxin free medium produced the best rooting (62.5%). Addition ofglucose at 60 gl"1 into the culture medium as the carbohydrate source increased therooting percentage (71.4%) and stimulated secondary root formation. Sucrose at 60gl"1 produced a higher number of primary roots per shoot (4.4) compared to rootsper shoot in the 60 gl'1 glucose treatment (2.3). Exposure of shoots to an initialseven-day dark period and localized lighting had a positive effect on rooting.These findings can now be applied to obtain .better rooting not only, in clonalplants but also in zygotic embryo cultured plants.
SOME STUDIES ON THE USE OF Metarhizium anisopliae (METSCH.) SOR. FOR THE CONTROL OF Oryctes rhinoceros IN SRI LANKA
Authors: FERNANDO L.C.P. , Kanagaratnam P. , Narangoda N. K.
Published: March 2013

Black beetle, Oryctes rhinoceros L. larvae and adults were inoculated in thelaboratory with three isolates of the fungus, Metarhizium anisopliae (Metsch.) Sor, toscreen their virulence against black beetle. All the isolates caused 100% mortality oflarvae and adults when treated with suspensions of 107 conidia/ml. Comparatively thelocal isolate caused a slow death rate in larvae and adults than the other isolates. Fiftygrams of the maize inoculum per 0.008 m2 of breeding medium were sufficient to cause100% death rate in larvae. In the field, the fungus was capable of disseminating at least10 m and the impregnation boxes (infection foci) were attractive to black beetle. It issuggested that M. anisopliae could be used as an effective bio-control agent in theintegrated management of black beetle.
SOME OBSERVATIONS ON COPRA DRYING IN SRI LANKA
Authors: RODRIGO M. C. P. , AMARASIRIWARDENE B. L. , SAMARAJEEWA U.
Published: March 2013

Twenty five commercial copra kilns in Sri Lanka were studied for variations oftheir dimensions and copra curing practices in relation to the "Standard CeylonCopra Kiln" and the quality of copra produced. Changes in the height and the widthof the platform resulting in probable changes in drying conditions of copra wasnoted. The use of powdered charcoal appeared to improve the quality of copraproduced and more cost effective than use of coconut shells. Addition of sulphur dustto the fuel further improved the quality of copra.
ROLE OF Gliricidia sepium ON PHYSICAL IMPROVEMENT OF GRAVELLY SOIL
Authors: VIDHANA ARACHCHI L P. , LIYANAGE M. DE S.
Published: March 2013

The Andigama soil series, which is widespread in coconut lands, is known to havepoor physical characters restricting palm growth and yield in die intermediate zoneof Sri Lanka. This study was carried out to investigate the possibility of improvingdegraded soil conditions of Andigama series by intercropping with Gliricidiasepium under coconut. Gliricidia sepium was established in a 45 year old coconutplantation in double rows of 2 m x 1 m and arranged in a Randomized Block Designwith four replicates. The effect on soil physical characters such as texture, bulkdensity, aeration capacity, moisture retention and root distribution pattern ofGliricidia sepium were studied.Results revealed that clay fraction cemented with gravel significantly increased( P < 0 . 0 5 ) bulk density (1.62 ± 0.07). It acts as a physical barrier and reducedreadily available water fraction in B horizon. The available water fraction in A, ABand B horizons decreased by 66% before reaching 1 bar (100 kPa) suction in 7, 9and 11 days respectively during the dry period. Root proliferation of Gliricidiasepium through hard layers significantly reduced the bulk density (P
IMPROVEMENT OF SEEDLING QUALITY IN POLYBAGS THROUGH MANIPULATION OF POTTING MEDIA
Authors: PERERA L. , PIERIS R. R. A. , JAYATHILAKA R.
Published: March 2013

Potting mixtures containing different proportions of river sand were used forraising coconut seedlings' in polybags with and without fertilizer, to evaluate theirgrowth and vigour after seed nuts were allowed to germinate on a pre • nursery bedand then transplanted. The substitution of topsoil in the pplybag mixtures with riversand had no significant effect on the development of coconut seedlings. It was foundthat pure river sand alone could be successfully used, provided seedlings were keptfree from water deficit and in this respect the first seven months from seed nutlaying was found to be critical.Application of fertilizer improved the seedling height and girth but this effect wassignificant only five months after seed nut laying. However, in this study theimprovement in seedling vigour was inadequate to justify the extra input onfertilizer.
THE INTERACTION BETWEEN POTASSIUM AND MAGNESIUM iN RED YELLOW PODZOLIC SOILS WITH LATERITE AND ITS EFFECT ON NUTRITION OF COCONUT PALMS (Cocos nucifera, L.)
Authors: SOMASIRI L. L. W.
Published: March 2013

The interaction between plant available potassium and magnesium inhighly leached red yellow podzolic soils with laterite in Southern coastalarea of Sri Lanka and its effect on coconut palm was studied in a 3x2 KxMgfactorial experiment that consisted of 3 levels of potassium and 2 levels ofmagnesium fertilizer application to coconut palms in plots. Five years aftercontinuation of treatment application, soil samples were taken from top soils(0-20 cm) and sub soils (20-40 cm) at monthly intervals for 10 months andanalyzed for exchangeable potassium and magnesium (1M ammonium acetateextraction at pH 7.0) and water soluble potassium and magnesium (1:10soil/water ratio). Leaf samples taken from the 14* frond at bimonthly intervalswere analyzed for potassium and magnesium.The results showed that the application of potassium fertilizer decreasedthe quantity of both exchangeable and water extractable magnesiumand magnesium fertilizer decreased the quantity of exchangeable potassiumin soils. The mutual decreasing effect on the exchangeable fraction of eachnutrient is attributed to low cation exchange capacity and base saturation ofthe soils. The close association of the coconut leaf nutrient contents with soilnutrient status implies that poor chemical characteristics of red yellow podzolicsoils bring about imbalance of potassium and magnesium nutrition incoconut palms.
CALLUS INDUCTION AND DIRECT SHOOT FORMATION IN IN VITRO CULTURED IMMATURE INFLORESCENCE TISSUES OF COCONUT
Authors: VIDHANA ARACHCHI V. R. M. , WEERAKOON L. K.
Published: March 2013

Clonal propagation of elite palms is a promising possibility for producinguniform planting material and improving productivity in coconut lands.In the absence of a natural vegetative propagation method, in vitro cultureremains the only approach for vegetative multiplication of coconut.Immature inflorescence material has shown to be a promising sourceof explants for coconut tissue culture. In the present study, four differentculture media (medium 72; modified Eeuwens Y 3 medium; coconut antherculture medim; modified Blake's medium) were evaluated for callus inductionin floral explants: Immature inflorescences were collected non-destructivelyfrom 12 year old Sri Lanka-tall coconut palms and rachilla segmentsobtained from these inflorescences were cultured on above media.Out of the four culture media tested, callus production was observedonly in the explants cultured on medium 72. In this medium (which contained24 uM 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid and 0.25% activated charcoal),about 30% of the floral explants produced compact, highly embryogeniecalli. Direct regeneration of shoots from floral primordia occurred at &very low frequency in the modified Eeuwens Y 3 medium which contained200 pM 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid and 0.2% activated charcoal. Nocallogenesis or direct organogenesis were observed in the floral explantscultured on the other two culture media tested.
BIOMEDICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS OF SOME COCONUT-DERIVED PRODUCTS AND THEIR PRODUCTION PROCESSES IN SRI LANKA
Authors: WICKRAMASINGHE ROHAN H
Published: March 2013

The coconut palm is said to have been introduced to Sri Lanka over2300 years ago. Several industries have grown up to process products fromthis tree. Many of these production units have traditionally been located inrural areas and any adverse environmental impacts have in the past beenconsidered negligible or not very serious. However, with the development ofthese industries and the increasing density of population more concern isbeing taken to identify and mitigate any adverse environmental effects andbiomedical effects on workers in these industries as well as the general public.The industries examined in this article relate to the production of I) coconutoil, 2) desiccated coconut, 3).charcoal and activated carbon and 4) husk fibreand coir pith. Biomedical aspects of some of these products are also noted aswell as articles which can serve as guides to the literature in each area.
ECONOMIC FEASIBILITY AND BIOLOGICAL PRODUCTIVITY OF COCONUT-BASED AGROFORESTRY MODELS IN SRI LANKA
Authors: Peiris W. B. K. , Fernando M. T. N. , Hitinayake H. M. G. S. B. , Dassanayake K. B. , Gunathilake H. A. J. , Subasinghe S. D. J. N.
Published: March 2013

This study evaluates the economic feasibility and biological productivity of coconut-based agroforestry models designed for coconut smallholders. Coconut Research Institute of Sri Lanka has developed and established twenty-six agroforestry models in farmers' fields. Of them, four models were selected for this study. They were: mixed farming for Wet Zone (model 1), mixed cropping for Wet Zone (model 2), mixed farming for Wet Intermediate Zone (model 3) and catch cropping in young replanted coconut for Wet Intermediate Zone (model 4), established at Gaspe, Hanchapola, Katuneriya and Thulawala, respectively. Input and output data for several years, for each model, were used in the evaluation. Annual Gross Margins (GM) payback period, Net Present Value (NPV) and Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) were employed for the economic analysis. Biological productivity of the models was. determined employing Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) and Relative Yield Total (RYT). NPVs of agroforestry models were higher than the monocrop, suggestingthe higher net worth of the agroforestry models in the long run. Othereconomic indicators also showed that agroforestry models were moreprofitable than coconut monoculture. In all models, LER exceeded unity,indicating the yield advantage with agroforestry over coconut monocultures.However, RYT values indicated that there were negative interactionsbetween component crops of certain models, which can be attributed to thecompetition that occurs between crops.
Weed Management in Mature Coconut Plantations in Sri Lanka
Authors: Senarathne S H S , Gunathilake H A J
Published: March 2013

Weeds are a perennial problem in coconut plantations and cause significant losses in terms of nut yield. The occurrence of a wide range of weeds also causes difficulties in their eradication. The influence of buffalo grazing on weed biomass and nut yield was evaluated to determine the economical and effectiveness of this method to control weeds in coconut plantations in the low country wet zone of Sri Lanka. Treatments imposed were: tractor slashing as control (T1), cover cropping with Pueraria phaseoloides (T2) and buffalo grazing (T3). Slashing treatment was applied three times per year and buffalo grazing was practiced once a month to control grasses and weeds. The treatments were arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replicates. Based on the reduction of the weed biomass, treatments T2 and T3 were found to be significantly effective (P<0.05) over slashing treatment. Coconut yield was increased significantly (P<0.05) in buffalo grazing plots and decreased in cover cropping plots. Control of weeds with buffalo grazing and cover cropping with Pueraria resulted in 7% increase and 6% decrease in nut yield over the slashing plots respectively. Buffalo grazing was found to be the most effective method of controlling weeds in coconut plantations. Cover cropping with Pueraria phaseoloides was effective in controlling weeds in the long term, but was not economically beneficial compared with the buffalo grazing. Establishment of cover crop was helpful to conserve soil moisture but it appeared to compete with palms for soil nutrients. A high soil penetrometer resistance in the grazing plots pointed to a significant change in the soil structure as a result of buffalo traffic in the area. Harrowing the buffalo grazing plots appeared to be the best method to overcome soil compaction and finally increase soil aeration and create more favorable environment for palm growth.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/cocos.v19i2.4755
Boron Deficiency In Young Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) In Sri Lanka Symptoms and Corrective Measures
Authors: JAYASEKARA K. S. , LOGANATHAN P.
Published: March 2013

Apart from N, P, K, and Mg deficiencies in coconut so far observed in Sri Lanka,boron (B) deficiency was observed in 12 young coconut palms of age 1-3 y at Poojapitiyain Kandy district. The symptoms were : Unsplit, crinkled nature of leaflets; stuntedand withered apical leaves; lack of leaflets in some fronds. The third leaf of the affectedpalms had 3.4—7.5 ppm B as compared to 7.6—10.0 ppm B for healthy palms in thesame vicinity. Soil application of sodium tetraborate (Na2B04 . 5H20) at the rateof 28 and 56 g/palm to the affected palms at incipient stages improved the condition ofpalms within six months and complete recovery was achieved at the end of eightmonths. However, the symptoms in the untreated affected palms gradually became acuteand the palms died after 6-8 months. Results suggest that the critical nutrient concentrationrange for B in the third leaf is 8-10 ppm and the deficiency could be correctedonly at the incipient stages by soil application of sodium tetraborate.doi: 10.4038/cocos.v6i1.2053COCOS 1988 Vol.6 No.1 31-37
Use of Statistical Package SAS A Case Study from Coconut Research Institute of Sri Lanka
Authors: PEIRIS T. S. G. , STERN R. D.
Published: March 2013

The Coconut Research Institute in Sri Lanka (CRI) began using microcomputersfor the analysis of their experimental data in 1986. Four case studies of typical sets of fieldexperimental data from the CRI are used to illustrate the potential benefits and possibleproblems in moving from a manual system of data processing to one which uses a powerfulstatistical package.doi: 10.4038/cocos.v6i1.2054COCOS 1988 Vol.6 No.1 38-52
A Technique for the Application of Systemic Insecticides Through 'Tetiolar Wells" in Coconut.
Authors: PERERA P.A.C. R. , MAHINDAPALA R. , PETHIY AGODA U.
Published: March 2013

Application of systemic insecticide through a cavity in the base of a petiole("petiolar well") in the coconut palm has been demonstrated to be useful in thecontrol of foliar pests of coconut. The movement of systemic insecticides through thecrown of mature coconut palms was monitored through larval mortality of the coconutcaterpillar, Opisina arenosella Wlk. (Nephantis serinopa Meyr). Maximum effect wasrecorded when the insecticide was fed via "petiolar wells" in the 11th frond.The usefulness of other fronds for treatment and the advantage of this methodover the conventional trunk injection and soil dressing methods are also discussed.
Culture of Immature Embryos of Coconut, Cocos nucifera L: Callus Proliferation and Somatic Embryogenesis
Authors: KARUNARATNE SEETHA , PERIYAPPERUMA KAUSHALYA
Published: March 2013

The culture of immature embryos of coconut (Cocos nucifera L var. typica) was attemptedwith a view to developing a technique for clonal propagation. Embryos, 6-7 monthspostanthesis produced whitish, compact, embryogenic callus tissues in the presence of 12-20uM 2,4-D. Callus was maintained by subculture on a medium of the same composition.About 50% of the callus cultures produced globular embryos when transferred to 8 pM 2,4-D.Embryos in 22% of these cultures germinated and produced shoots, 6 mm long, when 6-benzylamino purine and kinetin (10 p.M each) were incorporated into the culture medium.The age of the embryo was an important factor determining callus proliferation andsubsequent embryogenesis. More than 50% of embryos excised from 6-7-month-old nutsproduced embryogenic callus tissues. Five to six-month-old nuts were not mature enough forexcising the embryos. Embryos from older nuts (8 months and above) germinated in culture.Only a small portion of the immature embryo produced embryogenic callus tissues. Thefuture root region proliferated into a brownish callus which in turn produced roots profusely.The cotyledon of the immature embryo expanded and developed into a haustorium withoutany sign of callus formation. The shoot apex produced a few plumular leaves but no callusingwas observed.