bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphometric characterization of Brahman crossbred cattle and prediction of live weight using linear body measurements
Authors: Rashid Md Mahbubur , Hoque Md Azharul , Huque Khan Shahidul , Talukder Md Azharul Islam , Bhuiyan AK Fazlul Huque
Published: February 2016

The present work was conducted to evaluate the variability in linear body measurements; to investigate the relationship between body linear measurements and live weight and to predict live weight of F1 Brahman crossbred cattle using body measurements. A total of 123 male and 87 female F1 Brahman crossbred cattle of 6-36 months age and weighing from 63 to 535 kg were used for the study over a period from 2010 to 2014. The study revealed that that most of the morphological measurements were linearly increased with the advances of age. The body weight had highest correlation coefficient with the heart girth around the chest (r=0.96, p<0.001) and lowest with canon bone length (r=0.49, p<0.001) compared with other body measurements. The correlations of body weight with tail length, ear length, canon bone length and canon bone width were at medium level (r=0.51-0.79). Grouping of data according to age indicated that heart girth in >24 months group had highest correlation coefficient (r=0.96) with body weight compared to ?12 months (r=0.92) and >12-24 months (r=0.95) group. The stepwise regression models revealed that heart girth singly accounted highest variation (93%) in body weight for all animals. Thus, the general equation for prediction of live weight of Brahman crossbred cattle was Y=4.07HG356 (±6.96) where Y=live weight (Kg), HG=heart girth around the chest (cm). The regression equations for the live weight were Y=2.71HG191 (±13.5), Y=4.05HG357 (±9.77) and Y=4.87HG471 (±23.0) for ?12, >12-24 and >24 months age groups. The best model for estimating body weight was obtained using HG and body length (BL) for all animals Y=2.83HG+1.80BL392 (±6.69). These results suggested that prediction equations based on HG or in combination of HG and BL can be used efficiently in Brahman crossbred cattle to predict live weight.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. December 2015, 1(3): 569-577
Identification of causative agent for fungal infection and effect of disinfectants on hatching and survival rate of common carp (C. carpio) larvae
Authors: Yeasmin Syeda Maksuda , Rahman Md Anisur , Hossain Md Mer Mosharraf , Rahman Md Habibur , Asif Abdulla Al
Published: February 2016

Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is one of the commercially important and commonly cultured fish. In the hatchery intensive incubation leads to microbial overgrowth in C. carpio eggs that hamper egg development, hatchability and larval survivability. The aim of this study is to find out causes of mass mortality in C. carpio eggs during peak- breeding season between March to May 2015 at Mafatema fish hatchery, Chanchra, Jessore sadar upazilla. In the present study three disinfectants with three different concentrations in each such as methylene blue 1, 3 and 5mg/L., malachite green 1, 3 and 5mg/L., sodium chloride 1, 2 and 3g/L were used to observe the hatching rate of fertilized eggs and survival rate of larvae. Bacterial load of culture water was examined during the induced breeding of C. carpio with mycological examination of egg samples with different disinfectants. The total bacterial count fluctuated from 3.4 x 108 CFU/ml to 32.7 x 108 CFU/ml during the period of fertilization to 4days of hatching. The fertilized eggs infected by Saprolegnia spp. were appeared as tuft hairy like balls with a white cottony envelop. Among all the treatment 1mg/L methylene blue, 3mg/L malachite green and 1g/L sodium chloride showed significantly better (P<0.05) hatching rate 95·33±2·08, 88.00±2.64 and 92.33±4.04% respectively. The same concentration of methylene blue, malachite green and sodium chloride showed significantly better (P<0.05) better survival rate 95·00±4.35, 75.00±3.00 and 87.00±6.24% respectively. Finally among all the treatment 1mg/L of methylene blue showed significantly better (P<0.05) hatching and survival rate 95·33±2·08% and 95·00±4.35 % respectively. So 1mg/L of methylene blue is the best disinfectant for C. carpio fertilized egg treatment.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. December 2015, 1(3): 578-588
Early emergence of axons and formation of accessory nerve (XI) in avian embryos
Authors: Haque Ziaul , Haque Azimul , Pu Qin , Huang Ruijin
Published: February 2016

A research work was undertaken to evaluate the feeding effect of tree forages on performance of growing sheep. Twenty growing sheep (in 4 groups) were fed three different tree forage diets. Tree forages Melia azardirachta, Leucaena leucocephala and Artocarpus heterophyllus were supplied in three treatments except one consisted no tree forages which was considered as control. There were significant (p<0.05) differences among the animal groups in terms of total DM and ME intake, although there were no significant differences in the digestibility of DM, OM, CP and ADF. Feeding of tree forages had significant (p<0.05) effect on live weight gain of sheep. Animals fed with tree forage based diets significantly increased weight gain (60.70 and 50.70 g/d for L. leucocephala and A. heterophyllus, respectively) compared to that (45.66 g/d) of control group fed with silage. Feed conversion efficiency (kg feed/kg gain) also showed that animals fed with tree forage of L. leucocephala and M. azardirachta based diets were having significantly (p<0.05) higher efficiency (11.33 and 11.47, respectively) compared to those of A. heterophyllus and control diet (13.77 and 13.33, respectively). The results of nitrogen balance of M. azardirachta and L. leucocephala tree forage had significantly (p<0.05) positive effect on the nitrogen retention in the body of the animals. Intake of all the tree forages was not similar which indicated that all of them were not accepted to the lamb in same level. So, diets with tree forages of L. leucocephala resulted better in terms of weight gain, digestibility and nitrogen balance compared to A. heterophyllu, M. azardirachta and silage (control).Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. December 2015, 1(3): 654-659
Flowering and fruiting behavior of velvet apple
Authors: Hossain Md Tanvir , Islam Md Saiful , Hasan Md Fakhrul , Mojumder Subrata , Robbani Mahbub , Ahsan SM , Mondal Debasish
Published: February 2016

The study was conducted at three upazilla of Patuakhali during the period from the 1st February, 2013 to the 31st July, 2013 to evaluate the flowering and fruiting behavior of velvet apple germplasm. Twelve velvet apple germplasm were selected from three locations (DD 01, DD 04, DD 06, and DD 09 from Dumki; DD 02, DD 05, DD 08 and DD 10 from Mirzaganj; DD 03, DD 07, DD 11 and DD 12 from Patuakhali sadar upazilla) by field survey. The age of plant varied from 10 to 25 years having satisfactory growth and good health. A lot of variations in different parameters were observed among the germplasm. Flowering season started from 22 February and continued up to 20 April. Percentage of fruit setting ranged from 65.15 % to 92.26 % in DD 07 and DD 01, respectively. Required time for fruit maturation ranged from 116 days (DD 01) to 129 days (DD 07). Single fruit weight varied from 198.10 g (DD 12) to 238.90 g (DD 01). The highest number of seeds (8) was found in DD 07 while DD 01 was seedless. The length and diameter of fruit ranged from 6.72 cm (DD 07) to 8.04 cm (DD 01) and 6.09 cm (DD 07) to 7.27 cm (DD 01), respectively. The maximum edible portion (87.33 %) was recorded in seedless germplasm DD 01, while it was the lowest (42.00 %) in DD 07.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. December 2015, 1(3): 660-669
Bio-security in small scale poultry farms against avian influenza: knowledge, attitude and practices
Authors: Ibrahim Nelima , Akhter Marufa , Mamun Selim Al , Chowdhury Emdadul Haque , Das Priya Mohan
Published: February 2016

Avian influenza (AI) is considered as one of the greatest global threat for the poultry industry that the animal health sector has ever had to face. It is primarily an infectious disease of birds caused by influenza virus Type A strain. The major concern now is that a highly pathogenic strain (H5N1) has also been shown to transmit to humans and has the potential to be fatal. Since March 2007, outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) have been occurring in commercial and backyard poultry in Bangladesh. Good bio-security practices can help reducing the risk of spreading and controlling the disease. This investigation describes the bio-security practices of small scale poultry holders (500-2000 birds/ farm) of Gazipur district, their knowledge and attitude in prevention and control of avian influenza. This was assessed using prescribed questionnaire. This study has been conducted on 100 poultry raising farmers through household-based individual interviews. Though respondents had different opinions on the magnitude of AI in their respective area, almost everyone realized AI is a big problem for Bangladesh. Generally, the respondents were not aware of the common infection sources such as, sick poultry, their pens, cages, backyard poultry, wild animals, migratory birds etc. Most of the interviewed small scale farmers in this area were not aware about the strict bio-security process like segregation of diseased birds, cleaning and disinfection of premises to prevent AI. Although there was a basic knowledge about the dangers and economic consequences of AI, there needs to be an updating of information on sources of infection, symptoms and prevention techniques, as well as an understanding of the cross species dangers of the infection. The study has, to a large extent, successfully drawn up a picture of how Bangladeshi small holder farmers have perceived and responded to AI and what they have understood and what practices they are taking against AI in their respective areas.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. December 2015, 1(3): 670-676
Is Self-Regulation Sufficient? Case of the German Transparency Code
Authors: Buske Kristin , Jentzsch Stefan , Bechter Clemens
Published: February 2016

The German pharmaceutical industry is stepping ahead with its implementation of a new transparency disclosure code for cooperation between pharmaceutical companies and health care professionals (HCPs) and health care organisations (HCOs). In Germany, this transparency code (“Transparenzkodex”) is applicable since January 2015, and data will be publicly available around mid-2016. No empirical work has been done that addresses the impact of the transparency code on cooperation between HCPs, HCOs and the pharmaceutical companies, including the possibilities of competitive analysis of the available data. In this paper, we interviewed experts from 11 pharmaceutical companies representing small, medium-sized as well as multinational corporations which represent 80% of the German pharmaceutical market. Besides interviews, the authors designed a game to evaluate possible financial investments in key opinion leaders. The market can be regarded as a zero sum game. By allowing public identification of such key HCPs and HCOs, the amount spent on them might increase and not decrease. In a way, the transparency code may foster more and not less spending; in our simulation game, the financial investment in marketing key HCPs and HCOs exceeded sustainable limits.
Effect of Friction Stir Process Parameters on the Mechanical and Thermal Behavior of 5754-H111 Aluminum Plates
Authors: Serio Livia , Palumbo Davide , De Filippis Luigi , Galietti Umberto , Ludovico Antonio
Published: February 2016

A study of the Friction Stir Welding (FSW) process was carried out in order to evaluate the influence of process parameters on the mechanical properties of aluminum plates (AA5754-H111). The process was monitored during each test by means of infrared cameras in order to correlate temperature information with eventual changes of the mechanical properties of joints. In particular, two process parameters were considered for tests: the welding tool rotation speed and the welding tool traverse speed. The quality of joints was evaluated by means of destructive and non-destructive tests. In this regard, the presence of defects and the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) were investigated for each combination of the process parameters. A statistical analysis was carried out to assess the correlation between the thermal behavior of joints and the process parameters, also proving the capability of Infrared Thermography for on-line monitoring of the quality of joints.
Typical Monoterpenes as Insecticides and Repellents against Stored Grain Pests
Authors: Reis Suelen , Mantello Anieli , Macedo Jeferson , Gelfuso Erica , Da Silva Cássio , Fachin Ana , Cardoso Alexandre , Beleboni Rene
Published: February 2016

Five monoterpenes naturally occurring in essential oils were tested for their insecticidal and repellent activities against the bruchid beetle Callosobruchus maculatus and the maize weevil Sitophilus zeamais. The monoterpenes were highly efficient as inducers of mortality or repellency against both insect species. They were more efficient in their fumigant activity against C. maculatus than against S. zeamais, while this profile of action was inverted when considering the repellent activities. Eugenol was one the most effective fumigants against both insects and one the most effective repellent against C. maculatus, while citronellal and geranial were one the most effective repellents against S. zeamais. Functional and positional isomerism of the monoterpenes pairs appears to exert little or no influence on theirs effects, especially in case of repellency. The validation of the insecticidal/repellent efficacy of isolated monoterpenes may permit a more advantageous, rapid, economic and optimized approach to the identification of promising oils for commercial formulations when combined with ethnobotanical strategies.
Phytochemical Compounds and Antioxidant Capacity of Tucum-Do-Cerrado (Bactris setosa Mart), Brazil’s Native Fruit
Authors: Rosa Fernanda , Arruda Andréa , Siqueira Egle , Arruda Sandra
Published: February 2016

This study identified major phenolic compounds of the tucum-do-cerrado (Bactris setosa) peel, as well as antioxidant activity and total phytochemical compound concentration of different extracts of the peel and pulp of this fruit. Phenolic compounds of the different extracts of tucum-do-cerrado peel were identified and quantified using a high-performance liquid chromatography system coupled to a diode array detector (DAD). Total phytochemical compound content was determined by spectrophotometric assays and the antioxidant activity by ferric reducing antioxidant power and β-carotene/linoleic assays. Total phenolic, flavanols, total anthocyanins and yellow flavonoids concentration of tucum-do-cerrado were 122-, 14-, 264- and 61-fold higher in the peel than in the pulp, respectively. The aqueous, methanolic and ethanolic extracts of the tucum-do-cerrado peel exhibited higher antioxidant activity compared to its pulp. Flavanols, anthocyanins, flavones, phenolic acids and stilbenes were the main phenolic classes identified in the tucum-do-cerrado peel extracts. Results suggest that the antioxidant capacity and the phytochemical compound content of the tucum-do-cerrado are mainly associated with the peel. Although flavonoids are the main compounds identified in tucum-do-cerrado peel, other phenolics identified in minor amounts, such as phenolic acids and stilbenes, may be responsible for the high antioxidant capacity of the fruit.
Spectral Reflectance of Palauan Reef-Building Coral with Different Symbionts in Response to Elevated Temperature
Authors: Russell Brandon , Dierssen Heidi , LaJeunesse Todd , Hoadley Kenneth , Warner Mark , Kemp Dustin , Bateman Timothy
Published: February 2016

Spectral reflectance patterns of corals are driven largely by the pigments of photosynthetic symbionts within the host cnidarian. The warm inshore bays and cooler offshore reefs of Palau share a variety of coral species with differing endosymbiotic dinoflagellates (genus: Symbiodinium), with the thermally tolerant Symbiodinium trenchii (S. trenchii) (= type D1a or D1-4) predominating under the elevated temperature regimes inshore, and primarily Clade C types in the cooler reefs offshore. Spectral reflectance of two species of stony coral, Cyphastrea serailia (C. serailia) and Pachyseris rugosa (P. rugosa), from both inshore and offshore locations shared multiple features both between sites and to similar global data from other studies. No clear reflectance features were evident which might serve as markers of thermally tolerant S. trenchii symbionts compared to the same species of coral with different symbionts. Reflectance from C. serailia colonies from inshore had a fluorescence peak at approximately 500 nm which was absent from offshore animals. Integrated reflectance across visible wavelengths had an inverse correlation to symbiont cell density and could be used as a relative indicator of the symbiont abundance for each type of coral. As hypothesized, coral colonies from offshore with Clade C symbionts showed a greater response to experimental heating, manifested as decreased symbiont density and increased reflectance or “bleaching” than their inshore counterparts with S. trenchii. Although no unique spectral features were found to distinguish species of symbiont, spectral differences related to the abundance of symbionts could prove useful in field and remote sensing studies.
Simulation of the Grazing Effects on Grassland Aboveground Net Primary Production Using DNDC Model Combined with Time-Series Remote Sensing Data—A Case Study in Zoige Plateau, China
Authors: Wang Jiyan , Li Ainong , Bian Jinhu
Published: February 2016

Measuring the impact of livestock grazing on grassland above-ground net primary production (ANPP) is essential for grass yield estimation and pasture management. However, since there is a lack of accurate and repeatable techniques to obtain the details of grazing locations and stocking rates at the regional scale, it is an extremely challenging task to study the influence of regional grazing on the grassland ANPP. Taking Zoige County as a case, this paper proposes an approach to quantify the spatial and temporal variation of grazing intensity and grazing period through time-series remote sensing data, simulated grassland ANPP through the denitrification and decomposition (DNDC) model, and then explores the impact of grazing on grassland ANPP. The result showed that the model-estimated ANPP while considering grazing had a significant relationship with the field-observed ANPP, with the coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.75, root mean square error (RMSE) of 122.86 kgC/ha, and average relative error (RE) of 8.77%. On the contrary, if grazing activity was not considered in simulation, a large uncertainty was found when the model-estimated ANPP was compared with the field observation, showing R2 of 0.4, RMSE of 211.51 kgC/ha, and average RE of 32.5%. For the whole area of Zoige County in 2012, the statistics of the estimation showed that the total regional ANPP was up to 3.815 × 105 tC, while the total regional ANPP, without considering grazing, would be overestimated by 44.4%, up to 5.51 × 105 tC. This indicates that the grazing parameters derived in this study could effectively improve the accuracy of ANPP simulation results. Therefore, it is feasible to combine time-series remote sensing data with the process model to simulate the grazing effects on grassland ANPP. However, some issues, such as selecting proper remote sensing data, improving the quality of model input parameters, collecting more field data, and exploring the data assimilation approaches, still should be considered in the future work.
Molecularly Imprinted Electropolymer for a Hexameric Heme Protein with Direct Electron Transfer and Peroxide Electrocatalysis
Authors: Peng Lei , Yarman Aysu , Jetzschmann Katharina , Jeoung Jae-Hun , Schad Daniel , Dobbek Holger , Wollenberger Ulla , Scheller Frieder
Published: February 2016

For the first time a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) with direct electron transfer (DET) and bioelectrocatalytic activity of the target protein is presented. Thin films of MIPs for the recognition of a hexameric tyrosine-coordinated heme protein (HTHP) have been prepared by electropolymerization of scopoletin after oriented assembly of HTHP on a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of mercaptoundecanoic acid (MUA) on gold electrodes. Cavities which should resemble the shape and size of HTHP were formed by template removal. Rebinding of the target protein sums up the recognition by non-covalent interactions between the protein and the MIP with the electrostatic attraction of the protein by the SAM. HTHP bound to the MIP exhibits quasi-reversible DET which is reflected by a pair of well pronounced redox peaks in the cyclic voltammograms (CVs) with a formal potential of −184.4 ± 13.7 mV vs. Ag/AgCl (1 M KCl) at pH 8.0 and it was able to catalyze the cathodic reduction of peroxide. At saturation the MIP films show a 12-fold higher electroactive surface concentration of HTHP than the non-imprinted polymer (NIP).
Promoting Sustainability through EMS Application: A Survey Examining the Critical Factors about EMAS Registration in Italian Organizations
Authors: Merli Roberto , Preziosi Michele , Ippolito Christian
Published: February 2016

One of the tools set by the European Community (EC) to reduce the environmental impact of firms is EMAS Regulation (Regulation (EC) No 1221/2009), setting up an Environmental Management System (EMS), which aims for a continuous improvement of environmental performances. Italy has the highest number of certified organization among all European Member States, accounting for over one thousand registrations. The paper presents the result of a survey conducted through a questionnaire about EMAS implementation and targeted to all Italian registered organizations. Of nearly 1000 organizations, over 500 answers were collected. The main goal is to understand how organizations experience the scheme, focusing on main drivers for its adoption, main difficulties encountered, and perceived benefits. In particular, survey results contribute to define a reflection on the difficulties regarding EMAS diffusion among European companies. Aspects identified as critical can lead to a contraction of registration requests, especially those formulated by SMEs, which constitute the majority of Italian companies. Moreover, perceived difficulties might affect the firms’ willingness to renew EMAS registration. Data provided by the Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA) recently highlighted the increasing rate of firms who decide to withdraw from registration. This study offers interesting inputs related to main critical issues in EMAS implementation, which can be the baseline for future research on companies that abandon the certification scheme, in order to provide suggestions for the improvement of its effectiveness both for national and communitarian institutions.
Therapeutic Use of Native and Recombinant Enteroviruses
Authors: Ylä-Pelto Jani , Tripathi Lav , Susi Petri
Published: February 2016

Research on human enteroviruses has resulted in the identification of more than 100 enterovirus types, which use more than 10 protein receptors and/or attachment factors required in cell binding and initiation of the replication cycle. Many of these “viral” receptors are overexpressed in cancer cells. Receptor binding and the ability to replicate in specific target cells define the tropism and pathogenesis of enterovirus types, because cellular infection often results in cytolytic response, i.e., disruption of the cells. Viral tropism and cytolytic properties thus make native enteroviruses prime candidates for oncolytic virotherapy. Copy DNA cloning and modification of enterovirus genomes have resulted in the generation of enterovirus vectors with properties that are useful in therapy or in vaccine trials where foreign antigenic epitopes are expressed from or on the surface of the vector virus. The small genome size and compact particle structure, however, set limits to enterovirus genome modifications. This review focuses on the therapeutic use of native and recombinant enteroviruses and the methods that have been applied to modify enterovirus genomes for therapy.
Scour, Velocities and Pressures Evaluations Produced by Spillway and Outlets of Dam
Authors: Castillo Luis , Carrillo José
Published: February 2016

Paute-Cardenillo (owned by Celec Ep-Hidropaute) is a dam with maximum height 135 m located in the Paute River in Ecuador. Its hydroelectric production will be integrated at the National Electric System of Ecuador with an installed capacity of 600 MW which will produce 3300 GWh per year. To evaluate the stability and safety of the structure, it is necessary to ascertain the shape and dimensions of the scour generated downstream from the dam. We studied the scour, due to the operation of the free surface spillway (700 m3/s) and half-height outlets (1760 m3/s), with three complementary procedures: empirical formulae obtained in models and prototypes, semi-empirical methodology based on pressure fluctuations-erodibility index and computational fluid dynamics simulations. The free surface weir could generate a scour around 21 m, while the intermediate outlet could reach the intact rock, located 34 m below the initial river bed. A pre-excavated basin is proposed and the velocities and pressures are analyzed. The results demonstrated the suitability of combining different methodologies to achieve an adequate resolution of this complex phenomenon.
HEATING OF THE PARTIALLY IONIZED SOLAR CHROMOSPHERE BY WAVES IN MAGNETIC STRUCTURES
Authors: Shelyag S. , Khomenko E. , Vicente A. de , Przybylski D.
Published: February 2016

In this paper, we show a “proof of concept” of the heating mechanism of the solar chromosphere due to wave dissipation caused by the effects of partial ionization. Numerical modeling of non-linear wave propagation in a magnetic flux tube, embedded in the solar atmosphere, is performed by solving a system of single-fluid quasi-MHD equations, which take into account the ambipolar term from the generalized Ohm’s law. It is shown that perturbations caused by magnetic waves can be effectively dissipated due to ambipolar diffusion. The energy input by this mechanism is continuous and shown to be more efficient than dissipation of static currents, ultimately leading to chromospheric temperature increase in magnetic structures.
El Greco en el CSIC: recursos y fuentes documentales para la investigación
Authors: Ibáñez González Raquel , Villalón Herrera Rosa M.ª
Published: February 2016

Se hace una revisión de las fuentes de información sobre El Greco en la Biblioteca Tomás Navarro Tomás del Centro de Ciencias Humanas y Sociales (CCHS) del CSIC, que custodia las colecciones procedentes del Centro de Estudios Históricos y del antiguo Instituto Diego Velázquez del CSIC. Se exponen los documentos bibliográficos y las colecciones del Archivo Fotográfico referidos al pintor
Domenico Greco y la piccola pittura
Authors: Ruiz Gómez Leticia
Published: February 2016

Con motivo de la conmemoración de los cuatro cientos años de la muerte de Dominico Greco, el año 2014 ha sido pródigo en exposiciones, cursos y encuentros centrados en la figura y la obra del artista cretense, abordándose diferentes aspectos de un artista de versátiles registros creativos. Uno de los apuntados ha sido el que recuerda la dedicación del maestro a la miniatura, o mejor, a la pintura de pequeñas dimensiones, a la piccola pittura; un término más amplio que permite incluir ejemplos variados en cuanto a técnica, soportes e incluso dimensiones. Este artículo retoma ese tipo de producción que enlaza con su formación inicial en su isla natal, consagrado a la realización de pequeñas obras sobre tabla y que prolongó igualmente en Italia durante su inmersión en la pintura del Renacimiento veneciano y romano. Se repasan también algunas de las obras españolas que pueden incluirse por dimensiones y técnica pictórica en el concepto de piccola pittura.
“The Postman Always Rings Twice”: Evaluating E-Learning Platform a Decade Later
Authors: Ballarano Alessandra , Colace Francesco , De Santo Massimo , Greco Luca
Published: February 2016

E-Learning represents an effective answer to the continuous request for life-long learning. In fact, this approach allows the flexibility and quality requested by such a kind of learning process. In this scenario, a great number of E-Learning platforms have been introduced on the market and their selection is not a trivial task: various features should be taken into account during the evaluation of an E-Learning platform. Obviously, the analysis of the technical features of an E-Learning platform is not enough: it is also important to understand how it can be integrated in the didactic context in order to facilitate learning and training and what principles are applied to guide the way the system is used. A decade ago, the authors of this paper introduced a model for describing and characterizing on-line learning platform components. Today, the aim of this paper is to evaluate and upgrade this model. During this period, many things have changed in the Web (the introduction of social networks, new multimedia protocols, etc.): what has changed in the E-Learning platforms? Today how to evaluate the E-Learning platforms? In this paper the evaluation model will be updated and then used to evaluate the most known existing platforms.
Teaching with Scratch in Compulsory Secondary Education
Authors: Ortiz-Colon Ana Maria , Maroto Romo Jose Luis
Published: February 2016

The article analyzes the impact that the use of Scratch has in a group of students of Compulsory Secondary Education in the development of the teaching unit. For this we have studied the evolution of creative thought and analyzed the considerations made by the different actors involved, students and teachers. Qualitative and quantitative data are intended to complement the type of evidence and notes in research design followed. The tools used were the interview, field notes, diary of the researcher and the rubric adapted and created by Eduteka. The research results indicate that with the use of Scratch language students get better grades and are more motivated. As a conclusion, we can say that the application of the Scratch program improves school performance and student motivation significantly.
Preparation of Layered Yttrium Oxide by Hydrolysis of Yttrium Nitrate
Authors: Avdin V.V. , Yudina E.P. , Krivtsov I.V.
Published: February 2016

Hydrolysis products of aqueous yttrium nitrates obtained by sol-gel method at room temperature, under atmospheric pressure without any templates and structure directing agents were investigated by thermal analysis combined with mass spectrometry of thermolysis products, XRD and scanning electron microscope with elemental EDS analyzer. Formation of yttrium hydroxonitrocarbonates with various ratio depending on synthesis conditions was found. The samples obtained at 8.5 pH with hydrolysis time at least 40 min using ammonia water solution have the least quantity of impurities and demonstrates the most visible layered morphology. The most explicit layered morphology and the least amount of impurities were revealed in the samples obtained at 8.5 pH with hydrolysis time at least 40 min using ammonia water solution as a hydrolytic agent.
Formation of Photocatalytic Nano-Centers on the Surface of the Photocatalytic Sorbing Agent
Authors: Morozova A.G. , Lonzinger T.M. , Skotnikov V.A.
Published: February 2016

Using the effect of photocatalytic oxidation in nanocrystalline structures is one of the most promising methods of purifying air and water contaminated with organic pollutants. Zinc oxides and titanium oxides are widely used as photocatalysts. The majority of works on the synthesis of photocatalysts on the basis of titanium oxides are covering the elaboration of technological processes of production nanocrystalline oxides either in free condition or as a film on inert carriers or as dispersed oxides. The possibility of obtaining and using photocalalysts on cation centre level in nanostructured chemically active carrier material has not been studied before. It is practical to use calcium silicate and calcium aluminosilicate based granulated composite sorbing agent as an active carrier material. A distinctive feature of composite sorbing agent is its ability of irreversible sorption of heavy metals cations due to formation of substitutional solid solution with a wide homogeneity region. Methods of obtaining photocatalytic centres on the surface of composite sorbing agent have been formulated. Samples of photocatalytic sorbing agent have been obtained by sorption of Ti3+ cations from sorbate solution and through surface exchange reactions. The regularities of formation of nanostructured photocatalytic surface centres of γ 2CaO•SiO2-Ti2O3 type and 2CaO•Al2O3•SiO2-Ti2O3 type on the surface of composite sorbing agent have been studied. Photocatalytic sorbing agent has been proven effective in photocatalytic decomposition of methyl red.
On the Theory of Tetragonality of Martensite Crystals Surrounded with Elastic Matrix
Authors: Mirzaev D.A. , Mirzoev A.A. , Chirkov P.V.
Published: February 2016

The paper is dedicated to the study of thermodynamic stability of tetragonal and cubic states of dilute Fe–C interstitial solid solutions. The combination of the thermodynamic theory and atomistic simulations results was used. This approach allowed us to analyze a widespread theory of carbon ordering in martensite crystal lattice enclosed in an elastic matrix developed by A.G. Khachaturyan. The key parameter of the theory is λ0, the strain interaction parameter. The value of λ0 calculated by A.G. Khachaturyan for a free martensite crystal (2.73 eV/atom ) yields the critical concentration of carbon ccrit=0,55 wt. % for room temperature. In fact, according to the experimental works this concentrations is close to 0.25 wt. %. A.G. Khachaturyan offered an improved theory of carbon ordering based on the assumption that decreasing the sizes of crystals along z axis will cause elastic resistance from surrounding crystals. The stresses arising when the martensite crystal is enclosed in an elastic matrix causes the appearance of a “tail” of order parameter at concentrations below the ccr for free crystal, which explained the discrepancy between Khachaturian’s theory and the experimental data. However our analysis shows the absence of this “tail” that means incorrect calculation of λ0 parameter. Over the last ten years the calculations of the strain interaction parameter λ0 have been made. The values of the parameter λ0 range from 5 to 10 eV/atom, in contrast to 2.73 eV/atom as defined by A.G. Khachaturyan. This fact has a great effect on the estimates of the critical carbon concentration at room temperature. This concentration becomes close to 0.2 wt. %, the value previously indicated by G.V. Kurdjumov. The reasons of abnormal tetragonality observed in the 0.2–0.6 wt. %C range are also considered.
High-Speed Thin Layer Coating
Authors: Korolkova L.I. , Mashrabov N.M.
Published: February 2016

The paper presents the results of the studies devoted to justification and development of methods and means of high-speed thin layer coating. It outlines the layer conditions formation, as well as the requirements for the individual components and surfacing installation assemblies. The following equipment items are designed and manufactured for the implementation of the developed coating processes: surfacing rack, feeding device rotating filler, surfacing head-die and others. The paper presents the completely temperature pattern detailed calculation program with differential-difference scheme-line obtained from a combination of explicit and implicit schemes. The mechanical properties, residual stress, fatigue strength, hardness and microstructure of the coating, etc. have been undertaken as well. The paper recommends the technology to restore worn surfaces of the cylindrical parts with little wear and tear (up to 0.3 mm) and to impart special physical and mechanical properties of the manufactured machine parts surfaces.
The Effect of Additives Including Metakaolin on the Freeze Resistance of Concrete
Authors: Kirsanova A.A. , Thiery V. , Kramar L.Ya.
Published: February 2016

With the help of research studies on the freeze resistance of concrete with complex additives containing metakaolin it is found that its optimum amount with microsilica and plasticizing agents can provide concrete with high freeze resistance of F11000 and more. The use of metakaolin – superplasticizing admixture contributes to a slight increase of freeze resistance of concrete only due to the consolidation of its structure as a result of increasing the degree of hydration of main minerals of concrete С3S and β-С2S under the influence of metakaolin. It is proved that the optimal amount of metakaolin together with superplasticizing admixture helps to form the phase composition of cement stone from highly basic hydrosilicates and stable hydroaluminates. The use of overdosed metakaolin leads to appearance of a great number of metastable hydroaluminates in the cement stone which makes it inefficient for the production of freeze-proof concrete.
Selective Laser Melting of Copper
Authors: Lykov P.A. , Safonov E.V. , Akhmedianov A.M.
Published: February 2016

In this work the selective laser melting (SLM) of pure copper powder was studied. Because of low laser radiation absorption and high thermal conductivity it is very difficult to organize stable SLM process for copper. Five 10x10x5 mm specimens were fabricated by using different process parameters (scanning speed, point distance, exposure time, scanning strategy). The structure of fabricated specimens was studied by scanning electron microscopy of polished cross-sections. The tensile test was carried out for SLM regime with the lowest porosity.
Yttrium Oxide Wetting Angle Examination
Authors: Anikeev A.N. , Chumanov I.V. , Chumanov V.I.
Published: February 2016

The current paper presents yttrium oxide wetting angle examination. The test was performed in accordance with two different methods: contact and noncontact heating. Upon completion of the test, microstructural and spectral analysis of substrate/metal contact areas was conducted. Test findings are listed in the Conclusions.
The Negative Temperature Impact on Hardening of Magnesia Composites
Authors: Kiyanets A.V.
Published: February 2016

Modern economy has a strong demand for higher speed of construction and lower construction costs both achieved by using new efficient materials. Significant climate influence on the construction technology urges to make extensive investigations on hardening the construction composite (concrete and mortar) mixtures under freezing temperatures at the actual construction site. The article focuses on the use of advanced composite materials using magnesium oxychloride cement and mineral aggregates. The results of literature review on the problem are also presented. We have found that the problem of magnesia composites hardening under freezing temperatures hasn’t been thoroughly investigated. The results of laboratory study of the effect of initial magnesia concretes maturing and mortars under the conditions of freezing temperatures on the hardening process and the final strength of the material are presented. The scientific explanation of the speed of magnesium oxychloride cement strength development in concretes and mortars which have initially undergone the influence of freezing temperatures is given.
Toxic effects of Trebon®, a synthetic pyrethroid based insecticide formulation, on Oreochromis mossambicus (Family: Cichlidae)
Authors: Chandrasekara W.U. , Premarathna K.S.D.
Published: February 2016

Trebon® (active ingredient: Etofenprox) is a recently developed potential pyrethroid insecticide formulation and reported to bring about adverse effects to non-targeted organisms in agricultural fields and associated habitats. The toxic effects of Trebon® on fingerlings of tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) were studied in the present investigation following standard laboratory experimentation procedures.Results revealed that the 24-hr and 96-hr LC50 s of Trebon® were 0.0657 mg L-1 and 0.0087 mg L-1 respectively which are nearly 23 times and 172 times below its recommended field dose which is 1.5 mg L-1. It therefore appears that Trebon® brings about mortality to tilapia fingerlings at concentrations that are milder than the field dose within a short period of exposure. Gill hyperplasia, deformation and telangiectasis of secondary gill lamella, mucosal cell proliferation, lamella disorganization and fusion were observed in the insecticide exposed test fishes. The liver tissues were also damaged with intracellular vacuolation, aggregation of melanomacrophages, blood congestion and focal necrosis. The severity of these damages increased with the level of dosage and the exposure period. The fingerlings suffered respiratory distress while the body coloration gradually changed into a pale hue upon exposure to Trebon®.
Shortened Intervals during Heterologous Boosting Preserve Memory CD8 T Cell Function but Compromise Longevity
Authors: Thompson Emily A. , Beura Lalit K. , Nelson Christine E. , Anderson Kristin G. , Vezys Vaiva
Published: February 2016

Developing vaccine strategies to generate high numbers of Ag-specific CD8 T cells may be necessary for protection against recalcitrant pathogens. Heterologous prime-boost-boost immunization has been shown to result in large quantities of functional memory CD8 T cells with protective capacities and long-term stability. Completing the serial immunization steps for heterologous prime-boost-boost can be lengthy, leaving the host vulnerable for an extensive period of time during the vaccination process. We show in this study that shortening the intervals between boosting events to 2 wk results in high numbers of functional and protective Ag-specific CD8 T cells. This protection is comparable to that achieved with long-term boosting intervals. Short-boosted Ag-specific CD8 T cells display a canonical memory T cell signature associated with long-lived memory and have identical proliferative potential to long-boosted T cells Both populations robustly respond to antigenic re-exposure. Despite this, short-boosted Ag-specific CD8 T cells continue to contract gradually over time, which correlates to metabolic differences between short- and long-boosted CD8 T cells at early memory time points. Our studies indicate that shortening the interval between boosts can yield abundant, functional Ag-specific CD8 T cells that are poised for immediate protection; however, this is at the expense of forming stable long-term memory.
Willingness to Pay for Mosquito Control in Key West, Florida and Tucson, Arizona
Authors: Dickinson Katherine L. , Hayden Mary H. , Haenchen Steven , Monaghan Andrew J. , Walker Kathleen R. , Ernst Kacey C.
Published: February 2016

Mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile virus (WNV) and dengue are growing threats to the United States. Proactive mosquito control is one strategy to reduce the risk of disease transmission. In 2012, we measured the public's willingness to pay (WTP) for increased mosquito control in two cities: Key West, FL, where there have been recent dengue outbreaks, and Tucson, AZ, where dengue vectors are established and WNV has been circulating for over a decade. Nearly three quarters of respondents in both cities (74% in Tucson and 73% in Key West) would be willing to pay $25 or more annually toward an increase in publicly funded mosquito control efforts. WTP was positively associated with income (both cities), education (Key West), and perceived mosquito abundance (Tucson). Concerns about environmental impacts of mosquito control were associated with lower WTP in Key West. Expanded mosquito control efforts should incorporate public opinion as they respond to evolving disease risks.
Earlobe Inflammation from a Palm Thorn Injury
Authors: Press Yan , Peleg Roni
Published: February 2016

Injury from the thorn of a palm tree is characterized by a prolonged, painful inflammatory reaction. Even when the source of the inflammation is diagnosed, appropriate treatment is usually delayed because family doctors are not familiar with the entity. Penetration of a palm thorn into the earlobe is an unrecognized cause of local inflammation. We describe a case of injury from a palm tree thorn in this uncommon site. We present the technique of transillumination for the identification and removal of the palm thorn.
Utilization of O4 slant column density to derive aerosol layer height from a space-borne UV–visible hyperspectral sensor: sensitivity and case study
Authors: Park Sang Seo , Kim Jhoon , Lee Hanlim , Torres Omar , Lee Kwang-Mog , Lee Sang Deok
Published: February 2016

Abstract. The sensitivities of oxygen-dimer (O4) slant column densities (SCDs) to changes in aerosol layer height are investigated using the simulated radiances by a radiative transfer model, the linearized pseudo-spherical vector discrete ordinate radiative transfer (VLIDORT), and the differential optical absorption spectroscopy (DOAS) technique. The sensitivities of the O4 index (O4I), which is defined as dividing O4 SCD by 1040 molecules2 cm−5, to aerosol types and optical properties are also evaluated and compared. Among the O4 absorption bands at 340, 360, 380, and 477 nm, the O4 absorption band at 477 nm is found to be the most suitable to retrieve the aerosol effective height. However, the O4I at 477 nm is significantly influenced not only by the aerosol layer effective height but also by aerosol vertical profiles, optical properties including single scattering albedo (SSA), aerosol optical depth (AOD), particle size, and surface albedo. Overall, the error of the retrieved aerosol effective height is estimated to be 1276, 846, and 739 m for dust, non-absorbing, and absorbing aerosol, respectively, assuming knowledge on the aerosol vertical distribution shape. Using radiance data from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI), a new algorithm is developed to derive the aerosol effective height over East Asia after the determination of the aerosol type and AOD from the MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). About 80 % of retrieved aerosol effective heights are within the error range of 1 km compared to those obtained from the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP) measurements on thick aerosol layer cases.