bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(Re)acting together: Grexit as revival of intellectuals
Authors: Pudar-Drasko Gazela
Published: January 2016

The paper explores the messages of engaged global intellectuals in the case
of Grexit, the case of Greek attempt to break up with neoliberal practices
and produce a left turn in politics and society, which was followed
worldwide. How their words contribute to the general understanding (if there
is one) and change (if there should be change)? What kind of action we can
expect from intellectuals, as it is intrinsic to the concept? The issues
examined in this paper deal with the intellectuals as bearers of articulating
social critique, focusing on the specific Greek case in the time of
temptations.
Comparative study of I/D polymorphism of ace gene in diabetes type-2 patients and control group in unrelated Gujarati population
Authors: Doshi Darshan , Shah Druti , Singh Krishna , Patel Rajesh
Published: January 2016

Many of the previous studies indicated that the I/D polymorphism of ACE gene
is associated with diabetes type-2. To validate the association of I/D
polymorphism in ACE gene, a study was designed in non-diabetic (normal) and
diabetic type-2 patients of unrelated Gujarati population. The random blood
samples from 36 normal and 36 diabetic type -2 patients of above 45 years
were collected for the studies. DNA was extracted from blood samples for PCR
by using ACE specific primers. The gene and genotype frequencies were
estimated for different alleles observed in diabetic as well as in normal
healthy persons. In present study, all three genotypes that is, I/I (477bp),
I/D (477/190bp), D/D (190bp) were observed in samples from normal and
diabetic patients. Among all genotypes ID (58.3%) has maximum genotypic
frequency in diabetic than Non diabetic individuals (44.4%), frequency of II
(27.7%) is more in Non diabetic individuals than Diabetic individuals (19.4%)
and genotypic frequency of DD (27.7%) is more in Non diabetic than Diabetic
individuals (22.22%). The results were not in agreement with so many previous
studies. However, recent findings of other studies conducted in different
ethnic groups are similar to our findings which do not support that I/D
polymorphism are associated with type-2 diabetes.
Corresponding erdosteine changes autophagy genes expression in hippocampus on Rhinitis medicamentosa model
Authors: Dokuyucu Recep , Gogebakan Bulent , Cevik Cengiz
Published: January 2016

In our study, rats were subjected to Oxymetazoline hydrochloride treatment
and Rhinitis medicamentosa (RM) was formed and then autophagy gene expression
levels were determined after the application of an antioxidant agent
erdosteine (ED). The rats were divided into three groups; Group 1 was the
control group. Group 2 (RM) and group 3 (RM+ED) rats received two spray puffs
of 0.05% oxymetazoline into the nasal cavities three times daily for eight
weeks. After determination of RM in the rats, the RM group were killed. The
ED+RM group received 10 mg/kg of an ED suspension. At the end of seven days,
these rats were also killed. All groups? hippocampus tissues were obtained
for the measurement of autophagy gene expressions. In rhinitis medicamentosa
group Atg5, Atg7 and Atg10 gene expressions in the left hippocampus were
reduced as compared to control group (p=0.01, p>0.05, p=0.01, respectively).
Also, erdosteine treatments were restored mRNA expression of autophagy genes.
In right hippocampus of rhinitis medicamentosa group, Atg5 and Atg10 gene
expressions was found to be down-regulated as compared to control group
(p>0.05, p<0.05, respectively). Both BECN1 and ULK genes expression were
found to be reduced in left hippocampus of rhinitis medicamentosa group.
Erdosteine applications was restored the expression of these genes (p=0.03,
p=0.03, respectively). Additionally, in right hippocampus, Erdosteine
application was restored the expression of ULK gene (p=0.01). This is the
first report that evaluated the expression autophagy genes in RM rat models
and the changes observed after erdosteine applications.
DNA microsatellite analysis for tomato genetic differentiation
Authors: Miskoska-Milevska Elizabeta , Popovski Zoran , Dimitrievska Blagica , Bandzo Katerina
Published: January 2016

Commonly used method for determination of the genetic diversity among the
populations is the test for genetic differentiation. DNA microsatellite
markers are usually used to investigate the genetic structure of natural
populations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the applicability of eight
DNA microsatellite loci (LECH13, LE21085, LEMDDNa, LEEF1Aa, LELEUZIP,
LE20592, TMS9 and LE2A11) in genetic differentiation of six morphologically
different tomato varieties (var. grandifolium from subsp. cultum; var.
cerasiforme - red and yellow, var. pruniforme and var. pyriforme from subsp.
subspontaneum; and var. racemigerum from subsp. spontaneum). The fragment
analyses was performed using Applied Biosystems DNA analyzer (ABI 3130) and
GeneMapper? Software program. The data were analysed using the specific
program Power Marker Software. The average number of detected alleles was
3,625. Also, the average PIC value for all 8 DNA microsatellites loci was
0,3571. The genetic differentiation test in the researched tomato subspecies
showed minor differentiation for locus LELEUZIP (- 0,0009), modest
differentiation for locus LECH13 (0,0896), locus LEMDDNa (0,0896) and locus
LE21085 (0,0551) and major differentiation for locus LE2A11 (0,7633), locus
LEEF1Aa (0,6167), locus TMS9 (0.4967) and locus LE20592 (0,4263). On the
other hand, in the estimated tomato varieties, locus LE21085 (0,0297), locus
LECH13 (0,0256) and locus LELEUZIP (0,0005) showed minor differentiation,
locus LEMDDNa (0,1333) showed modest differentiation, while locus TMS9
(0,5929), locus LEEF1Aa (0,5006), locus LE2A11 (0,4013) and locus LE20592
(0,2606) showed major differentiation. The eight DNA microsatellite loci can
be applicable solution for tomato genetic differentiation. The overall
results suggest that these microsatellite loci could be used in further
population genetic studies of tomatoes.
Using cytogenetic analysis RAPD in determination of genetic variations among four species of ornamental fishes of family: Poecilidae (Order: Cyprinodontiform)
Authors: Abu-Almaaty A.H. , Welson-Zekry Mary , Essa Yaseen , Essa Yaseen
Published: January 2016

The karyological and molecular analysis of four fresh water fish species of
Family: Poecilidae and their genetic relationships have been studied.
Xiphophorus maculates and Xiphophorus hellerii have the same diploid
chromosome number 2n=48, but they were different in their karyotypes.
Poecilia sphenops and Poecilia reticulata have the same diploid chromosome
number 2n=46 and the same fundamental number FN=46, also the same karyotype
one group of acrocentric chromosomes. Nine RAPD primers, showed monomorphic
bands, were used for the construction of the dendrogram and a similarity
matrix. A total of 65 bands were obtained; 39 of them were monomorphic bands.
Similarity values among the studied samples ranged from 21% to 38%. High
similarity value was obtained between Xiphophorus maculates and Xiphophorus
hellerii. (38%) and the low similarity values were obtained between
Xiphophorus hellerii and Poecilia reticulata (21%). The cluster analysis
clearly differentiated Xiphophorus maculates and Xiphophorus hellerii from
Poecilia sphenops and Poecilia reticulata. RAPD analysis confirmed that the
four species under study are genetically different from each other. These
cytogenetic data obtained can be applied for further studies in cytotaxonomy
and evolutionary relationships of fishes.
Determination of self-(in)compatibility in some Turkish cultivated and wild apricots
Authors: Pinar Hasan , Unlu Mustafa , Ercisli Sezai , Uzun Aydin , Bircan Mustafa , Ugurtan-Yilmaz Kadir
Published: January 2016

In this study, self-(in) compatibility of 34 wild apricot genotypes, called
as Sakit apricots, sampled from Sakit valley located in east Mediterranean
region of Turkey and 9 well known Turkish apricot cultivars were determined
by using molecular methods. Genomic PCR with S-RNase and SFB-specific primers
was conducted using the degenerate primers EM-PC2consFD and EM-PC3consRD for
the amplification of the second intron region of the S-RNase gene. To amplify
the first intron, the fluorescently labelled (JOE) forward primer SRc-F was
used in combination with the reverse primer SRc-R. According to the results,
Sc (self-compatible) allele is not present in all wild and cultivated
materials. All wild genotypes had same S allele (S6S19) composition
indicating they do not carry the SC-haplotype. These wild materials
previously reported self-compatible by fruit set studies on field. Mutations
rendering the S-locus non-functional in these genotypes can be supposed and
checked in the future. The most important dried apricot cultivars of Turkey
such as Hacihaliloglu, Kabaasi, and Cataloglu were observed to be
self-incompatible cultivars.
Correlation and path coefficient analysis for protein yield in confectionary sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)
Authors: Hladni Nada , Miklic Vladimir , Mijic Anto , Jocic Sinisa , Miladinovic Dragana
Published: January 2016

The most important criteria for introducing new confectionary hybrids into
the production is high protein yield. Path coefficient analysis was used to
obtain information on direct and indirect effects of studied traits (seed oil
content, kernel oil content, seed yield, kernel protein content, mass of 1000
seeds, kernel ratio and hull ratio) on protein yield. The research was
conducted during three vegetation seasons, on 22 experimental confectionary
sunflower hybrids created in the breeding program at the Institute of Field
and Vegetable Crops. Strong and very strong correlations were found among the
largest number of examined traits. A weak negative interdependence was
determined between kernel oil content, kernel protein content, mass of 1000
seeds, hull ratio, and protein yield using the analysis of simple correlation
coefficients. Positive but weak correlation was determined between protein
yield and seed oil content, and kernel ratio. Very strong positive
correlation was determined between protein yield and seed yield (0.468**). The seed oil content had a very strong direct negative effect on protein yield (DE=-0.734**). The mass of 1000 seeds had a weak negative direct effect on protein yield. Kernel protein content and kernel oil content demonstrated a weak direct positive effect on protein yield. Path coefficient analysis of protein yield showed a very strong positive direct effect of kernel ratio (DE=1.340**), seed yield (DE=0.657**) and hull ratio (DE=0.992*). These findings confirm the effect of seed yield, kernel ratio, and hull ratio on protein yield, and their importance as the selection criteria in confectionary sunflower breeding.
Gliadin and glutenin polymorphism in durum wheat landraces and breeding varieties of Azerbaijan
Authors: Sadigov-Baykishi Hamlet
Published: January 2016

Durum wheat genotypes including 7 landraces and 17 breeding varieties were
studied. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis under acidic conditions of pH 3.1
was used to study gliadin and glutenin polymorphisms. In total, 32 gliadin
and 8 high molecular weight glutenin alleles were identified. The
contribution of B genome (58.5%) to the allelic variation of durum wheat
varieties was higher than of A genome. The cluster analysis delineated
genotypes into four main clusters. According to cluster analysis, legitimacy
identifying the distribution of botanical varieties through the tree was
observed. The study confirms the suitability of biochemical markers for
cultivar identification and genetic relation study in durum wheat genotypes.
From clinical suspect to molecular confirmation of noonan syndrome; contribution of “best practice” genetic counseling and new technical possibilities
Authors: Bukvic Nenad , Varvara Dora , Rossi Cesare , Felicia-Faienza Maria , Susca Francesco , Resta Nicoletta
Published: January 2016

Noonan syndrome (NS) is an autosomal dominant disorder, characterized by
variable expressivity of clinical features such as: postnatal growth
reduction, congenital heart disease, characteristic facial dysmorphisms and
development delay. In ~75% of all NS cases, germline mutations involving
RAS-MAPK signaling pathway genes (PTPN11, SOS1, RAF1, KRAS, NRAS, BRAF,
SHOC2, MEK1, CBL) are causative. We reported a case of 13-year-old girl [born
at 36w by CS (BW 3250 g (~95?), BL 48 cm (~75?)] referred for genetic
counseling due to growth retardation, facial dysmorphisms, development delay
and learning disability. After birth she presented frequent vomiting, with
failure to thrive and at 5 months of age underwent surgery for intestinal
malrotation. Because of short stature, Growth Hormone (GH) therapy have been
introduced at age of 3yrs up to 11yrs. Negative molecular testing for PTPN11
and SOS1 genes, normal female karyotype and aCGH analysis were observed.
Objective examination: H 138 cm, (<3?); W 33 kg, (<3?), no menarche,
hypertelorism, eyelids ptosis with down slanting palpebral fissures, low-set
and posteriorly rotated ears, high-arched palate, micrognathia, short and
webbed neck, low hairline at the back of the neck, pectus excavatum,
prominent scoliosis, joint hyperextensibility, bilateral pes planus and
mitral valve prolapse disclosed by US. Phenotype of our patient was
suggestive to NS, thus further mutational screening has been requested.
Missense mutation in exon 2 of KRAS gene (c.40G>A; p.Val14Ile) has been
identified. Even though KRAS mutations are usually associated with NS severe
phenotype with cardiac involvement (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy), this
finding is not present in our patient.
Overview of European population clustering based on 23 Y-STR loci
Authors: Dogan Serkan , Asic Adna , Buljubasic Sanida , Besic Larisa , Avdic Monia , Feric Elma , Hukic Mirsada , Turan Yusuf , Marjanovic Damir
Published: January 2016

Short tandem repeats (STRs) located on the Y-chromosome are a useful tool for
various scientific fields, such as forensic investigation, but also for the
investigation of population structure and molecular history. In this study,
population data based on 23 Y-STR loci (DYS19, DYS389I, DYS389II, DYS390,
DYS391, DYS392, DYS393, DYS385a/b, DYS437, DYS438, DYS439, DYS448, DYS456,
DYS458, DYS635, GATAH4, DYS481, DYS533, DYS549, DYS570, DYS576, and DYS643)
from 23 European human populations were compared. All haplotype data for this
research were gathered from previously published articles. Arlequin v3.5.1.2,
POPTREE2, and MEGA 5.1 software packages were used for the calculation of
allelic frequencies and genetic distance, and the construction of the
European, as well as worldwide phylogenetic trees. Obtained results indicate
a formation of several distinct sub-clusters within European population
cluster. Observed sub-clusters were mostly recognized within geographically
closer populations, meaning that neighboring populations were a part of the
same sub-cluster in most of the cases. Compared with the previously published
results obtained using autosomal STR markers, a significant level of
concordance was detected. However, it seems that Y-STRs analyzed in this
study are more informative since they enabled regional clustering in addition
to continental clustering. Also, the use of a larger number of loci yielded
clustering that is more specific than what has been calculated to date.
Finally, it can be concluded that this study has shown that the application
of a larger number of loci enables the more detailed insight into the
relationships between European populations, compared to what has been
published before.
Development of novel markers, using computationally extracted classi type EST-SSRs, in wheat leaf rust fungus Puccinia triticina
Authors: Sipahi Hülya , Yumurtaci Ayşen , Mert Zafer
Published: January 2016

This study focused on the development of EST-simple sequence repeats markers
and the detection of their transferability and their utility for evaluating
wheat leaf rust pathogen diversity. A total of 44,407 publicly available EST
sequences derived from Puccinia triticina were computationally mined.
Di-nucleotide repeat density covered the vast majority of assembled ESTs
(45%). The tri-repeat motif (TCT) and penta-repeat motif (TTCTT) were the
most repeated motif. A set of 103 Class I type sequences containing simple
sequence repeats were further analyzed by BLASTX similarity. Nineteen primer
pairs flanking regions of EST-SSRs were designed. Of the 19 primer pairs
tested, 10 successfully amplified fragments. Their polymorphism was evaluated
with 8 Puccinia triticina (Pt) single-uredinal isolates collected from the
different regions of Turkey. These newly developed EST-SSR primer pairs can
be implicated as stable markers for pathogen diversity analysis. It was also
shown that some leaf rust EST-SSR markers were capable of cross-amplification
in P. graminis f. sp. tritici.
Maize nutrient uptake affected by genotype and fertilization
Authors: Djalovic Ivica , Jockovic Djordje , Chen Yinglong , Bekavac Goran , Seremesic Srdjan , Jacimovic Goran , Brdar-Jokanovic Milka
Published: January 2016

The content of nutrients in maize are commonly related with fertilization and
soil quality and rarely explained with the individual hybrid properties.
Therefore, the aim of this study is to access a long term fertilization
system on ear leaf of Mg, Fe, Mn and Cu content in six maize hybrids(NS 3014,
NS 4015, NS 5043, NS 6010, NS 6030 and NS 7020). Samples were collected from
a long-term experiment at the Rimski Sancevi experimental field of the
Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops in Novi Sad. The study included maize
monoculture and 2-year rotations with the application of NPK and manure.
Results showed that ear Mg content was influenced with the treatments, hybrid
and their interaction and ranged from 1.77-2.69 g kg-1. Iron variability was
significantly affected with the treatments and interaction (hybrid x
treatments) in range from 103.2 to151.9g kg-1. The ear manganese content
(41.1-63.6g kg-1) derived from treatments and hybrid effect and Cu (12.3-23.6
g kg-1) was significantly influenced with treatments. Across all treatments,
in average, NS6030 had higher values of nutrient and NS3014 was lower in ear
nutrient content. This indicates that vegetation length could favor nutrient
accumulation. Obtained results suggested that even on fairly productive soil
such as Chernozem hybrid selection and the balanced fertilization is crucial
for managing the maize nutrient content.
Mineral content in a salad leaf (Lactuca sativa L.) depending of the genotype and applied agricultural measures
Authors: Govedarica-Lucic Aleksandra , Perkovic Goran
Published: January 2016

Four different production methods applied on three genotype of lettuce
(Archimedes RZ, Santoro RZ, Kibou RZ) - have been estimated in a two-year
experiment carried out at the Agricultural University of East Sarajevo. The
experiment has been conducted during two-year period; lettuce was cultivated
by using four different mulch materials: black PE foil, agro textile, a
combination of PE foil and agro textile; control variant (bare soil). After
harvesting lettuce, evaluated the content of the following minerals (N, P,
K). The values of nitrogen content tend to increase from bare ground (7.47%)
to a covered soil (7.98%). The reaction genotype on variants coverage shows
an interaction effect. Type of material for covering soil also has an
influence on the content of potassium. The highest potassium content of 4.87%
was recorded at the variant of covering with agro textile, or by 18% more in
comparison to the control variant.
Four decades of inversion polymorphism in Drosophila pseudoobscura from Mexico
Authors: Salceda Victor , Guzmán-Rincón Judith , Esther de , Olvera Olga
Published: January 2016

Chromosomal inversion polymorphism has been study in different natural and
experimental populations of Drosophila species. D pseudoobscura first
studies in Mexico started during the late 30?s of last century, here are
shown the relative frequencies of 48 populations in a period of 40 years
with a grand total of 7266 third chromosomes analyzed. Globally in those
populations a total of 26inversions are present, in most cases their genetic
structure is built by five main gene arrangements and three to six in minor
frequencies not reaching a particular one more than six percent. This study
includes the description of 15new inversions reported else were. The most
frequent gene arrangements found were TL, CU, SC, EP and OA thatglobally
represent about the 90%of the whole sample. Remaining 21 inversions were
found with individual frequencies varying from one to six per cent reaching
in general the remaining 10%. In some areas the dominant inversions are CH.
AR. ST and PP. in some areas. Important goals of this study are the
discovery and description of 15 new gene arrangements as well new species
description, D. cuauhtemoci. All of them reported else were.
The influence of electrocorundum granulation on the properties of sintered Cu/electrocorundum composites
Authors: Strojny-Nędza A. , Pietrzak K. , Węglewski W.
Published: January 2016

Copper/alumina composites are extensively used in automotive and aerospace
industry for products that are subjected to severe thermal and mechanical
loadings, such as rocket thrusters and components of aircraft engines. These
materials are well-known for their good frictional wear resistance, good
resistance to thermal fatigue, high thermal conductivity and high specific
heat. In this paper, the sintering process of copper/electrocorundum
composites reinforced by electrocorundum particles with diameters of 3 or 180
?m and 1, 3, 5 vol.% content is presented. The effects of different particle
sizes of the ceramic reinforcement on the microstructure, physical,
mechanical, tribological and thermal properties of the fabricated composites
are discussed.
The thermal and magnetic properties of the Fe89.8Ni1.5Si5.2B3C0.5 and Fe81B13Si14C2 amorphous alloys
Authors: Kalezic-Glisovic A. , Mitrovic N. , Obradovic N.
Published: January 2016

This paper investigates the thermal and magnetic properties of two iron based
amorphous alloys with different Fe-content: Fe89.8Ni1.5Si5.2B3C0.5 and
Fe81B13Si14C2. The XRD results show that the thermal induced structural
changes occur in the temperature range of 3000C - 8500C for the
Fe89.8Ni1.5Si5.2B3C0.5 amorphous alloy. The appearance of the first
crystallization peaks on DSC thermograms of Fe81B13Si4C2, amorphous alloy is
perceived already at 4500C. The initial magnetization curves of the as-cast
sample of the Fe89.8Ni1.5Si5.2B3C0.5 amorphous alloy, obtained at the
frequencies of 50 Hz, 400 Hz and 1000 Hz show the excellent match. The
maximum relative magnetic permeability for Fe89.8Ni1.5Si5.2B3C0.5 alloy
sample is achieved at magnetic field strength of about 20 A/m for all
frequencies, whereas the values of about 7000 were obtained at the
frequencies of 50 Hz and 400 Hz. The influence of frequency on total power
losses, for both alloys exhibits the increase of core losses with frequency
increase. The amorphous alloy Fe89.8Ni1.5Si5.2B3C0.5 toroidal core exhibits
about 3 time higher total power losses.
Annealing effects on luminescent properties of Eu3+ doped Gd2Zr2O7 nanopowders
Authors: Rabasovic M.S. , Sevic D. , Krizan J. , Rabasovic M.D. , Romcevic N.
Published: January 2016

In this report presented are structure, morphology and luminescence
properties of nanopowders based on gadolinium zirconium oxide (Gd2Zr2O7)
doped by europium ions (Eu3+). The nanopowders were prepared using a flame
combustion method, the most frequently used process due to the simplicity and
low cost of the synthesis procedures and also due to the possibility of
tailoring the size and morphology of particles. The produced material is
suitable for various optical devices. The luminescence properties of
synthesized nanopowders were characterized by emission spectra and
luminescence lifetimes obtained by using the streak camera system. Moreover,
emission spectra were obtained and compared for powders as-obtained and after
additional annealing at 1200o C. Luminescence emission spectra clearly show
peaks characteristic for the strong emission lines at 611 nm and 630 nm
corresponding to the 5D0 ? 7F2 long lived transition.
Natural diatomite (Rudovci, Serbia) as adsorbent for removal Cs from radioactive waste liquids
Authors: Nenadovic S. , Kljajevic Lj. , Markovic S. , Omerasevic M. , Jovanovic U. , Andric V. , Vukanac I.
Published: January 2016

The removal of Cs (I) ions from aqueous solution was studied using natural
diatomite as adsorption materials originated from Rudovci, Serbia. The
microstructure of natural diatomite has been characterized by X-ray
diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) while the degree of Cs
adsorption was evaluated by atomic emission spectroscopy. The cation exchange
capacity (CEC) values for natural diatomite was 50 meq/100g. Depending on
whether the Cs adsorption occurred in the acidic and alkaline media at a
temperature of 298.15 K in acidic media ?G0 values was -12.674 kJ/mol, while
in alkaline media ?G0 was - 13.142 kJ/mol and a change of ?S0 to 42.51 J/molK
in acidic media and 44.08 J/molK in alkaline medium.
Mechanical properties and microstructure fractal analysis of refractory bauxite concrete
Authors: Terzic A. , Mitic V.V. , Kocic Lj. , Radojevic Z. , Pasalic S.
Published: January 2016

The surface topography analysis via fractals as a means of explanation of
composite materials mechanical and microstructural characteristics has hardly
been reported so far. This study proposes a method of fractal analysis and
its application to refractory bauxite concrete surface tribological
investigation. Fractal dimension, profilegrams and fast Fourier transform
method are introduced and supported by the adequate software for analysing
contours and surface roughness, depending on the observation scale and also
numerically depending on horizontal lines intercepted by the investigated
profile. Also, the Richardson method and Kaye modification are applied to
distinguish textured and structured aspect of grain contour geometry.
Microstructural investigation was carried out using a scanning electron
microscope. Using the fractals of the grains contact surfaces, a
reconstruction of microstructure configuration, as grains shapes or
inter-granular contacts, has been performed. Obtained results indicated that
fractal analyses of contact surfaces of different shapes were very important
for the prognosis of the concrete behaviour. The novel approach to the
investigation of refractory concrete properties was successfully conducted,
as a result introducing fractal identification as a means of composite
materials performances evaluation.
Synthesis, structure and properties of nickel-iron-tungsten alloy electrodeposits - part I: Effect of synthesis parameters on chemical composition, microstructure and morphology
Authors: Cirovic N. , Spasojevic P. , Ribic-Zelenovic L. , Maskovic P. , Spasojevic M.
Published: January 2016

Kinetic and operational electrolysis parameters determine the polarization
characteristics, electrodeposition current efficiency, morphology, chemical
composition and microstructure of nickel/iron/tungsten alloy deposits. The
alloys electrodeposited at a current density of 50 mAcm-2 to 1000 mAcm-2
contain an amorphous phase and nanocrystals of an FCC solid solution of iron
and tungsten in nickel. During annealing at temperatures above 500?C,
amorphous phase crystallization, crystalline grain growth of the FCC phase
and a reduction in both internal microstrain and minimum density of
chaotically distributed dislocations take place in the alloy. Milling the
spongy deposit of the alloy causes amorphous phase crystallization, FCC-phase
crystalline grain growth, and size reduction and rounding of powder
particles.
Small intestine obstruction with ascarididae in foal safter dehelmintisation with ivermectin: Case report
Authors: Laus Sasa , Spasojevic-Kosic Ljubica , Trailovic Dragisa
Published: January 2016

High intensity of infection with ascaridida Parascaris equorum can lead to
intraluminal obstruction of the ileum in foals, especially during the first
dehelmintisation (during and after weaning), more rarely in older ones. Bowel
obstruction is followed by strong colic pain and shock, which inevitably
leads to death, especially in cases when an adequate therapy is not taken on
time. The paper describes four cases of small intestine obstruction with
ascarididae in foals of American trotter race, provoked by an antiparasitic
agent. The first symptoms appeared about twenty hours after the treatment
with antiparasitic. Two of the foals have been cured with medicament therapy,
one died, and in one case there was taken surgery in field conditions.
Retroactive Tax Legislation, Reported Earnings, and Investors' Responses to Earnings “Surprises”: Evidence from R&D Credit Extensions
Authors: Bratten Brian , Hulse David S.
Published: January 2016

When Congress retroactively extends a temporary tax rule, the effect on earnings is complex because financial reporting standards require firms to apply the integral method using enacted tax law to determine quarterly income tax expense. We model this effect and examine earnings announcements following retroactive extensions of the federal R&D tax credit to test how investors incorporate the effect into stock prices. We find that investors respond when earnings are announced, even though the effect could have been determined several weeks earlier. We also show that in recent years, the effects of retroactive extensions of the credit are a substantial part of the average decrease in effective tax rates (ETRs) from the third to fourth quarter for calendar-year firms. Our results have implications for investors and researchers examining earnings and ETRs around retroactive extensions of temporary tax rules and suggest that congressional delays and GAAP interact to produce unintended consequences.

JEL Classifications: M41; M48; G14; H25.

Data Availability: Data used in this study are available from the sources identified in the text.
Production of powder fish silage from fish market wastes
Authors: Hossain U , Alam AKMN
Published: January 2016

This study was undertaken to investigate the suitability of using fish market wastes (viscera) as raw material for powder fish silage production. Fish viscera contained 14.01±0.68% protein, 20.00±1.04% lipid, 4.75±0.64% ash, 60.62±2.15% moisture and 0.62±0.08% Nitrogen Free Extract (NFE). The pH of fish viscera was 6.21±0.07. For liquid fish silage production, 2, 3, 4 and 5% formic acid were added in blended viscera, of which 4% formic acid was found better that had a pH value of 3.77±0.07. Liquid silage contained 12.00±0.89% protein, 17.26±1.49% lipid, 3.73±0.81% ash, 66.41±3.07% moisture and 0.60±0.09% NFE. For neutralizing liquid fish silage, various concentrations, viz. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6% Na2CO3 were added. The pH value (6.32±0.01) was better when mixing with 4% Na2CO3. To produce powder fish silage 20, 30, 40 and 50% rice bran were mixed in liquid fish silage. Powder silage made with 30% rice bran was found better to improve the nutritional quality of the product that contained 20.84±0.12% protein, 33.73±0.14% lipid, 14.05±0.27% ash, 10.83±0.19% moisture, 6.61±0.10% crude fiber and 13.94% carbohydrate. The pH value was 6.54±0.01. After preparation, powder fish silage was packaged. The packaged powder fish silage was then stored for 4 months at room temperature (20-300C). After four months of storage, the contents of protein, lipid, ash, moisture, crude fiber, carbohydrate and pH reached at 20.30±0.13, 32.41±0.16, 13.49±0.33, 10.98±0.28, 6.32±0.07, 16.50% and 6.76±0.09, respectively. It was found that nutritional value of powder fish silage was very high and can be used in fish feed to reduce feed cost and enhance aquaculture production.SAARC J. Agri., 13(2): 13-25 (2015)
Integrated farming and its impact on farmers livelihood in Bangladesh
Authors: Uddin MT , Khan MA , Islam MM
Published: January 2016

The study was conducted to identify the present status of integrated farming and its impacts on farmers livelihood in comparison to mixed farming. Following two stages sampling procedure, a total of 420 farmers (210 for integrated farming and 210 for mixed farming) were selected from seven study areas of six districts on the basis of having intervention from different NARS institutes and without having any intervention from any organization. Descriptive statistics like sum, average, percentage, etc. were derived and calculated for analyzing the socioeconomic data. Propensity score matching (PSM) were applied with Kernel matching and Radius matching methods to evaluate the impact of integrated farming on farmers employment creation and income generation. The highest employment duration for male was 152.5 man-days/year for the farming system C-L-P-F-H under integrated farms and for mixed farms, it was 104.5 man-days/year. The average total income of the integrated farms was Tk. 124839 and for mixed farms, it was Tk. 99641. Average calorie intake of food secure households was 2927.83 kcal and 2839.14 kcal for integrated farming and mixed farming which is higher than the national average calorie intake (i.e., 2122 kcal). To assess the livelihood pattern through asset pentagon approach, noteworthy improvement was found based on different capitals of farm households practicing integrated farming in comparison to mixed farming. Finally, based on different problems, a constraint facing index was calculated in order to suggest policy recommendations.SAARC J. Agri., 13(2): 61-79 (2015)
Effect of deep placement of nitrogen fertilizers on rice yield and N use efficiency under water regimes
Authors: Das S , Islam MR , Sultana M , Afroz H , Hashem MA
Published: January 2016

The experiments were conducted at the Soil Science Field Laboratory of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during boro season of 2013 to evaluate the effect of deep placement of nitrogen (N) fertilizers on rice yield and N use efficiency under two different water regimes [continuous flooding (CF) and alternate wetting and drying (AWD)]. After deep placement of USG and NPK briquettes and each split application of PU, the water samples were collected for five consecutive days and analyzed for ammonium-Nitrogen (NH4-N) concentration. In both water regimes the floodwater NH4-N concentration gave highest value at the second day of PU application followed by gradual decrease with time and in continuous flooding condition the release of NH4-N was higher compared to AWD condition. Deep placement of N fertilizers also increased grain yield under AWD compared to CF condition and the maximum value was obtained in treatment T5 [USG 78 kg N ha-1 + PM 3 t ha-1] statistically similar to T3 [USG, 156 kg N ha-1]. Due to application USG and NPK briquettes, the N uptake and N use efficiency also gave higher values in AWD compared to CF condition. The results revealed that the deep placement of USG with poultry manure performed better in terms yield, N uptake and N use efficiency by BRRI dhan29 under AWD condition. So, the deep placement of USG under AWD condition could be recommended for higher production of boro rice.SAARC J. Agri., 13(2): 161-172 (2015)
Phosphorus Distribution in Soils from Australian Dairy and Beef Rearing Pastoral Systems
Authors: Adeloju Samuel , Webb Benjamin , Smernik Ronald
Published: January 2016

The influence of soil type and management practices on P distribution in soils from Australian dairy and beef rearing pastoral systems has been investigated by chemical measurements and phosphorus-31 (31P) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The amount and forms of P within the soil profile varied with soil type, with the acidic red Ferrosols containing relatively high orthophosphate concentrations, averaging 72.2% compared with 66.8% for Dermosols, under similar management conditions. Soil from Sodosol sites which received less fertiliser P addition had the lowest orthophosphate concentration with only 57.6%. In contrast, relatively high proportions of organic P were found in soil samples from unfertilised Sodosol sites. On average, soil from Sodosol sites contained 37.5% organic P (combined monoester P and diester P), while those from Dermosol and Ferrosol sites contained 31.7% and 25.8%, respectively. Of these, the highest monoester phosphate proportions of 44.6% (site M3) and 46.4% (site M4) were found in Sodosol sites with no recent P inputs, but the highest proportion of diester phosphate (5.7%) was found in an unclassified grey sandy loam Dermosol. The higher organic P concentrations in soil from Sodosol sites may be associated with more regular moisture input from both rainfall and boarder-check (flood) irrigation. The highest level of pyrophosphate (8.5%) was also found in a grey/yellow Sodosol. Overall, the results indicate that P speciation in the Australian soils is strongly influenced by soil type, fertiliser P application rate and timing, and moisture variations.
Proof of Concept of Crack Localization Using Negative Pressure Waves in Closed Tubes for Later Application in Effective SHM System for Additive Manufactured Components
Authors: Hinderdael Michaël , De Baere Dieter , Guillaume Patrick
Published: January 2016

Additive manufactured components have a different metallurgic structure and are more prone to fatigue cracks than conventionally produced metals. In earlier papers, an effective Structural Health Monitoring solution was presented to detect fatigue cracks in additive manufactured components. Small subsurface capillaries are embedded in the structure and pressurized (vacuum or overpressure). A crack that initiated at the component’s surface will propagate towards the capillary and finally breach it. One capillary suffices to inspect a large area of the component, which makes it interesting to locate the crack on the basis of the pressure measurements. Negative pressure waves (NPW) arise from the abrupt encounter of high pressure fluid with low pressure fluid and can serve as a basis to locate the crack. A test set-up with a controllable leak valve was built to investigate the feasibility of using NPW to localize a leak in closed tubes with small lengths. Reflections are expected to occur at the ends of the tube, possibly limiting the localization accuracy. In this paper, the results of the tests on the test set-up are reported. It will be shown that the crack could be localized with high accuracy (millimeter accuracy) which proves the concept of crack localization on basis of NPW in a closed tube of small length.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Challenges in 2015
Authors:   Challenges Editorial Office
Published: January 2016

The editors of Challenges would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2015. [...]
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Diversity in 2015
Authors:   Diversity Editorial Office
Published: January 2016

The editors of Diversity would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following reviewers for assessing manuscripts in 2015. [...]
Stimuli Responsive Poly(Vinyl Caprolactam) Gels for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Rao Kummara , Rao Kummari , Ha Chang-Sik
Published: January 2016

Poly(vinyl caprolactam) (PNVCL) is one of the most important thermoresponsive polymers because it is similar to poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide). PNVCL precipitates from aqueous solutions in a physiological temperature range (32–34 °C). The use of PNVCL instead of PNIPAM is considered advantageous because of the assumed lower toxicity of PNVCL. PNVCL copolymer gels are sensitive to external stimuli, such as temperature and pH; which gives them a wide range of biomedical applications and consequently attracts considerable scientific interest. This review focuses on the recent studies on PNVCL-based stimuli responsive three dimensional hydrogels (macro, micro, and nano) for biomedical applications. This review also covers the future outlooks of PNVCL-based gels for biomedical applications, particularly in the drug delivery field.
Associations of Age, BMI, and Years of Menstruation with Proximal Femur Strength in Chinese Postmenopausal Women: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kang Huili , Chen Yu-Ming , Han Guiyuan , Huang Hua , Chen Wei-Qing , Wang Xidan , Zhu Ying-Ying , Xiao Su-Mei
Published: January 2016

This study aimed to elucidate the associations of age, BMI, and years of menstruation with proximal femur strength in Chinese postmenopausal women, which may improve the prediction of hip fracture risk. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 1322 Chinese postmenopausal women recruited from communities. DXA images were used to generate bone mineral density (BMD) and geometric parameters, including cross-sectional area (CSA), outer diameter (OD), cortical thickness (CT), section modulus (SM), buckling ratio (BR) at the narrow neck (NN), intertrochanter (IT), and femoral shaft (FS). Relationships of age, BMI, and years of menstruation with bone phenotypes were analyzed with the adjustment of height, age at menarche, total daily physical activity, education, smoking status, calcium tablet intake, etc. Age was associated with lower BMD, CSA, CT, SM, and higher BR (p < 0.05), which indicated a weaker bone strength at the proximal femur. BMI and years of menstruation had the positive relationships with proximal femur strength (p < 0.05). Further analyses showed that the ranges of absolute value of change slope per year, per BMI or per year of menstruation were 0.14%–1.34%, 0.20%–2.70%, and 0.16%–0.98%, respectively. These results supported that bone strength deteriorated with aging and enhanced with higher BMI and longer time of years of menstruation in Chinese postmenopausal women.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Preserve Working Memory in the 3xTg-AD Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Ruzicka Jiri , Kulijewicz-Nawrot Magdalena , Rodrigez-Arellano Jose , Jendelova Pavla , Sykova Eva
Published: January 2016

The transplantation of stem cells may have a therapeutic effect on the pathogenesis and progression of neurodegenerative disorders. In the present study, we transplanted human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into the lateral ventricle of a triple transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer´s disease (3xTg-AD) at the age of eight months. We evaluated spatial reference and working memory after MSC treatment and the possible underlying mechanisms, such as the influence of transplanted MSCs on neurogenesis in the subventricular zone (SVZ) and the expression levels of a 56 kDa oligomer of amyloid β (Aβ*56), glutamine synthetase (GS) and glutamate transporters (Glutamate aspartate transporter (GLAST) and Glutamate transporter-1 (GLT-1)) in the entorhinal and prefrontal cortices and the hippocampus. At 14 months of age we observed the preservation of working memory in MSC-treated 3xTg-AD mice, suggesting that such preservation might be due to the protective effect of MSCs on GS levels and the considerable downregulation of Aβ*56 levels in the entorhinal cortex. These changes were observed six months after transplantation, accompanied by clusters of proliferating cells in the SVZ. Since the grafted cells did not survive for the whole experimental period, it is likely that the observed effects could have been transiently more pronounced at earlier time points than at six months after cell application.
Long-term Benefits of Risk Factor Reduction in Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy.—A Comment on Khalighi et al. Entitled “Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy: A Long Term Follow-up Shows Benefit with Risk Factor Reduction”, J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis., 2015, 2, 273–281.
Authors: Ponamgi Shiva , Deshmukh Abhishek
Published: January 2016

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TC) or stress-induced cardiomyopathy is also popularly referred to as “broken heart syndrome” or “apical ballooning syndrome”. [...]
Magnetochemistry: From Fundamentals to Applications
Authors: Gómez-García Carlos
Published: January 2016

It is well knowm that Magnetochemistry is a multidisplinary area that deals with many different materials and properties. [...]
Larvicidal Potential of the Halogenated Sesquiterpene (+)-Obtusol, Isolated from the Alga Laurencia dendroidea J. Agardh (Ceramiales: Rhodomelaceae), against the Dengue Vector Mosquito Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Salvador-Neto Orlando , Gomes Simone , Soares Angélica , Machado Fernanda , Samuels Richard , Nunes da Fonseca Rodrigo , Souza-Menezes Jackson , Moraes Jorge , Campos Eldo , Mury Flávia , Silva José
Published: January 2016

Dengue is considered a serious public health problem in many tropical regions of the world including Brazil. At the moment, there is no viable alternative to reduce dengue infections other than controlling the insect vector, Aedes aegypti Linnaeus. In the continuing search for new sources of chemicals targeted at vector control, natural products are a promising alternative to synthetic pesticides. In our work, we investigated the toxicity of a bioactive compound extracted from the red alga Laurencia dendroidea J. Agardh. The initial results demonstrated that crude extracts, at a concentration of 5 ppm, caused pronounced mortality of second instar A. aegypti larvae. Two molecules, identified as (−)-elatol and (+)-obtusol were subsequently isolated from crude extract and further evaluated. Assays with (−)-elatol showed moderate larvicidal activity, whereas (+)-obtusol presented higher toxic activity than (−)-elatol, with a LC50 value of 3.5 ppm. Histological analysis of the larvae exposed to (+)-obtusol revealed damage to the intestinal epithelium. Moreover, (+)-obtusol-treated larvae incubated with 2 µM CM-H2DCFDA showed the presence of reactive oxygen species, leading us to suggest that epithelial damage might be related to redox imbalance. These results demonstrate the potential of (+)-obtusol as a larvicide for use against A. aegypti and the possible mode of action of this compound.
Antiproliferative Effects of New Dimeric Ellagitannin from Cornus alba in Prostate Cancer Cells Including Apoptosis-Related S-Phase Arrest
Authors: Park Kwan , Yin Jun , Yoon Ki , Hwang Yoon , Lee Min
Published: January 2016

Activity-guided isolation of 80% acetone extract of Cornus alba, which is traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory, hemostatic and diuretic in Korea, yielded one novel compound, tentatively designated cornusiin H (13), together with 12 known compounds. The known compounds included four flavonoids (catechin (1), quercetin-3-O-β-d-glucuronide (2), quercetin-3-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (3), kaempferol-3-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (4)) and eight hydrolysable tannins (gallic acid (5), 2,6-di-O-galloyl-hamamelofuranoside (6), 2-galloyl-4-caffeoyl-l-threonic acid (7) 2,3-di-O-galloyl-4-caffeoyl-l-threonic acid (8), 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-β-d-glucopyranoside (9), cornusiin B (10), cornusiin A (11) and camptothin B (12)). All compounds exhibited potent 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)-free radical scavenging activity. Especially, the radical scavenging activities of 6 and 9–13 were higher than that of vitamin C. Compounds 9, 11, 12 and 13 inhibited the production of nitric oxide (NO) in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 cells to the same degree as NG-Monomethyl-l-arginine (l-NMMA). When the antiproliferative effects of the isolated compounds were assessed in prostate cancer cells, the dimeric ellagitannins (11–13) selectively inhibited LNCaP hormone-dependent prostate cancer cells. Flow cytometry analysis indicated that the dimeric ellagitannins induced apoptosis and S-phase arrest. These results suggest that dimeric ellagitannins from Cornus alba can be developed as functional materials or herbal medicines for prostate tumors such as benign prostate hyperplasia and early-stage prostate cancer.