bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AFPC's Cluster Approach in Near Field Appraisal Delivers Early Results
Authors: Lechner Maarten , Holstege Gijs Coenraad , Van Daele Patrick
Published: March 2015

In September 2003, the Syrian Petroleum Company, PetroCanada and Syria Shell finalised a Production Sharing Contract resolving a long-standing dispute and allowing the pursuit of Near Field Potential (aka. Deep & Lateral) in the 35 Development License Areas, operated by Al Furat Petroleum Company (AFPC). The PSC included a commitment to drill 10 appraisal wells, of which one has to reach 5km tvdss.

Figure 1 location of Euphrates Graben

For some 10 years, no work had been done on maturing the Near Field potential of AFPC's fields. The expectation of the remaining potential, based on limited study only, ranged from less than 50 million bbl to more than 250 million bbl reserves.

AFPC was tasked with executing the Deep and Lateral activities on behalf of the three Shareholders, and the following targets were set:Contribute some 8kb/d year average to AFPC's production to partly offset declining production from the more mature assets;Identify and mature new reserves for AFPC's resource base;Provide an assessment of the remaining acreage potential, including the deep, undrilled reservoirs.

In order to achieve these objectives in the fragmented near-field acreage, a Cluster Approach was adopted with the aim to quickly review the potential in the "established Cretaceous and Triassic play" and delr up to eight drillable prospects/opportunities in 2004.
Effectively Controlling Gas Migration When Lost Circulation Is Encountered in South Texas
Authors: Salinas Veronica Monica , Flores Rafael De Jesus , Kruse William Denton , Primeaux Kurt P. , Tagert Jeff
Published: March 2015

South Texas is predominantly known for high pressure and high temperature formations resulting in the primary production of gas. As operating companies produce from shallower sands, deeper sands are the new targets. This is of major concern since the well now has a shallower low frac tolerance with the limitation of a high pore pressure on the deeper pay zone. Consequently, there is an increased probability of lost circulation and gas migration. With focuses on annular cement adhesion along with solutions to lost circulation, oil and gas companies have utilized a new approach toward zonal isolation. This approach includes incorporation of impermeable and fibrous slurries along with an engineered spacer design.

Previously, conventional cement systems were used to provide a means of zonal isolation. With the introduction of depletion and the intensity of gas migration, conventional cement systems were proving to be ineffective. Cement evaluation showed relatively non-isolated zones as well as a significant amount of free pipe. For years, service companies have strived to produce cement systems that would provide effective zonal isolation and combat any types of gas invasion. South Texas sandstone formations proved to be a candidate to test the new fibrous gas impermeable slurries and introduce the market to a high quality cement system that would combat both lost circulation and gas migration.

While drilling through depleted sands, many drilling companies have encountered partial to total losses of relatively expensive oil-based muds. Special case studies will be introduced to represent the value and recognition of the new fibrous cement slurries. In combination with various types of cement and additives, losses were prevented and drilling could be concluded successfully. Cement evaluation was completed and shown to have a dramatic increase in the percentage of pipe isolated and the top of cement achieved. Comparisons will be displayed showing cement evaluation prior to the new technology and the new representation seen today.

With the introduction of new impermeable fibrous slurries along with special mud removal techniques, drilling companies have adopted these slurries as cures and have chosen this as a solo alternative for isolating their producing zones. Drilling companies have seen the benefits of pumping new slurries in order to prevent future remedial work. This method of cementation has proved to be a significant improvement in South Texas; where the adaptation to new technology is limited to null.
Innovation in Wellbore Perforation Using High-Power Laser
Authors: Batarseh Samih Issa , Gahan Brian C. , Sharma Bhargav
Published: March 2015

For the past nine years, a team of scientists has been examining the possibility of applying high-powered laser technology as a non-explosive alternative to current well construction and completion methods. With an application emphasis on wellbore perforation, experiments have demonstrated that high-powered fiber lasers are capable of cutting and perforating through rocks while improving porosity and permeability.

Fiber lasers are a leading candidate for downhole laser applications. They exhibit several key advantages over other industrial and military lasers, including high efficiencies in energy conversion; rugged, transportable dimensions; and the only ones that can deliver laser power at a long distance from the surface to downhole targets via fiber optics with minimum energy loss.

This experiment simulated rock perforations at surface and downhole pressure conditions using a 5.34 kiloWatt (kW) Ytterbium-doped multiclad fiber laser and a specially designed high-pressure triaxial cell that allowed the beam to strike a pressure-charged core.

At downhole conditions (with under-balanced pressure at 2000 psi), the fiber laser perforated sandstone and limestone with 87 % and 35 % more efficiency, respectively, than at zero-pressure conditions. When at-balanced (with triaxial conditions at 2000 psi and no pore pressure), the fiber laser perforated sandstone and limestone with 61 % and 17 % more efficiency, respectively, than at zero-pressure conditions. This increased efficiency for rocks perforated at downhole conditions affirms high-powered laser as a highly promising alternative to convention wellbore perforation.

Background

Since 1997, the Gas Technology Institute (GTI) and its research partners have investigated the application of high-power laser energy to well perforation and completion. In this research, various types of lasers (CO2, Nd:YAG, COIL, MIRACL, and fiber laser) with output power ranging from 1 to 1200 kiloWatts (kW) were evaluated for perforation applications. Advances in fiber laser technology make the fiber laser the leading laser for perforation and downhole application. Its advantages over other commercially available lasers are its high output efficiency of 20% (Figure 1), electric efficiency (wall plug) 20 to 25%, small footprint of 0.5 m2 (Figure 2), no maintenance, and ease of deliverability to downhole through fiber optics cable. With the small footprint and high efficiency, the laser can be transported to the field at any location.
Sequence Stratigraphy of the Jurassic Hanifa Supersequence: A Stratigraphic Framework for Understanding the Distribution of Marine Restricted Source Rocks in the Hanifa Intrashelf Basin
Authors: Hohman John , Guthrie John , Al-Emadi Ismail Abdullah , Zahran Mamdouh E.
Published: March 2015

Deposits of the Hanifa Supersequence represent the filling of the restricted-marine, intra-shelf Hanifa Basin during Jurassic time. The Hanifa Supersequence is a distinctive source rock-bearing section bounded by prominent regional unconformities that includes the Hanifa Formation along with the Tuwaiq Mountain Formation. This Hanifa/Tuwaiq Mountain section can be subdivided into four sequences (Figure 1).In ascending stratigraphic order, these sequences are the 1) Tuwaiq Mountain Sequence, 2) Hadriya Sequence, 3) Lower Hanifa sequence, and 4) Upper Hanifa Sequence. Each of the sequences has a similar distribution of depositional thickness. Thickest deposits are located in the western part of the study area in Saudi Arabia and thin to the east in the central part of the study area in Qatar. Although not shown in Figure 1, the deposits thicken again in the eastern part of the study area in Abu Dhabi. An important exception to this general trend in the distribution of the deposits is truncation of section due to erosion at the unconformity that caps the supersequence. Significant amounts of the youngest two sequences are removed by this truncation over much of the study area. The youngest sequence, the Upper Hanifa Sequence is particularly impacted by this truncation and is only preserved in the northeast part of the study area.

Each of the four sequences represents a discrete episode of carbonate platform development and progradation into the Hanifa Basin. Each sequence consists of thick platform deposits of skeletal/oolitic grainstone, packstone and wackestone that grade basinward into organic-rich mudstone (Figure 2).The thick accumulation of grainstone, packstone and wackestone represent stacked carbonate shoal complexes that individually grade off the platform into organic-rich mudstone which characterizes deposition in the restricted basin adjacent to the platform. The sequences can be further subdivided into a lower Transgressive Systems Tract and an upper Highstand Systems Tract with the boundary between the two marking the maximum flooding surface of a sequence. The Transgressive Systems Tract section is relatively thin forming a gentle ramp from platform to basin.
Impact of 10- and 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccines on incidence of invasive pneumococcal disease in children aged under 16 years in Germany, 2009 to 2012
Authors: Weiss S , Falkenhorst G , van der Linden M , Imöhl M , von Kries R
Published: March 2015

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
Emergence and spread of predominantly community-onset Clostridium difficile PCR ribotype 244 infection in Australia, 2010 to 2012
Authors: Eyre D W , Tracey L , Elliott B , Slimings C , Huntington P G , Stuart R L , Korman T M , Kotsiou G , McCann R , Griffiths D , Fawley W N , Armstrong P , Dingle K E , Walker A S , Peto T E , Crook D W , Wilcox M H , Riley T V
Published: March 2015

We describe an Australia-wide Clostridium difficile outbreak in 2011 and 2012 involving the previously uncommon ribotype 244. In Western Australia, 14 of 25 cases were community-associated, 11 were detected in patients younger than?65 years, 14 presented to emergency/outpatient departments, and 14 to non-tertiary/community hospitals. Using whole genome sequencing, we confirm ribotype 244 is from the same C. difficile clade as the epidemic ribotype 027. Like ribotype 027, it produces toxins A, B, and binary toxin, however it is fluoroquinolone-susceptible and thousands of single nucleotide variants distinct from ribotype 027. Fifteen outbreak isolates from across Australia were sequenced. Despite their geographic separation, all were genetically highly related without evidence of geographic clustering, consistent with a point source, for example affecting the national food chain. Comparison with reference laboratory strains revealed the outbreak clone shared a common ancestor with isolates from the United States and United Kingdom (UK). A strain obtained in the UK was phylogenetically related to our outbreak. Follow-up of that case revealed the patient had recently returned from Australia. Our data demonstrate new C. difficile strains are an on-going threat, with potential for rapid spread. Active surveillance is needed to identify and control emerging lineages.
Dual wavelength single longitudinal mode Ytterbium-doped fiber laser using a dual-tapered Mach-Zehnder interferometer
Authors: Ahmad H. , Salim M. A. M. , Azzuhri S. R. , Zulkifli M. Z. , Harun S. W.
Published: March 2015

This paper describes a dual wavelength single longitudinal mode (SLM) demonstration for a proposed ytterbium-doped fiber laser. A dualtapered Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) was inserted into the laser ring cavity setup to ensure a stable dual wavelength and SLM operation. The consequent dual wavelength lasing operation had a wavelength spacing of 0.94 nm and a side mode suppression ratio (SMSR) of 50 dB, with the linewidth of this setup measured as 294.15 kHz. A stability test allowed for a measurement of max power fluctuation as less than 0.8 dB for each wavelength and which was indicative of a stable dual wavelength operation.
Using Student Test Scores to Measure Teacher Performance
Authors: Ballou Dale , Springer Matthew G.
Published: March 2015

Our aim in this article is to draw attention to some underappreciated problems in the design and implementation of evaluation systems that incorporate value-added measures. We focus on four: (1) taking into account measurement error in teacher assessments, (2) revising teachers’ scores as more information becomes available about their students, and (3) and (4) minimizing opportunistic behavior by teachers during roster verification and the supervision of exams.
Effects of Seasonal variation on Growth Performance of Mirror carp (Cyprinus carpio Ver. specularis) in Earthen Nursery Ponds
Authors: Hossain Md. Istiaque , Khatun Murshida , Kamal B.M. Mostafa , Habib Kazi Ahsan , Tumpa Ananna Sen , Subba Bharat Raj , Hossain Md. Yeamin
Published: March 2015

The experiment was conducted to determine the effect of seasonal variation on growth performance of Cyprinus carpio fry in six earthen ponds during December 2011 to June 2012 covering winter (WS) and summer season (SS). Stocking density was 6250 per decimal with a mean weight of 0.192±0.002 (g). This study was done with three replications for each season. During the WS, the mean values of water parameters were temperature 16.78±2.17, transparency 32.67±1.9 cm, dissolved oxygen 5.88±2.18 mg/l, pH 8.24±0.49, total alkalinity 184.72±22.72, and ammonia nitrogen 0.21±0.05 whereas the mean value of water parameters in SS were temperature 30.56±1.51, transparency 30.61±1.71cm, dissolved oxygen 4.3±1.37 mg/l, pH 8.33±0.24, total alkalinity 274.95±6.73 mg/l, and ammonia nitrogen 0.16±0.05 mg/l. Mean values of survival and specific growth rates were 58.94±0.95 and 2.45±0.03 in WS and 67.85±4.27 and 4.00±1.03, in SS  respectively. Mean gross and net productions in WS were 1581.94±71.55 kg ha-1 60 d-1 and 1285.03±69.84 kg ha-1 60 d-1 and, 4262.74±147.81 kg ha-1 60 d-1 and 3964.74±145.74 kg ha-1 60 d-1, in SS respectively. Therefore, it can be concluded that mirror carp fry production was better in SS than in WS.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/on.v12i1.12252Our Nature (2014), 12(1): 8-18
Provitamin A Maize Development: A Strategy for Fighting against Malnutrition in Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Jiban , Karki Tika Bahadur
Published: March 2015

This review paper briefly highlights the importance, challenges and opportunities for adoption of provitamin A rich maize, and potential breeding strategies suitable in the context of Nepal. The biofortified maize with provitamin A could be the convenient, cheaper, and easily accessible source of vitamin A. It can provide a cheap and sustainable form of vitamin A for its deficiency prone communities. Unavailability of suitable maize varieties rich in provitamin A and insufficient nutrition education to the consumers are the major challenges for adoption of provitamin A maize. The introduction, development and commercialization of provitamin A rich maize varieties  in collaboration with national and international scientists, CG centers, multinational companies, I/NGOs, government agencies, and private sectors can help to fight against vitamin A induced malnutrition in Nepal. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/on.v12i1.12256Our Nature (2014), 12(1): 44-48
Erratum to "Diversity of snakes in Sarlahi District, Nepal (Vol. 11, No. 2, Page: 201-207, 2013)”
Authors: Pandey Deb Prasad
Published: March 2015

The publisher doubts that Russel´s Viper (Daboia russelii) to occur in Sarlahi, the central lowlands of Nepal because the last photo voucher in page 205 was not supportive to claim D. russelii. Rather, the specimen is Ovophis monticola.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/on.v12i1.12259Our Nature (2014), 12(1): 60-61.
Une version franco-canadienne de la Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) Scale : L'Échelle PEDro
Authors: Brosseau Lucie , Laroche Chantal , Sutton Anne , Guitard Paulette , King Judy , Poitras Stéphane , Casimiro Lynn , Tremblay Manon , Cardinal Dominique , Cavallo Sabrina , Laferrière Lucie , Grisé Isabelle , Marshall Lisa , Smith Jacky R. , Lagacé Josée , Pharand Denyse , Galipeau Roseline , Toupin-April Karine , Loew Laurianne , Demers Catrine , Sauvé-Schenk Katrine , Paquet Nicole , Savard Jacinthe , Tourigny Jocelyne , Vaillancourt Véronique
Published: March 2015

RÉSUMÉ

But : Effectuer une traduction franco-canadienne de la PEDro scale sous l'appellation proposée d'Échelle PEDro et examiner la validité de son contenu. Méthodologie : Nous avons utilisé une approche modifiée de la méthodologie de validation transculturelle de Vallerand. Une traduction renversée parallèle de la PEDro scale a d'abord été effectuée à la fois par des traductrices professionnelles et des chercheurs cliniciens. Ensuite, un premier comité d'experts (P1) a examiné les versions traduites et a créé la première version expérimentale de l'Échelle PEDro. Cette version a été évaluée par un deuxième comité d'experts (P2). Finalement, 32 chercheurs cliniques ont évalué cette deuxième version expérimentale de l'Échelle PEDro à l'aide d'une échelle de clarté (étendue de 5 points) et ont proposé les modifications finales. Résultats : Pour les différents énoncés de la version finale de l'Échelle PEDro, les moyennes sur l'échelle de clarté montrent un niveau élevé puisqu'elles varient entre 4,0 et 4,7 sur un score maximal de 5 points. Conclusion : Les quatre étapes rigoureuses du processus ont permis de produire une version franco-canadienne valide de l'Échelle PEDro.
Use of Clinical Anatomy Resources by Musculoskeletal Outpatient Physiotherapists in Australian Public Hospitals: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Farrell Scott F. , Davies Tilman M. , Cornwall Jon
Published: March 2015

Purpose: To investigate how musculoskeletal outpatient physiotherapists in public hospitals interact with and perceive clinical anatomy resources in the workplace. Method: This cross-sectional study used a postal survey sent to musculoskeletal outpatient physiotherapists in 64 Australian public hospitals. Survey questions examined demographics, qualifications, experience, types of resources used, whether resources meet requirements, and what improvements could be made to current resources. Results: A total of 193 physiotherapists responded (75% response rate; 60% female), of whom 49% were age 35 years or younger; 67% had only an undergraduate qualification, and 37% had practised for 5 years or less. More experienced physiotherapists used resources significantly less frequently ([odds ratio]=1.35; 95% CI, 1.17–1.57), and we found no significant associations between preference for online versus printed resources and age, sex, qualifications, or experience. Trends included less experienced physiotherapists identifying the absence of online access as a barrier to resource use and provision of improved online facilities as necessary to improve access to clinical anatomy resources. Conclusion: Results indicate distinct trends in physiotherapists' use of clinical anatomy resources, including a desire for improved online resource access on the part of less experienced physiotherapists. The findings are relevant to hospital outpatient clinics, particularly those that employ less experienced physiotherapists.
Absorption Coefficient Measurement in Laser Transmission Welding of Thermoplastics
Authors: Chen M. , Zak G. , Bates P. J.
Published: March 2015

Laser transmission welding involves joining of transmitting and absorbing thermoplastic polymer components. Absorption is normally controlled by addition of small amounts of carbon black (CB). In thermal modelling of the process, the laser-light absorption coefficient is an important parameter that controls the rate and distribution of heat generation in the absorbing component. This paper introduces a novel experimental method to conveniently and accurately measure the absorption coefficient in the absorbing component. In this method, a laser beam scans rapidly over the surface of the CB-filled polymer. The laser power resulting in the onset of surface melting can be obtained and used to calculate the absorption coefficient based on an analytical model presented in this paper. To validate the proposed method, the experimental results were compared with those obtained by the spectrophotometer and the power-meter methods using unreinforced and glass-fiber reinforced nylon 6. The results indicate that there is a linear relationship between the absorption coefficient and carbon black level for these two polymers. The influence of glass fibers and laser scan speed on the measurement are also discussed.
Styrene/Isoprene/Styrene Thermoplastic Elastomer Prepared by Anionic Bulk Polymerization in a Twin-Screw Extruder
Authors: Wang J.-M. , Yuan X.-Y. , Shan D. , Zheng A.
Published: March 2015

In this study, a styrene/isoprene/styrene (SIS) triblock copolymer was synthesized in an intermeshing, co-rotating, twin-screw extruder. N-butyl lithium was used as the initiator. The styrene and isoprene monomer as well as 1,2-dibromoethane were sequentially added into the extruder. The weight content of isoprene in this copolymer was above 60%. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC) results showed that the polystyrene in the copolymer chains was mainly comprised of only one long block. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that the polystyrene phase transferred from larger numbers of small microdomains to a continuous aggregation after the coupling reaction. As a result, the tensile stress and ultimate elongation was significantly improved, similar to the commercial product. Traditionally, SIS has only been synthesized by solution polymerization. The present work offers the capacity to synthesize it with very little or no solvent. This method fits the environmentally friendly trend.
Improving Film Die Flow Uniformity Using Optimization Methods Coupled with Finite Element Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Analysis
Authors: Lee P. C. , Dietsche L. , Dooley J. , Parashar S.
Published: March 2015

The aim of this study was to evaluate various optimization strategies to be used with computational fluid dynamics (CFD), in order to optimize the geometry for a polymer die to meet the dual objectives of uniform flow at the exit with minimal pressure drop. 3D finite element simulations using the numerically optimized geometry predict a more uniform flow than simulations using the baseline geometry. However, some of the initial optimized results yielded die geometries that would be impractical to fabricate. Additional constraints were placed on the allowable geometric parameters and solution space to push the optimization towards more feasible optimal solutions. Thus we have shown how CFD-based optimization methods, coupled with knowledge of die design technology and fabrication techniques can lead to the design of better performing polymer dies.
UV-Curable Technique of Magnetic Roller Soft Mold and Microstructure Pattern Replication
Authors: Weng Y. J.
Published: March 2015

This study adopted the novel magnetic roller soft mold embossing technique of the soft mold preparation method, embossing, combined with the existing gas-assisted UV-curable technique, to develop an innovative magnetic-assisted continuous roller platform. Using the advantages of uniform and accurate control of applied pressure of the magnetic disk, this study used the magnetic roller soft mold embossing and UV-curable technique for replicating microstructure patterns, resulting in a more mature micro-nano embossing technology and application. The experimental results showed that the new magnetic roller soft mold preparation method can accurately cast and replicate micro-nano structures of Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) composite magnetic iron powder, and the magnetic disk can impose uniform pressure to effectively implement complete filling during the rolling process. This innovative process provides a simple and rapid molding mechanism, which significantly improves the microstructure pattern replication technique.
Measurement and Numerical Simulation of Void and Warpage in Glass Fiber Reinforced Molded Chunky Parts
Authors: Kleindel S. , Salaberger D. , Eder R. , Schretter H. , Hochenauer C.
Published: March 2015

The aim of this paper is to determine the reason for the large warpage of an injection molded chunky part made of glass fiber reinforced polyamide 6. State of the art commercial 3D injection molding simulation software was used to predict the warpage of the part. While the simulation predicted a product virtually free of warpage the molded parts showed a large deformation. Several molding experiments and X-ray computed tomography (μCT) scans of the moldings have been performed to figure out the reason for this. The μCT scans revealed voids in the thick walls of the part. It was found that these defects were the main cause of the unreliable simulation results. Therefore it is concluded that voids can have a major influence on the reliability of numerical warpage predictions. This paper shows a simplified method to determine the zones were voids will appear and shows the comparison with μCT-data.
Slip Heating in Die Drool with Viscous Dissipation
Authors: Gilbert P. H. , Giacomin A. J.
Published: March 2015

Plastics can build-up on the die lip during extrusion. This phenomenon is called die drool and can be costly for plastics producers, requiring periodic shutdowns for die cleaning. Die drool has been attributed to the cohesive fracture of the melt into a drool layer and a bulk layer. The bulk layer slips on the drool layer after fracture, resulting in heating at the slip interface, called slip heating. The heat generated through slip heating can contribute to polymer thermal degradation, and to the die drool degradation. The impact of slip heating on die temperature rise has been investigated by neglecting viscous dissipation (Gilbert and Giacomin, 2014). This work considers viscous dissipation and its importance to slip heating. We find that viscous dissipation and slip heating contribute equally to the melt temperature rise, and we conclude with a worked example showing the importance of these two heating sources during polymer processing. We also develop two sufficient conditions for the accurate use of our results, Pé ≤ 1 and ∂Θ/∂ς ≪ ∂2Θ/∂ζ2.
Molecular identification of parasitoid, Encarsia formosa gahan in Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) and determination of its secondary endosymbionts
Authors: Jahan SMH , Lee KY , Howlader MIA , Bashar HM , Hasan GN
Published: March 2015

In this study two pairs of primers based on mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (mtCOI) region and 28S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene region were used for identifying very tiny and morphologically indistinguishable parasitoid Encarsia formosa (Gahan) which are specific to this insect. The fragment amplified by these primer pairs were 860 and 650 bp in length. Species specificity test showed that all E. formosa specimens were detected with no cross reactions with other aphelinid species, including E. sophia (Girault & Dodd), E. luteola, E. Inaron and E. Nigricephala. Using phylogenetic cladogram by the sequences analysis of both mtCOI and 28S rRNA genes could be detected in E. formosa accurately in all replicates. Cardinium and Wolbachia secondary endosymbiont were also detected in E. Formosa used by PCR amplification as well as sequence analysis of 16S-23S rDNA gene region. The molecular technique developed here would be useful for rapid and precise species identification, determination of the host spectrum and more effective utilization of E. formosa. This research work has been performed from January 2011 to June 2012 at the insect molecular physiology lab in the Republic of Korea. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v39i4.22532 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 39(4): 563-578, December 2014
Genetic divergence study in salinity stress tolerant maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Biswas A , Sarker U , Banik BR , Rohman MM , Mian MA Khaleque
Published: March 2015

The study was conducted to investigate the genetic diversity of some maize inbreds under salinity stress condition using Mahalanobiss statistic (D2) and principal component analysis. Analysis of variance showed significant difference for all the characters. Results of multivariate analysis revealed that seventeen inbred lines formed five clusters at 12 dS level of salinity. The highest intra-cluster distance was recorded in cluster IV containing three genotypes and the lowest was in cluster V having one genotype. The inter cluster D2 values revealed maximum distance among the clusters. The highest inter cluster distance was observed between clusters IV & III and lowest was between V & I. Cluster IV had the highest cluster means for cob height, tassel length, cob length, SPAD value, number of seeds/cob, 100 seed weight, cob diameter and grain yield per plant. Considering cluster distance, inter-genotypic distance, cluster mean and other agronomic performances the genotypes CZ29, CZ33 and P43 from cluster IV and E135, E158, E169, P29 and P45 from cluster III may be considered as better parents for future hybridization programs to obtain desirable segregates in respect of different yield and yield contributing characters under salinity stress. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v39i4.22540 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 39(4): 621-630, December 2014
Tuber yield and nutrient balance of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Cultivation as influenced by different nutrients management under AEZ-28
Authors: Jahan MAHS , Sarkar MAR , Barma NCD , Mondal MNA , Ferdousi MNS
Published: March 2015

A field experiment was conducted at Regional Wheat Research Centre of the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, Joydebpur, Gazipur for 2 consecutive years during 2006-07 and 2007-08. The objectives were to find out the optimum nutrient management practice on tuber yield, nutrient balance and economics of potato cultivation. Twelve nutrient management treatments were tested in a randomized complete block design with 3 replications. Treatments were T1=HYG (0-198-44-194-24-6-1.2), T2=MYG (0-140-34-138-18-4.5-0.9), T3=IPNS (10000-168-38-170-18-6-1.2), T4=STB (0-171-40-164-22-5-1), T5=FP (0-97-16-91-0-0-0), T6=CON (0-0-0-0-0-0-0), T7=HYG+CRI, T8=MYG+CRI, T9=IPNS+CRI, T10=STB+CRI, T11=FP+CRI, T12=CON+CRI kg ha-1 CDNPKSZnB for potato. The highest tuber yield of potato was obtained from STB+CRI (27.64 t ha-1) followed by IPNS+CRI (27.35 t ha-1), STB (27.10 t ha-1), IPNS (26.83 t ha-1), HYG+CRI (26.52 t ha-1) and HYG (26.10 t ha-1) in 2006- 07. Similar trend was found in 2007-08. The highest tuber yield and yield contributing parameters were noticed in CRI plots than without CRI. Except N, remaining nutrient balance like P K S Zn and B were found positive in case of HYG, MYG, IPNS and STB along with or without CRI nutrient managements. The balance was found almost negative in case of FP and CON. The highest BCR was observed in STB+CRI (3.96) followed by STB (3.93), IPNS+CRI (3.76), and IPNS (3.74). The higher gross return (Tk. 283331 ha-1) and also gross margin (Tk. 211761 ha-1) was observed from the same treatment. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v39i4.22544 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 39(4): 641-659, December 2014
Effect of seed priming on maize (Zea mays L.) seedling emergence under different sowing dates
Authors: Rahman MM , Ahammad KU , Ahmed M
Published: March 2015

The experiment was carried out at the research field of Regional Agricultural Research Station, Jessore during 2009-10 and 2010-2011 to find out the effect of priming and ambient temperatures due to different sowing dates on emergence of maize seedlings. The experiment consisted of two priming methods viz., i) Priming, ii) Non-priming, and ten sowing dates viz., i) 15 November, ii) 30 November, iii) 15 December iv) 30 December v) 14 January vi) 29 January vii) 13 February viii) 28 February, ix) 15 March, and x) 30 March. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Results showed that germination percentage, germination index, mean germination time and dry matter/plant were influenced significantly by priming. The highest germination percentage, germination index, dry matter/plant and lowest mean germination time were recorded from primed seed sown in March followed by February and November sowings but those were very poor in December and January sowings. So, primed seeds should be sown in November and February for better stand establishment of maize. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v39i4.22549 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 39(4): 693-707, December 2014
Effect of thickness of polythene bag on seed quality of soybean
Authors: Ali MR , Rahman MM , Ahammad KU
Published: March 2015

An experiment was conducted at the Seed Laboratory of Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Jamalpur during the period from May to November 2010 to study the effect of thickness of polythene bags on quality of soybean seed during storage. Seven levels of thickness of polythene bags viz. i) 0.02mm, ii) 0.03mm, iii) 0.04mm, iv) 0.05mm, v) 0.06mm, vi) 0.07mm and vii) 0.08mm were include as treatment in the trial. Seed moisture content, germination percentage, vigor and seedling dry matter weight were taken during May to November 2010 at two month intervals. Results showed that during the storage period the lowest seed moisture content and highest germination percentage, vigor index, seedling dry matter weight and field emergence were found for seed stored in 0.08mm thickness polythene bags. The germination of seed at two months after storage ranged between 76% to 95.3% and that was between 0% and 90.7% after six months of storage under ambient room condition. Soybean seed could be stored safely at ambient condition with more than 80% germination for six months by keeping them in polythene bags having thickness between 0.03mm to 0.08mm with 8% seed moisture content. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v39i4.22550 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 39(4): 709-716, December 2014
Montreal Modern: Retro Culture and the Modern Past in Montreal
Authors: Handberg Kristian
Published: March 2015

Through analyses of the retro scenes in Montreal, Canada, the article discusses retro culture’s role as cultural memory. It is shown how Montreal’s cultural identity is formed by memories of modern culture such as the Red-light and Sin City reputation of the illicit nightlife of the 1940s and 1950s, and the space age modernism of the 1960s following the Expo 67 and Quebec’s Quiet Revolution. This is reflected in the city’s thriving retro culture through the study of two groups of retro shops. In circulating specific memories and objects in a specific context, retro is an important negotiation of the past in the present. Especially, it is stated that the retro culture displays “local accents” and a new focus on the specificities of modern culture giving a revaluation to a previously overlooked identity such as the Quebecité.
Antioxidant, Biomolecule Oxidation Protective Activities of Nardostachys jatamansi DC and Its Phytochemical Analysis by RP-HPLC and GC-MS
Authors: Razack Sakina , Kumar Kandikattu , Nallamuthu Ilaiyaraja , Naika Mahadeva , Khanum Farhath
Published: March 2015

The study aimed at analyzing the metabolite profile of Nardostachys jatamansi using RP-HPLC, GC-MS and also its antioxidant, biomolecule protective and cytoprotective properties. The 70% ethanolic extract of Nardostachys jatamansi (NJE) showed the presence of polyphenols and flavonoids (gallic acid, catechin, chlorogenic acid, homovanillin, epicatechin, rutin hydrate and quercetin-3-rhamnoside) analyzed by RP-HPLC, whereas hexane extract revealed an array of metabolites (fatty acids, sesquiterpenes, alkane hydrocarbons and esters) by GC-MS analysis. The antioxidant assays showed the enhanced potency of NJE with a half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 222.22 ± 7.4 μg/mL for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 13.90 ± 0.5 μg/mL for 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethyl benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS), 113.81 ± 4.2 μg/mL for superoxide, 948 ± 21.1 μg/mL for metal chelating and 12.3 ± 0.43 mg FeSO4 equivalent/g of extract for ferric reducing antioxidant power assays and was more potent than hexane extract. NJE effectively inhibited 2,2′-azobis(2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride (AAPH)-induced oxidation of biomolecules analyzed by pBR322 plasmid DNA damage, protein oxidation of bovine serum albumin and lipid peroxidation assays. The observed effects might be due to the high content of polyphenols, 53.06 ± 2.2 mg gallic acid equivalents/g, and flavonoids, 25.303 ± 0.9 mg catechin equivalents/g, of NJE compared to the hexane fraction. Additionally, the extract abrogated the protein, carbonyl, and ROS formation, and NJE showed cytotoxicity in SH-SY5Y neuronal cells above 75 μg/mL. Thus, the study suggests that the herb unequivocally is a potential source of antioxidants and could aid in alleviating oxidative stress-mediated disorders.
A Modelling Study of the Impact of On-Road Diesel Emissions on Arctic Black Carbon and Solar Radiation Transfer
Authors: Pitari Giovanni , Di Genova Glauco , De Luca Natalia
Published: March 2015

Market strategies have greatly incentivized the use of diesel engines for land transportation. These engines are responsible for a large fraction of black carbon (BC) emissions in the extra-tropical Northern Hemisphere, with significant effects on both air quality and global climate. In addition to direct radiative forcing, planetary-scale transport of BC to the Arctic region may significantly impact the surface albedo of this region through wet and dry deposition on ice and snow. A sensitivity study is made with the University of L’Aquila climate-chemistry-aerosol model by eliminating on-road diesel emissions of BC (which represent approximately 50% of BC emissions from land transportation). According to the model and using emission scenarios for the year 2000, this would imply an average change in tropopause direct radiative forcing (RF) of −0.054 W∙m−2 (globally) and −0.074 W∙m−2 over the Arctic region, with a peak of −0.22 W∙m−2 during Arctic springtime months. These RF values increase to −0.064, −0.16 and −0.50 W∙m−2, respectively, when also taking into account the BC snow-albedo forcing. The calculated BC optical thickness decrease (at λ = 0.55 µm) is 0.48 × 10−3 (globally) and 0.74 × 10−3 over the Arctic (i.e., 10.5% and 16.5%, respectively), with a peak of 1.3 × 10−3 during the Arctic springtime.
Entropy of Quantum Measurement
Authors: Podsȩdkowska Hanna
Published: March 2015

A notion of entropy of a normal state on a finite von Neumann algebra in Segal’s sense is considered, and its superadditivity is proven together with a necessary and sufficient condition for its additivity. Bounds on the entropy of the state after measurement are obtained, and it is shown that a weakly repeatable measurement gives minimal entropy and that a minimal state entropy measurement satisfying some natural additional conditions is repeatable.
Piezoelectric Polymer-Based Collision Detection Sensor for Robotic Applications
Authors: Wooten J. , Bevly David , Hung John
Published: March 2015

The authors present a large area collision detection sensor utilizing the piezoelectric effect of polyvinylidene fluoride film. The proposed sensor system provides high dynamic range for touch sensation, as well as robust adaptability to achieve collision detection on complex-shaped surfaces. The design allows for cohabitation of humans and robots in cooperative environments that require advanced and robust collision detection systems. Data presented in the paper are from sensors successfully retrofitted onto an existing commercial robotic manipulator.
Genetics of Type 2 Diabetes—Pitfalls and Possibilities
Authors: Prasad Rashmi , Groop Leif
Published: March 2015

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a complex disease that is caused by a complex interplay between genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors. While the major environmental factors, diet and activity level, are well known, identification of the genetic factors has been a challenge. However, recent years have seen an explosion of genetic variants in risk and protection of T2D due to the technical development that has allowed genome-wide association studies and next-generation sequencing. Today, more than 120 variants have been convincingly replicated for association with T2D and many more with diabetes-related traits. Still, these variants only explain a small proportion of the total heritability of T2D. In this review, we address the possibilities to elucidate the genetic landscape of T2D as well as discuss pitfalls with current strategies to identify the elusive unknown heritability including the possibility that our definition of diabetes and its subgroups is imprecise and thereby makes the identification of genetic causes difficult.
Biomechanical Evaluation of Ti-Nb-Sn Alloy Implants with a Low Young’s Modulus
Authors: Takahashi Kenta , Shiraishi Naru , Ishiko-Uzuka Risa , Anada Takahisa , Suzuki Osamu , Masumoto Hiroshi , Sasaki Keiichi
Published: March 2015

Dental implants are widely used and are a predictable treatment in various edentulous cases. Occlusal overload may be causally related to implant bone loss and a loss of integration. Stress concentrations may be diminished using a mechanobiologically integrated implant with bone tissue. The purpose of this study was to investigate the biomechanical behavior, biocompatibility and bioactivity of a Ti-Nb-Sn alloy as a dental implant material. It was compared with cpTi. Cell proliferation and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity were quantified. To assess the degree of osseointegration, a push-in test was carried out. Cell proliferation and ALP activity in the cells grown on prepared surfaces were similar for the Ti-Nb-Sn alloy and for cpTi in all the experiments. A comparison between the Ti-Nb-Sn alloy implant and the cpTi implant revealed that no significant difference was apparent for the push-in test values. These results suggest that implants fabricated using Ti-Nb-Sn have a similar biological potential as cpTi and are capable of excellent osseointegration.
The CENP-T C-Terminus Is Exclusively Proximal to H3.1 and not to H3.2 or H3.3
Authors: Abendroth Christian , Hofmeister Antje , Hake Sandra , Kamweru Paul , Miess Elke , Dornblut Carsten , Küffner Isabell , Deng Wen , Leonhardt Heinrich , Orthaus Sandra , Hoischen Christian , Diekmann Stephan
Published: March 2015

The kinetochore proteins assemble onto centromeric chromatin and regulate DNA segregation during cell division. The inner kinetochore proteins bind centromeres while most outer kinetochore proteins assemble at centromeres during mitosis, connecting the complex to microtubules. The centromere–kinetochore complex contains specific nucleosomes and nucleosomal particles. CENP-A replaces canonical H3 in centromeric nucleosomes, defining centromeric chromatin. Next to CENP-A, the CCAN multi-protein complex settles which contains CENP-T/W/S/X. These four proteins are described to form a nucleosomal particle at centromeres. We had found the CENP-T C-terminus and the CENP-S termini next to histone H3.1 but not to CENP-A, suggesting that the Constitutive Centromere-Associated Network (CCAN) bridges a CENP-A- and a H3-containing nucleosome. Here, we show by in vivo FRET that this proximity between CENP-T and H3 is specific for H3.1 but neither for the H3.1 mutants H3.1C96A and H3.1C110A nor for H3.2 or H3.3. We also found CENP-M next to H3.1 but not to these H3.1 mutants. Consistently, we detected CENP-M next to CENP-S. These data elucidate the local molecular neighborhood of CCAN proteins next to a H3.1-containing centromeric nucleosome. They also indicate an exclusive position of H3.1 clearly distinct from H3.2, thus documenting a local, and potentially also functional, difference between H3.1 and H3.2.
Antifungal Treatment for Pityriasis Versicolor
Authors: Gupta Aditya , Foley Kelly
Published: March 2015

Background: Pityriasis versicolor (PV), also known as tinea versicolor, is caused by Malassezia species. This condition is one of the most common superficial fungal infections worldwide, particularly in tropical climates. PV is difficult to cure and the chances for relapse or recurrent infections are high due to the presence of Malassezia in the normal skin flora. This review focuses on the clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of antifungal treatment for PV. Method: A systematic review of literature from the PubMed database was conducted up to 30 September 2014. The search criteria were “(pityriasis versicolor OR tinea versicolor) AND treatment”, with full text available and English language required. Conclusions: Topical antifungal medications are the first-line treatment for PV, including zinc pyrithione, ketoconazole, and terbinafine. In cases of severe or recalcitrant PV, the oral antifungal medications itraconazole and fluconazole may be more appropriate, with pramiconazole a possible future option. Oral terbinafine is not effective in treating PV and oral ketoconazole should no longer be prescribed. Maintenance, or prophylactic, therapy may be useful in preventing recurrent infection; however, at this time, there is limited research evaluating the efficacy of prophylactic antifungal treatment.
Structure and Transport Properties of the BiCuSeO-BiCuSO Solid Solution
Authors: Berardan David , Li Jing , Amzallag Emilie , Mitra Sunanda , Sui Jiehe , Cai Wei , Dragoe Nita
Published: March 2015

In this paper, we report on the crystal structure and the electrical and thermal transport properties of the BiCuSe1−xSxO series. From the evolution of the structural parameters with the substitution rate, we can confidently conclude that a complete solid solution exists between the BiCuSeO and BiCuSO end members, without any miscibility gap. However, the decrease of the stability of the materials when increasing the sulfur fraction, with a simultaneous volatilization, makes it difficult to obtain S-rich samples in a single phase. The band gap of the materials linearly increases between 0.8 eV for BiCuSeO and 1.1 eV in BiCuSO, and the covalent character of the Cu-Ch (Ch = chalcogen element, namely S or Se here) bond slightly decreases when increasing the sulfur fraction. The thermal conductivity of the end members is nearly the same, but a significant decrease is observed for the samples belonging to the solid solution, which can be explained by point defect scattering due to atomic mass and radii fluctuations between Se and S. When increasing the sulfur fraction, the electrical resistivity of the samples strongly increases, which could be linked to an evolution of the energy of formation of copper vacancies, which act as acceptor dopants in these materials.
Potential Threats Posed by New or Emerging Marine Biotoxins in UK Waters and Examination of Detection Methodology Used in Their Control: Brevetoxins
Authors: Turner Andrew , Higgins Cowan , Davidson Keith , Veszelovszki Andrea , Payne Daniel , Hungerford James , Higman Wendy
Published: March 2015

Regular occurrence of brevetoxin-producing toxic phytoplankton in commercial shellfishery areas poses a significant risk to shellfish consumer health. Brevetoxins and their causative toxic phytoplankton are more limited in their global distribution than most marine toxins impacting commercial shellfisheries. On the other hand, trends in climate change could conceivably lead to increased risk posed by these toxins in UK waters. A request was made by UK food safety authorities to examine these toxins more closely to aid possible management strategies, should they pose a threat in the future. At the time of writing, brevetoxins have been detected in the Gulf of Mexico, the Southeast US coast and in New Zealand waters, where regulatory levels for brevetoxins in shellfish have existed for some time. This paper reviews evidence concerning the prevalence of brevetoxins and brevetoxin-producing phytoplankton in the UK, together with testing methodologies. Chemical, biological and biomolecular methods are reviewed, including recommendations for further work to enable effective testing. Although the focus here is on the UK, from a strategic standpoint many of the topics discussed will also be of interest in other parts of the world since new and emerging marine biotoxins are of global concern.