bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Assessment of the Applicability of Austempered Ductile Iron Containing Mo and Ni for Mining Machines Parts
Authors: Myszka D. , Wieczorek A.
Published: September 2013

The research described in this article is a fragment in the series of published works trying to determine the applicability of new materials for parts of the mining machinery. Tests were carried out on the - very popular in mining applications - 36HMN steel and three types of the austempered ductile iron, using special stand for the controlled abrasion testing of samples subjected to the effect of loose abrasive. Tests carried out with the use of corundum showed the competitive properties of cast iron as compared with the examined steel. Microscopic evaluation, hardness measurements and magnetic tests showed that the surface layer of austempered ductile iron undergoes a strong work hardening, resulting in abrasion wear indices superior to those of the steel for heavy-duty use.
dTechnological Knowledge Management System for Foundry Industry
Authors: Malinowski P. , Suchy J.S. , Jakubski J.
Published: September 2013

Technological knowledge is a collection of information from each stage of the casting production preparation process along with production data and quality control data. Knowledge and experience are the most important factors for the dynamic development of each foundry. Efficient archiving and management of technological knowledge, including computer simulations, is a critical part of building competitive advantage. Analysis of historical data allows for drawing the right conclusions, and guarantees improved quality of the final product. Effective enterprise management system, and technological knowledge management system in particular, is an indispensable tool for any innovative foundry. Simulation Process & Data Management is a new, dynamically-developing scientific field. Also in the foundry industry it is a very important step towards the management of casting simulation results.
Analysis of the Structure and Abrasive Wear Resistance of White Cast Iron with Precipitates of Carbides
Authors: Kopyciński D. , Kawalec M. , Szczęsny A. , Gilewski R. , Piasny S.
Published: September 2013

The resistance of castings to abrasive wear depends on the cast iron abrasive hardness ratio. It has been anticipated that the white cast iron structure will be changed by changing the type of metal matrix and the type of carbides present in this matrix, which will greatly expand the application area of castings under the harsh operating conditions of abrasive wear. Detailed metallographic analysis was carried out to see the structure obtained in selected types of white cast iron, i.e. with additions of chromium and vanadium. The study compares the results of abrasive wear resistance tests performed on the examined types of cast iron.
Utilization Mathematical and Physical Models Derived Therefrom Real-Time Models for the Optimization of Heating Processes
Authors: Špička I. , Heger M.
Published: September 2013

Heating of materials is energy and costly operations. On those reasons optimization is highly desirable. One of the possible solutions to optimize heating in real time is to use a large number of fast simulations on the basis of them the optimization algorithms have chosen the most appropriate option of the heating control. This solution implies the use of extremely fast but sufficiently accurate simplified mathematical models of heating, the structure and parameters of them are defined based on accurate modelling using computationally intensive but slower classical mathematical-physical models. Based on the operating data of the reheating furnace was build an accurate model of heating. Using the simplified model simulation of heating was done with different heating conditions with downtime during heating. Proposed algorithms including the simulations show that the proposed strategy leads to verifiable savings during heating.
Possibilities of the Materials Properties Improvement for the Cementite Eutectic by Means of Unidirectional Solidification
Authors: Trepczyńska-Łent M.
Published: September 2013

The paper brings the results of directional solidification of Fe-Fe3C eutectic alloy. The Bridgman method with vertical thermal gradient in conducted research was applied. Two values of rate was used for sample movement testing. One sample after solidification, was immediately taken of the cooler. The distribution of thermal gradient in the alloy was determined. The value of thermal gradient in liquid at the solidification front was determined. On the samples, where cementite eutectic was oriented, interphase spacing λ̅ was measured. The results of the dependence between parameters v and λ̅ were presented. The research with application of optical microscope and computer programme to image analysis NIS-Elements was used.
Morphological characteristics of the aortic arch organization
Authors: Manole A.M. , Iliescu D.M. , Baz R. , Bordei P.
Published: September 2013

Abstract Our study was performed on 228 cases by dissection, by plastic injection followed by corrosion or dissection and by simple and CT angiography study. Each morphological aspect was assessed on a different numbers of cases, as long as the same case could not provide data on all studied elements. We assessed: the number of branches that originate from the aortic arch, the level of origin and the morphological type of the aortic arch. In terms of number of branches emerging from the aortic arch, most commonly are three branches, in 48.48% of cases, describing them 3 variations: separation of the three classical branches in 45,96% of cases, in 1.51% of cases the left common carotid artery emerged from the brachiocephalic trunk while the other two branches being represented by a vertebral artery and the left subclavian and in 1.01% by the right subclavian artery with retroesophageal traject, by a bicarotid arterial trunk and the left subclavian artery. In 28.70% of the cases were four branches, as follows: in 13.13% of cases the fourth branch was represented by the left vertebral artery, in 7.07% of cases there was the inferior thyroid artery, in 4.04% of cases the brachiocephalic arterial trunk was missing and the right subclavian artery originate from the aortic arch and presented a retroesophageal traject, in 3.03% of cases the fourth artery was the ascending cervical and in 1.51% of cases all four arteries had their origins in the aortic arch with no brachiocephalic trunk. In 22.73% of cases from the aortic arch originated only two branches: in 19.70% of cases the left common carotid originated in the brachiocephalic trunk, so the second branch was the left subclavian and in 3.03% of the cases there were two brachiocephalic trunks. Regarding the level of origin from the aortic arch, we found that only the brachiocephalic arterial trunk showed versions of origin: in 64 61% of the cases the brachiocephalic trunk had its origin in the horizontal segment of the aortic arch, in 21.54% of cases the origin was located at the limit

between the ascending and horizontal segments and vin 12.31% of cases the origin was from the ascending segment of the aortic arch. In only 1.54% of the cases the left subclavian artery originated from the descending segment of the aortic arch
Cervical root resorption.
Authors: Gheorghiu Irina-Maria , Mitran Loredana , Mitran Mihai , Stoian Irina Maria
Published: September 2013

Cervical resorption is an inflammatory-mediated external resorption of the root, which can be seen after trauma and following internal bleaching techniques. It is initiated in the periodontal ligament, but the exact pathogenesis is not known. Once triggered the resorption phenomenon can lead to fracture and loss of the tooth
Indirect effects of noise exposure on liver activity
Authors: Chirică R. , Comșa Gh.I. , Ion I. , Adumitresi C. , Rădulescu N. , Farcaș C. , Ștefănescu A.C. , Oniceanu F. M.
Published: September 2013

We live in a noisy world. We constantly undergoing in various types of noise that affect our quality of life. It is well known that noise is not only a problem but also a serious threat to health. The effects, that noise exposure has on health is a public serious problem, and is becoming more acute, which can occur at both, mentally and physically levels
Specific morphological characteristics of the coronary arteries
Authors: Ispas V. , Iliescu D.M. , Baz R. , Bordei P.
Published: September 2013

In 68% of cases, the left coronary ostium is at the free edge of the left sigmoid valve in 22% of cases over the edge of the valve and in 8% of cases under the free edge of the valve. In 56% of cases, the right coronary ostium is at the free edge of the left sigmoid valve in 28% of cases over the edge of the valve and in 16% of cases under the free edge of the valve. We found 5 cases with two right coronary ostium and 2 cases with two left coronary ostium. We found that in 38% of cases, the left coronary artery ends in three branches, such as anterior interventricular, circumflex and left marginal arteries, in rest of the cases, the left coronary artery ending by two branches like the anterior interventricular and circumflex arteries in which case the marginal artery originate from circumflex artery and rarely from anterior interventricular artery, or both, in this last case the left marginal artery being double. We found only 8 cases in which the circumflex artery ends as posterior interventricular artery in rest of the cases being represented by the right coronary artery end. Circumflex artery ends by two branches quite often and rarely with three branches which can sometimes be long, down to near the apex of the heart. In 8% of cases, the circumflex artery was less developed and do not vascularize other than the left side of the posterior surface of the left ventricle, sometimes his terminal ramus being left marginal artery. The right coronary artery frequently ends on diaphragmatic surface of the heart either as a single branch in posterior interventricular groove, by bifurcation or even rarely by trifurcation, when one or two branches are located in the posterior interventricular groove. Sometimes the right coronary artery ends on the posterior surface of the left ventricle, where the posterior interventricular artery occurs as collateral branch of the right coronary artery, the right coronary artery extending their vascularization territory to the posterior surface of the left ventricle, right up to the apex of the heart, the right coronary dominance, the circumflex artery in this case ending on the lateral surface of the heart. The right coronary artery may end up on the posterior surface of the right ventricle in which case posterior interventricular artery is represented by the terminal portion of the circumflex artery. The right coronary artery rarely ended as the posterior interventricular artery can reach the apex of the heart. We have found that the dominant type of a coronary artery can be held not only in the number of collateral, but also by their caliber at their origin from the aorta. We encountered 7 cases in which there is a third coronary artery, in 5 cases the third coronary artery being an anterior right I called her middle coronary artery or right ventricular branch and anterior ventricular artery, and in two cases the third coronary artery represent the circumflex artery. In 6 cases of the 7 cases described the third coronary artery showed no atrial branches
Evaluation of Thermal Rating Methods Based on the Transmission Line Model / Termisko Jaudas Metožu Novērtējums, Balstoties Uz Esošo Elektropārvades Līnijas Modeli
Authors: Berjozkina S. , Sauhats A. , Banga A. , Jakusevics I.
Published: September 2013

Electric power consumption has been growing continuously, especially in the last years. Therefore, implementation of new advanced technologies such as the overhead line thermal monitoring is topical for improvement of the existing transmission line network in order to increase its throughput capacity and reliability of power supply. In general, the real-time thermal monitoring systems are designed based on the existing methods using the limiting conditions for ampacity determination of high-voltage overhead lines. The paper considers commonly used methods for thermal rating estimation which include computation of the conductor temperature and of the conductor sag. Comparative analysis was performed for the measured and calculated steady-state conductor temperatures and line sagging, based on which the thermal rating methods were tested. The experimental measurements were conducted for three cases using special monitoring equipment. The study has been carried out based on the existing line model of the Latvian transmission grid
Cauda equina syndrome secondary to lumbar disc herniation. Report of three cases
Authors: Adam Danil , Hornea Ioana
Published: September 2013

Cauda equina syndrome produced by the herniated lumbar intervertebral disc is a rare disorder that, if is undiagnosed and untreated in time, can have serious consequences for the patient and medicolegal implications for the surgeon. We report the clinical evolution of 3 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis who still present sphincterian and sexual dysfunctions many years after surgery, even if they were operated on immediately after admission. Reviewing the literature on this subject has allowed us to emphasize symptomes, pathophysiological mechanism and management regarding patients with lumbar spinal stenosis. The surgical decompression is indicated as soon as possible. The surgical decompression within 48 hours from onset allows maximum improvement of symptoms and absolves the surgeon of any medico-legal liability
Surgical decompression of arachnoid cysts: a study on 44 pediatric patients
Authors: Tascu A. , Florea Simona Mihaela
Published: September 2013

Background: There are yet to clarify some aspects regarding the surgical indications and surgical methods that are at choice for treating ACs. The purpose of the study is to contribute to the ongoing debate on the most appropriate treatment.

Materials and methods: We included in the study 44 pediatric patients (aged < 18 years), operated for ACs in the Neurosurgery I Department, of the Emergency Clinical Hospital “Bagdasar- Arseni” in Bucharest, during the period January 2003 to December 2012. The surgical methods were either a craniotomy or cyst shunting. The information regarding these patients was retrospectively assessed based on their clinical and imaging records, and cross checked with the OR protocols. Treatment efficiency was evaluated considering postoperative clinical status, imaging appearance and postoperative complications.

Results: 84.1% of the patients reported postoperative disappearance or reduction of symptoms, while 13.6 had the same complaints as prior surgery. Only one patient experienced worsening of symptoms. Follow-up imaging showed cyst disappearance in 29.5% patients and cyst reduction in 61.4% patients. 9.1% had no change in cyst volume. Craniotomy correlated with a better imaging appearance (p=0.02). There was no correlation between improved clinical status and cyst fluid reduction (p=0.6). 9 patients (20.4%), all with temporal cysts, experienced postoperative complications, and 7 of them (15, 9%) needed surgery. There was no severe or permanent dysfunction in any of the patients. 42.8% of the cyst shunting patients suffered postoperative complications, whereas only 10% of the craniotomy patients did.

Conclusion: Cyst decompression results in significant clinical improvement and it can be performed with little risk for severe complications. Craniotomy seems to be a better surgical treatment option than cystoperitoneal shunt, with a better neuroimaging appearance and a lower complications rate
Traumatic intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Chiriac A. , Iliescu B. , Faiyad Z. , Poeata I.
Published: September 2013

Traumatic intracranial aneurysms are rare conditions that can be a result of vast head trauma. Different aspects as history, etiology, histopathology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis and treatment options are discussed regarding the literature. A particular case of a pericalosal aneurysm is presented to highlight the importance of keeping in mind that this location can be a site of such aneurysms
Low-dose anisomycin is sufficient to alter the bio-behaviors of Jurkat T cells
Authors: Sun Manman , Xing Feiyue , Pan Shan , Di Jingfang , Zeng Shan , Liu Jing
Published: September 2013

Anisomycin is a pyrrolidine antibiotic isolated from Streptomyces griseolus. It has been found that a quite low dose of anisomycin is sufficient to block proliferation of primary T lymphocytes. The focus of this study is to explore the possibility of anisomycin to treat human acute leukemia Jurkat T cells in vitro. The results indicated that the low dose of anisomycin could significantly inhibit the colony formation of Jurkat T cells and elevate the inhibition rate of Jurkat T cell growth along with its increasing concentrations. Jurkat T cell cycle was blocked into S-phase by anisomycin. Consistent with the increased proportion of sub-G1 phase, anisomycin promoted Jurkat T cell apoptosis. The CD69 and CD25 expression on the surface of Jurkat T cells was also down-regulated prominently along with the enhancing concentrations of anisomycin, followed by the decreased production of IL-4, IL-10, IL-17, TGF-β and IFN-γ, and the down-regulated expression of phosphorylated-ERK1/2. The results suggest that the suppressive effect of anisomycin on Jurkat T cell growth may be related to inhibiting TGF-β production and ERK1/2 activation, arresting the cell cycle at S-phase and promoting the apoptosis of Jurkat T cells.
Vegetation diversity influences endozoochoric seed dispersal by moose (Alces alces L.)
Authors: Jaroszewicz Bogdan , Pirożnikow Ewa , Churski Marcin
Published: September 2013

Research on moose-mediated seed dispersal is limited. However, its potential role in transferring seeds in patchy landscapes may be of great importance. In this work we examined how seasons and vegetation diversity influence the species richness and abundance of seeds dispersed endozoochorically by moose. Samples of moose faeces were collected year-round, fortnightly, from contrasting vegetation types, dominated by diverse, species-rich wetland or poor, dry pine forest. The viable seed content of dung was studied by the seedling emergence method. The mean number of emerged seedlings per 0.8 L sample and the mean number of plant species per 0.8 L sample were several times higher in the diverse wetland vegetation than in the poor pine forest vegetation. Maximum species richness and seed abundance was observed during the fructification period, and the minimum during spring. The species richness of samples did not differ between winter and the growing season, although the composition of plant species was different. The results of this study suggest that moose are efficient seed vectors, especially of grasses typical for grasslands and wetlands. The species richness and abundance of dispersed seeds coincides with the diversity of the vegetation of the animal’s habitat.
Montmorillonite intercalated with SiO2, SiO2-Al2O3 or SiO2-TiO2 pillars by surfactant-directed method as catalytic supports for DeNOx process
Authors: Chmielarz Lucjan , Kowalczyk Andrzej , Wojciechowska Magdalena , Boroń Paweł , Dudek Barbara , Michalik Marek
Published: September 2013

The intercalation of natural montmorillonite with SiO2, SiO2-Al2O3 or SiO2-TiO2 pillars by the surfactant-directed method resulted in the formation of high surface area porous materials; these were tested as catalytic supports for the process of selective catalytic reduction of NO (DeNOx). The incorporation of titanium or aluminium into the structure of the silica pillars significantly increased the surface acidity of the clay samples. Iron and copper were deposited onto the surface of the pillared clays mainly in the form of monomeric isolated cations and oligomeric metal oxide species. The contribution of the latter species was higher in the clay intercalated with SiO2-TiO2 pillars than in the samples modified with SiO2 and SiO2-Al2O3 pillars. The pillared clay-based catalysts were active in the DeNOx process but, in this group, the best results were obtained for the clay intercalated with SiO2-TiO2 pillars and doped with iron and copper. The catalytic performance of the samples is discussed in respect of their surface acidity and active forms of transition metal species deposited.
Synthesis, thermal stability, electronic features, and antimicrobial activity of phenolic azo dyes and their Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes
Authors: Bal Selma , Bal Sedat , Erener Abdullah , Halipci Hatice , Akar Seyhan
Published: September 2013

Four water soluble azo dyes, 4-(isopropyl)-2-[(E)-(4-chlorophenyl)diazenyl]phenol (L 1), 4-(isopropyl)-2-[(E)-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)diazenyl]phenol (L2), 4-(sec-butyl)-2-[(E)-(4-chlorophenyl) diazenyl]phenol (L 3), 4-(sec-butyl)-2-[(E)-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)diazenyl]phenol (L 4), and their Cu(II) and Ni(II) complexes were synthesized and characterized using spectroscopic methods. Examination of their thermal stability revealed similar decomposition temperature of approximately 260–300°C and that they were more thermally stable than their metal complexes. Ni(II) complexes of ligands L2 and L4 were more stable than the other coordination compounds. Among the synthesized ligands, L2 and the complexes Cu(L3)2 and Ni(L4)2 showed both antimicrobial and antifungal activity. However, the other ligands and the complexes were poorly active against selected microorganisms.
Precautionary discourse: Thinking through the distinction between the precautionary principle and the precautionary approach in theory and practice
Authors: Dinneen Nathan
Published: September 2013

This paper addresses the distinction, arising from the different ways the European Union and United States have come to adopt precaution regarding various environmental and health-related risks, between the precautionary principle and the precautionary approach in both theory and practice. First, this paper addresses how the precautionary principle has been variously defined, along with an exploration of some of the concepts with which it has been associated. Next, it addresses how the distinction between the precautionary principle and precautionary approach manifested itself within the political realm. Last, it considers the theoretical foundation of the precautionary principle in the philosophy of Hans Jonas, considering whether the principled-pragmatic distinction regarding precaution does or doesn't hold up in Jonas' thought.
Cattle scourge no more: The eradication of rinderpest and its lessons for global health campaigns
Authors: Youde Jeremy
Published: September 2013

In 2011, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) officially declared rinderpest eradicated. This cattle virus, which has historically had significant political, economic, and social consequences, is only the second infectious disease to disappear from the face of the planet due to concerted human actions. This paper explores the effects that rinderpest has had historically, chronicles the actions of the Global Rinderpest Eradication Campaign (GREP), and discusses the lessons that GREP can offer for combating other infectious diseases. I argue that rinderpest's unique viral characteristics made eradication particularly feasible, but that GREP's activities offer important lessons for fostering international cooperation on controlling infectious disease outbreaks.
A Meta-Analysis of the Effectiveness of English-Medium Education in Hong Kong
Authors: Lo Yuen Yi , Lo Eric Siu Chung
Published: September 2013

To facilitate second language learning, it has become increasingly popular to use a second language as the medium of instruction for content subjects for majority language students. Although numerous research studies have shown the advantages of such kind of programs in North America and Europe, those investigating English as the Medium of Instruction (EMI) schools in Hong Kong yielded inconclusive results. This meta-analysis is the first attempt to synthesize the research evidence on EMI education in Hong Kong since 1970. Based on 24 studies, this meta-analysis shows that students in EMI secondary schools were more proficient in second language and performed better on measures of affective variables. Yet their learning in other content subjects suffered. The differences between the effectiveness of EMI education in Hong Kong and that of similar programs in other contexts will be discussed, thereby illuminating second language acquisition theories and bilingual education.
Teacher Mobility and Financial Incentives
Authors: Fulbeck Eleanor S.
Published: September 2013

Extensive teacher mobility can undermine policy efforts to develop a high-quality workforce. In response, policymakers have increasingly championed financial incentives to retain teachers. In 2006, the Denver Public Schools adopted an alternative teacher compensation reform, the Professional Compensation System for Teachers (“ProComp”). Using longitudinal teacher-level data from 2001–2002 to 2010–2011, I estimate hazard models that identify the relationship between ProComp and teacher mobility. Specifically, I compare mobility patterns of teachers who received a ProComp incentive with those who did not, with special attention to teacher mobility in high-poverty schools. Results suggest receiving a ProComp incentive is associated with a significant decrease in the odds of departure. This appears to be driven by a decrease in a teacher’s odds of leaving the district rather than moving to a new school within the district, by voluntary ProComp participants and by teachers who receive incentives that total more than $5,000.
Practice of patient based quality assessment procedure in clinical chemistry unit at diagnostic laboratories in Nepal
Authors: Gyawali P , Tamrakar S , Lamsal N , Shresta RK
Published: September 2013

Background: The clinical laboratory is the major producer of information used to diagnose, treat, and monitor patients. Errors in laboratory testing may occur at many different points in the total testing process (TTP). Application of quality control plays a vital role in recognizing probable errors. The current dominant technique for error identification uses quality control materials has several inherent drawbacks; otherwise, patient based quality control procedure ensures the detection of pre-analytical errors, analytical, post-analytical errors, clerical errors, and random errors that cannot be detected using commonly used quality control methods, thereby improving the reliability of clinical tests. Objective: Thus the objective of this study was to evaluate the practice of patient based quality control procedure in clinical chemistry unit at diagnostic laboratories in Nepal. Materials and Methods: The questionnaire based study was conducted in clinical chemistry unit of diagnostic laboratories across the country. Questionnaires were personally dropped in 217 clinical biochemistry laboratories and were asked to complete a practice based questionnaire. The responses of 169 laboratories were analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2007 and expressed in terms of percentage. Results: In foremost study undertaken, a total of 169 laboratories responded to the questionnaire. A total 65.9 % of the laboratories monitored errors using patient based quality control procedure but not as a part of quality control. Very few of participant.s laboratories responded accurately regarding utility and practical aspects of patient based quality control included in the checklist. Conclusion: Practice of patient based quality control procedure was not well established to identify possible errors. Hence, the study extent the existing information and explored that the current classical approaches were not adequate to assure accurate patients test results for specific analytes. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/stcj.v1i1.7983 Sunsari Technical College Journal Vol.1(1) 2012 9-17
Drug use pattern in Primary Health Care facilities of Kaski District, Western Nepal
Authors: Dahal P , Bhattarai B , Adhikari D , Shrestha R , Baral SR , Shrestha N
Published: September 2013

Background: Drug utilization research has been defined by the WHO as .the marketing, distribution, prescription and use of drugs in a society, with special emphasis on the resulting medical, social and economic consequences. Several studies of drug utilization conducted in many developed countries shows wide evidence of irrational drug use. Objectives: To assess the drug use pattern in Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities of Kaski district, Western Nepal. Methods :A prospective cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in 11 PHC facilities of Kaski district using WHO core drug use indicators. Results: A total of 301 prescriptions was analyzed. The average age of patients visiting PHC was 33.11 years (female 35.79; male 30.40). The average number of drugs prescribed was 2.29. Percentage of encounters with at least one antibiotic prescribed was 57% whereas encounters with at least one injection prescribed was low 3%. The total percentage of drugs prescribed using generic names was found to be 59.02% and percentage of drugs prescribed from EDL was 85.19% respectively. The average consultation and dispensing time of 109 patients was 2.02 minutes and 42.52 seconds. Only 30% of patients had adequate knowledge of drug whereas none of the drugs were adequately labeled. Percentage of drugs actually dispensed was 89.63%. All health facilities had availability of Essential Drug List (EDL). The total percentage of availability of key drugs in study PHCs was 89.69%. Conclusion: The study shows trend toward irrational practice mainly on antibiotics use and non- generic prescribing in most facilities studied. Patient care provided by health facilities studied was insufficient and thus effective intervention program for promotion of rational drug use practice is recommended in PHC facilities. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/stcj.v1i1.8652 Sunsari Technical College Journal Vol.1(1) 2012 1-8
Correlation between fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin in non-insulin treated type 2 diabetic subjects
Authors: Shrestha L , Jha B , Yadav B , Sharma S
Published: September 2013

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) comprises a group of common metabolic disorders that share phenotype of hyperglycemia. Objectives: This study was conducted to determine the correlation between glucose monitoring by fasting blood glucose or two hours postprandial blood glucose with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in type 2 diabetic patients. Method: A cross sectional study was conducted over a period of six month in the Department of Biochemistry. Institute of Medical, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital. Sixty inpatients with Diabetes mellitus type 2 were assessed for daily fasting and postprandial blood sugar for 15 consecutive days. HbA1c was measured on the 15th day. Result: Both postprandial blood glucose and fasting blood glucose significantly correlated with HbA1c. Postprandial blood glucose showed better correlation to HbA1c than fasting blood glucose (r = 0.630, P <0.001 vs. r =0.452, P = 0.05). Conclusion: These results show that postprandial blood glucose correlated better than fasting blood glucose to HbA1c. Thus, postprandial blood glucose predicted overall glycemic control better than fasting blood glucose. This finding has potential implications for treatment and monitoring of metabolic control in type-2 diabetes. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/stcj.v1i1.8654 Sunsari Technical College Journal Vol.1(1) 2012 18-21
'Ragging': What the medical students of a health institute from Eastern Nepal say?
Authors: Shakya DR , Maskey R
Published: September 2013

Background: The view point of the students, the main stakeholder, regarding ragging bears a great significance on this tradition. Objective: To explore how medical students of a health science institute in eastern Nepal view ragging. Methodology: This is a semi-qualitative attitudinal study conducted in 2009/10 among medical students. An intensive questionnaire was prepared to assess different aspects of ragging. The questionnaire mainly focused on their view about ragging: positive and negative sides, their favour and some local issues, e.g. personal experience, common modes of ragging in the institute and their suggestions for the change. Some questions were open ended. Every 5th students of the frame of all medical students of B. P. Koirala Institute of health sciences (BPKIHS) were approached personally or through mail for response to the questionnaire. Hence, 200 were approached and we could collect 60 responses for analysis. Results: Among 60 participating medical students of different academic programs, 28.3% were female and 66.8% were male. Average student age was 23 years. Thirty two percents of the respondents were in favour of some sort of ragging though a great majority expressed that there was a need of some modification in its current pattern in the institute. Many felt that it might facilitate socialization and some better form of interactive program was a need. Sixty eight percent respondents found ragging to be stressful. Conclusion: Ragging exists in BPKIHS though a majority of medical students were against it. They opined for the modification in the current tradition of ragging. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/stcj.v1i1.8658 Sunsari Technical College Journal Vol.1(1) 2012 27-32
Uncovering the Footprints of Erosion by On-Farm Maize Cultivation in a Hilly Tropical Landscape
Authors: Egodawatta Chaminda , Stamp Peter , Sangakkara Ravi
Published: September 2013

A hilly region in Sri Lanka was considered to be degraded by erosion driven by intensive tobacco production, but what are reliable indicators of erosion? In addition to determining soil chemical and physical traits, maize was cropped with Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium (NPK, PK) recommended mineral fertilization and without fertilizer (ZERO) in two major seasons(October–January in 2007/2008 and 2008/2009—Seasons 1 and 2 respectively) on 92 farms at inclinations ranging from 0% to 65%. In a subset of steep farms (n = 21) an A horizon of 6 cm rather than of 26 cm was strong proof of erosion above 30% inclination. Below the A level, the thickness of the horizon was unaffected by inclination. Soil organic matter contents (SOM) were generally low, more so at higher inclinations, probably due to greater erosion than at lower inclination. Maize yields decreased gradually with increasing inclination; at ZERO, effects of climate and soil moisture on yield were easier determined and were probably due to long-term erosion. However, despite an initial set of 119 farms, an exact metric classification of erosion was impossible. NPK strongly boosted yield. This was a positive sign that the deficits in chemical soil fertility were overriding physical soil weaknesses. The study illustrated that chemical soil fertility in these soils is easily amenable to modifications by mineral and organic manures.
Evaluation of a Wet Chemistry Method for Isolation of Cyclotron Produced [211At]Astatine
Authors: Balkin Ethan , Hamlin Donald , Gagnon Katherine , Chyan Ming-Kuan , Pal Sujit , Watanabe Shigeki , Wilbur D.
Published: September 2013

A “wet chemistry” approach for isolation of 211At from an irradiated bismuth target is described. The approach involves five steps: (1) dissolution of bismuth target in conc. HNO3; (2) removal of the HNO3 by distillation; (3) dissolution of residue in 8 M HCl; (4) extraction of 211At from 8 M HCl into DIPE; and (5) extraction of 211At from DIPE into NaOH. Results from 55 “optimized” 211At isolation runs gave recovery yields of approximately 78% after decay and attenuation corrections. An attenuation-corrected average of 26 ± 3 mCi in the target provided isolated (actual) yields of 16 ± 3 mCi of 211At. A sixth step, used for purification of 211At from trace metals, was evaluated in seven runs. In those runs, isolated 211At was distilled under reductive conditions to provide an average 71 ± 8% recovery. RadioHPLC analyses of the isolated 211At solutions, both initial and after distillation, were obtained to examine the 211At species present. The primary species of 211At present was astatide, but astatate and unidentified species were also observed. Studies to determine the effect of bismuth attenuation on 211At were conducted to estimate an attenuation factor (~1.33) for adjustment of 211At readings in the bismuth target.
Late Pleistocene and Early Holocene Rock Art from the Mongolian Altai: The Material and its Cultural Implications
Authors: Jacobson-Tepfer Esther
Published: September 2013

Rock-pecked images from the northern Mongolian Altai attest to the presence of human communities within the high valleys of that region during the Late Pleistocene and Early Holocene. The material provides evidence that is hitherto largely missing from the archaeological record of that region. This paper reviews the rock art, its find sites and larger physical contexts and uses evidence from paleoenvironmental studies to propose dating and cultural significance. The material is compared with other sites said to have Paleolithic imagery from Mongolia and the adjoining Russian Altai. The body of presented material offers a major resource for the study of early hunter-gatherer communities at the interface of Central and North Asia.
Solutions of Some Nonlinear Diffusion Equations and Generalized Entropy Framework
Authors: Lenzi Ervin , Dos Santos Maike , Michels Flavio , Mendes Renio , Evangelista Luiz
Published: September 2013

We investigate solutions of a generalized diffusion equation that contains nonlinear terms in the presence of external forces and reaction terms. The solutions found here can have a compact or long tail behavior and can be expressed in terms of the q-exponential functions present in the Tsallis framework. In the case of the long-tailed behavior, in the asymptotic limit, these solutions can also be connected with the L´evy distributions. In addition, from the results presented here, a rich class of diffusive processes, including normal and anomalous ones, can be obtained.
Indicators and Determinants of Small-Scale Bamboo Commercialization in Ethiopia
Authors: Endalamaw Tefera , Lindner André , Pretzsch Jürgen
Published: September 2013

Bamboo is an abundant resource in Ethiopia and has a great potential for commercialization, which can drive rural development. In view of these realities, this study analyzed the state and determinants of small-scale bamboo commercialization in Ethiopia. Data were collected from three major bamboo-growing districts (Awi, Sidama, and Sheka) and four urban centers (Masha, Hawassa, Bahir Dar, and Addis Ababa) via semi-structured interviews, group discussions, and questionnaire surveys with key actors along the value chain. Results revealed distinctive differences in proportion of cash income, value chain structure, and management engagement among the districts. Percentages of cash income were 60.15, 42.60, and 9.48 at Awi, Sidam, and Sheka, respectively. Differences were statistically significant between Sheka and both other districts (p = 0.05), but not between Awi and Sidama. The value chain structure showed that compared with Sheka, Awi and Sidama have a relatively large number of actors involved. The major factors explaining commercialization differences among regions were distance to market and presence of alternative forest products. Within Sheka, households with larger family size, higher education attainment, and access to training reportedly engaged more in commercial extraction. Therefore, we conclude that development of infrastructure for linking resource and consumer centers and expansion of extension education among producers may enhance the commercial engagement of producers and improve the accessibility of bamboo resources for commercial production.
Involvement of Calcium-Mediated Reactive Oxygen Species in Inductive GRP78 Expression by Geldanamycin in 9L Rat Brain Tumor Cells
Authors: Sun Fang-Chun , Shyu Hsin-Yi , Lee Meng-Shiou , Lee Meng-Shiunn , Lai Yiu-Kay
Published: September 2013

Treatment with geldanamycin (GA) leads to an increase in [Ca2+]c and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in rat brain tumor 9L RBT cells. GA-exerted calcium signaling was blocked by BAPTA/AM and EGTA. The effect of GA on [Ca2+]c was significantly reduced in the presence of thapsigargin (TG) and ruthenium red (RR). GA-induced GRP78 expression is significantly decreased in the presence of BAPTA/AM, EGTA and RR, suggesting that the calcium influx from the extracellular space and intracellular calcium store oscillations are contributed to by the calcium mobilization and GRP78 expression induced by GA. The induced GRP78 expression is sensitive to added U73122 and Ro-31-8425, pinpointing the involvement of phospholipase C (PLC) and protein kinase C (PKC) in GA-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. The antioxidants N-acetylcysteine (NAC), BAPTA/AM, EGTA and H7 also have significant inhibitory effects on ROS generation. Finally, neither H7 nor NAC was able to affect the calcium response elicited by GA. Our results suggest that the causal signaling cascade during GA-inducted GRP78 expression occurs via a pathway that connects PLC to cytoplasmic calcium increase, PKC activation and, then, finally, ROS generation. Our data provides new insights into the influence of GA on ER stress response in 9L RBT cells.
Microgastrinae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) in the Forest State of Artikutza (Navarra: Spain): Diversity and Community Structure
Authors: Pérez-Rodríguez Jesica , Oltra-Moscardó Teresa , Peris-Felipo Francisco , Jiménez-Peydró Ricardo
Published: September 2013

Microgastrinae is one of the largest subfamilies of the Braconidae with about 2,000 described species worldwide. These wasps are of enormous ecological interest due to their role in controlling the caterpillar populations. This study analyses diversity and community structure within the Microgastrinae in the Artikutza Forest, located in the Peñas de Aia Natural Park, western Pyrenees, Spain. The specimens were collected in two different habitats: mixed forest and beech forest. A total of 524 specimens, belonging to nine separate genera and 27 species were captured. Alpha, beta and gamma diversity were analyzed. Additionally, the relationship between Microgastrinae phenology and climatic conditions were studied.
Effect of Thermal Treatment on Fracture Properties and Adsorption Properties of Spruce Wood
Authors: Murata Koji , Watanabe Yasuhiro , Nakano Takato
Published: September 2013

The effect of thermal treatment on spruce is examined by analyzing the fracture and hygroscopic properties. Specimens were heated at temperatures within the range 120–200 °C for 1 h. Fracture energy was measured using a single-edge notched bending test and the strain-softening index was estimated by dividing the fracture energy by the maximum load. Adsorption properties were estimated using adsorption isotherms. Fiber saturation points (FSPs) were estimated by extrapolating the moisture adsorption isotherm curve. Langmuir’s adsorption coefficient and number of adsorption sites were obtained using Langmuir’s theory and the Hailwood-Horrobin theory, respectively. The fracture energy, FSPs, and specimen weights decreased at temperatures higher than 150 °C, but the critical point for the strain-softening index and the number of adsorption sites was shown to be 180 °C. We hypothesize that the fracture energy and FSP depend on the chemical structure of the cell wall, whereas the strain-softening behavior may be influenced by the number of adsorption sites, and in turn the number of hydrogen bonds in hemicellulose.
Preparation and Morphology Studies of Nano Zinc Oxide Obtained Using Native and Modified Chitosans
Authors: Thirumavalavan Munusamy , Huang Kai-Lin , Lee Jiunn-Fwu
Published: September 2013

Nano zinc oxide (ZnO) with moderate surface area and high pore volume were prepared using a facile preparation method. Chitosan was utilized as both chelating and structure directing agent. The application of chitosans in this study suggested that even biowastes can be served in a productive manner economically. The surface modification of chitosan was carried out in order to increase the interaction between chitosan and zinc ions. The effect of sodium chloroacetate and isopropyl alcohol on the surface modification process was also explored. FT-IR (Fourier transform-infrared spectrometer) and TGA (Thermogravimetric analyses) analyses revealed that modified chitosans are more stable than those of unmodified chitosan. Among surface modified chitosans, CMC1 (1.5 M sodium chloroacetate and 75% isopropyl alcohol) showed enhanced surface properties. Freundlich adsorption isotherms as preliminary studies confirmed that modified chitosan showed enhanced interaction with zinc ions. The interaction of zinc salt with chitosans produced a zinc-chitosan polymer. This finally cleaved upon calcination to produce nano ZnO. The effects of different calcination temperatures indicated that 450 °C is the optimum calcination temperature to produce the nano ZnO with favored surface area (15.45 m2/g) and pore size (221.40 nm). SEM (Scanning electron microscope) and TEM (Transmission electron microscope) of ZnO indicated that uniform particle and shape distributions were obtained at low calcination temperature (450 °C).
Circadian Rhythms in Dinoflagellates: What Is the Purpose of Synthesis and Destruction of Proteins?
Authors: Hastings J.
Published: September 2013

There is a prominent circadian rhythm of bioluminescence in many species of light-emitting dinoflagellates. In Lingulodinium polyedrum a daily synthesis and destruction of proteins is used to regulate activity. Experiments indicate that the amino acids from the degradation are conserved and incorporated into the resynthesized protein in the subsequent cycle. A different species, Pyrocystis lunula, also exhibits a rhythm of bioluminescence, but the luciferase is not destroyed and resynthesized each cycle. This paper posits that synthesis and destruction constitutes a cellular mechanism to conserve nitrogen in an environment where the resource is limiting.
Proteoliposomes as Tool for Assaying Membrane Transporter Functions and Interactions with Xenobiotics
Authors: Scalise Mariafrancesca , Pochini Lorena , Giangregorio Nicola , Tonazzi Annamaria , Indiveri Cesare
Published: September 2013

Proteoliposomes represent a suitable and up to date tool for studying membrane transporters which physiologically mediate absorption, excretion, trafficking and reabsorption of nutrients and metabolites. Using recently developed reconstitution strategies, transporters can be inserted in artificial bilayers with the same orientation as in the cell membranes and in the absence of other interfering molecular systems. These methodologies are very suitable for studying kinetic parameters and molecular mechanisms. After the first applications on mitochondrial transporters, in the last decade, proteoliposomes obtained with optimized methodologies have been used for studying plasma membrane transporters and defining their functional and kinetic properties and structure/function relationships. A lot of information has been obtained which has clarified and completed the knowledge on several transporters among which the OCTN sub-family members, transporters for neutral amino acid, B0AT1 and ASCT2, and others. Transporters can mediate absorption of substrate-like derivatives or drugs, improving their bioavailability or can interact with these compounds or other xenobiotics, leading to side/toxic effects. Therefore, proteoliposomes have recently been used for studying the interaction of some plasma membrane and mitochondrial transporters with toxic compounds, such as mercurials, H2O2 and some drugs. Several mechanisms have been defined and in some cases the amino acid residues responsible for the interaction have been identified. The data obtained indicate proteoliposomes as a novel and potentially important tool in drug discovery.