bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reaching for the stars
Authors: Frostick Helen
Published: November 2014

Headteacher Helen Frostick discusses using yearly themes to help drive your school development and improvement plans
Circulating MicroRNA Biomarker Studies: Pitfalls and Potential Solutions
Authors: Witwer Kenneth W
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND

Circulating microRNAs have been proposed as disease biomarkers that may aid in risk assessment, diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of treatment response. The perceived opportunity has loomed particularly large in neoplastic disease, where alterations in cancer cells are thought to be reflected in the extracellular space as affected cells release upregulated miRNAs or fail to release apparently downregulated species. Despite the promise of miRNA biomarkers, evaluation of the diagnostic specificity and reproducibility of reported markers suggests that realizing this promise remains a work in progress.

CONTENTS

This review examines issues of diagnostic specificity and reproducibility that have afflicted circulating miRNA studies. Surveying the breast cancer literature as an example, few miRNAs are reported consistently. Furthermore, it is posited that the assumptions underlying models of direct contributions of diseased tissue to biofluid miRNA profiles may not hold. Suggestions for improving diagnostic specificity and reliability are provided.

To maximize the likelihood of return on investment as miRNAs continue to be evaluated as specific and clinically useful markers, a focus is needed on miRNAs found in specific carriers, such as extracellular vesicles. Alternative sampling techniques should be developed, and nonblood biofluids should be considered. Careful optimization and standardization of preanalytical and analytical methods is needed to ensure that future results, positive or negative, are reliable.
On the evolving and emitting quantum black holes and the scale independent black hole cosmology
Authors: Satya Seshavatharam U.V , Lakshminarayana S
Published: November 2014

Along with presently the believed black holes that are expected to be formed by gravitational collapse of a massive star, there may exist primordial evolving black holes. By absorbing the hidden vacuum energy primordial evolving black holes become massive. Planck mass can be considered as the basic mass of any black hole and can be called as the baby Planckion. Very high temperature of the baby Planckion is the only heat source for the evolving black holes or evolving Planckion’s decreasing temperature. Considering the current cosmic microwave back ground temperature as a quantum gravitational effect of the evolving primordial cosmic black hole, general theory of relativity and quantum mechanics can be combined into a ‘scale independent’ true unified model of quantum gravity. Considering cosmic black hole’s light speed rotation and galactic revolution, observed galactic rotational curves can be understood. In the past, decreasing high cosmic black hole temperature forced hydrogen atom to emit increasing photon energy resulting in the observed redshift. Aged super novae dimming may be due to the effect of past high cosmic black hole temperature. As cosmic time passes, decreasing current cosmic black hole temperature makes hydrogen atom to emit increased quanta of energy causing the future redshift. In future, with reference to the laboratory hydrogen atom, decreasing current cosmic temperature and measured rate of increase in emitted photon energy - true rate of future cosmic expansion can be understood. With reference to the decreasing current Hubble constant and decreasing current cosmic black hole temperature, true rate of future cosmic expansion can also be understood. Foundations of Quantum mechanics and General theory of relativity may be reviewed in this unified way. Keywords: Quantum Gravity, Evolving Black Holes, Geometric Horizon, Standard Cosmology, Black Hole Cosmology, CMBR Isotropy and Anisotropy, Redshift, Galactic Rotational Curves.
The anticancer potential of various substituted pyridazines and related compounds
Authors: Asif Mohammad
Published: November 2014

Pyridazine nucleus exhibited immense pharmacological activities. Pyridazine nucleus is present in various compounds that possess remarkable pharmacological activities. Various pyridazinone compounds have antitumor activity. Some of them pyridazinone derivatives bearing different moieties were exhibited excellent anticancer activity toward human cancer cell lines. They showed remarkable activity against leukemia, non-small cell lung cancer, colon, central nervous system, melanoma, ovarian and breast cancer cell lines. These compounds were act by different mechanism. Keywords: Pyruvate Kinase; Anti-Cancer; Pyridazines; Biological Activities; Cytotoxicity.
Phytochemical sreening, proximate analysis and mineral composition of some leafy vegetables consumed in Nigeria
Authors: Idoko Owoicho , Emmanuel Stella , Aguzue Ooyinye , Fausat Akanji , Osuagwu Ifeanyi , Asuquo Thomas
Published: November 2014

Phytochemical screening, proximate analysis and mineral composition of nine leafy vegetables; Teifaria occidentalis, Veronia amygdalina, Ocinum gratissimum, Corchorus olitorius, Piper guineese, Amaranthus hybridus Talinum triangulare, Gnetum africanum and Murraya koenigii was carried out using standard methods. The proximate analysis results showed that the moisture, ash, crude lipid, crude fibre, crude protein and carbohydrate ranged as followed; 10.20 to 15.17%, 6.65 to 28.33%, 1.44 to 11.29%, 0.52 to 2.33% 2.24 to 35.21% and 22.66 to 62.80% respectively. The mineral composition results showed that on the average, highest concentration of calcium was recorded in the range of 838 to 1258mg/100g, while Cr was found to be the least with concentration range of 0.19 to 0.48mg/100g. Cd was absent in all the samples. The phytochemical screening results also showed the presence of tannin, alkaloids and carbohydrate in all the leafy vegetables. The result of this study indicates that the leafy vegetables could be a good supplement for some the nutrients and elements analyzed. Keywords: Leafy Vegetables, Mineral Composition, Phytochemicals, Proximate Analysis.
Microphysical characteristics of cumulus clouds as observed in some African countries
Authors: Merrouchi Rabia
Published: November 2014

This paper analyses airborne measurements of several midlevel and mixed-phase cumulus clouds observed in different environments (maritime, continental, shallow and deep convection) obtained during the scientific experiments performed by national weather modification programs in Morocco and Burkina Faso. Three cases are documented in this paper presenting the synoptic meteorological situation leading to the formation and the development of the sampled clouds and the results of the measurements collected using instrumental aircrafts. Several passes were made at the top of the sampled clouds and reported data were collected and analysed describing the variability of the measured parameters at various altitudes and thus different temperature values (negative and positive temperatures). The dependency of the liquid water content to the temperature has been studied but also its variation with regard to the vertical velocity and to the total concentration number of cloud particles. Keywords: Aircraft Measurements, Cloud Microphysics, Liquid Water Content, West African Monsoon.
Groundwater contamination due to salt-panning activity and seawater intrusion at Tuticorin coastal zone, southern Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Chelladurai Singaraja , C Chidambaram , P Anandhan , K Tariq Abdul Kareem
Published: November 2014

An attempt was made for the first time in the state of Tamil Nadu to assess the impact of saltpan and salt water intrusion effluent on available water sources existing in and around saltpans. A total of 48 water samples from different sampling sites were collected along coastal line and analyzed for physicochemical parameters such as Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, Cl-, SO2-4 and HCO-3 during Pre-monsoon. Results indicate both higher Cl- and SO2-4 concentration in water samples from salt pans than in water samples from other sources. In addition to ratio of Cl-/HCO-3 and Na+/Cl- were clearly indicated that relationships of salt pan contamination and seawater intrusion. It is also clearly evident that moles ratio of SO2-4/Cl- vs Cl- and ternary plot differentiated the salt pan and seawater contaminated in the study area. The result obtained conclusively suggests the detrimental impact of saline effluent on water quality in Tuticorin coastal area, rendering it unsuitable for the propagation of life and unfit for agricultural purpose. And this indicates a worse condition of salt pan vicinities, as the ground water is only source of drinking water in those places. Keywords: Saltpan; Seawater Intrusion; Physicochemical.
Psychometric property evaluation of a midlife women quality of life questionnaire
Authors: Putnam Kathleen
Published: November 2014

Background: Quality of life in midlife women may be negatively impacted by biopsychosocial factors including midlife developmental tasks and hormonal changes. Many instruments measure physical aspects of menopause, but few specifically measure global quality of life in midlife women within a biopsychosocial perspective. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of the Midlife Women Quality of Life Questionnaire (MWQOL). Methods: The original 30-item MWQOL was piloted with a sample of 166 midlife women. Items were derived from the literature and the investigator’s practice experience with this population, which supports the content validity of the instrument. After psychometric evaluation of the first version, 201 midlife women aged 45-64 completed the revised 17-item instrument. Principal component analysis with varimax rotation was used in the factor analysis to determine the construct validity of the MWQOL. Concurrent administration of the Utian Quality of Life (UQOL) instrument was used to determine convergent validity. Results: Three factors emerged from the MWQOL: physical (Cronbach’s alpha 0.82), generativity (Cronbach’s alpha 0.82), and resolution (Cronbach’s alpha 0.78). Two identical items on the MWQOL and the UQOL (“I feel physically fit”) correlated at 0.863. Additionally, 56.5% of the variance in the 17 items of the MWQOL was accounted for by these three factors. Pearson’s correlation between the MWQOL and the UQOL instrument was significant at .768. Conclusions: Findings suggest that the MWQOL is a valid and reliable measure of quality of life for a sample of midlife women. Measures that will improve understanding of the psychological, social, and physical health of midlife women could help providers better evaluate midlife women’s quality of life and assess the effectiveness of specific interventions aimed at improving it. Keywords: Middle Aged, Quality Of Life, Reliability, Validity, Women’s Health.
Brief information related to potential therapeutic tendencies of citrus plants
Authors: Asif Mohammad
Published: November 2014

Citrus plants play an important role as a health-protector. They are containing various phytochemical that reduce or prevent risk for various diseases such as cancer, heart disease and aging effects. Citrus are good sources of naturally occurring antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenes, phenolic acids, phytate and phytoestrogens that have been recognized potentially to reduce various disease risks. Some compounds, have strong antioxidant activity, while others, such as the mono-phenols are weak antioxidants. Antioxidant compounds scavenge free radicals and thus inhibit the oxidative mechanisms that lead to degenerative diseases. The free radicals may oxidize nucleic acids, proteins, lipids or DNA and can initiate degenerative disease. There are a number of studies suggesting that the antioxidants are the main factors for reducing the incidence of chronic diseases including heart disease and some cancers. Keywords: Citrus, Antioxidants, Vitamins, Degenerative Diseases.
Molecular identification and amylolytic potential of a thermophilic bacteria species from refuse dump in Ile-Ife, Nigeria
Authors: Omoboye Olumide , Bakare Mufutau , Adewale Isaac , Oyedeji Olaoluwa
Published: November 2014

Molecular identification and amylolytic potential of a thermophilic bacterium species isolated from refuse dump was investigated. Bacterial isolates were identified by morphological and biochemical characterization while amylolytic bacterium of interest was identified by molecular analysis using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The bacterium with the highest ?-amylase activity was selected for enzyme production. The optimal conditions for ?-amylase secretion were determined by varying the pH, temperature, percentage soluble starch, nitrogen sources and carbon sources. The isolated and identified bacteria were Bacillus alvei (40%) Bacillus licheniformis (40%) and Bacillus brevis (20%) while Bacillus licheniformis RD24 was identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The peak of amylase production was at 20 h of incubation (925 µg/ml/min). The optimum pH and temperature for the enzyme production were 7 and 45oC respectively. Enzyme production medium with 1% starch gave highest enzyme activity of 102 ± 5.3 µg/ml/min. Peptone gave an enzyme activity of 165 ± 8.97 µg/ml/min and yeast extract gave 52.26 ± 2.86 µg/ml/min. Of the raw starches, cassava flour gave the highest specific activity of 72 ± 0.07 Units/mg proteins, while sorghum starch gave the lowest specific activity of 5 ± 1.52 Units/mg proteins. The study concluded that starch-rich household waste can be employed for amylase production using Bacillus licheniformis RD24. Keywords: Alpha Amylase, Bacillus Species, Optimum, Soluble Starch, Thermophilic.
A comparative evaluation of the inulin utilization potential of two Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis strains for the development of a synbiotic powder
Authors: JAMES LIGIMOL , Puniya Anil K. , Singh Kishan
Published: November 2014

Assessment of the compatibility between the probiotic and prebiotic is identified as a critical step while developing synbiotic products. So a study was conducted to compare the inulin utilization potential of two Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis strains for selecting a strain for the development of a lyophilized synbiotic product. The growth stimulatory effect of inulin was found to be more prominent on Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis B420 than on Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis Bb-12. So a synbiotic pair of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis B420 and inulin was selected for the development of the synbiotic product. The developed product had a high probiotic count of  6.5x108 cfu/g, showing a survival rate of 65%. On assessing the probiotic count of the developed product during storage, a marked reduction was observed on room temperature storage with the counts reducing to the level of less than five log cfu/g after 60 days. In contrast the count remained in the range of eight to nine log cfu/g even after 60 days of refrigerated storage. So it could be a suggested that considering the probiotic stability and viability problems pertaining to fermented dairy products, lyophilized products could be potential alternatives as matrices for the delivery of probiotics to humans. Keywords: Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis Bb-12, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis B420, Inulin, Lyophilized powder, Synbiotics.
A comparative overview on good fats and bad fats: guide to control healthy body
Authors: Banik Sujan , Hossain Mohammad
Published: November 2014

An ideal food has six components such as carbohydrate, protein, fat, vitamin, salt and water. Every component is essential for our body for maintaining good health. Fat is necessary because it plays many critical roles in the body. It’s a very rich source of energy that supports in cell function, helps insulate the body, protects us from injury, helps vitamin absorption and adds flavor and texture to foods. As well as fat also responsible for the risk of developing obesity, diabetes and heart disease in many cases.  There are two classes of fat categorized in our listed daily food items; one is good fat (unsaturated fat) reduce the risk of developing heart diseases by helping to reduce blood cholesterol another is bad fat (saturated fat) can rise blood cholesterol. A fat diet, low in unsaturated fatty acids and rich in saturated fatty acids is thought to be an imperative basis of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. For maintaining good health, every person should update his knowledge regarding his food habits. This review focuses on the studies to summarize the good fats and bad fats from our daily listed food intake. Keywords: Fat, Cholesterol, Saturated Fat, Trans Fat, Unsaturated Fat, Good Fat, Bad Fat.
The effect of chlorine dioxide on Enterococcus faecalis in exponential, stationary and starvation phases in extracted human teeth - an invitro study
Authors: Somayaji Krishnaraj , KL Shoba , Rao Mohandas
Published: November 2014

Background: Enterococcus Faecalis (E faecalis) is isolated usually from failed root canal treated teeth. It can bind to dentin and co-aggregate with other organisms. The organism is resistant to the intracanal medicaments and irrigants. It has the ability to produce biofilms and survive within the root canal. They may develop resistance at different phases of bacterial growth cycle. Objective: To study the effect of chlorine dioxide on different phases of E faecalis growth cycle for 1 and 3 min duration. Methodology: E faecalis ATCC strain (29212) was cultured in different growth phases on dentinal blocks of extracted human teeth. After treatment with chlorine dioxide, left out colonies were counted from dentinal shavings. Observation of the remaining biofilm of different phases was made using the scanning electron microscope and comparison between them was done. Results: In all 3 phases, at the end of 1 and 3 min, significantly (p<0.01, p<0.001 respectively) less E faecalis colonies were observed when compared to initial count. When effect of chlorine dioxide on E faecalis colonies was compared between the three phases, at the end of 1 min, significantly (p<0.05) less E faecalis colonies were observed in exponential phase than in starvation phase. However, the E faecalis colony count during stationary phase was significantly (p<0.05) less than the colony counts in both exponential and starvation phases. At the end of 3 min, there was no significant difference in E faecalis colony count between exponential and starvation phases. However, the E faecalis colony count during stationary phase was significantly (p<0.05) less when compared to the colony counts in both exponential and starvation phases. Conclusion: Our study showed that starved cells of E faecalis were more resistant to 13.8% chlorine dioxide irrigant when treated for 1 and 3min. Keywords: E faecalis, Chlorine dioxide, Dentinal blocks, Biofilms.
CNS tuberculoma mimicking brain metastasis
Authors: Gautam Vinod Kumar Singh , Shrivastava Ankur , Khare Akriti , Singh Ravinder
Published: November 2014

A 32 year old male patient, a follow up case of carcinoma tongue post radiotherapy, presented with history of non-healing ulcer on lateral aspect of neck since 2 years and recurrent episodes of seizures for about 13 months duration. Neuroimaging was suggestive of metastasis in brain and patient was referred to us for biopsy of the lesion. Detailed clinical and radiological work up followed by neurosurgical intervention established the diagnosis of neurotuberculosis. In a patient with primary systemic malignanacy with suspected central nervous system metastasis, brain tuberculoma should always be kept as a differential diagnosis. Keywords: Brain Metastasis, Carcinoma Tongue, Tuberculoma.
Solitary osteochondroma of the scapula: a rare case report
Authors: P Rahul , TV Ravikumar , Grover Amit , K Sudarshan
Published: November 2014

Introduction: Osteochondroma is the most common benign bone tumor representing about 15 % of all bone tumors and 45.3 % of the benign bone tumors. They commonly arise from the metaphysis of a long bone with most common sites being distal femur, proximal tibia or proximal humerus. The occurrence of osteochondroma in flat bones particularly the scapula is uncommon. Case Presentation: In view of its rarity, we report a case of solitary osteochondroma of the scapula in an 18 year old male arising from the postero medial aspect of the body of scapula which was managed by excisional biopsy. He presented with a painless swelling of 2 years duration over the left scapula. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis with no evidence of malignant transformation. Discussion: Osteochondromas are primary bone tumors rarely found arising from the scapula. Although the exact etiology of the growth is unclear, it is due to a portion of physis herniating through the growth plate. Complications like malignant transformation, winging of scapula and restriction of shoulder movements can occur. Thickness of cartilagenous cap is an important predictor of malignant change. Conclusion: Solitary osteochondroma of the scapula is a rare entity .Timely diagnosis and complete excision of the tumor should be done in order to avoid recurrence and prevent complications. Keywords: Osteochondroma, Solitary, Scapula.
Role of trpv1 (transient receptor potential v1 channel) in piperine induced hyperalgesia: a preliminary study
Authors: Gohil Priyanshee , Shah Gaurang , Patel Chhaya
Published: November 2014

Background: The inflammatory disease is associated with chronic pain and hypersensitivity to noxious stimuli in form of hyperalgesia. Transient receptor potential vanilloid type-1 (TRPV1) activated by various inflammatory mediators; plays a key role in occurrence of hyperalgesia. Piperine is the primary pungent alkaloid of Piper nigrum. Piperine has common binding site with capsaicin (TRPV1 agonist) on TRPV1 and it has more efficacy for activation of TRPV1 than capsaicin. Objective: The purpose of the study was to investigate the role of TRPV1 in piperine induced hyperalgesia in diabetic mice. Methods: Diabetes mellitus was induced in mice using streptozotocin (STZ). Nociception was measured by three types of thermal nociceptive tests (Hot plate method, radient heat tail-flick method and tail immersion test). Pilot study (using 2.5, 5, 10 and 50 mg kg-1 piperine, i.p.) was carried out and 5 mg kg-1 piperine is used as optimum dose for further study. Capsaicin, capsazepine and piperine were administered to their respected groups and nociceptive threshold was noted on day 4, 7 and 10 in all groups. Results: Piperine showed a significant decrease in nociceptive threshold as compared to diabetic control group, while there was a significant increase in reaction time, tail flick latency and tail withdrawal latency, in the animals pre-treated with capsazepine before piperine administration as compare to only piperine treated diabetic group. Conclusion: Activation of TRPV1 might be one of the possible mechanisms of Piperine induced hyperalgesia. Keywords: Capsaicin, Capsazepine, Hyperalgesia, Nociceptive Threshold, Piperine, TRPV1.
Effect of abhrak bhasma and silicon dioxide on hepatic and renal glutathione status in rats: hepatoprotection testing against single dose carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity
Authors: Teli Parashuram , Jadhav Jaywant , Kanase Aruna
Published: November 2014

Background: Glutathione (GSH) is an important intracellular antioxidant. Intrahepatic GSH levels are depleted in liver diseases. Objectives: In present study, effect of abhrak bhasma (an Ayurvedic drug) and silicon dioxide (SiO2) on hepatic and renal GSH status against CCl4 intoxicated male albino rats were investigated. Methods: Single dose of CCl4 (3.0ml/kg body wt, sc) was used to induce hepatotoxicity. Graded doses (10, 20, 30 and 40mg/ kg body wt) of abhrak bhasma and SiO2 were concurrently given with CCl4. Hepatic and renal GSH content was studied after 24 hrs. Results: Results showed that rats exposed to CCl4 exhibited decreased GSH in liver. It was counteracted and maintained to normal levels by the treatment of abhrak bhasma (minimum protective dose-10mg). SiO2 treatments did not affect GSH activity in liver significantly. Single dose of CCl4 had not influenced GSH content in kidney alone or with any of the doses of abhrak bhasma or SiO2. Conclusion: CCl4 single dose depletes GSH content significantly in liver but not in kidney. These results suggest that single dose treatment of abhrak bhasma (10mg onwards) protects GSH content and thus manages CCl4 induced free radical generation scavenging them. Keywords: Abhrak Bhasma, Antioxidant, Glutathione, Hepatotoxicity, Silicon Dioxide.
Antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of urinary tract isolates of citrobacter species in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: K.L Shobha , S.J Akshatha , G.S Amin , L Ramachandra
Published: November 2014

Introduction: The genus Citrobacter is a distinct group of aerobic Gram-negative bacilli from the Enterobacteriaceae family. It is an opportunistic pathogen that can cause diarrhea, septicemia, meningitis, urinary tract and respiratory system infection. Its isolation in the hospital settings is increasing. It is a present challenge to the clinical microbiologist because of their increased occurrence in nosocomial infection. Objectives: The current study was done to find out the prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of Citrobacter species from urinary tract isolates. Materials and Methods: Urine samples received from January 2013 to December 2013 were considered. A total of 9186 urine samples were considered, out of which 6381 were sterile and 2805 plates had growth.65(2.312%)of the growth plates had Citrobacter species growth. Citrobacter species were identified by conventional biochemical method. Antibiotic sensitivity test was performed by Kirby-Bauer Disc diffusion method. Results: Out of 65 patients female: male ratio was 17:15.5.The age groups were 0-9years; 8 patients(12.3%),10-19years;3 patients(4.615%),20-29years;11patients (16.9%),30-39years;6patients(9.28%),40-49years;12 patients(18.46%),50-59years;5patients(7.69%),?60years;20 patients(30.76%).The effective agent against Citrobacter species was found to be Imipenem (90.76%) then Cefoperazone-Sulbactum (89.23%) followed by Piperacillin-Tazobactam and Amikacin (87.69%).6 Multidrug resistant strains and 8 were ESBL producers. Conclusion: From the study it was seen that multidrug resistant strains are emerging. Proper surveillance in the antimicrobial sensitivity of Citrobacter was required. The age group 60 and above was found in majority to  have culture positive Citrobacter spp. Depending on antibiotic sensitivity pattern of Citrobacter isolates, the antibiotics should be used. Proper infection control measures should be taken to prevent the spread of the pathogen. Keywords: Antibiotic Susceptibility, Citrobacter Spp, Multi-Drug Resistant Bacteria, Urinary Tract Infections.
In vivo study of Fagonia Cretica Linn toxicity in Sudan
Authors: Abbas Omer , Izzeldin Omer , Abdalla Rashid
Published: November 2014

Purpose: The study targeted to determine the toxicological effects of ethanolic extracts of Fagonia cretica linn plant in Khartoum, Omdurman, and Shendi towns in Sudan during (January – February) 2013. Objectives: To determine the LD50 of the plant and to study the effects of the plant on the body weight, on vital organ weights, and anesthesia induction time effects. Methods: Different methods were adopted to achieve the objectives of this study, including Harborne methods for extraction. A total of (30), young adult Wistar rats, weighing (42.6 – 72.2) grams, fed standard rat food and water d libitum, were maintained at standard laboratory conditions. All rats were grouped into (3) groups, survived through the experiment by using the recommended progression doses of Fagonia cretica as (175, 550, 1750, 5000, 5000, & 5000) mg/kg/body weight screen shot of AOT425 statistical program of main test. Toxicological studies in vivo (LD50 determination) were done in all (3) groups of animals survive till the experiment was over after the administration of a selected high dose (5000) mg/kg/body weight. Ethical approval had been obtained from Omdurman Islamic University, Faculty of Pharmacy, and Department of Pharmacology under the number-(01/0/2013). Results: The LD50 is greater than 5000 mg/kg, indicates the high safety of the plant. The ethanolic extract of Fagonia cretica in doses of (100 & 300 mg/kg/body weight) has no effects on the rats relative vital organ weight (heart, liver, kidneys, lung and spleen) during the study period of (14) days compared to the control group whilst the dose of (600) mg/kg/body weight change the liver somewhat from the relevant control, although, has no effects on the rats body weight during the study period of (14) days compared to the control group monitored at day (0, 7, 14). The anesthesia induction time on rats, shows that the ethanolic extracts of the plant has neurological effect on rats. Conclusion: The toxicological determination of LD50 was found to be greater than (5000) mg/Kg, estimated by the special statistical software with three stopping criteria based on long term outcomes. This is indicating wide safety margin of Fagonia ethanolic extract which encourages its use by humans for the treatment of many diseases.. Keywords: Fagonia Cretica Linn, Umm Showaika, Ethanolic Extraction, Toxicity.
Giardiasis in cattle: clinical assessment of giardia lamblia in cattle at Basrah, Iraq
Authors: Al-Saad Rasha , Al-Emarah Ghazi
Published: November 2014

The aim of this study is for assessment cattle giardiasis clinically. It is first time study in type done in Iraq. It was conducted from September 2012 until May 2013 throughout it collected 1049 fecal samples from cattle of various ages and of both sexes, collected randomly from different areas of the northern Basrah. About 322 positive cases have been recorded in cattle and the infection rate was 30.6%. 241 cases out of 322 showed clinical signs while 81 infected cows did not show clinical signs which are asymptomatic. The clinical examination data showed variety of presentation among symptoms and signs. The percent of symptomatic type was higher than the percentage of asymptomatic giardiasis in cattle. The study reported symptoms such as diarrhea, foul smelling stool, and flatulence, loss of appetite, elevated temperature, constipation and emaciation in different proportions. Keywords: Giardia, Diarrhea, Asymptomatic, Cattle.
Design of a genetic microstrip patch antenna with broadside radiation for GSM applications
Authors: Jayasinghe Jeevani , Uduwawala Disala , Anguera Jaume
Published: November 2014

Designing multiband antennas with broadside radiation becomes of practical interest in the ever growing wireless communication. In this regard, design of a multiband microstrip patch antenna (MPA) for GSM850, GSM900, GSM1800 and GSM1900 applications using Genetic Algorithms (GA) combined with Finite Element Method (FEM) is proposed to optimize the patch geometry and the feed position. A substrate with dielectric constant 3.2 and height 0.76 mm is used to support the MPA. Patch dimensions are (100 mm × 122 mm) similar to that of the conventional rectangular patch for the lowest frequency band (GSM850). In addition, there is an air gap of 10 mm between the substrate and the ground plane. This MPA with a reflection coefficient less than -10 dB and broadside radiation at all four GSM bands can be useful for base station antennas. Keywords: Genetic Algorithm Optimization; GSM; Microstrip Patch Antennas; Mobile Communication.
Denial-of-Service attacks on 6LoWPAN-RPL networks: Issues and practical solutions
Authors: RGHIOUI Anass , KHANNOUS Anass , BOUHORMA Mohammed
Published: November 2014

RPL (Routing Protocol for Low-power and lossy networks) is a specific routing protocol designed to optimize 6LoWPAN (IPv6 over Low power Wireless Personal Area Network) operation. As 6LoWPAN suffers from resource constraints on battery, processor, memory and bandwidth, it affects the performance of the RPL protocol. From security point of view, this will make RPL vulnerable to several threats directly or indirectly. Thus, cryptographic systems are not sufficient to protect the RPL from internal attacks; a compromised node from the network may cause undesired operation without being detected by these systems. An intrusion detection system (IDS) should be used, but it is not easy given the nature of 6LoWPAN; on a side its resource constraints, and on the other side its opening to the outside world through the Internet. In this paper we focus on denial of service (DoS) attacks, we determine the elements to be taken into account in selecting a compatible IDS and we give some solutions that we consider effective and valid for 6LoWPAN-RPL based networks Keywords: RPL, ROLL, 6LoWPAN, IDS, DoS, Network security.
A new high capacity steganography based on bit-inverting method in DWT domain
Authors: Azaminezhad Mahnoosh Sadat , Bidgoli Amir Massoud
Published: November 2014

Steganography is a technique which embeds the secret messages in the cover image and transmitted in such a way that the existence of information is undetectable. In this paper, we present a new technique that consists of two encoding algorithm such as Huffman encoding and bit inverting algorithm. In this technique, we proposed a modified secure and high capacity based steganography scheme of hiding a secret message such as text or image into a cover image. Our simulation results show that the algorithm has a good perceptual invisibility and high capacity in addition to be secure. Keywords: Bus Inverting, Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT), Huffman Coding, Steganography, Wavelet.
A neural network based congestion control algorithm for content-centric networks
Authors: Bazmi Parisa , Keshtgary Manijeh
Published: November 2014

Communication across the Internet has transformed over the years, generated primarily by changes in the importance of content distribution. In the twenty-first century, people are more concerned with the content rather than the location of the information. Content-Centric Networking (CCN) is a new Internet architecture, which aims to access content by a name rather than the IP address of a host. Having the content, CCN which is natively pull-based functions based on the requests received from customers. It is also combined with the availability of in-network chaching. Because of the availability of in-network caching in CCN, chunks may be served by multiple sources. This multi-path transfer in CCN makes TCP-based congestion control mechanisms inefficient for CCN. In this paper a new congestion control algorithm is proposed, which is based on Neural Network prediction over content-centric networks. The designed NN is implemented in each router to predict adaptively the existence of the congestion on link given the current status of the network. The results demonstrate that the proposed congestion control algorithm can effectively improve throughput by 85.53%. This improvement is done by preventing queue overflow from happening, which will result in reductions in packet drop in the network. Keywords: Content-Centric Network, Congestion Control, Drop Prediction, Named Data Networking, Neural Network.
The Unity of the Proposition in the later Wittgenstein
Authors: Kemp Gary
Published: November 2014

I compare a relatively standard response to the challenge of the Unity of the Proposition with the very different attitude towards it of the later Wittgenstein. I articulate the problem as it arises within a Tarskian framework, explain (what I think ought to be) Davidson’s response to it and also the earlier Wittgenstein’s response to it, and then explain why, from Wittgenstein’s later perspective, the problem collapses.
Propositions, Predications, and Aesthetic Judgments
Authors: Neumaier Otto
Published: November 2014

Many philosophers have been puzzled by the problem of the unity of a proposition which, according to some of them, is provided by its structure and by its relation to the states of affairs it represents. In the present paper it is argued that this specific quality attributed to propositions by Russell has not necessarily to be regarded as something due to a structural property that is simply there but as the result of the way we use language in order to assert something. This is demonstrated by an analysis of the relationship between descriptive and prescriptive predications in aesthetics, and of the conditions that are necessary in order to be justified to move from one language game to the other one.
Flektierte Familiennamen im Luxemburgischen
Authors: Krier Fernande
Published: November 2014

This paper deals with a morphological issue, the inflection in Luxemburgish family names. While in colloquial High German only the one inflective form -s is attested in the plural forms of family names, for instance Schmit-s, we discover in colloquial Luxemburgish, besides the different plural forms, the composition ‘family name + first name’, for instance Schmit’s Paul instead of Paul Schmit. First, we give precise details about the morphological complexity of this construction. Next, its numerous connotations are emphasized. Finally, we put the question, if the new attitude of the young generation towards the inflected composite form generates a linguistic development in this local specified field.
The Romanian linguistic cartography in the digitizing era: the electronic atlases
Authors: Olariu Florin-Teodor , Olariu Veronica
Published: November 2014

The three series of national linguistic atlases (WLAD, ALR and NALR) proof that the Romanian linguistic cartography has one of the richest and most important traditions in Europe, fact acknowledged by the linguistic community starting from the first half of the last century. This tradition continues nowadays with the digitization of the linguistic atlases. The first achievement in this direction is the release in 2007 of the third volume from series NALR. Moldavia and Bukovina with the help of bespoke software built in collaboration by linguists and computer scientists from Iasi Branch of the Romanian Academy. Another project in the same field, done by a Romanian-Canadian team, is the Online Romanian Dialect Atlas which plans to build an interactive database for dialects using a multidimensional scaling statistical technique. The Bukovina Audiovisual Linguistic Atlas (ALAB) is the most recent project for a digital atlas of the Romanian academic community and it is based in the research centre from Iasi. The ALAB project, started in 2010, plans to build, for the first time in Romania, an audio-video atlas centred on sociolinguistic features. This atlas will present, with the help of online support in one interface, diatopic, diastratic (diasexual and diagenerational), and possible diaphasic variations on dialect level.
Alchian, Buchanan, and Coase: A Neglected Branch of Chicago Price Theory
Authors: Boettke Peter J. , Candela Rosolino A.
Published: November 2014

This paper suggests that there exists a neglected third branch of Chicago price theory, which includes Armen Alchian (1914–2013), James Buchanan (1919–2013), and Ronald Coase (1910–2013). While this branch shares characteristics that are common to the other branches of Chicago price theory, there are two fundamental contributions of this branch that distinguishes it from the others in the Chicago price theory tradition. The first contribution is the application of the logic of choice in discovering alternative institutional arrangements. That is, individuals will engage in exchange not only within a given institutional arrangement, but will also engage in exchange behavior to foster more preferable institutional arrangements that further the particular goals of the exchanging parties. The second contribution is the notion that the provision of markets is an entrepreneurial activity. We argue that this Alchian, Buchanan, Coase approach to price theory provides not only a bridge between the “Old” Chicago School and the “New” Chicago School but also an alternative development of the Chicago School. Our paper, while building on the joint insights of Alchian, Buchanan, and Coase, is focused on Coase’s development of this approach, and clarifying his contribution. By drawing the economist’s attention to transactions costs, Coase more than any other economist of the twentieth century brought institutional analysis to the foreground by stressing the role they play in ameliorating or exacerbating conflicts in a world of positive transactions costs.
Schäden durch salpetersäurebildende Bakterien am Breisacher Münster
Authors: Wilimzig M. , Bock E.
Published: November 2014

Die statistische Auswertung ausgewählter biologischer und beschreibender Parameter von Proben des Breisacher Münsters zeigte einen deutlichen Zusammenhang zwischen dem Auftreten von Schalen und dem Bewuchs mit Nitrifikanten. In der Vorstufe dieses Schadensbildes, der Klasse "Abbröckeln bis Schalenbildung", konnten diese Organismen in großen Mengen nachgewiesen werden. In der fertig ausgebildeten Schale waren sie dann wieder auf der neuen Oberfläche unterhalb der Schale zu finden. Für spätere Restaurationen sollten Ersatzmaterialien auf ihre Eignung zum mikrobiellen Bewuchs getestet werden. Roter Tuff am Breisacher Münster war am stärksten durch Nitrifikanten gefährdet. Dieses Baumaterial aus Restaurationen des 19. Jahrhunderts hat sich als ungeeignet erwiesen. Weiterhin zeigen die Daten daß Kaiserstühler Tuff, im Vergleich mit Naturstein, heterotrophen Organismen gute Wachstumsbedingungen bietet. Eine Ursache hierfür ist wahrscheinlich die hohe Wasseraufnahmekapazität (große innere Oberfläche).
Closing the MCM cycle at replication termination sites
Authors: Lengronne Armelle , Pasero Philippe
Published: November 2014

The initiation of eukaryotic DNA replication is a highly regulated process conserved from yeast to human. The past decade has seen significant advances in understanding how the CMG (Cdc45‐MCM‐GINS) replicative helicase is loaded onto DNA. However, very little was known on how this complex is removed from chromatin at the end of S phase. Two papers in a recent issue of Science show that in yeast and in Xenopus, the CMG complex is unloaded at replication termination sites by an active mechanism involving the polyubiquitylation of Mcm7.
Determinants of maternal pregnancy one-carbon metabolism and newborn human DNA methylation profiles
Authors: van Mil Nina H , Bouwland-Both Marieke I , Stolk Lisette , Verbiest Michael M P J , Hofman Albert , Jaddoe Vincent W V , Verhulst Frank C , Eilers Paul H C , Uitterlinden Andre G , Steegers Eric A P , Tiemeier Henning , Steegers-Theunissen Régine P M
Published: November 2014

Maternal one-carbon (1-C) metabolism provides methylgroups for fetal development and programing by DNA methylation as one of the underlying epigenetic mechanisms. We aimed to investigate maternal 1-C biomarkers, folic acid supplement use, andMTHFRC677T genotype as determinants of 1-C metabolism in early pregnancy in association with newborn DNA methylation levels of fetal growth and neurodevelopment candidate genes. The participants were 463 mother–child pairs of Dutch national origin from a large population-based birth cohort in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. In early pregnancy (median 13.0 weeks, 90% range 10.4–17.1), we assessed the maternal folate and homocysteine blood concentrations, folic acid supplement use, and theMTHFRC677T genotype in mothers and newborns. In newborns, DNA methylation was measured in umbilical cord blood white blood cells at 11 regions of the seven genes:NR3C1, DRD4, 5-HTT, IGF2DMR, H19, KCNQ1OT1, andMTHFR. The associations between the 1-C determinants and DNA methylation were examined using linear mixed models. An association was observed between maternal folate deficiency and lower newborn DNA methylation, which attenuated after adjustment for potential confounders. The maternalMTHFRTT genotype was significantly associated with lower DNA methylation. However, maternal homocysteine and folate concentrations, folic acid supplement use, and the MTHFR genotype in the newborn were not associated with newborn DNA methylation. The maternalMTHFRC677T genotype, as a determinant of folate status and 1-C metabolism, is associated with variations in the epigenome of a selection of genes in newborns. Research on the implications of these variations in methylation on gene expression and health is recommended.
Evolution and environment of the eastern linear pottery culture: A case study in the site of Polgár-Piócási-Dűlő
Authors: Nagy Emese , Kaczanowska Małgorzata , Kozłowski Janusz , Moskal-del Hoyo Magdalena , Lityńska-Zając Maria
Published: November 2014

A salvage excavation preceding a major investment project was conducted in 2006–2007, during which associated settlement features of a Middle Neolithic, Eastern Linear Pottery Culture (Alföld Linearbandkeramik — ALBK) were uncovered in an area called Piócási-dűlő on the eastern outskirts of Polgár. The features of the ALBK settlement date from two periods. The cluster of multi-functional pits yielding a rich assortment of finds, the handful of post-holes and an unusual ritual well found in the southern part of the investigated area formed one unit from the earliest phase of the Middle Neolithic (ALBK I). The settlement’s other occupation can be assigned to the late phase of the Middle Neolithic (ALBK IV). Five houseplans representing the remains of timber-framed buildings outlined a distinct area with three multi-functional pits. Associated with the above features were 8 burials.The preliminary archaeobotanical results from Polgár-Piócási-dűlő are based on the plant material found within the sediments of 11 archaeological structures, which mainly represent pits and a welI. It can be stated that the natural environment offered habitats in which oak trees dominated in the local vegetation, forming floodplain forests and wooded steppes. They also provided food in the form of fruits and formed an optimal habitat for domestic animals. Arable fields were probably also established in the vicinity of the settlements, suggested by findings of macroscopic plant remains that represented cultivated species.In both settlement phases lithic production activities are manifested both by the local on-site lithic production and — most importantly — by the presence of imported, mainly mesolocal, raw materials that point to contacts with deposit areas, or off-site preliminary working of obsidian and limnoquartzites. The kit of harvesting tools and a large number of grinding stones — especially in the younger phase — for the preparation of plant food suggest a major role of plant cultivation.
Application of Path-integral for Studying EXAFS Cumulants
Authors: Hieu Ho Khac , Hai Nguyen Manh
Published: November 2014

In this work, the path-integral effective potential (PIEP) method has been applied to re-study the temperature dependence of extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) cumulants of materials. Using the trial density matrix and effective potential expression, we derived the analytical expressions of the first three EXAFS cumulants in the first shell of materials. The cumulant relation is also calculated to determine the temperature range in which the PIEP method could be applied. Our results are compared with available experimental data as well as with those calculated by the first-order perturbation approach in anharmonic Einstein model and the reasonable agreements are achieved.