bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of various conventional methods for sampling weeds in potato and spinach crops
Authors: Jamaica David , Plaza Guido
Published: October 2014

This study aimed to evaluate (at an exploratory level), some of the different conventional sampling designs in a section of a potato crop and in a commercial crop of spinach. Weeds were sampled in a 16 x 48 m section of a potato crop with a set grid of 192 sections. The cover and density of the weeds were registered in squares of from 0.25 to 64 m2. The results were used to create a database that allowed for the simulation of different sampling designs: variables and square size. A second sampling was carried out with these results in a spinach crop of 1.16 ha with a set grid of 6 x 6 m cells, evaluating the cover in 4 m2 squares. Another database was created with this information, which was used to simulate other sampling designs such as distribution and quantity of sampling squares. According to the obtained results, a good method for approximating the quantity of squares for diverse samples is 10-12 squares (4 m2) for richness per ha and 18 or more squares for abundance per hectare. This square size is optimal since it allows for a sampling of more area without losing sight of low-profile species, with the cover variable best representing the abundance of the weeds.
Sorption isotherms for oat flakes (Avena sativa L.)
Authors: Zapata M. José Edgar , Quintero C. Oscar Albeiro , Porras B. Luis Danilo
Published: October 2014

Moisture sorption isotherms of oat flakes were determined at temperatures of 5, 25 and 37°C, using a gravimetric technique in an aw range of between 0.107 and 0.855. These curves were modeled using six equations commonly applied in food. The quality of the fit was assessed with the regression coefficient (r2) and the mean relative percentage error (MRPE). The best fit were obtained with the Caurie model with r2 of 0.996, 0.901 and 0.870, and MRPE of 7.190, 17.878 and 16.206, at 5, 25 and 37°C, respectively. The equilibrium moisture presented a dependence on temperature in the studied aw range, as did the security moisture (XS). These results suggest that the recommended storage conditions of oat flakes include: a relative air humidity of 50% between 5 and 25°C and of 38% up to 37°C.
Critical reflections on the New Rurality and the rural territorial development approaches in Latin America
Authors: Ramírez-Miranda César
Published: October 2014

This paper presents a critical approach to the New Rurality and the Rural Territorial Development (RTD) perspectives, which nowadays are hegemonic for governmental organizations and Latin American academies. RTD's core requirements, which are functional for neoliberal policies resulting in the loss of food sovereignty, the globalization of agribusinesses, and migration as a consequence of peasant agricultural weakening, were critically reviewed on the basis of the principal challenges faced by Latin American rural areas. In light of the above consequences, it is thought that changes in such areas are based on neoliberal rurality rather than on the purported New Rurality. By stressing the need for a global historical view that reintroduces the Latin American critical thinking tradition, the urgency for public policies that stop neoliberal prescriptions and seek to strengthen peasant and indigenous agriculture in order to encourage rural development based on food sovereignty, democracy, equity and sustainability were established.
Ethylene and 1-MCP affect the postharvest behavior of yellow pitahaya fruits (Selenicereus megalanthus Haw.)
Authors: Deaquiz Yuli Alexandra , Álvarez-Herrera Javier , Fischer Gerhard
Published: October 2014

The pitahaya or dragon fruit is one of the most representative exotic fruits that Colombia has, with an important, growing international market, but the cultivation and postharvest of this fruit lack sufficient technological support to be more competitive. Therefore, alternatives that provide good-quality products that meet market requirements are very important. Therefore, the objective of this research was to determine the effect of a ripening retardant and ethylene application on the conservation and quality of pitahaya fruits and the possible changes during ripening associated with ethylene, for which a completely randomized design with three treatments was used, corresponding to the application of ethylene (ethephon, 3 mL L-1), 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP, 600 mg L-1) and a control, with four replications, for a total of 12 experimental units. The fruits were stored at 18°C with 75% relative humidity. The 1-MCP application significantly decreased the loss of firmness, total soluble solids, loss of fresh mass and respiratory rate. Fruits from the control and ethylene treatment tended toward a climateric respiratory behavior. The total carotenoid content of the fruits was significantly higher in the ethylene application and the control treatment, which was consistent with the color change of the fruits. It can be concluded that the 1-MCP application reduced the ethylene action, slowing the ripening of the dragon fruits.
Effect of nitrogen and potassium fertilization on the production and quality of oil in Jatropha curcas L. under the dry and warm climate conditions of Colombia
Authors: Montenegro R. Omar , Magnitskiy Stanislav , Henao T. Martha C.
Published: October 2014

This study was conducted to assess fruit and seed yield, oil content and oil composition of Jatropha curcas fertilized with different doses of nitrogen and potassium in Espinal (Tolima, Colombia). The yields ranged from 4,570 to 8,800 kg ha-1 of fruits and from 2,430 to 4,746 kg ha-1 of seeds. These yields showed that the fertilizer dose of 150 kg ha-1 N + 120 kg ha-1K increased fruit production by 92% and seed production by 95%, which represents an increase of about 100% in oil production, which increased from 947 to 1,900 kg ha-1. The total oil content in the seeds ranged from 38.7 to 40.1% (w/w) with a high content of the unsaturated fatty acids oleic (> 47%) and linoleic acid (> 29%). The highest content of oleic acid in the seed oil was from the unfertilized control plants and plants with an application of 100 kg ha-1 of N and 60 kg ha-1 of K, with an average of 48%. The lowest content of oleic acid was registered when a low dose of nitrogen and a high level of potassium were applied at a ratio of 1:2.4 and doses of 50 kg ha-1 N + 120 kg ha-1 K, respectively. Low contents of the saturated fatty acids palmitic (13.4%) and stearic (7.26%) were obtained, making this oil suitable for biodiesel production. The nitrogen was a more important nutrient for the production and quality of oil in J. curcas than potassium under the studied conditions of soil and climate.
Food loss in a hungry world, a problem?
Authors: Martínez Z. Natalia , Menacho P. Zoila , Pachón-Ariza Fabio
Published: October 2014

Mainly in developing countries, food loss and waste is a problem that is difficult to measure. Investigations have been conducted in industrialized countries; however, consistent evidence of how much is really being depleted is limited. The accessible data give the illusion of evidence, but are supported by very restricted facts. In recent years, food waste and loss have gained importance because more than 35% of food is wasted. Nevertheless, with this percentage of food, most of the 800 million people that go hungry every day in the world could be fed. This reflection paper aims to describe the different approaches and meanings of food waste, food loss and food wastage. Similarly, this article identifies the phases of the food supply chain where food is being lost and wasted. Based on the available data, developed and developing countries are compared. It was concluded that, in developed countries, the most important losses are in the consumption phase; in developing countries, the losses take place in the growing and harvesting phase. Changing consumption habits as well as the improvement of cropping and harvesting processes could be an option for reducing this problem, especially in developing countries.
Natural co-infection of Solanum tuberosum crops by the Potato yellow vein virus and potyvirus in Colombia
Authors: Villamil-Garzón Angela , Cuellar Wilmer J. , Guzmán-Barney Mónica
Published: October 2014

The Potato yellow vein virus (PYVV), a Crinivirus with an RNA tripartite genome, is the causal agent of the potato yellow vein disease, reported in Colombian since 1950, with yield reductions of up to 50%. Co-infection of two or more viruses is common in nature and can be associated with differences in virus accumulation and symptom expression. No evidence of mixed infection between PYVV and other viruses has been reported. In this study, eight plants showing yellowing PYVV symptoms: four Solanum tuberosum Group Phureja (P) and four Group Andigena (A), were collected in Cundinamarca, Colombia to detect mixed infection in the isolates using next generation sequencing (NGS). The Potato virus Y (PVY) complete genome (similar to N strain) and the Potato virus V (PVV) partial genomes were detected using NGS and re-confirmed by RT-PCR. Preliminary field screening in a large sample showed that PYVV and PVY co-infect potato plants with a prevalence of 21% within the P group and 23% within the A group. This is the first report of co-infection of PYVV and potyvirus in Colombia and with the use of NGS. Considering that potyviruses enhance symptom severity and/or yield reductions in mixed infections, our results may be relevant for disease diagnosis, breeding programs and tuber certification.
Layered Superconductor/Ferromagnet Structures for Magnetic Field Cloaking
Authors: Gömöry Fedor , Solovyov Mykola , Šouc Ján
Published: October 2014

Combination of superconducting (SC) and ferromagnetic (FM) sheets into layered SC/FM composites allows to obtain metamaterials with unusual magnetic properties: the effective magnetic permeability along the sheets could be much higher than in the perpendicular direction. One can design the magnetic cloak consisting of a shell from SC/FM composite protecting its inner space against the penetration of a static magnetic field. Difference between such a device and a usual SC or FM shield will be in its un-detectability by magnetic sensors checking the field distribution outside the cloak. Thus it could be considered a magnetic invisibility cloak and one can think about using it e.g. for protecting a sensitive electronic circuitry in an electric machine.

We have prepared a series of SC/FM cloaks using commercial coated conductors as the superconducting elements and various kinds of ferromagnetic sheets as the ferromagnetic elements. Finite element calculation was utilized to optimize the architecture. Experimental testing of the cloaking ability in static magnetic field was performed by scanning the field distribution in vicinity of the cloak. Detectability in low frequency (< 100 Hz) AC magnetic fields was tested in an AC magnetization set-up allowing to see both screening and dissipation signals. Recording of magnetization loops allowed to analyze in detail the dynamics of field interaction with the cloak. Reduction of the detected magnetic signature due to the cloak was confirmed, however it is still not complete. Tests of various arrangements of superconducting and ferromagnetic materials allowed to identify the main problems hindering to achieve a perfect cloaking.
Stability of a Wind Farm with Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage
Authors: Antony Anish P. , Shaw David T.
Published: October 2014

Electric networks will experience deep changes due to the emergence of dispersed generation. Variability in power output is a characteristic of wind energy and increased penetration of wind power will present significant operational challenges in ensuring grid security and power quality. This paper addresses the integration of large wind farms into the grid through the beneficial role of superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) systems. Although originally conceived as a load-leveling device for nuclear power plants, today’s utility-industrial realities emphasize other applications of SMES in the development of wind energy. In the industrial section, concerns about power quality and stability have driven the development of a market for micro-SMES devices for power quality applications. The paper reviews the recent history of SMES, performs analysis in terms of the quantity of superconductor required and cost associated with both toroid and solenoid shaped coil using Bi-2223, YBCO and MgB2. The energy storage is optimized by properly designing the bandwidth of SMES. The ultimate aim of this paper is to influence the optimal design and configuration of SMES for land and offshore wind power generation and to propose a roadmap for the resolution of technical barriers related to the integration of wind energy to the electric grid.
Image Processing To Aid in Graphene Detection
Authors: Gorby Ryan D. , Jiao Lihong (Heidi)
Published: October 2014

Qualitative techniques for the detection of graphene on a Si/SiO2 substrate, without the use of sophisticated equipment, are presented. Once calibrated, this technique can be used to detect Single Layer Graphene (SLG) and Few Layer Graphene (FLG) with the use of an inexpensive optical microscope (OM), OM camera system, and image processing software. This technique could be transferred to graphene deposited on other substrates or other 2-D materials with minor updates to mathematical theory.
Oil industry in the Carpathian area — an outline history, current state and development prospects
Authors: Stefaniuk Michał , Tytko Andrzej
Published: October 2014

The article presents an outline history, current state and development prospects of oil industry
of the Carpathian area in Poland as compared to the Carpathian petroleum province. Polish
part of The Carpathian Flysch Belt is considered to be a cradle of oil industry, the beginnings of
which are related to mass distillation of oil and its industrial extraction. After dynamic development at the turn of 19th and 20th centuries there was a period of regression, which lasts till the
present day. It was related to the exhaustion of old deposits and lack of discovery of the new ones.
The prospects of further development of the industry depend on identifying deeper beds of the
Carpathian orogen and of eastern and southern part of the Carpathian Foredeep, and on the
development of exploration and extraction methods of the so-called unconventional deposits
of hydrocarbons.
Unveiling the species‐rank abundance distribution by generalizing the Good‐Turing sample coverage theory
Authors: Chao Anne , Hsieh T. C. , Chazdon Robin L. , Colwell Robert K. , Gotelli Nicholas J.
Published: October 2014

Based on a sample of individuals, we focus on inferring the vector of species relative abundance of an entire assemblage and propose a novel estimator of the complete species‐rank abundance distribution (RAD). Nearly all previous estimators of the RAD use the conventional “plug‐in” estimator p̂i (sample relative abundance) of the true relative abundance pi of species i. Because most biodiversity samples are incomplete, the plug‐in estimators are applied only to the subset of species that are detected in the sample. Using the concept of sample coverage and its generalization, we propose a new statistical framework to estimate the complete RAD by separately adjusting the sample relative abundances for the set of species detected in the sample and estimating the relative abundances for the set of species undetected in the sample but inferred to be present in the assemblage. We first show that p̂i is a positively biased estimator of pi for species detected in the sample, and that the degree of bias increases with increasing relative rarity of each species. We next derive a method to adjust the sample relative abundance to reduce the positive bias inherent in p̂i. The adjustment method provides a nonparametric resolution to the longstanding challenge of characterizing the relationship between the true relative abundance in the entire assemblage and the observed relative abundance in a sample. Finally, we propose a method to estimate the true relative abundances of the undetected species based on a lower bound of the number of undetected species. We then combine the adjusted RAD for the detected species and the estimated RAD for the undetected species to obtain the complete RAD estimator. Simulation results show that the proposed RAD curve can unveil the true RAD and is more accurate than the empirical RAD. We also extend our method to incidence data. Our formulas and estimators are illustrated using empirical data sets from surveys of forest spiders (for abundance data) and soil ciliates (for incidence data). The proposed RAD estimator is also applicable to estimating various diversity measures and should be widely useful to analyses of biodiversity and community structure.
Ontogenetic trait variation influences tree community assembly across environmental gradients
Authors: Spasojevic Marko J. , Yablon Elizabeth A. , Oberle Brad , Myers Jonathan A.
Published: October 2014

Intraspecific trait variation is hypothesized to influence the relative importance of community assembly mechanisms. However, few studies have explicitly considered how intraspecific trait variation among ontogenetic stages influences community assembly across environmental gradients. Because the relative importance of abiotic and biotic assembly mechanisms can differ among ontogenetic stages within and across environments, ontogenetic trait variation may have an important influence on patterns of functional diversity and inferred assembly mechanisms. We tested the hypothesis that variation in functional diversity across a topo‐edaphic gradient differs among ontogenetic stages and that these patterns reflect a shift in the relative importance of different assembly mechanisms. In a temperate forest in the Missouri Ozarks, USA, we compared functional diversity of leaf size and specific leaf area (SLA) of 34 woody plant species at two ontogenetic stages (adults and saplings) to test predictions about how the relative importance of abiotic and biotic filtering changes among adult and sapling communities. Local communities of adults had lower mean SLA and lower functional dispersion of SLA than expected by chance, particularly at the resource‐limited end of the topo‐edaphic gradient, suggesting an important role for abiotic filtering among co‐occurring adults. In contrast, local communities of saplings often had higher functional dispersion of leaf size and SLA than expected by chance regardless of their location along the topo‐edaphic gradient, suggesting an important role for biotic filtering among co‐occurring saplings. Moreover, the overall strength of trait‐environment relationships varied between saplings and adults for both leaf traits, generally resulting in stronger environmental shifts in mean trait values and trait dispersion for adults relative to saplings. Our results illustrate how community assembly mechanisms may shift in their relative importance during ontogeny, leading to variable patterns of functional diversity across environmental gradients. Moreover, our results highlight the importance of integrating ontogeny, an important axis of intraspecific trait variability, into approaches that use plant functional traits to understand community assembly and species coexistence.
Alveolar Bone Turnover and Periodontal Ligament Width Are Controlled by Wnt
Authors: Lim Won Hee , Liu Bo , Mah Su‐jung , Yin Xing , Helms Jill A.
Published: October 2014

Background: The molecular signals responsible for maintaining homeostatic control over the periodontal ligament (PDL) are unknown. The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of Wnt signaling in this process using gain‐ and loss‐of‐function approaches.

Methods: The function of endogenous Wnt signal in the PDL was evaluated in Lrp5ACT mice in which a mutation in the low‐density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 5 Wnt coreceptor causes constitutive activation of Wnt signaling, and in adenovirus Dkk1–treated mice in which overexpression of the Wnt inhibitor Dkk1 causes transient Wnt signal inhibition. PDL in both animal models was examined using histology and immunohistochemical analyses for osteopontin, runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), fibromodulin, osterix, ki67, receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand (RANKL), and alkaline phosphatase activity.

Results: Lrp5ACT mice exhibited a significant narrowing of the PDL space caused by an increase in osteogenic gene expression, a reduction in RANKL expression and osteoclast activity, and an increase in alveolar bone formation. Conversely, adenovirus Dkk1–treated mice showed decreased expression of osteogenic markers, coupled with an increase in osteoclast activity, which resulted in a slight increase in PDL width.

Conclusion: The Wnt pathway is involved in the homeostatic control of the PDL, and conditions that elevate or repress Wnt signaling alter the expression of osteogenic genes within the PDL space, which in turn affects its overall width.
Public awareness and safeguarding traditional knowledge: challenges and conflicts in preserving and representing kārīz/kănérjĭng in Xinjiang, PR China
Authors: Canavas Constantin
Published: October 2014

Strategies of stimulating public awareness and implementing measures to safeguard traditional knowledge of the water management techniques generally known under the terms qanāt or kārīz involve paths of imbedding the technique into the history of a given society. The present study approaches such strategies in the case of the underground water networks in the arid regions in Xinjiang, North Western China, known there under the terms kārīz or kănérjĭng. There is an on-going debate concerning the beginnings of the construction of kārīz in Xinjiang. A recent revival of this technique started with a movement of kārīz (re)construction in the 1950s–1960s. In recent decades the kārīz/kănérjĭng water network has suffered due to the expansion of deep well drilling. At the same time the issue has become an object of museum representation. The first museum, Turfan Kariz Paradise, opened its gates in 1992; the Karez Folk Custom Garden, with a more pronounced event and commercial character, was inaugurated in 2000. Both exhibitions are near Turfan. They both demonstrate the traditional construction and maintenance techniques, and stress the strong linkage between local society and the specific traditional water technology. This paper argues that preserving the kārīz/kănérjĭng in the area of Turfan has become a delicate instrument in the political balance involving local authorities, the provincial government in Urumuqi and the central government in Beijing.
Assessment of different irrigation systems in Albaji Plain
Authors: Albaji Mohammad , Golabi Mona , Egdernejad Aslan , Nazarizadeh Farzad
Published: October 2014

The objective of this research was to compare different irrigation methods based on a parametric evaluation system in an area of 16,350 ha in the Albaji Plain of the Khuzestan Province, in the southwest of Iran. The soil properties of the study area such as texture, depth, electrical conductivity, drainage, calcium carbonate content and slope were derived from a semi-detailed soil study carried out on the Albaji Plain on a scale of 1:20,000. After the soil properties were analyzed and evaluated, suitability maps were generated for surface, sprinkler and drip irrigation methods using a geographic information system (GIS). The results demonstrated that by applying sprinkler irrigation instead of surface and drip irrigation methods, the land suitability of 14,530 ha (88.87%) of the Albaji Plain could be improved substantially. However, the main limiting factors in using surface and sprinkler irrigation methods in this area were heavy soil texture, drainage and salinity, and the main limiting factors in using drip irrigation methods were heavy soil texture, calcium carbonate and salinity.
Impact of water volume on operating cost
Authors: Moffitt L. J. , Danilenko A.
Published: October 2014

Sustainable water management relies on the ability to control operating cost which relies in turn on a working knowledge of factors which can affect this ability. The impact of water volume on operating cost is investigated for water utilities using data from the International Benchmarking Network for Water and Sanitation Utilities (IBNET) online database. Econometric models are estimated for water utilities located in Albania, Moldova, Brazil, Zambia, Kazakhstan, and Russia. Estimations provide similar quantitative findings and identical qualitative findings across locales. Results suggest that expected operating cost is inelastic with respect to water volume and that operating cost variability increases with water volume. Implications of these findings are that (1) current world-wide strategies to promote water conservation may necessitate an increase in the expected per unit cost of water supply and (2) policies framed as incentives for short-run cost efficiency may need to recognize the difficulty of reducing expected operating cost at existing output levels and that utility managers may face added difficulty in controlling cost if efficiency is pursued by expanding volume.
The crisis facing Tunisian drainage tunnels: identification, analysis and evaluation of water heritage in the Mediterranean region
Authors: Hermosilla Pla Jorge , García Emilio Iranzo
Published: October 2014

In regions with Mediterranean and steppe climates, the presence of surface water is sporadic, and a unique – but fragile and undervalued – element of water capture for irrigation and human supply is the ‘qanats’, ‘foggaras’, ‘mkoulas’ or water tunnels. The central objective of this project has been the full study of Tunisia's drainage tunnels. The inventory, analysis and heritage evaluation of Tunisia's ‘qanats’ have been possible through the application of a particular methodology during four annual sessions of fieldwork and analysis in the geographic information system (GIS) laboratory. The results have been: the creation of a spatial data and cartography infrastructure for the Tunisian ‘qanats’ and related irrigation systems; the identification of drainage tunnels; the typological classification of the water tunnels according to their morphological and structural framework; analysis of conservation status and intended water use; the implementation of a multi-criteria evaluation method with regard to the heritage quality of the ‘qanats’; and finally an analysis of the landscape relationships between ‘qanats’ and oases.
Monitoring of three drinking water treatment plants using flow cytometry
Authors: Helmi K. , Watt A. , Jacob P. , Ben-Hadj-Salah I. , Henry A. , Méheut G. , Charni-Ben-Tabassi N.
Published: October 2014

A 4-month sampling campaign has been conducted for the monitoring of three drinking water treatment plants using flow cytometry and culture-based methods to provide information related to changes in bacterial concentration according to treatments. Flow cytometry is a fast and user-friendly technique enabling bacteria quantification and viability assessment in less than 1 hour. Specific profiles regarding log-reduction of total bacteria were obtained for each treatment plant. Chlorination appeared to be the most effective by causing metabolism inactivation and nucleic acid damages. Ozonation showed a significant impact on cell activity in contrast with ultraviolet treatment which strongly affected bacterial DNA. In addition, the results showed that active bacteria quantified by flow cytometry were significantly correlated with culturable bacteria. This alternative approach appeared as gainful compared to culture methods as it greatly facilitates the diagnosis of treatment plant process for drinking water production monitoring.
Public acceptability of indirect potable water reuse in the south-east of England
Authors: Aitken Victoria , Bell Sarah , Hills Sian , Rees Lucy
Published: October 2014

Public controversy over planned indirect potable reuse of wastewater has been a significant obstacle to implementing proposed schemes in the United States and Australia. Surveys of public attitudes to water reuse have generally shown lower acceptance of indirect potable reuse compared with other reuse options, such as irrigation. The south-east of England is projected to experience a shortfall in water supply by 2020 and the largest water utility in the region, Thames Water, is investigating indirect potable reuse as a potential new supply option. The indirect potable reuse feasibility studies include evaluation of the technology options and water quality as well as detailed consideration of public perception issues. As part of the work to address the latter, 2,000 Thames Water customers participated in an on-line survey of their attitudes to indirect potable reuse. The survey showed overall support for the idea of indirect potable reuse. The only demographic factor to show any significant difference from the whole sample was belief system, with Muslim respondents showing significantly less support than other groups. The survey results indicate that indirect potable reuse may be socially acceptable in the south-east of England, but that public engagement and participation in future decision making about indirect potable reuse will be important for the success of any particular proposal.
Self-Reported Sleep Bruxism and Nocturnal Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Relationship to Gender and Ethnicity§
Authors: Hesselbacher Sean , Subramanian Shyam , Rao Shweta , Casturi Lata , Surani Salim
Published: October 2014

Study Objectives :

Nocturnal bruxism is associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and GERD is strongly associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Gender and ethnic differences in the prevalence and clinical presentation of these often overlapping sleep disorders have not been well documented. Our aim was to examine the associations between, and the symptoms associated with, nocturnal GERD and sleep bruxism in patients with OSA, and to examine the influence of gender and ethnicity.

Methods :

A retrospective chart review was performed of patients diagnosed with OSA at an academic sleep center. The patients completed a sleep questionnaire prior to undergoing polysomnography. Patients with confirmed OSA were evaluated based on gender and ethnicity. Associations were determined between sleep bruxism and nocturnal GERD, and daytime sleepiness, insomnia, restless legs symptoms, and markers of OSA severity in each group.

Results :

In these patients with OSA, the prevalence of nocturnal GERD (35%) and sleep bruxism (26%) were higher than the general population. Sleep bruxism was more common in Caucasians than in African Americans or Hispanics; there was no gender difference. Nocturnal GERD was similar among all gender and ethnic groups. Bruxism was associated with nocturnal GERD in females, restless legs symptoms in all subjects and in males, sleepiness in African Americans, and insomnia in Hispanics. Nocturnal GERD was associated with sleepiness in males and African Americans, insomnia in females, and restless legs symptoms in females and in Caucasians.

Conclusion :

Patients with OSA commonly have comorbid sleep bruxism and nocturnal GERD, which may require separate treatment. Providers should be aware of differences in clinical presentation among different ethnic and gender groups.
Response to Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors in Rheumatoid Arthritis for Function and Pain is Affected by Rheumatoid Factor
Authors: Aberumand Babak , Barra Lillian , Cao Yang , Riche Nicole Le , Thompson Andrew E , Rohekar Gina , Rohekar Sherry , Bonner Ashley , Pope Janet E
Published: October 2014

Objectives :

To investigate differences in response to tumor necrosis factor inhibitor treatment (TNFi) in seropositive (rheumatoid factor positive; RF+) versus seronegative (RF-) patients with established RA as measured by the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI) and pain.

Methods :

RA patients from an established RA cohort were studied according to rheumatoid factor (RF) status for change in HAQ-DI and pain (0-3 VAS) one year after starting treatment with a TNFi.

Results :

There were 238 patients treated with TNFi who had follow-up data (178 RF+ and 60 RF-). Disease duration was longer in RF+ vs RF- (12+8 vs 8+8 years) but the proportion of females (82% vs 72%, P=0.7), baseline HAQ-DI (1.44+0.63 vs 1.41+0.63, P=0.8) and pain (1.92+0.67 vs 1.93+0.67, P=0.9) were not different. The mean duration of treatment of first TNFi was 2.8 vs 2.3 years, P=0.1 and 68% of RF+ vs 62% of RF- were still receiving first TNFi at last visit (P=0.5). For patients with data at baseline and one year, the one-year HAQ-DI change was significantly greater in 90 RF+ patients (-0.356) versus 38 RF- patients (-0.126; P=0.04). The mean pain improvement was also greater in 77 RF+ vs 32 RF- patients (-0.725 vs -0.332 respectively; P=0.03). Numbers are small, data are missing and comorbidities, DAS28 and anti-CCP were not collected.

Conclusion :

Despite limitations in the data, in established RA after failure of DMARDs, RF+ patients may be more responsive to TNFi therapy as measured by changes in HAQ-DI and pain.

Innovation :

There may be a better response to TNFi in RA if RF positive for function and pain.
A New Curcuma Extract (Flexofytol®) in Osteoarthritis: Results from a Belgian Real-Life Experience
Authors: Appelboom Thierry , Maes Nathalie , Albert Adelin
Published: October 2014

This retrospective observational study summarizes the experiences of 820 patients treated with a new Curcuma extract (Flexofytol®, 4-6 capsules per day), for more than 6 months for various forms of painful osteoarthritis. These experiences were reported by 110 Belgian general practitioners via a questionnaire that included quality-of-life parameters for assessing patient experience. Data were submitted to an independent statistician for analysis. Within the first 6 weeks, Flexofytol® improved patient pain, articular mobility, and quality of life. Excellent tolerance was reported, and more than half of these patients were able to discontinue analgaesic and anti-inflammatory drugs. Patient satisfaction was confirmed by their decision to maintain Flexofytol® therapy for more than 6 months. These data must be confirmed with randomized controlled studies. We currently conclude that Flexofytol® which is based on a new preparation of curcumin, is as a potential neutraceutical for the care of patients complaining of joint problems, with excellent tolerance and rapid benefits for articular mobility, pain, and quality of life.
A 5-Year Follow-Up After Cartilage Repair in the Knee Using a Platelet-Rich Plasma-Immersed Polymer-Based Implant
Authors: Siclari Alberto , Mascaro Gennaro , Kaps Christian , Boux Eugenio
Published: October 2014

The aim of our study was to analyze the clinical outcome after repair of cartilage defects of the knee with subchondral drilling and resorbable polymer-based implants immersed with autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Fifty-two patients with focal chondral defects were treated with subchondral drilling, followed by covering with a polyglycolic acid - hyaluronan (PGA-HA) implant (chondrotissue®) immersed with autologous PRP. At 5-year follow-up, patients’ situation was assessed using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and compared to the pre-operative situation. The KOOS showed clinically meaningful and significant (p < 0.05) improvement in all subcategories compared to baseline. Subgroup analysis showed that there were no differences in the clinical outcome regarding defect size and localization as well as degenerative condition of the knee. Cartilage repair was complete in 20 out of 21 patients at 4-year follow-up as shown by magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue (MOCART) scoring. Covering of focal cartilage defects with the PGA-HA implant and PRP after bone marrow stimulation leads to a lasting improvement of the patients’ situation.
Model for Rheological Behavior of Crude Oil and Alkali-Surfactant- Polymer Emulsion
Authors: Cao Renyi , Cheng Linsong , Zee Ma Y.
Published: October 2014

Characterization of rheological behavior of alkali-surfactant-polymer (ASP) solution and oil emulsion is
difficult, due to the complex chemical components and various physiochemical reactions with oil during chemical
flooding. Through rheological experiments of ASP and crude oil emulsion, this paper presents the studies on influencing
factors of rheological behavior, including interfacial tension, polymer and water cut, and discusses the stability
mechanism of ASP and crude oil emulsion. The relationships among viscosity, interfacial tension, water cut and sheer rate
were built through fitting the experimental data. The model and calculation can be used to more accurately simulate the
ASP flooding in oil reservoirs.
Evaluation of indolent epididymal mass - adenomatoid tumor of the epididymis
Authors: Kojic D. , Vukotic Vinka , Boricic I. , Babic U. , Kapetanovic Sonja , Stavric T.
Published: October 2014

Adenomatoid tumor of the epididymis is a rare benign neoplasm of mesothelial
origin, mostly localized in the epididymis. It is usually presented as an
indolent, painless scrotal enlargement. Immunohistochemically it is
characterized by strong positivity for calretinin and epithelial markers,
while tumor marker values are within the reference ranges. In this paper, two
cases of 28- and 37-year-old men with adenomatoid tumors of the epididymis
are described. In both, the tumor was presented as an indolent, slowly
growing palpable mass in the epididymis. Tumor markers were in the normal
range, digital examination found painless scrotal enlargement, while
ultrasound showed a nonhomogeneous tumor. Immunohistochemically, they were
characterized by strong positivity for calretinin and epithelial markers. If
a localized epididymal mass is found, it is necessary to conduct an adequate
diagnostic examination to differentiate inflammatory process from the
neoplasm. An excision of the lesion is the most recommended option that also
preserves testicular function and fertility. Histological and
immunohistochemical evaluation are mandatory for a definitive diagnosis.
Heterosis in the second and third generation affects litter size in a crossbreed mink (Neovison vison) population
Authors: Thirstrup Janne , Pertoldi Cino , Larsen Peter , Nielsen Vivi
Published: October 2014

Litter sizes in a cross between Brown and Black mink color types were
observed through six generations. Litter size was significantly affected by
yearly environmental variations. After adjusting for year effects, we found
significant increases in litter size in the second and third generations (F2
and F3) after crossing. Thereafter, in the following generations, litter size
dropped to a level comparable to the mean litter size of the midparent.
Increased litter size in F2 compared to F1 indicated that maternal effects
influenced litter size more than non-maternal effects. The heterosis was
mainly caused by an increase in litter size compared to the Black parental
line. This indicates that the Black line was affected by inbreeding
depression prior to crossing. We also found that two-year old F1 females had
significantly more offspring compared to one-year old F1 females.
Aspects of animal models for major neuropsychiatric disorders
Authors: Lefter Radu , Cojocaru Dumitru , Ciobica Alin , Paulet Manuel , Serban Lacramioara , Anton Emil
Published: October 2014

We will review the main animal models for the major neuropsychiatric
disorders, focusing on schizophrenia, Alzheimer?s disease, Parkinson?s
disease, depression, anxiety and autism. Although these mental disorders are
specifically human pathologies and therefore impossible to perfectly
replicate in animals, the use of experimental animals is based on the
physiological and anatomical similarities between humans and animals such as
the rat, and mouse, and on the fact that 99% of human and murine genomes are
shared. Pathological conditions in animals can be assessed by manipulating
the metabolism of neurotransmitters, through various behavioral tests, and by
determining biochemical parameters that can serve as important markers of
disorders.
Total phenolic and flavonoid contents and biological activities of Cachrys cristata DC. extracts
Authors: Matejic Jelena , Dzamic Ana , Mihajilov-Krstev Tatjana , Randjelovic Vladimir , Mileski Ksenija , Marin Petar
Published: October 2014

The total phenolic/flavonoid contents and antioxidant potential of the
methanol, ethyl-acetate, acetone and water extracts obtained from the aerial
parts and fruits of Cachrys cristata DC.(Apiaceae) were compared. The total
phenolic contents of the tested extracts were determined using
Folin-Ciocalteu?s reagent. The amounts per g of dry plant extract of gallic
acid (GA) and quercetin (Qu) ranged between 22.60-166.97 mg, and 8.91-46.02
mg, respectively. The antioxidant activity, expressed as IC50, ranged from
1.784-17.621 mg/mL and from 1.01-3.42 mg L(+)-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)/g
when tested with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ABTS, respectively.
The antimicrobial activity of the extracts was investigated by the microwell
dilution assay, for the most common human gastrointestinal pathogenic
bacterial strains: Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC
9027, Salmonella enteritidis ATCC 13076, Bacillus cereus ATCC 10876, Listeria
monocytogenes ATCC15313, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and yeast Candida
albicans ATCC 10231. The results indicate that C. cristata can be regarded as
a potential source of antioxidant and antimicrobial agents.
Palatal rugae patterns in the Serbian population
Authors: Filipovic Gordana , Janosevic Mirjana , Janosevic Predrag , Radojicic Julija , Ajdukovic Zorica , Trickovic-Janjic Olivera
Published: October 2014

Establishing the gender of a dead person is one of the main aspects in
forensic medicine, especially in cases of massive disasters. Palatal rugae
have been related with specific racial groups and are said to be useful in
sex determination. One hundred pre-orthodontic plaster casts, equally
distributed between males and females with an age range of 15-30 years, were
examined for different rugae patterns by the Thomas classification. The total
number of rugae was not significantly gender linked. According to size, the
primary type of rugae was dominant in both males and females. Wavy and curved
patterns of rugae were the most common, both in males and females. There was
a significant sex difference in the circular and converging types which was
higher in males and females, respectively.
Microvessel and mast cell densities in malignant laryngeal neoplasm
Authors: Balica Nicolae , Ceausu Raluca , Gaje Pusa , Doros Caius , Poenaru Marioara
Published: October 2014

Laryngeal neoplasm contributes to 30-40% of carcinomas of the head and neck.
Mast cells are normal connective tissue residents, well represented in the
respiratory tract. Experimental evidence suggests that the growth of a tumor
beyond a certain size requires angiogenesis, which may also permit
metastasis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between
mast cell density, microvascular density, histopathological type and
histological grade. Our study included 38 laryngeal carcinomas as follows:
adenoid cystic carcinoma (2 cases), malignant papilloma (2 cases) and
squamous cell carcinoma (34 cases). The combined technique of CD 34-alcian
blue safranin (ABS) was used to identify microvessel and mast cell density,
which was quantified by the hot spot method. A significant correlation was
found between both mast cell and microvascular density, and G1/G2
histological grade (p=0.002 and p=0.004, respectively). Squamous cell
carcinoma was significantly correlated with mast cell density (p=0.003), but
not with microvascular density (p=0.454).
Determination of marine pollution by comparative analysis of metal pollution indices
Authors: Jovic Mihajlo , Stankovic Slavka
Published: October 2014

Due to the specific geographical and hydrological structure of Boka Kotorska
Bay, that is characterized by a low flow of water through the bay, the
anthropogenic impact is pronounced, exerting direct effects on this unique
ecosystem. Trace metal (Pb, Hg, Ni, Co and Cd) concentrations were measured
in the winter, spring and fall of 2008 in two marine organisms (Posidonia
oceanica and Mytilus galloprovincialis) selected as biomonitors of trace
metals in the Boka Kotorska Bay. These marine organisms have the ability to
accumulate trace metals from their environment. Metal pollution indexes (MPI)
for both species were compared, confirming that the most polluted was Tivat
bay and the least Kotor bay.
Ankrd1-mediated signaling is supported by its interaction with zonula occludens-1
Authors: Nestorovic Aleksandra , Jasnic-Savovic Jovana , Faulkner Georgine , Radojkovic Dragica , Kojic Snezana
Published: October 2014

The muscle ankyrin repeat protein Ankrd1 is localized in a mechanosensory
complex of the sarcomeric I-band. It is involved in signaling pathways
activated in response to mechanical stretch. It also acts as a
transcriptional cofactor in the nucleus, playing an important role in
cardiogenesis and skeletal muscle differentiation. To investigate its
regulatory function in signaling we employed protein array methodology and
identified 10 novel Ankrd1 binding partners among PDZ domain proteins known
to act as platforms for multiprotein complex assembly. The zonula occludens
protein-1 (ZO-1) was chosen for further analysis since its interaction with
Ankrd2 had already been demonstrated. Both Ankrd2 and Ankrd1 have similar
functions and localize in the same regions. We confirmed the interaction of
Ankrd1 with ZO-1 protein and determined their subcellular distribution in
HeLa cells, showing their colocalization in the cytoplasm. Our findings
corroborate the role of Ankrd1 in intracellular signaling.
Biology teachers’ attitudes toward computer assisted learning
Authors: Zupanec Vera , Miljanovic Tomka , Parezanovic-Ristic Snezana
Published: October 2014

Based on the new technology initiative in Serbian education, we explored
primary school teachers? attitudes toward Computer Assisted Learning (CAL) in
biology teaching, as well as the relationships between the teachers?
attitudes and four independent variables: age, teaching experience, teachers?
competence to use modern teaching aids and their professional advanced
training in the field of computer applied learning. Fifty-four elementary
school biology teachers from Novi Sad participated in the study. The findings
suggested that the teachers generally had positive attitudes toward CAL in
biology teaching. Correlation analyses revealed significant relationships
between age, teaching experience, teachers? competence to use modern teaching
aids in the teaching process, professional advanced training in the field of
computer applied learning, and the teachers? attitudes toward CAL. We offer
suggestions for further research in this field.
Neohydatothrips ilamensis n.sp. (Insecta: Thysanoptera): A new species from Iran
Authors: Mirab-Balou M. , Jamali J. , Tong X.L.
Published: October 2014

Neohydatothrips ilamensis n. sp. (Thripidae: Sericothripinae) that was
collected on the flowers of chickpea, Cicer arietinum L. (Fabaceae), is
described as a new species in the genus Neohydatothrips John. This is the
fourth species of this genus to be recorded in Iran.
A new thermodynamic description of the binary Sb-Zn system
Authors: Gierlotka W.
Published: October 2014

The Sb-Zn alloys are important from technological point of view. Antimony -
zinc alloys are not only part of lead-free solders but also thermoelectric
materials. A good thermodynamic description of this system is essential for
further investigations of multi-components materials that include Sb and Zn.
A new assessment was proposed in this work based on recently published
experimental reports. Good agreement between calculations and experiments was
found. Moreover, two models were used for describing the liquid phase:
substitutional solution and associated solution.