bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic divergence analysis in indigenously developed Indian soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) germplasm
Authors: Adsul Hemant , Monpara Bachubhai
Published: September 2014

Knowledge of the naturally occurring diversity helps to identify diverse
groups of soybean genotypes that can be useful for the breeding program.
Therefore, this study aims to identify traits that influence the soybean
genotypes in cluster formation using D2 analysis. Hundred genotypes of
soybean were studied for 15 characters in randomized block design with three
replications and grouped into fifteen clusters. The cluster I was the largest
with 55 genotypes followed by cluster III containing 17 genotypes and cluster
IV containing 16 genotypes. The remaining clusters were solitary with single
genotype each. The inter-cluster distance was the highest between clusters
XIII and XIV (D=38.28) followed by clusters X and XII (D=33.64), XIII and XIV
(D=32.71), III and XIV (D=32.06) and XII and XIV (D=31.65). Genotypes falling
in these clusters may serve as potential parents for a hybridization
programme. Pods per plant contributed the highest in manifestation of total
genetic diversity. The presence of clear phenotypic and genotypic differences
in the characters under consideration between or among clusters gives us an
opportunity to bring about improvement through hybridization of genotypes
between these clusters and subsequent selection in the segregating
generations. The genotype JS (SH) 131 of cluster XIV, J 606 of cluster X, JS
46-75 of cluster V and Himso 1548 of cluster XV were identified as
genetically diverse parents, which can be utilized for future crop
improvement programme.
Incompatible pollen tubes in the plum style and their impact on fertilization success
Authors: Djordjevic Milena , Cerovic Radosav , Radicevic Sanja , Nikolic Dragan
Published: September 2014

The pistils of plum (Prunus domestica L.) cv. ?Cacanska Lepotica? were self-
and cross-pollinated in order to investigate occurrence of incompatible
pollen tubes in the style, and their impact on fertilization success. The
investigation also included open pollination variant. The highest percentage
of these stopped the growth in the upper third of the style. Under
cross-pollination variant, 15.4% and 12.1% of pollen tubes observed in the
upper part of the style in the first and the second years of study,
respectively, were found incompatible. In view of the above parameters, in
the self- pollination variant, 15.0% and 17.0% of pollen tubes were found
incompatible by years. As for the open pollination, percentages of
incompatible pollen tubes in the upper part of the style by years were 14.0%
and 14.4%, respectively. The occurrence of incompatible pollen tubes did not
influence the fertilization success in these pollination variants.
The application of AMMI model for barley cultivars evaluation in multi-year trials
Authors: Mirosavljevic Milan , Przulj Novo , Bocanski Jan , Stanisavljevic Dusan , Mitrovic Bojan
Published: September 2014

The interpretation of new varieties performance is disturbed under the
influence of genotype-by-environment interaction. Among several methods used
for understanding this effect, one of the most frequently used methods is
Additive Main Effects and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) analysis. In this
study we used AMMI method with the aim to estimate the genotype - environment
interaction of 14 barley genotypes, and to identify barley genotypes that
have high and stable performance in different environments. The trials were
conducted during 11 growing seasons (1995/96 - 2005/06), arranged in a
randomized complete block (RCB) design with four replications in location
Rimski Sancevi. The results showed that the influence of environment
(seasons), genotypes and their interaction on barley grain yield were
significant (p < 0.01). Based on AMMI method, two-rowed variety Novosadski
317 and the six-rowed variety Novosadski 331 can be distinguished due their
high and stable yields.
Molecular characterization and genetic diversity analysis β-glucan content variability in grain of oat (Avena sativa L.)
Authors: Djukic Nevena , Knezevic Desimir
Published: September 2014

In grain of ten genetically divergent oat cultivars (Merkur, Minor Abed,
Flaming-Kurz, Nuptiele, Prode, Pellerva, Emperor, Astor, Osmo, Simo) the
variability ?-glucan content were investigated. The different value of
content of ?-glucan was found. Among analyzed oat cultivars, the highest ?-
glucan contents had Pellerva (6.597%), while the least had Simo (2.971%). The
contents of ?-glucans were determined by ICC standard Method No 168. The
value of ?-glucans varied and indicated the differences and similarities
between analysed cultivars. The degree of cultivar similarity was determined
by dendrogram on which was discriminated two clusters of similar cultivars
toward to contents of ?-glucan . Within cluster 1, a small group of oats, are
five cultivars with small distance (Merkur, Minor Abed, Flamings-Kurz,
Nuptiele and Prode). The highest similarity in the range of 88 or the least
distance in the range of 12. Within cluster 2 was four oat cultivars
(Emperor, Astor, Osmo, Pellerva) in which the least differences was between
Emperor and Astor with average distance in range 27. Cluster 1 and cluster 2
differed with an average distance of 63. The cultivar Simo expressed the
greatest distance to all analysed oat cultivars grouped in two clusters.
Genetic diversity in Brassica species and Eruca sativa for yield associated parameters
Authors: Kanwal Mahwish , Farhatullah F , Rabbani Ashiq , Iqbal Sidra , Fayyaz Laila , Afzal M.
Published: September 2014

Brassica species are vulnerable to narrow genetic base due to the ignorance
of their wild relatives which possess many superior characters. This study
was aimed to explore the genetic diversity in five Brassica species from U
triangle as well as in their wild relative Eruca sativa. For the complete
insight of genetic diversity, four accessions, each from five species of
genus Brassica along with one species of Eruca collected from different
geographical locations (exotic and indigenous) were selected. Six yield
associated parameters viz., primary branches plant-1, plant height, main
raceme length, silique length, silique width and silique main raceme-1 were
studied. Highly significant variations among all species were observed. Mean
performance showed that wild relative E. sativa was superior for primary
branches plant -1 and plant height, which are the main yield associated
traits. In case of Brassica species, B. campestris gave the lengthiest main
racemes, B. nigra produced more silique main raceme-1 and B. carinata
produced the longest and widest silique.
Multivariate analysis of quantitative traits can effectively classify rapeseed germplasm
Authors: Jankulovska Mirjana , Ivanovska Sonja , Marjanovic-Jeromela Ana , Bolaric Snjezana , Jankuloski Ljupcho , DimovZoran D , Bosev Dane , Kuzmanovska Biljana
Published: September 2014

In this study, the use of different multivariate approaches to classify
rapeseed genotypes based on quantitative traits has been presented. Tree
regression analysis, PCA analysis and two-way cluster analysis were applied
in order todescribe and understand the extent of genetic variability in
spring rapeseed genotype by trait data. The traits which highly influenced
seed and oil yield in rapeseed were successfully identified by the tree
regression analysis. Principal predictor for both response variables was
number of pods per plant (NP). NP and 1000 seed weight could help in the
selection of high yielding genotypes. High values for both traits and oil
content could lead to high oil yielding genotypes. These traits may serve as
indirect selection criteria and can lead to improvement of seed and oil yield
in rapeseed. Quantitative traits that explained most of the variability in
the studied germplasm were classified using principal component analysis. In
this data set, five PCs were identified, out of which the first three PCs
explained 63% of the total variance. It helped in facilitating the choice of
variables based on which the genotypes? clustering could be performed. The
two-way cluster analysissimultaneously clustered genotypes and quantitative
traits. The final number of clusters was determined using bootstrapping
technique. This approach provided clear overview on the variability of the
analyzed genotypes. The genotypes that have similar performance regarding the
traits included in this study can be easily detected on the heatmap.
Genotypes grouped in the clusters 1 and 8 had high values for seed and oil
yield, and relatively short vegetative growth duration period and those in
cluster 9, combined moderate to low values for vegetative growth duration and
moderate to high seed and oil yield. These genotypes should be further
exploited and implemented in the rapeseed breeding program. The combined
application of these multivariate methods can assist in deciding how, and
based on which traits to select the genotypes, especially in early
generations, at the beginning of a breeding program.
Association of polymorphisms in the promoter region of turkey prolactin with egg performance
Authors: Fathi Mehrangiz , Elyasi-Zarringhobaie Ghorban
Published: September 2014

The induction and regulation of broodiness is of the most important role of
prolactin in avian species. In this study, the association between prolactin
promoter region alleles and reproductive traits in Fars native turkey was
investigated. These traits consisted of mean egg weight (MEW), number of egg
(EN) and egg mass, during the first laying period. In total, 115 laying
turkeys, randomly selected from the flock of the Breeding Center for Fars
Native turkey, and DNA was purificated from blood samples, 231 bp of
prolactin promoter region was amplified and Genotype of Samples was
determinate by PCR-SSCP technique were genotyped. Two alleles D and I were
identified. Based on the results obtained, the frequency of D and I alleles
were 0.67 and 0.33, respectively. Frequencies of DD, II and ID genotypes were
0.385, 0.044 and 0.571, respectively. The association analysis between the
polymorphism PRL gene promoter region and egg performance was carried out.
Significant relationship was found between genotypes with egg production
(P<0.01). Individuals with II genotype produced higher egg production than DD
and ID genotype. The results of current study showed that using information
of genes related to egg production could be used to improve the performance
of native turkey of East Azerbaijan province.
Mutation screening of familial Mediterranean fever in the Azeri Turkish population: Genotype-phenotype correlation and the clinical profile variability
Authors: Gharesouran Jalal , Rezazadeh Maryam , Ghojazadeh Morteza , Ardabili Mohaddes
Published: September 2014

Familial Mediterranean fever is known as a most frequent hereditary
autoin-Xammatory among the autoinflammatory syndromes characterized by fever,
arthritis and serosal inflammation. Clinically, the foremost severe symptom
of the disease is amyloidosis, which may cause to renal failure. MEFV renal
failure consists of ten exons and conservative mutations clustered in exon
ten (M694V, V726A, M680I, M694I) and exon two (E148Q) are considered more
common mutations within this coding region and that they are detected with a
distinct frequency changes in line with ethnicity. The aim of this study was
to research the spectrum of mutations in Azeri Turkish population. We
evaluated the molecular test results of 82 patients and their parents from
eighty families identified as having FMF clinical symptoms referred to
Molecular Genetics Laboratory of the Department of Medical Genetics. Patients
were referred by their physicians for MEFV mutation detection. The most
frequent mutations were M694V respectively followed by M680I (G/C), V726A,
M694I and E148Q mutations. A phenotypic variability was also ascertained
between patients with different mutations and it must be considered within
the daily management of FMF patients.
Androgen Receptor Roles in Insulin Resistance and Obesity in Males: The Linkage of Androgen-Deprivation Therapy to Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Yu I-Chen , Lin Hung-Yun , Sparks Janet D. , Yeh Shuyuan , Chang Chawnshang
Published: September 2014

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most frequently diagnosed malignancies in men. Androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) is the first-line treatment and fundamental management for men with advanced PCa to suppress functions of androgen/androgen receptor (AR) signaling. ADT is effective at improving cancer symptoms and prolonging survival. However, epidemiological and clinical studies support the notion that testosterone deficiency in men leads to the development of metabolic syndrome that increases cardiovascular disease risk. The underlying mechanisms by which androgen/AR signaling regulates metabolic homeostasis in men are complex, and in this review, we discuss molecular mechanisms mediated by AR signaling that link ADT to metabolic syndrome. Results derived from various AR knockout mouse models reveal tissue-specific AR signaling that is involved in regulation of metabolism. These data suggest that steps be taken early to manage metabolic complications associated with PCa patients receiving ADT, which could be accomplished using tissue-selective modulation of AR signaling and by treatment with insulin-sensitizing agents.
Reduced Testing Frequency for Glycated Hemoglobin, HbA1c, Is Associated With Deteriorating Diabetes Control
Authors: Driskell Owen J. , Holland David , Waldron Jenna L. , Ford Clare , Scargill Jonathan J. , Heald Adrian , Tran Martin , Hanna Fahmy W. , Jones Peter W. , Pemberton R. John , Fryer Anthony A.
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVE

We previously showed that in patients with diabetes mellitus, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) monitoring outside international guidance on testing frequency is widespread. Here we examined the relationship between testing frequency and diabetes control to test the hypothesis that retest interval is linked to change in HbA1c level.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We examined repeat HbA1c tests (400,497 tests in 79,409 patients, 2008–2011) processed by three U.K. clinical laboratories. We examined the relationship between retest interval and 1) percentage change in HbA1c and 2) proportion of cases showing a significant HbA1c rise. The effect of demographics factors on these findings was also explored.

RESULTS

Our data showed that the optimal testing frequency required to maximize the downward trajectory in HbA1c was four times per year, particularly in those with an initial HbA1c of ≥7% (≥53 mmol/mol), supporting international guidance. Testing 3-monthly was associated with a 3.8% reduction in HbA1c compared with a 1.5% increase observed with annual testing; testing more frequently provided no additional benefit. Compared with annual monitoring, 3-monthly testing was associated with a halving of the proportion showing a significant rise in HbA1c (7–10 vs. 15–20%).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide, in a large, multicenter data set, objective evidence that testing outside guidance on HbA1c monitoring frequency is associated with a significant detrimental effect on diabetes control. To achieve the optimum downward trajectory in HbA1c, monitoring frequency should be quarterly, particularly in cases with suboptimal HbA1c. While this impact appears small, optimizing monitoring frequency across the diabetes population may have major implications for diabetes control and comorbidity risk.
The Effects of Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibition on Microvascular Diabetes Complications
Authors: Avogaro Angelo , Fadini Gian Paolo
Published: September 2014

We performed a review of the literature to determine whether the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4-I) may have the capability to directly and positively influence diabetic microvascular complications. The literature was scanned to identify experimental and clinical evidence that DPP4-I can ameliorate diabetic microangiopathy. We retrieved articles published between 1 January 1980 and 1 March 2014 in English-language peer-reviewed journals using the following terms: (“diabetes” OR “diabetic”) AND (“retinopathy” OR “retinal” OR “nephropathy” OR “renal” OR “albuminuria” OR “microalbuminuria” OR “neuropathy” OR “ulcer” OR “wound” OR “bone marrow”); (“dipeptidyl peptidase-4” OR “dipeptidyl peptidase-IV” OR “DPP-4” OR “DPP-IV”); and (“inhibition” OR “inhibitor”). Experimentally, DPP4-I appears to improve inflammation, endothelial function, blood pressure, lipid metabolism, and bone marrow function. Several experimental studies report direct potential beneficial effects of DPP4-I on all microvascular diabetes-related complications. These drugs have the ability to act either directly or indirectly via improved glucose control, GLP-1 bioavailability, and modifying nonincretin substrates. Although preliminary clinical data support that DPP4-I therapy can protect from microangiopathy, insufficient evidence is available to conclude that this class of drugs directly prevents or decreases microangiopathy in humans independently from improved glucose control. Experimental findings and preliminary clinical data suggest that DPP4-I, in addition to improving metabolic control, have the potential to interfere with the onset and progression of diabetic microangiopathy. Further evidence is needed to confirm these effects in patients with diabetes.
What’s Past Is Prologue
Authors: Watts Tyler W. , Duncan Greg J. , Siegler Robert S. , Davis-Kean Pamela E.
Published: September 2014

Although previous research has established the association between early-grade mathematics knowledge and later mathematics achievement, few studies have measured mathematical skills prior to school entry, and few have investigated the predictive power of early gains in mathematics ability. The current paper relates mathematical skills measured at 54 months to adolescent mathematics achievement using multisite longitudinal data. We find that preschool mathematics ability predicts mathematics achievement through age 15, even after accounting for early reading, cognitive skills, and family and child characteristics. Moreover, we find that growth in mathematical ability between age 54 months and first grade is an even stronger predictor of adolescent mathematics achievement. These results demonstrate the importance of prekindergarten mathematics knowledge and early math learning for later achievement.
From Book Publishers to Authors: Information Transparency in Web Sites
Authors: Giménez-Toledo Elea , Fernández-Gómez Sylvia , Tejada-Artigas Carlos , Mañana-RodrÍquez Jorge
Published: September 2014

The publishing processes and standards in scholarly journals are much better known than those of the publishers of scholarly books. Since scholarly books are key channels of communication and academic assessment in the humanities and social sciences, information provided by publishers concerning their publishing processes is very important both for authors and panelists (at funding and evaluation agencies). This article focuses on the analysis of the transparency of publishers in relation to the information they offer to authors. The main objective is to identify and analyze the publishing practices of two hundred scholarly book publishers of social sciences and humanities with respect to the information that they provide on their Web sites about their publishing processes. A lack of information on these Web sites is the main finding of the study. Among Spanish publishers, only 11.2 per cent explicitly state that they have a review system by experts. At the international level, the situation improves, but the shortcomings are still evident. Some guidelines for publishers are outlined and proposed.
Case Study Evaluation of Saturation and Corridor Enforcement Patrols
Authors: Maistros Alexander R. , Schneider William H. , Beverley Rick , Stakleff Brandon A.
Published: September 2014

Alcohol-related crashes in the United States have consistently accounted for roughly 30% of traffic-related fatalities in the past two decades. The combined efforts of researchers, educators, and law enforcement are needed to reduce the number of alcohol-related crashes and fatalities. Saturation patrols and corridor patrols are two tools that law enforcement agencies may use in their continued efforts. In the current economic climate, local law enforcement agencies and coalitions must operate as efficiently as possible. As a case study, this study focused on the patrol efforts of a task force dedicated to reducing operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI) violations in Stark County, Ohio. Hot spot analysis was used to evaluate the at-risk areas in the county and to determine the need for saturation patrols and corridor patrols to cover the at-risk locations effectively. Performance results were found to be unique to each patrol style. Average stops per hour were found to be significantly higher for corridor patrols, whereas the stops per OVI arrest were found to be more efficient for saturation patrols.
Threshold Effects of Speed-Monitoring Devices on the Speeding Behavior of Drivers
Authors: De Leonardis Doreen , Robinson Emanuel , Huey Rick , Atkins Randolph G.
Published: September 2014

This paper summarizes an evaluation of a speed-monitoring system that provides speed warning feedback to drivers enrolled in a voluntary program. The field study aimed to determine the effects of immediate feedback on drivers, especially chronic speeders. Drivers with at least three speeding violations in the past 3 years were recruited through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration. After a 2-week baseline period, the alert system was activated, and driving behavior was monitored for any changes for approximately 4 weeks. Subjects were monitored (silently) for a follow-up phase of 2 weeks. During the treatment phase, drivers received alerts when their speeds exceeded the posted speed limit by more than 8 mph. The findings are encouraging and suggest that verbal alerts are successful in producing short-term changes in driving behavior. Overall, the average proportion of speeding above the alert threshold declined significantly during the treatment phase, an indication that the alerts did have a deterring effect on speeding behavior. Once the alerts were silenced, there was evidence suggesting a sustained change in driving behavior for some participants. Although the proportion of speeding above the threshold was higher during the 2-week follow-up period than during the treatment phase, for some participants the follow-up speeds were lower than those recorded during the baseline phase. Although speeding was reduced during the treatment phase at speeds over the feedback threshold, much of this speeding appeared to have shifted down to just below the threshold. This finding raises an important question regarding optimal levels for setting thresholds for feedback on speeding behavior.
Field Investigation of College Student Alcohol Intoxication and Return Transportation from At-Risk Drinking Locations
Authors: Smith Ryan C. , Geller E. Scott
Published: September 2014

Each year hundreds of youths’ lives are lost as a result of alcohol-impaired driving. College students leaving at-risk drinking environments are at particular risk for harm. Yet, little field research has been performed to examine college student transportation choices paired with breath alcohol testing of intoxication. This study assessed the transportation decisions of 7,500 individuals as they left drinking establishments near a large, public university in the southeastern United States. Across 3 years and 72 nights, researchers outside local drinking establishments recruited passersby who agreed to provide their planned transportation method for returning home and their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) from a police-quality breathalyzer. The results indicated that the majority of students were reaching high levels of intoxication. Indeed, the average BAC of drinking participants was .0979 g/dL. More than 50% of the participants reported that they were planning to walk home. Approximately one-quarter of the participants planned to use a designated driver. Fewer than 5% of the participants were unsure about how they were going to get home. Significant differences in BAC were observed as a function of the anticipated method for returning home. Contrary to several previous studies, individuals with designated drivers did not have higher BACs than most other individuals. The BACs of self-reported drivers were of particular concern. Although 36.7% of drivers were completely sober, the average BAC of drinking drivers was .061 g/dL. Furthermore, 39.8% of drivers with BACs over .08 g/dL believed that they were under the legal limit to drive. The results suggest that intervention efforts should focus on promoting safe and completely sober designated drivers.
Virginia Tech Comprehensive Power-Based Fuel Consumption Model
Authors: Edwardes William , Rakha Hesham
Published: September 2014

Few models estimate fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emission levels of diesel and hybrid buses. Models that are available either require the gathering of significant dynamometer data to calibrate the model parameters or produce a bang-bang control system, which results when optimal control entails use of maximum throttle and breaking use. This paper extends the Virginia Tech Comprehensive Power-Based Fuel Consumption Model (VT-CPFM) to model diesel and hybrid buses. The bus parameters are calibrated with publicly available data from the Altoona Bus Research and Testing Center in Altoona, Pennsylvania. The research presented in this paper analyzed 10 standard diesel buses and three hybrid buses. The VT-CPFM estimated fuel consumption levels on the Orange County bus cycle dynamometer test with an average error of 4.7%. The estimation error was less than 6% for all except two buses, with a maximum error of 10.66% for one hybrid bus. The VT-CPFM was also validated with on-road fuel consumption measurements that were derived by creating drive cycles from acceleration information; these measurements produced an average estimation error of 22%. These higher errors are probably attributable to the in-field drive cycles, which had to be constructed because none were available.
Development of a Short-Duration Drive Cycle to Represent Long-Term Measured Drive Cycle Data
Authors: LaClair Tim J. , Gao Zhiming , Fu Joshua S. , Calcagno Jimmy , Yun Jeongran
Published: September 2014

Quantifying the fuel savings and emissions reductions that can be achieved from truck fuel efficiency technologies for a fleet's specific usage allows the fleet to select a combination of technologies that will yield the greatest operational efficiency and profitability. An accurate characterization of usage for the fleet is critical for such an evaluation; however, short-term measured drive cycle data do not generally reflect overall usage very effectively. This paper presents a detailed analysis of vehicle usage in a commercial vehicle fleet and demonstrates the development of a short-duration synthetic drive cycle with measured drive cycle data collected over an extended period of time. The approach matched statistical measures of the vehicle speed with acceleration history and integrated measured grade data to develop a compressed drive cycle that accurately represents total usage. Drive cycle measurements obtained during a full year from six tractor trailers in normal operations in a less-than-truckload carrier were analyzed to develop a synthetic drive cycle. The vehicle mass was also estimated to account for the variation of loads that the fleet experienced. These drive cycle and mass data were analyzed with a tractive energy analysis to quantify the benefits in terms of fuel efficiency and reduced carbon dioxide emissions that can be achieved on Class 8 tractor trailers by using advanced efficiency technologies, either individually or in combination. Although differences exist between Class 8 tractor trailer fleets, this study provides valuable insight into the energy and emissions reduction potential that various technologies can bring in this important trucking application. The methodology employed for generating the synthetic drive cycle serves as a rigorous approach to develop an accurate usage characterization that can be used to effectively compress large quantities of drive cycle data.
Application of AIMSUN Microsimulation Model to Estimate Emissions on Signalized Arterial Corridors
Authors: Anya Abseen R. , Rouphail Nagui M. , Frey H. Christopher , Schroeder Bastian
Published: September 2014

Tailpipe emissions from on-road vehicles have negative impacts on the air quality of a region and are influenced by several factors including driver behavior, road characteristics, and traffic conditions. Typically vehicles on arterial roads frequently stop and then accelerate, a behavior that produces more tailpipe emissions than does maintaining a steady speed. Microscopic simulation models generate synthetic vehicle activity that can be used to estimate emissions on a facility. For emissions to be estimated accurately from an arterial facility, the simulated activity must closely represent the activity observed in the field. This study investigated whether a selected set of simulation parameters that used speed trajectories observed in the field at high temporal resolution could improve the emissions estimated from a simulated signalized arterial corridor. The simulated trajectories and those observed in the field were characterized by vehicle-specific power (VSP). Emissions were estimated with VSP modal emission rates and the time spent by vehicles in each VSP mode. The emissions were compared for routes along an urban arterial facility and for shorter segments within routes. At both spatial scales, the emissions from parameter-adjusted simulation vehicles that had the same average number of stops and travel time distribution as vehicles observed in the field were closer to real-world emissions than were the simulation vehicles under default model parameters. Adjusting the parameters also allowed the model to capture emissions hot spots along the routes more accurately. Currently, microscopic simulation models are calibrated with traffic performance measures that are improving. The findings from this paper present the potential for using these improving emissions estimates from simulated vehicle activity for the additional calibration of microsimulation models.
Congenital Rubella Syndrome: An Overview of Clinical Presentations in Bangladeshi Children
Authors: Nazme Nure Ishrat , Hoque Md Mahbubul , Hussain Manzoor
Published: September 2014

Background: Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) has long been characterized by the triad of deafness, cataract and cardiovascular malformations with or without mental retardation. Objective: This study was conducted to observe the clinical manifestations of CRS in children of Bangladesh. Materials and method: This cross sectional study was carried out in Dhaka Shishu (Children) Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh and National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD), Dhaka, Bangladesh. Total 40 cases of CRS were enrolled from indoor and outpatient departments of these two hospitals, who were diagnosed according to standard case definition. Serological test for rubella antibody, chest X-ray, colour Doppler echocardiography, visual examination and hearing assessment were done in relative specialised centres. Results: The mean(±SD) age of the study subjects was 6.6(±5.7) months (range: 0-24 months). Among the subjects, 68% were male and 32% were female. Serum for rubella specific antibody revealed positive IgG in 60% cases and IgM in 28% cases. Neurological problem was the most frequently observed (90%) systemic complication followed by visual problem (83%), congenital hearing loss (80%) and congenital heart disease (78%). Cataract was the commonest (55%) among visual problems and microcephaly (62%) among neurological manifestations. Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) was the most common (37.5%) isolated structural cardiac defect. Maximum (62.5%) children came from poor socioeconomic status. Maternal onset of infection was commonly detected in 1st trimester of pregnancy. Conclusion: Diagnosis of CRS and recognition of its versatile pattern of clinical presentation are crucial for better prognosis of the affected children. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dmcj.v2i2.20522 Delta Med Col J. Jul 2014; 2(2): 42-47
Acardiac Twin
Authors: Maherunnessa MS , Begum Rahima , Jahan Samsad , Bela Shamsunnahar , Habib Syeda Riffat Binta , Shermin Shahana
Published: September 2014

Acardiac anomaly is a rare complication of multiple pregnancies. It is a hemodyamically disadvantaged nonviable twin which occurs in association with a twin reversed arterial perfusion sequence (TRAP). In TRAP, blood flows from an umbilical artery of the pump twin in reverse direction into umbilical artery of the perfused (or acardiac) twin via an arterial to arterial (AA) anastomosis. Its blood is poorly oxygenated and results in variable degrees of deficient development of the head, heart, and upper limb structures. The lower half of the body is usually better developed, which may be explained by the mechanism of perfusion. The pump twin is at risk of heart failure and problems related to preterm birth with a reported mortality of 50-75%. We present a case of multiple pregnancy with acardiac twin in a 26 year old lady with gestational diabetes mellitus. During ante natal check up several ultrasonographic (USG) screening showed twin pregnancy with one healthy fetus and the other fetus with inconspicuous anatomy and structure. Repeat USG at 36th week of gestation diagnosed twin pregnancy with acardiac twin. Strikingly the pump twin did not develop the usual complications and was delivered by cesarean section at 37th week of gestation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/dmcj.v2i2.20529 Delta Med Col J. Jul 2014; 2(2): 77-80
Environmental Pollution and Health Hazards: Present and Future Perspective of Bangladesh
Authors: Sattar AFM Arshedi
Published: September 2014

No AbstractDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jcamr.v1i1.19556 Journal of Current and Advance Medical Research Vol.1(1) 2014: 1-2
Awareness of Hepatitis B Vaccination in Rural Area: A Survey
Authors: Sweety Kamrun Nahar , Mimi Shamim Akther
Published: September 2014

Background: The awareness regarding Hepatitis B vaccination is necessary in the general population of Bangladesh.Objective: This study was carried out to determine the level of knowledge and the vaccination coverage of hepatitis B virus in rural population.Methodology: This cross sectional study was conducted at Bangladesh Institute of Administration and Management (BIAM), Dhaka, Bangladesh from February 2011 to April 2011. Sirajdikhan upazila of Munshiganj District was taken as a study place. All the villagers with an age group of 15 to 55 years were taken as study population. Result: A total number of 30 respondents were recruited of which male (60.0%) is predominant than female (40.0%). The mean age with SD was 23±7.256 years (range 15-53 years). Majority has told about the knowledge regarding the sequel of hepatitis B virus infection (33.3%). Almost all respondents (96.7%) are unknown about the treatment of HBV infection. Majority (76.7%) are unknown regarding taking HBV vaccination. Nobody has given positive answer in response to take vaccine. Conclusion: In conclusion information and knowledge regarding HBV infection and vaccination is very poor in the rural area of Bangladesh.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jcamr.v1i1.19558J Curr Adv Med Res 2014;1(1):3-7
Colposcopic Findings among VIA Positive Women: Experience at a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Choudhury Farzana Rabee , Uddin ABM Zakir , Yusuf M Abdullah
Published: September 2014

Background: Visual inspections of the cervix after acetic acid application (VIA) are widely recommended as the method of choice in cervical cancer screening program in resource-limited settings.Objective: The purpose of the present study was to see the status of VIA test result at a tertiary care hospital. Methodology: This cross sectional study was carried out at Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College, Dhaka and Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka from April 2012 to March 2013 for a period of one year. VIA was performed and colposcopy was done among the VIA positive patients.Results: A total number of 65 VIA positive patients were evaluated colposcopically In all VIA positive patients, colposcopically positive was in 47.7% cases. Among colposcopically positive patients CIN-I was 27.69%; CIN-II was 18.46% and CIN-III was 1.54%. Conclusion: VIA test is positive in a high number of patients which has a great number of abnormalities were found.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jcamr.v1i1.19559J Curr Adv Med Res 2014;1(1):8-12]
Outbreak of Ebola Virus Infection: A Public Health Concern in Bangladesh
Authors: Chowdhury Mahmuda
Published: September 2014

No AbstractDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jcamr.v1i2.20512 Journal of Current and Advance Medical Research Vol.1(2) 2014: 23-24
Business Models in the Smart Grid: Challenges, Opportunities and Proposals for Prosumer Profitability
Authors: Rodríguez-Molina Jesús , Martínez-Núñez Margarita , Martínez José-Fernán , Pérez-Aguiar Waldo
Published: September 2014

Considering that non-renewable energy resources are dwindling, the smart grid turns out to be one of the most promising and compelling systems for the future of energy. Not only does it combine efficient energy consumption with avant-garde technologies related to renewable energies, but it is also capable of providing several beneficial utilities, such as power monitoring and data provision. When smart grid end users turn into prosumers, they become arguably the most important value creators within the smart grid and a decisive agent of change in terms of electricity usage. There is a plethora of research and development areas related to the smart grid that can be exploited for new business opportunities, thus spawning another branch of the so-called “green economy” focused on turning smart energy usage into a profitable business. This paper deals with emerging business models for smart grid prosumers, their strengths and weaknesses and puts forward new prosumer-oriented business models, along with their value propositions.
Community Knowledge and Experience of Mosquitoes and Personal Prevention and Control Practices in Lhasa, Tibet
Authors: Liu Xiaobo , Wan Fangjun , Cirendunzhu  , Cirenwangla  , Bai Li , Pengcuociren  , Zhou Lin , Baimaciwang  , Guo Yuhong , Dazhen  , Xu Junfang , Sang Shaowei , Li Xiaolu , Gu Shaohua , Wu Haixia , Wang Jun , Dawa  , Xiraoruodeng  , Liu Qiyong
Published: September 2014

Since 2009, great public attention has been paid in Lhasa City (Tibet, China) to mosquito bites and accompanying inflammatory complications. However, the potential contribution of knowledge levels, experiences, disease control and preventive practices (KEP) towards mosquitoes has not received much attention. To investigate community KEP concerning mosquitoes in Lhasa, a cross-sectional survey was undertaken in four sub-districts of urban Lhasa in 2012. Questionnaires were designed to collect information regarding socio-demographics and KEP concerning the harmful effects of mosquitoes on participants. The scoring for KEP was developed after consultation of literature. A total of 591 eligible questionnaires were examined. The majority of respondents were female (61.8%) with a mean age of 46 years. Nearly all of the respondents were of Tibetan nationality (97.4%) and living in registered native households (92.7%), who have less than primary school education. The averages of overall score, knowledge score, experience score, and practice score were 9.23, 4.53, 1.80, 2.90, respectively. The registered household with the highest overall score, knowledge score and practice score was non-native. Female subjects with monthly incomes between 1000 and 3000 RMB had higher experience scores. The correlation analysis revealed that significant positive linear correlations existed between knowledge and experience, knowledge and practices, and experience and practices towards mosquitoes. Past experiences with mosquitoes can result in a better knowledge of effective mosquito control practices in the present and the future. Though the average of overall scores related to mosquitoes is high among the participants in Lhasa, however, the knowledge about the ecological habits of mosquitoes should be strengthened. The findings in this study may help to develop strategies and measures of mosquito and mosquito-borne diseases in the future, not only in Lhasa, but also in similar altitude, latitude and longitude regions worldwide.
Biochemical Characterization of a Carboxylesterase from the Archaeon Pyrobaculum sp. 1860 and a Rational Explanation of Its Substrate Specificity and Thermostability
Authors: Shao Hua , Xu Li , Yan Yunjun
Published: September 2014

In this work, genome mining was used to identify esterase/lipase genes in the archaeon Pyrobaculum sp. 1860. A gene was cloned and functionally expressed in Escherichia coli as His-tagged protein. The recombinant enzyme (rP186_1588) was verified by western blotting and peptide mass fingerprinting. Biochemical characterization revealed that rP186_1588 exhibited optimum activity at pH 9.0 and 80 °C towards p-nitrophenyl acetate (Km: 0.35 mM, kcat: 11.65 s−1). Interestingly, the purified rP186_1588 exhibited high thermostability retaining 70% relative activity after incubation at 90 °C for 6 h. Circular dichroism results indicated that rP186_1588 showed slight structure alteration from 60 to 90 °C. Structural modeling showed P186_1588 possessed a typical α/β hydrolase’s fold with the catalytic triad consisting of Ser97, Asp147 and His172, and was further confirmed by site-directed mutagenesis. Comparative molecular simulations at different temperatures (300, 353, 373 and 473 K) revealed that its thermostability was associated with its conformational rigidity. The binding free energy analysis by MM-PBSA method revealed that the van der Waals interaction played a major role in p-NP ester binding for P186_1588. Our data provide insights into the molecular structures of this archaeal esterase, and may help to its further protein engineering for industrial applications.
Function of SREBP1 in the Milk Fat Synthesis of Dairy Cow Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Li Nan , Zhao Feng , Wei Chenjie , Liang Mengyao , Zhang Na , Wang Chunmei , Li Qing-Zhang , Gao Xue-Jun
Published: September 2014

Sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs) belong to a family of nuclear transcription factors. The question of which is the most important positive regulator in milk fat synthesis in dairy cow mammary epithelial cells (DCMECs) between SREBPs or other nuclear transcription factors, such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), remains a controversial one. Recent studies have found that mTORC1 (the mammalian target of rapamycin C1) regulates SREBP1 to promote fat synthesis. Thus far, however, the interaction between the SREBP1 and mTOR (the mammalian target of rapamycin) pathways in the regulation of milk fat synthesis remains poorly understood. This study aimed to identify the function of SREBP1 in milk fat synthesis and to characterize the relationship between SREBP1 and mTOR in DCMECs. The effects of SREBP1 overexpression and gene silencing on milk fat synthesis and the effects of stearic acid and serum on SREBP1 expression in the upregulation of milk fat synthesis were investigated in DCMECs using immunostaining, Western blotting, real-time quantitative PCR, lipid droplet staining, and detection kits for triglyceride content. SREBP1 was found to be a positive regulator of milk fat synthesis and was shown to be regulated by stearic acid and serum. These findings indicate that SREBP1 is the key positive regulator in milk fat synthesis.
PACAP38 Differentially Effects Genes and CRMP2 Protein Expression in Ischemic Core and Penumbra Regions of Permanent Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion Model Mice Brain
Authors: Hori Motohide , Nakamachi Tomoya , Shibato Junko , Rakwal Randeep , Tsuchida Masachi , Shioda Seiji , Numazawa Satoshi
Published: September 2014

Pituitary adenylate-cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) has neuroprotective and axonal guidance functions, but the mechanisms behind such actions remain unclear. Previously we examined effects of PACAP (PACAP38, 1 pmol) injection intracerebroventrically in a mouse model of permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (PMCAO) along with control saline (0.9% NaCl) injection. Transcriptomic and proteomic approaches using ischemic (ipsilateral) brain hemisphere revealed differentially regulated genes and proteins by PACAP38 at 6 and 24 h post-treatment. However, as the ischemic hemisphere consisted of infarct core, penumbra, and non-ischemic regions, specificity of expression and localization of these identified molecular factors remained incomplete. This led us to devise a new experimental strategy wherein, ischemic core and penumbra were carefully sampled and compared to the corresponding contralateral (healthy) core and penumbra regions at 6 and 24 h post PACAP38 or saline injections. Both reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting were used to examine targeted gene expressions and the collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP2) protein profiles, respectively. Clear differences in expression of genes and CRMP2 protein abundance and degradation product/short isoform was observed between ischemic core and penumbra and also compared to the contralateral healthy tissues after PACAP38 or saline treatment. Results indicate the importance of region-specific analyses to further identify, localize and functionally analyse target molecular factors for clarifying the neuroprotective function of PACAP38.
Sox9- and Scleraxis-Cre Lineage Fate Mapping in Aortic and Mitral Valve Structures
Authors: Austin Blair , Yoshimoto Yuki , Shukunami Chisa , Lincoln Joy
Published: September 2014

Heart valves are complex structures composed of a heterogeneous population of valve interstitial cells (VICs), an overlying endothelium and highly organized layers of extracellular matrix. Alterations in valve homeostasis are characteristic of dysfunction and disease, however the mechanisms that initiate and promote valve pathology are poorly understood. Advancements have been largely hindered by the limited availability of tools for gene targeting in heart valve structures during embryogenesis and after birth. We have previously shown that the transcription factors Sox9 and Scleraxis (Scx) are required for heart valve formation and in this study we describe the recombination patterns of Sox9- and Scx-Cre lines at differential time points in aortic and mitral valve structures. In ScxCre; ROSA26GFP mice, recombination is undetected in valve endothelial cells (VECs) and low in VICs during embryogenesis. However, recombination increases in VICs from post natal stages and by 4 weeks side-specific patterns are observed. Using the inducible Sox9CreERT2 system, we observe recombination in VECs and VICs in the embryo, and high levels are maintained through post natal and juvenile stages. These Cre-drivers provide the field with new tools for gene targeting in valve cell lineages during differential stages of embryonic and post natal maturation and maintenance.