bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE EFFECT OF HABITAT MODIFICATION ON PADDY VARIETY IR 64 FIELD WITH TRAP CROP APPLICATION USING LEMON GRASS (Andropogon nardus ) AND WITHOUT TRAP CROP APPLICATION TOWARDS THE COMPOTITION, ABUNDANCE, AND DIVERSITY OF ARTHROPODS
Authors: Rofidah Erna , Arofah Siti , Tjahjaningrum Indah Trisnawati Dwi
Published: September 2015

The trap crop technique relies on the attraction of insect pests to plantings other than the main crop. Application using of lemon grass for Habitat modification on paddy field can alter species composition and community structure including Arthropods from insect groups. The lemon grass was planted 20 day before main crop (paddy variety IR 64). This study was conducted in Pasuruan, East Java. Samples were taken using sweep net on vegetative paddy phase, generative paddy phase and ripening paddy phase. Sampling periods from Desember 2012 to March 2013. Each sample was sorted and identified to the family and morphospecies or species. Samples are identified in Zoological laboratory on department of biology, ITS. Study on Arthropoda diversity at different habitats by comparing the species richness is useful for determining ecological indicators at each habitat. The arthropods caught were then classified into some classes: pest (herbivore), natural enemy (parasitoid and predator), and other arthropods. After that, the Species Diversity Index was determined using its Shannon-Wiener Index (H’), Evenness (e), and Species Similarity Index (IS). The compotition of arthropods were classes from herbivore, predator, parasitoid and detritivore. The sum of H’ is higher on paddy field with trap crop application than paddy field without trap crop application. Indicate that a stable relationship could be maintained between rice insect pests and their arthropod natural enemies.

Keywords : Habitat modification, Trap crop, Arthropods, compotition, abundance, diversity
STUDY OF PROPOXUR DEGRADING BACTERIA ISOLATED FROM VARIOUS SAMPLING SITE OF RICE FIELD FROM NGAWI
Authors: Dewi Tirta Kumala , Imamuddin Hartati , Antonius Sarjiya
Published: September 2015

Propoxur (2-isopropoxyphenyl-N-methylcarbamate) is a carbamateinsecticide which has negative impact on the environment. Propoxur is readily degraded by soil microorganism in most soils. Increased enviromental degradation of propoxur constitute the result of increase in activities of soil pesticide-degrading bacteria. The aims of the present study are to isolate andscreen the bacteria with high potential ability to degradepropoxur from soil samples. Isolation and selection were carried out by enrichment cultures technique.Propoxur degrading bacteria were isolated from 5 soil samples in different locations of rice field from Ngawi. The biodegradation ofpropoxur by isolated bacteria were analysed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Ten consorsia were selected and purified. One isolate was able to use propoxur at 3000 ppm as sole source of carbonfor the growth. The result suggested that H2-NG isolate hydrolysedpropoxur with the yield of 2-isopropoxyphenol and methylamine.

Keywords: Ngawi, Isolation, Propoxur, Biodegradation, Bacteria
EXPLORATION OF POTENTIAL PLANTS AS A BIO-INSECTICIDE AT ITS SURABAYA CAMPUS
Authors: Purwani Kristanti Indah , Ermavitalini Dini , Nurhidayati Tutik , Nurhatika Sri , Bagus Triono
Published: September 2015

ITS Surabaya campus has a biodiversity potential, especially plants that can be utilized. Different types of plants have been known as a potential insecticide because they contain bioactive compounds, such as essential oils, saponins, tannins, alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, alkenes and these terpenoids. This research was a descriptive experimental, which aimed to explore the vegetation potential as plant-based insecticide or bio-insecticide. Tracking method to obtain plant leaves samples in ITS campus was used in this study. Leaf extracts were obtained using methanol solvents after the freeze-drying method that will change leaf into powder form. The extracts were then stored in the refrigerator and ready to be applied. Leaf dipping method was used as biological test. The test conducted on Spodoptera litura larvae that obtained from Balittas Malang. Larvae rearing trials were carried out in the Laboratory of Botany, Department of Biology ITS. The larvae examined were the third instar fed on fodder greens of leaf mustard. Toxicity effects of extract were observed from mortality of Spodoptera litura during 5 days. Ten plants species with bio-insecticide potential in this study were Ageratum conyzoides L., Crynum asiaticum L., Calotropis gigantea R., Eugenia cumini Merr., Eichornia crassipes, Crescentia cujete L., Nothopanax scutellarium Merr., Morinda citrifolia L., Azadirachta indica, and Lantana camara L.

Keywords : Bio-insecticide, potential plants, Spodoptera litura
PROLIFERATION INHIBITORY ACTIVITY OF THE ACTIVE FRACTION MARINE SPONGE Cinachyrella sp. AGAINST CELL LINE T47D
Authors: Nurhayati Awik Puji Dyah , Pratiwi Rarastoeti , Wahyuono Subagus , . Istriyati
Published: September 2015

Marine sponges Cinachyrella sp. (Family:Tetillidae) in Kukup beach, Kemadang Village, Tanjungsari District, Gunung Kidul, DIY were producing diversity secondary metabolites such as polyketides, alkaloids, peptide and terpene. The purpose of this study was investigated proliferation inhibitory activity of active fraction Cinachyrella sp. against cell line T47D. Sponges samples were collected manually from rocky substrate at depth 0.5 m. The sponges was minced and extracted with 95% ethanol. The ethanol extract was partitioned sequentially with ethyl acetate. The extract ethyl acetate was fractionation with 4 organic solvent, in increasing order of polarity with vacuum liquid chromatography column (VLC) method. Doubling time method was applied to analyse the inhibition proliferative cell line T47D. Resulted showed ethyl acetate extract of Cinachyrella sp. were 12 fractions and all tested fraction obtained by thin layer chromatography (TLC). Fractions that have the same value Rf grouped together to obtain 6 fractions. The fraction number 5 exhibited proliferation inhibitory activity to cell line T47D. The Rf value of active fraction number 5 were 0.125; 0.25 and 0.437. The active fraction 5 than isolation by preparative thin-layer chromatography (PTLC) was 5 isolate fractions preparative. The isolate fractions preparative number 5 exhibited proliferation inhibitory activity against cell line T47D. Fraction which determined by cerium sulfate and results was expressed terpene and alkaloid.

Keywords: Cinachyrella sp., Doubling time method, proliferation inhibitory activity.
EFFECT OF RED LIGHT-BLUE AND NITROGEN STARVATION ON GROWTH OF MICROALGAE Tetraselmis sp.
Authors: Samudra Thoriq Teja , Nasution Hilda Wati , Pratama Wiga , Pradhitaningrum Chandra , Alyza Rezika , Suyono Eko Agus
Published: September 2015

Microalgae has many benefits for human being. Microalgae is potential source for biodiesel and bioethanol, but the biomass produced from the culture is relatively low. So that, the research has to be done to improve the productivity of the microalgae. Red light and blue light spectrum are known as effective spectrums for the photosynthesis process. Then nitrogen starvation medium is usually performed in order to improve the lipid content. However, nitrogen starvation treatment will decrease microalgae biomass. Therefore, this research aims to study the effect of red and blue light and nitrogen starvation on the growth of Tetraselmis sp. The parameters measured were the cells number, dry weight and chlorophyll a and b. In this study, microalgae Tetraselmis sp. was treated using red and blue light for 7 days. Then, followed by nitrogen starvation treatment with concentration 100%, 50%, and 0% of the f/2 normal medium until day 14. The number of the cells was counted every day for 14 days using a haemocytometer and dry weights were counted at day 0, 1, 5, 7 and 14. Chlorophyll contents were calculated by Jeffrey and Humphrey’s Trichromatic Equations method at absorbance 664 nm, 647 nm, 630 nm, and 750 nm. The results indicated that the red light increased the number of cells to twice as normal, while the blue light increased the number of cells to 1,5 times as normal. Furthermore, the 50% of nitrogen treatment under the red and blue light increased the dry weight to 25% and 60%.

Keywords: Microalgae, Tetraselmis sp., Nitrogen Starvation, Blue and Red light
Total Quality Management and Supply Chain Relationships
Authors: Chalotra Dr Vipul
Published: September 2015

The popularity of the supply chain concept emanates because of quality management. Quality management practices in supply chain contribute to quality offerings, overall firm performance, cost reduction and ultimately for competitive advantage. The paper empirically and analytically investigates the relationship between total quality management and supply chain performance. The primary data for the study were collected from 44 managers of small manufacturing firms, 74 wholesalers and 120 retailers in district Udhampur of J&K State. The data after purification & validation through factor analysis were subjected to multivariate tools. The results of Chisquare test, hierarchal regression model and correlation matrix revealed positive association between total quality management & supply chain operational efficiency, overall supply chain performance as predictor of quality management and existence of direct relationship between TQM and supply chain performance. The study emphasized that proper implementation of TQM programs could play a major role in developing an integrated organisation through teamwork, cordial relationship, training & education, cultural change and customer focus across the supply chain.
Performance Based Improvement of the CPU by reducing the Real-Time Interrupt Latency using the PPTS Algorithm
Authors: Dhanesh Lavanya , Murugesan Dr. P.
Published: September 2015

The main objective of the research is to improve the performance of the CPU at software level by reducing the Interrupt Latency of the Real time systems. Interrupt Latency provides an important metric in increasing the performance of the Real Time Kernal. So far the research has been investigated with respect to real-time interrupt latency reduction using non-pre-emptive task scheduling algorithms. A general disadvantage of the non-preemptive discipline is that it introduces additional blocking time in higher priority tasks, so reducing schedulability. If the interrupt latency is increased, the task switching delay shall be increasing with respect to each task. Hence most of the research work has been focussed to reduce interrupt latency by using the Pre-emptive Task scheduling algorithm. Based on the literature survey, A Deadline Monotonic Priority Assignment technique is used to reduce the latency with respect to the deadline. Deferred pre-emption scheduling and Fixed pre-emptive scheduling algorithm are used to reduce the interrupt latencies based on the queue fixed to the priority of the tasks to be handled. Here we suggest a new algorithm named “Priority Preemptive task scheduling algorithm” which preempts and serve the task with highest priority and also concentrates on the low priority tasks during the buffering time of the higher priority tasks.
Exploring the Dimensions of Service Marketing for Telecom Services: A Study of Rural Consumers in Bihar State
Authors: Pritam Ms. Amrita , Sharma Dr. Narendra , Sharma Mr. Devendra
Published: September 2015

The paper examines different marketing strategies which are being adopted by marketers in order to promote the telecommunication services in terms of 7 Ps of service marketing i.e. product, price, place, promotion, people process, physical evidence. The rural market is growing at the rate of 10-14% whereas urban demand is either static or contracting. Marketing strategy to penetrate the rural segment is somewhat different from that of urban segment. In this context, the paper attempts to find out the various dimensions within the 7 P’s of service marketing which rural consumers value when they buy telecom services. A survey research design was adopted and the study was conducted in villages of two districts of Bihar state. Exploratory factor analysis was applied on the collected data so as to find out the various dimensions related to rural market for telecom players. The results suggest that managers were required to go beyond traditional approaches to serve the rural consumer.
K-Means Algorithm: An Assessment
Authors: Kumar Vijay
Published: September 2015

In data mining, clustering is a technique in which the set of objects are assigned to a group called clusters. Clustering is the most essential part of data mining. K-means clustering is the basic clustering technique and is most widely used algorithm. It is also known as nearest neighbor searching. It simply clusters the datasets into given number of clusters. Numerous efforts have been made to improve the performance of the K-means clustering algorithm. In this paper we have been briefed in the form of a review the work carried out by the different researchers using Kmeans clustering. We have discussed the limitations and applications of the K-means clustering algorithm as well. This paper presents a current review about the K means clustering algorithm.
Plant and root endophyte assembly history: interactive effects on native and exotic plants
Authors: Sikes Benjamin A. , Hawkes Christine V. , Fukami Tadashi
Published: September 2015

Differences in the arrival timing of plants and soil biota may result in different plant communities through priority effects, potentially affecting the success of native vs. exotic plants, but experimental evidence is largely lacking. We conducted a greenhouse experiment to investigate whether the assembly history of plants and fungal root endophytes could interact to influence plant emergence and biomass. We introduced a grass species and eight fungal species from one of three land‐use types (undisturbed, disturbed, or pasture sites in a Florida scrubland) in factorial combinations. We then introduced all plants and fungi from the other land‐use types 2 weeks later. Plant emergence was monitored for 6 months, and final plant biomass and fungal species composition assessed. The emergence and growth of the exotic Melinis repens and the native Schizacharyium niveum were affected negatively when introduced early with their “home” fungi, but early introduction of a different plant species or fungi from a different site type eliminated these negative effects, providing evidence for interactive priority effects. Interactive effects of plant and fungal arrival history may be an overlooked determinant of plant community structure and may provide an effective management tool to inhibit biological invasion and aid ecosystem restoration.
Obesity and Hyperlipidemia Modulate Alveolar Bone Loss in Wistar Rats
Authors: Cavagni Juliano , de Macedo Isabel Cristina , Gaio Eduardo José , Souza Andressa , de Molon Rafael Scaf , Cirelli Joni Augusto , Hoefel Ana Lúcia , Kucharski Luiz Carlos , Torres Iraci Lucena da Silva , Rösing Cassiano Kuchenbecker
Published: September 2015

Background: A positive association between obesity‐associated metabolic disorders (e.g., hyperlipidemia and diabetes) and periodontitis has been demonstrated in the literature. This study evaluates the role of cafeteria diet–induced obesity/hyperlipidemia (CAF) on alveolar bone loss (ABL) in rats.

Methods: Sixty male Wistar rats were randomly divided in four groups: control, periodontitis (PERIO), obesity/hyperlipidemia (CAF), and obesity/hyperlipidemia plus periodontitis (CAF+PERIO). Groups CAF and CAF+PERIO were exposed to a high‐fat, hypercaloric diet. At week 12, periodontal disease was induced in groups PERIO and CAF+PERIO by ligatures in the upper second molar. The contralateral tooth was considered the intragroup control. Body weight and Lee index were evaluated weekly during the experiment. Serum glucose and cholesterol/triglycerides in the liver were evaluated, and percentage of ABL was measured by microcomputed tomography. Serum tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and interleukin (IL)‐1β were evaluated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay at week 17.

Results: Body weight, Lee index, and cholesterol/triglycerides in the liver increased in groups exposed to the cafeteria diet. Groups PERIO and CAF+PERIO exhibited a significantly higher ABL compared to control and CAF groups. The presence of obesity and hyperlipidemia significantly increased ABL in the CAF+PERIO group compared to the PERIO group (53.60 ± 3.44 versus 42.78 ± 7.27, respectively) in the sides with ligature. Groups exposed to CAF exhibited higher ABL in the sides without ligature. No differences were observed among groups for IL‐1β and TNF‐α.

Conclusion: Obesity and hyperlipidemia modulate the host response to challenges in the periodontium, increasing the expression of periodontal breakdown.
Activation of Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor‐κB Ligand and Matrix Metalloproteinase Production in Periodontal Fibroblasts by Endothelin Signaling
Authors: Ruest L. Bruno , Ranjbaran Hamid , Tong Eric J. , Svoboda Kathy K. H. , Feng Jian Q.
Published: September 2015

Background: Periodontitis is a group of inflammatory diseases affecting the tissues supporting the teeth that will progressively cause the loss of alveolar bone and periodontal ligaments and eventually the dentition. Activation of osteoclast activity by receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand (RANKL) and released enzymes such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are among the factors involved in the breakdown of the periodontium. However, the mechanisms regulating their production in periodontitis are poorly understood. Endothelin signaling via the activation of the endothelin‐A receptor (EDNRA) by endothelin‐1 may play a role in the disease because the expression of the receptor and ligand is elevated in the periodontal tissues of patients with periodontitis.

Methods: Cultured primary human periodontal fibroblasts were treated with 20 and 100 nM endothelin‐1 for 6 and 24 hours and then collected to assess MMP and RANKL production by immunoblotting. Inhibitors were used to identify the molecular pathways activated by EDNRA in these cells.

Results: Endothelin‐1 stimulated the production of MMP1, MMP8, and RANKL in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner; blocking EDNRA function with the antagonist TBC3214 inhibited the response, although EDNRA activation had no effects on osteoprotegerin production. These mechanistic studies indicate that EDNRA activates phospholipase C, which then 1) increases the MMP1 protein levels through activation of the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase mitogen‐activated protein kinase‐dependent pathway and 2) upregulates RANKL by a different pathway.

Conclusion: These results suggest that EDNRA may function in the breakdown of the periodontal tissues associated with periodontitis by promoting the protein expression of MMPs and RANKL via the phospholipase C pathway.
Aquatic Radiocarbon Reservoir Offsets in the Southeastern Baltic
Authors: Piličiauskas Gytis , Heron Carl
Published: September 2015

The aim of this article is to discuss radiocarbon dating offsets due to freshwater and marine reservoir effects (FRE and MRE, respectively) in the southeastern Baltic. Thirty-six 14C dates from Lithuanian coastal and inland Subneolithic, Neolithic, and Bronze Age sites as well as two Mesolithic-Neolithic cemeteries are presented here. Accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) dates, sometimes paired or tripled, have been obtained on samples of various origin, foodcrusts, or visible charred deposits adhering to the surfaces of ceramic vessel walls were also dated and investigated for stable isotope signals. The results argue for a significant freshwater component in the food processed in ceramic vessels during the Subneolithic and Neolithic. Paired dating of ungulate and human bones at the Spiginas and Donkalnis cemeteries (6300–1900 cal BC) does not suggest an FRE, although stable isotope data on human bone collagen strongly suggest a large input of freshwater food in the diet. An FRE in the order of 320–510 yr was estimated for the Šventoji paleolagoon around 3000 cal BC. At the same time, the FRE of the Curonian Lagoon could be larger as implied by large apparent 14C ages of modern pike-perch (981 ± 30 BP) and bream (738 ± 30 BP) bones as well as “foodcrust” offsets (650–530 yr) at Nida (3500–2500 cal BC). An MRE of 190 ± 43 yr was estimated for the southeastern coast of the Littorina Sea according to offsets between dates of seal bones and terrestrial samples at Nida and Šventoji. Any FRE at Lake Kretuonas remains uncertain due to the limited work to date.
Subsistence Continuity Linked to Consumption of Marine Protein in the Formative Period in the Interfluvic Coast of Northern Chile: Re-Assessing Contacts with Agropastoral Groups from Highlands
Authors: Andrade Pedro , Fernandes Ricardo , Codjambassis Katia , Urrea Josefina , Olguín Laura , Rebolledo Sandra , Lira Francisca , Aravena Christian , Berríos Mauricio
Published: September 2015

From material culture evidence dating as early as 7500 cal BC, it has been established that populations from the interfluvic coast in northern Chile adapted to a maritime economic livelihood. During the 2nd millennium BC, local populations began to experience major social changes arising mainly from an increase in contacts with agropastoral populations from the highlands of the Andes. New radiocarbon data and stable isotope (δ15Ncol, δ13Ccol, and δ13Cap) analyses of human bone remains from interfluvic coastal individuals were obtained. The data showed that these individuals, at the time of contact with highland populations, maintained a mode of subsistence relying principally on marine protein. This suggests that, although instances of social change may have arisen, the livelihoods linked to the consumption of marine resources would have remained constant, demonstrating a high degree of resistance in changing local lifestyles.
Aquatic Resources in Foodcrusts: Identification and Implication
Authors: Heron Carl , Craig Oliver E
Published: September 2015

Foodcrusts, the charred surface deposits on pottery vessel surfaces, provide a rich source of data regarding container function. This article reviews recent applications focusing on the detection of aquatic resources (marine and freshwater) in pottery vessels using a range of analytical approaches including bulk isotope measurements of carbon and nitrogen, lipid biomarker analysis, and compound-specific carbon isotope determinations. Such data can help to evaluate the presence of reservoir effects when undertaking radiocarbon dating of foodcrust samples. In particular, molecular and isotopic analysis can aid in the selection of suitable candidates for14C where it can be demonstrated that aquatic resources are unlikely to contribute to the residue. Prospects for compound-specific14C analysis of lipids in foodcrusts and ceramic-absorbed residues are also discussed.
Storytelling Voice Conversion: Evaluation Experiment Using Gaussian Mixture Models
Authors: Přibil Jiří , Přibilová Anna , Ďuračková Daniela
Published: September 2015

In the development of the voice conversion and personification of the text-to-speech (TTS) systems, it is very necessary to have feedback information about the users’ opinion on the resulting synthetic speech quality. Therefore, the main aim of the experiments described in this paper was to find out whether the classifier based on Gaussian mixture models (GMM) could be applied for evaluation of different storytelling voices created by transformation of the sentences generated by the Czech and Slovak TTS system. We suppose that it is possible to combine this GMM-based statistical evaluation with the classical one in the form of listening tests or it can replace them. The results obtained in this way were in good correlation with the results of the conventional listening test, so they confirm practical usability of the developed GMM classifier. With the help of the performed analysis, the optimal setting of the initial parameters and the structure of the input feature set for recognition of the storytelling voices was finally determined.
Precise Compact System For Ionizing Radiation Detection And Signal Processing With Advanced Components Integration And Electronic Control
Authors: Navařík Jakub , Novák Petr , Pechoušek Jiří , Machala Libor , Jančík Dalibor , Mašláň Miroslav
Published: September 2015

Quality and performance of a detection system are the crucial parameters in all nuclear physics experiments. This system serves as a source of all signals and noises to be processed. Better performance, higher amplification and lower noises occurrence simplify subsequent signal analysis. In the field of Mössbauer spectroscopy, the spectrum quality and Mössbauer effect are crucial parameters which are affected especially by the quality of the detection system. These parameters were evaluated for different types of a detection setup. Finally an improvement of the spectrum quality by 15% and Mössbauer effect by 7% has been achieved for the natural iron reference absorber measurement in comparison with previous version of the detection system.
Influence Of Nanoparticles Diameter On Structural Properties Of Magnetic Fluid In Magnetic Field
Authors: Kúdelčík Jozef , Bury Peter , Hardoň Štefan , Kopčanský Peter , Timko Milan
Published: September 2015

The properties of magnetic fluids depend on the nanoparticle diameter, their concentration and the carrier liquid. The structural changes in magnetic fluids with different nanoparticle diameter based on transformer oils TECHNOL and MOGUL under the effect of a magnetic field and temperature were studied by acoustic spectroscopy. At a linear and jump changes of the magnetic field at various temperatures a continuous change was observed of acoustic attenuation caused by aggregation of the magnetic nanoparticles to structures. From the anisotropy of acoustic attenuation and using the Taketomi theory the basic parameters of the structures are calculated and the impact of nanoparticle diameters on the size of structures is confirmed.
Slovak students’ comprehension of English figurative idioms containing body parts
Authors: Ciprianová Elena , Vrábelová Marta
Published: September 2015

Figurative idioms constitute a large proportion of multi-word expressions in everyday language. Contrary to the traditional view of idioms as non-compositional units, numerous studies in cognitive linguistics show that most idioms are not arbitrary but motivated by conceptual metaphors and metonymies that provide a link between literal and figurative meanings. Familiarity with particular source domains and conceptual mappings is regarded as a source of idiom transparency. In this article, we report on a study in which 85 Slovak students participated. Their task was to guess the meanings of English idioms containing three body parts: the eye, the hand and the heart. These body parts are not equally productive metaphorical source domains in English and Slovak. The research results which we present indicate that different prominence of the source domains in students’ mother tongue and the target language is one of the factors that influence idiom comprehension in a foreign language.
The degree of grammaticalization of gotta, gonna, wanna and better: A corpus study
Authors: Machová Dagmar
Published: September 2015

The paper studies the degree of grammaticalization of the structures gotta, gonna, wanna and better. The study presumes that the semantics of these structures – more precisely their modal polyfunctionality (i.e. the ability to express deontic and epistemic meaning at the same time) – has an impact on their morphosyntactic properties. Using corpora (predominantly the British National Corpus and the Corpus of Contemporary American English) and web forums, the paper studies in detail the level of independence of gotta, gonna, wanna and better from their respective auxiliaries (have and be) and the development of the operator properties of these structures typical for central modals (i.e. inversion in questions, compatibility with clausal negation and occurrence in elliptical contexts). It demonstrates that gonna and gotta are partially grammaticalized, especially with respect to the independence of their auxiliaries, but they do not syntactically behave as modals. The verb wanna behaves as a modal morphologically but not syntactically. On the other hand, better is grammaticalized to a high degree, and it does demonstrate both the morphology and syntax of central modal verbs.
Assessment of Skid Resistance of Asphalt Mixtures in Laboratory Conditions
Authors: Gardziejczyk W. , Wasilewska M.
Published: September 2015

The aggregate applied for the wearing course has a significant influence on skid resistance of road surfaces. However, it is difficult to evaluate the behaviour of road surface in use on the basis of the Polished Stone Value (PSV) determined for the aggregate according to the so called ‘British method’. The British method, which is currently used in many countries, does not allow to determine the influence of neither the grain size of the aggregate nor the type of the wearing course on skid resistance of road surface. The present paper suggests a method for evaluation of the British Pendulum Number (BPN) for road surfaces in laboratory conditions. The authors assumed the BPN for polished slabs, made from asphalt mixtures, as the criterion. The index was measured with the British Pendulum Tester. The simulation of the process was conducted on research stand (called slab polisher) built at Bialystok University of Technology (BUT). The results of laboratory tests indicate that surfaces from asphalt concrete (AC) have slightly higher values of BPN in comparison with the values determined for surfaces made from stone mastic asphalt (SMA).
Results of a Conservative Management of Minimally Displaced Lateral Condyle of Humerus Fracture in Children
Authors: Shrestha DK , Bastola P , Dhungel B , Lakhanpal VP
Published: September 2015

Background: Fracture of lateral condyle humerus in pediatric population is second most common elbow injury. There is controversy regarding treatment of minimally displaced (less than 2mm) fracture. If this group can be taken care with non operative treatment it will be an easier and lot cheaper option especially for rural parts of west Nepal.Aim: To see the viability of treatment of minimally displaced lateral condyle humerus fracture with non operative treatment and look for short and immediate results.Methodology: This was a prospective observational, hospital based study carried out in Nepalgunj Medical College teaching Hospital from Jan. 2013 - Jan. 2014. In children between 2.5 - 13 years, with minimally displaced fracture of lateral condyle humerus were radiologically followed up for 12 weeks. All patients underwent long arm cast and serial radiographs in follow ups. At 12 weeks; range of motion, tenderness and carrying angle were looked for.Results: There were 12 patients in the study with average age of 6.95 years, range (SD 2.92). There were no displacements in follow ups. At 6 weeks all had full range of motion and at 12 weeks all had full range of motion without tenderness. Three kids had approximately 5 degrees of carrying angle change on other side to varus.Conclusion: Non operative treatment with 4 weeks of long arm cast in supination is a good alternative option for minimally displaced lateral condyle fracture humerus. A good follow up of the treated patients is an integral part of management along with radiological evidence. Parents need to be warned about bump in the lateral side during healing.Journal of Nepalgunj Medical College Vol.12(1) 2014: 10-13
Rudimentary Myelomeningocele: A Rare Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Gautam P , Goel RG , Kapoor AK , Gupta SN , Ghimire PG , Bharti SV
Published: September 2015

Rudimentary meningocele, in which meningothelial elements occupy most of a solid skin-covered mass, is extremely rare. Most reported rudimentary meningocele were on the midline scalp, preferentially involving the occiput and vertex. A 10 yearold child who presented with rudimentary myelomeningocele in the midline at the level of T7-T8 is reported. We believe this is the first reported case of a rudimentary myelomeningocele at this site.Journal of Nepalgunj Medical College Vol.12(1) 2014: 39-40
Advancement in ophthalmic services in Nepal through sharing of knowledge, skills and experience
Authors: Tegelberg U F
Published: September 2015

I first came to beautiful Nepal in 1989 with a group of friends from The Netherlands to try to help out our Nepali colleagues in Nepal’s need for ophthalmic assistance. We were appalled to find that the rural people of Nepal had practically no access to ophthalmic services. People were going around half-blind or towards being totally blind.
Directive 2013/34/EU, Article 6 An Analysis and some Implications. A Research Note
Authors: Alexander David
Published: September 2015

This research note analyses a number of implications of Article 6 of the new EU accounting Directive. Two avenues are explored in some detail. The first is the meaning, or non-meaning, of the measurement basis provisions of the Directive, covered in Article 6 with derogations in Articles 7 and 8, in the context of the previously declared intention to no longer allow the use of current replacement cost. The second relates to the extraordinary flexibility, indeed confusion, relating to the substance/form distinction, both in principle from Article 6, and by example relating to consolidation in Article 22. The Directive is argued to be sufficiently incompetent, ambivalent, and at times internally inconsistent, to allow a considerable degree of de facto carte blanche to Member States. Perhaps it should be called the anti-harmonisation directive.
Clinical Image: Fahrs Syndrome
Authors: Ali Mohammad , Amin Md Robed
Published: September 2015

Abstract not availableBangladesh J Medicine Jul 2014; 25 (2) : 81
The Hedgehog Inhibitor Cyclopamine Reduces β-Catenin-Tcf Transcriptional Activity, Induces E-Cadherin Expression, and Reduces Invasion in Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Qualtrough David , Rees Phil , Speight Beverley , Williams Ann , Paraskeva Christos
Published: September 2015

Colorectal cancer is a major global health problem resulting in over 600,000 deaths world-wide every year with the majority of these due to metastatic disease. Wnt signalling, and more specifically β-catenin-related transcription, has been shown to drive both tumorigenesis and the metastatic process in colorectal neoplasia, yet its complex interactions with other key signalling pathways, such as hedgehog, remain to be elucidated. We have previously shown that the Hedgehog (HH) signalling pathway is active in cells from colorectal tumours, and that inhibition of the pathway with cyclopamine induces apoptosis. We now show that cyclopamine treatment reduces β-catenin related transcription in colorectal cancer cell lines, and that this effect can be reversed by addition of Sonic Hedgehog protein. We also show that cyclopamine concomitantly induces expression of the tumour suppressor and prognostic indicator E-cadherin. Consistent with a role for HH in regulating the invasive potential we show that cyclopamine reduces the expression of transcription factors (Slug, Snail and Twist) associated with the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and reduces the invasiveness of colorectal cancer cells in vitro. Taken together, Cancers 2015, 7 1886 these data show that pharmacological inhibition of the hedgehog pathway has therapeutic potential in the treatment of colorectal cancer.
Contrast Enhanced MRI in the Diagnosis of HCC
Authors: Niendorf Eric , Spilseth Benjamin , Wang Xiao , Taylor Andrew
Published: September 2015

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the 6th most common cancer worldwide. Imaging plays a critical role in HCC screening and diagnosis. Initial screening of patients at risk for HCC is performed with ultrasound. Confirmation of HCC can then be obtained by Computed Tomography (CT) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), due to the relatively high specificity of both techniques. This article will focus on reviewing MRI techniques for imaging HCC, felt by many to be the exam of choice for HCC diagnosis. MRI relies heavily upon the use of gadolinium-based contrast agents and while primarily extracellular gadolinium-based contrast agents are used, there is an emerging role of hepatobiliary contrast agents in HCC imaging. The use of other non-contrast enhanced MRI techniques for assessing HCC will also be discussed and these MRI strategies will be reviewed in the context of the pathophysiology of HCC to help understand the MR imaging appearance of HCC.
Reference Architecture for Multi-Layer Software Defined Optical Data Center Networks
Authors: DeCusatis Casimer
Published: September 2015

As cloud computing data centers grow larger and networking devices proliferate; many complex issues arise in the network management architecture. We propose a framework for multi-layer; multi-vendor optical network management using open standards-based software defined networking (SDN). Experimental results are demonstrated in a test bed consisting of three data centers interconnected by a 125 km metropolitan area network; running OpenStack with KVM and VMW are components. Use cases include inter-data center connectivity via a packet-optical metropolitan area network; intra-data center connectivity using an optical mesh network; and SDN coordination of networking equipment within and between multiple data centers. We create and demonstrate original software to implement virtual network slicing and affinity policy-as-a-service offerings. Enhancements to synchronous storage backup; cloud exchanges; and Fibre Channel over Ethernet topologies are also discussed.
An Advanced Bayesian Method for Short-Term Probabilistic Forecasting of the Generation of Wind Power
Authors: Bracale Antonio , De Falco Pasquale
Published: September 2015

Currently, among renewable distributed generation systems, wind generators are receiving a great deal of interest due to the great economic, technological, and environmental incentives they involve. However, the uncertainties due to the intermittent nature of wind energy make it difficult to operate electrical power systems optimally and make decisions that satisfy the needs of all the stakeholders of the electricity energy market. Thus, there is increasing interest determining how to forecast wind power production accurately. Most the methods that have been published in the relevant literature provided deterministic forecasts even though great interest has been focused recently on probabilistic forecast methods. In this paper, an advanced probabilistic method is proposed for short-term forecasting of wind power production. A mixture of two Weibull distributions was used as a probability function to model the uncertainties associated with wind speed. Then, a Bayesian inference approach with a particularly-effective, autoregressive, integrated, moving-average model was used to determine the parameters of the mixture Weibull distribution. Numerical applications also are presented to provide evidence of the forecasting performance of the Bayesian-based approach.
Design of an Extractive Distillation Column for the Environmentally Benign Separation of Zirconium and Hafnium Tetrachloride for Nuclear Power Reactor Applications
Authors: Minh Le , Long Nguyen , Duong Pham , Jung Youngmi , Bahadori Alireza , Lee Moonyong
Published: September 2015

Nuclear power with strengthened safety regulations continues to be used as an important resource in the world for managing atmospheric greenhouse gases and associated climate change. This study examined the environmentally benign separation of zirconium tetrachloride (ZrCl4) and hafnium tetrachloride (HfCl4) for nuclear power reactor applications through extractive distillation using a NaCl-KCl molten salt mixture. The vapor–liquid equilibrium behavior of ZrCl4 and HfCl4 over the molten salt system was correlated with Raoult’s law. The molten salt-based extractive distillation column was designed optimally using a rigorous commercial simulator for the feasible separation of ZrCl4 and HfCl4. The molten salt-based extractive distillation approach has many potential advantages for the commercial separation of ZrCl4 and HfCl4 compared to the conventional distillation because of its milder temperatures and pressure conditions, smaller number of required separation trays in the column, and lower energy requirement for separation, while still taking the advantage of environmentally benign feature by distillation. A heat-pump-assisted configuration was also explored to improve the energy efficiency of the extractive distillation process. The proposed enhanced configuration reduced the energy requirement drastically. Extractive distillation can be a promising option competing with the existing extraction-based separation process for zirconium purification for nuclear power reactor applications.
Iron Bioavailability and Provitamin A from Sweet Potato- and Cereal-Based Complementary Foods
Authors: Christides Tatiana , Amagloh Francis , Coad Jane
Published: September 2015

Iron and vitamin A deficiencies in childhood are public health problems in the developing world. Introduction of cereal-based complementary foods, that are often poor sources of both vitamin A and bioavailable iron, increases the risk of deficiency in young children. Alternative foods with higher levels of vitamin A and bioavailable iron could help alleviate these micronutrient deficiencies. The objective of this study was to compare iron bioavailability of β-carotene-rich sweet potato-based complementary foods (orange-flesh based sweet potato (OFSP) ComFa and cream-flesh sweet potato based (CFSP) ComFa with a household cereal-based complementary food (Weanimix) and a commercial cereal (Cerelac®), using the in vitro digestion/Caco-2 cell model. Iron bioavailability relative to total iron, concentrations of iron-uptake inhibitors (fibre, phytates, and polyphenols), and enhancers (ascorbic acid, ß-carotene and fructose) was also evaluated. All foods contained similar amounts of iron, but bioavailability varied: Cerelac® had the highest, followed by OFSP ComFa and Weanimix, which had equivalent bioavailable iron; CFSP ComFa had the lowest bioavailability. The high iron bioavailability from Cerelac® was associated with the highest levels of ascorbic acid, and the lowest levels of inhibitors; polyphenols appeared to limit sweet potato-based food iron bioavailability. Taken together, the results do not support that CFSP- and OFSP ComFa are better sources of bioavailable iron compared with non-commercial/household cereal-based weaning foods; however, they may be a good source of provitamin A in the form of β-carotene.
Assessing the Functional Status of Older Cancer Patients in an Ambulatory Care Visit
Authors: Overcash Janine
Published: September 2015

Functional status assessment is a useful and essential component of the complete history and physical exam of the older patient diagnosed with cancer. Functional status is the ability to conduct activities that are necessary for independence and more executive activities, such as money management, cooking, and transportation. Assessment of functional status creates a portal into interpreting the health of in older persons. Understanding limitations and physical abilities can help in developing cancer treatment strategies, patient/family teaching needs, and in-home services that enhance patient/family care. This article will review the benefits of functional assessment, instruments that can be used during an ambulatory care visit, and interventions that can address potential limitations.
Response to Ahlbom et al. Comments on Hardell and Carlberg Increasing Rates of Brian Tumors in the Swedish National Inpatient Register and the Causes of Death Register. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12, 3793–3813
Authors: Hardell Lennart , Carlberg Michael
Published: September 2015

We thank Ahlbom et al., the authors of [1] for their interest in our paper [2]. Since this is an important issue, the letter deserves a comprehensive and thorough response. [...]
Predictive Factors for Hospitalization of Patients with Heat Illness in Yamaguchi, Japan
Authors: Yamamoto Takahiro , Todani Masaki , Oda Yasutaka , Kaneko Tadashi , Kaneda Kotaro , Fujita Motoki , Miyauchi Takashi , Tsuruta Ryosuke
Published: September 2015

The objective of the study was to investigate the predictive factors for the hospitalization of patients who presented with mild to moderate heat illness at an emergency department. We conducted a retrospective survey of hospitals with an emergency department in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan. The survey questionnaire entries included patient age, sex, use of an ambulance, vital signs, blood examination conducted at the emergency department, the length of hospitalization, and outcome. We analyzed the predictive factors for hospitalization in patients with heat illness. A total of 127 patients were analyzed. Of these, 49 (37%) were admitted, with 59% discharged on the day following admission. In univariate analysis, the following inpatient characteristics were predictive for hospitalization: old age, low Glasgow Coma Scale score, elevated body temperature, increased serum C-reactive protein, and increased blood urea nitrogen. In logistic regression multivariate analysis, the following were predictive factors for hospitalization: age of ≥ 65 years (odds ratio (OR) 4.91; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.42–17.00), body temperature (OR 1.97; 95% CI 1.14–3.41), Glasgow Coma Scale (OR 0.40; 95% CI 0.16–0.98), and creatinine (OR 2.92; 95% CI 1.23–6.94). The results suggest that the elderly with hyperthermia, disturbance of consciousness, and elevated serum creatinine have an increased risk for hospitalization with heat illness.
Protective Effects of MDG-1, a Polysaccharide from Ophiopogon japonicus on Diabetic Nephropathy in Diabetic KKAy Mice
Authors: Wang Yuan , Shi Lin-Lin , Wang Ling-Yi , Xu Jin-Wen , Feng Yi
Published: September 2015

Ophiopogon japonicus is a traditional Chinese medicine that might be effective for treating type 2 diabetes. Recent research confirmed that MDG-1, a polysaccharide from O. japonicas, activates the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and improves insulin sensitivity in a diabetic KKAy mouse model, but little is known about its effects on diabetic nephropathy. In this study, KKAy mice were orally administered distilled water (control group), MDG-1, or rosiglitazone for 12 weeks. Blood glucose levels were tested every two weeks for the fed mice. At 6 and 12 weeks, blood samples were collected for biochemical examination. At the end of the experiment, all kidney tissues were collected for histological examination and western blot analysis. Results show that MDG-1 (300 mg/kg) significantly decreased the levels of blood glucose, triglycerides, blood urine nitrogen and albumin, and significantly inhibited the expression of transforming growth factor-beta 1 and connective tissue growth factor. Moreover, MDG-1 could alleviate glomerular mesangial expansion and tubulointerstitial fibrosis in the diabetic mice, as confirmed by histopathological examination. These data indicated that MDG-1 ameliorates renal disease in diabetic mice by reducing hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and hyperlipidemia, and by inhibiting intracellular signaling pathways.