bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importance of data acquisition in problem based learning
Authors: Priedols Valdis , Grickus Armands
Published: June 2015

This research paper demonstrates untraditional learning and teaching method that is developed from combination of experimentation, usage of computer simulations and problem based learning. Taking all previously mentioned methods together there can be created very successful learning environment which provides students to master electromagnetism more effectively. Research focuses on proper use of data acquisition modules and computer simulations in PBL teaching method. Based on the results of the research experimental PBL in various cases provides better learning outcomes, but there are also a few occasions where the results aren’t so pleasing. Overall PBL provides results that are at least as promising as results of other teaching and learning methods. Therefore this method will be utilized in Liepaja University to teach physics, especially electromagnetism.
Structuration of courses at studying disciplines of programming
Authors: Prokofyeva Natalya , Uhanova Marina , Zavyalova Oksana , Katalnikova Sabina
Published: June 2015

The article describes the methodology of learning programming for students of various engineering disciplines (chemists, electricians, programmers, and mechatronics). Such courses as "Computer Training" and "Programming Languages", which are read at the Faculty of Computer-Science and Information Technology of Riga Technical University, are used as example. The purpose of these courses is to prepare specialists, who will be able effectively and without error to use computers in their future careers. The course structure depends on the specialty area in which students are studied. The course structure consists of three parts: the main (theoretical), laboratory and practical test. In this paper we show that for better development of the material is necessary to consider the solution of specific practical problems that may be encountered engineers particular profile, as well as providing current and final control of students.
Latvian language as a code in different communication channels
Authors: Bajarune Linda , Ozols Andris
Published: June 2015

This paper is dedicated to analyze of Latvian language as a code in such literary communication channels like press, poet, prose, legal literature. Calculations for zero-order, first-order, second-order and third-order Shannon entropy have been made and also corresponding values of redundancy and compression coefficients have been determined. All the calculations are done with a self-made computer program. Different communication channels of Latvian language are compared mutually and also Latvian language is compared with English and Russian as codes.
Actualities of balance diagnostics system model development for persons with disabilities
Authors: Gorbunovs Aleksandrs , Zuga Bruno , Kapenieks Janis , Kapenieks Atis , Gulbis Rudolfs , Timsans Zanis
Published: June 2015

In Latvia so far there have not been made comprehensive studies to provide balance function diagnostics for people with disabilities, which would have to continue with further creation of appropriate system. However, Latvian researchers developed methods and technology for the rehabilitation and health improvement. At the same time it is also recognized that there is a lack of dedicated efficient and widely accessible for patients systems, equipment and tools to make balance function and dysfunction diagnostics, as well an improvement of the patients’ movement capabilities. This position paper gives a brief overview about the latest technical engineering solution trends and developments in the world, which could be suited and developed to create the conformable new, rather simple, accessible and cheap system. Such system will have to ensure the diagnostics of balance functions of the persons with disabilities and encourage them to use mentioned equipment for testing and training of their balance and movement functionality.
Path Planning Methods in Chemical Engineering
Authors: Valbahs Edvards , Grabusts Peter , Dreyer Ilo
Published: June 2015

Usually, when the practical motion planning and the shortest path are discoursed, mainly the limited number of tasks is observed. Almost all the tasks associated with the path from one point in 2D or 3D space to another point can be attributed to the usual issue in the practical application. Motion planning and the shortest path have vivid and indisputable importance as human activity in such areas as logistics and robotics. In our work we would like to draw particular attention to the field of application seems to be unnoticeable for the task such as motion planning and the shortest path problem. Due to quite simple examples used, we would like to show that the task of motion planning can be used for simulation and optimization of multi-staged and restricted processes which are presented in chemical engineering accordingly. In the article the simulation and optimization of three important chemical-technological processes for the chemical industry are discussed. The work done gave us the possibility to work out software for simulation and optimization of processes that in some cases facilitates and simplifies the work of professionals engaged in the field of chemical engineering.
Niskanen Classical Model Implementation of the Office’s Operations Evaluation
Authors: Žubule Ērika , Grabusts Peter
Published: June 2015

The economic downturn has caused fiscal tension in the country in recent years. Budget revenues decreased and it indicated the need for the revision and control of expenditure. Therefore, the issues related to the evaluation opportunities of governmental expenditure are becoming particularly urgent. It is emphasized that a key factor in public sector’s performance is the public good, which ensures services of government institutions, and encompasses both quantitative and qualitative aspects. However, economic researches on the public sector’s performance efficiency focus on problems related to the determination of the public good as well as activate the possibility for its practical application. The US economist W.A. Niskanen mathematically grounded the bureau performance balance-shaping principles in the context of possibilities for evaluation of public administration, id est. the situation in which the institution’s performance can be evaluated as effective. In order to evaluate efficiency aspects of the public sector’s performance as well as their potential impact on the formation process of the state budget spending part, the authors of the research put forward the following objective – to perform mathematical calculations of bureau performance balance-shaping principles, grounded by the US economist W. A. Niskanen, and to assess the model’s potential opportunities for practical application. As a research novelty, the developed practical application software of Niskanen’s classical model of bureau performance is presented in MATLAB environment.
The analytical solution of the 3D model with Robin's boundary conditions for 2 peat layers
Authors: Teirumnieka Ērika , Kangro Ilmārs , Teirumnieks Edmunds , Kalis Harijs
Published: June 2015

In this paper we consider averaging methods for solving the 3-D boundary value problem in domain containing 2 layers of the peat block. We consider the metal concentration in the peat blocks. Using experimental data the mathematical model for calculation of concentration of metal in different points in every peat layer is developed. A specific feature of these problems is that it is necessary to solve the 3-D boundary-value problems for elliptic type partial differential equations of second order with piece-wise diffusion coefficients in every direction and peat layers.

The special parabolic and exponential spline, which interpolation middle integral values of piece-wise smooth function, are considered. With the help of this splines is reduce the problems of mathematical physics in 3-D with piece-wise coefficients to respect one coordinate to problems for system of equations in 2-D. This procedure allows reduce the 3-D problem to a problem of 2-D and 1-D problems and the solution of the approximated problem is obtained analytically.

The solution of corresponding averaged 2-D initial-boundary value problem is obtained also numerically, using for approach differential equations the discretization in space applying the central differences. The approximation of the 2-D non-stationary problem is based on the implicit finite-difference and alternating direction (ADI) methods. The numerical solution is compared with the analytical solution.
Analysis of Sustainable Computing for Mainstream Agricultural and Rural Applications in Developing Countries
Authors: Dodo Fardeen , Reith Charles
Published: June 2015

Effective utilization of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) has been identified as a sure route for agriculturists and rural inhabitants of developing countries to take advantage of modern technology and survive at the least if not actively participate in global trend of events. However, pervasive complexities in developing countries such as unreliable grid electricity, limited availability of resources, and climate change pose serious challenges to the use of ICTs; these create an urgent need to find sustainable alternatives, especially in rural areas that sharply depend on agriculture for livelihoods. This research involved a comprehensive assessment of the potential of sustainable computing as a solution to the aforementioned challenges for agricultural and rural applications in developing countries. Primary data was obtained from 77 respondents in nine developing countries using questionnaires. Respondents came from varying,largely rural occupations such as animal rearing, agricultural marketing, crop farming and agricultural research and extension. Solar-powered computers were identified as one of the most strategic and relevant solutions to the current limits to access of rural people – especially from agricultural backgrounds – who have much to gain from improved access to information and computing technology (ICT). To strike a balance between affordability of mainstream respondents and their need for greater ICT access, we identified integrated netbook-scalesolar powered laptop as the most relevant, which can satisfy the identified ICT needs, plus – besides powering the computer – will power mobile phones and other portable ICT devices. We determined that solar powered computers cangreatly increase access to ICTs benefits to rural, off grid societies and yield carbon savings of up to 22kg of CO2, per year. The results of our research are intended to be helpful in promoting off-grid access to ICT in rural societies so as to improve agriculture and extend the additional benefit of “bridging the digital divide in a way that advances sustainable development.
Rebellious and Strong Black Women in Paradise
Authors: Torabi Zadmehr , Ghasemi Parvin
Published: June 2015

The main aim of this paper is to apply black feminist tenets especially those of Bell Hooks and Alice Walker to demonstrate that unlike the passive black female characters of The Bluest Eye, and the resisting but finally victimized black women of Beloved, the wise and strong black women of Paradise who live in the Convent, are strong enough to recreate themselves as subjects, and to cultivate their own unique identity in a hegemonic environment which is replete with racial and gender discrimination. Black feminist actions and womanistic rituals help them accomplish this improvement. Consolata, and Mavis are two of such strong women of the Convent who not only succeed in healing themselves, but also in healing other black women as well. Black feminists claim in order to place black women at the center of stories about the American past, they must be depicted as subjects, that is, as creative change-agents, rather than as objects, or victims of hegemonic agency. In Paradise black women are depicted thus, have their own voices, and completely reject the patriarchal ideology.
Motivation and Job Performance of University Workers: A Case Study of Plateau State University Bokkos
Authors: Bott Hajaratu Deme , Asaju Kaneng Tina
Published: June 2015

In the field of management, performance and motivation are closely related and familiar terms. However, many managers either do not fully understand or appreciate the intricacies of the theories and practice of motivation. This paper establishes the role of motivation in organizational job performance, it also suggests ways of maintaining and sustaining workers motivation. It establishes that there is a strong relationship between motivation and job performance. The paper looks at the Sociological perspective of organizational job motivation under: Man as an employee, theories of motivation and the role of motivation on performance. Secondary sources of data were mainly used in gathering the information for this paper.
Dynamics of Teaching Science Education in a Changing Environment
Authors: Opara Jacinta A.
Published: June 2015

During the past few decades, resources have been allocated in many parts of the world for developing curricula in school science, which were directed to the need for more scientists that can promote national development. In the light of this, many developing country has emphasized the education of its citizens in Science, Technology and Mathematics (STM). This mode was reflected in the Nigerian National Policy on Education when it recommended an enrolment ratio of 60:40 in favour of STM and related courses in higher institution of learning (Federal Republic of Nigeria 2004). This guideline became necessary in order to boost our manpower development and researches in these professions. The role of STM in the development of a nation cannot be over emphasized as it is very important in solving a country’s problem. STM is the base for the overall development of a nation, the instrument for the orderly and ethical behaviour of it citizens.
Religious Values in an Age of Globalization and Development in Nigeria
Authors: Yahaya Cecilia Haruna , Ayuba Caxton
Published: June 2015

This write-up attempts to review the role of Christian Religion Studies and values in an age of globalization and development. This is because the world is undergoing a turbulent experience of war, civil unrest, national and international conflict and crises situation. Using the expository and deductive reasoning, the paper has found out that only religion and particularly Christian Religious Studies and education can use the values in its kit to overcome these challenges. These can be done through the framework of dialogue, respect for the plurality of religious faiths and good leadership. It provides a theoretical framework of the concepts of religion and globalization. It examines how Christian religious values become global and identifies the common Christian values and using such as indexes of globalization and development. It finally draws conclusion.
The Examination of Pre-University School Boys' Awareness of HIV Prevention, Transmission and Treatment in Khuzestan Province
Authors: Nasab Masoud Boroumand
Published: June 2015

This research aimed to examine pre-university school boys' awareness of the factors in preventing, transmitting and treating HIV in Khuzestan province, Iran. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. A sample size of 300 was determined using multistage random sampling method. The data were collected through a questionnaire, being analyzed with chi-square test. The research findings show that the students' awareness of HIV prevention and transmission is not desirable, the majority of the population's extent of information being below the expected mean while that of the disease treatment is more favorable. The students' awareness of the methods for HIV prevention and transmission is low.
Examining the Level of Women Participation with and without Higher Education in Form of Humanitarian Activities and Charitable Affairs
Authors: Cheraghi Masoumeh
Published: June 2015

The present article aims to examine the women's participation in charitable affairs of special diseases and to conduct a comparative comparison between women with higher education and women lacking such education. To this end, utilizing prominent sociological perspectives, first a coherent theoretical framework was provided and upon which research questions and hypotheses were proposed. Given the dependent variable of this research, a survey method was chosen for examining the women's participation in charitable affairs of special diseases and a comparative comparison between women with and without higher education. The research methodology in here is causative and a correlational investigation. Here, in this research the analysis unit is individual and the analysis level is a micro level. The independent variable in this research is education and the dependent variable is the social participation. The statistical population of this research included 750 women who were participating in special disease related charitable affairs. Quota sampling method and then simple random method were applied and as many as 254 people were selected. Tools for data collection were questionnaires. The findings obtained indicated the existence of a significant statistical relation between the independent variable of this research, i.e. education and dependent variable, i.e. social participation.
Intriguing Chemistry of Non-HemeHigh-ValentIron Intermediates
Authors: Barman Prasenjit , Vardhaman Anil Kumar , Sastri Chivukula V
Published: June 2015

Intriguing Chemistry of Non-HemeHigh-ValentIron
Intermediates
Plant growth promoting fluorescent Pseudomonas enhancing growth of sunflower crop
Authors: Tewari Sakshi , Arora Naveen Kumar
Published: June 2015

Ten bacterial isolates were obtained from the rhizosphere of sunflower crop grown in the semi-arid region of west Kanpur.
Isolates were further characterized on the basis of morphological, biochemical and physiological characteristics
suggesting them to be the member of group fluorescent pseudomonas. Isolates were further monitored for plant growth
promoting traits including IAA, phosphate solubilization, siderophore, nitrogen fixation, HCN, chitinase and β-1-3
glucanase activity. Amongst all the isolates, PF17 displayed maximum PGP attributes hence it was selected for doing
further in vivo pot study taking sunflower as a test crop. Seed treatment with fluorescent pseudomonas PF17 brought
enhancement in root length, shoot length, dry weight and seed yield of sunflower crop in comparison to control (untreated
seeds). Hence it might be concluded from the study that fluorescent pseudomonas PF17 contains large number of PGP
attributes, and its application contributed in enhancement of sunflower growth leading to better yield. In addition, ability
to enhance growth of sunflower with the help of biological means appears to be of great ecological and economic
importance.
Growth, biomass and yield of Cicer arietinum L. amended with different doses of distillery effluent
Authors: Narain Kamini , Yunus M
Published: June 2015

Distillery is one the major source of water pollution as its effluent contains a large quantity of nutrients and has also high
BOD and COD. So its disposal in water bodies and land makes it harmful for aquatic as well as terrestrial organisms and
vegetation. A pot experiment in which Cicer arietinum was given different doses of distillery effluent (0, 10, 25, 50, 75 and
100 percent) was conducted at different days (20, 40 and 60 days) and the growth parameters (root length, shoot length,
leaf area), total biomass of the plant and yield (seed yield and seed output) was noted. It was found that the effluent doses
upto 25 percent concentration increased all these parameters and afterwards decrease was noted in these parameters. The
economic benefit from applying the distillery effluent as liquid fertilizer to C. arietinum was found significant.
Keeping Victims Informed: Service Providers’ and Victims’ Experiences Using Automated Notification Systems
Authors: Irazola Seri P. , Williamson Erin J. , Niedzwiecki Emily , Debus-Sherrill Sara , Sun Jing
Published: June 2015

Automated victim notification is often touted as an effective and efficient means for providing victims timely and accurate information of their offenders’ court events and status changes at reduced burden to the criminal justice system. Today, 47 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico have some form of automated notification system. Researchers surveyed 1,246 service providers and 723 victims to examine their awareness and use of, satisfaction with, and experiences using automated notification systems. Findings indicate that service providers are aware of and use automated notification; however, less than one-quarter of victim respondents were registered for automated notification services. Service providers and victims who use automated notification services report high overall satisfaction; however, they also report challenges in using these systems. Service providers offer several recommendations for improving automated notification systems.
Cultural Construction of Dementia Progression, Behavioral Aberrations, and Situational Ethnicity: An Orthogonal Approach
Authors: Henderson J. Neil
Published: June 2015

Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, induce caregivers already struggling to cope with the behavioral aberrations of dementia to constantly update their cultural construction of the disease because the outward symptoms used to interpret it are in constant flux. For ethnic minority caregivers, particularly, coping is a process of tracking a moving set of symptoms, making cultural sense of them across time, and negotiating a medical environment that can be hostile to them because of their “nonstandard” cultural health beliefs. In the midst of a constantly changing disease, achieving optimal communications with the medical establishment causes the ethnic minority caregivers to change their behaviors to better fit the expectations of the clinic, then retreat to their own cultural comfort zone only to continue oscillating between cultures for the duration of their caregiving responsibilities. Ethnic minority dementia caregiving is conceptualized here from an orthogonal perspective in which the moving elements of the ethnic minority dementia experience intersect in numerous ways and produce many coping strategy permutations corresponding to the evolving disease and its cultural constructs.
Application and Analysis of Biological Electrospray in Tissue Engineering
Authors: Yunmin Ma , Yuanyuan Liu , Haiping Chen , Qingxi Hu
Published: June 2015

Nanofiber scaffolds are suitable tools in tissue engineering. Electro spinning materials together with cells are not adequate to obtain a high cellular zing tissue construct as the shear force, tensile force, and other physical effects excited in the electro spinning process, which are harmful to cellular differentiation, development and function. However, this limitation has been overcome by a micro integration system containing bio-electro spraying human adipose stem cells (ASCs) and electro spinning Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Then, it was compared to the single electro spinning nanofiber scaffolds in relation to cell viability, which showed that the scaffolds through micro integration approach showed a larger number of surviving cells and is more suitable for cell growth and proliferation. In addition, the relationship between different parameters of biological electrospray (voltage, flow rate and distance of the needle from the collecting board) and droplet size of cell suspension was elucidated and the droplets with a near-mono distribution (<50um) could be generated to deposit a single living cell within a droplet. The association of bio-electro spraying with electro spinning (a scaffold preparation technique) has been demonstrated to be a promising and suitable tissue engineering approach in producing nanofiber based three-dimensional (3-D) cell seeded scaffolds.
Augmentation in Restless Legs Syndrome: Treatment with Gradual Medication Modification
Authors: Rosenstein Adam , Rabin Marcie , Kurlan Roger
Published: June 2015

Dopaminergic drugs can cause augmentation during the treatment of restless legs syndrome (RLS). We previously reported that sudden withdrawal of dopaminergic treatment was poorly tolerated. We now report our experience with gradual withdrawal of the dopaminergic drug during the drug substitution process using a retrospective chart review with comparison to previous data. Seven patients with RLS and dopaminergic drug-induced augmentation were treated with a gradual withdrawal of the offending drug and replacement with an alternative medication. Compared to sudden withdrawal, measured outcomes were similar but gradual tapering was better tolerated. We conclude that for augmentation in RLS, gradual tapering of the augmentation-inducing dopaminergic drug is better tolerated than sudden withdrawal. The optimal approach to treating augmentation has not been established and may differ between patients. Further study with direct comparison of strategies and a larger patient population is needed to confirm our preliminary observations.
Withdrawal-Emergent Dyskinesias following Varenicline Therapy
Authors: Toffey Brittany A , Rabin Marcie , Kurlan Roger
Published: June 2015

Varenicline (Chantix[R]) is a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor partial agonist used to aid smoking cessation. Adverse psychiatric and behavioral effects of the drug are recognized and national drug monitoring has included reports of tardive dyskinesia, but no cases have been described in the literature. We now report the first two cases of varenicline-related withdrawal emergent dyskinesias.
Iranian Nurses’ Status in Policymaking for Nursing in Health System: A Qualitative Content Analysis
Authors: Cheraghi Mohammad Ali , Ghiyasvandian Shahrzad , Aarabi Akram
Published: June 2015

Presence of nurses in policy making will result improvement of nursing practice, and increase qualification of patients’ care, but still few nurses are involved in policy debates and health reforms and their status in policy making for nursing is not clear. The aim of this study was to elucidate Iranian nurses’ status in policy making for nursing in health system. This is a qualitative study. Using purposive sampling 22 participants were interviewed to gain deep understanding from the phenomenon of status of nurses in policy making. Of these 2 were not nurses but the members of Iran’s council for health policy making. Data were analyzed by employing conventional content analysis. Nurses’ status in policy making declared base on the implications of three main themes including “the policy making framework”, “perceived status of nurses in policy making”, and “the manner of nurses’ participation in policy making”. The conclusion of the present study is that Policy making for nursing is a subcategory of Iran’s macro health policies. What made the status of nurses more efficient in policy making for nursing was their practice and rate of participation in the appointed positions and the society. Results of this study represented major points of weakness in nursing policies and some recommendations for modifications.
Torsion Z-module and Torsion-free Z-module
Authors: Futa Yuichi , Okazaki Hiroyuki , Nakasho Kazuhisa , Shidama Yasunari
Published: June 2015

In this article, we formalize a torsion Z-module and a torsionfree Z-module. Especially, we prove formally that finitely generated torsion-free Z-modules are finite rank free. We also formalize properties related to rank of finite rank free Z-modules. The notion of Z-module is necessary for solving lattice problems, LLL (Lenstra, Lenstra, and Lov´asz) base reduction algorithm [20], cryptographic systems with lattice [21], and coding theory [11].
Isolation of Cyanobacteria Producing Saxitoxin from Kor River Located in Marvdasht, Fars Province, Iran
Authors: Zare Mehrzad , Bahador Nima , Salehi Majid Baseri
Published: June 2015

Cyanobacteria are present in diverse habitats. Some of them produce dangerous toxin substances such as saxitoxin which is classified in the neurotoxin groups and show the impact on the aquatics and humans in the form of the paralysis of the limbs and hypersecretion saliva and so on. The aim of this research was screening of cyanobacteria isolates through combining the traditional and molecular methods, from the Kor river and assessment of the isolated cyanobacteria in terms of saxitoxin producing. The samples were collected from six stations in the Kor river. After dilution each sample were cultured on BG11 medium and incubated at 28?C under fluorescent light with 1500 to 2000 lux. Purified colonies were analysied by PCR to determine cyanobacteria (PCβ F and PCαR) and their ability to produce Saxitoxin (sxtAF and sxtAR). Results were proved existence of cyanobacteria in Kor River but no evidence were found for Saxitoxin production by isolates. So based on this research, it is more efficient to combine the traditional methods (culture) and molecular methods (PCR). Also, in order to study the toxins, this method is more profitable economically than chemical methods like LC MS, GC MS and HPLC.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v9i5.12693
Changes in Yield and its Components of Maize (Zea mays L.) to Foliar Application of Zinc Nutrient and Mycorrhiza under Water Stress Condition
Authors: Farnia Amin , Khodabandehloo Saeed
Published: June 2015

A field experiment was carried out in order to evaluate the effect of mycorrhiza and foliar application of Zn chelate on yield and yield components of maize (zea mays L.)  SC600 cultivar under water stress condition in the faculty of agronomy and plant breeding, Islamic Azad University, Boroujerd Branch, Iran during the growing seasons 2013-2014. The experiment was laid out in a split-factorial design based on randomized block design with three replications. Treatments were different irrigation periods (7, 14 and 21 days) in main plots and Zn chelate and mycorrhiza (strain of Glomus intraradices) in two levels of use and non use of them as factorial in sub plots. Results showed that, the effect of water stress mycorrhiza and Zn chelate on all traits were significant. The interaction effect of water stress mycorrhiza and Zn chelate on all traits excluding number of grain per cob and biomass were significant. Also interaction effect of water stress ad mycorrhiza on number of grain per cob and 100 grain weight were significant only. However the interaction effect of water stress*Zn chelate and mycorrhiza*Zn chelate were significant on 100 grain weight and biomass yield respectively. The comparison of the mean values showed that 7 day irrigation period treatment with use of mycorrhiza  and Zn chelate had the highest chlorophyll SPAD,  number of row per cob, 100 grain weight, grain yield and harvest index but 21 day irrigation period without application of Zn chelate and mycorrhiza had the lowest of them. The maximum production of maize was recorded for normal irrigation as 7 day irrigation period and application of mycorrhiza and Zn chelate. It can be stated that with respect to the alleviating effects of mycorrhiza fungi under moderate drought stress on corn grain yield, these fungi can enhance corn water efficiency under drought conditions and hence increase corn yield. The combined effects of mycorrhiza fungi and Zn chelate can intensify the alleviating effects of mycorrhiza fungi on corn growth and production under water stress. Therefore, we can increase yield and yield components of maize by decrease of irrigation period and application Zn chelate as nutrient and colonization of corn roots by mycorrhiza fungi.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v9i5.12702
A Compilation on Valuations of T-Toxin, Fumonisin and Zearalenon Quantities in Wheat Grain Crops Harvested from North, West and South Suprime Provinces of Iran
Authors: Modiri Leila
Published: June 2015

Wheat is one of the most important grains consumed in the world. Food contamination with toxicogenic moulds increased attention over the last three decades, which impact on food safety. Fumonisins, the TCs and ZEA are hazardous for human and animal health as they are stable to heating and are not degraded during normal food processing, therefore, a rapid and sensitive technique for routine assay of mycotoxins in foods is necessary. It is important to continue to monitor the occurrence of these mycotoxins in cereals and cereal products. SinceFusariumspecies are commonly associated with cereals can produce several secondary toxic metabolitesthesamplescollectedfromprovincialpremierand preparationof cellextracts then toxin estimation were done by ELISA (Kits  and Rida Screen T-toxin, Fumonisin and zearalenon analysis R-Bio-Pharm  GmbH) on the samples so that T-toxin, Fumonisin and zearalenonto be analyzed. The determinative pollutions of wheat samples were in the Range; 19.100 (Min; 27.200, Max; 46.300) ppbfor T toxin, Range; 6.780 (Min; 16.560, Max; 23.340) ppb for Fumonisin and Range; 8.700 (Min; 11.140, Max; 19.840)ppb for Zearalenon. Statistic definitions for WT –Wzea (Z; -3.296a, Asymp-Sig.; 0.001), WT – Wfum(Z; -3.296a, Asymp-Sig.; 0.001) and were showed a considerable disalignmented correlation specially for WFum – Wzea(Z; -3.296a,Asymp-Sig.; 0.001) at a Pearson Correlation ;0.999**, Sig;0.000 values..Thus according to the standard values for feed and food could be serious attention to the cumulative effects of toxins, a serious risk and that should not be overlooked about the cities and provinces where conducted. The maximum values of found respectively were more than standards 50% up to 100%, so a serious risk are considered.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijls.v9i5.12706
Mannitol dosing error during interfacility transfer for intracranial emergencies
Authors: Elliott Cameron A. , MacKenzie Mark , O’Kelly Cian J.
Published: June 2015

OBJECT

Mannitol is commonly used to treat elevated intracranial pressure (ICP). The authors analyzed mannitol dosing errors at peripheral hospitals prior to or during transport to tertiary care facilities for intracranial emergencies. They also investigated the appropriateness of mannitol use based on the 2007 Brain Trauma Foundation guidelines for severe traumatic brain injury.

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective review of the Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society (STARS) electronic patient database of helicopter medical evacuations in Alberta, Canada, between 2004 and 2012, limited to patients receiving mannitol before transfer. They extracted data on mannitol administration and patient characteristics, including diagnosis, mechanism, Glasgow Coma Scale score, weight, age, and pupil status.

RESULTS

A total of 120 patients with an intracranial emergency received a mannitol infusion initiated at a peripheral hospital (median Glasgow Coma Scale score 6; range 3–13). Overall, there was a 22% dosing error rate, which comprised an underdosing rate (< 0.25 g/kg) of 8.3% (10 of 120 patients), an overdosing rate (> 1.5 g/kg) of 7.5% (9 of 120), and a nonbolus administration rate (> 1 hour) of 6.7% (8 of 120). Overall, 72% of patients had a clear indication to receive mannitol as defined by meeting at least one of the following criteria based on Brain Trauma Foundation guidelines: neurological deterioration (11%), severe traumatic brain injury (69%), or pupillary abnormality (25%).

CONCLUSIONS

Mannitol administration at peripheral hospitals is prone to dosing error. Strategies such as a pretransport checklist may mitigate this risk.
Dielectric and electrical properties of Cr substituted Mg ferrites
Authors: Zakaria AKM , Nesa Faizun , Khan MA Saeed , Yunus SM , Khan NI , Saha DK , Eriksson SG
Published: June 2015

The spinel ferrites MgCrxFe2-xO4 (0.0 ? × ?1.0) were prepared through the solid state reaction using conventional ceramic method at 1300°C in air. The homogeneous phase of the ferrite samples was observed from the X-ray diffraction study. Lattice parameter of the samples was found to decrease with increasing Cr concentration in the system obeying Vegards law. The ac electrical resistivity, measured as a function of temperature, decreases with the increase of temperature indicating the semiconducting nature of all the samples. The activation energies were calculated and found to decrease with increasing Cr content. The lower activation energies are associated with higher electrical conductivity. With the increase of temperature, dielectric constant (e`) and dielectric loss tangent are observed to be increased; while with the increase of frequency, dielectric constant (e`) and dielectric loss tangent decrease for all the samples.Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 39, No. 1, 1-12, 2015
Microbiological analysis of raw milk, pasteurized milk and yogurt samples collected from different areas of Dhaka city, Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Tasmina , Akon Tanzia , Sheuli Iftikharun Nessa , Hoque Naima
Published: June 2015

A total of 300 different milk and yogurt samples were collected from Dhaka city and analyzed for total viable bacterial count (TVBC), total coliform count (TCC) and presence of several pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., Vibrio spp. and Listeria monocytogenes. Raw milk samples collected from Moghbazar area showed highest TVBC (4.2 × 106 cfu/ml) and samples from Mohammadpur area showed lowest count (3.5 × 103 cfu/ml). All the pasteurized milk samples showed TVBC of 1.9 × 102 to 2.8 × 103 cfu/ml, and TCC only in one sample Yogurt samples (open) collected from vendor showed TVBC of 9.1 × 103 to 8.2 × 107 cfu/ml, and TCC only in sample collected from Dhanmondi, Dhaka. The packed yogurt samples showed TVBC of 2.2 × 102 to 6.1 × 103 cfu/ml, and TCC only in one sample. All the milk and yogurt samples were found contaminated with E. coli and Shigella-like species. Listeria monocytogenes was not detected in any of the samples studied.Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 39, No. 1, 31-36, 2015
The t2g  eg band splitting of atoms on a rough surface
Authors: Huda Ain Ul , Haider Taskeya , Saha Supriya , Ahmed Mesbahuddin
Published: June 2015

Any deposition techniques lead to the production of rough surfaces. Some researchers proposed a pair of coupled continuum equations, which models the molecular beam epitaxy. This model was used to generate a rough surface of Fe, which is deposited on a Ag substrate. Then use of recursion method of Haydock with the parameter of tight binding linearized muffin tin orbital method of Anderson revealed that the t2g and eg bands are nondegenerate at bulk and [100] plane but near the rough surface, the degeneracy is broken and splitting of density of states depends on the curvature of the surface.Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 39, No. 1, 37-43, 2015
Management of anthracnose and blight diseases of Houttuynia cordata Thunb. with fungicides
Authors: Shamsi Shamim , Saha Trisha
Published: June 2015

Two types of symptoms, namely anthracnose and blight were recorded on Houttuynia cordata Thunb. during the period of April to December 2013. The isolated fungi from the diseased plants were Alterneria alternata (Fr.) Keissler and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (Penz.) Sacc. Five fungicides viz., Bavistin DF, Dithane M-45, Indofil, Salcox 50 WP and Tall 25 EC were evaluated against the pathogenic fungi at 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 ppm concentrations. Tall 25 EC was found most efficient inhibitor of the test fungi followed by Bavistin, Indofil, Dithane M-45 and Salcox. In vivo treatment Tall 25 EC was found most effective in controlling the diseases.Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 39, No. 1, 83-90, 2015
Developmental stages of a common emigrant butterfly Catopsilia crocale fabricius and its association with the host plant Cassia alata
Authors: Arju H , Miah MK , Parven N , Bashar MA
Published: June 2015

Developmental stages of pierid butterfly Catopsilia crocale Fabricius (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) and its association with Cassia alata: Family-Leguminosae (host plant) was studied in the laboratory under 24 ± 5°C temperature with RH 66 ± 2%. The host plant association and duration of developmental stages was given importance. Duration of life cycle (egg to adult) was 22.0 ± 0.8 days. The incubation period, larval and pupal period were 6.65 ± 0.4, 10.1 ± 0.8 and 6.5 ± 0.44 days, respectively. Eggs, five larval instars and pupal stages were distinct. Correlation was found among the development of larval instars, amount of food consumption and excretion of faeces. The association of C. crocale with host plant was characterized and evidenced by the use of C. alata leaves, buds, stems and shoots for egg laying and for complete development of the larval (9 - 11 days) and pupal (6 - 7 days) stages. The incubation period, different larval instars and pupal stage were found to be deeply associated with the phenological phases of the host plant.Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 39, No. 1, 91-101, 2015
Benefits of a resident-run orientation for new radiology trainees
Authors: Gaetke-Udager Kara , E. Maturen Katherine , C. Barr Daniel , Watcharotone Kuanwong , E. Bailey Janet
Published: June 2015

Incoming radiology residents must rapidly assimilate large amounts of technical, medical, and operational information. This can be overwhelming and contribute to anxiety. Typical introductory curricula focused on radiologic content may not address the concerns of new residents. Two consecutive classes of incoming radiology residents participated in our study. For groups A (n=11) and B (n=11), the existing introductory lectures were given by faculty. For group B, residents hosted sessions for each rotation, including round-table discussions and work area tours, with emphasis on resident roles, personnel, and workflow. With institutional review board exemption, residents were anonymously surveyed before and after the sessions regarding: awareness of responsibilities, familiarity with anatomy, and anxiety regarding each rotation on a 1-4 scale. Free-text comments were collected. Comparison was performed using Wilcoxon rank sum test. Group A reported increased role awareness (P=0.04), greater content familiarity (P<0.05), and decreased anxiety (P=0.02) in one rotation each. There were 3 of 12 rotations in group B that showed significantly increased role awareness (P range <0.01 to 0.01) and decreased anxiety (P range <0.01 to <0.05). In addition, two rotations indicated improved role awareness only (P=0.02 and P=0.04), while there were four rotations reported decreased anxiety only (P range 0.01 to 0.03). Free-text commenters preferred the resident-run portions of the sessions. In conclusion, adding role-oriented introductory sessions to existing lectures for first-year residents decreased anxiety and increased role awareness for all rotations; therefore, it is suggested that anxiety may be better addressed by role-oriented content, and resident-to-resident teaching may have benefits.
Natural Regeneration after Long-Term Bracken Fern Control with Balsa (Ochroma pyramidale) in the Neotropics
Authors: Levy-Tacher Samuel , Vleut Ivar , Román-Dañobeytia Francisco , Aronson James
Published: June 2015

In many parts of the Neotropics, deforested areas are often colonized by the highly competitive invasive bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum), which inhabits naturally regenerated forests and successional forests on abandoned farmland. Within the tropical forest region of Chiapas in southern Mexico, we implemented an experiment in 2005 to out-compete bracken fern infestation and reduce or eliminate live bracken rhizomes using several treatments: Direct sowing of balsa seeds (Ochroma pyramidale; Malvaceae), a traditional Lacandon treatment of scattering balsa seeds, transplanting balsa seedlings, and a control treatment (without balsa). For each treatment, we applied three different bracken weeding frequencies: No weeding, biweekly weeding, and monthly weeding. In this study, we present data gathered four years after establishing the experiment regarding: Bracken fern rhizome biomass, balsa density, basal area, height, density, species richness of naturally regenerating vegetation for all treatments, and bracken weeding frequencies. We also evaluated the importance of balsa and its regenerative attributes in controlling bracken fern by correlating it with remaining belowground live rhizome biomass. Living rhizome biomass was completely eradicated in all treatments with biweekly and monthly weeding. Density and species richness of a naturally regenerated species were negatively correlated with bracken fern rhizome biomass, and the density of this species was highest in areas with no rhizome biomass. Although balsa tree stands are effective short-term solutions for controlling rhizome biomass, the success of natural regeneration following balsa establishment can be critical to long-term elimination of bracken fern.
Pattern of Ambulatory Care Visits to Obstetrician-Gynecologists in Taiwan: A Nationwide Analysis
Authors: Lynn An-Min , Lai Li-Jung , Lin Ming-Hwai , Chen Tzeng-Ji , Hwang Shinn-Jang , Wang Peng-Hui
Published: June 2015

Although obstetrician-gynecologists (OB-GYNs) are the main actors in the provision of health care to women, their practice patterns have rarely been analyzed. The current study investigated the nationwide ambulatory visits to OB-GYNs in Taiwan using the National Health Insurance Research Database. From the 1/500 sampling datasets indicating 619,760 ambulatory visits in 2012, it was found that 5.8% (n = 35,697) of the visits were made to OB-GYNs. Two-fifths of the services provided were performed by male OB-GYNs aged 50–59 years. Women of childbearing age accounted for more than half of the visits to OB-GYNs (57.2%), and elderly patients above 60 years accounted for only 7.7%. The most frequent diagnoses were menstrual disorders and other forms of abnormal bleeding from the female genital tract (13.1%). Anti-infective agents were prescribed in 15.1% of the visits to OB-GYNs. The study revealed the proportion of aging practicing OB-GYNs, and our detailed results could contribute to evidence-based discussions on health policymaking.
Evaluating the Effects of Temperature on Mortality in Manila City (Philippines) from 2006–2010 Using a Distributed Lag Nonlinear Model
Authors: Seposo Xerxes , Dang Tran , Honda Yasushi
Published: June 2015

The effect of temperature on the risk of mortality has been described in numerous studies of category-specific (e.g., cause-, sex-, age-, and season-specific) mortality in temperate and subtropical countries, with consistent findings of U-, V-, and J-shaped exposure-response functions. In this study, we analyzed the relationship between temperature and mortality in Manila City (Philippines), during 2006–2010 to identify the potential susceptible populations. We collected daily all-cause and cause-specific death counts from the Philippine Statistics Authority-National Statistics Office and the meteorological variables were collected from the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration. Temperature-mortality relationships were modeled using Poisson regression combined with distributed lag nonlinear models, and were used to perform cause-, sex-, age-, and season-specific analyses. The minimum mortality temperature was 30 °C, and increased risks of mortality were observed per 1 °C increase among elderly persons (RR: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.31–1.80), women (RR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.27–1.69), and for respiratory causes of death (RR: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.23–1.88). Seasonal effect modification was found to greatly affect the risks in the lower temperature range. Thus, the temperature-mortality relationship in Manila City exhibited an increased risk of mortality among elderly persons, women, and for respiratory-causes, with inherent effect modification in the season-specific analysis. The findings of this study may facilitate the development of public health policies to reduce the effects of air temperature on mortality, especially for these high-risk groups.