bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Native congeners provide biotic resistance to invasive Potentilla through soil biota
Authors: Callaway Ragan M. , Montesinos Daniel , Williams Kimberlyn , Maron John L.
Published: June 2013

Soil biota can facilitate exotic plant invasions and these effects can be influenced by specific phylogenetic relationships among plant taxa. We measured the effects of sterilizing soils from different native plant monocultures on the growth of Potentilla recta, an exotic invasive forb in North America, and conducted plant–soil feedback experiments with P. recta, two native congeners, a close confamilial, and Festuca idahoensis, a native grass species. We also reanalyzed data comparing the ability of P. recta to invade experimentally constructed congeneric monocultures vs. monocultures of a broad suite of non‐congeners. We found that monocultures as a group, other than those of the native P. arguta, were highly invasible by P. recta. In contrast, this was not the case for monocultures of P. arguta. In our first experiment, the biomass of P. recta was 50% greater when grown in soil from F. idahoensis monocultures compared to when it was grown in soils from P. arguta or P. recta monocultures. Sterilizing soil from F. idahoensis rhizospheres had no effect on the biomass of P. recta, but sterilizing soil from P. arguta and P. recta rhizospheres increased the biomass of P. recta by 108% and 90%, respectively. In a second experiment, soil trained by F. idahoensis resulted in a positive feedback for P. recta. In contrast, soils trained independently by each of the two native Potentilla species, or the closely related Dasiphora (formerly Potentilla) resulted in decreases in the total biomass of the invasive P. recta indicating strong negative feedbacks. Soil trained by P. recta also resulted in intraspecific negative feedbacks. Our results demonstrate substantial negative feedbacks for an invader in its nonnative range under certain conditions, and that native congeners can mount strong biotic resistance to an invader through the accumulation of deleterious soil biota.
A Negative-Flash Tie-Simplex Approach for Multiphase Reservoir Simulation
Authors: Iranshahr Alireza , Voskov Denis V. , Tchelepi Hamdi A.
Published: June 2013

Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) processes usually involve complex phase behavior between the injected fluid (e.g., steam, hydrocarbon, CO2, sour gas) and the in-situ rock-fluid system. Several fundamental questions remain regarding Equation-of-State (EOS) computations for mixtures that can form three, or more, phases at equilibrium. In addition, numerical and computational issues related to the proper coupling of the thermodynamic phase behavior with multi-component transport must be resolved to accurately and efficiently model the behavior of large-scale EOR processes.

Previous work has shown that the adaptive tabulation of tie-simplexes in the course of a compositional simulation is a reliable alternative to the conventional EOS-based compositional simulation. In this paper, we present the numerical results of reservoir flow simulation with adaptive tie-simplex parameterization of the compositional space. We study the behavior of thermal-compositional reservoir displacement processes across a wide range of fluid mixtures, pressures, and temperatures. We show that our approach rigorously accounts for tie-simplex degeneration across phase boundaries. We also focus on the complex behavior of the tie-triangles and tie-lines associated with three-phase, steam injection problems in heterogeneous formations. Our studies indicate that the tie-simplex based simulation is a potential approach for fast EOS modeling of complex EOR processes.
Engineering Approach To Optimize Development Strategy in the Oil Segment of the Eagle Ford Shale: A Case Study
Authors: Stegent Neil , Wagner Albert , Stringer Chuck , Tompkins Rick , Smith Nick
Published: June 2013

This paper presents a case study of the implementation of an integrated engineering approach to drill, complete, evaluate, and optimize multiple sets of parallel horizontal wells in the oil segment of the Eagle Ford shale.

Two sets of horizontal wells were drilled parallel to each other in the Eagle Ford shale. Chemostratigraphic analysis was used during the drilling process to assist in understanding the placement of the horizontal wellbores with regard to the target pay interval as well as to assess area faulting. This data was used in designing the stimulation-stage intervals and to evaluate surface injection responses during the fracture treatments. Ball-activated fracture valves and plug-and-perforation completion strategies were tested to determine whether one is superior to the other. Oil-soluble tracers were used to understand the efficiency of these different completion strategies and aided in the production comparisons. Downhole microseismic mapping was also used to assist in the completion evaluation.

The integration of various engineering data allowed for interesting conclusions about horizontal wellbore placement and the effect it has on the fracture-stimulation treatments, as well as the resulting production from the comparative wells. These insights provide important information for optimizing infill-drilling, well-placement, and fracture-completion strategies in the Eagle Ford shale. The lessons learned were implemented on additional wells in the same field, and all of these results will be discussed.
In-Situ, Solvent-Assisted Gravity Drainage of Bitumen: Nonlinear Numerical Analysis
Authors: Ghesmat Karim
Published: June 2013

The use of condensing solvents, especially propane vapor, has been proposed for the low-temperature recovery of bitumen by gravity drainage. A full numerical analysis of such a process is presented. A hybrid spectral/finite-difference method was implemented to solve equations simultaneously. The results show that the hydrodynamics of a miscible front was highly dependent on the characteristics of the porous medium and also on the properties of the miscible fluid. As a significant factor, the dependency of the production flow rate on the thickness of the porous medium was measured. The order of dependency was found to be a function of time and cannot be considered as a constant. Hydrodynamic dispersion was also found to decrease this dependency. More-detailed results, along with quantitative analyses, are also discussed to indicate how the hydrodynamics was influenced by other porous-medium characteristics and fluid properties, such as dissolution rate and molecular diffusion.
Computed Tomography-Based Centrilobular Emphysema Subtypes Relate with Pulmonary Function
Authors: Takahashi Mamoru , Yamada Gen , Koba Hiroyuki , Takahashi Hiroki
Published: June 2013

Introduction:

Centrilobular emphysema (CLE) is recognized as low attenuation areas (LAA) with centrilobular pattern on high-resolution computed tomography (CT). However, several shapes of LAA are observed. Our preliminary study showed three types of LAA in CLE by CT-pathologic correlations. This study was performed to investigate whether the morphological features of LAA affect pulmonary functions.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 73 Japanese patients with stable CLE (63 males, 10 females) were evaluated visually by CT and classified into three subtypes based on the morphology of LAA including shape and sharpness of border; patients with CLE who shows round or oval LAA with well-defined border (Subtype A), polygonal or irregular-shaped LAA with ill-defined border (Subtype B), and irregular-shaped LAA with ill-defined border coalesced with each other (Subtype C). CT score, pulmonary function test and smoking index were compared among three subtypes.

Results:

Twenty (27%), 45 (62%) and 8 cases (11%) of the patients were grouped into Subtype A, Subtype B and Subtype C, respectively. In CT score and smoking index, both Subtype B and Subtype C were significantly higher than Subtype A. In FEV1%, Subtype C was significantly lower than both Subtype A and Subtype B. In diffusing capacity of lung for carbon monoxide, Subtype B was significantly lower than Subtype A.

Conclusion:

The morphological differences of LAA may relate with an airflow limitation and alveolar diffusing capacity. To assess morphological features of LAA may be helpful for the expectation of respiratory function.
The possibilities of obtaining metallic calcium from Serbian carbonate mineral raw materials
Authors: Sokic Miroslav , Matkovic Vladislav , Markovic Branislav , Gulisija Zvonko , Pataric Aleksandra , Mihailovic Marija , Janjusevic Zoran
Published: June 2013

The experimental investigations defined both the technological scheme of the
calcium production from limestone by aluminothermic process and the basic
operating parameters of the particular technological phases. The limestone
with high content of Mg, Na and K was used in the paper. X-ray analysis
reveals that the samples contain mainly calcite with small amount of
dolomite. At first, the influence of temperature, time and granulometry on
the calcium carbonate calcination was examined. The dissociation process was
completed in 10-15 min at 1200?C, and dissociation rate increases with
decreasing of particle size up to 5 mm. Afterwards, the aluminothermic
reduction process of calcium oxide was investigated. At the temperature
1200?C, and vacuum of at least 3 kPa, the reduction process completed within
2 hours. The chemical composition of calcium oxide and calcium showed
increased content of magnesium oxide and alkaline oxides (especially
sodium).
Effects of temperature and method of heat treatment on myofibrillar proteins of pork
Authors: Vujadinovic Dragan , Grujic Radoslav , Tomovic Vladimir , Torbica Aleksandra
Published: June 2013

During the tests in this paper, meat processing was carried out at different
temperatures between the range of 51?C to 100?C. The meat was processed by
dry heat (roasting) and wet heat treatments (cooking) in water at atmospheric
pressure. After heat treatment, myofibrillar proteins were extracted from
solutions at constant ionic strength. Quantitative and qualitative
determinations of protein?s fractions were performed by capillary
electrophoresis. Myofibrillar proteins were also analized for fresh pork meat
sample. Results obtained in fresh meat were compared with those recorded
after roasting and cooking. In the fresh and thermally processed pork the
following proteins were identified: myosin, light chain 3; myosin, light
chain 2; troponin - C; troponin - I; myosin, light chain 1; tropomyosin;
troponin - T; actin; desmin; ? - actinin; C - protein; M - protein (M?); M -
protein (M?); heavy meromyosin - HMM. For both methods of thermal processing,
with increasing heat treatment temperature, concentration of soluble protein
in the extract decreases rapidly after 51?C. Cooking treatment had a more
intense effect on the proteins change and denaturation than roasting.
Opportunities for the application of linear program­ming in forest management planning
Authors: Pantic Damjan , Tubic Bojan , Marinkovic Marko , Borota Dragan , Obradovic Snezana
Published: June 2013

In situations where it is necessary to consider a variety of options when
making decisions in forestry (and in general), with the choice influenced by
hardly comparable criteria and a number of conflicting interests, a possible
solution is to use multiple criteria methods. One of these methods, which can
be applied in forestry, is mathematical programming (in particular, linear
programming). Linear programming has a long tradition of being used in the
U.S. and European forestry, whereas in the forestry of Serbia it still
represents a theoretically and practically unknown tool. Therefore, in this
paper we analyze the possibility of applying the methods of linear
programming in developing a plan of regeneration cutting in the poplar
plantations of FMU "Topolik" managed by PE "Vojvodinasume." Using the aimed
function (linear programming) and the corresponding software package the
maximum yield that can be achieved by cutting the plantation was obtained.
The planned management period was from 2012 to 2021 and its volume was 155
852 m3. The preset condition that the yield in half-periods remains equal was
fulfilled (half-period I 77,925 m3, half-period II 77,927 m3). The maximum
yield obtained with this methodology was by 4,040 m3 lower than the
theoretically possible yield that would be obtained if all stands were cut
down at the end of the second half-period, i.e. higher by 8,430 m3 than the
yield that would be obtained if cutting of the stands were performed at the
start of the management period. The results obtained and foreign experience
in this area clearly indicate that linear programming can successfully be
used to solve this problem and even more complex problems (than the one
presented in this paper) in our local forest practice (multidimensional
planning with a series of constraints).
Assessing terpene content variability of whitebark pine in order to estimate representative sample size
Authors: Stefanovic Milena , Mitrovic Slobodanka , Obratov-Petkovic Dragica , Vidakovic Vera , Popovic Zorica , Matic Rada , Bojovic Srdjan
Published: June 2013

In studies of population variability, particular attention has to be paid to
the selection of a representative sample. The aim of this study was to assess
the size of the new representative sample on the basis of the variability of
chemical content of the initial sample on the example of a whitebark pine
population. Statistical analysis included the content of 19 characteristics
(terpene hydrocarbons and their derivates) of the initial sample of 10
elements (trees). It was determined that the new sample should contain 20
trees so that the mean value calculated from it represents a basic set with a
probability higher than 95 %. Determination of the lower limit of the
representative sample size that guarantees a satisfactory reliability of
generalization proved to be very important in order to achieve cost
efficiency of the research.
Morphological indicators of the quality of one-year-old bare-root seedlings of wild cherry (Prunus avium L.)
Authors: Stjepanovic Stefan , Ivetic Vladan
Published: June 2013

This paper presents morphological indicators of the quality of one-year-old
seedlings of wild cherry (Prunus avium L.) with special reference to their
correlations. The examined parameters were: length, diameter, weight of the
aboveground and underground parts, number of buds, root volume, root length
and leaf area. The ratio of heights was determined on the basis of the
parameters derived: diameter, and the ratio of aboveground and underground
parts of a seedling and the Quality Index. Height and diameter have proven to
be good indicators of quality. Root volume has proven to be a better
indicator of the quality of seedlings than root length. The weight ratio of
the aboveground and underground parts of broadleaved trees in the dry state
must be defined in advance, both when the measurements are carried out with
and without leaves. The Quality Index has proven to be the most comprehensive
morphological indicator of quality.
Long-Term Fine Particulate Matter Exposure and Mortality From Diabetes in Canada
Authors: Brook Robert D. , Cakmak Sabit , Turner Michelle C. , Brook Jeffrey R. , Crouse Dan L. , Peters Paul A. , van Donkelaar Aaron , Villeneuve Paul J. , Brion Orly , Jerrett Michael , Martin Randall V. , Rajagopalan Sanjay , Goldberg Mark S. , Pope C. Arden , Burnett Richard T.
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE

Recent studies suggest that chronic exposure to air pollution can promote the development of diabetes. However, whether this relationship actually translates into an increased risk of mortality attributable to diabetes is uncertain.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We evaluated the association between long-term exposure to ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and diabetes-related mortality in a prospective cohort analysis of 2.1 million adults from the 1991 Canadian census mortality follow-up study. Mortality information, including ∼5,200 deaths coded as diabetes being the underlying cause, was ascertained by linkage to the Canadian Mortality Database from 1991 to 2001. Subject-level estimates of long-term exposure to PM2.5 were derived from satellite observations. The hazard ratios (HRs) for diabetes-related mortality were related to PM2.5 and adjusted for individual-level and contextual variables using Cox proportional hazards survival models.

RESULTS

Mean PM2.5 exposure levels for the entire population were low (8.7 µg/m3; SD, 3.9 µg/m3; interquartile range, 6.2 µg/m3). In fully adjusted models, a 10-µg/m3 elevation in PM2.5 exposure was associated with an increase in risk for diabetes-related mortality (HR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.37–1.62). The monotonic change in risk to the population persisted to PM2.5 concentration <5 µg/m3.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term exposure to PM2.5, even at low levels, is related to an increased risk of mortality attributable to diabetes. These findings have considerable public health importance given the billions of people exposed to air pollution and the worldwide growing epidemic of diabetes.
Sexual Dysfunction as a Marker of Cardiovascular Disease in Males With 50 or More Years of Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Turek Sara J. , Hastings Stephanie M. , Sun Jennifer K. , King George L. , Keenan Hillary A.
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE

Vascular dysfunction is a major contributor to diabetes complications. It is also the primary physiologic cause of erectile dysfunction and considered an independent predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in males over age 40 years. A cohort of individuals with 50 or more years of type 1 diabetes, Joslin Medalists, have low rates of small but not large vessel complications. This study aims to identify the prevalence and longitudinal association of sexual dysfunction (SD) with CVD in Joslin Medalists.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Description and association of self-assessment of SD in males of the Medalist cohort by self-reported sexual problems with CVD. SD is validated through the use of the abbreviated International Index of Erectile Dysfunction (IIEF).

RESULTS

Of 301 males in the Medalist Study, 69.8% reported a history of SD. Unadjusted risk factors included elevated glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (P = 0.02), elevated BMI (P = 0.03), higher total cholesterol (P = 0.02), lower HDL (P < 0.01), and increased levels of interleukin-6 (P = 0.03). SD was independently associated with CVD (age-, HbA1c-, and BMI-adjusted OR 1.9 [95% CI 1.0–3.5]). In adjusted analyses, retinal, neural, and renal complications were not associated (P > 0.05) with SD. Current report of SD (IIEF score ≤17) in a subset of Medalists was significantly correlated with self-reported longitudinal SD.

CONCLUSIONS

SD in those with extreme-duration type 1 diabetes is independently associated with CVD, representing a large-vessel pattern. The findings suggest that SD may predict CVD in those with type 1 diabetes of long duration. These individuals have also been found to be relatively free of microvascular complications.
Using distributed temperature sensors to monitor an Antarctic ice shelf and sub-ice-shelf cavity
Authors: Tyler S.W. , Holland D.M. , Zagorodnov V. , Stern A.A. , Sladek C. , Kobs S. , White S. , Suárez F. , Bryenton J.
Published: June 2013

Monitoring of ice-shelf and sub-ice-shelf ocean temperatures represents an important component in understanding ice-sheet stability. Continuous monitoring is challenging due to difficult surface access, difficulties in penetrating the ice shelf, and the need for long-term operation of non-recoverable sensors. We aim to develop rapid lightweight drilling and near-continuous fiber-optic temperature-monitoring methods to meet these challenges. During November 2011, two instrumented moorings were installed within and below the McMurdo Ice Shelf (a sub-region of the Ross Ice Shelf, Antarctica) at Windless Bight. We used a combination of ice coring for the upper portion of each shelf borehole and hot-point drilling for penetration into the ocean. The boreholes provided temporary access to the ice-shelf cavity, into which distributed temperature sensing (DTS) fiber-optic cables and conventional pressure/temperature transducers were installed. The DTS moorings provided near-continuous (in time and depth) observations of ice and ocean temperatures to a depth of almost 800 m beneath the ice-shelf surface. Data received document the presence of near-freezing water throughout the cavity from November through January, followed by an influx of warmer water reaching ∼150 m beneath the ice-shelf base during February and March. The observations demonstrate prospects for achieving much higher spatial sampling of temperature than more conventional oceanographic moorings.
Application of Scaling Group of Transformations to Steady Boundary Layer Flow of Newtonian Fluid over a Stretching Sheet in Presence of Chemically Reactive Species
Authors: Bhattacharyya K , Uddin MS , Layek GC
Published: June 2013

This investigation analyses application of Lies scaling group of transformations to steady flow of a Newtonian fluid over a stretching sheet in presence of chemically reactive species with first order reaction. The governing partial differential equations reduced to self-similar nonlinear ordinary differential equations by the transformations. Obtained momentum equation is solved analytically and the concentration equation is numerically solved applying finite difference method with Thomas algorithm. The plotted results reveal that with the increase of Schmidt number as well as reaction-rate parameter causes a reduction in the thickness of the concentration boundary layer and also the concentration at a point decreases.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbas.v35i1.7969Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol.35, No.1, 43-50, 2011
Interaction of Thiamine.HCl with Cr2O7 2- ION
Authors: Shaikh AA , Akter Susumi , Rahman MS , Bakshi Pradip K
Published: June 2013

The reaction of thiamine.HCl (ThHCl) with K2Cr2O7 has been studied in aqueous solution at room temperature. The compound obtained is ionic 1 : 1 in which thiamine is present as a cation and Cr2O7 2- as an anion. The chemical formula of the salt, (C12H18N4OS) (Cr2O7) (symbolically ThHCr2O7), has been established by elemental analysis, IR and UV/Vis spectra, magnetic measurement, thermal analysis, conductivity measurement, cyclic voltammetric study and X-ray diffraction analysis.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbas.v35i1.7970Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol.35, No.1, 51-59, 2011
Template Synthesis of New Type of Macrocyclic Molecule Derived from Pyridine-2, 6-decarboxaldehyde and 1,2-bis(2-Aminoethoxy) Ethane
Authors: Alam Md Mahbubul
Published: June 2013

The cyclic (2+2) template condensation of pyridine-2,6-dicarboxaldehyde with 1,2-bis(2- aminoethoxy) ethane using Pb(SCN)2 as the metal source gave dinuclear lead (II) complex, Pb2L1(SCN)4 (1), where L1 is tetra-Schiff-base macrocycle. Treatment of 1 with NaBH4 in methanol gave a metal-free reduced macrocycle L2 which has been characterized by 1HNMR and ESI-MS spectroscopy.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbas.v35i1.7971Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol.35, No.1, 61-65, 2011
A Unified KBM Method for Obtaining the Second Approximate Solution of a Third Order Weakly Non-linear Differential System with Strong Damping and Slowly Varying Coefficients
Authors: Uddin M Alhaz , Talukder MAM , Hasanuzzaman M , Mumtahinah MST
Published: June 2013

To obtain the second order approximate solution of a third order weakly nonlinear ordinary differential system with strong damping and slowly varying coefficients modeling a damped oscillatory process is considered based on the extension of a unified Krylov-Bogoliubov- Mitropolskii (KBM) method. The asymptotic solution for different initial conditions shows a good coincidence with those obtained by the numerical procedure for obtaining the transients response. The method is illustrated by an example.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbas.v35i1.7973Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol.35, No.1, 77-89, 2011
Optical Properties of Undoped and Indium-doped Tin Oxide Thin Films
Authors: Chowdhury Fatema Rezwana , Choudhury Shamima , Hasan Firoz , Begum Tahmina
Published: June 2013

Thin films of Tin Oxide (SnO2), having thickness of 200 nm, were formed on to glass substrates by thermal evaporation of high-purity SnO2 powder in vacuum at various substrate temperatures (TS), ranging between 25 and 200°C. SnO2 films with varying thickness were also prepared for a fixed TS = 100°C. Further, doping of SnO2 films with Indium (In) was accomplished through solid state diffusion process by successive deposition of SnO2 and In films and subsequent annealing at 200°C for 10 minutes. Both undoped and doped films were characterized optically by UV-VIS-NIR spectrophotometry in the photon wavelength ranging from 300 to 2500 nm. In the visible photon wavelength range, the average optical transmittance (T%) of the films with varying TS was found to be 85%. The maximum value of T % was found to be 89 % around the wavelength of 700nm. The variation of absorption coefficient with photon energy in the fundamental absorption region is the steepest for TS = 100°C. The sub-band gap (SBG) absorption is also minimum for this Ts. A fluctuating behavior of the band gap energy (Eg) with Ts is observed attaining the highest value of 3.59 eV for Ts = 100°C. The band gap energy increases with thickness but T% in the visible range decreases. The T% in the visible range varies inversely with indium doping, being highest for undoped films. The Eg increases upto 2 wt% In doping and gradually decreases for enhanced doping. It seems reasonable to conclude that In doping does not bring favorable optical characteristics. Undoped SnO2 films having thickness of 200 nm and formed at substrate temperature of 100°C yield essential acceptable properties for photovoltaic applications.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbas.v35i1.7975Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol.35, No.1, 99-111, 2011
Comparative Growth Analysis of two Varieties of Rice Following Naphthalene Acetic Acid Application
Authors: Jahan Nargis , Adam AMM Golam
Published: June 2013

A pot experiment showed that 100 and 200 ppm naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) plant height, number of leaves per plant and number of tillers per plant were found to increase due to 100 ppm NAA only in BRRI dhan-29 (V1) and varied significantly at 60 DAS. Total dry matter (TDM) was found to increase up to harvest due to both the treatments in V1, whereas, in BRRI dhan-50 (V2) also increased at 15 and 30 DAS and the variation was non-significant. There was an increasing tendency in leaf area per plant due to T1 treatment in both the varieties except at 45 DAS in V2. Significant variations were observed at 15 and 30 DAS only in V1. Relative growth rate (RGR) was maximum at early stage of growth and then declined in both the varieties. RGR was significant during 0 to15 and 45 to 60 DAS in case of V1. Net assimilation rate (NAR) was non-significantly affected and found to increase during 15 to 30 DAS following both the treatments in V1, but in V2 due to T2 treatment only. Out of the two concentrations 100 ppm NAA produced better stimulation.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbas.v35i1.7976Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol.35, No.1, 113-120, 2011
Fatty Acid Composition of Ripe Seed Oil of Nyctanthes Arbor-tristis L.
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Mizanur , Roy Sudhangshu Kumar , Shahjahan Mohammad
Published: June 2013

The fatty acid composition of the ripe seed oil of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis L. (Bengali: Seuli) were determined by GLC. The major constituent of the oil was found to be stearic acid, 39.06%. The relative percentages of other major fatty acids were found to be lauric acid, (4.46); linoleic acid, (7.89); oleic acid, (7.97). The yield of the seed oil was found to be 7.29% on extraction with pet-ether (b. p. 40°C - 60°C). Acid value of seed oil was found to be 55.44 and suggests that this oil is inedible.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbas.v35i1.7977Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol.35, No.1, 121-124, 2011
Translation of Children's Literature in the Soviet Union: How Pinocchio Got a Golden Key
Authors: Vid Natalia Kaloh
Published: June 2013

This article analyses ideological influence on the translations of children's literature in the Soviet Union where translation was seen as an ideological tool and was expected to promote ideological values. Changing and adapting the source texts according to the newly established ideological demands was a common practice. Soviet children's literature was also used as a means of propaganda and a strong pedagogical instrument of education of new Soviet citizens. To explore how the Soviet ideological message was promoted within children's literature, I will analyse Alexei Tolstoy's adaptation of Carlo Collodi's The Adventures of Pinocchio (1883), entitled Zolotoi kliuchek ili prikliucheniia Buratino [The golden key or the adventures of Buratino]; henceforth The Golden Key), published in the Soviet Union in 1935. In Tolstoy's version the original underwent direct ideological changes. As one of the most successful children's stories introduced into the Soviet environment, The Golden Key depicts the values of the system under which it was written, including abolition of private property, the importance of collective labour, and the idea of equality and socialisation.
A Portrait of the Psychoanalyst as a Bohemian: Ernest Jones and the ‘Lady from Styria’
Authors: Robinson Ken
Published: June 2013

Early psychoanalysts had to work out what it meant for ‘civilized’ sexual morality to lift repression. One possibility was that polygamy might replace monogamy. By 1908 Freud was worried that the defence and practice of polygamy amongst his followers might bring psychoanalysis into disrepute. A central figure in this danger was Otto Gross who openly espoused polygamy and whose ideas had an impact on Jung. New evidence shows that he had an effect too on Ernest Jones, through his wife Frieda with whom Jones had a ‘polygamous’ relationship whilst Gross was with Jung at the Burghölzli in May and June 1908. This relationship is one part of the background to Freud's concern with counter-transference from 1909 and his growing insistence on the psychoanalyst being himself analysed. This paper presents the letters from Jones to Frieda Gross in their historical context.
Evaluation of Low Pressure Fogging System for Improving Crop Yield of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.): Grown under Heat Stress Conditions
Authors: Harel Danny , Fadida Hadar , Gantz Shelly , Shilo Kobi , Yasuor Hagai
Published: June 2013

In Mediterranean regions, many tomato plants are grown throughout the hot summer period (May–September) in sheltered cultivation, mainly for plant protection reasons. Most of the shelters that are used are low cost net houses covered with 50 mesh insect proof net. In most cases these net houses have a flat roof and no ventilation or climate control measures. This insufficient ventilation during the hot summer leads to above optimal air temperatures and causes moderate heat stress inside the shelters, which leads to yield reduction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of a simple and inexpensive low pressure fogging system installed in a naturally ventilated net house to lower temperatures and improve the yield during the summer. The study showed that in areas where relative air humidity (RH) during the daytime is less than 60%, tomato plants improved their performance when grown through the summer in net houses under moderate heat stress. Under fogging conditions pollen grain viability and fruit set were significantly improved. This improvement influenced the yield picked during September (104–136 DAP). However, total seasonal yield was not affected by the fogging treatment.
Pleistocene Palaeoart of Asia
Authors: Bednarik Robert
Published: June 2013

This comprehensive overview considers the currently known Pleistocene palaeoart of Asia on a common basis, which suggests that the available data are entirely inadequate to form any cohesive synthesis about this corpus. In comparison to the attention lavished on the corresponding record available from Eurasia’s small western appendage, Europe, it is evident that Pleistocene palaeoart from the rest of the world has been severely neglected. Southern Asia, in particular, holds great promise for the study of early cognitive development of hominins, and yet this potential has remained almost entirely unexplored. Asia is suggested to be the key continent in any global synthesis of ‘art’ origins, emphasising the need for a comprehensive pan-continental research program. This is not just to counter-balance the incredible imbalance in favour of Europe, but to examine the topic of Middle Pleistocene palaeoart development effectively.
Effect of Prey Refuge on the Spatiotemporal Dynamics of a Modified Leslie-Gower Predator-Prey System with Holling Type III Schemes
Authors: Zhao Jianglin , Zhao Min , Yu Hengguo
Published: June 2013

In this paper, the spatiotemporal dynamics of a diffusive Leslie-Gower predator-prey model with prey refuge are investigated analytically and numerically. Mathematical theoretical works have considered the existence of global solutions, population permanence and the stability of equilibrium points, which depict the threshold expressions of some critical parameters. Numerical simulations are performed to explore the pattern formation of species. These results show that the prey refuge has a profound effect on predator-prey interactions and they have the potential to be useful for the study of the entropy theory of bioinformatics.
Generational Differences in Work-Family Conflict and Synergy
Authors: Beutell Nicholas
Published: June 2013

This paper examines differences in work-family conflict and synergy among the four generational groups represented in the contemporary workforce: Generation Y Generation X, Baby Boomers, and Matures using data from the 2008 National Study of the Changing Workforce (n = 3,502). Significant generational differences were found for work-family conflict (work interfering with family and family interfering with work) but not for work-family synergy. Mental health and job pressure were the best predictors of work interfering with family conflict for each generational group. Work-family synergy presented a more complex picture. Work-family conflict and synergy were significantly related to job, marital, and life satisfaction. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.
Can Decision Biases Improve Insurance Outcomes? An Experiment on Status Quo Bias in Health Insurance Choice
Authors: Krieger Miriam , Felder Stefan
Published: June 2013

Rather than conforming to the assumption of perfect rationality in neoclassical economic theory, decision behavior has been shown to display a host of systematic biases. Properly understood, these patterns can be instrumentalized to improve outcomes in the public realm. We conducted a laboratory experiment to study whether decisions over health insurance policies are subject to status quo bias and, if so, whether experience mitigates this framing effect. Choices in two treatment groups with status quo defaults are compared to choices in a neutrally framed control group. A two-step design features sorting of subjects into the groups, allowing us to control for selection effects due to risk preferences. The results confirm the presence of a status quo bias in consumer choices over health insurance policies. However, this effect of the default framing does not persist as subjects repeat this decision in later periods of the experiment. Our results have implications for health care policy, for example suggesting that the use of non-binding defaults in health insurance can facilitate the spread of co-insurance policies and thereby help contain health care expenditure.
Construction of the Coding Sequence of the Transcription Variant 2 of the Human Renalase Gene and Its Expression in the Prokaryotic System
Authors: Fedchenko Valerii , Kaloshin Alexei , Mezhevikina Lyudmila , Buneeva Olga , Medvedev Alexei
Published: June 2013

Renalase is a recently discovered protein, involved in regulation of blood pressure in humans and animals. Although several splice variants of human renalase mRNA transcripts have been recognized, only one protein product, hRenalase1, has been found so far. In this study, we have used polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based amplification of individual exons of the renalase gene and their joining for construction of full-length hRenalase2 coding sequence followed by expression of hRenalase2 as a polyHis recombinant protein in Escherichia coli cells. To date this is the first report on synthesis and purification of hRenalase2. Applicability of this approach was verified by constructing hRenalase1 coding sequence, its sequencing and expression in E. coli cells. hRenalase1 was used for generation of polyclonal antiserum in sheep. Western blot analysis has shown that polyclonal anti-renalase1 antibodies effectively interact with the hRenalase2 protein. The latter suggests that some functions and expression patterns of hRenalase1 documented by antibody-based data may be attributed to the presence of hRenalase2. The realized approach may be also used for construction of coding sequences of various (especially weakly expressible) genes, their transcript variants, etc.
Sesquiterpenoids Lactones: Benefits to Plants and People
Authors: Chadwick Martin , Trewin Harriet , Gawthrop Frances , Wagstaff Carol
Published: June 2013

Sesquiterpenoids, and specifically sesquiterpene lactones from Asteraceae, may play a highly significant role in human health, both as part of a balanced diet and as pharmaceutical agents, due to their potential for the treatment of cardiovascular disease and cancer. This review highlights the role of sesquiterpene lactones endogenously in the plants that produce them, and explores mechanisms by which they interact in animal and human consumers of these plants. Several mechanisms are proposed for the reduction of inflammation and tumorigenesis at potentially achievable levels in humans. Plants can be classified by their specific array of produced sesquiterpene lactones, showing high levels of translational control. Studies of folk medicines implicate sesquiterpene lactones as the active ingredient in many treatments for other ailments such as diarrhea, burns, influenza, and neurodegradation. In addition to the anti-inflammatory response, sesquiterpene lactones have been found to sensitize tumor cells to conventional drug treatments. This review explores the varied ecological roles of sesquiterpenes in the plant producer, depending upon the plant and the compound. These include allelopathy with other plants, insects, and microbes, thereby causing behavioural or developmental modification to these secondary organisms to the benefit of the sesquiterpenoid producer. Some sesquiterpenoid lactones are antimicrobial, disrupting the cell wall of fungi and invasive bacteria, whereas others protect the plant from environmental stresses that would otherwise cause oxidative damage. Many of the compounds are effective due to their bitter flavor, which has obvious implications for human consumers. The implications of sesquiterpenoid lactone qualities for future crop production are discussed.
Reconstructing a Flavodoxin Oxidoreductase with Early Amino Acids
Authors: Lu Ming-Feng , Ji Hong-Fang , Li Ting-Xuan , Kang Shou-Kai , Zhang Yue-Jie , Zheng Jue-Fei , Tian Tian , Jia Xi-Shuai , Lin Xing-Ming , Zhang Hong-Yu
Published: June 2013

Primitive proteins are proposed to have utilized organic cofactors more frequently than transition metals in redox reactions. Thus, an experimental validation on whether a protein constituted solely by early amino acids and an organic cofactor can perform electron transfer activity is an urgent challenge. In this paper, by substituting “late amino acids (C, F, M, T, W, and Y)” with “early amino acids (A, L, and V)” in a flavodoxin, we constructed a flavodoxin mutant and evaluated its characteristic properties. The major results showed that: (1) The flavodoxin mutant has structural characteristics similar to wild-type protein; (2) Although the semiquinone and hydroquinone flavodoxin mutants possess lower stability than the corresponding form of wild-type flavodoxin, the redox potential of double electron reduction Em,7 (fld) reached −360 mV, indicating that the flavodoxin mutant constituted solely by early amino acids can exert effective electron transfer activity.
Marine Compounds with Therapeutic Potential in Gram-Negative Sepsis
Authors: Solov'eva Tamara , Davydova Viktoria , Krasikova Inna , Yermak Irina
Published: June 2013

This paper concerns the potential use of compounds, including lipid A, chitosan, and carrageenan, from marine sources as agents for treating endotoxemic complications from Gram-negative infections, such as sepsis and endotoxic shock. Lipid A, which can be isolated from various species of marine bacteria, is a potential antagonist of bacterial endotoxins (lipopolysaccharide (LPSs)). Chitosan is a widespread marine polysaccharide that is derived from chitin, the major component of crustacean shells. The potential of chitosan as an LPS-binding and endotoxin-neutralizing agent is also examined in this paper, including a discussion on the generation of hydrophobic chitosan derivatives to increase the binding affinity of chitosan to LPS. In addition, the ability of carrageenan, which is the polysaccharide of red alga, to decrease the toxicity of LPS is discussed. We also review data obtained using animal models that demonstrate the potency of carrageenan and chitosan as antiendotoxin agents.
Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Plant Flavors and Fragrances
Authors: Capuzzo Andrea , Maffei Massimo , Occhipinti Andrea
Published: June 2013

Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) of plant material with solvents like CO2, propane, butane, or ethylene is a topic of growing interest. SFE allows the processing of plant material at low temperatures, hence limiting thermal degradation, and avoids the use of toxic solvents. Although today SFE is mainly used for decaffeination of coffee and tea as well as production of hop extracts on a large scale, there is also a growing interest in this extraction method for other industrial applications operating at different scales. In this review we update the literature data on SFE technology, with particular reference to flavors and fragrance, by comparing traditional extraction techniques of some industrial medicinal and aromatic crops with SFE. Moreover, we describe the biological activity of SFE extracts by describing their insecticidal, acaricidal, antimycotic, antimicrobial, cytotoxic and antioxidant properties. Finally, we discuss the process modelling, mass-transfer mechanisms, kinetics parameters and thermodynamic by giving an overview of SFE potential in the flavors and fragrances arena.
Natural Products as a Source of Anti-Inflammatory Agents Associated with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Debnath Trishna , Kim Da , Lim Beong
Published: June 2013

Accumulating epidemiological and clinical study indicates that inflammation is a significant risk factor to develop various human diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), chronic asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and psoriasis. Suppressing inflammation is therefore important to control or prevent various diseases. Among them, IBD is one of the major problems affecting people worldwide. IBD affects at least one in a thousand persons in many Western countries. Various natural products have been shown to safely suppress pro-inflammatory pathway and control IBD. In vivo and/or in vitro studies indicate that anti-IBD effects of natural products occur by inhibition of the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (for example, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), intercellular adhesion molecule expression and pro-inflammatory mediators (such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), master transcription factors (such as nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and by improving the antioxidant activity. In this review, we summarize recent research focused on IBD and the effects that natural products have on IBD factors.
Iron in Child Obesity. Relationships with Inflammation and Metabolic Risk Factors
Authors: Bouglé Dominique , Brouard Jacques
Published: June 2013

Iron (Fe) sequestration is described in overweight and in its associated metabolic complications, i.e., metabolic syndrome (MetS) and non-alcoholic liver fatty disease (NAFLD); however, the interactions between Fe, obesity and inflammation make it difficult to recognize the specific role of each of them in the risk of obesity-induced metabolic diseases. Even the usual surrogate marker of Fe stores, ferritin, is influenced by inflammation; therefore, in obese subjects inflammation parameters must be measured together with those of Fe metabolism. This cross-sectional study in obese youth (502 patients; 57% girls): 11.4 ± 3.0 years old (x ± SD); BMI z score 5.5 ± 2.3), multivariate regression analysis showed associations between Fe storage assessed by serum ferritin with risk factors for MetS and NAFLD, assessed by transaminase levels, which were independent of overweight and the acute phase protein fibrinogen. Further studies incorporating the measurement of complementary parameters of Fe metabolism could improve the comprehension of mechanisms involved.
Strange Bedfellows: Ecosystem Services, Conservation Science, and Central Government in the United Kingdom
Authors: Lawton Ricky , Rudd Murray
Published: June 2013

The Natural Environment White Paper represents the most important shift in conservation policy in the United Kingdom for over 20 years. It formalizes the ecosystem services approach within policy objectives and emphasizes the economic value of ecosystem services. The ecosystem services approach embodies different meanings to different groups, each suggesting distinct governance paradigms and management tools. While conservationists’ support for the ecosystem services approach may stem from arguments for integrated and holistic management of natural systems, valuation efforts seek to apply economic tools to complex ecosystem processes as a means of increasing the policy salience of ecosystem services for management. Does this coupling make for strange bedfellows? We apply the Advocacy Coalition Framework to examine the alignment of the values and beliefs of key United Kingdom actors. Understanding core and peripheral values may help actors anticipate where cooperation and conflict arise, and the potential longevity of policy partnerships.
A Wireless Monitoring Sub-nA Resolution Test Platform for Nanostructure Sensors
Authors: Jang Chi , Byun Young , Lee Taikjin , Woo Deok , Lee Seok , Jhon Young
Published: June 2013

We have constructed a wireless monitoring test platform with a sub-nA resolution signal amplification/processing circuit (SAPC) and a wireless communication network to test the real-time remote monitoring of the signals from carbon nanotube (CNT) sensors. The operation characteristics of the CNT sensors can also be measured by the ISD-VSD curve with the SAPC. The SAPC signals are transmitted to a personal computer by Bluetooth communication and the signals from the computer are transmitted to smart phones by Wi-Fi communication, in such a way that the signals from the sensors can be remotely monitored through a web browser. Successful remote monitoring of signals from a CNT sensor was achieved with the wireless monitoring test platform for detection of 0.15% methanol vapor with 0.5 nA resolution and 7 Hz sampling rate.