bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
None Operational Amplifier (OPA) Based: Design of Analogous Bandgap Reference Voltage
Authors: Chan Hao-Ping , Hung Yu-Cherng
Published: January 2017

By using 0.35-um CMOS process, this work achieves a design of analogous band-gap reference voltage circuit with low temperature coefficient. The proposed circuit operates at 3V and generates a reference current of 44 uA. The HSPICE simulation results show the temperature coefficient of this circuit is 23 ppm/℃ at range of -10 ℃ to 100 ℃, and the line regulation (the ratio of output current variation to supply voltage variation) is estimated as 1.95 uA/V from supply voltage variation of 3 V to 5 V. The experimental chip is fabricated and measured. The circuit provides adjustable capability for output voltage among temperature variation of -10 - 100 ℃. The chip area is 534 × 695 um^2. In this new design, the operational amplifier is not necessary. The chip design effort can be great reduced.
Temporal Changes of Per Capita Green Space of Colombo District, Sri Lanka
Authors: Li Lin , Pussella Pgrni
Published: January 2017

Green spaces take part a vital role in reducing the harmful effects occurred through the process of rapid urbanization. This study focuses on evaluating the change of green space and per capita green space in Colombo District, Sri Lanka in between 2008 and 2015 using Landsat images. The NDVI differencing method and classification method were used to detect the change of land cover. According to the results, a gradual decline of green space from 629.1km2 to 591.16km2 with a rate of 6.03% can be depicted. The change is considerable in Kaduwela, Moratuwa and Maharagama DSDs and quite better in the areas such as Avissawella, Homagama and Padukka. The per capita green space has been decreased from 272.361 m2 to 248.811 m2. Though these rates are very well higher than the UN, EU and WHO standards for the district, Colombo DSD do not comply with UN and EU standards. The case would turn into worst in 2025, as the predictions with current rates. Therefore, the study recommends taking immediate actions to make a greener city. Further, a tax system is proposed to get the attraction of the general public.
Structural Insights into Thermotoga maritima FtsH Periplasmic Domain on Substrate Recognition
Authors: An Jun Yop , Sharif Humayun , Kang Gil Bu , Park Kyung Jin , Lee Jung-Gyu , Lee Sukyeong , Jin Mi Sun , Song Ji-Joon , Wang Jimin , Eom Soo Hyun
Published: January 2017

Prompt removal of misfolded membrane proteins and misassembled membrane protein complexes is essential for membrane homeostasis. However, the elimination of these toxic proteins from the hydrophobic membrane environment has high energetic barriers. Transmembrane FtsH is the only known ATP-dependent protease responsible for this task, unlike other well-studied soluble ATP-dependent proteases. The mechanisms by which FtsH recognizes, unfolds, translocates, and proteolyzes its substrates remain unclear. Here, we report the crystal structures of the Thermotoga maritima FtsH periplasmic domain (PD) in an associative trimeric state at a 1.5-1.95 Å resolution. We also describe the pH-dependent oligomerization states of the isolated PD using dynamic light scattering. These observations help us understand how FtsH recognizes membrane-anchored misfolded proteins.
A MEMS Device for Quantitative in situ Mechanical Testing in Electron Microscope
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Mao Shengcheng , Zhang Jianfei , Li Zhipeng , Deng Qingsong , Ning Jin , Yang Xudong , Wang Li , Ji Yuan , Li Xiaochen , Liu Yinong , Zhang Ze , Han Xiaodong
Published: January 2017

In this work, we designed a MEMS device which allows simultaneous direct measurement of mechanical properties during deformation under external stress and characterization of the evolution of microstructure of nanomaterials within a transmission electron microscope. This MEMS device makes it easy to establish the correlation between microstructure and mechanical properties of nanomaterials. The device uses piezoresistive sensors to qualitatively measure the force and displacement of nanomaterials, e.g., in wire and thin plate forms. The device has a theoretical displacement resolution of 0.19 nm and a force resolution of 2.1 μN. The device has a theoretical displacement range limit of 2.74 μm and a load range limit of 27.75 mN.
Systemic Analysis of Certified Artisan Cheese Production for Improvement—The Case of the Serra da Estrela PDO Cheese
Authors: Coelho Denis A. , Carrola Tiago E. P. , Couvinhas Ana F.
Published: January 2017

The research reported on this paper was aimed at improving the overall efficiency of a PDO certified artisanal cheese production process. Being a PDO certified foodstuff by the EU, it is considered to have properties and qualities determined by the geographical environment in which is made, with its production taking place in a specific and determined geographical location, in this case the Serra da Estrela region. In that sense, the authors conducted a mapping according to a systemic perspective of the processes involved in the context of manufacturing and distribution of certified Serra da Estrela cheese. Numerous methods were used throughout the process, such as a systemic design analysis, and techniques derived from ethnographic methods, which led to the collection of data in the field and consequently provided the immersion of the researcher in genuine work situations. Critical points were identified and emphasized in the systemic map with the purpose of encouraging initiatives to address and overcome the gaps and inefficiencies detected. The systemic design analysis triggered the development of design work. Observations following an ethnographic approach identified ergonomic risks in cheese making during the process of cutting excess chips, fostering the emergence of musculoskeletal disorders at the wrist. A tool that fits best to the task at hand was developed. A prototype of the new tool enabled collecting feedback from use in the work context, in order to inform product development. The domains of agricultural production and microbiology, considering the specific microorganisms developed trough the ripening process of the cheese, turned out to be aspects of high importance for the issue under focus, contributing to a broader understanding of the ripening process and its risks, simultaneously improving the efficiency and success of cheese production. If it were not for the systemic analysis, which served as a link between the boundaries of distinct domains such as the risk of microorganism contamination, ergonomics, energy efficiency, legislation and regulation policies, transportation challenges and economic viability, approached throughout the research. Simultaneously creating bridges between them, the various problems might not have been detected in the first place, as they are usually addressed in specialized disciplines, predetermined by the restrictions of each specific area of knowledge. As a consequence of the development of this research, which was based on an analysis that sought to establish possible connections between various disciplines and tried to constantly maintain a holistic perspective, making new connections and observing the issues from a new angle, apart from the already established methodologies. All this allowed to lay out the seeds for the development of a plan to tackle the critical points identified by the systemic analysis reported in this paper.
Evaluation of Rational Drug Use for Acute Pharyngitis Associated with the Incidence and Prevalence of the Disease at Two Community Health Centers in Indonesia
Authors: Yuniar Cindra T. , Anggadiredja Kusnandar , Islamiyah Alfi N.
Published: January 2017

According to Indonesia’s result of Basic Health Research of 2013, prevalence of acute respiratory infection in 2007 and 2013 were not different (25.5% and 25.0%, respectively). Identifying the cause of acute pharyngitis is a key point in determining the optimal treatment. The main purpose is to evaluate the rational use of drugs and its irrational impact as well as the correlation of the drug use with the incidence and prevalence of acute pharyngitis. This study was a descriptive and observational study, carried out retrospectively and concurrently at two community health centers located in Bandung and Cimahi, Indonesia. There were 80.01% over prescription of antibiotics, with a total of 8.98% is non-treatment option, and 62.43% irrational used of corticosteroids. The incidence and prevalence of acute pharyngitis at one health center in Bandung were 2.45% and 2.31%, respectively, with irrationality rate of 83.82%. Those recorded at one health center in Cimahi were 2.11% of incidence and 2.00% of prevalence with irrational rate of 91.29%. It can be concluded that there were still irrational use of medicines in the treatment of acute pharyngitis in community health center. The higher incidence and prevalence might indicate the declining health services quality.
Addressing Environmental Health Problems in Ogoniland through Implementation of United Nations Environmental Program Recommendations: Environmental Management Strategies
Authors: Yakubu Okhumode H.
Published: January 2017

In August 4 2011, United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP) submitted an unprecedented, scientific, groundbreaking Environmental Assessment Report (EAR) of Ogoniland, to the Nigerian government. This was the outcome of a 14–month intensive evaluation of the extent of pollution. It was intended that UNEP’s recommendations would be implemented to restore the devastated environment, on the one hand, and on the other, counteract the numerous environmental health issues that have for decades, plagued Ogoniland. However, five years post EAR, and, despite the seriousness of the situation, no significant resolution has occurred, both on the part of the government, and on the part of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) or Shell. To date, millions of Niger Delta residents, particularly those living in the oil-bearing communities, continue to suffer severe consequences. Although, the assessment was conducted in Ogoniland, other communities in the Niger Delta are also affected. This article explores prevailing issues, using Ogoniland (a microcosm of the Niger Delta) as an example. A multidisciplinary approach for sustainable mitigation of environmental health risks in the Niger Delta is paramount, and Environmental Management tools offer valuable strategies. Adopting UNEP’s recommendations for addressing environmental health problems requires implementing the Environmental Management/Environmental Management System (EM/EMS) model.
Expression and Potential Function of Plasma Exosomal microRNAs (miR-483-5p, miR-671-5p, and miR-150-3p) in a Mouse Mode and in Mesial Temporal Lobe Epilepsy Patients
Authors: Yan Shaofeng , Liu Guiyang , Xie Wenyan , Meng Dawei , Zhang Hua , Meng Fangang , Zhang Kai , Jiang Yin , Zhang Xin , Zhang Jianguo
Published: January 2017

Mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (mTLE) is one of the most common and refractory focal epilepsy syndromes. The molecular mechanisms of TLE are not completely understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression and potential function of plasma exosomal miRNAs (miR-483-5p, miR-671-5p, and miR-150-3p) in a mouse mode and in temporal lobe epilepsy patients. It was found that exosomal miRNAs were differentially expressed in three phases of the mouse mode, and exosomal miRNAs were down-regulated in mTLE patients compared with healthy controls. A bioinformatics analysis showed that target genes of exosomal miRNAs were significantly involved in the apoptotic process, cell adhesion, nervous system development, neurotrophin signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and metabolic pathways. The areas under the curve of miR-483-5p and miR-150-3p were 0.8714 (sensitivity = 75.00%, specificity = 91.65%) and 0.8213 (sensitivity = 67.50%, specificity = 90.00%), respectively. More importantly, the exosomal miRNAs were significantly associated with clinical parameters. Exosomal miRNAs may have the potential to become diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers.
EMVA 1288 Camera characterisation and the influences of radiometric camera characteristics on geometric measurements
Authors: Rosenberger Maik , Zhang Chen , Votyakov Pavel , Preißler Marc , Notni Gunther
Published: January 2017

Over the past decades, a large number of imaging sensors based mostly on CCD or CMOS technology were developed. Datasheets provided by their developers are usually written on their own standards and no universal figure of merit can be drawn from them for comparison purposes. The EMVA 1288 is a standard aims to overcome this problem by setting parameters and experimental setup for radiometric characterisation of cameras. An implementation of an experimental setup and software environment for radiometric characterisation of imaging sensors following the guidelines of the EMVA 1288 is presented here. Using simulations, the influences and impact of several EMVA 1288 parameters on geometric measurements can be estimated. This paper also presents a signal model and image acquisition chain; measurements of radiometric characteristics of an image sensor; and sensor evaluation for geometric measurements, where the aforementioned influences on geometric measurements are discussed.
CBM for a fleet of railway vehicles: infrastructure and algorithms
Authors: Pinceti Paolo , Caserza Magro Micaela , De Paola Enrico , Firpo Pierluigi , Marino Enrico , Antonelli Marco
Published: January 2017

Data acquisition and communication technologies give the possibility of receiving and storing a huge amount of data from machinery and plants in operation. From these data it is possible to create a set of Key Maintenance Indicators (KMI) useful for optimizing the maintenance policy. Raw data from the field are to be processed and filtered for obtaining effective KMIs to use in algorithms aimed at discovering anomalies or abnormal operation of one or more machineries or plants.

This paper presents a roadmap towards the Condition Based Maintenance of a fleet of railway vehicles. The paper associates to each maintenance policy its benefits and its requirements in terms of technological infrastructure and operating costs. Bombardier Transportation Italy started this roadmap a few years ago, for moving from a reactive maintenance policy to a proactive policy.

Increasing the effectiveness of maintenance implies the sensorization of the machines and the creation of a network for funneling information from the machineries to the central maintenance room. A Company must find an equilibrium point between complexity and expected benefits.

Results achieved by means of a specifically developed tool for data analysis applied to some sub-systems of the vehicles are presented.
The application of texture features to quality control of metal surfaces
Authors: Trambitckii Konstantin , Anding Katharina , Polte Galina , Garten Daniel , Musalimov Victor , Kuritcyn Petr
Published: January 2017

Quality assessment is an important step in production processes of metal parts. This step is required in order to check whether surface quality meets the requirements. Progress in the field of computing technologies and computer vision gives the possibility of visual surface quality control with industrial cameras and image processing methods. Authors of different papers proposed various texture feature algorithms which are suitable for different fields of images processing. In this research 27 texture features were calculated for surface images taken in different lighting conditions. Correlation coefficients between these 2D texture features and 11 roughness 3D parameters were calculated. A strong correlation between 2D features and 3D parameters occurred for images captured under ring light conditions.
On the safety design of radar based railway level crossing surveillance systems
Authors: Addabbo Tommaso , Fort Ada , Della Giovampaola Cristian , Mugnaini Marco , Toccafondi Alberto , Vignoli Valerio
Published: January 2017

Recent accidents experienced at railway level crossings are pushing researchers to design surveillance systems able to grant safety of passengers and structural integrity of trains at level crossings. The challenge is represented by granting at the same time an appropriate reliability, availability and maintainability degree despite the high safety requirements imposed by the application. The approach proposed in this paper takes into consideration the most common suggested standards used in designing this kind of systems and introduces new general concepts which demystify the use of such standards in actual applications. This paper illustrates the roadmap to be followed in general when designing level crossing monitoring systems, to minimize the risk due to object misdetection occurring on barrier closure when exploiting radar technology.

A specific surveillance system based on FMCW radar technology was used as a case study, but the approach presented in this paper has a general validity.
Optical system for on line monitoring of welding: a machine learning approach for optimal set up
Authors: Di Gasbarro David , D'Emilia Giulio , Natale Emanuela
Published: January 2017

In this paper a methodology is described for continuous checking of the settings of a low cost vision system for automatic geometrical measurement of welding embedded on components of complicated shape. The measurement system is based on a laser sheet. Measuring conditions and the corresponding uncertainty are analyzed by evaluating their p-value and its closeness to an optimal measurement configuration also when working conditions are changed. The method aims to check the holding of optimal measuring conditions by using a machine learning approach for the vision system: based on a such methodology single images can be used to check the settings, therefore allowing a continuous and on line monitoring of the optical measuring system capabilities.

According to this procedure, the optical measuring system is able to reach and to hold uncertainty levels adequate for automatic dimensional checking of welding and of defects, taking into account the effects of system hardware/software incorrect settings and environmental effects, like varying lighting conditions. The paper also studies the effects of process variability on the method for quantitative evaluation, in order to propose on line solutions for this system.
Enhancement of flash memory endurance using short pulsed program/erase signals
Authors: Chiquet Philippe , Postel-Pellerin Jérémy , Tuninetti Célia , Souiki-Figuigui Sarra , Masson Pascal
Published: January 2017

The present paper proposes to investigate the effect of short pulsed Program/Erase signals on the functioning of Flash memory transistors. Usually, electrical operations related to said devices involve the application of single long pulses to various terminals of the transistor to induce various tunneling effects allowing the variation of the floating gate charge.  According to the literature, the oxide degradation occurring after a number of electrical operations, leading to loss of performance and reliability, can be reduced by replacing DC stress by AC stress or by reducing the time spent under polarization by the MOS-based devices. After a brief presentation of the functioning of the Flash memory transistors tested in this work, the experimental setup used to replace standard electric signals with short pulses will be described. Electrical results showing the benefits of programming and erasing non-volatile memories with short pulses will then be presented.
Yb,Er:glass Microlaser at 1.5 µm for optical fiber sensing: development, characterization and noise reduction
Authors: Pniov Alexey , Zhirnov Andrey , Shelestov Dmitriy , Stepanov Konstantin , Nesterov Evgeny , Karasik Valery , Laporta Paolo , Galzerano Gianluca , Taccheo Stefano , Piroddi Luigi , Norgia Michele , Pesatori Alessandro , Svelto Cesare
Published: January 2017

A fiber-pumped single-frequency microchip erbium laser was developed and characterized with the aim of using it in coherent Optical Time Domain Reflectometry (OTDR) measurements and sensing. The laser is pumped by a fiber-coupled 976 nm laser diode and provides 8 mW TEM00 single frequency output power at 1.54 µm wavelength, suitable for efficient coupling to optical fibers. The amplitude and phase noise of this 200 THz oscillator were experimentally investigated and a Relative Intensity Noise (RIN) control loop was developed providing 27 dB RIN peak reduction at the relaxation oscillation frequency of 800 kHz
Hallásalapú és vizuális alapú közlések vizsgálata 3–7. osztályos korban
Authors: Bóna Judit
Published: January 2017

A tanulmány azt vizsgálja, hogy milyen különbségek mutathatók ki a hallásalapú és a vizuális alapú közlések jellemzőiben harmadik, ötödik és hetedik osztályos korban. 30 gyermek mondatismétlésének és ugyanazon mondatok felolvasásának a temporális jellemzőit helyezi előtérbe, illetve a mondatokban előforduló megakadásokat és hibákat elemzi. Az eredmények azt mutatják, hogy az életkor előrehaladtával ugyan egyre gyorsabb és pontosabb lesz a mondatismétlés és a felolvasás is, de egyikben sem nyújtanak hibátlan eredményt a gyermekek. A tempó és a megakadások gyakoriságának elemzése alapján úgy tűnik, a dekódolási folyamatok lassabbak és bizonytalanabbak még ötödikes korban is a felolvasáskor, mint a beszédfeldolgozáskor. Ugyanakkor mivel a hallásalapú közlések dekódolásában a memória nagyobb szerepet játszik, mint a felolvasáskor, a gyermekek többet hibáznak az ismétlésben. Az eredmények hozzájárulnak a beszédészlelés és az olvasás összefüggéseinek a jobb megértéséhez a felsőbb iskolai osztályokban.
A verbális tanári instrukciók az osztálytermi diskurzusban III.
Authors: Sáfrányné Molnár Mónika
Published: January 2017

Az iskolai nevelés meghatározó eleme az osztálytermi diskurzus, a tanulók és a tanárok kommunikációja. A folyóirat egymást követő három számában megjelenő tanulmány diskurzuselemzési, pragmatikai és funkcionális nyelvészeti megközelítésben egy tanórakutatás adatai alapján a verbális tanári instrukciókat elemzi, közülük is a feladatkijelölő, felhívó funkciójú tanári megnyilatkozásokat. A tanulmány harmadik részének a témája a feladatkijelölő tanári instrukciók pragmatikai sajátosságainak a vizsgálata. Részletesen foglalkozik a felhívó funkciójú tanári megnyilatkozások címzettjének az azonosításában szerepet játszó lexikai, grammatikai és pragmatikai diskurzuselemekkel. Vizsgálja a tanári instrukciók modalitását és az udvariasság nyelvi kifejezési formáit a korpusz alapján. A kutatás anyaga 8 végzős tanárjelölt hallgató videóval rögzített tanórája, valamint ezeknek az ELAN diskurzuslejegyző szoftverrel készült és a kutatás céljának megfelelően szegmentált lejegyzései. A tanulmány célja felhívni a figyelmet a tudatosan megfogalmazott tanári instrukciók fontosságára.
Az intertextualitás tanításának lehetőségei az anyanyelvi oktatásban
Authors: Gyuricza Katalin
Published: January 2017

A tanulmány az intertextualitás elméleti koncepciójából kiindulva (Janich 2008) az intertextualitás tanításának lehetőségeivel foglalkozik, az anyanyelvi oktatásra vonatkozóan. Az intertextualitás problematikája napjainkban az anyanyelvi oktatás tartalmi célkitűzései között egyre hangsúlyosabban jelenik meg. A rendelkezésre álló tananyagok vizsgálatakor mégis az volt tapasztalható, hogy ezt a kérdéskört az anyanyelvi oktatás keretein belül még kevéssé dolgozták ki. Csupán néhány újabb kiadású nyelvtankönyv foglalkozik az intertextualitás tanítási lehetőségeivel. A tanulmány célkitűzése egy komplex feladatsor bemutatása, amely az anyanyelvi oktatás keretein belül sokrétűen alkalmazható. A feladatlap elősegíti a tanulók intertextuális tudásának felmérését és fejlesztését, mégpedig a nem szépirodalmi szövegek körére vonatkozóan. Rámutat arra, hogy az intertextuális tudás a mindennapi szövegek esetében is jelentős szerepet játszik a szövegértés folyamatában.
Névtudományi ismeretek a magyar nyelvi órán
Authors: F. Láncz Éva
Published: January 2017

A tanulmány a névtudomány magyar nyelvi órán való alkalmazásával foglalkozik. Rövid áttekintést ad az e témában megjelent munkákról. Az onomasztikai ismereteket nyelvtani témakörökhöz rendeli, továbbá a névtant érintő feladatokat is közöl. Mindezzel azt kívánja jelezni, hogy a névtudománynak, a nevek grammatikai sajátosságainak, a nyelvjárási példáknak érdemes helyet adni az anyanyelvi órákon, szakkörön, fakultáción. A tanulmány a digitális technika segítségével végzett névföldrajzi elemzéseket szorgalmazza, lehetőséget adva az első két országos összeírást (1715, 1720) tartalmazó Történeti magyar családnévatlasz (TMCsA.) felhasználására, valamint térképek generálására is.
A szövegértés és a szövegalkotás fejlesztése az irodalomórákon
Authors: Bernáth Magdolna
Published: January 2017

A tanulmány a szövegértés-szövegalkotás fejlesztésének gyakorlati megvalósítását mutatja be Wass Albert Tavak könyve és Erdők könyve című mesegyűjteménye alapján az általános iskola 5. osztályos tanulói számára. A szövegértés-szövegalkotás fejlesztését konkrét példák szemléltetik a könyv szemelvényeihez kapcsolódva. A feladatok előkészítését a tanórákon képi-zenei ráhangolódás előzi meg a klasszikus alkotásokból ugyanúgy, mint a modern művészetből vett példákkal. A kooperatív munkaformában feldolgozott Tavak könyve és Erdők könyve lehetőséget teremt a különféle kompetenciák fejlesztésére. A szóbeli és írásbeli feladatok elősegítik az élményközpontú szövegértés és szövegszerkesztés fejlesztését. A játékosság elvével összhangban a drámajátékok folyamatos alkalmazása segíti a process reading megvalósulását.
After notes on Chebyshev’s iterative method
Authors: Amat S. , Busquier S.
Published: January 2017

This paper is a small review of Chebyshev’s method. The geometric interpretation as a generalization of Newton’s method is derived. Using this interpretation its global convergence is proved. Some dynamical properties are studied. As a higher order method, they are more complicated than in Newton’s method. Finally, some applications are revisited pointing out the advantages of Chebyshev’s method with respect Newton’s method.
Observations on the laboratory culture of the harpacticoid copepod Euterpina acutifrons (Dana, 1847) using different diets
Authors: Jasmine S. , George Rani Mary , Lazarus S.
Published: January 2017

Hatching success, nauplii production, maturation and survival of the harpacticoid copepod Euterpina acutifrons (Dana, 1847) fed on mono/mixed culture of Isochrysis galbana, Tetraselmis gracilis, Chaetoceros calcitrans and Chlorella marina were studied. The time taken for E. acutifrons to mature was the lowest with a diet of I. galbana followed by C. calcitrans. Percentage of survival was highest with a mixed diet of 75% I. galbana and 25% C. calcitrans (84%) followed by T. gracilis (68%). The study also revealed that both feed type and concentration played significant role in production and survival of E. acutifrons. Mixed diet of I.galbana and C. calcitrans showed maximum adult production followed by a diet of T.gracilis. The mean values of all the three stages of the copepod viz., adults, ovigerous females and copepodite-nauplii were found much greater in the treatment with replacement of the culture medium and feed. Mass culture using different organic feeds was also carried out and it was found that mean growth in terms of adult stage production was found to be higher when fed with rice bran followed by groundnut oil cake (GOC) and the least in cow dung treatment. In rice bran treatment, copepodites showed higher production rate when compared to the other two feeds. Mean growth in terms of nauplii production was also higher in rice bran fed group followed by GOC fed group and the least in cow dung treatment.
Growth and survival of marine sponges, Stylissa massa (Carter, 1887) and Liosina paradoxa (Thiele, 1899) in sea and land based culture systems
Authors: Kiruba Sankar R. , Chadha N. K. , Dam Roy S. , Banerjee Paramita , Saharan Neelam , Krishnan P.
Published: January 2017

Two species of marine sponges Stylissa massa and Liosina paradoxa were cultured in cages (in situ) and in land based aquaria (ex situ) over a period of 120 days. Growth and survival were evaluated using four substrates viz., tile, block, coral rock and rope) under both in situ and ex situ conditions. L. paradoxa in cages recorded significant increase (p<0.05) on day 90 i.e., by 70% compared to initial volume whereas at 120 days there was a significant (p<0.05) decrease (54.22%). S. massa showed significant increase (p<0.05) in growth by 95.6% at 120 days compared to initial volume. Negative growth was recorded in S. massa under aquarium conditions while L. paradoxa recorded good growth as well as survival and performed exceptionally well in aquarium during the entire experimental period of 120 days. In cages, 90.62% survival was recorded for S. massa in 120 days. Among the different substrates used, coral rocks gave 100% survival whereas other substrates such as tiles, blocks and ropes showed 87.5% survival. Under aquarium conditions, S. massa showed overall survival of 81.25% and among the different substrates, 100% survival was obtained with coral rocks, 87.5% with blocks, 75% with ropes and the lowest survival of 62.5% was recorded with tiles.
Demographic and socio-economic changes in the coastal fishing community of India
Authors: Syda Rao G. , Sathianandan T.V. , Kuriakose Somy , Mini K.G. , Najmudeen T.M. , Jayasankar J. , Mathew Wilson T.
Published: January 2017

The spatial and temporal changes in the demographic and socio-economic indicators of coastal fishing community of India were studied using data collected during the national level census on marine fishermen population in 2005 and 2010, covering 11 maritime states and union territories of the country. Information on population growth, sex ratio, literacy level and educational status, poverty level, sectoral dependency and occupational categories of the coastal fisherfolk were analysed and compared with analogous figures of national averages on these socio-economic indicators. The marine fishermen of India, who depend on fisheries for their subsistence, were significantly below the national averages in many of key demographic indicators. The results of correspondence analysis carried out for visual description of the association of economic status with the key indicators showed that, the below poverty class among fishermen were more associated with low family size compared to large sized families, which implicates to labour supply in a labour demanding socio-economy of marine fisheries. Different dependency ratios were computed as a simple summary measure for comparison of age structure of fisherfolks.
Age and growth of the deep water mud shrimp Solenocera melantho (De Man, 1907) off Visakhapatnam coast, India
Authors: Ganesh P. R. C. , Chakravarty Myla. S.
Published: January 2017

Age and growth of the deep water mud shrimp Solenocera melantho (De Man, 1907) was estimated using von Bertalanffy growth model employing modal progression analysis, Ford-Walford method for L∞ and K and t0 by Gulland’s method as well as ELEFAN I (FiSAT II software version 1.2.2) method. The growth parameters estimated by the former method were: L∞= 107.9 mm, K = 2.61 y-1, t0 = 0.1344, φ’ = 4.4825 for males and L∞ = 116.4 mm, K = 3.69 y-1, t0 = 0.1346, φ’ = 4.6997 for females and by the latter method were : L∞ = 106.1 mm, K = 2.17 y-1, t0 = -0.05, φ’ = 4.3879 for males and L∞ = 116.8 mm, K = 2.1 y-1, t0 = -0.05, φ’ = 4.4571 for females. The longevity estimated for both males and females of S. melantho was about 36 months. The females were observed to grow faster than the males.
Growth response of Catlacatla (Hamilton,1822) raised in manured tanks on low fishmeal diets,with a note on carcass composition and digestive enzyme activity
Authors: Manjappa K. , Keshavanath P. , Gangadhar B.
Published: January 2017

Low fishmeal diets (10%) with varied levels of maize (40-31%) and sardine oil (0-9%) were fed for 120 days to triplicate groups of catla (Catla catla Hamilton,1822) fingerlings (average weight 1.84-1.90 g) stocked @ 1 fish per m2 in cement tanks with soil base fertilised with poultry manure. Fish fed on diet containing 6% oil and 34% maize (T2) showed the highest (p<0.05) growth, followed by those received 9/31 (T3), 3/37 (T1) and 0/40% (T0) oil/maize supplemented diets. Food conversion ratio improved due to oil supplementation, while protein efficiency ratio was not affected significantly. Dietary lipid had a positive impact on carcass protein and lipid levels (p<0.05). Fish survival ranged from 90.73% in all the treatment groups to 92.58% in the control, without any significant (p>0.05) difference among them. Net fish production on termination of the experiment was lowest (820 g) in the control and the highest (1017.85 g) inT2 treatment. Viscerosomatic index (VSI) varied from 3.59 (T2) to 4.65% (T0) and hepatosomatic index (HSI) from 1.13 (T0) to 1.91% (T3). RNA/DNA ratio was highest (3.05) in T2 and lowest (1.84) in T0. An increase in intestinal amylase activity was observed in the treated fish, while intestinal protease and lipase activity showed increase only with higher levels of oil supplementation (6 and 9%). No difference (p>0.05) in enzyme activity was observed in the hepatopancreas of the control and treated fish. The results indicated beneficial effects of incorporating maize and fish oil in low fishmeal diet for catla.
GIS based mapping of spatio-temporal distribution pattern of ribbonfish Trichiurus lepturus (Linnaeus, 1758) along Saurashtra coast, India
Authors: Abdul Azeez P. , Mohammed Koya K. , Mathew K. L. , Temkar G. S. , Khileri R. A.
Published: January 2017

Identification of spatio-temporal distribution of fish species represents fundamental information for stock assessment which in turn is essential for formulation of fishery management plans as well as for GIS based decision making. This study investigated the spatio-temporal distribution and abundance of different life stages of ribbonfish, Trichiurus lepturus (Linnaeus, 1758) off Saurashtra coast. Geographical coordinates of fishing and allied information on the time of fishing, depth of the fishing area as well as catch details were collected using a structured schedule, from selected trawlers operated from Veraval. Information was mapped using a GIS software to get the spatio-temporal distribution of the species. It was observed that juveniles were more abundant along the south Saurashtra coast whereas subadults and adults showed a discontinuous distribution with abundance in the waters off south Saurashtra as well as north Saurashtra coasts.
Identification and characterisation of microsatellite markers in narrow barred Spanish mackerel Scomberomorous commerson (Lacepede, 1800)
Authors: Divya P. R. , Vineesh N. , Kathirvelpandian A. , Mohitha C. , Basheer V. S. , Gopalakrishnan A. , Jena J. K.
Published: January 2017

Narrow barred Spanish mackerel, Scomberomorus commerson (Lacepede 1800) is one of the commercially important fish in Indian waters. For sustainable management of the species, it is necessary to understand the genetic stock structure of the species. Accurate delineation of genetic stock structure can be achieved using nuclear microsatellite markers. A study was carried out to identify and validate polymorphic microsatellite markers in S. commerson using information available from closely related fish species. The study could identify 10 polymorphic microsatellite loci which can be effectively utilised for identifying genetic stock structure of the species. Validation of the identified loci was also done by testing the loci in natural populations of the species. The findings of the present study will be useful in devising stock-specific management measures for conservation and sustainable utilisation of this commercially important fish species in Indian waters.
Nutritional profiling and shelf life assessment of monosex tilapia steaks during ice storage
Authors: Parvathy U. , Raushan S. Mohammed , Ninan George , Jeyakumari A. , Lalitha K. V. , Mathew Suseela , Zynudheen A. A.
Published: January 2017

In freshwater aquaculture, monosex tilapia is emerging as a potential alternative to common tilapia which is a prolific breeder. The nutritional profile as well as the shelf-life stability of monosex tilapia stored under iced condition was assessed. The fatty acid profile pointed out that the major class of fatty acids present in tilapia was monounsaturated fatty acids (42.36%). Amino acid compositional analysis indicated higher levels of glutamic acid and aspartic acid. Tilapia steaks were divided into two lots for ice storage viz., control (AP: air packed) and vacuum packed (VP). AP samples crossed the total volatile base nitrogen (TVB-N) acceptability limit of 35 mg% towards 16th day of storage whereas VP samples were acceptable throughout the storage period of 19 days. Increase in thiobarbituric acid (TBA) value was more prominent in air packed lots during storage period. The decrease in hardness and lightness values were more prominent in vacuum packed samples. Results of the biochemical and microbiological analyses indicated that air packed samples were acceptable upto 16th day while it was extended to 19th day in vacuum packed samples.
Food and feeding habits of the exotic fish Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters, 1852) from a tropical reservoir of Chalakudy River, Kerala
Authors: Roshni K. , Renjithkumar C. R. , Madhusoodana Kurup B.
Published: January 2017

The diet composition of the exotic fish, Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters, 1852) was studied in Poringalkuthu Reservoir, Kerala from June 2011 to May 2012. O. mossambicus (2.52 t) forms a regular fishery which indicate that the fish has been established successfully in the reservoir. Gut content analysis revealed detritus to be the dominant food item followed by chlorophyceae, cyanophyceae, bacillariophyceae, zooplankton, plant matter, sand particles, fish parts, insects and miscellaneous items. The present study shows that the species is an omnivore, with a euryphagous feeding habit.
Stock assessment of the Indian mackerel Rastrelliger kanagurta (Cuvier, 1817) from Muscat coast, Oman
Authors: Jayabalan N. , Zaki S. , Al-Marzouqi A. , Al-Kiyumi F.
Published: January 2017

Assessment of age, growth and stock parameters was carried out for the Indian mackerel Rastrelliger kanagurta (Cuvier) along the Muscat coast of Oman between October 2007 and September 2009. The length-weight relationship of the fish indicated the ‘a’ value as 0.0101 and ‘b’ value as 3.0589. The length based von Bertalanffy growth (VBG) parameters L∞ K and t0 estimated were 37.54 cm, 1.0 y-1 and -0.17 y respectively. The estimates of mortality rates showed the annual total mortality (Z) to be 2.98, the natural mortality (M) 1.62 and fishing mortality (F) 1.36. The MSY estimated by Cadima’s estimator was 859 t and the predicted value by yield analysis stood at 1,273 t. The calculated exploitation rate (E) was 0.46. The Yw/R at F = 1.6 was 48 g. Estimates of higher MSY than the current yield, lower fishing mortality than natural mortality and lower E indicate scope for increase in yield of R. kanagurta from Muscat region.
Captive broodstock development of common carp Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus, 1758: influence of age on spermatogenesis and fertilisation parameters
Authors: Betsy C. Judith , Sampath Kumar J. Stephen , Pon Jawahar K. Thilak , Athithan S. , Ahilan B. , Karal Marx K.
Published: January 2017

Knowledge on the quality of male and female gametes which may affect fertilisation success and larval survival is necessary to enhance fish production to meet global demand. Gamete quality is affected by factors like sex ratio, stocking density, age, size, nutrition and feeding regime. In the present study, the spermatological and fertilisation parameters as influenced by the age of brooders of Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus 1758 developed under captive condition from a single population were studied with special reference to dilution ratios. Milt was collected from 6, 12 and 18 months old brooders of C. carpio and diluted at three ratios viz., 1:40, 1:80 and 1:120 using freshwater fish saline. Sperm density, spermatocrit value, seminal plasma composition, motility duration, fecundity, fertilisation and hatching rates were studied for brooders of all age groups. The results showed that milt from 12 months old brooder produced good quality milt in terms of motility duration(69.66±4.72 sec), fertilisation rate (91.3±3.05%) and hatching rate (76.5±2.64%) at 1:40 dilution ratio.
Effect of restricted feeding on the growth and body composition of European seabass Dicentrarchus labrax (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Baki Birol , Kaya Ozturk Dilara , Sariipek Merve , Kerim Murat , Eyuboglu Bora
Published: January 2017

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of restricted feeding on the growth and body composition in juvenile European seabass Dicentrarchus labrax, (Linnaeus, 1758). Four different feeding regimes were tested in fishes having average weight of 6.57±0.09 g. The three treatment groups were fed three times a day adopting three different regimes: 6 days feeding/1 day starvation (6F/1S), 5 days feeding/2 days starvation (5F/2S) and 4 days feeding/3 days starvation (4F/3S) for a period of 60 days. Control group (C) was fed daily three times a day. At the end of the study the average weights were 31.21±1.39 g (C), 36.47±1.33 g (6F/1S), 29.01±1.01 g (5F/2S) and 24.21±0.82 g (4F/3S) respectively (p<0.05). SGR were 2.54±0.17 (C), 2.64±0.20 (6F/1S), 2.37±0.06 (5F/2S) and 2.10±0.09 (4F/3S) (p<0.05) and FCR values recorded were 1.29±0.05 (C), 1.12±0.01 (6F/1S), 1.21±0.01 (5F/2S) and 1.24±0.01 (4F/3S). Crude protein and lipid values in restricted feeding groups were higher than those of the control group (p<0.05) while SFA and MUFA values increased with starvation period while DHA, EPA, PUFA and Omega-3 values decreased with starvation period (p<0.05). Results of the study clearly showed that restricted feeding had effect on the growth parameters, biochemical composition and fatty acid compositions in European seabass.
Diet shifts and delayed piscivory specialisation during the ontogenesis of the largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides (Lacepede, 1802) in the Nakdong River and Upo Wetlands, South Korea
Authors: Jo Hyunbin , Yoon Ju-Duk , Kim Jeong-Hui , Jeong Kwang-Seuk , Do Yuno , Joo Gea-Jae
Published: January 2017

In this study, we examined the ontogenetic changes in prey selection pattern of largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides (Lacepede, 1802) in accordance with habitat type. The stomach contents of largemouth bass were analysed with respect to predator size classes for two different habitats (Nakdong River main channel and the Upo Wetlands tributary) in South Korea, that differed in the diversity of potential prey items. The diversity (H′) of invertebrate diet items in stomach of largemouth bass was found significantly different between the study sites. Small large mouth bass (<100 mm) preferred to consume decapods and mayflies in the river and wet land systems respectively. Fishes >100 mm in the river and >200 mm in the wet land system preferred fish as their prey. Results demonstrated variations in composition of prey items as influenced by habitat characteristics as well as habitat use type, contributed to the delayed ontogenetic diet shift in the largemouth bass population.
Prevalence of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus in selected seafood markets and aquaculture farms in Kerala, south-west coast of India
Authors: Murugadas V. , Joseph Toms C. , Reshmi K. , Lalitha K. V.
Published: January 2017

A study was carried out to understand the prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in selected seafood commodities, market environment as well as in aquaculture farms in Kerala, along the south-west coast of India. Two hundred and thirty three samples comprising finfish, crustaceans, molluscs and fishery environmental samples from markets as well as aquaculture farms were collected and screened for the presence of MRSA. The S. aureus isolates obtained from the samples were checked for resistance to methicillin, oxacillin and cefoxitin by antimicrobial sensitivity test and further confirmed by oxacillin agar screening method. A multiplex PCR was employed targeting mecA, nuc and 16s rDNA genes to differentiate S. aureus and MRSA from other staphylococci. It was found that 13.4% of the samples harboured MRSA while the overall prevalence of S. aureus was found to be 36.5%. This study has clearly indicated high prevalence of methicillin resistant S. aureus strains in the seafood as well as in environmental samples from seafood markets and aquaculture farms in Kerala. The prevalence of methicillin resistant strains of staphylococci in fish indicates high risk associated with fish handlers and fish farmers.
Fishery, diet composition and reproductive biology of the dolphinfish Coryphaena hippurus (Linnaeus, 1758) off Karnataka, south-west coast of India
Authors: Rajesh K. M. , Rohit Prathibha , Abdussamad E. M.
Published: January 2017

Fishery, diet composition and reproductive biology of the dolphinfish Coryphaena hippurus (Linnaeus, 1758) landed along Karnataka Coast during 2013-15 were studied. The estimated average landing of the species in India during the study period was 7975 t of which Karnataka contributed 2.73% (218 t). The fish is mainly exploited by gillnet and also by troll lines operated from trawlers. A few stray specimens were also landed by purse seines. The fork length (FL) was in the range of 32-128 cm and fishes in the length range (FL) of 55-90 cm dominated the catch, contributing 79.8% of the total landings. The most dominant prey item, in terms of occurrence (70.57%) and weight (83.18%) were finfishes followed by cephalopods (19.62% by occurrence and 13.66% by weight) and crustaceans (7.01% occurrence and 1.32% by weight). The index of relative importance (IRI ) values were 85.3, 13.39 and 0.68% respectively for fish, cephalopods and crustaceans respectively. Sex ratio (1:2.05) indicated dominance of females in the fishery. Presence of mature and spent specimens throughout the year suggests that the species spawns all through the year. Peak spawning period was from June to September. This coincided with gradual increase in gonadosomatic index (GSI) values ahead of May which reached a peak during August-September.
Diet and feeding habits of Saurida tumbil (Bloch, 1795) from northern Kerala, South-west coast of India
Authors: Manojkumar P. P. , Pavithran P. P.
Published: January 2017

Composition of the diet of greater lizardfish Saurida tumbil (Bloch, 1795), caught from northern Kerala, south-west coast of India was studied and described. The stomachs of 1981 specimens were collected between January, 2012 and June, 2014. Analysis of stomach contents based on index of relative importance (IRI) revealed that this species is exclusively piscivorous. Contrary to other benthic predators of the study area, it mainly feeds on pelagic and demersal fishes(IRI = 63.2), molluscs (IRI = 17.86), crustaceans (IRI = 18.33) and other miscellaneous items (IRI = 2.54). The diet of S. tumbil were found to be related to the seasonal availability of resources, occurrence of juveniles of certain species and on the migration of fishes from nearby places to the study area. Significant changes in prey items were observed between predator length groups, but a positive, significant relationship was recorded between prey size and predator size (p<0.05). Statistical analysis indicated a uniform representation of different diets in the stomach. Maximum similarity in diet between different food items was found in April and November.