bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Viscosity model for aluminosilicate melt
Authors: Zhang G.H. , Chou K.C.
Published: December 2012

The structurally based viscosity model proposed in our previous study is
extended to include more components, e.g. SiO2, Al2O3, FeO, MnO, MgO, CaO,
Na2O and K2O. A simple method is proposed to calculate the numbers of
different types of oxygen ions classified by the different cations they
bonded with, which is used to characterize the influence of composition on
viscosity. When dealing with the aluminosilicate melts containing several
basic oxides, the priority order is established for different cations for
charge compensating Al3+ ions, according to the coulombic force between
cation and oxygen anion. It is indicated that basic oxides have two paradox
influences on viscosity: basic oxide with a higher basicity decreases
viscosity more greatly by forming weaker non-bridging oxygen bond; while it
increases viscosity more greatly by forming stronger bridging oxygen bond in
tetrahedron after charge compensating Al3+ ion. The present model can
extrapolate its application range to the system without SiO2. Furthermore, it
could also give a satisfy interpretation to the abnormal phenomenon that
viscosity increases when adding K2O to CaO-Al2O3-SiO2 melt within a certain
composition range.
Phase evolution in an MCrAlY coating during high temperature exposure
Authors: Costa C. , Barbareschi E. , Guarnone P. , Borzone G.
Published: December 2012

MCrAlY (M = Ni and/or Co) coating systems are often applied on gas turbine
blades and vanes to withstand the challenges of severe conditions. During
service MCrAlY coatings are subjected to microstructural transformations that
can be an indication of components service temperatures. The development of
indirect methods to measure this parameter is of great concern in the gas
turbine ?world? due to the impossibility of direct measurements. In the
present work the evolution of an MCrAlY coating applied on Rene80 by LPPS
(Low Pressure Plasma Spray) technique has been studied in order to verify if
it was possible to identify a microstructural indicator of the service
temperature. The specimens were exposed for different lengths of time at test
temperatures of 700 - 800 - in order to characterize the phase evolution with
time and temperature. Selective etching was employed for optical
metallographic investigation. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) observation
combined with Electron Backscattered Diffraction (EBSD) and Energy Dispersive
Spectroscopy (EDS) showed that the coating is composed of a ?- Co matrix,
?-AlNi, ?-(Cr, Co), Cr carbide and Y-rich phases. Among these phases, the
sigma phase resulted in a temperature - composition dependence that can be a
useful tool for evaluating the local service temperature and modelling the
residual lifetime.
The settling of the Petrus region
Authors: Mihaljcic Rade , Vukovic Tamara
Published: December 2012

The Petrus region, extending around the upper stream of the Great Morava, the
Grza and the Jovanovacka Reka, was not inhabited in Czar Dusan?s reign. The
Czar?s charter indicates that it was a wasteland (pustos), which Zupan
Vukosav and his sons Drzman and Crep were bequeathed. The wasteland was soon
populated through internal and external colonisation. As early as in 1360,
the nobility of the Virgin of Petrus, a foundation of the Vukoslavic family,
had five villages in their possession. The Vukoslavic family formed another
metochion on their land which they donated to the Athonite monastery of Laura
of St Athanasius. The censuses of these metochia give information on internal
colonisation. A considerable amount of text was written on the ruralisation
of the Vlachs as an aspect of internal and external colonisation.
"Fiore di virtù" tradotto da Vicentije Rakic
Authors: Djuric Zeljko
Published: December 2012

Il trattato medievale Fiore di virt? con la sua ricca e plurisecolare
presenza nella cultura e nella letteratura non solo italiana ma anche quella
europea, non solo cattolica ma anche quella ortodossa, ha suscitato interesse
anche del nostro sacerdote illuminato Vicentije Rakic che nella sua
diversificata attivit? letteraria, tra la fine del Settecento e l?inizio
dell?Ottocento, ha scelto anche di tradurre e di presentare al pubblico serbo
quel libro nella speranza di poter arricchire il non molto vasto repertorio
dei libri utili e educativi della cultura serba di quel periodo.
Dva znacajna zapisa o stamparu Makariju
Authors: Savic Viktor
Published: December 2012

nema
O sabackom trgovcu Kuzmanu, ocu pripovedaca Laze Lazarevica
Authors: Peric Djordje
Published: December 2012

nema
The Role of eGovernance in Mitigating Corruption
Authors: Mistry Jamshed J.
Published: December 2012

This paper presents a model that illustrates the enablers of corruption, and delineates how eGovernance, based on the principles of transparency and accountability, can dismantle the enablers of corruption. Key enablers of corruption, such as economic rents, discretionary power of bureaucrats, and weak institutions, are identified from the extant literature to argue that these enablers undermine the public interest through unequal access to basic goods and services. The critical role of accounting and accounting information systems is highlighted by examining selected eGovernance initiatives that enhance transparency and accountability in dismantling corruption. Reduction of the discretionary power of bureaucrats, enforced consequences, and the demand for accountability enables equal access to information and public goods and services that could result in a bridging of the economic divide in a developing country such as India. Hence, a case study of India is utilized to analyze and assess the success of eGovernance initiatives and/or strategies to combat corruption. Various data sources were analyzed to assess the success or lack thereof of such initiatives. The results provide encouraging evidence that corruption can be mitigated through initiatives that enable transparency and accountability to dismantle the enablers of corruption.
Comparability of Earnings in Scandinavian Countries: The Impact of Mandatory IFRS Adoption and Stock Exchange Consolidations
Authors: Caban-Garcia Maria T. , He Haihong
Published: December 2012

This study examines the impact on the comparability of earnings of two important events that occurred in 2005 in the Scandinavian region: the European Union-mandated adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and the mergers between the three national exchanges of Denmark, Finland, and Sweden. Our tests follow two approaches. The first approach relies on mean-centered earnings/price multiples following Land and Lang (2002) to determine if the multiples converge in the 2005–2008 period. Our results show that all countries except Finland experienced a lower mean-centered earnings/price ratio in the 2005–2008 period. Additionally, in the 2005–2008 period, the mean-centered earnings/price ratio in Norway deviates from the region's mean more than it deviates from the mean in Finland, Denmark, and Sweden, even after controlling for other firm and country factors. Our second approach uses a firm-year comparability measure (De Franco et al. 2011) calculated during the 2001–2004 and 2005–2008 periods to assess whether comparability increases during the 2005–2008 period. Since the two events in our study are contemporaneous, we use Norway as a benchmark to separate the effect of IFRS from that of harmonized regulation after the merger. The results generally show that comparability is significantly higher during the 2005–2008 period in all countries. Our multivariate tests also confirm that comparability increases (although marginally) for all OMX Nordic Exchange countries, relative to Norway, from the 2001–2004 to the 2005–2008 period.

Data Availability: Data are available from public sources indicated in the paper.
Relations of Perception of Responsibility to Intrinsic Motivation and Physical Activity among Korean Middle School Students
Authors: Lee Okseon , Kim Younhee , Kim Byoung Jun
Published: December 2012

To validate the Personal and Social Responsibility Questionnaire, the relations between perceived responsibility and intrinsic motivation were examined among Korean middle school students. The relations of change in stages of physical activity and students' perceived responsibility were also examined. Participants were 357 middle school students (160 boys, 197 girls) from three schools in the Seoul metropolitan area. Exploratory factor analysis supported a three-factor structure with effort and self-direction merged into one factor and the responsibilities of respect and caring for others constituted separate factors. Pearson correlations among factors showed perceptions of personal responsibility were associated with more intrinsic motivation toward physical education and a higher stage of physical activity. A moderate or low association between perceived social responsibility and intrinsic motivation implied a need to develop strategies for Korean students to use social responsibility for promoting physical activity.
Effect of a Physical Fitness Program on Physical Self-Concept and Physical Fitness Elements in Primary School Students
Authors: Mayorga-Vega D. , Viciana J. , Cocca A. , Villén B. de Rueda
Published: December 2012

The purpose of this study was to assess the short-term effect of a physical fitness program on physical self-concept and physical fitness elements among primary school students. Spanish boys and girls ( N = 75; M age = 11.1 yr., SD = 0.4) were divided into an experimental group and a control group. During physical education classes, the experimental group performed an 8-week program including two circuits of 8 exercises done for 15 to 35 sec. each with 45 to 25 sec. of rest between them. Physical self-concept (Physical Self-Description Questionnaire) and physical fitness (EUROFIT battery tests) were measured at the beginning and at the end of the physical fitness program. The results showed that the improvements in physical fitness were not accompanied by major changes in physical self-concept, even though the physical fitness program seemed to maintain the Experimental group's previous physical appearance, strength, and self-esteem perceptions, all of which statistically significantly decreased in the control group after the intervention.
Psycho-Social Factors Determining Success in High-Performance Triathlon: Compared Perception in the Coach-Athlete Pair
Authors: Ruiz-Tendero Germán , Martín Juan JOSé Salinero
Published: December 2012

High-level sport can be analyzed using the complex system model, in which performance is constrained by many factors. Coaches' and athletes' perceptions of important positive and negative factors affecting performance were compared. Participants were 48 high-level international triathletes ( n = 34) and their coaches ( n = 14). They were personally interviewed via a questionnaire designed by four accredited experts, who selected groups of both positive and negative factors affecting performance. A list of factors was developed, in order of greater to lesser importance in the opinion of athletes and coaches, for subsequent analysis. Two ranked lists (positive and negative factors) indicated that athletes appear to rate personal environment factors (family, teammates, lack of support from relatives) higher, while the coaches tended to give more importance to technical and institutional aspects (institutional support, coach, medical support). There was complete agreement between coaches and triathletes about the top five positive factors. Negative factor agreement was somewhat lower (agreement on 3/5 factors). The most important positive factor for coaches and athletes was “dedication/engagement,” while the most important factor adversely affecting performance was “injuries.”
Movement Imagery for Speech in Healthy Women: Influences on Articulation Accuracy and Fluidity, Imagery Times, and Expectations of Success
Authors: Mantie-Kozlowski Alana , Netsell Ronald , Daniel Todd
Published: December 2012

The use of movement imagery in speech performance has received less attention than it has in many other professional disciplines. 30 healthy monolingual native English speakers participated in this within-subjects study. Participants' speech accuracy and fluidity was compared when they used movement imagery and when they did not. The timing of imagery and articulation were compared using a chronometric paradigm. Participants' expectations of improvement when using movement imagery for speech were compared to their actual performance. The results from this study support the use of movement imagery for speech with a single imaging event for the purpose of improving speech fluidity, but not for improving articulation accuracy. The chronometric system as a tool for monitoring adherence to the movement imagery protocol for speech proved valuable. Finally, while estimation inflation has been reported by some using movement imagery techniques, this was not the case for the participants of this study.
Epileptic-Like Symptoms and Stress Conditions in Adolescents
Authors: Bob Petr , Selesova Petra , Kukla Lubomir
Published: December 2012

According to recent clinical data, epileptiform changes in temporolimbic structures may be related to psychopathological symptoms known to be related to stress. These data are also consistent with findings that temporal lobe epileptiform activity may provoke various somatic, sensory, behavioral, and memory disturbances similar to temporolimbic seizures and may lead to complex partial seizure-like symptoms which may also occur in nonepileptic conditions. Together, these findings suggest a hypothesis concerning the extent to which psychopathological changes usually related to stress may be associated with complex partial seizure-like symptoms or whether these symptoms might more likely be explained by various somatic factors. To test the hypothesis in a sample particularly vulnerable to stress, these relations between stress-related psychopathology and complex partial seizure-like symptoms were examined in a sample of 340 adolescents. Complex partial seizure-like symptoms were significantly associated with stress-related psychopathology: even mild stress may cause symptoms similar to cognitive and affective disturbances observed in patients with complex partial seizures.
The Time Course of Information Extraction from Instructional Diagrams
Authors: Eitel Alexander , Scheiter Katharina , Schüler Anne
Published: December 2012

This study investigated which information is extracted from a brief glance at an instructional diagram to assess its possible contribution for learning with text and diagrams. An experimental paradigm from scene perception research was used to study diagrams. University students ( N = 20) saw pictures showing a scene or instructional diagrams for four different presentation times (50 msec. vs 250 msec, vs 1, 000 msec, vs 3,000 msec). Following presentation of a picture or diagram, respectively, participants were asked to verify a statement about its gist, details, and the functioning (for diagrams only). Repeated-measures analyses of variance (ANOVAs) were used to analyze verification accuracy for statements about gist, details, and the functioning as well as the eye movements (i.e., fixation durations and saccade amplitudes) during picture inspection. In both scenes and instructional diagrams, gist but not details were accurately identified from a first glance at the picture (i.e., at 50 msec, and 250 msec). In contrast, verification accuracy for gist and details increased at a slower rate in instructional diagrams than in scene pictures over presentation times. Moreover, the characteristic function of increasing fixation durations with increasing inspection time was found in scenes, but not in instructional diagrams. Taken together, results suggest that both types of illustrations are processed differently at longer inspection times; however, patterns of early information extraction are similar, namely that the gist but far less information about details is extracted. Results imply people are able to extract an instructional diagram's global spatial structure from a first glance, which may be helpful to learning from text.
Causes of Difficulty in Duration Judgments: Comment on Francuz and Oleś (2011)
Authors: Okazaki Yoshihiro S. , Fumiko Matsuda
Published: December 2012

In 2011, Okazaki and Matsuda showed in studies that college students could not correctly estimate the duration of movement of two objects. Fancuz and Oleś (2011) proposed two explanations of the observed task difficulty. First, they suggested that the cause of the difficulty for the duration judgments involved the experimental procedure, which may have overloaded the cognitive capacities of these students. This study presents results that indicate there was no overload. Second, because the training was intended to improve response accuracy, but it failed to significantly increase accuracy rates, Fancuz and Oleś (2011) suggested there was insufficient time for learning about the task. With respect to these results, Fancuz and Oleś (2011) are correct in pointing out that the training duration could be an issue.
Effects of Practice on Magnitude and Structure of Force Variability during Periodic Unimanual Isometric Force Production
Authors: Masumoto Junya , Inui Nobuyuki
Published: December 2012

The present study examined practice effects on the magnitude and structure of force variability using multiscale entropy analysis. Ten male participants ( M age = 22.5 yr., SD = 1.7) produced unimanual isometric forces cycling between low levels of maximum voluntary contraction. The participants practiced the motor task over ten blocks: one block consisted of one self-paced recall trial immediately after nine audibly-synchronized practice trials with feedback of force output. Although the coefficient of variation of the force-time series in the recall trial had a greater magnitude than that in the practice, the recall trial had lower sample entropy values of force output (higher time structure of force variability). Multiscale entropy analysis did not find a practice effect on the time structure of force variability on a short time scale (10 msec.) but did on a long time scale (20–60 msec). Different tasks have different time scales of force output, and the task demands of the present experiment emphasized the long time scales.
Developmental Changes of Misconception and Misperception of Projectiles
Authors: Kim In-Kyeong
Published: December 2012

This study investigated the developmental changes of perceptual and cognitive commonsense physical knowledge. Children 4 to 9 years old ( N = 156; 79 boys, 77 girls) participated. Each child was asked to predict the landing positions of balls that rolled down and fell off a virtual ramp and to choose the most natural-looking motion from different projectile motions depicted. The landing position of the most natural-looking projectile was compared with the predicted landing position and also compared with the actual landing position. The results showed children predicted the ball's landing position closer to the ramp than the actual position. Children also chose the depiction in which the ball fell closer to the ramp than the accurate position, although the error in the prediction task was larger than in the perception task and decreased with age. The results indicated the developmental convergence of explicit reasoning and implicit perception, which suggest a single knowledge system with representational re-description.
Effects of Two Different Training Programs with Same Workload on Throwing Velocity by Experienced Water Polo Players
Authors: Marques Mário C. , Liberal Silvério M. , Costa Aldo M. , van den Tillaar Roland , Sánchez-Medina Luis , Martins Júlio C. , Marinho Daniel A.
Published: December 2012

To investigate the effects of two different strength-training programs with the same workload (impulse) on throwing velocity in water polo, 30 water polo players ( M age = 17.1 yr., SD = 4.9; M mass = 71.2 kg, SD = 14.7; M height =1.75 m, SD = 0.09 m) were randomly divided in two groups based upon throwing performance with water polo ball. The medicine-ball training group performed 3 × 6 reps with a 3-kg medicine ball, while the combination training group completed 1 × 9 repetitions with the 3-kg medicine ball, followed by 3 × 14 repetitions with a water polo ball. Both groups trained eight weeks twice per week in addition to their regular water polo training. Throwing velocity was measured with a Doppler radar gun before and after the training period. Testing included throws with a water polo ball on land and in water, as well as with 1-kg and 3-kg medicine balls on land. Statistically significant increases were found in mean peak throwing velocity with the water polo, 1-kg, and 3-kg medicine balls after training. No differences between the groups were found, except in throwing velocity with water polo on land, with a statistically significantly larger increase for the combination training group (+ 7.6%) than the medicine-ball training group (+ 3.4%). These findings indicate that after training with the same workload (impulse), increases in throwing velocity in water polo are similar and suggesting workload may be a critical variable for training results.
Affordance Effects in Grasping Actions for Graspable Objects: Electromyographic Reaction Time Study
Authors: Suzuki Tomotaka , Takagi Mineko , Sugawara Kenichi
Published: December 2012

It is unclear whether affordance effects shorten the reaction time in the interaction between objects and actions. This study investigated affordance effects based on compatibility between perception of graspable objects and the act of grasping. The electromyographic reaction time (EMG–RT) was used as the response, and Go/NoGo (Experiment 1) and choice (Experiment 2) reaction-time tasks were performed using combinations of two types of stimulus image (tools and animals) and two types of response task (flexion and extension of all fingers). In Experiment 1, no interaction of stimulus images and response tasks occurred, but the EMG–RT for tools was statistically significantly delayed longer than that for animals. In Experiment 2, the EMG–RT of flexion of all fingers for tools was statistically significantly delayed compared with that for animals, showing interaction. Affordance effects based on compatibility of objects and actions are the basis on human-tool interaction. This interaction induces a goal-directed act and prolongs motor execution of grasping actions for them.
Cognitive Strategies for Goalkeeper Responding to Soccer Penalty Kick
Authors: Peiyong Zhou , Inomata Kimihiro
Published: December 2012

The main aim of the present study was to examine how a goalkeeper's response-initiation time influences the accuracy of the response to a soccer penalty kick. The participants were 24 university male students in two groups: 12 experienced soccer goalkeepers, and 12 experienced soccer field players. They were required to watch videos made by three different kickers preparing a penalty kick, then 12 ensuing moments, occluded 467 msec, before impact of the kicker's foot with the ball to 267 msec. after impact. There were three different kicks (instep, front of foot, inside of foot) directed at three different possible positions within the goal (left, right, center). As a response, participants were required to move their body to intercept the oncoming ball. Results showed that neither the goalkeepers' group nor the field players' group could use the advance visual cues to anticipate the direction of the ball when they initiated a response before the moment of impact during the penalty kick, but all groups were successful when the response was initiated after impact. The goalkeepers' group had a significantly faster response-initiation time than the field players' group. It was inferred that the goalkeepers were more likely to adopt a strategy of relying on situational probabilities in situations where the speed of response is critical.
Application of splines for determining the velocity characteristic of a medium from a vertical seismic survey
Authors: Bogdanov Vladimir , Karsten Wladimir , Miroshnichenko Valeriy , Volkov Yuriy
Published: December 2012

A method for solving the inverse kinematic problem of determining the velocity characteristic of a medium from a vertical seismic survey, is proposed. It is based on the combined use of the eikonal equation and spline methods of approximation for multivariable functions. The problem is solved by assuming a horizontally stratified medium; no assumptions about the number of layers and their thickness are made. First, using the data of the first arrival times of the seismic signal from several shotpoints, which are registered by detectors located in the vertical borehole, a spline approximating the function of first arrival time of the signal from source points to any point in the Earth subsurface is constructed. Then with the help of the eikonal equation, the characteristic of the medium around the borehole is determined. Numerical experiments on the model and the real data show high efficiency of the proposed method.
Subcutaneous adipose tissue measurements and better metabolic prediction
Authors: Ristic Petar , Bokonjic Dubravko , Zivkovic Vladimir , Jakovljevic Vladimir , Zdravkovic Marija , Pejovic Janko , Ristic Dragana , Mladenovic Jovan
Published: December 2012

The aim of the study was to establish the importance of an additional measurement of subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness (SAT) on a predetermined position on the waistline, and its relation to waist measurements as an improvement of metabolic prediction in equally obese subjects. One hundred and forty two consecutive patients were enrolled in the study: stratified by weight as normal (body mass index — BMI 20–25 kg/m2), overweight (BMI 25–30 kg/m2) and obese (BMI >30 kg/m2); and by fasting glucose level as normoglycemic, impaired fasting glucose (IFG), or with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). SAT was measured in relaxed expiration, 3 cm left of the umbilicus, with ultrasound. Fasting blood samples for glucose, insulin and HbAlc were taken. Waist circumference was slightly higher in the IFG (112.8 cm) and normoglycemic groups (115.62 cm), compared to T2DM (108.15 cm). The T2DM group had a lower average SAT (2.7 cm) than both the IFG group (3.4 cm, p<0.01) and the normoglycemic group (4.2cm, p=0.001). The homeostatic model of assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA IR) was the lowest in normoglycemic and the highest in IFG group. Waistline radius to SAT ratio provides better insight into the deterioration of glucose metabolism than standard anthropometric markers of abdominal obesity in equally obese patients.
Road Cross-Section Width and Free-Flow Speed on Two-Lane Rural Highways
Authors: Melo Pedro , Lobo António , Couto António , Rodrigues Carlos Manuel
Published: December 2012

Speed choice is strongly influenced by geometric road features. In this work, the influence of lane and shoulder widths on free-flow speed was studied with the driving simulator DriS at the University of Porto in Porto, Portugal. To evaluate how speed was influenced by the cross section, this study investigated the possible influence of the order of magnitude of the practiced speeds on the effects of variations in lane and shoulder widths. Two types of roads with different base speeds were considered. The roads were presented to drivers on a driving simulator. The validity of the data obtained in the simulator was confirmed through a comparative analysis of the registered speeds in the real environments for the equivalent simulator conditions at six points of control. The lane and shoulder widths from which the free-flow speed was no longer conditioned by the dimensions of the road's cross section were obtained, as well as the reduction in speed associated with smaller widths. Contrary to what was suggested by the Highway Capacity Manual 2010, the individual effects of variations in lane and shoulder widths were not cumulative; greater impacts on free-flow speed were obtained by their simultaneous variation.
Super 2 Highways in Texas: Operational and Safety Characteristics
Authors: Brewer Marcus A. , Venglar Steven P. , Fitzpatrick Kay , Ding Liang , Park Byung-Jung
Published: December 2012

As traffic volumes increase in both urban and rural areas, so do demands on the highway network. Specifically, as rural traffic volumes rise in Texas, the pressure on the state's network of two-lane highways rises accordingly. Previous research in Texas demonstrated that periodic passing lanes can improve operations on two-lane highways with average daily traffic lower than 5,000 vehicles. These highways, called Super 2 highways, can provide many of the benefits of a four-lane alignment at a lower cost. A recent project expanded on that research to develop design guidelines for passing lanes on two-lane highways with higher volumes. Researchers investigated the effects of volume, terrain, and heavy vehicles on traffic flow and safety. This paper discusses findings from field observations and crash analysis of existing Super 2 highway corridors in Texas and computer modeling of traffic conditions on a simulated Super 2 corridor. Results indicate that passing lanes provide added benefit at higher traffic volumes by reducing crashes, delay, and percent time spent following. Empirical Bayes analysis of crash data reveals a 35% reduction in expected nonintersection crashes with injuries. Simulation results indicate that most passing activity takes place within the first mile of the passing lane, so additional passing lanes can offer greater benefit than longer passing lanes. Whether new passing lanes are added or existing lanes are lengthened, the incremental benefit diminishes as additional length is provided and the highway more closely resembles a four-lane alignment.
Safety and Economic Impacts of Converting Two-Way Frontage Roads to One-Way Operation
Authors: Eisele William L. , Frawley William E. , Park Eun Sug , Robertson James
Published: December 2012

In some states (e.g., Texas), frontage roads have been a design solution for providing access along rural freeways and access-controlled principal arterials. In rural and lesser-developed urban areas, the frontage roads are usually operated as two-way facilities because of relatively long distances between interchanges. As areas become more urban and the adjacent land is developed, traffic volumes increase, and as interchange spacing decreases, it becomes desirable to convert the frontage roads to one-way operation. There is a need to objectify safety impacts of frontage road conversion, and business and property owners are often concerned with economic impacts related to access, business activity, and property values. Recognizing these needs and concerns, the Texas Department of Transportation contracted with the Texas A&M Transportation Institute to investigate the safety and economic impacts of converting two-way frontage roads to one way. Researchers investigated eight sites throughout Texas: both conversion sites and comparison sites that remained two way. Researchers developed 12 crash modification factors by crash severity and crash type for frontage road conversion. A sample application is provided in this paper. To assess economic impacts, researchers obtained parcel-level appraisal data and found overall increases in appraised values. Researchers surveyed business owners and managers and customers. Researchers found that business owners and managers are typically concerned with access, gross sales, and ramp and interchange locations and spacing. Finally, researchers identified lessons learned with the crash data for those performing safety analyses.
Analytical Capacity Comparison of One-Way and Two-Way Signalized Street Networks
Authors: Gayah Vikash V. , Daganzo Carlos F.
Published: December 2012

Recently cities have been converting traditional one-way downtown street networks to two-way operation partly because one-way networks are seen as confusing and as less conducive to economic activity and a livable environment and they require vehicles to travel longer distances on average. However, one of the main disadvantages of such conversions is thought to be a reduction in the network's ability to serve vehicles. Intersections in two-way networks can serve fewer vehicles per unit time than their one-way counterparts. Several studies have assessed the differences between these two types of networks, but most studies are site specific and do not consider the best possible two-way networks. This paper presents an analytical model that uses macroscopic analysis techniques to compare various one-way and two-way networks using their trip-serving capacities. This metric is a key indicator of network performance. Two-way networks can serve more trips per unit time than one-way networks when average trip lengths are short. This study also found that two-way networks in which left-turn movements were banned at intersections could always serve trips at a higher rate than one-way networks could, even long trips. Thus, the trip-serving capacity of a one-way network can actually be increased when it is converted to two-way operation if left turns are banned. In this way, livability and efficiency objectives can be achieved simultaneously. This framework can be used by planners and engineers to determine how much a network's capacity changes after a conversion, and also to unveil superior conversion options.
Optimization of alkali-thermostable and cellulase-free eylanase production from Bacillus Sp.
Authors: Sharma SCD , Shovon MS , Asaduzzaman AKM , Jahan MG Sarowar , Yeasmin T , Roy N
Published: December 2012

Context: To analyze the nutritional and physicochemical parameters for the production of alkali-thermostable and cellulase free xylanase from bacteria. Objectives: The aim of this study was to isolation and identification and of alkali-thermostable and cellulase free xylanase producing bacteria from soil as well as optimization of process parameters for xylanase production. Materials and Methods: The bacterium Bacillus sp. was isolated from soil by serial dilution technique on xylan agar medium and identified by morphological and biochemical studies. The production of xylanase was carried out on xylan broth medium and xylanase activity was assayed by dinitrosalicylic acid (DNS) method. The effect of cultural parameters on the production of xylanase was determined by measuring the activity of xylanase. The effect of temperature and pH on the activity of partially purified xylanase as well as substrate specificity of xylanase were examined. Results: The maximum xylanase production (4000 U/L) by a Bacillus sp. was attained when the medium containing 0.5% wheat bran xylan and peptone at pH 8.0 and 50-55°C within 48-60 h. The partially purified xylanase was optimally active at pH 9.0 and 55°C. The xylanase showed high substrate activity towards wheat bran xylan but no activity towards cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose and starch. Thus the enzyme was alkali-thermostable and cellulase free xylanase. Conclusion: The results obtained in this study suggest that the Bacillus sp. used is highly potential and useful for the production of cellulase free xylanase. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbs.v19i0.12994 J. bio-sci. 19: 7-14, 2011
Antagonistic potentials of Trichoderma Spp. against fruit rot of custard apple caused by Phoma ligam
Authors: Ojha Suprakash , Chakraborty Manoranjan , Chatterjee Narayan Chandra
Published: December 2012

Context: Custard-apple (Annona squamosa Linn.) is a popular tropical fruit and fruit-rot disease caused by Phoma lingam leads to considerable qualitative and quantitative damages to the fruit in the area under study. Objective: Studies were conducted to investigate the antagonistic potential of five Trichoderma spp. namely, T. harzianum, T. hamatum, T. lignorum, T. reesei and T. viride against in vitro growth of the pathogen followed by field experiments. Materials and Methods: Dual culture plate, closed petriplate and food poisoning technique were followed in order to ascertain the antagonistic potential of the five species of Trichoderma. Hyphal interaction between the pathogen and T. viride was studied by collecting mycelial samples from the interaction zone of dual culture plate and was processed for scanning electron microscope. Plants with infected fruits were sprayed with spore suspension of T. viride and two commercial bioformulations of T. viride viz. Trichofix and Trichoguard for three times at a dose of 0.1, 0.5 and 1.0% prepared in distilled water. Results: All the Trichoderma species more or less effectively inhibited the growth of the pathogen through mycoparasitism, production of volatile and non-volatile metabolites. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) micrographs revealed that hyphal interaction between P. lingam and T. viride leads to lysis of the pathogenic mycelium by the antagonist. Field experiments with spore suspension of T. viride and Trichofix and Trichoguard significantly reduced fruit rot incidence of custard-apple. Conclusion: The results of the current study indicate that adoption of biocontrol based disease management programmes can be effectively utilized against similar fruit diseases. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbs.v19i0.12995 J. bio-sci. 19: 15-21, 2011
Antidiabetic activity of Centella asiatica (L.) urbana in alloxan induced Type 1 diabetic model rats
Authors: Rahman Sonia , Jamal MAH Mostofa , Parvin Anzana , Mahfuz-Al-Mamun Md , Islam M Rezuanul
Published: December 2012

Context: Diabetes mellitus is becoming a major burden upon healthcare facilities in all affected countries. Current therapies used for diabetics have side effects, so the current shift to the use of herbal preparations may be more effective, relatively low cost, less side effect and low toxicity. Objective: The present research was made to investigate the potential antidiabetic activity of Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. in alloxen induced diabetics. Materials and Methods: Rats were divided into 6 groups and C. asiatica was administered containing 50, 100 and 200 mg/kgbwt powder, respectively in 1ml water orally in group A, B and C rats. Metformin (150 mg/kgbwt) used as a reference standard drug. Blood glucose (BG), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoproteins (HDL), low density lipoproteins (LDL), serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) were estimated from the serum by using standard kits. Results: C. asiatica juice had shown significant lowered the blood glucose levels in all groups. In addition, body weight, organ (liver, kidney, heart and pancreas) weight, food intake, water intake were also examined in all treated groups and compared against diabetic control group. After 22 days daily administration of C. asiatica, diabetic treated rats showed improvement in body weight, water intake as compared to diabetic control rats. In alloxan induced diabetic rats the maximum reduction in BG, TG, TC, HDL, LDL, SGOT and SGPT were observed at a dose level of 50 mg/kgbwt. Conclusion: The present data indicates that C. asiatica juice possesses potential as an antidiabetic action. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbs.v19i0.12996 J. bio-sci. 19: 23-27, 2011
Genetic diversity in wild and hatchery populations of stinging catfish (Heteropneustes fossilis Bloch) revealed by RAPD analysis
Authors: Islam Md Nazrul , Basak Abhishak , Ashrafullah Dr , Alam Md Samsul
Published: December 2012

Context: DNA fingerprinting using genetic markers such as Random Amplification of Polymorphic DNA (RAPD), Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP), microsatellite (Simple sequence repeat), Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) etc. can be successfully used to reveal genetic variation within and among different populations. Objective: The aim of the present study was to assess genetic diversity in two wild and one hatchery populations of stinging catfish Heteropneustes fossilis by RAPD fingerprinting. Materials and Methods: A total of 90 live fish (H. fossilis), 30 from each source, were collected from a beel in Patuakhali, a beel in Jessore and Rupali Hatchery, Mymensingh. Genomic DNA was extracted from fin tissues. The concentration of DNA was estimated using a spectrophotometer. Fifteen decamer primers of random sequence from three kits (six from kit A, seven from kit B and two from kit C) (Operon technologies, Inc., Alameda, CA, USA) were screened on sub-samples of one randomly chosen H. fossilis DNA sample from the each population to test their suitability for amplifying RAPDs. The amplified products from each sample were separated by electrophoresis on 1.4% agarose gel containing ethidium bromide. The sizes of the bands were calculated using the software DNAFRAG and the sizes in base pair (bp) were used for identification of the bands (RAPD markers). The similarity index values (SI) between the RAPD fingerprint of any two individuals on the same gel were calculated from RAPD band sharing. Results: A total of 28 RAPD bands were obtained using four decamer random primers, among which 21 bands were polymorphic. The percentage of polymorphic loci, intra-population similarity indices and Nei's gene diversity values were 85.71%, 78.75 and 0.304±0.183 for Jessore population, 83.71%, 82.62 and 0.280±0.159 for Patuakhali population, 82.14%, 85.25 and 0.271±0.165 for Rupali hatchery population, respectively. The overall gene flow (Nm) among the populations was 5.755. The highest inter-similarity (Sij) was found between Patuakhali - Rupali hatchery populations. Among the three populations, the highest genetic distance (0.069) was found between Jessore and Patuakhali population. Considering polymorphic loci, intrapopulation similarity index and gene diversity the genetic variation in the Jessore population was higher than the other two populations. The genetic variation of the hatchery population was found to be lower than the two wild populations. Conclusion: The result of the present study can be used as baseline information regarding the genetic variation and population structure before undertaking any breeding programme. Study indicated that the genetic variation in the hatchery populations were slightly lower than those of the wild populations. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbs.v19i0.13005 J. bio-sci. 19 81-87, 2011
Influences of leaf cutting on growth and yield of rice
Authors: Khatun M Mahmuda , Ali M Hazrat , Mateo Lun G
Published: December 2012

No Abstract availabeDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbs.v19i0.13008 J. bio-sci. 19 99-100, 2011
Monitoring and Management of Imidazolinone-Resistant Red Rice (Oryza sativa L., var. sylvatica) in Clearfield® Italian Paddy Rice
Authors: Scarabel Laura , Cenghialta Cesare , Manuello Dario , Sattin Maurizio
Published: December 2012

The introduction in Italy of Clearfield® rice cultivars carrying imidazolinone-resistant traits provides an efficient option to control red rice, a conspecific weed of cultivated rice. However, despite the promulgation of specific guidelines for Clearfield® technology management, imazamox red rice survivors have been reported by farmers. Forty-two fields were monitored in 2010 and 2011 throughout the Piedmont and Lombardy regions and field cases were recorded of herbicides use and agronomic practices. Whole-plant sensitivity to imazamox was assessed and the resistance mechanism was determined by molecular analysis. Twenty-six red rice populations out of 42 were imazamox-resistant and plants of all the resistant populations possess a Ser to Asn substitution at locus 653 of the ALS gene determining the target-site resistance. Farmers frequently grow Clearfield® varieties for more than two consecutive years so increasing the selection pressure exerted by imazamox and favoring the evolution of resistant red rice. To maintain the sustainability of this new technology, a proper management based on crop rotation, utilization of certified seeds and strict control of red rice escapes has to be implemented. More generally, all stakeholders must increase their awareness that the selection pressure exerted by ALS inhibitors in rice cropping system should be reduced.
Electrodeposition of a Au-Dy2O3 Composite Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Catalyst from Eutectic Urea/Choline Chloride Ionic Liquid
Authors: Mele Claudio , Bozzini Benedetto
Published: December 2012

In this research we have fabricated and tested Au/Dy2O3 composites for applications as Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) electrocatalysts. The material was obtained by a process involving electrodeposition of a Au-Dy alloy from a urea/choline chloride ionic liquid electrolyte, followed by selective oxidation of Dy to Dy2O3 in air at high temperature. The electrochemical kinetics of the electrodeposition bath were studied by cyclic voltammetry, whence optimal electrodeposition conditions were identified. The heat-treated material was characterised from the morphological (scanning electron microscopy), compositional (X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy) and structural (X-ray diffractometry) points of view. The electrocatalytic activity towards H2 oxidation and O2 reduction was tested at 650 °C by electrochemical impedance spectrometry. Our composite electrodes exhibit an anodic activity that compares favourably with the only literature result available at the time of this writing for Dy2O3 and an even better cathodic performance.
Isolation, Structure Elucidation and Total Synthesis of Lajollamide A from the Marine Fungus Asteromyces cruciatus
Authors: Gulder Tobias , Hong Hanna , Correa Jhonny , Egereva Ekaterina , Wiese Jutta , Imhoff Johannes , Gross Harald
Published: December 2012

The marine-derived filamentous fungus Asteromyces cruciatus 763, obtained off the coast of La Jolla, San Diego, USA, yielded the new pentapeptide lajollamide A (1), along with the known compounds regiolone (2), hyalodendrin (3), gliovictin (4), 1N-norgliovicitin (5), and bis-N-norgliovictin (6). The planar structure of lajollamide A (1) was determined by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy in combination with mass spectrometry. The absolute configuration of lajollamide A (1) was unambiguously solved by total synthesis which provided three additional diastereomers of 1 and also revealed that an unexpected acid-mediated partial racemization (2:1) of the l-leucine and l-N-Me-leucine residues occurred during the chemical degradation process. The biological activities of the isolated metabolites, in particular their antimicrobial properties, were investigated in a series of assay systems.
Escape from Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 (HIV-1) Entry Inhibitors
Authors: De Feo Christopher , Weiss Carol
Published: December 2012

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) enters cells through a series of molecular interactions between the HIV envelope protein and cellular receptors, thus providing many opportunities to block infection. Entry inhibitors are currently being used in the clinic, and many more are under development. Unfortunately, as is the case for other classes of antiretroviral drugs that target later steps in the viral life cycle, HIV can become resistant to entry inhibitors. In contrast to inhibitors that block viral enzymes in intracellular compartments, entry inhibitors interfere with the function of the highly variable envelope glycoprotein as it continuously adapts to changing immune pressure and available target cells in the extracellular environment. Consequently, pathways and mechanisms of resistance for entry inhibitors are varied and often involve mutations across the envelope gene. This review provides a broad overview of entry inhibitor resistance mechanisms that inform our understanding of HIV entry and the design of new inhibitors and vaccines.