bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GENETIC CONTROL OF HUSKED NUT WEIGHT IN COCONUT (Cocos nucifera)
Authors: FERNANDO W. M.U.
Published: March 2013

The genetic control of husked nut weight in Coconut (Cocos nucifera) wasinvestigated using a full-diallel cross including eight parents. The parents were aselected sample of palms which gave an annual mean yield of 23 kg of copra perpalm with 713 gm of husked nut weight over five years. An average of fiveprogenies per cross planted in a fully randomised design were evaluated for fiveyears. Husked nut weight of five nuts per palm was recorded at each pick.Analysis of variance of mean husked nut weight confirmed the presence ofadditive and non additive genetic variance. The non additive genetic component wasfound to be higher in magnitude than the additive component. The heritabilityexpressed as the ratio of the genetic variance to the total phenotypic variance was0.45. Of the dominance components, directional dominance was non significant.Neither the presence of heterosis nor inbreeding depression was consistent among theselfed and crossed progenies elucidating the fact that not only crossing but selfingcould also improve the trait, depending on the genetic constitution of the individual.Reciprocal differences were evident in the crosses suggesting the importance of thedirection of cross.
EFFECT OF PLANTING DENSITY ON THE YIELD OF COCONUT
Authors: FERNANDO W. M. U. , BANDARANAYAKE C. K.
Published: March 2013

An analyses is presented of the yield components of coconut established underdensities varying from 128 palms/ha to 239 palms/ha from a spacing trial conductedby the Coconut Research Institute. Analysis of yield data during 1976-1980 from 24palms from 4 replicates analysed for each density treatment revealed significantdifferences in nuts/palm and copra/palm for the densities tested. The nuts/palmdecreased with increasing density but the yield/ha maximised at a density of 171palms/ha and decreased beyond 171. Significant differences were absent in yield ofcopra/nut for the densities tested. The differences in copra/palm were due to theeffect of nut number/palm. At a density of 179 palms/ha, copra/ha maximised to2260 kg and decreased beyond 179. The results of the present analysis indicate thata density ranging from 171-179 palms per hectare is the optimum for plantingcoconut in dry-intermediate zone where the study was conducted.
THE SUITABILITY OF OPTIONAL MATERIAL AS A REPLACEMENT FOR COIR DUST IN RAISING COCONUT SEEDLINGS IN POLYBAGS
Authors: BANDARANAYAKE C. K. , PIERIS R. R. A.
Published: March 2013

Although coir dust is recommended in the current potting mixture forraising coconut seedlings in polybags, it is becoming a scarce resource evenwithin the coconut triangle. Therefore it was considered imperative to testthe suitability of other options available locally.An experiment conducted at the Bandirippuwa Research Nursery ofthe Coconut Research Institute revealed that saw dust, paddy husk, decomposedstraw and weed trash were similar in action to coir dust in the pottingmedia, considering the growth parameters of seedlings. However, with duerespect to practical considerations, saw dust was found to be the best alternative.If there is no labour shortage, partially decomposed straw and weedtrash can be used. Paddy husk was found to be the least important.
EFFECT OF STORAGE TEMPERATURE AND WRAPPING TREATMENTS ON THE KEEPING QUALITY OF TENDER KING COCONUT
Authors: RANASINGHE C. S. , WIMALASEKARA R. , JAYASEKARA C.
Published: March 2013

King coconut (Cocos nucifera var. aurantiaca) has a good exportmarket as a natural beverage. However, the quality of the nut has to bemaintained for several weeks to meet export market requirements. Therefore,the present study was undertaken to develop techniques to improve thekeeping quality of tender king coconuts. Seven-month-old nuts collected fromdifferent locations were given wrapping and waxing treatments and stored atlow temperature to improve the keeping quality up to four weeks. Invertsugars and total sugars were analyzed. Observations on cosmetic appearanceand organoleptic tests were made at initial stage and after storage. The studyrevealed that the quality of tender king coconuts could be maintained for aperiod of four weeks when the whole nuts were wrapped with cling film andstored at 14-15 °C, in order to meet export market requirements.
GENETIC IMPROVEMENT OF THE COCONUT CULTIVAR SAN RAMON
Authors: FERNANDO W. M. U.
Published: March 2013

The tall form of coconut, San Ramon was imported to Sri Lanka fromthe Philippines and was first established in the North Western Province. Theopen pollinated seed obtained from the first introduction and planted at theCoconut Research Institute (CRI), form the genetic base for San Ramonimprovement at present. This cultivar inherits the potential of producing 51 %more copra per nut than Sri Lanka Tall palms and 50% more copra per nutthan the improved tall, CRIC 60. The mean copra yield per nut recorded forSan Ramon (selfed), Sri Lanka Tall and CRIC 60 was 371 g, 240 g and 246 grespectively. Preliminary investigations have shown that the oil extractionefficiency of copra is 776 ml per kg of copra for Tall x San Ramon whilst forboth Sri Lanka tall and CRIC 60, it is 740 ml. The results of this studystrongly justify the use of San Ramon and its crosses for copra and oilindustry in Sri Lanka.
PHEROMONE BAITED TRAP FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF RED PALM WEEVIL, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus F. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) POPULATION IN COCONUT PLANTATIONS
Authors: RAJAPKSE C. N. K. , GUNAWARDENA N. E. , PERERA K. F. G.
Published: March 2013

4-methyl-5-nonanol (ferrugineol), the major component of theaggregation pheromone of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus F. was evaluated as alure for trapping of this pest in coconut plantations in Sri Lanka. Trap design,longevity of ferrugineol in field conditions, and the effect of trapping ondamage incidence of R. ferrugineus were studied. N-pentanol, a knowncompound present in coconut stem volatiles was used in combination offerrugineol in all tested traps. Trap designs tested were; an open plasticbucket, a funnel trap, and a modified metal trap. The open plastic bucket (5 L)baited with ferrugineol-pentanol, which was hung on coconut palm stem at 1.5m, caught significantly more number of adult weevils than ferrugineolpentanolbaited funnel and metal traps. An open plastic bucket trap was sixtimes less expensive than the metal trap currently recommended by theCoconut Research Institute, Sri Lanka. Ferrugineol remained effective as abait for 12 weeks under field conditions. High capture rates of adult R.ferrugineus were obtained in ferrugineol baited open bucket traps inplantations where the initial damage incidence was high. Monthly surveys ofindividual palms during pheromone trapping revealed that a sharp reductionof the number of coconut palms damaged by R. ferrugineus in 10-hectareexperimental blocks. Continuous trapping of weevils with ferrugineol over aperiod of time significantly lowered the infestation of this pest.
STUDIES ON DEVELOPMENT AND STORAGE OF BOTTLED PENIPOL
Authors: GUNATHILAKA K. D. P. P. , JAYASEKARA C.
Published: March 2013

Penipol or "candied coconut" made from coconut and sugar, is used as a sweet filler in traditional food preparations in Sri Lanka. A ready-to-serve, preserved Penipol is likely to have a good demand among both local urban consumers and Sri Lankan communities overseas. The main objective of this study was to develop a simple technique to produce a bottled Penipol with an extended shelf life, in order to exploit this perceived demand.In a preliminary trial it was established that a Penipol product, acceptable to consumer in terms of colour, taste and texture, was derived from a blend of coconut and sugar in the ratio of 2.5:2.0. This blend with added Vitamin E (80 ppm), salt, spices was used to prepare Penipol for the studies on Pasteurization and storage, and the physico-chemical analyses. This product contained 3.58% protein, 20.78% fat, 7.00% fiber and 0.83% minerals and its water activity, pH and total soluble solids were 0.8, 5.5 and 65°, respectively.Penipol, bottled in jars, was pasteurized in boiling water. Five heat treatments (boiled for 15, 30, 45, 60 minutes and no heat treatment) were tested. Microbial analysis of the Penipol, stored for one month, showed that pasteurizing for 30 minutes was adequate to prevent microbial growth and achieve commercial sterility. The keeping quality of bottled Penipol, pasteurized for 30 min., was studied by conducting sensory evaluations, at 3-monthly intervals, over a 12 months storage period. Statistical analysis showed that there is no significant difference in sensory properties between freshly prepared and preservedPenipol throughout the studied period. The free fatty acid levels remained unchanged at 0.05+/-0.02 (as % of lauric acid). Results indicated that Penipol can be preserved for at least 12 months by applying a simple bottling technique with 30 min. pasteurization in boiling water.
MICROPROPAGATION OF COCONUT THROUGH PLUMULE CULTURE
Authors: Fernando S C , Weerakoon L K , Gunathilake T R
Published: March 2013

Plumule tissues have found to be more responsive explants for clonalpropagation of coconut. In the present study, the feasibility of using plumuleexplants for clonal propagation of a local coconut variety (Sri Lanka Tall)was assessed. Plumules were cultured in three basal media (MS, Y3 and72) supplemented with 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) (24 - 400 \M)and activated charcoal. Somatic embryogenesis and plant regenerationwere induced by incorporating of abscisic acid (ABA) into the medium.Attempts were made to improve plant regeneration by applying high agarconcentration-induced water stress, cytokinin or silver nitrate in combinationwith ABA.The results revealed that callus can be initiated from plumule explantscultured in all three basal media tested. The callus formation depended onthe concentration of 2,4-D in the media and the best effect was observedwith the lower level (24 jiM) tested. The plant regeneration frequencyobserved with ABA treatment was 4.4 %. The combination of ABA with highagar concentration-induced water stress doubled the plant regenerationfrequency. About 50 % of the regenerated plants could be successfullyacclimatized and field planted.The results of the study indicate the possibility of regenerating plants fromplumule explants of coconut. The method can be used for multiplication ofimproved seed material. However, the plant regeneration efficiency shouldbe further improved for mass scale propagation of coconut using plumuleexplants.
RESPONSE OF RAPID DECLINE AFFECTED COCONUT (COCOS NUCIFERA L.) PALMS TO MICRO-NUTRIENTS AND COMMON SALT
Authors: Wijebandara D. M. D. I. , Ranasinghe C. S.
Published: March 2013

Coconut Rapid Decline (CRD) is a serious disorder of coconut palms(Cocos nucifera L.) in Sri Lanka. A substantial loss of crop is well evidentdue to this disorder. This study aims to determine the effect of micronutrientsand common salt on the performance of CRD-affected palms.Fifteen-years-old, mild, moderate and severe CRD-affected palms, inMakandura Research Station (MRS) of Coconut Research Institute wereused for this study. Affected palms were treated with the micro-nutrients(100 ml of 0.35 % CuS04.5H2 0 and 0.72 % ZnS04.7H2 0 solution/palm, rootfeeding at bi-monthly intervals) or common salt (NaCI, 1 kg/palm/year,surface application in the manure circle). Untreated CRD-affected palmswere used as the control. Leaf nutrient levels before, one and two yearsafter treatment application were analyzed. Vegetative, reproductive andphysiological parameters were measured during two years, after treatmentapplication.Pre-treatment analysis of leaves revealed that Nitrogen (N) and Phosphorus(P) contents were within the sufficiency range and Potassium (K) contentwas above the sufficiency range in CRD-affected palms. Magnesium (Mg),Calcium (Ca), Sodium (Na), Copper (Cu) and Zinc (Zn) contents of thosepalms were below the sufficiency range. The macro and micro-nutrientcontents (except Mg) of apparently healthy palms, adjacent to CRD-affectedpalms were within the sufficiency range for coconut. Therefore, it issuggested that the CRD-affected palms suffer from deficiency of Ca, Na, Cuand Zn. There was a significant difference in Iron (Fe) content among threeseverity stages of CRD-affected palms before initial treatment application,Fe concentration increased with increasing severity.Phosphorus and Ca contents significantly increased in micro nutrient andcommon salt treated palms after one year, compared to before treatmentapplication and control. However, there was no significant increase in leafCu, Zn and Na levels, even after two years of the treatment application. Thepercentage of drooping fronds, size of the spadix, number of female flowers,number and size of nuts and circumference of the trunk were not improvedin treated palms one year after treatment. Two years after the treatment, number of total fronds and functional green fronds in the canopy of affectedpalms were increased by common salt application. The stomatal diffusiveresistance of these palms was also reduced after two years showing animprovement in palm water status. The experiment is in progress to.observe the recovery of symptoms.
DEVELOPMENT OF A METHOD FOR MASS REARING OF NEOSEIULUS BARAKI, A MITE PREDATORY ON THE COCONUT MITE, ACERIA GUERRERONIS
Authors: Fernando L. C. P. , Aratchige N. S. , Kumari S. L. M. L. , Appuhamy P. A. L. D. , Hapuarachchi D. C. L.
Published: March 2013

Studies in Sri Lanka revealed that Neoseiulus baraki Athias-Henriot (Acari:Phytoseiidae) (previously referred to as Neoseiulus aff. paspalivorus) is aprospective biological control agent of the coconut mite, Aceria guerreronisKeifer (Acari: Eriophyidae). Mass rearing of the predatory mite, N. barakiwas proposed to augment the field population. Laboratory studies wereconducted to determine an alternative prey for N. baraki, a food source forrearing of the alternative prey and a suitable arena for rearing of thepredatory mite and the alternative prey. N. baraki developed and multipliedsatisfactorily on the storage mite, Tyrophagus putrescentiae Shrank (Acari:Ascidae). The predatory mite when fed on T. putrescentiae developed fromegg to adult in 11.1 ±0.1 days and deposited 26.4±2.2 eggs during a life-timeof 70.0±1.8 days. T. putrescentiae multiplied equally well on pollen of Typhasp. and rice bran. The fecundity of T. putrescentiae was 163.5±23.4 eggs onTypha pollen and 143.7±9.7 eggs on rice bran. But the daily oviposition ratewas higher on rice bran. The predatory mite and its alternative prey could bebred in the same arena, which is a modification of the basic arena describedby McMurtry & Scriven (1965). A closed arena without a water barrier wasthe most suitable rearing system to obtain a higher number of predatorymites. In this arena a single female predatory mite gave rise to 24 motilestages and eggs in three weeks. Advantages and disadvantages of therearing method are discussed.
SOIL PHOSPHORUS TEST METHODS CALIBRATION BY FIELD EXPERIMENTAL DATA FOR THE SOILS OF LOW COUNTRY INTERMEDIATE ZONE OF SRI LANKA
Authors: Wijebandara D. M. D. I.
Published: March 2013

Green house studies showed that the 2.5 % Acetic acid (HAc), Olsen'sbicarbonate (0.5 M NaHC03 ) , Anion Exchange Resin (AER) and AnionExchange Resin + Cation Exchange Resin (AER + CER) methods weresatisfactory for the estimation of plant available phosphorus (P) of soils ofthe Low Country Intermediate Zone of Sri Lanka. The objective of thisstudy was to calibrate the four extraction methods by field experiments.Relative yield of Pueraria phaseoloides grown in field on five soil seriestreated with and without P fertilizer, but with basal treatment of nitrogen,potassium and magnesium fertilizer were employed as the plant index forsoil P status. Soil P status of each soil prior to treatment was determinedby the four extraction methods.The 2.5 % HAc - P values showed the best correlation with relative drymatter yield of Pueraria by fitting significantly to the Cate and Nelson modelwith R2 of 0.628 (P
An Assessment of Labour Availability in Major Coconut Growing Areas in
Authors: Pathiraja P M E K , Fernando M T N , Abeysekara A W A D R , Subasinghe S D J N
Published: March 2013

Scarcity of labour, increased labour charges and shortage of both skilled and unskilled labour have become a major issue for coconut growers. This study aimed to assess the current labour availability in coconut cultivation sector. A field survey was conducted from October to December 2005, focusing four major coconut growing areas in the coconut triangle namely Kurunegala, Kuliyapitiya, Marawila and Gampaha. The findings show that an acute laboure shortage is experienced by 23% and 21% of the respondents in Kuliyapitiya and Gampaha regions respectively. Generally, 65% shortage in Gampaha, 60% in Kuliyapitiya, 50% in Kurunegala and 27% shortage in Marawila were reported. An acute shortage for skilled labour necessary for harvesting was reported in Gampaha and Marawila whereas in other two areas it was for unskilled labour. Irrespective of the region, young generation’s participation to the labour force was very poor. Generally, smallholders pay higher wage rates compared to estate sector. Skilled labour is 3 to 4 times highly paid compared to the unskilled labour in each region. In terms of wage rates a statistically significant gender disparity exists in each region favouring male labour. The findings suggest the need of inventing innovative mechanization technology in order to reduce the dependence on manual labour. The cost effectiveness of the mechanization technologies is also highlighted. A deep attitudinal change is a requisite to attract the young generation to cultivation sector and there is a possibility of reintroducing harvesting as a recognized commercial service by a company. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/cocos.v19i1.4747
Effect of Irrigation on Establishment and Early Growth of Coconut (VAR.CRIC 60) in the Dry Zone of Sri Lanka.
Authors: LIYANAGE L.V.K. , MATHES D.T.
Published: March 2013

The vigour and growth of seedlings of CRIC60 cultivar of coconut were studiedin different irrigation treatments during the drought period, in a sandy soil in the dryzone. Nine irrigation treatments including a control with no watering were tested.Larger number of casualties were observed in the control while none in the irrigatedplots. The best irrigation treatments in order of response were 40 litres applied twicea week, two earthenware pots buried on either side of the seedlings and filling themtwice a week (27 litres per week) and 20 litres applied twice a week. However, therelative efficiency between 40 litres and 20 litres suggest that application of 20 litrestwice a week could be preferred considering the savings on cost and the use of water.If finances are not limiting burying of two earthenware pots on either side of the plantand filling twice a week could be preferred.
A Method for Determining Leaf Area of One, Two and Three Year Old Coconut Seedlings (Var. CRIC 60)
Authors: MATHES D.T. , LIYANAGE L.V.K. , RANDENI G.
Published: March 2013

A rapid, non-destructive and accurate method for determining the leaf area ofone, two and three year old coconut seedlings (var. CRIC 60) is proposed using threelinear regression models y = 5.9647 + 0.6314 x, y = 3.9325 + 0.7044* and y =8.4507 + 0.6798* with reliabilities of 94.5%, 98.3% and 97.8% respectively, where xis the product of the length and breadth at the broadest position of the leaflet and yis the area of the leaflet. In order to study the relative performance of seedlings, acommon model y = 2.2138 + 0.7192 x ( r 2 = 98.6%), which can be considered to berepresentative, could be used irrespective of the age of the seedling, if the third leafis used.
RIVER SAND AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO TOP SOIL FOR RAISING COCONUT SEEDLINGS IN POLYBAGS
Authors: PERIES R. R. A. , Everard J. M. D. T.
Published: March 2013

Different combinations of river sand, cow dung and coir dust were compared with theconventional polybag mixtures to study whether seed germination would be affected by thesubstitution of top soil with river sand.The seed nut germination at 20 weeks was significantly reduced in the sand substituted media,but the difference disappered by 24 weeks from laying. The lower rate of germination was alsoassociated with a reduction of seedling vigour at 30 weeks, probably due to poor seedling nutrition.River sand could be used as an alternative to top soil, provided the nutritive status of the sandis improved and refinements are made to decrease its rate of drying.
In Vivo Maturation of Allo-Specific CD8 CTL and Prevention of Lupus-like Graft-versus-Host Disease Is Critically Dependent on T Cell Signaling through the TNF p75 Receptor But Not the TNF p55 Receptor
Authors: Soloviova Kateryna , Puliaiev Maksym , Haas Mark , Via Charles S.
Published: March 2013

A third signal is required for maturation of effector CD8 CTL in addition to TCR and CD28 engagement. Inflammatory cytokines can provide a third signal; however, in nonpathogen settings (i.e., antitumor responses), the identity of the third signal is not clear. A useful model for in vivo CD8 CTL in the absence of exogenous pathogens is the alloantigen-driven parent-into F1 model of acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) characterized by a strong TNF-dependent donor antihost CD8 CTL T cell response. To determine whether TNF acts directly on donor T cells in a signal 3 manner, F1 mice received TNFR 1 (p55) knockout (KO) and/or TNFR 2 (p75) KO donor T cells. Donor p75 KO but not p55KO donor T cells failed to induce acute GVHD phenotype and instead induced a lupus-like chronic GVHD both short and long term because of quantitative and qualitative donor T cell defects, that is, reduced perforin, IFN-γ, and TNF production. Transfer of mixed or matched purified CD4 and CD8 T cells from wild type or p75KO donors demonstrated that optimal CTL maturation required p75 signaling in both CD4 and CD8 T cells. Despite defective p75KO CD4 help for CD8 CTL, p75KO CD4 help for B cells and autoimmunity was intact. These results provide a mechanism by which impaired CD8 CTL could contribute to reduced antiviral and antitumor responses and autoimmunity reported in patients receiving TNF blockers. Our results support the idea that selective p55 blockade may be beneficial by reducing inflammation without compromising CD8 CTL.
Post total thyroidectomy hypocalcemia
Authors: Pradeep PV , Ramalingam K , Jayashree B
Published: March 2013

Context:

No single factor can predict the occurrence of post total thyroidectomy (TT) hypocalcemia.

Aims:

This study was conducted to look at various factors usually implicated in post TT clinically significant hypocalcemia (CSH) and to develop a scoring system using a combination of these factors to predict CSH.

Settings and Design:

Prospective study, tertiary care center. Materials and Methods: 145 patients, who underwent total thyroidectomy for benign goiters and early carcinoma thyroid (< T2/N0/M0), were included. Age of the patient, presence, or absence of hyperthyroidism, pre-operative levels of serum calcium and 25 OH vitamin D, post-operative iPTH at 8 hours and calcium at 12 hours, intra-operative parathyroid preservation status, and nodule size were studied. CSH prediction score (0 to 8) was designed based on these 8 factors.

Statistical Analysis:

SPSS 13 software was used. For comparison between groups' independent samples T-test and Chi-square test was used. Statistical significance was set at P<0.05. A logistic regression analysis model was built to assess the significant predictors.

Results:

There were 22 males and 123 females. 64.82% had euthyroid multinodular goiters, 24.82% had toxic MNG, and 10.34% had an early carcinoma of thyroid. 30.34% developed CSH. CSH was observed in patients with low pre-operative calcium (P=0.008), low 25 OH vitamin D (P=0.001), low post-operative iPTH at 8 hours (P=0.001), low serum calcium at 12 hours after surgery (P=0.001) and lesser number of parathyroid identification at surgery (P=0.001). Patient age (P=0.2) and nodule size (P - 0.17) was not significant. Hypocalcemia risk score of > 3 had 91% sensitivity, 84% specificity with a PPV of 71% and NPV of 95%, whereas score of ≥ 4 had 100% specificity and PPV in predicting CSH.

Conclusions:

CSH after TT is multi-factorial, and a combination of factors (Hypocalcemia prediction score > 3) can be used to predict it so as to discharge patients within 24 hours after surgery.
Current status of understanding of the genetic etiology of coronary heart disease
Authors: Pranavchand R , Reddy BM
Published: March 2013

Coronary heart disease (CHD), synonymously known as coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most predominant among the cardiovascular diseases and ranked number one in prevalence among the developing countries. CHD is a multifactorial disease involving both genetic and environmental factors and is primarily caused due to a process of progressive damage of coronary arteries called atherosclerosis. We present here a comprehensive review of molecular genetic studies conducted so far on CAD. The information was gathered through the internet using appropriate search terms for CHD/CAD. We also compiled the relevant information from the following websites: http://www.bioguo.org/CADgene/ and http://www.genome.gov. Besides several Mendelian forms of the CHD, ~300 more genes have been identified in different studies through candidate gene approach. Additionally 32 more loci have been identified through genome wide association studies that include 9p21.3 as the most replicated genetic locus across the globe. Nevertheless, overall, these studies have been characterized by a relative lack of consistency in the association pattern across the populations. A fair degree of ethnic variation in the nature of association of different genetic variants with the disease has also been apparent. Pleiotropic effects of genes, existence of subclinical phenotypes and genetic heterogeneity appear to have been the limiting factors for developing a genetic risk profile test for the disease. Given the high prevalence of this disease in India, the presence of environmental triggers and genetic variation, it would be prudent to conduct multi-ethnic large-scale studies in India, representing the subcontinent as a whole-there have been a very limited number of molecular genetic studies on Indian populations.
Clozapine re-challenge under the cover of Filgrastim
Authors: Gopalakrishnan R , Subhalakshmi TP , Kuruvilla A , Jacob KS
Published: March 2013

Rechallenge with clozapine, despite a history of clozapine-induced neutropenia is considered in patients with a good response to the drug in the past, for whom no other treatments are effective, and in cases where the risks of withholding treatment are greater than the risks of rechallenge. Dyscrasias that occur during rechallenge are reportedly earlier in onset and longer lasting. Strategies advocated during rechallenge include frequent monitoring of white blood counts, the use of lithium or Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factors. We report a case of a patient with treatment-resistant schizophrenia who developed neutropenia with clozapine as a result of which the drug was discontinued. However poor response to other first and second-generation antipsychotic medication and the persisting risk of harm to himself and others necessitated the reconsideration of clozapine. The patient was re-challenged with clozapine under the cover of Filgrastim, a Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating Factor.
Imaging in the Diagnosis of Juvenile Nasopharyngeal Angiofibroma
Authors: Mishra Satyaranjan , Praveena N. M. , Panigrahi Rajat Golakh , Gupta Y Mogit
Published: March 2013

Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma (JNA) is a rare, benign, highly vascular, and locally aggressive tumor that predominantly occurs in adolescent males. Usually, the presenting symptom is a painless nasal obstruction or epistaxis; however, other symptoms may develop depending on the size and extent of the tumor mass. Owing to the vascularity of the tumor, incisional biopsy is not attempted. The diagnosis is dependent on multiplanar imaging modalities like Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Angiography. These imaging modalities help in assessing the tumor mass, pre-operative embolization of the feeder vessel, and treatment planning. Usually, patients with JNA are diagnosed by otorhinolaryngologists, but here, we present a rare case of JNA reporting to the dental hospital due to a tender palatal swelling.
Non-Syndromic Non-Familial Agenesis of Major Salivary Glands: A Report of Two Cases with Review of Literature
Authors: Mohan Ravi Prakash Sasankoti , Verma Sankalp , Chawa Venkateswara Rao , Tyagi Kuber
Published: March 2013

Agenesis of the major salivary glands is a rare and unusual condition, with only a few cases documented in the literature. The anomaly can be total or partial, unilateral or bilateral, and involve the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands. The resultant xerostomia leads to extensive dental demineralization. The authors report two cases with decreased saliva volume, impaired dental condition with extensive loss of tooth structure, and an astonishing pattern of dental destruction most notable on the facial and lingual surfaces of incisors and canines that can be best described as “chipping.” After detailed review of patient history, clinical examination, ultrasonography, contrast enhanced computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging a diagnosis of congenital absence of major salivary glands in both the patients was made. Dentists should be aware that salivary gland aplasia is an uncommon cause of dental deterioration. It may manifest itself not by extensive caries but as dental chipping effect. Early recognition and a therapeutic strategy can prevent further dental damage.
Diagnosing the dead: the retrospective analysis of genetic diseases
Authors: Rushton AR
Published: March 2013

The suspected presence of hereditary disease in important historical and political figures has interested researchers for many decades. Whether Abraham Lincoln suffered from Marfan syndrome, if George III became ‘mad’ because he inherited variegate porphyria, and if the Romanov dynasty collapsed because the heir Alexei inherited haemophilia are important questions; physical illness can adversely affect the ability of leaders to function within the social and political realm of their day. This article will outline an approach to such a medicalhistorical analysis including assessment of hereditary predisposition, family history and the use of DNA technology to confirm or deny the clinical suspicions of the investigator.
Occupational lung disease
Authors: Reid PA , Reid PT
Published: March 2013

Occupational medicine represents the interface between work and health. As such, its breadth encompasses issues of clinical medicine, epidemiology, occupational hygiene, toxicology, ethics, and the law. The diagnosis of an occupational lung disease has implications not only for the health of the worker, but also in some circumstances for the health of colleagues and the employer. It is not surprising that many clinicians find this challenging. The aim of this paper is to provide a summary of common work-related lung disorders, and stress the importance of considering a patients’ occupation when presented with a range of respiratory symptoms.
Neurological diseases in pregnancy
Authors: Kevat D , Mackillo L
Published: March 2013

Neurological diseases are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in pregnancy. The management of multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, myasthenia gravis, certain neuropathies and headache in pregnancy is described; the potentially life-threatening conditions of stroke and eclampsia are also discussed. Management of most neurological conditions is similar to outside of pregnancy, but special consideration should be given to delivery plans and the safety of medications antenatally and during breastfeeding. Pre-pregnancy counselling, regular review and effective communication among a multi-disciplinary team are key to optimising management and outcomes.
The confused patient in the acute hospital: legal and ethical challenges for clinicians in Scotland
Authors: Lyons D
Published: March 2013

Treating the confused patient in a general hospital presents legal and ethical challenges for clinicians. The Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland, as a safeguarding organisation, has developed a body of knowledge and guidance on these matters. This paper summarises some of the advice and guidance we have given and directs clinicians to other relevant documents. Visits to patients receiving treatment in general hospitals have shown that clinicians do not always assess capacity or adhere to the law on consent to treatment. Patients may be unlawfully deprived of liberty because of inappropriate or unlawful restraint. As a result, patients’ human rights may be infringed and clinicians may risk legal challenges to their actions. By following best practice in assessing capacity, providing treatment and using restraint ethically, clinicians can avoid these problems. The Mental Welfare Commission welcomes requests for advice in difficult cases.
Clash of Paradigms: Actors and Analogies Shaping the Investment Treaty System
Authors: Roberts Anthea
Published: March 2013

When the skin of an Australian platypus was first taken to England in the 1700s, scientists thought it was a fake. It looked like someone had sewn a duck’s bill onto a beaver’s body; one scientist even took a pair of scissors to the skin looking for stitches. The animal had fur and was warm-blooded like a mammal, yet laid eggs and had webbed feet like a bird or a reptile. Scientists struggled to categorize this unusual creature. Was it a bird, a mammal, or a reptile? Or was it some strange hybrid of all three?
The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Maritime Disputes in the South China Sea
Authors: Beckman Robert
Published: March 2013

The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) establishes a legal framework to govern all uses of the oceans. All of the states bordering the South China Sea—Brunei Darussalam, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam—are parties to UNCLOS. Taiwan, which also borders the South China Sea, has taken steps to bring its legislation into conformity with UNCLOS.
Comparação entre os dispositivos de higiene brônquica Shaker® e “Soprinho” em relação aos parâmetros físicos e não físicos em indivíduos saudáveis
Authors: Silva Pollyanna Oliveira , Salles Juliana Cintra , Mendonça Vanessa Amaral , Dos Reis Arlete Barbosa , De Lima Vanessa Pereira
Published: March 2013

Introdução: Existe um amplo espectro de doenças pulmonares que se caracterizam por hipersecreção. Dentre os recursos disponíveis no mercado, desenvolvidos com objetivo de promover a limpeza brônquica, destacam-se os aparelhos de oscilação oral de alta frequência (OOAF). Objetivos: Comparar quantitativa e qualitativamente os parâmetros gerais dos aparelhos de higiene brônquica Shaker® e “Soprinho” em indivíduos saudáveis. Métodos: Selecionaram-se 20 sujeitos para avaliação, solicitou-se que utilizassem ambos os aparelhos, sendo coletadas as medidas de fluxo e pressão por um sistema desenvolvido para esse fim. Após, responderam dois questionários para avaliação da percepção de uso. Resultados: A média e desvio-padrão dos valores de fluxo entre o Shaker® e o “Soprinho” foram 45,8±20,37cm3 e 53±8,16cm3, respectivamente; e de pressão, 4,16±1,85cmH2O e 4,82±0,74cmH2O. Não houve diferença significativa entre os valores de fluxo (p=0,0972) e os de pressão (p=0,0925), considerando p
Efeito da caminhada no sono de pacientes portadores de síndrome da fibromialgia
Authors: Pasqua Luana Della , Steffens Ricardo De Azevedo Klumb , Viana Maick Da Silveira , Brandt Ricardo , Vilarino Guilherme Torres , Andrade Alexandro
Published: March 2013

Introdução: A síndrome da fibromialgia é caracterizada por dores crônicas e má qualidade do sono, e exercícios físicos ajudam no tratamento. Objetivos: Investigar efeitos da caminhada sobre o sono de pacientes com fibromialgia. Métodos: Participaram 11 pacientes com média de idade de 54±7,35 anos. Utilizou-se o Questionário Sócio-Demográfico e Clínico e o Índice de Qualidade do Sono de Pittsburgh. Realizou-se análise descritiva e inferencial dos dados, e teste Wilcoxon para verificar as diferenças da qualidade do sono (p
Phenylene–Thiophene Oligomer Derivatives for Thin-Film Transistors: Structure and Semiconductor Performances
Authors: Duan Zongfan , Ohuchi Hirokuni , Yanagi Yuichiro , Takayanagi Yutaro , Zhao Gaoyang , Nishioka Yasushiro
Published: March 2013

Two phenylene–thiophene oligomer derivatives, 2,8-bis[5-(4-n-hexylphenyl)-2-thienyl]dibenzothiophene (28HPTDBT) and 3,7-bis[5-(4-n-hexylphenyl)-2-thienyl]dibenzothiophene (37HPTDBT), were used as active materials in thin-film organic field-effect transistors (OFETs). Although the two molecules have similar structures, they exhibited obvious differences in photophysical, crystal, π-stacking, and electrical properties. 28HPTDBT is an amorphous material and hence showed no semiconductor characteristics in its thin-film OFETs, while 37HPTDBT exhibited high crystallinity and strong π-stacking in the solid state, thus resulting in high charge carrier mobilities. The effects of gate insulators and annealing treatment on transistor performances were also investigated. Thin-film OFETs based on 37HPTDBT with an octadecanyltrichlorosilane (OTS)-treated SiO2 gate insulator exhibited excellent field-effect performances with a maximum mobility of 0.3 cm2 V-1 s-1 and a high I
on/I
off current ratio of 1.5×105. Although annealing treatment improved the crystallinity of the thin films, the appearance of voids (cracks) resulted in a decrease in the charge carrier mobilities in the OFETs.
Highly Conductive Flexible Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube Sheet Films for Transparent Touch Screen
Authors: Jung Daewoong , Lee Kyung Hwan , Kim Donghyun , Burk Dorothea , Overzet Lawrence J. , Lee Gil Sik
Published: March 2013

Highly conductive and transparent thin films were prepared using highly purified multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) sheets. The electrical properties of the MWCNT sheet were remarkably improved by an acid treatment, resulting in densely packed MWCNTs. The morphology of the sheets reveals that continuous electrical pathways were formed by the acid treatment, greatly improving the sheet resistance all the while maintaining an excellent optical transmittance. These results encourage the use of these MWCNT sheets with low sheet resistance (450 Ω/sq) and high optical transmittance (90%) as a potential candidate for flexible display applications.
Measurement of Anisotropic Biaxial Stresses in Si1-xGex/Si Mesa Structures by Oil-Immersion Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Kosemura Daisuke , Tomita Motohiro , Usuda Koji , Tezuka Tsutomu , Ogura Atsushi
Published: March 2013

Anisotropic biaxial stress states in Si1-xGex/Si mesa structures were evaluated by oil-immersion Raman spectroscopy. Using a high-numerical-aperture lens, the electrical field component perpendicular to the surface, i.e.,z-polarization, can be obtained. Thez-polarization enables the excitation of the forbidden optical phonon mode, i.e., the transverse optical (TO) phonon mode, even under the backscattering geometry from (001)-oriented diamond-type crystals. The anisotropic biaxial stress evaluation of Si1-xGexwas considered difficult compared with that of Si, because many unknown parameters exist for Si1-xGex, e.g., phonon deformation potentials (PDPs), the Ge concentrationx, and the factor of Raman shift onx. In this study, PDPs and the Ge concentration in Si1-xGexwere investigated in detail. As a result, using precise PDPs andx, a clear dependence of anisotropic biaxial stress states in Si1-xGexon the mesa structure shape was observed.
Impact of Junction Nonabruptness on Random-Discrete-Dopant Induced Variability in Intrinsic Channel Trigate Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors
Authors: Wei Kang Liang , Liu Xiao Yan , Du Gang
Published: March 2013

Using full three-dimensional (3D) technology computer-aided design (TCAD) simulations, we present a comprehensive statistical study on the random discrete dopant (RDD) induced variability in state-of-the-art intrinsic channel trigate MOSFETs. This paper is focused on the RDD variability sources that are introduced by dopant diffusion from highly doped source/drain (S/D) regions into the undoped channel region, which is referred to as junction nonabruptness (JNA). By considering a realistic lateral doping profile in the channel and evaluating the impact of JNA on the variability of performance parameters such as threshold voltage (V
th), subthreshold slope (SS), drain-induced barrier lowering (DIBL), on current (I
on), and off current (I
off), we show that the effect of JNA can lead to substantial device variations. The nonnegligible influence of JNA puts limitations on device scaling, which is also investigated in this paper.
Experimental Study on Surface-Orientation/Strain Dependence of Phonon Confinement Effects and Band Structure Modulation in Two-Dimensional Si Layers
Authors: Mizuno Tomohisa , Aoki Takashi , Nagata Yuhsuke , Nakahara Yuhta , Sameshima Toshiyuki
Published: March 2013

We have experimentally studied the surface orientation/strain effects on quantum mechanical confinement (QMC) in two-dimensional (2D) Si layers with thicknesses less than the Si lattice constant for future metal–oxide–semiconductor (MOS) devices. By UV–Raman spectroscopy, we have demonstrated that the quantum phonon confinement effects (PCEs) rapidly increase with decreasing 2D Si thickness T
S, but is almost independent of surface orientation and strain. Thus, electron saturation velocity of the 2D Si is degraded by the reduced phonon energy owing to the PCEs. On the other hand, photoluminescence (PL) emitted from the only (100)-surface 2D Si layers, depends on the excitation photon energy hν (2.33≤hν≤3.81 eV), and PL intensity increases with decreasing T
S. The PL data can be explained by simple PL models considering the electron/hole pair recombination mechanism. Consequently, it is necessary to reconstruct the device design for future Si devices, considering the T
S dependence of the 2D Si properties.
Impact of Parasitic Bipolar Effect on Single-Event Upset in p-Type Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor with Embedded SiGe
Authors: Kato Takashi , Uemura Taiki , Mori Hiroko , Ikeda Yoshihiro , Suzuki Kaina , Satoh Shigeo , Matsuyama Hideya
Published: March 2013

Accelerated neutron tests for soft error rate (SER) are carried out using unbalanced feedback-loop circuits fabricated by Si and embedded SiGe (eSiGe) processes. The contribution of the p-type metal–oxide–semiconductor field effect transistor (PMOS) to total SER is shown to substantially decrease in the eSiGe process. The characteristics of parasitic bipolar transistors in PMOSs with and without eSiGe are investigated using technology computer-aided design (TCAD) simulations. We find that the narrow band gap of SiGe causes an increase in the rate of electron flow from the well region (Si) to the source region (SiGe), leading to a decrease in the current gain of the parasitic bipolar transistor in PMOS with eSiGe. Our results indicate that eSiGe can be attributed to the suppression of the parasitic bipolar effect, resulting in a reduced contribution of PMOS to SER.
Optimization of Conductive Filament of Oxide-Based Resistive-Switching Random Access Memory for Low Operation Current by Stochastic Simulation
Authors: Huang Peng , Deng Yexin , Gao Bin , Chen Bing , Zhang Feifei , Yu Di , Liu Lingfeng , Du Gang , Kang Jinfeng , Liu Xiaoyan
Published: March 2013

Large switching current is a great challenge for scaling down of the oxide-based resistive random access memory devices to realize high density and low power memory array. In this paper, large operation current caused by the current overshoot effect during forming process is investigated using a stochastic simulator based on the percolation theory. The electrical characteristic of forming process is simulated and compared with the experimental data. Our simulation demonstrates that the current overshoot effect results in a stronger conductive filament during forming process, which will cause a larger operation current in subsequent switching cycle. Furthermore, our simulation results reveal that low sweeping rate, high ambient temperature, high doping concentration and high pre-exist oxygen vacancies (VO) concentration are beneficial to the control of conductive filament evolution and the suppression of the current overshoot effect, which is critical for low reset current and low operation power resistive-switching random access memory (RRAM).
AlGaN/GaN Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor High-Electron-Mobility Transistors with a High Breakdown Voltage of 1400 V and a Complementary Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor Compatible Gold-Free Process
Authors: Liu Xinke , Zhan Chunlei , Chan Kwok Wai , Owen Man Hon Samuel , Liu Wei , Chi Dong Zhi , Tan Leng Seow , Chen Kevin Jing , Yeo Yee-Chia
Published: March 2013

This paper reports the fabrication and characterization of AlGaN/GaN-on-sapphire metal–oxide–semiconductor high-electron-mobility transistors (MOS-HEMTs) using a complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) compatible gold-free process. Devices with a gate-to-drain spacing L
GD of 20 µm achieved an off-state breakdown voltage V
BR of 1400 V and an on-state resistance R
on of 22 mΩ·cm2. This is the highest V
BR achieved so far for gold-free AlGaN/GaN MOS-HEMTs. In addition, high on/off current ratio I
on/I
off of ∼109 and low gate leakage current I
G of ∼10-11 A/mm were also obtained.
High Quality SiO2/Al2O3 Gate Stack for GaN Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor
Authors: Kambayashi Hiroshi , Nomura Takehiko , Ueda Hirokazu , Harada Katsushige , Morozumi Yuichiro , Hasebe Kazuhide , Teramoto Akinobu , Sugawa Shigetoshi , Ohmi Tadahiro
Published: March 2013

High quality SiO2/Al2O3 gate stack has been demonstrated for GaN metal–oxide–semiconductor (MOS) transistor. We confirmed that Al2O3 could realize a low interface-state density between Al2O3 and GaN, however, the breakdown field was low. By incorporating the merits of both Al2O3 and SiO2, which has a high breakdown field and a large charge-to-breakdown, SiO2/Al2O3 gate stack structure has been employed in GaN MOS devices. The structure shows a low interface state density between gate insulator and GaN, a high breakdown field, and a large charge-to-breakdown. The SiO2/Al2O3 gate stack has also been applied to AlGaN/GaN hybrid MOS heterojunction field-effect transistor (HFET). The MOS-HFET shows excellent properties with the threshold voltage of 4.2 V and the maximum field-effect mobility of 192 cm2 V-1 s-1.
Growth of (111) One-Axis-Oriented Bi(Mg1/2Ti1/2)O3 Films on (100)Si Substrates
Authors: Oikawa Takahiro , Yasui Shintaro , Watanabe Takayuki , Ishii Koji , Ehara Yoshitaka , Yabuta Hisato , Kobayashi Takeshi , Fukui Tetsuro , Miura Kaoru , Funakubo Hiroshi
Published: March 2013

Films of a high-pressure perovskite phase, Bi(Mg1/2Ti1/2)O3, were prepared on (111)c-oriented SuRuO3-coated (111)Pt/TiO2/SiO2/(100)Si substrates. The perovskite Bi(Mg1/2Ti1/2)O3 films had a (111) one-axis orientation, because their constituent grains were epitaxially grown on (111)c-oriented perovskite SrRuO3 ones. The remanent polarization and piezoelectric constant measured at an applied electric field of 600 kV/cm were about 30 µC/cm2 and 40 pm/V, respectively. A remarkable phase transition was not observed from room temperature to 350 °C in a (111) one-axis-oriented Bi(Mg1/2Ti1/2)O3 film, suggesting that the Curie temperature of this film is above 350 °C.