bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wetenschap in een regionale context: Een reactie
Authors: Oosterhaven Jan , Molema Marijn , Melis Korrie
Published: October 2015

Science in a regional context: A reaction (and a response to this reaction)Melis and Molema, in an article in this journal in 2012, argue that the relation between university research and its region is two-sided. In a reaction, Oosterhaven, one of the stakeholders of the described case of the group of spatial economists at the University of Groningen (RUG), argues that the relationship in this case, in both directions, is much stronger than is indicated by Melis and Molema. Oosterhaven claims that difficult, actual regional policy questions led to at least two important scientific innovations in the treatment of supply-driven, forward linkages in respectively, regional input-output models and applied general equilibrium models. In the other direction, Oosterhaven argues that two major social cost-benefit analyses done by the spatial economists at the RUG most likely led to decisions to spend billions more on two successive regional policy programmes, than otherwise would have been spend. Furthermore, over time, the relation has become stronger and even circular. At the end, Melis and Molema respond to Oosterhaven’s arguments.
Jan Gerard de Lint (1867–1936): medische geschiedenis voor iedereen
Authors: Hennepe Mieneke te
Published: October 2015

Jan Gerard de Lint (1867–1936): medische geschiedenis voor iedereen
Dirk Schoute (1873–1963), chirurg, gedreven organisator, medisch-historisch onderzoeker en ontvanger van Gewina’s eerste erepenning
Authors: Zuidervaart Huib
Published: October 2015

Dirk Schoute (1873–1963), chirurg, gedreven organisator, medisch-historisch onderzoeker en ontvanger van Gewina’s eerste erepenning
Friedrich Wilhelm Tobias Hunger (1874–1952). Biograaf van botanische helden en ‘anti-vaderlander’
Authors: Van Gelder Esther
Published: October 2015

Friedrich Wilhelm Tobias Hunger (1874–1952). Biograaf van botanische helden en ‘anti-vaderlander’
Robert James Forbes (1900–1973) – chemicus-archeoloog, techniekhistoricus, wetenschapshistoricus
Authors: Homburg Ernst
Published: October 2015

Robert James Forbes (1900–1973) – chemicus-archeoloog, techniekhistoricus, wetenschapshistoricus
Daniël de Moulin (1919–2002)
Authors: De Knecht-Van Eekelen Annemarie
Published: October 2015

Daniël de Moulin (1919–2002)
H.A.M. (Harry) Snelders (*1930)
Authors: Vermij Rienk
Published: October 2015

H.A.M. (Harry) Snelders (*1930)
Casper Hakfoort (1955–1999)
Authors: Van Lunteren Frans
Published: October 2015

Casper Hakfoort (1955–1999)
‘Een filosofisch geschriftje’: Christiaan Huygens’ gedachten over God in zijn Cosmotheoros en andere geschriften
Authors: Smit Nienke
Published: October 2015

Although much has been written about Christiaan Huygens (1629–1695), his religious views are almost neglected in historical research. Some scholars have come to the conclusion that God played no part at all in the worldview of this great mathematician. Although Huygens has never written a book exclu- sively devoted to the subject of God, he did leave us some notes in which he explicitly expresses his views about God and the divine. This article focuses on Huygens’ philosophical writings and especially on his last completed work Cosmotheoros (1698), in which he discusses the possibility of extra-terres- trial life. In this book God is an important subject. Huygens’ thoughts show a strong belief in an underlying logic behind the construction of the universe. According to Huygens, the idea that the earth is just a planet among other planets, logically implies that these other planets should have a similar nature as the earth and are inhabited by ‘rational beings’. Eve- rything in the universe is created for a reason, so God would not have created anything for no purpose. Huygens can’t imagine the world being created without a great intelligent deity, but he denies that God has a direct influence on the course of events on earth. Therefore, in his view, the existence of miracles is impossible. This article presents a new perspective on Christiaan Huygens and shows that the concept of God was actually a crucial element in his understanding of the world.
De symboliek van het snuffelen. Hoe een luchtverontreinigingsmonitor uitgroeide tot nationaal symbool
Authors: Maas Ad , Buijsman Ed
Published: October 2015

Recently, the Dutch national museum for the history of science and medicine, Museum Boerhaave in Leiden, acquired four air pollution monitors for its collection. These instruments were part of the Dutch national network for the measurement of air pollution, established in the 1970s. The monitors mark the transition in analytical chemistry from traditional wet-chemical techniques to the use of electronic and automatic tools. The significance of these instruments is not only scientific: they also played a social role. In the 1970s and 1980s, these air pollution monitors (popularly known as snuffelpalen (‘sniffer poles’) became a symbol for environmental worries and distrust with the political establishment, a trend we now consider as typical of that era.
The First World War and Dutch Scientific Culture
Authors: Hoeneveld Friso , Kloosterman Ingrid , Abma Ruud
Published: October 2015

The centennial has revived attention for the First World War. Because of the Netherlands’ neutral position, the influence of the horrendous war in this nation has long been qualified as marginal. In the last two decades, this perspective has gradually changed and several studies were published on developments in the Netherlands in 1914–1918. In these studies the Great War has either been understood as a watershed moment in Dutch history or, adversely, as a continuation of previous times. In this special issue, we present five case-studies of the influence of the First World War on various scientific cultures in the Netherlands. These studies indicate that this interaction transcends the dichotomous image of either continuity or discontinuity.
Conceptual Change in the History of the Humanities
Authors: Solleveld Floris
Published: October 2015

Was there ever a ‘scientific revolution’ in the Humanities, and to what extent is that notion applicable to the Humanities at all? In this article, I formulate various ways in which to answer that question. These options emerge from a discussion of what I identify as the ‘Standard Account’ of developments in the Humanities around 1800, the essentials of which are in the work of Michel Foucault, Hans-Georg Gadamer, and Isaiah Berlin. Without calling it as such, the Standard Account amounts to a description of a scientific revolution. However, this Account works as a model and a set of tacit assumptions rather than as an explicit article of faith, and all of its tenets have been criticized. Making its assumptions and shortcomings explicit leaves one with four alternatives: 1. in spite of all shortcomings and criticism, the Standard Account is largely correct; 2. there was a revolution, but it was different; 3. there were various breakthroughs and more or less revolutionary events rather than one revolution; or 4. there was no revolution in the Humanities at all. Evaluating these alternatives also throws a new light on the dynamics of conceptual change – how the humanities bring forth new ideas.
Estabilidade oxidativa da carne caprina armazenada sob congelamento
Authors: Lima Maria Cecília Oliveira , Fernandez Luzimar Gonzaga , Simionato Julliana Isabelle , Oliveira Jussimara Barros , Silva Marcondes Viana
Published: October 2015

A oxidação lipídica é um dos fatores mais importantes que limitam a vida útil e a estabilidade comercial da carne e produtos cárneos. A oxidação lipídica da carne caprina armazenada sob congelamento, nos tempos de 0, 30, 60 e 120 dias, foi estudada utilizando-se peças do músculo longissimus dorsi, proveniente de animais caprinos, da raça Anglo-Nubiana, machos, não castrados, com idade inferior a oito meses, criados em regime extensivo.  Para tanto, realizou-se análise do índice de substâncias reativas ao ácido 2-tiobarbitúrico (TBARS), do índice de peróxido e a análise cromatográfica de fase gasosa. De acordo com os resultados encontrados para o TBARS e o índice de peróxido, as amostras não variaram de forma significativa (p>0,05) em relação ao tempo de estocagem. Destacaram-se como ácidos graxos majoritários, os ácidos palmítico, esteárico e oléico. A temperatura de armazenamento de -18ºC contribuiu para a manutenção da qualidade da carne caprina por, pelo menos, 120 dias.
Intervenção pública dos programas federais de assistência ao homem do campo no município de Aparecida – PB
Authors: Silva Francisco Tales da , Chaves Alan Dél Carlos Gomes , Almeida Ricardo Ricelli Pereira de , Carolino Eclivaneide Caldas de Abreu , Galvão Josias De Castro
Published: October 2015

A intervenção pública realizada no município de Aparecida por meio dos programas do Governo Federal de microcrédito tem a finalidade de fortalecer a economia rural e inserir no campo uma parceira para melhorar as condições de produção e trabalho do homem que vive na zona rural do município. O presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar os investimentos feitos pelos programas de assistência rural, ao homem do campo no município de Aparecida-PB. O método adotado para a pesquisa foi o método dialético, no qual buscou-se investigar essa nova dinâmica ocorrente no campo brasileiro, motivado pelo financiamento do Governo Federal destinado a agricultura familiar com a política do PRONAF. Isso só foi possível através dos seguintes procedimentos de entrevistas semiestruturadas realizadas com os promotores do PRONAF no município de Aparecida sendo eles: o Banco do Nordeste Brasileiro (BNB), Empresa de Assistência Técnica e Extensão Rural (EMATER), Central de Associações de Assentamentos do Alto Sertão Paraibano (CAAASP) e o Sindicato Rural dos Agricultores de Aparecida-PB e também através de questionários aplicados aos agricultores do assentamento Acauã e do PIVAS. O programa oportunizou melhorias no campo de forma significativa para àqueles que realmente acreditaram na proposta do programa, tendo progredido na segurança alimentar da família que passou a produzir mais, na comercialização da produção que possui destinos diversos, mas principalmente ocorre na própria comunidade e isso garante segurança alimentar não só ao produtor, mas para a própria comunidade como um todo.
Formação Histórica e Territorial do Município de Aparecida – PB
Authors: Silva Francisco Tales da , Chaves Alan Dél Carlos Gomes , Almeida Ricardo Ricelli Pereira de , Carolino Rodolfo De Abreu , Galvão Josias De Castro
Published: October 2015

A presente revisão traça o perfil socioeconômico e histórico do município de Aparecida-PB, para compreender as mudanças ocorridas ao longo do tempo e do espaço, na formação da população e do território do município. Esse levantamento bibliográfico teve como objetivo, avaliar os impactos sociais e econômicos decorrentes da implantação e criação do município de Aparecida e o seu desenvolvimento e acesso a políticas públicas do Governo Federal de concessão de crédito a agricultura familiar. Neste caso especifico aos agricultores camponeses do assentamento Acauã e os agricultores familiares que exploram os lotes destinados a colonos irrigantes no Perímetro Irrigado Várzeas de Sousa (PIVAS), no município de Aparecida-PB. Essas duas áreas possuem destaque no município de Aparecida: o assentamento Acauã pela sua história de luta e conquista pelo acesso a terra, e o PIVAS por ser uma área de irrigação criada com os investimentos dos governos Federal e Estadual, considerada promissora para o crescimento econômico no setor agrícola do Estado da Paraíba.
The Role of High Concentration of Resistin in Endothelial Dysfunction Through Induction of Proinflammatory Cytokines Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Chemokin Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-1 (MCP-1)
Authors: Meiliana Anna , Patellongi Ilhamjaya , Wijaya Andi
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND: Many previous studies have reported that central obesity is related to inflammation and endothelial dysfunction. It has also been reported that resistin can induce proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, which can result in endothelial dysfunction, although the role of resistin in human remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the role of resistin in influencing the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and chemokin MCP-1 in nondiabetic, central obese individuals. Results of this study are hoped to be useful to make a strategy for early prevention of endothelial dysfunction especially in obese individuals.METHOD: This was a cross-sectional study on 73 non diabetic obese male subjects (waist circumferences >90 cm). Resistin, hs-TNF-α, IL-6, MCP-1, VCAM-1 were assessed by ELISA. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS for Windows v.11.5 with significance p<0.05. The correlations among biomarkers were assessed using Spearman’s Rho test.RESULTS: The study results showed a significant correlation between resistin and TNF-α (r=0.274, p<0.005), and a significant correlation between TNF-α and IL-6 (r=0.430, p<0.001). It was found that high concentration of resistin caused the concentration of TNF-α , IL-6 and MCP-1 to increase, and affected the increase of VCAM-1 (p=0.0030), A significant correlation between waist circumference and inflammation (hsCRP, r=0.296, p<0.005; IL-6, r=0.374, p<0.001 and HOMA IR, r=0.331, p<0.001) was also found.CONCLUSION: This study showed that the role of resistin in endothelial dysfunction occurred at a high concentration of resistin through induction of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and chemokin MCP-1. We suggest that inflammation in obesity starts with a positive feedback loop mechanism between resistin and TNF-α.KEYWORDS: obesity, inflammation, adipocytokines, resistin, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, monocyte chemotactic protein-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule–1
Adaptability and Quality of Winter Pea and Lentil in Alberta
Authors: Strydhorst Sheri , Olson Mark A. , Vasanthan Thava , McPhee Kevin E. , McKenzie Ross H. , Henriquez Boris , Tieulie Jackie , Middleton Allan , Dunn Rob , Pfiffner Pat , Coles Ken , Bandara Manjula , Kruger Art , Bowness Robyne , Bing Deng‐Jin , Beauchesne Don
Published: October 2015

It is unknown if winter pea (Pisum sativum L.) and winter lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) are feasible cropping options in Alberta. Field experiments were conducted at six locations in southern and central Alberta, Canada, between 2008 and 2012, to determine the adaptability of winter pea and lentil. Two winter pea cultivars, Specter and Windham, and one winter lentil cultivar, Morton, were seeded at three fall planting dates and three seeding rates. Spring cultivars were grown for comparison. In southern Alberta, winter pea and lentil yielded up to 39% more than spring types. The highest winter pea yield was achieved when planting was completed during the first 3 wk of September. The highest winter lentil yield was achieved when planting was completed in the second and third weeks of September. Seeding rate had little or no impact on yield; therefore, winter pea should be seeded at 75 plants m−2 and winter lentil at 110 plants m−2. Seed was analyzed to compare constituent parameters. There were minor differences in the composition of winter and spring pulses. Windham had lower starch but higher resistant starch, protein, crude fat, and ash content compared with spring pea cultivars. Specter had higher resistant starch but was similar to Cutlass for all other parameters. Morton had a higher starch content than CDC Redberry; however, starch quality was similar. Winter pulses have potential to create new and profitable opportunities for growers in the Bow Island and Lethbridge areas of southern Alberta.
Cover Crops and Ecosystem Services: Insights from Studies in Temperate Soils
Authors: Blanco‐Canqui Humberto , Shaver Tim M. , Lindquist John L. , Shapiro Charles A. , Elmore Roger W. , Francis Charles A. , Hergert Gary W.
Published: October 2015

Cover crops (CCs) can provide multiple soil, agricultural production, and environmental benefits. However, a better understanding of such potential ecosystem services is needed. We summarized the current state of knowledge of CC effects on soil C stocks, soil erosion, physical properties, soil water, nutrients, microbial properties, weed control, crop yields, expanded uses, and economics and highlighted research needs. Our review indicates that CCs are multifunctional. Cover crops increase soil organic C stocks (0.1–1 Mg ha−1 yr−1) with the magnitude depending on biomass amount, years in CCs, and initial soil C level. Runoff loss can decrease by up to 80% and sediment loss from 40 to 96% with CCs. Wind erosion potential also decreases with CCs, but studies are few. Cover crops alleviate soil compaction, improve soil structural and hydraulic properties, moderate soil temperature, improve microbial properties, recycle nutrients, and suppress weeds. Cover crops increase or have no effect on crop yields but reduce yields in water‐limited regions by reducing available water for the subsequent crops. The few available studies indicate that grazing and haying of CCs do not adversely affect soil and crop production, which suggests that CC biomass removal for livestock or biofuel production can be another benefit from CCs. Overall, CCs provide numerous ecosystem services (i.e., soil, crop–livestock systems, and environment), although the magnitude of benefits is highly site specific. More research data are needed on the (i) multi‐functionality of CCs for different climates and management scenarios and (ii) short‐ and long‐term economic return from CCs.
Modifications for water management guidance based on an assessment of swimming pool water consumption of an operational facility in the UK
Authors: Lewis Lowell , Chew John , Woodley Iain , Colbourne Jeni , Pond Katherine
Published: October 2015

Water use is a significant operational cost factor for large swimming pool facilities, however it has been overshadowed by the recent focus on energy consumption and carbon emissions. Currently, it is difficult for operators to make decisions in relation to water efficiency due to the lack of information about the relationship between pool operation and water use. This study has started to address this issue by reviewing water use at a fully operational facility. The analysis of the consumption data has led to a proposal for a new water performance indicator, the water exchange deficit. Modifications to the method of estimating water consumption have also been proposed to enable enhanced water management guidance to be developed.
Assessment of water ecological carrying capacity using an indicator-based method applied to Tieling City, China
Authors: Yang J. F. , Lei K. , Khu S. T. , Qiao F. , Liu Q.
Published: October 2015

Water ecological carrying capacity (WECC) refers to the ability of a water ecosystem to support and withstand economic and social development. WECC assessments can provide helpful information for resolving water issues. Since WECC involves a wide range of influence factors, indicator-based methods are useful tools for this type of evaluation. However, there are still some imperfections in the existing indicator-based methods for WECC evaluation, primarily in the aspects of index frameworks, indicator selection and evaluation criteria. Based on the pressure-support force-state index framework, this paper presents an indicator-based WECC evaluation method (PSSM). Using PSSM, overall WECC evaluation can be obtained by assessing the pressure of socio-economic development on the water ecosystem, the support from the water ecosystem for human development, and the health status of the water ecosystem. PSSM is directly focused on the pressure-support effect, and fully considers the determinant influence on WECC of the health status of the water ecosystem. The application of PSSM in Tieling City shows that further reduction in the pressure that comes from socio-economic development is still required, and the health status of the water ecosystem should be further improved.
Simulation of sugarcane yield under salinity and water stress conditions with the OPDM model
Authors: Palangi Sahar , Bahmani Omid
Published: October 2015

Limitation of water resources and decline in the quality of soil and water have led to the use of saline water and application of management systems for reducing irrigation water. The subject of this study was to determine the effect of salinity and water stress on sugarcane yield in Iran with an operational and planning distribution model (OPDM) for 7 years (2002–2008). Irrigation scenarios consisted of the full irrigation (I1), 85% (I2) and 70% (I3) of the sugarcane water requirement, and salinity scenarios were the average salinity of the Karun River, S1 (dS m−1), S2 = S1 +2 and S3 = S1 +4. The root mean square error and mean bias error (0.04 and 0.02, respectively) show the low error percentages and the values of EF = 0.65 and d = 0.71 indicated the high accuracy of the yield simulation with OPDM. Significant differences were observed among the different irrigation levels and this difference in I3 was more than in I2. The effect of different salinity levels on yield reduction was not significant. Overall, results showed that there was an individual and combined effect of salinity and water deficit on sugarcane yield; however, the effect of different irrigation levels on the yield was more than the salinity.
Arsenic removal from groundwater by ion exchange and adsorption processes: comparison of two different materials
Authors: Chiavola Agostina , D'Amato Emilio , Gavasci Renato , Sirini Piero
Published: October 2015

Among the different technologies for reducing arsenic concentration in drinking water, adsorption has demonstrated in many cases to be superior in terms of performance and costs. However, there are numerous types of commercial adsorbents potentially capable of treating arsenic-contaminated groundwater. The present paper compares arsenic uptake efficiency of two different commercial media, one (FerriXTM) using mainly the adsorption process, and the other (IRA 400) working as an ion-exchange resin. Firstly, batch studies with artificially contaminated solutions were run to determine the isotherm equations and the theoretical uptake capacity. The following values of the equilibrium coefficients were determined: for IRA 400, using a two-site model K = 1.749; for FerriXTM, using the Freundlich isotherm model n50 = 3.02 mg L/g and k50 = 12.07 mg L/g, and n100 = 2.32 mg L/g and k100 = 6.75 mg L/g, for 50 mg L/g and 100 mg/L initial arsenic concentrations, respectively. Then, a series of experiments were carried out on column plants using real contaminated feeding solutions to determine the breakthrough curves. Both media showed very high duration of the cycle run. However, performance of IRA 400 was negatively affected by the presence of interfering ions, such as sulfates, which accelerated the achievement of the breakthrough condition. Instead, FerriXTM removed arsenic for a much higher number of bed volumes than IRA 400, but it was ineffective against the other contaminants of the solution.
How do typhoons and dust storms affect rainwater harvesting systems?
Authors: Wang Nick D. , Liu Jhy-Chern
Published: October 2015

This study aimed to investigate the effects of typhoons and dust storms on harvested rainwater quality. Rainwater samples were collected from the rainwater harvesting systems in northern Taiwan between September 2010 and April 2013. There were five typhoons and one dust storm that hit Taiwan during this period. Harvested rainwater was analyzed, including pH, electrical conductivity, turbidity, alkalinity, total organic carbon (TOC), acute biotoxicity test, and concentration of 13 metals and three anions. Results of harvested rainwater of the dust storm showed it had higher pH, turbidity, TOC, Na, Mg, Ca, Cl−, NO3− and SO42− than normal rainwater. Conversely, due to strong winds and dilution effect, most of the ion concentrations in harvested rainwater during typhoons were lower than in normal rainwater. In addition, biotoxicity in harvested rainwater during the dust storm and typhoons was not significantly different from that of normal rainwater.
Optimization and economic analysis for a small scale nanofiltration and reverse osmosis water desalination system
Authors: Garg Manoj Chandra , Joshi Himanshu
Published: October 2015

This paper presents the results of a techno-economic investigation of a nanofiltration (NF) and reverse osmosis (RO) process for treating brackish water. Optimization experiments of six commercially available small scale RO and NF membranes were carried out using formulated artificial groundwater. A predictive model was developed by using response surface methodology (RSM) for optimization of input process parameters of brackish water membrane processes to simultaneously maximize water recovery and salt rejection while minimizing energy demand. A predictive model using multiple response optimization revealed that CSM RO and NF250 membranes showed the optimal efficiency with 20.24% and 18.98% water recovery, 90.22% and 70.64% salt rejection and 17.87 kWh/m3 and 9.35 kWh/m3 of specific energy consumption (SEC), respectively. Furthermore, confirmation of RSM predictions was carried out by an artificial neural network (ANN) model trained by RSM experimental data. Predicted values by both RSM and ANN modeling methodologies were compared and found within the acceptable range. Finally, a membrane validation experiment was carried out successfully at proposed optimal conditions, which proved the accuracy of the employed RSM and ANN models. Detailed analyses of the economic assessment showed that the recovery rate can play a major role in reducing the cost of a membrane system.
A new method for efficient detection of Cryptosporidium RNA by real-time reverse transcription-PCR with surfactants
Authors: Sekikawa Takahiro , Toshiki Kosuke
Published: October 2015

Cryptosporidium is one of the most common causes of waterborne diseases worldwide. Its oocysts possess a robust wall that is extremely resistant to the chlorine used for potable water disinfection. The current procedures of nucleic acid extraction and purification, such as the freeze–thaw (F/T) method and the commercial kits, are time consuming and expensive. To this end, a surfactant extraction treatment (SET) was developed as a method to extract nucleic acids from Cryptosporidium using only surfactants. The use of 18S rRNA improves the sensitivity of Cryptosporidium detection for real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), because 18S rRNA molecules are constitutively present in high copy numbers. Therefore, we applied SET to the detection of Cryptosporidium 18S rRNA using reverse transcription (RT)-PCR for the first time. RT-PCR was inhibited by 0.01% of the anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), whereas the inhibition did not occur with 5% of the nonionic surfactants Tween 20, Triton X-100, Tween 80, and Triton X-114. However, the nonionic surfactants could not completely suppress the inhibition induced by 0.1% SDS. We successfully extracted 18S rRNA genes from oocysts by SET without the F/T method and detected them by real-time RT-PCR.
Development of artificial neural networks based confidence intervals and response surfaces for the optimization of coagulation performance
Authors: McArthur Robert H. , Andrews Robert C.
Published: October 2015

Effective coagulation is essential to achieving drinking water treatment objectives when considering surface water. To minimize settled water turbidity, artificial neural networks (ANNs) have been adopted to predict optimum alum and carbon dioxide dosages at the Elgin Area Water Treatment Plant. ANNs were applied to predict both optimum carbon dioxide and alum dosages with correlation (R2) values of 0.68 and 0.90, respectively. ANNs were also used to developed surface response plots to ease optimum selection of dosage. Trained ANNs were used to predict turbidity outcomes for a range of alum and carbon dioxide dosages and these were compared to historical data. Point-wise confidence intervals were obtained based on error and squared error values during the training process. The probability of the true value falling within the predicted interval ranged from 0.25 to 0.81 and the average interval width ranged from 0.15 to 0.62 NTU. Training an ANN using the squared error produced a larger average interval width, but better probability of a true prediction interval.
The Application of Wavelet-domain Hidden Markov Tree Model in Diabetic
Retinal Image Denoising
Authors: Cui Dong , Liu Minmin , Hu Lei , Liu Keju , Guo Yongxin , Jiao Qing
Published: October 2015

The wavelet-domain Hidden Markov Tree Model can properly describe the dependence and the correlation of
fundus angiographic images’ wavelet coefficients among scales. Based on the construction of the fundus angiographic
images from Hidden Markov Tree Models and Gaussian Mixture Models, this paper applied expectation-maximum algorithm
to estimate the wavelet coefficients of original fundus angiographic images and the Bayesian estimation to achieve
the goal of fundus angiographic images denoising. As is shown in the experimental result, compared with the other algorithms
as mean filter and median filter, this method effectively improved the peak signal to noise ratio of fundus angiographic
images after denoising and preserved the details of vascular edge in fundus angiographic images.
Biological Monitoring of Air Pollutants and Its Influence on Human Beings
Authors: Cen Shihong
Published: October 2015

Monitoring air pollutants via plants is an economic, convenient and credible method compared with the traditional ways. Plants show different damage symptoms to different air pollutants, which can be used to determine the species of air pollutants. Besides, pollutants mass concentration scope can be estimated by the damage extent of plants and the span of polluted time. Based on the domestic and foreign research, this paper discusses the principles, mechanism, advantages and disadvantages of plant-monitoring, and exemplifies plenty of such plants and the minimum mass concentration and pollution time of the plants showing damage symptoms. Finally, this paper introduces the effects of air pollutants on immune function of the human body, such as decrease of the body's immune function, decline of lung function, respiratory and circulatory system changes, inducing and promoting human allergic diseases, respiratory diseases and other diseases.
The Research on the High-Protein Low-Calorie Food Recipe for Teenager Gymnastics Athletes
Authors: Wei Cong
Published: October 2015

In order to prevent teenager gymnastics athletes getting fat deposition, weight gain, they should supply a rational food. This paper considers the normal growth and development of athletes, body fat deposition proteins and hunger feel, configured high-protein low-calorie food recipe. Then analysis the composition and the essential amino acids of the recipe. In the final choiced 18 adolescent gymnastics athletes as subjects, to verify the validity of the formula. And analysis the experimental results. The experimental results analysis shows that this recipe basically meets the design requirements.
The relation between chironomid (Diptera: Chironomidae) assemblages and environmental variables: The Kolubara River case study
Authors: Popovic Natasa , Djuknic Jelena , Canak-Atlagic Jelena , Rakovic Maja , Tubic Bojana , Andjus Stefan , Paunovic Momir
Published: October 2015

Chironomid larvae respond rapidly to environmental changes in aquatic
ecosystems, with different species possessing different degrees of tolerance.
Consequently, this group is considered an effective and reliable indicator of
the ecological status. In this study, the relation between larval chironomid
assemblages and environmental variables was examined at two sites on the
Kolubara River. The nonparametric Mann-Whitney U test did not confirm
significant seasonal differences between samples. Correspondence analysis
indicated that the study sites are distinguished by their community
composition. Based on forward selection analyses, 5 out of the 28 analyzed
water parameters and 3 out of the 22 sediment parameters displayed the
highest levels of correlation with chironomid assemblages. Forward selection
analysis revealed that inorganic pollutants in the sediment (mercury, nickel
and cadmium) exerted the greatest influence on the community. Results of
canonical correspondence analysis indicated that the sediment characteristics
have a more significant impact on chironomid communities than the analyzed
water parameters. Our study confirmed that chironomids and sediment analyzes
should be obligatorily included in the monitoring of ecological status, since
chironomids are often a dominant component of benthic macroinvertebrate
assemblages in freshwater ecosystems, with many species inhabiting the
sediment with a proclivity for intake of toxic and persistent pollutants.
Electrochemistry of cobalt ethylenediamine complexes at high pH
Authors: Miulovic Snezana , Nikolic Vladimir , Lausevic Petar , Acimovic Danka , Tasic Gvozden , Marceta-Kaninski Milica
Published: October 2015

In this work the electrochemical behavior of cobalt ethylendiamine complexes
(Co(en)), at pH 12 has been investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV),
potentiostatic pulse technique and polarization curve measurements at
stationary and rotating glassy carbon (GC) electrode. It was shown that
sixteen different species can be formed in the solution containing Co(en)3
ligand, with the most stable one at all pH values being [Co(en)3]3+. The
reduction of [Co(en)3]3+ into [Co(en)3]2+ was shown to be totally
irreversible, one-electron exchange reaction. Further reduction of
[Co(en)3]2+ was found to be complex process leading to a cobalt deposition
at the potentials more negative than -1.45 V vs. SCE. The process of
[Co(en)3]2+ oxidation was also complex and most probably coupled with the
chemical reaction.
Determining The Geometrical Parameters Of Exploited Rail Track Using Approximating Spline Functions
Authors: Lenda G.
Published: October 2015

The process of railway track adjustment is a task which includes bringing, in geometrical terms, the actual track axis to the position ensuring safe and efficient traffic of rail vehicles. The initial calculation stage of this process is to determine approximately the limits of sections of different geometry, i.e. straight lines, arcs and transition curves. This allows to draw up a draft alignment design, which is subject to control the position relative to the current state. In practice, this type of a project rarely meets the requirements associated with the values of corrective alignments. Therefore, it becomes necessary to apply iterated correction of a solution in order to determine the final project, allowing to introduce minor corrections while maintaining the assumed parameters of the route. The degree of complexity of this process is defined by the quality of determining a preliminary draft alignment design. Delimitation of the sections for creation of creating such a design, is usually done by using the curvature diagram (InRail v8.7 Reference Guide [1], Jamka et al [2], Strach [3]), which is, however, sensitive to the misalignment of the track and measurement errors. In their paper Lenda and Strach [4] proposed a new method for creating curvature diagram, based on approximating spline function, theoretically allowing, inter alia, to reduce vulnerability to interference factors. In this study, the method to determine a preliminary draft alignment design for the track with severe overexploitation was used, and thus in the conditions adversely affecting the accuracy of the conducted readings. The results were compared to the ones obtained using classical curvature diagram. The obtained results indicate that the method allows to increase the readability of a curvature graph, which at considerable deregulation of a track takes an irregular shape, difficult to interpret. The method also favourably affects the accuracy of determining the initial parameters of the project, reducing the entire process of calculation.
Application Of Guided Wave Propagation In Diagnostics Of Steel Bridge Components
Authors: Rucka M. , Zima B. , Kędra R.
Published: October 2015

Early detection of potential defects and identification of their location are necessary to ensure safe, reliable and long-term use of engineering structures. Non-destructive diagnostic tests based on guided wave propagation are becoming more popular because of the possibility to inspect large areas during a single measurement with a small number of sensors. The aim of this study is the application of guided wave propagation in non-destructive diagnostics of steel bridges. The paper contains results of numerical analyses for a typical railway bridge. The ability of damage detection using guided Lamb waves was demonstrated on the example of a part of a plate girder as well as a bolted connection. In addition, laboratory tests were performed to investigate the practical application of wave propagation for a steel plate and a prestressed bolted joint.
Role of antioxidant supplementation in preventing noise induced hearing loss
Authors: Fetoni Anna Rita , Eramo Sara Letizia Maria , Paciello Fabiola , Rolesi Rolando , Troiani Diana , Paludetti Gaetano
Published: October 2015

Objective:

Oxidative stress plays a significant role in noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) as it largely participates in the mechanisms that underlie cell death after noise exposure and leads to sensorineural hearing loss. Many antioxidant drugs have been tested to prevent NIHL.

Study design:

We compared the protective effects of five molecules having antioxidant properties (vitamin E, ferulic acid, active CoQ10, its synthetic analogue – idebenone, and the soluble formulation CoQter) tested in our laboratory. This study has been conducted in a model of acoustic trauma in rats in which the molecules were given intraperitoneally 1 h before and once daily for three days after pure tone noise exposure (10 kHz for 1 h at 100dB SPL).We evaluated their hearing function via electrophysiological measurements at 2, 7 and 21 days and performed morphological studies with scanning electron microscopy and TUNEL assay as a parameter of apoptotic activation.

Results:

All molecules decreased threshold shift, reaching almost a complete recovery starting from day 7 with a further light recovery at day 21. At this time-point all treatments reached almost 80–90% of protection; however, CoQter and vitamin E were the most effective treatments. A decreasing number of TUNEL-positive nuclei for each treatment were observed two days after noise exposure. The cochleogram and morphological observations were consistent with the protective effects measured by ABR, 21 days after trauma.

Conclusion:

These results indicate that the best protection can be achieved by using antioxidant molecules acting against mitochondrial induced oxidative stress, such as vitamin E and CoQter and the degree of protection depends on the pharmacological properties of the molecules.
Utility of tubular retractors to minimize surgical brain injury in the removal of deep intraparenchymal lesions: a quantitative analysis of FLAIR hyperintensity and apparent diffusion coefficient maps
Authors: Bander Evan D. , Jones Samuel H. , Kovanlikaya Ilhami , Schwartz Theodore H.
Published: October 2015

OBJECT

Brain retraction systems are frequently required to achieve surgical exposure of deep-seated brain lesions. Spatula-based systems can be associated with injury to the cortex and deep white matter, particularly adjacent to the sharp edges, which can result in uneven pressure on the parenchyma over the course of a long operation. The use of tubular retractor systems has been proposed as a method to overcome these limitations. There have been no studies assessing the degree of brain injury associated with the use of tubular retractors.

METHODS

Twenty patients were retrospectively identified at Weill Cornell Medical College who underwent resection of deep-seated brain lesions between 2005 and 2014 with the aid of a METRx tubular retractor system. Using the Brainlab software, pre- and postoperative images were analyzed to assess volume, depth, extent of resection, and change in postoperative MR FLAIR hyperintensity and restricted diffusion on diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI).

RESULTS

The mean preoperative tumor volume was 16.25 ± 17.6 cm3. Gross-total resection was achieved in 75%, near-total resection in 10%, and subtotal resection in 15% of patients. There was a small but not statistically significant increase in average FLAIR hyperintensity volume by 3.25 ± 10.51 cm3 (p = 0.16). The average postoperative volume of DWI high signal area with restricted diffusion on apparent diffusion coefficient maps was 8.35 ± 3.05 cm3. Assuming that the volume of restricted diffusion on DWI around tumor was 0 preoperatively, this represented a statistically significant increase on DWI (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Although tubular retractors do not appear to significantly increase FLAIR signal in the brain, DWI intensity around the retractors can be identified. These data indicate that although tubular retractors may minimize damage to surrounding tissues, they still cause cytotoxic edema and cellular damage. Objective comparison against other retraction methods, as compared by 3D volumetric analysis or similar methods, will be important in determining the true advantage of tubular retractor systems.
Hepatic necroinflammation and severe liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B with undetectable HBV DNA and persistently normal alanine aminotransferase
Authors: Alam MM , Mahtab MA , Akbar SMF , Kamal M , Rahman S
Published: October 2015

Both consensus and controversy remains regarding surrogacy of hepatitis B virus (HBV) deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), however, these markers are used to ascertain the extent of liver damages and to guide therapeutic options in patients with chronic hepatitis B. However, little is known about liver histology of patients with chronic hepatitis B with undetectable HBV DNA and persistently normal ALT. Thirty-five incidentally-detected patients with chronic HBV infection (assessed by expression of hepatitis B surface antigen for more than 6 months) with undetectable HBV DNA and normal serum ALT were enrolled in this study. Liver biopsy specimens were taken from all patients and the extent of hepatic necroinflammation and liver fibrosis were evaluated. Moderate degree of hepatic necroinflammation was detected in 2 of 35 patients and severe hepatic fibrosis was seen in 6 of 35 patients. Two patients with undetectable HBV DNA and sustained normal ALT had moderate hepatic necroinflammation and severe hepatic fibrosis. In spite of undetectable HBV DNA for prolonged period and persistently normal ALT, some patients with chronic hepatitis B express evidences of progressive liver diseases. Large scale studies in different races and geographical regions should be accomplished to develop insights about management of these patients. Studies about extent of liver diseases in these patients should be accomplished in Treatment recommendation and management strategies should be developed for these patients.Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2014; 40 (3): 92-96
Influence of Psychological Empowerment on Organizational Commitment among Medical Employees in a Hospital Setting
Authors: Kebriaei A , Rakhshaninejad M , Mohseni M
Published: October 2015

Introduction: people within organizations are a key factor for efficiency. Thus employee empowerment has become a popular management strategy. The study aimed to investigate the relationship between psychological empowerment and organizational commitment among medical staff of a hospital in Zahedan city. Methods: This cross sectional study was carried out in 2013. A random sample of 172 medical employees in Khatam-ol-Anbia hospital at Zahedan city was selected and responded to items of the questionnaires using a 7-point Likert scale ranging from 1 to 7. For measuring psychological empowerment and organizational commitment, Mishra & Spreitzers scale and Meyer and Allens questionnaire were used. A higher score means a higher degree of psychological empowerment or organizational commitment. Analysis was carried out using SPSS. Results: The level of organizational commitment and psychological empowerment significantly were higher than average. There was a significant positive relationship between employees empowerment and their commitment to organization. Psychological empowerment was a significant predictor of organizational commitment (?=.524). Out of the five dimensions of empowerment three dimensions are significant predictors of commitment and explain 37.1% of the variance in commitment. Conclusions: Due to The positive influence of psychological empowerment on organizational commitment, programs for in-service education should focus on facilitating psychological empowerment to improve and increase organizational commitment. Also, since impact of employees psychological empowerment on organizational commitment partially supported, there are other variables that influence the organizational commitment.Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2014; 40 (3): 107-112
Gamma interferon levels among Bangladeshi children after measles vaccination
Authors: Sultana S , Tabassum S , Nessa A , Jahan M
Published: October 2015

Gamma interferon (IFN-?) plays an important role in the immune response to live measles virus vaccination. To study the immune response to measles vaccination, IFN-? level was estimated in 30 children. Of these, 24 children vaccinated with a single dose of measles vaccine at nine months of age and 06 children vaccinated with a second dose during the Measles Catch-up Immunization campaign. Measles vaccine strain was cultured in Vero cell line and the Tissue Culture Infective Dose (TCID)50 was used as standard live virus. Peripheral blood Mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was separated by Ficoll- Hypaque density gradient centrifugation and stimulated with measles virus antigens and mitogens (lectin), cultured in CO2 and IFN-? level was measured from culture supernatant by ELISA. On stimulation with measles antigen and lectin respectively, IFN-? level was highest (105 pg/ml and 226.54 pg/ml) in the 109-120 months age group while it was lowest (12.97±8.16 pg/ml and 13.16±8.0 pg/ml) in the 61-72 months age group. No significant difference was observed in IFN-? level after stimulation with either measles antigen or lectin among well-nourished (p<0.8) and mal-nourished (p<0.7) children suggesting that nutritional status did not have any effect on IFN-? level. However, IFN-? level was higher in children who received two dose of measles vaccine than those who received a single dose (p<0.001).Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2014; 40 (3): 118-121
Evaluation of Fungicides for the Control of Bakanae Disease of Rice Caused by Fusarium moniliforme (Sheldon)
Authors: Hossain MS , Ali M Ayub , Mollah MIU , Khan MAI , Islam AKM Sajjadul
Published: October 2015

Bakanae is one of the major diseases of rice in Bangladesh and causes substantial yield loss. To control the disease eleven fungicides from different fungicidal groups were evaluated for their efficacy against seed-borne fungus, F. moniliforme as seed treatment both in the laboratory and in the seed-bed during 2011 and 2012. In the laboratory the fungicides were evaluated at three concentration levels viz 2.5, 3.0 and 3.5 gm/L/kg seeds. Overall performance of the fungicides was found to be better in suppressing the seed-borne F. monilifome and increasing seed germination. Among the fungicides, Bavistin, Sunphanate, Nativo and Carzeb completely inhibiting the growth of F. moniliformeinvitro condition at their low (2.5 gm/L) concentration. Efficacy of the fungicides reduced to some extent when the treated seeds were washed with fresh water except Bavistin. Maximum (85%) average germination was found in Bavistin and Greenzeb treated seeds. The promising fungicides further evaluated to control seedling infection at low (2.5 gm/L) concentration and resulted significant reduction of bakanae infected seedlings in pot soil and in seed bed.Bangladesh Rice j. 2015, 19(1): 49-55