bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CW Optical Limiting Study in Disperse Yellow Dye-doped PMMA-MA Polymer Films
Authors: Aithal Shubrajyotsna , Aithal P. S. , Bhat G. K.
Published: December 2016

Molecules with high two-photon absorption (TPA) cross section and the molecules which have reverse saturation absorption (RSA) cross section are of great interest today because of their application in three-dimensional optical data storage and photonic switches. During last forty years, several techniques have been developed to determine the two-photon absorption cross-sections and reverse saturation absorption cross-sections of the materials. This includes direct methods, such as nonlinear transmission and Z-scan methods and indirect methods, such as two-photon excited fluorescence and two-photon pump-probe transient absorption spectroscopy. During recent years, the organic dye-doped polymer films getting more attention due to their advantages to fabricate photonics devices. In this paper, we have studied the nonlinear optical properties like nonlinear absorption and nonlinear refraction of an azo dye Disperse yellow-7 (DY-7) doped in Polymethyl methacrylate-methacrylic acid (PMMA-MA) polymer matrix using open aperture and closed aperture Z-scan experimental methods using continuous wave (CW) laser. The optical limiting properties of these films are also studied in Type 1 and Type 2 configurations at different input power using continuous wave (CW) laser beams of 532 nm wavelength.
Effect of Radio Frequency from Cellular System on Human Body & Its Potential Remedy Li-Fi for Next Generation Wireless Network
Authors: Sharma Pragati , Gautam A. K.
Published: December 2016

There is a huge body of evidence in the literature that exposure to radio frequency (RF) has been linked to a variety of adverse health outcomes that may have significant health problems for user of mobile phone. Credible scientific evidences are there that RF radiation from cellular system is responsible to create effect that may be either short term (sleep disruption, lack of concentration, behavioral changes etc) or  long term (DNA damage, altered immune function, miscarriage risks, etc.). Cellular region of frequency spectrum covers a vital range of frequency worldwide. It uses Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) and Mobile Station (MS) for its operation therefore the emission of energy from BTS and MS is quite dangerous and needs everyone attention. In second generation systems, BTS works on frequency reuse concept and after few kilometers, we found another BTS to serve the mobile phone. BTS power gets reduced as the distance from BTS to MS increases. At such condition, mobile starts to emit more power to maintain the link and sometimes switches to another nearby  BTS area. A new emerging technology, Light- Fidelity (Li-Fi) is in consideration for future use of communication because it is capable to work safe against health hazards. It can be understood as a carrier to transmit data wirelessly in spite of using radio waves. 

In this paper, we tried to check the effects of radio frequency at various conditions. These conditions are studied carefully and a comparative analysis is done (based on available literature) to aware mankind regarding harmful effects of radiation from cellular system on human body and also focus on its proposed remedy to overcome the hazardous effects of electromagnetic radiation.
Assessment of Beach sand using Gamma Ray Spectrometer in Thiruvanathapuram District, Kerala of South India
Authors: Abinesh Ajithra , G. Shanthi
Published: December 2016

It is well recognized fact that some areas of the world have anomalously high levels of natural background radiation referred to as high background radiation areas (HBRAs).  Typical examples include Yangjiang in China, Rasmar in Iran and In India, part of coastal areas of Kerala and Tamil Nadu fall in this category.  It has been established earlier that the cause for this high background is the presence of monazite (thorium). This study focuses on the estimation of the environmental radioactivity levels in the beach sands of Thiruvanathapuram district, Kerala.  

Using high resolution gamma ray spectroscopy activity concentrations of 40K, 238U & 232Th were estimated. Activity concentrations ranged from 17-154 Bq/kg for 40K, from 4 to 100 Bq/kg for 238U and from 6 to 296 Bq/kg for 232Th.The mean activity concentration values obtained for the radionuclide are below than the world average values reported by the UNSCEAR. Subsequently assessed radiological effects show that the mean radium equivalent activity is 65 Bq/kg. The range of the calculated air exposure rate was between 14.2 to 228.1 nGy/h in both 0 m from the Waves and 10 m from the Waves. The values of external and internal radiation hazard indices are found to be less than unity. Measured natural radioactivity, hazard indices and effective dose received by the population were found to within the recommended limits. This work provides a good baseline data of natural radioactive elements for the sand of the area and  its radiological significance. 
Effect of temperature on yolk sac utilisation and growth of newly hatched larvae of cobia Rachycentron canadum (Linnaeus, 1766)
Authors: Sakthivel M. , Jayakumar R. , Nazar A. K. Abdul , Tamilmani G. , Rameshkumar P. , Kalidas C. , Anbarasu M. , Balamurugan V. , Thiagu R. , Sirajudeen S. , Gopakumar G.
Published: December 2016

The effect of temperature on the utilisation of yolk-sac and growth in terms of length of the larvae of cobia Rachycentron canadum (Linnaeus, 1766) was investigated. Five temperature levels viz., 29, 30, 31, 32 and 33°C were experimented with the newly hatched larvae for a total duration of 52 hours post-hatch (hph). A clear-cut trend of increase in larval length with increase in temperature was noted. The maximum length recorded was 4.41±0.11 mm at 33°C by the end of the experiment. The yolk-sac volume decreased proportionately with rise in temperature. At the end of 52 hph, the lowest yolk-sac volume was recorded at temperature range of 31 to 33°C. Results of the present study suggest that temperature plays a vital role in the yolk-sac utilisation as well as on growth of cobia larvae.
Estimation of genetic parameters for growth related traits at different stages of development in Paralichthys olivaceus (Temminck & Schlegel, 1846)
Authors: Liu F. , Chen S. L. , Wang L. , Zhang Y. P. , Tian Y. S. , Chen H. L.
Published: December 2016

Genetic parameters of growth traits at different growing stages of Paralichthys olivaceus (Temminck and Schlegel, 1846) were estimated using 30 families. The estimates of heritability for body weight at four developmental stages viz., 210, 450, 720 and 830 days of age, varied from 0.12 to 0.37. The heritability at 720 days of age was the lowest and that of 450 days was the highest. The maternal effect was 0.08 at 210 days, 0.03 at 450 days and almost zero (8.89 E-8 and 2.40 E-7) at 720 and 830 days. Correlation coefficients of the estimated breeding value (EBV) and phenotypic value (PV) of body weight at different developmental stages were 0.470-0.803, which were highly significant (p<0.01). Correlation of estimated breeding value (EBV) and phenotypic value (PV) was the highest at 210 days of age and the lowest at 720 days. Genetic correlation among the four stages showed large variation (0.339-0.811), which were highly significant except that of 210 and 830 days. The value and accuracy of estimating genetic parameters for growth traits at different stages was different. Therefore, the growth stage should be taken into account when designing a breeding program for growth traits in P. olivaceus.
Fishermen’s perception of climate change - a study from Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Menon Muktha , Ghosh Shubhadeep , Kumar M. Satish , Rao M. V. Hanumantha , Mahesh V. Uma , Zacharia P. U.
Published: December 2016

Perceptions of fishermen on climate change were studied from two coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh during 2011. Fishermen were interviewed to know their perception on climate change over the last 20 years, impact of change in climatic parameters on their lives as well as on marine fisheries and on the adaptation measures required. All fishermen contacted believed that climate had changed in the last two decades. Wind was ranked as the parameter that had changed the most in the last two decades. Sea status was ranked as the most problematic to fishermen. Avenue for safe exit from villages and coastal protection structures in case of natural calamities were the highest scoring adaptation measures. Wind was found the most critical parameter affecting marine fishery and overfishing was identified as the biggest problem facing fisheries.
Seed production and growth of Neopomacentrus cyanomos (Bleeker, 1856) in captivity
Authors: Krishna M. V. Rohini , Anil M. K. , Raj P. Neethu , Santhosh B.
Published: December 2016

Development of the regal demoiselle Neopomacentrus cyanomos (Bleeker, 1856) from egg to maturation and spawning stage is described using hatchery reared specimens. Larval rearing of N. cyanomos was carried out using zooplankton as the starting feed up to the 10th day post-hatch (dph). Larval and post-larval growth was studied for a period of 340 dph. Caudal fin rays began to develop from 8th dph and the larval body depth increased considerably from 9th dph onwards. Towards the 10th dph, at about 5.7 mm total length (TL) half of the specimens underwent notochord flexion. Larvae exhibited decreased transparency with increased pigmentation of the pre-anal body, characterised by presence of stellate melanophores. Towards 15th dph, the pectoral, pelvic, dorsal, anal and caudal fins were visible with fin rays. The soft dorsal fin started showing pigmentation from 20th dph onwards and the spinous dorsal from 30th dph onwards. Towards 30th day, black pigments were found distributed all over the body. Pigmentation steadily increased from 30th day onwards and the juveniles fully attained the adult pattern of body colouration by about 90-100 days. First spawning occurred on the 340th dph at a size of 64-73 mm TL.
Nutritional profiling of the edible seaweeds Gracilaria edulis, Ulva lactuca and Sargassum sp.
Authors: Debbarma Jesmi , Madhusudana Rao B. , Murthy L. Narasimha , Mathew Suseela , Venkateshwarlu G. , Ravishankar C. N.
Published: December 2016

In the present study, nutritional composition of the edible seaweeds, Gracilaria edulis (red seaweed), Ulva lactuca (green seaweed) and Sargassum sp. (brown seaweed) were evaluated. Results showed that the seaweeds had protein content of 13.84±3.55 to 18.21±0.00%; fat 0.73±0.001 to 0.93±0.00%, carbohydrate 30.32±0.21 to 43.19±1.75% and total dietary fibre (TDF) content of 53.625±0.18 to 63.175±0.46% on dry weight basis. Among the three seaweeds, Sargassum sp. contained highest protein content (18.21±0.00%) and G. edulis possessed highest TDF (63.175±0.46%). Macronutrients viz., Na, P and Ca and the micronutrients, Fe, Se, Mn, Cu and Zn were present in all three seaweeds. G. edulis had highest Na (423.33±1.15 mg 100 g-1), P (282.5±0.5 mg 100 g-1), Ca (223.33±0.58 mg 100 g-1) and Fe (65.28±0.33 mg 100 g-1), whereas highest Se content was recorded in Sargassum sp (49.82±0.09 mg 100 g-1). Palmitic acid (C16:0), oleic acid (C18:1) and linoleic acid (C18:2, ω-6) were the most abundant saturated fatty acid (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), respectively. Fatty acid profile also revealed that small quantity of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (C22:6, ω-3) ranging from 0.064 to 0.494% was present in all the three seaweed species but eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) (C20:5, ω-3) was present only in Sargassum sp. at a concentration of 0.583%. G. edulis had higher vitamin D2 (2.590 mg 100 g-1), vitamin E (1.017 mg 100 g-1) and vitamin K1 (0.714 mg 100 g-1) than Sargassum sp. and U. lactuca. The results clearly indicates that these three seaweeds can be considered as a good source of dietary fibre, protein, minerals and vitamins and can be used for fortifying foods or as components of functional foods.
Ética, técnica e a lógica institucional da autovigilância
Authors: Crubellate João Marcelo
Published: December 2016

Nosso objetivo central foi investigar a relação entre autovigilância e ética do sujeito à luz de uma terceira noção: a de técnica moderna. Entendemos a essência da técnica (disposição calculativa) como substância institucional da lógica vigente na auto-constituição do cientista. Propomos, então, que a autovigilância é sustentada pelos sujeitos a ela submetidos, em seu devir ético e a partir das condições dispostas pela técnica moderna. Diferentemente de outras modalidades de controle, a autovigilância se institucionaliza a partir da consciente disposição humana de si na condição de subjetividade calculável, correspondente ao refletido engajamento para com expectativas de previsibilidade e utilidade que são a expressão existencial do panorama fenomênico estabelecido pela técnica. Concluímos que tal processo se instala sem exigir renúncia a si mesmo; antes, ele se atualiza exatamente a partir da constituição de si e da subjetivação.
Current Status of Agricultural Extension in China
Authors: Cheng Fu , Chen Qingxi , Gu Mengmeng , Peng Donghui
Published: December 2016

Information on the history, legislative background, and current five levels (national, provincial, county, municipal, and township level) of the agricultural extension system in China are presented herein. In addition to the five levels, there are also six administrative agencies involved: Ministry of Agriculture, State Forestry Administration, Ministry of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, National Agriculture Leadership Working Group, and National Development and Reform Commission. An example (Zhongfang Township, City of Luoyuan, Fuzhou County, Fujian Province) is given to illustrate the intricate network of the agricultural extension system. Major problems of the Chinese extension system include a complex and inefficient extension network, disconnection between the extension service and stakeholders’ needs, and a “two-boss” dilemma for most extension agencies. However, some current success stories in Chinese agricultural extension may be applicable or provide useful tips to other countries including the United States.
Evapotranspiration from Spider and Jade Plants Can Improve Relative Humidity in an Interior Environment
Authors: Kerschen Eric W. , Garten Caleb , Williams Kimberly A. , Derby Melanie M.
Published: December 2016

Plants in the interiorscape have many documented benefits, but their potential for use in conjunction with mechanical heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to humidify dry indoor environments requires more study. In this research, evaporation and evapotranspiration rates for a root medium control, variegated spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum), and green jade plants (Crassula argentea) were measured over 24 hours at 25% and 60% relative humidity (RH) and 20 °C to generate data for calculation of the leaf surface area and number of plants necessary to influence indoor humidity levels. Evaporation and evapotranspiration rates were higher for all cases at 25% RH compared with 60% RH. At 25% RH during lighted periods, evapotranspiration rates were ≈15 g·h−1 for spider plants and 8 g·h−1 for jade plants. Spider plants transpired during lighted periods due to their C3 photosynthetic pathway, whereas jade plants had greater evapotranspiration rates during dark periods—about 11 g·h−1—due to their crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) photosynthetic pathway. A combination of plants with different photosynthetic pathways (i.e., C3 and CAM combination) could contribute to greater consistency between evapotranspiration rates from day to night for humidification of interior spaces. Using the measured data, calculations indicated that 32,300 cm2 total spider plant leaf surface area, which is 25 spider plants in 4-inch-diameter pots or fewer, larger plants, could increase the humidity of an interior bedroom from 20% RH to a more comfortable 30% RH under bright interior light conditions.
Effects of Early Tree Training on Macadamia Production
Authors: McFadyen Lisa , Robertson David , Morris Stephen , Olesen Trevor
Published: December 2016

The current industry recommendation for the training of young macadamia (Macadamia integrifolia, Macadamia tetraphylla, and hybrids) trees is to prune the trees to a central leader, but there is little science to support this recommendation. We planted an orchard to assess the merits of central leader training relative to a minimally pruned control. We used two cultivars, 246 and 816, representing spreading and upright growth habits, respectively. Training to a central leader reduced cumulative yields per tree over the first 3 years of production by 16% in ‘246’ and 23% in ‘816’. The reduction in yield was correlated with a reduction in the number of racemes per tree. The early training of the upright cultivar 816 appeared to improve its resistance to storm damage, but no such effect was seen in the more spreading cultivar 246. The yield penalty in training young trees to a central leader is such that industry should reconsider its early tree training recommendation.
A New Method to Estimate Vegetable Seedling Vigor, Piloted with Tomato, for Use in Grafting and Other Contexts
Authors: Hu Bizhen , Bennett Mark A. , Kleinhenz Matthew D.
Published: December 2016

The primary objective of this study was to test an improved method for estimating vegetable seedling vigor, which is important in grafting and other contexts. The study was also designed to test correlations between destructive and nondestructive measures of seedling growth and the effect of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) rootstock and scion seedling vigor on graft success. Emergence and biomass accumulation and distribution of 18 tomato rootstock and five scion cultivars were monitored in the greenhouse through 18 days after sowing using seven destructive and nondestructive measures; growing conditions were also monitored. Plant and environmental data were used: 1) to develop cultivar growth curves, rank-sum values, and multicomponent seedling vigor values, and 2) to test correlations between percent canopy cover and other foliar measures. Also, seedlings representing all 90 rootstock–scion combinations and their associated seedling vigor values were cleft-grafted using accepted methods and grafted-plant survival was evaluated 2 weeks later. The experiment was conducted twice. Overall seedling vigor and its components differed significantly between runs of the experiment and among cultivars, although most cultivars had similar rankings (relative vigor) in both runs. Rank-sum and seedling vigor values ordered cultivars similarly. However, the range of cultivar seedling vigor values (3–11,504) greatly exceeded the range of rank-sum values (4–92). Correlations between destructive and nondestructive measures were significant. Graft success did not differ among cultivar combinations. We conclude that 1) the method to estimate seedling vigor described herein is useful in grafting and other contexts, including when discerning cultivar and other treatment effects, 2) nondestructive measures can substitute for some destructive ones, and 3) graft success in tomato is unrelated to rootstock and scion seedling vigor, provided proper grafting and healing techniques and commercial cultivars are used.
Yield Performance of Six Lychee Cultivars Grown at Two Locations in Puerto Rico
Authors: Goenaga Ricardo , Jenkins David , Marrero Angel
Published: December 2016

The globalization of the economy, increased ethnic diversity, and a greater demand for healthy and more diverse food production has increased the demand for tropical fruits. There is a lack of formal experimentation to determine yield performance and fruit quality traits of lychee (Litchi chinensis) cultivars. Six lychee cultivars (Bosworth-3, Brewster, Groff, Mauritius, Kaimana, Salathiel) grown on Mollisol and Inceptisol soils were evaluated for 8 years at the Adjuntas Agricultural Experiment Station of the University of Puerto Rico (UPR-Adjuntas) and La Balear farm, Adjuntas, Puerto Rico, respectively. At UPR-Adjuntas and La Balear, cultivar Groff had a significantly higher production (257,296 fruit/ha) of total fruit than other cultivars, whereas Salathiel had the lowest. However, total fruit production of ‘Groff’ was not significantly different from ‘Kaimana’ and ‘Bosworth-3’at La Balear. At UPR-Adjuntas, cultivars Groff and Bosworth-3 had significantly higher number of marketable fruit than the rest of the cultivars averaging 171,760 fruit/ha. At La Balear, ‘Kaimana’ had a higher number of marketable fruit, but it was not significantly different from ‘Groff’, ‘Bosworth-3’, and ‘Mauritius’, averaging 291,360 fruit/ha. At both sites, individual fruit weight of marketable fruit was higher in ‘Kaimana’ than the rest of the cultivars. However, at La Balear, there were no significant differences between ‘Kaimana’ and ‘Mauritius’. At both locations, cultivars exhibited erratic production patterns, which were characterized by lower production during 1 or 2 successive years following heavy cropping. At current farm gate prices and fruit yield reported in this study, cultivars Groff, Bosworth-3, and Kaimana can generate a good income for growers, and allow them to diversify crops as part of their farm operations.
Biochar Rate and Transplant Tray Cell Number Have Implications on Pepper Growth during Transplant Production
Authors: Nair Ajay , Carpenter Brandon
Published: December 2016

Biochar, a carbon-rich material derived from the pyrolysis of organic matter, exhibits beneficial chemical and physical properties when added to a soilless medium. Research on the use of biochar to improve plant productivity and growth has increased over the past decade, and has focused on using biochar as an alternative to sphagnum peatmoss. However, little work has been done to determine whether biochar can be used to partially replace commercially available sphagnum peatmoss–based greenhouse medium in vegetable transplant production. This study investigated the potential for supplementing a greenhouse growing medium with biochar for ‘Paladin’ pepper (Capsicum annuum) transplant production. Biochar was added to a soilless mix at rates of 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, or 80% (by weight). Pepper seedlings were grown for 56 days in 50-, 72-, or 98-cell transplant trays at each of the five levels of biochar concentration. Germination increased in the 50- and 72- cell trays with 20%, 40%, and 60% biochar; however, biochar had no effect on germination in the 98-cell tray. Seedling height and dry weight decreased as biochar concentration and cell number increased. Seedling stem diameter also decreased with increasing cell number and biochar concentration. Leaf SPAD readings (indirect measurement of chlorophyll) decreased with increasing biochar rate. Medium pH increased with increasing biochar application rates. Higher rates of biochar (60% and 80%) increased pH well beyond 7.0 and negatively affected transplant growth. Overall results indicate positive effect of biochar in sphagnum peatmoss–based growing mix on seedling growth characteristics; although higher biochar concentrations could negatively affect seedling growth. Biochar can successfully replace up to 40% of sphagnum peatmoss–based growing medium and serve as a sustainable alternative medium in vegetable transplant production.
Pinching Ornamental Sunflowers Increases Cut Stem Yield and Reduces Flower Size
Authors: Wien Hans C.
Published: December 2016

Most sunflower cultivars (Helianthus annuus) grown as cut flowers produce single stems and do not form branches. If pinched (i.e., apical meristem removed) in the seedling stage, plants form branches from basal nodes. In four experiments conducted under field conditions, pinching seedlings increased the number of marketable sunflower stems per plant 2.6 to 4.6 times, but the flowers formed were reduced in diameter by 43%, and flowering was delayed by 1 week to 10 days. Leaving six instead of four basal nodes after pinching only increased stem yield slightly in 2005 but not in 2006. Increasing the space available per plant from 9 × 9 to 12 × 12 inches increased flower diameter of pinched and control plants from 7 to 7.9 cm, but the resulting lower yield per unit area reduced overall value. In three out of four experiments, ‘Procut Orange’ produced more stems after pinching than ‘Sunrich Orange’. Pinching nonbranching sunflowers is a promising technique, increasing yield by a factor of three, and the value of the harvested flowers by 82%.
Light Interception by Pasture Canopies as Affected by Height and Botanical Composition
Authors: Rayburn Edward , Shockey William , Smith Brad , Seymour David , Basden Thomas
Published: December 2016

Core Ideas

Canopy height can be used to predict light interception in pasture canopies.

Pasture light interception is impacted by botanical composition as well as canopy height.

Pasture light interception varies across the growing season as solar altitude changes.

Producers can use pasture ruler height or compressed plate meter height to estimate pasture canopy light interception to optimize pasture management.

Light interception (LI) by growing plants is essential for photosynthesis and growth. This translates to animal production when this growth is consumed by grazing livestock. Canopy LI was measured in six pasture systems within three physiographic regions in West Virginia, across two grazing seasons and a range of pasture regrowth to quantify how LI is impacted by pasture height (ruler height [RHt] and falling plate meter compressed height [CHt]), sward composition, and time of year. The relationship between CHt and LI was computed as second‐order and logarithmic regressions. The second‐order regressions gave slightly greater R2 and lower residual standard deviations about the regression (SDreg) than did logarithmic regressions. Canopy LI reached 95% of incident light when CHt reached 8 inch (RHt of 13 inch) and was affected by forage density (FD; lb dry matter/acre/inch CHt, a system characteristic), forb and legume content in the stand, and month of the year. Understanding the effect of canopy height on LI and the effect of canopy height and LI on management goals will enable producers to adjust management to better achieve defined animal and plant performance goals.
Escherichia coli Release from Streambed to Water Column during Baseflow Periods: A Modeling Study
Authors: Park Yongeun , Pachepsky Yakov , Hong Eun‐Mi , Shelton Daniel , Coppock Cary
Published: December 2016

Streambed sediments can harbor large Escherichia coli populations that are released into the water column during high‐flow events. Few studies have been conducted on the rates of E. coli transfer from streambed sediment to water column in low‐flow conditions in natural streams. The aim of this work was to apply the watershed‐scale model SWAT (Soil and Water Assessment Tool) to a natural stream to evaluate the need to account for the E. coli release from streambed sediments during baseflow periods and to compare the results of simulating such a release by assuming predominantly passive transport, driven by groundwater influx, against simulations assuming predominantly active transport of random or chemotaxis‐driven bacteria movement. Escherichia coli concentrations in water during baseflow periods were substantially underestimated when E. coli release from the streambed was attributed only to streambed sediment resuspension. When considered in addition to the release due to sediment resuspension at high flows, the active and passive release assumptions provided 42 and 4% improvement, respectively, in the RMSE of logarithms of E. coli concentrations. Estimated E. coli fluxes to water column during the baseflow periods from June to November ranged from 3.3 × 105 colony‐forming units (CFU) m−2 d−1 in the game land area to 1.4 × 106 CFU m−2 d−1 in the mixed pasture and cropland. Results demonstrate that release of E. coli from streambed sediments during baseflow periods is substantial and that water column E. coli concentrations are dependent on not only land management practices but also on in‐stream processes.

Core Ideas

E. coli release from streambed in a creek was modeled using SWAT model.

In‐stream E. coli concentrations during baseflow period are underestimated.

Active and passive release were hypothesized to correct the estimates.

Simulations were more accurate using active release than passive release.
Enhanced Dissipation of Selected Herbicides in a Simulated Organic Matrix Biobed: A System to Control On‐Farm Point‐Source Pollution
Authors: Chu Bei , Eivazi Frieda
Published: December 2016

Most farms have a centralized location to fill spray tanks with pesticides and to flush and clean application equipment. These sites, depending on the frequency of use, could be significant sources of surface and groundwater contamination. One approach to minimize this contamination is to install a treatment system, such as a biobed. This study sought to construct a biobed and test the effects of different biomix materials in enhancing the dissipation of herbicides widely used in crop production. The four types of biomix evaluated had mixing ratios by volume of (1) 12.5% straw:62.5% soil:25% peat, (2) 25% straw:50% soil:25% peat, (3) 12.5% straw:62.5% soil:25% compost, and (4) 25% straw:50% soil:25% compost. The dissipation rates of acetochlor, atrazine, pendimethalin, and trifluralin at different incubation times over 90 d were evaluated. The dissipation of atrazine and pendimethalin in the biomixes were faster than in soil. The half‐lives for atrazine were 27.8 d in soil and 14.3 to 20.2 d in the biomixes and those of pendimethalin were 25.5 d in soil and 11.9 to 14.8 d in the biomixes. The dissipation rates and half‐lives of acetochlor were similar to those in soil; the trifluralin dissipation rates were slower in the biomixes. The phenol oxidase activity was higher in the peat biomixes than in those containing compost. The results showed that biobed materials, especially those with peat, are effective in degrading selected herbicides.

Core Ideas

Biobed material composition and ratio were evaluated.

The dissipation rates of atrazine and pendimethalin were enhanced in biomixes.

Phenol oxidase was higher in peat biomixes than in compost.

A mobile, low‐cost system was designed to capture contamination on‐farm.
Biochar Impacts on Crop Productivity and Greenhouse Gas Emissions from an Andosol
Authors: Koga Nobuhisa , Shimoda Seiji , Iwata Yukiyoshi
Published: December 2016

To assess the impacts of biochar application on crop productivity and global warming mitigation, a 4‐yr field experiment was conducted in a well‐drained Andosol in northern Japan. Wood residue–derived biochar (pyrolyzed at >800°C) was applied at rates of 0, 10, 20, and 40 Mg ha−1 for potatoes, winter wheat, sugar beet, and soybeans cultivated in rotation, and CO2, N2O, and CH4 emissions from the soil and yield and quality of the harvested materials were measured. Biochar application, regardless of rate, had no significant impact on yield and quality of the harvested materials, except for soybean grain yield. It also had no effect on cumulative CO2, N2O, and CH4 emissions from the soil. Andosols are inherently highly porous, and biochar application increased soil porosity only at the highest amendment level. The small changes in soil properties and the recalcitrance of the biochar's C components probably account for the unchanged soil‐associated greenhouse gas emissions and the minimal impact on crop yield and quality. Because soil CO2 emission was not increased, the net ecosystem C budget during the study period increased with the rate of biochar application from −3.55 ± 0.19 Mg C ha−1 without biochar application to 4.89 ± 0.46, 13.4 ± 0.3, and 29.9 ± 0.4 Mg C ha−1 at application rates of 10, 20, and 40 Mg ha−1, respectively; therefore, application of wood residue–derived biochar to an Andosol has great potential for mitigating global warming through enhanced soil C sequestration without sacrificing crop productivity.

Core Ideas

Biochar from wood residues pyrolyzed at >800°C was used in crop rotation.

Biochar had no or little impact on crop yield and quality compared with the control.

Emissions of CO2, N2O, and CH4 from an Andosol were not affected by biochar.

Carbon compounds in the wood residue–derived biochar were recalcitrant for 4 yr.

Biochar application enhanced soil C sequestration, thus mitigating global warming.
Implementasi Metode Dempster Shafer Analytic Hierarchy Process Untuk Pemilihan Program Studi Calon Mahasiswa
Authors: Pangestika Menur Wahyu , Nurhayati Oky Dwi , Suryono Suryono
Published: December 2016

Methods Dempster Shafer Analytic Hierarchy Process is used to rank or sort information based on a number of criteria. DS/AHP advantage of Pairwise Comparison, Consistency Ratio, and Dempster Rule's of Combination, which is used to generate information systems in the form of a sequence of courses as consideration for the selection of majors for prospective students. The sample used in this study were 29 students of five faculty at the University of Diponegoro. The data used is the standard minimum value of each faculty and the average value of the semester report card 1-5 Mathematics, Indonesian, English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Results of this study was the software selection study program that gives students the value of trust in each department. Testing the validity of the value of the accuracy of the system is done by comparing the majors were chosen with the recommendation majors produced by the system, resulting accuracy of 79.33%.
Jaringan Syaraf Tiruan Perambatan Balik Untuk Pengenalan Wajah
Authors: Sabuari Nahdi , Isnanto Rizal , Adi Kusworo
Published: December 2016

This research discusses about face detection and face recognition in an image. Face detection has only two classifications, i.e face and not face. Face recognition is compatible with some classifications of a number individuals who want to be recognized. Face detection and face recognition in thi study using Haar-Like Feature method and Artificial Neural Network Backpropagation. A method Haar-Like Feature used for detection and extraction in an image, because the clasification on this method showed success at used to detect image of the face. Artificial Neural Network Backpropagation is a training algorithm that is used to do training simulated on facial image data training stored in a database. This study uses Ms. Excel 2007 as database with 10 individual sample image, every image in each individuals having three distance with every range has four defferent light intensities, so that the data training stored in the database reached 120 data training. The results shows that the face detection and face recognition which is developed can recognize a face image with an average accuracy rate reaches 80,8% for each distance.
Implementasi Model CCR Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) Pada Pengukuran Efisiensi Keuangan Daerah
Authors: Israwan LM Fajar , Surarso Bayu , Frikhin Farikhin
Published: December 2016

Regional budget control system is implemented through an audit and evaluation to ensure that its implementation is in accordance with the plan that it can be efficiently and effectively used. Regional budget efficiency measurement then aims to measure the efficienty of budget use of each Regional Work Unit (SKPD) and to optimalize its use. The efficiency of Regional Work Unit is measured using CCR Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model with one input variable and eight output variables, in which this CCR DEA applies Linear Programming approach and evaluates relative efficiency of Decision Making Units (DMUs). The sample was in a total of sixteen DMUs. The result revealed that seven DMUs were efficient, in which their reference set was then used to optimalize the input and output variables of other inefficient DMUs. This result was validated through paired sample t-test, proving to meet the hypothesis of Ho -2,042 ≤ tcount ≤ 2,042 showing that CCR DEA can be used as a method to measure regional budget efficiency with accurate results.
EXCITOTOXICIDADE GLUTAMATÉRGICA NA DOENÇA DE HUNTINGTON
Authors: Weber Angelo Viana , Backes Luana Taís Hartmann
Published: December 2016

O glutamato por ser um dos aminoácidos mais abundante no sistema nervoso central (SNC), desempenha o papel de principal neurotransmissor excitatório. Dessa forma, a presente revisão busca avaliar a relação do glutamato no desenvolvimento da Doença de Huntington através do processo de excitotoxicidade, envolvendo o seu mecanismo de ação, receptores e transportadores glutamatérgicos associados. Para isso, realizou-se uma revisão da literatura nas bases de dados BVS, SciELO e Google Acadêmico. Foram separados 53 artigos, sendo selecionados 25. Os demais artigos foram excluídos por não abordarem a temática pretendida. A Doença de Huntington (DH) é uma doença de poliglutaminas causada por uma mutação no gene codificador da proteína Huntingitna. A Huntingtina mutada irá promover uma série de alterações, desde a superestimulação dos receptores NMDA até o comprometimento na regulação dos transportadores de glutamato GLT1, GLAST e baixos níveis de EAAC1. Desta forma, conduzindo ao processo de neurodegeneração através da excitotoxicidade pelos níveis aumentados de Glutamato. A complexidade dos múltiplos mecanismos que levam à neurodegeneração observada na DH, contribuem para a falta de interesse em pesquisas nesta patologia, bem como a busca de tratamentos eficazes. Deste modo, seria necessário atuar simultaneamente em todos os níveis da fisiopatologia para adquirir conhecimentos mais específicos nos mecanismos de neurodegeneração, sobretudo a excitotoxicidade pelo glutamato.
Examining the economies of scale of water and sewage utilities in the urban sector: the case of Israel
Authors: Lavee Doron , Bahar Sefi
Published: December 2016

This study applies econometric tools to examine the economies of scale of the water and sewage utilities corporation (utilities) in the urban sector in Israel, and to find whether reducing the number of utilities will maximize efficiency in the urban water sector. Using an econometric analysis of an elasticity Translog cost function, which allows the estimation of returns to scale, the authors examined the optimal size for water and sewage utilities in Israel, based on panel data of 51 utilities. According to the study's results, there is a distinct advantage of economies of scale in Israel's water utilities, and the current distribution of the urban water sector in Israel is characterized by inefficiency and high cost. The results indicate that reducing the number of utilities will achieve an increase in water quantities by utility, and the costs of water production will decline due to economies of scale.
Characterization of road runoff with regard to seasonal variations, particle size distribution and the correlation of fine particles and pollutants
Authors: Hilliges R. , Endres M. , Tiffert A. , Brenner E. , Marks T.
Published: December 2016

Urban runoff is known to transport a significant pollutant load consisting of e.g. heavy metals, salts and hydrocarbons. Interactions between solid and dissolved compounds, proper understanding of particle size distribution, dissolved pollutant fractions and seasonal variations is crucial for the selection and development of appropriate road runoff treatment devices. Road runoff at an arterial road in Augsburg, Germany, has been studied for 3.5 years. A strong seasonal variation was observed, with increased heavy metal concentrations with doubled and tripled median concentrations for heavy metals during the cold season. Correlation analysis showed that de-icing salt is not the only factor responsible for increased pollutant concentrations in winter. During the cold period, the fraction of dissolved metals was lower compared to the warm season. In road dust, the highest metal concentrations were measured for fine particles. Metals in road runoff were found to show a significant correlation to fine particles SS63 (<63 μm). Therefore, it is debatable whether treatment devices only implementing sedimentation processes provide sufficient removal rates.
Oxidative treatment of diclofenac via ferrate(VI) in aqueous media: effect of surfactant additives
Authors: Wang Yingling , Ni Tianjun , Yuan Jianmei , Wang Chunfeng , Liu Guoguang
Published: December 2016

The potential reaction of diclofenac (DCF) with ferrate(VI) and influences of coexisting surfactants have not been investigated in depth, and are the focus of this study. The results demonstrated that DCF reacted effectively and rapidly with Fe(VI) and approximately 75% of DCF (0.03 mM) was removed by excess Fe(VI) (0.45 mM) within 10 min. All of the reactions followed pseudo first-order kinetics with respect to DCF and Fe(VI), where the apparent second-order rate constant (kapp) was 5.07 M−1 s−1 at pH 9.0. Furthermore, the degradation efficiencies of DCF were clearly dependent on the concentrations of dissolved organic matter additives in the substrate solution. Primarily, inhibitory effects were observed with the samples that contained anionic (sodium dodecyl-benzene sulfonate, SDBS) or non-ionic (Tween-80) surfactants, which have been attributed to the side reactions between Fe(VI) and surfactants, which led to a reduction in the available oxidant for DCF destruction. Furthermore, the addition of a cationic surfactant (cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide, CTAB) and humic acid (HA) conveyed significantly promotional effects on the DCF-Fe(VI) reaction. The rate enhancement effect for CTAB might be due to micellar surface catalysis, through the Coulomb attraction between the reactants and positively charged surfactants, while the catalytic action for HA resulted from the additional oxidation of Fe(V)/Fe(IV) in the presence of HA. The results provided the basic knowledge required to understand the environmental relevance of DCF oxidation via Fe(VI) in the presence of surfactant additives.
Chemical adsorption of oxytetracycline from aqueous solution by modified molecular sieves
Authors: Lv Junmin , Ma Yulong , Chang Xuan , Fang Junzhuo , Cai Lingyan , Ma Yan , Fan Subing
Published: December 2016

The removal of oxytetracycline (OTC) from aqueous solution on modified molecular sieve via adsorption was investigated in the present work. The copper(II) modified molecular sieve had the much higher adsorbed amount than unmodified one. The bigger pore, the more adsorption sites benefitted for the adsorbed amount of OTC. The exchanged amount of copper(II) and the acid-base property of solution were important factors influencing the removal efficiency. The adsorption kinetics, the adsorption isotherm, the adsorption thermodynamics and the proposed adsorption mechanism were studied. The analysis of adsorption isotherm indicated it is a monolayer adsorption. The fitting with adsorption kinetics, pseudo-second-order model, deduced chemical adsorption is the main rate controlling step. And the new formation of Cu-O chemical bond and the changes at bands of N-H vibration and C-N vibration by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer further confirmed the proposal adsorption mechanism was the chemical complexation of copper(II) in modified 13X with NH2 group of OTC. As the real exchanged amount of copper(II) was 149.07 mg·g−1 and the solution pH 7.0, the adsorption capacity of modified 13X for OTC reached the maximum of 2,396 mg·g−1 (with the initial concentration of 1,000 mg·L−1).
Aplicación de índices bióticos de calidad de agua en cuatro arroyos de la cuenca del río Gualeguaychú (Entre Ríos, Argentina)
Authors: Juárez Ricardo , Crettaz-Minaglia Melina Celeste , Aguer Irene , Juárez Iván , Gianello Diamela , Ávila Elizabeth , Roldán Carlos
Published: December 2016

La acelerada pérdida de calidad de agua en ríos y arroyos, está asociada con pérdida de biodiversidad, por tanto la determinación de parámetros de calidad de agua en estos sistemas acuáticos es fundamental y urgente. El objetivo del trabajo fue estudiar la calidad de agua de cuatro arroyos de la cuenca del río Gualeguaychú, utilizando bioindicadores. El área de estudio se encuentra en la Pampa Mesopotámica, donde se desarrollan actividades agrícolas y ganaderas, y está sujeta a una profunda transformación de sus ecosistemas desde hace dos décadas. Entre 2013-2015, se estudiaron los arroyos García (GA), Los Perros (LP), Santa Bárbara (SB) y La Cañada (LC). Se realizaron muestreos periódicos determinando variables fisicoquímicas, de ribera, macroinvertebrados bentónicos y de audal. Se aplicaron los índices Biótico de Familias (IBF), Biological Monitoring Working Party (BMWP), el Índice Biótico Pampeano (IBPamp) y el Índice de Calidad de Ribera (ICR). Se recolectaron e identificaron 10007 organismos de 67 taxones. Los índices BMWP e IBF determinaron que existe contaminación de severa a intermedia, el IBPamp determinó escasa contaminación. Según el ICR, los arroyos LP, GA y SB, poseen alteraciones en la ribera; LC, no posee alteraciones. Los índices bióticos de calidad de agua y ribera resultaron una herramienta muy valiosa para determinar el estado ecológico de los cuerpos de agua de la zona, sin embargo, debido a la particularidades de la Pampa Mesopotámica, es necesario realizar ajustes que permitan una mejor interpretación de la diversidad regional y de sus variaciones en el espacio y en el tiempo.
Faktor Determinan Kepatuhan Pelaksanaan Hand Hygiene pada Perawat IGD RSUD dr. Iskak Tulungagung
Authors: Pratama Bramantya Surya , Koeswo Mulyatim , Rokhmad Kasil
Published: December 2016

Hospital-acquired infections (HAI) adalah infeksi yang terjadi pada pelayanan kesehatan selama menjalani Â prosedur perawatan dan tindakan medis. HAI menyebabkan pemanjangan lama rawat inap, sehingga merugikan pasien dan meningkatkan biaya perawatan. Cara paling efektif untuk membatasi penyebaran dari HAI adalah melaksanakan hand hygiene (HH) sesuai aturan. Hasil studi pendahuluan di IGD RSUD Dr. Iskak Tulungagung ditemukan bahwakepatuhan hand hygiene perawat IGD hanya sebesar 30%. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mencari faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi kepatuhan hand hygiene perawat IGD dan mencari solusi untuk meningkatkan tingkat kepatuhannya. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan rerata kepatuhan HH pada perawat sebesar 36% dengan kepatuhan tertinggi pada sebelum tindakan aseptis (50%) dan terendah pada setelah menyentuh sekitar pasien (20%) bahwa faktor-faktor yang paling mempengaruhi kepatuhan hand hygiene perawat IGD adalah pengetahuan, fasilitas dan pengingat/role model. Solusi yang disepakati untuk meningkatkan kepatuhan adalah meningkatkan pengetahuan dengan cara memberi pembuktian efektifitas hand hygiene dalam mengurangi jumlah bakteri di tangan melalui pemeriksaan agar gel. Diharapkan agar solusi yang dipilih ditunjang dengan peningkatan fasilitas dan pelaksanaan sistem pengingat melalui poster atau role model dapat meningkatkan kepatuhan hand hygiene dapat meningkat secara optimal.Kata Kunci: Hand hygiene, kepatuhan, role model
Identifikasi Ketidaklengkapan Dokumen Rekam Medis Rawat Inap di RSUD Ngudi Waluyo Wlingi
Authors: Pamungkas Fantri , Hariyanto Tuti , U Endah Woro
Published: December 2016

Kelengkapan dokumen rekam medis merupakan hal yang sangat penting karena berpengaruh terhadap proses pelayanan yang dilakukan oleh petugas medis dan mempengaruhi kualitas dari pelayanan suatu rumah sakit. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi ketidaklengkapan dokumen rekam medis rawat inap di RSUD Ngudi Waluyo Wlingi. Analisis data yang digunakan adalah analisis kualitatif. Â Observasi dilakukan pada tanggal 25 September 2014 sampai dengan 2 Oktober 2014. Data yang diambil adalah dokumen rekam medis yang diserahkan dari unit rawat inap ke sub bagian rekam medis pada tanggal tersebut. Dokumen Medik Keperawatan (DMK) yang digunakan adalah DMK umum yang terdiri dari 12 (duabelas) DMK. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa rata-rata prosentase penilaian paling rendah adalah pada DMK 4.1 (lembar rencana pelayanan/CP) yaitu 75,4%, dan yang bertanggung jawab dalam mengisi dokumen tersebut adalah dokter. Dari hasil metode diagram Ishikawa permasalahan yang paling mendasar yang mempengaruhi ketidaklengkapan dokumen rekam medis adalah tingkat kedisiplinan dokter yang kurang.Kata Kunci: Ketidaklengkapan dokumen rekam medis, dokter