bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Th2 Cytokines Differentially Regulate Psoriasin Expression in Human Nasal Epithelia
Authors: Min Hyun Jin , Song Hyuna , Choi Su Yeon , Kim Tae Hoon , Cho Hyung-Ju , Yoon Joo-Heon , Kim Chang-Hoon
Published: December 2014

Background

Psoriasin is known to be expressed in diverse organs, where it exerts antimicrobial activity. Psoriasin is also involved in the local host defense mechanism against pathogens. We hypothesized that allergy-related T-helper cell type 2 (Th2) cytokines may regulate the expression of psoriasin.

Methods

We treated normal human nasal epithelial (NHNE) cells with IL-4 or IL-13. Using human nasal tissues, we compared the expression level of psoriasin. We performed real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot assays using NHNE cells. Immunohistochemical staining and Western blot assays were performed with human nasal tissues. Furthermore, we studied the antimicrobial activity of nasal secretions from normal and allergic rhinitis patients.

Results

IL-13 markedly down-regulated psoriasin expression at the gene and protein levels in NHNE cells, and it also decreased the amount of psoriasin protein that was secreted into the extracellular compartment in NHNE cells. IL-4 had no statistically significant effect. Results from immunohistochemical staining and Western blot assays showed that psoriasin expression was decreased in allergic rhinitis patients compared with control subjects. Nasal secretions of allergic rhinitis patients exhibited decreased antimicrobial activity compared with control subjects.

Conclusion

We found that Th2 cytokines regulated psoriasin expression in NHNE cells, and psoriasin expression was decreased in allergic rhinitis patients compared with control subjects. The decreased expression of psoriasin may be related to the reduction in antimicrobial capacity of nasal secretions under allergic conditions, resulting in an increase in susceptibility to viruses or bacterial infections.
Increased IL-22 Level in Allergic Rhinitis Significantly Correlates with Clinical Severity
Authors: Tang Jun , Xiao Ping , Luo Xi , Bai Jing , Xia Wentong , Chen Weixiong , Li Jian , Yu Qingqing , Shi Sisi , Xu Yuxia , Mou Zhonglin , Wang Yuejian , Li Huabin
Published: December 2014

Backgroud

IL-22 regulates various processes and has been linked to diverse effects. However, the importance of IL-22 in the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis (AR) remains poorly understood. This study sought to evaluate the levels of IL-22 and IL-17A in AR patients and their association with clinical severity of AR.

Methods

Thirty-six AR patients and 22 normal controls were enrolled in this study. The frequencies of IL-22+, IL-17A+, and IL-9+ T helper (Th) cells in peripheral blood of AR patients and normal controls were examined by flow cytometry. Serum levels of IL-22 and IL-17A in AR patients and normal controls were determined by ELISA. The clinical relevance of the percentages of IL-22+ and IL-17A+ Th cells as well as serum IL-22 and IL-17A levels were evaluated.

Results

The frequencies of IL-22+ and IL-17A+ Th cells, but not IL-9+ Th cells, were significantly increased compared with those in normal controls (p < 0.05). Frequencies of IL-22+ and IL-17A+ Th cells in peripheral blood of AR patients significantly correlated with visual analog scale scores of nasal symptoms (nasal congestion and rhinorrhea; p < 0.05). Moreover, the serum levels of IL-22 and IL-1 were significantly increased compared with those in normal controls (p < 0.05) and significantly correlated with the levels of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and Dermatophagoides farinae specific IgE in AR patients.

Conclusion

Our findings suggested that IL-22 as well as IL-17A may play an important role in the regulation of Th2-skewed inflammation in AR patients.
Outcomes in Primary Powered Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy: Comparison between Experienced versus Less Experienced Surgeons
Authors: Ali Mohammad Javed , Psaltis Alkis James , Murphy Jae , Wormald Peter John
Published: December 2014

Background

This study compares the anatomic and functional outcomes of primary powered endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) in surgeons of differing levels of experience.

Methods

A retrospective interventional study was performed of all consecutive powered endoscopic DCRs performed at a tertiary institution over a period of 10 years from 2002 to 2012. All patients completed a minimum of 3 months follow-up after stent removal. Patient records were reviewed for demographic data, clinical and surgical profiles, adjunctive procedures, complications, and success rates at last follow-up. The level of surgeon's experience performing the DCR was also documented. Anatomic success was defined as patent ostium on irrigation and functional success as free flow of dye into ostium on functional endoscopic dye test and resolution of epiphora.

Results

Among the 160 DCRs performed by the consultant, all except four underwent intubation; 54.4% (68/125) of these patients required adjunctive procedures. There were no major complications in this group and at a long-term mean follow-up of 14.2 months, the anatomic and functional success rates were 98.1 and 95.6%, respectively. Among the 100 DCRs performed by the fellows, all underwent intubation and 40.8% (29/71) of the patients required adjunctive procedures. The complications include three cases of ostium granulomas and two patients each with postoperative bleeding, stent prolapse, and turbinoseptal synechiae. At the mean follow-up of 10.9 months, the final anatomic success was achieved in 95% of the cases and functional success in 89% of the cases.

Conclusion

Powered endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy is an effective procedure and offers excellent results in the hands of experienced surgeons. A good transfer of knowledge and skills along with supervision when required ensures a good surgical success rate, even when the training fellows operate.
Efficacy of Lidocaine with or without Epinephrine in Rigid Nasal Endoscopy
Authors: Al-Qudah Mohannad
Published: December 2014

Background

This study evaluates if there is any benefit of adding epinephrine to lidocaine in patients undergoing diagnostic rigid nasal endoscopy. A prospective, randomized, double-blinded study was performed.

Methods

Seventy patients were randomized to receive either 2% lidocaine or 2% lidocaine with 0.2% epinephrine before rigid nasal endoscopy examination. Patients were asked to report the intensity of pain and discomfort they experienced using visual analog scale. An endoscopist recorded the ease to perform the procedure using the same scale. Intranasal structures visualized were also reported.

Results

There were no significant differences in pain, discomfort or ease of exam, or in the percentage of visualized nasal structures between the two groups. In the whole series, there were no significant differences in the studied variables based on gender or indication to perform endoscopy.

Conclusion

Adding epinephrine to lidocaine has no advantages in patients undergoing diagnostic rigid nasal endoscopy.
A study on a modelling method for analysis of steel arch bridges
Authors: Arimura Kentaro , Yamaguchi Takashi , Matsumura Masahide , Ueno Junto
Published: December 2014

When using the 3D frame analytical method in bridges design as well as in structural soundness evaluation of existing bridges such as steel arches or steel trusses, as structural responses vary according to modeling methods of bridge members, their margins of safety should be differently evaluated. By examining the effect on analytical and final design results due to differences in modelling methods on a 3D frame analysis of a steel arch bridge, it is confirmed that the method of modelling without secondary members (considered as safe evaluation) does not result in safe evaluation for all primary members.
Evaluation of Local Buckling Strength of Square Hollow Section Member
Authors: Sato Kosuke , Ikarashi Kikuo
Published: December 2014

 Elastic local buckling strength of square hollow section members under biaxial bending shear force and axial force is theoretically presented by considering coupled effects of plate elements. Simple approximate formulas for calculating the coupled local buckling strength corresponding to boundary conditions at both ends, shape and stress distribution with respect to the members are presented. By application of these formulas, it is shown that square hollow section members with large width–thickness ratio can be used from the viewpoint of buckling strength by considering coupled effects of plate elements and stress distribution in members.
Pseudo three-dimensional simulation of buffeting response under turbulent wind
Authors: Ibrahim Khaled , Morgenthal Guido
Published: December 2014

The aeroelastic response of bluff bodies is strongly influenced by atmospheric turbulence contained in the wind. The accurate prediction of wind-induced dynamic response of line-like structures such as bridges and towers requires modelling of the cross sectional aerodynamic behaviour, the structural dynamics and the wind characteristics. This study aims to integrate all these aspects by performing CFD analyses in slices that are coupled to a three-dimensional structural model and performing fluid-structure interaction analyses that are able to account for turbulent inflow conditions. The method is applied to the study of a cable-stayed bridge and the results are verified against wind tunnel measurements.
Failure and fatigue life assessment of steel railway bridges with brittle material
Authors: Maljaars Johan
Published: December 2014

Some existing steel bridges have been constructed from steels with a toughness that does not fulfil the requirements in modern standards. In such a case, standards for bridges do not provide an alternative assessment route. Yet such bridges may still be fit for purpose. This paper presents an assessment method for structural safety and for the fatigue life of steel bridges constructed from material with low toughness. The method is based on the general fracture mechanics method, but accounts for bridge-specific characteristics. The method is demonstrated on parts of two railway bridges in The Netherlands that were constructed from low toughness steel. Advanced material tests have been undertaken to accurately determine the material toughness. Axle weights of passing trains have been measured and compared to the fatigue load histogram in the applicable standards. Strain gauge measurements have been undertaken to determine the actual stresses due to passing trains and these were compared with the results of finite element calculations of the bridge structures. Partial factors are proposed for the load and resistance side for a fracture mechanics assessment of bridges. The paper demonstrates that, under certain circumstances, even bridges from welded steels with lower shelf fracture toughness may be fit for purpose.
Concrete Gravity Dams: Coupled Thermal-Stress Numerical Analysis
Authors: Embaby Rana A. , Abdelrahman Amr A. , Sayed-Ahmed Ezzeldin Y.
Published: December 2014

During the process of setting-out and hardening in concrete, the temperature profile shows a gradual nonlinear distribution due to the development of heat of hydration of cement. At early ages of concrete structures, this non-linear distribution can have an influence on crack evolution, especially in mass concrete such as that used in concrete gravity dams. It is thus important to study the factors affecting the amount of heat generated in the hydration process and minimize it as much as possible in order to prevent the generation of undesired cracks through the dam’s body. Coupled thermal- stress finite element analysis has been performed on a full-scale concrete gravity dam to determine the impact of changing the time intervals in concrete placing schedule on the thermal/stress response of the dam. The significance of time, material and environmental factors has been scrutinized in this numerical investigation. The investigated parameters are the construction schedule of casting concrete, the cement content and the ambient temperature. The investigation also numerically explored the effect of water pipe cooling of mass concrete on the generated temperature and induced stress in concrete which ends up with recommending the most effective strategy for pipe cooling.
Comparison between Eurocode 2, ACI 209R-92 and Gardner&Lockman Models in Creep Analysis of Composite Steel-Concrete Section
Authors: Partov Doncho , Kantchev Vesselin
Published: December 2014

The paper presents analysis of the stress-strain behaviour and deflections changes due to creep in statically determinate composite steel-concrete beam according to EUROCODE 2, ACI209R-92 and Gardner&Lockman models. The mathematical model involves the equation of equilibrium, compatibility and constitutive relationship, i.e. an elastic law for the steel part and an integral-type creep law of Boltzmann – Volterra for the concrete part considering the above mentioned models. On the basis of the theory of the viscoelastic body of Maslov-Arutyunian–Trost-Zerna-Bažant for determining the redistribution of stresses in beam section between concrete plate and steel beam with respect to time “t”, two independent Volterra integral equations of the second kind have been derived. Numerical method based on linear approximation of the singular kernel function in the integral equation is presented. Example with the model proposed is investigated.
High-Rise Buildings with Transfer Floors: Drift Calculations
Authors: Abdelbasset Yasser M. , Sayed-Ahmed Ezzeldin Y. , Mourad Sherif A.
Published: December 2014

In many high-rise buildings, architectural requirements may result in a variable configuration for the vertical structural elements between the stories of the building. To accommodate such vertical elements’ discontinuity, a "transfer" floor conveying vertical and lateral loads between upper and lower stories must be introduced. A drawback of the transfer floor is the sudden change in the building's lateral stiffness at its level: the structure becomes susceptible to the formation of a soft- story mechanism under moderate to severe earthquakes. These buildings generally showed conventional elastic behaviour for frequent earthquake but suffer extensive crack in the vicinity of transfer floors for rare earthquake. However, for design purposes current numerical modeling of high-rise building adopts reduced stiffness for the vertical elements for strength analysis and full stiffness for serviceability and drift analysis: a tradition that needs to be verified. A 3-D numerical model is built-up for a high-rise building with such vertical irregularities and analyzed using elastic response spectrum and nonlinear time-history analysis techniques. The effect of transfer floors on the buildings’ drift is investigated where judgment for adopting a full or reduced stiffness for the vertical elements is scrutinized.
Moving Through MOOCs
Authors: Perna Laura W. , Ruby Alan , Boruch Robert F. , Wang Nicole , Scull Janie , Ahmad Seher , Evans Chad
Published: December 2014

This paper reports on the progress of users through 16 Coursera courses taught by University of Pennsylvania faculty for the first time between June 2012 and July 2013. Using descriptive analyses, this study advances knowledge by considering two definitions of massive open online course (MOOC) users (registrants and starters), comparing two approaches to measuring student progress through a MOOC course (sequential versus user driven), and examining several measures of MOOC outcomes and milestones. The patterns of user progression found in this study may not describe current or future patterns given the continued evolution of MOOCs. Nonetheless, the findings provide a baseline for future studies.
Agro-morphological Variability Study of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Landraces in Jumla, Nepal
Authors: Gupta Salik R. , Upadhyay Madhusudan P. , Shah Uma S.
Published: December 2014

Barley is an important winter cereal crop in Jumla (2240-3000 masl), Nepal. It is grown in different cropping patterns in both Khet and Bari land conditions. A total of 207 accessions of barley landraces collected from various locations of Jumla were studied for agromorphological characteristics in Khumaltar and Jumla. Data on eight qualitative and five quantitative traits in 2-m row plot were recorded to assess diversity among the landraces. Bhuwali, Chawali, Lekali and Pawai were four farmer-named traditional barley varieties under cultivation in Jumla. A range of variability was observed among the accessions of barley landraces. All accessions are six-row covered barley possessing rough awns and whitish-brown grains. These landraces exhibit a range of variation in growth class, spike density and rachilla hair length. Lekali and Pawai are adapted to the high-altitude area of Jumla. Cluster analysis of measured data under on-farm and on-station conditions indicated five distinct clusters. Three principal components explained 84.3% and 60.2% of the total variation from on-station and on-farm, respectively.Nepal Agric. Res. J. Vol. 9, 2009, pp. 1-11DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/narj.v9i0.11635
Evaluation of Hybrid and OPV Maize Varieties for Grain Yield and Agronomic Attributes under Farmer's Field Conditions at Dukuchhap
Authors: Paudel Min N.
Published: December 2014

Field experiments were conducted during two consecutive years 2006 and 2007 in full season of maize (May-Sep) at Dukuchhap, Lalitpur to find out impact of growing hybrid and OPV maize in different rows combinations with respect to their pure stands in same environment of growing and to sort out non-lodging maize varieties. The experiments consisted of an open pollinated variety (OPV) 'Deuti' and hybrid 'Gaurab' in different row combinations (50% hybrid + 50% OPV, 75% hybrid + 25% OPV, 75% OPV + 25% hybrid plus their pure stands). The results showed that Gaurab (yellow, flint type) and Deuti (white, semi- flint type, selected from CIMMYT's material ZM 621) did not vary significantly in grain yield and yield components. There was no effect of mixed row culture between the OPV and hybrid for grain yield and yield attributes. A bivariate correlation coefficient between agronomic traits and ear traits indicated that there was a positive relation among these traits. However, a positive and highly significant (r = 0.766**) relationship between ear fill and ear length was observed while a very weak relation (r = 0.096*) between grain weight/ear and ear height was also noticed suggesting taller the ear height lower the grain yield/ear and vice versa. The findings of the study support that plant height and ear height were weakly related with other ear traits; nevertheless, these were highly related to grain weight/per plant. To cope with stalk lodging problem and to attain higher grain yield these varieties are equally potential and recommended to grow under Dukuchhap conditions.Nepal Agric. Res. J. Vol. 9, 2009, pp. 17-20  DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/narj.v9i0.11637
Impact of Mulching on Wheat Yield and Weed Floras in the Mid-hills of Nepal
Authors: Ranjit Jagat D. , Bellinder Robin , Lauren Julie , Doxhbury John M.
Published: December 2014

Studies on the effect of mulching and weed management strategies in wheat  were initiated at Khumaltar during the winter season of 2000-2002. The  treatments were weedy check, handweed alone, post emergence application  of sulfosufuron, and NPK application together with or without mulching.  Rice straw mulch was applied at the rate of 4 t/ha. Phalaris minor,  Alopecuros sp., Chenopodium album, Rumex crispus, Polygonum  hydropiper, Stellaria media, Cannabis sativa, and Soliva anthemifolia were  the dominant species. Among them, C. album, P. minor and Alopecuros  aqualis were the dominant species. The effect of mulching was seen six  weeks after wheat planting. The weedy check with mulch suppressed the  weeds about fifty percent compared to that of without mulching. Wheat  yields together with yield attributing characters were also higher in the  treatments with straw mulch.Nepal Agric. Res. J. Vol. 9, 2009, pp. 21-26DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/narj.v9i0.11638
Soil Fertility under Improved and Conventional Management Practices in Sanga, Kavrepalanchowk District, Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Ram K.
Published: December 2014

A study was carried out to compare the fertility of soils under improved soil  management practice with that of prevailing conventional practice and to assess the farmers’ perception on the improved practice in the upland   farming system. The study was carried out in Nasikasthan Sanga of Kavrepalanchok district of Nepal. Soil samples were collected from fields under improved conventional practice. Samples were taken at 0-15 and 15-30 cm depths and were analyzed for various physico-chemical properties to  compare the fertility status of the soils under both the practices. Altogether 68 farmers were interviewed to have information on farming practices and information pertinent to improved soil management practice being adopted by them. Results from soil physico-chemical analysis showed higher fertility of soils under improved practice in terms of more favorable pH level,  contents of exchangeable bases, available phosphorus and soil organic matter compared to prevailing conventional soil management practice. Moreover, majority of the farmers believed that soil fertility and physical condition of their upland soils had improved and that the productivity of major upland  crops had also increased after the adoption of improved soil management practice. Improved practice could play an important role in the sustainable management of upland soils in the mid hills of Nepal. It is however, desirable to conduct long-term research to further ascertain the effect of the practice on soil fertility of different soil types and land uses.Nepal Agric. Res. J. Vol. 9, 2009, pp. 27-39DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/narj.v9i0.11639
Study on the Effects of Vermicompost on the Nodulation and the Yield of Chickpea
Authors: Bajracharya Sanu K. , Rai Suresh K.
Published: December 2014

Pot experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design with three replication and six treatments in the screenhouse of Soil Science Division, Khumaltar during the year 2003 and 2004. The objective of the experiment was to find out the effect of vermicompost in combination with or without soil and mineral fertilizers on the yield and other attributes of chickpea. The results showed an encouraging effect of vermicompost application on the plant height, root length and biomass dry weight of chickpea when vermicompost was applied in equal ratio with soil (5 kg each/pot) and 10:20:15 kg N: P2O5:K2O kg ha-1. Vermicompost with equal ratio of soil (5 kg each/pot) also produced the highest mean grain yield of 10.6 gm per pot. However, no significant treatments effects were observed for root length and straw weights of the chickpea.Nepal Agric. Res. J. Vol. 9, 2009, pp. 49-55DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/narj.v9i0.11641
Effect of NPK on Vegetative Growth and Yield of Desiree and Kufri Sindhuri Potato
Authors: Adhikari Ram C.
Published: December 2014

A field experiment was carried out to assess the effect of NPK on vegetative growth and yield of potato cultivars; Kufri Sindhuri and Desiree at different nutrient levels (0:0:0, 50:50:50, 100:50:50, 100:75:50, 100:75:100, 100:100:100 and 150:100:100 N, P205 and k20 kg ha-1) in sandy loam soils at Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal during 1999/2000. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with 4 replications. Plant height, number of stems, fresh weight of stem and leaves were recorded at 15 days interval during crop growth period and tuber yield at maturity stage. Kufri Sindhuri was taller than Desiree at all the stages of plant growth. Increasing levels of NPK increased the plant height by 15-42 percent. The levels of NPK imparted to a significant effect on fresh weight of leaves and stems at each successive   stages of crop growth. Kufri Sindhuri responded nitrogen up to 150 kg ha-1 while Desiree yielded higher at 100:100:100 kg NPK ha-1. The yield increase of potato tuber was associated with increase in the plant height, fresh weight of leaves and stems as a result of applied NPK.Nepal Agric. Res. J. Vol. 9, 2009, pp. 67-75DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/narj.v9i0.11643
Prevalence of Aflatoxin B1 and B2 in Poultary Feed
Authors: Aryal Sita R. , Karki Durga
Published: December 2014

A total of 65 poultry feed samples were examined for the detection of aflatoxin (aflatoxin B1 and aflatoxin B2) using thin layer chromatography (TLC). Samples were collected from Chitwan and Kavrepalanchock districts. Out of those samples examined a total of 49 (75.38%) samples were found positive. Out of 49 (75.38%) samples positive, 42 (85.71%) samples were found positive both with aflatoxin B1 and B2 where as five (10.20%) samples were positive only with aflatoxin B1 and two (4.08%) samples were positive only with aflatoxin B2. Among them 13 (20%) samples were found positive having aflatoxin above permissible level. The concentration of aflatoxin in positive samples ranged from trace to 366 ppb (366 μg/kg). Likewise, out of 52 samples examined in rainy season, 40 samples (76.92%) were found positive where as out of 13 samples examined in winter season 9 (69.23%) were found positive.Nepal Agric. Res. J. Vol. 9, 2009, pp. 109-112DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/narj.v9i0.11648
Use of Ethephone and Indigenous Plant Materials in Ripening Banana in Winter
Authors: K.C. Ram B. , Gautam Durga M. , Tiwari Sundar
Published: December 2014

Post-harvest handling of banana is a crucial activity to get good quality fruit  to the consumers. A post-harvest study on ripening of banana was carried out  at Regional Agriculture Research Station, Khajura during winter season of  2005 to find out the effect of different materials in ripening of banana and  study about shelf-life period. Dipping fruits in Kripone 2.56 ml per liter of  water (ethephone 1000 ppm) for five minutes was found effective for banana  ripening. Those fruits treated with ethephone 1000 ppm started to soften in  three days and became ready to consume in five days with shelf-life of eight  days. Fruits treated with 'Asuro' (Adhatoda vesica) started to become soft in  five days where as fruits treated with 'Koiralo' (Bahunia veriagata) became  soft in four days. By using these indigenous plant materials, we can prolong  shelf-life of fruit by 2-3 days more than the Kripone-treated fruits. Use of  ripe banana fruit also found effective to hasten ripening the banana with  excellent taste. However, the shelf-life was relatively short (8 days). It is  difficult to ripen the banana in winter without using any ripening materials.  In untreated control, only 33% fruits started to become soft after 7-9 days of  storage and were ready to consume in nine days. Rest 66% fruits were  remain as such up to 11 days then after fruit started uneven softening ie some  portion became soft and other portion remained hard. After 14 days fruits  became black without softening and got spoiled. Overall percent weight loss  was found 6.0 to 10.7 from initial to end of shelf-life period.Nepal Agric. Res. J. Vol. 9, 2009, pp. 113-117DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/narj.v9i0.11649
Correlation of plastic deformation induced intermittent electromagnetic radiation characteristics with mechanical properties of Cu–Ni alloys
Authors: Singh Ranjana , Lal Shree P. , Misra Ashok
Published: December 2014

This paper presents experimental results on intermittent electromagnetic radiation during plastic deformation of Cu – Ni alloys under tension and compression modes of deformation. On the basis of the nature of electromagnetic radiation signals, oscillatory or exponential, results show that the compression increases the viscous coefficient of Cu – Ni alloys during plastic deformation. Increasing the percentage of solute atoms in Cu – Ni alloys makes electromagnetic radiation strength higher under tension. The electromagnetic radiation emission occurs at smaller strains under compression showing early onset of plastic deformation. This is attributed to the role of high core region tensile residual stresses in the rolled Cu – Ni alloy specimens in accordance with the Bauschinger effect. The distance between the apexes of the dead metal cones during compression plays a significant role in electromagnetic radiation parameters. The dissociation of edge dislocations into partials and increase in internal stresses with increase in solute percentage in Cu – Ni alloys under compression considerably influences the electromagnetic radiation frequency.
Investigation of optimum nucleation temperature and heating rate of cordierite glass-ceramics
Authors: Karimi Yousef , Zakeri Mohammad , Reza Rahimipour Mohammad , Faeghinia Aida
Published: December 2014

In this survey, cordierite glass-ceramic was prepared by melting in a platinum crucible at 1 580 °C. The effects of temperature and heating rate were studied on the nucleation and crystallization. Nucleation and crystallization temperatures were obtained by differential thermal analysis, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The results showed that the optimum nucleation and crystallization occurred at 810 and 1 150 °C, respectively. According to the X-ray diffraction patterns, cordierite, rutile, quartz and MgTi2O5 phases were obtained in the crystallized glassceramics. The maximum bending strength of 178 MPa was obtained after the chemical strengthening of the crystallized glass ceramic.
Synthesis of cobalt-doped CdS (CdS:Co) by a simple and rapid microwave activated method and investigating optical properties
Authors: Molaei Mehdi , Ebrahimi Fatemeh , Karimipour Masoud , Samadpour Mahmood
Published: December 2014

Cobalt-doped CdS nanocrystals (CdS:Co NCs) were synthesized using a rapid microwave activated method. CdSO4 and Na2S2O3 were used as the precursors and Co(NO3)2 was the source of impurity. Thioglycolic acid was used as the capping agent and the catalyst of the reaction. The structure and optical properties of the NCs were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, UV–visible and photoluminescence analyses. NCs had a hexagonal structure, forming round particles with a size of mostly about 3 nm. The band gap of NCs was obtained as about 3.18 eV. Synthesized NCs exhibited white emission between 400–750 nm with a peak located at about 505 nm.
The contribution of turmeric research and development In the economy of Bangladesh: an ex-post analysis
Authors: Hasan MK , Mahmud MAA
Published: December 2014

The study estimated the benefit and rates of returns to investment on turmeric research and development in Bangladesh. The Economic Surplus Model with ex-post analysis was used to determine the returns to investment and their distribution between the production and consumption. Several discounting techniques were also used to assess the efficiency of turmeric research. The adoption rate was found increasing trend over the period. The yield of BARI developed modern varieties of turmeric was 41 to 73% higher than those of the local variety. Society got net benefit Tk. 9333.88 million from the investment of turmeric research and extension. The net present value (NPV) and present value of research cost (PVRC) were estimated at Tk. 1200.84 and 157.88, respectively. The internal rate of return (IRR) and benefit cost ratio (BCR) were estimated to be 68% and 10.45, respectively indicated investment on turmeric research and development was a good and profitable investment. Seed production programme of turmeric should be taken largely to increase production by increasing area adoption. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v4i1.20968 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 4 (1): 1-10, June, 2014
Grain-filling pattern of super hybrid rice Liangyoupeijiu under direct seeding and transplanting condition
Authors: Badshah MA , Mei Tu Nai
Published: December 2014

To evaluate the grain-filling pattern, Chinese first super hybrid rice, Liangyoupeijiu was grown under tillage and establishment methods at a spacing of 20 cm × 20 cm with one seedling hill-1 and at a seeding rate of 22.5 kg ha-1 in Changsha, Hunan Province, China in 2012. Our results showed that, superior grain weight in TP had always higher than DS up to 24 DAH but at 36 DAH, grain weight had similar in both TP and DS. Middle grain weight was higher in TP than DS up to 18DAH but it was higher in DS than TP at 24  36 DAH and at 36 DAH, grain weight of DS had significantly higher than TP. Inferior grain weight was higher in TP than DS up to 12 DAH but it was higher in DS than TP at 24 -36 DAH and at 36 DAH, grain weight of DS had significantly higher than TP. Grain-filling rate of superior grain had higher in TP than DS up to 18 DAH but it was higher in DS than TP at 30 DAH. In middle grain, it was higher in TP at 6DAH but in DS, it was higher at 30 DAH. In inferior grain, it was higher in TP at 36 DAH but in DS, it was higher at 30 DAH. The heavier grain was found in TP only in superior grain but DS had heavier grain both in middle and inferior grain. Grain-filling rate of superior grain was higher in TP than DS and it was similar in both TP and DS in middle grain. But in inferior grain, it was significantly higher in DS than TP. Transplanting method produced slightly higher grain yield due to higher sink size (more number of spikelets caused by longer panicle and more number of spikelet per cm of panicle) but it was statistically similar with DS. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v4i1.20972 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 4 (1): 11-15, June, 2014
Community perceptions towards the establishment of an urban forest plantation: a case of Dzivaresekwa, Zimbabwe
Authors: Mureva A , Nyamugure T , Masona C , Mudyiwa SM , Makumbe P , Muringayi M , Nyamadzawo G
Published: December 2014

The health of urban forest communities not only depend on the government and nongovernmental organizations, but also strongly rely on local community stewardship. A study was carried out to assess community perceptions on the establishment of an urban forest plantation among urban residents in Dzivaresekwa, an urban area in Harare. Randomized systematic sampling was used to select 150 households and one resident per household was interviewed using a pretested questionnaire with both closed and open-ended questions. The objectives of the study were to determine how age and gender and employment status variables, were related to the urban residents perceptions towards establishment of a forest plantation in an urban area. Most females (58.3%) viewed the plantation as a threat while most men (51.7%) viewed the plantation as a recreational area. The highest proportion (61.9%) of the middle age group (21-40 years) perceived the plantation as a source of employment. There was a statistically significant relationship (p = 0.040) between gender and the general perception of establishing a forest plantation in the urban area. However, there was no statistically significant relationship (p = 0.203) between age groups and the perception of establishing a forest plantation in the urban area. It is concluded that the community had diverse perceptions on urban community forestry. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v4i1.20973 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 4 (1): 16-23, June, 2014
Genetic diversity of some chili (Capsicum annuum L.) genotypes
Authors: Hasan MJ , Kulsum MU , Ullah MZ , Hossain M Manzur , Mahmud M Eleyash
Published: December 2014

A study on genetic diversity was conducted with 54 Chili (Capsicum annuum L.) genotypes through Mohalanobiss D2 and principal component analysis for twelve quantitative characters viz. plant height, number of secondary branch/plant, canopy breadth , days to first flowering, days to 50% flowering, fruits/plant, 5 fruits weight, fruit length, fruit diameter, seeds/fruit, 1000 seed weight and yield/plant were taken into consideration. Cluster analysis was used for grouping of 54 chili genotypes and the genotypes were fallen into seven clusters. Cluster II had maximum (13) and cluster III had the minimum number (1) of genotypes. The highest inter-cluster distance was observed between cluster I and III and the lowest between cluster II and VII. The characters yield/plant, canopy breadth, secondary branches/plant, plant height and seeds/fruit contributed most for divergence in the studied genotypes. Considering group distance, mean performance and variability the inter genotypic crosses between cluster I and cluster III, cluster III and cluster VI, cluster II and cluster III and cluster III and cluster VII may be suggested to use for future hybridization program. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v4i1.21088 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 4 (1): 32-35, June, 2014
Womens participation in rice mills in Sherpur sadar upazila of Bangladesh
Authors: Sultana Naima , Afrad MSI
Published: December 2014

The main purpose of this study was to determine womens participation in rice mills of Sherpur sadar upazila of Bangladesh. Ninety respondents were selected using cluster random sampling method. The researchers personally collected data from August to September 2012. Aimed at explaining the assessment of the present status of women worker of rice mills and explored the relationship between their selected characteristics and extent of participation. Majority of the respondents had long experience in working in the rice mill and almost everybody had participation around the year. Women were mostly involved in drying and on an average spent time for helping in husking machine operating (3.02 hours) followed by final drying of paddy (2.05 hours), drying the paddy before boiling (1.25 hours), piling the paddy (1.12 hours), cleaning the threshing floor (1.05 hours), packing the rice (1.02 hours) per day. They worked about 8-10 hours per day. Results show that the women workers performance decreased with the increase of their age. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v4i1.21089 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 4 (1): 36-39, June, 2014
Pesticide usage pattern for vegetable cultivation in Manmunai South & Eruvilpattu divisional secretariat Division of Batticaloa district, Sri Lanka
Authors: Sutharsan S , Sivakumar K , Srikrishnah S
Published: December 2014

Batticaloa, is a coastal district in Sri Lanka. Vegetables except up-country vegetables sold in Batticaloa District are mainly grown in villages. Manmunai South and Eruvilpattu divisional secretariat (DS) division is a predominantly vegetable cultivating area in the Batticaloa district. Farmers in this region use variety of synthetic pesticides to protect vegetables. Recently public concern related to health risks associated with pesticide residues has been increased, substantially. Therefore, a study was conducted to find out pesticide usage practices of farmers on vegetable cultivation in Manmunai South and Eruvilpattu DS division. Stratified random sampling method was used to select respondents for the survey and the collected data were analyzed statistically. It was observed that, the usage of pesticides was higher in the study area. Vegetable farmers use more than 14 Insecticides to control pest infestation. Farmers in the study area apply pesticides more frequently. Highly pesticide sprayed crop is Brinjal. About 66% of the Chilli producing farmers and 84% of the Brinjal producing farmers apply pesticide more than 22 times per cropping season. Around 90% of the farmers apply more than the recommended dosage and frequency of the pesticides. It was noticed that more than 89% of the farmers harvest the produce before the recommended pre harvest interval. It was found out that farmers in the study area are not following recommended pesticide usage practices. Hence, it is essential to educate the farmers on recommended pesticide usage practices, reduced usage of synthetic pesticides and use of organic farming practices to reduce the ill effects of synthetic pesticides. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v4i1.21092 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 4 (1): 53-56, June, 2014
Morphological characterization and genetic diversity in lentil (Lens culinaris medikus ssp. Culinaris) germplasm
Authors: Ahamed KU , Akhter B , Islam MR , Humaun MR , Alam MJ
Published: December 2014

Genetic divergence of 110 lentil germplasm with checks was assessed based on morphological traits using multivariate analysis. Mahalanobis generalized distance (D2) analysis was used to group the lentil genotypes. Significant variations among lentil genotypes were observed in respect of days to 1st flowering, days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, and number of pods per peduncle, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per plant, 100 seed weight and yield per plant. Considering the mean values, the germplasm were grouped into ten clusters. The highest number of genotypes (17) was in cluster X and lowest (5) both in cluster II and IV. Cluster IV had the highest cluster mean for number of pods per plant (297.08), number of seeds per plant (594.16), 100 seed weight (1.44 g) and yield per plant (8.53 g). Among them, the highest inter-cluster distance was obtained between the cluster IV and I (24.61) followed by IV and III (22.33), while the lowest was between IX and II (1.63). The maximum value of inter-cluster distance indicated that genotypes belonging to cluster IV were far diverged from those of cluster I. The first female flower initiation was earlier in BD-3812 (49 days) in cluster I and cluster IV had highest grain yield per plant (8.53). BD-3807 produced significant maximum number of pods per plant (298.40) in cluster IV. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijarit.v4i1.21095 Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 4 (1): 70-76, June, 2014
Effects of Transfer from Breeding to Research Facility on the Welfare of Rats
Authors: Arts Johanna , Oosterhuis Nynke , Kramer Klaas , Ohl Frauke
Published: December 2014

Transfer from the breeding facility to a research facility is a stressful event for laboratory animals. Heat stress has been reported to constitute one of the major concerns during transport of animals. This study measured ambient and body temperature, corticosterone and glucose levels, body weight, behavior and water and food intake before, during and after transfer in Wistar rats. Decreased body weight, water and food intake were observed on the day of transfer in rats. Environmental temperature strongly affected body temperature of rats and needs to be controlled. Male rats need to habituate for at least one week, females for two weeks after transfer.
Rosmarinic Acid, a New Polyphenol from Baccaurea ramiflora Lour. Leaf: A Probable Compound for Its Anti-Inflammatory Activity
Authors: Usha Talambedu , Middha Sushil , Bhattacharya Malay , Lokesh Prakash , Goyal Arvind
Published: December 2014

Despite several pharmacological applications of Baccaurea ramiflora Lour., studies on the influence of its polyphenol content on pharmacological activity such as anti-inflammatory properties have been scarce. Here we evaluated in vitro antioxidant activity, poyphenolics by HPLC and the anti-inflammatory potential of the methanolic leaf extract of Baccaurea ramiflora (BME) and its protective effects in carrageenan-induced paw edema model of inflammation in rats. The BME extract contained 79.06 ± 0.03 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g total polyphenols, 28.80 ± 0.01 mg quercetin equivalent (QE)/g flavonoid and 29.42 ± 0.01 μg cathechin equivalent/g proanthocyanidin respectively and rosmarinic acid (8 mg/kg) as a main component was identified by HPLC. Results demonstrate that administration of BME at the dose of 200 mg/kg can reduce paw edema by over 63%, and it exhibits a dose-response effect. Depending on concentration, the extract exerted scavenging activity on DPPH radical (IC50 36.4 μg/mL), significantly inhibited IL-1β (4.4 pg/mg protein) and TNF-α (0.21 ng/μg protein). Therefore, we conclude BME causes a substantial reduction of inflammation in in vivo models. We propose that rosmarinic acid and similar phenolic compounds may be useful in the therapy of inflammation-related injuries.
Brief Accuracy Assessment of Aerosol Climatologies for the Retrieval of Solar Surface Radiation
Authors: Mueller Richard , Träger-Chatterjee Christine
Published: December 2014

Solar surface irradiance is an important variable in many different fields, e.g., climate monitoring and solar energy. Remote sensing data are nowadays well established and the only observational data source in many regions of the world. Aerosols significantly affect the clear sky radiation and hence also the all sky radiation. In order to achieve the optimal accuracy for surface radiation, information of aerosols with low uncertainty is needed. In this study, the effect of four different aerosol climatologies on the solar surface radiation have been evaluated for the period 2006–2009 at nine BSRN stations. The use of the aerosol climatology from the European Center of Medium Weather Forecast (MACC) leads to the highest accuracy of solar radiation. The mean absolute bias is 6.8 Watt per square meter for global irradiance and 11.3 for direct irradiance. With the Max-Planck climatology (MAC-v1) 9.4 and 14.8 Watt per square meter and with GADS/OPAC (Global Aerosol Data Set/Optical Properties of Aerosols and Clouds) 10.0 and 14.6 Watt per square meter have been achieved, respectively. The improvement in the accuracy of solar radiation by using the MACC climatology is relatively large. Also remarkable is that the new MAC-v1 climatology and the older GADS/OPAC climatology performs on the same level with respect to the achieved accuracy in radiation. The effect of interannual variations of Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) on the global irradiance is rather low for the investigated sites and period.
Monoclonal Antibodies against the MET/HGF Receptor and Its Ligand: Multitask Tools with Applications from Basic Research to Therapy
Authors: Prat Maria , Oltolina Francesca , Basilico Cristina
Published: December 2014

Monoclonal antibodies can be seen as valuable tools for many aspects of basic as well as applied sciences. In the case of MET/HGFR, they allowed the identification of truncated isoforms of the receptor, as well as the dissection of different epitopes, establishing structure–function relationships. Antibodies directed against MET extracellular domain were found to be full or partial receptor agonists or antagonists. The agonists can mimic the effects of the different isoforms of the natural ligand, but with the advantage of being more stable than the latter. Thus, some agonist antibodies promote all the biological responses triggered by MET activation, including motility, proliferation, morphogenesis, and protection from apoptosis, while others can induce only a migratory response. On the other hand, antagonists can inhibit MET-driven biological functions either by competing with the ligand or by removing the receptor from the cell surface. Since MET/HGFR is often over-expressed and/or aberrantly activated in tumors, monoclonal antibodies can be used as probes for MET detection or as “bullets” to target MET-expressing tumor cells, thus pointing to their use in diagnosis and therapy.
Entropy Analysis of RR and QT Interval Variability during Orthostatic and Mental Stress in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Baumert Mathias , Czippelova Barbora , Ganesan Anand , Schmidt Martin , Zaunseder Sebastian , Javorka Michal
Published: December 2014

Autonomic activity affects beat-to-beat variability of heart rate and QT interval. The aim of this study was to explore whether entropy measures are suitable to detect changes in neural outflow to the heart elicited by two different stress paradigms. We recorded short-term ECG in 11 normal subjects during an experimental protocol that involved head-up tilt and mental arithmetic stress and computed sample entropy, cross-sample entropy and causal interactions based on conditional entropy from RR and QT interval time series. Head-up tilt resulted in a significant reduction in sample entropy of RR intervals and cross-sample entropy, while mental arithmetic stress resulted in a significant reduction in coupling directed from RR to QT. In conclusion, measures of entropy are suitable to detect changes in neural outflow to the heart and decoupling of repolarisation variability from heart rate variability elicited by orthostatic or mental arithmetic stress.