bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hospitalizations and Costs Incurred at the Facility Level after Scale-up of Malaria Control: Pre-Post Comparisons from Two Hospitals in Zambia
Authors: Comfort Alison B. , van Dijk Janneke H. , Mharakurwa Sungano , Stillman Kathryn , Gabert Rose , Korde Sonali , Nachbar Nancy , Derriennic Yann , Musau Stephen , Hamazakaza Petan , Zyambo Khozya D. , Zyongwe Nancy M. , Hamainza Busiku , Thuma Philip E.
Published: November 2013

There is little evidence on the impact of malaria control on the health system, particularly at the facility level. Using retrospective, longitudinal facility-level and patient record data from two hospitals in Zambia, we report a pre-post comparison of hospital admissions and outpatient visits for malaria and estimated costs incurred for malaria admissions before and after malaria control scale-up. The results show a substantial reduction in inpatient admissions and outpatient visits for malaria at both hospitals after the scale-up, and malaria cases accounted for a smaller proportion of total hospital visits over time. Hospital spending on malaria admissions also decreased. In one hospital, malaria accounted for 11% of total hospital spending before large-scale malaria control compared with < 1% after malaria control. The findings demonstrate that facility-level resources are freed up as malaria is controlled, potentially making these resources available for other diseases and conditions.
Community Perception, Misconception, and Discord Regarding Prevention and Treatment of Infection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Asgary Ramin , Antony Sheila , Grigoryan Zoya , Aronson Jane
Published: November 2013

Approximately one million persons infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) live in Ethiopia. Socio-cultural factors influence prevention and treatment adherence. We applied a qualitative descriptive approach to evaluate community perception, knowledge, and the role of spiritual factors in regard to HIV. We conducted 14 focus groups with sampling of HIV+ and HIV− participants (n = 52) by using open-ended questions. We coded and analyzed data for major themes. There are misconceptions, including transmission via casual contact, and pervasive beliefs of holy water as a cure. Many HIV− participants believe treatment is ineffective or incompatible with holy water. Most HIV+ participants believe treatment and holy water can be taken together, but experienced either pressure to stop treatment or stigma when taking medications. Participants emphasized the role of spiritual leaders in directing and shaping community perspectives on HIV. Ongoing community education via local initiatives, nation-wide structural and environmental strategies, and efforts tailored toward Ethiopian society to reconcile treatment with faith are crucial.
Assessing the Microbial Quality of Improved Drinking Water Sources: Results from the Dominican Republic
Authors: Baum Rachel , Kayser Georgia , Stauber Christine , Sobsey Mark
Published: November 2013

Millennium Development Goal Target 7c (to halve between 1990 and 2015 the proportion of the global population without sustainable access to safe drinking water), was celebrated as achieved in 2012. However, new studies show that we may be prematurely celebrating. Access to safe drinking water may be overestimated if microbial water quality is considered. The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between microbial drinking water quality and drinking water source in the Puerto Plata region of the Dominican Republic. This study analyzed microbial drinking water quality data from 409 households in 33 communities. Results showed that 47% of improved drinking water sources were of high to very-high risk water quality, and therefore unsafe for drinking. This study provides evidence that the current estimate of safe water access may be overly optimistic, and microbial water quality data are needed to reliably assess the safety of drinking water.
Evaluation of the Diagnostic Accuracy of a Typhoid IgM Flow Assay for the Diagnosis of Typhoid Fever in Cambodian Children Using a Bayesian Latent Class Model Assuming an Imperfect Gold Standard
Authors: Moore Catrin E. , Pan-Ngum Wirichada , Wijedoru Lalith P. M. , Sona Soeng , Nga Tran Vu Thieu , Duy Pham Thanh , Vinh Phat Voong , Chheng Kheng , Kumar Varun , Emary Kate , Carter Michael , White Lisa , Baker Stephen , Day Nicholas P. J. , Parry Christopher M.
Published: November 2013

Rapid diagnostic tests are needed for typhoid fever (TF) diagnosis in febrile children in endemic areas. Five hundred children admitted to the hospital in Cambodia between 2009 and 2010 with documented fever (≥ 38°C) were investigated using blood cultures (BCs), Salmonella Typhi/Paratyphi A real-time polymerase chain reactions (PCRs), and a Typhoid immunoglobulin M flow assay (IgMFA). Test performance was determined by conventional methods and Bayesian latent class modeling. There were 32 cases of TF (10 BC- and PCR-positive cases, 14 BC-positive and PCR-negative cases, and 8 BC-negative and PCR-positive cases). IgMFA sensitivity was 59.4% (95% confidence interval = 41–76), and specificity was 97.8% (95% confidence interval = 96–99). The model estimate sensitivity for BC was 81.0% (95% credible interval = 54–99). The model estimate sensitivity for PCR was 37.8% (95% credible interval = 26–55), with a specificity of 98.2% (95% credible interval = 97–99). The model estimate sensitivity for IgMFA (≥ 2+) was 77.9% (95% credible interval = 58–90), with a specificity of 97.5% (95% credible interval = 95–100). The model estimates of IgMFA sensitivity and specificity were comparable with BCs and better than estimates using conventional analysis.
Partial Bipaddling of PMMC Flap in Full Thickness Cheek Defects involving Lip Commissure: A Novel Technique
Authors: Chaturvedi Pankaj , Joshi Poonam
Published: November 2013

The reconstruction of cheek along with large lip commissural defect after excision of primary tumor is still a challenge. Though primary reconstruction with microsurgical technique is the preferred meth od, du e to infrastru ctural c on strain ts in developing countries it cannot be offered to all the patients. A number of other techniques have been described earlier, but some of them lead to microstomia, whereas other leads to oral incompetence or poor esthetic outcomes. We are proposing a novel technique of partial bipaddling of pectoralis major myocutaneous (PMMC) flap for reconstruction of such defect. This reconstruction procedure is technically less demanding with an acceptable cosmetic and functional outcome.

How to cite this article

Chaturvedi P, Joshi P. Partial Bipaddling of PMMC Flap in Full Thickness Cheek Defects involving Lip Commissure: A Novel Technique. Int J Head Neck Surg 2013;4(3):113-114.
Assessment of Gutka Ban in Maharashtra: Findings from a Focus Group Discussion
Authors: Dhumal Gauri G , Gupta Prakash C
Published: November 2013

According to Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) India 2009-2010, around 8.3% (13.4% among male and 2.5% among female) of people in Maharashtra are gutka users. Gutka consumption not only causes oral cancer, but has also been link ed with develop men t of oral su bmuco us fibrosis, a precancerous lesion. Considering its harmful effects, gutka and pan masala were banned by Maharashtra Government from July 19, 2012 disallowing their sale, manufacture, distribution and storage. Though the ban has come into enforcement, the evidence stating the extent of its implementation is sparse. The objectives of the study were to learn about perception of gutka ban, impact of the ban on gutka consumption, changes in the trend of tobacco related products consumption, availability of gutka to the public on demand and economic effects of the ban on users.

A Focus Group Discussion was conducted among current and ex-gutka users on January 24, 2013 at Healis Sekhsaria Institute for Public Health, Navi Mumbai, India. A total of 11 male, ex-gutka users from different professions, participated in the discussion. The FGD lasted for 40 to 45 minutes. The verbal consent for participation in the FGD was taken from the respondents.

The findings showed that with enforcement of the ban, 3 out of 11 respondents completely stopped consumption of gutka or any other tobacco product, whereas the rests switched to other tobacco products. All the respondents were aware about gutka ban and agreed that its a good step to reduce its consumption; however, most of them felt that the ban has not been implemented properly. According to them, the vendors still manage to sell gutka to their known regular customers. Since the ban has helped in compelling most of the users to quit gutka, it clearly implies that enforcement of ban with proper implementation is required to diminish gutka consumption among people.

How to cite this article

Dhumal GG, Gupta PC. Assessment of Gutka Ban in Maharashtra: Findings from a Focus Group Discussion. Int J Head Neck Surg 2013;4(3):115-118.
Study of Cytodiagnosis of Head and Neck Neoplastic Lesions and Comparison with Histopathology
Authors: Amit Maniyar U , Patel Harshid Laxmanbhai , Parmar BH
Published: November 2013

Introduction

The development of aspiration cytology is one of the biggest advances in anatomic pathology. Cancer has become one of the 10 leading causes of death in India. Head and neck neoplasia is a major form of cancer in India, accounting for 23% of all cancers in males and 6% in females. The advantages of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) are: it is safe, sensitive and specific for the diagnosis of malignancy, gives a rapid report, requires little equipment, causes minimal discomfort to the patient, is an out patient procedure, repeatable and cost effective avoids the use of frozen section, reduces the rate of exploratory procedures and allows a definitive diagnosis of inoperable cases. FNAC is of particular relevance in head and neck lesions because of easy assessibility, excellent patient compliance, minimally invasive nature of procedure and helping to avoid surgery in non-neoplastic lesions, inflammatory conditions and also some tumors.

Aims and objectives

To test the utility of FNAC, to establish the diagnostic accuracy of cytology by comparison with histopathology diagnosis and to establish the sensitivity and specificity of this technique in head and neck neoplastic lesion.

Materials and methods

The present study was undertaken in the Department of Pathology, Government Medical College and Hospital, Nashik, between January 2008 and June 2009.

Results

In the present study, maximum number of aspirates from head and neck neoplastic lesions were found to be of lymph nodes (56.37%). Of the total 378 cases, 71.69% were malignant. 6th decade was the most common age group affected (26.46%). Mean age group was found to be 45.84 years. Males were more commonly affected (65.34%). The male to female ratio was 1.8:1. Out of 92 cases available for follow-up, 85.87% of the cases were same as histopathological diagnosis.

Summary and conclusion

Excisional biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosis of head and neck neoplastic lesion, cytological study can establish the diagnosis of the majority of head and neck neoplastic lesions and can be recommended as an adjunct to histopathology.

How to cite this article

Amit MU, Patel HL, Parmar BH. Study of Cytodiagnosis of Head and Neck Neoplastic Lesions and Comparison with Histopathology. Int J Head Neck Surg 2013; 4(3):119-122.
Neurilemmoma of the Hard Palate: Report of a Case and Review of Literature
Authors: Mishra Aradhana , Jayalakshmi V , Chikhale Nitin P , Patel Richa D , Cherian Susan , Chaturvedi Uma Pankaj
Published: November 2013

Neurilemmoma, also known as schwannoma, is a benign tumor arising from the neural sheath Schwann cells. This tumor has a predilection for the head and neck region but it is rarely found in the oral cavity (1%) where tongue is reported to be the favored site. We report a rare case of neurilemmoma of the hard palate along with a review of literature of this entity.

How to cite this article

Chikhale NP, Mishra A, Patel RD, Chaturvedi UP, Jayalakshmi V, Cherian S. Neurilemmoma of the Hard Palate: Report of a Case and Review of Literature. Int J Head Neck Surg 2013;4(3):123-125.
Complete Second Branchial Fistula: A Study of Four Cases
Authors: Shinde KJ
Published: November 2013

Objective

Complete branchial cleft fistulae are rare anomalies of branchial cleft apparatus. Incomplete fistulae are more common to occur which may not be symptomatic at all and neglected as it do not give rise to recurrent infection. W hile complete brancial fistula gives persistent symptom of discharge from the fistula. This is a report of four cases of complete branchial fistulae which were diagnosed and treated surgically in a span of 2 years in the Department of ENT, Head and Neck Surgery, Rural Medical College and Pravara Rural Hospital, Loni. The main objective of this report is the use of fistulogram for the diagnosis and complete excision of fistula including the both inner and outer ends of fistulae.

Case report

Four cases were reported in the age group between 11 and 22 years who presented with an intermittent mucoid discharge from an external opening in the neck since birth with right to left ratio being 4:1 and male:female ratio being 1:1 and were diagnosed to have a second branchial cleft fistula. A preoperative fistulogram revealed the tracts up to the tonsillar fossa with connection over the skin surface in the neck. Complete excision of the tracts were done by a two-step or step ladder neck incision.

Conclusion

Though second branchial fistulae are common, complete fistulae are rare with its complete excision. The report also stresses on the importance of a preoperative fistulogram for the preoperative diagnosis and correct complete surgical treatment.

How to cite this article

Shinde KJ. Complete Second Branchial Fistula: A Study of Four Cases. Int J Head Neck Surg 2013;4(3):129-132.
Schwannoma Base of Tongue: Report of a Rare Case and Review of Literature
Authors: Singh Hitendra Prakash , Agarwal SP , Verma Nidhi , Vashistha Madhukar , Chaddha Amit , Babu Suresh
Published: November 2013

Schwannomas or neurilemmomas are benign, slow growing, usually solitary and encapsulated tumor, originating from Schwann cells of the nerve sheath. Extracranially, 25% of all schwannomas are located in the head and neck region. The intraoral lesions show a predilection for the tongue, followed by the palate, buccal mucosa, lips and gingiva respectively. Among these, base of tongue schwannoma are extremely rare. Schwannomas involving the tongue base remain asymptomatic unless they attain appreciable size. Diagnostic investigations include ultrasound scanning, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and fine-needle aspiration cytology. MRI is superior to other imaging modalities for the examination of the base of the tongue. The definitive diagnosis is based on histopathology. Surgical excision or enucleation with preserve nerve function is the treatment of choice for this rare tumor. The most common approach for complete excision is transoral route for base of tongue schwannoma. Authors report a case of base of tongue schwannoma which was treated with surgery by transoral route.

How to cite this article

Singh HP, Kumar S, Verma N, Vashistha M, Chaddha A, Agarwal SP, Babu S. Schwannoma Base of Tongue: Report of a Rare Case and Review of Literature. Int J Head Neck Surg 2013;4(3):133-135.
Foreign Body Pyriform Sinus: A Rare Presentation
Authors: Meher Ravi , Rana Kanika , Bhargava Eishaan Kamta
Published: November 2013

Foreign body ingestion is a common clinical problem. Here we present an unusual case of a foreign body (needle) that got embedded in the lateral wall of pyriform sinus (PFS) and could not be retrieved via rigid esophagoscopy. The foreign body could not be visualized on neck exploration and was located by palpation of the mucosa of the lateral wall of PFS and use of a sterile magnet.

How to cite this article

Rana K, Meher R, W adhwa V, Bhargava EK. Foreign Body Pyriform Sinus: A Rare Presentation. Int J Head Neck Surg 2013;4(3):142-144.
Global modeling of SOA: the use of different mechanisms for aqueous phase formation
Authors: Lin G. , Sillman S. , Penner J. E. , Ito A.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. There is growing interest in the formation of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) through condensed aqueous phase reactions. In this study, we use a global model (IMPACT) to investigate the potential formation of SOA in the aqueous phase. We compare results from several multiphase process schemes with detailed aqueous phase reactions to schemes that use a first order gas-to-particle formation rate based on uptake coefficients. The net global SOA production rate in cloud water ranges from 19.5 Tg yr−1 to 46.8 Tg yr−1 while that in aerosol water ranges from −0.9 Tg yr−1 to 12.6 Tg yr−1. The rates using first order uptake coefficients are over two times higher than the multiphase schemes in cloud water. Using first order uptake coefficients leads to a net SOA production rate in aerosol water as high as 12.6 Tg yr−1, while the fully multiphase schemes cause a negative net production rate. These rates can be compared to the gas phase formation rate of 29.0 Tg yr−1 that results from gas-particle partitioning and the formation rate of 25.8 Tg yr−1 from the uptake of epoxide. The annual average organic acid concentrations (the major SOA products formed in cloud) peak over the tropical regions, while oligomers (the major SOA products formed in aerosol water) generally show maxima over industrialized areas in the Northern Hemisphere. A sensitivity test to investigate two representations of cloud water content from two global models shows that increasing cloud water by a factor of 2.7 can increase the net SOA production rate in cloud by a factor of 4.2 at low altitudes (below approximately 900 hPa). We also investigated the importance of including dissolved iron chemistry in cloud water aqueous reactions. Adding these reactions increases the formation rate of aqueous phase HOx by a factor of 2.2 and decreases the amount of global SOA formed by 44%. Previously, we showed that the model that uses the uptake method to simulate SOA formed in both cloud and aerosol water over-predicts observed SOA by a factor as high as 3.8 in tropical regions. The use of the multiphase reaction scheme for SOA formation in cloud water brings the model's predictions to within a factor of 2 of the observations. All simulations show reasonable agreement with aerosol mass spectrometry (AMS) measurements in the Northern Hemisphere, though using the uptake method to simulate SOA formed in aerosol water improves the results by around 10% compared to the use of the multiphase reaction scheme. All cases studied here tend to underestimate observations of oxalic acid, particularly in Europe in winter, in the Amazon, Africa, and China as well as over ocean regions. The model with iron chemistry under predicts measurements in almost all regions. Finally, the comparison of O/C ratios estimated in the model with those estimated from measurements shows that the modeled SOA has a slightly higher O/C ratio than the observed SOA for all cases.
Photobleaching as a factor controlling spectral characteristics of chromophoric dissolved organic matter in open ocean
Authors: Yamashita Y. , Nosaka Y. , Suzuki K. , Ogawa H. , Takahashi K. , Saito H.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) ubiquitously occurs in marine environments and plays a significant role in the marine biogeochemical cycles. Basin scale distributions of CDOM have recently been surveyed in the global ocean and indicate that quantity and quality of oceanic CDOM are mainly controlled by in situ production and photobleaching. However, factors controlling the spectral parameters of CDOM in the UV region, i.e., spectral slope of CDOM determined at 275–295 nm (S275–295) and the ratio of two spectral slope parameters (SR); the ratio of S275–295 to S350–400, have not been well documented. To evaluate the factor controlling the spectral characteristics of CDOM in the UV region in the open ocean, we determined the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of CDOM in the subarctic and subtropical surface waters (5–300 m) of the western North Pacific. Absorption coefficients at 320 nm in the subarctic region were higher than those in the subtropical region throughout surface waters, suggesting that magnitudes of photobleaching were different between the two regions. The values of S275–295 and SR were also higher in the subtropical region than the subarctic region. The dark microbial incubation showed biodegradation of DOM little affected S275–295, but slightly decreased SR. On the other hand, increases in S275–295 and relative stableness of SR were observed during photo-irradiation incubations respectively. These experimental results indicated that photobleaching of CDOM mainly induced qualitative differences in CDOM at UV region between the subarctic and subtropical surface waters. The results of this study imply that S275–295 can be used as a tracer of photochemical history of CDOM in the open ocean.
Modeling ocean circulation and biogeochemical variability in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Xue Z. , He R. , Fennel K. , Cai W.-J. , Lohrenz S. , Hopkinson C.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. A three-dimensional coupled physical-biogeochemical model is applied to simulate and examine temporal and spatial variability of circulation and biogeochemical cycling in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM). The model is driven by realistic atmospheric forcing, open boundary conditions from a data assimilative global ocean circulation model, and observed freshwater and terrestrial nitrogen input from major rivers. A 7 yr model hindcast (2004–2010) was performed, and validated against satellite observed sea surface height, surface chlorophyll, and in situ observations including coastal sea level, ocean temperature, salinity, and dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) concentration. The model hindcast revealed clear seasonality in DIN, phytoplankton and zooplankton distributions in the GoM. An empirical orthogonal function analysis indicated a phase-locked pattern among DIN, phytoplankton and zooplankton concentrations. The GoM shelf nitrogen budget was also quantified, revealing that on an annual basis the DIN input is largely balanced by the removal through denitrification (an equivalent of ~ 80% of DIN input) and offshore exports to the deep ocean (an equivalent of ~ 17% of DIN input).
Livestock exclosure with consequent vegetation changes alters photo-assimilated carbon cycling in a Kobresia meadow
Authors: Zou J. , Zhao L. , Xu S. , Xu X. , Chen D. , Li Q. , Zhao N. , Luo C. , Zhao X.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Livestock exclosure has been widely used as an approach for grassland restoration. However, the effects of exclosure on grassland are controversial and can depend on many factors, such as the grassland ecosystem types, evolutionary history and so on. In this study, we conduct field experiments to investigate the variations of ecosystem function in response to livestock exclosure in a Kobresia humilis meadow under six years grazing exclosure on the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau. We focused on two ecosystem functions: plant community structure and ecosystem carbon cycling. The plant aboveground productivity, plant diversity and the composition of plant functional groups of the meadow were addressed as the indicators of the plant community structure. The 13C isotope pulse labeling technique was applied to evaluate the alterations of ecosystem carbon cycling during the short-term. The results showed that the plant community structure was changed after being fenced for six years, with significantly decreased aboveground productivity, species loss and varied composition of the four plant functional groups (grasses, sedges, legumes and forbs). Using the pulse labeling technique, we found a lower cycling rate of 13C in the plant–soil system of the fenced plots compared with the grazed sites during the first 4 days after labeling. A higher proportion of 13C amount recovered in the plant–soil system were migrated into soil as root exudates immediately after labeling at both fenced and control grazed sites, with significantly lower proportion in the fenced site, coinciding with the lower loss of 13C in soil respiration. Thirty-two days after labeling, 37% of recovered 13C remained in the soil of the fenced plots, with significant differences compared to the grazed plots (47%). In addition, less 13C (5% vs. 7%) was lost by soil respiration in the fenced plots during the chase period of 32 d. Overall, our study suggested that livestock exclosure had negative effects on the two ecosystem functions investigated, and the effects on 13C cycling and sequestrations in the soil were in response to variations in community structures, especially the suppression of forbs and legumes in the fenced site.
Fuzzy committees of specialized rainfall-runoff models: further enhancements and tests
Authors: Kayastha N. , Ye J. , Fenicia F. , Kuzmin V. , Solomatine D. P.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Often a single hydrological model cannot capture the details of a complex rainfall–runoff relationship, and a possibility here is building specialized models to be responsible for a particular aspect of this relationship and combining them to form a committee model. This study extends earlier work of using fuzzy committees to combine hydrological models calibrated for different hydrological regimes – by considering the suitability of the different weighting function for objective functions and different class of membership functions used to combine the specialized models and compare them with the single optimal models.
Comparison of Propofol and Propofol/Ketamine Anesthesia for Evaluation of Laryngeal Function in Healthy Dogs
Authors: McKeirnan Kelci L. , Gross Marjorie E. , Rochat Mark , Payton Mark
Published: November 2013

Thiopental is an excellent choice for evaluation of laryngeal function. Unfortunately, thiopental is no longer manufactured. In its absence, the ideal anesthetic protocol for laryngoscopy has not been determined. Propofol and propofol/ketamine were compared for the evaluation of laryngeal function in 48 healthy dogs. Laryngeal exposure was moderate to excellent in all dogs and not significantly different between protocols. Saturation of peripheral O2 (SPO2) readings were decreased in the propofol/ketamine group, and deeper respirations were more likely to correlate with normal laryngeal function regardless of treatment group. Doxapram was administered to apneic patients to stimulate respiration and allow for evaluation of laryngeal function. No significant difference in frequency of doxapram administration between groups was noted. Doxapram resulted in higher respiratory scores and significantly increased the ability to determine normal laryngeal function. Ketamine did not allow for a reduction in propofol dose and caused increased respiratory depression, making ketamine a poor addition to propofol for laryngeal function examination. Regardless of the protocol used, laryngeal function should be determined in conjunction with the respiratory phase and depth of respirations. Patients with either absent or shallow respirations should receive doxapram for accurate evaluation of laryngeal function.
The effects of melatonin on in vitro oocyte competence and embryo development in sheep
Authors: Casao A. , Abecia J.A. , Cebrián Pérez J.A. , Muiño Blanco T. , Vázquez M.I. , Forcada F.
Published: November 2013

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of melatonin on the in vitro maturation and fertilization of sheep oocytes, and on the in vitro culture of the embryos. Oocytes from sheep ovaries collected at the slaughterhouse were divided into four groups, two of which were treated with either 10E5 M (M5) or 10E6 M (M6) melatonin, while the other two groups served as untreated controls (C5 and C6). After in vitro fertilization with fresh ram semen, the embryos produced in each group were divided into two sets, one cultured with melatonin (M5M, C5M, M6M and C6M), and the other without melatonin (M5C, C5C, M6C, and C6C). A melatonin concentration of 10E6 M increased maturation rate (82.5% vs. 73.7% for M6 and C6, respectively; P < 0.05) and tended to improve cleavage rate 36 hours after in vitro fertilization (79.4% vs. 72.6% for M6 and C6, respectively, P = 0.08). A higher melatonin concentration (10E5 M) did not have significant effects on those parameters. Blastocyst rates on day 8 did not differ significantly among groups.
Breadmaking properties of wheat flour supplemented with thermally processed hypoallergenic lupine flour
Authors: Guillamón E. , Cuadrado C. , Pedrosa M.M. , Varela A. , Cabellos B. , Muzquiz M. , Burbano C.
Published: November 2013

In recent years there has been increased interest in using lupine for human nutrition due to its nutritional properties and health benefits. Moreover, lupine is used as an ingredient in breadmaking because of its functional and technological properties. However, a higher number of allergic reactions to this legume have recently been reported as a consequence of a more widespread consumption of lupine-based foods. In a previous study, several thermal treatments were applied to lupine seeds and flours resulting in reduced allergenicity. In order to study how this thermal processing (autoclaving and boiling) affects the breadmaking properties, raw and thermally processed lupine flours were used to replace 10% of wheat flour. The effect of supplementing wheat flour with lupine flour on physical dough properties, bread structure and sensory characteristics were analysed. The results indicated that thermally-treated lupine flours, had similar breadmaking and sensorial properties as untreated lupine flour. These thermal treatments could increase the potential use of lupine flour as a food ingredient while reducing the risk to provoke allergic reactions.
Yield and fruit quality of sweet pepper in response to fertilisation with Ca2+ and K+
Authors: Rubio J.S. , García-Sánchez F. , Flores P. , Navarro J.M. , Martínez V.
Published: November 2013

The influence of Ca2+ and K+ levels on fruit yield and quality of sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum L. cv. Orlando) plants under hydroponic culture has been investigated. The treatments consisted of three concentrations of Ca2+ (1.5, 4 and 8 mmol/L) and K+ (2.5, 7 and 12 mmol/L) that were imposed separately. Fruit yield parameters and different fruit quality parameters, as well as dry matter production and mineral composition in individual parts of the plant, were determined. The increase of Ca2+ in the root medium increased the marketable yield from 1.67 to 2.38 kg/plant, mainly due to an increase in the number of fruits per plant, while higher K+ levels decreased marketable yield from 2.2 to 1.66 kg/plant, due to decreases in the number of fruits per plant and the mean fruit weight. With respect to fruit quality, fruit shape index and, therefore, pepper fruit appearance improved with Ca2+ addition to the root medium. Fertilization with K+ increased fruit acidity and decreased maturity index, which could improve fruit storability. Low Ca2+ or high K+ levels reduced both root and shoot dry matter. Therefore, an adequate management of fertilization with Ca2+ and K+ could improve the yield and fruit quality of pepper grown in soilless culture.
Effect of DPA [Diphenylamine] and 1-MCP [1-methylcyclopropene] on chemical compounds related to superficial scald of Granny Smith apples
Authors: Moggia C. , Moya-León M.A. , Pereira M. , Yuri J.A. , Lobos G.A.
Published: November 2013

Research was carried out to study the mode of action of diphenylamine (DPA) and 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), on control of superficial scald of Granny Smith apples (Malus domestica Borkh.), and its relation with chemical compounds. Fruit was harvested from a commercial orchard in Chile, 182 and 189 days after full bloom and received the following treatments: DPA (2,000 ppm); 1-MCP (1.2 ppm) and control (no treatment). All fruit was stored for 4 or 6 months at 0 deg C. A completely randomized factorial design was used (2 harvest dates by 3 postharvest treatments). Monthly measurements were made on maturity indices, ethylene production rate (EPR), scald related compounds (alpha-farnesene (AF), conjugated trienes (CT), total anti-oxidants (AO)), and cell membrane stability. Following 4 and 6 months of storage, plus 7 days at 20 deg C, scald was evaluated. After 6 months, DPA-treated fruit, from both harvests, showed similar firmness, EPR and AO, compared to the control. However, AF and CT were lower, and cell membrane stability higher. Conversely, 1-MCP-treated fruit showed a noticeable EPR suppression and AF inhibition, along with higher firmness, lower CT and AO, compared to the control and DPA. Furthermore, cell membrane stability was superior to that of the control and similar to that of the DPA. Treated fruit (DPA and 1-MCP) showed an important reduction in scald compared to the control. The effect of 1-MCP on the investigated compounds and the reduction in scald, confirms that ethylene plays a major role on its development.
Review. Advances in the management of the wastewater in Turkey: natural treatments or constructed wetlands
Authors: Cakmak B. , Apaydin H.
Published: November 2013

As a result of rapid population growth and industrialization with increased water demand, domestic and industrial waste has increased. Wastewater left to streams and rivers without treatment is polluting the environment. The purpose of this study is to explain the importance of the constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment and to provide information about applications in Turkey. In this study, constructed wetlands have been introduced, the types, operation systems, performance evaluation, information about the legal regulations for use of waste water in agriculture has been given. Municipal wastewater can be reused with constructed wetlands in rural areas and water saving will be provided. The constructed wetlands should be developed rearranging Turkey's laws. Thus water used for agriculture will be reduced and other sectors needs will be met.
The side effects of nitrification inhibitors on leaching water and soil salinization in a field experiment
Authors: Díez J.A. , Arauzo M. , Hernaiz P. , Sanz A.
Published: November 2013

In experiments carried out in greenhouses, some authors have shown that ammonium sulphate induces greater soil acidity and salinity than other sources of N. Moreover, nitrification inhibitors (NI) tend to cause ammonium to accumulate in soil by retarding its oxidation to nitrate. This accumulated ammonium would also have an effect on soil salinity. Consequently, the aim of this paper was to evaluate the soil and leaching water salinization effects associated with adding NI, dicyandiamide (DCD) and dimethylpyrazole-phosphate (DMPP) to ammonium sulphate nitrate (ASN) fertilizer. This experiment was carried out in the field with an irrigated maize crop. Drainage and Na concentration were measured during both seasons (2006 and 2007) and leached Na was determined. The treatments with NI (DCD and DMPP) were associated with greater Na concentrations in soil solutions and consequently higher rates of Na leaching (in 2007, ASN-DCD 1,292 kg Na/ha, ASN-DMPP 1,019 kg Na/ha). A treatment involving only ASN also increased the Na concentration in soil and the amount of Na leached in relation to the Control (in 2007, ASN 928 kg Na/ha and control 587 kg Na/ha). The increase in the ammonium concentration in the soil due to the NI treatments could have been the result of the displacement of Na ions from the soil exchange complex through a process which finally led to an increase in soil salinity. Treatments including ammonium fertilizer formulated with NI produced a greater degree of soil salinization due to the presence of ammonium from the fertilizer and accumulated ammonium from the nitrification inhibition.
Short communication. SNP [single nucleotide polymorphism] analyses of the 5HT1R [5-hydroxytryptamine receptor1] and STAT [signal transducer and activator of transcription] genes in Pacific white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: Martin Marti S. , Onteru S.K. , Du Z.Q. , Rothschild M.F.
Published: November 2013

Shrimp aquaculture is one of the growing animal industries. Breeding stocks with high disease-resistance and growth rate are of particular interest to shrimp breeders. Association studies are useful to find genetic markers for marker assisted selection of animals. Using six Litopenaeus vannamei individuals from a sample population, four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were found in the 5HT1R (5-hydroxytryptamine receptor1) gene and one SNP in the STAT (signal transducer and activator of transcription) gene. However, the SNP in the STAT gene was homozygous in a different population used for association analyses. The association analyses revealed that allele C of two SNPs, C109T and C395G in 5HT1R, tended to be associated with increased body weight. Further studies need to be conducted using a large and diverse population sample.
Competition of velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti M.) weed with cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Economic damage threshold
Authors: Cortés J. A. , Mendiola M. A. , Castejón M.
Published: November 2013

The effect of the weed Abutilon theophrasti M. (common name: velvetleaf) on the growth of cotton grown in the Guadalquivir Valley, was studied by examining the influence of weed density on growth of the weed and that of cotton. Velvetleaf impeded normal cotton growth caused production losses as a result of the stress the cotton was subjected to. Additionally there was competition among velvet leaf plants at high velvet leaf densities. The influence  of velvetleaf density in coexistence with cotton has been also studied evaluating weed effect on the biomass of cotton and its production. Additional determinations included the velvetleaf seed production capacity per unit area and seed production per plant. These determinations were adjusted to hyperbolic, inverse linear and logistic models. Last, the economic damage threshold (EDT) was calculated using the efficiency level in control of velvetleaf in cotton. In this calculation the treatment cost and losses caused by the weed, in the crop, were taken into account. The EDT varied between 0.1 and 0.5 velvetleaf plant m-2, depending on the control methods used.
Body composition and blood parameters of newborn piglets from Alentejano and conventional (Large White × Landrace) genotype
Authors: Charneca R. , Nunes J. L. T. , Le Dividich J.
Published: November 2013

This study aimed to compare the body composition and some blood parameters [(glucose, albumin and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)] of newborn piglets farrowed by unselected Alentejano (AL) or conventional genotype [(Large-White × Landrace (LL)]. Carcasses (12 of each genotype) and blood samples were obtained from a total of 34 litters (18 AL, 16 LL). Gestation length was 4d shorter in AL sows compared with LL sows. When adjusted for birth weight, carcasses of AL piglets showed higher percentages of dry matter (P
Short communication. Micropropagation of two Pakistani soybean (Glycine max L.) cultivars from cotyledon nodes
Authors: Zia M. , Rizvi Z. F. , Rehman Ria-ur , Chaudhary M. F.
Published: November 2013

Soybean is an important oilseed crop throughout the world and there are continuous efforts to improve it through various techniques from field to laboratory. Although soybean has been grown in Pakistan since a long period, there are no or limited factors involving its improvement through biotechnological techniques in Pakistan. This study aimed to optimize a regeneration protocol for two soybean cultivars, NARC-4 and NARC-7, using cotyledonary nodes as explant. Cultivar NARC-4 showed higher percentage of regeneration (88%) and mean number of shoots per explant (7.3 shoot per explant) compared to cv. NARC-7 with maximum frequency of 82% shoot regeneration and maximum mean number of 6.4 shoots per explant. However, variants of cyotkinins in the media had variable effects on regeneration and shoot length. Generally 6-benzylamino purine was better compared to zeatin riboside and kinetin. The results showed that half cotyledon could be effectively used as explant for direct micropropagation in soybean. The results could also be exploited positively for Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation.
Short communication. Mineral composition in foliage of some cultivated and wild species of Chenopodium
Authors: Bhargava A. , Shukla S. , Ohri D.
Published: November 2013

Members of the genus Chenopodium are used as a foliage crop and fodder in many parts of the world. Forty accessions of Chenopodium spp. (C. album, C. berlandieri, C. bushianum, C. giganteum, C. murale, C. quinoa, and C. ugandae) were sown in a randomized block design with 3 replications. For determination of mineral composition, leaves of each accession from each replication were collected from lower, middle and upper regions of the plant, bulked together and transported to the laboratory. All the samples were analyzed in triplicate. The present study showed that Chenopodium spp. is a rich source of minerals like (means, in mg 100 mg-1) potassium (6329), sodium (8350), calcium (1154) and iron (83.92). The heritability estimates were high for all the minerals, with potassium and nickel showing the highest values (99.49 and 99.16% respectively). Sodium was positively correlated with calcium (0.483**) and copper (0.274*). Copper was negatively correlated with all heavy metals except iron and nickel. Leaf size was negatively correlated with potassium and chromium, and positively correlated with calcium and copper. This study would be of immense importance in enhancement of minerals in chenopod foliage as well as in mitigating nutritional deficiency prevalent among the poor populations in the developing countries.
Impact of shearing on body weight and serum total proteins in ewes
Authors: Piccione G. , Casella S. , Alberghina D. , Zumbo A. , Pennisi P.
Published: November 2013

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of shearing ewes during summer season on the evolution of body weight and serum total proteins. Forty Valle del Belice (Sicily, Italy) ewes, clinically healthy and well-fed, were divided into two groups of 20 subjects each. Twenty ewes were let unshorn as a control group (Group A) and 20 ewes were shorn (Group B). All animals were weighed using a mechanical balance in the morning before shearing and the measurements were repeated for each subject of Groups A and B after shearing (1 day) and after 7, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 days from the shearing. In experimental days climatic conditions were recorded and temperature humidity index was calculated. Blood samples were collected by means of a jugular venipuncture and were centrifuged; and the obtained sera were separated to assess serum concentration of total proteins. Two-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by the Bonferroni’s test, was used to determine significant differences between two groups for body weight and total proteins. ANOVA did not show a significant effect of shearing and of time on body weight but showed a statistical significant effect of shearing and of time on total proteins. These confirm that shearing induces adaptive responses in the organism. Both shorn and unshorn ewes are subject to heat stress, but it is evident there is a different sensitivity to heat stress in shorn ewes in comparison with unshorn ewes.
Greenhouses climate modelling. Tests, adaptation and validation of a dynamic climate model
Authors: Baptista F. J. , Bailey B. J. , Meneses J. F. , Navas L. M.
Published: November 2013

Most greenhouse climate models are specific for a particular combination of greenhouse type, crop, region and weather conditions. Models are formulated and validated for those conditions and it is not easy to directly extrapolate them to other, different conditions. In order to use them the coefficients need to be calibrated by experimental work, followed by validation of the adapted model. The main purpose of this work was the application of a formal dynamic climate model, defined and validated for heated greenhouses in continental regions of Spain, to non heated greenhouses in a mild winter region at the coast of Portugal. The original model was tested, adapted and validated so it simulated the microclimate inside unheated greenhouses. The methodology used enabled the problems to be identified, the model to be modified in a systematic way and then re-run to determine the improved performance. The new model includes new properties for some boundary components and sub-models for ventilation and stomatal resistance applicable to this greenhouse-crop system and new expressions for the convection heat transfer coefficients. In the validation process predicted and measured variables were compared graphically to show trends in the data and by using statistical parameters to characterise model performance. The model was validated with data representing different weather,ventilation operation and tomato crop conditions. Good agreement between predicted and measured data was obtained. It has been proved that this model can be used to estimate the greenhouse climate conditions, based on the weather conditions and on the greenhouse-crop system characteristics.
Natural Gas and U.S. Economic Activity
Authors: Arora Vipin , Lieskovsky Jozef
Published: November 2013

Previous empirical work has shown that real natural gas prices have a negligible impact on total U.S. industrial production and most of its sub-indices. We reassess these conclusions using a multivariate framework and a time-frame that includes recent developments in the U.S. natural gas market. Our results show that natural gas does affect U.S. economic activity, primarily through changes in its production. The shale gas revolution has changed this relationship—a one percentage point increase in natural gas supply raises total U.S. industrial production by more after 2008 than before.
Visual Recognition System for Cleaning Tasks by Humanoid Robots
Authors: Attamimi Muhammad , Araki Takaya , Nakamura Tomoaki , Nagai Takayuki
Published: November 2013

In this study, we present a visual recognition system that enables a robot to clean a tabletop. The proposed system comprises object recognition, material recognition and ungraspable object detection using information acquired from a visual sensor. Multiple cues such as colour, texture and three-dimensional point-clouds are incorporated adaptively for achieving object recognition. Moreover, near-infrared (NIR) reflection intensities captured by the visual sensor are used for realizing material recognition. The Gaussian mixture model (GMM) is employed for modelling the tabletop surface that is used for detecting ungraspable objects. The proposed system was implemented in a humanoid robot, and tasks such as object and material recognition were performed in various environments. In addition, we evaluated ungraspable object detection using various objects such as dust, grains and paper waste. Finally, we executed the cleaning task to evaluate the proposed system's performance. The results revealed that the proposed system affords high recognition rates and enables humanoid robots to perform domestic service tasks such as cleaning.