bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CO‐EVOLUTIONARY DYNAMICS OF A SOCIAL PARASITE–HOST INTERACTION MODEL: OBLIGATE VERSUS FACULTATIVE SOCIAL PARASITISM
Authors: KANG YUN , FEWELL JENNIFER HARRISON
Published: October 2015

Host–parasite co‐evolution can have profound impacts on a wide range of ecological and evolutionary processes, including population dynamics, the maintenance of genetic diversity, and the evolution of recombination. To examine the co‐evolution of quantitative traits in hosts and parasites, we present and study a co‐evolutionary model of a social parasite–host system that incorporates (i) ecological dynamics that feed back into their co‐evolutionary outcomes; (ii) variation in whether the social parasite is obligate or facultative; and (iii) Holling Type II functional responses between host and social parasite, which are particularly suitable for social parasites that face time costs for host location and its social manipulation. We perform local and global analyses for the co‐evolutionary model and the corresponding ecological model. In the absence of evolution, our ecological model analyses imply that an extremely small value of the death rate for facultative social parasites can drive a host extinct globally under certain conditions, while an extremely large value of the death rate can drive the parasite extinct globally. The facultative parasite system can have one, two, or three coexistence equilibria, while the obligate parasite system can have either one or three coexistence equilibria. Multiple coexistence equilibria result in rich dynamics with multiple attractors. The ecological system, in particular, can exhibit bi‐stability between the facultative parasite‐only equilibrium and the coexistence equilibrium when it has two coexistence equilibria. Our analysis on the co‐evolutionary model provides important insights on how co‐evolution can change the ecological and evolutionary outcomes of host–parasite interactions. Our findings suggest that: (i) The host and parasite can select different strategies that may result in local extinction of host or parasite. These strategies can have convergence stability (CS), but may not be evolutionary stable strategies (ESS); (ii) The host and its facultative (or obligate) parasite can have ESS that drive the host (or the obligate parasite) extinct locally; (iii) The dependence of vital rates on the phenotypic trait plays an important role in the CS of both exclusion and coexistence equilibria, as well as their ESS; and (iv) A small variance in the trait difference that measures parasitism efficiency can destabilize the co‐evolutionary system, and generate evolutionary arms‐race dynamics with different host–parasite fluctuating patterns.
Detritivore stoichiometric diversity alters litter processing efficiency in a freshwater ecosystem
Authors: Ohta Tamihisa , Matsunaga Sou , Niwa Shigeru , Kawamura Kimitaka , Hiura Tsutom
Published: October 2015

Many studies have estimated relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, and observed generally positive effects. Because detritus is a major food resource in stream ecosystems, decomposition of leaf litter is an important ecosystem process and many studies report the full range of positive, negative and no effects of diversity on decomposition. However, the mechanisms underlying decomposition processes in fresh water remain poorly understood. Organism body stoichiometry relates to consumption rates and tendencies, and decomposition processes of litter may therefore be affected by diversity in detritivore body stoichiometry. We predicted that the stoichiometric diversity of detritivores (differences in C: nutrient ratios among species) would increase the litter processing efficiency (litter mass loss per total capita metabolic capacity) in fresh water through complementation regarding different nutrient requirements. To test this prediction, we conducted a microcosm experiment wherein we manipulated the stoichiometric diversity of detritivores and quantified mass loss of leaf litter mixtures. We compared litter processing efficiency among litter species in each microcosm with single species detritivores, and observed detritivores with nutrient‐rich bodies tended to prefer litter with lower C: nutrient ratios over litter with higher C: nutrient ratios. Furthermore, litter processing efficiencies were significantly higher in the microcosms containing species of detritivores with both nutrient‐rich and ‐poor bodies than microcosms containing species of detritivores including only nutrient‐rich or ‐poor bodies. This might mean a higher stoichiometric diversity of detritivores increased litter processing efficiency. Our results suggest that ecological stoichiometry may improve understanding of links between biodiversity and ecosystem function in freshwater ecosystems.
Acute Raoultella planticola cystitis in a child with rhabdomyosarcoma of the bladder neck
Authors: Yoon Jong Hyung , Ahn Yo Han , Chun Jong In , Park Hyeon Jin , Park Byung‐Kiu
Published: October 2015

Raoultella planticola is a Gram‐negative, non‐motile, aerobic bacillus. It is an environmental bacteria found in soil and water, and a very rare cause of local or systemic infection in humans. Although some adult cases of R. planticola infection have been reported, childhood local or systemic infection caused by R. planticola is very rare. Reported herein is a rare case of acute cystitis due to R. planticola in a 16‐month‐old boy with rhabdomyosarcoma of the bladder neck, and a review of the literature.
Pneumomediastinum, pneumorrhachis and subcutaneous emphysema associated with viral infections: Report of three cases
Authors: Emiralioğlu Nagehan , Ozcan H Nursun , Oğuz Berna , Yalçın Ebru , Doğru Deniz , Özçelik Uğur , Kiper Nural
Published: October 2015

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is usually secondary to alveolar rupture in the pulmonary interstitium, associated with subcutaneous emphysema and occasionally with pneumothorax, but is rarely associated with pneumorrhachis. The leaked air into the pulmonary perivascular interstitium follows the path of least resistance from the mediastinum to the fascial planes of the neck. Air freely communicates via the neural foramina and collects in the epidural space. Pneumorrhachis is defined as the presence of air in the spinal canal, either in the intradural and/or extradural spaces. It is a very rare clinical entity and mostly asymptomatic, hence most probably underdiagnosed. Many pathological and physiological events can lead to alveolar rupture, and these clinical findings can be related to various, mainly traumatic and iatrogenic etiologies. Herein we report three cases of pneumomediastinum, subcutaneous emphysema, interstitial emphysema and pneumorrhachis in two cases, which were related to rhinovirus, human bocavirus and respiratory syncytial virus infection.
Relieving pain and distress during venipuncture: Pilot study of the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS)
Authors: Yamamoto‐Hanada Kiwako , Futamura Masaki , Kitazawa Hiroshi , Ohya Yukihiro , Kobayashi Fumio , Kusuda Takeshi , Sanefuji Masafumi , Oda Masako , Mitsubuchi Hiroshi , Shibata Eiji , Tsuji Mayumi , Kayama Fujio , Nakano Yuko , Suda Eiko , Michikawa Takehiro , Katoh Takahiko , Saito Hirohisa
Published: October 2015

Pain management for needle‐related procedures is poor in Japan. In many countries the use of lidocaine/prilocaine cream for the relief of pain associated with venipuncture has been approved. In children, a psychological approach has also been shown to be effective in reducing pain with venipuncture. We developed a multidisciplinary procedure that combines a cream (2.5% lidocaine and 2.5% prilocaine) and pharmacological approaches such as preparation, education, positioning and distraction. We evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of the procedure for young children. Among 132 pediatric participants, 58.3% did not cry during venipuncture. According to caregiver questionnaire, 71.9% felt that the multidisciplinary procedure eliminated the fear of needle‐related procedures in the children; 90.9% were satisfied with it and 75.8% thought it should be applied to all children undergoing venipuncture. The present results suggest that the multidisciplinary procedure is feasible, acceptable and suitable for use in children undergoing venipuncture.
Making Climate Decisions
Authors: Bradley Richard , Steele Katie
Published: October 2015

Many fine‐grained (if not bigger picture) decisions concerning climate change involve significant, even severe, uncertainty. Here, we focus on modelling the decisions of single agents, whether individual persons or groups perceived as corporate entities. We offer a taxonomy of the sources and kinds of uncertainty that arise in framing these decision problems, as well as strategies for making a choice in spite of uncertainty. The aim is to facilitate a more transparent and structured treatment of uncertainty in climate decision making.
Incarceration by Category: Racial Designations and the Black Borders of Indianness
Authors: Mebane‐Cruz Anjana
Published: October 2015

Particular problems were created for “mixed” people in the United States with the development of race categories and ideologies based on hierarchies of color and blood. With “whiteness” favored above all else, mixed people often self‐identified with the more phenotypically European of their ancestors in spite of prohibitive legal sanctions. For the children of Africans, African Americans, and American Indians, options were more limited and their position within society far more liminal. Due to particular rules, laws, and practices in the United States, those who could identify as Indian rarely acknowledged African descent, while those categorized as black could seldom officially identify their indigenous roots. For many AfraAmerIndians, this resulted in forms of liminality within already contested categories. Referencing examples of AfraAmerIndians in exploring racial categories as a form of incarceration, this article explores the idea that race categories are more akin to incarceration than standard ideas of social control and examines the suggestion that the descendants of Native Americans and Africans and African Americans and other non‐white people of mixed ancestry may be particularly vulnerable. [African Americans, American Indians, black Indians, cultural anthropology, ethics, history and memory, identity, mixed race, racism]
Of Autocracy and Democracy, Or Discipline and Anarchy: When Organizational Structure Meets Political Ideology in Argentine Public Sector Trade Unions
Authors: Lazar Sian
Published: October 2015

This article explores how practices of participation are linked to political values within two state workers’ unions in Argentina. Distinct approaches to organization, described by informants as vertical and horizontal, are linked to the historical development of two main trends in the Argentine labor movement. The article examines both the organizational practices and narratives about those practices and argues that organizational praxis is an important means of articulating understandings of democracy, linked to differing ideas of the role of a trade union in relation to government. [trade unions, democracy, Peronism, social movements, horizontality, verticality]
Two new taxa of Achnanthidium and Encyonema (Bacillariophyceae) from the Yom River, Thailand, with special reference to the areolae occlusions implying ontogenetic relationship
Authors: Yana Ekkachai , Mayama Shigeki
Published: October 2015

We discovered two new taxa of Achnanthidium and Encyonema occurring with high abundance in the upstream of the Yom River, which is one of four major rivers in Northern Thailand. Achnanthidium pseudoconspicuum var. yomensis var. nov. closely resembles Achnanthidium pseudoconspicuum var. pseudoconspicuum in scanning electron microscopy (SEM), but has clearly different valve morphometry under the light microscopy (LM). Achnanthidium pseudoconspicuum var. yomensis is also similar to A. japonicum in valve morphology under LM, but differs to this species based on SEM observation. Encyonema yuwadeeanum sp. nov. shows similarities to Encyonema leei and Encyonema subkukenanum, but differs in valve shape and/or polar fissure shape. We discuss the possible valve ontogenetic relationship between Achnanthidium and Cymbellales based on the detailed areolae structures of these two new taxa.
Chronically Occluded Arteriovenous Fistula Salvaged by Sharp Needle Recanalization
Authors: Beathard Gerald A. , Eradat Jilbert
Published: October 2015

Salvage of a failed arteriovenous access with occlusion of the venous outflow and no alternative for a secondary arteriovenous fistula that would provide for immediate dialysis is a difficult problem for which there is no ideal solution. The present report is such a patient. The patient had a radial‐cephalic fistula represented by only a very short segment, inadequate for effective dialysis. Salvage was accomplished using the sharp needle revascularization technique in order to avoid a prolonged period of central venous catheter use.
Clinical Importance of Intraoperative Cephalic Vein Distensibility as a Predictor of Radiocephalic Arteriovenous Fistula Maturation
Authors: Kim Mi‐Hyeong , Kim Young‐Kyun , Jun Kang‐Woong , Hwang Jeong‐Kye , Kim Sang‐Dong , Kim Jang‐Yong , Park Sun‐Cheol , Kim Yong‐Soo , Moon In‐Sung , Kim Ji‐Il
Published: October 2015

Radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula (RCAVF) is the preferred vascular access, but the maturation failure rate is high. Poor vein distensibility is the main cause of maturation failure. There have been several studies regarding vein distensibility, but vein dilation protocol and the cut‐off value predicting maturation failure were inconsistent. We were doubtful that the vein distensibility had been appropriately evaluated, and sought to determine a more clinically applicable parameter. The cephalic vein was dilated via intraluminal hydrostatic pressure during the surgery and the vein size was measured. Maturation failure occurred in 30 patients (22.4%) and was more common in females and in patients who had a previous history of arteriovenous access formation (p = 0.0095 and p = 0.014). The intraoperative postdilation diameter, and the difference between pre and postdilation diameters differed between the two groups (p = 0.0004 and p = 0.0004). The cut‐off value of the postdilation diameter, which indicated a high probability of maturation success, was >4 mm, and the cut‐off value which indicated a higher probability of maturation failure; that is, the difference between the pre and postdilation diameter, was ≤2.2 mm. The degree of distensibility of the cephalic vein may be an important determinant of RCAVF maturation.
Rethinking corporate‐community engagement in the petro‐economy of the Niger Delta
Authors: Nzeadibe Thaddeus Chidi , Ajaero Chukwuedozie Kelechukwu , Nwoke Mary Basil
Published: October 2015

This study applies the political ecology perspective in reframing corporate‐community engagement and adapts the community‐directed intervention (CDI) strategy using Global Memorandum of Understanding (GMoU) framework in relation to 30 rural communities that are likely to be affected by gas exploration and production activities in the Niger Delta region. The study draws attention to the indigenous structures and capacities of communities to implement CDI initiatives for possible replication in areas facing similar development challenges. Adopting the CDI framework as represented by the GMoU model could reconfigure social relations of power between companies and communities and fast‐track development and prevent or, at least, reduce corporate‐community tensions and conflicts in the petro‐economy of the Niger Delta.
Race/Ethnicity and Stop‐and‐Frisk: Past, Present, Future
Authors: Torres Jose
Published: October 2015

Scholarly debates surrounding stop‐and‐frisk typically assess the effectiveness and lawfulness of stop‐and‐frisk. Notwithstanding these efforts, recent reviews have excluded some recent research that addresses its impact on racial and ethnic immigrants. Understanding how the practice of stop‐and‐frisk affects racial and ethnic immigrants is worth including in reviews of these policies, considering the recent growth of research involving crime and immigrants that largely finds that immigration does not result in higher levels of crime. This review includes recent work showing that overall enforcement – stops and arrests – is higher in immigrant communities despite their lower levels of criminal involvement and recent work exploring differences among first‐generation and second‐generation immigrants in perceptions of police stops. Finally, some suggestions for the future of stop‐and‐frisk research are considered.
On the Streets, Under Arrest: Policing Homelessness in the 21st Century
Authors: Stuart Forrest
Published: October 2015

Since the earliest days of the discipline, sociologists have viewed homelessness as a premier index of inequality and poverty more generally. Sociologists have increasingly turned to the regulation and policing of homelessness as a lens for analyzing how a given society understands and interacts with those who exist at the bottom of the social hierarchy. Against this intellectual backdrop, this article traces recent developments in the policing of homelessness, as well as the corresponding academic attempts to make sense of this empirical phenomenon. Doing so demonstrates that a vast majority of analyses have focused narrowly on the punitive and exclusionary functions of policing and, as a result, have tended to overlook issues surrounding differentiated functions, organizational dynamics, spatial contingencies, and questions of agency. This article complicates existing approaches and thereby lays the foundation for a more accurate and nuanced rendering of the policing of homelessness.
Maternal Conflict Behavior Profiles and Child Social Skills
Authors: Boyer Brittany P. , Scott Justin K. , Nelson Jackie A.
Published: October 2015

The current study examined associations between mothers’ behavioral profiles during mother‐child conflict interactions and their children's social skills. This person‐centered approach classified 181 mothers according to their levels of emotional responsiveness, intrusiveness, negativity, and engagement facilitation behaviors during an eight‐minute conflict discussion task with their child. Three distinct classes of mothers were identified using latent profile analysis: sensitive/engaged, moderately sensitive/engaged, and insensitive/disengaged. An analysis of covariance indicated that children of mothers in the sensitive/engaged group had significantly higher social skills than children of mothers in the moderately sensitive/engaged and insensitive/disengaged groups. Results suggest that mother‐child conflict interactions may benefit children's social development when mothers facilitate their children's participation in a highly sensitive manner.
Vivax malaria in a blood donor in Spain, relapse or a new infection in a malaria non‐endemic country?
Authors: Rubio J. M. , Jiménez del Bianco A. I. , Cervera‐Alonso Y. , Fernandez‐Garcia M. D. , Lanza M. , Ta Tang T. H. , Sevil Puras F. , Blanco L.
Published: October 2015

Malaria is a vectorborne disease caused by protozoan of the genus Plasmodium, which can also be transmitted by the transfusion of infected red blood cells. One year after return from a travel to Honduras, a Spanish traveller developed vivax malaria. Prior to the onset of symptoms, the donor made a donation that tested non‐reactive using an immunological test for malaria. Samples from the donor taken before donation and tested by serological and molecular methods were negative but positive at the time of hospital admission. The possible sources of the donors’ infection, imported versus locally acquired, are discussed.
Four‐factor prothrombin complex concentrates in paediatric patients – a retrospective case series
Authors: Noga T. , Bruce A.A.K. , Blain H. , Nahirniak S.
Published: October 2015

Background

Four‐factor prothrombin complex concentrates (PCCs) are human plasma‐derived products containing coagulation factors II, VII, IX and X as well as proteins C and S. They are licensed in many countries for treatment of bleeding or urgent periprocedural prophylaxis in patients with acquired deficiency of prothrombin complex coagulation factors, typically in the setting of vitamin K antagonist (VKA) usage. Efficacy and safety have been established in the adult population, but there is little information in the literature regarding their use for these indications in the paediatric population. We report on our institution's experience with these products in paediatric patients over a five‐year period.

Method

A retrospective case series study was performed, whereby any patient aged 0‐16 years who had received PCCs between 2009 and 2013 was identified. Details regarding patient demographics, indications, dose, relevant bloodwork, additional blood products used, adverse effects and general outcomes were obtained through chart and blood bank reviews.

Results

A total of sixteen patients were included in our study, fourteen of whom received PCCs in a perioperative setting. Eleven received product for VKA reversal. Significant improvements in PT INRs were observed in those patients who had timely bloodwork drawn. Five others received product for reasons not related to VKA use. One thrombotic event was detected a day following PCC infusion, but causation is uncertain.

Conclusion

Within study limitations, when used for rapid reversal of VKAs, efficacy and safety of these products in a paediatric population appear to be similar to those reported in adults.
Evaluation of Pharyngeal Function in Dogs with Laryngeal Paralysis Before and After Unilateral Arytenoid Lateralization
Authors: Andrade Natalia , Kent Marc , Howerth Elizabeth W. , Radlinsky MaryAnn G.
Published: October 2015

Objective

To evaluate pharyngeal and laryngeal function using esophagography, topical pharyngeal/laryngeal sensitivity testing, and electromyography (EMG) in normal and dogs with idiopathic laryngeal paralysis (ILP) before and after unilateral arytenoid lateralization.

Study

Prospective controlled cohort study.

Animals

Dogs with laryngeal paralysis (ILP; n = 8) and age/breed‐matched (AB, n = 8) and young breed‐matched dogs (B, n = 8) were recruited.

Methods

Evaluation consisted of esophagography, topical pharyngeal/laryngeal sensitivity testing, and electrodiagnostic testing. Esophagography was performed with liquid and canned phases. Pharyngeal and laryngeal sensitivity was tested by applying a cotton‐tipped applicator to the mucosa of pharynx/larynx at anesthetic induction. In all dogs, electrophysiological testing included EMG, direct evoked muscle potentials, motor nerve conduction velocities, and F wave testing. These were performed in the thoracic/pelvic limbs, extrinsic laryngeal muscles, epaxial, and masticatory muscles.

Results

Topical pharyngeal and laryngeal sensitivity testing was decreased in LP dogs compared with age‐matched healthy control dogs. Esophagram showed dysmotility in the cranial and caudal esophagus. Gastroesophageal reflux was significantly higher in ILP dogs compared with the other 2 groups (P < .03). In all affected dogs, EMG abnormalities were limited to the interosseous muscles of both pelvic and thoracic limbs bilaterally.

Conclusion

Dogs with ILP not only have recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) and pararecurrent laryngeal nerve (pRLN) dysfunction, but may also have concurrent cranial laryngeal nerve dysfunction.
HOMOGENEITY ANALYSIS OF RAINFALL IN KELANTAN, MALAYSIA
Authors: Jing Lin Ng , Abd Aziz Samsuzana , Yuk Feng Huang , Wayayok Aimrun , Kamal Md Rowshon
Published: October 2015

Good quality of rainfall data is required for the hydrological studies, water resources planning and sustainable environmental management. Consequently, the assessment of the homogeneity of rainfall data at different region is becoming increasing popular in the past few decades. In this study, the homogeneity analysis of rainfall data was carried out in Kelantan River Basin, Malaysia. The methods, namely standard normal homogeneity test (SHNT), Buishand range test, Pettitt test and von Neumann ratio test were applied to the monthly, yearly and seasonal data. The historical rainfall data from 10 rainfall stations covering the study period from 28 to 60 years were selected. The four tests were applied to 120 monthly series, 10 yearly series and 40 seasonal series. ‘Useful’, ‘doubtful’ and ‘suspect’ were used to classify the results of the four tests. The results showed that 94.17% of the monthly rainfall series, 70% of yearly rainfall series and 97.5% of seasonal rainfall series are labelled ‘useful’. There is 5% of monthly rainfall series, 30% of yearly rainfall series and 1% of seasonal rainfall series are classified as ‘doubtful’. Meanwhile, there is only 0.83% of monthly rainfall series and no yearly rainfall series and seasonal rainfall series detected in the class ‘suspect’. Overall, the percentage of inhomogeneity detected in the monthly, yearly and seasonal rainfall data series of Kelantan River Basin is very small, thus most of the data is suitable to be used for further hydrological and variability analysis.
NUMERICAL ANALYSIS OF DENSITY-DRIVEN FLUCTUATION IN GROUNDWATER CAUSED BY SALTWATER INTRUSION
Authors: Kawabata Makoto , Takeuchi Junichiro , Fujihara Masayuki
Published: October 2015

Density-driven flow in groundwater environment is concerned with various fields such as saltwater intrusion in coastal areas, groundwater contamination due to non-aqueous phase liquid from garbage disposal plants, and designing of geothermal utilization systems. It is important to appropriately consider density-driven flow when dealing with these objectives, because density-driven flow changes solute and heat distribution as well as groundwater flow. In recent years, salt damage to farmlands caused by storm surge or tsunami is a serious problem. In order to prevent salt damage to crops, salt is often leached intentionally by freshwater. However, the effect of leached saltwater on groundwater environment is not considered adequately. It is known that flow instability is caused by unignorable density difference between intruding saltwater and groundwater. This instability changes groundwater flow and salinity distribution, and sometimes produces fluctuant flow that keeps oscillating. Therefore, it is important to comprehend these phenomena for management of groundwater resources. The purpose of this study is to ascertain the condition in which flow instability occurs when saltwater intrudes into groundwater. Systematic numerical experiments were conducted to specify a subdomain where flow keep oscillating in a parameters space. The equations governing groundwater flow and solute transport were discretized spatially by the Galerkin finite element method and temporally by the Crank-Nicolson method. The obtained results showed that the oscillatory flow depends not only on Rayleigh number concerning density difference and permeability, but also on both of basal groundwater flow and saltwater intrusion rates.
AGRICULTURAL WATER-GATE MANAGEMENT FOR OPERATIONAL FLOOD PROTECTION IN LOW-LYING PADDIES
Authors: Yoshioka Yumi , Masumoto Takao , Maruyama Kazuhiko , Minakawa Hiroki
Published: October 2015

It is essential to assess in influence of water-gate operations on inundation processes during the wet season to mitigate inundation damage. Here, a numerical analysis method for modelling regional drainage through water gates was developed by integrating the Distributed Water Circulation Model incorporating Agricultural Water Use (DWCM-AgWU). The inundation process was reproduced using an H–V curve (flooding water level verses area volume). The developed model was applied to the low-lying paddy areas of the Nam Cheng River basin in the Lao PDR. This study area is a sub-basin of the Nam Ngum River, with which the Nam Cheng River merges downstream of the Nam Ngum 1 dam. Fourteen agricultural water gates of slide-type at the river outlet function as a storage facility for irrigation water for the paddies during the dry season and as a flood protection measures against backwater effects from the main stream of the Nam Ngum River during the wet season. However, current gate operation is based on empirical knowledge without reference to filed observational data. The simulated results revealed that the outer water level did not exceed the inner level, if the difference between the inner and outer water levels was > 4 m on operational days. Several feedback control strategies combined with gate opening heights, the number of open gates, operation intervals, and the threshold inner and outer water level differences were examined focusing on inundation damage within the area and drainage volume through the gates.
A MODIFIED EMPIRICAL MODEL FOR ESTIMATING THE WETTED ZONE DIMENSIONS UNDER DRIP IRRIGATION
Authors: M. Al-Ogaidi Ahmed A. , Wayayok Aimrun , Kamal Md Rowshon , Abdullah Ahmed Fikri
Published: October 2015

Drip irrigation system has become one of the most common irrigation systems especially in arid and semi-arid regions due to its advantages in saving water. One of the most essential considerations in designing these systems is the dimensions of the wetted soil volume under emitters. These dimensions are significant in choosing the proper emitter spacing along the laterals and the suitable distance between laterals. In this study, a modified empirical equations for estimating the horizontal and vertical extend of the wetted zone under surface emitters were suggested. Data from published papers includes different conditions of soil properties and emitter discharge were used in deriving the empirical model using the nonlinear regression. The developed model has high value for coefficient of determination, R2. The results from the developed model were compared with results of other empirical models derived by other researchers. Some statistical criteria were used to evaluate the model performance which are the mean error ME, root mean square error RMSE, and model efficiency EF. The results revealed that the modified model showed good performance in predicting the wetted zone dimensions and it can be used in design and management of drip irrigation systems.
PERFORMANCE OF UMAR-SRIMAT ON SOIL WATER CONSERVATION AND WEED CONTROL IN SYSTEM OF RICE INTENSIFICATION
Authors: Mohammed Umar , Wayayok Aimrun , Mohd Soom Mohd Amin , Abdan Khalina
Published: October 2015

Weed emergence is among the most important problems in system of rice intensification (SRI) due to extensive planting geometry of at least 25 × 25 cm and moist environment, thereby leading to water loss by means of evaporation from the broad space as a result of the extensive planting geometry, and transpiration by the weeds. This reduces the additional water saving which affect the potential of SRI water productivity.  It also reduces rice crop yields up to 70% if there is no weed control attempted. Nowadays, weed is being controlled by manual weeder which is labour demanding, while motorized weeders overcome the problem but still, it able to remove the weeds before rice canopy closure or 30 days after transplanting (DAT). This research was designed to evaluate the performance of UMAR-SRImat on soil moisture conservation and weed control. UMAR-SRImat was made using flaked rice straw and biodegradable adhesive. The design was laid out using randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three treatments [without soil cover (T1), SRImat (T2), UMAR-SRImat (T3)] and three replications. The analysis was conducted using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Volumetric moisture content (VMC) was determined at 18 and 25 DAT.  Weeds were observed and recorded to determine the weed dry weight and weed control efficiency at 20, 40 and 60 DAT. Plant height per hill was measured at 30 and 50 DAT, likewise, the number of tillers were counted at 30 and 50 DAT. The result of VMC showed that UMAR-SRImat significantly conserved water higher than the control treatment at 18 and 25 DAT of 3100.0a and 2680.0a m3/ha, respectively. The effectiveness of UMAR-SRImat mulched was 100% at 20 DAT 99.64% at 40 DAT and 97.99% at 60 DAT. This research revealed that UMAR-SRImat mulch could retain soil moisture and suppressed weeds up to 60 DAT.
CROP COEFFICIENT AND WATER PRODUCTIVITY IN CONVENTIONAL AND SYSTEM OF RICE INTENSIFICATION (SRI) IRRIGATION REGIMES OF TERRACE RICE FIELDS IN INDONESIA
Authors: Arif Chusnul , Toriyama Kazunobu , Apri Nugroho Bayu Dwi , Mizoguchi Masaru
Published: October 2015

The current study initiated to investigate crop coefficient (Kc) and water productivity between conventional and System of Rice Intensification (SRI) irrigation regimes of terrace rice fields in Indonesia. Kc value represents plant responses to available water in the fields and its information is very important to determine crop evapotranspiration. The field experiments were conducted in the terrace rice fields belong to the local farmer located in Wonogiri, Central Java (S 7o47’18.66”, E 111o5’51.26”) during 21 July – 7 November 2014 in the dry season. Here, there were two irrigation regimes with three replications, i.e. conventional flooding (FL) regime and SRI with intermittent irrigation (II) regime. Water level in each regime was measured by pressure sensor, while weather parameters such as solar radiation, air temperature, precipitation, etc were measured by particular sensors and connected to the developed field monitoring system. Based on weather and water level data, we estimated the average Kc values for FL regime were 1.01, 1.02, 1.09 and 1.05 in the initial, crop development, reproductive and late growth stages, respectively. Meanwhile, the average Kc values under SRI regime were a little bit lower than that FL regime. Their values were 1.00, 0.96, 1.02 and 1.04 for the initial, crop development, reproductive and late growth stages, respectively. The reason was probably due to minimum soil evaporation under the drier soil condition. However, lower Kc values were not corresponded to the production of grain yield. Although it was not significant difference, we recorded that SRI regime produced 8.05 ton/ha grain yield, while FL regime was 7.63 ton/ha. Accordingly, with less irrigation water, SRI regime has higher water productivity than that FL regime.
DETECTION AND QUANTIFICATION OF SOYBEAN AND CORN OILS AS ADULTERANTS IN AVOCADO OIL USING FOURIER TRANSFORM MID INFRARED (FT-MIR) SPECTROSCOPY AIDED WITH MULTIVARIATE CALIBRATION
Authors: Lumakso Fajar Aji , Rohman Abdul , M. Handoy , Riyanto Sugeng , Yusof Farahwahida Mohd
Published: October 2015

Authentication of high value edible oils like avocado oil (AO) is an emerging issue. AO can be target of adulteration with low priced oils like soybean and corn oils. The present study is intended to quantify soybean oil (SO) and corn oil (CO) in avocado oil (AO) using the combination of Fourier transform mid infrared (FT-MIR) spectroscopy and chemometrics. The quantification was carried out by partial least square (PLS) calibration using some spectral processing, namely normal spectra, smoothing, and derivation treatment. Frequencies of 1427-779 cm-1 with normal spectra were suitable for the quantification of SO in AO which revealed high coefficient determination (R2), i.e. 0.9994 and low root mean square error of calibration (RMSEC), i.e 0.86% (v/v). Meanwhile, R2 of 0.9994 and RMSEC of 0.87% (v/v) were obtained by PLS at the combined spectra at frequency regions of 1477-721, 1728-1685, and 3035-2881 cm-1 for quantification of CO in AO. The model was further validated using independent samples and offered high R2 values of 0.9994 (for CO) and 0.9998 (for SO) with root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) of 0.88% (v/v) (CO) and 0.52 % (v/v) (SO), respectively. In general, FT-MIR spectroscopy serves rapid and accurate determination of CO and SO in AO for authenticity studies.
THERMOLUMINESCENCE RESPONSE OF NANOPARTICLES GOLD DOPED LITHIUM BORATE GLASS SUBJECTED TO PHOTON IRRADIATION
Authors: Obayes Hayder K. , Wagiran H. , Hussin R. , Saeed M. A. , Saidu A.
Published: October 2015

The absorption coefficient of Borates glass is much closed to human body tissue. This fact makes borates as an ideal material for thermoluminescence material either for medical or environmental application. In this study, a glass system of 15% Li2CO3+ 85% H3BO3 doped with 0.1mol %nano-gold was prepared by using melt-quenching technique. Undoped and Au doped lithium borate glass samples were exposed to Co-60 gamma ray (1.25 MeV) with various doses ranging from 10 to 60 Gy by using Gammacell 220 excel. Various TL properties such as TL glow curve, linearity and sensitivity of the prepared glass were investigated. From the TL glow curve, it was found that the TL intensity increased by addition of Au into the glass system. The TL intensity of Au doped glass increases about 23 times higher than the undoped glass. The study also shows that the doped borate glass has a linear response subjected to Co-60 gamma irradiation at doses ranging from 10 to 60 Gy. The sensitivity of doped glass is about 22 times higher compared to un-doped glass
PERSISTENCY AND PERMANENCY OF TWO STAGES SPLICING LANGUAGES VIA YUSOF-GOODE APPROACH: TWO INITIAL STRINGS AND TWO RULES
Authors: Mudaber Mohammad Hassan , Yusof Yuhani , Mohamad Mohd Sham , Lim Wen Li
Published: October 2015

The notation of representing restriction enzymes in the form of double-triple in order to formulate Yusof-Goode (Y-G) splicing system was mathematically proposed by Yusof in 2012. The aim of introducing Y-G splicing system was to study the process of recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid or DNA strand in a translucent way. In real situation, when the recombination action occurs, the recombinant DNA strands which will arise often contain the patterns of the restriction enzymes. Persistency and permanency are two properties of splicing system, which show whether the recombinant DNA strands will be split by the existence of restrictions enzymes or not if the reaction goes to the second stage. In this research, the persistency and permanency of two stages splicing languages according to the number of cutting sites of initial strings as well as crossing sites and context factors of splicing rules are investigated. Therefore, a Y-G splicing system consisting of two initial strings (with two cutting sites) and two rules is used to present the above properties of two stages DNA splicing languages.
ACOUSTIC ABSORPTION, RHEOLOGICAL AND MECHANICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF WASTE EGG BOXES FIBERS FILLED SBR
Authors: Algaily Bashir , Puttajukr Sombat , Navarat Thoranit
Published: October 2015

There are a few interesting to develop a procedure for design material with high acoustic absorption with broad acoustic frequencies range  and assess the potential of using waste living materials as the primary component in the production of sound absorbing materials for use in walls and ceilings. This research provides experimental investigations for design and optimization of composite sound absorbers with styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) and waste egg boxes (EB) fibers. The SBR/EB composites have been investigated for their acoustic absorption at different frequencies, their mechanical and rheological properties. Results indicated that an increasing EB composition enhanced the acoustic absorption coefficient. The density of SBR/EB composites were directly related to the presence of the EB fibers. The principal experimental evidences of nonlinear behavior of viscoelastic materials were discussed by investigating the stress-strain curve. In view of the rheological properties, the SBR/EB composites showed shear thinning behavior at various different conditions, that the apparent viscosity reduced with increasing shear rates and it was greater temperature sensitivity. Eventually, the data obtained clearly indicated that the heterogeneity and the viscosity of the materials play very important factors to provide suitable absorbers, these new materials were beneficial for using as a sound absorber and could be used as an alternative replacement for conventional product because for instance, they are cheaper, nonabrasive and may serve to reduce the noise pollution.
DEVELOPMENT OF DIRECT TO INDIRECT COST RATIO OF OCCUPATIONAL ACCIDENT FOR MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY
Authors: Mohd. Rohani Jafri , Johari Mohamed Fitri , Wan Hamid Wan Harun , Atan Hood
Published: October 2015

Occupational injury would certainly give an impact not just to the victim but also to the organization and society at large. The impact would be in term of victim suffering, bad company reputation, low working moral among fellow workers and economic costs to the company. However, most of the aspects are difficult to quantify except for economics costs. The objective of this paper is to validate relationship accident direct cost model towards its observable cost components. Besides, this paper also proposes direct to indirect cost ratio based on accident cost range, accident scenario and impact of accident. Basically, accident cost can be categorized into two distinct categories which are direct and indirect cost. A total of 342 cases have been acquired for this study and recorded cases only cover temporary disability with more than one day of MC. Data is gathered from six types of sectors from manufacturing industry in Malaysia by using local specific method. The validity of direct cost model is tested by using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) while indirect to indirect cost ratio is developed based on following aspects: (1) Accident cost range; (2) Accident scenario; and (3) Impact of accident.  Proven direct cost model and direct to indirect cost ratio proposed would give a better insight to the relevant stakeholder in quantifying the occupational accident cost which may assist them in making necessary changes in order to avoid occurrence of similar accident in the future.
THE EFFECT OF COMPONENT THICKNESS ON THE FLATTENING OF SURFACE ASPERITIES
Authors: Jamari J. , Jan Schipper Dirk
Published: October 2015

An experimental investigation of a deformable flat rough surface being in contact with a hard smooth ball indenter was presented to evaluate the effect of thickness on the flattening of surface asperities. A novel method to determine the asperities flattening was deployed. The method uses a matching and stitching technique for analyzing the 3D measurement surface data. Two different materials of flat surfaces, aluminium and brass, were used. Results were presented for very thin and thick specimens, showing that there is no effect of thickness on the deformation degree of the surface asperities. Comparisons were made with the published models for predicting the deformation degree of the contacting surface and the results obtained confirm very well the model.
FLOOD RISK PATTERN RECOGNITION BY USING ENVIRONMETRIC TECHNIQUE: A CASE STUDY IN LANGAT RIVER BASIN
Authors: Mohd Saudi Ahmad Shakir , Juahir Hafizan , Azid Azman , Toriman Mohd Ekhwan , Kamarudin Mohd Khairul Amri , Mohd Saudi Madihah , Mustafa Ahmad Dasuki , Amran Mohammad Azizi
Published: October 2015

This study looks into the downscaling of statistical model to produce and predict hydrological modelling in the study area based on secondary data derived from the Department of Drainage and Irrigation (DID) since 1982-2012. The combination of chemometric method and time series analysis in this study showed that the monsoon season and rainfall did not affect the water level, but the suspended solid, stream flow and water level that revealed high correlation in correlation test with p-value < 0.0001, which affected the water level. The Factor analysis for the variables of the stream flow, suspended solid and water level showed strong factor pattern with coefficient more than 0.7, and 0.987, 1.000 and 1.000, respectively. Based on the Statistical  Process Control (SPC), the Upper Control Limit for water level, suspended solid and stream flow were 21.110 m3/s, 4624.553 tonnes/day, and 8.224 m/s, while the Lower Control Limit were 20.711 m, 2538.92 tonnes/day and 2.040 m/s. This shows that human development in the area gives high impact towards climate change and flood risk, and not the monsoon season. Prediction was carried out using the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) to classify risks into their own classes, and the rate of accuracy for the prediction was 97.1%. This meant that the points in the time series analysis which were located beyond Upper Control Limit were considered as High Risk class, and the probability for flood occurrence is very high. The other classes classified in this prediction are Caution Zone, Low Risk and No risk. This is important to set a trigger for warning system in the case of emergency response plan during flood.
MODEL PENERIMAAN TEKNOLOGI LANJUTAN BAGI MERAMAL KEINGINAN MENGGUNAKAN SISTEM PERINGATAN TOPI KELEDAR
Authors: Ambak Kamarudin , Rosli Naida , Daniel Basil David , Prasetijo Joewono
Published: October 2015

Motorcycle is a common transport use in Malaysia compared to other transportation such as car. However, every year motorcyclist is the highest contributors towards road death accident statistic. This paper presents a new intervention to enhance the safety of motorcyclist regarding head injuries issue. A new approach called conceptual design of Safety Helmet Reminder (SHR) system is proposed. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) is adopted to predict behavioral intention to use SHR among motorcyclists. The self- administered questionnaires were distributed among 300 motorcyclists as respondent in Batu Pahat, Johor. The data were analyzed using a correlation and hierarchical multiple regression analysis. The results show that all variables are highly correlated, positive linear relationship and significantly at 0.01 (p<0.01). In addition, the hierarchical multiple regression demonstrates perceived ease of use, behavioral intention to use SHR and additional variables (perceived safety, subjective norm and descriptive norm) are found significant (p<0.05). As a conclusion, perceived safety, subjective norm, descriptive norm, perceived ease of use and behavioral intention to use technology remained a significant predictor of helmet use. However, perceived usefulness and attitude toward using technology were not significant in predicting helmet use among motorcyclist.
SOCIAL PRESENCE MODEL FOR E-COMMERCE
Authors: Engku Alwi Sharifah Sumayyah , Tengku Wook Tengku Siti Meriam
Published: October 2015

E-commerce is a system whereby consumers can buy goods and services from merchants who sell on the internet. E-commerce is more impersonal, anonymous and automated than traditional person-to-person commerce, and as such, typically lacks human warmth and sociability. This paper explores how human warmth and sociability can be integrated through the website interface to positively impact consumer attitude towards online shopping. In first section, website content analysis was used to investigate elements that offer many unique features to support the implementation of social presence through the e-commerce website interface. The second section seeks to determine relationships between elements of social presence, intention to use e-commerce and consumer attitude. A 5-level Likert scale questionnaire was used to determine consumer attitude towards online shopping and 50 respondents were selected. Pearson’s correlation was used to assess the relationship between social presence elements, intention to use e-commerce and consumer attitude. The result shows all positive relationships. The findings showed moderate relationship between social presence and intention to use e-commerce, a moderate relationship between intention to use e-commerce and consumer attitudes, and a weak relationship between social presence and consumer attitude.