bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tissue Specific Esterase Expression In Indigenous Chicken Of Bangladesh
Authors: Shahjahan RM , Muid KA , Akter QS , Tareq KMA , Begum RA , Begum R , Khandoker MAMY
Published: February 2012

The present investigation was done in the esterase gene expression analysis of the Red Jungle fowl Gallus gallus of Bangladesh utilizing the polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) technique. Each allele produces a biochemical message that helps to produce various protein phenotypes those were expressed in the form of bands on the polyacrylamide gel bed. Altogether four different esterase bands were recorded in both Red Jungle (RJ) fowl and Naked Neck (NN) fowl of Bangladesh. These were denoted as Est-1 (2), Est-2(1), Est-3 (21) and Est-4 (13) based on the relative mobility on the gel. Among them Est-2 is very common in almost all tissues. Comparing the esterase in both genetic groups, their expression intensity even the relative mobility provided a unique feature that they were similar. The investigation indicates that esterase gene between the Red Jungle fowl and Naked Neck fowl of Bangladesh has a close relationship. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v38i1-2.9908 BJAS 2009; 38(1-2): 15-21
Nutrient Digestibility And Growth Rate Of Bull Calves Fed Rice Straw Treated With Wood Ash Extract
Authors: Rahman MM , Akbar MA , Islam KMS , Khaleduzzaman ABM , Bostami ABMR
Published: February 2012

An experiment was conducted for a period of 60 days with twelve bull calves with an average live weight of 77.78 ± 10.96 kg to determine the effect of treatment of rice straw with Wood Ash Extract (WAE) on feed intake, nutritive value, growth rate and economic benefits. The experimental animals were divided into three groups A, B and C having four animals in each. They were supplied randomly with three rations following randomized complete block design. All rations were made iso-nitrogenous by using urea as a source of nitrogen. Animals of group A were fed untreated rice straw, whereas, group B and C were fed urea-treated and WAE treated rice straw, respectively. The chemical analysis showed that treatment of rice straw with WAE increased ash content of straw from 13.93% to 16.45% and decreased the NDF content from 67.39% to 63.00%. The daily DM intake per 100 kg live weight of diet B was significantly (P<0.01) higher than that of diet A and C. The daily CP intake per 100 kg body weight of diet B (553.3g) was significantly (P<0.05) higher than that of diet A (449.5g). Similarly, the organic matter (OM) intake in bull calves fed diet B was significantly (P<0.05) higher than those fed diet A and C. The average daily live weight gain with diet B and C was significantly (P<0.01) higher than diet A. The animals fed diet B and C were more efficient in converting feed into live weight than animals fed diet A. Treating rice straw with wood ash extract improved the nutritive value, it significantly (P<0.01) increased the apparent digestibility of DM, OM, CP, ADF and NDF. It also increased the DCP, DOM, DNDF and DADF contents of rice straw compared with untreated straw. Although the total feed cost of untreated group is lower than those of WAE and urea-treated groups, the feed cost per kg live weight gain as well as the feed cost per kg meat production of WAE and urea-treated groups were significantly (P<0.01) lower than that of untreated rice straw. It may be concluded that nutrient composition and digestibility of rice straw and live weight gain of animals can be improved by treating rice straw with wood ash extract. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v38i1-2.9911 BJAS 2009; 38(1-2): 42-52
Feeding Strategy For Improving Dairy Cattle Productivity In Small Holder Farm In Bangladesh
Authors: Khan MJ , Peters KJ , Uddin MM
Published: February 2012

Dairy animal rearing is an inseparable and integrated part of smallholder subsistence farming system. Dairy cattle production in the country is characterized by low productivity levels due mainly to genetic and nutritional constraints. Unless feeding management is improved these animals may be limited to fully express their potential genetic superiority. It is fundamental approach to provide good quality diets to dairy cattle in sufficient amount to maximize production. Dairying provides women with a regular daily income vital to household good security and family well being. Quantitative and qualitative shortage of feeds and fodder affects the performance of milking animal. Local cows yield on average 1.5 Lit. milk per day against 5-8 Lit. in cross bred cows, require better feeding mainly concentrates, which is not available to the farmers at the affordable prices. But income of farmers can be increased up to two fold (Tk.58 vs 115) by rearing cross bred cows. Since feed cost is becoming the most important factor in livestock production, increasing self sufficiency in feed production will be an important factor in future development programs. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v38i1-2.9914 BJAS 2009; 38(1-2): 67-85
Utilization Of Soymilk As Milk Replacer For Calves
Authors: Masum AKM , Islam MN , Khan MAS
Published: February 2012

An experiment was conducted to study the utilization of soymilk as milk replacer for raising calves. Nine crossbred calves were selected and divided into three groups on the basis of their body weight and genotype. The calves of group A were reared by cow milk, group B reared by strained soymilk and group C reared by unstrained soymilk. It was found that, total body weight gain of group A, B and C were 13.933 ± 1.222, 13.800 ± 0.917 and 13.233 ± 1.537 Kg, respectively. There was no significant difference among the three groups of calves. Non-significant differences were also seen for increment in wither height (5.588 ± 0.508, 5.419 ± 0.529 and 5.080 ± 0.440 cm, respectively), length (6.096 ± 0.440, 5.927 ± 0.388 and 5.503 ± 0.388 cm, respectively) and heart-girth (5.842 ± 0.440, 5.588 ± 0.916 and 5.419 ± 0.388 cm, respectively) of calves. Economic analysis showed that soymilk was cheaper than cow milk (Tk. 8.0 vs Tk. 44.0). It can be concluded that soymilk as milk replacer could be used successfully for raising dairy calves. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v38i1-2.9918 BJAS 2009; 38(1-2): 102-107
Effect Of Different Hygenic Condition During Milking On Bacterial Count Of Cows Milk
Authors: Islam MA , Islam MN , Khan MAS , Rashid MH , Obaidullah SM
Published: February 2012

Effect of three hygienic conditions (T1- washing and disinfection of udder and teats, milker hands, and a sanitary rinse of milking pails using calcium hypochlorite solution with 200 ppm Cl; T2- washing of udder and teats, milker hands and milking pails with normal water; and T3- without any kind of preparation of udder and teats, milker hands and milking pails) before milking were studied. Fifteen “Red Chittagong” milking cows were selected and divided into the three treatment groups (5 in each) maintaining under identical management conditions icluding floor hygiene, feeding and post-milking equipment sanitation. Initial bacterial quality as measured by Standard Plate Count (SPC), Coliform Count (CC) and Methylene Blue Reduction Time (MBRT) of milks obtained under T1,T2 and T3 were significantly (P<0.01) different. On the basis of SPC, CC and MBRT initial bacterial load was highest for T2-- milk and lowest for T1-- milk Initial SPC of T1 was 86% and 64% lower than that of T2 and T3 respectively, whereas CC of T1 was 89% and 69% lower than that of T2 and T3, respectively. Standard Plate Count and CC of T3 were respectively 43% and 65% lower than those of T1. The initial MBR time were in the order T1= T3>T2(P<0.01). Results of the present study revealed that milking hygiene has significant effect on initial bacterial count of milk. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v38i1-2.9919 BJAS 2009; 38(1-2): 108-114
Propionic Acid Is An Alternative To Antibiotics In Poultry Diet
Authors: Haque MN , Chowdhury R , Islam KMS , Akbar MA
Published: February 2012

Propionic acid (PA) is a fungicide and bactericide, registered to control fungi and bacteria in stored grains, hay, grain storage areas, poultry litter, and drinking water for livestock and poultry. European Union (EU) certifies PA as the great of grain preserver and most efficient in controlling Salmonella and other pathogens. Recently it is used as feed additive in poultry and non-ruminant production. Suitable inclusion level of PA is 0.2 to 0.4% which can improve the overall performances of poultry. The preservative effect of PA is due to its antibacterial and mould inhibitory effect. High bacteriostatic property of PA is due to its pH reduction activity both in feed and gastrointestinal tract through pharmacogenic action on microflora. Propionic acidA with its growth promoting, health enhancing and antimicrobial effect has proven to be an effective alternative to antibiotic growth promoters in food animal production. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v38i1-2.9920 BJAS 2009; 38(1-2): 115-122
Pigeon Farming In Gouripur Upazilla Of Mymensingh District
Authors: Asaduzzaman M , Mahiuddin M , Howlider MAR , Hossain MM , Yeasmin T
Published: February 2012

A survey was conducted using a pre-tested interview schedule in the village Charnelukhia under Gouiripur upazilla of Mymensingh district to study the present status, problems and prospects of pigeon farming in the rural areas of Bangladesh. Data were collected from 15 pigeon farmers. Housing cost, height of house, duration of house, quantity of feed supplied to each pigeon/day, male female ratio, marketing age, weight, price of squab, number of squab/pair of pigeon, production of squab/year/pair of pigeon, price of each pigeon and mortality of pigeon were Tk. 113.33, 3.50m, 5 years, 34.50g, 1.07, 26.66 days, 258g, Tk. 51, 1.67, 19.53, Tk. 113.33 and 6.67% respectively. Most of the pigeon farmers rear pigeon in small scale scavenging system with supplementary feeding. They have no idea about breed and variety of pigeon and prevention of diseases. There is a lot of demand of squab meat in the market due to its delicacy and taste. The pigeon farming may be increased with government initiative providing training to farmers and extending loans. Introduction of meat breeds, good flock size and balanced feed need to be ensured for improving income and employment opportunity. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v38i1-2.9923 BJAS 2009; 38(1-2): 142-150
Economics Of Community Dairy Farming In Satkhira District
Authors: Sikder MSI , Akteruzzaman M , Parveen S , Shamsuddin M
Published: February 2012

The survey was carried out in villages of two upazilas under Satkhira district covering 100 members and 50 non-members of field fertility clinics (FFC) during January to March 2009. Evidence showed that socioeconomic characteristics were more or less same in both farms. The study revealed that annual average milk production per farm for two categories of farmers were 7215.87 litres and 5206.52 litres respectively. Annual milk production per farm of member farmers was higher by 1973.21 litres over that of non-member farmers. Net returns per farm were Tk. 175670.30 and Tk. 67611.51 for member and non-member farmers respectively. Benefit cost ratio for community member farmers were 1.80, for non-members were 1.62 and for all categories of farmers were 1.74 indicating that dairy farming was profitable. However, member farmers made more profit than non-member farmers through dairy farming. The study concluded that proper steps could be taken to make the dairy farming as a viable commercial enterprise. Therefore, the FFC should extend more services, which will encourage expansion of dairy farming and thereby, will contribute to increase of milk production in the area and in the country as a whole. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v38i1-2.9925 BJAS 2009; 38(1-2): 164-169
Real-Time PCR Data Processing Shown by the Analysis of Colorectal Specific Candidate Genes, ERCC1, RRM1 and TS in Relation to β2M as Endogenous Control
Authors: Demes Melanie , Bartsch Holger , Scheil-Bertram Stefanie , Mücke Ralph , Fisseler-Eckhoff Annette
Published: February 2012

Currently, quantitative real-time PCR (Q-PCR) of archival formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue is a critical tool for research and is not well established in routine diagnostics. Therefore, continuous improvement in mathematics and statistics associated with interpreting final accurate and reproducible results are fundamental. This project describes and discusses specificity and sensitivity with respect to intra- and inter-assay variances by use of a commercial Human Reference RNA and individual RNA derived from colorectal cancer patients (n = 25). All patients were treated with 5-fluoruracil (5-FU) and a concomitant pelvic radiotherapy (50.4 Gy). Quality assessment of target tissue samples was evaluated by clinicopathological findings and optical density (OD) measurements. We analyzed the steady state messenger RNA (mRNA) expression level of a small panel of cancer relevant genes, excision repair cross-complementing group 1 (ERCC1), ribonucleoside-diphosphate reductase subunit M1 (RRM1), thymidylate synthase (TYMS) and ß-2microglobulin (ß-2M) as endogenous control. The mRNA of a Human Reference RNA, tumor and non-neoplastic material was reverse transcribed into its complementary DNA (cDNA). cDNA was amplified based on dual-labeled TaqMan real-time fluorescence measurements. The real-time efficiency and therefore the output data can be influenced through the kind of calibrator used, the amount and quality of used RNA and by the degree of individual assay variability. Each sample presents an individual amplification curve. Thus, confirmation of primer specificity, one or more invariant endogenous controls, RNA and cDNA quality, as well as real-time PCR amplification efficiencies and linearity calculations from individual slopes or R2-values must be included in each study.
Short and Long Term Variation in Ultraviolet Radiation and Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Menni Cristina , Lowell Walter E. , Bentzen Joan , Bergamaschi Roberto , Martinelli Boneschi Filippo , Martinelli Vittorio , Bernardinelli Luisa , Stenager Egon , Davis George E. , Foco Luisa
Published: February 2012

We examined the role of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) in persons diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in four different populations, Italians, Danish, White and African Americans. We tested whether variation in UVR as determined by seasons (short term variation) and solar cycles (long term variation) is related to MS birth month and to survival as measured by lifespan. Cases were selected from three Italian MS Case Registries (2,737); from the United States National Center for Health Statistics (56,020); and from the Danish Multiple Sclerosis registry (15,900). Chi-square tests were used to study the pattern of month of birth distribution in patients with MS comparing with general population data. T-tests were employed to study solar cycles association with lifespan. A surplus of births was observed in June for White Americans. A decrease of births in October and November, though not significant after multiple testing correction, was observed in the three populations. In White American with MS overall, males and females, we found that solar cycle is associated with lifespan. We found that season and solar cycles have some role in MS susceptibility and life duration. However, this is an exploratory analysis and further work is needed to discern the association.
Evaluation of Rheological Properties and Swelling Behaviour of Sonicated Scleroglucan Samples
Authors: Ansari Siddique Akber , Matricardi Pietro , Meo Chiara Di , Alhaique Franco , Coviello Tommasina
Published: February 2012

Scleroglucan is a natural polysaccharide that has been proposed for various applications. However there is no investigation on its property variations when the molecular weight of this polymer is reduced. Scleroglucan was sonicated at two different polymer concentrations for different periods of time and the effect of sonication was investigated with respect to molecular weight variations and rheological properties. Molar mass, estimated by viscometric measurements, was drastically reduced already after a sonication for a few min. Sonicated samples were used for the preparation of gels in the presence of borate ions. The effect of borax on the new samples was investigated by recording the mechanical spectra and the flow curves. A comparison with the system prepared with the dialysed polymer was also carried out. The anisotropic elongation, observed with tablets of scleroglucan and borax, was remarkably reduced when the sonicated samples were used for the preparation of the gels.
Experimental Methodologies and Evaluations of Computer-Aided Drug Design Methodologies Applied to a Series of 2-Aminothiophene Derivatives with Antifungal Activities
Authors: Scotti Luciana , Tullius Scotti Marcus , De Oliveira Lima Edeltrudes , Sobral da Silva Marcelo , Do Carmo Alves de Lima Maria , Da Rocha Pitta Ivan , Olímpio de Moura Ricardo , Gonzaga Batista de Oliveira Jaismary , Duarte da Cruz Rayssa Marques , Bezerra Mendonça Francisco Jaime
Published: February 2012

Fifty 2-[(arylidene)amino]-4,5-cycloalkyl[b]thiophene-3-carbonitrile derivatives were screened for their in vitro antifungal activities against Candida krusei and Cryptococcus neoformans. Based on experimentally determined minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values, we conducted computer-aided drug design studies [molecular modelling, chemometric tools (CPCA, PCA, PLS) and QSAR-3D] that enable the prediction of three-dimensional structural characteristics that influence the antifungal activities of these derivatives. These predictions provide direction with regard to the syntheses of new derivatives with improved biological activities, which can be used as therapeutic alternatives for the treatment of fungal infections.
Determination of Antimicrobial Activity and Resistance to Oxidation of Moringa peregrina Seed Oil
Authors: Lalas Stavros , Gortzi Olga , Athanasiadis Vasilios , Tsaknis John , Chinou Ioanna
Published: February 2012

The antimicrobial activity of the oil extracted with n-hexane from the seeds of Moringa peregrina was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Candida albicans, C. tropicalis and C. glabrata. The oil proved effective against all of the tested microorganisms. Standard antibiotics (netilmycin, 5-flucytocine, intraconazole and 7-amino-4-methylcoumarin-3-acetic acid) were used for comparison. The resistance to oxidation of the extracted seed oil was also determined.
Comparative Studies of the (Anti) Mutagenicity of Baccharis dracunculifolia and Artepillin C by the Bacterial Reverse Mutation Test
Authors: Resende Flávia Aparecida , Munari Carla Carolina , De Azevedo Bentes Monteiro Neto Moacir , Tavares Denise Crispim , Bastos Jairo Kenupp , Da Silva Filho Ademar Alves , Varanda Eliana Aparecida
Published: February 2012

Baccharis dracunculifolia is a plant native from Brazil, commonly known as ‘Alecrim-do-campo’ and ‘Vassoura’ and used in alternative medicine for the treatment of inflammation, hepatic disorders and stomach ulcers. Previous studies reported that artepillin C (ArtC, 3-{4-hydroxy-3,5-di(3-methyl-2-butenyl)phenyl}-2(E)-propenoic acid), is the main compound of interest in the leaves. This study was undertaken to assess the mutagenic effect of the ethyl acetate extract of B. dracunculifolia leaves (Bd-EAE: 11.4–182.8 µg/plate) and ArtC (0.69–10.99 µg/plate) by the Ames test using Salmonella typhimurium strains TA98, TA97a, TA100 and TA102, and to compare the protective effects of Bd-EAE and ArtC against the mutagenicity of a variety of direct and indirect acting mutagens such as 4-nitro-O-phenylenediamine, sodium azide, mitomycin C, benzo[a]pyrene, aflatoxin B1, 2-aminoanthracene and 2-aminofluorene.The mutagenicity test showed that Bd-EAE and ArtC did not induce an increase in the number of revertant colonies indicating absence of mutagenic activity. ArtC showed a similar antimutagenic effect to that of Bd-EAE in some strains of S. typhimurium, demonstrating that the antimutagenic activity of Bd-EAE can be partially attributed to ArtC. The present results showed that the protective effect of whole plant extracts is due to the combined and synergistic effects of a complex mixture of phytochemicals, the total activity of which may result in health benefits.
Production of Salvianolic Acid B in Roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen) During the Post-Harvest Drying Process
Authors: Li Xiao-Bing , Wang Wei , Zhou Guo-Jun , Li Yan , Xie Xiao-Mei , Zhou Tong-Shui
Published: February 2012

Drying is the most common and fundamental procedure in the post-harvest processing which contributes to the quality and valuation of medicinal plants. However, attention to and research work on this aspect is relatively poor. In this paper, we reveal dynamic variations of concentrations of five major bioactive components, namely salvianolic acid B (SaB), dihydrotanshinone I, cryptotanshinone, tanshinone I and tanshinone IIA, in roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza (Dashen) during the drying process at different oven temperatures. A minor amount of SaB was found in fresh materials while an noticeable increase in SaB was detected in drying at 50~160 °C. The maximal value occured after 40 min of drying at 130 °C and its variation showed a reverse V-shaped curve. Production of SaB exhibited a significant positive correlation with drying temperatures and a significant negative correlation with sample moistures. The amounts of tanshinones were nearly doubled in the early stage of drying and their variations showed similar changing trends with drying temperatures and sample moistures. The results supported our speculation that postharvest fresh plant materials, especially roots, were still physiologically active organs and would exhibit a series of anti-dehydration mechanisms including production of related secondary metabolites at the early stage of dehydration. Hence, the proper design of drying processes could contribute to promoting rather than reducing the quality of Danshen and other similar medicinal plants.
Variational Models of Network Formation and Ion Transport: Applications to Perfluorosulfonate Ionomer Membranes
Authors: Gavish Nir , Jones Jaylan , Xu Zhengfu , Christlieb Andrew , Promislow Keith
Published: February 2012

We present the functionalized Cahn-Hilliard (FCH) energy, a continuum characterization of interfacial energy whose minimizers describe the network morphology of solvated functionalized polymer membranes. With a small set of parameters the FCH characterizes bilayer, pore-like, and micelle network structures. The gradient flows derived from the FCH describe the interactions between these structures, including the merging and pinch-off of endcaps and formation of junctions central to the generation of network morphologies. We couple the FCH gradient flow to a model of ionic transport which incorporates entropic effects to localize counter-ions, yielding a flow which dissipates a total free energy, and an expression for the excess electrochemical potential which combines electrostatic and entropic effects. We present applications to network bifurcation and membrane casting.
Error Estimation for the Linearized Auto-Localization Algorithm
Authors: Guevara Jorge , Jiménez Antonio R. , Prieto Jose Carlos , Seco Fernando
Published: February 2012

The Linearized Auto-Localization (LAL) algorithm estimates the position of beacon nodes in Local Positioning Systems (LPSs), using only the distance measurements to a mobile node whose position is also unknown. The LAL algorithm calculates the inter-beacon distances, used for the estimation of the beacons’ positions, from the linearized trilateration equations. In this paper we propose a method to estimate the propagation of the errors of the inter-beacon distances obtained with the LAL algorithm, based on a first order Taylor approximation of the equations. Since the method depends on such approximation, a confidence parameter τ is defined to measure the reliability of the estimated error. Field evaluations showed that by applying this information to an improved weighted-based auto-localization algorithm (WLAL), the standard deviation of the inter-beacon distances can be improved by more than 30% on average with respect to the original LAL method.
Metal Oxide Nanostructures and Their Gas Sensing Properties: A Review
Authors: Sun Yu-Feng , Liu Shao-Bo , Meng Fan-Li , Liu Jin-Yun , Jin Zhen , Kong Ling-Tao , Liu Jin-Huai
Published: February 2012

Metal oxide gas sensors are predominant solid-state gas detecting devices for domestic, commercial and industrial applications, which have many advantages such as low cost, easy production, and compact size. However, the performance of such sensors is significantly influenced by the morphology and structure of sensing materials, resulting in a great obstacle for gas sensors based on bulk materials or dense films to achieve highly-sensitive properties. Lots of metal oxide nanostructures have been developed to improve the gas sensing properties such as sensitivity, selectivity, response speed, and so on. Here, we provide a brief overview of metal oxide nanostructures and their gas sensing properties from the aspects of particle size, morphology and doping. When the particle size of metal oxide is close to or less than double thickness of the space-charge layer, the sensitivity of the sensor will increase remarkably, which would be called “small size effect”, yet small size of metal oxide nanoparticles will be compactly sintered together during the film coating process which is disadvantage for gas diffusion in them. In view of those reasons, nanostructures with many kinds of shapes such as porous nanotubes, porous nanospheres and so on have been investigated, that not only possessed large surface area and relatively mass reactive sites, but also formed relatively loose film structures which is an advantage for gas diffusion. Besides, doping is also an effective method to decrease particle size and improve gas sensing properties. Therefore, the gas sensing properties of metal oxide nanostructures assembled by nanoparticles are reviewed in this article. The effect of doping is also summarized and finally the perspectives of metal oxide gas sensor are given.
Mean Sea Level Variability and Influence of the North Atlantic Oscillation on Long-Term Trends in the German Bight
Authors: Dangendorf Sönke , Wahl Thomas , Hein Hartmut , Jensen Jürgen , Mai Stephan , Mudersbach Christoph
Published: February 2012

Changes in the seasonal cycle of mean sea level (MSL) may affect the heights of storm surges and thereby flood risk in coastal areas. This study investigates the intra- and inter-annual variability of monthly MSL and its link to the North Atlantic Oscillation using records from 13 tide gauges located in the German Bight. The amplitudes of the seasonal MSL cycle are not regionally uniform and vary between 20 and 29 cm. Generally, the amplitudes are smaller at the southwestern stations, increasing as one travels to the northeastern part. The amplitudes, as well as the phase of the seasonal cycle, are characterized by a large inter-annual and inter-decadal variability, but no long-term trend could be detected. Nevertheless, in the last two decades annual maximum peaks more frequently occurred in January and February, whereas beforehand an accumulation was detected for the November and December period. These changes in phase in the various sea level time series are consistent with a shift in the annual cycle, which is, however, not significant. The changes are associated with strongly increasing trends in monthly MSL of the winter season (J–M), which are considerably higher compared to the remaining seasons. For the same season, the MSL and North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) indices show strong similarities, resulting in statistically significant correlations (r ~ 0.7). Hence, these changes are linked with changing pressure conditions over the North Atlantic, which lead to a strong phase of positive values in the NAO index between the 1960’s and 1990’s.
Le paysage protohistorique et pré-impérial à l'est et au sud de Zaghouan (Tunisie)
Authors: Ferchiou Naidé
Published: February 2012

This article is the continuation of studies previously published, devoted to pre-imperial sites in the land of Carthage (Ant. afr., t. 23, 1987 et 26, 1990 ; IVe colloque sur l'histoire et l'archéologie de l'Afrique du Nord, Strasbourg 1988 (t. 1 , 1990)). It deals with the country which lays at east and south of Zaghouan, distinguished by a relative density of fortified sites : little proto-urban settlements, perched strongholds, posts, shelters, often inhabited from the punic times. Among the pre-imperial remains, appear too unfortified settlements, protohistoric cemeteries and tower-mausoleums.
On the origins of Africa Proconsularis, II [ The administration of Lepidus and the commission of M. Caelius Phileros]
Authors: Fishwick Duncan
Published: February 2012

Une comparaison de Dio 52, 43, 1 et Tertullien, De pallio, 1,2 avec Appien, Pun. 135-136 fait ressortir que M. Aemilius Lepidus aurait démoli des constructions qui avaient empiété sur le sol maudit de la Carthage romaine. En dépit du fait qu'on avait illégalement nommé Lèpide pontifex maximus, les actions de celui-ci doivent être envisagées comme une démarche positive destinée à supprimer toute trace de malédiction de la future métropole d'une province unifiée d'Afrique. Les activités de M. Caelius Phileros autour des mêmes années {CIL 10, 6104 ; 8, 26274) renvoient clairement à l'attribution récente à Carthage d'une vaste pertica. Étant donné que son territoire administratif n'a guère pu chevaucher deux provinces distinctes gérées par deux gouverneurs, on a de bonnes raisons de conclure que Africa Vetus et Africa Nova avaient été déjà groupées en une seule province. Il ressort de ces diverses données que les origines de la province connue plus tard comme Proconsularis reviennent indubitablement à l'administration de Lèpide, en 40-36 avant J.C.
Beans, baths and the barber... A sacred law from Thuburbos Maius
Authors: Kleijwegt Marc
Published: February 2012

L'inscription II.Af. 225, provenant de Thuburbo Maius, est une loi sacrée datant du milieu du deuxième siècle après J.-C. Ses prescriptions concernent les visiteurs du temple d'Esculape. Ceux-ci doivent, pendant trois jours, s'abstenir de femmes, de fèves et de viande de porc, renoncer à se rendre chez le barbier ou aux bains publics et sont tenus de se déchausser pour entrer dans le temple. Le savant italien F. Vattioni, il y a une quinzaine d'années, avait tenté d'interpréter cette loi dans un contexte sémite / biblique, mais n'avait pas pu expliquer tous les articles mentionnés ni pour quelles raisons on les trouve dans une loi sacrée d'Esculape. Néanmoins, les mêmes prescriptions figurent dans l'ouvrage de Philostrate La vie d'Apollonius de Tyane, ce sage du premier siècle qui était un fervent disciple de Pythagore. En alléguant d'autres parallèles on peut affirmer que ces prescriptions s'accordent mieux avec un contexte gréco-oriental. A Thuburbo Maius un code de prescriptions adopté par les sages pour un usage permanent, a été subordonné pour les besoins du culte à une période réduite à trois jours, durée jugée nécessaire à l'incubation dans le temple d'Esculape.

L'incubation était certainement le but essentiel de cette loi, puisqu'on ne trouve mention d'aucune prescription de sacrifice. La pureté mentale, condition de rêves paisibles, était une exigence absolue pour entrer en contact avec le dieu : bonus intra, melior exi.
L'épigraphie de la Numidie depuis 1892
Authors: Dupuis Xavier
Published: February 2012

Le CIL rassemble environ 3 300 inscriptions de Numidie méridionale, auxquelles s'ajoutent 2 700 documents découverts depuis 1892, date de la rédaction du dernier volume paru. Dispersées dans de très nombreuses revues et publications et trop rarement reprises ou signalées par l' Année Epigraphique, ces inscriptions ont en général été peu exploitées en dépit de leur intérêt. Elles renouvellent en effet pour une large part notre vision de cette région de l'Afrique puisque la plupart proviennent de sites urbains ou de zones rurales qui n'avaient auparavant guère livré de documents épigraphiques. A défaut d'une refonte totale du CIL, difficilement réalisable aujourd'hui, la rédaction d'un volume de supplément regroupant ces 2.700 inscriptions constituerait une bonne solution de compromis
Governors of Tingitana
Authors: Spaul J.E.H.
Published: February 2012

En se basant uniquement sur les textes littéraires et les inscriptions, l'A. présente dans l'ordre chronologique, de Claude à Probus, les références à quarante gouverneurs de Maurétanie Tingitane, un gouverneur adjoint et deux officiers du 4e siècle, avec l'évocation de leurs carrières. Il fait remarquer que le titre procurator Augusti indique simplement un administrateur impérial, tandis que procurator Augusti prolegato désigne la fonction de gouverneur, indépendamment de la présence d'unités légionnaires ; l'A. montre également que les gouverneurs de Tingitane n'était pas issus d'un groupe particulier, mais provenaient en nombre à peu près égal des primipilares et des duoviri ; que quelques-uns accédaient aux plus hautes fonctions des préfectures équestres, tandis que d'autres mouraient en service, et que la proportion des uns et des autres ne différait pas sensiblememt des ratios des autres provinces. Il montre enfin que la chancellerie impériale était loin d'être une bureaucratie monolithique et bornée ; elle était tout à fait capable de procéder à des nominations intelligentes en tenant compte des circonstances particulières.
De Tingi à Tandja : le mystère d'une capitale déchue
Authors: Siraj Ahmed
Published: February 2012

Tingi est l'une des villes romaines les plus mystérieuses du détroit de Gibraltar. Il est certain que le rôle qu'elle avait joué durant la période romaine est très important. Cependant nos connaissances sur la ville et sur son statut politique restent très lacunaires à cause de l'absence de documents textuels et archéologiques. Depuis quelques années, nous avons commencé une enquête sur l'apport des textes arabes du Moyen-Âge et des descriptions des voyageurs européens à la connaissance de la période antique au Maroc. Dans le cas de Tingi, ces documents ont permis de relever les traces matérielles d'une importante occupation romaine. Plus importants encore sont les renseignements fournis par certains auteurs arabes à propos du statut de Tanger dans l'Antiquité. Ces témoignages confirment les résultats des enquêtes épigraphiques et archéologiques des dernières années.
High‐throughput capture of nucleotide sequence polymorphisms in three Brassica species (Brassicaceae) using DNA microarrays
Authors: Nishizawa Toru , Tamaoki Masanori , Kaneko Yukio , Aono Mitsuko , Kubo Akihiro , Saji Hikaru , Nakajima Nobuyoshi
Published: February 2012

• Premise of the study: To capture molecular markers that are applicable to environmental risk assessment of genetically modified oilseed rape, and to streamline their development, we screened variations in nucleotide sequences of three Brassica species by DNA microarray analysis.

• Methods and Results: Using the Affymetrix GeneChip Arabidopsis ATH1 Genome Array, we monitored gene expression at 22810 loci among the Brassica species and picked out 192 putative polymorphic loci. We sequenced 25 of these and successfully aligned them among all three species. All 25 loci possessed some interspecific and at times intraspecific nucleotide variation.

• Conclusions: DNA microarray analysis effectively detected a large number of nucleotide sequence variations among closely related Brassica species. The polymorphic regions will allow the subsequent development of functional gene markers.
Les Portugais en France à l'heure de la retraite cinquante ans après leur arrivée en france, les portugais parviennent à l'âge de la retraite
Authors: de Almeida Aníbal
Published: February 2012

Pour reconstruire le pays suite aux dévastations provoquées par la Seconde Guerre mondiale et promouvoir leur développement, les entreprises françaises qui ne trouvaient pas sur le marché national la main-d’œuvre dont elles avaient besoin, ont eu recours au recrutement de travailleurs étrangers. Conjugué avec la situation politique, sociale et économique qui sévissait alors au Portugal, l’intérêt du patronat français pour la main-d’œuvre portugaise a engendré un exode sans précédent, provoquant le dépeuplement de certaines régions de l’intérieur du pays qui se trouvent confrontées aujourd’hui aux graves problèmes de vieillissement de leur population.
L'apport du designer à la marque
Authors: Jouin Patrick
Published: February 2012

Résumé Patrick Jouin œuvre sur des projets d’hôtels, de mobilier urbain ou d’automobiles, en se fondant dans les marques pour lesquelles il travaille. Il cherche leurs codes par la discussion et l’émotion, un travail collectif et personnel, et des recherches techniques pointues.
Corrosion Behavior of Molybdenum in Molten Aluminum
Authors: Luo Hong Feng , Wu Jing , Liu Zhe , Chen Wei Ping
Published: February 2012

Corrosion of molybdenum in molten aluminum was investigated by static immersion tests. The layer formed between aluminum and molybdenum was consist of Al4Mo at 700°C, Al8Mo3 at 750°C, Al4Mo and Al8Mo3 at 800°C range for periods varying from 8 to 120 h . The intermetallic layer broke up as long as it grew due to thermal stresses and dispersed in the molten aluminum. The weight-loss of molybdenum varied linearly with time. The corrosion rate increased with temperature and the activation energy was nearly 88.4 kJ mol-1.
Optimization Design of Patch Shape for Rivet Repair of Aircraft Skin
Authors: Li Yan , Cao Jun Bin , Li Xiao Lei
Published: February 2012

In order to study the effect of patch shape on the strength of the damaged skin after rivet repair, the paper uses the elastic-plastic finite element method to analyze the rivet repair of the circular hole damage and gives the rivet loads of all the rivets under the three shapes of patches respectively. The results show that the circular patch can observably improve the strength of the aircraft skin after rivet repair, compared with the right-angled rectangle patch and the fillet-rectangle patch, in the same condition of the patch materials and rivet parameters and technology equipments. The design can enhance the security of the repaired aircraft and have some values for the peacetime repair and the emergent repair of aircraft structure.
The Composite Wood Impregnated with Silicon Sol Solution
Authors: Lin Lan Ying , Fu Feng
Published: February 2012

Silicon sol solution was introduced into poplar wood by vacuum-pressure impregnation process, and a series of composites with different weight percent of gain (WPG) were prepared. The structure and properties of the untreated and composite wood were investigated. Compared to untreated wood, composite wood had a promising potential to improve mechanical properties like bending strength, modulus of elasticity and surface hardness. SEM pictures of composite wood with 30.3 WPG showed that the SiO2 gels filled the pores of the wood but unchanged the structure and morphological arrangement. TG and contact angle results indicated that composite wood showed an improved thermal property and water repellent property, and those properties increased with increasing of WPG.
Research on the Method of Continuous Scanning Measurement on the Tooth Surface of the Spiral Bevel Gear Based on the Constant Measuring Force
Authors: Wan Peng , Guo Jun Jie , Wang Jin Dong
Published: February 2012

In the measurement process of the large, complex surface, due to the errors of the installation, the errors of the machine bed itself and other factors, the probe can be over pressed. The situation of measuring interruption can be occurred. In the paper, take the measurement of the spiral bevel gear for example, by using of the gear meshing theory and differential geometry, through a series of coordinate transformations, the coordinates of the tooth surface grid nodes are calculated. Through measuring the tooth surface of the spiral bevel gear by using of Gear Measuring Center(GMC) and 3D scanning probe system, the follow-up control strategy of continuous scanning measurement based on the constant measuring force was proposed. The measurement and evaluation of the tooth surface were achieved through continuous scanning motion along the measurement path planned. In the measurement process, the measurement path was planned according to the theoretical models. The offset values of the probe were real-time detected, the constant deformation of the probe was ensured through controlling the motion of X,Y,Z axes. The mathematical model of the relationship between the velocity of each axis and the deformation vector of the probe was established. The continuous scanning measurement along the path planned based on the constant measuring force can be implemented. The requirement of the steady-state errors and real-time were meted by using of PID control strategy of subsection variable parameters. The method was finally simulated and experimented. The results showed that the occurrence of unexpected interruption in the measuring process can be effectively solved. It plays an important role for the highly-efficient and highly-precise measurements of the tooth surface.
Effects of Tin on Aluminum – Zinc Alloy as Sacrificial Anode to Protect Underground Oil Pipeline in Al-Mahawil Regional
Authors: Al-Sultani Kadhim F. , Nabat Jnan Nasser
Published: February 2012

Abstract Sacrificial anode cathodic protection is one of the most widely used methods in protecting buried oil pipe lines against the corrosion damages. In the present work, a series of Aluminum alloys have been prepared as sacrificial anodes candidates to be used in the protection of the oil pipelines that pass through the Al-Mahawil region. These prepared alloys were microstructurally and electrochemically characterized to evaluate their performance as Al-sacrificial anodes for cathodic protection of oil pipes The relationships between the protection potential with time, sacrificial anode life, discharge currents, and capacity of sacrificial anodes were found, taking into consideration the distance between sacrificial anode and protected steel sample. According to the results obtained, the best selection of sacrificial anodes was Al-4% Zn-0.4% Sn) alloy at 30cm in Al-Mahawil region.
Neighborhood Analysis-Based Calculation and Analysis of Multi-Scales Relief Amplitude
Authors: Zhang Xue Ru , Dong Kun
Published: February 2012

Abstract. Relief Amplitude is a quantitative index that describes topographic features and reflects the degree of relief amplitude. It is widely used in the field of topographic mapping and resource environment assessment. In the present study, the relief amplitudes in different neighborhood-scale units in east mountainous area of Tibetan Plateau were calculated based on the high space-resolution ASTER GDEM data by calling the Focal Function used for neighborhood analysis by means of AML language program. The results revealed that the size of the unit of neighborhood scale affected crucially the relief amplitude. The value of relief amplitude increased rapidly with increasing area of the statistic unit of neighborhood at first. Whereas when the area of neighborhood-scale unit was close to some threshold value, the increasing rate started to slow down and became stable, and during the process in which the increasing rate started to decline, there was a prominent turning point, namely the optimal unit of neighborhood scale. The optimal unit of neighborhood scale was 5.06km2 based on the significance test of elevation difference. A classification map of relief amplitude was established based on the optimal unit of neighborhood scale and it was found that, in the study area, the relief amplitude increased gradually northwestward-southeastwardly.
On the Design and Analysis of Acoustic Horns for Ultrasonic Welding
Authors: Shu Kuen Ming , Hsieh Wen Hsiang , Chi Chi Wei
Published: February 2012

The acoustic horn plays a very vital part in high energy ultrasonic machining, and its design is critical to the quality and the efficiency of machining. This paper performs the analysis and design of acoustic horns for ultrasonic machining by employing ANSYS finite element software. Firstly, the theoretical dimensions of the horns are calculated and compared to three commercial available horns with different shapes. Moreover, their natural frequencies and amplitudes are obtained through the simulations of ANSYS. Finally, the numerical results are compared with commercial available horns.
Development Trends of Research on Monitoring Wear of Sliding Main Bearing for Diesel Engine
Authors: Zhu Jun , Yang Jian Guo
Published: February 2012

This paper reviews the monitoring diagnostic methods for the sliding main engine bearing wear. Those methods by oil, temperature, vibration, strain and other surveillance means are in more engineering applications. Moreover, this paper expounds a kind of new diagnostic method for main bearing wear monitoring - the thermoelectric power monitoring method.
Key Issues for Cloud Manufacturing Platform
Authors: Zhang Zhen Nan , Zhong Pei Si
Published: February 2012

In order to realize sharing and collaboration of manufacturing resource and manufacturing capability based on knowledge and to realize added value of manufacturing resource and manufacturing capability. In this paper, we propose an ontology-based architecture for cloud manufacturing platform. Meanwhile, several key issues for cloud manufacturing platform including semantic description of manufacturing resource and manufacturing capability, manufacturing cloud service advertisement, manufacturing cloud service discovery and manufacturing cloud service composition are studied in particular. Thus, the research provides foundation for the future research, development, implementation and application of cloud manufacturing platform.
Study on Non-Cyanide Silver Electroplating with Copper Substrate
Authors: Chen Lu , Jing Hong Yang , Xu Lian Yong , Lu Guo Quan
Published: February 2012

The non-cyanide silver electroplating on copper substrate has been discussed. Based on the surface morphology by using SEM, the smooth and fine silver layer is obtained. The influences of concentration of silver and plating temperature on the thickness of the plating layer are discussed, the thickness of the silver layer is increasing with silver concentration rising and plating temperature rising.
Surface Modification of Poly(ethylene Terephthalate) (PET) with UV/Nano-TiO2
Authors: Liang Hui , Zhang Gang Xian , Zhang Feng Xiu , Wu Da Yang
Published: February 2012

The PET fabric surface was modified with ultraviolet radiation and nano-TiO2. The wettability and the broken strength of the modified PET fabric were studied. The results showed that with the increase of the ultraviolet radiation irradiation, the water contact angles of modified PET fabrics decreased greatly. Water contact angle of PET fabric modified with 40g/L nano-TIO2 and 60 min ultraviolet radiation irradiation could decreased to zero in 4.11 seconds. And the capillary rise height of modified PET fabric could increase from 1.1 mm to 110.2 mm. The spraying rate of modified fabric could decrease from 4 to 1 degree, and the water absorption could increase 89.86%. These showed the hydrophobic PET fabric could be modified to super hydrophilic PET fabric. The broken strength of modified PET fabric not only did not decrease, but also increased a little. The broken elongation kept well.
Control and Optimizing of Unstable State in Continuous Casting Process with Automatic System
Authors: Yang Zhi Zheng , Wang Yan Feng , Rao Jiang Ping , Peng Zhu Gang
Published: February 2012

Features and control methods in processes of unstable continuous casting of the 4th department of general steelmaking factory of WISCO were introduced, including ladle free-opening, tundish auto-casting, liquid level control and submerged nozzle’s quick replacing of mould, slag detection of ladle and so on. Countermeasures including updating facilities, improving accurate of controlling system, developing new technology were proved to be effective in practice, they can minimize the bad effect of the unsteady state to the producing stability and slab quality.