bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is hypoxia a stressor to American bullfrog tadpoles?
Authors: Teixeira Patricia C. , França Fernanda M. , Rocha Guilherme C. da , Antonucci Antônio M. , Ferreira Claudia M. , Ranzani-Paiva Maria José T.
Published: June 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate alterations to the physiological profile of cortisol in pro-metamorphose phase tadpoles of Lithobates catesbeianus exposed to hypoxia stressor in a capture experiment and in a crowding experiment. The capture study was performed by the treatments: stress due to individual capture with a hand net, stress due to batch capture with a hand net and stress due to capture by emptying. Three simultaneous replicates was done witch 12 animals were sampled (6 normoxia - immediately blood collection) and 6 hypoxia - blood collection after 15 min of air exposition) in two collection times with 5 days by intervals. The crowding study was performed by the treatments 1 tadpole L-1, 5 tadpoles L-1 and 10 tadpoles L-1. Three simultaneous replicates was done witch 8 animals (4 normoxia and 4 hypoxia) were sampled in the zero moment (ZM) - blood collection before the experiment, 6 animals/treatment (3 normoxia and 3 hypoxia) to 4 and 8 days and 18 animals/treatment (9 normoxia and 9 hypoxia) to 12 days. The average values to plasmatic cortisol varying from 1.7 to 5.1ng mL-1 (capture study) and 1.0 to 4.2ng mL-1 (crowding study). It concludes that the biomarker tested (cortisol) showed no alterations front of the stressor used. Alternatively, a larger response pattern to these stimuli may have been expressed in another level of an unmeasured hormone (corticosterone). And the bullfrog has great ability to adapt to different management compared to other aquatic organisms, which demonstrates the plasticity of these animals.
Produção de cebola cultivada sob diferentes densidades de plantio
Authors: Henriques Gabrielly P. de S. A. , Grangeiro Leilson C. , Paulino Renan da C. , Marrocos Saulo de T. P. , Sousa Valdívia F. L. de , Ribeiro Rayanne M. P.
Published: June 2014

Propôs-se, neste trabalho, avaliar o desempenho agronômico da cebola em diferentes densidades de plantio, em Mossoró, RN. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi em blocos casualizados completos em esquema fatorial 2 x 5, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos consistiram da combinação de duas cultivares de cebola (Vale Ouro IPA 11 e Bella Dura) e cinco densidades de plantio (80, 120, 160, 200 e 240 plantas m-2). As características avaliadas foram: classificação dos bulbos em função do diâmetro transversal; produtividade total, comercial e não comercial; massa média dos bulbos; massa seca dos bulbos e relação do formato de bulbos. A cultivar mais produtiva foi a IPA 11, com produtividade total de 26,76 t ha-1. A densidade que proporcionou maior produtividade total (30,48 t ha-1) foi a de 204 plantas m-2 e comercial (24,74 t ha-1) foi a de 161 plantas m-2. O incremento da densidade reduziu a massa média e seca de bulbo, percentagem de bulbos das classes 2 e 3, mas aumentou a produtividade não comercial, percentagem de bulbos classe 1 (refugo) e relação de formato de bulbo. A cultivar Vale Ouro IPA 11 foi superior ao híbrido Bella Dura com relação à produtividade total de bulbos, massa média de bulbos comerciais e relação de formato, independentemente da densidade de plantio.
Aplicação foliar de aminoácidos e adubação nitrogenada de cobertura na cultura do milho safrinha
Authors: Gazola Diego , Zucareli Claudemir , Silva Raphael R. , Fonseca Ines C. de B.
Published: June 2014

Neste trabalho se objetivou avaliar a aplicação foliar de aminoácidos associada à aplicação de nitrogênio em cobertura, no desempenho produtivo e nas características agronômicas da cultura do milho, cultivado no período da safrinha. O delineamento foi o de blocos ao acaso, em esquema fatorial 4 x 4, com 4 repetições. Foram utilizadas quatro doses de nitrogênio em cobertura (0, 60, 120 e 180 kg ha-1) na forma de ureia e quatro doses de aminoácido (0, 8, 16, e 24 L ha-1) aplicadas via foliar. A cultivar de milho utilizado foi o Pioneer 305 31H. As variáveis analisadas foram teor de nitrogênio foliar, altura de plantas, altura de espiga, diâmetro do colmo, comprimento de espiga, número de fileiras de grãos por espiga, número de grãos por fileira, número de grãos por espiga, massa de 100 grãos e produtividade de grãos. O aminoácido não alterou as variáveis analisadas. O nitrogênio incrementou linearmente as variáveis altura de plantas, altura de inserção de espiga, número de grãos por espiga e número de grãos por fileira. O comprimento de espiga, a massa de mil grãos e a produtividade de grãos obtiveram, respectivamente, máxima resposta ao nitrogênio nas doses de 135,3, 157 e 149,5 kg ha-1.
Caracterização física em duas bacias hidrográficas do Alto Juruá, Acre
Authors: Silva Eth R. da , Delgado Rafael C. , Souza Leonardo P. de , Silva Ismael S. da
Published: June 2014

Objetivou-se, neste trabalho, realizar a caracterização física das Bacias Hidrográficas do Igarapé Canela Fina e Igarapé Preto, ambas localizadas no município de Cruzeiro do Sul, AC. Para a classificação não supervisionada empregou-se o ISODATA através dos produtos do sensor TM, a bordo do satélite Landsat-5 fornecidos pelo Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais. O período avaliado se estende entre os anos de 2005 a 2010. Os resultados mostram um aumento médio de 48,11% em áreas desflorestadas para essas bacias e redução média em áreas florestadas de 50,58%, em consequência de intervenções antrópicas ocorridas ao longo dos últimos anos. As características físicas calculadas demonstraram similaridade entre as bacias hidrográficas, ambas respondem lentamente a eventos hidrológicos e, portanto, não propícias a enchentes. As modificações realizadas ao longo dos últimos anos na superfície das bacias hidrográficas alteraram possivelmente a dinâmica hídrica dos igarapés e os resultados obtidos indicam a eficiência do Sensoriamento Remoto e Sistema de Informação Geográfica na análise da dinâmica espaço-tempo da vegetação e caracterização morfométrica das bacias hidrográficas.
Distribuição de probabilidades para precipitação máxima diária na Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio Verde, Minas Gerais
Authors: Franco Camila S. , Marques Rosângela F. P. V. , Oliveira Alisson S. , Oliveira Luiz F. C. de
Published: June 2014

Estimativas probabilísticas de eventos extremos são de grande relevância para o planejamento das atividades humanas. As distribuições de probabilidade possibilitam a estimativa de eventos de precipitação máxima diária anual associados às suas frequências de ocorrência. Objetivou-se, com este trabalho, identificar, dentre as distribuições Gumbel, Gama a 2 parâmetros e Generalizada de Valores Extremos (GEV), qual a mais indicada para aplicação às séries históricas de precipitação máxima diária anual na bacia hidrográfica do rio Verde, no Sul de Minas Gerais. Os parâmetros de cada distribuição foram estimados pelos métodos dos momentos, máxima verossimilhança e momentos-L. Para tal, foram empregadas, neste estudo, oito estações pluviométricas com séries históricas de, no mínimo, 20 anos de dados, distribuídas pela bacia hidrográfica. Pelos testes de adequação de Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Qui-Quadrado, Anderson Darling e Filliben, a distribuição Gumbel, estimada pelos três métodos, obteve os ajustes menos adequados. A distribuição GEV, pelo método dos momentos-L, foi a mais adequada para análise probabilística de precipitação máxima diária na Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio Verde, devendo ser priorizada para planejamentos na região.
Cervical Cancer in Ethiopia: Survival of 1,059 Patients Who Received Oncologic Therapy
Authors: Kantelhardt Eva Johanna , Moelle Ulrike , Begoihn Matthias , Addissie Adamu , Trocchi Pietro , Yonas Bekuretsion , Hezkiel Petros , Stang Andreas , Thomssen Christoph , Vordermark Dirk , Gemechu Tufa , Gebrehiwot Yirgu , Wondemagegnehu Tigeneh , Aynalem Abreha , Mathewos Assefa
Published: June 2014

Background.

Almost 500,000 women are newly diagnosed with cervical cancer (CC) every year, the majority from developing countries. There is little information on the survival of these patients. Our primary objective was to evaluate consecutive CC patients presenting over 4 years at the only radiotherapy center in Ethiopia.

Methods.

All patients with CC from September 2008 to September 2012 who received radiotherapy and/or surgery were included (without brachytherapy). Vital status was obtained through telephone contact or patient cards.

Results.

Of 2,300 CC patients, 1,059 patients with standardized treatment were included. At the end of the study, 249 patients had died; surviving patients had a median follow-up of 16.5 months; the 10% and 90% percentiles were 3.0 and 32.7 months, respectively. Mean age was 49 years (21–91 years). The majority of patients presented with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage IIb–IIIa (46.7%). Because of progression during the waiting time (median 3.8 months), this proportion declined to 19.3% at the beginning of radiotherapy. The 1- and 2-year overall survival probabilities were 90.4% and 73.6%. If assuming a worst-case scenario (i.e., if all patients not available for follow-up after 6 months had died), the 2-year survival probability would be 45.4%.

Conclusion.

This study gives a thorough 4-year overview of treated patients with CC in Ethiopia. Given the limited treatment availability, a relatively high proportion of patients survived 2 years. More prevention and early detection at all levels of the health care system are needed. Increasing the capacity for external-beam radiation as well as options for brachytherapy would facilitate treatment with curative intention.
Estimates of Young Breast Cancer Survivors at Risk for Infertility in the U.S.
Authors: Trivers Katrina F. , Fink Aliza K. , Partridge Ann H. , Oktay Kutluk , Ginsburg Elizabeth S. , Li Chunyu , Pollack Lori A.
Published: June 2014

Background.

Standard treatments for breast cancer can impair fertility. It is unknown how many U.S. survivors are at risk for infertility. We estimated the population at risk for infertility secondary to treatment among reproductive-aged breast cancer survivors.

Methods.

We combined data from three sources: the National Program of Cancer Registries (NPCR) and Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results cancer registry data on incident breast cancers diagnosed in women aged 15–44 years between 2004 and 2006; treatment data from NPCR's 2004 Breast and Prostate Cancer Data Quality and Patterns of Care (PoC) study; and data on women's intentions to have children from the 2006–2010 National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG).

Results.

In the cancer registry data, an average of 20,308 women with breast cancer aged <45 years were diagnosed annually. Based on estimates from PoC data, almost all of these survivors (97%, 19,416 women) were hormone receptor positive or received chemotherapy and would be at risk for infertility. These women need information about the impact of treatments on fertility. Estimates based on NSFG data suggest approximately half of these survivors (9,569 women) might want children and could benefit from fertility counseling and fertility preservation.

Conclusion.

Nearly all young breast cancer survivors in the U.S. are at risk for infertility. Physicians should discuss the potential impact of treatment on fertility. A smaller but sizeable number of at-risk survivors may be interested in having children. Given the magnitude of potential infertility and its quality-of-life implications, these survivors should have access to and potential coverage for fertility services.
FOLFOX-4 Chemotherapy for Patients With Unresectable or Relapsed Peritoneal Pseudomyxoma
Authors: Pietrantonio Filippo , Maggi Claudia , Fanetti Giuseppe , Iacovelli Roberto , Di Bartolomeo Maria , Ricchini Francesca , Deraco Marcello , Perrone Federica , Baratti Dario , Kusamura Shigeki , Tamborini Elena , Castano Alessandra , Consonni Paola Valentina , Bossi Ilaria , Gavazzi Cecilia , Milione Massimo , Pelosi Giuseppe , de Braud Filippo
Published: June 2014

Purpose.

The standard treatment of peritoneal pseudomyxoma is based on cytoreductive surgery combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). The establishment of newer systemic treatments is an unmet clinical need for unresectable or relapsed peritoneal pseudomyxoma. The aim of our study was to assess the activity of chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX-4 regimen) in terms of response rate in this subset of patients.

Materials and Methods.

Patients were included in a single-center, observational study and treated with FOLFOX-4 administered every 2 weeks for up to 12 cycles or until progressive disease or unacceptable toxicity.

Results.

Twenty consecutive patients were reviewed from July 2011 to September 2013. Only partial responses were observed, with an objective response rate of 20%. Median progression-free survival and overall survival were 8 months and 26 months, respectively. Two patients were able to undergo laparotomy with complete cytoreduction and HIPEC in one case. Safety data for FOLFOX-4 were consistent with the literature. By means of a mutant enriched polymerase chain reaction, KRAS mutation was found in 16 of 19 cases (84%), and MGMT promoter methylation was found in 8 (42%, all KRAS mutant).

Conclusion.

FOLFOX-4 chemotherapy is tolerable and active in patients with peritoneal pseudomyxoma when disease is deemed unresectable or relapsed after peritonectomy and HIPEC. The identification of predictive biomarkers, such as KRAS for resistance to anti-epidermal growth factor receptor monoclonal antibodies and MGMT for response to temozolomide, is a priority for the development of evidence-based treatment strategies for peritoneal pseudomyxoma.
Soil–structure interaction analysis on anisotropic stratified medium
Authors: LIN G. , HAN Z. , LI J.
Published: June 2014

A hybrid numerical approach based on precise integration algorithm (PIA) and mixed variable formulation (MVF) of the wave motion equation is proposed for the soil–structure interaction (SSI) analysis on anisotropic multi-layered half-space. The wave propagation in general anisotropic stratified soil overlying an elastic half-space is solved analytically in the frequency wave-number domain and the integration is performed by PIA. Very high accuracy can be achieved. The MVF of the wave motion equation makes the assembly of layers simple and convenient. All calculation is based on matrix algebra; effective digits are preserved and computational effort can be saved to a great extent. The computation is always stable. Numerical examples for evaluation of the dynamic impedance of a foundation on anisotropic stratified soil are provided. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is validated.
Additive effects of pollinators and herbivores result in both conflicting and reinforcing selection on floral traits
Authors: Sletvold Nina , Moritz Kim K. , Ågren Jon
Published: June 2014

Mutualists and antagonists are known to respond to similar floral cues, and may thus cause opposing selection on floral traits. However, we lack a quantitative understanding of their independent and interactive effects. In a population of the orchid Gymnadenia conopsea, we manipulated the intensity of pollination and herbivory in a factorial design to examine whether both interactions influence selection on flowering phenology, floral display, and morphology. Supplemental hand‐pollination increased female fitness by 31% and one‐quarter of all plants were damaged by herbivores. Both interactions contributed to selection. Pollinators mediated selection for later flowering and herbivores for earlier flowering, while both selected for longer spurs. The strength of selection was similar for both agents, and their effects were additive. As a consequence, there was no net selection on phenology, whereas selection on spur length was strong. The experimental results demonstrate that both pollinators and herbivores can markedly influence the strength of selection on flowering phenology and floral morphology, and cause both conflicting and reinforcing selection. They also indicate that the direction of selection on phenology will vary with the relative intensity of the mutualistic and antagonistic interaction, potentially resulting in both temporal and among‐population variation in optimal flowering time.
Improved derivatization protocol for simultaneous determination of alkylphenol ethoxylates and brominated flame retardants followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses
Authors: Chokwe T. B. , Okonkwo J. O. , Sibali L. L. , Ncube E. J.
Published: June 2014

An improved derivatization protocol for the simultaneous determination of alkylphenol ethoxylates and brominated flame retardants with heptafluorobutyric anhydride under triethylamine amine base was investigated. The derivatization reaction was completed in 30 min at 50 °C using hexane as solvent. Under these conditions, it was observed that alkylphenol ethoxylates and tetrabromobisphenol A were derivatized successfully in the presence of hexabromocyclododecane, lower congeners of polybrominated biphenyls and polybrominated diphenyl ethers. The improved protocol was applied to the recover of the analytes of interest from a simulated water sample after solid phase extraction. The recoveries achieved were above 60%. The limit of detection and limit of quantification ranged from 0.01–0.20 and 0.05–0.66 μg L−1, respectively. The improved derivatization procedure was also successfully applied to determine trace amounts of these compounds in environmental water samples. The concentrations of the targeted analytes from the environmental samples were determined from limit of quantification. The levels of the targeted compounds in the environmental samples ranged from nd-7.63 ±2.83 μg L−1.
Domestic wastewater treatment and biofuel production by using microalga Scenedesmus sp. ZTY1
Authors: Zhang Tian-Yuan , Wu Yin-Hu , Hu Hong-Ying
Published: June 2014

Cultivation of microalgae for biomass production is a promising way to dispose of wastewater and recover nutrients simultaneously. The properties of nutrient removal and biomass production in domestic wastewater of a newly isolated microalga Scenedesmus sp. ZTY1 were investigated in this study. Scenedesmus sp. ZTY1, which was isolated from a wastewater treatment plant in Beijing, grew well in both the primary and secondary effluents of a wastewater treatment plant during the 21-day cultivation, with a maximal algal density of 3.6 × 106 and 1.9 × 106 cells · mL−1, respectively. The total phosphorus concentrations in both effluents could be efficiently removed by over 97% after the cultivation. A high removal rate (over 90%) of total nitrogen (TN) was also observed. After cultivation in primary effluent for 21 days, the lipid content of Scenedesmus sp. ZTY1 in dry weight had reached about 32.2%. The lipid and triacylglycerol (TAG) production of Scenedesmus sp. ZTY1 was increased significantly with the extension of cultivation time. The TAG production of Scenedesmus sp. ZTY1 increased from 32 mg L−1 at 21 d to 148 mg L−1 at 45 d in primary effluent. All the experiments were carried out in non-sterilized domestic wastewater and Scenedesmus sp. ZTY1 showed good adaptability to the domestic wastewater environment.
Contrasting patterns of nutrient dynamics during different storm events in a semi-arid catchment of northern China
Authors: Du Xinzhong , Li Xuyong , Hao Shaonan , Wang Huiliang , Shen Xiao
Published: June 2014

Nutrient discharge during storm events is a critical pathway for nutrient export in semi-arid catchments. We investigated nutrient dynamics during three summer storms characterized by different rainfall magnitude in 2012 in a semi-arid catchment of northern China. The results showed that, in response to storm events, nutrient dynamics displayed big variation in temporal trends of nutrient concentration and in nutrient concentration-flow discharge relationships. Nutrient concentrations had broader fluctuations during an extreme storm than during lesser storms, whereas the concentration ranges of the a moderate storm were no broader than those of a smaller one. The different concentration fluctuations were caused by storm magnitude and intensity coupled with the antecedent rainfall amount and cumulative nutrients. Correlation coefficients between nutrient concentrations and flow discharge varied from positive to negative for the three different events. There were no consistent hysteresis effects for the three different events, and no hysteresis effects were observed for any of the variables during the moderate storm (E2). Our findings provide useful information for better understanding nutrient loss mechanisms during storm events in semi-arid areas of a monsoon climate region.
Optimization of electrochemical decolorization of certain arylazo pyridone dyes
Authors: Mirkovic Jelena , Prlainovic Nevena , Uscumlic Gordana , Grgur Branimir , Mijin Dusan
Published: June 2014

Electrocatalytic decolorization of the arylazo pyridone dyes has been
investigated in the presence of sodium chloride using DSA Ti/PtOx electrode
in the diluted sodium hydroxide. Decolorization can be attributed to the
indirect oxidation of the investigated dyes by the electrogenerated
hypochlorite formed from the chloride oxidation. Electrochemical
decolorization has been investigated for the different sodium hydroxide
concentration in the range from 40 mg dm-3 to 4 g dm-3, sodium chloride
concentration in the range from 15 to 40 g dm-3, agitation speed in the
range from 150 to 500 rpm, currents in the range of 100 to 250 mA, and dye
concentration from 5 to 20 mg dm-3. The optimum electrolysis conditions have
been suggested. Effect of substituents on the reaction rate has also been
studied.
Morphological and molecular characterization of Posthodiplostomum sp. (Digenea: Diplostomidae) metacercaria in the muscles of snakeheads (Channa punctata) from Manipur, India
Authors: Athokpam V. , Tandon V.
Published: June 2014

The spotted snakehead, Channa punctata Bloch, 1793, is a locally important fish species commonly consumed by the natives in the state of Manipur, Northeast India. The fish host C. punctata from Lamphel area revealed a diplostomid metacercarial infection. Morphologically, the recovered metacercaria was identified as a species of Posthodiplostomum Dubois, 1936. Molecular characterization using the ribosomal RNA genes (rDNA 18S, ITS2 and 28S regions) and the mitochondrial CO1 region supplements the identification. Molecular analysis revealed the metacercaria to be closely related to Posthodiplostomum sp. Japan isolate, with sequence similarity variation from 97.5–99.7 % while considering for the three rDNA markers. The secondary structure of the ITS2 region further corroborated these results; the typical four-helix model, when compared to the taxon from Japan, showed differences only in twelve bases (with seven transitions and five transversions). In phylogenetic analysis also, the metacercaria claded with the genus Posthodiplostomum, coming closer to the Japanese isolate, thus supplementing the morphological identification of the metacercaria.
Characterization of Longidorus caespiticola (Nematoda: Longidoridae) from the Czech Republic
Authors: Kumari S.
Published: June 2014

Longidorus caespiticola was found for the first time from the rhizosphere of apple with two other Longidorus sp. at Žlunice, Czech Republic. Females and males were analyzed morphologically and morphometrically. Four regions (18S, ITS1, ITS2, D2-D3 expansion segments of 28S) of ribosomal DNA and one region (cox1) of mitochondrial DNA were sequenced and analyzed and compared with a population from the Slovak Republic. The partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene showed relatively high genetic variation compared with ribosomal DNA between the Czech and Slovakian populations.
Science, stories and the anti-vaccination movement
Authors: Veselková Marcela
Published: June 2014

This paper discusses the theoretical and methodological approaches to the study of the use or non-use of expert-based information in policy-making. Special attention is paid to the Narrative Policy Framework introduced by Jones & McBeth in 2010. This theory of the policy process adopts a quantitative, structuralist and positivist approach to the study of policy narratives. The Narrative Policy Framework is useful for the analysis of the use of expert-based information to resolve so-called wicked problems, which are characterized by intense value-based conflict between policy coalitions. The methodological approach of the Narrative Policy Framework is illustrated using the policy issue of mandatory vaccination.
Central civil service management structures as brokers of de-politicization and evidence based civil service management: A typology
Authors: Staňová Ľudmila
Published: June 2014

This article provides a methodological tool for studying central civil service management structures (CCSMS) and their role in de-politicizing the civil service, thereby contributing to evidence-based civil service management. This tool can be used in comparative studies of CCSMS across, but also within countries, since civil service management functions are often split between several central organizations in one country. The comparative study of CCSMS is particularly useful for contemporary policy makers in EU member states, who currently face the challenge of reforming civil service systems due to EU pressure. There is therefore an urgent need to establish which type of central structure would effectively support the EU’s favored values of professionalizing and de-politicizing the civil service. Stemming from theory on organizational autonomy, our typology focuses on two key dimensions of the CCSMS that support these values: decision-making autonomy over individual civil servants and structural accountability.
Researching social influences on decision making: The case for qualitative methods
Authors: Masaryk Radomír
Published: June 2014

Research on decision making has mainly been based on economic models that have tried to downplay the overall context of decision-making situations. When we look into the social influences on decision making we realize it is crucial that we bring the issue of context back into the spotlight. In the present paper we explore the methodological foundations of selected qualitative approaches for studying social influences on decision-making, focusing especially on their strengths and weaknesses. We conclude that this area has great potential for further research providing academic rigor is maintained when using qualitative methods.
Can a magic wand plausibly be used in serious psychological research? The complications of researching the ideal age at which to be a parent through the eyes of the child
Authors: Konečná Hana , Kocourková Jiřina , Burcin Boris , Kučera Tomáš , Davidová Karolína
Published: June 2014

There is a growing trend in European countries for childbearing to occur later in women’s lives. The recent increase in the use of ART, together with the long-term trend towards later childbearing, raises questions as to the acceptable age of childbearing in contemporary society. ART legislation varies considerably across Europe and age limits for access to fertility treatment are rarely defined. The legislation takes into account the preferences of potential parents; children’s preferences, however, are not ascertained. The article discusses a research method used in a survey of older children and young adults. The objective of the survey was to answer the following questions: What age would children prefer their parents to be if they could choose? What are their reasons? Respondents were asked the following question: “How old would you like your mother and father to be when you are 20 (version for respondents younger than 16) or 25 (version for those older than 16) if you could wave a magic wand?” Furthermore, their reasons for wishing a change were identified through an open question, “Why would you like to change the age of your parents?”
Analysis of selected compounds in the surface water of lake Oleckie Wielkie
Authors: Kluska Mariusz , Witkowska-Krajewska Ewa , Marciniuk-Kluska Anna
Published: June 2014

The paper presents the results of research on the content of 16 PAH, selected anions and heavy metals in samples collected from Lake Oleckie Wielkie. The samples were collected at seven locations around the lake within about 15 m from the shore in November 2012. The highest total concentration of 16 PAH (68.58 μmol dm−3) was found in water sample no. 7, and the lowest in water samples no. 1, 4 and 5. The obtained results do not exceed the levels of standards accepted in Poland for the surface water. The analysis of collected water samples, performed with the isotachophoresis method, showed a low content (less than 4 mg dm−3) of the analyzed anions: nitrates(V), nitrates(III), chlorides, sulphates(VI), sulphates(IV), phosphates(V) and hydrocarbonates(IV), as well as a low content of the analyzed heavy metals.
Larval development and settlement of the barnacle Amphibalanus amphitrite from the Red Sea: Influence of the nauplii hatching season
Authors: Al-Aidaroos Ali , Satheesh Sathianeson
Published: June 2014

Barnacle Amphibalanus amphitrite adults were collected from the Jeddah coast of the Red Sea during different seasons. The nauplii released by adults in autumn, winter, spring and summer were reared under laboratory conditions to know the larval development duration and settlement in relation to the hatching season. The nauplii reared during winter (11 days) and autumn (13 days) took longer to reach the cypris stage compared to nauplii reared in summer (6 days) and spring (7 days). The most successful settlement of larvae was observed in spring and summer and the least successful — in winter. The observations of gonads showed that summer and spring are the active breeding season for A. amphitrite in the Red Sea. The results of this study indicated that the nauplii hatching season plays a significant role in the larval development and settlement of barnacles in the Red Sea.
Parsing Disciplinary Disproportionality
Authors: Skiba Russell J. , Chung Choong-Geun , Trachok Megan , Baker Timberly L. , Sheya Adam , Hughes Robin L.
Published: June 2014

In the context of a national conversation about exclusionary discipline, we conducted a multilevel examination of the relative contributions of infraction, student, and school characteristics to rates of and racial disparities in out-of-school suspension and expulsion. Type of infraction; race, gender, and to a certain extent socioeconomic status at the individual level; and, at the school level, mean school achievement, percentage Black enrollment, and principal perspectives all contributed to the probability of out-of-school suspension or expulsion. For racial disparities, however, school-level variables, including principal perspectives on discipline, appear to be among the strongest predictors. Such a pattern suggests that schools and districts looking to reduce racial and ethnic disparities in discipline would do well to focus on school- and classroom-based interventions.
Morphological variation in maize inbred lines
Authors: Shrestha Jiban
Published: June 2014

In order to identify morphological variation in maize inbred lines, one hundred five inbred lines were planted under randomized complete block design with two replications at research field of National Maize Research Program, Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal during summer season (March to June), 2010. Descriptive statistics and cluster analysis were done. The results revealed a wide range of morphological variation among the tested inbred lines. The inbred lines grouped in cluster 4 namely PUTU-13, L-9, RL-105, RL-197, RL-103, RML-9, RML-41, RL-165, RL-36, RL-76, RL-125, RL-30-3, L-6, RL-107, RL-174, RL-41, L-13, RML-76 and L-5 had 0.833 days anthesis-silking interval and earlier in flowering (tasseling in 54.50 days and silking in 55.33 days). Moreover they consisted of 1.16 plant aspect, 1.25 ear aspect, 33.08 cm tassel length and 13.5 tassel branch number. Among tested lines, the above inbred lines had better morphological traits, so it was concluded that they were good candidates for development of hybrids and synthetic varieties. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v3i2.10521 International Journal of the Environment Vol.3(2) 2014: 98-107
Breeding biology of domesticated Eurasian Collared Dove (Columbidae) Streptopelia decaocto Frivaldszky 1838 in Saidpur, Bangladesh
Authors: Kabir M Ashraful
Published: June 2014

Two pairs of domesticated Eurasian Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto reared at eighteen months for its breeding performance in intensive system. One pair was homozygous albino al//al x al//al and another pair was one wild type +//al and another albino al//al. Another experimented four pairs of doves were produced from these two pairs. Out of six pairs total 114 squabs were produced during the research period. Total three albino pairs produced 100% albino squab and different coloured male and female produced different colours which were 50% each. Sex ratio of male and female were observed 1:1. Experimental doves were reared in cages measures 23x20x16 and 25x22x18 inches and feed were supplied all day long with wheat, corn, mustard, broken rice and burnt soil. Intake feed were 15 gram per dove in a day. During the time of this observation only hypervitaminosis and worm infestations were observed and the mortality rate was few. Only in one pair (rosy ? x wild type ?) produced 11 male (46%) and 13 female (54%) out of 24 squabs; this was slightly exceptional. In total 114 squabs from six pairs only one rosy male and pied rosy female were found. Breeding record of this research suggests that the colour patterns are first wild type then rosy and finally albino gradually.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v3i2.10571 International Journal of the Environment Vol.3(2) 2014: 48-54
Genetic engineering, a hope for sustainable biofuel production: review
Authors: Paudel Sudip , Menze Michael A
Published: June 2014

The use of recently developed genetic engineering tools in combination with organisms that have the potential to produce precursors for the production of biodiesel, promises a sustainable and environment friendly energy source. Enhanced lipid production in wild type and/or genetically engineered organisms can offer sufficient raw material for industrial transesterification of plant-based triglycerides. Bio-diesel, produced with the help of genetically modified organisms, might be one of the best alternatives to fossil fuels and to mitigate various environmental hazards. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ije.v3i2.10644 International Journal of the Environment Vol.3(2) 2014: 311-323
Synthesis of Some Novel 4-Acyl-3-Oxo-4-Aza-5-Pregnene-20E-Oxime Ester Derivatives as Potent 5α-Reductase Inhibitors
Authors: Chen Shao-Rui , Shen Feng-Juan , Liu Sheng-Qian
Published: June 2014

3-Oxo-4-aza-5-pregnene-20 E-oxime was synthesised from the starting material progesterone through oxidative ring cleavage, amination ring closure and oximation. The configuration of the oxime was determined from the 2D-NOESY spectrum. A series of oxime ester derivatives were obtained through the acylation of the oxime, their structures were confirmed by ESI-MS, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and HRMS.
Green Synthesis of 1-Aryl-1,12-Dihydrobenzo[h]Pyrano[c]Chromene Derivatives
Authors: Eshlaghi Maryam Abbasi , Mirza Behrooz , Zeeb Mohsen
Published: June 2014

An efficient green synthesis of eight 3-amino-12-oxo-1-aryl-1,12-dihydrobenzo[ h]pyrano[3,2- c]chromene-2-carbonitriles may be achieved by a three-component, one-pot reaction between 4-hydroxy-2 H-benzo[ h]chromen-2-one, malononitrile and various araldehydes in water in the presence of NEt3.
Synthesis of N-(5-Aryl-1,3,4-Thiadiazol-2-yl)-2-(3-Oxo-1,2-Benzothiazol-2(3H)-yl)Acetamide Derivatives Promoted by Carbodiimide Condensation
Authors: Yu Peng , Hu Jun , Wan Rong , Li Xi , Zheng Shanlong , Xu Yanhua
Published: June 2014

Novel N-(5-aryl-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)-2-(3-oxo-1,2-benzothiazol-2(3 H)-yl)acetamide derivatives were prepared by 1-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-3-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride and N-hydroxybenzotrizole condensation catalysis in a convenient and fast method. These compounds were identified by IR, 1H NMR and elemental analyses and the intermediate compound 5-(2-chlorophenyl)-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-amine was confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction.
Barsilowsky's Base and Perkin's Base: Two Products from the Oxidation of P-Toluidine
Authors: Plater M. John , Harrison William T.A.
Published: June 2014

The oxidation of p-toluidine in H+/H2O can give mainly a tetramer, a trimer, or a mixture of both. The outcome is dependent upon the oxidant, the pH and the concentration of p-toluidine. Both the trimer and tetramer are definitively characterised by X-ray single crystal structure determination.
Synthesis of Aroyl[bis(4-Hydroxycoumarin-3-yl)]Methane Using Tungstate Sulfuric Acid in Water
Authors: Khodabakhshi Saeed , Karami Bahador , Baghernejad Mojtaba
Published: June 2014

An efficient synthesis of some new aroyl[bis(4-hydroxycoumarin-3-yl)]methanes (dicoumarols) based on the reaction of 4-hydroxycoumarin with arylglyoxals is described. The reactions were efficiently catalysed by tungstate sulfuric acid to afford the product in moderate to good yields (up to 65%).
Regioselective and Stereospecific Synthesis, Crystal Structure and NMR Assignments of N-[(Z)-1-Oxo-1,3-Diphenylprop-2-en-2-yl]-4-Nitrobenzamide
Authors: Samimi Heshmat Allah , Yamin Bohari M.
Published: June 2014

Isomerisation of cis and trans N-acyl-2-benzoyl-3-phenylaziridines to the corresponding N-( E) and N-[( Z)-1-oxo-1-aryl-3-phenylprop-2-en-2-yl]-4-benzamide, respectively, in the presence of diethyl thiourea is described. The structure of N-[( Z)-1-oxo-1-phenyl-3-phenylprop-2-en-2-yl]-4-nitrobenzamide is also confirmed by the single crystal X-ray diffraction study. A mechanism for this regiospecific rearrangement is proposed.
Facile Synthesis of Some Novel 6-Alkyl or Aryl-7H-Tetrazolo[5,1-b][1,3,4] Thiadiazine
Authors: Eftekhar Melika , Eshghi Hossein , Rahimizadeh Mohammad , Bakavoli Mehdi , Saberi Sattar
Published: June 2014

New bis-heterocyclic thiadiazine derivatives containing a tetrazole nucleus have been synthesised by simple, high yielding routes and characterised by FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and mass spectral analysis. The key step in the construction of the six-substituted 7H-tetrazolo[5,1-b][1,3,4]thiadiazine derivatives involved the cyclocondensation of sodium 1-amino-1H-tetrazole-5-thiolate with α-haloketones. The radical scavenging activity of the new tetrazolothiadiazines was also investigated.
Novel Synthesis, Characterisation and Antitumour Activity of Dimethyl-3,6-di(Aryl)-1,4-Dihydro-1,2,4,5-Tetrazine-1,4-Dicarboxylates
Authors: Lv Lu-Ping , Zhou Xiao-Feng , Shi Hai-Bo , Gao Jian-Rong , Hu Wei-Xiao
Published: June 2014

A series of new dimethyl-3,6-di(aryl)-1,4-dihydro-1,2,4,5-tetrazine-1,4-dicarboxylates were synthesised through an intermolecular cyclisation reaction of methyl N'-(α-chloro-substituted benzylidene) hydrazinecarboxylate and triethylamine. Their 1,4-dihydro-s-tetrazine structures were characterised by IR, 1H NMR, MS, elemental analysis. Their antitumour activities were evaluated in vitro by the SRB method for A-549 cells and the MTT method for P-388 cells. The results show that none of the compounds had a high activity, but the substituents clearly had an effect on their antitumour activity.
A Base-Induced Ring-Opening Process of 2-Substituted-1,3,4-Oxadiazoles for the Generation of Nitriles at Room Temperature
Authors: Lu Guo-ping , Lin Ya-mei
Published: June 2014

A novel base-catalysed 1,3,4-oxadiazole fragmentation for the synthesis of nitriles at room temperature has been developed. This reaction is performed under transition-metal-free conditions, and provides a new ring cleavage reaction of 1,3,4-oxadiazoles in organic synthesis.
A Concise Synthesis of (±)-Methoxyfumimycin Ethyl Ester
Authors: Zhou Zhiwang , Hu Yu , Wang Bin , He Xiaoru , Ren Gang , Feng Lihua
Published: June 2014

The protecting-group-free synthesis of (±)-methoxyfumimycin ethyl ester, a potential bacterial peptide deformylase (PDF) inhibitor, is reported. The synthetic approach features a tandem Friedel–Crafts alkylation/lactonisation access as a key reaction to generate α, α-disubstituted amino acid unit.
Stereoselective Synthesis of 1′,5′,7′,8′-Tetrahydro-2′H,4′H-Dispiro[[1,3] Dioxane-5,3′-Quinoline-6′,5″-[1″,3″]Dioxane]-4,4″,6,6″-Tetrone Derivatives in the Presence of Benzoic Acid as an Efficient Catalyst Via One-Pot Multicomponent Reaction
Authors: Salahi Sajjad , Hazeri Nourallah , Maghsoodlou Malek Taher , García-Granda Santiago , Torre-Fernández Laura
Published: June 2014

A simple and efficient pseudo eight-component synthesis of 1′,5′,7′,8′-tetrahydro-2′ H,4′ H-dispiro[[1,3]dioxane-5,3′-quinoline-6′,5″-[1″,3″]dioxane]-4,4″,6,6″-tetrone derivatives is described. This reaction between, aromatic aldehydes, aromatic amines and Meldrum's acid in the presence of benzoic acid as an efficient catalyst at ambient temperature affords the product in good yields.
Cypselar diversity in four species of Senecio L. (Asteraceae)
Authors: Talukdar Tulika , Mukherjee Sobhan Kumar
Published: June 2014

The genus Senecio L. is one of the largest genera of flowering plants and is an important member of the tribe Senecioneae (Asteraceae). Phenotypic information, including a broad range of morphological characters is very crucial for phylogenetic reconsideration of any family, tribe or genus. In the family Asteraceae, very little attention has been paid to cypselar diversity, though it is regarded as taxonomically valuable. A sincere attempt has been made to study detailed cypselas macro and micro-morphological features of four species of Senecio L. These diacritical features could be used to strengthen current inter-specific concept of Senecio L.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpt.v21i1.19251Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 21(1): 13-17, 2014 (June)
Stomatal and trichome diversity in Senna Mill. from Bangladesh
Authors: Begum Ayesa , Rahman Md. Oliur , Begum Momtaz
Published: June 2014

Foliar epidermal characters of ten species of Senna Mill. found in Bangladesh are investigated. Anisocytic, anomocytic, paracytic, tetracytic and haxacytic stomata are found across the species. Anisocytic and paracytic stomata are common in all species. In addition to anisocytic and paracytic types, anomocytic stomata are found in Senna sophera and hexacytic stomata are observed in S. auriculata. Anticlinal wall is straight in S. alata, S. hirsuta, S. occidentalis, S. siamea and S. tora, curved in S. auriculata, S. sophera and S. siamea, and undulate in S. hirsuta and S. occidentalis. Glandular trichomes are observed in S. hirsuta and S. occidentalis, while non-gladular trichomes are predominant in the remaining species.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpt.v21i1.19264Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 21(1): 43-51, 2014 (June)
Taxonomic identity of Theriophonum danielii and T. manickamii (Araceae)
Authors: Sivadasan M. , Jaleel V. Abdul , Alfarhan Ahmed H. , Lakshminarasimhan P.
Published: June 2014

The genus Theriophonum (Araceae), represented by seasonally dormant tuberous perennials is endemic to India and Sri Lanka. Critical taxonomic appraisal of the constituent species supports existence of only five species, viz. T. dalzellii, T. fischeri, T. infaustum, T. minutum and T. sivaganganum, and all are with restricted distribution in India. Theriophonum minutum is the only species with extended distribution in Sri Lanka. The recently described T. danielii and T. manickamii are considered here as conspecific with T. infaustum and T. fischeri, respectively.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpt.v21i1.19269Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 21(1): 63-70, 2014 (June)
Determination of informant consensus factor of ethnomedicinal plants used in Kalenga forest, Bangladesh
Authors: Uddin Mohammad Zashim , Hassan Md. Abdul
Published: June 2014

The present article tried to document the ethnomedicinal uses of plants and determine the consensus factor among villagers of Kalenga forest area to evaluate the potential for new drugs of herbal origin. This study was conducted in 2010 using semi-structured questionnaire with villagers engaged in the forest management. The present study documented 35 plant species under 25 families for treatment of 11 categories of ailments using 52 medicinal formularies in Kalenga forest area. There was great agreement among the informants regarding ethnomedicinal uses of plants with Factor of Informants Consensus (FIC) value ranging from 0.50 to 0.95, with an average value of 0.73. The study revealed that most of the informants agreed in the use of Litsea glutinosa (Lour.) Roxb. to treat dysentery (FIC 0.95) that showed the highest fidelity level (95.23%). The results of the study also indicated that L. glutinosa might be used for the development of new, cheap, effective, and eco-friendly herbal formulations for healthcare management. Villagers views and our observations confirmed that L. glutinosa is a rare plant in the study area. Illegal and unsustainable collection of bark from this tree by the local crude drug traders considered as major causes of its depletion from nature.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpt.v21i1.19272Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 21(1): 83-91, 2014 (June)
Solieria robusta (Greville) Kylin - New record of a marine red alga for Bangladesh
Authors: Chowdhury Abdullah Harun
Published: June 2014

Not available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpt.v21i1.19274Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 21(1): 97-99, 2014 (June)
Gynura nepalensis DC. (Asteraceae) - A new angiosperm record for Bangladesh
Authors: Afroz Sumona , Uddin Mohammad Zashim , Hassan Md. Abul
Published: June 2014

Not available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpt.v21i1.19275Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 21(1): 101-104, 2014 (June)
Efficacy and Efficiency of Italian Energy Policy: The Case of PV Systems in Greenhouse Farms
Authors: Sgroi Filippo , Tudisca Salvatore , Di Trapani Anna , Testa Riccardo , Squatrito Riccardo
Published: June 2014

The production of energy from renewable sources is a form of energy production that has less impact on the environment than the traditional one. For the farmer this new form of production represents an opportunity, especially for the economic benefits that can produce, both in terms of the incentives provided by the public operator and for higher revenues, deriving from the sale of energy back to the grid and/or the savings generated by self-consumed energy, that help to increase the farmer’s income. In this paper, we analyzed a case study of a farm that has realized a grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system on a greenhouse. In particular, firstly the farm profitability has been estimated and subsequently, in order to assess the efficiency of the energy policy adopted by the Second Conto Energia in Italy, the minimum incentive tariff at which the entrepreneur has an economic advantage to realize a PV system has been determined. Results show that PV system relegates to a marginal role the cultivation of agricultural products compared to energy production and that government PV remuneration policies far outweigh the minimum threshold that makes the investment advantageous.