bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genotypic Variation for Morphological Traits in a White Clover Mapping Population Evaluated Across Two Environments and Three Years
Authors: Jahufer M. Z. Z. , Dunn A. , Baird I. , Ford J. L. , Griffiths A. G. , Jones C. S. , Woodfield D. R. , Barrett B. A.
Published: February 2013

Phenotypic measurements of plants growing in swards are often confounded by a combination of environmental variation and experimental error. Genetic analysis allows plant scientists to decipher genomic regulation control of key traits, informing breeding strategies and enabling marker‐aided breeding. Our research objective was to estimate genotypic variation for a range of key aboveground morphological traits in a white clover (Trifolium repens L.) F1 mapping population evaluated over 3 yr across two contrasting New Zealand environments in mixed sward conditions. Significant (P < 0.05) genotypic variation for internode length, node number, stolon branching, and stolon thickness was observed, both within individual environments and also across environments and years. There was also significant (P < 0.05) genotypic variation within the population for herbage growth within seasons and across years at the Palmerston North site, which was related to the morphological characters. The potential genetic variation was also characterized by repeatability estimated within individual environments and across environments and years. Analysis of progeny performance across years within a site indicated significant (P < 0.05) genotype × year interaction for most of the morphological traits and mean seasonal growth. There was also significant (P < 0.05) genotype × environment × year interaction for some traits. The significant and large genotype × environment interactions emphasized the importance of trials conducted across multiple environments and years in perennials such as white clover. Genotypes with positive correlation between herbage growth and stolon branching, a trait associated with vegetative persistence, were identified. An interesting observation was the range of diverse phenotypes within the population, the result of a simple pair cross between two morphologically and genetically distinct parents. When extended to include a marker analysis, these trait data will provide for a more thorough understanding of the genetic architecture and control of these pivotal economic traits in white clover and their response to change in environment.
Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Peruvian Amaranth (Amaranthus caudatus and A. hybridus) Germplasm using Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Markers
Authors: Jimenez Felix R. , Maughan P. Jeffrey , Alvarez Aquilino , Kietlinski Kiel D. , Smith Scott M. , Pratt Donald B. , Elzinga David B. , Jellen Eric N.
Published: February 2013

Amaranth (Amaranthus caudatus L.) is an important seed crop in the Andes. It has excellent nutritional value and ample capacity for growth under drought, heat, and soil nutrient deficiency. The objective of this study was to characterize and quantify genetic diversity among a series of 178 mostly Peruvian amaranth individuals genotyped from among 48 accessions using 96 biallelic single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers in KASPar assays on a 96.96 Fluidigm EP1 platform. The 178 seed genotypes included the predominant white‐opaque (waxy), white‐vitreous (nonwaxy), black, and brown types, all from within the Centro de Investigacion de Cultivos Andinos‐Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco collection. The samples separated into two groups based on the seed color parameter (black, brown, and white‐vitreous versus white‐opaque) with STRUCTURE analysis but did not form distinct genotypic groups based on geographic origin. When analyzed as seed‐color subgroups—black vs. brown vs. white‐vitreous vs. white‐opaque—83.46% of the genetic variation was explained by genetic differences within subgroup. The highest average observed heterozygosity (Ho) within color‐based subgroups was 0.2612 in the vitreous‐seeded subgroup, and within‐group expected heterozygosity (He) was highest in the brown‐seeded subgroup (0.398). Cluster analysis and principal component analysis partitioned the amaranth accessions into two clusters with four distinct subclusters. Analyses also revealed evidence for selection of nonwaxy, vitreous‐seeded amaranth in the Andes.
Effects of Hepatitis B Virus Mutations on its Replication and Liver Disease Severity
Authors: Hakami Abdulrahim , Ali Abdelwahid , Hakami Ahmed
Published: February 2013

Hepatitis B virus (HBV), nowadays, is one of the major human pathogens worldwide. Approximately, 400 million people worldwide have chronic HBV infection. Only 5% of persons infected during adulthood develop chronic infection. The reverse is true for those infected at birth or in early childhood, i.e. more than 90% of these persons progress to chronic infection. Currently, eight different genotypes o f HBV have been identified, differing in nucleotide sequence by greater than 8%. In addition, numerous subgenotypes have a l s o been recognized based on the nucleotide sequence variability of 4- 8%. It has invariably been found that these genotypes and mutations play a pivotal role in the liver disease aggravation and virus replication. The precore mutations (G1896A) and the double mutation (T1762/A1764) in the basal core promoter are important mutations that alter expression of the hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg). The HBeAg is important for establishing viral persistence. The precore G1896A mutation abrogates the expression of HBeAg. Numerous other mutations alter the disease severity and progression. It is predictive that the infected patient has high risk of hepatocellular carcinoma if the genotype C is incriminated or if HBV possesses basal core promoter double mutation. Association of the remaining genotypes have been noted but with less degree than genotype C. Phenotypic assays of the different HBV protein markers with different molecular techniques illustrate the replication efficiency of the virus in cell lines. This review will discuss various mutations into their association with liver disease severity and progression as well as virus replication.
Minority Shareholders' Control Rights and the Quality of Corporate Decisions in Weak Investor Protection Countries: A Natural Experiment from China
Authors: Chen Zhihong , Ke Bin , Yang Zhifeng
Published: February 2013

Using a 2004 Chinese securities regulation that requires equity offering proposals to obtain the separate approval of voting minority shareholders, we examine whether giving minority shareholders increased control over corporate decisions helps to reduce value-decreasing corporate decisions for firms domiciled in weak investor protection countries. We find that the regulation deters management from submitting value-decreasing equity offering proposals in firms with higher mutual fund ownership. There is also weak evidence that minority shareholders are more likely to veto value-decreasing equity offering proposals in firms with higher mutual fund ownership in the post-regulation period. Overall, our evidence suggests that in weak investor protection countries, the effect of granting minority shareholders increased control over corporate decisions on the quality of corporate decisions depends on the composition of minority shareholders.

JEL Classifications: G32; G34; G38
Implementation of a novel scan localization system for wireless sensor networks
Authors: Sun K. , Huang W. , Meng Sachula , Xiao Y. , Wang M. T. , Xiao Z.
Published: February 2013

A novel localization scheme called laser beam scan localization by combining grid and light (laser) with mobile localization policy for wireless sensor networks is designed. The scheme utilizes a moving location assistant (LA) with a laser beam, through which the deployed area is scanned. The LA sends identities to unknown nodes to obtain the locations of sensor nodes. High localization accuracy can be achieved without the aid of expensive hardware on the sensor nodes, as required by other localization systems. The scheme yields significant benefits compared with other localization methods.
Asymmetries in Functional Hop Tests, Lower Extremity Kinematics, and Isokinetic Strength Persist 6 to 9 Months Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Xergia Sofia A. , Pappas Evangelos , Zampeli Franceska , Georgiou Spyros , Georgoulis Anastasios D.
Published: February 2013

Study Design

Within-subject and between-subject cross-sectional study.

Objectives

To investigate symmetry in hop-test performance, strength, and lower extremity kinematics 6 to 9 months following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).

Background

Despite the extensive body of literature involving persons following ACLR, no study has comprehensively evaluated measures of strength, lower extremity kinematics, and functional performance of functional hop tests in this population.

Methods

The subjects were 22 men (mean ± SD age, 28.8 ± 11.2 years) who had ACLR using a bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft 6 to 9 (7.01 ± 0.93) months previously and 22 healthy male controls (age, 24.8 ± 9.1 years). Participants completed a self-report questionnaire and underwent isokinetic strength testing and functional and kinematic assessment of the single-, triple-, and crossover-hop tests. Two-way analyses of variance were used to test for differences between the ACLR group and the control group, and between the 2 lower extremities of the ACLR group.

Results

Compared to the control group, the ACLR group had greater isokinetic knee extension torque deficits at all speeds (P≤.001) and greater performance asymmetry for all 3 hop tests (P<.001). Compared to the noninvolved lower extremity, the involved lower extremity of the ACLR group exhibited less ankle dorsiflexion and knee flexion in the phases of propulsion (P≤.014) and landing (P≤.032). When compared to the control group, the involved lower extremity exhibited less ankle dorsiflexion in the propulsion phase (P<.001) but higher hip flexion in the landing phase (P = .014).

Conclusion

Six to 9 months following ACLR, patients continue to demonstrate functional hop and isokinetic knee extension deficits, as well as kinematic differences, during the propulsion and landing phases of the hop tests. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(3):154–162. Epub 14 January 2013. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.3967
Climeto-Cylic Immigrations with Declining Population of Wild Honeybee, Apis Dorsata F. In Chitwan Valley, Nepal
Authors: Pokhrel Saroj
Published: February 2013

A general survey was conducted to investigate the phenomena of seasonal immigration, aggregation and staying of Apis dorsata Fab. colonies in Chitwan valley, Nepal in 2003/04. The primary immigration of small colonies occurred during November-December in Southern areas and secondary type mainly from site shifting of the large colonies towards north of Chitwan valley in January-February and smaller colonies through swarming in March-April respectively. Maximum colonies aggregated in March with maximum staying of eight months. Colonies aggregation declined by 54%, 50% and 100% in May, June and July and the period of colony staying declined by 25% as compared to previous years. The causes of population decline were: bad weather, predators and parasites, honey hunting, increasing pesticide use, declining bee pasture and inter species competition with exotic A. mellifera L. Policy declaration with suitable programs for the conservation of native wild honeybee, A. dorsata in its indigenous habitat for the maintenance of biodiversity and raising the crop productivity is necessary.Key words: Aggregation; Bee pasture; Biodiversity; Colony staying; Honey hunting; Immigration; Nesting site; SwarmingThe Journal of AGRICULTURE AND ENVIRONMENT Vol. 11, 2010Page: 51-58Uploaded Date: 15 September, 2010
Integrated Economic and Environmental Assessment of Nitrogenous Fertilizer Application in Canadian Prairies
Authors: Kulshreshtha Suren
Published: February 2013

Adoption of mitigation measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions may affect other members of the society, producing a situation of trade-offs. In this study, such a trade-off is has been analyzed using three aspects of the Canadian society: producers (farm level adopter), environment (through reduction in the GHG emissions),; and regional economy (including rest of the society through lost / gained economic activities). The nutrient management strategy involving the switching nitrogen fertilizer application from a combination of fall and spring application to a 100 percent spring application. Results suggest that the adoption of such a measure creates a 'win-win' situation, being both environmentally and economically desirable. Under the scenario, fertilizer expenditures decreased by $43 million (giving rise to an equivalent increase in farm income), GHG emissions (in CO2E) by 2.15 percent of the 2000 level of emissions, Canadian economy as a whole showed improvements, although on a regional basis the results were mixed.Key words: Canadian prairie agriculture; Greenhouse gases; Mitigation; Nitrogen fertilizer Use; Trade-off analysisThe Journal of AGRICULTURE AND ENVIRONMENT Vol. 11, 2010Page: 70-82Uploaded date: 15 Septembre, 2010
Poultry Production, Management and Bio-Security Measures
Authors: Sharma Banshi
Published: February 2013

Poultry farming is an emerging industry in Nepal. Hygienic poultry production can pave way to better income and sustainable development. Poultry health management is important due to emergence of highly pathogenic diseases like Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in different parts of the world. Bio-security measures become vital for better performance and quality of poultry production in competitive world. The latest technological innovations may help adoption of bio-security measures and environment friendly practices in poultry production system. Bio-security policy can be formulated with the participation of stakeholders. It would give new dimensions towards poultry farming in different clusters in Nepal. Moreover, participatory response of poultry entrepreneurs to the programs prioritizing poultry disease investigation, eradication and safe guarding poultry industry would be valuable. There must be research tie up with different institute regarding production, processing and marketing of poultry products.Key words: Bio-security; Environment; Nepal; Poultry health management; Poultry Performance; Quality-controlThe Journal of AGRICULTURE AND ENVIRONMENTVol. 11, 2010Page: 120-125Uploaded date: 16 September, 2010
Implementing ABS Regime in Nepal through Community Based Biodiversity Management Framework
Authors: Poudel Bikash , Shrestha Pitamber , Tamang Bir Bahadur , Subedi Abiskar
Published: February 2013

It is very evident that there is lack of well accepted and verified mechanisms as well as institutional set up for the realization of farmers' rights, including the effective implementation of International Regime on Access to and Benefit Sharing (IRABS). Community Biodiversity Management (CBM) embed good practices, proven to be effective in in-situ conservation of biodiversity through conservation through use, they also provide a base for a range of practices which serve the basis for IRABS to be affable and affordable to local communities. CBM encompasses the good practices serving documentation, conservation, facilitating exchange, providing access to genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge. Moreover, CBM also provide institutional structure and mechanism to share the benefits accruing from commercial use of the genetic resources, directly and indirectly.Key words: Genetic resources; Associated traditional knowledge; Access and benefit sharing; farmers’ rights; Community biodiversity managementThe Journal of AGRICULTURE AND ENVIRONMENT Vol. 11, 2010Page: 148-157Uploaded date: 16 September, 2010
Toxicity effect of expired pesticides to freshwater fish, Labeo rohita
Authors: Satyavani G , Gopi RA , Ayyappan S , Balakrishnamurthy P , Reddy P Neelakanta
Published: February 2013

We selected 15 widely used pesticide formulations to investigate possible chemical, biological and toxicological effects of expired pesticides that may enter into our ecosystem. They comprised of organophosphate and pyrethroid based insecticides, azole based fungicides, acetamide, propionate, acetic acid based herbicides, and fungicides mixtures containing two actives of azole and dithiocarbamates. The selected compounds were tested for acute toxicity to fish, Labeo rohita using Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guideline no. 203 under static condition. Five to six concentrations (ranges from 0.005 – 80 mg/L) of both expired and unexpired pesticide formulations were tested along with controls under similar conditions at Department of Ecotoxicology, International Institute of Biotechnology and Toxicology. The results of the LC50 (Lethal Concentration)demonstrated significantly lower LC50 values for the expired pesticides as compared to the corresponding unexpired counter part. From this data, it is clear that expired pesticide formulations must be disposed carefully and, care should be taken to avoid their discharge to water bodies and thus prevent loss to fish. The Journal of Agriculture and Environment Vol:12, Jun.2011, Page 1-9 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/aej.v12i0.7557
Identifying Associations Between Soil And Production Variables Using Linear Multiple Regression Models
Authors: Dahal Hari , Routray JK
Published: February 2013

In agriculture, soil variables are known to be important factors that determine the level of crop productivity in a given situation. To assess which soil variables are important to crop production, soil samples were tested and the test data were correlated with crop yields. A total of six soil variables- soil reaction, organic matter, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, potassium and soil texture were put into Pearson’s correlation with crop yield data. Some of the soil variables were found to be highly correlated. To evaluate the apparent strength of the relationship and to explain the variations on dependent variable (crop yield) multiple regression models were developed. In conclusion, it was found that the most important variables explaining the variations in the yield of paddy were total nitrogen, organic matter and phosphorus. The Journal of Agriculture and Environment Vol:12, Jun.2011, Page 27-37 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/aej.v12i0.7560
Utilization Of Urine Waste To Produce Quality Cauliflower
Authors: Khanal A , Shakya SM , Sharma MD
Published: February 2013

A field experiment was carried out at Jamune-1, Gunadi, Tanahun, Nepal on farmer’s field during September, 2009 to February, 2010 to test the efficacy of cattle urine from gutter alone and in combination with urea as a potential supplement to nitrogenous fertilizers in improving yield and quality of cauliflower cv. Kathmandu Local. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with eight treatments; 100 kg N ha-1 supplied by urea, 100 kg N ha-1 supplied by urine, 125 kg N ha-1 supplied by urine, 75 kg N ha-1 supplied by urine, 50 kg N ha-1 supplied by urine, 100 kg N ha-1 supplied by urea (75 kg) and urine (25 kg), 100 kg N ha-1 supplied by urea (50 kg) and urine (50 kg), 100 kg N ha-1 supplied by urea (25 kg) and urine (75 kg) having three replications. Application of 125 kg N ha-1 through urine significantly increased vegetative characters. Application of 100 kg N ha-1 through urine significantly increased yield and quality characters as compared to application of either higher or lower dose of urine. Fifty percent substitution of urea by urine produce better morphological, yield and quality character than other combination of urine and urea. The highest curd yield (20.08 t ha-1), the best result in sensory evaluation, and the highest benefit cost ratio (5.84) were observed by application of 100 kg N ha-1 through urine. The Journal of Agriculture and Environment Vol:12, Jun.2011, Page 91-96 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/aej.v12i0.7568
Energy Based Food Security Assessment In Nepal
Authors: Paudel Surya P , Shivakoti Sabnam
Published: February 2013

The basis of total edible cereal production of the district, the total population and the food requirement (Kcal/person/year) has been the basis for delineating food insecure districts. Many interventions of food security and food aid programs are mostly directed to those districts on this basis. The major objective of this paper is to assess the food security from energy production point of view considering the total energy from cereals, potato, vegetables, milk and meat. The data is based on the publication of MOAC. It was found that Nepal is sufficient in terms of energy adequacy although the situation for Terai, Hills and Mountain are different. Terai, known for its food basket, was not found better than hills in terms of food energy production required for their districts. Although Nepal has been energy adequate, the prevalence of chronic malnutrition shows the need for different intervention. In addition, Nepal suffers from protein energy malnutrition (PEM), which clearly indicates the need for crop diversification. Current food-security assessment methodology needs to be revisited and redefined. The Journal of Agriculture and Environment Vol:12, Jun.2011, Page 127-131 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/aej.v12i0.7572
Factor analysis for soil test data: a methodological approach in environment friendly soil fertility management
Authors: Dahal Hari
Published: February 2013

Soil test data were used in factor analysis employing the Principal Component Analysis technique for the reduction and summarization of soil variables. Principal component analysis was found to be highly suggestive in analyzing soil test data on which a rational fertilizer nutrients recommendation can be made for a sustainable soil fertility management reign.

The Journal of AGRICULTURE AND ENVIRONMENT Vol. 8, 2007, pp. 8-19
Climate change in Nepal – shall we wait until bitter consequences?
Authors: Lohani Sunit N
Published: February 2013

Although Nepal does not emit much of green house gas as compared to developed and industrialized economies, it has been facing several consequences of climate changes. Such changes are raising temperatures in the country’s sky too. Exploitation of natural resources associated with growing population has led to increasing pollution, declining water quality, land degradation and other environmental problems. Within such circumstances climate change represents an additional stress which has multiple consequences such as extreme climate events including flood, draughts, heat wave, cold stream, melting of Himalayan glaciers and so forth. Due to such events agricultural productivity is suffering from severe losses and attainment of food security is under tremendous threats. The signs of such changes already felt may become more prominent over next couple of decades. If this time is not utilized properly it may be too late to avoid many foreseen bitter consequences.

The Journal of AGRICULTURE AND ENVIRONMENT Vol. 8, 2007, pp. 38-45
Agriculture and environment: Interlink with poverty dimension
Authors: Dhakal Naina
Published: February 2013

Despite of development efforts over decades 32 percent of the population is still below poverty line in Nepal. Economic, social, political and environmental factors are thought to be responsible for the poverty. Human effort to derive food for survival has direct and indirect impact on environment. Reducing poverty through income and employment generation is the focus of different development plans. There is interlinking between agricultural farming and environment. To reduce poverty and enhance environment each agricultural project which requires to produce assessment must be assessed economically too.

The Journal of AGRICULTURE AND ENVIRONMENT Vol. 8, 2007, pp. 74-82
Relationship between pesticide use and climate change for crops
Authors: Palikhe Bhakta R.
Published: February 2013

The use (and abuse) of pesticides has increased to combat insect-pests and diseases. However, the major causes concern of are the undesirable side effects of these chemicals on biodiversity, environment, food quality and human health .Climate change will have important implications for insect conservation and pest status. Climate and weather can substantially influence the development and distribution of insects. Most of the warming over the last 50 years is likely to have been due to man-made activities. Anthropogenically induced climatic change arising from increasing levels of atmospheric greenhouse gases would, therefore, be likely to have a significant effect on agricultural insect pests. Current best estimates of changes in climate indicate an increase in global mean annual temperatures of 1[o] C by 2025 and 3[o]C by the end of the next century. Such increases in temperature have a number of implications for temperature-dependent insect pests. The Assessment investigates the relationship between pesticide use and climate for crops that require relatively large amounts of pesticide. This paper describes such input-driven agriculture, the problem of pests and diseases and the unsustainable agricultural practices that it leads to, and the socio-economic and health externalities resulting in farmer's distress in pesticide hot spots. To protect ourselves, our economy, and our land from the adverse effects of climate change, we must ultimately dramatically reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. The causes of anthropogenic climate change are broad and often difficult to address. There is no single solution to this complex problem, but numerous opportunities exist for reducing problems of climate change. The issue of climate change is one of the most profound challenges of our time, and we believe it is a challenge that can be met.

The Journal of AGRICULTURE AND ENVIRONMENT Vol. 8, 2007, pp. 83-91
Melting ice: A hot topic?
Authors: Marahatta Sharadchandra P.
Published: February 2013

A review of global melting ice and its causes as well as possible effects has been carried out based on available secondary information. Measured losses due to melting ice have been tabulated and in danger world heritage due to climatic changes were identified. Glaciers, marine bio-diversity, terrestrial bio-diversity, archeological sites and historic cities were considered as the threat of melting ice and it is recommended to look for economic implications and technological options with other possible actions for tackling global warming.

The Journal of AGRICULTURE AND ENVIRONMENT Vol. 8, 2007, pp. 101-105
The Himalayas and Nepalese agriculture
Authors: Ghimire Shree R.
Published: February 2013

Two thirds of Nepal's area is hills and mountains which is a source of perennial rivers with Himalayas origin having massive hydroelectricity potential to domestic needs and growing demand of neighboring countries. Accelerated Ice melting both globally and within the country creates unusual events from the mountainous rivers if unmanaged causes colossal loss. Natural resource and biodiversity conservation being the prime concern of developmental activities needs effective implementation of existing legal provisions. Nepal can enjoy domestic and global open market by adopting the farming of niche products by utilizing its unique climate to harness comparative advantage.

The Journal of AGRICULTURE AND ENVIRONMENT Vol. 8, 2007, pp. 126-132
Fractionation of Lead and Cadmium in Refuse Dump Soil Treated With Cassava Mill Effluent
Authors: Ndiokwere C. L.
Published: February 2013

The effect of application of cassava (Manihot esculenta) processing mill effluent (CME) on the chemical fractionation of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) in soil obtained from a refuse dump site was assessed in this study. Selected physiochemical properties of the soil and CME were determined while four different amounts of the CME were applied to the soil. The refuse dump soil had average pH of 6.2, while the cation exchange capacity was dominated by calcium. Similarly, the CME had a mean pH of 4.21 and high mean phosphorus concentration of 3160mg/kg. Chemical fractionation of the soil not containing CME showed 58.65 and 7.90mg/kg of Pb and Cd respectively in the carbonate fraction. Following the application of CME, there was redistribution of Pb and Cd in the different fractions. CME contributed to increase Cd amount in the carbonate fraction, while the residual fraction had almost uniform distribution of Cd with the various treatments of CME. However, the result indicated that depending on the applied amount of the CME there was an overall reduction in the concentration of Pb in the different fraction, while there were corresponding increases for Cd amongst the various fractions in the soil.Key words: Chemical fractionation, lead, cadmium, dump soil, cassava mill-effluent, cation exchange.The Journal of Agriculture and Environment Vol:9, Jun.2008  Page: 10-15
Effect of Botanical Pesticides on Soil Fertility of Coffee-Orchards
Authors: Panthi Bhanu B. , Devkota Bhupendra , Devkota Jyoti U.
Published: February 2013

Coffee (Coffea arabica; Rubiaceae) is a potential and emerging commercial crop. Coffee is planted in the midhills of Nepal (800 to 1250 meter above mean sea level) in Gulmi and Lalitpur districts. To control the major insect pests of coffee plant, locally prepared ‘jaibik bishadi’ (botanical pesticides) are used as alternatives of the synthetic insecticides. This study was undertaken to see the contribution of ‘jaibik bishadi’ in the fertility of the coffee orchards soil, for which soil samples from botanicals used and not used coffee orchards were collected to see the level of soil characteristics and soil nutrients such as soil texture, organic matter, soil nutrients (phosphorous and potassium). There was some difference in the soil texture of topsoil, but no difference could be seen in sand, silt and clay content of the subsoils from botanical used and not used orchards. The pH was significantly different between botanical used and not used soils, but such difference could not be observed between the topsoil and subsoil from the same sites. Jaibik bishadi used to control the coffee pests significantly contributed in the soil fertility, which could be seen in high positive correlation (r=0.9886) between organic matter and nitrogen in the soil.Keywords: Coffee, jaibik bishadi, topsoil, subsoil, soil fertilityThe Journal of Agriculture and Environment Vol:9, Jun.2008 page: 16-22
The Ecological Problems and Possible Solutions of Beekeeping in Hills and Terai of Chitwan, Nepal
Authors: Pokhrel Suroj
Published: February 2013

A general survey accomplished in hills and terai of Chitwan, Nepal in 2004 with an objective to investigate the ecological problems of bee keeping in chitwan and to recommend solutions for its improvement. The survey identifies predators, parasites, diseases, pesticide poisoning, and bee pasture as the key ecological problems in the Hills. Simultaneously, deforestation and pesticide poisoning are the concerned ecological problems in Terai. A very high majority of beekeepers in hills and more than half in Terai faced colony absconding problem in Chitwan. The general survey realized on the need of a special package of program to over come these problems, which include advanced apicultural research and educational activities for the commercialization of beekeeping and advance level crop pollination management in Nepal. For this a clear-cut beekeeping policy and guideline should be developed andshould be implemented.  Key words: ecological, absconding, colony status, productivity, species specificThe Journal of Agriculture and Environment Vol:9, Jun.2008  Page: 23-33
Drama
Authors: Wasserman Jerry
Published: February 2013

Reviews of drama published in Canada in 1988.
Rapid thinning of lake-calving Yakutat Glacier and the collapse of the Yakutat Icefield, southeast Alaska, USA
Authors: Trüssel Barbara L. , Motyka Roman J. , Truffer Martin , Larsen Christopher F.
Published: February 2013

Both lake-calving Yakutat Glacier (337 km2), Alaska, USA, and its parent icefield (810 km2) are experiencing strong thinning, and under current climate conditions will eventually disappear. Comparison of digital elevation models shows that Yakutat Glacier thinned at area-averaged rates of 4.76 ± 0.06 m w.e.a−1(2000–07) and 3.66 ± 0.03 m w.e.a−1(2007–10). Simultaneously, adjacent Yakutat Icefield land-terminating glaciers thinned at lower but still substantial rates (3.79 and 2.94 m w.e.a−1respectively for the same time periods), indicating lake-calving dynamics helps drive increased mass loss. Yakutat Glacier terminates into Harlequin Lake and for over a decade sustained a ∼3 km long floating tongue, which started to disintegrate into large tabular icebergs in 2010. Such floating tongues are rarely seen on temperate tidewater glaciers. We hypothesize that this difference is likely due to the lack of submarine melting in the case of lake-calving glaciers. Floating-tongue ice losses were evaluated in terms of overall mass balance and contribution to sea-level rise. The post-Little Ice Age collapse of Yakutat Icefield was driven in part by tidewater calving retreats of adjacent glaciers, the lake-calving retreat of Yakutat Glacier, a warming climate and by the positive feedback mechanisms through surface lowering.
Antioxidant and Anti-Hepatitis C Viral Activities of Commercial Milk Thistle Food Supplements
Authors: Anthony Kevin , Subramanya Gitanjali , Uprichard Susan , Hammouda Faiza , Saleh Mahmoud
Published: February 2013

Milk thistle dietary supplements that contain silymarin are widely marketed and used in the USA and other countries for liver enhancement and recovery. More recently, silymarin has also been identified as a possible antiviral for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. To assess different brands of commercially sold silymarin, 45 products were collected from local stores and analyzed for their silymarin content, antioxidant activities, and antiviral activity against HCV. Antioxidant activity was measured as radical scavenging activity using DPPH and by estimating their antioxidant capacity as trolox equivalent. Anti-HCV activity was measured in an HCV genotype 1b replication inhibition assay. Samples were found to vary widely in their silymarin content, with some samples having none or very low concentrations while silymarin represented higher than 80% of other samples. Both antioxidant and anti-HCV activity correlated with the overall level of silymarin.
Continuous Convective-Sedimentation Assembly of Colloidal Microsphere Coatings for Biotechnology Applications
Authors: Jenkins Jessica , Flickinger Michael , Velev Orlin
Published: February 2013

Continuous convective-sedimentation assembly (CCSA) is a deposition method that constantly supplies the coating suspension to the meniscus behind the coating knife by inline injection, allowing for steady-state deposition of ordered colloids (which may include particles or cells or live cell-particle blends) by water evaporation. The constant inflow of suspended particles available for transport to the drying front yields colloidal arrays with significantly larger surface areas than previously described and thus expands the ability of convective assembly to deposit monolayers or very thin films of multiple sizes of particles on large surfaces. Using sulfated polystyrene microspheres as a model system, this study shows how tunable process parameters, namely particle concentration, fluid sonication, and fluid density, influence coating homogeneity when the meniscus is continuously supplied. Fluid density and fluid flow-path sonication affect particle sedimentation and distribution. Coating microstructure, analyzed in terms of void space, does not vary significantly with relative humidity or suspended particle concentration. This study evaluated two configurations of the continuous convective assembly method in terms of ability to control coating microstructure by varying the number of suspended polymer particles available for transport to the coating drying front through variations in the meniscus volume.
Rsk2 Knockdown in PC12 Cells Results in Sp1 Dependent Increased Expression of the Gria2 Gene, Encoding the AMPA Receptor Subunit GluR2
Authors: Mehmood Tahir , Schneider Anne , Pannetier Solange , Hanauer André
Published: February 2013

The RSK2 protein is a member of the RSK serine-threonine protein kinase family and is encoded by the X-linked rps6ka3 gene in human. Highly heterogeneous loss-of-function mutations affecting this gene are responsible for a severe syndromic form of cognitive impairment, Coffin-Lowry syndrome. RSK2, which is highly conserved in mammals, acts at the distal end of the Ras-ERK signaling pathway and is activated in response to growth factors and neurotransmitters. RSK2 is highly expressed in the hippocampus, and Rsk2-KO mice display spatial learning and memory impairment. We recently showed that ERK1/2 activity is abnormally increased in the hippocampus of Rsk2-KO mice as well as the expression of the AMPA receptor subunit GluR2. The mechanism via which RSK2 deficiency affects the expression of GluR2 in neural cells was unknown. To address this issue we constitutively suppressed the expression of RSK2 in PC12 cells via vector-based shRNA in the present study. We show that Rsk2 silencing leads also to an elevation of ERK1/2 phosphorylation as well as of GluR2 expression and that the increased level of GluR2 expression results from the increased ERK1/2 activity on the transcription factor Sp1. Our results provide evidence that RSK2 modulates ERK1/2 activity on Sp1, which regulates GluR2 expression through transcriptional activation.
A Novel Fluoride Route for the Synthesis of Aluminosilicate Nanotubes
Authors: Chemmi Atika , Brendlé Jocelyne , Marichal Claire , Lebeau Bénédicte
Published: February 2013

In this work we present a novel method for synthesis of aluminosilicate nanotubes: the fluoride route. F-containing imogolite (F-IMO) exhibits an improved crystallization rate and improved yield. The structure of F-IMO was investigated and compared with F-free imogolite (IMO) by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirming imogolite structure. Solid state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses show an increased crystallization rate for F-IMO and confirm the incorporation of fluorine ion in the structure.
Dairy Consumption and the Risk of 15-Year Cardiovascular Disease Mortality in a Cohort of Older Australians
Authors: Louie Jimmy , Flood Victoria , Burlutsky George , Rangan Anna , Gill Timothy , Mitchell Paul
Published: February 2013

The effects of habitual dairy consumption and the risk of 15-year cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in a cohort of older Australians were investigated. Participants (n = 2900) completed a validated 145-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to investigate associations between tertiles of the dairy consumption, including low/reduced fat dairy, whole fat dairy and their ratio (ratioLF/WF), and risk of mortality from coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke or combined CVD. There were 548 recorded cases of CVD mortality in this cohort. For total dairy intake, a reduction in risk of CVD was only seen in tertile 2 (adjusted hazard ratio, AHR: 0.71; 95% CI: 0.55–0.93), and for CHD both tertile 2 and tertile 3 were associated with a reduced risk (both with AHR: 0.71). However there were no linear trends between total dairy consumption and any of the three outcomes. There were no associations or trends between low/reduced fat dairy or whole fat dairy consumption, or ratioLF/WF and any of the three outcomes in the fully adjusted model (all p > 0.05). This study found no consistent association between baseline consumption of dairy foods and the risk of CHD, stroke and combined CVD mortality.
Studies in Mice Reveal a Role for Anthrax Toxin Receptors in Matrix Metalloproteinase Function and Extracellular Matrix Homeostasis
Authors: Reeves Claire , Charles-Horvath Pelisa , Kitajewski Jan
Published: February 2013

The genes encoding Anthrax Toxin Receptors (ANTXRs) were originally identified based on expression in endothelial cells suggesting a role in angiogenesis. The focus of this review is to discuss what has been learned about the physiological roles of these receptors through evaluation of the Antxr knockout mouse phenotypes. Mice mutant in Antxr genes have defects in extracellular matrix homeostasis. We discuss how knowledge of physiological ANTXR function relates to what is already known about anthrax intoxication.
Carbohydrate-Related Inhibitors of Dengue Virus Entry
Authors: Hidari Kazuya , Abe Tomoko , Suzuki Takashi
Published: February 2013

Dengue virus (DENV), which is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, causes fever and hemorrhagic disorders in humans. The virus entry process mediated through host receptor molecule(s) is crucial for virus propagation and the pathological progression of dengue disease. Therefore, elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying virus entry is essential for an understanding of dengue pathology and for the development of effective new anti-dengue agents. DENV binds to its receptor molecules mediated through a viral envelope (E) protein, followed by incorporation of the virus-receptor complex inside cells. The fusion between incorporated virus particles and host endosome membrane under acidic conditions is mediated through the function of DENV E protein. Carbohydrate molecules, such as sulfated glycosaminoglycans (GAG) and glycosphingolipids, and carbohydrate-recognition proteins, termed lectins, inhibit virus entry. This review focuses on carbohydrate-derived entry inhibitors, and also introduces functionally related compounds with similar inhibitory mechanisms against DENV entry.
A new synthetic protocol for coumarin amino acid
Authors: Xu Xinyi , Hu Xiaosong , Wang Jiangyun
Published: February 2013

The hydrochloride of the racemic amino acid (2-(7-hydroxycoumarin-4-yl)ethyl)glycine, which can serve as a fluorescent probe in proteins, and two halogen derivatives of it, were synthesized by using a new synthetic protocol in five steps. It is less costly and relatively easy to prepare this kind of fluorescent amino acid with the new synthetic method. Furthermore, it can be applied to synthesize other derivatives of the coumarin amino acid with some specific properties.
Approche interdisciplinaire du management des connaissances en patrimoine culturel
Authors: du Château Stefan , Boulanger Danielle , Mercier-Laurent Eunika
Published: February 2013

Résumé Cet article propose un travail de recherche appliquée répondant à un réel besoin d’amélioration de recueil, d’indexation et de recherche des connaissances dans le domaine du patrimoine culturel. Conçu, modélisé et expérimenté en environnement réel par Stefan du Château, Danielle Boulanger et Eunika Mercier-Laurent, le système Simplicius présenté dans cet article permet d’automatiser le cycle de vie d’informations et connaissances pour une recherche future. Il est composé de plusieurs modules permettant le recueil d’informations orales, leur « traduction » automatique vers un fichier texte, l’analyse linguistique et l’extraction d’informations et, enfin, le peuplement semi-automatique d’une ontologie de domaine selon un modèle conceptuel prédéfini. Ce système hybride s’appuie à la fois sur les techniques de traitement du signal, de traitement du langage naturel et la modélisation des connaissances.
Water's Green Economy : Alternative Pathways for Water Resource Development in Agriculture
Authors: Antonelli Marta , Gilmont Michael , Roson Roberto
Published: February 2013

Résumé L’objectif de cet article est de tracer des voies alternatives au développement à large échelle des ressources de l’eau dans l’agriculture, afin d’aboutir à des économies plus « vertes ». Le secteur agricole est la première cible des politiques qui visent à promouvoir une voie de développement plus soutenable de l’utilisation de la ressource d’eau, car il en constitue le plus important secteur de consommation, entre 70 et 90 % de l’eau nécessaire pour un individu ou pour une économie. On considère que la concurrence quant à l’utilisation de l’eau devrait encore s’intensifier dans les prochaines années, en raison de la pression démographique dans les pays en développement. Ce développement global entraîne impérativement une réévaluation de la gestion traditionnelle de l’eau, à partir d’une mobilisation à large échelle de l’eau de surface et de l’eau souterraine, afin de mettre en avant des solutions alternatives qui pourront optimiser leur utilisation dans la recherche de résultats efficients du point de vue social et économique, tout en assurant la soutenabilité environnementale. Cet article avance qu’il existe un potentiel significatif d’amélioration du développement de la ressource dans le secteur agricole, et que l’optimisation de l’utilisation de l’eau à plusieurs niveaux est un prérequis fondamental pour une transition vers des économies plus « vertes ».
Public Participation in the Governance of Transboundary Water Resources – Mechanisms provided by River Basin Organizations
Authors: Schulze Sabine
Published: February 2013

Résumé L’utilisation de la ressource d’eau des rivières et des lacs entre les États riverains tentent avoir des conséquences fondamentales sur les populations riveraines et sur leurs possibilités de développement. Ceci est vrai également en ce qui concerne les efforts de gouvernance commune d’États riverains – qui s’institutionnalisent dans un certain nombre de bassins fluviaux sous la forme d’Organismes de bassin – et pour les programmes et projets conjoints développés par ces institutions. Ces dernières années, des chercheurs et des responsables décisionnels ont de plus en plus insisté sur le fait que les parties prenantes de ces bassins – les communautés des bassins, les organisations non gouvernementales et les entreprises – devraient avoir la possibilité d’être pris en compte dans les processus de gestion de ces organismes. Les différentes formes et l’étendue de la participation des communautés riveraines, en particulier dans les organismes de bassin, n’ont pas encore été étudiées de façon systématique. Aussi, cet article s’intéresse aux différentes formes de participation publique dans cinq organismes internationaux de bassin, en Afrique, Amérique du Nord, Europe et Asie du Sud-Est. L’article identifie ensuite quatre formes majeures de participation.
Multitudes urbanas: de las figuras y lógicas prácticas de la identificación política
Authors: Cañedo Rodríguez Montserrat
Published: February 2013

La sensibilidad antropológica de lo urbano está en buena parte vinculada a una estética del fragmento, que resulta insuficiente para pensar los procesos sumamente cambiantes y de geometría variable a través de los cuales se trazan las líneas de las identificaciones políticas en la ciudad. Tras una primera parte donde se hace un repaso a las «figuras de la teoría» —de la sociedad, o la red, hasta la sugerente imagen de las espumas sociales de Sloterdijk—, en la segunda parte de este texto se ofrece una etnografía del proceso de emergencia y desaparición de un centro social okupado en el centro de Madrid, que concitó grandes adhesiones y también críticas dentro del movimiento de okupación madrileño y del conjunto de la ciudad. A la luz de este caso se ensaya una aproximación etnográfica a las cuestiones teóricas planteadas en la primera parte del artículo, en concreto a la naturaleza de las lógicas de la identificación política en la ciudad, y a la pertinencia de algunas nuevas figuras del imaginario teórico para pensar desde la antropología los retos de lo urbano.