bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Managed Pressure Drilling with Solids-Free Drilling Fluid Provides Cost-Efficient Drilling Solution for Subsea Carbonate Gas Development Wells
Authors: Setiawan Trigundai Budi , Bin Omar Mohammad Mizuar , Bin Sulaiman Mohd Zarkashi , Bin Musa Mohammad Zarir , Fadzli Muffaz , Nesan Thanavathy Patma , Wuest Chad H. , Toralde Julmar Shaun , Sridharan Prem Ananthan
Published: April 2013

The development of the Kanowit Field in offshore Sarawak, Malaysia requires the drilling of two subsea development wells using a semi-sub rig. Previous experience identified the need for solids-free drilling fluid to ensure maximum reservoir productivity and so that the quality of the produced gas is within required specifications. High reservoir pressure requires the use of high-density solids-free drilling fluids, but associated costs and the high probability of losing large volumes to the fractured carbonate reservoir made this option unsuitable.

A more cost-effective option was to use a less-dense solids-free drilling fluid and utilize managed pressure drilling (MPD) to be able to compensate for the difference in density with backpressure. MPD mitigated the loss circulation risk by controlling the level of overbalance to the minimum and MPD early kick and loss detection capabilities, used in conjunction with a statically underbalanced drilling fluid, also allowed for the collection of actual geopressure environment data that aided in the decision making process. Both wells were completed and tested with a maximum potential flow rate that exceeded the technical potential in initial projections.

The successful deployment of MPD with solids-free drilling fluids proves its technical and economic feasibility in carrying out subsea development drilling through carbonate reservoirs prone to severe circulation losses.
Supplementing Downhole Information to Enhance MPD and UBD Operations
Authors: Veeningen Daan , Adsit Rhys
Published: April 2013

Managed pressure and underbalanced drilling operations are predominantly conducted through the use of surface measurements and are heavily assisted by modeling subsurface conditions as downhole measurements have limited availability. Downhole information is typically absent during periods without flow and when using compressible fluids such as aerated mud.

Operational efficiency and wellsite safety would benefit by supplementing the models and surface data with direct measurements of subsurface conditions. Automation would be enabled and well control would meaningfully improve from self-sufficient downhole information by realizing the lowest pressures, while eliminating complex calculations and minimizing time spent on the choke.

Along-string annular pressure measurement and evaluation provides new downhole capabilities. Initial field deployments have demonstrated their utility and viability, but downhole ECD calculations through normalization of the absolute pressure measurements to hydrostatic depth do not properly account the distributed pressure sensing.

This paper proposes a new method for computing the along-string ECD values*, shows visualization for intuitive interpretation of the values and proposes a method for relative volume determination*. The new methodology with multiple sensors with non-hydrostatic pressure additions scaled by sensor depths show the need for two scale factors. Finally, an influx volume can be estimated across a wellbore section that is bounded by discrete drillstring pressure sensors. Examples are offered for pumping sweeps and a kick that is up the annulus and recommendations are offered for technologies that acquire pressure along the drillstring.

Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD), Under Balanced Drilling (UBD) and other operations that manage a tight pressure window benefit from the procedures and practices offered. Recommendations relevant to integration of downhole data with surface control systems for closed-loop and automated wellsite operations are offered.
Concurrent removal of humic acid and o-dichlorobenzene in drinking water by combined ozonation and bentonite coagulation process
Authors: Gu Li , zhang Xingwang , Lei Lecheng , Liu Xianjun
Published: April 2013

Combined ozonation and bentonite coagulation process (COBC) was investigated as a method of concurrently removing humic acid (HA) and o-dichlorobenzene (DCB) from drinking water. In this process, HA and DCB were removed by joint effect of catalytic ozonation and bentonite coagulation. HA removal was highly dependent on the coagulation process while DCB removal was dependent on the oxidation process in COBC. Iron in solution not only acted as a coagulant, but also promoted the formation of HO∙, which is effective in destroying aromatic chemicals. Bentonite in COBC improved the coagulation process, resulting in an enhancement in the treating efficiency. COBC is proved to be potentially advantageous on dissolved pollutants in drinking water, and appears to have great potential for a wide range of practical applications.
Hydrogen sulphide removal in the anaerobic digestion of sludge by micro-aerobic processes: pilot plant experience
Authors: Fdz.-Polanco M. , Díaz I. , Pérez S. I. , Lopes A. C. , Fdz.-Polanco F.
Published: April 2013

H2S removal from biogas produced in anaerobic digestion of sludge through the introduction of oxygen under micro-aerobic conditions is studied. Research was carried out in two pilot plant reactors (working volume, 200 L each) treating sludge from WWTP with HRT of 20 days. Mixing was provided via sludge or biogas recirculation. Introduction of very low oxygen flow (0.013–0.024 L/Lreactor d) successfully removed H2S content in biogas with an efficiency above 99%. Reactor performance during micro-aerobic operation in terms of biogas production, methane yield and COD removal were not affected by the amount of oxygen supplied, remaining stable and similar to the anaerobic behaviour. Sludge recirculation (∼50 L/h) and biogas recirculation (∼3.5 L/min) as mixing methods were found not significant in H2S removal from biogas while biogas recirculation reduced by 10 times dissolved sulphide concentration compared to sludge recirculation.
Determination of Cr(VI) concentration in diluted samples based on the paper test strip method
Authors: Kong F. , Ni Y.
Published: April 2013

At present, there are many methods for Cr(VI) concentration determination in diluted samples, however, these methods have their own inherent drawbacks, such as long response time, complicated pretreatment, expensive equipment etc. In this paper, a paper-based test strip method specific for determination of diluted Cr(VI) samples was developed. In this method, Aliquat 336, as an anion exchanger was loaded into filter paper to form a test strip. This test strip was used to pre-concentrate Cr(VI) when contacting with the diluted Cr(VI)-containing solution. The Cr(VI)-containing test strip was then immersed into a diphenylcarbazide (DPC) solution (a color forming solution), and the color intensity was correlated to the Cr(VI) concentration. The detection range of the present method was found to be 0.02–1.50 mg/L. The results also showed that the method gave a high selectivity for Cr(VI) in the diluted samples to be tested. The method was applied to synthesized samples and the results, which were compared to those from a reference method, showed that the developed method is an effective, reliable way for Cr(VI) determination in diluted samples.
Depletion of E. coli in permeable pavement mineral aggregate storage and reuse systems
Authors: Myers B. R. , Beecham S. , van Leeuwen J. A. , Keegan A.
Published: April 2013

Permeable pavement reservoirs provide an important opportunity for the harvesting and storage of stormwater for reuse. This research aims to determine whether storage in dolomite, calcite and quartzite mineral aggregates in the base course of a permeable pavement impacts on the survival of the pathogen indicator organism Escherichia coli (E. coli) in storage. The reasons for depletion were also investigated. Twelve model permeable pavement storage reservoirs were filled, in triplicate, with dolomite, calcite and quartzite. Three reservoirs contained no aggregate. After filling with pathogen spiked rainwater, the concentration of E. coli was examined for 22 days in the reservoirs. The reservoirs were then agitated to determine if there was E. coli present which was not in aqueous suspension. The results of the experiments show that there is no significant difference in the depletion of E. coli found in reservoirs without aggregate, and those filled with dolomite or calcite. The rate of depletion was found to be significantly lower in the quartzite filled reservoirs. Agitation of the reservoirs yielded increases in the aqueous concentration of E. coli in all reservoir types, suggesting that the bacteria are adhering to the surface of the mineral aggregate and to the reservoir walls.
Explicit and Implicit Television Cognition of Left-Behind Children in China
Authors: Geng Liuna , Zhou Wenjun , Xu Qiaoxin
Published: April 2013

In this study we investigated the television cognition of 53 “left-behind” children. We examined explicit cognition using the Television Virtual and Real Life Questionnaire (Geng & Zhou, 2011) and used the Brief Implicit Association Test (BIAT; Sriram & Greenwald,
2009) to examine implicit cognition toward television virtual and real life. The results showed that the left-behind children in our study had weak explicit abilities to discriminate between television virtual and real life and had relatively strong implicit abilities to discriminate between
television virtual and real life. In other words, their explicit and implicit discrimination abilities were different. Based on our findings, we give suggestions about education aimed at improving the television cognition of left-behind children.
Analyzing Behaviors Influencing Use of Mobile Coupons from the Perspective of Transaction Utility
Authors: Chiang Hi-Hsian , Lin Hung-Yuan , Tu Siao-Cen
Published: April 2013

We explored the antecedents of mobile coupon use based on acquisition-transaction utility theory (Lichtenstein, Netemeyer, & Burton, 1990) and the technology acceptance model (TAM; Davis, 1989). We analyzed data collected from 365 mobile phone users in Taiwan and developed a theoretical
and empirical model. The results indicate that consumers with a higher degree of coupon proneness are more likely to recognize the usefulness of mobile coupons, and have more positive attitudes and behavioral intention toward coupon use. Both consumers' perceived usefulness and attitudes toward
use appeared to have an equal and positive impact on their behavioral intention to use.
Pain Intensity and Suicidal Ideation of People in Chronic Pain: Mediating Effects of Depression
Authors: Cho Sungkun , Hwang Haesol , Lee Jang-Han
Published: April 2013

We investigated a potential mediating role of depression between level of pain intensity and suicidal ideation of people who are in chronic pain from nonmalignant illnesses. Participants in this study were 248 patients seeking treatment for chronic pain at the pain center of a university
hospital in Korea. Structural equation analyses showed that only the original full mediation model had adequate goodness-of-fit indices for suicidal ideation. Bootstrapping procedures we performed on the original full mediation model yielded a significant mediation effect of depression on
suicidal ideation. The findings suggested that intense pain may lead to elevated rates of depression, thereby contributing to an increase in suicidal ideation, rather than playing a role as a direct contributing factor for greater suicidal ideation among people in chronic pain.
The human heat balance in the city of Novi Sad (Serbia)
Authors: Krajic Aleksandar
Published: April 2013

This analysis is based on the human heat balance according to the bioclimatic
man-environment heat exchange model created by Krzysztof B?a?ejczyk. The
final result of the human heat balance model points to biothermal weather
situations for the outdoor recreational needs. In this analysis, middles
daily meteorological data (of climatological station of Novi Sad) were used
for two extreme months, January and July. In this work, it is analyzed two
periods, the first is for 1992-2010. and the second is for year 2010. The aim
is to show how weather can be evaluated for recreational needs which the
health resource of Novi Sad and to point out the shortcomings when it comes
to multi-year analysis. The objective of this article has been to present a
bioclimatic analysis of city Novi Sad and how weather variables come together
in order to give a climate meaning on human organism.
Academic integrity "captured" by a personality-based test
Authors: Okanovic Predrag , Okanovic Dragana , Mitrovic Dusanka , Majstorovic Nebojsa
Published: April 2013

The main goal of this study was to develop and validate a personality-based
academic integrity test which could serve as a predictor of students?
academic dishonesty. A new Academic Integrity Test (AIT), based on
methodological principles accepted in the field of work integrity, was
created during this study. The test was developed on one student sample
(N=350), and then validated on another (N=471). Validation of the AIT
confirmed its relations with three dimensions previously found to be
consistent correlates of work integrity measures - Conscientiousness,
Aggressiveness and Neuroticism, with the addition of Negative Valence. The
correlation between the AIT and a cognitive ability measure was not
significant, which is in accordance with previous research. The test retained
significant relations with the aforementioned personality measures in
simulated applicant condition (except with Neuroticism), leading to the
conclusion that the AIT maintains construct validity in situations
susceptible to self-presentation.
Dermatoglyphic characteristics of digito-palmar complex in autistic boys in Serbia
Authors: Stosljevic Miodrag , Adamovic Milosav
Published: April 2013

Introduction/Aim. Dermatoglyphics is a science that examines dermal patterns
on volar side of both palms and soles. Since dermatoglyphs are unique for
each person, by examining them a number of parameters can be determined.
These parameters could help to diagnose and treat examined individulas. The
aim of this study was to determine possible differences of the
dermathoglyphic characteristics of digito-palmar complex (DPC) comparing the
autistic boys with the healthy examinees. Methods. This study was conducted
on a group of 182 boys with infantile autism, aged from 5 to 15 (average age
7.2 years) while the control group consisted of 182 healthy men from 30 to 50
years (average age 38.7 years). Within the digital scope of DPC we examined
tree types of dermatoglyphic patterns on fingertips (arch, loop and whrol),
as well as dermal ridge count on each finger separately (FRC - finger ridge
count) and total dermal ridge count on all the ten fingers (TRC - total ridge
count). Within the palmar DPC area we measured the angles between the
triradius (atd, dat, adt, atb, btc, ctd), as well as dermal ridge count (RC -
ridge count) between the triradius a-b, b-c and c-d. Results. The autistic
boys had a significantely higher count of arches (9.17%) on fingertips of
both hands when compared to the control group of examinees (4.34%), and the
lower count of loops (28.40%) compared with the control group (32.42%). A
higher count of arches was especially expressed on the fourth and fifth
finger of both hands. Beside this characteristic, the autistic boys had a
lower TRC and ab-RC as well as a wider atd angle. Conclusion. Dermatoglyphic
analysis could help in diagnosing autism but only as an additional method,
never as a dominant diagnostic procedure.
Becoming Literate in Taiwan: Kindergarten Experiences as the First Part of a Long Literacy Journey
Authors: Liao Yi-Hung , Lai Chin-Chi
Published: April 2013

The lifeworlds of children incorporate home, school and community locations. They are different environments and each has different contexts and goals. In Taiwan, while school is more focused on an overt exchange of teaching and learning, home is more informal and generally characterized by unstructured contexts and parents' attention that encourages and enhances their children's learning with practical knowledge. Consequently, while literacy is taught in school via a well-planned curriculum, at home it is expected to happen via everyday communications and family activities that promote a close parent-child relationship. This ethnographic study was designed to consider emerging literacy practices in two main venues of kindergarten children's life (school and home) to get a greater understanding of how early literacy is evident in Taiwan. In addition, patterns and practices of children's literacy learning in both urban and suburban areas of Taiwan are scrutinized and analyzed to provide a rationale for early literacy learning and teaching in a time of governmental mandates and global literacy efforts.
Photographic assessment of cephalometric measurements
Authors: de Carvalho Rosas Gomes Liliane , Horta Karla Orfelina Carpio , Gandini Luiz Gonzaga , Gonçalves Marcelo , Gonçalves João Roberto
Published: April 2013

Objective:

To investigate the relationship between craniofacial measurements obtained from cephalometric radiographs and analogous measurements from profile photographs.

Materials and Methods:

Lateral cephalograms and standardized facial profile photographs were obtained from a sample of 123 subjects (65 girls, 58 boys; age 7–12 years). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated from repeated photographic measurements to evaluate method reliability. Analogous cephalometric and photographic measurements were compared to assess Pearson correlation coefficients. Linear regression analyses were conducted between the measurements that achieved correlation coefficients greater than r  =  0.7.

Results:

The reliability of the photographic technique was satisfactory. Most measurements showed ICCs above 0.80 and highly significant correlations (P ≤ .001) with cephalometric variables. Among all measurements used, the A'N'B' angle was the most effective in explaining the variability of its analogous cephalometric, mainly for female subjects (r2  =  0.80). The FMA' angle showed the best results for vertical assessment (r2  =  0.65).

Conclusions:

The photographic method has proven to be a repeatable and reproducible tool provided that a standardized protocol is followed. Therefore, it may be considered a feasible and practical diagnostic alternative, particularly if there is a need for a low-cost and noninvasive method.
Preparation of polyaniline in the presence of polymeric sulfonic acids mixtures: the role of intermolecular interactions between polyacids
Authors: Gribkova Oxana , Omelchenko Olga , Trchová Miroslava , Nekrasov Alexander , Ivanov Victor , Tverskoy Vladimir , Vannikov Anatoly
Published: April 2013

Polyaniline (PANI) was synthesized by chemical oxidation of aniline in the presence of mixtures of water-soluble poly(sulfonic acids) of different nature. Under these conditions, the use of polyacid templates leads to the formation of interpolymer complexes of PANI and polyacid mixtures. The obtained PANI complexes were characterized by UV, visible, near IR, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. It was shown that the rigidity of the polyacid backbone and the composition of a polyacid mixture affect the electronic structure of PANI complexes and the duration of the induction period of aniline oxidation. Domination of the more rigid-backbone template in the synthesis of PANI complexes with mixtures of the rigid- and flexible-backbone polyacids was observed. According to the viscometry and FTIR spectroscopic data, the reason of the domination is the existence of the intermolecular interaction between the polyacids in the mixture. In this case, duration of the induction period of aniline oxidation was between these values for pure polyacids.
The Hyperacusis Questionnaire, loudness discomfort levels, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale
Authors: Jüris Linda , Ekselius Lisa , Andersson Gerhard , Larsen Hans Christian
Published: April 2013

Objective:

The aim of this study was to compare hyperacusis measurement tools often used in audiological practice in order to determine the most valid measure for assessing hyperacusis. Another aim was to examine the mean value for the Hyperacusis Questionnaire (HQ) in this patient group.

Design:

This was a cross-sectional study to compare the HQ with loudness discomfort levels (LDL), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and items from a clinical interview dealing with hyperacusis symptoms. Sixty-two patients between the ages of 18 and 61 years were evaluated. All patients were diagnosed with hyperacusis.

Results:

There were significant negative correlations between the HQ and nearly all LDL scores for the right ear, but no significant correlations could be found for the left ear. LDLs were significantly correlated with the anxiety subscale of the HADS while there were no significant correlations between the HQ and either of the HADS scales. Of the 62 patients, 41 scored above and 21 scored below the previously recommended cut-off for the HQ.

Conclusion:

We suggest that clinicians should use the HQ and HADS in combination with a clinical interview to diagnose hyperacusis, and propose that the cut-off for the Swedish version of the HQ should be lowered.
Life Together: Lessons in Hospitality from Mamre
Authors: Monge Claudio
Published: April 2013

Abstract:

Abraham's encounter with the mysterious guests at Mamre teaches us many things about the centrality of gestures of hospitality for community. I have gleaned but six characteristics that enable us to develop our life together as Christians and beyond the boundaries of Christianity. First, the mere appearance of the other possesses a gratuitous quality. Second, the appearance of the other reorients our gaze away from self-interest and toward the other's needs. Third, a reoriented gaze opens up new perspectives on reality. The last three characteristics relate directly to developing our life together beyond the initial encounter. Gestures of hospitality create a space of profound sharing, but a space and a sharing that respect the mystery of identity. Last, community develops not as it grows outward but as its members develop more profound interior lives.
Cardinal Ratzinger in Dialogue with the Toronto School of Theology: What Was Said in 1986?
Authors: Steinhauser Michael G.
Published: April 2013

Abstract:

A question-and-answer session on being a theologian of the Catholic Church. Topics include, for example, the theologian's responsibility to question claims of Church teachings by those in authority, development of the magisterium, methodology in critiquing of Scripture and use of doctrine, teaching of faith as authentic expression over and against theology as technical reflection, Eucharist and inter-communion, dissenting with retracting theological claims under duress, mysticism as substratum for theology to proposer, the idea of moral theology and the structure of dogmatic doctrine, and distinguishing between the Church's position and the opinion of the majority of theologians.
Study of Management and Production System of Small Scale Dairy Farm in a Selective Rural Area of Bangladesh
Authors: Khan ABMKI , Baset MA , Fouzder SK
Published: April 2013

The present study was conducted to determine the present status including general information, feeding, breeding, housing, and milking etc. and costs & returns of small dairy farms, to compare the productive and reproductive performance of crossbred and indigenous cows and to make recommendation for development of small scales dairy farm. With this view, the empirical data were collected by using pre tested questionnaire. The study was conducted at 8 thanas in Mymensingh district, and four months-long survey was diminished on thirty small dairy owners. It appeared from the study that 57% farm owners belong to business class and remaining 43 per cent to different categories. Fifty three per cent took dairying as a side-business whereas only 47 per cent took it as a main business enterprise. Major percentage of farm owner education level that was Higher Secondary level (60%) and the average number of animal per farm was 13.01. The average monthly income of farm owners found in the study area was Tk. 4387. It was observed that farm owners had 85.4% crossbred (like Friesian cross and Jersey cross) and was 14.6% indigenous cattle, and 87% farmers used artificial insemination and rest used both artificial and natural services. Daily milk yield/cow/farm was 4.27 and 1.78 liters for a crossbred and indigenous dairy cow, respectively. It was estimated that the rearing cost of dairy cow was Tk. 67.5/cow/day and return from rearing dairy cow was Tk. 85.2/cow/day. The net return was Tk. 17.7/cow/day from crossbred in the study area and cost benefit ratio was 1: 1.26. The study showed that there were significant (P<0.01) differences within the dry period, service per conception, calving to first service, highest and lowest milk production and lactation period of crossbred and indigenous dairy cows. The study also showed non-significant differences within calving interval for crossbred and indigenous. Incase of small dairy farming, the farms were facing a lot of problems such as scarcity of feeds and fodder, high price of concentrate and lack of technical knowledge. Although the dairy cow owners face problems, the study observed that there were potentials particularly for the small dairy farmers. The small farmers by keeping 8-10 crossbred cows could earn a modest living by adopting small dairy farming as a profession. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsf.v8i1-2.14615 J. Sci. Foundation, 8(1&2): 13-21, June-December 2010
A Comparative Economc Analysis of Local Breed and Cross Breed Milk Cow in a Seleced Area of Bangladesh
Authors: Mondal RK , Sen S , Rayhan SJ
Published: April 2013

The present study was undertaken to investigate and compare the socio-economic characteristics and relative profitability of local breed and cross breed dairy cow rearing farmers. The focus of the present study was to quantify the costs and returns and to explore the interrelationship of factors affecting yield, cost and net return for the local and cross breed cows and also compare these with each other. On an average, local and cross breed dairy cow owners possessed 4.93 and 4.76 animals per household respectively. Per day total costs of rearing per local and cross breed cow were Tk.32.85 and Tk.71.23 respectively. Feed cost constituted about 58 percent of total cost for local breed cows while it was 62 percent for cross breed cows. Paddy cost occupied the largest share out of total feed cost in local breed cows. The average milk yield per day per cow was 1.89 litres and 7.68 litres for local breed and cross breed dairy cows respectively while the total return per day per cow was estimated at Tk.58.27 and Tk.224.76 for the same and the net returns per day per cow were Tk.25.42 and Tk.153.53. The study revealed that green grass, concentrate feed, labour cost and capital cost have significantly positive impact on milk yield for cross breed cows but all the inputs other than labour cost and capital cost have positive impact on milk yield for local breed cows. It was further observed that the resources were not efficiently used by both local breed and cross breed farms. It may be concluded that both local and cross breed dairy cow owners had a scope to reallocate their resources. However, it was found from the study that profitability of cross breed cows was higher than that of the local breed cows. The study identified some major problems and constraints as reported by farmers which were: lack of grazing land, lack of veterinary care and services, high price and scarcity of feed and fodder, low price of milk, etc. Finally, policy implications of the study were suggested. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsf.v8i1-2.14616 J. Sci. Foundation, 8(1&2): 23-29, June-December 2010
A Study on the Performance of Exotic and Indigenous Chicken under Scavenging Method
Authors: Khan ABMKI , Uddin MB , Alam J , Baset MA
Published: April 2013

A study was conducted on the performance of exotic laying birds under scavenging systems at Sharishabari, Jamalpur during July, 2005 to June, 2006. For this purpose four exotic (three female and one male) and three local birds were provided to the six landless and six marginal cooperator farmers whereas six landless and six marginal non-cooperator farmers were considered as control. The average mortality in exotic chicken was 55% in case of local breed. The body and egg weight of exotic birds (1.65 kg and 56 gm respectively) were higher than the local breed (1.00 kg and 54 gm respectively). The average egg production per year was found to higher in exotic (84) than the local breed (62). But the benefit cost ration of exotic was found to be lower (1.36) than the local breed (1.46). DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsf.v8i1-2.14617 J. Sci. Foundation, 8(1&2): 31-34, June-December 2010
Urban Environmental Health in Bangladesh Slum: A Comparative Study of Two Metropolitan Cities
Authors: Hossain MA , Moniruzzaman M , Islam MA
Published: April 2013

This study aims to present a comparative study of socioeconomic, physical and urban environmental health condition of two metropolitan cities in Bangladesh. Slums both from Khulna and Rajshahi city were selected for this study. Although both primary and secondary data were used, this study was mainly based on primary data gathered through household questionnaire survey. In order to determine the socio-economic, physical and environmental situations, only those who were the beneficiaries of the UNICEF project were interviewed. The study finds that poor socioeconomic status and inadequacy of urban services has had an immediate effect on urban health special the slum poor in metropolitan cities in the country. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsf.v8i1-2.14628 J. Sci. Foundation, 8(1&2): 67-76, June-December 2010
Weather Sensitivity of Downy Mildew and Alternaria Blight of Mustard in the Gangetic West Bengal, India
Authors: Banerjee S , Bhattacharya I , Khan SA , Huda AKS
Published: April 2013

The infestation of disease-pest poses a considerable threat to rapeseed-mustard production in India. Alternaria blight [A. brassicicola (Schw.)] and downy mildew [Peronospora parasitica (Pers.) Kuntze] are the major diseases in lower Gangetic plains of India. As the rate of disease increase are dependent on weather factors, weather-based forewarning system may enable to guide farmers to take protection measures timely. The paper aims at to find the effect of weather on alternaria blight and downy mildew infestations. The weather data were compared with Percent Disease Index and the prevailing weather condition during peak disease intensity has been sorted out. It was observed that an increasing trend of last seven days average minimum temperature and relative humidity indicates more Alternaria blight and downy mildew infestation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsf.v8i1-2.14629 J. Sci. Foundation, 8(1&2): 77-81, June-December 2010
Investigation of Static Laterally Loaded Pile in Layered Sandy Soil
Authors: Uddin SMH , Islam MN
Published: April 2013

Investigation of the static lateral load resistance of pile on layered sandy soil was made by laboratory model test on single pile. The experiment was carried out with variable diameter and variable embedded length of pile on sandy soil. In this study, model pile was single pile which satisfies the Meyerhofs Relative Stiffness limit of pile for flexible pile. Single pile embedded length, L=0.46m, 0.609m, 0.762m for pile diameter, d=0.013m, 0.019m, 0.026m, respectively. And for surcharge condition embedded length of single pile, L=0.609m and surcharge of pressure, P=3369.55Kg/m3, P=6739.1 Kg/m3 and P=13478.20Kg/m3 for each diameter and for saturated condition of pile diameter, d=0.013m. These experiments were conducted with local sand of Rajshahi region and domar sand; available in Bangladesh. Lateral static loads were applied in the single by a static lateral load set up arrangement. Due to the static lateral load the pile was deflected. The load-displacement response, ultimate resistance of pile has been qualitatively and quantitatively investigated in the experiment. The lateral resistance of pile obtains by experiment and the ultimate lateral load resistances obtained by analytical methods were compared. The load displacement curves are similar and non-linear. Lateral failure at a pile head displacement from 8 to 10, 7 to 9 and 6 to 8mm for single pile of d= 0.013m, 0.019m and 0.026m, respectively. In the case of saturated condition of sand a pile head displacement 15mm for single of d=0.013m. It observed that the failure load was the point at which the curve exhibits a pick or maintains continuous displacement increase with no further increase in lateral resistance. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsf.v8i1-2.14630 J. Sci. Foundation, 8(1&2): 83-88, June-December 2010
The Aggression of Human Activities on Chalanbeel a Threat on Wetland Environment: Study on Natore - Rajshahi Region of Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman MM , Rahman MR , Asaduzzaman M
Published: April 2013

The Chalanbeel is the main wetland of Northwestern region of Bangladesh. It is not only the source of water but also one of the main sources of occupation for thousands of people. It supplies fresh water as well as abundant of aquatic resources. This wetland is the large source of native fishes. It plays a vital role to keep the environment of the surrounding vast region balanced. It makes the land fertile, alluvial and alive for whole the year round. It is also a large reservoir of biological diversity of this region. Recently the aggression of man on this great beel increases in such a rate that the overall environment of this wetland fall in a crisis. It is going to loss its tradition and pride of her resources. Specially the aggression of settlement and road construction along the wetland hampered the natural characteristics. Reach it and an investigation was conducted to study the overall condition of the wetland. The observation indicates horror news for both the environment and its inhabitant of the surrounding area. Soils under lower Natore- Rajshahi region of Bangladesh with a view to evaluate the agricultural potentiality, environmental condition and their management options. The studied wetlands were nutritionally very productive. It is believed that the soils of this area became enriched by siltation during flooding. Soil textural condition is very much appropriate for rice production in these basin floodplains. The content of nitrogen and boron is low. Probably, the denitrification process leads to the loss of nitrogen in these soils; other nutrients seem to be in balanced condition for the successful growth of deep water aman and boro rice. High yielding boro rice got preference over broadcast aman and aous as major rice crops in the area. Availability of irrigation water in the dry periods and deep inundation level in the monsoon may be the main cause of such cropping pattern. Recently a problem is found that is the gradual decreasing of crop production in these areas. Both soil fertility and water table deterioration is noticed as the main causes of this alarming news for North Bengal. As this area is consider as the rice production zone of Northern region of Bangladesh. Over pumping of water during dry season is also a cause to deteriorate the environmental balanced of this wetland. For the betterment of grater environment of this area it is essential to take necessary step to stop all kind of human aggression on wetland. Public awareness should increase about the matter. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsf.v8i1-2.14638 J. Sci. Foundation, 8(1&2): 151-159, June-December 2010
The Yield Response of Wheat to Zinc Fertilization
Authors: Talukder KH , Ahmed IU , Islam MS , Asaduzzaman M , Hossain MD
Published: April 2013

The experiment on wheat to zinc fertilization was carried out at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Agricultural Research Sub-Station, and Special Crop Research Stations of BARI and at Farmers field. The grain yield was increased with increasing application of zinc upto 6 kg/ha but beyond that the level the yield was declined. The highest yield (3.87t/ha) was obtained in 6 kg Zn/ha under Amnura series as compare to Nachole and Lauta series. The lowest yield was obtained in Nachole series (3.07 t Zn/ha) under Deep Grey Terrace Soil. In Gangachara too, the grain yield of wheat was increased with increasing levels of zinc upto 6 kg Zn/ha beyond that it was declined. The highest yield (5.58t/ha) was obtained in 6 kg Zn/ha under Gangachara series and compare to Kaunia and Sonatola series. The lowest yield was obtained (3.92t/ha) in Kaunia series under Grey Floodplain Soils.The grain yield of wheat was significantly increased upto 12 kg Zn/ha in Calcarious Dark Grey Floodplain and Calcarious Brown Floodplain Soils and the order of increase was Zn12>Zn9>Zn6 >Zn3>Zn0. The highest yield (5.50 t/ha) was recorded in 12 kg Zn/ha. The order of the yield was Ishardi 5.50 t/ha > Sara5.47 t /ha> Gopalpur 5.13 t /ha>Darsona 2.91t/ha was recorded under Calcarious Dark Grey Floodplain and Calcareous Brown Floodplain Soils. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsf.v9i1-2.14644 J. Sci. Foundation, 9(1&2): 15-25, June-December 2011
Study of Seminal MDA Level as a Oxidative Stress Marker in Infertile Male
Authors: Un-Nahar Zeba , Ali M , Biswas SK , Kamrun N , Bashar T , Arslan MI
Published: April 2013

Male infertility is an important medical and psychosocial problem worldwide. However, the underlying mechanism is far from clear in many cases of male infertility. Apart from known factors, it is therefore very important to identify new and non-conventional factors that may play significant role in male infertility. Oxidative stress has recently been identified as an underlying mechanism of numerous chronic diseases. Some studies have already claimed a relationship between oxidative stress and male infertility. The aim of the present study was therefore to evaluate whether there is an association between oxidative stress and male infertility in Bangladeshi subjects. MDA, the marker of lipid peroxidation was measured in the seminal fluid of fertile and age-matched otherwise healthy infertile male subjects. The sperm count, sperm morphology and motility, as well as semen volume were all found significantly lower in infertile subjects compared with fertile subjects. Interestingly, lipid peroxidation was found elevated seminal fluid of infertile subjects. The MDA was measured by thiobarbituric acid method. In seminal plasma, the median (range) MDA level was found significantly higher in infertile group (3.17 (1.20-6.21) versus 1.88 (0.50-5.37) nmol/ml, p<0.001). DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsf.v9i1-2.14651 J. Sci. Foundation, 9(1&2): 85-93, June-December 2011
On the Possible Detection of Lightning Storms by Elephants
Authors: Kelley Michael , Garstang Michael
Published: April 2013

Theoretical calculations suggest that sounds produced by thunderstorms and detected by a system similar to the International Monitoring System (IMS) for the detection of nuclear explosions at distances ≥100 km, are at sound pressure levels equal to or greater than 6 × 10−3 Pa. Such sound pressure levels are well within the range of elephant hearing. Frequencies carrying these sounds might allow for interaural time delays such that adult elephants could not only hear but could also locate the source of these sounds. Determining whether it is possible for elephants to hear and locate thunderstorms contributes to the question of whether elephant movements are triggered or influenced by these abiotic sounds.
Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Impact of Acquired and Intrinsic Fosfomycin Resistance
Authors: Castañeda-García Alfredo , Blázquez Jesús , Rodríguez-Rojas Alexandro
Published: April 2013

Bacterial infections caused by antibiotic-resistant isolates have become a major health problem in recent years, since they are very difficult to treat, leading to an increase in morbidity and mortality. Fosfomycin is a broad-spectrum bactericidal antibiotic that inhibits cell wall biosynthesis in both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. This antibiotic has a unique mechanism of action and inhibits the initial step in peptidoglycan biosynthesis by blocking the enzyme, MurA. Fosfomycin has been used successfully for the treatment of urinary tract infections for a long time, but the increased emergence of antibiotic resistance has made fosfomycin a suitable candidate for the treatment of infections caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens, especially in combination with other therapeutic partners. The acquisition of fosfomycin resistance could threaten the reintroduction of this antibiotic for the treatment of bacterial infection. Here, we analyse the mechanism of action and molecular mechanisms for the development of fosfomycin resistance, including the modification of the antibiotic target, reduced antibiotic uptake and antibiotic inactivation. In addition, we describe the role of each pathway in clinical isolates.
Generation of Free OHaq Radicals by Black Light Illumination of Degussa (Evonik) P25 TiO2 Aqueous Suspensions
Authors: Liao Haidong , Reitberger Torbjörn
Published: April 2013

This work demonstrates how formation of strongly chemiluminescent 3-hydroxyphthalic hydrazide by hydroxylation of non-chemiluminescent phthalic hydrazide can be applied as a selective reaction probe to obtain information on authentic hydroxyl radical, i.e., •OHaq, formation, in black light illuminated Degussa P25 TiO2 aerated suspensions in the pH range from 3 to 11. The •OHaq formation was found to be strongly pH dependent. At alkaline pH, the apparent quantum efficiency of •OHaq formation was estimated to be at the ~10−2 level whereas at acidic pH it was near zero. Addition of phosphate and fluoride ions substantially enhanced the •OHaq production in the acidic pH range. It is suggested that •OHaq-radical formation in TiO2 photocatalysis can occur by oxidation of hydroxyl ions in the water layer adsorbed on TiO2 surfaces.
DNA Self-Assembly: From Chirality to Evolution
Authors: Timsit Youri
Published: April 2013

Transient or long-term DNA self-assembly participates in essential genetic functions. The present review focuses on tight DNA-DNA interactions that have recently been found to play important roles in both controlling DNA higher-order structures and their topology. Due to their chirality, double helices are tightly packed into stable right-handed crossovers. Simple packing rules that are imposed by DNA geometry and sequence dictate the overall architecture of higher order DNA structures. Close DNA-DNA interactions also provide the missing link between local interactions and DNA topology, thus explaining how type II DNA topoisomerases may sense locally the global topology. Finally this paper proposes that through its influence on DNA self-assembled structures, DNA chirality played a critical role during the early steps of evolution.
Channel Allocation in Wireless Networks with Directional Antennas
Authors: Dai Hong-Ning , Ng Kam-Wing , Wu Min-You
Published: April 2013

In this paper, we study the channel allocation in multi-channel wireless ad hoc networks with directional antennas. In particular, we investigate the problem: given a set of wireless nodes equipped with directional antennas, how many channels are needed to ensure collision-free communications? We derive the upper bounds on the number of channels, which heavily depend on the node density and the interference ratio (i.e., the ratio of the interference range to the transmission range). We construct several scenarios to examine the tightness of the derived bounds. We also take the side-lobes and back-lobes as well as the signal path loss into our analysis. Our results can be used to estimate the number of channels required for a practical wireless network (e.g., wireless sensor network) with directional antennas.
Evaluation of the Biological Activity of Naturally Occurring 5,8-Dihydroxycoumarin
Authors: Slapšytė Gražina , Dedonytė Veronika , Lazutka Juozas , Mierauskienė Jūratė , Morkūnas Vaidotas , Kazernavičiūtė Rita , Pukalskas Audrius , Venskutonis Petras
Published: April 2013

5,8-Dihydroxycoumarin (5,8-DHC) was isolated from aerial parts of sweet grass (Hierochloë odorata L.) and screened for antioxidant and genotoxic activities. A clear linear dependency of radical scavenging capacity in DPPH• and ABTS•+ assays was determined. 5,8-DHC was very efficient in retarding rapeseed oil oxidation (Oxipress test). TPC (total phenols content) and FRAP (the ability to reduce ferric ion to ferrous ion) assays revealed a somewhat lower antioxidant capacity of 5,8-DHC as compared with gallic acid. Genotoxic activity was tested using different genetic end-points: chromosome aberrations (CAs) and micronuclei (MN) in Wistar rat bone marrow in vivo, CAs and sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs) in human lymphocytes in vitro, and somatic mutations and recombination in Drosophila melanogaster wing cells in vivo. 5,8-DHC did not increase frequency of CAs in rat bone marrow cells, but induced a significant increase of MN. It was slightly mutagenic in the Drosophila melanogaster assay after 120 h of treatment, but not after 48 h of treatment. 5,8-DHC induced both CAs and SCEs in vitro in human lymphocytes in a clear dose-dependent manner. Thus, 5,8-DHC may be classified as weakly genotoxic both in vivo and in vitro.
Signal Classification of Submerged Aquatic Vegetation Based on the Hemispherical–Conical Reflectance Factor Spectrum Shape in the Yellow and Red Regions
Authors: Watanabe Fernanda , Imai Nilton , Alcântara Enner , Da Silva Rotta Luiz , Utsumi Alex
Published: April 2013

The water column overlying the submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) canopy presents difficulties when using remote sensing images for mapping such vegetation. Inherent and apparent water optical properties and its optically active components, which are commonly present in natural waters, in addition to the water column height over the canopy, and plant characteristics are some of the factors that affect the signal from SAV mainly due to its strong energy absorption in the near-infrared. By considering these interferences, a hypothesis was developed that the vegetation signal is better conserved and less absorbed by the water column in certain intervals of the visible region of the spectrum; as a consequence, it is possible to distinguish the SAV signal. To distinguish the signal from SAV, two types of classification approaches were selected. Both of these methods consider the hemispherical–conical reflectance factor (HCRF) spectrum shape, although one type was supervised and the other one was not. The first method adopts cluster analysis and uses the parameters of the band (absorption, asymmetry, height and width) obtained by continuum removal as the input of the classification. The spectral angle mapper (SAM) was adopted as the supervised classification approach. Both approaches tested different wavelength intervals in the visible and near-infrared spectra. It was demonstrated that the 585 to 685-nm interval, corresponding to the green, yellow and red wavelength bands, offered the best results in both classification approaches. However, SAM classification showed better results relative to cluster analysis and correctly separated all spectral curves with or without SAV. Based on this research, it can be concluded that it is possible to discriminate areas with and without SAV using remote sensing.