bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are abundance indices derived from spotlight counts reliable to monitor red deer Cervus elaphus populations?
Authors: Garel Mathieu , Bonenfant Christophe , Hamann Jean‐Luc , Klein François , Gaillard Jean‐Michel
Published: April 2010

Management of large herbivores could be improved by investing less effort in estimating absolute abundance and more effort tracking variation over time of indicators of ecological change (IEC) describing animal performance, herbivore impact on habitat, and relative animal abundance. To describe relative changes in animal abundance, monitoring trends in numbers through indices may constitute a useful and low cost method, especially at large spatial scales. Reliability of indices to detect trends should be evaluated before they are used in wildlife management. We compared population trends estimated from spotlight counts, a standard census method for deer populations, with population size estimates of a red deer Cervus elaphus population monitored using Capture‐Mark‐Recapture (CMR) methodology. We found a strong negative effect of conditions of observation (e.g. rainfall) on both the number of animals (‐24.4%) and the number of groups (‐31.6%) seen per kilometre. After controlling for observation conditions, we found that these two abundance indices were linearly correlated with CMR estimates, with the group‐based index being better correlated (r = 0.75) than the individual‐based index (r = 0.68). These consistent trends between indices and CMR estimates provide support in using standardised spotlight counts as an IEC describing relative changes in abundance for the monitoring and management of red deer populations.
Arctic fox Vulpes lagopus den use in relation to altitude and human infrastructure
Authors: Selås Vidar , Johnsen B⊘rge Steinmo , Eide Nina E.
Published: April 2010

One obvious threat to the endangered arctic fox Vulpes lagopus population in Fennoscandia is competition with the larger red fox Vulpes vulpes, which may have expanded its range towards the alpine tundra because of increased food availability in the low‐alpine and subalpine region. The steady increase in the number of vacation cabins and roads, and thus also in human garbage and road‐killed animals, may subsidise easily available food resources and improve red fox survival in these otherwise marginal areas. In B⊘rgefjell National Park, Norway, 14 of 27 known arctic fox dens were used by arctic fox during 2001‐2005. The dens that were used were situated at higher altitudes, farther from natural red fox habitats, than unused dens. In the best of our logistic regression models, there was also a statistical negative effect of the number of cabins within 7 × 7 km squares around the den sites. Hence, our results support the prediction that the arctic fox is less likely to use areas where human activity might be benefiting red foxes. A successful conservation strategy for the arctic fox will probably require a reduction of the driving forces behind the red fox expansion in the alpine areas.
Trends in grouse research
Authors: Moss Robert , Storch Ilse , Müller Martin
Published: April 2010

Biological research on birds of the grouse family has become increasingly related to conservation. We review trends in grouse biology, analysing the representation of species and topics in the titles of 2,788 papers published since 1930. Ruffed grouse Bonasa umbellus, the most frequently studied species before 1960, was overtaken by willow ptarmigan Lagopus lagopus in the 1970s, after which black grouse Tetrao tetrix and capercaillie Tetrao urogallus became increasingly popular until they were the most‐studied species in the 2000s. The new focus on conservation ecology involves increased interest in the topics of threatened taxa, genetics and conservation. A new appreciation of the role of large, landscape‐scale processes in population dynamics and conservation management is shown by an increase in publications on landscape ecology and habitat, enabled by technical advances in telemetry, genetics and mapping systems. Meanwhile, the number of papers on disease, diet, behaviour and reproduction has declined. The topics of climate change, human disturbance and pollution had few hits, but we anticipate that interest in them will increase as the current emphasis on conservation continues. This may well involve improved genetic and GIS techniques for determining dispersal patterns, habitat connectivity and population viability, along with a better understanding of how grouse survive their predators and other enemies. Better communication of experiences in management for grouse conservation is needed.
Relationships of CBR and Insect Resistance and Yield Among Progenies of a CBR-Resistant x Insect-Resistant Cross1
Authors: Green C. C. , Wynne J. C. , Beute M. K. , Campbell W. V.
Published: April 2010

The potential for the development of large-seeded, highyielding virginia-type peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) with resistance to Cylindrocladium black rot (CBR) and three insects was examined. Forty randomly selected F2 families in F5 generation from a cross of the CBR-resistant germplasm NC 3033 and the cultivar NC 6 were evaluated for yield, fruit traits, and resistance to CBR, thrips (Frankliniella fusca Hinds), corn earworm (Heliothis zea Bodie) and potato leafhopper (Empoasca fabae Harris). Significant differences were found among families for all traits measured except corn earworm damage and number of seed. Transgressive segregation was observed for six of the nine traits measured. Heritabilities were high for pod length, pod weight, and seed weight; moderate for pod yield, CBR resistance, thrips and potato leafhopper damage and low for corn earworm damage. Large negative genotypic correlations were found between CBR resistance (percent dead and diseased plants) and traits indicative of insect resistance. Genotypic correlations between percent dead and diseased plants and yield and fruit traits were large and positive. Based on the predicted response in the other unselected traits when selection is for one trait, selection for increased CBR resistance should result in lines with decreased insect resistance, pod size and weight, seed weight, and yield. These data suggest that unfavorable linkages or pleiotropy among these traits may exist that would prevent selection of desirable genotypes from this cross.
Specimen Preparation Techniques for Scanning Electron Microscopy of Developing Peanut Pegs1
Authors: Pattee H. E. , Mohapatra S. C. , Agnello E. K.
Published: April 2010

This study evaluated various specimen preparation techniques for light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Main conclusions from this study were:

(i) Critical point drying (CPD) was preferred over freeze drying for SEM of whole or large pieces of specimens. However, CPD did not offer any additional advantage over air drying for SEM of thin (14 μm) microtomed sections of paraffin embedded specimens.

(ii) Formaldehyde-acetic acid-alcohol (FAA) was found to be satisfactory as a general purpose fixative for LM and low magnification SEM. However, for magnifications higher than X500, where subcellular details become the subject of investigation, glutaraldehyde (GA) was found to be preferable over FAA.

(iii) Certain artifacts appeared to be related to developmental stages of the peanut fruit.
Effect of Leaf Removal on Symbiotic Nitrogen Fixation in Peanut1
Authors: Osman A. K. , Wynne J. C. , Elkan G. H. , Schneeweis T. J.
Published: April 2010

The effect of varying levels of leaf defoliation on the nodulation and nitrogen fixation of a Virginia and a spanish-type peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) cultivar was investigated in the greenhouse. Five leaf defoliation treatments - (a) control (no leaflet removal), (b) 25%, (c) 50%, (d) 75%, and (e) 100% - were carried out every 3 to 5 days throughout the growing period.

All nitrogen fixation measurements were affected by the defoliation (leaflet removal) treatments. Increased leaf defoliation reduced nodule formation and N2 fixation. The reduction in plant dry weight, nodule number, nodule dry weight, and nitrogenase activity was most severe for the 100% defoliation treatment. Correlation coefficients (r) of N2 fixation measurements and leaf areas and weights were highly significant.

The defoliation effect was similar in both experiments and cultivars; however, the Virginia type achieved higher values for all N2 fixation measurements.
Chemical and Functional Properties of Peanut and Rice Bran Flour Blends
Authors: Conkerton E. J. , Ory R. L.
Published: April 2010

Plant proteins are being added to foods and beverages to improve nutritive value or change functional properties. No one protein can supply all the desirable characteristics. Blends of peanut and rice bran flours in 1:3, 1:1, and 3:1 ratios had different protein solubility than the original materials. Methionine, lysine, available lysine, hydration capacity, and fat absorption increased as the amount of rice bran increased. Emulsifying capacity and emulsion stability were highest in all blends.
Evaluation of Six Peanut Genotypes for Pod Rot Resistance1
Authors: Godoy Rodolfo , Smith Olin D. , Boswell T. E.
Published: April 2010

Six genotypes (TxAG-3, PI 341885, Toalson, Starr, Florunner, and Goldin 1) were evaluated for reaction to Pythium myriotylum Drechs, and Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn in the greenhouse to: 1) confirm field results as to the relative disease reactions of the entries; 2) ascertain whether peg versus pod exposure to pathogens confounds selection for pod rot resistance; 3) examine the utility of greenhouse inoculation in screening for pod rot resistance; and 4) evaluate simultaneous screening of plants for reaction to these fungi. Adult plants were exposed at two stages of fruit development. TxAG-3 had significantly less pod decay from each organism singly and in combination at both times of exposure to the pathogens than did the other entries. Exposure to the pathogens at the pegging and pod-filling stages of development produced similar results.
Identification and Incidence of Peanut Viruses in Georgia1
Authors: Kuhn C. W. , Demski J. W. , Reddy D. V. R. , Benner C. P. , Bijaisoradat Mandhana
Published: April 2010

Surveys of peanuts in Georgia in 1983 detected peanut mottle virus (PMV), peanut stripe virus (PStV), and peanut stunt virus. The mild strain of PMV was by far the most prevalent virus in commercial peanuts; it occurred in every field and an average incidence of 15-20% was observed when the growing season was about two-thirds complete. The necrosis strain of PMV was noted in 39% of the fields, but the incidence was less than 0.1%. A new severe strain of PMV (chlorotic stunt) was identified in two fields. PStV was found at four locations; in each case the infected plants were near peanut germplasm lines from The People's Republic of China. Mixed infections of PMV and PStV occurred frequently. Peanut stunt virus was noted only in one research field in 1983. Numerous serological and sap inoculation tests did not detect tomato spotted wilt virus or cowpea chlorotic mottle virus.
Pattern Analysis of Genotype Adaptation and Genotype x Environment Interactions in the Uniform Peanut Performance Tests1
Authors: Shorter R. , Hammons R. O.
Published: April 2010

Genotype x environment (g x e) interactions can confound comparisons among peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) genotypes in multi-environment genotype trials. Herein g x e interactions in two data sets constructed from the Uniform Peanut Performance Tests (UPPT) over the period 1973–1978 were examined. Numerical classification and ordination techniques were used to examine genotype adaptation and environmental groupings.

Because of the harvest strategy adopted in specific trials, maturity differences among genotypes may have influenced genotype yields and rankings in these trials. For example in trials harvested 151–176 days after planting, Early Bunch yielded 951 kg ha-1 less than the average of Florunner, Tifrun and UF 714021. Conversely in trials harvested 129–141 days after planting, Early Bunch was 700 kg ha-1 higher yielding than the average of Florunner, Tifrun and UF 714021. Our results suggest that entries in UPPT trials be harvested in order of their maturities where such maturity differences are known. In any year, performance of new lines should be compared jointly with that of a number of standard genotypes as performance of any one standard may not be indicative of its long term average.

There was a degree of regional adaptation of certain genotypes in that, relative to other genotypes, Florigiant performed poorly and Florunner well in southeastern United States environments. However an environmental classification based on g x e interaction effects indicated that, over all genotypes, there were no temporal or closely related regional groups of environments with similar g x e interactions. No evidence was found that genotypes from different breeding programs had substantially different environmental adaptation responses.
The Presence of 5,7-Dihydroxyisoflavone in Peanuts by High Performance Liquid Chromatography Analyses
Authors: Daigle D. J , Ory R. L , Branch W. D
Published: April 2010

The defatted flours of 43 colored and one white testa peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) genotypes were analyzed for flavonoids. Flavonoids were extracted from the flours with aqueous methanol, hydrolyzed, and the resulting aglycones analyzed by high pressure liquid chromatography with a variable wavelenth detector. The UV spectrum and retention time coupled with those of standards allowed for the tentative identification of the principal flavonoid aglycone as 5,7-dihydroxyisoflavone (DHI).
Anatomical Traits Associated With Pod Rot Resistance in Peanut1
Authors: Godoy R , Smith O. D , Taber R. A , Pettit R. E
Published: April 2010

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) cultivars resistant to Pythium myriotylum Drechs. and Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn, are needed for effective management of pod rotting diseases. The low efficiency of field screening for disease reaction in breeding for resistance has emphasized the need for improved evaluation methods. Anatomical examinations of roots, stems, leaves, pegs, and shells were made of six genotypes (TxAG-3, PI 341885, Toalson, Starr, Florunner, and Goldin I) with various degrees of resistance to pod rots in search of traits that might be used effectively in screening for disease reaction. The palisade mesophyll cells of 50-day old plants were arranged more compactly in pod rot resistant than in susceptible genotypes. An index representing total width (μm) of palisade cells/mm leaf blade was more discriminative in distinguishing among genotypes than average of either cell width or cell number alone. The distribution of lignin in peanut shells was correlated with pod rot resistance. The cell walls in the epicarp and sclerenchymatous mesocarp were thicker and more lignified in the resistant than in the susceptible genotypes. Genotypic differences in lignin distribution were readily apparent at 100x when shell sections were stained with phloroglucinol. Associations between anatomical traits of stems, pegs, roots, or juvenile plant leaflets and field pod rot reaction were not consistent among all genotypes. However, lignin-distribution in pods, and an index representing μm of palisade cells/mm of leaf blade individually or in combination, might be used effectively to supplement field evaluations in screening breeding lines for pod disease reaction.
Governors and “Their” Deputies: New Legislative Principals in Mexico
Authors: LANGSTON JOY
Published: April 2010

Many studies on legislatures around the world have not detected a regional voting dimension. Yet governors are often important political figures and can exert strong influence on state politicians. From an analysis of the Mexican legislature, I determine that governors hold important resources that ambitious politicians need in a system with no consecutive reelection. Mexican governors use their power over federal deputies to prod their agents, the caucus leaders, into working for their states' interests on fiscally relevant issues, especially the annual budget. On all other issues, the governors delegate their deputies' votes to the party's legislative leadership.
Genetic variability, correlated response and path analysis of yield and yield contributing traits of spring wheat
Authors: Majumder DAN , Shamsuddin AKM , Kabir MA , Hassan L
Published: April 2010

Twenty spring wheat varieties were studied to find out genetic variability and genetic association for grain yield and its component characters. Both genotypic and phenotypic variances were highly significant in all the traits with little higher phenotypic variations as usual. Similarly, the low differences between the phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variations indicated low environmental influences on the expression of these characters. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance were obtained with plant height, grains per spike, 100-grain weight, harvest index and grain yield. Genotypic correlation coefficients were higher than the corresponding phenotypic correlation coefficients in most of the traits. Spikes per plant, grains per spike, spike length, 100-grain weight and harvest index were the most important characters which possessed positive association with grain yield. Path coefficient analysis revealed that among the different yield contributing characters spike per plant, grains per spike, 100-grain weight and harvest index influenced grain yield per plant directly. The direct effects of these characters on grain yield were positive and considerably high. Moreover, harvest index, days to maturity and spikes per plant had positive and higher indirect effect on grain yield through grains per spike. Thus selection for yield in spring wheat through these characters would be effective. Keywords: Variability; Selection indices; WheatDOI: 10.3329/jbau.v6i2.4815 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 6(2): 227-234, 2008
Root growth of four transplant Aman rice varieties as influenced by NPKS fertilizer
Authors: Pal NC , Sarkar MAR , Hossain MZ , Barman SC
Published: April 2010

An experiment was carried out at the Agronomy Field Laboratory, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, during July to December 2006 to study the root growth of four Transplant Aman rice varieties as influenced by NPKS fertilization. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with three replications. The experiment consisted of four varieties viz. BRRI dhan30, BRRI dhan31, BRRI dhan40 and BRRI dhan41; and four levels of fertilizers viz. 0, 50%, 100% and 150% of the recommended dose of NPKS. BRRI dhan41 had better performance in all root parameters. All root parameters except number of roots hill-1 performed better at high level of fertilizer. The interaction effect between variety and fertilizer level was significant in respect of number of roots hill-1, fresh weight of root (except at 30 days after transplanting (DAT) and 90 DAT), dry weight of root, fresh weight of above ground plant part (except at 30 DAT and 90 DAT) and dry weight of above ground plant part (except at 90 DAT). Keywords: Root growth; Rice varieties; NPKS fertilizer DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v6i2.4816 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 6(2): 235-238, 2008
Fungi causing rots in onions at storage and market
Authors: Ara MAM , Khatun ML , Ashrafuzzaman M
Published: April 2010

Five varieties of diseased onion samples, four local (Taherpuri, Faridpuri, Kalashnagari, and Zitka) and one Indian (Pusa Red) were collected from different markets of Mymensingh, to isolate and identify the associated fungi. Five different fungal species belonging to three genera were repeatedly isolated. Healthy looking and diseased onions were kept at room temperature. The population of associated fungi increased proportionately with the duration of storage period. The isolated fungi were Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium spp., Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium moniliforme. Healthy onion bulbs were inoculated (with injury and without injury) with these fungi. Individual fungi produced distinguishable symptom of disease in incubation chamber at 22-23°C temperature. After 30 days of inoculation, bulbs showed comparatively low amount of disease development than those at 60 and 90 days. Maximum disease development was found in the variety Pusa Red (with injury) and it was minimum in Zitka variety (without injury). Keywords: Fungi; Onion; Disease development DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v6i2.4818 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 6(2): 245-251, 2008
Effects of organic manures and chemical fertilizers on the yield of brinjal and soil properties
Authors: Ullah MS , Islam MS , Islam MA , Haque T
Published: April 2010

A field experiment was conducted at the Horticultural Farm of Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Mymensingh during the period from December 2004 to April 2005 to evaluate the effect of manures and fertilizers on the yield of brinjal. There were five treatments consisting of organic, inorganic and combined sources of nutrients, of which the combined treatment (60 % organic +40% inorganic) showed the best performances. The maximum branching (20.1) with the highest number fruits/plant (15.2), fruit length (14.1 cm) and fruit diameter (4.3 cm) were found combined application of manures and fertilizers. The highest yield (45.5 t ha-1) was also obtained from the combined application of organic and inorganic sources of nutrients. Application of mustard oil cake or poultry manure alone gave better performance compared to only chemical fertilizers. The organic matter content and availability of N, P, K and S in soil were increased by organic matter application. On the other hand soil pH was increased with chemical application than organic. Keywords: Manure; Fertilizer; Yield; Brinjal; Soil properties DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v6i2.4821 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 6(2): 271-276, 2008
Effects of arsenic and its interaction with phosphorus on yield and arsenic accumulation in rice
Authors: Begum M , Akter J , Jahiruddin M , Islam MR
Published: April 2010

A study was made on the effect of arsenic (As) and As X P interaction in Boro rice and its residual effect in succeeding T. Aman rice. Arsenic was added to soil (having 2.6 ppm initial As) @ 0, 15 and 30 mg As kg -1 from Na2HAsO4.7H2O and phosphorus @ 0, 20, 40, 60 and 80 mg P kg-1 from KH2PO4. Each pot had received 100 ppm N, 40 ppm K and 25 ppm S from urea, MoP and gypsum, respectively. The grain yield of Boro rice was reduced by 20.6 % for 15 ppm As treatment and 63.8 % due to 30 ppm As. Such reductions for straw yield were 21.0 and 65.2 % with these two As treatments, respectively. Residual effect of arsenic was also significant and negative in T. Aman rice. The grain-As concentration in all cases was below 1 ppm, and the straw-As content was well above 1 ppm. The arsenic concentrations of both grain and straw were lower in T. Aman rice than in Boro rice. The adverse effect of arsenic was further enhanced by P addition. This reaction has an implication to P fertilizer management in rice.Keywords: Arsenic; Phosphorus; RiceDOI: 10.3329/jbau.v6i2.4822 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 6(2): 277-284, 2008
Comparative efficacy of two medicinal plants and Amaryl® tablet (Glimepiride) in induced diabetes mellitus in rat
Authors: Das PC , Mostofa M , Sarkar AK , Ali M
Published: April 2010

Comparative efficacy of two indigenous herbal extracts, (Trigonella foenum-graecum seed & Coccinia indica leaves) with the commonly used drug Glimepiride were studied. Healthy young rats (n=30) of both sexes weighting between 150 to 200 gm were selected and divided into six equal groups, as A (Control), B (diabetic), experimental diabetic groups were-C, D, E and F, treated with combined extract of Methi seed and Telakucha leaves- @ 250mg, 500mg, 750mg and Glimepiride 800μg/kg body weight, respectively. The substances were given orally once daily for14 days. The blood glucose concentration were decreased significantly (P<0.01) in groups C, D, E, and F. The body weight increased significantly (P<0.05) by 2.3%, 3.9%, 4.8% and 10.4%, respectively. The herbal extracts significantly reduced in blood glucose level with the increased in body weight. It is indicated that antidiabetic activity of Trigonella foenum-graecum and Coccinia indica are evident that are traditionally used as the herbal preparations by the Ayurvedic practitioners for the control of diabetes mellitus. Keywords: Trigonella foenum graecum; Coccinia indica; Amaryl® Tablet (Glimepiride); Streptozotocin and antidiabetic effect; Diabetes mellitus; Rat DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v6i2.4825 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 6(2): 297-300, 2008
Epidemiology and pathology of Trichomonas gallinae in the common pigeon (Columba livia)
Authors: Begum N , Mamun MAA , Rahman SA , Bari ASM
Published: April 2010

Pigeons (n=300) were examined during July 2007 to June 2008 in different areas of Mymensingh district. Of the pigeons examined, 202 (67.3%) were infected by Trichomonas gallinae (Rivolta, 1878). Prevalence of Trichomonas gallinae was higher in female pigeon (70.9%) than male pigeon (63.8%). Adult pigeons aged >3 months were comparatively more affected (75%) than the squab aged <30 days (72.1%) and the younger aged between 30 days to 90 days (64.7%). T. gallinae infection was significantly (P<0.01) lower in summer (48.4%) than rainy (69.8%) and winter (69.3%) seasons. Pathological lesions were confined in the crop, proventriculus and liver. There was an accumulation of greenish fluid and/or cheesy material in the crop and proventriculus. At necropsy, yellowish to grayish necrotic lesions were evident in the crop and proventriculus. On the other hand, the liver became congested where congestion of sinusoids and focal accumulation of heterophils in the parenchyma were found. But, no microscopic lesions were seen in the crop and proventriculus although gross lesions were more prominent in these two organs. Keywords: Trichomonas gallinae; Pigeons; Epidemiology; Pathology DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v6i2.4826 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 6(2): 301-306, 2008
Growth and Hematological changes of commercial birds fed on blood meal supplement with water
Authors: Shahidullah M , Uddin M , Habib MA
Published: April 2010

The experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of blood meal supplement on growth performance and hematological parameters changes in broiler chicks. The experiment was carried out with 40 selected homogenous sex and weight broiler chicks having 10 for each group. The lay out of the study was conducted with control group A, fed only with standard commercial broiler ration and other groups viz. B, C, and D were fed with standard commercial ration in addition to 2.5 %, 5.0 %, and 7.5% blood meal supplement with water respectively for 15 days (21st to 35th days of age). The activities of broiler chicks, growth performance, weight loss or gain and any kind of abnormalities were closely observed in every day and the body weight was recorded at 7 days interval. During feeding of blood meal all treated groups were found increased body weight at different level.The blood meal supplied to the broiler chicks increased the growth performance that was directly proportional to the rate of blood meal supplement with water, because the ration was fixed for every group. In hematological observations, TEC, Hb concentration and PCV were decreased but rapid decreasing occurs in group (B) that was statistically significant (P<0.05). In this experiment during feeding of blood meal no clinical symptoms were found markedly. But slight symptoms occur when fed 7.5 % blood meal.The data were analyzed by least significance difference (LSD) with a compute program SPSS-11.50 (Statistical packages for social sciences). Keywords: Blood meal; Hematological parameters; Growth performance DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v6i2.4829 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 6(2): 321-326, 2008
Morphometric characters and their relationship in estuarine catfish
Authors: Begum M , Al-Mamun Abdullah , Islam ML , Alam MJ
Published: April 2010

The morphometric observations were made on total length, standard length, pre-caudal length, head length, eye diameter and depth of body at pectoral fin base of estuarine catfish M. gulio. Males and females showed homogeneity in characters. A linear relationship was found between total length and morphometric characters. Regression of length and weight did not deviate significantly from cube law indicating isometric growth. The fish exhibited sexual dimorphism. Keywords: Morphometric characters; Estuarine catfish; Mystus gulio DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v6i2.4833 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 6(2): 349-353, 2008
Assessment of the livelihood status of the fish farmers in some selected areas of Bagmara upazilla under Rajshahi district
Authors: Ali MH , Hossain MD , Hasan ANGM , Bashar MA
Published: April 2010

The present investigation was carried out to assess the livelihood status of the fish farmers in Hamirkutsha and Kamarbari Unions of Bagmara upazilla under Rajshahi district during June to December 2006. Data were collected through the use of well structured questionnaire. Fifty farmers were included in this study who were directly involved in fish farming. Average pond size was 0.13 ha with single (64%) and multiple ownerships (36%). Most of the fishers were belonged to the age category of 31 to 40 years and average education level of 9.86 years of schooling, represented by 94% Muslims and 6% Hindus. About 54% of the farmers have tinshed house while 26, 14 and 6% of the farmers have half-building, building and kacha house, respectively. Average annual incomes of majority of fish farmers were above Tk. 75,000 per annum and 62% of the farmers used semi-pucca sanitary, 28% used pucca sanitary while only 10% used katcha sanitary. About 62% of the farmers had electricity facilities while 38% did not have and 88% of the farmers used own tube-well, while 12% of the farmers used neighbor's tube-well. Forty six percent of the farmers received health service from village doctor or kobiraj, 18% have access to upazila health complex, 14% went to district hospital, 20% consulted with MBBS doctor and 2% of the farmers do not take any treatment due to lack of money. Lack of scientific knowledge, multiple ownerships and lack of capital for fish culture were the major constraints. Keywords: Constraints; Fish farmers; Health service; Livelihood status DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v6i2.4836 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 6(2): 367-374, 2008
Effect of storage conditions on quality and shelf life of selected winter vegetables
Authors: Jany MNH , Sarker C , Mazumder MAR , Shidker MFH
Published: April 2010

Cabbage, cauliflower, country bean, tomato and pea were stored in room temperature for 8 days, at refrigerated (4°C) temperature for 12 days and at freezing temperature (-18°C) for 90 days. The vegetables were analyzed at every 2 days of storage period in room temperature, at the interval of 15 days at freezing and 3 days interval for refrigerated condition. Color, flavor, texture was better in freezing condition compared to the other conditions. The pH values after stored at room temperature 4.2, 4.32, 4.1, 3.33, 3.3, in refrigerated condition (without blanching) 4.83, 5.23, 3.33, 3.97, 4.37 and in refrigerated condition (with blanching) 3.27, 3.89, 3.98, 3.39, 4.77 and in freezing condition 5.47, 5.77, 4.76, 3.99 and 5.39 respectively. Vitamin C content of cabbage, cauliflower, country bean, tomato and pea after 8 days of storage at room temperature was 21.3 mg/100 g, 25.3 mg/100 g, 4.34 mg/100 g, 13.2 mg/100 g and 3.9 mg/100 g respectively. In refrigeration temperature (without blanching) after 12 days the values were 16.3 mg/100 g, 37.3 mg/100 g, 2.7 mg/100 g, 13.3 mg/100 g and 8.3 mg/100 g for cabbage, cauliflower, country bean, tomato and pea correspondingly. On the other hand in refrigeration condition (with blanching) vitamin C content of cabbage, cauliflower, country bean, tomato and pea were 3.3 mg/100 g, 18.3 mg/100 g, 2.4 mg/100 g, 2.9 mg/100 g and 9.3 mg/100 g in that order. Vitamin C content of cabbage, cauliflower, country bean, tomato and pea in freezing condition after 90 days of storage period were found 22.1 mg/100 g, 43.23 mg/100 g, 14.2 mg/100 g, 20.7 mg/100 g and 12.1 mg/100 g. The rate of weight loss increased with time progress of the storage period in all conditions. Keywords: Ambient temperature; Refrigeration; Freezing; Blanching; Cabbage; Cauliflower; Tomato; Country bean; Peas DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v6i2.4839 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 6(2): 391-400, 2008
Study on the period of acceptability of cooked rice
Authors: Ali MA , Hasan AMK , Islam MN , Islam MN
Published: April 2010

The study attempts to determine the period of acceptability of cooked rice (parboiled) of Pajam variety. Cooling studies on cooked rice showed the highest cooling rate in soaked water, and successively followed by refrigeration, under fan air and at room temperature (30±2°C). The moisture, protein, fat, ash and total carbohydrate contents (wb) were 9.68, 4.93, 0.36, 0.32 and 84.71 % respectively in raw rice; 12.37, 8.36, 0.40, 0.57 and 78.29 % respectively in parboiled rice and 65.99, 3.24, 0.15, 0.14 and 30.47 % respectively in cooked rice (parboiled). After 24 hours of storage moisture, protein, fat, ash and carbohydrate contents were 66.47%, 5.69%, 0.13%, 0.14% and 15.73% respectively in rice at room temperature; 69.12 %, 3.64 %, 0.13 %, 0.13 % and 26.98 % respectively in refrigerated rice and 64.38 %, 3.53 %, 0.15 %, 0.15% and 31.78 % respectively in frozen rice. The cooked rice stored at room temperature for 24 hours showed 4.2x104cfu/g, and the refrigerated and frozen rice showed no viable load while after another 24 hours of storage the refrigerated rice showed 6.9x105cfu/g and frozen rice showed no load. The sensory evaluation revealed the 'cooked rice' and 'refrigerated and reheated rice' were equally acceptable and ranked as 'like very much' in terms of colour, taste, texture and overall acceptability. To ensure the maximum hygienic quality and desirable taste the cooked rice (parboiled) might be kept for a maximum period of 20 hours at room temperature and 48 hours in a refrigerator and reheated by microwave oven for 1 minute before serving to the consumer. Keywords: Period; Acceptability; Cooked rice DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v6i2.4840 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 6(2): 401-408, 2008
Alternate wetting and drying irrigation for rice cultivation
Authors: Oliver MMH , Talukder MSU , Ahmed M
Published: April 2010

A field experiment was conducted at the Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) to find out possible effects of alternate wetting and drying irrigation (AWDI) on the yield, water use and water use efficiency (WUE) of Boro rice. The experimental layout was furnitured using split-plot design (SPD) with two modern varieties (MV) of rice viz. BRRIdhan 28 and BRRIdhan 29, which received four irrigation treatments randomly and was replicated thrice. The treatments ranged from continuous submergence (T1) of the field to a number of delayed irrigations (T2, T3 and T4) denoting application of 5 cm irrigation water when water level in the perforated PVC pipe fell 10, 20 and 30 cm below ground level (G.L.), respectively. The study revealed that treatment T1 attributed by the highest total water use (122.2 cm) and the lowest WUE (58.53 kg/ha/cm) produced the highest grain yield (6.86 t/ha). Treatment T2, on the contrary, gave the second highest yield (6.58 t/ha) and consequently the second highest WUE (69.48 kg/ha/cm) indicating quite a large water saving (15 cm) compared to treatment T1. The yields in treatments T3 (6.27 t/ha) and T4 (5.86 t/ha) were significantly lower at 1% level of significance compared to that of treatment T1. No significant effect was found either for the treatment or for the varieties on the number of effective and total tillers hill-1 nor did they affect 1000 grain weight. Reduced plant height, no. of effective tillers hill-1, grain yield, straw yield, biological yield and harvest index were found with the increasing water stress. Key words: Alternate wetting and drying irrigation; Boro rice; Yield; Water use efficiency DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v6i2.4841 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 6(2): 409-414, 2008
Changing leadership and rural power structure
Authors: Mozumdar L , Ali RN , Farid KS , Kabir MS
Published: April 2010

The present study attempts to assess the nature of changes occurred in the leadership pattern of rural power structure in Bangladesh. A complete household survey of Sutiakhali Namapara village in Sadar Upazila of Mymensingh district was undertaken to identify rural leaders. Among 92 households, a total of 18 leaders were identified by using the positional, the reputational, and the issue participation approach. The information about the changing aspects of rural power structure and the leadership pattern were collected by formal and informal interviews, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), participant observation, and storytelling. Findings showed that majority of the leaders were young (55.56%), had no specific lineage status (38.89%) and most of them (38.89%) were businessmen. Education, personal qualities and affiliation with major political parties were more important factors influencing rural leadership. A remarkable change occurred in the power structure of rural Bangladesh during the last decade, more specifically from 2001 to 2007. Among the elites, the younger ones were dominating the villages, whereas, the older ones were losing the elite status, because of their lack of positional status and power. It also revealed that the rural leaders changed their policy to create and sustain power, such as building business associations, forming party networks involving with different government and non-government organizations and maintaining a good link with local Member of Parliament etc. Finally, it can be said that a significant change occurred in leadership pattern and power structure of rural Bangladesh. Keywords: Power structure; Leadership; Lineage status; Personal qualities DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v6i2.4844 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 6(2): 429-436, 2008
MicroRNAs in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC)
Authors: Shiiba Masashi , Uzawa Katsuhiro , Tanzawa Hideki
Published: April 2010

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNAs which regulate cell differentiation, proliferation, development, cell cycle, and apoptosis. Expression profiling of miRNAs has been performed and the data show that some miRNAs are upregulated or downregulated in cancer. Several studies suggest that the expression profiles of miRNAs are associated with clinical outcomes. However, the set of miRNAs with altered expressing differs depending on the type of cancer, suggesting that it is important to understand which miRNAs are related to which cancers. Therefore, this review aimed to discuss potentially crucial miRNAs in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).
Optimization and Characterization of Lithium Ion Cathode Materials in the System (1 – x – y)LiNi0.8Co0.2O2 • xLi2MnO3 • yLiCoO2
Authors: Manivannan Venkatesan , Chennabasappa Madhu , Garrett Joshua
Published: April 2010

This paper has been retracted on 31 August 2011. A Retraction note is published in Energies, 2011, 4, 1336
The Drinker’s Effect on the Social Environment: A Conceptual Framework for Studying Alcohol’s Harm to Others
Authors: Room Robin , Ferris Jason , Laslett Anne-Marie , Livingston Michael , Mugavin Janette , Wilkinson Claire
Published: April 2010

The paper considers conceptual and methodological issues in studying the scope of alcohol’s harm to others. Reasons are suggested for the relative neglect of the topic. The approaches in two relevant research traditions are considered: population surveys on alcohol problems, and economic cost of alcohol studies. Ways of conceptualizing and measuring aspects of the drinker’s effects on others are considered, in terms of main types of relationship with the other, and in terms of major societal response institutions. The main types of data tend to measure different levels of severity, with population survey data dominated by less severe problems, and response institution data by more severe problems; so both are needed for a three-dimensional view. Research questions for the field and its policy significance are noted.
Luminescence in Sulfides: A Rich History and a Bright Future
Authors: Smet Philippe F. , Moreels Iwan , Hens Zeger , Poelman Dirk
Published: April 2010

Sulfide-based luminescent materials have attracted a lot of attention for a wide range of photo-, cathodo- and electroluminescent applications. Upon doping with Ce3+ and Eu2+, the luminescence can be varied over the entire visible region by appropriately choosing the composition of the sulfide host. Main application areas are flat panel displays based on thin film electroluminescence, field emission displays and ZnS-based powder electroluminescence for backlights. For these applications, special attention is given to BaAl2S4:Eu, ZnS:Mn and ZnS:Cu. Recently, sulfide materials have regained interest due to their ability (in contrast to oxide materials) to provide a broad band, Eu2+-based red emission for use as a color conversion material in white-light emitting diodes (LEDs). The potential application of rare-earth doped binary alkaline-earth sulfides, like CaS and SrS, thiogallates, thioaluminates and thiosilicates as conversion phosphors is discussed. Finally, this review concludes with the size-dependent luminescence in intrinsic colloidal quantum dots like PbS and CdS, and with the luminescence in doped nanoparticles.
The Outer Vestibule of the Na+ Channel–Toxin Receptor and Modulator of Permeation as Well as Gating
Authors: Cervenka René , Zarrabi Touran , Lukacs Peter , Todt Hannes
Published: April 2010

The outer vestibule of voltage-gated Na+ channels is formed by extracellular loops connecting the S5 and S6 segments of all four domains (“P-loops”), which fold back into the membrane. Classically, this structure has been implicated in the control of ion permeation and in toxin blockage. However, conformational changes of the outer vestibule may also result in alterations in gating, as suggested by several P-loop mutations that gave rise to gating changes. Moreover, partial pore block by mutated toxins may reverse gating changes induced by mutations. Therefore, toxins that bind to the outer vestibule can be used to modulate channel gating.
Synthesis of the Marine Pyrroloiminoquinone Alkaloids, Discorhabdins
Authors: Wada Yasufumi , Fujioka Hiromichi , Kita Yasuyuki
Published: April 2010

Manynatural products with biologically interesting structures have been isolated from marine animals and plants such as sponges, corals, worms, etc. Some of them are discorhabdin alkaloids. The discorhabdin alkaloids (discorhabdin A-X), isolated from marine sponges, have a unique structure with azacarbocyclic spirocyclohexanone and pyrroloiminoquinone units. Due to their prominent potent antitumor activity, discorhabdins have attracted considerable attention. Many studies have been reported toward the synthesis of discorhabdins. We have accomplished the first total synthesis of discorhabdin A (1), having the strongest activity in vitro among discorhabdins in 2003. In 2009, we have also accomplished the first total synthesis of prianosin B (2), having the 16,17-dehydropyrroloiminoquinone moiety, by a novel dehydrogenation reaction with a catalytic amount of NaN3. These synthetic studies, as well as syntheses of the discorhabdins by various chemists to-date, are reviewed here.
Cultural Resilience—The Roles of Cultural Traditions in Sustaining Rural Livelihoods: A Case Study from Rural Kandyan Villages in Central Sri Lanka
Authors: Daskon Chandima Dilhani
Published: April 2010

The reasons for the significance of cultural values are complex and many advocacy groups have not successfully provided clear explanations for and convincing arguments in favor of prioritizing cultural values in the development processes. The aim of this paper is to examine the roles played by culture in relation to livelihood resilience, posing the question of how cultural traditions might potentially offer alternatives/adaptive strategies, not only to strength livelihood assets of rural communities, but also in generating new opportunities during vulnerabilities caused by economic, social and political changes. Rural Kandyan communities afford us a good example of “cultural resilience”, relying on longstanding cultural traditions for their survival. This paper shows how culture and traditional values strengthen livelihood resilience and argues that while the impulse for change may come from external influences, adaptation comes from within, through dynamics, which are specific to values of the people.
Synthesis and Reactions of Dibenzo[a,e]pentalenes
Authors: Saito Masaichi
Published: April 2010

Pentalene has recently received a considerable amount of attention as a ligand in sandwich-type transition metal complexes. In contrast, dibenzo[a,e]pentalene (hereafter denoted as dibenzopentalene), which is more π-extended than pentalene, has received less attention, despite its potential usefulness as a building block of ladder-type π-conjugated molecules, which have recently received growing interest. However, very recently, several novel efficient methods for the synthesis of dibenzopentalenes have been reported. This review surveys recent advances in the synthesis and reactions of dibenzopentalenes and describes the aromaticity of their ionic species.
Occurrence of Black Aspergilli and Ochratoxin A on Grapes in Italy
Authors: Lucchetta Gianluca , Bazzo Irene , Dal Cortivo Gianluca , Stringher Lisa , Bellotto Diego , Borgo Michele , Angelini Elisa
Published: April 2010

Ochratoxin A (OTA) in wine is linked to contamination by several Aspergillus species. In 2003–2007, grape samples collected in Italy were surveyed for the presence of OTA and OTA-producing fungi. A. niger aggregate was the prevalent species. A. carbonarius, which is considered the main source of OTA in grapes, was mostly found in Southern Italy. The year and the environment had an important influence on the development of the black Aspergillus populations. Testing with ELISA showed OTA to be present in about 30% of the samples. Samples from Southern Italy showed the highest occurrence (45%) and also the highest OTA concentration, sometimes higher than 2 mg/L. The values decreased progressively the further North the samples were taken.
Ochratoxin A in Ruminants–A Review on Its Degradation by Gut Microbes and Effects on Animals
Authors: Mobashar Muhammad , Hummel Jürgen , Blank Ralf , Südekum Karl-Heinz
Published: April 2010

Ruminants are much less sensitive to ochratoxin A (OTA) than non-ruminants. The ruminal microbes, with protozoa being a central group, degrade the mycotoxin extensively, with disappearance half lives of 0.6–3.8 h. However, in some studies OTA was detected systemically when using sensitive analytical methods, probably due to some rumen bypass at proportions of estimated 2–6.5% of dosage (maximum 10%). High concentrate proportions and high feeding levels are dietary factors promoting the likeliness of systemic occurrence due to factors like shifts in microbial population and higher contamination potential. Among risk scenarios for ruminants, chronic intoxication represents the most relevant.