bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insulin Resistance Is Accompanied by Increased Fasting Glucagon and Delayed Glucagon Suppression in Individuals With Normal and Impaired Glucose Regulation
Authors: Færch Kristine , Vistisen Dorte , Pacini Giovanni , Torekov Signe S. , Johansen Nanna B. , Witte Daniel R. , Jonsson Anna , Pedersen Oluf , Hansen Torben , Lauritzen Torsten , Jørgensen Marit E. , Ahrén Bo , Holst Jens Juul
Published: August 2016

Hyperinsulinemia is an adaptive mechanism that enables the maintenance of normoglycemia in the presence of insulin resistance. We assessed whether glucagon is also involved in the adaptation to insulin resistance. A total of 1,437 individuals underwent an oral glucose tolerance test with measurements of circulating glucose, insulin, and glucagon concentrations at 0, 30 and 120 min. Early glucagon suppression was defined as suppression in the period from 0 to 30 min, and late glucagon suppression as 30 to 120 min after glucose intake. Insulin sensitivity was estimated by the validated insulin sensitivity index. Individuals with screen-detected diabetes had 30% higher fasting glucagon levels and diminished early glucagon suppression, but greater late glucagon suppression when compared with individuals with normal glucose tolerance (P ≤ 0.014). Higher insulin resistance was associated with higher fasting glucagon levels, less early glucagon suppression, and greater late glucagon suppression (P < 0.001). The relationship between insulin sensitivity and fasting glucagon concentrations was nonlinear (P < 0.001). In conclusion, increased fasting glucagon levels and delayed glucagon suppression, together with increased circulating insulin levels, develop in parallel with insulin resistance. Therefore, glucose maintenance during insulin resistance may depend not only on hyperinsulinemia but also on the ability to suppress glucagon early after glucose intake.
Sensitivity of lipolysis and lipogenesis to dibutyryl-cAMP and β-adrenergic agonists in swine adipocytes in vitro2
Authors: Mills S. E. , Liu C. Y.
Published: August 2016

The sensitivities of lipolysis and fatty acid synthesis to dibutyryl-cAMP (dbcAMP), epinephrine, ractopamine and clenbuterol were quantified in vitro using porcine adipocytes. Insulin-stimulated lipogenesis showed a biphasic response to dbcAMP, with increased rates at low concentrations and decreased (55%) rates at higher concentrations of dbcAMP. In the absence of insulin, lipogenesis was inhibited 78% by dbcAMP. In the presence of adenosine deaminase or theophylline, all three β-adrenergic agonists inhibited basal lipogenesis, but only epinephrine and ractopamine inhibited insulin-stimulated lipogenesis. The relationship between suppressed lipogenesis and enhanced lipolysis in response to dbcAMP and the β-agonists revealed that 1) basal lipogenesis was more sensitive to inhibition than was the stimulation of lipolysis, 2) sensitivity differences were magnified if adenosine deaminase was present and 3) insulin decreased adipocyte sensitivity to the inhibitory effects of dbcAMP and the β-adrenergic agonists. These results indicate that the relative sensitivities of lipogenesis and lipolysis to β-adrenergic stimulation can be modified by adenosine and insulin. Furthermore, adenosine and insulin antagonize β-adrenergic responses, in part, by cAMP-independent mechanisms.
Intramuscular collagen and serum hydroxyproline as related to implanted testosterone, dihydrotestosterone and estradiol-17 β in growing wethers
Authors: Miller L. F. , Judge M. D. , Schanbacher B. D.
Published: August 2016

Relationships of implanted testosterone, dihydrotestosterone and estradiol-17 β to collagen degradation and intramuscular collagen concentration and stability were determined. Intramuscular collagen content, solubility and shrinkage temperature and serum hydroxyproline were analyzed in groups of six rams, wethers, and wethers implanted with various levels of testosterone or dihydrotestosterone (Exp. 1) and groups of 10 rams, wethers and wethers implanted with estradiol-17 β, dihydrotestosterone or a combination of (Exp.2). Intramuscular collagen content in both experiments was higher (P < .05) in muscles of rams than in muscles of wethers. Administration of the highest level of testosterone to wethers raised (P < .05) total and insoluble intramuscular collagen to concentrations noted in rams. Administration of the testosterone metabolite, dihydrotestosterone, to wethers had no effect on intramuscular collagen. Administration of estradiol-17 β to wethers tended to raise concentrations of intramuscular collagen so that they were no longer lower (P < .05) than those in rams. Collagen stability as measured by solubility and thermal shrinkage temperature did not differ among rams, wethers or implanted wethers (P < .05). Increases in collagen accretion due to hormone administration were observed to be the result of increases in the insoluble portion of the intramuscular collagen (P < .05).
COMPOSITION AND QUALITY OF BEEF FROM STEERS SIRED BY PIEDMONTESE, GELBVIEH AND RED ANGUS BULLS1
Authors: Tatum J. D. , Gronewald K. W. , Seideman S. C. , Lamm W. D.
Published: August 2016

Forty-five steers produced by matings of Piedmontese (P), Gelbvieh (G) and Red Angus (RA) sires to British (B) and Continental crossbred (Cx) dams were started on a finishing diet at an average of 291 d. Five steers from each sire-breed group were slaughtered after 124, 166 or 208 d of finishing. Age-constant values for slaughter weight and estimated degree of maturity did not differ for the three sire breed groups. Carcasses produced by P steers had the least fat thickness, the largest longissimus muscle (LM) areas, the lowest numerical yield grades, the highest yields of separable muscle and the highest muscle-to-bone ratios. Additionally, LM samples from P-sired steers had the highest percentage of white muscle fibers, the lowest percentage of intermediate muscle fibers and the smallest cross-sectional area of red muscle fibers. Marbling scores and intramuscular lipid content were highest for RA steers; P and G steers had similar values for marbling and intramuscular lipid content. Longissimus steaks from G steers received the lowest ratings for tenderness, flavor intensity and amount of connective tissue. Steaks from P and RA steers received similar sensory panel ratings. No differences were observed among the three sire-breed groups for amount and solubility of intramuscular collagen or for partitioning of separable carcass fat.
Ruminal fermentation pattern, bacterial population and ruminal degradation of feed ingredients as influenced by ruminal ammonia concentration.
Authors: Song M. K. , Kennelly J. J.
Published: August 2016

The effects of ruminal ammonia concentration on bacterial numbers, fermentation pattern and degradation of feed ingredients in the rumen were examined with three nonlactating Holstein cows fitted with ruminal cannulas. Cows were fed twice daily a complete mixed diet (90% whole plant oat silage and 10% concentrate mixture) containing 11.1% CP on a DM basis. Ammonium bicarbonate (NH4HCO3) was infused continuously into the rumen at levels of 0, 95, 190 or 280 g/d. Infusion of NH4HCO3 linearly increased (P < .05) the concentrations of ruminal ammonia and blood urea N. Total VFA concentrations and mixed bacterial numbers also were increased (P < .05) by NH4HCO3 infusion. Infusions of NH4HCO3 increased (P < .05) butyrate and decreased (P < .05) isobutyrate and isovalerate proportions. Infusion of NH4HCO3 increased (P < .05) rate of degradation of soybean meal DM but did not (P > .05) influence degradation characteristics of fish meal and barley grain. In conclusion, supplementation of N by continuous infusion of NH4HCO3 appeared to stimulate bacterial growth and fermentation but it did not influence extent of ruminal degradation of selected feed ingredients.
EFFECTS OF TIME OF SEASON AND COTTONSEED MEAL AND LASALOCID SUPPLEMENTATION ON STEERS GRAZING RYE PASTURES1
Authors: Worrell M. A. , Undersander D. J. , Thompson C. E. , Bridges W. C.
Published: August 2016

A study was conducted to estimate changes in rye (Secale cereale L.) forage quality during the grazing season and to determine the effects of supplemental cottonseed meal (CSM) with and without the ionophore lasalocid on the growth rate of steers grazing rye pastures. During 1986 to 1987, pasture samples were collected on December 19, January 20, February 19 and March 16 to estimate changes in fiber, N and in vitro OM disappearance (IVOMD) of rye forage. Significant seasonal differences in NDF, ADF, permanganate lignin and IVOMD were detected. Rye forage IVOMD ranged from 74.5 to 83.6% of DM, indicating that quality was high at all sampling times. Nitrogen content also was high and ranged from 2.1 to 4.6% of DM. Ruminal N degradation rate, percentage of N degraded and percentage of escape N indicated that the rye protein was rapidly degraded with less than 25% of the total plant N escaping ruminal breakdown. Ninety-six crossbred yearling steers were assigned to either control, .45 kg CSM/d or .45 kg CSM/d + 150 mg lasalocid/d treatments to determine the effects of supplementation on growth rate while steers grazed rye pastures. Protein supplementation (CSM) increased (P < .05) ADG early in the grazing season but not later. Addition of lasalocid to the protein supplement increased (P < .05) ADG during the spring grazing period and for the entire grazing season. Rye forage is a high-quality feedstuff containing rapidly degraded N throughout the grazing season. Supplementing steers with CSM containing lasalocid improved seasonal weight gains.
Effects of melatonin and progesterone administered to ewes in spring and summer2
Authors: Wheaton J. E. , Pohl H. A. , Windels H. F.
Published: August 2016

Melatonin (MEL) was evaluated for effects on LH, prolactin (PRL) and fertility in spring (Exp. 1, 2) and summer (Exp. 3 to 5). In Exp. 1, 17 ovariectomized ewes bearing estradiol implants were fed 3 mg MEL or vehicle for 44 d beginning May 1. Melatonin decreased (P < .001) PRL levels but had no effect on LH secretion and response to GnRH. In Exp. 2, 12 ewes each received a 40-d MEL ear implant or a sham implant on March 31. Progesterone-releasing pessaries (CIDR) were applied for 12 d and were withdrawn concomitant with ram joining on May 7. Neither treatment stimulated follicular development or induced estrus or ovulation. Exp. 3 and 4 were contemporary 2 × 2 factorial trials with 24 ewes at each of two locations. Melatonin implants were administered on June 29 and CIDR on July 22. The CIDR were removed and rams (Exp. 3, vasectomized; Exp. 4, fertile) were joined on August 3. Days from introduction of rams to estrus were reduced (P < .05) by CIDR but not by MEL. All ewes lambed in Exp. 4, and days to estrus and conception were reduced (P < .001) by CIDR but not by MEL. Exp. 5 was designed like Exp. 4 except that MEL implants were inserted June 20 and rams were joined August 8. Intervals from introduction of rams to estrus were reduced (P < .01) by both MEL and CIDR treatments.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Life-cycle evaluation of Bos taurus and Bos indicus × Bos taurus breed types in a dry, temperate climate: performance of mature dams.
Authors: Bailey C. M. , Koh Y. O. , Foote W. D. , Hanks D. R.
Published: August 2016

Mature dams representing Hereford, Red Poll, F1 Hereford × Red Poll, F<Analysis of the Hereford1 Red Poll × Hereford, F1 Angus × Hereford, F1 Angus × Charolais, F1 Brahman × Hereford and F1 Brahman × Angus breed types were evaluated. All cows were bred to Limousin sires to produce two-way or three-way-cross progeny. Mature Brahman × Hereford dams produced a higher (P < .05) percentage of live calves than Herefords, but dam breed differences in percentage of calves weaned relative to the number of cows exposed for mating were not statistically significant. Progeny of Angus × Charolais and Red Poll dams were outstanding in weaning weight, but Hereford and Brahman-cross calves were below average. Planned comparisons showed that Angus × Charolais calves were heavier (P < .01) at weaning than Hereford (23.0 ± 3.8 kg) or Angus × Hereford (9.6 ± 3.2 kg) progeny. Mature Angus × Hereford mothers weaned heavier calves than did Brahman × Herefords (7.4 ± 3.2 kg, P < .05) or Brahman × Angus (10.9 ± 3.0 kg, P < .01). Analysis of the Hereford-Red Poll diallel showed evidence of maternal heterosis in calf weaning weight (4.0 ± 2.6 kg, P < .05), but there was no difference in the percentage of calves weaned by crossbred vs straightbred dams.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Genetic implications of a simulation model of litter size in swine based on ovulation rate, potential embryonic viability and uterine capacity: I. Genetic theory.
Authors: Bennett G. L. , Leymaster K. A.
Published: August 2016

A simulation model of litter size in swine based on ovulation rate, uterine capacity and potential embryo viability was compared to three genetic models to clarify its genetic characteristics. The simulation model is equivalent to independent culling based on fixed levels of potentially viable embryos and uterine capacity. Litter size also can be described by a combination of additive, additive × additive, mean environment × additive, random environment and additive × random environment effects. A third genetic model that can describe the simulation model is the associative effects model, in which litter size is the result of grouping two genotypes. The fixed independent culling levels model predicts that genetic parameters will change as the component means change. This genetic model also predicts that selection on an index of ovulation rate and uterine capacity would improve selection response for litter size. This genetic model predicts asymmetry of correlated responses in ovulation rate and uterine capacity when selecting for high and low litter size. The nonadditive genetic model predicts covariances among relatives that are different from their additive relationships; however, simulated results did not detect any differences. The nonadditive genetic model also predicts that heterosis for litter size will differ among crosses based on the mean environment and on additive × additive genetic interaction. The associative effects model predicts that selection for litter size will always lead to a positive response in litter size.
The establishment and persistence of food preferences in lambs exposed to selected foods.
Authors: Nolte D. L. , Provenza F. D. , Balph D. F.
Published: August 2016

Our study determined whether lambs' food preferences developed as a result of exposure to specific foods early in life and whether the presence of the mother affected the development of dietary preferences. In the first experiment, lambs were fed wheat (W) and mountain mahogany (MM) (Cercocarpus montanus) from 50 to 110 d of age. After exposure to W and MM, lambs preferred (P < .05) W when offered with barley (B) but did not prefer (P > .05) MM when offered with serviceberry (SB) (Amelanchier alnifolia), probably because lambs were reluctant to eat mountain mahogany during exposure. Persistence was determined by dividing lambs exposed to W or MM into four groups: 1) continued exposure to W (MM); 2) exposure to B (SB); 3) no further exposure; and 4) exposure to W + B (MM + SB). Preferences for wheat persisted (P < .05) regardless of the second exposure. In the second experiment, lambs were exposed to W (MM) either alone or with their mothers. Persistence was determined after 21 d of exposure to B (SB). Lambs preferred (P < .05) W and MM whether they were exposed alone or with their mothers. However, preferences persisted longer in lambs exposed with their mothers. Finally, lambs exposed to either SB or MM with their mothers were later allowed to choose between SB or MM. Lambs strongly preferred (P < .05) the shrub to which they were exposed early in life.
Adopting a Resistance Lens
Authors: Bernath Julie , Rubli Sandra
Published: August 2016

Drawing from the critical scholarship on transitional justice and from studies of resistance, this article brings together different observations of resistance, including different sets of actors, forms and motives of resistance, and analyzes their implications for power and legitimacy in contexts of transition. The article argues that the analytical value of resistance lies in the original vantage point it provides for an engagement with questions of power and legitimacy that inform transitional justice processes, but that are often difficult to identify on an empirical level. In doing so, it proposes a “resistance lens,” that is, an explicit focus on resistance that is based on a relational understanding to resistance, in order to move beyond simplistic conceptions of resistance in transitional justice scholarship that mainly approach resistance as resulting from a lack of political will of the powerful elite to implement supposedly universal transitional justice models.
First as Tragedy, Then as Teleology
Authors: Jansen Stef
Published: August 2016

Ethnographers working in Bosnia and Herzegovina have been at the forefront of the struggle against the identitarianism that dominates scholarship and policymaking regarding the country. Tirelessly foregrounding patterns of life that exceed, contradict, complicate or are oblivious to questions thus framed, we have—unsurprisingly—paid a price for this contribution: explorations of the appeal of nationalism are left mostly to others. Th is article identifies anemic and etic politics/people paradigm that facilitates our timidity to register the ways in which “ordinary people” may enact nationalist subjectivity. Seeking to retain the paradigm’s strengths, I call for a recalibration of how we understand it to function and explore conceptual tools to make this work. Starting from two cases of “foot soldier narratives,” I suggest that hegemony theory can help us trace not only how people are subjected to nationalization but also how they may seek subjectification through it.
Use of dermal regeneration template to close a giant myelomeningocele in a newborn
Authors: North William D. , Khoury Laith , Christopher Spears R. , Liau James Y. , Pittman Thomas
Published: August 2016

Many techniques are available to close a myelomeningocele, but large lesions can be particularly difficult to close given the absence of surrounding tissue. The authors present the case of a 2-day-old girl with a large lumbosacral myelomeningocele who underwent a staged repair using dermal regeneration template (DRT; Integra) followed by split-thickness skin grafting. The results demonstrated that the combined use of myofascial turnover flaps and DRT with delayed skin grafting is a safe, effective option for this challenging reconstructive dilemma.
Prevalence of Salmonella and Escherichia coli contamination in shrimp (Penaeus monodon) farms, depots and processing plants in different areas of Bangladesh
Authors: Faridullah Md , Roy Vikash Chandra , Lithi Ulfat Jahan
Published: August 2016

A study was conducted to determine the level of contamination by indicator organisms (Salmonella and Escherichia coli) in shrimp (Penaeus monodon) farms, depots and processing plants of Coxs Bazar, Khulna, Bagerhat and Satkhira districts of Bangladesh using conventional technique of bacterial isolation and identification. The results of this study revealed that prevalence of Salmonella positive samples was 43.7%, 62.5%, 20% and 0.0% for water, pond scum, shrimp and basket samples, respectively at farm level. Meanwhile, the prevalence of E. coli positive samples was 62.5%, 43.7%, 60% and 60% for water, pond scum, shrimp and basket samples, respectively at farm level. In case of depots, shrimp, basket and mat samples were analyzed and found 20%, 56.3% and 23% positive for Salmonella and 53.3%, 37.5% and 92.3% positive for E. coli. Bacteriological assessment of the shrimp samples obtained from four seafood processing plants revealed that all the samples were found contaminated with Salmonella and E. coli except the samples of one industry. Investigation finally showed that with few exceptions all the samples from farms, depots and processing plants have different levels of contamination by Salmonella and E. coli, which is very much alarming for shrimp industry of Bangladesh.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2016, 2(2): 171-176
Effect of lead acetate alone and in combination with whole milk (Star ship®) on body growth and liver functions in an experimentally induced lead toxicity in rat
Authors: Gani Mohammad Usman , Siddiqui Md Saiful Islam , Rashid Md Harun Or , Islam Kamrul , Moonmoon Sharifunnessa , Ahmed Shaifuddin , Mostofa Mahbub
Published: August 2016

The Effect of lead acetate alone and in combination with whole milk on body weight gain and some biochemical parameters were carried out on a total of 15 (15 days old) male weaning Long- Evans strain rats. The rats were randomly divided into three equal groups, each consisting of five rats. Rats of group A were kept as control (without giving any treatment), group B received lead acetate alone @ 6mg/ml drinking water and group C received lead acetate @ 6mg/ml plus whole milk (Star ship®) 150 mg/ml drinking water. The result showed that body weight gain of control group per week per rat was found to increase but in treated group B, the body weight gain was found to decrease most significantly (P< 0.01) on day 56 while in group C, body weight was reduced significantly (P< 0.05) on day 56. The reducing body weight gain was less in group C than group B. A most significantly (P< 0.01) increased SGOT and SGPT values were observed in Group B but in group C, those count increased significantly (P< 0.05) on day 56 of experiment. From the study it was concluded that treatment with lead acetate at low doses has adverse effects on body growth and liver functions in experimental animals.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2016, 2(2): 183-189
Effect of heat stress on milk production and its composition of Holstein Friesian crossbred dairy cows
Authors: Reyad Mahmud Al , Sarker Md Abid Hasan , Uddin Md Elias , Habib Raihan , Rashid Md Harun Ur
Published: August 2016

The aim of this research was to observe the effect of heat stress on milk yield and milk compositions of Holstein Friesian crossbred (HF) dairy cows. To fulfill the objectives, a total of 9 Holstein Friesian crossbred cows were selected for this study. Green grasses (German, Para) were supplied adlibitum and concentrate feeds (mixture of wheat bran, rice polish, mustard oil cake, di-calcium phosphate and salt) were supplied at the rate of 2.0 kg/day/cow. Management practices for all the cows were similar following the BAU Dairy farm practices. Data were collected on milk yield (l/h/d), relative humidity (%) and barn temperature (0C). The obtained temperature humidity index (THI) of July, August, September and October were 84.95, 81.99, 81.40 and 79.57, respectively. The highest THI was found in July which indicated higher heat stress during this month. A significant difference (p<0.05) in milk yield of cows was found among different months of July to October. The highest milk yield (6.10±0.50 l/h/d) was found in October among observed months. The compositions of milk such as total solids (TS), solids-not-fat (SNF), fat, protein, lactose, and ash also differed significantly (p<0.01). The highest values (%) of TS, SNF, fat, protein, lactose and ash content of milk were found in October as 12.63, 8.80, 3.83, 3.69, 4.39 and 0.72, respectively and lowest values (%) were in July as 12.20, 8.50, 3.71, 3.50, 4.30 and 0.69, respectively due to the high THI value. From these results, it is concluded that heat stress has strong effect on milk yield and milk composition of HF cows in Bangladesh. Management strategies are needed to minimize heat stress and attain optimal dairy animal performance.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2016, 2(2): 190-195
Gross and histomorphological effects of formaldehyde on brain and lungs of Swiss albino mice
Authors: Afrin Marya , Amin Tanjina , Karim Md Rabiul , Islam M Rafiqul
Published: August 2016

Formaldehyde (FA) is toxic over a range of doses and of particular concern to anatomists and medical students on laboratory use. FA induces several characteristics of neurotoxicity in addition to systemic effects. Therefore, to know the toxic effects of FA on brain and lungs, mice were collected from international center for diarrheal disease research. They were divided into four groups i.e. control, inhalation, oral and intraperitoneal. The inhalation, oral and intraperitoneal exposure groups further divided into three subgroups which were subjected to exposure of FA daily for 30 days in case of inhalation and oral groups and 10 days in intraperitoneal group for acute toxic effects. Morphological study showed gross abnormalities i.e. congestion on lungs. But no gross abnormal features observed on brain. In 5 ppm treated inhaled group, lungs tissue revealed hemorrhages. In the inhaled groups, brain tissue showed degenerating neurons with either pyknotic or karyorrhectic nuclei are gradually increased in highest concentration group. These data supports the view that FA has adverse effects on the morphology of brain and lungs.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2016, 2(2): 229-235
Evaluation of growth performance of Brahman cross calves to local environment of Bangladesh
Authors: Haque Md Azizul , Fatematuzzohora Mst , Hoque Md Azharul , Ali Md Younus
Published: August 2016

The present study was conducted using growth performance data on 624 Brahman cross (25%) calves collected from three villages adjacent to Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Growth performance data of 289 Brahman cross (50%) calves were also collected from record sheet maintained at 12 Upazila Livestock Offices under the "Beef breed development project" of Department of Livestock Services to compare performance between 25% and 50% Brahman cross calves. Growth performance traits were considered birth weight, weight at three-, six-, nine-, twelve-month of age, average daily gain from birth to twelve-month of age. Calving difficulties (dystocia) and calf mortality were also included in the study area. The birth weight, weight at three-, six-, nine- and twelve-month average daily gain for 25% Brahman cross calves were 19.79±0.20, 52.72±1.31, 86.61±2.02, 129.90±3.08, 172.60±3.48 kg and 426.00±4.99g, respectively. The average birth weight (21.40±0.24 kg) and twelve-month weight (229.62±2.08 kg) of 50% Brahman cross calves were significantly higher (p<0.05) than 25% Brahman cross calves. Average daily gain was significantly higher (570.52±5.19g) in 50% Brahman cross than 25% Brahman cross calves (529.98±4.54g). Birth weight, three-, six-, nine-, twelve-month weight were positively correlated to each other. Strong correlations were found between birth weight and three-month weight (0.65), between six- and nine-month (0.65).There was no report of calving difficulties or abnormal calf birth, where the average calf mortality rate was 2.96 in the study areas. It indicates that 50% Brahman cross calves were well performed in these climatic condition. However, further study with larger sample sizes covering more different management systems would be required to draw a better conclusion in this regard.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2016, 2(2): 259-265
Excavation of irrigation canal changes the cropping pattern in 2013-14: Auria Union, Narail, Bangladesh
Authors: Hasan Md Amit , Rahman Md Shamsur , Rahman Md Atiqur , Biswas Shaswata , Bhattacharjee Rimi , Shaikah Md Maruf
Published: August 2016

The principal crop during winter is Bororice and it occupies about 70% of crops. Being a country of 140 million inhabitants, agriculture is still the major water using sector in order to feed a growing population where at least 40 million people do not have a square meal. Recently, Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) launched some projects to various water user groups for maintenance and expenditure recovery. Chenchuri Irrigation Sub Project is under South-West Area Integrated Water Resources Planning and Management Project (SWAIWRPMP). The project area covers the South Western Narail District along with Auria Union at Narail Sadar Upazila. Data were collected from 150 farmers of 6 villages in Auria Union. This research investigates the overall cropping pattern in Auria Union, Narail Sadar Upazila, before the construction of canal (during 1987-88), after the construction of canal (during 2009-10)and after re-excavation of canal (2012-13). The result showed that, before the construction of canal (during 1987-88) there were 5 types of cropping pattern and after the construction of canal (during 2009-10) there were 6 types of cropping pattern. But after re-excavation of canal (2012-13), 12 types of cropping pattern were recorded. Among them, the T. Aman and Boro were the most prominent cropping pattern. In Kharif 1, Kharif 2 and Rabi seasons, various types of crops were cultivated. Such as Aus, B. Aman, T. Aman, Boro, Jute, Sesame, Summer vegetables, Chilly, Garlic, Chickpea, Lentil, Mustard, Onion, Sugarcane, Turmeric, Wheat, Winter vegetables etc. The result revealed that, the re-excavation of canal have significantly positive impact on the Boro, Wheat, Turmeric, Chilly, Chick pea, Sugarcane, Lentil production. The Boro rice cultivation increased significantly day by day and it replaced other crops gradually. Because, farmers get irrigation water easily and cheaply from canal in Rabi season (16 October - 15 March). The present study showed that, the excavation of irrigation canal completely changes the cropping pattern at auriaunion in Narail, Bangladesh.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2016, 2(2): 285-296
Effect of seed washing either alone or in combination with garlic extract and Knowin 50WP on quality of jute seeds
Authors: Islam MS , Monjil MS
Published: August 2016

Efficacy of seed washing, garlic extract, prewashed seeds treated with garlic extract, Knowin 50 WP (Carbendazim) and prewashed seeds treated with Knowin 50WP were evaluated on seed borne fungi of jute seeds. Nine seed borne fungi were detected on both deshi and tossa jute seed samples collected from sadar upazilla of Barisal district viz., Macrophomina phaseolina, Botryodiplodia theobromae, Fusarium spp, Colletotrichum corchori, Curvularia lunata, Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, Penicillium spp. and Alternaria spp.. Physical seed washing and garlic extract were found effective against seed borne diseases of jute which significantly decrease the association of seed borne fungi from jute seeds. Prewashed seeds treated with garlic extract showed highest germination and highest reduction of seed borne mycoflora from desi and tossa jute seeds. Knowin 50WP or prewashed seeds treated with Knowin 50WP were found effective to reduce seed borne fungi from jute seeds. Highest vigor index was obtained in jute seedlings raised from prewashed seeds treated with Garlic or Knowin 50WP. Thus, prewashed seeds treated with Garlic or Knowin 50WP resulting significant reduction of seed-borne fungal population and enhancing seeding vigor.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2016, 2(2): 318-323
Effect of milk replacer on kid performance among small holder farmers
Authors: Rahman MZ , Talukder MAI , Ali Md Yousuf , Akter Most Sumona
Published: August 2016

An experiment was conducted with 15 Black Bengal kids of both sexes (in 3 groups) were fed two different milk replacer using ingredient shotti (T1), skim milk (T2) and no milk replacer- kids with mother, termed as control group (T0) at Southern agro trade, Subarnachar, Noakhali. The average total DM intake and milk dry matter intake were not significantly differed among the treatment group. Total dry matter intake was not affected by intake of liquid milk replacer or goat milk. The CP intake were ranged from 19.97 to 20.93 g/d. Total CP intake was not significantly differed among the group but T1 group was slightly higher(0.42 g/d) than T0 and T2. The amount of protein intake (g/d) was followed NRC (1985) recommendation. DMI from concentrate (g/d), DMI from green grass (g/d) and DMI from percent live weight were not significantly differed among the treatment groups. The average daily gain was not significantly (P>0.05) differed among the treatment group. The average growth rate (57.42  61.20 g/d) of all kid of Black Begal goat was lower than the Angora goats (115.00-125.00 g/d) and Alpine goats (153.00-258.00 g/d). Dry matter (DM) digestibility (%) was significantly (p<0.05) higher (74.45) in T1 group compare to other groups. CP digestibility was numerically higher in T1 group than other three groups. The digestibility of nutrient depends on physiology of kids, particularly the development and capacity of the digestive tract. The lower growth rate might be genetic characteristics of Black Bengal goat.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2016, 2(2): 357-360
Developing Mid-Tier Supply Chains (France) and Values-Based Food Supply Chains (USA): A Comparison of Motivations, Achievements, Barriers and Limitations
Authors: Fleury Philippe , Lev Larry , Brives Hélène , Chazoule Carole , Désolé Mathieu
Published: August 2016

Mid-tier supply chains/values-based food supply chains have emerged, in both France and the United States, as viable alternatives for small and mid-sized farms that had previously struggled. These supply chains deliver more products to a larger region than short supply chains such as farm-direct markets and are distinguished from the dominant long supply chains by (1) products that are differentiated from the mainstream based on superior quality, environmental stewardship and social responsibility; and (2) the characteristics of the strategic relationships that link the supply chain participants. On the demand side, regional supermarkets, restaurants, public and private institutional buyers, and individual consumers have demonstrated their eagerness to seek out and pay premiums for these types of high-quality food products that are delivered via trusted and transparent supply chains and characterized by their authentic farming stories. The set of case studies presented in this paper (three from each country) will highlight both the parallels and differences in the development of these innovative supply chains between two countries with quite dissimilar agricultural and food sector traditions and policies.
Correction to Yao, H.; Qiao, J.-W.; Gao, M.C.; Hawk, J.A.; Ma, S.-G.; Zhou, H. MoNbTaV Medium-Entropy Alloy. Entropy 2016, 18, 189
Authors: Yao Hongwei , Qiao Jun-Wei , Gao Michael , Hawk Jeffrey , Ma Sheng-Guo , Zhou Hefeng
Published: August 2016

The authors wish to make the following correction to their paper [1].[...]
Control of Self-Organized Criticality through Adaptive Behavior of Nano-Structured Thin Film Coatings
Authors: Fox-Rabinovich German , Paiva Jose , Gershman Iosif , Aramesh Maryam , Cavelli Danielle , Yamamoto Kenji , Dosbaeva Goulnara , Veldhuis Stephen
Published: August 2016

In this paper, we will develop a strategy for controlling the self-organized critical process using the example of extreme tribological conditions caused by intensive build-up edge (BUE) formation that take place during machining of hard-to-cut austentic superduplex stainless steel SDSS UNS32750. From a tribological viewpoint, machining of this material involves intensive seizure and build-up edge formation at the tool/chip interface, which can result in catastrophic tool failure. Built-up edge is considered to be a very damaging process in the system. The periodical breakage of the build-ups may eventually result in tool tip breakage and, thereby, lead to a catastrophe (complete loss of workability) in the system. The dynamic process of build-up edge formation is similar to an avalanche. It is governed by stick-slip phenomenon during friction and associated with the self-organized critical process. Investigation of wear patterns on the frictional surfaces of cutting tools using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), combined with chip undersurface characterization and frictional (cutting) force analyses, confirms this hypothesis. The control of self-organized criticality is accomplished through application of a nano-multilayer TiAl60CrSiYN/TiAlCrN thin film Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) coating containing elevated aluminum content on a cemented carbide tool. The suggested coating enhanced the formation of protective nano-scale tribo-films on the friction surface under operation. Moreover, machining process optimization contributed to further enhancement of this beneficial process, as evidenced by X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) studies of tribo-films. This resulted in a reduction of the scale of the build ups leading to overall wear performance improvement. A new thermodynamic analysis is proposed concerning entropy production during friction in machining with buildup edge formation. This model is able to predict various phenomena and shows a good agreement with experimental results. In the presented research we demonstrated a novel experimental approach for controlling self-organized criticality using an example of the machining with buildup edge formation, which is similar to avalanches. This was done through enhanced adaptive performance of the surface engineered tribo-system, in the aim of reducing the scale and frequency of the avalanches.
Partial Discharge Measurement under an Oscillating Switching Impulse: A Potential Supplement to the Conventional Insulation Examination in the Field
Authors: Ren Ming , Dong Ming , Zhang Chongxing , Zhou Jierui
Published: August 2016

Partial discharge (PD) detection under oscillating switching impulse (OSI) voltage was performed on three types of insulation defects, including a protrusion on a conductor, a particle on an insulator surface, and a void in an insulator, which are three kinds of the common potential insulation hazards in gas insulated power apparatus. Experiment indicated that the PD sequences under OSI were composed of various combinations of the single pulse, the multiple pulses, and the reverse polarity pulse. The difference between the PD inception voltage (PDIV) and the breakdown voltage (BDV) under OSI voltage was greater than that under alternating current (AC) voltage in some cases, which can provide a more sufficient margin below the BDV for PD diagnosis. The OSI voltage also showed a better performance for exciting PDs with detectable magnitudes from small-scale defects, of which the AC voltage was incapable under our test conditions. The different PD activities with different interfaces under an impulse and a slowly varying voltage were speculated to be associated with the gradient of the background electric field and the space-charge mobility.
Modeling of Load Bearing Characteristics of Jacket Foundation Piles for Offshore Wind Turbines in Taiwan
Authors: Ku Cheng-Yu , Chien Lien-Kwei
Published: August 2016

This paper presents a pioneering study on numerical modeling of load bearing characteristics of the jacket foundation pile for offshore wind turbines on the west coast of Taiwan. Because Taiwan is located in an earthquake prone area, there is significant interest in improving the prediction of the behavior of wind turbine jacket foundations subjected to seismic loading. Investigation of the bearing capacity of the jacket foundation pile for the offshore wind farm using effective stress analysis, with consideration of pore pressure generation and soil/liquid coupled analysis, was conducted. A new procedure to evaluate the design of offshore wind turbine foundation piles in the sand and clay inter-layered soil was also proposed. Static and dynamic analyses of bearing capacity of the jacket foundation pile were conducted. Results obtained demonstrate that the design process for the jacket foundation pile proposed in this study can properly reflect the interaction behavior of the foundation and the soil. In addition, the pore pressure generation model can be used to simulate soil liquefaction. The proposed method is also very useful in the evaluation of the design capabilities of offshore wind turbine jacket foundations.
PHACTR1 Gene Polymorphism Is Associated with Increased Risk of Developing Premature Coronary Artery Disease in Mexican Population
Authors: Pérez-Hernández Nonanzit , Vargas-Alarcón Gilberto , Posadas-Sánchez Rosalinda , Martínez-Rodríguez Nancy , Tovilla-Zárate Carlos , Rodríguez-Cortés Adrián , Pérez-Méndez Oscar , Blachman-Braun Ruben , Rodríguez-Pérez José
Published: August 2016

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the protein phosphatase and actin regulator 1 gene (PHACTR1) have been associated with susceptibility to develop several diseases, including cardiovascular disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of two polymorphisms (rs2026458 and rs9349379) of the PHACTR1 gene in the susceptibility to the risk of developing premature coronary artery disease (CAD) in the Mexican population. The genotype analysis was performed using 5’exonuclease TaqMan genotyping assays in a group of 994 patients with premature CAD and 703 controls. A similar genotype distribution of rs2026458 was observed in both groups; however, under an additive model adjusted by age, body mass index, type 2 diabetes mellitus, smoking, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, the rs9349379 G allele was associated with a higher risk for developing premature CAD (odds ratio (OR) = 1.22, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.03–1.46, p-value (p) = 0.024). The two PHACTR1 polymorphisms were not in linkage disequilibrium. In summary, our results suggest that the PHACTR1 rs9349379 polymorphism plays an important role in the risk of developing premature CAD in the Mexican population.
A Novel Absolute Orientation Method Using Local Similarities Representation
Authors: Yan Lei , Wan Jie , Sun Yanbiao , Fan Shiyue , Yan Yizhen , Chen Rui
Published: August 2016

Absolute orientation is an important method in the field of photogrammetry. The technique is used to transform points between a local coordinate reference system and a global (geodetic) reference system. The classical transformation method uses a single set of similarity transformation parameters. However, the root mean square error (RMSE) of the classical method is large, especially for large-scale aerial photogrammetry analyses in which the points used are triangulated through free-net bundle adjustment. To improve the transformation accuracy, this study proposes a novel absolute orientation method in which the transformation uses various sets of local similarities. A Triangular Irregular Network (TIN) model is applied to divide the Ground Control Points (GCPs) into numerous triangles. Local similarities can then be computed using the three vertices of each triangle. These local similarities are combined to formulate the new transformation based on a weighting function. Both simulated and real data sets were used to assess the accuracy of the proposed method. The proposed method yields significantly improved plane and z-direction transformed point accuracies compared with the classical method. On a real data set with a mapping scale of 1:30,000 for a 53 km × 35 km study area, the plane and z RMSEs can be reduced from 1.2 m and 12.4 m to 0.4 m and 3.2 m, respectively.
Antioxidant Activity of γ-Oryzanol: A Complex Network of Interactions
Authors: Minatel Igor , Francisqueti Fabiane , Corrêa Camila , Lima Giuseppina
Published: August 2016

γ-oryzanol (Orz), a steryl ferulate extracted from rice bran layer, exerts a wide spectrum of biological activities. In addition to its antioxidant activity, Orz is often associated with cholesterol-lowering, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and anti-diabetic effects. In recent years, the usefulness of Orz has been studied for the treatment of metabolic diseases, as it acts to ameliorate insulin activity, cholesterol metabolism, and associated chronic inflammation. Previous studies have shown the direct action of Orz when downregulating the expression of genes that encode proteins related to adiposity (CCAAT/enhancer binding proteins (C/EBPs)), inflammatory responses (nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB)), and metabolic syndrome (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs)). It is likely that this wide range of beneficial activities results from a complex network of interactions and signals triggered, and/or inhibited by its antioxidant properties. This review focuses on the significance of Orz in metabolic disorders, which feature remarkable oxidative imbalance, such as impaired glucose metabolism, obesity, and inflammation.
Cytoprotection against Hypoxic and/or MPP+ Injury: Effect of δ–Opioid Receptor Activation on Caspase 3
Authors: Xu Yuan , Zhi Feng , Shao Naiyuan , Wang Rong , Yang Yilin , Xia Ying
Published: August 2016

The pathological changes of Parkinson’s disease (PD) are, at least partially, associated with the dysregulation of PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1) and caspase 3. Since hypoxic and neurotoxic insults are underlying causes of PD, and since δ-opioid receptor (DOR) is neuroprotective against hypoxic/ischemic insults, we sought to determine whether DOR activation could protect the cells from damage induced by hypoxia and/or MPP+ by regulating PINK1 and caspase 3 expressions. We exposed PC12 cells to either severe hypoxia (0.5%–1% O2) for 24–48 h or to MPP+ at different concentrations (0.5, 1, 2 mM) and then detected the levels of PINK1 and cleaved caspase 3. Both hypoxia and MPP+ reduced cell viability, progressively suppressed the expression of PINK1 and increased the cleaved caspase 3. DOR activation using UFP-512, effectively protected the cells from hypoxia and/or MPP+ induced injury, reversed the reduction in PINK1 protein and significantly attenuated the increase in the cleaved caspase 3. On the other hand, the application of DOR antagonist, naltrindole, greatly decreased cell viability and increased cleaved caspase 3. These findings suggest that DOR is cytoprotective against both hypoxia and MPP+ through the regulation of PINK1 and caspase 3 pathways.
Electrospun Poly(l-lactide)/Poly(ethylene glycol) Scaffolds Seeded with Human Amniotic Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Urethral Epithelium Repair
Authors: Lv Xiaokui , Guo Qianping , Han Fengxuan , Chen Chunyang , Ling Christopher , Chen Weiguo , Li Bin
Published: August 2016

Tissue engineering-based urethral replacement holds potential for repairing large segmental urethral defects, which remains a great challenge at present. This study aims to explore the potential of combining biodegradable poly(l-lactide) (PLLA)/poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) scaffolds and human amniotic mesenchymal cells (hAMSCs) for repairing urethral defects. PLLA/PEG fibrous scaffolds with various PEG fractions were fabricated via electrospinning. The scaffolds were then seeded with hAMSCs prior to implantation in New Zealand male rabbits that had 2.0 cm-long defects in the urethras. The rabbits were randomly divided into three groups. In group A, hAMSCs were grown on PLLA/PEG scaffolds for two days and then implanted to the urethral defects. In group B, only the PLLA/PEG scaffolds were used to rebuild the rabbit urethral defect. In group C, the urethral defect was reconstructed using a regular urethral reparation technique. The repair efficacy was compared among the three groups by examining the urethral morphology, tissue reconstruction, luminal patency, and complication incidence (including calculus formation, urinary fistula, and urethral stricture) using histological evaluation and urethral radiography methods. Findings from this study indicate that hAMSCs-loaded PLLA/PEG scaffolds resulted in the best urethral defect repair in rabbits, which predicts the promising application of a tissue engineering approach for urethral repair.