bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Powder properties of binary mixtures of chloroquine phosphate with lactose and dicalcium phosphate
Authors: Odeniyi Michael Ayodele , Onyenaka Collins Chidi , Itiola Oludele Adelanwa
Published: November 2010

A study was conducted on the packing and cohesive properties of chloroquine phosphate in binary mixtures with lactose and dicalcium phosphate powders. The maximum volume reduction due to packing as expressed by the Kawakita constant, a, and the angle of internal flow, θ, were the assessment parameters. The individual powders were characterized for their particle size and shape using an optical microscope. Binary mixtures of various proportions of chloroquine phosphate with lactose and dicalcium phosphate powders were prepared. The bulk and tapped densities, angles of repose and internal flow, as well as compressibility index of the materials were determined using appropriate parameters. The calculated and determined values of maximum volume reduction for the binary mixtures were found to differ significantly (P< 0.05), with the Kawakita plot being more reliable in determining the packing properties. Diluent type was found to influence the flow properties of the mixtures, with dicalcium phosphate giving predictable results while mixtures containing lactose were anomalous with respect to flow. The characterization of the packing and cohesive properties of the binary mixtures of chloroquine with lactose and dicalcium phosphate would be useful in the production of powders, tablets, capsules and other drug delivery systems containing these powders with desirable and predictable flow properties.
Synthesis, quality control and dosimetry of the radiopharmaceutical 18F-sodium fluoride produced at the Center for Development of Nuclear Technology - CDTN
Authors: Silveira Marina Bicalho , Soares Marcella Araugio , Valente Eduardo Sarmento , Waquil Samira Soares , Ferreira Andréa Vidal , Santos Raquel Gouvêa dos , Silva Juliana Batista da
Published: November 2010

18F-Sodium fluoride (Na18F) is a radiopharmaceutical used for diagnosis in nuclear medicine by positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. Bone scintigraphy is normally performed using 99mTc-MDP. However, 18F PET scans promise high quality imaging with increased resolution and improved sensitivity and specificity. In order to make available a tool for more specific studies of tumors and non-oncological diseases of bone tissue, the UPPR/CDTN team undertook the production and quality control of Na18F injectable solution with the physical-chemical, microbiological and biological characteristics recommended in the U.S. Pharmacopeia. Na18F radiochemical purity was 96.7 ± 1.3 %, with Rf= 0.026 ± 0.006. The product presented a pH of 5.3 ± 0.6, half life of 109.0 ± 0.8 minutes, endotoxin limit < 5.0 EU.mL-1 and no microbial contaminants. The biodistribution of Na18F was similar to that described in the literature, with a clearance of 0.19 mL.min-1 and distribution volume of 18.76 mL. The highest bone concentration (5.0 ± 0.5 %ID.g-1) was observed 20 minutes after injection. Na18F produced at the UPPR presented all the quality assurance requirements of the U.S. Pharmacopeia and can be safely used for clinical bone imaging.
Potential National and State Medical Care Savings From Primary Disease Prevention
Authors: Ormond Barbara A. , Spillman Brenda C. , Waidmann Timothy A. , Caswell Kyle J. , Tereshchenko Bogdan
Published: November 2010

Objectives. We estimated national and state-level potential medical care cost savings achievable through modest reductions in the prevalence of several diseases associated with the same lifestyle-related risk factors.

Methods. Using Medical Expenditure Panel Survey Household Component data (2003–2005), we estimated the effects on medical spending over time of reductions in the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and related conditions amenable to primary prevention by comparing simulated counterfactual morbidity and medical care expenditures to actual disease and expenditure patterns. We produced state-level estimates of spending by using multivariate reweighting techniques.

Results. Nationally, we estimated that reducing diabetes and hypertension prevalence by 5% would save approximately $9 billion annually in the near term. With resulting reductions in comorbidities and selected related conditions, savings could rise to approximately $24.7 billion annually in the medium term. Returns were greatest in absolute terms for private payers, but greatest in percentage terms for public payers. State savings varied with demographic makeup and prevailing morbidity.

Conclusions. Well-designed interventions that achieve improvements in lifestyle-related risk factors could result in sufficient savings in the short and medium term to substantially offset intervention costs.
Associations of Workplace Aggression With Work-Related Well-Being Among Nurses in the Philippines
Authors: Fujishiro Kaori , Gee Gilbert C. , de Castro A. B.
Published: November 2010

Objectives. We examined whether workplace aggression was associated with self-rated health and work-related injury and illness among nurses in the Philippines.

Methods. Our data came from a cross-sectional survey of nurses (n = 687) in the Philippines. We assessed the associations of self-reported physical assault and verbal abuse with self-rated health, work-related injury and illness, and missed workdays with Poisson regression. Control variables included demographic and work characteristics (e.g., hours worked, work setting, shift).

Results. Verbal abuse was associated with poor general health (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.94; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.09, 3.45). Both physical assault and verbal abuse were associated with work-related injury (PR = 1.48; 95% CI = 1.00, 2.20; PR = 1.72; 95% CI = 1.34, 2.23, respectively) and work-related illness (PR = 1.46; 95% CI = 0.99, 2.15; PR = 1.68; 95% CI = 1.32, 2.14, respectively) after demographic and work characteristics were accounted for in the model. In addition, physical assault was associated with missed workdays (PR = 1.56; 95% CI = 1.02, 2.33).

Conclusions. Workplace aggression was associated with increased risks of poor general health and adverse work-related health outcomes among nurses in the Philippines.
Frequency‐Dependent Electric Properties of Microscale Rock Models for Frequencies from One Millihertz to Ten Kilohertz
Authors: Volkmann J. , Klitzsch N.
Published: November 2010

In this study, spectral induced polarization (SIP) spectra were generated numerically to better understand how actual rock microstructure and electrolyte properties in rock pores affect the spectral pattern, i.e., the characteristic relaxation time of polarization as well as the polarization strength of a rock pore system. The dynamics of charge carriers in three‐dimensional pore systems were simulated using a frequency‐dependent formulation of the Nernst–Planck–Poisson (NPP) ion‐transport equations. Basically, a pore‐system model of alternating stacked cylinders of two different sizes was studied considering the electrical double layer (EDL). A reduced cationic mobility—resulting from increased adsorption of these cations at the rock–water interface—was assumed within the EDL. By solving the NPP equations using the finite element method, complex resistivity phase spectra were generated. Subsequently, the effect of pore structural properties and electrolyte conductivity on the magnitude and frequency position of the characteristic resistivity phase minimum of rocks was studied. The following results were found: First, regarding pore geometry, the characteristic frequency of the phase minimum fmin decreases with increasing pore length of the large pore. Second, both small pores having a radius of a few Debye lengths combined with larger pores are needed to ensure detectable phase amplitudes. Third, with regard to electrolyte concentration, the phase amplitude is inversely proportional to the concentration, whereas fmin remains constant. Because the studied model does not provide a direct and exclusive link between the simulated electrical properties and pore throat size, further research is needed here to specify a convincing SIP interpretation method for improved permeability estimation.
Multiscale Analysis of Hydrologic Time Series Data using the Hilbert–Huang Transform
Authors: Rudi J. , Pabel R. , Jager G. , Koch R. , Kunoth A. , Bogena H.
Published: November 2010

For the analysis of time series data from hydrology, we used a recently developed technique that is by now widely known as the Hilbert–Huang transform (HHT). Specifically, it is designed for nonlinear and nonstationary data. In contrast to data analysis techniques using the short‐time, windowed Fourier transform or the continuous wavelet transform, the new technique is empirically adapted to the data in the following sense. First, an additive decomposition, called empirical mode decomposition (EMD), of the data into certain multiscale components is computed. Second, to each of these components, the Hilbert transform is applied. The resulting Hilbert spectrum of the modes provides a localized time–frequency spectrum and instantaneous (time‐dependent) frequencies. In this study, we applied the HHT to hydrological time series data from the Upper Rur Catchment Area, mostly German territory, taken during a period of 20 yr. Our first observation was that a coarse approximation of the data can be derived by truncating the EMD representation. This can be used to better model patterns like seasonal structures. Moreover, the corresponding time–frequency energy spectrum applied to the complete EMD revealed seasonal events in a particular apparent way together with their energy. We compared the Hilbert spectra with Fourier spectrograms and wavelet spectra to demonstrate a better localization of the energy components, which also exhibit strong seasonal components. The Hilbert energy spectrum of the three measurement stations appear to be very similar, indicating little local variability in drainage.
Influence of Soil Heterogeneity and Spatial Discretization on Catchment Water Balance Modeling
Authors: Sciuto G. , Diekkrüger B.
Published: November 2010

This study investigated the impacts of the spatial variability of soil hydraulic properties and the effects of spatial discretization on the water balance in a fully coupled system. The integrated surface–subsurface, three‐dimensional, finite element model HydroGeoSphere was applied to the forested Wüstebach basin (27 ha) to simulate water fluxes. The fully coupled flow simulation model was applied to the headwater catchment at two different spatial resolutions (25 and 100 m). The change in spatial resolution required an aggregation of the soil map, which influenced the water fluxes and the spatial patterns of soil moisture. The nonlinear relationship between soil moisture and transpiration caused the spatial aggregation of soil moisture to have a larger effect on the water balance than did aggregating the soil hydraulic properties. In addition to the total discharge, the effects on the spatial patterns of the simulated soil moisture were also investigated. The results show that aggregating soil hydraulic properties results in lower uncertainties than does using a coarser discretization. This can be explained by the nonlinearity of the relationship between soil moisture and evapotranspiration.
In Situ Quantification of Atmospheric Methane Oxidation in Near‐Surface Soils
Authors: Nauer Philipp A. , Schroth Martin H.
Published: November 2010

The turnover of greenhouse gases in soils is largely mediated by the activity of microorganisms. In situ quantification of these processes is important to improve estimates on global budgets for many greenhouse gases, including CH4In this study, we assessed the utility of a modified version of the gas push–pull test (GPPT) to derive in situ apparent first‐order rate coefficients for atmospheric CH4oxidation in near‐surface soil. An ordinary GPPT consists of the controlled injection and subsequent extraction of reactants (i.e., CH4and O2) and tracer gases (e.g., Ar, Ne, or He) into and out of the vadose zone at a location of interest. In the modified GPPT, injection and extraction takes place inside a cylinder previously placed in the soil and temporarily closed at the top. Using numerical simulations and tests in a laboratory sand tank, we found gas recovery to remain low (3–17%) and decrease with decreasing injection–extraction depth during ordinary GPPTs of∼1‐h duration. Under similar test conditions, modified GPPTs resulted in high gas recovery (64–90%) of all gases used. This allowed the modified GPPTs to be prolonged up to 12 h in simulations and 6 h in laboratory experiments, while gas recovery still remained substantial (19–57%). The modified GPPT was successfully applied to quantify atmospheric CH4oxidation in situ in a sandy soil in Zurich, Switzerland. Calculated first‐order rate coefficients ranged from 0.7 to 1.6 h−1and agreed with literature values and estimates derived from a diffusion–consumption model fitted to CH4concentration profiles. Our modification extends the applicability of GPPTs to study microbially mediated gas turnover in near‐surface soils.
Field Study of Preferential Flow Pathways in and between Drain Trenches
Authors: Nielsen M.H. , Styczen M. , Ernstsen V. , Petersen C.T. , Hansen S.
Published: November 2010

This study examined the number, distribution, and connectivity of biopores (>1 mm) in a sandy loam till with tile drains located at 1.2‐m depth. Two areas (6.5 by 1 m, 10 m apart) were irrigated within 6 to 8 h with 50 mm of water containing the dye Brilliant Blue (2.2 g L−1) using a field sprayer. Groundwater was initially below drain depth. The distribution of stained and unstained biopores was examined in 15‐ and 30‐cm‐wide horizontal terraces in 0.5‐m‐long sections along the 6.5‐m irrigated transect at up to eight depths (15–175 cm), for a total investigated area of 14 m2 This extensive data set showed that the number of biopores were of similar magnitude at both study sites in and outside the drain trench, ranging from 0 to 1114 m−2 in the 14‐m2 examined section. The number of stained biopores (0–833 m−2) was unevenly distributed in the horizontal direction and seemed unaffected by distance to the drain trench (0–5.5 m), while in vertical sections with numerous dyed biopores at 150‐cm depth, staining continued farther down in fractures. Staining in the drain trench was associated with biopores, voids, fractures, and the soil along the pipe, which may indicate that the tile drain took over the role of fractures in the till. Consequently, the connectivity of biopores with fractures or drains may have an important impact on staining patterns and on preferential flow phenomena.
Using Pedotransfer Functions to Estimate the van Genuchten–Mualem Soil Hydraulic Properties: A Review
Authors: Vereecken H. , Weynants M. , Javaux M. , Pachepsky Y. , Schaap M. G. , van Genuchten M.Th.
Published: November 2010

We reviewed the use of the van Genuchten–Mualem (VGM) model to parameterize soil hydraulic properties and for developing pedotransfer functions (PTFs). Analysis of literature data showed that the moisture retention characteristic (MRC) parameterization by setting shape parameters m = 1 − 1/n produced the largest deviations between fitted and measured water contents for pressure head values between 330 (log10 pressure head [pF] 2.5) and 2500 cm (pF 3.4). The Schaap–van Genuchten model performed best in describing the unsaturated hydraulic conductivity, K The classical VGM model using fixed parameters produced increasingly higher root mean squared residual, RMSR, values when the soil became drier. The most accurate PTFs for estimating the MRC were obtained when using textural properties, bulk density, soil organic matter, and soil moisture content. The RMSR values for these PTFs approached those of the direct fit, thus suggesting a need to improve both PTFs and the MRC parameterization. Inclusion of the soil water content in the PTFs for K only marginally improved their prediction compared with the PTFs that used only textural properties and bulk density. Including soil organic matter to predict K had more effect on the prediction than including soil moisture. To advance the development of PTFs, we advocate the establishment of databases of soil hydraulic properties that (i) are derived from standardized and harmonized measurement procedures, (ii) contain new predictors such as soil structural properties, and (iii) allow the development of time‐dependent PTFs. Successful use of structural properties in PTFs will require parameterizations that account for the effect of structural properties on the soil hydraulic functions.
Functional Foods and Herbs as Potential Immunoadjuvants and Medicines in Maintaining Healthy Immune System: A Commentary
Authors: Naik Suresh Ramnath , Thakare Vishnu Namdeorao , Joshi Falguni P
Published: November 2010

Herbs and traditional foods have been demonstrated for their effectiveness on lifestyle-related diseases like diabetes, heart diseases, hypertension, arthritis and cancer as well as special health benefits towards body defensive mechanism(s) by strengthening immune system. Some herbs have been identified as important for daily maintenance of immune system and classified as immunotonics, which include immunostimulants, immunomodulators or immunoadjuvants. These immuno agents are known to exert overall balancing effect on immune system and are expected to augment or promote defensive system. The second category of herbs identified is largely useful for the treatment immune disorders or compromised immune system. Herbs or ayurvedic preparations with immunostimulant property have traditionally been used to treat various diseases, viz. AIDS, transplant rejections, etc. Herbs such as Astragalus memebranaceus and Panax are known to stimulate phagocytosis and cytokines production; hence, they are described as immunotonics. The ancient lineage and modern scientific scrutiny of multiple beneficial effects of functional foods and vegetative herbs provides enough opportunity to become therapeutic agents as a natural source of primary health care and rejuvenate immune system by augmenting immune function largely to maintain a healthy body. Botanicals are chemically complex and diverse; therefore, they could be used as cocktails of immuno drugs to restore immunostasis. Some herbs and traditional foods like Echinacea purpurea, Grifola frondosa, Nigella sativa, Panax ginseang, Hydrastis canadensis, Astragalus memebranaceus, Tinospora cardiofolia, Curcuma longa, Andrographis peniculata, Hyreicum perforatum, Wilhania somnifera, and Allium sativum have been identified from immunological and health benefit point of view. Recent documented reports suggest certain phytoconstituents and phytochemicals have the intrinsic ability to maintain better health by boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation and allergies as well as detoxifying contaminants, pollutants and activating enzymes that unbridled cell division. It is also suggested that nutritional intervention with fruits, beverages and vegetables might play an important role in preventing long term effects of oxidative stress on various organs and the aging process as well as improving the immune system.
Crude Aqueous Extract of Garlic Reduces MIC of Isoniazid and Rifampicin Against Mycobacterium Tuberculosis by Broth Microdilution Method
Authors: Dhamija Puneet , Sethi Sunil , Meharwal Sandeep , Kumar Shiv , Malhotra Samir , Sharma Meera , Pandhi Promila
Published: November 2010

Garlic extract is known to possess anti-mycobacterial property. The present study evaluates the effect of crude aqueous extract of garlic on MIC of isoniazid and rifampicin against drug sensitive strains.Crude aqueous extract of garlic was prepared according to method described by Fromtling and Bulmer. Clinical isolates of MTB were obtained from patients reporting to the hospital and were used for the study after antibiotic sensitivity testing. Sensitivity testing for isoniazid and rifampicin alone and in combination with different dilutions of aqueous extract of garlic was performed in 96-well microtitre plates. H37Rv was used as control strain for the study.Crude aqueous extract of garlic alone inhibited the growth of clinical isolates of MTB in dilution of 2.64+1.24 ul/100ul of broth. The MIC of isoniazid was reduced from 0.42 ± 0.22 ug/ml to 0.11 ± 0.04 ug/ml, while MIC of rifampicin was reduced from 1.73 ± 0.44 ug/ml to 0.62 ± 0.65 ug/ml in presence of garlic extract.Crude extract of garlic reduces the MIC of isoniazid and rifampicin and offers potential new chemical entities for further research.
Microvolt T-Wave Alternans in End-Stage Renal Disease Patients—Associations with Uremic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Patel Rajan K. , Mark Patrick B. , Halliday Crawford , Steedman Tracey , Dargie Henry J. , Cobbe Stuart M. , Jardine Alan G.
Published: November 2010

Background and objectives

Premature cardiovascular (CV) events, especially sudden cardiac death, are common in ESRD patients and associated with uremic cardiomyopathy. Identification of high-risk patients is difficult. Microvolt T-wave alternans (MTWA) is a noninvasive method of detecting variability in electrocardiogram (ECG) T-wave morphology and is a promising technique for identifying patients at high risk of ventricular tachyarrhythmias. MTWA results of ESRD and hypertensive left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) patients were assessed to determine the prevalence of abnormal results and associations with uremic cardiomyopathy.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

In this single-center observational study, 200 ESRD and 30 LVH patients underwent assessment including CV history, ECG, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and an MTWA exercise test. MTWA results were classified as “negative” or “abnormal” on the basis of previously published reports.

Results

An abnormal MTWA result was more common in ESRD compared with LVH patients (57.5% versus 26.7%, respectively; P = 0.002). In ESRD patients, MTWA was significantly associated with uremic cardiomyopathy, clinical history of atherosclerosis (coronary, cerebral, peripheral) and diabetes mellitus, older age, and hemodialysis therapy. Independent associations with an abnormal MTWA result were older age, macrovascular disease, increased left ventricle (LV) mass, and LV dilation.

Conclusions

Features of uremic cardiomyopathy are associated with an abnormal MTWA result.
Influence of Prolonged Light-curing Time on the Shear Bonding Strength of Resin to Bleached Enamel
Authors: Hussain M. , Wang Y.
Published: November 2010

Clinical Relevance

The bonding strength of resin composite to bleached enamel can be enhanced by increasing the light exposure time of light-emitting diode units if bonding is delayed for 24 hours.
The Effect of Oxalate Desensitizers on the Microleakage of Resin Composite Restorations Bonded by Etch and Rinse Adhesive Systems
Authors: Shafiei F. , Motamedi M. , Alavi A. A. , Namvar B.
Published: November 2010

Clinical Relevance

The effect of oxalate desensitizer application after acid etching on the dentinal marginal sealing ability of resin composite restorations may be adhesive-specific.
Optical uniform/gradient waveguide sensor structure - characterization
Authors: Karasiński P.
Published: November 2010

The paper presents the characterization of a composite uniform/gradient waveguide sensor structure. The results of theoretical analysis and experimental studies have been presented. The influence of sensor structure parameters on homogenous sensitivity and on surface sensitivity has been analyzed. Gradient layers for composite sensor structures were produced using the ion-exchange method, and the uniform layers, using the sol-gel method. In the experimental studies, involving the produced sensor structures, a prism coupler and a grating coupler were applied. Excellent agreement between the results of theoretical analysis and experimental studies has been achieved.
The Correlation of the Eucharist with Christ: Vermigli's Oxford Treatise and Disputation on the Eucharist (1549)
Authors: Boutin Maurice
Published: November 2010

Abstract:

Why does correlation work perfectly between the Eucharist and Christ, whereas neither the notion of transubstantiation nor Chalcedonian Christology appears in Scripture? Although Vermigli keeps repeating that Scripture provides no basis for transubstantiation based on the distinction between substance and accidents, he relies on the Chalcedonian Formula. At least in the Treatise and in the Disputation Vermigli does not question to what extent these distinctions are “according to the Scriptures.” Is it because Chalcedonian Christology is older than transubstantiation defined by the fourth Lateran Council in 1215? This should not be viewed as the proper explanation for Vermigli's position against transubstantiation. Rather, the human nature of Christ is not just an accident. Human nature does not need to be understood that way in order to secure the real presence of God in Jesus Christ. Likewise, the “nature and substance” of bread does not need to “go away” or be “cast away” in order to make room for the substance of Christ and thus ensure the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. Otherwise, transubstantiation could be viewed as only a continuation—or a revival—of docetism: to contend that through transubstantiation “it seems to be bread, but is not” amounts to saying that Christ's flesh and body was not true flesh, but only an appearance. The analysis of this controversy regarding the presence of Christ in the Eucharist can be best understood as a chapter of what can be called “indirect Christology.”
Ectoparasites of buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in Kurigram district of Bangladesh
Authors: Mamun MAA , Begum N , Shahadat HM , Mondal MMH
Published: November 2010

Epidemiology of ectoparasites of buffaloes was studied in Kurigram district of Bangladesh from November, 2007 to October, 2008. A total of 236 buffaloes were examined, among them 61.86% were found infested with one or more species of ectoparasites. Three species of ectoparasites were identified of which, two species were arachnids, namely, Boophilus microplus (13.98%), Haemaphysalis bispinosa (11.44%) and one species was insect, namely, Haematopinus tuberculatus (51.27%). No mites were detected. Among the ectoparasites, mixed infection was common. In this investigation, prevalence of ectoparasites in relation to age, sex and seasonal dynamics were also studied. Ectoparasitic prevalence was higher (p<0.01) in winter season (80.00%) followed by summer (50.68%) and rainy (39.62%) seasons. Significantly (p<0.01) higher prevalence of ectoparasites were recorded in female animals (85.71%) than in males (56.70%). In the age groups, buffalo calves aged 0.5-2 years (73.68%) were mostly susceptible (p<0.01) to ectoparasites than young aged > 2-5 years (70.73%) and adult animals aged >5 years (58.52%). Overall mean ectoparasitic burden was 2.31±1.31 per square inch of heavily infested area. The highest parasitic burden was recorded in case of H. tuberculatus (3.49±2.29) followed by B. microplus (1.85±0.94) and H. bispinosa (1.59±0.69). It is concluded that, ectoparasites are the common threat to Buffalo rearing in Kurigram district of Bangladesh irrespective of age and sex of the buffaloes and seasons of the year.Keywords: Ectoparasites; Epidemiology; Buffalo; Kurigram districtDOI: 10.3329/jbau.v8i1.6400J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 8(1): 61–66, 2010
Supply and demand situations for major crops and food items in Bangladesh
Authors: Begum MEA , D'Haese Luc
Published: November 2010

This study explored historical food availability/supply and the market demand for food. Secondary data was used for analyzing demand-supply gap. The average growth in rice production was 2.9% per year in 1971/72 to 2008/09, of which 93% was contributed by yield growth. The overall growth rate of area under food grain was 0.3% in 1971/72 to 2008/09. The overall food grain production growth rate is higher than population growth rate from 1971/72 to 2008/09. The own price and income elasticities of rice were -0.108 and 0.199 respectively. It was projected that upto 2021, the annual demand for food exceed the supply of food which were -0.28% for rice and -1.76% for wheat. That implies the demands are greater than the supplies for both crops. Keywords: Food supply and demand; Price and income elasticities DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v8i1.6405J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 8(1): 91-102, 2010
Constraints of native cattle genetic resource conservation and features of breeding system in representative areas of Bangladesh
Authors: Quddus MA , Amin MR
Published: November 2010

The study was undertaken to identify the constraints of native cattle genetic resource conservation at the farm level along with their features of breeding system and profitability. Five different study sites like south-west, northern hills, industrial zone, north-west and mid-region were selected representatively from all over the country. A total of 280 cattle farmers from the selected regions were interviewed. A multiple regression model was fitted to know the impact of contributing factors on lactation characteristics of cows. The double log linear model was also used to explore the input-output relationship of milk production. Average milk yield was 1.78 and 5.64 liter per day per cow respectively for native and crossbred cow. Contribution of age, order of lactation and stage of lactation were predictable in native cattle but not in crossbreds. Livestock farming contributed 36.4 percent of total income of the farmers studied. A crossbred cattle farming was profitable but native cattle farming was non-profitable. Indigenous cattle were preferred over crossbred due to their superior adaptability to local environmental stresses, rearing ease, low input, lesser proneness to disease and availability of native bull for mating. Per farm average number of milch cow was found to be reduced day by day and maximum number was 4 in a farm during the period 2006-07. Major causes of reduction were the non-profitability, crisis of feed, lack of investment, introduction of exotic breed etc. Responded farmers had no clear idea on conservation of native cattle. Keywords: Genetic resource; Conservation; Breeding system; Profitability assessment DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v8i1.6407J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 8(1): 113-120, 2010
Effects of rice bran on growth and survival of Thai sharpunti Barbodes gonionotus in earthen ponds
Authors: Moniruzzaman M , Mollah MFA
Published: November 2010

An experiment was carried out with Barbodes gonionotus for 4 months (120 days) in the experimental ponds of size of 2.8 decimal each with the same stocking densities of 57 fish/dec. in all the treatments. Each pond was divided into two equal halves by synthetic net fixed with bamboo. Three treatments (T1, T2 and T3) each with two replicates were used. The fish were reared in only fertilized pond (T1), in fertilized and rice bran fed pond (T2) and only rice bran fed pond (T3). During the study period the water quality parameters such as temperature, transparency, water depth, dissolved oxygen, pH and plankton biomass in all treatments were within productive range. The observed growth parameters such as mean weight gain were 36.24 g, 65.85 g and 44.41 g, percent weight gain were 120.80%, 219.52% and 148.03%, the average daily gain were 1.28 g, 2.37 g and 1.64 g, the specific growth rate were 0.66%, 0.97% and 0.77%, in T1, T2 and T3 respectively. The gross total productions of Sharpunti were 844.64, 1292.85 and 930.36 kg/ha/120 days. The net productions were 462.49, 888.39 and 555.35 kg/ha/120 days in T1, T2 and T3 respectively. The gross and net total productions in T2 were highest compared to T1 and T3. Sharpunti showed highest growth performance in T2 when fine rice bran was used as feed and simultaneously the pond was fertilized. Keywords: Rice bran; Growth; Survival; Thai sharpunti DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v8i1.6414J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 8(1): 161-171, 2010
Impacts of different rice-fish-prawn culture systems on yield of rice, fish and prawn and limnological conditions
Authors: Nahar Ashfaqun
Published: November 2010

An experiment was conducted to determine the impact of fish and prawn culture on some physicochemical parameters of water, weeds, benthos, and rice yield under simultaneous method for a period of 5 months from July to November 2007. The experiment was comprised of five individual treatments having three replicates for each. The treatments were: rice combined with fish and regular urea fertilization (treatment ?, T1), rice combined with prawn and regular urea fertilization (treatment ?I, T2), rice combined with fish and supplementary feeding (treatment ?II, T3), rice combined with prawn and supplementary feeding (treatment ?V T4) and treatment V (T5) was kept as control i.e., without fish and prawn. The physico-chemical parameters of water were monitored at weekly interval and were within the suitable range for fish culture. Among the treatments evaluated, the highest number of zoobenthos (worms, chironomids) was recorded in T5 without fish (control) and the lower number of the same was obtained in rice-fish culture treatments (T1 and T3) than the other treatments, indicating higher feeding preference of common carp and tilapia on zoobenthos. However, significant abundance of the weed biomass was observed in the rice-prawn farming treatments (T2 and T4) and also in control treatment. The net fish yield in T1, T2, T3 and T4 were 314.32±222.14 kg/ha, 30.98±40.86 kg/ha, 440.14±79.81 kg/ha and 81.92±62.83 kg/ha, respectively. The highest yield was recorded in T3 than the rest of the treatments. The yield was significantly higher in rice-fish treatments than those in the rice-prawn plots. Based on the results of the study, it can be suggested that the treatments with fish may be recommended for dissemination to rural farmers considering higher yields and economic benefits. Keywords: Water quality; Rice-fish; Rice-prawn; Zoobenthos; Weeds; Yields DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v8i1.6416J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 8(1): 179-185, 2010
The CC-Bio Project: Studying the Effects of Climate Change on Quebec Biodiversity
Authors: Berteaux Dominique , Blois Sylvie de , Angers Jean-François , Bonin Joël , Casajus Nicolas , Darveau Marcel , Fournier François , Humphries Murray M. , McGill Brian , Larivée Jacques , Logan Travis , Nantel Patrick , Périé Catherine , Poisson Frédéric , Rodrigue David , Rouleau Sébastien , Siron Robert , Thuiller Wilfried , Vescovi Luc
Published: November 2010

Anticipating the effects of climate change on biodiversity is now critical for managing wild species and ecosystems. Climate change is a global driver and thus affects biodiversity globally. However, land-use planners and natural resource managers need regional or even local predictions. This provides scientists with formidable challenges given the poor documentation of biodiversity and its complex relationships with climate. We are approaching this problem in Quebec, Canada, through the CC-Bio Project (http://cc‑bio.uqar.ca/), using a boundary organization as a catalyst for team work involving climate modelers, biologists, naturalists, and biodiversity managers. In this paper we present the CC-Bio Project and its general approach, some preliminary results, the emerging hypothesis of the northern biodiversity paradox (a potential increase of biodiversity in northern ecosystems due to climate change), and an early assessment of the conservation implications generated by our team work.
Biocatalysts Immobilized in Ultrathin Ordered Films
Authors: Sołoducho Jadwiga , Cabaj Joanna
Published: November 2010

The immobilization of enzymes and other proteins into ordered thin materials has attracted considerable attention over the past few years. This research has demonstrated that biomolecules immobilized in different [Langmuir-Blodgett (LB)/Langmuir-Schaefer (LS)] matrixes retain their functional characteristics to a large extent. These new materials are of interest for applications as biosensors and biocatalysts. We review the growing field of oxidases immobilized onto ordered Langmiur-Blodgett and Langmuir-Schaefer films. Strategies for the preparation of solid supports and the essential properties of the resulting materials with respect to the envisaged applications are presented. Basic effects of the nature of the adsorption and various aspects of the application of these materials as biosensors, biocatalysts are discussed. Outlook of potential applications and further challenges are also provided.
Cassava: The Drought, War and Famine Crop in a Changing World
Authors: Burns Anna , Gleadow Roslyn , Cliff Julie , Zacarias Anabela , Cavagnaro Timothy
Published: November 2010

Cassava is the sixth most important crop, in terms of global annual production. Cassava is grown primarily for its starchy tuberous roots, which are an important staple for more than 800 million people, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa, but also in other parts of Africa, Asia, the Pacific and South America. Cassava is important for both small-scale farmers and larger-scale plantations due to its low requirement for nutrients, ability to tolerate dry conditions and easy low-cost propagation. It is sometimes referred to as the “drought, war and famine crop of the developing world” and reliance upon this crop is expected to increase in the coming years as the global climate changes. As with all crops, cassava presents some challenges which need to be addressed, especially if its production is to continue to expand. We highlight here a number of key issues around the continued and increased reliance upon cassava as a staple food crop. Cassava contains cyanogenic glycosides that release hydrogen cyanide and many cultivars are toxic if not processed before consumption. The degree of toxicity is altered by plant breeding, agricultural practice, environmental conditions and methods of food preparation. We conclude that use of cassava has the potential to help many countries achieve food security in a sustainable manner, in the face of significant environmental change, but that its introduction should be accompanied by appropriate education about its toxicity.
Analyse expérimentale générale de l'apprentissage et du développement
Authors: Bijou Sydney
Published: November 2010

Cette communication traite des courants de la méthodologie et des hypothèses théoriques sous-jacentes à l'étude, psychologique du développement humain. On y décrit aussi, de façon assez détaillée, quelques études longitudinales faisant usage des méthode expérimentales, que ce soit en laboratoire ou sur le terrain. On envisage enfin les conséquences qu'elles peuvent avoir sur les recherches futures.
L'échelle d'anxiété de Cattell et ses relations avec quelques aspects de l'image de soi chez les adolescents.
Authors: Rodriguez-Tomé Hector-J. , Zlotowicz Michel
Published: November 2010

On présente dans ce travail deux types de résultats concernant le questionnaire d'anxiété de Cattell :

1. Des données normatives complémentaires (par rapport à l'étalonnage français de cette échelle) qui portent sur 200 adolescents de 14 et 17 ans, garçons et filles. Une analyse de variance montre des différences significatives dans les scores d'anxiété, selon le sexe, mais non selon l'âge.

2. Des corrélations significatives entre scores à l'échelle d'anxiété et réponses à un questionnaire sur l'image de soi.

Ces corrélations doivent êtxe interprétées comme établissant une relation entre les points de vue du sujet lorsqu'il est invité à formuler une description de soi. La valorisation sociale des différentes sphères de personnalité en jeu constituant, nous semble-t-il, une variable particulièrement significative à cet égard.

On propose également, à partir de Tune de ces corrélations, l'idée d'un rapport entre la description par le sujet de son anxiété et l'image qu'il se fait de ses relations avec autrui.
Influence de la nature d'une différence sur sa détection par des enfants d'âge préscolaire.
Authors: Vurpillot Éliane
Published: November 2010

Une tâche de détection de différences entre des paires de dessins de formes familières a été proposée à 120 enfants de 4;3 à 7;9 ans, divisés en 3 groupes d'âge (4;6 ; 5;5 et 7;5 ans en moyenne). Quatre types de différences ont été introduites, de suppression, déformation, diminution de taille ou déplacement d'éléments des dessins. Une première expérience a fait apparaître que, toutes choses égales d'ailleurs, les changements de forme et les suppressions sont perçus plus fréquemment et plus précocement que ceux de taille ou de position. Une deuxième expérience a montré qu'une différence a tendance à être détectée plus rapidement quand elle porte sur un élément du contour que sur un élément interne au dessin. Cet effet, limité aux différences par suppression chez les enfants de 4 ans, s'applique aussi aux autres chez les enfants de 7 ans.

Les résultats confirment l'existence d'une relation entre la perception d'une différence et le degré d'atteinte qu'elle porte à l'intégrité de l'objet.
«Situations difficiles » chez les adolescents. Analyse de contenu, du vocabulaire et des thèmes de l'affectivité.
Authors: Decaux F. , Rodriguez-Tomé Hector-J. , Zlotowicz Michel
Published: November 2010

Les protocoles de 244 adolescents ayant raconté une « situation « difficile » ont été soumis à une analyse de contenu. Il apparaît ainsi que chaque énoncé se réfère à un contexte déterminé : école, famille, camarades, soi-même... L'analyse factorielle des correspondances entre ces classes de contenu et le vocabulaire (y compris les thèmes de l'affectivité) valide les résultats de l'analyse de contenu : les trois premiers facteurs permettent de définir les quatre principales catégories de contenu ; il apparaît de plus que l'essentiel de l'affectivité des sujets s'attache aux énoncés où le a moi » est le plus impliqué.
Le dessin idéographique chez l'enfant normal et chez le déficient intellectuel.
Authors: Guillain André , Charpentier C. , Durand R.
Published: November 2010

Les résultats de cette expérience inspirée des travaux de Wallon et Lurçat nous ont permis de préciser un certain nombre de points :

1) II semble que les idéogrammes produits par les enfants entre 3 et 4 ans apparaissent essentiellement lors de la copie de modèles où l'aspect morphologique l'emporte sur l'aspect dynamique. De ce point de vue la catégorie des sujets qui nécessitent la représentation du mouvement et de l'attitude (personnages et animaux tels que le cheval au trot de la feuille de Prudhommeau) s'oppose à celle qui englobe les objets et les animaux immobiles et sans attitude marquée (poisson et, dans une mesure moindre, oiseau de la même feuille de Prudhommeau). 2) Parmi les graphiques présentant tous les caractères d'un dessin idéographique, certains permettent la reconnaissance et l'évocation du modèle proposé (véritables idéogrammes) alors que d'autres ne le permettent pas (pseudo-idéogrammes). Or si l'on considère l'ensemble de ces graphismes ayant une structure formelle d'idéogrammes on vérifie : que les enfants normaux de 4 à 7 ans font plus de vrais idéogrammes que les enfants de 3 à 4 ans et que les déficients intellectuels ; qu'il n'y a pas de différence significative entre le groupe d'enfants de 3 à 4 ans et celui des arriérés. Les résultats obtenus à l'épreuve d'évocation semblent indiquer que ces faits sont à mettre en rapport avec des carences de la fonction sémiotique.

3) L'analyse qualitative a montré que l'on ne peut identifier purement et simplement les idéogrammes obtenus par dégradation à deux produits immédiatement et que la détérioration est donc autre chose qu'une genèse inversée ; elle a montré également que s'il y a bien ressemblance entre les idéogrammes des enfants déficients intellectuels et ceux des enfants normaux, il n'y a pas identité stricte dans la mesure en particulier où ces derniers présentent seuls une catégorie d' idéogrammes consistant à utiliser la partie pour représenter le tout du modèle à copier et un mode de combinaison des « graphèmes » qui s'apparente à « l'agrégat logique ».
Effets de l'apprentissage sur la notion de proportionnalité
Authors: Longeot François , Belleudy Roger , Belleudy Sylviane , Chaneac Simone
Published: November 2010

84 élèves d'un établissement de Grasse ont été divisés en un groupe expérimental et en un groupe témoin sur la base de cinq tests opératoires de proportionnalité. Le groupe expérimental a été soumis à une séance d'apprentissage de la notion de proportionnalité en utilisant des problèmes de quantification des probabilités. On a cherché à faire découvrir aux sujets la méthode de résolution des problèmes consistant à subdiviser le plus grand tas de jetons en tas identiques au plus petit des deux tas. Les item des tests comme les item de exercices d' apprentissage appartiennent à l'un des trois stades : concret, préformel et formel. L'ensemble des sujets subit, après un mois, les cinq mêmes tests de proportionnalité afin d'examiner les effets de l'apprentissage reçu par le groupe expérimental. Ces tests ont été appliqués en outre dès le lendemain des exercices à 26 des sujets. La comparaison des résultats du prétest et du post-test permet de constater des gains de stades plus fréquents dans le premier groupe que dans le second. Mais ces progrès opératoires ne concerent que les trois épreuves dont les problèmes sont les plus voisins de ceux qui ont fait l'objet des exercices d'apprentissage. Les progrès ne s'effacent pas pendant la période d'un mois séparant les deux post-tests. Les conditions de l'expériences sont discutées.
A propos de l'attitude des enfants à l'égard d'expressions synonymes.
Authors: Braun-Lamesch Marie-Madeleine
Published: November 2010

Les relations entre la forme du mot et son sens ne sont pas simples et univoques comme le montrent l'homonymie, la polysémie et la synonymie. Cette expérience se propose d'étudier la réaction d'enfants devant des synonymes, c'est-à-dire des expressions de formes différentes, mais substituables dans un contexte donné. Sauf exception, les réponses des sujets (N = 168 ; âge : 4 à 10 ans) vont dans le sens d'un choix : les enfants ne semblent pas admettre que des expressions différentes puissent être équivalentes.
Une étude sur la table de multiplication. Le rôle de Tordre de présentation des produits et l'analyse des erreurs
Authors: Maryniak Louis
Published: November 2010

1°. The purpose of the experiment is to check ivhether a serial position effect is obtained during the memorization of the table of multiplication by four, as it is the case when using various materials. With a group of seven year old children it does not seem possible to attribute the shape of the curves obtained to a classical temporal serial position effect but rather to the arithmetic structure of integers.

2°. The analysis of the errors was done in order to find in this memorization the phenomenon of generalization. The errors seem to organize according to a gradient ; their distribution in definite cato- gories confirms the results of the first part of the research.
Peurs et angoisse chez des enfants d'âge scolaire
Authors: Zlotowicz Michel
Published: November 2010

Deux enquêtes sur la peur et l'angoisse chez l'enfant sont rapportées. La première, au moyen d'un questionnaire fermé appliqué à 150 garçons de 6 à 13 ans, permet, après analyse factorielle, de caractériser deux dimensions de l'angoisse chez l'enfant.

La seconde enquête, consistant en entretiens ouverts sur les peurs, menée auprès de 209 garçons et filles de 6 à 11 ans, permet d'analyser de façon plus approfondie le contenu des peurs de l'enfant. Un codage de ce contenu est proposé. Les analyses statistiques entreprises (analyses factorielles et analyses des correspondances) permettent de mettre en évidence certaines catégories de l'angoisse chez l'enfant : angoisse de séparation, culpabilité, phobie-répulsion, peur de la dévoration, craintes concernant l'intégrité corporelle, peur de la mort.

Une classification des peurs se trouve ainsi esquissée et quelques aspects symboliques du contenu des peurs peuvent être élucidés.