bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fractal dimension and neurotoxicity in rats intoxicated by aluminium
Authors: Martac Ljiljana
Published: May 2015

We used animal model of neurotoxicity in rats, which provided the possibility
of studying biological pathophysiological phenomena in vivo and afterwards in
vitro conditions. The analysis of electrocortical brain activity using
mathematical methods can describe the changes induced by aluminum
intoxication in rat as an animal model. In physiological and
pathophysiological conditions, on experimental models, mechanisms related to
changes in behavior, plasticity and accumulation of aluminum in nervous
tissue of the rat brain were observed. Animal models of rats used in the
experiments described changes in the group of neuronal activity in the brain
of rats in different modes of intoxication aluminum. This study describes
ECoG activity in the brain of rats under anesthesia in both the control and
aluminum treated animals. Fractal and spectral analysis was used to present
qualitative and quantitative changes in the conditions of neurotoxicity.
Changes in neurotransmission, as well as the structure and function of the
neural network are connected to the molecular-physiological mechanisms of
neurotoxicity. Aluminium toxicity was monitored through changes in
glutamatergic activity and calcium channel activity. By spectrum analysis
neurotoxicity was described through changes in spectral power in the
corresponding frequency ranges. By comparing the FD of intoxicated and
control individuals there was obtained the range of the change in correlation
with the corresponding pathophysiological conditions of intoxication. The
shange in FD might be an indication of neurotoxicity.
Vascularization of the kidney of the ground squirrel (Citellus citellus) in comparison with other experimental animals
Authors: Blagojevic Milos , Vitorovic Dusko , Adamovic Ivana , Nesic Ivana , Brkic Zlata , Zdravkovic Marija , Djordjevic Milena , Jovic Slavoljub , Zoric Zoran , Cupic Dejana
Published: May 2015

Ground squirrel is the only representative of its genus in our country. As
experimental animal is used in microbiology, parasitology, immunology and
pharmacology. The aim of this study was to examine a part of ground squirrel
cardiovascular system and thus help better understanding of anatomy of the
body of this specific animal as well as to contribute to comparative anatomy.
The studies were perfomed on six ground squirrels, both sexes, weight between
200- 300 g. In order to obtain the arterial vascularization of the kidney,
contrast mass gelatin stained with painting tempera was injected into the
abdominal aorta after bleeding out. After the injection, blood vessels were
prepared and photographed. Corosive preparations of the vein blood vessels of
the kidneys were obtained by injection of Byocril into the right azygos vein
after bleeding out. After injection, the preparations were placed into 5%
NaOH for 96 hours or 10% NaOH for 48 hours. After that the preparations were
rinsed with hot water and photographed. A. renalis dextra arises from the
lateral wall of the abdominal aorta, 3-4 mm caudal to A. mesenterica
cranialis. In most cases, this vessel divides into two or three branches
before entering the hilus of the right kidney. A. renalis sinistra arises
from the lateral wall of the abdominal aorta, 7-9 mm caudal to the right
renal artery. Often, instead of one left renal artery, there are two, rarely
three. Based on the results of our study, we concluded that in ground
squirrel there is one A. renalis dextra and often two, rarely three Aa.
renales sinistrae. In renal venous vascularization, both right and left renal
vein are involved. Before entering the kidney, both of them divide into
cranial and caudal branch, undergoing renal hilus, enter the renal sinus and
continues to branch out into smaller branches.
The use of phytobiotics in growth stimulation of weaned pigs
Authors: Radulovic Stamen , Markovic Radmila , Jakic-Dimic Dobrila , Sefer Dragan
Published: May 2015

Phytogene feed additives (phytobiotics) are plant origin compounds used in
animal nutrition in order to improve their productivity by improving the
production performance of animals, feed properties and the quality of food of
animal origin. These additives stimulate animal growth by using their natural
and physiological potentials and mechanisms providing conditions for the
realization of the genetically projected production volumes. Data on the use
of phytobiotics as growth stimulators are incomplete and often very
contradictory, especially those related to their impact on the health and
performance of weaned pigs. Given the relevance and importance of these
issues the feeding trial was organized by the group-control system. The
experiment lasted for 40 days and it was divided into two phases of 20 days
each. Trial was conducted on 24 piglets, F1 generation of Swedish Landrace
and Pietrain, weaned from sows at the age of 35 days. Tests were carried out
on piglets, with an average body weight of 8.61?1.59 kg, which were subjected
to one of the two feeding treatments immediately after weaning. The control
group was fed with a mixture without growth promoters, while the experimental
group received a diet containing preparation of phytobiotic (Enviva EO 101,
Danisco Animal Nutrition) in the amount recommended by the manufacturer (0.1
kg/t). The mixtures for piglets nutrition were formulated in accordance with
the recommendations of the NRC (1998), and AEC (1993) and they met the
nutritional requirements completely. During the experiment, there was no
disturbance of health and/or the manifestation of clinical signs of disease.
The control group, fed with the diet without added growth stimulators,
achieved body weight (25.32?6.31 kg), average daily gain (0.42?0.12 kg),
consumption (0.89 kg) and feed conversion (2.119 ) normal for a given race,
age and housing conditions. The use of preparation of phytobiotics as growth
promoters, led to better production results in regard to the control group,
which was based on higher body weight (27.19?4.77 kg), higher average daily
gain (0.46?0.09 kg) and better feed conversion (2.043). The use of
phytobiotic, as an alternative option in growth stimulation of weaned pigs,
has its nutritive, medical and economic justification.
Selenoproteins
Authors: Milanovic Svetlana , Jovanovic Ivan , Valcic Olivera
Published: May 2015

Selenium is an essential trace element with multi significant role in the
body. In contrast to other trace elements that appear as cofactors of certain
enzymes, its physiological role is directly related to functions of proteins
in composition of which it is cotranslationally installed by atypical amino
acid selenocysteine. The group of proteins, in which composition
selenocysteine is an integral functional part of polypeptides, are referred
to as selenoproteins. The first enzyme that has been proven to have
selenocysteine incorporated in its composition, is glutathione peroxidase
(GPx). So far there have been identified 5 isoenzyme forms of GPx which
reduce hydrogen peroxide and organic hydroperoxides, protecting cells from
oxidative damage. Iodothyronine deiodinases (ID) are among the most important
selenopoteins, being responsible for both activation and deactivation of
thyroid hormones. So far there have been found over twenty selenoproteins,
but only for some of them a physiological role is known.
Clinical aspects of immunosuppression in poultry
Authors: Rеsаnоvic Rаdmilа
Published: May 2015

Immunity is ability to stop an infection. Immunosupression is a status where
the immunity is reduced. Humoral (antibodies) and/or cell immunity may be
depressed. Immunosupression can be caused by infectious agents, improper
feeding balance (deficiencies), lack of biosecurity, management failures,
stress or by a combination of these factors. Each of these possible causes
must be seriously worked out to prevent the consequences of immunosupression
on profitability. Environmental factors and numerous infectious pathogens
have been identified as a multi-factorial cause of various degrees of
immunosupression. Mainly subclinical character and coinfections make the
diagnosis of the primary immunosuppressive agents difficult. On the other
hand, early diagnosis and identification of contributing factors are
important to develop strategies to fight immunosupression in birds
successfully. A combination of biosecurity measures, optimized housing
condition and stress reduction together with appropriate vaccination
strategies is necessary for the successful control of immunosupression in
commercial poultry.
The Testing of Surface Fire Retardants
Authors: Fanfarová Adelaida
Published: May 2015

The article deals with the importance of testing and using of application of fire retardants for the needs of fire protection in practice. The experiment present the testing of test specimens by means of experimental scientific method of test of limited flame spread in the test bench under laboratory conditions. Based on the measured data are exactly and precisely evaluated different types of surface fire retardants. On test specimens made by wood were applied the tested fire retardants, which were directly exposed to open flame. The results of the experiment represents and expressed fire-technical characteristics that describe the behavior of wood specimens during the process of combustion: weight loss, time of ignition, time of spontaneous combustion and time of smolder. The acquired information reflects the effectiveness of fire retardants in protection against the fire.
Temperature Field Evolution in Wood Samples During the Flame Spread Experiments
Authors: Hasalová Lucie , Vaněk Petr , Jahoda Milan
Published: May 2015

Vertical, horizontal and 45° upward flame spread experiments over the small scale beech and pine wood samples were performed. Wood samples were of two geometries - square cross section prisms (15 x 15 mm) and a thin rectangular cross section prisms (5 x 40 mm) - and of three different lengths - 10, 15 and 30 cm. Samples were ignited by a heptane source fire extinguished immediately when the wood samples ignited. During the flame spread an internal temperature profiles along the centreline of the samples were measured by a set of thermocouples. Flame spread was observed in all sample positions except the horizontal orientation of the beech and pine square prism samples. Experimental data will serve for a validation of the pyrolysis models in the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) flame spread models.
Grade Assignments and the Teacher Pipeline
Authors: Blazar David
Published: May 2015

Research on teacher stability typically focuses on the extent to which teachers remain in the same school, district, or the teaching profession from one year to the next. I investigate another facet of stability—whether teachers remain in the grade they teach. Drawing on administrative data from a large district in California, I find that high shares of teachers switch grades. Disproportionately, these are early career teachers who come from low-achieving or high-minority schools. Teachers who switch grades leave schools at higher rates than their colleagues and exhibit lower impacts on their students’ achievement. For teachers who switch to a nonadjacent grade, these negative effects can wipe out any gains due to increased experience and can persist in the year after the switch occurs.
Development of a Method for the Analysis of Microbial Load Reduction Factors on Dishes Cleaned by Hand and by Machine
Authors: Berger Sarah , Stamminger Rainer , Schünemann Wiebke M. , Lipski André
Published: May 2015

The aim of this study was to develop a repeatable method for the measurement of microbial load reduction factors after hand and machine dishwashing processes that meet the requirements associated with consumer studies, based on non-pathogen test strains. Microorganisms were isolated from tableware, identified and cultured for this purpose, mixed with soiling agents and lyophilised for storage purposes. Detailed instructions for ambient conditions and disinfection, and preparation and application of soiling agents were defined. The method chosen in this study successfully led to repeatable results. The food matrix of the soiling agents used for the application of test strains shows to have a large impact. This is, therefore, the first repeatable method that enables the comparison of microbial load reduction factors after machine with hand dishwashing. In addition, the method was designed in a way that enables further consumer studies.
Efficient Synthesis of Nanostructured Poly(aniline-co-m-aminobenzoic acid) Copolymer in Presence of DBSA Surfactant
Authors: Vijayanand Pachanoor Subbaian , Mahudeswaran Arunachalam , Vivekanandan Janakiraman , Kumbar Sangamesh G.
Published: May 2015

A new series of novel nanostructured poly (aniline-co-m-aminobenzoic acid) copolymer has been synthesized by chemical oxidative in-situ polymerization method using dodecylbenzene sulphonic acid (DBSA) as a soft template. The synthesized copolymers were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, Ultraviolet visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The infrared spectrum shows the characteristic peaks confirming the formation of the copolymer. The ultraviolet visible spectrum shows the π to π∗ transition and n to π∗ transition. X-ray diffraction pattern confirms the amorphous nature of the polymer. Scanning electron microscopic images show the new morphology of spherical granular sponge like structures in the range of 100 to 200 nm. Conducting properties of the copolymers were studied using four probe method. Copolymers doped with DBSA showed an increased conductivity in the order of 10–4 S/cm. These copolymers are found to be more soluble in polar solvents comparing to polyaniline homopolymer.
Study of Mixed Micelles of Promethazine Hydrochloride (PMT) and Nonionic Surfactant (TX-100) Mixtures at Different Temperatures and Compositions
Authors: Rub Malik Abdul , Khan Farah , Kumar Dileep , Asiri Abdullah M.
Published: May 2015

Herein, we have investigated the interaction between a phenothiazine drug promethazine hydrochloride (PMT) and nonionic surfactant t-octylphenoxypolyethoxyethanol (TX-100) in aqueous solutions using a conductometric technique at different temperatures and compositions. The evaluated critical micelle concentration (cmc) values are lower than cmc
id values suggesting attractive interactions of mixed micelles components. It is observed that with the increase in temperature, the cmc value increases first and after the value decreases at higher temperature. At 298.15 K, the maximum cmc values were attained in presence or absence of TX-100. The bulk properties of solution were studied by means of different theoretical models reported in the literature such as Clint, Rubingh, Motomura, and Rodenas for explanation and comparison of results of different binary mixtures of the drug and TX-100. The negative values of interaction parameter (β) obtained from the regular solution theory (RST) recommend synergistic interactions. Activity coefficients (f
1 and f
2) calculated by all theoretical models used herein were obtained to be always below unity indicating nonideality in all binary mixtures. Thermodynamic parameters (like standard Gibbs energy (ΔG°m), enthalpy (ΔH°m), and entropy (ΔS°m)) are also evaluated which propose dehydration of hydrophobic portion of the drug at higher temperatures. The above results obtained may be helpful in model drug delivery systems.
Study of Underwater Contact Angles for Formulation of Fatliquoring Emulsions Using Green Surfactants
Authors: Goswami Anik , Bhagwat Sunil S.
Published: May 2015

Contact angles of pure water, partially sulphated groundnut oil and different surfactant solutions on glass, Stainless Steel, Teflon and different other polymer surfaces have been measured. The contact angles of oil on various surfaces underwater and under different surfactant solutions were also measured. These two contact angles have been found to be linearly related with a slope close to 1. However, the underwater contact angles have been found to deviate significantly from the prediction based on Young's equations which have been attributed to the possible modifications of the surfaces underwater due to adsorption of surfactants. Based on the observed oil underwater contact angles, comparative efficiencies of fatliquoring have been obtained. Weight gain measurements in various fatliquoring solutions containing surfactants and oil have been carried out with the wet blue leather samples. The results show that the contact angle of oil underwater correlates well with the efficiency of leather wetting.
Interfacial Properties of Alkylbenzene Sulfonates Ternary Mixtures
Authors: Tang Li , Liu Xiaochen , Niu Jinping , Wang Xiaoyu
Published: May 2015

Dynamic interfacial tension (IFT) behaviors of dialkylbenzene sulfonate (DAS)/heavy alkylbenzene sulfonate (HABS)/dodecylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) ternary mixture solutions against a homologous series of alkanes were studied. On the basis of our experimental results, one can find that the lipophilic ability of DAS was stronger than that of HABS. At the lower content of LAS, the ternary system was oil soluble; at the higher content of LAS, the ternary system was water soluble. An IFT in the 10–
3 mN/m range can be obtained for the ternary system against long-chain alkanes (decane, dodecane) under the condition that the content of LAS was 30 %. A dynamic IFT of 10–
4 mN/m order of magnitude was observed against decane. The hydrophilic-lipophilic ability of the surfactant plays an important role in dynamic IFT behavior. With increasing content of LAS, the alkane carbon number of ternary mixture solutions for producing the lower IFT had a tendency to lower.
Re-locating the Ethnographic Field
Authors: Craith Máiréad Nic , Hill Emma
Published: May 2015

When considering the ethnographic field, language use has been of continued anthropological concern. Traditional approaches to the field have associated language use with concepts such as place, territory and ethnicity and have tended to bound them within a single site. However, in conditions of increasing globalised mobility, approaches to both fieldwork and language use within the field are changing. Using existing scholarship on minority-language communities in Europe alongside original fieldwork with Somali migrants in Glasgow, this article considers the dynamics of that relationship within the contexts of single-sited, multi-sited and online fields. It finds that, for an inquiry focused on both language use and mobility, established modes of thinking about the field are a methodologically restrictive practice on 'being there'. Instead, the authors argue for rethinking the field as a 'spoken' one where, with language at the fore, emphasis is placed on 'being there'.
Troublesome Temporalities
Authors: Shore Cris
Published: May 2015

The three articles published in this Forum section were all finalists for the Graduate Student Prize of the Society for the Anthropology of Europe (SAE), which met at the American Anthropological Association’s 2013 meeting in Chicago. While they deal with different parts of Europe (Bulgaria and Romania and Spain, respectively), what unites them is a shared interest in issues of loss, social memory, identity, agency and death, and, in particular, the way people experience temporality and change (see Connerton 1989; Forty and Küchler 1991). The authors brilliantly capture the mood of uncertainty and anxiety facing Europeans in a period of unprecedented uncertainty, insecurity and austerity. What they also show is how Europe’s poor and marginalised are both shaped by and, in turn, try to shape or subvert the national and European policy regimes to which they are subjected.
Discarded Europe
Authors: Resnick Elana
Published: May 2015

How are time and materiality felt in periods of expectation, when change is awaited but never comes, at least not in the way anticipated? Disappointment may set in, but in the expanding European context in which I conducted research, something else occurs: sensory experiences of time and materiality intermingle and shape each other. These experiences of temporal-material relations, in a context of historical disorientation, are the basis of a new European temporality. My ethnographic research on waste management in Bulgaria, conducted between 2010 and 2013, with informal garbage collectors, city street sweepers, waste company officials, Sofia citizens, municipal representatives and ministry employees, provides the empirical foundation for this piece.
Book Review
Authors: Clopot Christina
Published: May 2015

M. Scheer, T. Thiemeyer, R. Johler and B. Tschofen (eds) (2013), Out of the Tower: Essays on Culture and Everyday Life (Tübingen: Tübinger Vereinigung für Volkskunde e.V.), 336 pp., Pb., €22, ISBN: 978-3-932512-93-3.
Contribution of glacier runoff to water resources of La Paz city, Bolivia (16° S)
Authors: Soruco Alvaro , Vincent Christian , Rabatel Antoine , Francou Bernard , Thibert Emmanuel , Sicart Jean Emmanuel , Condom Thomas
Published: May 2015

The supply of glacier water to La Paz city, Bolivia, between 1963 and 2006 was assessed at annual and seasonal timescales based on the mass-balance quantification of 70 glaciers located within the drainage basins of La Paz. Glaciers contributed ∼15% of water resources at an annual scale (14% in the wet season, 27% in the dry season). Uncertainties in our estimation are related to the assumed constant precipitation (∼0.5% for ice-free areas and up to 6.5% for glaciated areas), the constant runoff coefficient (∼1%), the surface areas of the glaciers and catchments (∼5%) and the mean mass-balance uncertainty of the 21 glaciers used to obtain the mass balance of the 70 glaciers (12% of the total discharge). Despite the loss of 50% of the glacierized area during the study period, runoff at La Paz did not change significantly, showing that increase in ice melt rates compensated for reduction in the surface area of the glaciers. In the future, assuming complete disappearance of the glaciers and no change in precipitation, runoff should diminish by ∼12% at an annual scale, 9% during the wet season and 24% during the dry season.
Haematological and biochemical profiles of Gallus indigenous, exotic and hybrid chicken breeds (Gallus domesticus l.) from Rajshahi, Bangladesh
Authors: Dutta Ripon Kumar , Islam M Saiful , Kabir Md Ashraful
Published: May 2015

A comparative account of haemato-biochemical profiles of an indigenus (IND) and five chicken breeds: viz. Cobb 500 (COB), cockerel (COC), Fayoumi (FAY), Rhode Island Red (RIR), and Sonali (SON, derived from RIR cock × FAY hen), has been presented. The haematological profile included total counts (TC) of RBC, WBC, platelets, haemoglobin (Hb%) and ESR and differential counts (DC) of WBC included neutrophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes, monocytes and basophils. All the haematological parameters except WBC, ESR and basophils showed significant difference among the breeds (P < 0.01). Vital biochemical parameters from blood sera such as calcium, cholesterol, creatinine, glucose and urea also showed significant difference among the chicken breeds (P < 0.05). The haematobiochemical parameters, however, were not significantly correlated (P > 0.05) with each other among the chicken breeds. Except for cholesterol vs. urea in IND, none of the correlations tested for haemato-biochemical profiles of the experimental chickens was found significant. Relevance of this study in relation to health, clinico-pathology and improved breeding strategies of the poultry species in the country has been discussed.Bangladesh J. Zool. 41(2): 135-144, 2013
Population status of oribi (Ourebia ourebi Zimmermann, 1783) in Maze National Park, southern Ethiopia
Authors: Tekalign Wondimagegnehu , Bekele Afework
Published: May 2015

The population status of oribi (Ourebia ourebi Zimmermann, 1783) was carried out in the newly established Maze National Park, Ethiopia for two consecutive years (October 2009 to December 2011). A total count method was employed based on silent detection method in an area of 220 km2. A total of 894 and 1103 individuals were counted during the two consecutive years, respectively. Seasonal variation was significantly different with more individuals during the dry season than the wet season (p<0.05). The density of oribi over the whole area was 3.40 and 4.36 during the wet and 4.72 and 5.66 individuals per km2 during the dry seasons in both years, respectively. The study was important for future conservation measures as the oribi is the flagship species of the area.Bangladesh J. Zool. 41(2): 145-151, 2013
Fecundity and gonado somatic index of Gangetic mud eel, Monopterus cuchia (Hamilton, 1822)
Authors: Chakraborty Binay K , Azad SA , Barman B , Faruque AMO
Published: May 2015

The gonado-somatic index (GSI) and fecundity of Gangetic mud eels Monopterus cuchia (Hamilton, 1822) were investigated during January to December, 2010 at Sherpur, Bangladesh. Highest GSI value was found in the month of June and the values began to fall gradually from July to December in both sexes. The fecundity ranged from 458.0±31.22 to 1116.0±11.31 in 62 samples having a total length of 54.25±1.71 to 66.05±0.71 cm, body weight from 256.33±45.14 to 492.50±2.50 g and gonad weight from 21.32±4.48 to 55.90±0.98 g. The relationships between body length and fecundity was found to be polynomial of second order of body weight and was expressed as: Y=0.2683 X2- 1.9383 X+370.72. The regression equation established for fecundity on total body weight was Y=454.37 X-692.8. The regression equation established for fecundity on total gonad weight was Y=19.602 X-27.546. The above equation showed that the relationships between fecundity and total weight was curvilinear. A highly significant (P<0.01) linear relationship was found to exist between fecundity and gonadal weight.Bangladesh J. Zool. 41(2): 165-172, 2013
Growth and development of the mulberry silkworm, Bombyx mori l. on vitamin B and c supplemented diet
Authors: Ahsan Md Kamrul , Khan Ataur Rahman , Ferdous Tasnima
Published: May 2015

The effect of vitamin B and vitamin C on the growth and development of Bombyx mori L. has been studied. Oral supplementation of different concentrations of vitamin B and C to the 3rd, 4th and 5th instar larvae of multivoltine silkworm variety, BSR-95/14(M) resulted significant increase in larval and pupal characters. It was observed that the development of larvae and pupae took place up to a particular dose. There was also a significant increment in the various growth indices following vitamin supplements with the mulberry leaves.Bangladesh J. Zool. 41(2): 199-206, 2013
Gut contents of common house gecko, Hemidactylus frenatus (Schlegel, 1836) in Jahangirnagar university campus, Savar, Bangladesh
Authors: Naher Kamrun , Alam ABM Sarowar , Rahman Shahriar , Kabir Md Mofizul
Published: May 2015

Gut contents of Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus) collected from Jahangirnagar University campus, Savar, Dhaka were analysed. Sixteen different food items were identified of which most were insects. Insects from the order Orthoptera were the highest (32.66%) followed by the Coleopterans (18.36%), Diptera (14.28%), Hymenoptera (10.20%), Homoptera (10.20%), Lepidoptera (8.16%) and Hemiptera (6.14%). It is evident that the H. frenatus plays an important role in biological pest control consuming 39.13% insects which are harmful to crops, fruits and vegetables; 19.56% insects responsible for plant damage, 8.56% insects injurious to cotton, 6.52% garden pests, 6.52% were house hold pests, 4.32% destructive to plant seeds and roots of beans and cereals and remaining 15.21% were useful insects. Female consumed more than males.Bangladesh J. Zool. 41(2): 229-232, 2013
Food and feeding habits of mangrove shellfish, Telescopium telescopium (Linnaeus, 1758) in Bangladesh
Authors: Zaman M Beniaz , Jahan M Sarwar
Published: May 2015

Experiments on food and feeding behaviour of Telescopium telescopium was conducted in the Sundarbans and surrounding area during January to December 2008. The stomach contents of 960 individuals were examined, in which 74.79% and 25.21% were found with and without food respectively. Of the 74.79% stomach with food 16.98%, 18.23%, 21.14% and 18.44% were full fed, ¾ fed, ½ fed and ¼ fed respectively. The intensity of feeding in tidal cycle and monthly sampling periods showed a clear trend. The snail fed mainly at low tide and preferred grazing at day time in winter and night in summer in spring tide. They consumed fine particulate mud along with organic detritus from upper intertidal surface sediment using its long extensible snout. In the time of neap tide especially in winter when the muddy habitat of Telescopium telescopium became dry, the animal survived a long time without food.Bangladesh J. Zool. 41(2): 233-239, 2013
Abundance and distribution of endoparasitic helminths in Anabas testudineus (Bloch, 1792) from a polluted beel of Bangladesh
Authors: Bhuiyan Aminul Islam , Bushra Jannatul , Ghani Osman
Published: May 2015

Abundance and distribution of the endoparasitic helminths in Anabas testudineus (collected from a polluted water body) was analyzed. Out of 50 fish observed, 42 (84%) were parasitized by at least one species. Five metazoan endoparasites, one trematode (Neopecoelina saharanpuriensis) and four nematodes (Ascaridida sp., Contracaecum sp., Camallanus anabantis and C. pearsei) were recorded. Prevalence was higher in female (90%) hosts than males (75%). A significant positive correlation was observed between the standard length of the host and the abundance for parasites except Ascaridida sp. Nematodes were the more prevalent group (72%) than trematodes (48%). No parasitic species was observed as central species category; three parasites (N. saharanpuriensis, Ascaridida sp. and Contracaecum sp.) were considered as secondary and Camallanus spp. as satellite species. All nematode parasites showed aggregated distribution pattern and the trematode showed random distribution pattern. Interspecies association between two species of parasite was low.Bangladesh J. Zool. 42(1): 1-10, 2014
Abundance of zooplankton and physico-chemical parameters of a polyculture fish pond of Manikganj, Bangladesh
Authors: Mozumder Pronob Kumar , Naser M Niamul , Ahmed Abu Tweb Abu
Published: May 2015

Composition and abundance of zooplankton in a polyculture pond was studied during June 2003 to May 2004. A total of 33 major species of zooplankton including 11genera of Rotifera, 4 of Copepoda, 4 genera of Cladocera and 2 genera of Protozoa were identified. The monthly abundance of zooplankton varied form 4228 indiv/l in October 2003 to169 indiv/l in January 2004. Among the total zooplankton, Rotifera comprised of 71.07%, Copepoda comprised of 12.49% Nauplii comprised of 11.96%, Cladocera comprised of 1.49% and Protozoa comprised of 2.99%. Water temperature (r = 0.18), free CO2 (r = 0.40), TDS (r = 0.14) and water depth (r = 0.55) showed positive correlation with zooplankton but air temperature, pH, dissolved O2, total hardness and ammonia showed negative correlation (the coefficients being -0.18, -0.05, -0.25, -0.38 and -0.11 respectively) with the occurrence of zooplankton. The average growth of fishes and zooplankton showed positive correlation in all cases but the relations were insignificant when tested statistically.Bangladesh J. Zool. 42(1): 67-76, 2014
Blood transfusion transmitted infectious diseases (HIV, HBV, HCV, Syphilis and Malaria) among the voluntary blood donors in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Khanum Hamida , Khanom Mafruha , Banu Hashina , Muznebin Farhana , Alam Shahela , Shafiullah AZM
Published: May 2015

Prevalence of five important blood transfusion-transmitted infectious diseases (HIV, HBV, HCV, Syphilis, and Malaria) were studied among the voluntary blood donors in Dhaka. Out of 1500 donors, positive infections was identified in 99 of cases and rest of the donors were screened negative. Male voluntary blood donor were 82% and only 18% were female. About 53.53% male infectious blood donor had HBV infection whereas, 26.26% female had HBV. The difference was significant (P < 0.05). In age group of 18-24 years, 36% of the donor had HBV infection and HCV was found positive in 04.04% of student. Among the students, HBV was positive in 44%. Only 01.01% of teacher was HIV positive. Malaria infection was positive only among the business man (01.01%). The positive cases (01.01%) with TPHA found among the students, teacher and worker and the difference was significant (P<0.05). 40.40% of the volunteer blood donors were illiterate and 24.24% donor had Master degree and 8% HSC passed.Bangladesh J. Zool. 42(1): 77-84, 2014
Regeneration of inorganic nutrient in eutrophic environment by a bacterium, Xanthomonas sp.
Authors: Karim Md Abdul , Happy Rehena Nasrin
Published: May 2015

Abstract not availableBangladesh J. Zool. 42(1): 123-127, 2014
The bishop, the prior, and the founding of the burgh of St Andrews
Authors: Hammond Matthew
Published: May 2015

The intertwined relationship between the foundation of the burgh of St Andrews by Robert, bishop of St Andrews (d.1159), and the establishment of the Augustinian cathedral priory (St Andrews Day 1140) has not hitherto been explored. Building on the work of A. A. M. Duncan, it is argued here that the burgh was set up in response to the establishment of the new priory and the ambitious programme pursued by its first prior, Robert (1140–60). The burgh's early history was bound up in the contentious relationship of bishop and prior, as Prior Robert sought to gain sole control over the cathedral and the altar of the apostle Saint Andrew, the parish church, ecclesiastical lands in east Fife, and their revenues. The burgh allowed Bishop Robert to recoup some of his financial losses, but the priory's commercial ambitions presented competition for the bishop's burgesses in the burgh's first generation.
Ornithopter Type Flapping Wings for Autonomous Micro Air Vehicles
Authors: Srigrarom Sutthiphong , Chan Woei-Leong
Published: May 2015

In this paper, an ornithopter prototype that mimics the flapping motion of bird flight is developed, and the lift and thrust generation characteristics of different wing designs are evaluated. This project focused on the spar arrangement and material used for the wings that could achieves improved performance. Various lift and thrust measurement techniques are explored and evaluated. Various wings of insects and birds were evaluated to understand how these natural flyers with flapping wings are able to produce sufficient lift to fly. The differences in the flapping aerodynamics were also detailed. Experiments on different wing designs and materials were conducted and a paramount wing was built for a test flight. The first prototype has a length of 46.5 cm, wing span of 88 cm, and weighs 161 g. A mechanism which produced a flapping motion was fabricated and designed to create flapping flight. The flapping flight was produced by using a single motor and a flexible and light wing structure. A force balance made of load cell was then designed to measure the thrust and lift force of the ornithopter. Three sets of wings varying flexibility were fabricated, therefore lift and thrust measurements were acquired from each different set of wings. The lift will be measured in ten cycles computing the average lift and frequency in three different speeds or frequencies (slow, medium and fast). The thrust measurement was measure likewise but in two cycles only. Several observations were made regarding the behavior of flexible flapping wings that should aid in the design of future flexible flapping wing vehicles. The wings angle or phase characteristic were analyze too and studied. The final ornithopter prototype weighs only 160 g, has a wing span of 88.5 cm, that could flap at a maximum flapping frequency of 3.869 Hz, and produce a maximum thrust and lift of about 0.719 and 0.264 N respectively. Next, we proposed resonance type flapping wing utilizes the near resonance phenomenon of a two-degree of freedom elastic system, that is, the wing is supported by the springs for flapping and feathering motions. Being oscillated close to the resonance frequency of the system, only by the torque in flapping motion, the amplitude gained is a few times higher than that of normal case. The first prototype was made from acrylic using a laser cutting machine. The wings were made up of carbon rods and kite material Ripstop. First test showed that the wings were too heavy for the mechanism to work. The third prototype was a smaller single gear crank design which was fabricated using a 3D printer. Initial test proved that the second prototype could withstand the high frequency flapping and near resonance amplitude as designed. With remote control, the third prototype was able to take off, climb, cruise and land in flapping mode successfully.
Mechanisms of Alpha-Synuclein Action on Neurotransmission: Cell-Autonomous and Non-Cell Autonomous Role
Authors: Emanuele Marco , Chieregatti Evelina
Published: May 2015

Mutations and duplication/triplication of the alpha-synuclein (αSyn)-coding gene have been found to cause familial Parkinson’s disease (PD), while genetic polymorphisms in the region controlling the expression level and stability of αSyn have been identified as risk factors for idiopathic PD, pointing to the importance of wild-type (wt) αSyn dosage in the disease. Evidence that αSyn is present in the cerebrospinal fluid and interstitial brain tissue and that healthy neuronal grafts transplanted into PD patients often degenerate suggests that extracellularly-released αSyn plays a role in triggering the neurodegenerative process. αSyn’s role in neurotransmission has been shown in various cell culture models in which the protein was upregulated or deleted and in knock out and transgenic animal, with different results on αSyn’s effect on synaptic vesicle pool size and mobilization, αSyn being proposed as a negative or positive regulator of neurotransmitter release. In this review, we discuss the effect of αSyn on pre- and post-synaptic compartments in terms of synaptic vesicle trafficking, calcium entry and channel activity, and we focus on the process of exocytosis and internalization of αSyn and on the spreading of αSyn-driven effects due to the presence of the protein in the extracellular milieu.
Effect of Heterogeneity in Initial Geographic Distribution on Opinions’ Competitiveness
Authors: Balankin Alexander , Martínez Cruz Miguel , Gayosso Martínez Felipe , Martínez-González Claudia , Morales Ruiz Leobardo , Patiño Ortiz Julián
Published: May 2015

Spin dynamics on networks allows us to understand how a global consensus emerges out of individual opinions. Here, we are interested in the effect of heterogeneity in the initial geographic distribution of a competing opinion on the competitiveness of its own opinion. Accordingly, in this work, we studied the effect of spatial heterogeneity on the majority rule dynamics using a three-state spin model, in which one state is neutral. Monte Carlo simulations were performed on square lattices divided into square blocks (cells). Accordingly, one competing opinion was distributed uniformly among cells, whereas the spatial distribution of the rival opinion was varied from the uniform to heterogeneous, with the median-to-mean ratio in the range from 1 to 0. When the size of discussion group is odd, the uncommitted agents disappear completely after 3.30 ± 0.05 update cycles, and then the system evolves in a two-state regime with complementary spatial distributions of two competing opinions. Even so, the initial heterogeneity in the spatial distribution of one of the competing opinions causes a decrease of this opinion competitiveness. That is, the opinion with initially heterogeneous spatial distribution has less probability to win, than the opinion with the initially uniform spatial distribution, even when the initial concentrations of both opinions are equal. We found that although the time to consensus , the opinion’s recession rate is determined during the first 3.3 update cycles. On the other hand, we found that the initial heterogeneity of the opinion spatial distribution assists the formation of quasi-stable regions, in which this opinion is dominant. The results of Monte Carlo simulations are discussed with regard to the electoral competition of political parties.
The Homological Nature of Entropy
Authors: Baudot Pierre , Bennequin Daniel
Published: May 2015

We propose that entropy is a universal co-homological class in a theory associated to a family of observable quantities and a family of probability distributions. Three cases are presented: (1) classical probabilities and random variables; (2) quantum probabilities and observable operators; (3) dynamic probabilities and observation trees. This gives rise to a new kind of topology for information processes, that accounts for the main information functions: entropy, mutual-informations at all orders, and Kullback–Leibler divergence and generalizes them in several ways. The article is divided into two parts, that can be read independently. In the first part, the introduction, we provide an overview of the results, some open questions, future results and lines of research, and discuss briefly the application to complex data. In the second part we give the complete definitions and proofs of the theorems A, C and E in the introduction, which show why entropy is the first homological invariant of a structure of information in four contexts: static classical or quantum probability, dynamics of classical or quantum strategies of observation of a finite system.
Open Geospatial Analytics with PySAL
Authors: Rey Sergio , Anselin Luc , Li Xun , Pahle Robert , Laura Jason , Li Wenwen , Koschinsky Julia
Published: May 2015

This article reviews the range of delivery platforms that have been developed for the PySAL open source Python library for spatial analysis. This includes traditional desktop software (with a graphical user interface, command line or embedded in a computational notebook), open spatial analytics middleware, and web, cloud and distributed open geospatial analytics for decision support. A common thread throughout the discussion is the emphasis on openness, interoperability, and provenance management in a scientific workflow. The code base of the PySAL library provides the common computing framework underlying all delivery mechanisms.
Preparation and in Vivo Evaluation of a Dutasteride-Loaded Solid-Supersaturatable Self-Microemulsifying Drug Delivery System
Authors: Kim Min-Soo , Ha Eun-Sol , Choo Gwang-Ho , Baek In-Hwan
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this study was to prepare a dutasteride-loaded solid-supersaturatable self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) using hydrophilic additives with high oral bioavailability, and to determine if there was a correlation between the in vitro dissolution data and the in vivo pharmacokinetic parameters of this delivery system in rats. A dutasteride-loaded solid-supersaturatable SMEDDS was generated by adsorption of liquid SMEDDS onto Aerosil 200 colloidal silica using a spray drying process. The dissolution and oral absorption of dutasteride from solid SMEDDS significantly increased after the addition of hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (HPMC) or Soluplus. Solid SMEDDS/Aerosil 200/Soluplus microparticles had higher oral bioavailability with 6.8- and 5.0-fold higher peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) values, respectively, than that of the equivalent physical mixture. A linear correlation between in vitro dissolution efficiency and in vivo pharmacokinetic parameters was demonstrated for both AUC and Cmax values. Therefore, the preparation of a solid-supersaturatable SMEDDS with HPMC or Soluplus could be a promising formulation strategy to develop novel solid dosage forms of dutasteride.
Borrowing Nuclear DNA Helicases to Protect Mitochondrial DNA
Authors: Ding Lin , Liu Yilun
Published: May 2015

In normal cells, mitochondria are the primary organelles that generate energy, which is critical for cellular metabolism. Mitochondrial dysfunction, caused by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations or an abnormal mtDNA copy number, is linked to a range of human diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, premature aging‎ and cancer. mtDNA resides in the mitochondrial lumen, and its duplication requires the mtDNA replicative helicase, Twinkle. In addition to Twinkle, many DNA helicases, which are encoded by the nuclear genome and are crucial for nuclear genome integrity, are transported into the mitochondrion to also function in mtDNA replication and repair. To date, these helicases include RecQ-like helicase 4 (RECQ4), petite integration frequency 1 (PIF1), DNA replication helicase/nuclease 2 (DNA2) and suppressor of var1 3-like protein 1 (SUV3). Although the nuclear functions of some of these DNA helicases have been extensively studied, the regulation of their mitochondrial transport and the mechanisms by which they contribute to mtDNA synthesis and maintenance remain largely unknown. In this review, we attempt to summarize recent research progress on the role of mammalian DNA helicases in mitochondrial genome maintenance and the effects on mitochondria-associated diseases.
Potential Anti-Cancer Activities and Mechanisms of Costunolide and Dehydrocostuslactone
Authors: Lin Xuejing , Peng Zhangxiao , Su Changqing
Published: May 2015

Costunolide (CE) and dehydrocostuslactone (DE) are derived from many species of medicinal plants, such as Saussurea lappa Decne and Laurus nobilis L. They have been reported for their wide spectrum of biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral, antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antiulcer, and anthelmintic activities. In recent years, they have caused extensive interest in researchers due to their potential anti-cancer activities for various types of cancer, and their anti-cancer mechanisms, including causing cell cycle arrest, inducing apoptosis and differentiation, promoting the aggregation of microtubule protein, inhibiting the activity of telomerase, inhibiting metastasis and invasion, reversing multidrug resistance, restraining angiogenesis has been studied. This review will summarize anti-cancer activities and associated molecular mechanisms of these two compounds for the purpose of promoting their research and application.
Five Coordinate Platinum(II) in [Pt(bpy)(cod)(Me)][SbF6]: A Structural and Spectroscopic Study
Authors: Klein Axel , Neugebauer Michael , Krest Alexander , Lüning Anna , Garbe Simon , Arefyeva Natalia , Schlörer Nils
Published: May 2015

The five coordinate organoplatinum complex [Pt(bpy)(cod)(Me)][SbF6] (cod = 1,5-cyclooctadiene, bpy = 2,2’-bipyridine) was obtained reacting [Pt(cod)(Me)Cl] with Ag[SbF6] and bpy and characterized by multiple spectroscopy (IR and NMR) and single crystal XRD. Although the application of the τ values for the discrimination between trigonal bipyramidal vs. square pyramidal coordination fails, the molecular structure can be unequivocally described as basally-distorted trigonal bipyramidal. Detailed multinuclear NMR spectroscopy in solution at ambient temperature gives strong evidence for the same structure; corresponding low-temperature measurements down to −70 °C revealed no marked dynamic processes.
Hypoglycemia in Patients with Diabetes and Renal Disease
Authors: Alsahli Mazen , Gerich John
Published: May 2015

This article summarizes our current knowledge of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and morbidity of hypoglycemia in patients with diabetic kidney disease and reviews therapeutic limitations in this situation.