bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cryogenic Freezing of Silver Barb (Barbonymus gonionotus) Spermatozoa for Gene Pool Conservation
Authors: Sarder MRI , Rahman F , Hossain MS , Samad MS
Published: November 2013

Experiments were conducted to develop and standardize the protocols of cryopreservation of sperm of Barbonymus gonionotus. Three extenders Alsevers solution, urea-egg-yolk and egg-yolk citrate and four cryoprotectants methanol, ethanol, DMSO and DMA were used. Cryodiluents were prepared by adding 10% cryoprotectant to 90% extender (% v/v). Milt and cryodiluents were mixed at a ratio of 1 : 9 for Alsevers solution and 1 : 4 for urea egg-yolk and egg-yolk citrate solutions. Alsevers solution with 10% DMSO showed the best performance and produced 78 ± 2.55% sperm motility at the post-thaw period. Urea egg-yolk and egg-yolk citrate with 10% DMSO produced 76 ± 1.87% and 74 ± 1.87% post-thaw motility respectively. When cryopreserved sperm was stored in liquid nitrogen for 130 days, a gradual reduction in motility ranging from 31.25 to 37.50% was observed. This could be happened due to frequent opening of the nitrogen dewar that could cause thawing of the sample. In breeding trials, sperm preserved with Alsevers solution and urea egg-yolk plus 10% DMSO produced 14.28 ± 7.06% and 15.46 ± 5.50% hatching respectively. In contrast, sperm preserved with egg-yolk citrate and 10% DMSO produced poor hatching as 8.01 ± 2.15%.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16863 Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 117  124, 2009
Growth Performance and Survival of Larvae of Ompok pabda Produced from Vitamin E Treated Female Broodfish
Authors: Mollah MFA , Sarowar MN
Published: November 2013

An experiment was conducted to observe growth performance and survival of the larvae produced from the brood fish of Ompok pabda treated with 4 dietary levels of vitamin E for 90 days viz. 0 (served as control), 50, 100 and 150mg vitamin E/kg feed under 4 treatments i.e. treatment T1, T2, T3 and T4. After the feeding trials, the brood fish were induced to breed with equal dose of PG extract i.e. 12 and 18mg/kg body weight for male and female respectively and subsequently larvae were produced. The experiment was started with 5 days-old larvae having an average weight and length of 21.4 ± 8.6 mg and 13.8 ± 2.49 mm respectively in 16 bowls of 10l capacity divided into 4 treatments corresponding to the broods fish having 3 replications each with 100 larvae in each bowl i.e. 10 larvae per liter. After rearing for 28 days with live-food tubificid worms the highest growth rate in terms of weight (609.13 ± 15.20 mg) and length (86.70 ± 1.84 mm), gain in weight (587.78 ± 15.27 mg) and length (72.98 ± 1.81 mm), specific growth rate (30.36 ± 0.12%), health condition (16.63 ± 0.69 mg/mm) and survival (83.25 ± 2.87) were showed by the larvae produced from brood fish fed with 100 mg vitamin E/kg feed (treatment T3) while poorest was observed by the larvae produced from brood fish fed 150 mg vitamin E/kg feed. The results imply that inclusion of 100mg vitamin E/kg feed in the diet of O. pabda brood fish is best for enhancing growth and survival of larvae indicating that vitamin E has a positive impact. The results also suggest that inclusion of higher level of vitamin E in the diet exerts an antagonistic effect on the produced larvae.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16864 Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 125  132, 2009
Effectiveness of Neem, Garlic and Red Chili Against Adult Dermestid Beetle in Sun Dried Fish
Authors: Nowsad AKM , Mondal R , Islam MR
Published: November 2013

The suitability of neem (Azadirachta indica), garlic (Allium sativum) and red chili (Capsicum frutescens) in repelling insects in dried fish during processing and storage was determined. Their acetone extracts were used to evaluate toxic effects against adult dermestid beetle, Dermestes sp. The concentration of plant extracts were 60%, 80% and 100% for adult Dermestes sp. The LC50 values of neem, garlic and red chili were 1.81%, 4.85% and 1.11%, respectively at 24 hours after treatment (HAT), indicating that red chili was the most toxic plant. Red chili possessed the highest toxic effect at 48 HAT (0.87%) and 72 HAT (0.03%). It was observed that all of the three plant extracts had repellent action on adult Dermestes sp. The highest mean repellency was observed in neem extract (62.67%) followed by red chili (38.44%) and garlic (31.11%). Repellent effects increased with the concentration of plant extracts.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16865 Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 133  142, 2009
Studies on Nitrofuran Contamination in Exportable Shrimp and Prawn Products
Authors: Nowsad AKM , Islam MR , Faruk MAR
Published: November 2013

For the last few years, several consignments of frozen prawn and shrimp from Bangladesh have been rejected by the EU and USA due to presence of nitrofuran drugs. We have investigated the source of nitrofuran drugs in shrimp and prawn through participatory stakeholder based approach. Survey in greater Mymensingh region revealed that most of the hatchery operators and prawn farmers did not know about the devastating effect of nitrofuran on prawn while survey in Coxs Bazar and Khulna revealed that most of the hatchery operators knew about the nitrofuran drugs but they kept mum on nitrofuran related issues. A series of antibiotics sold in local veterinary drug shops of Coxs Bazar and Khulna were found to be used in shrimp hatcheries. While conducting stakeholder based dialogue in Khulna and Coxs Bazar, hatchery operators were directly blamed by shrimp/prawn farmers, depot holders and processors for using nitrofuran drug. Many hatchery technicians mentioned that they used nitrofuran drugs in the hatcheries 5-6 years back, much before than it was declared banned on shrimp products, but at present they were not using it. While asking about the unlabelled drugs using in their hatcheries, they did not respond but mentioned the efficacy of nitrofuran in the survival of shrimp/prawn PL and promotion of their growth. From the participatory stakeholder based study it was understood that both the prawn/shrimp hatchery and poultry feed/fish feed used as shrimp/prawn feed in grow out ponds might be the possible sources of contamination of nitrofuran drugs in exportable shrimp/prawn products.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16866 Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 143  151, 2009
Preparation of Fish Burger from Pangus Catfish (Pangasius sutchi) and Evaluation of Quality and Shelflife During Different Storage Conditions
Authors: Ejaz MA , Shikha FH , Hossain MI
Published: November 2013

Improved fish burger was developed from pangus fish (Pangasius sutchi) by using different kinds of food additives (25% mashed potato, 2% NaCl, 2% oil, 2% spices such as onion, ginger, garlic, green chili, hot spices and 0.6% sugar). Proximate composition and sensory, chemical and microbiological changes of pangus fish burger were determined to evaluate the shelf life and storage stability kept at room (28ºC) and refrigeration (5ºC) temperature. It was observed that, the moisture, pH and protein contents in pangus burger were decreased than that of fish mince. On the other hand, lipid and ash contents were higher. Among the variable levels of mashed potato level, 25% mashed potato level showed the best sensory performance and was recommended for the commercial production. At room temperature, the sensory attributes deceased significantly (P<0.05) throughout the storage period. On the other hand, at refrigerated temperature (5°C) the product was more stable. The TVB-N value increased progressively throughout the storage period (P<0.05) at both room (28°C) and refrigerated (5°C) temperature. The microbial load was also increased significantly (P<0.05) at both temperatures but the growth pattern was slower at refrigeration temperature. After considering all the results, it was concluded that, the shelf life of pangus fish burger was very short, in fact not more than 24 hours at 28ºC. On the other hand at 5ºC pangus fish burger may remain in good condition up to 72 hours.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16867 Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 153  162, 2009
Production and Export of Shrimp of Bangladesh : Problems and Prospects
Authors: Rahman MM , Hossain MM
Published: November 2013

A study on problems and prospects of shrimp production and marketing from Bangladesh on the basis of secondary information was carried out from July to October 08. Shrimp farming has emerged one of the important economic activities in Bangladesh and become the second largest export industry after garments. Shrimp aquaculture in coastal areas plays a major role providing employment, income and food security to remote coastal people where alternative livelihood options are limited. Shrimp culture system is extensive to improved extensive type with total production of 55000 mt of brackish water shrimp and 12000 mt of freshwater shrimp. In coastal Bangladesh, shrimp culture has led to many social and environmental problems. In export markets, shrimps are great but many challenges remain ahead because of increasing requirements of quality, food hygiene and development of technological and trade barriers in large shrimp markets in USA and EU countries. However, challenges lies with good aquaculture practice and competitive export, which are the effective tools for poverty alleviation and national development program for Bangladesh.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16868 Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 163  171, 2009
Drying Performance of Rotating and Solar Tunnel Dryer for Production of Quality Dried Fish
Authors: Sultana S , Shikha FH , Islam MN , Kamal M
Published: November 2013

Studies were conducted to evaluate the drying performance of rotating and solar tunnel dryer for the production of high quality dried fish products. Three marine fish species : Silver jew fish (Johnius argentatus), Bombay duck (Harpodon nehereus) and Ribbon fish (Trichiurus haumela) were used for drying in a rotating dryer and solar tunnel dryer. Temperature and relative humidity were measured at time interval during the whole drying period. During 20 hours of drying in rotating dryer, temperature and humidity varied from 15-20oC and 45 to 72%, respectively. On the other hand, air temperature outside the tunnel dryer varied from 28 to 32.83oC. Temperature inside the tunnel dryer varied from 31.33oC at 3.00 pm to 47.78oC at 12.00 pm. Humidity outside the tunnel dryer ranged from 58.83 to 74% and inside from 33.83% to 68% showing an inverse relationship between temperature and humidity. Moisture content of the fresh Ribbon fish, Silver Jew fish and Bombay duck was in the range of 78.7% to 85.47% with highest value was found in Bombay duck and lowest value in Ribbon fish. After 31 hours of drying in solar tunnel dryer, moisture content decreased in the range of 14.05 to 16.19%. whereas, after 20 hours of drying in rotating dryer final moisture content reached in the range of 16.36 to 19.1%. The present study indicated that drying performance of rotating dryer with low humidity was faster than that of solar tunnel dryer producing quality dried products.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16869 Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 173  181, 2009
Effect of Dietary Phosphorus and Zinc Levels on Hematocrit Value, Plasma Mineral Content and Plasma Alkaline Phosphatase Activity of Fingerling Rainbow Trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss
Authors: Sarker MSA , Satoh S
Published: November 2013

A laboratory based 2 × 2 factorial experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary phosphorus and zinc levels on hematocrit value, plasma alkaline phosphatase activity and plasma mineral contents of rainbow trout fingerling for 21 weeks. Two levels of phosphorus (19 and 30 mg/g) and two levels of zinc (55 and 100 µg/g) in the dry diets were tested. Duplicate tanks of 30 rainbow trout (average weight 1.56 ± 0.24g) per 60L glass tank were fed experimental diets three times a day to satiation level in 15 to 24oC water temperature. Zinc supplementation in the practical diets significantly increased the hematocrit value, plasma alkaline phosphatase activity and plasma zinc contents in rainbow trout fingerling. On the other hand, addition of phosphorus did not show any significant difference among the treatments. The result of the present study demonstrated that additional zinc significantly (P<0.05) influenced the hematocrit value, plasma alkaline phosphatase activity and plasma zinc contents in rainbow trout. Hence, it can be concluded that zinc supplementation is necessary in fingerling rainbow trout feed. Further studies in this area with different size and age of rainbow trout are needed broadly.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16870 Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 183  192, 2009
Laboratory Investigation on Salinity Tolerance to Barbodes Gonionotus (Bleeker)
Authors: Akther M , Mollah AR , Kadir M
Published: November 2013

Salinity tolerance to Thai silver barb, Barbodes gonionotus was investigated under laboratory conditions using common salt (NaCl) and sea water. With a view to determine the median lethal concentrations (LC50 values), the fish were exposed to various concentrations of the salt and sea water for a period of 96. Common salt up to a concentration of 12 ppt and sea water up to a concentration of 10 ppt did not cause mortality to the experimental fish. The LC50 values for 6h, 12h, 24h, 48h, 72h, and 96 hexposure times were 17.91 ppt, 16.91 ppt, 15.35 ppt, 14.51 ppt and 13.92 ppt common salt, respectively. During experiment action with sea water, the LC50 values obtained were 15.02 ppt, 14.18 ppt, 13.48 ppt, 12.61 ppt, 12.35 ppt and 12.25 ppt for 6 h, 12 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 96 h exposure times, respectively, On the other hand, pre-exposure acclimation in modifying the acute lethal toxicity of the salt showed, a concentration of 18 ppt salt killed all the fish within 4 days, indicating that gradual increases in salinity increases the salt tolerance of B. gonionotus.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16871 Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 193  200, 2009
Use of some Selected Wastes as Sustainable Agricultural Inputs
Authors: Islam MR , Abedin MZ , Rahman MZ , Begum A
Published: November 2013

This study elucidates an attempt to prepare compost from kitchen, dairy and drainage wastes and estimate their manorial value, and to examine the effect of prepared compost on the properties of post-harvest soil. The composts on individual item were prepared by the recently practiced quick composting method. The composts were applied in four different plots; three were treated with composts and the rest with no-treatment. The red amaranth was taken as the reference crop for the present study. The plots treated with dairy and kitchen wastes composts conserved the maximum soil moisture, available phosphorus and exchangeable potassium. The compost prepared from dairy wastes showed the best performance in conserving soil organic carbon and organic matter. The kitchen wastes compost supplied the maximum amount of nitrogen content to the soil. The dairy and kitchen wastes compost was better than the drainage wastes compost for sustainable crop production and in improving soil chemical properties and maintaining good soil quality. Dairy wastes compost showed the best performance in terms of canopy developing the plant height and root length. The highest yield was found in dairy and kitchen wastes compost treated plots. For growth and yield of red amaranth, dairy, kitchen and drainage wastes compost were superior to conventional farming as sustainable agricultural inputs.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16872 Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 201  206, 2009
Performance of Existing Maize Shellers in Bangladesh
Authors: Alam MM , Momin MA
Published: November 2013

This study was conducted to identify the technical and economical performance of the existing models of maize sheller in the country and suggest the best maize sheller models for the farmers during 3 September 2006 to 30 March 2007 in the area of Bogra, Rangpur, Dinajpur, Rajshahi and Jessore. Detail field tests were conducted on seven selected maize sheller models of three categories to assess the comparative performance. Three basic designs of maize sheller models were identified through field survey and secondary information. The models were Spike-pinion (SP) type, Spiral rasp-bar cylinder (SBC) type and Parallel rasp-bar cylinder (PBC) type. The technical performances of the selected maize sheller models were evaluated on the basis of throughput capacity, shelling capacity, cylinder loss, separating loss, broken kernel and shelling efficiency. The shelling capacity and efficiency of Binimoy and Sarker spike-pinion (SP) type models were found about 0.45 ton/hr and 93%, respectively. Similarly, the shelling capacities and efficiencies of Farida, Rahman and Uttaran spiral rasp-bar cylinder (SBC) models were ranged between 2.8 to 4.0 ton/hr and 93 to 97%, respectively. Farida parallel rasp-bar (PBC) type maize sheller had shown incredible shelling efficiency of about 99% with almost negligible cylinder (0.25%) and separating (0.25%) losses along with lowest broken kernel (2.5%) percentage. However, the shelling capacity was found comparatively low about 1.9 ton/hr. The shelling costs, benefit-cost ratios and net margins of spiral rasp-bar cylinder models vary between Tk. 91-97/ton, 1.28-1.37 and Tk78-134/hr, respectively. Among the models Farida (SBC) appeared as the most economic one having lowest shelling cost of Tk. 91/ton with the highest benefit-cost ratio of 1.37 and net margin of Tk. 134/hr (determined at a custom-hire rate of Tk. 7 per 40 kg of shelled kernel). Comparative economic uses of the selected maize shellers suggest that the use of hand sheller is beneficial up to an annual use of 13 ton. Whereas, Binimoy (SP) and Sarker (SP) models are economic for annual use between 13 and 30 ton, and Farida (SBC), Rahman (SBC) and Uttaran (SBC) models are economic for shelling over 30 ton per annum. Economic analysis suggest that hand sheller could be beneficial for very small farm holdings, Binimoy (SP) and Sarker (SP) models for small farm holdings and Farida (SBC), Rahman (SBC) and Uttaran (SBC) models for medium to large farm holdings and custom-hire service.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16873 Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 207  220, 2009
Profitability Analysis of Bagda Farming in Some Selected Areas of Satkhira District
Authors: Wasim Feroz ANM , Rashid MHA , Hossain M
Published: November 2013

This study aimed at examining the relative profitability of shrimp production in some areas of Satkhira district. Farm level data were collected through interviewing 60 randomly selected farmers. Mainly tabular analysis was done to achieve the major objectives of the study. Cobb-Douglas production function was used to estimate the contribution of key variables to the production process of shrimp farming. Analysis of costs and returns showed that per hectare total cost of shrimp production was Tk. 1,06,791.00 and net return from shrimp production was Tk. 84,023.80. Production function analysis proved that inputs such as fry, human labour, fertilizers, manure, lime etc. had positive impact on output. The study also identified some problems and suggested some possible steps to remove these problems. If these problems could be solved bagda production would possibly be increased remarkably in the study area as well as in Bangladesh.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16874 Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 221  229, 2009
Comparative Profitability Analysis of Broiler Farming Under Aftab Bahumukhi Farm Limited Supervision and Farmers Own Management
Authors: Akhter S , Rashid MHA , Uddin H
Published: November 2013

This study was conducted to estimate the comparative profitability of Aftab Bahumukhi Farm Limited (ABFL) supervised broiler farms and farmers own managed broiler farms. Data were collected from randomly selected 90 broiler farmers of which 45 were ABFL supervised farmers and 45 were own managed farmers. Descriptive statistical techniques were used to estimate cost and returns of broiler farming. The study revealed that on an average, total cost of raising broiler per batch per 1000 birds was estimated at Tk. 99,429.00 and Tk. 1,06,330.00 for ABFL supervised farms and farmers own managed farms respectively. The respective average variable costs and fixed costs per batch per 1000 birds were calculated at Tk. 96,218.00 and Tk. 1,02,926.00 respectively. These accounted for 96.77 percent and 96.80 percent of total costs respectably for ABFL supervised farms and independently managed farms. The estimated average gross return was Tk. 1,03,334.00 for ABFL supervised farms and Tk. 1,09,961.00 for independent farms respectively. The average gross margins per batch per farm for 1000 birds were at Tk. 7,470.00 and Tk. 7,035.00 for the ABFL supervised farms and for farmers own managed farms respectively and average net returns were estimated at Tk. 4,259.00 for ABFL supervised farms and Tk. 3,631.00 for farmers own managed farms respectively. From the statistical evidence it was found that profit earned by ABFL supervised broiler farms and own managed broiler farms were not significantly different.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16875 Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 231  236, 2009
Profitability of MV Boro Rice Production Under Shallow Tubewell Irrigation System in Some Selected Areas of Tangail District
Authors: Nargis F , Miah TH , Khanam TS , Sarwer RH
Published: November 2013

The present study estimates profitability of MV Boro rice production under shallow tubewell irrigation system. The study was conducted in Ghatail upazila of Tangail district. In the study, 60 water buyers from 5 villages were randomly selected. The survey covered a whole period of MV Boro production (January to May 2008). The major findings of the study were that about one third of total cost shared by irrigation charge. Though, the water buyers made a significant profit from MV Boro paddy production but the buyers were not fully satisfied with the prevailing one-fourth water charge and claimed for reduction of water charge. Education and farming experience was the important tools to increase profit in MV Boro paddy production. A considerable further scope apparently exists for expansion of STWs by reducing water charge to enhance the productivity of MV Boro paddy and to increase farm income of water buyers.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16877 Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 237  244, 2009
Participation of Rural Women in Farm and Non-Farm Activities : An Economic Analysis
Authors: Chowdhury N , Rashid MHA , Ahmed S , Sultana A
Published: November 2013

Rural women are silent workers and major contributors to rural economy. Their economic contributions are often appreciated but not widely recognized. The purpose of the study was to make the participation of rural women in farm and non-farm activities visible and their contribution in generating household income. Data were collected from a purposively-drawn sample of 60 rural households consisting of 20 low, 20 medium and 20 high income households. The obtained data were analyzed by using tabular and statistical techniques. Women of these three categories contributed to Tk. 19398, 24180 and 20917.50 which were 35.18, 25.11 and 14.20 per cent of total household income respectively. It was evident that, female participation of low and medium income households is markedly higher in non-farm activities than the high income households. The results of the study showed clear evidences of greater extent of womens participation in farm and non-farm activities as well as in various household decision making events. The findings of the study suggest that, in order to enhance women participation in farm and non-farm activities and their contribution to household income, the quality and status of support service like input supply, credit facilities, extension and motivation, need-based training should be improved. A successful government and non-government collaborative programme can best address these issues in an integrated manner.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16878 Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 245  251, 2009
Comparative Profitability of Boro Rice and Potato Production in Some Selected Areas of Mymensingh District
Authors: Ahmed S , Rashid MHA , Chowdhury N
Published: November 2013

This study was undertaken to determine and compare the profitability of Boro rice and potato production. In total 60 farmers of which 30 Boro rice growers and 30 potato growers were selected randomly from four villages of Gouripur Upazila in Mymensingh district. Descriptive as well as statistical analysis were done to achieve the objectives of the study. The Cobb-Douglas production function was used to determine the effects of individual inputs on Boro rice and potato production. The major findings of the study were that the cultivation of Boro rice and potato was profitable from the view point of farmers. The per hectare total return from Boro rice and potato were Tk. 83,320.00 and Tk. 2,62,625.22 respectively. The gross cost of Boro rice and potato production were Tk. 54,202.74 and 1,20,221.71 respectively. Again the net return from Boro rice and potato were Tk. 24,117.26 and 1,42,403.51 respectively. The Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) was 1.41 and 2.18 respectively for Boro rice and potato production. The results indicated that potato production was more profitable than Boro rice production. It was also evident from the study that per hectare net returns were influenced by most of the factors included in model. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v20i1-2.16880Progress. Agric. 20(1 & 2): 253  258, 2009
A Methodology to Infer Crop Yield Response to Climate Variability and Change Using Long-Term Observations
Authors: El-Maayar Mustapha , Lange Manfred
Published: November 2013

A new methodology to extract crop yield response to climate variability and change from long-term crop yield observations is presented in this study. In contrast to the existing first-difference approach (FDA), the proposed methodology considers that the difference in value between crop yields of two consecutive years reflects necessarily the contributions of climate and management conditions, especially at large spatial scales where both conditions may vary significantly from one year to the next. Our approach was applied to remove the effect of non-climatic factors on crop yield and, hence, to isolate the effect of the observed climate change between 1961 and 2006 on three widely crops grown in three Mediterranean countries—namely wheat, corn and potato—using national-level crop yield observations’ time-series. Obtained results show that the proposed methodology provides us with a ground basis to improve substantially our understanding of crop yield response to climate change at a scale that is relevant to large-scale estimations of agricultural production and to food security analyses; and therefore to reduce uncertainties in estimations of potential climate change effects on agricultural production. Furthermore, a comparison of outputs of our methodology and FDA outputs yielded a difference in terms of maize production in Egypt, for example, that exceeds the production of some neighbouring countries.
Research Applications of Proteolytic Enzymes in Molecular Biology
Authors: Mótyán János , Tóth Ferenc , Tőzsér József
Published: November 2013

Proteolytic enzymes (also termed peptidases, proteases and proteinases) are capable of hydrolyzing peptide bonds in proteins. They can be found in all living organisms, from viruses to animals and humans. Proteolytic enzymes have great medical and pharmaceutical importance due to their key role in biological processes and in the life-cycle of many pathogens. Proteases are extensively applied enzymes in several sectors of industry and biotechnology, furthermore, numerous research applications require their use, including production of Klenow fragments, peptide synthesis, digestion of unwanted proteins during nucleic acid purification, cell culturing and tissue dissociation, preparation of recombinant antibody fragments for research, diagnostics and therapy, exploration of the structure-function relationships by structural studies, removal of affinity tags from fusion proteins in recombinant protein techniques, peptide sequencing and proteolytic digestion of proteins in proteomics. The aim of this paper is to review the molecular biological aspects of proteolytic enzymes and summarize their applications in the life sciences.
A General Model of Dioxin Contamination in Breast Milk: Results from a Study on 94 Women from the Caserta and Naples Areas in Italy
Authors: Rivezzi Gaetano , Piscitelli Prisco , Scortichini Giampiero , Giovannini Armando , Diletti Gianfranco , Migliorati Giacomo , Ceci Roberta , Rivezzi Giulia , Cirasino Lorenzo , Carideo Pietro , Black Dennis , Garzillo Carmine , Giani Umberto
Published: November 2013

Background: The Caserta and Naples areas in Campania Region experience heavy environmental contamination due to illegal waste disposal and burns, thus representing a valuable setting to develop a general model of human contamination with dioxins (PCDDs-PCDFs) and dioxin-like-PCBs (dl-PCBs). Methods: 94 breastfeeding women (aged 19–32 years; mean age 27.9 ± 3.0) were recruited to determine concentrations of PCDDs-PCDFs and dl-PCBs in their milk. Individual milk samples were collected and analyzed according to standard international procedures. A generalized linear model was used to test potential predictors of pollutant concentration in breast milk: age, exposure to waste fires, cigarette smoking, diet, and residence in high/low risk area (defined at high/low environmental pressure by a specific 2007 WHO report). A Structural Equation Model (SEM) analysis was carried out by taking into account PCDDs-PCDFs and dl-PCBs as endogenous variables and age, waste fires, risk area and smoking as exogenous variables. Results: All milk samples were contaminated by PCDDs-PCDFs (8.6 pg WHO-TEQ/98g fat ± 2.7; range 3.8–19) and dl-PCBs (8.0 pg WHO-TEQ/98g fat ± 3.7; range 2.5–24), with their concentrations being associated with age and exposure to waste fires (p < 0.01). Exposure to fires resulted in larger increases of dioxins concentrations in people living in low risk areas than those from high risk areas (p < 0.01). Conclusions: A diffuse human exposure to persistent organic pollutants was observed in the Caserta and Naples areas. Dioxins concentration in women living in areas classified at low environmental pressure in 2007 WHO report was significantly influenced by exposure to burns.
Economic Rationality in Choosing between Short-Term Bad-Health Choices and Longer-Term Good-Health Choices
Authors: Campbell David
Published: November 2013

Non-contagious, chronic disease has been identified as a global health risk. Poor lifestyle choices, such as smoking, alcohol, drug and solvent abuse, physical inactivity, and unhealthy diet have been identified as important factors affecting the increasing incidence of chronic disease. The following focuses on the circumstance affecting the lifestyle or behavioral choices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in remote-/very remote Australia. Poor behavioral choices are the result of endogenous characteristics that are influenced by a range of stressful exogenous variables making up the psychosocial determinants including social disenfranchisement, cultural loss, insurmountable tasks, the loss of volitional control and resource constraints. It is shown that poor behavioral choices can be economically rational; especially under highly stressful conditions. Stressful circumstances erode individual capacity to commit to long-term positive health alternatives such as self-investment in education. Policies directed at removing the impediments and providing incentives to behaviors involving better health choices can lead to reductions in smoking and alcohol consumption and improved health outcomes. Multijurisdictional culturally acceptable policies directed at distal variables relating to the psychosocial determinants of health and personal mastery and control can be cost effective. While the content of this paper is focused on the conditions of colonized peoples, it has broader relevance.
Fine Particulate Air Pollution and Hospital Admissions for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Case-Crossover Study in Taipei
Authors: Tsai Shang-Shyue , Chang Chih-Ching , Yang Chun-Yuh
Published: November 2013

We undertook this study to investigate whether there is an association between atmospheric fine particles (PM2.5) levels and inpatient admissions for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in Taipei, Taiwan. Data on inpatient admissions for COPD and ambient on air pollution levels in Taipei were obtained for years 2006 to 2010. We estimated the relative risk of inpatient admissions for COPD using a case-crossover design with the following control variables: weather measures, day of the week, seasonality, and long-term time trends. For the single-pollutant model (not controlling for other atmospheric pollutants), COPD admissions were significantly and positively associated with higher PM2.5 levels during both warm days (>23 °C) and cool days (<23 °C), with an interquartile range increase of 12% (95% CI = 8–16%) and 3% (95% CI = 0–7%) in COPD admissions, respectively. In the two-pollutant models, PM2.5 remained significant even controlling for SO2 or O3 on both warm and cool days. Taken as a whole, our study demonstrates that higher levels of PM2.5 may increase the risk of inpatient admissions for COPD.
Crambescidin-816 Acts as a Fungicidal with More Potency than Crambescidin-800 and -830, Inducing Cell Cycle Arrest, Increased Cell Size and Apoptosis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Rubiolo Juan , Ternon Eva , López-Alonso Henar , Thomas Olivier , Vega Félix , Vieytes Mercedes , Botana Luis
Published: November 2013

In this paper, we show the effect of crambescidin-816, -800, and -830 on Saccharomyces cerevisiae viability. We determined that, of the three molecules tested, crambescidin-816 was the most potent. Based on this result, we continued by determining the effect of crambescidin-816 on the cell cycle of this yeast. The compound induced cell cycle arrest in G2/M followed by an increase in cell DNA content and size. When the type of cell death was analyzed, we observed that crambescidin-816 induced apoptosis. The antifungal effect indicates that crambescidins, and mostly crambescidin-816, could serve as a lead compound to fight fungal infections.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids Modulate Weibel-Palade Body Degranulation and Actin Cytoskeleton Rearrangement in PMA-Stimulated Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells
Authors: Bürgin-Maunder Corinna , Brooks Peter , Russell Fraser
Published: November 2013

Long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFAs) produce cardiovascular benefits by improving endothelial function. Endothelial cells store von Willebrand factor (vWF) in cytoplasmic Weibel-Palade bodies (WPBs). We examined whether LC n-3 PUFAs regulate WPB degranulation using cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). HUVECs were incubated with or without 75 or 120 µM docosahexaenoic acid or eicosapentaenoic acid for 5 days at 37 °C. WPB degranulation was stimulated using phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), and this was assessed by immunocytochemical staining for vWF. Actin reorganization was determined using phalloidin-TRITC staining. We found that PMA stimulated WPB degranulation, and that this was significantly reduced by prior incubation of cells with LC n-3 PUFAs. In these cells, WPBs had rounded rather than rod-shaped morphology and localized to the perinuclear region, suggesting interference with cytoskeletal remodeling that is necessary for complete WPB degranulation. In line with this, actin rearrangement was altered in cells containing perinuclear WPBs, where cells exhibited a thickened actin rim in the absence of prominent cytoplasmic stress fibers. These findings indicate that LC n-3 PUFAs provide some protection against WBP degranulation, and may contribute to an improved understanding of the anti-thrombotic effects previously attributed to LC n-3 PUFAs.
Chlorinated Didemnins from the Tunicate Trididemnum solidum
Authors: Ankisetty Sridevi , Khan Shabana , Avula Bharathi , Gochfeld Deborah , Khan Ikhlas , Slattery Marc
Published: November 2013

Chemical investigation of the tunicate Trididemnum solidum resulted in the isolation of two new chlorinated compounds belonging to the didemnin class, along with two known compounds didemnin A and didemnin B. The structural determination of the compounds was based on extensive NMR and mass spectroscopic analysis. The isolated compounds 1–4 were tested for their anti-inflammatory activity using in vitro assays for inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activity. The anti-cell proliferative activity of the above compounds was also evaluated against four solid tumor cell lines.
Photoaffinity Labeling of Plasma Proteins
Authors: Chuang Victor , Otagiri Masaki
Published: November 2013

Photoaffinity labeling is a powerful technique for identifying a target protein. A high degree of labeling specificity can be achieved with this method in comparison to chemical labeling. Human serum albumin (HSA) and α1-acid glycoprotein (AGP) are two plasma proteins that bind a variety of endogenous and exogenous substances. The ligand binding mechanism of these two proteins is complex. Fatty acids, which are known to be transported in plasma by HSA, cause conformational changes and participate in allosteric ligand binding to HSA. HSA undergoes an N-B transition, a conformational change at alkaline pH, that has been reported to result in increased ligand binding. Attempts have been made to investigate the impact of fatty acids and the N-B transition on ligand binding in HSA using ketoprofen and flunitrazepam as photolabeling agents. Meanwhile, plasma AGP is a mixture of genetic variants of the protein. The photolabeling of AGP with flunitrazepam has been utilized to shed light on the topology of the protein ligand binding site. Furthermore, a review of photoaffinity labeling performed on other major plasma proteins will also be discussed. Using a photoreactive natural ligand as a photolabeling agent to identify target protein in the plasma would reduce non-specific labeling.
A Randomised Cross-Over Pharmacokinetic Bioavailability Study of Synthetic versus Kiwifruit-Derived Vitamin C
Authors: Carr Anitra , Bozonet Stephanie , Vissers Margreet
Published: November 2013

Kiwifruit are a rich source of vitamin C and also contain numerous phytochemicals, such as flavonoids, which may influence the bioavailability of kiwifruit-derived vitamin C. The aim of this study was to compare the relative bioavailability of synthetic versus kiwifruit-derived vitamin C using a randomised cross-over pharmacokinetic study design. Nine non-smoking males (aged 18–35 years) received either a chewable tablet (200 mg vitamin C) or the equivalent dose from gold kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis var. Sungold). Fasting blood and urine were collected half hourly to hourly over the eight hours following intervention. The ascorbate content of the plasma and urine was determined using HPLC with electrochemical detection. Plasma ascorbate levels increased from 0.5 h after the intervention (P = 0.008). No significant differences in the plasma time-concentration curves were observed between the two interventions (P = 0.645). An estimate of the total increase in plasma ascorbate indicated complete uptake of the ingested vitamin C tablet and kiwifruit-derived vitamin C. There was an increase in urinary ascorbate excretion, relative to urinary creatinine, from two hours post intervention (P < 0.001). There was also a significant difference between the two interventions, with enhanced ascorbate excretion observed in the kiwifruit group (P = 0.016). Urinary excretion was calculated as ~40% and ~50% of the ingested dose from the vitamin C tablet and kiwifruit arms, respectively. Overall, our pharmacokinetic study has shown comparable relative bioavailability of kiwifruit-derived vitamin C and synthetic vitamin C.
A Multifunctional Joint Angle Sensor with Measurement Adaptability
Authors: Quan Wei , Wang Hua , Liu Datong
Published: November 2013

The paper presents a multifunctional joint sensor with measurement adaptability for biological engineering applications, such as gait analysis, gesture recognition, etc. The adaptability is embodied in both static and dynamic environment measurements, both of body pose and in motion capture. Its multifunctional capabilities lay in its ability of simultaneous measurement of multiple degrees of freedom (MDOF) with a single sensor to reduce system complexity. The basic working mode enables 2DOF spatial angle measurement over big ranges and stands out for its applications on different joints of different individuals without recalibration. The optional advanced working mode enables an additional DOF measurement for various applications. By employing corrugated tube as the main body, the sensor is also characterized as flexible and wearable with less restraints. MDOF variations are converted to linear displacements of the sensing elements. The simple reconstruction algorithm and small outputs volume are capable of providing real-time angles and long-term monitoring. The performance assessment of the built prototype is promising enough to indicate the feasibility of the sensor.
Metallic and Ceramic Thin Film Thermocouples for Gas Turbine Engines
Authors: Tougas Ian , Amani Matin , Gregory Otto
Published: November 2013

Temperatures of hot section components in today’s gas turbine engines reach as high as 1,500 °C, making in situ monitoring of the severe temperature gradients within the engine rather difficult. Therefore, there is a need to develop instrumentation (i.e., thermocouples and strain gauges) for these turbine engines that can survive these harsh environments. Refractory metal and ceramic thin film thermocouples are well suited for this task since they have excellent chemical and electrical stability at high temperatures in oxidizing atmospheres, they are compatible with thermal barrier coatings commonly employed in today’s engines, they have greater sensitivity than conventional wire thermocouples, and they are non-invasive to combustion aerodynamics in the engine. Thin film thermocouples based on platinum:palladium and indium oxynitride:indium tin oxynitride as well as their oxide counterparts have been developed for this purpose and have proven to be more stable than conventional type-S and type-K thin film thermocouples. The metallic and ceramic thin film thermocouples described within this paper exhibited remarkable stability and drift rates similar to bulk (wire) thermocouples.
Sustainable Paper Consumption: Exploring Behavioral Factors
Authors: Sopha Bertha
Published: November 2013

Although the paperless office (PLO) management system has been established with the goal of paper usage reduction, demand for paper has still showed an uptrend over the years. Given the substantial pressure on forest ecosystems due to a continued increase of paper consumption, understanding the behavioral aspects of paper consumption is, therefore, required. This present paper aims at exploring the factors underlying paper consumption behavior. Empirical data was acquired through a survey of 266 Indonesian students, involving both undergraduate and postgraduate students. A theoretical model, based on the Comprehensive Action Determination Model (CADM), was tested against the empirical data. It was found that the model received reasonable support from the data. Results indicate that reducing paper consumption behavior is strongly influenced by habit and, marginally significant, by intention. Furthermore, habit formation is influenced by both normative processes and situational influences. The results, to some extent, explain the PLO paradox in a way that the PLO program should have focused on breaking the habit of paper usage instead of promoting the benefits of PLO. Introducing a paper quota and rationing (fee) to new students, as the main target, is a potential policy intervention implied from the results.
El inicio de la economía castiza española: la economía de la Regencia
Authors: Velarde Fuertes Juan
Published: November 2013

Desde 1875 a 1950 se construyó en España un modelo de política económica que es el que ahora mismo se pretende superar. Se basaba en un proteccionismo creciente, una moneda fiduciaria, una huida de la economía libre de mercado, la admisión de déficit presupuestario y un populismo social compensador. Se pretende explicar cómo este modelo castizo se inició con fuerza durante la Regencia, al intentar imitar el modelo alemán, al ser orientado por las ideas de Cánovas y al actuar como catalizador el propio Desastre de 1898. Se concluye con la comprobación de que esta situación creada por la Regencia más nos alejó que nos acercó a la economía de los países más desarrollados.
Las últimas campañas de ultramar
Authors: Alonso Baquer Miguel
Published: November 2013

«En todas las campañas de ultramar, lo cierto es que no se dieron nunca verdaderas razones objetivas para confiar en una victoria a plazo fijo. Cualquier victoria fue efímera, aun en el caso de no padecer España la influencia de poderes hostiles a la continuidad de una soberanía en particular, la de España en Cuba. Cualquier campaña ultramarina, —si la insurrección había podido estallar y extenderse lo suficiente— estuvo rodeada en sí misma de adversas circunstancias. Hubo que soportar en Cuba y Filipinas, no una guerra localizada y espasmódica, sino una lucha endémica y recurrente que nunca parecía tener fin.
Fue exactamente éste el tipo de guerra que marcó con su sello la relación Fuerzas Armadas-Sociedad española a lo largo del siglo XIX y no el de las guerras clásicas, exteriores o civiles. Muchos españoles (militares o no de condición pero encuadrados todos en Unidades bajo banderas españolas) atendieron sin largas treguas una serie de situaciones de conflicto de manera harto azarosa e insatisfactoria en definitiva. Y lo hicieron porque lo consideraron un deber patriótico. Éste fue el drama de los militares y marinos de guerra directamente afectados por el Desastre del 98».
La historia del CSIC: relevancia y necesidad
Authors: Sánchez Ron José Manuel
Published: November 2013

En este artículo se defiende la importancia que para una mejor comprensión de la historia contemporánea de España tiene conocer la historia del Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas. Al mismo tiempo que se presentan argumentos en tal sentido, se resaltan algunas de las características y protagonistas más destacados del Consejo durante sus primeros tiempos, y mencionan temas en cuyo estudio es necesario profundizar, cuando no iniciar. De forma paralela, se relacionan todas estas cuestiones con los artículos que componen el presente número de Arbor.
Viejos recuerdos en torno a la construcción del Instituto Cajal y de Microbiología en 1950
Authors: Fisac Miguel
Published: November 2013

En este artículo se presentan algunos de los recuerdos del autor sobre los principales personajes en la fundación del Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, así como su participación como arquitecto en algunos de los edificios más emblemáticos del mismo.
La «pérdida de España»: Monarquía, Reinos y Naciones
Authors: Pérez-Prendes Muñoz-Arraco José Manuel
Published: November 2013

Don José Manuel Pérez-Prendes nos transmite sus reflexiones sobre un problema que nos es acuciante: la «pérdida de España» ayer y hoy. La comparación la establece en función de las creencias religiosas y de las constitucionales, como principios vertebradores de la única paz social posible en cada época. Jugar con la construcción-desconstrucción de la vida política, tema grave, sobre todo si tenemos presente que ha habido anhelos históricos de España ganadas y de España rotas.