bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neonatal Growth Outcomes at Birth and one Month Postpartum Following In Utero Exposure to Antidepressant Medication
Authors: Lewis Andrew J. , Galbally Megan , Opie Gillian , Buist Anne
Published: April 2010

Objective: There is evidence of increasing prescription of antidepressant medication in pregnant women. This has arisen from the recognition of the importance of treating maternal depression. This must be balanced, however, with information on outcomes for infants and children exposed to antidepressants in pregnancy. The aim of the present study was to examine whether neonatal outcomes including gestational age at birth, neonatal growth outcomes at birth and then at 1 month postpartum were altered by in utero exposure to antidepressant medication using a prospective and controlled design.

Method: A prospective case–control study recruited 27 pregnant women taking antidepressant medication and 27 matched controls who were not taking antidepressant medication in pregnancy at an obstetric hospital in Melbourne, Australia. Of the 27 women taking medication, 25 remained on medication in the third trimester. A purpose-designed self-report questionnaire and the Beck Depression Inventory-II were completed in pregnancy, after birth and at one month postpartum. In addition information was collected on exposed and non-exposed infants including Apgar scores, birthweight/length/head circumference and gestational age at birth. Weight/length/head circumference was again collected at 1 month of age.

Results: Infants exposed to antidepressants in utero were eightfold more likely to be born at a premature gestational age, had significantly lower birthweight and were smaller in length and head circumference than non-exposed infants. There was no association between birth outcomes and maternal depression. At 1 month, the difference in weight in the exposed group became significantly greater than the control group.

Conclusion: Antidepressant exposure in utero may affect gestational age at birth and neonatal outcomes independently of antenatal maternal depression. Further studies are needed to examine whether these findings vary according to the type of antidepressant prescribed and follow up growth and development in exposed infants beyond 1 month.
Associations Between Diet Quality and Depressed Mood in Adolescents: Results from the Australian Healthy Neighbourhoods Study
Authors: Jacka Felice N. , Kremer Peter J. , Leslie Eva R. , Berk Michael , Patton George C. , Toumbourou John W. , Williams Joanne W.
Published: April 2010

Objective: Adolescence frequently coincides with the onset of psychiatric illness and depression is commonly observed in adolescents. Recent data suggest a role for diet quality in adult depression. Given the importance of adequate nutrition for brain development, it is of interest to examine whether diet quality is also related to depression in adolescents.

Methods: The study examined 7114 adolescents, aged 10–14 years, who participated in the Australian Healthy Neighbourhoods Study. Healthy and unhealthy diet quality scores were derived from a dietary questionnaire. The Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire for adolescents measured depression. Adjustments were made for age, gender, socioeconomic status, parental education, parental work status, family conflict, poor family management, dieting behaviours, body mass index, physical activity, and smoking.

Results: Compared to the lowest category of the healthy diet score, the adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for symptomatic depression across categories (C) was: C2 = 0.61 (0.45–0.84); C3 = 0.58 (0.43–0.79); C4 = 0.47 (0.35–0.64); and C5 = 0.55 (0.40–0.77). Compared to the lowest quintile, the adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for symptomatic depression across increasing quintiles of the unhealthy diet score were: Q2 = 1.03 (0.87–1.22); Q3 = 1.22 (1.03–1.44); Q4 = 1.29 (1.12–1.50); and Q5 = 1.79 (1.52–2.11).

Conclusions: Our results demonstrate an association between diet quality and adolescent depression that exists over and above the influence of socioeconomic, family, and other potential confounding factors.
Determination of Heterotic Groups in Nepalese Yellow Maize Populations
Authors: Gurung Dil Bahadur , George Maria Luz C. , Delacruz Quirino D.
Published: April 2010

Assigning germplasms into different heterotic groups is fundamental for exploitation of heterosis for hybrid development. An experiment was conducted in order to establish heterotic groups of some maize populations. Line x tester design was used for making crosses. Ten open pollinated varieties were used as lines and four as testers. Forty crosses along with their parents were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Three testers were open pollinated varieties and one tester was a NML-2, an inbred line developed by CIMMYT. Basis of grouping the germplasms into different heterotic groups was specific combining ability (SCA) effects for grain yield. Population 46C1, Rampur So3Eo2, and Rampur So3Fo2 showed positive SCA effects with NML-2, and negative with Arun-4. These germplasms were assigned into heterotic group A. Similarly, Upahar, Across 9331, Population 35C5 and Narayani had positive SCA effects with Arun-4 and negative with NML-2 and grouped into heterotic group B. Likewise, Manakamana-2 and Hill Pool Yellow were placed into AB heterotic group, which displayed positive SCA effects with both testers. Khumal yellow had shown negative effects with both testers and put into undetermined group. This way, three heterotic groups were established based on the SCA effects. These heterotic groups are potential sources for inbred line development.Keywords: Lines; Testers; Heterotic effects; Specific combining ability effects; Heterotic groupingsDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2802Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Volume 10, 2009 December Page: 1-8
Infestation of Rice Root-Knot Nematode in Rice Nurseries in Chitwan
Authors: Dangal N. K. , Shrestha S. M. , Poudyal D. Sharma , Adhikari C.
Published: April 2010

A survey was conducted during June-July 2006 in Chitwan to find out the natural infestation of rice root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne graminicola Golden & Brichfield) in rice nurseries. Thirty nurseries were surveyed and 100 seedlings from each nursery were evaluated. Field survey revealed that M. graminicola was widely distributed in most rice growing areas of Chitwan District. Rice root-knot disease was more prevalent in dry bed condition than wet bed. Most of the farmers grew seedlings in upland (dry) soil and there was more rice root-knot disease and second stage juvenile (J2) population in both nursery soil and seedling root. The galled (diseased) seedlings had significantly shorter roots and shoots. Most of the farmers did not know about the nematode problem and did not follow any management practices to control it in nurseries and/or in the main field. This indicated high risk of multiplication of the nematodes and huge loss in rice production. Thus, it is essential to manage M. graminicola in rice nurseries in order to produce healthy seedlings.Key words: Dry bed; Lowland; Meloidogyne graminicola; Upland; Wet bedDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2822Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Volume 10, 2009 December Page: 45-49
Effects of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza in the Productivity of Maize and Fingermillet Relay Cropping System
Authors: Shrestha Gautam , Shrestha (Vaidya) Geeta , Rajbhandari Binayak P.
Published: April 2010

Field experiments were conducted in farmer field in 2008 to scrutinize the effects of AM fungi in the productivity of maize/fingermillet cropping system in the rainfed dryland area of Kavrepalanchwok district. Following randomized complete block design, six treatments with four replications were maintained. Results showed significant effect of AM inoculation on plant height and yield of maize at 1% level of significance, whereas fingermillet was positive with nonsignificant difference on both parameters. Improvement in available soil phosphorus status was observed distinct in both maize (26.51±9.54 kg P2O5/ha) and fingermillet (30.11±15.15 kg P2O5/ha) in arbuscular mycorrhiza treated plots (T3) than control (T1). Arbuscular mycorrhiza spore density was also improved in the mycorrhiza treatments with (T6) and without nitrogen and potash fertiliser (T3) as compared to control (T1) in both maize and fingermillet.Key words: Biofertiliser; Endomycorrhiza; Grain yield; Soil productivityDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2823Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Volume 10, 2009 December Page: 51-55
Etiology and Control of Citrus Canker Disease in Kavre
Authors: Dhakal Dinesh , Regmi Chiranjivi , Basnyat Sital Raj
Published: April 2010

Citrus canker, caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas citri (Hasse) occurs in large areas of the world's citrus growing countries including Nepal. Though the disease has serious effect in Nepal, this is the first detailed study carried out to isolate the pathogen and confirm it by available biochemical tests and pathogenicity test. Furthermore, the study was intended to find the proper and economical control measure to combat disease in citrus orchards. The causative agent of the disease was isolated from the diseased plants and pure culture was obtained. The isolated pure culture was subjected to Gram staining, catalase test, oxidase test, O-F test, starch hydrolysis, nitrate reduction test, methylred test, Voges-prausker test, indole production test, urease test and carbohydrate utilization test. To re-confirm it, pathogenicity test was conducted on host plant and after the appearance of the typical citrus canker lesion on host, the bacteria was re-isolated, thus proving the Koch's postulates. Different controlling chemicals, copperoxychloride (2.5%), copperoxychloride + kasugamycin (1000X), bordeaux mixture 1% and 2% were sprayed to the plants in citrus orchard at Dhulikhel and the decrease in disease severity after spraying of the chemicals was calculated with reference to the plants that were not sprayed with the chemicals. It was observed that spraying of the chemicals help in decreasing the disease severity. The chemical spray however was not able to eradicate the disease. The study concluded that Xanthomonas citri was the causative agent of the disease citrus canker and copper based chemicals when sprayed very early with the appearance of first symptoms of the disease could eliminate it in citrus fruits to minimum level.Key words: Copper fungicides; Citrus canker; Lime;  Xanthomonas citri; Acid lime; Citrus aurantifoliaDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2824Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Volume 10, 2009 December Page: 57-61
Records of Cyathea spinulosa Wallich ex Hooker (Cyatheaceae) and Cycas pectinata Griff.(Cycadaceae) from the Churiya Hills of Eastern Nepal
Authors: Bhuju Dinesh R. , Joshi Giri P.
Published: April 2010

Nepal hosts 16 plant species of CITES appendix. The CITES appendix II includes Cyathea spp. (tree fern, Family Cyatheaceae) and the appendix III includes Cycas pectinata (Family Cycadaceae). During an ecological survey of Churiya hills of eastern Nepal, these two rare and endangered plants have been recorded in their natural habitats. The Churiya in eastern Nepal receives relatively high precipitation, and for its steep slopes with erodible poor soil, Churiya has very little to offer for agriculture and human settlement keeping the natural forest intact. However, the human population growth in the area has put pressure on the habitat and threatened the rare plants.Key words : Ecology; Forest; Fossil plants; Threatened speciesDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2827Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Volume 10, 2009 December Page: 69-72
Some High Value Medicinal Plants of Khumbu Region Nepal
Authors: Rawal Deepa Shree , Sijapati Jaishree , Rana Neesha , Rana Prabina , Giri Anjana , Shrestha Sangita
Published: April 2010

Visualizing the present biodiversity status of Nepal, an integrated approach comprising of biodiversity documentation, bio-prospecting, sustainable utilization and conservation has become an urgent need. Realizing the importance of medicinal plants altogether 45 plants were collected from Khumbu region with the altitudinal variation of 2582m to 4470m. Among the collected plant species 12 have been characterized as highly valuable. The important biochemical constituents and morphology of these plants have been described in this paper.Key words: Himalayan region; Khumbu; Medicinal plants; Morphological charactersDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2828Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Volume 10, 2009 December Page: 73-82
Biobriquettes-an Alternative Fuel for Sustainable Development
Authors: Singh Ramesh Man , Kim Hee Joon , Kamide Mitsushi , Sharma Toran
Published: April 2010

Raw coal is still burnt as fuel in many developing countries. These also have a lot of waste biomass, which finds limited use or used inefficiently. Besides pollution from coal and biomass combustion, they always face problems during transportation and storage because they are susceptible to moisture. Biobriquettes are composite fuel prepared from a mixture of biomass and coal in a roller press briquetting machine. They consist of different proportions of biomass (up to 30%) and coal or lignite (up to 70%). Introduction of lime based desulfurizing agents (DSA) such as CaCO3 and Ca (OH)2 into the briquettes can reduce the SO2 emissions by 80-90%, thus minimizing the pollution coming from coal combustion. Some fuel and combustion properties of these briquettes were studied. The briquette fuels have better physico-mechanical properties and combustion properties in comparison to coal/lignite. The ignition temperatures of biobriquettes are lower than coal or lignite, whereas the calorific values are greater than biomass. Hence, the biobriquettes can be used as an alternative fuel to fuel wood, coal and lignite in the kilns, boilers, combustors and for cooking as well.Key words: Coal; Biomass; Biobriquettes; Desulfurizing agents; Ignition temperatureDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2944 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 10, 2009 Page: 121-127
Studies on Functionalization of Apple Waste for Heavy Metal Treatment
Authors: Homagai Puspa Lal , Bashyal Deepak , Poudyal Hari , Ghimire Kedar Nath
Published: April 2010

The present investigation is to investigate the potential and effectiveness of two types of biosorbents as cation exchanger, functionalized with carboxylic acid and xanthated groups onto apple waste. Both the adsorbent materials exhibited highly selective behavior for heavy metal treatment and followed Langmuir adsorption isotherm model. The maximum adsorption capacity evaluated for iron, cadmium, zinc and lead onto them have shown their potential ability in the treatment of heavy metals from aqueous medium. Dominant sorption mechanisms are revealed to be ionexchange process.Key words: Adsorption; Biopolymer; Ion exchange; Saponification; XanthationDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2949 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 10, 2009 Page:135-139
Contraction Mapping Principle Approach to Differential Equations
Authors: Dhungana Bishnu P.
Published: April 2010

Using an extension of the contraction mapping principle, a new approach has been proposed in proving the existence of unique solutions of some differential equations.Key words: Contraction; Existence and uniqueness; Differential equationsDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2950Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 10, 2009 Page: 149-153
Risk of Handling Paper Currency in Circulation Chances of Potential Bacterial Transmittance
Authors: Lamichhane Janardan , Adhikary Satish , Gautam Prson , Maharjan Rajani , Dhakal Bishal
Published: April 2010

butchers, food sellers, and banks) where paper currency is widely used. The currencies used by public transport in Nepal (micro-buses) were found to be extremely contaminated with various pathogenic bacteria followed by the currency used by butchers and food sellers. These microorganisms could be one of the major causes of widely transmitting diseases in Nepal. Eight different pathogenic bacteria were isolated that are the known to be involved in transmitting various diseases in Nepal. A lot of people loss their life every year in Nepal due to the transmittance of diseases by these kind of bacteria. Use of paper money could be one of the major sources of transmittance of such diseases in Nepal that provides platform for the growth of such bacteria. Public awareness of using paper currency in circulation became essential for the safety in human health.Key words: Escherichia coli; Infections; Pathogens;  Staphylococcus aureus; Salmonella choleraesiusDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njst.v10i0.2952Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 10, 2009 Page: 161-166
Isolation and Characterization of Antibacterial Actinomycetes from Soil Samples of Kalapatthar, Mount Everest Region
Authors: Gurung Tara Devi , Sherpa Chringma , Agrawal Vishwanath Prasad , Lekhak Binod
Published: April 2010

Seventy-nine Actinomycetes were isolated from soils of Kalapatthar (5545m), Mount Everest region. Twenty seven (34.18%) of the isolates showed an antibacterial activity against at least one test-bacteria among two Gram positive and nine Gram negative bacteria in primary screening by perpendicular streak method. Thirteen (48.15%) showed antibacterial activity in secondary screening. The result showed that three of the isolates, K.6.3, K.14.2, and K.58.5 were highly active with an inhibition zone e"20mm and broad spectrum antibacterial activity including two methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of antibacterial metabolites of the isolate K.6.3 was 1mg/ml, and that of isolates K.14.2 and K.58.5 was 2mg/ml. Two spots were detected on thin layer chromatography plate from each of the metabolites which was completely different from the spot produced by vancomycin. The active isolates from primary screening were heterogeneous in their overall macroscopic, biochemical, and physiological characteristics through unweighted pair group method using average (UPGMA) cluster analysis. Delineation of the three active isolates showing potent broad spectrum antibacterial activity revealed that they belonged to distinct taxonomic groups.Key words: Antibacterial activity; Minimum inhibitory concentration; Thin layer chromatographyDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2957Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 10, 2009 Page: 173-182
Factors Affecting the Cropping Patterns in Hills and Plains of the Central Development Region
Authors: Shrestha Raj Man
Published: April 2010

Due to expansion of urbanization, introduction of advanced technology in the agriculture systems and low returns in traditional farming systems, farmers of the Central Development Region of Nepal were compelled to change the traditional farming systems to modern systems. The present study aims to find out the factors that affected the changes in cropping patterns in hills and plains of this region and develop statistical models to explain these changes. Primary data were collected from key persons residing in the villages of four districts (Kavrepalanchowk, Bhaktapur, Chitawan and Parsa) Region under multistage sampling technique. Causal factors such as plot size, distance from market centre, family size, profit and market opportunities had significant effects while other two factors, education and irrigation had insignificant effects on the changes in cropping patterns in the region. Plot size and distance had negative effects on change in cropping patterns from modern to traditional. Profit factor had significant effect on change in cropping patterns in Terai, whereas family size had significant effect on change in the hills of the Central Development Region.Key words: Farming systems; Multistage sampling;  Modern crops; Traditional cropsDOI: 10.3126/njst.v10i0.2961Nepal Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 10, 2009 Page: 199-203
Delayed reduction in hippocampal postsynaptic density protein-95 expression temporally correlates with cognitive dysfunction following controlled cortical impact in mice
Authors: Wakade Chandramohan , Sukumari-Ramesh Sangeetha , Laird Melissa D. , Dhandapani Krishnan M. , Vender John R.
Published: April 2010

Object

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) induces significant neurological damage, including deficits in learning and memory, which contribute to a poor clinical prognosis. Treatment options to limit cognitive decline and promote neurological recovery are lacking, in part due to a poor understanding of the secondary or delayed processes that contribute to brain injury. In the present study, the authors characterized the temporal and spatial changes in the expression of postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95), a key scaffolding protein implicated in excitatory synaptic signaling, after controlled cortical impacts in mice. Neurological injury, as assessed by the open-field activity test and the novel object recognition test, was compared with changes in PSD-95 expression.

Methods

Adult male CD-1 mice were subjected to controlled cortical impacts to simulate moderate TBI in humans. The spatial and temporal expression of PSD-95 was analyzed in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus at various time points following injury and sham operations. Neurological assessments were performed to compare changes in PSD-95 with cognitive deficits.

Results

A significant decrease in PSD-95 expression was observed in the ipsilateral hippocampus beginning on Day 7 postinjury. The loss of PSD-95 corresponded with a concomitant reduction in immunoreactivity for NeuN (neuronal nuclei), a neuron-specific marker. Aside from the contused cortex, a significant loss of PSD-95 immunoreactivity was not observed in the cerebral cortex. The delayed loss of hippocampal PSD-95 directly correlated with the onset of behavioral deficits, suggesting a possible causative role for PSD-95 in behavioral abnormalities following head trauma.

Conclusions

A delayed loss of hippocampal synapses was observed following head trauma in mice. These data may suggest a cellular mechanism to explain the delayed learning and memory deficits in humans after TBI and provide a potential framework for further testing to implicate PSD-95 as a clinically relevant therapeutic target.
Effect of electromagnetic-navigated shunt placement on failure rates: a prospective multicenter study
Authors: Hayhurst Caroline , Beems Tjemme , Jenkinson Michael D. , Byrne Patricia , Clark Simon , Kandasamy Jothy , Goodden John , Tewarie Rishi D.S. Nandoe , Mallucci Conor L.
Published: April 2010

Object

As many as 40% of shunts fail in the first year, mainly due to proximal obstruction. The role of catheter position on failure rates has not been clearly demonstrated. The authors conducted a prospective cohort study of navigated shunt placement compared with standard blind shunt placement at 3 European centers to assess the effect on shunt failure rates.

Methods

All adult and pediatric patients undergoing de novo ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement were included (patients with slit ventricles were excluded). The first cohort underwent standard shunt placement using anatomical landmarks. All centers subsequently adopted electromagnetic (EM) navigation for routine shunt placements, forming the second cohort. Catheter position was graded on postoperative CT in both groups using a 3-point scale developed for this study: (1) optimal position free-floating in CSF; (2) touching choroid or ventricular wall; or (3) intraparenchymal. Episodes and type of shunt revision were recorded. Early shunt failure was defined as that occurring within 30 days of surgery. Patients with shunts were followed-up for 12 months in the standard group, for a median of 6 months in the EM-navigated group, or until shunt failure.

Results

A total of 75 patients were included in the study, 41 with standard shunts and 34 with EM-navigated shunts. Seventy-four percent of navigated shunts were Grade 1 compared with 37% of the standard shunts (p = 0.001, chi-square test). There were no Grade 3 placements in the navigated group, but 8 in the standard group, and 75% of these failed. Early shunt failure occurred in 9 patients in the standard group and in 2 in the navigated group, reducing the early revision rate from 22 to 5.9% (p = 0.048, Fisher exact test). Early shunt failures were due to proximal obstruction in 78% of standard shunts (7 of 9) and in 50% of EM-navigated shunts (1 of 2).

Conclusions

Noninvasive EM image guidance in shunt surgery reduces poor shunt placement, resulting in a significant decrease in the early shunt revision rate.
Decision analysis of treatment options for vestibular schwannoma
Authors: Whitmore Robert G. , Urban Christopher , Church Ephraim , Ruckenstein Michael , Stein Sherman C. , Lee John Y. K.
Published: April 2010

Object

Widespread use of MR imaging has contributed to the more frequent diagnosis of vestibular schwannomas (VSs). These tumors represent 10% of primary adult intracranial neoplasms, and if they are symptomatic, they usually present with hearing loss and tinnitus. Currently, there are 3 treatment options for quality of life (QOL): wait and scan, microsurgery, and radiosurgery. In this paper, the authors' purpose is to determine which treatment modality yields the highest QOL at 5- and 10-year follow-up, considering the likelihood of recurrence and various complications.

Methods

The MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane online databases were searched for English-language articles published between 1990 and June 2008, containing key words relating to VS. Data were pooled to calculate the prevalence of treatment complications, tumor recurrence, and QOL with various complications. For parameters in which incidence varied with time of follow-up, the authors used meta-regression to determine the mean prevalence rates at a specified length of follow-up. A decision-analytical model was constructed to compare 5- and 10-year outcomes for a patient with a unilateral tumor and partially intact hearing. The 3 treatment options, wait and scan, microsurgery, and radiosurgery, were compared.

Results

After screening more than 2500 abstracts, the authors ultimately included 113 articles in this analysis. Recurrence, complication rates, and onset of complication varied with the treatment chosen. The relative QOL at the 5-year follow-up was 0.898 of normal for wait and scan, 0.953 for microsurgery, and 0.97 for radiosurgery. These differences are significant (p < 0.0052). Data were too scarce at the 10-year follow-up to calculate significant differences between the microsurgery and radiosurgery strategies.

Conclusions

At 5 years, patients treated with radiosurgery have an overall better QOL than those treated with either microsurgery or those investigated further with serial imaging. The authors found that the complications associated with wait-and-scan and microsurgery treatment strategies negatively impacted patient lives more than the complications from radiosurgery. One limitation of this study is that the 10-year follow-up data were too limited to analyze, and more studies are needed to determine if the authors' results are still consistent at 10 years.
Counterbalancing risks and gains from extended resections in malignant glioma surgery: a supplemental analysis from the randomized 5-aminolevulinic acid glioma resection study
Authors: Stummer Walter , Tonn Jörg-Christian , Mehdorn Hubertus Maximilian , Nestler Ulf , Franz Kea , Goetz Claudia , Bink Andrea , Pichlmeier Uwe
Published: April 2010

Object

Accumulating data suggest more aggressive surgery in patients with malignant glioma to improve outcome. However, extended surgery may increase morbidity. The randomized Phase III 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) study investigated 5-ALA–induced fluorescence as a tool for improving resections. An interim analysis demonstrated more frequent complete resections with longer progression-free survival (PFS). However, marginal differences were found regarding neurological deterioration and the frequency of additional therapies. Presently, the authors focus on the latter aspects in the final study population, and attempt to determine how safety might be affected by cytoreductive surgery.

Methods

Patients with malignant gliomas were randomized for fluorescence-guided (ALA group) or conventional white light (WL) (WL group) microsurgery. The final intent-to-treat population consisted of 176 patients in the ALA and 173 in the WL group. Primary efficacy variables were contrast-enhancing tumor on early MR imaging and 6-month PFS. Among secondary outcome measures, the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIH-SS) score and the Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) score were used for assessing neurological function.

Results

More frequent complete resections and improved PFS were confirmed, with higher median residual tumor volumes in the WL group (0.5 vs 0 cm3, p = 0.001). Patients in the ALA group had more frequent deterioration on the NIH-SS at 48 hours. Patients at risk were those with deficits unresponsive to steroids. No differences were found in the KPS score. Regarding outcome, a combined end point of risks and neurological deficits was attempted, which demonstrated results in patients in the ALA group to be superior to those in participants in the WL group. Interestingly, the cumulative incidence of repeat surgery was significantly reduced in ALA patients. When stratified by completeness of resection, patients with incomplete resections were quicker to deteriorate neurologically (p = 0.0036).

Conclusions

Extended resections performed using a tool such as 5-ALA–derived tumor fluorescence, carries the risk of temporary impairment of neurological function. However, risks are higher in patients with deficits unresponsive to steroids.
Laboratory evaluation of some indigenous plant extracts as toxicants against red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum Herbst
Authors: Mamun MSA , Shahjahan M , Ahmad M
Published: April 2010

Experiments were carried out to evaluate the toxicity of six botanicals, Bazna (Zanthoxylum rhetsa), Ghora-neem (Melia sempervirens), Hijal (Barringtonia acutangula), Karanja (Pongamia pinnata), Mahogoni (Swietenia mahagoni) and Neem (Azadirachta indica) against red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum Herbst. Leaf and seed extracts were prepared by using acetone, methanol and water as solvents. The results showed that extracts of all the six plants had direct toxic effect on red flour beetle. Among them, Neem seed extract showed the highest toxic effect (mortality, 52.50%), whereas Hijal leaf extract possessed the lowest toxic effect (mortality, 22.24%). Among the solvents, acetone extract showed more toxic effect than other extracts. Seed extracts of respective plants were slightly more toxic than leaf extract. The effectiveness of most of the plant extracts increased proportionally with the increase of doses and decreased with time. Keywords: Plant extracts; Toxicity; Red flour beetleDOI: 10.3329/jbau.v7i1.4789 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 7(1): 1-5, 2009
Effect of Bradyrhizobium and Azotobacter on growth and yield of mungbean varieties
Authors: Ara Nazmun , Rokonuzzaman M , Hasan MN
Published: April 2010

A field experiment was conducted at the Soil Science Field Laboratory of Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Mymensingh during the period from January to April 2004 to study the effects of Bradyrhizobium and Azotobacter inoculation on growth and yield of mungbean varieties. There were ten treatment combinations taking two varieties of mungbean viz. BARI mung-3 and BARI mung-4, and five bacterial and chemical fertilizers viz.control, Bradyrhizobium, Azotobacter, Bradyrhizobium plus Azotobacter and 20 kg N ha-1. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with three replications assigning varities in main plots and bacterial and chemical fertilizers in subplots. The unit plot size was 4 m x 3 m. After 35 days of sowing, 10 plants were randomly uprooted from each plot to study nodulation. At maturity yield and yield contributing characters were recorded. Variety BARI mung-3 recorded significantly higher nodule number and weight, and shoot weight compared to BARI mung-4. On the other hand, BARI mung-4 produced significantly higher seed and stover yields than BARI mung-3 did. Application of Bradyrhizobium or Azotobacter or their combination significantly increased nodulation, and root and shoot weights at 35 days after sowing. Similarly, the number of seeds pod-1 and seed yield were significantly influenced by the bacterial biofertilizer. These results indicate that use of both Bradyrhizobium and Azotobacter inoculants appears to be an effective method for successful mungbean production at BAU farm. Keywords: Growth; Yield; Mungbean; Bradyrhizobium; Azotobacter DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v7i1.4790 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 7(1): 7-13, 2009
Aphid incidence and its correlation with different environmental factors
Authors: Hasan MR , Ahmad M , Rahman MH , Haque MA
Published: April 2010

The aphid incidence and its correlation with environmental factors were studied. Mustard variety "Sampad" was used as test crop. Aphid incidence varied significantly at various parts of mustard plant and time of the day. The highest number of aphid was observed in the vegetative parts of the mustard plant in the morning. High cloudiness, relative humidity and dew point favoured the aphid population and slight rain fall quickly declined the aphid population. Among the different environmental factors maximum temperature, dew point and sun shine hours were positively correlated with aphid population and minimum temperature, relative humidity and wind speed were negatively correlated with aphid population. Keywords: Mustard aphid; Incidence; Environmental factors DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v7i1.4791 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 7(1): 15-18, 2009
Effect of phosphorus rate on growth, nodulation and biomass yield of green manure crops
Authors: Pramanik MYA , Sarkar MAR , Uddin MS , Faruk GM
Published: April 2010

The effect of phosphorus rate on plant height, biomass yield and nodulation of green manure crops was investigated. Seven green manure species viz. Sesbania rostrata, Sesbania aculeata, Crotalaria juncea, Vigna unguiculata, Phaseolus mungo, Vigna radiata and Glycine max and three phosphorus rates viz. 18, 27 and 36 kg P ha-1 were used. Plant height was different for each green manure crops during the growth period though phosphorus fertilization had no significant effect on plant height and biomass yield. On the other hand, phosphorus fertilization had significant effect on nodulation of green manure crops. The number of nodules plant-1 increased significantly with the age of the plants up to 60 days after sowing (DAS) and thereafter declined sharply at 75 DAS. The highest number of nodules plant-1 was produced at 36 kg P ha-1 followed by 27 kg P ha-1. The lowest number of nodules plant-1 was produced at 18 kg P ha-1. Keywords: Green manure crops; Phosphorus; Growth; Nodulation; Biomass yield DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v7i1.4793 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 7(1): 23-28, 2009
Genetic divergence analysis of lime
Authors: Rahman MM , Al Munsur MAZ
Published: April 2010

Genetic divergence of 40 lime accessions was estimated using D2 and principal component analysis. The genotypes under study fell into 6 clusters. The distribution pattern indicated that the maximum number of genotypes were included in cluster III and the minimum number in cluster VI. The inter cluster distance in most of the cases were higher than the intra cluster distance indicating wider genetic diversity among the accessions of different groups. The highest inter cluster distance was observed between cluster II and III (1568.51) followed by cluster II and VI (1223.72) showing wide diversity among the groups. The highest intra-cluster distance was observed for the cluster III and the lowest for the cluster VI. Leaf area and number of stamen showed maximum contribution towards total divergence among the genotypes. Keywords: Genetic Divergence; Lime; PCA; Genetic diversity DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v7i1.4795 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 7(1): 33-37, 2009
Effect of seed rate and irrigation level on the performance of wheat cv. Gourab
Authors: Kabir NAME , Khan AR , Islam MA , Haque MR
Published: April 2010

The effect of seed rate and irrigation level on the performance of wheat cv. Gourab was studied. The experiment comprises of two factors namely (1) four seed rate viz. 100, 120, 140 and 160 kgha-1 and (2) four levels of irrigation namely (i) no irrigation i.e. control, (ii) one irrigation given at Crown root initiation (CRI) stage, (iii) two irrigations given at CRI and Panicle initiation stages and (iv) three irrigation given at CRI, panicle initiation and grain filling stages. All of the yields contributing characters were significantly affected by seed rate except 1000-grain weight. The highest plant height (82.36 cm), total tillers plant-1(8.99), effective tillers plant-1(3.49) , spike length (8.05 cm), spikelets spike-1 (15.50), filled grain spike-1 (31.05), grain yield (2.82 t ha-1), straw yield (3.73 t ha-1), biological yield (6.55 t ha-1) and harvest index (42.43%) were recorded from the seed rate of 140 kg ha-1. Most of the yields contributing characters were significant due to effect of irrigation level. The highest plant height (82.33 cm), spike length (8.37 cm), filled grain spike-1 (31.90), effective tillers plant-1 (3.31), grain yield (3.30 t ha-1), straw yield (4.09 t ha-1), biological yield(7.39 t ha-1) and harvest index (44.47%) were recorded when one irrigation given at CRI stage . The interaction between seed rate and irrigation level influenced significantly all the plant characters except plant height, spikelets spike-1 and 1000-grains weight. The highest spike length (8.63 cm), grain yield (3.70 t ha-1), biological yield (8.06 t ha-1) and harvest index (45.91%) were found from the seed rate of 140 kg ha-1 combined with one irrigation applied at CRI stage. So it may be stated that the seed rate of 140 kg ha-1 with one irrigation given at CRI stage may be practiced for better performance of wheat cv. Gourab. Keyword: Seed rate; Irrigation level; Gourab DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v7i1.4797 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 7(1): 47-52, 2009
Caudal epidural analgesia in calves using different local analgesics
Authors: Sarker K , Hashim MA , Hossain MA , Lucky NS
Published: April 2010

Analgesic effects were conducted with 2% lignocaine hydrochloride (LH), 2% lignocaine hydrochloride with adrenaline (LHA) and 0.5% bupivacaine hydrochloride (BH) in calves of both sexes. Analgesic drugs were injected into caudal epidural space in 30 apparently healthy calves of below one year of age. A total of 30 analgesic trials were done, where heart rate, respiration rate and rectal temperature were monitored. Heart rate and respiratory rate significantly (P<0.05) decreased from preanalgesic values, during caudal epidural analgesia period with 0.5% bupivacaine hydrochloride. Heart rate increased significantly (P<0.001) from preanalgesic values when 2% lignocaine plus adrenaline was used. Only lignocaine hydrochloride showed a short onset, rapid spreading without having any side effect. Duration of analgesia was prolonged with 0.5% bupivacaine hydrochloride compared to other analgesic agent. Drowsiness, tympany and shivering were observed when 0.5% bupivacaine hydrochloride was used. Bupivacaine seemed to be better for longer duration of analgesia compared to lignocaine. But lignocaine hydrochloride may be used for rapid onset of analgesia in calves. Keywords: Analgesia; Onset; Caudal epidural; Calves DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v7i1.4798 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 7(1): 53-56, 2009
Effects of drying as a preservation technique on nutrient contents of beef
Authors: Akhter S , Rahman M , Hossain MM , Hashem MA
Published: April 2010

Effects of different drying methods (sun drying, oven drying & rural cooker smoking) and meat size (block, flat & mince) on the nutrient content of beef was investigated with cooked cured (CC) or non-cooked cured (NC) beef. Both physical and chemical assessment were done to assess the quality of meat. Organoleptically all the samples were in acceptable condition upto 120 days of storage time. The initial (30 days) DM, CP, EE and ash content, of the samples (g/100 g DM) were ranged from 81.32-90.00, 69.00-80.16, 2.90-5.23 and 15.00-18.01, respectively. The DM, CP and EE decreased and ash content increased with increasing storage time. At the end of 120 days of storage the DM, CP, EE and ash content of the samples (g/100 g DM) ranged from 79.00-87.36, 67.24-77.92, 1.90 - 4.00 and 19.00 - 24.70, respectively. DM and CP content in cooked meat was higher than non-cooked meat. However, cooked meat contains less EE and ash value than non-cooked meat. At the end of storing time rural smoked cooked block contain highest protein (77.92%) and oven dried non-cooked mince meat (67.24%) contain lowest protein percent. Statistical analysis revealed that there was a significant (P<0.5 to 0.01) effect of drying methods and meat size on cooked or non-cooked meat. The nutrient contents of meat sample degraded significantly (P<0.05 to 0.01) with the elapse of storage time. The quality decreasing trend was lower in smoked, cooked, flat size meat sample. From this study it was observed that rural cooker smoking method of meat drying could be a useful technique of meat preservation. Keywords: Drying methods; Meat sizes; Beef preservation; Nutrient content DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v7i1.4800 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 7(1): 63-68, 2009
Productive and reproductive performance of crossbred and indigenous dairy cows under smallholder farming system
Authors: Rokonuzzaman M , Hassan MR , Islam S , Sultana S
Published: April 2010

The present study was undertaken to investigate productive and reproductive performances of crossbreds and Indigenous dairy cows. A total of 400 dairy cows each are equal number of Friesian x indigenous (FI), Sahiwal x indigenous (SaI), Sindhi x indigenous (SiI) and indigenous (I) were selected from eight thanas in Jessore district. The study found that the daily milk yield from FI, SaI, SiI and I cows were 8.39 ± 2.01, 4.63 ± 0.96, 4.35 ± 1.12 and 2.38 ± 0.73 liters, respectively. The milk yield was found significantly (P<0.01) higher in first stage of lactation than that of second and third both in crossbreds and I dairy cows. The lactation period of crossbreds was significantly (P<0.01) higher than that of I cows. The service per conception was found higher in I cows and the gestation length was almost similar in all the groups. The post partum heat period and calving to first service were highest in SiI cows. The dry period and calving interval were higher in I cows. The age at first calving was almost similar in crossbreds but significantly (P<0.01) higher in I cows. The birth weight was significantly (P<0.01) lower in I than crossbred dairy cows. Considering all the parameters studied, FI showed better performance followed by SaI, SiI, and I. Keywords: Crossbreds; Indigenous; Dairy cows; Productive; reproduction performance DOI: 10.3329/jbau.v7i1.4801 J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 7(1): 69-72, 2009
Management of Melanoma Families
Authors: Bergman Wilma , Gruis Nelleke A.
Published: April 2010

In this review we have aimed to focus on the clinical management of familial melanoma patients and their relatives. Along this line three major topics will be discussed: (1) management/screening of familial melanoma families: what is advised and what is the evidence thereof; (2) variability of families worldwide with regard to clinical phenotype, including cancer spectrum and likelihood of finding germline mutations and (3) background information for clinicians on the molecular biology of familial melanoma and recent developments in this field.
Role of Uncoupling Proteins in Cancer
Authors: Valle Adamo , Oliver Jordi , Roca Pilar
Published: April 2010

Uncoupling proteins (UCPs) are a family of inner mitochondrial membrane proteins whose function is to allow the re-entry of protons to the mitochondrial matrix, by dissipating the proton gradient and, subsequently, decreasing membrane potential and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Due to their pivotal role in the intersection between energy efficiency and oxidative stress, UCPs are being investigated for a potential role in cancer. In this review we compile the latest evidence showing a link between uncoupling and the carcinogenic process, paying special attention to their involvement in cancer initiation, progression and drug chemoresistance.
The Diversity of Bitter Manioc (Manihot Esculenta Crantz) Cultivation in a Whitewater Amazonian Landscape
Authors: Fraser James A.
Published: April 2010

While bitter manioc has been one of the most important staple crops in the central Amazon for thousands of years, there have been few studies of its cultivation in the fertile whitewater landscapes of this region. Anthropological research on bitter manioc cultivation in the Amazon has focused almost exclusively on long-fallow shifting cultivation in marginal upland areas of low soil fertility. This has contributed to the persistence of the oversimplified notion that because bitter manioc is well adapted to infertile upland soils; it cannot yield well in alluvial and/or fertile soils. I hypothesized that bitter manioc cultivation would be well adapted to the fertile soils of the whitewater landscapes of the central Amazon because of the centrality of this crop to subsistence in this region. In this article, I examine one such whitewater landscape, the middle Madeira River, Amazonas, Brazil, where smallholders cultivate bitter manioc on fertile Amazonian Dark Earths (ADE) and floodplain soils, and on infertile Oxisols and Ultisols. In this region, cultivation on fertile soils tends to be short-cycled, characterised by short fallowing (0–6 years) and shorter cropping periods (5–12 months) with a predominance of low starch fast maturing “weak” landraces. By contrast, cultivation on infertile soils is normally long-cycled, characterised by longer fallows (>10 years) and longer cropping periods (1–3 years) with a predominance of high starch slow maturing “strong” landraces. This diversity in bitter manioc cultivation systems (landraces, fallow periods, soils) demonstrates that Amazonian farmers have adapted bitter manioc cultivation to the specific characteristics of the landscapes that they inhabit. I conclude that contrary to earlier claims, there are no ecological limitations on growing bitter manioc in fertile soils, and therefore the cultivation of this crop in floodplain and ADE soils would have been possible in the pre-Columbian period.
Improving Physical Activity and Dietary Behaviours with Single or Multiple Health Behaviour Interventions? A Synthesis of Meta-Analyses and Reviews
Authors: Sweet Shane N. , Fortier Michelle S.
Published: April 2010

Since multiple health behaviour interventions have gained popularity, it is important to investigate their effectiveness compared to single health behaviour interventions. This synthesis aims to determine whether single intervention (physical activity or dietary) or multiple interventions (physical activity and dietary) are more effective at increasing these behaviours by synthesizing reviews and meta-analyses. A sub-purpose also explored their impact on weight. Overall, reviews/meta-analyses showed that single health behaviour interventions were more effective at increasing the targeted behaviours, while multiple health behaviour interventions resulted in greater weight loss. This review may assist policies aiming at improving physical activity and nutrition and reversing the obesity epidemic.
Measurement of Ultrafine Particles and Other Air Pollutants Emitted by Cooking Activities
Authors: Zhang Qunfang , Gangupomu Roja H. , Ramirez David , Zhu Yifang
Published: April 2010

Cooking emissions show a strong dependence on cooking styles and parameters. Measurements of the average ultrafine particle (UFP) concentration, PM2.5 and black carbon concentrations emitted by cooking activities ranged from 1.34 × 104 to 6.04 × 105 particles/cm3, 10.0 to 230.9 μg/m3 and 0.1 to 0.8 μg/m3, respectively. Lower UFP concentrations were observed during boiling, while higher levels were emitted during frying. The highest UFP concentrations were observed when using a gas stove at high temperature with the kitchen exhaust fan turned off. The observed UFP profiles were similar in the kitchen and in another room, with a lag of approximately 10 min.