bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Repeat Breeding in Commercial Dairy Farms of Chittagong District of Bangladesh
Authors: Nath BK , Das BC , Bari MS , Rahman MA
Published: July 2016

The study was conducted to measure the prevalence of repeat breeding cows and to identify the potential risk factors of Repeat breeding syndrome in commercial dairy farms at Chittagong of Bangladesh during July 2011 to October 2012. A total of 15 government registered dairy farms having 283 cows were surveyed for individual and farm level variables identified using preset questionnaire. Out of them 56 dairy cows was sampled for bacteriological exploration and culture sensitivity test. Overall prevalence of repeat breeder cow in commercial dairying of Chittagong was 11.3%. The univariate analysis screened potential cow level exposure high yielding cows (p=0.02) and cows having peripartum events (dystocia) in last calving (p=0.001). Among farm level exposures, owner educational level (p=0.05), nature of feed offer at farm (p=0.06) were evident to be potential screened factors for repeat breeding. From the 32 repeat breeders, Staphylococcus spp. 13 (40.6%) was isolated as predominant bacteria followed by Escherichia coli 8 (25%), Bacillus spp 6 (18.8%), Corynebacterium spp 6 (18.8%) and Pseudomonas spp 5 (15.6%). The isolates of bacteria were more or less effective against eight antibiotic agents. Gentamicin 36 (97.3%) showed higher sensitivity followed by ceftriaxone 33 (89.2%), chloramphenicol 33 (89.2%) indicates the effectiveness of these antibiotics in treating repeat breeding. Moreover, the identified potential risk factors should be controlled to minimize the economic loss of dairy farms.International Journal of Natural Sciences (2014), 4(1) 21-27
Identification of different serotypes of Foot and Mouth Disease Virus from Sylhet district, Bangladesh; by adoption and application of RT-PCR and mRT-PCR.
Authors: Kadir A , Ahmed S
Published: July 2016

Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is a major constraint for livestock in Bangladesh; as outbreak of FMD remains uncontrolled despite vaccination. Accurate and Rapid detection of FMD virus with its serotype in field samples is indispensible. So, molecular detection of FMDV was adopted using RT-PCR (reverse transcription- polymerase chain reaction) and mRT-PCR (multiplex reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction). Ten (10) FMD suspected clinical samples from cattle of two different outbreak areas of Sylhet district of Bangladesh was collected. One set of universal primer (P32:P33) was used in RT-PCR for the detection of FMD virus regardless of their serotypes and a cocktail of primer mix (P38:P40:P74-77:P110) was used in mRT-PCR intending the identification of the serotypes A, O, C and Asia 1. Using universal primer sets 90% of the samples generated amplicon of expected size, indicating the samples containing FMD virus. By mRT-PCR, two serotypes, O and Asia 1 were successfully, whereas type C and A were absent in this study. Out of the 9 viruses; 7 was identified as serotype O and 2 were identified as Asia-1. Our study indicates that FMDV serotype O and Asia-1 was circulating in the two upazilas (Sub-district) of Sylhet district during the study period. Our study also endorses that, RT-PCR and mRT-PCR can successfully be used for a dependable and rapid detection of FMD. However, presence and detection of O and Asia-1 serotype of FMDV through this study and serotype A by other researchers emphasizes the critical need for use of trivalent vaccine in the field.International Journal of Natural Sciences (2014), 4(1) 28-34
Isolation and identification of common fungal spp. from commercial broiler feeds available in market of Sylhet District, Bangladesh
Authors: Islam MT , Hossain MK , Elahi ATMM , Purkayastha M , Rahman MM
Published: July 2016

The present study was designed to investigate the mycological contamination of commercial broiler feeds used in poultry establishments in sylhet, Bangladesh. The feed samples of commercial broiler feed (Starter, Grower and Finisher) were collected from the different areas of Sylhet district. A total of 189 commercial broiler feed samples where 63 Starter, 63 Grower and 63 Finisher were collected from the different areas of local market in Sylhet. The selected areas were Kadamtali, Shibjong, Khadim, Kamal Bazar, Dakshin Surma, Fenchugonj. From the feed samples analyzed for the presence of fungal agents, 144 (76.2%) were found positive for one or more fungal species. Fungal isolates were found among 36 (57%) of the 63 Starter feed samples, 45 (71.4%) of the 63 Grower feed samples and 63 (100%) of the 63 Finisher feed samples. The fungal agents isolated from Broiler Starter Feeds, Aspergillus spp. 51 (70.8%) has the highest frequency of occurrence, followed by Fuserium spp. 12 (16.7%) and least is Rhizopus sp. 9(12.5%). Similarly, in case of Broiler Grower Feeds, Aspergillus spp. 66 (68.8%) has the highest frequency of occurrence, followed by Fuserium spp. 18 (18.7%) and least is Rhizopus sp. 12(12.5%). In case of Broiler Finisher Feeds, Aspergillus spp. 90 (69.8%) has the highest rate of occurrence followed by Fuserium spp. 24 (18.6%) and least is Rhizopus sp. 15 (11.6%) respectively.International Journal of Natural Sciences (2014), 4(2) 38-41
The common oro-dental problems among patients attending Ohud dental care and implant center at Bogra, Bangladesh
Authors: Hoque S , Jahan I
Published: July 2016

A descriptive type of cross sectional study on exploring the common oro-dental problems among the patients attending outpatient department of Ohud Dental Care and implant center, Bogra was conducted during the period from May to July 2013. The objectives of this study were to identify the common oro-dental problems for assessing the level of knowledge regarding dental care practices among the respondents. A questionnaire based data were collected and the sample compares 414 respondents of all age groups. The highest percentage of the patients had complaints of periodontitis (73.9%) followed by gingivitis (64.3%), dental caries (40.6%), attrition (10.4%), mobility (5.8%), broken teeth (5.6%) and alveolar abscess (6.3%). Considering the pattern of inflammation, 425.5% had inflammatory or-dental problems and 56.6% had non-inflammatory oro-dental problems. On examination also revealed that 3 1.9% unhealthy gums, 3.9% had unhealthy tonsils, 10.3% had diseased tongue, 10.7% had diseases mucosa and 4.1% had apthus ulcer. The proportion of illiterate patients were higher among the inflammatory disease (16.7%) compared to non-inflammatory disease (9.8%), where as respondents having graduate level of education were higher among the non- inflammatory disease (30.8%) compared to inflammatory diseases (8.3%). There was significant association between the oro-dental problems and food habit (p>O.O5) except liking of sweet and habit of area nut and lime (p<O.05). This indicated that the proportion of non-inflammatory dental problems were higher among the patients habituate with sweet (82.5%) compared to inflammatory disease (72.2%). But the proportion of inflammatory disease was higher among the patients having habituated with chewing areca nut line (35.0%) than non- inflammatory disease (26.1%). Knowledge of causes of dental problems higher among the patients having non-inflammatory disease (62.0%) compared to inflammatory disease (46.7%) and the difference was statistically significant (p<O.001). Similarly, the proportion of visiting dental surgeon was significantly (p<0.001) higher among the patients having non-inflammatory disease (4.4%).International Journal of Natural Sciences (2015), 5(1) 15-20
Phenotypic Characteristics of Commercial Layer Strains, ISA Brown and Hisex Brown
Authors: Islam S , Bari MS , Moni SP , Siddiqe MZF , Uddin MH , Miazi OF
Published: July 2016

The study was conducted to observe and compare the phenotypic characteristics of ISA brown and Hisex brown commercial layer strains. A total of 200 birds were examined out of 36000 in a commercial layer farms at Chandonysh upazila (sub-district) of Chittagong district, Bangladesh during the period of July to December, 2013. Observable difference was found in several phenotypic characteristics like plumage, beak, shank, egg, comb color and comb type between ISA brown and Hisex brown. In ISA brown shank length (cm), egg weight (gm) and body weight (gm) was 3.32±0.01, 59.44±0.47 and 1846.60±11.18 respectively where in case of Hisex brown it was 3.11±0.00, 55.82±0.45 and 1769.10±33.90. Significant (P<0.05) difference was found in shank length (cm), egg weight (gm) and body weight (gm). In ISA brown beak length and age at first lay was 2.02±0.01 and 141±0.51 respectively, On the other hand for Hisex brown, it was 2.02 ± 0.01 and 141 ± 0.58. There was no Significant (P>0.05) difference between the strains in respect of shank length, egg weight and body weight. Some innate characteristics of studied strains differentiate them and any improvement program of commercial layer strains should be incorporate production objectives and trait performance of the society.International Journal of Natural Sciences (2015), 5(2) 41-45
Socio-economic status of duck farmers and duck farming in haor areas of Sylhet district in Bangladesh
Authors: Jha B , Hossain MM , Baishnab PC , Mandal PK , Islam MR
Published: July 2016

This study was conducted to evaluate the socio-economic status of the duck farmers and to investigate the management practices of duck farming. Also attempt to identify the problems of duck farming in Biswanath and Balagonj upazila of Sylhet during a period from September to November 2014. For this study the information was collected by direct interview using a questionnaire from 60 duck farmers. Status of the duck farmers of the selected regions were investigated in the present study. The results reveal that most of the respondents duck farmers were < 35 years of age (52%) having with primary level of education (28%). In most of the farms there were local (deshi) ducks of 65.5% followed by KC (21.5%) and zinding (13%) respectively. For ducks feeding of the farmers depended on natural feed sources while some provided rice and broken rice (23.5%) rice polish and wheat bran (21.5%) and mixed feed (38%). Family size of the most of the farmers (57%) were large (size > 6 members). About 73% farmers had no training on duck farming and some of the farmers had training with short duration (7 to 15 days). Fifty percent of the farmers were made duck houses with tin-shed and wood having necessary floor space. Result of this study revealed that majority of the farmers (68%) had no idea about common duck diseases. The highest proportion of the farmers (65%) never followed the vaccination program regularly. There have some problems identified for duck farming including low price of duck meat and egg made ranked as most serious problems. Therefore, if the problems are addressed properly, the duck farming in haor areas in Sylhet, Bangladesh could be more profitable business for the farmers.International Journal of Natural Sciences (2015), 5(2) 73-79
Factors affecting retained fetal membrane and its therapeutic management in dairy cows
Authors: Hossain MK , Billah MN , Aziz SA , Rahman MA , Islam MN , Muslehuddin AHM , Lucky NS , Hossain MM , Aktaruzzaman M , Islam MR
Published: July 2016

Retention of fetal membrane (RFM) in dairy cows is a common complication after parturition due to failure of the separation of villi of fetal cotyledon from crypts of maternal caruncles and affects on reproductive cycle. The present study was conducted in 594 cows of 15 different dairy farms of Sylhet district. The data was collected by direct interviewing of the farmers in a prescribed questionnaires data sheet and data record from the register of the contracted farms. The overall incidence of retained placenta was 17.51 %.The cross bred dairy cows had higher incidence (14.14%) of RFM compared to local one (3.04%) and differ significantly (p <0 .05). The parity and age of the animals had substantial effect on retention of fetal membrane in dairy cows. The incidence of RFM had notably increased from 1st parity (10.04 %) to 7th parity (57.14 %) and the highest observation was found at more than 7 years and lowest at the age below 3 years of age. The season, sex of calves, body condition of the animals and level of vitamin AD3E before parturition had significant effect on incidence of RFM in dairy cows. The RFM affected cows were treated either with intra muscular injection of oxytocin or herbal drug Eutoklin and manually removing the retained membrane. RFM affected post partum first estrus, service per conception, days open and calving interval significantly on parturated cows compared to normal delivered cows. Younger healthy cows, supply of balanced diet, sufficient daily exercise; comfortable calving areas should be maintained to reduce the incidence of RFM.International Journal of Natural Sciences (2015), 5(2) 93-97
Comparison of Organic Rankine Cycle Systems under Varying Conditions Using Turbine and Twin-Screw Expanders
Authors: Read Matthew , Smith Ian , Stosic Nikola , Kovacevic Ahmed
Published: August 2016

A multi-variable optimization program has been developed to investigate the performance of Organic Rankine Cycles (ORCs) for low temperature heat recovery applications using both turbine and twin-screw expanders when account is taken of performance variation due to changes in ambient conditions. The cycle simulation contains thermodynamic models of both types of expander. In the case of the twin-screw machine, the methods used to match the operation of the expander to the requirements of the cycle are described. The performance of turbine expanders in a superheated ORC has been modelled using correlations derived from operational data for single stage reaction turbines to predict the turbine efficiency at “off-design” conditions. Several turbine configurations have been considered including variable nozzle area and variable speed. The capability of the cycle model has been demonstrated for the case of heat recovery from a steady source of pressurized hot water at 120 °C. The system parameters are optimised for a typical operating condition, which determines the required size of heat exchangers and the expander characteristics. Performance at off-design conditions can then be optimized within these constraints. This allows a rigorous investigation of the effect of air temperature variation on the system performance, and the seasonal variation in net power output for the turbine and twin-screw ORC systems. A case study is presented for a low temperature heat recovery application with system electrical power output of around 100 kWe at design conditions. The results indicate that similar overall performance can be achieved for ORC systems using either type of expander.
The Place of Community Forest Management in the REDD+ Landscape
Authors: Pelletier Johanne , Gélinas Nancy , Skutsch Margaret
Published: August 2016

Community forest management (CFM) is identified by many actors as a core strategy for reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries (REDD+). Others however see REDD+ as a danger to CFM. In response to these contrasting views, we carried out a systematic review of CFM case studies to look at CFM’s potential role in achieving forest carbon benefits and social co-benefits for forest communities. We evaluated the potential impacts of REDD+ on CFM. Our review showed that there is strong evidence of CFM’s role in reducing degradation and stabilizing forested landscapes; however, the review also showed less evidence about the role of CFM in reducing deforestation. For social benefits, we found that CFM contributes to livelihoods, but its effect on poverty reduction may be limited. Also, CFM may not deal adequately with the distribution of benefits within communities or user groups. These insights are important for CFM-based REDD+ intervention; measures should be adopted to overcome these gaps. Innovative incentive structures to existing CFM are discussed. The recognition of rights for forest communities is one first step identified in promoting CFM. We call for sound empirical impact evaluations that analyze CFM and CFM-based REDD+ interventions by looking at both biophysical and social outcomes.
Surface Characterization of Polymer Blends by XPS and ToF-SIMS
Authors: Chan Chi , Weng Lu-Tao
Published: August 2016

The surface properties of polymer blends are important for many industrial applications. The physical and chemical properties at the surface of polymer blends can be drastically different from those in the bulk due to the surface segregation of the low surface energy component. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and time-of-flight secondary mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) have been widely used to characterize surface and bulk properties. This review provides a brief introduction to the principles of XPS and ToF-SIMS and their application to the study of the surface physical and chemical properties of polymer blends.
Acetylated Triterpene Glycosides and Their Biological Activity from Holothuroidea Reported in the Past Six Decades
Authors: Bahrami Yadollah , Franco Christopher
Published: August 2016

Sea cucumbers have been valued for many centuries as a tonic and functional food, dietary delicacies and important ingredients of traditional medicine in many Asian countries. An assortment of bioactive compounds has been described in sea cucumbers. The most important and abundant secondary metabolites from sea cucumbers are triterpene glycosides (saponins). Due to the wide range of their potential biological activities, these natural compounds have gained attention and this has led to their emergence as high value compounds with extended application in nutraceutical, cosmeceutical, medicinal and pharmaceutical products. They are characterized by bearing a wide spectrum of structures, such as sulfated, non-sulfated and acetylated glycosides. Over 700 triterpene glycosides have been reported from the Holothuroidea in which more than 145 are decorated with an acetoxy group having 38 different aglycones. The majority of sea cucumber triterpene glycosides are of the holostane type containing a C18 (20) lactone group and either Δ7(8) or Δ9(11) double bond in their genins. The acetoxy group is mainly connected to the C-16, C-22, C-23 and/or C-25 of their aglycone. Apparently, the presence of an acetoxy group, particularly at C-16 of the aglycone, plays a significant role in the bioactivity; including induction of caspase, apoptosis, cytotoxicity, anticancer, antifungal and antibacterial activities of these compounds. This manuscript highlights the structure of acetylated saponins, their biological activity, and their structure-activity relationships.
Pre-Concentration of Vanadium from Stone Coal by Gravity Using Fine Mineral Spiral
Authors: Liu Xin , Zhang Yimin , Liu Tao , Cai Zhenlei , Sun Kun
Published: August 2016

Due to the low grade of V2O5 in stone coal, the existing vanadium extraction technologies face challenges in terms of large handling capacity, high acid consumption and production cost. The pre-concentration of vanadium from stone coal before the extraction process is an effective method to reduce cost. In this study, detailed mineral characterization of stone coal was investigated. It has been confirmed that the vanadium mainly occurs in muscovite and illite. A significant demand for an effective pre-concentration process with simple manipulation for discarding quartz and other gangue minerals is expected. Based on the mineralogical study, a new vanadium pre-concentration process using a fine mineral spiral was investigated. The experimental results showed that the separation process, which was comprised of a rougher and scavenger, could efficiently discard quartz, pyrite and apatite. A final concentrate with V2O5 grade of 1.02% and recovery of 89.6% could be obtained, with 26.9% of the raw ore being discarded as final tailings.
Tensor Block-Sparsity Based Representation for Spectral-Spatial Hyperspectral Image Classification
Authors: He Zhi , Li Jun , Liu Lin
Published: August 2016

Recently, sparse representation has yielded successful results in hyperspectral image (HSI) classification. In the sparse representation-based classifiers (SRCs), a more discriminative representation that preserves the spectral-spatial information can be exploited by treating the HSI as a whole entity. Based on this observation, a tensor block-sparsity based representation method is proposed for spectral-spatial classification of HSI in this paper. Unlike traditional vector/matrix-based SRCs, the proposed method consists of tensor block-sparsity based dictionary learning and class-dependent block sparse representation. By naturally regarding the HSI cube as a third-order tensor, small local patches centered at the training samples are extracted from the HSI to maintain the structural information. All the patches are then partitioned into a number of groups, on which a dictionary learning model is constructed with a tensor block-sparsity constraint. A test sample is also expressed as a small local patch and the block sparse representation is then performed in a class-wise manner to take advantage of the class label information. Finally, the category of the test sample is determined by using the minimal residual. Experimental results of two real-world HSIs show that our proposed method greatly improves the classification performance of SRC.
State-of-the-Art Review on Sustainable Design and Construction of Quieter Pavements—Part 1: Traffic Noise Measurement and Abatement Techniques
Authors: Ohiduzzaman MD , Sirin Okan , Kassem Emad , Rochat Judith
Published: August 2016

Noise pollution due to highway traffic has drawn the attention of transportation agencies worldwide. Noise pollution is an irritant to residents, especially in urban areas near roads with high traffic volume. In addition to its adverse effects on the quality of life, traffic noise can induce stress that could lead to sleep disturbance and anxiety. Traditionally, noise barrier walls have been used for highways to mitigate traffic noise. However, using barrier walls as a noise abatement measure has proven to be very expensive. In addition to the cost, noise barrier walls are not always effective because they must break the line of sight to work properly, which is not always possible in case of intersections or driveways. Therefore, researchers especially from Europe and USA have been very proactive to reduce the noise at source. A number of research studies show traffic noise can be reduced by using an alternative surface type or changing texture of the pavement while complying with other requirements of sustainability, i.e., safety, structural durability, construction and maintenance costs. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the research conducted on this subject. A review of the tire-pavement noise generation and amplification mechanism, various traffic noise measurement methods and correlation among these methods, in addition to the abatement techniques used by various agencies to reduce pavement noise, is also presented.
Sustainability Assessment of Higher Education Institutions in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshuwaikhat Habib , Adenle Yusuf , Saghir Bilal
Published: August 2016

Universities are paramount change drivers in bringing about a culture of sustainability in society by setting themselves up as models and nurseries for sustainable development. Thus, assessment of sustainability integration within universities is key to their impact on sustainable development. This study conducted an assessment of different public sector universities of Saudi Arabia based on five components: (i) Teaching and Curriculum; (ii) Research and Scholarship; (iii) Campus Operations; (iv) Management and Community; and (v) Financial Management. The sustainability assessment questionnaire (SAQ) was utilized as a tool to discern the component-wise sustainability assessment for Saudi universities. The outcomes of the survey reveal that, in stark contrast with the universities of the developed world, offerings of sustainability relevant academic courses in Saudi Arabia are still lacking. Most Saudi universities still need to integrate research and scholarship in the area of sustainability; sustainable-campus operations in the current scenario are not sufficient. The results also reveal that sustainability-related projects are not prioritized within universities and sustainable financial management practices are not significant. This article concludes by proposing some recommendations emphasizing the importance of adopting sustainability practices in Saudi universities.
Amidofluorene-appended lower rim 1,3-diconjugate of calix[4]arene: synthesis, characterization and highly selective sensor for Cu2+
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Rahman , Nemati Mohammad , Zadmard Reza , Mohadjerani Maryam
Published: August 2016

Functionalization of calix[4]arene with amidofluorene moieties at the lower rim led to formation of the 1,3-diconjugate of calix[4]arene L as a novel fluorescent chemosensor for Cu2+. The receptor molecule L exhibited a pronounced selectivity towards Cu2+ over other mono and divalent ions. The formation of the complex between L and Cu2+ was evaluated by absorption, fluorescence and 1H NMR spectroscopy. The sensor L showed a remarkable color change from colorless to purple and a fluorescence quenching only upon interaction with Cu2+. The 1:1 stoichiometry of the obtained complex has been determined by Job’s plot. The association constant determined by fluorescence titration was found to be 1.8 × 106 M−1. The sensor showed a linear response toward Cu2+ in the concentration range from 1 to 10 µM with a detection limit of 9.6 × 10−8 M.
Biodiversity and human-pathogenicity ofPhialophora verrucosaand relatives inChaetothyriales
Authors: Li Y. , Xiao J. , de Hoog G.S. , Wang X. , Wan Z. , Yu J. , Liu W. , Li R.
Published: August 2016

Phialophoraas defined by its type speciesP. verrucosais a genus ofChaetothyriales, and a member of the group known as 'black yeasts and relatives'.Phialophora verrucosahas been reported from mutilating human infections such as chromoblastomycosis, disseminated phaeohyphomycosis and mycetoma, while morphologically similar fungi are rather commonly isolated from the environment. Phenotypes are insufficient for correct species identification, and molecular data have revealed significant genetic variation within the complex of species currently identified asP. verrucosaorP. americana. Multilocus analysis of 118 strains revealed the existence of five reproductively isolated species apparently having different infectious potentials. Strains of the sexual morphCapronia semiimmersacluster withinP. americana. The newly defined taxa differ markedly in their predilection for the human host.
Accuracy of Genomic Prediction in a Commercial Perennial Ryegrass Breeding Program
Authors: Fè Dario , Ashraf Bilal H. , Pedersen Morten G. , Janss Luc , Byrne Stephen , Roulund Niels , Lenk Ingo , Didion Thomas , Asp Torben , Jensen Christian S. , Jensen Just
Published: August 2016

The implementation of genomic selection (GS) in plant breeding, so far, has been mainly evaluated in crops farmed as homogeneous varieties, and the results have been generally positive. Fewer results are available for species, such as forage grasses, that are grown as heterogenous families (developed from multiparent crosses) in which the control of the genetic variation is far more complex. Here we test the potential for implementing GS in the breeding of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) using empirical data from a commercial forage breeding program. Biparental F2 and multiparental synthetic (SYN2) families of diploid perennial ryegrass were genotyped using genotyping‐by‐sequencing, and phenotypes for five different traits were analyzed. Genotypes were expressed as family allele frequencies, and phenotypes were recorded as family means. Different models for genomic prediction were compared by using practically relevant cross‐validation strategies. All traits showed a highly significant level of genetic variance, which could be traced using the genotyping assay. While there was significant genotype × environment (G × E) interaction for some traits, accuracies were high among F2 families and between biparental F2 and multiparental SYN2 families. We have demonstrated that the implementation of GS in grass breeding is now possible and presents an opportunity to make significant gains for various traits.
FIVE PLANETS TRANSITING A NINTH MAGNITUDE STAR
Authors: Vanderburg Andrew , Becker Juliette C. , Kristiansen Martti H. , Bieryla Allyson , Duev Dmitry A. , Jensen-Clem Rebecca , Morton Timothy D. , Latham David W. , Adams Fred C. , Baranec Christoph , Berlind Perry , Calkins Michael L. , Esquerdo Gilbert A. , Kulkarni Shrinivas , Law Nicholas M. , Riddle Reed , Salama Maïssa , Schmitt Allan R.
Published: August 2016

The Kepler mission has revealed a great diversity of planetary systems and architectures, but most of the planets discovered by Kepler orbit faint stars. Using new data from the
K2
mission, we present the discovery of a five-planet system transiting a bright (V = 8.9, K = 7.7) star called HIP 41378. HIP 41378 is a slightly metal-poor late F-type star with moderate rotation (v sin i ≃ 7

km

s

−
1

) and lies at a distance of 116 ± 18 pc from Earth. We find that HIP 41378 hosts two sub-Neptune-sized planets orbiting 3.5% outside a 2:1 period commensurability in 15.6 and 31.7 day orbits. In addition, we detect three planets that each transit once during the 75 days spanned by
K2
observations. One planet is Neptune-sized in a likely ∼160 day orbit, one is sub-Saturn-sized, likely in a ∼130 day orbit, and one is a Jupiter-sized planet in a likely ∼1 year orbit. We show that these estimates for the orbital periods can be made more precise by taking into account dynamical stability considerations. We also calculate the distribution of stellar reflex velocities expected for this system, and show that it provides a good target for future radial velocity observations. If a precise orbital period can be determined for the outer Jovian planets through future observations, this system will be an excellent candidate for follow-up transit observations to study its atmosphere and measure its oblateness.
THE TURBULENT ORIGIN OF OUTFLOW AND SPIN MISALIGNMENT IN MULTIPLE STAR SYSTEMS
Authors: Offner Stella S. R. , Dunham Michael M. , Lee Katherine I. , Arce Héctor G. , Fielding Drummond B.
Published: August 2016

The protostellar outflows of wide-separation forming binaries frequently appear misaligned. We use magneto-hydrodynamic simulations to investigate the alignment of protostellar spin and molecular outflows for forming binary pairs. We show that the protostellar pairs, which form from turbulent fragmentation within a single parent core, have randomly oriented angular momentum. Although the pairs migrate to closer separations, their spins remain partially misaligned. We produce 12CO(2-1) synthetic observations of the simulations and characterize the outflow orientation in the emission maps. The CO-identified outflows exhibit a similar random distribution and are also statistically consistent with the observed distribution of molecular outflows. We conclude that the observed misalignment provides a clear signature of binary formation via turbulent fragmentation. The persistence of misaligned outflows and stellar spins following dynamical evolution may provide a signature of binary origins for more evolved multiple star systems.
AN IMAGING STUDY OF A COMPLEX SOLAR CORONAL RADIO ERUPTION
Authors: Feng S. W. , Chen Y. , Song H. Q. , Wang B. , Kong X. L.
Published: August 2016

Solar coronal radio bursts are enhanced radio emission excited by energetic electrons accelerated during solar eruptions. Studying these bursts is important for investigating the origin and physical mechanism of energetic particles and further diagnosing coronal parameters. Earlier studies suffered from a lack of simultaneous high-quality imaging data of the radio burst and the eruptive structure in the inner corona. Here we present a study on a complex solar radio eruption consisting of a type II burst and three reversely drifting type III bursts, using simultaneous EUV and radio imaging data. It is found that the type II burst is closely associated with a propagating and evolving CME-driven EUV shock structure, originated initially at the northern shock flank and later transferred to the top part of the shock. This source transfer is coincident with the presence of shock decay and enhancing signatures observed at the corresponding side of the EUV front. The electron energy accelerated by the shock at the flank is estimated to be ∼0.3 c by examining the imaging data of the fast-drifting herringbone structure of the type II burst. The reverse-drifting type III sources are found to be within the ejecta and correlated with a likely reconnection event therein. The implications for further observational studies and relevant space weather forecasting techniques are discussed.
A Review on Localization Techniques in Underwater Acoustic Sensor Networks (UASN)
Authors: Halakarnimath Basaprabhu S. , Sutagundar Ashok V.
Published: August 2016

The development of underwater acoustics was initiated by sonar technologists to train sonar operators and to predict sonar performance. The traditional approaches of ocean monitoring have drawbacks of real time monitoring, online system configuration, storage capacity and failure detection. To overcome these drawbacks an extensive research work is being carried out by many promotional bodies and prominent researchers to promote the advances and applications of underwater features. Recent advancements in sensor technologies have explored the unexplored applications and help to monitor and forecast the ocean openings. Underwater acoustics plays important role in monitoring systems, seismic monitoring, ocean sampling networks, undersea discoveries, catastrophic prevention, environmental monitoring etc. It is highly desirable to know the location in every application. Localization plays vital role in each and every application. This chapter discusses various techniques which are experimented and tested for different architectures in underwater acoustic sensor networks.
Voluntary Blink Controlled Communication Protocol for Bed-Ridden Patients
Authors: Champaty Biswajeet , Ray Sirsendu S. , Mohapatra Biswajit , Pal Kunal
Published: August 2016

The present study proposes an assistive device for the bed-ridden persons. The ocular activity of the bed-ridden patients is not lost even during the condition of limited or no motor activities. The proposed device acquires biosignals associated with the eye blinks and activates an alarm or communication protocol. The device is capable of communicating via SMS, e-mail and voice calls to a landline/mobile number once activated. The device can enable the patients to interact with the healthcare-givers whenever they are in need. Hence, the device is supposed to reduce the workload on the healthcare-giver.
Removal of Emerging Contaminants from Water and Wastewater Using Nanofiltration Technology
Authors: Hu Yang , Peng Yue , Liu Wen , Zhao Dongye , Fu Jie
Published: August 2016

Conventional water/wastewater treatment methods are incapable of removing the majority of Emerging Contaminants (ECs) and a large amount of them and their metabolites are ultimately released to the aquatic environment or drinking water distribution networks. Recently, nanofiltration, a high pressure membrane filtration process, has shown to be superior to other conventional filtration methods, in terms of effluent quality, easy operation and maintenance procedures, low cost, and small required operational space. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the most relevant works available in literature reporting the use of nanofiltration for the removal of emerging contaminants from water and wastewater. The fundamental knowledge of nanofiltration such as separation mechanisms, characterization of nanofiltration membranes, and predictive modeling has also been introduced. The literature review has shown that nanofiltration is a promising tool to treat ECs in environmental cleaning and water purification processes.
“Awake” Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation as a Bridge to Lung Transplant
Authors: Kearns Sara K. , Hernandez Omar O.
Published: August 2016

Mortality of patients awaiting lung transplant remains a significant problem as the number of patients on the waiting list far surpasses the number of donor organs available. Interest in the use of “awake” extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) as a bridge to lung transplant has emerged because this strategy offers several benefits over mechanical ventilation. This article provides a review of relevant literature and discusses indications and complications of awake ECMO therapy, cannulation strategies, and nursing considerations for this patient population.
Leukotriene B4 Receptor 2 Is Critical for the Synthesis of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Allergen-Stimulated Mast Cells
Authors: Lee A-Jin , Ro MyungJa , Kim Jae-Hong
Published: August 2016

Mast cells are among the principal effector cells in the pathogenesis of allergic asthma. In allergic reactions, allergen (Ag)-induced cross-linking of IgE bound to FcεRI on mast cells results in the production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which is essential for the initiation and development of the allergic response. Despite the central role of VEGF in allergic asthma, the signaling events responsible for the production of VEGF remain unclear, particularly in Ag-stimulated mast cells. In the present study, we observed that blocking leukotriene B4 receptor 2 (BLT2) completely abrogated the production of VEGF in Ag-stimulated bone marrow–derived mast cells (BMMCs). The synthesis of BLT2 ligands (leukotriene B4 and 12(S)-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid) was also required for VEGF production, suggesting a mediating role of an autocrine BLT2 ligands–BLT2 axis in the production of VEGF in mast cells. The NADPH oxidase 1–reactive oxygen species–NF-κB cascade is downstream of BLT2 during Ag signaling to VEGF synthesis in mast cells. Furthermore, the level of VEGF synthesis in genetically mast cell–deficient Kit(W/Wv) mice was significantly lower than that in wild-type mice in the OVA-induced asthma model, suggesting that mast cells play a critical role in the synthesis of VEGF in OVA-induced allergic asthma. Importantly, VEGF production was restored to the levels observed in wild-type mice after adoptive transfer of normal BMMCs into Kit(W/Wv) mice but was not restored in BLT2−/− BMMC-reconstituted Kit(W/Wv) mice in the OVA-induced asthma model. Taken together, our results suggest that BLT2 expression in mast cells is essential for the production of VEGF in OVA-induced allergic asthma.
Impact of Histochemistry on biomedical research: looking through the articles published in a long-established histochemical journal
Authors: Pellicciari C.
Published: August 2016

Histochemistry provides the unique opportunity to detect single molecules in the very place where they exert their structural roles or functional activities: this makes it possible to correlate structural organization and function, and may be fruitfully exploited in countless biomedical research topics. Aiming to estimate the impact of histochemical articles in the biomedical field, the last few years citations of articles published in a long-established histochemical journal have been considered. This brief survey suggests that histochemical journals, especially the ones open to a large spectrum of research subjects, do represent an irreplaceable source of information not only for cell biologists, microscopists or anatomists, but also for biochemists, molecular biologists and biotechnologists.
Zika virus
Authors: Mourya Devendra T. , Shil Pratip , Sapkal Gajanan N. , Yadav Pragya D.
Published: August 2016

The emergence of Zika virus (ZiV), a mosquito borne Flavivirus like dengue (DEN) and chikungunya (CHIK), in Brazil in 2014 and its spread to various countries have led to a global health emergency. Aedes aegypti is the major vector for ZiV. Fast dissemination of this virus in different geographical areas posses a major threat especially to regions where the population lacks herd immunity against the ZiV and there is abundance of Aedes mosquitoes. In this review, we focus on current global scenario, epidemiology, biology, diagnostic challenges and remedial measures for ZiVconsidering the Indian perspective.
Shigellosis
Authors: Taneja Neelam , Mewara Abhishek
Published: August 2016

Shigellosis is one of the major causes of diarrhoea in India. The accurate estimates of morbidity and mortality due to shigellosis are lacking, though it is endemic in the country and has been reported to cause many outbreaks. The limited information available indicates Shigella to be an important food-borne pathogen in India. S. flexneri is the most common species, S. sonnei and non-agglutinable shigellae seem to be steadily surfacing, while S. dysenteriae has temporarily disappeared from the northern and eastern regions. Antibiotic-resistant strains of different Shigella species and serotypes have emerged all over the world. Especially important is the global emergence of multidrug resistant shigellae, notably the increasing resistance to third generation cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones, and also azithromycin. This calls for a continuous and strong surveillance of antibiotic resistance across the country for periodic updation of the local antibiograms. The prevention of shigellosis is desirable as it will substantially reduce the morbidity associated with diarrhoea in the country. Public health measures like provision of safe water and adequate sanitation are of immense importance to reduce the burden of shigellosis, however, the provision of resources to develop such an infrastructure in India is a complex issue and will take time to resolve. Thus, the scientific thrust should be focused towards development of a safe and affordable multivalent vaccine. This review is focused upon the epidemiology, disease burden and the therapeutic challenges of shigellosis in Indian perspective.
N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) gene polymorphism as a predisposing factor for phenytoin intoxication in tuberculous meningitis or tuberculoma patients having seizures - A pilot study
Authors: Adole Prashant S. , Kharbanda Parampreet S. , Sharma Sadhna
Published: August 2016

Background & objectives:

Simultaneous administration of phenytoin and isoniazid (INH) in tuberculous meningitis (TBM) or tuberculoma patients with seizures results in higher plasma phenytoin level and thus phenytoin intoxication. N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) enzyme catalyses two acetylation reactions in INH metabolism and NAT2 gene polymorphism leads to slow and rapid acetylators. The present study was aimed to evaluate the effect of allelic variants of N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) gene as a predisposing factor for phenytoin toxicity in patients with TBM or tuberculoma having seizures, and taking INH and phenytoin simultaneously.

Methods:

Sixty patients with TBM or tuberculoma with seizures and taking INH and phenytoin simultaneously for a minimum period of seven days were included in study. Plasma phenytoin was measured by high performance liquid chromatography. NAT2 gene polymorphism was studied using restriction fragment length polymorphism and allele specific PCR.

Results:

The patients were grouped into those having phenytoin intoxication and those with normal phenytoin level, and also classified as rapid or slow acetylators by NAT2 genotyping. Genotypic analysis showed that of the seven SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) of NAT2 gene studied, six mutations were found to be associated with phenytoin intoxication. For rs1041983 (C282T), rs1799929 (C481T), rs1799931 (G857A), rs1799930 (G590A), rs1208 (A803G) and rs1801280 (T341C) allelic variants, the proportion of homozygous mutant was higher in phenytoin intoxicated group than in phenytoin non-intoxicated group.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Homozygous mutant allele of NAT2 gene at 481site may act as a predisposing factor for phenytoin intoxication among TBM or tuberculoma patients having seizures.
Image guided versus palpation guided core needle biopsy of palpable breast masses
Authors: Hari Smriti , Kumari Swati , Srivastava Anurag , Thulkar Sanjay , Mathur Sandeep , Veedu Prasad Thotton
Published: August 2016

Background & objectives:

Biopsy of palpable breast masses can be performed manually by palpation guidance or under imaging guidance. Based on retrospective studies, image guided biopsy is considered more accurate than palpation guided breast biopsy; however, these techniques have not been compared prospectively. We conducted this prospective study to verify the superiority and determine the size of beneficial effect of image guided biopsy over palpation guided biopsy.

Methods:

Over a period of 18 months, 36 patients each with palpable breast masses were randomized into palpation guided and image guided breast biopsy arms. Ultrasound was used for image guidance in 33 patients and mammographic (stereotactic) guidance in three patients. All biopsies were performed using 14 gauge automated core biopsy needles. Inconclusive, suspicious or imaging-histologic discordant biopsies were repeated.

Results:

Malignancy was found in 30 of 36 women in palpation guided biopsy arm and 27 of 36 women in image guided biopsy arm. Palpation guided biopsy had sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of 46.7, 100, 100, 27.3 per cent, respectively, for diagnosing breast cancer. Nineteen of 36 women (52.8%) required repeat biopsy because of inadequate samples (7 of 19), suspicious findings (2 of 19) or imaging-histologic discordance (10 of 19). On repeat biopsy, malignancy was found in all cases of imaging-histologic discordance. Image guided biopsy had 96.3 per cent sensitivity and 100 per cent specificity. There was no case of inadequate sample or imaging-histologic discordance with image guided biopsy.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Our results showed that in palpable breast masses, image guided biopsy was superior to palpation guided biopsy in terms of sensitivity, false negative rate and repeat biopsy rates.